Informer May 2012 Issue - Woodlynde School

This teacher is 

finally living her 

dream of horseback 

riding ... 

Page 5 

For photos, videos, and news, 

check out: woodlynde.org/informer 

Get all the latest updates: Like 

“Woodlynde Informer” on Facebook. 

Flexing on 

Field Day ... 

More Photos 

on Page 5 

Woodlynde School’s Award-Winning Student Newspaper 

May 29, 2012 

Issue 10 

A Night to Remember 

School Will Be 

Remodeled 

Changes will be made to the hallways 

and the All-Purpose Room, which will 

lose the rock wall and gain a new name. 

Photo by Patrick Torphy, Editor-in-Chief 

Upperclassmen getting their groove on at prom are (from left) juniors Chris Maguire, Mattie Sweet, 

Hannah Lipschutz, and seniors Katie Schmitz and Jesse Sterge. Additional photos on page 4. 

Awards Ceremony Eliminated 

Patrick Torphy 

Editor-in-Chief 

When students return to school in the fall, they won’t 

just be greeted by a new paint job. 

A major remodel will be done to the All-Purpose Room 

and the school’s hallways this summer. New carpet, possibly 

new lockers, new bulletin boards, and three new monitors 

to display images will all be installed. The APR will 

be renamed after the family that is paying for the project. 

As part of the revamp of the APR, the rock wall will be 

taken down. 

The primary reasons for the endeavor are to make 

“the building warm and inviting for the students and staff 

of Woodlynde School, and [attract] new families to Woodlynde," 

said Head of School Dr. Fulco. 

The renovations are also partly spurred by The Pennsylvania 

Branch of The International Dyslexia Association 

conference, which will take place at Woodlynde in 

October and the following year. The school will be accommodating 

some 500 attendees for the annual one-day 

event. 

“The PBIDA conference gave us that little push to actually 

do [the remodel] and try to raise the money,” Dr. 

Fulco said. His goal is for the project to be paid entirely 

See REMODEL on page 4 

Cruisin’ Along 

The heat in the APR and many 

parents’ inability to attend are 

cited as reasons behind the 

administration’s decision. 

By Gabrielle Smith 

Staff Writer 

Andrew Rosenberg looks forward to the 

Awards Ceremony every year, because he likes it 

when he and his classmates are recognized for 

their hard work. 

“I enjoy watching my classmates getting 

awards. I get very proud of them,” said Andrew, 

who has won awards for Most Improved, and for 

Academic Excellence in math, Spanish and science. 

“When receiving an award, it makes me feel 

good about myself that the teachers recognize my 

hard work,” the sophomore said. 

This year, all of Andrew’s hard work won’t be 

acknowledged by students, teachers and parents 

at the annual, formal assembly. That’s because 

there won’t be an Awards Ceremony this year. 

“I am very upset with it being cancelled, because 

I thought everyone liked it. Plus, I thought 

it was a nice time for everyone,” Andrew said. 

The administration has chosen to shift from 

giving awards at a single afternoon ceremony to 

handing them out at morning assembly and 

graduation. 

“The Leadership Team has decided against 

having a stand-alone Award Ceremony this year 

for a number of reasons,” Head of School Dr. 

Fulco said. “First and foremost, the ceremony, 

which has been held in the APR [All-Purpose 

Room] in mid-June, has been unbearably hot 

over the past two years, which has made both 

the students and parents uncomfortable and 

less able to enjoy the program. 

“In addition ... many parents are unable 

to take time in the early afternoon for such a 

program.” 

Andrew wasn’t the only one upset by the 

news. 

Freshman Julia Wolfe said, "I'm angry 

because then people can't get recognized for 

their talent." 

However, other students were thrilled. 

Freshman Michaela Trusk said, "I'm 

glad it's gone because I never get an award." 

Sophomore Luke Alonso also is pleased. 

"I don't need to compete with my education 

...” he said. 

Dr. Fulco said several of the awards that 

are normally given out at the awards ceremony 

will be handed out at the regularly 

scheduled morning assemblies. Parents will 

be invited on the day(s) those awards will be 

given. 

Dr. Fulco continued, “Several faculty 

members expressed to me that they wanted 

to ensure that we have a venue to recognize 

students who have worked hard throughout 

the year. 

“I have assured them that we will continue 

to recognize students for their accomplishments 

and hard work in morning assemblies, 

through National Honor Society and 

Mondrian Induction Ceremonies, and at all 

three graduation ceremonies in June. 

“We will continue to look for other opportunities 

to give Woodlynde students the recognition 

they deserve.” 

Junior Hunter Register gives a thumbs up while zipping along 

on the ropes course, which was part of the juniors’ overnight trip. 

To learn more about each of the class trips, see the story on page 5.

The Woodlynde School 

Page 2 May 29, 2012 

Coffee House Draws 160 People 

By Megan Flynn 

Staff Writer 

A crowd of about 160 students, parents and teachers gathered 

to watch 44 Middle and Upper Schoolers perform in the 

first annual Woodlynde Coffee House. 

The school’s music teacher, who organized the May 4th Coffee 

House, was pleasantly surprised by the amount of people 

who showed up to 

watch, perform in, 

and support the 

event. 

"I was very proud 

that I saw more students 

at the Coffee 

House than at the 

Talent Show perform," 

she said. She 

also felt proud that 

students had the 

courage to stand up 

in front of a large 

crowd to sing, read 

poetry (there were 22 

poets) or dance. 

"I was really glad 

that a lot of students 

stayed to help [set up 

and clean up]," she 

added. "I think it 

shows leadership for the students at Woodlynde." 

Photo by Ben Weisman 

Seventh grader Tuyet Corson dances on 

the stage at the Coffee House. 

Junior Evan Guinessy, whose band, The Collective, performed 

two songs, "Where the Green Grass Grows" and "Big 

Blue", says that he enjoyed the Coffee House and thought that 

it was a huge success. 

Freshman Bonnie Ward, who performed "Skinny Love", 

says she had fun at the Coffee House because of its calm environment, 

as compared to the Talent Show. 

Performers from the show can only hope for another Coffee 

House next year. 

2 Science Teachers Are Leaving 

Mrs. Jacob & Mrs. Rheam have taken jobs at other schools. 

By Nicholas Brayton 

and Eric Mitchell 

Staff Writers 

The Upper School is losing two-thirds of its 

science department, as both Mrs. Jacob and Mrs. 

Rheam have taken jobs at other schools. 

MRS. JACOB 

Popular science teacher Mrs. Jacob is well 

known amongst students for her outgoing and intense 

approach toward teaching. 

And Mrs. Jacob said she holds fond memories 

of all of her students and classes. The Middle and 

Upper School science teacher even continues to 

work with many of her previous 

students, such as the 

seniors, whom she holds 

close to her heart. 

However, after six wonderful 

years teaching at 

Woodlynde School, Mrs. 

Jacob is leaving for another 

school. 

"... I have accepted a 

sixth-grade science position 

at Haverford School," she 

said recently. 

Photo by Matt Reott 

Mrs. Jacob 

Mrs. Jacob said she had not planned for this to 

happen, nor was she actively seeking a new job. 

Her son attends Haverford and when the opportunity 

presented itself, she decided that, "... professionally 

and for my family, I thought it was a good 

opportunity to pursue." 

Mrs. Jacob said she will miss Woodlynde dearly 

due to the plethora of fond memories and experiences 

she has gained as a teacher. "I am the 

teacher that I am today for the experience I 

have had at Woodlynde." 

She also stated that she would come back to 

visit, and try to keep in touch with students 

and faculty. 

One of her many students, junior Patrick 

Torphy said, "Mrs. Jacob was one of the most 

engaging, fun, yet strict teachers I've ever had. 

The enthusiasm that she puts into her work 

will be greatly missed." 

Mrs. Jacob ended on these words of wisdom 

to her students, "... be sure to pursue your passions, 

be the change you want to see in the 

world, and strive for homeostasis!" 

MRS. RHEAM 

After working at Woodlynde for six years, 

Mrs. Rheam, Upper School science teacher, is 

leaving for Episcopal Academy. 

"Ultimately my goal 

is to go into administration, 

and there are more 

opportunities at a big 

school like Episcopal," 

Mrs. Rheam said last 

week. 

Mrs. Rheam, who 

has given the school the 

right to continue using 

her science Vodcast videos 

for Chemistry and 

Physics, said she will 

absolutely miss Woodlynde. 

Positively Influencing Woodlynde School 

Photo by Matt Reott 

Mrs. Rheam 

And Mrs. Rheam will be missed by students 

and staff alike. As junior Hunter Register put 

it: "Mrs. Ream is an awesome teacher.” 

The Informer Editorial Board is honoring one teacher and one student who 

have made a strong positive impact on the school this year. 

Andrew Rosenberg 

“brings people together” 

By Eric Mitchell 

Staff Writer 

Sophomore Andrew Rosenberg is known for his great sense of humor. 

He has worked very hard over the course of the year to organize events 

enjoyed by many students and staff, such 

as a book drive and March Madness pool. 

As Mrs. Feldman, Andrew's adviser, 

puts it: "He brings people together." 

That is why Andrew is the student winner 

of The Informer’s Positive Influence 

Award for 2012. 

In the fall, Andrew helped organize a 

book drive that aided underprivileged children. 

In March, he orchestrated a March 

Madness basketball pool that much of the 

school participated in. 

He also played basketball last winter. 

His specialty was "shooting threes", and he 

was seen as a leader by the Junior Varsity 

team, said former teammate Dan DeLuca. 

Andrew is viewed as always having a 

Photo by Breana Daniel 

Andrew Rosenberg 

positive attitude, which makes students and teachers alike want to participate 

in the activities and projects he often leads. 

Woodlynde Is Expanding College 

Course Offerings to Include DCCC 

Mrs. Tabun does everything 

she can to help students 

By Alex Roberts 

Staff Writer 

For years, she has helped Woodlynde students apply and get into college. She 

does everything she can to make sure they attend the school that is the perfect fit 

for them. Students always say how great she is and 

how much she's helped them with the college process. 

For all those reasons, College Guidance counselor 

Mrs. Tabun is the faculty winner of The Informer’s 

Positive Influence Award for 2012. 

"She has helped me reach for colleges that I 

would never think to apply to," said junior Evan 

Guinessy. 

Admissions Director Mrs. Shank thinks Mrs. 

Tabun has had a tremendous effect on students. 

"She's respected by faculty and students, and she 

has a terrific understanding of what type of a school 

a student needs." 

Head of School Dr. Fulco added, "I think she 

has one of the most important jobs. She does it incredibly 

well. The college application process is one Mrs. Tabun 


of the most stressful experiences students have. 

Mrs. Tabun takes the stress out of the process and makes it easier on students." 

Time to (Stream) Study 

By Trevor Bowes 

Staff Writer 

Seniors next year will have a new opportunity 

to earn college credits early and 

get a taste of the college experience. 

In the spring semester, the seniors will 

have the option to take a class exclusively 

for Woodlynde students at Delaware 

County Community College as an elective, 

according to Head of School Dr. Fulco. 

Woodlynde also currently offers a class 

for seniors at Cabrini College. 

The details on what the DCCC course 

will be are not certain at this time, but 

possibilities include psychology, communications, 

sociology, and an introduction to 

world religions. To be eligible, students 

will need good grades at Woodlynde. 

The administration hopes they will be 

able to stock the class with a minimum of 

eight students. 

“... the criteria for entrance into this 

program have not yet been established,” 

Dr. Fulco said. “We are currently working 

on this, and we hope to speak with interested 

students before the end of this year.” 

~ Staff Writer Eric Mitchell 

contributed to this story 

Photo by Matt Reott, 

Asst. Photography 

Editor 

Freshman Bonnie 

Ward, holding a 

jar and a plankton 

net, is all ready to 

study organisms at 

Valley Creek during 

the bi-annual 

annual ninth-grade 

Stream Study.


MAGAZINE 

Horrible-Scopes 

Editor’s note: Warning, this article may contain graphic 

information and is not suitable for young children. 

ARIES- All of the dates on your calendar will match those of the Maya Indians. Count on being late for everything 

post-2012. 

TAURUS- In order to unify and eliminate imminent controversies caused by the color division of Field Day, there is 

only going to be one team: Light Blue. Unfortunately, you'll miss the memo and be put on the bullying policy for bigotry. 

GEMINI- New business opportunities will cross your path when you stumble across some newborn chicks. 

CANCER- Newt Gingrich is steaming mad since he dropped out of the election. He is going to passive aggressively 

take his frustration out on you by following you around to every movie you see in the theater and talking non-stop. 

LEO- You are going to develop a destructive addiction to vintage video games. Try to stay away from Nintendo 64’s. 

VIRGO- For the rest of the month, the USB drives you encounter are going to be jammed. Good luck finding a floppy 

disk. 

LIBRA- All of the pets in your local store have been let loose by PETA, forcing them to be put up for adoption 

immediately. Invest in some litter boxes to pitch in. 

SCORPIO- Your workload is increasing at an exponential rate and your mother is becoming lonely because of all of the 

time you have been spending at school. She is going to replace you with a much more fun and plump Samoan toddler. 

SAGITTARIUS- You are becoming less focused. You should be more mindful of your actions or you are going to wind 

up making an awful mistake, such as buying lima beans instead of jelly beans. 

CAPRICORN- Because you abandoned your cassette player to gather dust, it is on the fritz and you won't be able to 

listen to your favorite hits from the Jackson 5. 

AQUARIUS- Your superstitions are going to get the best of you when renovations are taking place in your bathroom. 

Mirrors and ladders are going to be EVERYWHERE! 

PISCES- Make sure you come prepared to class. M. Night Shyamalan, the king of twist endings, is substituting. 

Music Review: 

Cassia Enright 

Magazine Editor 

Marina’s Album Beautifully Complements Her Voice; 

B.o.B.’s Strange Clouds Offers Hits and Duds 

Marina is at it again with her newly released 

album, Electra Heart. All of the tracks beautifully 

complement her distinct, deep voice and her over-the 

-top personality. 

It’s such a step up from her last album, The Family 

Jewels. She definitely expresses her diva-like 

alter ego in her upbeat single, "Primadonna". This is 

certainly a song to 

Samantha 

Goodman 

Music Critic 

listen to when 

you’re in the mood 

to dance, and I 

could definitely see 

this as a popular 

karaoke bit. 

The lyrics of "Homewrecker" definitely speak to 

those going through a breakup. I wouldn’t say it’s 

about the ones who are heartbroken; it’s more about 

the ones breaking the hearts. 

My absolute favorite track is "Teen Idle". The 

chilling lyrics reveal her troubled and twisted past 

as a teenager, or her “wasted youth”, transitioning 

into the present. She interprets it so beautifully, and 

it made me cling to every word. You can definitely 

feel the melancholy throughout the song. 

Overall, I would give this album a 10 out of 10. 

Electra Heart is a big melting pot of emotions and 

feelings turned into synth-pop. 

Bobby Ray, AKA B.o.B., has released his second studio 

album, called Strange Clouds. 

Now I am somewhat of a fan of B.o.B., but I didn't like 

his first album. I have to say, though, this one is much better. 

One song on Strange Clouds that I guarantee will hit the 

top of the charts fast is "Both of Us". Featuring Taylor Swift, 

"Both of Us" will most 

Joel Cureton 

Music Critic 

likely be in the Top 10 

before June. I don't usually 

hate on a song, but 

really, this was just bad. 

Now, I'm not saying 

that I don't like Taylor Swift, but in this song, her voice 

makes me cringe. This song will only be popular because 

people will see Taylor Swift's name on it and think it'll be 

good. 

Now, a song that I really like is "Arena", featuring Chris 

Brown and T.I. The beat is fantastic, and while the rhythm 

is slow, it can be an exceptional dance song. 

Another song that will go places is "Out of My Mind", 

featuring Nicki Minaj, who is fantastic in this song. Unfortunately, 

it may take people a longer time to notice this song, 

which is a crime. I predict that listeners are going to put 

Taylor Swift's song in the Top 10 and kick a song that has 

actual good lyrics and voices to the curb. Tragic! 

Overall, I give this album an 8 out of 10. 

Page 3 

Movie Review: 

The Avengers 

Assembles a 

Fantastic Film 

After all of the teasers and hype, Marvel 

Studios has finally assembled all of the superheroes 

featured in their recent films and churned 

out the 

product they 

have been 

building up 

to for four 

years, The 

Avengers. 

Was it worth the wait Oh, yeah. 

When an alien invasion led by the Asgardian 

god Loki (Tom Hiddleson) threatens the entire 

world, Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) brings 

together a team of superheroes to combat the 

threat. The group consists of Iron Man (Robert 

Downey Jr.), Captain America (Chris Evans), 

Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Bruce Banner, aka 

The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), The Black Widow 

(Scarlet Johansson), and Hawkeye (Jeremy 

Renner). 

For the most part, all of Marvel’s films leading 

up to this have been good, though rather 

flawed. 

This one 

blows 

them all 

out of the 

water. The 

Avengers 

delivers 

everything 

that comic 

fans and 

non-fans 

would 

want out 

of a superhero 

movie: 

some 

really funny humor, great character development, 

and some of the best action sequences out 

of a movie of this genre that I have ever seen. 

The actors are all great in their parts, and 

the chemistry that they all have together is fantastic, 

even if Robert Downey Jr. steals most of 

the scenes he’s in. The filmmakers don’t play 

favorites with these characters, though, and all 

of the characters get a ‘wow’ moment during the 

climax. 

From start to finish, The Avengers is an absolute 

blast, one that is a lot of fun but has 

clearly been made with intelligence and hard 

work. This is one of the few times that the hype 

has been fulfilled. 

Final Verdict: 9/10 

Jeremy Cooper 

Movie Critic 

alfitude.files.wordpress.com 

Corrections 

~ A photo that ran in last month's 

Informer was incorrectly labeled. 

Jenna Pavucek is an 8th grader. 

~ Two What’s the Word quotes in 

last month’s Informer were incorrectly 

attributed. 

It was sophomore Megan Doll who 

said: "I would give all the students 

in school a recess [break]. Students 

need a break in the day to just chill 

and have some breathing space.” 

The following quote was incorrectly 

attributed to junior Christian 

Acosta: "I would buy a new turf 

field for all the sports. The one 

Woodlynde has now is [uneven and] 

eating up all the lacrosse balls and 

sports equipment.” 

The Informer apologizes for these 

errors. 

Informer Poll 

(Asked of 56 Upper School Students) 

An extended stay at the 

former Chernobyl Nuclear 

Facility in Ukraine 

Poll designed by 

Dan DeLuca 

Poll taken by 

Cassia Enright, 

Hannah 

Lipschutz, and 

Nick Brayton


Page 4 May 29, 2012 

Gaga Arriving by End of Year 

By Patrick Nucci 

Staff Writer 

A year and a half after it was first suggested, the Gaga court now being built on 

campus should be done before the end of the school year, according to Athletic Director 

Mr. Purdy. 

"I think it was a fantastic 

idea that Woodlynde 

is finally building 

something that the whole 

school will enjoy," said 

sophomore Luke Alonso. 

When asked how excited 

he was about having a 

Gaga court, he said, "On 

a scale of 1 to 10; I would 

go 10 5 ." 

Luke is one of the 

students who, as part of 

Student Council last 

year, planned on getting 

the Gaga court installed. 

But the administration 

first needed to wait until 

the new playground was 

finished, so it wouldn't interfere with the playground's construction. 

Students are looking forward to playing Gaga. 

Photo by Matt Reott, Asst. Photography Editor 

Scott Solodar, Ziere Jones and Alec Kravitt are excited 

about the new Gaga Court being built behind them. 

"I think it is a great way to blow off some steam after a rough day at school," said 

sophomore Charlie Tabas. 

"I have never played before, but I am excited for it," added junior Ryan Mullen. 

Pranked! 

Photo by Conor Kennedy, Editor-at-Large 

Freshman Megan Flynn (left) and junior Steven Earhart (center), attempt to traverse 

the carnage wrought in the hallway by the senior prank, while freshman Tristan Bosna 

(right) watches. 

All Ready for Prom 

Photos by Mrs. Dougherty, Upper School Head 

Additional pictures at: www.woodlynde.org/informer 

Ready to enter the prom are (from left): juniors Giana Campbell, Katie 

Dokas, and Christen McCreavy, with their dates. 

Workout photos by 

Matt Reott, 

Asst. Photography 

Editor 

Prom-goers included (from left): juniors Mattie Sweet and Chris Maguire; juniors Alex Hertel and 

Alex Roberts; freshman Taylor Sforza and junior Ryan Mullen; juniors Kim Alphonso and Steven 

Earhart; and junior Christian Acosta and freshman Julia Wolfe. 

School is Undergoing Remodeling 

REMODEL from page 1 

through donations. 

“Right now, we’re on track to either mostly pay for 

the project though donations or possibly pay for everything 

through donations.” As of Informer deadline, the 

project's cost had yet to be determined. 

Numerous contributors, including the Parent Community 

Association, have raised tens of thousands of 

dollars for the project. 

By starting in June and finishing before school commences, 

Dr. Fulco assures that it will be finished on time 

and will not interrupt academics. 

“I’m very confident, more than I was on the lobby or 

playground project, that we will be able to complete it in 

the time that we’ve allotted.” 

NEW CARPET AND MONITORS 

The revamp includes replacing the current carpet 

that runs through the building with a checkered gray, 

multi-colored one, like the sample near the athletic hallway. 

In the Middle School hallway, cloth photographs of 

students working and playing sports, such as those in 

the lobby, will hang above the lockers. 

Ideally, new, durable polyethylene lockers — some of 

which would be double-decker — would be installed to 

replace the old green ones. Though they would be 

slightly smaller, this would allow for more space for pedestrian 

traffic. 

However, due to the high cost of new lockers, this 

part of the project is up in the air. At the very least, the 

current ones will be painted blue, Dr. Fulco said. 

Three new monitors will be installed throughout the 

school. One will be placed near the bus doors and show 

athletics photos. A second will be located at the end of 

the Middle School hallway and will be dedicated to 

Woodlynde publications, such as The Informer. The final 

one will be downstairs in the specials hallway and will 

present images of student artwork. 

All of the stairwells will be redone and outfitted with 

a special rubber tread, making them safer. A rubberized 

tile will also cover the cement landings. 

All bulletin boards will be replaced throughout the 

building with a new, special substance that is easier to 

work with and is uniform in color. 

The renovations that will take place in the APR are 

made possible from a donation by Mr. Pierson, a current 

board member and parent of alum Conor Pierson 

('11). The All-Purpose Room will be renamed to 

incorporate "Pierson". 

Thanks to the donation, the APR will be acoustically 

revamped to improve sound quality. Special tiles 

that prevent reverberation will be installed on all three 

walls above the blue line and on the ceiling. 

In addition, all walls, including the room-divider, 

will be repainted, and the carpet will be replaced with 

the same one that will be installed in the hallways, but 

with court lines. The two basketball hoops will either 

be repainted or replaced with retractable 

ones, and the rock wall will be 

deconstructed. 

ROCK WALL DECONSTRUCTED 

"We have decided that the rock 

wall impedes our ability ... to make 

the APR a more effective room for 

plays, concerts, speakers, etc.," Dr. 

Fulco said. 

"We evaluated the rock wall usage 

and determined that it is not used for 

the majority of the year. We may continue 

to incorporate climbing into 

Physical Education classes by renting 

a rock wall for certain weeks throughout 

the year." 

The news surprised fifth-grader 

Ellie LeFebvre. 

"I didn't know. I thought I would 

be able to play on it more in the future, 

so it really is shocking," she said. 

"And there is going to be a big empty space where it 

used to be. I will miss sitting against it and ringing 

the bell at the top. " 

After being told of the renovations, junior Tianna 

Buck is eager to see the changes. “The remodeling 

sounds like it’s going to make the school look a lot better.” 

Dr. Fulco looks forward to the renovations and 

presenting the newly-remodeled school to the PBIDA 

conference. 

"Just like a job interview, we’re presenting ourselves 

... We’re going to get ourselves dressed up the 

best we can and put our best foot forward to hopefully 

look and feel welcoming and great to the people who 

are attending the conference.” 

~ Staff Writer Hannah Lipschutz contributed to 

this article. 

An image of what the renovated Middle School hallway might look like.


May 29, 2012 Page 5 

Counselor Pursues Her Dream 

Ms. Szmajda has always wanted to 

learn how to ride a horse. Now she’s 

finally getting her chance. 

By Megan Flynn 

Staff Writer 

As Ms. Szmajda began to reflect on her life recently, 

the Upper and Middle School Counselor realized there 

were activities that she wanted to take part in that had 

been left undone. 

As a child, one of her dreams was to horseback ride. 

However, her parents gave her two choices: either join a 

travel volleyball team or take horseback riding lessons. 

She chose the travel volleyball team. 

She made many good friends while on the team and 

is still friends with them today. And she doesn't regret 

choosing volleyball over horseback riding when she was 

younger. 

But now, 17 years later, she can make her own 

choices. Ms. Szmajda decided to take horseback riding 

lessons at Greylyn Farms in Malvern once a week. "I 

didn't know what I was missing [as a child], but now I'm 

happy I [have] the opportunity to ride," she said. 

For seven months now, Ms. Szmajda has been taking 

lessons and has learned how to make the horse 

she rides, whose name is Monet (like the famous 

painter), walk, trot and run. She also has 

learned how to care for Monet. 

Ms. Szmajda says that riding is relaxing 

because all of her concentration and focus is on 

the horse, so she doesn't worry about anything 

else. 

"I enjoy it, because I love being outside and 

connecting with nature. I also have a love for 

animals, so being around the horse is fun, too," 

she said. 

Her most memorable moment was back in 

December, when she got bucked off the horse. 

Initially she was dazed, but after catching up 

with reality, she got back on and tried harder. 

Luckily, she made it out with only a sore back 

for several days. 

Ms. Szmajda recommends that others try 

horseback riding for the experience of being 

around animals and simply attempting something 

new. Ms. Szmajda said she is happy that 

she chose volleyball as a child, but she is 

thrilled that she can now ride horses. 

"I think it was one of the best choices I've 

made." 

Going All Out on Field Day 

Photos by: Hannah Lipschutz, Mrs. Russell, Ms. Schroeder, and Mr. Gelman 

See additional photos and a video at www.woodlynde.org/informer 

(Top photo): Everybody pull! Freshmen on the blue team show intensity 

during the tug of war. (From right to left): Alec Kravitt, Kali 

Derderian, Julia Wolfe, Samantha Goodman, and Joel Cureton. 

(Right photo): 

Junior 

Noorie 

Weinberg 

focuses on 

cup stacking. 

(Right photo): 

Chris 

Lumsden 

charges 

around a cone 

during the 

potato sack 

race. 

Photo provided by Ms. Szmajda 

Ms. Szmajda has always wanted to learn how to ride a horse. 

Overnight Trips 

Are a Blast 

For the first time, every Upper School grade took an 

overnight expedition this spring — to see a Civil War 

battleground, a battleship, a water park and New York. 

9th GRADE 

On Wednesday May 23, the freshman class 

went to Gettysburg to study the Civil War, 

stayed at the Hershey Lodge, and had fun at 

Hershey Park. 

“I am super psyched for this trip and have 

been looking forward to it since I learned about 

it...” said Oleg Kariouk. 

~ By Nick Scaramuzza, Staff Writer 

10th GRADE 

On May 7, the sophomores went on an overnight 

trip to the battleship U.S.S. New Jersey. 

They also toured Lincoln Financial Field, including 

the Eagles locker room; the U.S.S. Becuna 

submarine; the U.S.S. Olympia battleship; and 

Independence Hall; and they saw a movie called, 

We Have a Pope. 

"The trip was awesome and I had a great 

time," Scott Solodar said, while joking adding. 

"No one died, so that is a plus." 

~ By Patrick Nucci, Staff Writer 

11th GRADE 

On May 16th and 17th, the juniors traveled to 

the Poconos for their overnight class trip. They 

went hiking at Bushkill Falls, set personal and 

class goals for their senior year, spent hours at 

Great Wolf Lodge water park cooling off from 

their hike, and enjoyed an outdoor ropes course. 

"It was the best school trip I've ever been on. 

It was super well organized and we had non-stop 

fun," said Haley Van Schaick. 

~ By Hannah Lipschutz, Staff Writer 

12th GRADE 

The seniors took their annual trip to N.Y. 

City. They saw the play, Spider-Man, then returned 

to school for a sleepover. 

(Left photo): 

Having a blast 

on Field Day 

are (from left) 

Luke Alonso, 

Jordan 

Booth, Olivia 

Calabro, 

Isabel 

Barrett, 

Gaylen 

Martin, and 

Megan Doll. 

Sophomore Jordan Booth finds his own unique 

way out during the inflatable moon bounce race. 

Freshman 

Norma Rizzo 

zooms down the 

slide during the 

inflatable moon 

bounce race.

Page 6 

Relevant Rant 

Want to Go Outside 

for Class Don’t 

Bother Asking 

OPINION 

‘ 


The weather is getting nicer out as 

summer approaches, which starts to give 

many students cabin fever. In an attempt 

to ease the pain of long classes, many students 

fall back on the same tactic. 

You ALL know what I am talking 

about, 

Commentary 



and most 

of you 

are 

probably 

guilty of 

it. I am referring to the pathetic plea to 

continue class outside, which goes something 

like, “It's so nice out. Please, please, 

please, please, can we go to the playground 

Please” 

I am just like every other student for 

the fact that I don’t want to be in class, but 

come on. Does this ever work No. 

I have been going to Woodlynde since 

kindergarten and not one time has a 

teacher dropped their entire lesson plan 

and caved to pestering students. 

Do you really expect the teacher to say, 

“Oh, what a fine idea. I had no idea that 

any students ever had an interest in going 

outside. Why haven’t you mentioned this 

before While I'm at it, let me update the 

grade book and give everyone A’s.” 

In reality, teachers always say no, and 

if you don’t stop they just get really annoyed 

and it makes the remaining time in 

the class awkward and uncomfortable. 

Personally, I make things awkward 

enough for the class on my own, and any 

additional assistance in that department 

isn't needed. 

As much as it pains me to be on the 

teachers' side, I can’t help it! 

Call me crazy, call me no fun, and say I 

hate the outdoors. These would all be accurate 

descriptions, but despite that, I suggest 

you suck it up. School is almost over, 

and then you can then spend all the time 

you want outside without being a nuisance. 

The sophomores’ overnight trip to the Battleship N.J. gone awry. 

What’s the Word 

Cartoon by Amanda Cappelli 

Summer Reading Will Offer More Options 

Summer reading traditionally has been an annoying 

task for some students, while others find it to be just 

another assignment to cram into the last week of the 

break. 

The fact of the matter, though, is that since all Upper 

School students have 

Commentary 

Trevor Bowes 

Staff Writer 

to do it, the English 

Department and Head 

of Upper School Mrs. 

Doughe rty ha ve 

teamed up to make the 

experience more tolerable, if not enjoyable. 

Therefore, they are adding a variety of new possibilities 

for students' summer reading projects. 

"Summer reading, as it was, still exists, but there are 

more options," Mrs. Dougherty said. New additions include 

the option of group projects and free choice of 

books, including novels and non-fiction. Non-fiction 

books have been added for those who would rather learn 

about a new subject or a current event, over reading a 

story. 

This is a massive step away from the original structure, 

in which students had to choose from a small list of 

novels selected by the English Department. This feels 

like a small miracle to me, especially since I have nightmarish 

memories from the summer of 8th grade being 

stuck with a slow moving and boring book, then having to 

write a paper on it. 

Thanks to the removal of the program's restrictive list, 

students can't get trapped into working on something that 

they aren’t interested in; instead, they can find a new novel 

that they feel more drawn in by. 

Mrs. Byrne, the Head of the English Department, believes 

that these changes will be very positive. "I think it 

addresses the needs and concerns of students who don't like 

fiction, and allows them to explore an interest in current 

events." 

Group projects allow students to join up with their classmates 

and work on blogging, commenting, and researching 

together. "I'm excited for group projects," said freshman 

Baird Register, who feels that working with others will 

make the projects easier and more tolerable. 

I believe the additional options will allow students to 

generate a well constructed and inspired project, rather 

than one that feels forced. For instance, I want to read some 

Stephen King novels this summer, and now I'll be able to 

use those for my summer reading project — and I'll actually 

want to do it. 

I'm impressed with the changes to the summer reading 

program so far. And while I won't know for sure how it will 

work out until I begin work on my project, I have high hopes 

for the newly revised reading program. 

Informer staffers Gabby Smith, Breana Daniel, Brandon Anderson, and Christian Acosta asked ... 

If you could change the school mascot, what would it be and why 

"Lion; we are a 

fierce school." 

~ Olivia 

Calabro, 

sophomore 

"Elephant; they're big 

and fat ... [and] 

they're kind of cute, 

just like Woodlynde 

kids." 

~ Megan Doll, 

sophomore 

"Dancing lobsters 

from The Amanda 

Show, because they 

crack me up." 

~ Emily Bank, 

sophomore 

"Camels, because 

they spit on people." 

~ Andrew 

Rosenberg, 

sophomore 

“A giant-headed 

Christian Acosta ... 

because, why not” 

~Mr. Sweeney, 

Math teacher 

"Hot dogs. I eat hot 

dogs every day." 

~ George 

Tagkalidis, 

7th grade 

"Woodlynde 

wombats, because it 

has a nice ring to 

it." 

~ Isabel Barrett, 

sophomore 

“ ... porcupines because 

we’re prickly 

on the outside and 

soft on the inside.” 

~ Bonnie Ward & 

Taylor Sforza, 

freshmen 

“Have a bull as 

the mascot because 

it’s better 

to have a bull 

market than a 

bear market.” 

~Alex Hertel, 

junior

Across 

6. Matt Savitz 

7. Nick Scaramuzza 

8. Max Rein 

9. Joel Cureton 

Down 

1. Katie Schmitz 

2. Christian Acosta 

3. Patrick Nucci 

4. Coach John 

5. Patrick Daniel 

The Informer 

May 29, 2012 Page 7 

Spring Sports Offer Highlights — and Challenges 

Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse 

With time rapidly ticking down, and the score all tied up, the 

Boys' Varsity Lacrosse team was involved in arguably their greatest 

game all season. 

Against their hated rival, Phelps, where there are always extra 

emotions and intensity on the field, the team gave it everything 

they had. Eventually, junior Christian Acosta scored the 

winning goal for Woodlynde. 

The Warriors won both their games against Phelps. Those two 

narrow victories ended up being their only two wins of the season. 

On the bright side, many new players joined the team this 

season, and they look to show major improvement next year. 

~ By Nick Spino, Staff Writer 

Girls’ Softball 

Girls' Varsity Softball this year had a young team that was 

learning how to play and had some struggles during the season. 

Freshman Christa Deckman, who joined in the middle of the 

season, said that the team did decently. She was also happy with 

her own overall pitching and fielding play. 

She said the team's best performance was against Renaissance 

Academy, which was the only game the girls won while 

Christa was playing. That game was the team's highlight of the 

season. 

Although the team struggled during the year, they hope that 

next year, since the players will be more experienced, they will 

improve on the field. 

~ By Dan DeLuca, Staff Writer 

Crystal’s Crystal Clear Advice 

How to Get Your 

iPhone Back 

Question: My parents keep taking my iPhone. They 

say that I can get it back when I have all A's again. How 

do I get it back, and keep it 

I love my iPhone. I once watched mobile Netflix on my 

phone for seven hours and then passed out. Needless to say, my 

teachers were upset at the startling lack of work completed. 

To get back what's yours, I'd like to mention a beloved Malcolm 

X quote: "At all costs". You need to do all you can to assure 

final victory over limits to your electronics. If you convince your 

parents that you are unable to get good grades; scream at them 

about your "illiteracy"; and throw things, while repeating, "You 

just don't understand" — they might give it back out of pity. 

You could also wear a flannel shirt with no sleeves and 

speak with a heavy Mississippi ascent (you'll need less teeth). 

Tell them how the alligators are responsible for your poor 

grades as they "took mha ay'a boat". 

Your parents might very well commit you to an institution, 

but look on the bright side: they'll give you back your phone so 

you'll have something to fill the hours in your nice, padded cell. 

* Faculty Adviser’s Note: Questions are not submitted by 

actual students; they — and the answers — are created by The 

Informer purely for entertainment purposes. 

Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse 

There was one minute left, and the Girls' Varsity Lacrosse 

team was in the midst of a tie game. The score was 10-10 and 

the crowd had a huge impact on the game, cheering loudly. 

However, the opposing team scored in the final seconds, 

and the girls came up just short. That loss went along with 

many this season, unfortunately. The team finished their 

season with only one win — against rival Delaware Valley 

Friends. 

On the positive side, many new and young players joined 

the team this season, and with the addition of those players, 

the squad looks like it could be more competitive next year. 

~ By Nick Spino, Staff Writer 

Boys’ Varsity Tennis 

The Boys' Varsity Tennis team had its share of ups and 

downs this season, but all of the players improved and hope 

to have a better season next year. 

Junior Chris Maguire thought the team improved a 

great deal. "There were a lot of good plays during the tennis 

season," he said. 

Freshman Eric Mitchell said "We tried our hardest 

every game, but I was disappointed on how the season 

ended." 

The team's tournament was scheduled for May 15th, but 

it was rained out. The tournament had not been rescheduled 

as of Informer deadline. 

~ By Alex Roberts, Staff Writer 

Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse 

Puzzles with Danno 

Staff Writer Dan DeLuca challenges you 

to solve this Woodlynde-themed 

crossword puzzle. 

Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoveryEducation.com 

Freshman 

Liza 

Bohm 

during a 

recent 

practice. 

The team 

beat Del 

Val this 

season, but 

that was 

their only 

win. 

Photo by 

Breana 

Daniel 

The Informer 

Woodlynde School 

445 Upper Gulph Road 

Strafford, PA 19087 

The Informer welcomes feedback 

and letters to the editor. 

Please send to: 

Informer@woodlynde.org 

Editors-at-Large 

Jesse Sterge 

Katie Schmitz 

Dominique Mortelliti 

Conor Kennedy 

Editor-in-Chief 

Patrick Torphy 



Video Editor 

Mattie Sweet 

Asst. Photo Editor 

Matt Reott 

Chief Enforcers 

Brandon Anderson 

Christian Acosta 

Staff Writers 

Jeremy Cooper 

Charlie Bromberg 

Austin Fair 

Alex Roberts 

Hannah Lipschutz 

Gabrielle Smith 

Patrick Nucci 

Trevor Bowes 

Nick Brayton 

Eric Mitchell 

Joel Cureton 

Nick Spino 

Nick Scaramuzza 

Dan DeLuca 

Megan Flynn 

Photographers 

Ben Weisman 

Breana Daniel 

Noorie Weinberg 

Graphic Designers 

Luke Alonso 

Videographers 

Emily Bank 

Evan Guinessy 

Kelan Reilly 

Editorial Cartoonists 

Molly Hicks 

Kaitlyn Ciccone 

Amanda Cappelli 

Faculty Adviser 

Mr. Gelman 

Adviser-at-Large 

Mrs. Byrne 

Circulation / Editing 

Adviser 

Ms. DeLiberty 

Clues 

Down 

1. This student was the last person to make 

their senior speech 

2. This junior was the only full-time lacrosse 

player in his grade who's not a goalie 

3. This sophomore is a Penguins fan 

4. This person is the coach for varsity tennis 

5. This sophomore is the latest student to join 

Woodlynde and was a star on the lacrosse team 

Across 

6. This freshman is considered to be the best 

player on the tennis team 

7. This Woodlynde student is related to a 

person who owns a pasta company 

8. This freshman was highlighted in The 

Informer last month for using a bow and arrow 

9. This freshman is a Lakers fan and aspires to 

be a famous rapper 

Answers


Sports Monthly 

Page 8 

Athlete Spotlight: 

Matt Savitz may often joke around, 

but during a match he’s all business 

Freshman Matt Savitz is the Varsity Tennis team's number one singles player, and has been 

destroying opponents for Woodlynde since 7th grade. Informer Staff Writer Nick Scaramuzza 

sat down with Matt to talk about the tennis season. 

What made you want to play tennis 

"Well, when I first hit a ball, it seemed like it 

came natural to me..." 

What was your most embarrassing moment 

in tennis 

"My most embarrassing moment was when I 

missed the ball. It happened to me more than 

once, ha-ha." 

What's your favorite moment in tennis 

"That feeling you get when you win." 

What was the funniest thing you ever did at 

a tennis practice or match 

"Made fun of the coach." Matt's teammates had a 

good laugh, and then the coach made Matt run 

laps. 

Describe the best Woodlynde tennis match 

you have ever had. 

"I shut the kid [out], 6-0. It felt amazing." 

Have you ever aced someone What is that 

like 

"Yes, it felt like I was the best! The king of the 

world! Ha-ha." 

What is your favorite tennis shot Why 

"Slice, because if your opponent is far and you 

slice it short, it is hard for them to get." 

Have you ever been injured 

"Yes, my wrist, shoulder, and elbow from tennis." 

You sometimes act goofy. What are you like 

during a tennis match 

"Very competitive. I do not really like to lose, but I 

love the competition." 


Freshman Matt Savitz loves the 

competitive aspect of tennis. 

Teammate Eric Mitchell says: "Matt acts goofy 

at practice, but on the court, he is deadly serious, especially when he is losing." Eric went on to 

add: "Matthew is very good at tennis; definitely, he is the best player on the team. He is good at 

everything, from serving, to volleying, to pressuring his opponent." 

Golf Team Takes 

Home 2nd Title 

By Nick Spino 

Staff Writer 

The Golf team had yet another spectacular season, going 

undefeated and winning the Tri-County Championship for a 

second consecutive season. 

"It is pretty cool when you know that you won it all," 

freshman Max Rein said. "It is such a great feeling. It was 

very nerve-racking, though, when the scores were being 

added up at the end to determine who would win." 

When asked about the tournament, sophomore Charlie 

Tabas yelled, "We got it! We got the championship!" 

Mr. Larentowicz, the coach for many years now, has 

had the pleasure of teaching some of the best Woodlynde 

golfers. Players on this year's team were senior Conor Kennedy, 

juniors Ryan Mullen and Michael Peduto, sophomores 

Charlie Tabas and Patrick Nucci, and freshman 

Max Rein. 


Champions! Golfers Max Rein, Michael Peduto, Coach Larentowicz, 

Ryan Mullen, and Charlie Tabas won for the second 

year in a row. Missing are senior Conor Kennedy and 

sophomore Patrick Nucci. 

"At the beginning of the season, I predicted that we 

wouldn't lose a match and win the championship again," Michael 

said. "I have high expectations for this team." 

Earlier in the season, Ryan said, "Our goal for every 

match is to go out there and play our best." Ryan, who has 

been swinging a golf club since age three, added, "I did my 

best to be a leader and to help the new players get better." 

Girls’ Softball 

Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse 

Photos by 

Ben Weisman 

Members of the Softball team pose for a picture after a recent game. They are: (top 

row, from left): Alana Phillips, Julia Plousis, Polly Post, Isabel Barrett, Coach 

Walker; (middle row): Coach Mager, Kelsey Harper, Abby Ross, Erin McKie, 

Shanice Stewart-Hipps, Katie Gallagher, Victoria Hartzell; and (front row) 

Christa Deckman. 

Freshman Matt Reott streaks 

down the field. 

Junior Ryan Mullen fights for a loose ball in the dirt. 

Freshman Will Milowsky battles an opponent for the ball. 

Huddle up! The lacrosse team gathers for some lastminute 

instructions before taking the field. 

Defenders (white jerseys), including Dan Wilson, Ck 

Etherington, and goalie Pat Endlich, wait in 

anticipation for the ball to come down.

Informer May 2012 Issue - Woodlynde School

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