By Kayla Black ‘26

Holiday traditions are a big part of the Christmas season. Each person has a different way of celebrating holidays. Teachers within our school have special traditions that they celebrate with their families as well!

Michael Pater, this year's grade 9 and 11-12 Religion teacher, shared a few of the traditions that he celebrates with his family. “Every year, my immediate family regularly gathers on Christmas Eve at my parents' house. We order Chinese food and wait for the first airing of A Christmas Story on TV. While that's on, we begin getting ready to go to the 10:00 p.m. Mass.” This year, he has a new addition: “I'll be missing out on the Chinese food Christmas Eve with my family and joining my wife's family in their tradition.”

Sharing these special traditions is so important every year. We are all individually given the time to spend with family and friends during the holiday season. Traditions within our faculty vary.

Anne Schratz, this year's 10-12 English teacher, shared some of the special traditions that she does every year with her family. Special recipes always make Christmas more exciting. “Christmas breakfast casserole- it bakes in the morning for an hour while we open gifts. It is the only day of the year we have this treat! We also enjoy Christmas coffee, strong brewed coffee with cocoa and cinnamon, topped with whipped cream; and Russian tea, strong brewed tea with orange and pineapple juices, and lots of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise.”

Getting to learn more about our faculty’s holiday traditions is a heartwarming experience. We get to know more about them outside of the classroom walls.

Cathy Greco, our school's Chemistry and Biology teacher, happily added what she does to celebrate the holiday. “My daughter lives in California, but always comes home at Christmas. Our best Christmas tradition is that my husband, daughter, son, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons spend as much time together as possible. A good friend once observed that it’s like time stops at our house and we enjoy Christmas togetherness.”

Christmas is such a heartwarming holiday. It encourages all to spend time with their family and be able to relax. May everyone have a blessed holiday.

By: Courtney Mentecki

Every year around Christmas time, the debate over whether real Christmas trees versus fake Christmas trees are better remains. Both have their pros and cons, but every family has their preferences. 

Brayden Ehrman ‘27 said, “I personally prefer a fake Christmas tree over a real one. It is less messy and it is easier to put away and decorate. I like how it can be used and stored for the next year.”

Both kinds of trees depend on the effort of the person. For example, a more affordable choice would be a real tree, although they require more attention. However, opinions on which kind of Christmas trees differ. 

Kayla Black ‘26 said, “Normally, in the past years, I have gotten a real Christmas tree. Although this year, my family happened to get a fake. I prefer the real Christmas tree because it is nostalgic to me since we have always bought them when I was younger. Cutting it down was always fun and it smells great.” 

When looking at the price of the trees, a fake one is usually more expensive. But for most, this doesn't stop them from continuing their traditions. Some people even have both types of trees in their home. 

Max Perez ‘27 said, “I have both a real and fake Christmas tree. I think I like the real one better because it smells better and it is fun buying them with my family.”

Traditionally, most go for the fake tree claiming it is “easier,” but buying a real one is more exciting and refreshing.

Miley Norris ‘27 said, “I also use a fake tree because it is easier to set up than to go and cut one down.” 

In general, the debate over which kind of Christmas tree continues, but hearing opinions from all over is enjoyable to compare. 

By: Mattalie Bayne '27

Are you ever bedrotting and super bored on a cold winter day? Well, there are several things you can do, whether you want to stay at home or go somewhere; whether there is snow or none. Maybe you want to hang out with friends or just relax in bed. There are a few different ways you can choose to spend your day: staying at home, going somewhere, or outdoor activities if there is snow. Whatever one you choose, you will not be bored, and hopefully have an enjoyable time on a cold winter day. And you might even have school canceled. I interviewed Ava Humprey ‘28 to see what her favorite things are to do on a cold day.

If you choose to stay at home because you do not want to get cold while outside, there are several activities you can do. Do you want to stay in bed all day, have people over, or enjoy a relaxing day by yourself? Here are a few at-home things Ava likes to do:

-watching a movie/show: She likes to watch Running Man for the action, or, if she is looking for something snowy to watch, she will watch White Christmas. Since winter is during Christmas time, you can watch Christmas movies like Home Alone. 

-reading a book: Her favorite books to read are murder mysteries or sci-fi.

-building a puzzle: Ava does not like to do puzzles, but I think they are relaxing to do especially on a cold, snowy day. You can build a dog puzzle or a snowy scene puzzle. You could also build whatever kind of puzzle that brings you joy.

-playing games: Ava plays video games, chess or trivia with her family. You can play card games, like 500, or a board game, like Monopoly.

-cooking: Ava enjoys comfort foods, specifically pasta dishes. Cooking soup on a cold day will always warm you up.

-baking: Ava loves some carrot cake. Macaroons are so good to eat and I would love to learn how to make them one day.

-warming up by a fire and hot chocolate: Ava says it is “ the best thing to do with a good book and big blanket.” It is promised to warm you up.

If there is snow, enjoy it while it is there. The snow might not be there tomorrow and it might not snow again that year, so do what you can while it lasts. Here are some fun snow activities:

-build a snowman: Ava said that one time, she and her cousins built a huge one. The heavy snow is the best for building a snowman.

-sledding: Her best advice for sledding is to use a kayak because it makes you go faster. The best place to go is on a large hill. 

-skiing: She says skiing is scary which I would have to completely agree with her about.

-skating: I would probably fall, sharing the same thoughts as her. However, Pittsburgh has some good ice rinks. 

-snowboarding: Ava and I both have never done this, but she says it sounds cool.

-snowtubing: Ava says snowtubing “is soooo fun” and she would like to do it together. A good place to go is Boyce Park or Seven Springs.

-go for a walk: She does not walk in the winter; it has to be warm for her to take a walk. You could always take a walk around your neighborhood.

-drink hot chocolate: In her opinion, marshmallows with hot chocolate is the best way to enjoy it.

-warm up by a fire: “It has to be really cold and snowing for me to turn on the fire,” Humphrey says.

If you want to take an adventure and leave your house, you can go somewhere. There are several indoor places to go or winter activities to do. Here are some places to go to enjoy the day:

-place with outdoor activities: She likes going to a park.

-snowtubing: Ava says, “snowtubing is cheap at Boyce Park,” which is convenient. You could also go to Seven Springs.

-skiing: She says the best places are at Seven Springs or Deep Creek.

-roller skating: Neville Roller Dome is a great place to go roller skating.

-bowling: Ava goes to Nesbits since she does not live far from there, but she does not think it is the best bowling place. Now, I like Nesbits, and believe I do better there than other places since I grew up going there. Another good place is Wildlife Lanes.

-visiting family and friends: Her family spends the time together playing games and having dinner together. 

-going places with indoor activities: Ava loves to walk around a mall. Some good malls to go to are Ross Park Mall and South Hills Village

-go shopping: Ava enjoys going to antique stores and book stores. I like going to Target.

I enjoy staying home on cold days, so I do not have to face the cold outdoors. My favorite thing is wrapping up in a blanket and playing games with my family or watching TV. Another fun thing to do is cooking. Ava’s favorite thing to do on a cold day is “putting on an oversized sweater with really fuzzy socks and reading a good book or maybe painting as [she] sips on a mug of very sugary hot cocoa.” I encourage people to do some of these activities to stay active. You will end up having fun instead of laying in your bed all day. 

Christmas is a special part of the year for everyone, including Saint Joe’s! It is the time of year where we all count down the days until Christmas break and await the birth of Jesus. As a tradition at Saint Joe’s, we have a week where students and faculty can dress down to celebrate early. 

“I enjoy seeing how people have different ways of expressing themselves and styles,” says Hailey Mitchell ‘26. 

At St. Joe’s, students do not get much choice in our everyday outfit, so having a whole week dedicated to fun, expressive outfits is huge to students. Students finally see what people wear outside of school, especially people they do not speak to in school. An element is knowing everyone’s name here, but during Spirit Week, you really see their personality shine. 

This week is sacred to St. Joe’s. “I would be upset if it was taken away; the break wouldn’t be as rewarding, and there is nothing to look forward to,” said Gabby Carvens ‘28.

This week is rewarding and builds excitement for students who are ready to leave for break. Without it, the weight of school and stress piles up and ruins the buildup. Everyone loves the excitement and fun activities and festivities going around school.

Many people wish this year's was more exciting, especially after comparing it to previous years. “I wish there was more variety. It was kind of boring,” says Ava Myers ‘29.

While everyone is still grateful for the opportunity of dressing down for a week, we still wish it was more fun. Spirit shirts aren’t nearly as fun as dressing up for a certain decade or a sports team. For next year, I hope the creativity in the daily outfits is alive and thriving. 

Christmas is a memorable time of year and the week really gets the spirits high! It serves the purpose and brings fun and cheer. What’s your favorite part of Spirit Week?

Fun drinks have become a part of student life at Saint Joe’s. They can help with the caffeine in them or can bring some happiness to someone. At Saint Joe’s, most prefer iced drinks over hot, but why is this?

“I like being cold more than I like being hot,” says Mary Huth, ‘27. Jocelyn Spinelli ‘27 shares, “I don't want to have to wait for it to cool or burn my tongue.”

This was a common response, with many people preferring being cool and being able to enjoy their drinks without having to wait for them to cool down. With iced drinks, they are ready and safe to drink as soon as they are made, no worries of burning your mouth. 

Another common reason for people to purchase fun drinks is the vibe they bring. Miley Norris ’27 states how hot drinks “aren’t as fun.” 

Aesthetics are big to people, and cold drinks fit the “vibe” more than hot. People will know what you’re drinking and will be prompted to ask. This causes trends to start; people will want to have what you have; or even just like the look of holding it. With hot drinks, it's in a paper cup and you cannot see what it contains, taking away the effect of seeing someone with a “fun” drink. 

Most people also claimed that even in cold weather they would not change their opinion. Cold drinks are just the group favorite. I got the same answer for what everyone's favorite hot drink was: hot chocolate,  and the reasoning for it was Christmas. Hot chocolate is a drink usually drunk in the winter and for the Christmas spirit. This shows how little people drink hot drinks; they only do it for the season of Christmas.

I also received a common liking for iced lattes, which is a tea or coffee mixed with milk. It brings a wonderful taste and is easy to drink. They include caffeine for those who need it, a nice sweet taste, and enjoyment with the aesthetic they bring to the consumer. 

Most people love iced and will always choose it over hot. Once you pick one, it is hard to choose the other. What do you prefer?

By: Ava Myers '29

From Labubu mayhem to AI everywhere, from the false Tiktok ban to 6 - 7 taking the internet by storm, 2025 was one wild roller coaster ride of a year. Since there were so many popular trends this year, I got curious and decided to ask a few students what their favorite trends were and why.

First, I interviewed Julia Skowronski ‘29 who said that the ice bucket challenge was her favorite because “it was fun to see who was going to nominate you.” 

Next, I interviewed Gabby Carvens ‘28, who had two favorite trends. First, she said that she was happy cheetah print was coming back in style because according to her, “It gives very 2000s and I love that.” Her second favorite was Italian brainrot because “it's very funny and I like watching the TikToks.” 

Mattalie Bayne ‘27 said,”I like that both country fashion and music have come back because that’s my style.” 

Lastly, I interviewed Courtney Mentecki ‘26 and she said that she was happy baggy jeans were back in style. “I feel like that's my style and I’m happy it's coming back.”

As you can see, the students that attend SJHS all have very different styles and preferences when it comes to social media. In my opinion, trends have the ability to allow people to show off their personalities when they start or become part of a trend that is suited to them and they really like it. In the end, 2025 was a very interesting year and hopefully 2026 will be a great year for everyone.

By: Brayden Ehrman '27

Hot vs. Cold weather, whether you like the cold or the hot weather is up to personal preference.

Kayla Black ‘26 said, “hot weather, because her closet is arranged for hotter weather, and she doesn't like being cold because it makes her bored.”

Clothing is a big part of the seasons because you either gotta stay warm or be cool to keep a consistent body temperature; whether it's  a puffer coat or a pair of shorts, there are many different options. 

Courtney ‘26 said, “I like the cold weather better, but season-wise, I like the summer better.” However, she hates being hot; she likes the cold best, but likes the availability of the summer and longevity of activities you can do during the time.

The weather can have a massive impact on your mental health and how you go about your day; when it's dark and gloomy out, that might be how you feel throughout the day. If it's warm and light outside you will feel just that much better depending on how you feel.

Chloe Damico, '27 said, “I enjoy the hotter weather because when I walk outside and feel the hot summer weather I feel happier knowing that school is starting to come to an end.” This leads into what Martin said:

Martin Stickney ‘27 said,  “I prefer warmer weather, as it allows me to have a clearer mind, because when the weather is cold I spend time thinking about how cold I am, which distracts me from what I am doing and damages my mental health.” 

All in all, every day can be a great day depending on how you make it. We should be thankful for all days no matter the weather and season. We need to take advantage of the God-given blessing called life and spend our days in a meaningful way.

By: Jocelyn Spinelli '27

As the temperatures drop and students at Saint Joseph High School bring out their coats, winter drinks become a daily comfort rather than just an every once in a while treat. Whether you’re warming your hands walking outside between classes or looking for something comforting to sip during homework, three classic choices stand out: hot chocolate, hot lattes, and hot apple cider. Each drink brings its own flavor and set of moods.

Hot chocolate is the most popular. Rich, creamy, and nostalgic, it’s the drink many people grew up enjoying after playing outside in the snow. Some people add either whipped cream, marshmallows, or peppermint, but the result is always the same: instant comfort. It’s also the go-to for students who want something sweet without the caffeine kick.

For those who do want a boost, hot lattes are the favorite pick-me-up. A blend of espresso and steamed milk, lattes offer a balance of warmth and energy. Seasonal options like vanilla, cinnamon, or caramel make them even more appealing in winter. Teens who rely on caffeine to stay awake during early classes or to stay focused during study sessions often choose this drink for its mix of flavor and function.

Then there’s hot apple cider. Some people may say this is the fall drink, but most students think it's a winter drink. Made from spiced apple juice and served steaming hot, this drink brings the cozy smell of cinnamon and apples into every room. It’s perfect for students who want something festive but more like a juice and caffeine-free, and it pairs well with winter events like concerts, sports games, or outside holiday activities.

No matter which drink you reach for first, each one carries a little piece of what makes winter special: warmth, comfort, and a reason to slow down for a moment. In a season filled with cold mornings and busy schedules, a good winter drink might be the small joy that gets you through the day.

By: Katy Short '27

When the days turn short and the air begins to get colder, there is nothing like wrapping yourself in a blanket to read a good book. Whether you’re drawn to intense drama, family narratives, or immersive fantasy, winter invites you to settle in and get lost while reading.

There is no novel more suited to a stormy winter night than Wuthering Heights, by Emily Bronte. Set on the wild, windswept moors, this gothic classic follows the dramatic relationship between Catherine and Heathcliff. The haunting atmosphere and intensity makes it ideal for a cold winter evening.

If Wuthering Heights is winter at its coldest, then Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott, is winter at its warmest. The classic follows the March sisters through the highs and lows of growing up. This classic captures the warmth of family life and the comforts of simple moments. Its cozy holiday scenes and heartfelt lessons pair perfectly for a calm winter's day.

If you want to escape into a world of magic, danger, and icy landscapes, then Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo is your pick. In a world divided by darkness and danger, Alina Starkov discovers that she has a rare power that could change everything. With its snowy landscape and magic, it offers an escape on long winter nights. 

Wuthering Heights, Little Women, and Shadow and Bone together offer a trio of emotional, atmospheric, and imaginative landscapes. Each one is different, but are all great choices for these chilly months.

Happy winter reading!

With winter break right around the corner, there are so many family-friendly activities to do close to home. At the Pittsburgh Zoo, you and your family can enjoy dazzling holiday lights; or, stay nice and warm in the Andy Warhol or Carnegie Museums.  Take a trip to downtown Pittsburgh with your friends to  PPG place, where you have the opportunity to go ice skating around a Christmas tree. If you want a more thrilling experience, you can take a trip to Seven Springs and go skiing or snowboarding.

Pittsburgh Zoo Lantern Festival and Zoo Lights

Through the holiday season, The Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium holds Wild Illuminations: A Holiday Lantern Festival. It runs November 22 through January 11, 2026, with light displays from 5:30 p.m to 10:00 p.m on certain evenings. The zoo’s pathway is magically lit up with over a million twinkling lights. This includes holiday-themed treats, rides on the carousel, scavenger hunts, and seasonal music. This is the perfect activity for all ages. 

Tickets 

Plan ahead for a single day. Adults $23-28 Children ages 2-13 $19-24. 

Flex Tickets $32 per person.

Group Rate 15+ people $23 per person. 

Children under 24 months enter free.

Andy Warhol Museum 

The Andy Warhol Museum is located on the North Shore of Pittsburgh. Andy Warhol is one of the most influential artists of the 20th Century, and this museum is the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist. This Museum is open Wednesday through Monday 10 a.m to 5p.m, while being closed on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Tickets 

Adults $25

Students and Seniors $13

Children under 2 are free.

Ice Skating at PPG Place 

Ice skating at PPG place is an iconic tradition while being perfect for all ages and different skill levels. Located in downtown Pittsburgh, you have the opportunity to skate between so many decorations at an outdoor rink between glass towers and around a huge Christmas tree. This is available from mid-November through early March with hours varying from day to day.

Tickets

General Admission $12 

Skate rentals $6

Skiing, Snow Tubing, and Snowboarding at Seven Springs

This amazing mountain is located in Laurel Highlands which is about an hour south of  Pittsburgh. This is an amazing opportunity for all skill levels, from beginners to highly experienced riders, while they offer a variety of different types of trails and terrain parks. Seven Springs is generally open from December through March depending on the weather. 

Tickets 

Lift tickets vary from $50 to $100 dollars depending on the day.

Phipps Holiday Magic 

Phipps Conservatory transforms into a beautiful festive destination with Holiday Magic. With colorful floral displays and glowing outdoor lights, it's the perfect event for everyone. This event runs from mid-November to early January with its hours being 9:30a.m to 10:00p.m.

Tickets

Adults range from $23 to $28.

Children from $14-$16

Kennywood Holiday Lights 

Located in West Mifflin, don't miss out on the amazing Kennywood Holiday Lights. The park features millions of twinkle lights, seasonal shows, and so much more. Their hours are 5 pm to 9 pm mid-November throughout January. 

Duquesne Incline 

The Duquesne Incline is one of the most distinct landmarks in Pittsburgh. Located on Mount Washington, the incline has been carrying passengers up since 1877. With perfect views of Pittsburgh, the three rivers are perfect for all ages. This is a year-round attraction, open Monday through Saturday 5:30 am to 12:30 am. Sundays and holiday hours are 7:00 am to 12:30 am. 

Tickets 

Adults: $5 round trip

Children: $2.50

Children under 5 are free.

 Holiday Spectacular at Big Butler Fairgrounds

This is an amazing drive-through holiday light spectacular with themed scenes and animated displays. This is the perfect way to celebrate from the comfort of your car. It runs late November through January 1st with lights from 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm. 

Tickets

Weekdays: $30 per car.

Weekends: $40 per car.

Sledding 

Sledding is a fun and free activity to do in the winter. In North Boundary park, located in Cranberry township, there is an amazing community sledding hill. You can bundle up and bring an innertube or a traditional sled and enjoy it with your family and friends. North Boundary park is also an amazing place to be in the summer, since they have year-round attractions. Some activities they have in the summer are nature trails, sports fields, a water park and so much more.

Steubenville Nutcracker Village

 Downtown Steubenville, Ohio hosts a festive display with more than 200 life-size Nutcrackers. The colorful figures line the streets and bring the holiday spirit for families and visitors in the Ohio valley. This runs from November through January with free admission.

Saint Joseph High School started the 2026 musical season with amazing auditions. In early November, auditions were held in the JPII room of the Science and Technology building. High school auditions were held on November 11th and 13th. Going into an audition, high schoolers had to prepare a monologue and song to sing, as well as learn a dance to perform from a video prior to the auditions. Auditions for the elementary kids were held on Nov. 12 for students in grades 3-6. The elementary students auditioned for a part in the children's choir, while having to prepare a song and a monologue.  Our spring musical will be held April 23-26 at Valley High School.