A Special Invitation

Our eight sending districts:  Ellwood, Laurel, Mohawk,
Neshannock, New Castle, Shenango, Union, & Wilmington

Welcome to LCCTC -- where you'll soon become 
     a vital part of our 
        FAMILY.

Our teachers and staff are willing
     to HELP
          in immeasurable ways;
They show us
     LOVE --
          even when we don't always deserve it.

You have a chance to learn TRADITIONAL courses,
     but you'll learn SKILLS to
          last a lifetime.

You
     can
          SOAR to higher heights -- 
                 well beyond where you ever thought you could!

DIVERSITY --
     COMPASSION --
          LEADERSHIP --
               SKILL --
                    OPPORTUNITY --
                         LCCTC

This poem, written by our own Eagle staff, describes our school from our eyes.  It is an introduction to our first edition of The LCCTC Eagle, written by students who are founding members of the journalism course and inspired by the many wonderful qualities of our school.  

These articles found herein are written by our students; the topics have been selected to reflect what is best about our school, and there is so much more to share!  We invite you to read the first edition of The LCCTC Eagle! 

A great education awaits as you enter these doors!

We actively work to reflect the best of the best here, both within the walls of LCCTC AND outside at the job sites!  

If you have an idea for an article, feel free to contact any member of the team; we'll be happy to write a feature.  We would also like to invite you to join the Eagle Journalism Club and become a member of our support staff!  

We pledge to keep our Eagle eyes peeled for all of the great happenings that occur in our school, and we look forward to bringing you more in the editions to follow!

Halloween Questionnaire ~ Makaila Holsinger

As you travel down the road and walk into stores, you might begin to see that "it's beginning to look a lot like Halloween." With that in mind, we asked a few students some questions, and here are their spooky responses:

1. What halloween candy do you like the most?

• Reese's cups - Tessa Buchta (Senior)
• Twizzlers - Chris Maunder (Senior)
• Candy Corn - Ryan Wehman (Junior)
• Snickers - Chasen Lykins (Junior)
• Toblerone - Kindal Procopio (Sophomore)

 

2. What scary movie do you prefer to watch?

• The Exorcist - Gemma Gatto (Junior)
• Halloween Town - Rob Geitner (Senior)
• Haunting in Connecticut - Sara Greer (Senior)
• Chucky - Kaleigh Basile (Senior)
• Friday the 13th ~ Kindal Procopio

3. Who do you trick or treat with?

• Squad - Alex Pavick (Senior)
• My sisters - Chasen Lykins (Junior)
• Friends - Kaleigh Basile (Senior)
• Nieces and Nephews - Allison Clingensmith (Senior)

4. What was your Favorite Halloween Costume?

• Jig Saw - Dominique Maravola (Junior)
• Bob Ross - Chasen Lykins (junior)
• Hello Kitty - Allison Clingensmith (Senior)
• Napoleon Dynamite - Tessa Buchta (Senior)
• M& M because my mom always told me I couldn't eat my candy 'til I got home, but she never said I couldn't eat my costume! ~ Kindal Procopio
• 
  

5. Do you prefer scary or sweet costumes?

• Scary - Rob Geitner (Senior)
• Scary - Gemma Gatto (Junior)
• Sweet - Chasen Lykins (Junior)
• Sweet - Allison Clingensmith (Senior)

~~~

"I don't know who invented high heels, but all women owe him a lot,"  Marilyn Monrow 

Makaila Holsinger, expert selfie stick aficionado, studies Health Assistant and has recently landed a job working at Jameson Place in Neshannock Township.  Makaila is a trained Peer Leader, National Honor Society,  ROVA, and SkillsUSA.  When she's not snapping pictures, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, particularly her little brother.  When Makaila graduates, she plans to attend nursing school and become a RN.  

What's Happening in October ~ by Nolin Marcus

Week 1

• October 1st ­ ~ First Club Day
• October 2nd ~ Sophomore Class Voting

Week 2

• October 7th   
• Peer Leadership Hoagie Delivery Sale Pickup
• NOCTI Pre-test:  Auto Tech (AM) & Restaurant Trades (PM)
• October 8th ­~ Open House
• October 9th ­~ Teachers In­Service, No School

Week 3

• October 11th ~ Fright Night
• October 12th ­~ Columbus Day, No School
• October 13th ~ NOCTI Pre-test:  Cosmetology
• October 14th ~ NOCTI Pre-test: Commercial Art
• October 16th ~ NOCTI Pre-test: Health Assistance (O'Donnell)

Week 4

• October 19th ~ NOCTI Pre-test:  Electrical Occupation 
• October 21st ~ NOCTI Pre-test: Health Assistance (Pavia)
• October 22nd ~ Industry Fair
• October 23rd ­~ Possible Hat Day, Possible Peer Leadership Hoagie Sale

Week 5

• October 25th ­~ Gettings Memorial Marathon
• October 27th ~ NOCTI Pre-test: Computer and Office Technology
• October 28th ~ NOCTI Pre-test: Collision Repair (AM) & Masonry (PM)
• October 29th ­ 
• Cover Letter due for Seniors
• Grading Period Ends
• NOCTI Pre-test: Construction Trades
• October 30th ~ Peer Leadership Haunted Trail
• October 31st ­
• Halloween!  Eat candy and have fun!  
• Peer Leadership Children's Activities

If you know of events occurring in the up-coming months, make sure you contact Nolin!  He'll be pleased to include it in this monthly feature!

~~~

Nolin Marcus, a COT senior, plans to continue his education at a university and would one day like to work as a Information Technology Specialist.  When he's not rocking it out on the computer, he's rocking it out with his bass; an accomplished musician, Nolan enjoys playing for those who love music.

Nolin would like to thank Kixx Alderette, Thomas Gennock, Nathan Innocent, Mark Semans, and Ms. Gabriel for their help in writing this article.

Halloween Fun Facts ~ by Madison Hansotte

DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know that Halloween was originally called Hallowseve?

Halloween started off as a Celtic festival; the Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off the evil spirits.

Then, in the 8th century Pope Gregory III made November 1st All Saints Day because Hallowseve was on October 31st.

“Stingy Jack,” as the Irish legend has it, had a bad habit of playing tricks on the Devil. Then, when Jack died, God didn’t want him in Heaven; as a consequence, the devil, mad about the tricks he played, did not want to claim his soul either and sent Jack off to roam the earth at night with only a hot coal to light the way -- hence, the lighted Jack-o-lantern.

Fun Fact:

• The first Jack-o-lanterns were actually made from turnips!
• The largest pumpkin ever measured weighed in at 2,032 pounds and took 105 days to grow.
• A full-moon is rare on Halloween.
• Halloween is the 2nd most commercial holiday in the United States -- second to, you guessed it -- Christmas.

Adapted from:  Willett, Megan. "13 Facts You Never Knew About Halloween." Business Insider. N.p., 24 Oct. 2013. Web. 30 Sept. 2015.

"Get Fit" ~ by Kaitlyn Wright

While some people worry about getting their minds fit for school, others think about getting their bodies fit. Both are important for performance in school, on the job, and for overall well-being. Each month, we plan to offer you some healthy tips to help you become your very best self -- both in mind and in body! So you want to get fit, but how do you start?

Mrs. Cwynar, our own school nurse, has one simple word for us: WATER! Because dehydration and lack of sleep are two of the leading causes for headaches in teens, she suggests that, in addition to getting 8 hours of sleep each night, we should drink at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day.

At first, when you make this goal, it may seem like a lot, but it's a good way to start! At dinner, begin eating "clean meals." Make sure you are getting a serving of protein that includes milk, egg, chicken, or fish. About two cups of fruit and two and a half cups of veggies per day should be enough.

Later on, you can include this clean eating habit to include lunch and breakfast. Eating healthy all day long will help your body rid itself of any negative toxins, and you'll soon feel much better.

Simply considering a clean diet can greatly help you begin to get fit. When should you start? Why not today!

~~~

A special thanks goes to Lawrence County Career and Technical Center's school nurse, Mrs. Maryann Cwyner, for her expert advice. She has recently earned a 1st place Masters in the Kansas City Classic as an International Federation of Physique Athletes Pro, her Specialist in Fitness Nutrition from the International Sports Sciences Association, and her Master’s degree as a school nurse from Cambridge College. 

~~~

Kaitlyn Wright, a senior in Health Assistance. She currently work at Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe in Ellwood City. After school she is interested in going to IUP to continue her education in Nursing and become a Pediatric Oncologist. She is involved in Open and Closing team for SkillsUSA, a  trained Peer Leader, National Honors Society, Class of 2016 Student Council for the past 3 years, and has been on Holiday Court 2 years in a row. After school she enjoys reading.  The quote that she lives by is this:  “In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.”

We Care ~ by Samantha Amon

The United Way had their annual Day of Caring on September 10, 2015. Day of Caring gives volunteers a glimpse of how their hard work has a positive effect on their community and nonprofit organizations. Once again, Peer Leadership at LCCTC was happy to serve in support of this day.

Twenty of our own Peer Leaders spent their day at Camp Agawam, primarily used for Boy Scouting adventures. Ranger Tom, the caretaker of the camp, needed help with closing the camp for the upcoming winter. The Peer Leaders helped him cover the pool, stack wooden planks, and weed around the bushes.

Mr. Rich even stopped by to lend a hand! When the day was done, Peer leader Destinee Coates gave a tear-jerking remembrance speech about 9/11 and what it means to be a hero.

Afterwards Kayla Baker handed Ranger Tom an honorary certificate and pin, making him an official Peer Leader.

Although it was just a day to volunteer, the Peer Leaders not only enjoyed themselves, they also went home with a smile on their face knowing that their hard work made someone else's day easier. 

~~~

When her nose isn't buried inside a book, Samantha studies Computer Office Technology. After she graduates, she plans to follow in the footsteps of her family as a 4th generation nurse. Her friends would describe her as beautiful, kind-hearted, and one-of-a-kind.

Sophomore Class Officer Elections ~ Kaitlyn Wright

Hey sophomores! Ever thought about running for class office? Well, now is your chance! On October 2nd, you will have your opportunity to select a president, vice president, secretary, or treasurer.

As president, you will represent the entire 10th grade student body. A vice president will assist the president or fill in whenever needed. The secretary will record the minutes of the meetings and take any needed notes. As treasurer, you have the responsibility of counting and keeping track of the money.

As a whole, you will have to be able to work alongside staff and other students to organize fundraisers to put together our holiday dance in December. You will need to work as a team to  make decisions to determine the theme for the Holiday Dance which includes selecting the colors, creating decorations, and ensuring that your classmates have a night to remember.

Who is your sponsoring teacher?  Meet Mrs. Pasterik, a 20-year Biology, Biology II, and Chemistry teacher. She is the proud mother of two, Nathan 14 and Rachel 12. She enjoys the diversity of the student population here at LCCTC, and she looks forward to working with the Class of 2018.

To qualify to run for office, you must be a positive student.  You cannot serve 6 days of detention or Out Of School Suspension, and you must maintain a grade point average of a 2.0 (C) or higher. If you receive less than a 70% in any class on a report card, you will be placed on academic probation for a 9 week period. You must also have good attendance.

Of course, the soft-skill qualities needed to be a successful member of student council, you will need to be dependable; this means that you do what you say you will do, WHEN you say you’ll do it!  You’ll need to take initiative to check in with your advisor -- frequently.  Often times, there’s a lot you can do to help.  You’ll need to manage your time wisely; you will need to keep your grades high as you participate in the required events.  Learning to prioritize is one of the most challenging skills you’ll need -- even in your career.  Learning these traits will help you as a class officer, as well as in your future job!

Why would you want this great responsibility? Being a class officer is a fantastic way to get involved in the school, meet new friends, and just have fun!

So -- if you hear the call to run for class officer or you want to help ensure that the best candidates become your leaders, make sure you consider your selections wisely; they represent your class and become your voice!

~~~

Kaitlyn Wright, a senior in Health Assistance. She currently work at Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe in Ellwood City. After school she is interested in going to IUP to continue her education in Nursing and become a Pediatric Oncologist. She is involved in Open and Closing team for SkillsUSA, a  trained Peer Leader, National Honors Society, Class of 2016 Student Council for the past 3 years, and has been on Holiday Court 2 years in a row. After school she enjoys reading.  The quote that she lives by is this:  “In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.”

"Training for Teamwork!" ~ by Skylar Harris

According to the University of Missouri, particpation in team sports and related activities are beneficial for "learning accountability, dedication, and leadership."  We invited our students to share how their participation in sports and activities helps them prepare for the world of work.  

Here's what they had to say: 

"In tennis, I need to make sure I'm consistent with every shot; I can apply this to my shop because I also need to make sure I'm doing my best to care for my patients in Health Assistance." Kylie Smith ~ Neshannock Tennis

"Football has taught me hard work -- to never give up, and I can apply this to learning those new skills.  I like learning new skills that can help me get a job in a Restaurant Trades. "  Waddell Vogan ~ New Castle Football

"Communition within the field of Auto Technology is imperative.  This is true on the field, as well."  Griffin Holtom ~ Mohawk Football

'Working as a team helps me on the field and in my future career."  Lizzie Poljac ~ Ellwood Softball and Band

"One of my favorite quotes is from Romans 8:8:  'The pain you've been feeling can't compare to the joy that's coming.'  This gets me through my practices when I dance, and it gets me through my course-work as I study to become a cosmetologist."  Bree Burgin ~ New Castle Candy Canes

Cross-Country prepares me physically and mentally.  It prepares me physically by keeping me strong and healthy as I make my way into the health field.  If I get a scholarship for Cross-Country, it will help me further my education.  My mental preparation is much like it is for other sports; it allows me to multitask and to make quick, decisive decisions -- just like my work ethic in the health field."  Matt Hawkins ~ New Castle Cross Country

"I enjoy the physical work and the attention to detail involved in football.  This can help me in the future as a welder!"  James Robinson ~ New Castle ~ Football

"Teamwork in sport can help my team win a game; teamwork on the job site helps me get done faster and better!"  Ray Campbell ~ Laurel Football

"I have learned to avoid getting stressed over the little things. This helps me not only enjoy my time on the dance line; I also can enjoy learning my trade [cosmetology]."  Lacey Lopes ~ Ellwood City Marquette

"Playing football and learning ....  helps me prepare for the teamwork needed in my future career in computers."  Michael Penwell:  New Castle Football

"Sports has taught me to stay focused and be helpful to others." ~ QueaVaughn Napier:  New Castle Football

"Do or do not -- there is no try.' ~ Yoda."  Michael Birckbichler ~ Shenango Football

"Teamwork is important if I ever own a collision repair business.  This is true for football, as well."  DeAlamar Matthews ~ Football ~ New Castle

"As captain of my drill team for three years, I have learned the value of compromise, patience, communication, teamwork, and what it takes to be a leader."  Kayla Baker ~ Union Drill Team




"Drill Team has taught me many skills such as working well in frustrating situations, acting professionally in front of an audience, the importance of presentation, and the perseverance to do my very best."  Tristan Gravatt ~ Union Drill Team

"Participating in the band has taught me that it takes time. I'm not going to be the best at something that I just started. I need to keep on trying and to learn from my mistakes until I achieve perfection. This is true for me in Health Assistance. Once I perfect a skill, I remember to maintain that skill for the good of others -- because of the process." Angel Wojciechowski ~ Laurel Drum Line

"On the flag line and in Restaurant Trades, teamwork is the key to success; I need to remember to be focused and be helpful to others." Maxine Alexander ~ New Castle Flag Line

"I try to work as hard as I can -- on the field and in Restaurant trades. I like being involved in both because I'm good at both." Marshane McElroy ~ New Castle Football

"I learn to 'go big or go home' when I play; this is true of my dedication as a future cosmetologist." Haileigh Hawk ~ New Castle Volleyball

"Leadership on the field -- the responsibility to the team -- will help me in the future as a Physical Therapist."  Alison Witzeman ~ Neshannock Drill Team   

"I need to be able to stand up and take the reigns as a leader, both on the field and in my future career as a Respiratory Therapist." Sayde Morse ~ Ellwood City Marquette






Others who participate in fall sports and activities are as follows:  

• "I have learned the value of perserverance through adversity on both my flag line and in cosmetology." Hallie Joyce ~ New Castle Flag Line
• "I have found that punctuality is important for my team, when I attend school, and in my future career." Jamilynn Liskooka ~ New Castle Candy Canes

*** If you know of others who participate in fall sports or school-sanctioned activities, please contact any Eagle Staff writer. We will be happy to include you in a second edition of this feature! In the months to come, we'll feature our students who participate in organized extra-curricular activities, work, and other pursuits that lead to future careers! ***

~~~

Skylar looks forward to graduating with her classmates in 2016.  She states, "I'm a die-hard fashion girl who loves to read and write."  She plans to attend the Art Institute for Fashion Design and hopes to one day open her own clothing line.  "Fashion is my passion" describes her perfectly.  She encourages others to "express yourself and make life FABULOUS."

For Freedom ~ Makaila Holsinger and Matt Tataseo

“If you’re not making someone else’s life better, you’re wasting your time.” ~ Will Smith 





Lawrence County CTC supports its seniors -- especially those who have already taken the steps to serve our country in the military! Six from LCCTCs Class of 2016 have been sworn into our country's Armed Forces. These six include Robert Bird (CT), Dalton Dilling (MT), Damian Gajewski (MT), Devin Marshall (CT), Jem Montgomery (HA), and Matthew Tataseo (Mas). 

Why did you select your branch? Marshall responded, "I joined the Army, and I'm glad -- it's fun!" "The Marines," Tataseo touted, "Are the first ones in and the last ones out." 

"I wanted to take what I have learned in Health Assistance," stated Montgomery, "and apply it to helping my fellow servicemen and women. I joined the Navy not only to serve my country; I joined to better my country and to better myself." 

Bobby Bird 

Bird, the most recent to enlist in the Marine Corps, proudly posted on FaceBook that "freedom is what you're born with in America; joining the military is paying back those who died for your freedom." 

With a moment to collect herself, Dilling replied "I joined the Army because John couldn't." Many will remember John Durnell, MT: Class of 2015, who passed away during the summer before his senior year. John was a patriot at heart and planned to join the Army. 

Dalton Dilling

When many of his friends were basking in the summer sun, Gajewski chose to complete Army boot camp over the summer. "The hardest thing," he reports, "is the ruck march marches." 

Damion Gajewski

Montgomery considers that "being separated from family will also be tough, but I'm ready to serve my country. I may appreciate 'home' even more when I return." 

As for future plans, all can see a military career in their future, but regardless of their time spent, they are all proud to take this step for their futures. LCCTC wishes these students who serve for freedom our very best. 

~~~

"I don't know who invented high heels, but all women owe him a lot,"  Marilyn Monrow 

Makaila Holsinger, expert selfie stick aficionado, studies Health Assistant and has recently landed a job working at Jameson Place in Neshannock Township.  Makaila is a trained Peer Leader, National Honor Society,  ROVA, and SkillsUSA.  When she's not snapping pictures, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, particularly her little brother.  When Makaila graduates, she plans to attend nursing school and become a RN.  

~~~

 Matt Tataseo, Masonry senior, enjoys being a part of the journalism class -- especially the research.  When he's not practicing his trade, he can often be seen with a stack of books from the library!  Upon graduation, he will serve our country in the Marine Corps.