Del Aware Delaware Valley High School - Milford, Pa - Delaware Valley School District
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v
Del Aware
the.del.aware@gmail.com January 29, 2021 Volume XIX - Issue 5
COVID-19 updates: Insert
Delaware Valley High School - Milford, Pa.
Opinions 4 Community News 9 World News 10 Arts & Literature 12 Entertainment 14 Science & Technology 16 Sports 18
By Joclyn Irons & Emily Herold U.S.
Entertainment Editor & News Editor “He has touched many of us throughout
the years with his stories about his love
When he was not teaching math at DV, for his family, his enthusiasm for learning
Mr. Joel Davis was baking cheesecakes, going new teaching methods, his eagerness for
on mission trips to both Africa and the United making a new dessert for the math teachers
States, playing the bass and bringing a smile at our December department meetings, his
to the faces of those around him. participation in band performances at his
“Joel had a big heart. He was kind and a church, his love for Christianity, his passion
giver, willing to help anyone at any time for toward his mission trips to Africa to tend to
anything no questions asked. He was very the less fortunate and his excitement for trying
dedicated to his family, his profession, his hands-on math lessons,” math teacher
church, his faith and his love of music,” said Mrs. Christine Marcial said. “We
Spanish teacher Mr. Gary Cotroneo. admire the relationships that he
Anyone who met Mr. Davis knew just had with his students and staff
how positive he was. He would go out of his of the DV community.”
way to find new creative ways to teach his
students.
“Mr. Davis was a valuable member of
our math department, but his impact was
far greater than our DV nation. Joel would
inspire us to be a better person by the way
that he lived his life,” said math teacher Mr.
Jeff Krasulski.
His desserts were legendary, whether he
was making them for holidays or auctioning
them off to raise money for his mission trips.
“Ask anyone who bought a cheesecake
from him when he sold them to raise funds
for his mission trips; they’ll tell you how
good a baker he was. He always tried new
varieties of cheesecakes and people clamored
for them. I remember when people, including
me, got into bidding wars when he would do
Facebook auctions for them,” Mr. Cotroneo
said.
Mr. Davis took pride in being a member
of his church’s band. He also always looked
forward to his mission trips in Africa and the Contributed photos
Page 2 Del.Aware - January 29, 2021
e o f Pa nd e m ic Coo r din a tor Mr.
he Lif Chris
in t Lor
y Mr. Chris Lordi has
Da been working at DV for the past
17 years where he was first hired as
d
i
Assistant Director of Support Services
and for the last seven years as Director
of Administrative Services. As a result of
the ongoing pandemic, Mr. Lordi has
been seen in all the DV campuses
assisting with COVID-19
protocols.
KD: Kaila Dunn (interviewer) have fallen to the wayside, and there have been other County that can help our community members and
CL: Chris Lordi (interviewee) people in the district who have picked some things our school. I also have a weekly call with the Eight
KD: What is your current role during the up for me, but it is difficult to do both things. County Task Force. It’s basically Pike, Wayne, Luzerne,
pandemic and what was your role prior? KD: Who notifies you about a positive case- Lackawanna, Carbon, Monroe and Northampton
CL: My title is Director of Administrative parents, administrators or the DOH? counties, with all of the ETF (Emergency Task Force)
Services, and once the pandemic started, the state CL: We have gotten calls from parents, which coordinators and the DOH. Then every two weeks,
released protocols and procedures that each district is the biggest help because they are the first ones to I have a call with the Colonial IU 20,
had to have a pandemic coordinator. find out about a positive case. They have been great in which is all the school districts in IU
KD: What does being the pandemic coordinator notifying building administrators. The school nurses 20 that we are a part of. We also hold
entail? have also been doing a great job in maintaining a monthly workplace safety meeting
CL: I am the first line of contact when the that line of communication. I will also hear from at Delaware Valley, and I also attend
Department of Health (DOH) and the Pennsylvania the DOH. Once they receive a positive case, they the school board meetings.
Department of Education (PDE) release new let me know who it is. I have gotten a call from just KD: Is there anything you
guidance, measures, protocols and different things about everyone- parents, school nurses, building would like students, parents
like that. The biggest thing that pandemic coordinator administrators and the DOH. and faculty to know?
entails, which was not part of the original plan, is KD: Does anyone help you with contact tracing? CL: Yes, our number
contact tracing, monitoring and record keeping for CL: Yes, so in the beginning I was able to pretty one goal is to stay in
the district. much do each one by myself. It was great because other school, and how do we
KD: Is being pandemic coordinator time building administrators would pull out all the seating do that? It is about
consuming and has it affected other responsibilities charts. In the high school, they would take classes out people getting tested if
you have? and move them into the common areas, measure and they have symptoms,
CL: Yes, it is very time consuming. When I get would talk to teachers and other people. Now that we being honest with the
a positive case and start contact tracing, it usually have picked up, if I cannot make it to a building, the tests, being honest with
takes between four and five hours per case. I have building administrators have really helped out and whom they are in close
to go to the building, get the seating charts, get the have been able to do it [contact tracing] as well. It has contact with outside of
bus seating charts and been a really good school, keeping an open
interview any kids, staff collaboration. line of communication
or teachers which is in KD: What with the school and
addition to what I was type of meetings keeping to their quarantine
doing before. Since the are you required to period. It is also just being
middle of December attend? vigilant about washing your
when our cases really CL: I have a hands and keeping your mask
started to pick up, I am weekly call with up. If we can do that, then we
pretty much spending Wayne Memorial are going to be able to stay
the majority of my Hospital and the in school and do our best to
days contact tracing, DOH. They are finish out this year.
vaccine work and other kind of organizing
pandemic work. Some the different
of my other duties procedures in Pike
Del.Aware - January 29, 2021 Page 3
School News
Where are they now: Maks Henzel-Kedzior, Anthony Monz
By Victoria Hoffmann to ensure the test was not contaminated and to make control following the Black Lives Matter protests.
Editor in Chief sure everything ran smoothly,” Maks said. Both were awarded the Army Achievement Medal
Maks stayed at the Wilkes-Barre testing site until for their service in Wilkes-Barre. Maks was awarded
Maks Henzel-Kedzior and Anthony Monz are May, while Anthony was stationed there until June. the Armed Forces Service Medal and Pennsylvania
graduates of the Class of 2019. Both were known Maks went on separate orders mid-May to Service Medal for his latest order.
as a dynamic duo, which they have carried over into September, and was a part of a mobile testing team. Maks and Anthony also work for Homeland
their post-graduate life. Both Maks and Anthony are Maks described it as “more intense” than his previous Security Concepts Incorporated, a local security
currently enlisted in the U.S. National Guard. orders, as he had direct contact with company and volunteer at Greeley
They both serve in the same unit, A Co 1-109th, COVID-19 patients in Volunteer Fire and Rescue Station 23. In
based out of Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Their company nursing homes across addition, Maks is an assistant recruiting
is a part of the Infantry of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania. officer and attends East Stroudsburg
Maks joined the National Guard in 2018, and Anthony was University looking to attain a degree in
Anthony followed suit by joining in 2019. Their also directed on business management.
service so far has ranged from riot control to being on State Active Duty Their future plans include foreign
the frontlines of the COVID-19 relief effort. in Philadelphia, deployment and going into the
In the peak of the ongoing pandemic last spring, Pennsylvania, ranger and air assault academy.
both Maks and Anthony were stationed in Wilkes- as riot Maks would like to get into
Barre, Pennsylvania, at a drive-through testing aviation, while Anthony sees
site. Their day-to-day orders were to run the himself becoming a drill
testing station, collect data and transfer the sergeant or “the next Captain
test safely to a lab. America.”
“It was like an assembly line of tasks
Del.Aware hosts annual Inquiring Photographer
promposal contest “Who will win the Superbowl?”
Compiled By Maddy Fedun
By Adrienne Gordon disqualified.
Entertainment Co-Editor Administrators and teachers will
judge the contest, and winners will be
This year’s prom is scheduled for announced the week prom tickets go on
April 30. With that being said, the sale. First place winners will receive a set
Del.Aware is holding its fourth annual of prom tickets (excluding the Kalahari
promposal contest. We are looking for after-prom experience), second place
the most creative, thoughtful promposals. winners will receive a $25 gift card to the
Students interested in entering Naked Bagel and third place winners will “I think the Chiefs will
the contest can submit promposals by win a $15 gift card to Dunkin’. “I think the Bucs will win.” “The Chiefs”
win.” Grace Liszka
sending photos/videos to the Del.Aware’s Please contact Mrs. Lordi in D4 or a Zoe Elaro
Zac Kelly
Instagram (del.aware) with the hashtag member of the Del.Aware staff with any Class of 2022 Class of 2021
Class of 2021
DVPromposal2021 no later than April questions.
21. Good luck!
Only one entry per pair is allowed.
Inappropriate submissions will be
Contest Details
Deadline: April 21, 2021
1st Place - Two prom tickets
“Chiefs” “Tom Brady. The person, not
2nd Place - $25 gift card to the “I think the Bucs will win.”
Liam O’Toole Danah Downer the team.”
Naked Bagel Mr. Nicholas Irwin
3rd Place - $15 gift card to Dunkin’ Class of 2024 Class of 2021
Staff
Compiled by Emily Herold
Page 4 Del.Aware - January 29, 2021
Opinions
American college system
sets prospective students
up for failure
Hunter Sickler
Class of 2021
The United States is famous for its prestigious minds in high school with another separate
Drama update
colleges and universities that constantly produce payment to send these scores to a college. Looking to perform Masks are required during
the smartest and most famous people in the For many students, AP classes are basically with the DVHS Drama meetings in compliance
world. However, it is an extremely flawed system mandatory in order to go to the college they Club? Auditions for with COVID-19 guidelines.
that comes at the expense and the well-being want because they boost your GPA and show “Once Upon a Mattress” If you have any questions
of nearly everyone going through this stressful the college that you can handle a rigorous are tentatively scheduled for or wish to be added to the
process. workload. However, the College Board makes March 6, and performance email list for updates, contact
College is extremely expensive and is a these intelligent, driven students suffer to show dates are May 21, 22 and director Caroline Lehman at
major reason why many kids opt out of seeking their potential. Even after proving to be a 23. Club meetings are held lehmanc@dvsd.org.
higher education, regardless of how smart they smart, well-rounded individual, colleges hardly on Mondays until 4:30 p.m.
are. give out enough scholarship money to make it
Other than the insane price tag on college affordable, and state and federal governments
tuition, it costs money to take standardized tests rarely give enough subsidies.
that are an influential factor in getting merit The result is an acceptance to a college that
scholarships or acceptances. It also costs money will leave most students needing to take out
to send these scores to each college, even after loans or spending most of their parents’ savings
paying to take the test. Similarly, it costs money at a very young age.
to take AP tests that challenge the brightest Compiled by Stella Tannenbaum
Dear Dela
Dear Dela, Dear Injured student, I’m sure Dear Dela, Dear Upset friend, first try
having a broken foot has not been My friends have expressing your feelings to them.
I have a broken
easy on you. Your friends might be Let them know you get upset
foot and I have been making me
joking about it if you guys have a when they exclude you. If this
gotten a lot of feel very excluded
joking relationship. They might does not work, sometimes with
attention. Some of from the group. toxic people, the best thing is to
also be making jokes because
my friends have they want to lighten your mood. I want to let distance yourself. Something as
gone overboard Regardless, you should express them know they simple as a wave in the hallway
with the jokes. that the jokes are not as funny as are hurting me instead of walking them to class
How do I deal they may have been when you first without causing or not opening Snapchats as
with this? broke your foot. If they are true drama. How do quickly as you usually do can
-Injured friends, they will stop because I am you pull away send the message you are upset.
student sure they were not intentionally from toxic friends?
hurting your feelings. Happy -Upset friend
healing!
Letter Guidelines
Del.Aware
Emily Herold Stella Tannenbaum
News Editor Arts & Literature Editor The Del.Aware is an administrative reviewed
publication of the journalism class of Delaware
Jolie Fraggetta Joclyn Irons
Entertainment Editor Valley High School. The Del.Aware will print
Opinions Editor
Victoria Hoffmann Kaila Dunn acceptable letters written by current students
Madison Kelly Editor in Chief Managing Editor Maddy Fedun which may be edited or condensed for reasons
Sports Editor Science & Technology Editor of libel, good taste, grammar and punctuation.
Mrs. Leslie Lordi Mail: Letters to the Opinions Editor, Del.
Kenzie Panetta Adviser Mikayla Krisanda Aware, 252 Route 6 & 209, Milford, PA 18337
Community News Editor World News Editor Email: the.del.aware@gmail.com
Del.Aware - January 29, 2021 Page 5
School News
Class of 2021 chooses superlatives for Teacher Tea
By Jolie Fraggetta & Emily Herold
Opinions Editor & News Editor
This year, the Del.Aware staff ran the second annual
Teacher Tea. Teachers were nominated for the categories
Most Talented, Class Mom and Class Dad, Best Hair, Best
Buds and Most Congenial. Seniors voted for each category
from Jan. 18 - Jan. 20.
Jolie Fraggetta/Del.Aware
Jolie Fraggetta/Del.Aware
Mrs. Jackie Weston, Ms. Lindsay Mrs. Margaret Chromey and
Baker, Mrs. Leslie Lordi and Mrs. Mr. George Gelderman were
Laurie Osczepinski were voted presented with Class Mom and
Best Buds. Class Dad.
Jolie Fraggetta/Del.Aware
Ms. Alexis Polanis and Mr. Michael Guzenski Jolie Fraggetta/Del.Aware
Jolie Fraggetta/Del.Aware
Best Hair was given to Mr. Dave were recognized as Most Congenial. Mr. Eric Thiele and Dr. Irene Lantz
Peters and Dr. Nicole Cosentino. were voted Most Talented.
Warrior Pride marketing
team obtains new tech Puzzle Fun
Use the numbers given to complete the sudoku below. Be
By Jolie Fraggetta their artwork in the future. the first to report to Mrs. Lordi in D4 after 8:00 a.m. with the
Opinions Editor The Business and Marketing team is correct answers to win a prize. Good luck!
currently working on an e-commerce website Compiled by Madison Kelly
The Business and Marketing CTE has where students and staff will be able to
gained three new purchase these products,
heat presses but in the meantime,
to personalize they are periodically
everything from hosting sales online for
clothing to mugs different events. The
with designs and holiday sale was a big
DV logos. success, and they are
T h e hoping to run another
technology will sale in the near future.
allow students Students can join the
in the class to be Business and Marketing
more creative in team by taking the three
designing logos Jolie Fraggetta/Del.Aware level course, starting
for products. The Business and Marketing CTE sophomore year. Any
They are hoping has been using their new technology student interested in
to run design to create innovative merchandise becoming a part of the
contests where team can see Mr. Luhrs
students can enter designs. in B1.
Page 6 Del.Aware - January 29, 2021
School News
District chorus canceled, students prepare for All-State
By Sophia Perrin with their entire music departments. to our music program.
Science & Technology Co-Editor In the future, students will be Keep up the great work,”
eligible for All-State auditions, who Mr. Richard Horst said.
The PMEA district auditions have already rank in the range of how many Music students
happened, and ensembles were selected. Even though students generally go to Region prepare for the audition
the festival was canceled, the top students will be Chorus. This number is usually about by going through
permitted to audition 13 students and will the piece slowly and
for All-State, a virtual
festival as of right now.
“I am really pleased with all of be determined at the
state level of PMEA.
carefully. They usually
practice about once a
District 10 leaders you and your hard work. Thank Furthermore, District week, either individually
had collected data from you for that, and for your dedication 10 is waiting for a final or as a group. PMEA has
students and teachers word from PMEA to handed out a piece for
about whether they to our music program. Keep up the continue. Liz Kameen/Del.Aware every student who was
would like to participate great work.” In terms of DV’s Chorus students prepare for All-State auditioning for district
in the festival or cancel - Mr. Richard Horst choir members, they auditions. chorus.
it, but there were no will have all of their “Being given the
ideas of what would be names engraved on a opportunity to audition
the best way to proceed. plate on the District Chorus plaque. District 10 is also for All-State is super exciting and something I’ve
Although most students were not keen on looking into getting medals made as well. always wanted to do since I was in middle school,”
spending more time in front of a computer on mute, “I am really pleased with all of you and your hard senior Jon Reome said.
this was the method that most schools chose to do work. Thank you for that, and for your dedication
Guidance Corner Cinderella’s Closet offers
Plans after graduation
• If any seniors are undecided about their plans after
formal attire for prom
graduation, please see your counselor as soon as possible. By Maddy Fedun
• Your counselors will go over what path might be best Science & Technology Editor
for you, whether that be school, military or going
straight into the workforce. Students who plan on attending
prom: make sure to check out
Cinderella’s Closet! Cinderella’s
Scheduling Closet is run by the Del.Aware
• Scheduling for all students will begin in March. journalism staff who organizes and
• Counselors will be meeting with individuals to discuss distributes dresses and attire for
their graduation requirements, course recommendations students going to prom. The dresses
and elective options. are free of charge, and donations can
• The counselors encourage students to have a career path be dropped off at the 11/12 office
in mind when choosing electives. and are greatly appreciated.
• More details about scheduling will be announced in The closet has dresses, suits
and tuxedos in a variety of colors
February.
and sizes along with jewelry and
women’s and men’s shoes. Due to
Military the COVID-19 pandemic, the Del.
• Students interested in joining the military should plan Aware staff asks that appointments
on taking the ASVAB aptitude test. are made with Mrs. Lordi in D4.
• The ASVABs will be held on March 3. Sign ups are in the The staff will give available time
guidance office. slots for those interested in coming
during after school hours.
Compiled by Reilly Ziolkowski
Del.Aware - January 29, 2021 Page 7
Senior Tea
RESULTS
By Alex Krakowski
Staff Writer
Senior Tea has been a tradition in the high school every year for the graduating
class. Even with COVID-19 restrictions, seniors were still able to vote electronically
and announce the class favorites.
This year, the results have been announced in this issue of the Del.Aware rather
than waiting for the Senior Tea ceremony.
In order to officially honor and recognize the class favorite winners, the ceremony
is still an option in the spring. However, there needs to be clearance for any large
gatherings like this to be held. Photos of all of the class favorites will be shown in the
yearbook as well.
Madison Kelly Isabella Fasulo Taylor Hill
Most in with & Best Buds & Class Clown &
Faculty Mark Cavallaro (female) Jennifer Lee Conor Mueller
Abigail Vogel Maxwell Plotkin Olivia Dodsworth
Most Likely Best Buds
to Succeed
&
(male)
& Best Smile &
Jason Henderson Jack Moniot Scott Sussman
Laura Marquez Victoria Hoffmann Mary Lee
Most School & Class Mom & Class Brain &
Spirited Colin Hayes & Dad Henry Hamill Julian Connaughton
MacKenzie Panetta Ariella Wilmot Molly Schoepp
Most Best Hair
Congenial
& & Class Loudest &
Ethan Gallo Cameron May Adam Kanterman
Meghan Byrnes Bailey Shay Michelle Andia
Most Sociable & Best in & Most Artistic &
Maxwell Plotkin Drama Jonathan Reome JD Flick
Erin Hartey Ava Como Taliyah Booker
Nicest Eyes & Best Dressed & Most Athletic &
Luke Ruggiero Alexander Husejnovic Jason Henderson
Jennifer Yulfo Danielle Dierksen Anna Bailor
Quietest & Best in Music & Jack of all &
Kyle McDougall Zachary Brown Trades Jacob Wenzel
Janice Healey Alexandria McCarthy Ava Como
Class Couple & Best Looking & Best Shoes &
Adam Kanterman Mark Callanan Michael Leonardo
Taliyah Booker Shaina Wasileski Sophia Fouse
Best Laugh & Best & Most &
Bryan Morley Personality Maxwell Plotkin Opinionated Joshua Caraballo
Taliyah Booker Brooke Acoveno Laura Marquez
Most & Biggest Flirt & Most Involved &
Talented Hunter Sickler Shane Bowe Virtual Learner Daniel Zhivkovich
Page 8 Del.Aware - January 29, 2021
School News
Yulfo attends ANHE Musicians begin preparing
program for state competition
By Kyla Stead others.” By Kyla Stead her district audition pieces on flute and
Staff Writer She said she was able to make the Staff Writer piccolo. After practicing and balancing
best of the situation and meet and learn practice time, she says it is upsetting that
After the auditioning process that from respectable musicians in the music Since the springtime, students have festivals are now cancelled.
comes along with qualifying for All- world. been preparing their pieces for district “Playing with students from other
State band, senior Jennifer Yulfo ranked “Every teacher in some way has band auditions. All auditions were schools is a great experience,” Dierksen
first place on her instrument last spring. helped me get to where I am today, and virtual this year, said.
She qualified for the All-National Honor they deserve a round of applause for all giving students “Playing with students from O t h e r
ifer Yulfo Ensembles (ANHE) event that they do for the school and their the advantage of other schools is a great experience.” students, along
took place Jan. 7 through Jan. 9. students. In particular Mr. sending in their with Dierksen are
- Senior Danielle Dierksen
The event was held virtually this Bullock and Mrs. Craver, preferred videos. mainly focusing on
year, so students did not travel as they have been holding Although the preparations
to the originally planned my hand through my students aimed for All-State Band
destination, Orlando, musical journey and to treat this year as normal as possible, now, which is similar to how they
Florida. helping me from the a lack of interest for a virtual festival prepared for Districts. Dierksen says she
She said, “It shows very beginning,” Yulfo said. from other districts has caused it to practices for about an hour every night.
that when worse comes to She credits them discontinue. Instead, sophomores Although musicians are
worst, we are still able to use for her accomplishments through seniors who made Districts disappointed that festivals have been
music as a common ground and thanks the entire music can now audition for All-State Band. cancelled, students and staff are adapting
to bring joy to ourselves and department at Delaware Valley. Senior Danielle Dierksen prepared as time goes on.
Local businesses offer jobs Senioritis takes a toll on the
to minors amid pandemic Class of 2021 senioritis.
By Luke Ruggiero B M K The age requirement for a Weis y adison elly
Sports Co-Editor employee is 16. Students can work as a Sports Editor As graduation looms closer, it gets
cashier, cart attendant or a shelf stocker. harder to stay focused on high school as
With COVID-19 shutting down For more information, call 570- Senioritis is defined as the loss of seniors are in the last stretch before they
many local businesses 832-0399, or visit motivation in high school seniors as move on with their lives. Symptoms of
and shops, high jobs.weismarkets. graduation comes closer. It’s a constant senioritis that students should watch out
school students are com. battle between “I don’t want to fail” and for are a drop in grades, not completing
finding it hard to McDonald’s is “I don’t care enough to do anything.” assignments, procrastination, excessive
get an after school also offering jobs to Although the term absences and laziness.
job. A few businesses 16 year olds. is often used as a joke, Some tips
that are offering part “We’re looking Abby Tincher Southern to overcome
time jobs to minors for somebody who New Hampshire University senioritis are to
include Weis Markets Source: https://www.thetimes-tribune.com will take the job (SNHU) academic adviser said remember that grades still
in Dingmans Ferry Weis markets in Dingmans Ferry is seriously and is senioritis is a real thing students matter, set goals to get
and McDonald’s in offering jobs to 16 year olds and up. a hard worker,” experience. motivated, reward yourself,
Westfall. closing manager Sarah Ficken said. “I would describe it as seeing stay organized and on
Weis Markets allows students to Students can take orders at the the finish line and realizing you schedule, surround yourself
select which days they are able to work window, prepare the food, work the grill don’t necessarily have to work as with support, change things
and will be scheduled around these or clean the store and do maintenance. hard anymore to reach it,” Tincher up, take a break and have fun.
days. McDonald’s will be holding open said. As senior year comes to an end,
“Students provide us with what interviews for new workers every week In a survey conducted by remember to enjoy the time
their availability is and we’re willing to on Wednesdays. The Omniscient, 78 you have left with
work around that,” store manager Amy For more information, call 570- percent of seniors your friends and
Zimmerman said. 491-2023. admitted to having teachers.
Del.Aware - January 29, 2021 Page 9
Community News
Restaurant Review: Waterwheel Guitars offers
MIX N MAC lessons, instruments, repairs
By Jolie Fraggetta that really pulled By Liz Kameen The two
Opinions Editor the whole meal News Co-Editor owners, Scott
together. Weis and Steve
MIX N MAC is Every bite Waterwheel Guitars, Mc Vi c k e r,
a unique restaurant I took had an located at 150 Water St. in have been in
in Middletown, New amazing burst of Milford, has a wide variety of business for five
York, that offers a wide flavor and I had guitars and various types of years, originally
selection of mac and an overall positive other musical equipment, such starting their
Liz Kameen/Del.Aware
Jolie Fraggetta/Del.Aware
cheese. experience for a very as guitar picks, pedals, strings Waterwheel Guitars offers b u s i n e s s
My friend and I MIX N MAC offers mac and reasonable price. I and amplifiers. Additionally, customizing
cheese in many different a variety of instruments,
went to the restaurant will definitely be they offer mandolins, ukuleles, and restoring
and ordered the Bacon forms, such as Mac Balls. going basses, keyboards, accessories and lessons. instruments
and Cheddar Balls to b o t h along with
share. Four came in an order, and they back in the near acoustic and repairing amplifiers.
came with a creamy vodka sauce which future. electric Both owners hoped to bring relief to
added a lot of flavor to the deep fried g u i t a r s a musically deprived area, and provide
mac and cheese. a l o n g lessons and support to teenagers from
I got the Mozzy Mac which had
a mixture of mozzarella cheeses and
asiago cheese. My friend got the Buffalo
The ice skating rink located at w i t h professional musicians.
drum Al Patrilli, who toured with Trans-
sets. Siberian Orchestra and Alice Cooper
Chicken Mac with cheddar, grilled
chicken and hot sauce. Each dish had a Ann Street Park in Milford is for many years, offers guitar lessons at
Waterwheel Guitars, along with Weis
layer of cheese and breadcrumbs on top and McVicker.
open as of Jan. 28 until 8 p.m.
Salon adapts
clients’ hair.
The rink will be open as long
“It is a costly and time-consuming process
to challenging
to do all this each and every day, but it is worth
it to keep everyone safe and healthy,” Nilsen
times as the weather permits. said.
The most drastic change regarding operating
the salon now and prior to COVID-19 includes
clients being fearful or uncomfortable going to the
By Kyla Stead
Staff Writer
“We made it. We are still here, and we
After working for 13 years at Make an Impression will continue to be here.”
Salon located in Milford, Pennsylvania, Kat Nilsen Currently, s t a t e - Kat Nilsen
bought the salon and opened on Jan. 2, 2020. After restrictions are still in place. This means
being open for eleven weeks, the COVID-19 outbreak adhering to COVID-19 restrictions including social salon under these circumstances. The staff is doing
caused her to close the salon. distancing between the styling chairs, face masks or everything they can to reassure people that they are
“It was an extremely stressful time just becoming shields being worn by staff and clients and the most being extremely safe and sanitary.
a new business owner and not knowing how long we difficult regulation: allowing only 50 percent capacity. Although Nilsen worries about being shut down
would have to be closed,” Nilsen said. All surfaces are being sanitized with disinfectant again, she finds ways to stay positive.
When the salon re-opened last year, many people wipes and the staff is required to take clients’ “We made it. We are still here, and we will
wanted to come in at once. In order to accommodate temperatures when they come to the salon. Stylists continue to be here,” she said. “I’m just extremely
all clients, the staff had to work seven days a week. wear both face shields and masks while working with grateful for each day.”
Due to COVID-19, the high school cannot host its annual blood drive; however, there are still many opportunities to give blood
throughout the community. Anyone over the age of 16 who would like to volunteer to give blood can go to https://www.redcrossblood.org/
give.html/drive-results?order=DATE&range=10&zipSponsor=18337 to find more information about upcoming blood drives.
Page 10 Del.Aware - January 29, 2021
World News
President Biden dives into improving the nation
research, federal aid distribution and increased support will be incorporated into the United States census.
By Kenzie Panetta
Community News Editor for critical and long-term care facilities. Racial and gender equity was also a central issue
Department and agency heads have been directed in the president’s series of orders. President Biden
After the turbulent battle between Donald Trump to facilitate the gathering, sharing and publication has instructed his government to conduct equity
and Joe Biden, Biden was officially sworn into office on of COVID-19-related data, assess the availability assessments of its agencies and redirect resources in
Jan. 20 as the 46th president of the United States. of protective equipment and other an attempt to advance
During his speech, President Biden declared, “The resources required to distribute tests equality for all citizens.
will of the people has been heard, and the will of the and vaccines and develop a strategy to President Biden has
people has been heeded. We’ve learned again that manufacture these supplies. also ended the ban of
democracy is precious and democracy is fragile. At this President Biden also addressed discrimination on the
hour, my friends, democracy has prevailed.” immigration, deportation and racial basis of gender identity
Plunging into his presidential tasks, President equity. He passed proclamations that or sexual orientation and
Biden signed 40 executive orders within the first week ended the ban of refugees and residents reversed the ban that
of his presidency in an attempt to reverse Trump’s from seven predominantly Muslim prevented transgender
Source: financial times
course on various issues. countries from entering the United Joe Biden (far right) and Kamala citizens from serving in
Regarding the pandemic, President Biden States, ordered the resumption of Harris (mid left) were inaugurated the military.
has established the position of Coordinator of the immigrant visa processing and halted The president acted in
into office on Jan. 20.
COVID-19 Response and Conselor, who’s job entails the construction of the border wall. regard to climate change
advising the president and overseeing the distribution Immigration enforcement policies as well. He signed an order
of vaccines, tests and other supplies. will be revised and the DACA will be maintained in that committed to putting the United States back into
He signed orders that promote mask-wearing, an effort to shield undocumented immigrants from the Paris Agreement on climate change, an international
COVID-19 screening, surveillance testing, treatment deportation. In addition, undocumented immigrants pact aimed at controlling global warming.
Italy faces dividing political Chinese government,
party crisis genocide linked
By Emily Herold to leave caused a crisis of government By Maddy Fedun express antiterroism to defend their
News Editor that has no clear solution in sight. Science & Technology Editor practices.
“We are not playing,” Renzi said. The Chinese Embassy said, “the so-
Former Italian prime minister, “Democracy is not a reality show.” According to the international called genocide in Xinjiang is simply a
Matteo Renzi, recently withdrew While facing the worsening convention, genocide is defined as lie,” adding that the policies in Xinjiang
his party’s support for the current pandemic and a recession, Conte is the “intent to destroy, in whole or are part of the fight against terroism,
government, prepared to in part, a national, ethnical, racial or and “these measures have proved to well
which resulted
in political
“We can be part of the majority if approve of a
plan to widen
religious group.” The State Department service Xinjiang’s situation and produced
notable results.”
announced that China is committing
chaos for the they want us; we can be the opposition if the country’s genocide through its oppression of Although the Chinese government is
country. they don’t want us.” deficit by Uyghurs and other Muslim minorties in not taking responsibility for committing
R e n z i ’s - Former prime minister Matteo Renzi about 24 the northeastern region of Xinjiang. actions of genocide, Uyghurs have
party, the billion euros “I believe this genocide is expressed their gratitude towards the
Italia Viva ($29 billion) ongoing, and that we are American government.
party, is only a small part of the ruling in the near future. witnessing the systematic “Today’s determination of
coalition, but the current Prime Renzi stated that his party is still attempt to destroy Uyghurs genocide is a signal of recognition
Minister, Giuseppe Conte, needs it to willing to support plans for more deficit by the Chinese party-state,” to the long suffering of victims
maintain his majority in Parliament. A spending and any measures necessary said Secretary of State Mike and survivors of the Chinese
coalition government is when two or to aid pandemic efforts. In addition, Pompeo. government’s internment
more political parties come together to Renzi still considers supporting a new The Chinese government camps, like my brother Ekpar,
achieve a common goal. government led by Conte, but that he has rejected any and all and millions of Uyghurs,”
Renzi quit the coalition, stating will not support a coalition government. accusations of genocide said Rayhan Asat, whose
that Conte is failing to properly address “We can be part of the majority if and the lack of basic brother is imprisoned
the country’s problems and referred to they want us; we can be the opposition human rights and in Xinjiang.
it as “an act of courage.” Renzi’s decision if they don’t want us,” Renzi said. has a tendency toDel.Aware - January 29, 2021 Insert 1
COVID-19 Numbers & Info
COVID-19 information,
research increases
By Alex Krakowski
Staff Writer
This year the number of COVID-19 cases has been significantly greater than they
were at any time last year. Each day the number of cases and deaths increase.
Those who live in multigenerational homes, crowded conditions and more
densely populated areas are more likely to contract COVID-19. A person’s line of
work may also contribute to the risk of contracting COVID-19.
Currently, there are two vaccines being distributed to the public. Both the
Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines have been approved by the Food and Drug
Administration in December of 2020. Other vaccines, like the Johnson &Johnson
vaccine, are close to being finished and may be approved as well.
The supply of vaccines is limited, and according to the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, vaccines are recommended to be given to healthcare personnel and
residents of long term care facilities first. However, once more vaccines are provided, Compiled by Adrienne Gordon
ca ses in the com
more can be administered.
Scientists discover new
-19 mu variants of virus
D
VI ni
t By Kyla Stead
O Updated Staff Writer
y
Jan. 28
C
Although COVID-19 has been declared a global health emergency for nearly
a year, it is important to be informed how the virus is affecting the world and to
m
ata or Millrift remember the guidelines that have been placed to help control the spread.
New variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been documented in the
M
as
156 6 United States as well as globally. These variants occur when viruses change through
mutation, and they are expected to occur over time. Whether or not they persist or
disappear is unknown.
Currently, there is no evidence that there is greater risk caused
DVHS by these variants, but an increase in cases is expected.
Documented cases of separate variations
34 have occurred in the United Kingdom (UK),
South Africa and Brazil according to the CDC’s website.
In the UK, the variant was first detected in September 2020,
an
lf o gm s
M i rd
and it has been documented in the United States and Canada. In South
Fe
Africa, this variant was detected in early October and has not been detected
Din
rr y
543 217 in the U.S. The variant documented in Brazil has not been detected in the U.S either.
These variants are seen to be spreading quicker and easier than others.
Information on all COVID-19 variants is rapidly emerging.
It is uncertain whether or not medicine circulating today responds to these
ohola variations or if they affect children differently, but scientists are working to learn
Sh more in order to control the spread.
100 Vaccines are increasing in accessibility, and as of Jan. 27, there have been
over 47,200,000 doses distributed and over 24,600,000 doses administered. This
information comes from the CDC’s website as well.
Cases in the United States have increased over 25 million, and deaths in the
country are more than 400,000. Over 14 million individuals have recovered as well.
Compiled by Danny Zhivkovich Globally, there are about 96 million cases reported and over 2.1 million deaths.Insert 2 Del.Aware - Jan
New laws proposed amidst
Vaccination f
pushed to ne or staff COVID-19 vaccine distribut
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World News Co-Editor B K
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w phase the following year.
aila Dunn
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Vaccine Insert 3
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y that they will simply encourage remium raeli go d per 1 senior lations
vaccine t o rece v e rnme 0 0 w living include
zed. was adm ive early vaccin nt paid a c orkers, adult communities, residents
nd other essential workers in close in e s. The ommunit s h
Prio istered
60 year rity was then g on Dec. 19. first ies and living in I ealthcare
are highly recommended to get s iv a du lts n
over the digenous
ine. The vaccine might be on the who ar old, healthcar en to citizens Th e age of 7
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t for healthcare workers. conditio at a higher workers and over In the U
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n s. W ith appr ris k d ue to m th ose n ited Sta
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ed that all travelers flying to the boxes to ackaged the v al from Pfizer, I ical as of Jan been administ about 7.11vac
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l have to show proof of negative isolated deliver in small ccine into insu raeli of power ary 26. The u red per 100 pe ine
a reas. e r quantit la t is p c o ple
re boarding their flight starting Jan. ies to m ed months of expected to aff oming transitio
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nd health organizations are working Having ted to h n of presiden rocesses, as
a u of Presid a v t-e
es a digital COVID-19 vaccination on Dec. 9, Ca thorized its ent Trume a different pla lect Biden
ap pr ove vacc n ad a w first Th p ’s a n from
esses, airlines and countries to check
fo r it ines but as early to or vaccine depen e details of vac dministration. that
the vaccine. s slo has der din cine
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By Soph
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• Accord
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common re ood an
actions to th d Drug Administrat
site, swel e COVID ion (FDA
• Kristen ling, redness, fatigue, hea -19 vaccine include: p ), the most
Koi, o dache, ain at in
highest fever ne of the vaccine recipie chills, fever joint/musc jection
standing
• Of the I can ever nts, com le pain.
44,000 peop remember having, an mented that "this was th
show side ef le who d it scar e
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not very accine report al
• Reactio intense. ed that they trial, those who did
ns to th were short li
accine
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for the Pfize e vaccine also vary on th
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does not. ude rashes o type of vaccine. The si
r skin irritati
• The C
enters for D on, while th de effects
isease C e Moderna
that if you ar
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fluids, dress n
lightly and g any of these symptom DC) recommends
to apply a cl
area.” ean, cool, w s to, “drink plenty of
et washcloth
over theInsert 4 Del.Aware - January 29, 2021
Rapid Test
-There are two types of rapid testing for COVID-
COVID-19 News
Compiled by Adrienne Gordon
PCR Test
-PCR tests, also known as molecular, diagnostic or
19, a quicker and smaller version of the PCR test, and viral tests, detect the genetic material of COVID-19
a test that looks for virus antigens. -PCR and antigen tests require a nasal swab test and are generally in the form of a nasal or throat swab.
from the back of the nose or throat for a sample. A saliva sample may be used as well.
-The rapid PCR test collects cells from the patient’s
mouth or nose with a cotton swab and is sent to a lab. -If the results are positive, neither test can determine -The name comes from the technique used for the
whether a person is actively contagious. test which is called reverse transcriptase polymerase
-The antigen test also collects cells, but instead of a chain reaction or RT-PCR.
swab, a strip is used. If the patient is positive the test -Both issue a positive or negative result.
strip will change colors. -These tests are typically highly accurate and aren’t
-The tests measure a viral load, the amount of virus normally required to be repeated.
-Rapid tests are most frequently used for large group present once a person has been infected.
screenings and at home with immunocompromised -Results may be available the day the test is taken,
individuals. -Traditionally, PCR tests take 72 hours for results. but for locations with many tests, the results may take
However, some urgent care facilities have begun rapid up to a week.
-According to Harvard Health, the Food and Drug PCR testing that returns results in less
Administration (FDA) does not favor rapid antigen than an hour-- similar to rapid antigen - PCR tests are unable to determine if the individual
testing as negative results will occur more often. testing. has had COVID-19 in the past, but they do diagnose
an active infection.
Compiled by Reilly Ziolkowski Compiled by Kyla Stead
Lockdown causes mental Psychosis developing in
health
B L K
issues COVID-19 patients
y iz ameen By Maddie Mallon
News Co-Editor News Co-Editor
Many students and young adults have been struggling Scientists are constantly discovering new long term side
with mental health issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic effects of COVID-19, like how it affects brain function.
causing lockdowns around the world. According to the New York Times, nearly one third of
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention patients reported they experienced confusion or delirium
(CDC) released a statement saying that it is very common after contracting COVID-19.
for some people to feel especially isolated and lonely There have been hundreds of cases around the world
right now, due to social distancing, quarantine and many of people with intense psychotic symptoms weeks after
students being forced to learn from home. Families may contracting COVID-19. However, most of these
be separated right now and many had to spend the holidays patients did not have extreme cases of COVID-19.
alone, which can contribute to an already heightened sense of During the summer, a 42-year-old woman came
isolation and anxiety due to the pandemic. into a hospital because she was hearing voices, seeing
In order to cope with anxiety and depression, the CDC her four young children being murdered and had plans
recommends the development of a regular sleeping schedule, to kill them herself. Like most of these patients, she had
which allows adequate time to spend doing enjoyable hobbies. no prior psychotic symptoms or a family history of mental
Additionally, the CDC recommends exercise on a regular basis, illness.
along with eating well-balanced meals. Schizophrenia usually develops at a young age and
In a poll given to Delaware Valley students about how dementia at an old age. According to the New York Times, these cases
they spent their time in quarantine, the most common of post-COVID-19 psychosis are different from usual cases of psychosis
response was learning a new art medium. Many stated they because most of these patients are middle aged. Some of the patients
learned how to paint, crochet, embroider or play a new understood something was wrong with the way they were thinking
instrument. Another popular hobby was working out, and took themselves to a hospital or doctor, which is uncommon for
with many responding that they started hiking, biking people experiencing psychosis.
or swimming. While this side effect is uncommon, it is a terrifying possibility
Dedicating time to self-care and enjoyable and little is known about how to treat it. There is so much to be
hobbies is more important than ever and can help discovered about the effects of COVID-19.
those struggling with lockdown measures.Del.Aware - January 29, 2021 Page 11
World News
Violent riot infiltrates the Capitol, Congress evacuates
By Victoria Hoffmann protesters.
Editor in Chief After the protestors were dispersed, Congress
resumed session to finish the electoral count.
On Jan. 6, Congress met in a joint session to At 3:32 a.m., Vice President Mike Pence cited the
formally count the votes of the Electoral College at the results for Biden’s victory in Vermont, which pushed
Capitol in Washington D.C. However, the session that the Democrat past the 270 electoral votes for Congress
was supposed to officiate President-elect Joe Biden and to confirm him as the next president and Harris as vice
Vice President-elect Kamala Harris’ upcoming term president almost 15 hours after the session began.
matched with turbulent attacks on the Capitol from a The aftermath included five deaths, extensive
group of President Donald Trump’s supporters. damage and disappointment from citizens who were
Earlier in the day, President Trump held a rally shocked following the protest.
where he discussed his view on election fraud and Source: usa today The days following were filled with high ranking
Capitol Police clashed with protesters as political figures condemning the attack at Capitol Hill,
how it played into his loss this election. President
they tried to prevent them from entering the while others claimed it was protesters exercising their
Trump went on to say that he and his supporters will
persevere through their loss this election , and they will Capitol building. First Amendment right.
fight for their representation in the future. He told his The debate whether the events at the Capitol were
breach the building. Protesters inflicted mass damage acts of domestic terrorism or sedition were discussed in
supporters that “if you do not fight like hell, you are
by destroying parts of the building and artifacts, the media, yet the attack has met the FBI’s criteria for
not going to have a country anymore.”
breaking into officials’ offices and even stealing letters domestic terrorism.
Following this speech, his supporters marched 16
and personal items of representatives. “Don’t dare call them protesters. They were a
blocks to Capitol Hill. The advance on the Capitol
Congress’ session was discontinued, as many were riotous mob, insurrectionists, domestic terrorists. It’s
roughly started at 1:15 p.m., when thousands stormed
evacuated or took shelter to avoid harm from incoming that basic. It’s that simple,” said Biden.
through security outside the building and proceeded to
Mass graves spark Biden selects Rachel Levine
controversy in Ireland as assistant health secretary
By Sophia Miller be performed. By Mikayla Krisanda choice to help lead our administration’s
Arts & Literature Co-Editor Scientists found that this house’s World News Editor health efforts.”
mass grave held the remains of 802 If she is confirmed as the assistant
On Jan. 13, Taoiseach Micheál children. According to BBC News, On Jan. 19, before his inauguration, secretary of health, Levine would be the
Martin, the current Irish Prime the ages of these children ranged from President Joe Biden announced that Dr. highest ranking transgender official in
Minister, issued an apology to former premature babies to toddlers. Rachel Levine of Pennsylvania will be the U.S. government. The selection of
occupants of Mother and Baby Homes Other houses were investigated, nominated to be his assistant secretary Levine for this position would continue
across Ireland. This apology was in some were found to contain the remains of health. Biden’s trend of picking “historically
response to the inhumane conditions of as many as 900 different children. Levine is Pennsylvania’s top health diverse” leaders for his administration.
that these individuals had to endure The history behind these mass official and would be the first openly In 2015, Levine was nominated to
while staying at these homes. graves was revisited in October of 2020 transgender official to be confirmed by be physician general of Pennsylvania
Bon Secour Mother and Baby through protests. These protests the U.S. Senate. by Governor Tom Wolf. She was the
Homes were very popular in Ireland in occurred as many people were “Dr. Rachel Levine will bring physician general of the Commonwealth
the mid to early 1900s. Teen pregnancy afraid of the idea that the the steady leadership and essential of Pennsylvania from 2015 to 2017.
and pregnancy outside of marriage was documents regarding the expertise we need to get people Currently, Dr. Levine is the secretary
frowned upon, so single mothers looked investigation s through this pandemic -- no of health for the Commonwealth of
to these homes for shelter. However, of these matter their zip code, race, Pennsylvania. Throughout her service,
due to high death rates in these homes, mass graves religion, sexual orientation, Levine has still had to deal with
mass graves needed to be built. would be gender identity or disability mistreatment because she is transgender.
The discovery of remains found in sealed. -- and meet the public “The entire nation got to watch her
the concrete near the Tuam Mother and health needs of our country succeed in the face of really difficult
Baby House called attention to these in this critical moment and attacks,” said Pennsylvania state
mass grave sites. The local news released beyond,” said President Representative Brian Sims. “Republicans
a story that gained worldwide traction Biden. “She is a historic still deny her basic equality, and she
which caused a forensic excavation to and deeply qualified focuses on saving their lives.”You can also read
