Friday, May 11, 2012 Volume 60, Issue No.6

2000 South Mills AvenueOrlando, Florida 32806

For Students, By StudentsWilliam R. Boone High School Student Paper

• Valedictorians celebrate success p. 8 • Art students share inspirations p. 10

photo/LIA VILLAR

By TYLER PATRICKAfter 60 years as a school, the campus

been home to evolving traditions, fashions, students and personalities that have changed with each decade.

This special section aims to highlight a variety of topics, like how two families, the Townsend’s and the Tracy’s, have had multiple generations come through Boone’s campus and how they compare and contrast with one another.

In the Valedictorians section, learn about the little things that make each of the 17 students who he is.

The superlatives section highlights students chosen to represent their class in a variety of categories from Most

Artistic and Most Likely to be on the cover of Rolling Stone to Most Athletic and Best Dressed.

Discover different ways to approach college and how other students are making alternative life choices.

Student features show students in different aspects on campus. From the spread on student artwork to a look inside cars.

The retiring teachers are hilighted on page 6, giving them a final goodbye before they leave the reservation. On the back cover, relive moments from prom in a photo essay recapping the night. So take a look inside and discover each of these moments...

60 years of tradition live on

Recap Prom night p. 16

Bsection

special

hilights.orgpage 2 May 11, 2012

Rituals continue, survive timeBy BRIDGETTE NORRIS

From homecoming events to shouting “brave” at the end of the National Anthem, traditions are boldly existent and visible around campus and in the community.

“Traditions make it more memorable because no one else has traditions like our school. I love it when we yell brave at the end of the national anthem because it shows we are the dominant school, and you can not mess with us,” sophomore Ivan Kaled said.

Traditions that have become non-existent are Class Olympics, weekly pep rallies and the untouchable Bravehead in the downstairs 100 building hallway.

“When traditions are eliminated, it is not only because of the administration. It is because of lack of participation and abusing the privilege,” Senior Class sponsor Sarah Kittrell said.

Class Olympics are where the class colors during homecoming week originated. Each class had a colored flag. The winning class got to hang the flag at the top of the stadium afterwards. The Olympics took place on the field, with games and food. Some games played were water balloon tosses, obstacle courses and musical chairs.

The event involved games being played in front a large crowd. People would pay to watch, even donate, and the proceeds went to a charity.

The weekly pep rally occurred every

Friday in the gym before a football game. The football coach would give a speech to the students. Juniors would sit on one side of the gym; sophomores on the other and seniors would sit on the court in chairs.

As for the Bravehead painted on the floor of the 100 hallway, it was considered “off-limits” and was not to be walked upon. Seniors had a toothbrush at hands reach and if a senior spotted an underclassman walk across the Bravehead, they would make him scrub the Bravehead with a toothbrush.

“It was a pretty amazing concept and it was a matter of respect [to the school],” former student government sponsor and teacher Annette Montgomery said.

However a number of events continue to take place, such as Brave Aid, sit down dinner at prom, senior snakes and nearly all of the events during homecoming week: the parade, Braves Brawl and powder bowl game.

“All of the acts around homecoming [are important]. That is when you see the most unity and participation. It is neat to see the community rally around and see the crowds at the parade. The families are involved and that is important,” Montgomery said.

Brave Aid has been occurring for 26 years. It started when the school and the community were inspired to reach out by a celebrity benefit concert called

Live Aid.Other enduring traditions include

the sit down meal at prom, which is included in the ticket price.

“When I first came to Boone, there was no sit down dinner [at prom], kids arrived at all hours. Junior Class worked hard and got it at a nice place; the first year was difficult to set up, but it has been a nice thing that has evolved. It serves a good purpose because our student body is so diverse and they are able to be the same and enjoy the company of everyone,” Kittrell said.

Not only have some traditions survived throughout the years, new traditions have formed like decorating planters during homecoming week and buying senior bricks.

During homecoming week, each class would decorate a hallway designated for their class. It has altered into decorating planters now, located in the Kemosabe commons.

“Students would take the hallway and decorate it with the designated homecoming theme. [They decorated] the ceilings, doors, and it took hundreds of hours to put it all together. We had to set a time for them to leave because they would keep adding onto it. The teachers and students from different hallways would yell at each other and chant orange and white from hall to hall. It was amazing. The fire marshal told us we could not do it anymore

though,” Montgomery said.The most recent change in tradition

are senior sidewalks, which are being transformed into senior bricks.

“Senior sidewalks have been a tradition and this year we are altering it,” Kittrell said. “We will be selling bricks to seniors, if something happens, we can pick them up and move them. I am hoping this will become a new tradition and withstand time.”

Sheron Balee, homecoming queen, gets kissed by the football team captain. Homecoming court did not exist until 1955. It was previously called “Football Frolic.”

Powder Bowl began in 1971.

ATHLETIC FLASHBACK. In the junior varsity game against University, junior Megan Tracy locks her eyes on the ball midstride. Tracy reflects her father’s athletic experience on the cross country team from 1978 to 1983.

Journalists sort through pictures and reminisce.

In 1955, Sophomore Class officers clean up decorations from their car after the Football Frolic parade.

Varsity cheerleaders pose for their yearbook picture. During the time, cheerleaders’ uniforms consisted of long shirts and long sleeved shirts.

In 1961, Betty Smith wore cat eye glasses, popular during that time.

Former alumni show off their clothing style during the 60’s.

The first bonfire occurred after the Football Frolic game.

special

hilights.org page 3May 11, 2012

By LINDSAY ALEXANDERA sidewalk square, an old track

sweatshirt, a shared field, a similar classroom. The physical remnants of generational campus families are small, but memories, shared experiences and overwhelming community support strongly span the decades.

Among faculty, 10 are solely alumni, 34 have children who attended here or are currently enrolled and nine are graduates and have children who attend or have attended the school.

“The thing I’m most proud of [about being a graduate] is that kids who go to Boone now are just as proud to be Boone braves as my class was,”Dr. Margaret McMillen, 1966 graduate, said.

Junior John Townsend, freshman Thomas Townsend, 2011 graduate Clay Townsend, and their father, Clayton Townsend, have not only attended the same high school, but also share an athletic team. The Norton Baker stadium is 39-years-old, and it has hosted all of the Townsend’s home varsity football games.

“There’s a lot of Boone spirit [in my family]. All [of] my brothers have gone [here] and my aunts and uncles. My dad graduated from here, and my parents would take [my brothers and I] to the football games. We were coming [here] before we thought about high school,” J. Townsend said.

J. Townsend and his father both participated in Spanish Club, called

Pan American club in C. Townsend’s campus years. Following its motto, “All are Welcome,” junior Megan Tracy and her father, John Tracy, a 1983 graduate, were members of Spanish Club as well.

While the stadium remains the same, other aspects of school have changed. Sophomore Ashleigh Simmerson’s relatives who attended school here (her mother, grandfather and aunt) all report how much the school has grown in size.

With the school’s growth, traditions and landmarks have been lost. Traditions like not stepping on the Bravehead in the 100 building and landmarks like the “infamous,” according to J. Tracy, “dippin’ tree” where students would go to dip tobacco are gone, but others remain, such as the football team sporting mohawks on Edgewater game days, students directing lost freshmen to the upstairs 300 building and rallying at the bonfire during spirit week.

Campus community also continues as a constant between family members. Simmerson’s grandfather still attends school football games, and her parents, along with C. Townsend, support the school through advertising fund raisers. C. Townsend has also served as a contact for Law Magnet interns.

“[There is] great tradition and sense of community. This is really apparent with people I went to Boone with whose kids are there [now]. The pride in being a brave is still huge,” C. Townsend said.

Remnants of M. Tracy’s father’s days

Legacy carries prideon campus are throughout campus. M. Tracy occasionally wears J. Tracy’s 1983 track sweatshirt, and shares his 11th and 12th grade English classroom, which is currently Merrideth Buchanan’s.

For M. Tracy, the last line of the National Anthem, “Home of the brave” is permanently “Home of the Braves,” due to her father and aunt attending here and her mother’s Atlanta roots.

“I think it’s pretty awesome to go to the same school as my dad. Sometimes I will mention a class or building, and he will tell me about what it was like when he was at Boone,” M. Tracy said.

Academically, school is harder, with the institution of Advanced Placement courses, but the school still prepared past generations for the outside world.

“Friendships, community and a diverse group of people prepared me for my future at University of Florida undergrad law school and my restaurant and law careers,” C. Townsend said.

Continuing the same school tradition, son Clay Townsend is currently a freshman at UF.

Senior Morgan Gregory and sophomore Sydney Gregory’s uncle Todd Reese, graduated in 1984. M. Gregory shares this pride in the school.

“We’re not the same as other schools. You can’t hate it. Our morale and pride in our school— no other school has it. [Being a legacy] reaffirms the fact that [I’m part] of something special,” M. Gregory said.

Field days gave seniors a chance to show their athletic ability. The events were on the football field and the games included water balloon tosses, chicken fighting and wheel barrel races.

The Sophomore Class Council designed Class Olympics as a project representing the four classes competing in a school- wide event.

In 1971, David Harper was in the first year of the school Hall of Fame, pitching a record of 23-1, losing only in the state semifinals. Later, he advanced to play for the Texas Rangers.

Student beating the drum before the Edgewater game.

During the 80s, singers such as Madonna, influenced fashion.

Londa Jones, Alexa Schaefer and Sharmin Winkle compete in the Polyester Paradise dance competition.

Joseph Buono and Timothy Sellers perform as Barney Rubble and Fred Flinstone in a skit for Braves Brawl.

Senior class participates in a float during the homecoming parade.

ROYAL FAMILY. At the homecoming football game versus the East River Falcons, junior John Townsend mirrors his father’s homecoming experience from 29 years prior.

features

hilights.orgpage 4 May 11, 2012

Player takes next stepSENIOR CONTINUES PLAYING SOFTBALL

By BRIDGETTE NORRIS

Playing softball for over a decade, senior Brandy Eaton looks forward to playing after high school.

After receiving scholarship offers from St. Petersburg, Brevard, Sumter and Eckerd, she chose to sign with St. John’s River State College.

Aside from softball, Eaton kept her future career in mind. Eaton confirms the chemistry program at St. John’s sealed the deal for her.

“I really liked St. John’s. They have a good chemistry program. I am going into the forensics program,” Eaton said.

With influence and encouragement from her dad and sister, Eaton started playing [softball] at the age of five.

Although she has made sacrifices for softball, like lack of energy for a social life, she does not want to stop playing.

“My dad got me involved in it and my sister was already involved so I wanted to start and follow her footsteps. I am not done with playing yet. I still have love for the game. Once I stop having love for it, I will stop, but I have not had the urge to stop yet,” Eaton said.

Eaton is prepared for the challenges

of managing college, playing softball and being away from home. One of the primary challenges is that Eaton will be moving into an apartment with people she has never met before.

“I’m excited about new experiences I will have and people I will meet. I’m nervous about leaving high school because I won’t have my parents and coaches to rely on,” Eaton said.

Her parents have supported her, cleaned and improved the field, as well as attended nearly every game. Along with her family, her teammates and coaches have also supported her.

“[My favorite part] is seeing the girls grow better as players and reach their goals, especially getting college scholarships and awards,” varsity softball coach Robin Bradford said.

Throughout Eaton’s four year softball career in high school, Bradford has been Eaton’s coach.

“[I hope my players learn] life skills like: always fight to the end and never give up, being a good teammate and give more than you get, bounce back from a rough time, it will get better, work on your shortcomings, win and lose with respect beyond softball skills,” Bradford said.

These 12 seniors

have signed

scholarship

commitments to

play next year.

Marvin Bracy, Florida State University - football and trackHeather Classe, University of Central Florida - cross country and trackWesley Linkwiler, Salisbury Uni-versity - lacrosseJohn Kissick, Florida Institute of Technology - lacrosseMario Muniz, Jacksonville Univer-sity - lacrosseChristopher Chavez, St. Leo Uni-versity - lacrosseFrank Grandinette, University of Miami - baseballKyndal Skersick, Longwood Uni-versity - girls basketballBrandy Eaton, St. John’s River State College - softballMarissa Edwards, Florida institute of Technology - softballLaura Gavern, State College of Florida- softballKatelyn Schettino - Seminole State College- softball

We’ve Signed

Navy bound student prepares for boot camp

By BRIDGETTE NORRIS

Marching in formation, wearing his perfectly ironed uniform and replying to commands without hesitation are parts of the inspection senior David Skarlupka undergoes weekly.

“Freshman year I got really tired of doing all my homework, and I decided I wanted to try something else instead of going right into college [after high school],” Skarlupka said.

Skarlupka got involved in the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Corps on campus during his junior year and is currently taking two NJROTC classes.

“He started kind of late, started as a junior and grasped it quickly. He excelled fast and faster than most [students], and [faster] than anyone I have ever seen. Once he gets there, [to boot camp], he will be ahead of his peers by having taken the classes and experienced a military environment,” First Sergeant Gustavus Wilson said.

In January, Skarlupka went to Jacksonville and enlisted in the

Navy. He had to complete a military physical, decide which branch he wanted to be involved in and start a contract. Prior to signing t h e contract, he had to take t h e Armed Services Vocational A p t i t u d e Battery. The ASVAB is a test given at Military Entrance P r o c e s s i n g Stations when one is trying to enlist to the military.

“I like the military environment. The Navy intrigues me. It is currently the only branch with a nuclear power program. NJROTC showed me I was most comfortable with the Navy too,” Skarlupka said.

While he is serving, he will be working in the nuclear power program. He will maintain nuclear reactors and keep them in check.

“What he will be doing [working in the nuclear power program] is one of the hardest jobs to do, rare and highest job to do in the Navy. He got one of the highest scores on the ASVAB,”

Wilson said.In less than six months, Skarlupka

will go to boot camp on Oct. 23.“The hardest part is knowing that I

have to leave in October. I have to have a different mind set because I am going

straight into the real world, unlike college, [which is] a continuation of high school,” Skarlupka said.

After completing boot camp, Skarlupka

will serve 22 months in South Carolina. “I am going to miss my family and

friends. Being placed in South Carolina will be hard because of the distance. I won’t be able to leave [and go home]. It is going to be hard missing my family and friends but it will pay off in the end,” Skarlupka said.

Although Skarlupka will face the challenge of missing his family, he has support from his family and teachers.

“I would tell him to be respectful, listen to all of his advisors and learn as you go. He is respectful and has good manners so I do not predict him having any problems,” Wilson said.

READY TO HIT. On Feb. 24, senior Brandy Eaton bats against Lake Nona. “When I am on the field, I am always thinking and making up strategies on what to do if and when the ball comes to me. Up to bat, I literally block out everybody else. I focus on the pitcher and on what pitch she might throw so I can be ready for it,” Eaton said. A highlight of her season was a grand slam home run against West Orange.

SENIOR SIGNSNAVY CONTRACT

ALL DRESSED UP. Senior David Skarlupka poses in his uniform when applying for a scholarship. “I feel proud that I can follow in my family’s footsteps and serve my country at the same time,” Skarlupka said. Both of Skarlupka’s grandfathers served in the Army, along with several other aunts and uncles whom served in the Navy.

Most of my friends are going to college but I am going straight to boot camp.

photo/AMELIA CHEATHAM

photo/CRAIG ROUHIER

features

May 11, 2012

Graduates explore road less traveled STUDENTS CHOOSE OPTIONS

BESIDES COLLEGE

By DELANEE BOGAN

With unstable economic conditions and college tuition prices increasing as time progresses, students are choosing vocational careers instead of going to college.

According to a Pew Research Center poll, 75 percent of Americans believe college is too expensive for most Americans to afford. Over the past five years, the average debt for seniors in college has increased 11 percent. Florida’s community colleges and state colleges have increased their tuition fees from $2,000 to $3,000 over the past five years.

“People think if you don’t go to college you’re lazy but I don’t believe that[stereotype],” junior Elayne Bejanano said.

The general consensus of the public is that one has to go to college to succeed in life. For some people, it is better to go to a vocational school and get training to start them in a career instead of going to college to get a degree. A person who attends a vocational school can make the same amount, or more than someone with a degree.

An Automotive Mechanic makes an expected salary of $33,811. An AT&T store manager makes $24,000, but a manager at AT&T must have a bachelor’s degree, experience in business, or master’s degree in business administration, depending on various branch requirements. An automotive mechanic needs a certification.

“It’s cheaper [to go to vocational schools]; it actually helps put you into footsteps of getting a job. It’s not easier,

but it’s more direct,” senior Shaiquan Williams, who is taking electricity classes at Mid Florida Tech, said.

A licensed electrician can make $20-$30 per hour depending on one’s position and the company one works for. Senior Shaiquan Williams is enrolled in Electricity 2. A salary of a licensed electrician is $47,000 per year.

“[Others should get involved in the Electricity program] because it helps build self confidence, puts you in a right place for a career and overall makes you a better person in life,” Williams said.

Bejanano is currently enrolled at Avalon in the Facial program and is working on getting her certificate. The average yearly salary with a cosmetology degree in Florida is $24,850.

“The earlier you start, the more educated you will be. People should take multiple classes to better educate [themselves] and get more knowledge of the field,” Bejanano said.

Senior Christopher Hoover is currently enrolled in Automotive Service Technology 2 at MFT. By the time he graduates, he will be eligible to get a job as a mechanic at any automotive repair shop.

“I chose to go there to learn more about cars. It’s a good experience and it opens your mind to how college life is and how different it is from high school,” Hoover said.

Hoover plans on attending college while working part time as an mechanic. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor’s statistics the average hourly wage of a certified automotive mechanic is $18.21.

Senior Alexandria Vanhouten is currently enrolled in the Delayed Entry program, which helps prepare one for the United States Marine Corps. They can remain in this program

up to one year before being deployed. “[One should get involved because] it is a great experience.

It keeps me active and well disciplined,” Vanhouten said.The starting salary of one enlisted in the marine corps is

$16,974 a year, salaries vary depending on ranking. One in the army with four months experience receives $29,959.80 a year.

“I think [joining the service is] a great choice; for some people, it prepares you for life,” Commander Craig Rouhier said.

INSTALL IT. At Mid Florida Tech, Shaiquan Williams installs a light bulb socket. “I enjoy the work and craftsmanship of the wiring system, and how everything works together in certain ways,” Williams said. He is currently in Electricity 2.

photo/STEPHANIE NEBEKER

hilights.org page 5

retirees

hilights.orgpage 6 May 11, 2012

DEBORAH CLARY 1985-2012Favorite movie Mamma Mia!

On playlistAnything by Enya or Abba

Pet PeevesPeople who cut you off on the road, and then slow down

PassionsFamily, books

Guilty pleasureTwizzlers

Describe how your teaching tactics have changed over the years? The best tactic is to love and respect your students- that has never changed [throughout my career]. What did you love about teaching? Working with kids and making a positive difference in their lives-hopefully. Describe your favorite class. I loved teaching economics- it was here and now. My favorite position has been as a school counselor. Why did you decide to

teach the subject that you teach? I’m a history lover and I love helping people. What did you want to be when you were a child? I was teaching my dolls in the playroom from the time I was five. How many years have you been teaching? 27 in all: 13 years as a school counselor and 14 years as a classroom teacher. Describe why you went into teaching? I think it is the most effective way to impact the future. Describe what your favorite moment has been while teaching? Any time I have been able to help a student. Who has helped you the most during your years of teaching? My fellow teachers. What is the first activity you are going to do when you retire and why? Travel – plan a trip.

ROSA CAMACHO 1978-2012Favorite movies Avatar, Oliver Twist, The Machinist, Rio

On playlistPablo Alboran, Mark Anthony

PassionsReading in Spanish and English, salsa dancing

Guilty pleasureEating cake, chocolate

Describe what your favorite moment has been while teaching? When I had a student who was in the media center, and I told her she had passed the FCAT and she started screaming. Everyone in the media center thought something was wrong. What did you love about teaching? I like to see the students improve, and I can see how they improve from the beginning of the year to the end and how successful they will become. Describe who

helped you the most during your years of teaching? I got a lot of ideas from an elementary school where we used to do team teaching; other teachers guided me through the whole process. That is where I learned how to do a lot of the visual learning. Why did you decide to teach the subject that you teach? After the death of my mother from cancer, my brother and I lived with an aunt in New York from when I was 5 to 9, then we went back to Puerto Rico; these events helped me become motivated to be-come an English teacher. Describe why you went into teaching? Since I was very young I would tutor many of my friends in high school and middle school because their English was limited and I helped grade papers. What is the first activity you are going to do when you retire and why? I want to go to Brazil. My nephew moved to Brazil and I have someone who will give me a tour of the country.

Paul Katauskas is a man that has given his heart and soul to teaching and coaching. I know that there is not a better example for young people about work ethic, integrity and character than Paul. He has always taught and coached young students by example, not by talk. I have seen Paul work tirelessly to raise money so his athletes would get better experiences not only in a sport but in life itself. Paul is retiring but his work ethic and his love for his students and athletes live on in them. I don't think his students and athletes will ever forget him. I, myself, have learned from Coach Katuaskas and I know that I will not forget him. - coach phil ziglar

Mrs. Fague - As a mom of one of your students I'd like to thank you for teaching us how to make the Day of the Dead bread and your love for Mexico. I will miss your "memory hook" jokes for vocabulary, PISCINA. The kids always loved your "me gusta, no me gusta" films and your cartoon films. Don't forget that you introduced them to Don Quixote and your songs San Fermin, etc. Enjoy your retirement and know that you've made an impact here at Boone with your students and your colleagues.

- connie heiselman, fellow spanish teacher

Deb Clary is a true advocate for the kids. She

cares about what the students needs are, what

they are going through, and what is their best

plan for the future. I appreciate how she looks

at the students from the big picture, trying to

facilitate their dreams and hopes. She will be

greatly missed at Boone. - cynthia schmidt, magnet

law teacher

Our ELL students and their parents will terribly miss our wonderful and modest teacher, Ms. Camacho. Ms. Camacho spent the entire school year on her feet, using every single minute of the day teaching her students and closely monitoring their academic progress and helping them adapt to the new culture. She has been the "ESOL mama" giving her kids the needed academic rigor and structure, with incredible love and patience. - carlota iglesias, assistant principal

Mrs. Gertel is always on top of things to make sure we are doing what we are supposed to be doing. She tries to get to know you and helps you achieve what your goals are. She will be missed. Congratulations on counselor of the year, you are truly deserving.

- senior karen jaen

Sandra Hudson was here when the Magnet

program was born, and she oversaw the

construction of the Magnet suite before sh

e

became a permanent fixture in the 800

building. She has been an asset to the

Magnet program as most freshmen must

survive her rigorous English course to rema

in

in the Magnet program. She has made th

e

job of other English teachers easier becaus

e

of how well prepared her freshmen become

in their first year at BHS. While she may

not be renowned for her compassion or

charming personality, her quick wit and her

stories of Buckley, her beloved beagle, will

be remembered by students and staff for

years to come.- merrideth buchanan,

fellow english teacher

Gail Haddock has always been a tremendous presence in our department due to her devotion to her students of all levels and her willingness to take on challenges. She has an amazing sense of humor, and I appreciate her optimism even in the face of mandatory mandatoriness. She is truly kind and insightful and loves kids where they are, so she can help them get to where they need to be. In her storied and lengthy career as an educator, she has been a department chair, a mentor, and a guide, and she has worked with students of varying challenges and needs, and always with grace and dignity. I'll miss her when she retires and think that our whole department will feel her loss.

- jennifer hilley, fellow english teacher

retirees

hilights.org page 7May 11, 2012

PAUL KATAUSKAS 1972-2012Favorite movie Jaws (the Original)

PassionsMy music, and all sports known to man

Guilty pleasureTaco Tuesdays at Tijuana Flats (thanks to Coach Lee and Margaret Dukes)

Describe how your teaching tactics have changed over the years? I have become more laid back. Instead of trying to force the issue, just a more laid back attitude. Why did you decide to teach the subject that you teach? Because I’ve loved sports from when I was four. I went to college, got my pre- med and after that I decided I really wanted to teach this. Describe why you went into teaching? Coach Joe Johnston. I was finishing my physical education major and he

really encouraged me to teach to teach PE. Teaching is a great career. He is my mentor. We have stayed connected for over 40 years. What did you love about teaching? Watching kids learn how to do athletic events, and watching a kid develop a new skill he could use his whole life. Who has helped you the most during your years of teaching? Nelson Browning [he was my mentor] at Boone; I taught his oldest son tennis. Joe Johnston. I always asked for advice for track and everything. What did you want to be when you were a child? I didn’t have any lifetime goals except to become a professional athlete. Describe your favorite class. Teaching tennis. I taught tennis class over 15 years. It is a lifetime sport you can play until you die. Describe what your favorite moment has been while teaching? The night I was in the stands and watched James Beckford win the silver medal in the long jump at the 1996 Olympics. I coached him for three years. .

SANDY HUDSON 1967-2012Favorite movie To Kill a Mockingbird

Pet PeevesIrresponsible people

PassionsReading

Guilty pleasureIce cream

Describe why you went into teaching? Both my parents were teachers and while they did say how difficult it was, they were always talking about how rewarding it was. What is the first thing you are going to do when you retire and why? Not set my alarm clock. I am tired of getting up early. Describe what your favorite moment has been while teaching? Any time I see a student light up because suddenly the material

made sense or an understanding was reached. Describe who your favorite student has been in all your years of teaching? A student who wants to learn and will go the extra mile to reach a goal. Who has helped you the most during your years of teaching? My parents and Vicky Nicoll –former Boone teacher. Why did you teach the subject that you teach? English (reading, writing) have always been easy for me. I am passionate about reading. What did you love about teaching? Every day is different, dealing with students from varying backgrounds and ideas. Describe your favorite class? My favorite classes are the ones I am teaching now [English 1]. Describe how your teaching tactics have changed over the years? My tactics really haven’t changed, but the delivery has with Benchmarks.

GAIL HADDOCK 1970-2012Favorite movie Joe Versus the Volcano

On playlistCarolina Beach music (makes me remember my college days); “Dr. Feelgood” (I remember my daughter in high school); “Smells like Teen Spirit” (reminds me of my son in high school)

Describe how your teaching tactics have changed over the years? When I first started teaching, we lectured. Students sat quietly and took notes and tests. Now my students are more involved. I ask about experiences and try to make the literature mean something to them and their lives. It is a lot messier, a lot noisier, and a lot more demanding, but it is also more satisfying. Who has helped you the most during your years of

teaching? My husband of 43 years for his unfailing support and understanding and our son and daughter who first, as students, taught me what it was like to sit on the parents’ side of the desk during a conference and later for guidance in my curriculum choices. Why did you decide to teach the subject that you teach? In 10th grade, we were assigned to read Idylls of the King. I loved the selection, aren’t all tenth graders interested in people in love, and could hardly wait to get to class to see what the teacher would say about it. She stood in front of us, collected our homework papers, and went back to her desk to grade them. I sat there thinking of how I would have taught the class. The bug bit. From then on, I knew what I wanted to do and never thought of any other career. Who knows, maybe one of my students has sat in my class and thought the same thing I did: “I could do a better job.” What did you want to be when you were a child? Much to my mother’s horror, I wanted to be a carhop.

MARION FAGUE 1982-2012Favorite movies 2001: A Space Odyssey, Gone with the Wind

On playlistClassic rock (Huey Lewis, Santana, Billy Joel), plus weird stuff like Gypsy Kings

PassionsMusic, art, my children

Guilty pleasureBen & Jerry’s New York Super Fudge Chunk

Describe what your favorite moment has been while teaching? One favorite moment? There are too many. But I can say that what makes me happiest is when a student comes to me so excited because they spoke Spanish with somebody. It’s so cool when you realize that you can actually use something you’ve learned. Describe why you went into teaching? I have to admit that it was almost accidental. Both of my parents were

teachers (my father taught at Boone the first nine years the school was open), and my grandmother, my aunt… I was surrounded by teachers. I always thought it would be fun to do for a couple of years. Thirty years later, I’m still here – and still having fun. What did you love about teaching? The kids, of course. Being surrounded by teenagers my entire life has kept me young. And as hair-pullingly frustrating as teenagers can be, they are a lot more fun on a daily basis than most adults. Who has helped you the most during your years of teaching? Ele Kenyon, who just passed away, was my American History teacher when I went to Boone, and my mentor when I started teaching here. As a teacher, she taught me that being an American and believing in our Constitution means being willing to listen to the opinions of others. As a colleague, she took me by the hand in my first years and not only showed me the ropes but stood behind me and stood up for me. What did you want to be when you were a child? Growing up, all I wanted to do was move to Hollywood after high school and become a movie star.

SUSAN GERTEL 1993-2012Favorite movie Dr. Zhivago, The King’s Speech

On playlistMovie scores, jazz, 60s music

Pet PeevesPeople who don’t meet deadlines and poor grammar

PassionsYouth, travel, photography

Guilty pleasureChocolate

Describe what your favorite moment has been while teaching? Any time I see a student turn his or her life around and decide to do what needs to be done, I have a “favorite” moment. I know that my first graduation ceremony watching the seniors leave was very poignant. I am confident this year’s graduation ceremony will also be a special moment. Describe how your teaching tactics have changed over the years? The way in which

I interact with my students has differed throughout the years because students today are so different from 19 years ago. The biggest, of course, has been the use of technology. When I began, I had to meet with all of my students to reach them. Now, one email allows me to get everyone the same information at the same time. A second tool has been the use of our website and e-newsletter, again, reaching many students more than I could otherwise. Who has helped you the most during your years of teaching? My husband has helped me throughout, but without the understanding daughters I have (three teenagers while I was in college full time) I could never have completed my formal education. Also, I have an older sister who is a career educator and has been a wonderful mentor. She is retiring this year too. What did you love about teaching? What I love about being a school counselor is the students with whom I interact with daily.

By RUBEN CARRILLO

Decades worth of collective teaching experience will

retire this summer. Faculty members, seven total,

leave campus to pursue dreams and enjoy life.

These seven faculty members: Rosa Camacho, Deborah

Clary, Marion Fague, Susan Gertel, Gail Haddock, Sandy

Hudson and Paul Katauskas dedicated their lives to the

future of the community.

Some have been teaching for 40 years. Some of them

loved interacting with the students while others had

teachers as parents. These teachers and counselors will

live in one’s memory forever. After June 11, these seven

faculty members can enjoy their retirements by sleeping in,

traveling, spending time with family and doing whatever

their hearts tell them.

These seven have worked hard to get to the next chapter

of their lives: retirement.

valedictorians

hilights.orgpage 8 May 11, 2012

Student study qualities shine through

Caroline Coleman

Allyse SuganumaArmando Santin

Savanna ShurmanAlanna Raffaelli

Nikia Toomey

Alexis Mauerman

Rachel Machado

Lee Hagood-James

Who are you following on Twitter?Betty White, Men’s Humor, Hellen Keller Jokes and Regina George.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be? Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Harry Potter, Mean Girls and Bridesmaids because they’re hilarious.

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Nicki Minaj and Taylor Swift.

What artists are on your favorite playlistRegina Spektor, Taylor Swift, Casting Crows, Lady Gaga and Elvis

If you could have any super power, what would it be? I would want to be able to fly.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be?Hermoine Granger from Harry Potter, she is intelligent and gorgeous.

What is your least valedictorian-like quality?I don’t do well with sleep deprivation. I like to get at least 5 good hours a night.

2. What is your least valedictorian-like quality?My laziness, procrastination and disorganization.

3. Who are you following on Twitter?What’s Twitter?

4. Who is your favorite celebrity? Why?Johnny Depp- I love all of his movies because they are always fun and different. Besides acting, he is an interesting person who is humble and inspiring.

5. What artists are on your favorite playlist?Rise Against, All Time Low, Sum 41, James Durbin, Paramore

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Norah Jones, Coldplay, Paramore, Dashboard Confessional, Boys Like Girls, Panic at the Disco, Regina Spektor, Fallout Boy and Jack Johnson

If you could be any fictional character. who would you be?Probably Katara from The Last Airbender

What high school teacher has influenced your life the most? In what ways?Ms. Vicki Nicoll; she helped me gain a greater understanding of integrity and what it means to really think.

What is one of your quirks?Don’t stop talking, which often makes me say things without thinking about them.

If you could have any super power, what would it be? Telekinesis.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Iron Man, because that is who I want to be when I grow up.

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Katy Perry.

Who is your favorite celebrity? Why?Johnny Depp because he plays unique character roles.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be? Nancy Drew because I absolutely love a good mystery.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Pride and Prejudice because I love romance stories.

What artists are on your favorite playlist?The Script, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga and Christina Perri.

What is one of your quirks? I will flinch and have a spastic response to unanticipated pokes.

What’s your favorite movie? Why? Pearl Harbor is a perfect combination of history, action, romance, warfare and destruction.

If you could have any super power, what would it be?I would like to fly. That way, if I ever get drafted for The Hunger Games, I would win with ease.

Who is your favorite celebrity? Why?Blake Shelton because I love his music and he is really entertaining on “The Voice.”

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be? Fiona on Burn Notice.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?The Departed. It’s based in Boston and it’s a really interesting, puzzling thriller.

What is your least valedictorian-like quality?Procrastination, I am the worst procrastinator.

What’s your least valedictorian-like quality?Absentminded (sometimes).

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be? Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Any princess movie because it was the highlight of my childhood.

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj and Enrique Iglesias.

valedictorians

hilights.org page 9May 11, 2012

Lee Hagood-James

Charles Collins

Dustin Fontaine

Dylan Fontaine

Ben Gauthier Brandi Recker

Katie Gibson

Olivia Swartwood

Tiffany Ward

What is your least valedictorian-like quality?Heads down, sleeping in class. (It’s really not a joke though.)

Who is your favorite celebrity? Rick Reilly and Dave Ramsey; they get to tell, write stories and help people for a living.

What is one of your quirks?I’m the lead singer of a non-existent band.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Remember the Titans; it’s a story about building a legacy.

If you could have any super power, what would it be?Understanding; the power to better understand.

What is one of your quirks?Don’t stop talking, which often makes me say things without thinking about them.

If you could have any super power, what would it be? Telekinesis.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Iron Man, because that is who I want to be when I grow up.

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Katy Perry.

Who are your heroes? Why?The Count from Sesame Street because he is good at math.

Who is your favorite celebrity? Why? JJ Reddick because he overcame huge odds and made it to the NBA.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Gran Torino, I like Clint Eastwood

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Eminem and the Wiggles.

What is one of your quirks?Always thinking of business ideas.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be? Frodo Baggins because he proves that size and circumstances cannot keep you from accomplishing something.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Lord of the Rings: Return of the King because it shows redemption and how good always wins over evil.

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Chris Tomlin and Tenth Avenue North.

Who are you following on Twitter?Betty White, Men’s Humor, Hellen Keller jokes and Regina George.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be? Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Harry Potter, Mean Girls and Bridesmaids because they’re hilarious.

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Nicki Minaj and Taylor Swift.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be?Patrick Star from Spongebob Squarepants.

What high school teacher has influenced your life the most? In what ways? Mr. Dwayne Floyd because he is a good teacher and funny.

What artists are on your favorite playlist?Wiz Khalifa and Nate Dogg.

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Liar Liar, because it is really funny.

If you could have any super power, what would it be?I wish I could fly.

What is your least valedictorian-like quality?Procrastination.

Who is your favorite celebrity? Tyler Blackburn because he is gorgeous and I am in love with him..

What artists are on your playlist?Jason Aldean, Ke$ha and the Zac Brown Band.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be?Phineas from Phineas and Ferb because he knows how to have fun.

If you could have any super power, what would it be?I would have the ability to fly.

What is your least valedictorian-like quality?Procrastination

Who is your favorite celebrity? Ryan Gosling; no explanation needed….

What is one of your quirks?Sometimes I lack common sense

What’s your favorite movie? Why?Sweet Home Alabama; super cute.

If you could have any super power, what would it be?Teleporting.

What is one of your quirks?I sometimes lack common sense…

If you could be any fictional character, who would you be? No one, I just want to be me.

If you could have any super power, what would it be?Read minds, so I would know what people were really thinking.

Who are you heroes? Why?My parents are my heroes because I hope to be like them someday.

features

hilights.orgpage 10 May 11, 2012

Inspiration fosters artworkSTUDENTS SHARE INSIGHT ON ART

By MOLLY WALLACEA fine art credit is mandatory to graduate, making

students take at least one of the art courses offered. Although a drag for some, there are students who embrace the art class and find future career possibilities.

Junior Cynthia Williams, a ceramics student, uses the class as a way to challenge herself and create difficult pieces, going into the deepest detail. She is ecstatic about everything involving art including drawing, sketching and even fashion.

“You can do everything when you are doing art,” Williams said. “It’s putting out your imagination.”

Williams has been taking art classes since fourth grade and plans on pursuing a career in art after high school in either game design or sculpting. Her latest piece is tribute to the current seniors.

“It’s a sculpture of two hands holding two eggs,” Williams said. “I’ve seen a lot of seniors

going away and wanted to portray that by the eggs representing a new

chapter in one’s life.”She claims the sculpting done

in ceramics has sparked her interest to sculpt images on the computer for future video

gaming characters and settings.For kids wanting to pursue

ceramics, Williams suggests putting their hearts into the art and using

their imaginations. She enjoys the

classes offered at school, b u t insists upon thinking about art as an achievement needing completion and full attention, and that is done on one’s own time.

“Producing something [is a good goal]. You have to draw it out and then bring it to life,” Williams said.

For Junior Tyler Chapman, his forte is found in Art 2D, where he experiments with stencils to create designs that he hopes to wear in the future. He has drawn Mario themed designs in his shoes and has recently drawn an atom themed painting on the walls of his room.

“I’d say what inspires me most is just what would look good on shirts and shoes,” Chapman said. “I don’t think I’m the best in the class, but I think that since I like what I do and have a goal, I can work hard and produce a good piece.”

The piece Chapman is most proud of is his stencil of a lion that he transferred onto a shirt in his free time.

“Originally I made it look like a 3D picture, but that just turned into something else,” Chapman said. “I used different colors to create sort of a 3D effect though.”

Chapman claims he has previously created T-shirt designs for friends and often brainstorms with them for new ones. He uses this brainstorming and other designs he sees to be inspired.

“Seeing kids wear designs inspires me to create my own,” Chapman said. “I want to create something I’d like to wear myself.”

Although Chapman thinks art will not pay well as a career, he encourages kids to express themselves in such ways because of its freedom.

“You’re free to do whatever and use whatever materials you want to use,” Chapman said. “It’s never limited.”

COLOR IT. In the ceramics room, Cynthia Williams paints her piece of a surreal human face. “I like using plain things and making them look wild,” Williams said. “My stuff is very bold.” Williams claims her ever changing surroundings inspired her piece.

PAINT IT. Cynthia Williams works on a medieval castle surrounded by a dragon. “What inspired me was the era that the piece represented,” Williams said. “I really enjoy the idea of a time with dragons, castles and battles.” That this was an assignment, but she enjoyed focusing on the medieval era.

SKETCH IT. Tyler Chapman free draws in his 2D class. Other mediums include paint and colored pencils. “I think what makes my pieces stand out is the fact that I produce exactly what I see in my head,” Chapman said. “My idea stays the same from mind, paper, to finished product.“ Clothes inspired Chapman’s previous pieces but he has also been inspired by the environment around him. Chapman’s pieces have been hung up in the art festival.

BLEND IT. Tyler Chapman uses a blending technique to achieve a new color. “If I have a clear idea of what I want it’s easier to produce it,” Chapman said. He made many transfer pieces he hopes to put on clothes.

photo/MOLLY WALLACE

photo/MOLLY WALLACE

photo/AMEILIA CHEATAM

photo/AMELIA CHEATAM

hilights.org page 11May 11, 2012

features

Gender affects judgement STEREOTYPES AND STATISTICS

DEFINE DRIVERS’ PERSONALITIES

By LIZZY GORDON

Studies show that people’s dogs tend to resemble their physical characteristics, and researchers have proved that the outside of one’s car defines the kind of person he is.

According to the article “Car color may reflect your personality” on genins.com, a United Kingdom study found that the color of one’s car describes the driver’s personality. For example, if one drives a black car, he is typically”‘aggressive and consider himself to be an outsider.”

Junior Blake Williams has a red car. According to this study, he is energetic and a fast mover, thinker and talker.

“I kind of agree because I am energetic, but I am not a fast talker,” Williams said.

Other stereotypes also generalize that the cleanliness of a car is dependent upon the gender of the driver. According to yell.com, males are 34 percent more likely than females to keep their cars as clean as it was the first day they bought it. This goes hand in hand with the stereotype that says girls are cleaner when it comes to hygiene, but boys are cleaner when it comes to cars.

“I actually think it true. Girls obviously care a lot about their hygiene, probably more than guys. And guys care a lot about having nice cars to show off. Also, girls are more likely to have extra clothes, gum and hair brushes, whereas guys

do not really think about stuff like that as much,” senior Katherine Gibson said.

However, this stereotype has not been proven. According to autoguide.com, only 34 percent of 1000 drivers surveyed said they washed the inside and outside of their car every six months, and an additional 13 percent admitted that they fully clean the inside and outside only once a year, this includes both males and females.

Stereotypically, students who are involved in sports are more susceptible to having a messy car due to the amount of sports equipment they have to keep on hand along with water bottles.

“In my trunk, I have four pairs of cleats, a soccer ball, softball, frisbee, blankets’, towels and a first aid kit. At one point I had eight water bottles on the floor of the passenger seat,” Gibson said.

Another stereotype is that guys are faster than girls. According the article “The best selling cars by gender” on forbes.com, the average horsepower of a car on their list of the five most popular vehicles for men is 367 and for women it is 172. This goes to show that males are not only stereotypically faster than girls, but also statistically.

“I would agree with that because guys usually look for cars with speed and power, and girls look more for cuteness

Your Thoughts

Describe what your dream car looks like.

My dream car is a Volkswagon bus, like the Mystery Machine on Scooby Doo.

A nice blue truck with big tires, a loud exhaust, is lifted and chromed out.

I want a black Hummer because they are so big. I would also want big tires.

A yellow Wrangler Jeep; I like that it is made for rough terrain.”

- christopher haley, sophomore - tamara vernette, junior- paula morales, freshman - alicia duncan, senior

Florida State University pillow pet

Water gunTextbooksUmbrella

Cleats

Car color reflects

personality. Here

is a snap shot

from the parking

lot on April 26.

Black cars- usually driven by aggressive people who consider themselves “outsiders.” (49)Green cars- often driven by people with “hysterical tendencies.” (29)Blue cars- usually driven by introspective people who are cautious drivers. (41)Red cars are driven by energetic people who are fast talkers, movers and thinkers. (30)White cars can signify status seeking extroverts. (70)

source: genins.com “Car color reflects personality”

HeardIt

My 1984 Chevy is in brutal body condition, but it is truly a cruise mobile at heart. ‘Winston’ has a turbo 400 transmission and I do not hesitate to use my extra pony power. - geoffrey kirchoff , senior

Guitar case

Soccer ball

and how they look in the car,” senior Marimar Jiminez said.Students will continue to have opinions on these

stereotypes that vary.

I have a lot of random things in my trunk. For instance, a watergun, because you never know when you may need it.”

- katherine gibsonsenior

superlatives

hilights.orgpage 12 May 11, 2012

Senior

MOST LIKELY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

BIGGEST FLIRT

MOST LIKELY TO BECOME PRESIDENT

BEST DRESSED AT PROM

BIGGEST TWEETER

MOST LIKELY TO BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY

MOST MUSICALBEST TO BRING HOME TO MOM

MOST CHANGED

Robbi Ann Garrett and Thomas McClane

Charles Glazer and Dalles Black Margaret Dukes and Mario MunezShannon Gresosky and Deon Cooper

Jaimi O’Shea

Cullen Landis

Michael Bennett and Gene TrujilloPatrick Darin and Brandi Recker

superlatives

hilights.org page 13May 11, 2012

Senior

MOST LIKELY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCEBEST SCHOOL SPIRITMOST ARTISTIC

MOST MEMORABLE

MOST ATHLETIC

MOST LIKELY TO BE FAMOUS

Marvin Bracy and Kyndal Skersick Brad Hutsell and Brooke Dawkins Angel Lozada and Madison Lumbert

Amy Bonilla and David BallentineYazmine Ramos and Charles Collins Erin Welsh and Michael Sanchez

Superlatives

MOST LIKELY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

MOST LIKELY TO BE

Katie Gibson and Tyler Colick

ON THE COVER OF

ROLLING STONE

dont'sspecial

hilights.orgpage 14 May 11, 2012

of Do’s&Summer

By DANIELLE PELLETTEveryone knows sun-kissed skin is

in, but it may not be worth the damage it can cause your skin.

Ultra violet rays are the harmful rays that radiate from the sun. UV radiation from the sun causes skin cells to become more active, releasing a pigment that shows up on one’s skin as freckles, a sunburn or a suntan.

Everyone has human skin cells providing natural, built-in sun protection called melanocytes. Although the help of these alone is not enough to avoid damage from the sun.

When in the sun, the melanocytes are changed by the UV radiation, resulting in rapid growth and division. This can cause tumors, ultimately ending up as skin cancer.

“When the UV rays come in it damages skin cells,” teacher Elisabeth Smith said.

Along with one’s body’s natural protection from the sun, there are also other precautions one can take to avoid damaging one’s skin.

Using at least an SPF 15 sunscreen is beneficial.

Other precautions to take to avoid damaging skin are wearing a hat, protective UV glasses, or staying indoors- out of the sun.

“I need sunscreen, it’s a great thing to use. It protects my skin,”sophomore Jennifer Alvarez said.

People have also tried using a tanning bed but, tanning beds are just as harmful as sun-tanning. Tanning beds give off the same UV radiation as the sun does.

Often times tanning salons exceed the “safe” UV radiation limits despite their claims. It is also possible to get a sunburn while using a tanning bed.

“I don’t like tanning beds. Honesty, I would rather be safe than sorry,” sophomore Colin Serecifino said.

There are three major types of skin cancer; basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Skin cancer can be deadly, if not treated early. However, nearly all skin cancers are treatable if they’re caught soon enough.

“[If I found out I had skin cancer] I would probably use sunscreen more often than I already do and I wouldn’t go outside as much,” freshman Wesley Harper said.

From using sunscreen to wearing hats, there are many precautions available to take when trying to protect skin from the sun.

Although these precautions can be helpful, the best way to avoid damaging one’s skin is to just stay out of the sun as much as possible and always use protection to avoid exposure to the sun.

UV RAYS CAUSE DAMAGE WORLDWIDE

Sun rays cause harm

photo/ROBERT GAUTHIER/LOS ANGELES TIMES/MCT

BURNING ALIVE. Erika Greet, an employee of U-Tan, a tanning salon located near USC, demonstrates for a photographer the workings of an Ergoline Excellence tanning bed, January 6, 2010. With the new year comes a new 10 percent tax on tanning beds using UV rays.

Destinations please studentsBy DANIELLE MCGONIGAL

Summer gives opportunities to explore the world. Different destinations offer a variety of experiences.

Teens are always looking for the best place to get away during the summer. Whether it’s hot or cold, a new place will have unique things to offer. Choosing where to vacation seems to be the most difficult choice of all.

The different opinions teens have where vacation vary. The weather is usually the most influential factor.

Tropical places lead to hot weather and beaches with boat rides and jet skiing. Meanwhile cold places signify anything from skiing in the Alps to ice climbing in Africa.

“[I think] New Smyrna, the Carolinas, the Keys, Bahamas, and Mexico are all great places to go because of their weather, it’s hot,” sophomore Kyle Irwin said.

When traveling, the choice of destination really depends on a personal preference but for students it usually depends on where their friends are going as well.

“Italy and Spain are places I consider hot spots because I enjoy the historical aspect of their cities,” Spanish teacher

Connie Heiselman said.While going on vacations during the summer there are

things one must be careful about. Some are afraid of things happening at the airport, on the plane or what could possibly happen on their trip.

“My worst fear going on vacation is getting bit by a shark, why wouldn’t it be my worst fear?” sophomore Tarik Darden said.

Whether someone likes to layout and tan or be bundled up drinking hot cocoa by a fire, all has to do with what one would consider a vacation spot.

“I consider a vacation a getaway, usually somewhere with my family, fun away from my normal life.” senior Bethany Harper said.

Frequent travelers with past experiences are better informed on what they should do differently. Experience is like wisdom and wisdom is key.

“[Tips I would offer to others are] to bring lots of clothes so you look good, make sure the weather isn’t junky so you can have a good time,” sophomore Baylee Thomas said.

START

HUNTSHADE HIKESUN

WAVES MOUNTAIN

BEACHLOCAL-New Symrna Beach, FloridaUSA- The Hamp-tons, New YorkGLOBAL- Bora Bora, Tahiti

RANCHLOCAL- Ross Hammock Ranch, FloridaUSA- High Adventure Ranch, St. LouisGLOBAL- South-ern Sasketch-ewan, Canada

NATIONAL PARKLOCAL- Everglades National Park, FloridaUSA- Yosemite Na-tional Park, CaliforniaGLOBAL- Kruger National Park, South Africa

Cleaned out lockers and no more teachers, school’s out for summer. Summer can be filled of fun and laughter, it can be stressful, but most of all it can be dangerous.

Searching for the perfect summer job, laying out to get the ideal tan, and even planning that tremendous trip are some summer musts to make it never forgotten.

“One summer I went to the Bahamas and I was face to face with a bull shark it scared the crap out of me,” junior Cole Baker said.

Teens think of summer as a time to goof around and do not realize the seriousness of the dangers that can occur. Going out into deeper water or just “taking one sip” might sound like a great idea at the time without knowing what is in store. This spread covers all of these topics regarding a student’s summer.

special

hilights.org page 15May 11, 2012

Not everyone is doing itBy KRISTEN DUGAN

A dark, congested room with inescapable noise is the picture perfect atmosphere on a Saturday night for those who want to get drunk.

However, this summer students are trading in beer pong for bowling pins and choosing to find alternatives to have fun with their friends.

“[Drinking] is destructive to a life; it causes bad behavior and regret,” sophomore Daniel Barr said.

In a recent poll, 47 percent of students on campus said they never drink, while 5 percent said they only drink during school breaks such as summer and spring break.

Underage drinking was once a “chill” teen hobby, but is now being seen as dangerous and disappointing by students who feel drinking is anything but cool.

“[At a party with alcohol] the atmosphere is very superficial, people do not engage in real relationships,” junior Merrie Grace Harding said. “I

don’t drink because I will have more fun when I have self control, remember what I am doing and knowing I won’t miss any opportunities,” Harding said.

Compared to the “baby boomer” generation (those in high school during the 60’s and 70’s ), today’s teens are not drinking as often.

“I think drinking was more common when I was in high school. The legal age was only 18 and there was absolutely no social awareness,” chemistry teacher Glenn Listort said.

The new mindset favoring sobriety comes from facts that are being presented to teens through the media. Television sensationalizes drinking as a way to let loose and have a wild time, but often show the result of anguish.

Heightened reality programs coupled with advertisements like Above the Influence, a campaign sponsored by the Office of National Drug Control Policy, show ads displaying the negative effects of drinking and drug use. These organizations help create awareness so those under the age of 21 are more educated on the impact of drinking.

For those who are drinking only

A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON UNDERAGE DRINKING

during summer, it is just as harmful as drinking year round. Drinking a lot in a short amount of time is binge drinking, which puts one at a greater risk of violence, sexual assaults and developing a false sense of tolerance to alcohol.

Those who choose to drink during summertime feel the anxiety when participating in the illegal activity.

“[Teenage drinking] causes car accidents, death, DUI’s, and jail time,” said an anonymous source who drinks on a weekly basis during summer. “I drink when I know I can call my mom to pick me up.. ..[my mom] is mad that I am at a party where there is alcohol but at the same time happy I called to get a safe ride home.”

Although the source drinks, she often does not enjoy it because she feels paranoid and at times in danger.

Alcohol, regardless of how much and how often, travels through the bloodstream and damages the brain, stomach, liver, kidneys and muscles. A teenager’s body is still developing meaning damage done through drinking will affect one later in life. Progressively, drinking destroys the body.

47% never25% special events

8% monthly

5% school breaks

14% weekly

How often do you drink?

59 students polled, April 6

Water rips swimmers awayBy BRYNNE DAWKINS

Killing more people a year than hurricanes, tornadoes, and thunderstorms combined, rip currents have been an increasing threat at Florida beaches.

“[When I was in the rip current] I was scared. I thought I was going to drown,” senior Erica Beach said.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service says that U.S. lifeguards rescue about 60,000 people a year with an estimate of 80 percent of those rescues from rip currents and nationally an average of 100 people die annually in the U.S. from rip currents.

To avoid death from a rip current, swim where there are lifeguards on duty. According to the Unites States Life Saving Association in “USLA’s Top Ten Beach and Water Safety Tips,” one is five times more likely to drown from a rip current on an unguarded

beach than a beach with lifeguards. Close to three-fourths of all

rip current deaths have occurred between March and August in a five-year study starting in 2000 according to the NOAA in “Spring is Rip Current and Wildfire Season,” marking spring and summer as the most dangerous time for rip currents.

“People always associate the beach as happy and free, but it’s not. Parents aren’t as concerned anymore and don’t teach their children what to do. Everyone at the beach will just be carefree and then when a bad situation occurs, they don’t know what to do, freshman Sophia Anagnostis said.

Anagnostis has grown up around rip current safety. Her mom grew up on the beach and when she was younger, she lost a friend to a rip current. He wasn’t aware of what he was suppose to do and drowned.

Since then, her mom has been

teaching her about rip currents and drilling into her head about how to get out of and how to help someone in one.

One of the principle reasons why people die in rip currents is because they panic and try to swim against it.

Specialists recommend to get out of a rip current successfully, remain calm to not waste energy, and to swim across the current, parallel with the shore. Then once free, swim back to shore angled away from the current.

This can be avoided by learning how to recognize and avoid a rip current. Common spots for them to form are near man-made objects like jetties or piers.

Signs of rip currents can be distinguished by a color difference in the water, if there’s foam, seaweed or another object being pulled back farther by the sea, or if there’s a break in a set of waves.

SUMMER JOBS AND THEIR BENEFITS

By ASHLEY MCKEETeens who want a job want

one because they know about the benefits, like making money to save for something frivolous and expensive that they have wanted for a while but their parents will not buy for them.

“I would like to have a summer job because I can make money and be independent from my parents,” sophomore Kyle Wilmoth said.

Summer jobs are a good choice for students who have to pay for their own gas or want to save for college, which costs close to $15,000 per year, in state, for room and board.

“I would rather save it than spend it. I would save it for something I wanted,” senior Cameron Lemme said.

High schools offer marketing classes that help students learn how to get and maintain jobs. These classes help students find part-time jobs that are perfect for the school year and summer.

“I help students learn about dress code on interviews and help them learn the information needed to fill out applications for any type of job,” marketing teacher Elliot Whitton said.

Whitton teaches Marketing Co-op. In this class students learn everything about jobs and how to get them. Students in this class leave early from school to go to work and gain high school credit.

While it may not be desirable to a teenager, high school students are normally paid minimum wage.

“Kids need to realize that their first job is not going to be very glamorous and they should consider any job they can get in this economy. You are going to learn even if it is a bad job you’ll always take something away from it,” Whitton said.

Having a summer job in high school is not only beneficial because it can provide money to save, but the work experience to prepare for future jobs can be invaluable.

“I have a friend who is a very successful attorney who says he’s learned most from the drive thru at McDonald’s. Kids need to realize that they are going to be low on the totem pole but they should learn from it,” Whitton said.

Teens gain experience from summer jobs that teach them life lessons about growing up, like responsibility and time management, and being involved in the work place.

“You will make mistakes at your first job but it’s better to learn now then later,” Whitton said.

Jobs provide necessary funds

illustration/RIPCURRENTS.NAA.GOV

prom

hilights.orgpage 16 May 11, 2012

1. CHA-CHA. Clapping along to the Cha-Cha Slide, junior Elisa Castillo dances with alumni Gabriel Santiago. “The difference

between prom and homecoming is that prom is classier; [it’s] raising the standards on how to act and dress,”

Castillo said. The junior prom committee selected “White Carpet Affair” for the theme.

2. CUPID SHUFFLE. After dinner, seniors Timothy Rivera and Kristin Lesche dance to the

Cupid Shuffle. “[At prom] the senior video was a true wake up call,” Rivera said. “Everyone is going to do their own thing, start their young adult lives and it’s crazy because you truly

grew up with your class.” The BBC produced the senior video, and it recaps the entire year.3. SWAG. During his performance, senior Tre Simpson raps Orange Swag. “My favorite part about prom was getting in front of my peers and performing. I felt hyped [and was]

pleased [to see how the audience reacted],” Simpson said. Orange Swag was written, recorded and produced by Simpson and senior Chris Williams.

photo/LIA VILLAR

STUDENT SHARE INSIGHT FROM THE WHITE CARPET

By LIA VILLAR

With a flawless atmosphere, the ballroom of the Wyndham

Resort is decorated with starry lights and tree-like centerpieces placed precisely in the

middle of tables. At six o’clock, students begin to file into what is expected to be a memorable night.“It’s the last celebration of the year and [for] seniors, [it’s

a] last hurrah, a last time to go to a school dance and reflect on memories. [For] juniors, [it’s a time] celebrate with senior friends, and to

[get into] the senior mentality,” junior class treasurer William McMillin said.Along with the memories made at prom, having a sit down dinner, watching the

senior video and announcing the senior superlatives are traditions prom upholds every year.“Watching the senior video [was my favorite part], and seeing everyone in one place before we

graduate,” senior Savannah Alzner said.With any school event, there are obstacles to overcome such as deciding on the location, theme,

decorations and food choices. The Junior Class officers must fund raise to lower the cost of prom tickets.Nevertheless, prom is known to be a memorable night for all who attend.

“Prom is more for the upper classmen, and it’s a right of passage in a way. You only get one senior prom and you can never go back,” Alzner said.

MemorableAffairSNAP ALONG. Towards the end of the night, seniors Alexandra Kelly and Marcus Clement share the last dance. “A bunch of drama kids and I started dancing; we knew that was the last song that we would dance to all together,” Kelly said. Kelly’s favorite part of the night was being able to see all her friends together in one place.

HEY GIRL HEY. Glancing toward each other, seniors Marissa Arias and Tori Polk share the dance floor. “Seniors should attend prom because it’s a night to celebrate the memories and accomplishments,” Arias said. A memorable moment for Arias was dancing with her best friends throughout the night.

JUMP ON IT. Before announcing superlatives, sophomore Misha Smith and junior Katy Smith jump to the beat of popular 90’s song, “Jump On It.” “A memorable moment at prom was afterwards. Everyone at [my] table met up for a prom breakfast” M. Smith said. While 20 band members performed Defying Gravity, from the musical Wicked, K. Smith asked her to prom.

SLOW DANCE. As a slow song begins to play, seniors Brandon Figueredo and Rebecca Claypool enjoy each other’s company. “The one thing that I’ll always remember is that special dance I shared with my girlfriend; all I could see was her smile,” Figueredo said. Among the dancers were Mr. and Mrs. BHS having their first dance as well.

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