Friday, May 10, 2013 hilights.orgyearinreviewhi-lights for students, by students Issue 6, C section

BENEFIT CONCERTStudents run concert for Connecticut FEATURES, page 7

EAGLE SCOUTEight students achieve honor FEATURES, page 8

OLYMPIC HOMECOMING Junior class runs Olympic inspired dance FEATURES, page 2

INDEXclub features 2features 3world events 4

world events 5features 6service features 7features 8

There is an ATM in Antarctica, the world’s most southerly ATM.

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SEE AND HEAR MOREgo to hilights.org for photo galleries, soundslides featuring students and weekly sports’ beats

randomfact

Teacher smooches pigMoney raised supports local families for holiday

BY JACKSON CRUMBLY

Kiss the Pig is an annual fundraiser to raise money for needy Boone families for Thanksgiving. On Sept. 24 the week-long efforts to raise funds began.

Throughout the week 20 teachers and five administrators collected funds. American Government teacher Annette Montgomery raised the most money, $442.71, and kissed the pig.

“It was cool because my class really got into it. I love this fundraiser for what it raises the money for,” Montgomery said.

Without Kiss the Pig, each year

local families could not celebrate Thanksgiving. This fundraiser helps families enjoy the holiday with a traditional dinner.

For 22 years students have donated money to the teacher they would like to see kiss a pig at halftime of a football game. The teacher who collects the most money at the end of the week kisses a pig at halftime of a football game in September.

Sophomore Class organizes the event, that raised $1497.25 to provide 25 families with Thanksgiving baskets.

“It was cool seeing the family’s faces when we gave them the baskets. You can tell it meant a lot,” Sophomore Class president Wesley Harper said.

Montgomery’s smallest class of 14

students was the period that donated the most money. Over half of her total came from sixth period, which raised $255. She added incentive for her classes to bring in money and help her win.

“I told my kids the class that raised the most, I’d bring treats in and if I kissed the pig I’d bring in pizza. They took their unit test and ate pizza,” Montgomery said.

Until recently some teachers offered extra credit to students, but this is no longer allowed because it is like bribing.

Montgomery was surprised she won, even though she had the lead for most of the week. She is a frequent finalist in the competition. She calls herself a “bridesmaid” because she is usually a finalist, but not a winner.

photo/JACOB BALLARD

PUCKER UP. After rasing $442.71 Annette Montgomery prepares to kiss the pig. “[I was motivated to win kiss the pig] because of what the fundraiser is for, for where [the money] goes and what it does,” Montgomery said.

This Year in Review features 13. To commemorate 2013, it spotlights 13 feature stories, 13 club events, 13 world events and 13 sport events from the school year. See more inside for a look back.

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featurestories‘He’s young and he’s learning. His growth as a leader over this last year has been phenomenal.James Corbin, Young Republican Club sponsor

Actress gains partBehind the scenes of the Anatomy of Gray

By LIA VILLAR

Set in the late 1800s, Anatomy of Gray centers around a young doctor named Galen P. Gray, played by sophomore Connor Anderson, who saves the life of a young girl, June, played by sophomore Madeleine Scott.

“June [is] a perky 15 year old who lived in a small town but still had a lot of hope. She has this really great spirit, she never gave up and I connected with that,” Scott said.

Drama teacher Tiffany Weagly selected the cast of Anatomy of Gray

to showcase each person’s acting talent.Other main characters included

Homer (June’s friend), played by senior Caleb Roche, Rebekah (June’s mother) played by senior Mallory Paul and Pastor Wingfield, played by junior Clark Thornton.

“[This play is different] because it’s a small cast and [they] did not rely on the set to tell the story,” Weagly said.

Before Scott could play the role of June in Anatomy of Gray, she had to perform a minute monologue.

“I did a lot of research [on the play]. I prepared my audition material for a really long time and it was really emotionally draining,” Scott said.

In rehearsals, actors did warm ups

Republican advocates candidates By COOPER BROCK

November 2012 marked a major political time for the United States, as President Obama ran for reelection against Governor Mitt Romney.

As both sides of the race poured millions of dollars into their campaigns, local organizations such as the Young Republicans club on campus pitched in their help in any way they could.

“Our club handled the election quite well. Quite a few of them worked very hard, more for local candidates than Romney. A lot of them are still very active politically,” club sponsor James Corbin said.

Junior Ivan Khaled, president of the Young Republicans, led his club

through several volunteer campaigns for the Republican Ticket.

From spreading support door to door, registering students to vote, and making yard signs, the Young Republicans not only campaigned for Governor Romney, but also for other local candidates.

One such candidate was Pete Clarke, an alumni running for Orange County District 3 commissioner. Clark and other officers went door to door asking voters to choose Clarke, who ended up winning by the narrow margin of 72 votes, the closest win in Orange County history.

“[The Young Republicans] is a lot more than a club to me,” Khaled

WOOF. For Rush Week, sophomore Alexandra Freel tells senior Joseph Jacobshagen about the Boone Animal Rescue Club. “I found it interesting because people were asking the same questions I was asking when I was recruited, so I could relate,” Freel said. Clubs set up tables during lunch to recruit new members.

photo/DELANEY SEACORD

PERFECTION. Freshmen Nicholas Duffy, Palmer Collins and John Hines IV perform their Braves Brawl skit. The Freshman Class won first place with this skit, a first for freshmen. “I was happy and proud of myself because usually freshmen don’t win anything,” Collins said.

photo/KAYLA COMBS

ONE BY ONE. In the media center, Support Person of the Year Carolyn Bell processes books. “It’s exciting [to win Support Person of the Year] because I’m new to Boone [but] I love the interaction [I have] with students,” Bell said. Bell ensures that students and teachers receive the books and resources they need.

photo/OLIVIA QUATTRONE

PICASSO. As part of Art Club’s annual event painting Beefy King’s windows for the holidays, sophomore Marcus Batson paints a penguin. “It was fun. It was an overall great experience and will bring more customers to Beefy King,” Batson said. Each member was able to choose his own design to paint on the window.

photo/MONIQUE SORIANO

By LIA VILLAR

Continuing their Olympic theme, “Passing the torch of tradition,” the Junior Class Council decorated the gym and commons area with the five Olympic rings and Greek columns.

“[The most enjoyable part is] to see everyone’s face when they came into the gym,” Junior Class sponsor Jillian Rodriguez said.

Before one could enjoy homecoming, the Junior Class Council spent September and October planning details, like decorations, food and music.

“My role was interesting and very intense because all of the planning. [I was apart of] ticket sales, ticket design and the float,” Junior Class historian Dinorah Figueroa said.

Dress up days included Summer Olympics 2012, Star Wars, Senior Citizen day, and Crazy Orange and White day for underclassmen or Toga day for seniors.

“[A day that stood out was] senior citizen day because it was funny to watch all the [students in their] wigs [and] in their ugly old clothes, limp around,” Figueroa said.

Yet, with the stress of ticket sales and planning homecoming, Rodriguez enjoyed seeing her officers evolve.

“[I] get to watch kids harness their leadership skills. The officers I have today are completely different than they were in August,” Rodriguez said.

Junior class captures Olympics

and voice exercises; then blocked, which involved standing and moving around to set up scenes.

Anatomy of Gray premiered Thursday, Oct. 4.

“Opening night was magical. There was a dedicated audience. Everything that can go well, did,” Scott said.

As the curtains opened, Scott prepared herself to say her lines that would commence the play, “Once upon a time there was a girl who looked remarkably like me.”

“When you’re on stage, you can forget the audience, forget your problems, and be someone else. I was excited to do something I care so much about,” Scott said.

UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT. In

character, senior Mallory Paul and junior Madeleine

Scott act out a scene in Anatomy of Gray. “[I connected with June because

she] wanted lot for herself but was

stuck in [a small] town [and] I think a lot of teenagers want that,” Burke

said. The show ran Oct. 4-6.

photo/MONIQUE SORIANO

photo/DELANEY SEACORD

SET UP. On Oct. 26, Junior Class members Dinaorah Figueroa and Kaley Knapp decorate before homecoming. “[The most enjoyable part] is the day of, [when] I saw our hard work come together,” Figueroa said. Homecoming was in the Wayne Rickman Gymnasium.

said. “I provide opportunities for our members to thrive and make real world connections. After we helped Pete Clarke win District Commissioner, the three of us who helped the most got paid internships at the Orange County Republican Headquarters.”

For the members of the Young Republicans, phoning homes, door to door campaigning, and making signs were all part of a regular day during election season.

“He’s young, and he’s learning. His growth as a leader over this year has been phenomenal. He’s a big picture guy, and one day, Ivan will undoubtedly hold an elected position. He’s going to do fine,” Corbin said.

‘His growth as a leader over this year has been phenomenal. He’s a big picture guy.Dr. James Corbinsponsor

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hi-lights featurestories 3Friday, May 10, 2013 hilights.org

WORDS OF ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN Don’t be afraid to try something new, it is all a part of the experience of life.

Vicky Lam, senior

MOST MEMORABLE TEACHER OR CLASS?Mr. Eslava because I’ve had him as a teacher for four years and he has helped me become a great musician and a responsible adult.

Bridget Bonnette, senior

CATCH IT. On Dec. 13 at the Senior Breakfast, senior Kristi Creel catches her pancakes. “The Senior Breakfast made me feel happy that I was finally a senior attending the Senior Breakfast but sad at the same time for the year almost being over,” Creel said. Creel is attending Florida Southern University in the fall.

photo/EMILY NUSBICKLE

TECH SAAVY. Three students (junior Steven Espinoza, junior Yaritza Ferrer and sophomore Matthew Babcock) of 30 throughout the county won laptops from High School High Tech Program. “I just felt really happy,” Babcock said. The three of them submitted essays and were chosen to receive laptops.

photo/STACEY STROM

COLLECT. At the WESH canned food drive on Dec. 13, junior Katharyn Lindborg packages cans collected into a box .“It felt really great to be apart of the canned food drive because I know my time and effort was going to such a wonderful cause,” Lindborg said. Lindborg is the Junior Class president.

photo/KAYLA COMBS

SIGN IT. Countless students sign a card given to the custodians. “I felt warm and fuzzy inside and I felt I needed to help because I believed it was the right thing to do,” senior Samuel Dracket said. The custodians received their bonuses in the cafeteria.

photo/KRISTEN DUGAN

Hospitality achieves goal, helps custodians

Student pursues audio career By TOMMY MCDONALD

While seniors are finishing their final year of high school on campus, senior Timothy Hamilton is already forging the basis for his professional career.

Hamilton is studying sound engineering, a skill that can be applied to a career in producing and mastering audio for a variety of purposes. He is also displaying his knowledge in the Skills USA competition, a competition that tests students around the nation in a specific business skill. After placing gold in regionals, Hamilton advanced to compete in states on April 29 with his classmate and partner, Cynthia Gonzalez, in the visual audio section of the competition. They did not place.

“Getting gold [in regionals] surprised us, because the team [we]

were competing against had been in the program longer than us,” Hamilton said.

For Hamilton, the competition has served as an experience to test his new ability in an applied setting.

“It made me realize how prepared I was to enter the industry and how well I would do once I’ve gotten a job. It all comes so naturally to me. The judges are looking to hire me,” Hamilton said.

Orlando Tech provides Hamilton a way to accelerate his start into his career of audio engineering. He received the cost of the course, $2,000, for free and is able to transfer credit hours over to Valencia State College when he finishes Orlando Tech. At Valencia, he plans to obtain an Associates Degree in Sound Production.

“I don’t need anymore degrees

‘It made me realize how prepared I was to enter the industry. It all comes so naturally to me.Timothy Hamiltonsenior

By CIARA MCCOYIn December, every custodian received a $175 holiday

bonus. English teacher Jennifer Hilley and Assistant Principal

Carlota Mendoza Iglesias continued a project formerly known as Project X, but now simply titled Custodian Hospitality.

The pair raised money with help from Spanish Honor Society, National Honor Society, the Credit Union, FCA, teachers, students and countless others.

“I’d like to believe the custodians were happy. The thank you notes we received were unbelievable and there were definitely tears,” Hilley said.

According to Hilley, in 2009 she was discussing the custodians and student Mary Claire Dillard raised her hand saying that the custodians should be recognized for all of the things they do at school. From this conversation in class that day, they developed Project X.

Every year around the December holidays Mendoza-Iglesias and Hilley raise money to reward the 12 custodians.

All together they made collection boxes, where students could donate and received numerous donations from teachers

directly. Senior Alexandra Schelle constructed the collection boxes.

She along with countless other students contributed in helping the Custodian Hospitality Project.

Iglesias felt a personal connection to the custodians. She works with the custodians on a personal level and she is the administrator who supervises them and feels they need to be appreciated on campus for all of the things they do, especially by the students.

“They were honestly shocked! They felt they were noticed and loved by all at Boone, especially our wonderful students,” Iglesias said.

In the previous year the project underwent a year long hiatus and the pair wanted this years to be equally as special as the previous years.

“Mrs. Iglesias and I regretted not doing it last year. So we decided to start it up again,” Hilley said.

Hilley and Iglesias worked diligently for all of the custodians to be recognized for the hard work they do everyday. They believe these custodians deserve holiday bonuses above all others based on the work they do for everyone everyday.

Jennifer Hilley and Carlotta Mendoza Iglesias reward custodians

12custodians received holiday bonuses.

175dollars were presented to each custodian.

#fastfigures

because after a certain point you can’t teach this industry. Rather, you have to prove yourself on the job and what you’re capable of,” Hamilton said.

His instructor Glenn Feit also believes that fundamental skills help one succeed in the industry rather than specialized training. Feit notes that the changing technology in the field make knowing one piece of equipment or software less valuable than being able to adapt to whatever a certain job will require one to use.

“One needs to know how to be a problem solver and how to learn how to keep learning all the time,” Feit said.

Hamilton is currently arranging his first job with a family friend whose company sets up events with sound equipment, his desired occupation.

6+clubs helped with the Custodian Hospitality Project.

DANCE. On Jan 26, sophomore Mekayla Hudak performs with the American Sign Language Club at Brave Aid. “Performing at Brave Aid was the highlight of my sophomore year,” Hudak said. They signed the Gangnam Style dance.

photo/MADISON NAGLE

By THOMAS EGAN

With a fourth place finish, the Mock Trial team ended their season at the state competition with their best finish in over four years.

“I was really excited because it was the best we had ever done at mock trial in my time,” senior Emily Blaydes said.

The high school mock trial program simulates a real courtroom experience and allows participants to practice their law skills. During competition, teams are restricted only to the materials supplied in their case packet. The team began studying the case in September, to prepare their arguments and defenses.

In state competition, judges preside over the Florida high school teams and give scores for the team’s performance.

Individual scores are given in each category, such as cross-examinations, opening statements and witness testimony, and then the scores are added up to determine the total scores.

“A lot of preparations goes into preparing the case,” senior Monica Joyce said.

Junior Brendan Francis won one of five award presented for Top Attorney at the competition.

Mock Trial competition prepares law students, such as Joyce, Blaydes and Francis, for future careers in law.

“You learn a lot of good public speaking skills because you have to talk in front of people and you learn a lot about the law,” Blaydes said.

Mock trial takes fourth

photo/MATTHEW CASLER

ORDER. At the state competition, junior Elizabeth Barahona, senior Emily Blaydes and junior Brendan Francis stand outside the courtrooms. “[Mock trial] boosts your confidence in things like public speaking,” Blaydes said.

A YEAR IN PICTURES

MOMENT OF REFLECTION. A woman looks over the memorial on Boylston Street Monday, April 22, 2013, in memory of the victims from the Boston Marathon bombing in Boston, Massachusetts.

photo/NANCY LANE/BOSTON HERALD/MCT

HERE’S A LOOK AT NATIONAL EVENTS THAT HELPED SHAPE US

SWEETHEART. Representing Hi-Lights newspaper and Social Justice Club, seniors Cooper Brock and Devan Spear are crowned king and queen, respectively, at halftime of the Jan. 29 basketball game. “Being named the sweetheart court was definitely a rewarding experience,” Brock said.

photo/PHABULOUS PHOTOS

DONATE. The third blood drive was held on Feb. 4, in memory of the deceased former Boone students, Laura Grant and Eddie Culberhouse. “I feel like I’m doing something good [because I’m helping] people out,” senior Jonathan Porter said. The blood drive collect 156 pints of blood.

photo/SAMUEL HOLLEMAN

FLIP. The Key Club presented the second annual All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Dinner on Feb. 12, at the Kiwanis Clubhouse. “It was a good feeling to help others and raise money for a good cause,” senior Ariana Vargas said. The event raised $160 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

photo/LIA VILLAR

FINAL STRETCH. On Feb. 16, the Reservation Run 5K occurred marking its fifth anniversary. “I love running a race, because it’s a challenge,” senior Anthony Coscia said. Teams earning additional money from participation include tennis, Bravettes, track, boys’ lacrosse and cheerleaders.

photo/KRISTEN DUGAN

MRS. CLEAN. At the annual Green Up Boone event on March 16, sophomore Tori Kitts cleans the area by the baseball field. “At the end of the day I felt like I saved Boone High School; the practice field was spotless,” Kitts said. Every club cleaned, weeded and mulched their given plot to help beautiful the campus.

photo/DELANEE BOGAN

DON’T LET IT HAPPEN AGAIN. Jimmy Greene, holding a photo of his daughter Ana Grace Marquez-Greene, who was killed in the shootings, listens with family members as his wife speaks during the media conference in Newtown, Conn., on Jan. 14. Behind him at right, Ian Hockley holds a photograph of his son Dylan, who was also killed in the media conference. One month after the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, a group of Newtown citizens organized into a group called Sandy Hook Promise, to honor the lives of lost family and friends and committed to preventing similar tragedies from ever taking place again. The Group met at the Edmond Town Hall in Newtown.

photo/AMY NEWSMAN/THE RECORD/MCT

LONG ROAD AHEAD. Danny

McDonnell removes carpet from the

family’s property in Seaside Heights,

New Jersey on Nov. 17. The family is trying to pick up the pieces after

superstorm Sandy damaged their

summer home, their rental property and

their boardwalk business.

4 Friday, May 10, 2013 hilights.org hi-lights

thenews ‘It was a good feeling to help others and to raise money for a good cause.Ariana Vargas, senior

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MOMENT OF REFLECTION. A woman looks over the memorial on Boylston Street Monday, April 22, 2013, in memory of the victims from the Boston Marathon bombing in Boston, Massachusetts.

photo/NANCY LANE/BOSTON HERALD/MCT

MRS. CLEAN. At the annual Green Up Boone event on March 16, sophomore Tori Kitts cleans the area by the baseball field. “At the end of the day I felt like I saved Boone High School; the practice field was spotless,” Kitts said. Every club cleaned, weeded and mulched their given plot to help beautiful the campus.

photo/DELANEE BOGAN

RESPECTFUL FAREWELL. A member of the Patriot Guard salutes as the Honor Guard carries the body of Master Sgt. Coater Debose Tuesday, Sept. 4, at the National Cemetery in Biloxi, Mississippi. Debose was killed in mid-August in Afghanistan. As of Oct. 17, there have been 2,012 military casualties in the war in Afghanistan.

photo/TIM ISBELL/BILOxI SUN HERALD/MCT

CHAMPION. Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, who was awarded Most Valuable Player after Baltimore won Super Bowl xLVII, rides through the Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida, Monday, Feb. 4.

photo/JACOB LANGSTON/ORLANDO SENTINEL/MCT

UNSTABLE GROUND. An aerial view of a sinkhole at 240 Faithway Drive in Seffner, Florida that opened up, killing Jeffrey Bush is seen March 4, 2013. The sinkhole is exposed as demolition of the house continues.

photo/DIRK SHADD/TAMPA BAY TIMES/MCT

TRAGIC ACCIDENT. Searchers in protective suits walk through the blast zone of the fertilizer plant that exploded in West, Texas, on Thursday, April 18. The Wednesday night blast injured dozens, causing an undetermined number of fatalities, as well as massive property damage.

photo/R. JENKINS/FORT WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM/MCT

photo/RICHARD MESSINA/HARTFORD COURANT/MCT

HIS HOLINESS. Pope Francis waves during his grandiose inauguration mass at St Peter’s square on March 19, at the Vatican. World leaders flew in for the inauguration mass for Pope Francis in St Peter’s Square on Tuesday where Latin America’s first pontiff received the formal symbols of papal power.

photo/MAURIzIO BRAMBATTI/ANSA/zUMA PRESS/MCT photo/ROBERT GAUTHIER/LOS ANGELES TIMES/MCT

GOLDEN BOY. Michael Phelps shows off a special award he received from FINA for becoming the winningest Olympian in history at the 2012 Olympics at the Aquatic Center in London, England. Phelps’ 22nd career Olympic medal came earlier in the day as he helped the United States take gold in the 4x100 medley relay.

photo/xinhua/News Pictures/Abaca Press/MCT

FOUR MORE YEARS. President Barack Obama greets the crowd at his election-night headquarters with his wife, Michelle, left, and daughters Sasha and Malia, right, as they celebrate his re-election on Wednesday, Nov. 7, in Chicago, Illinois.

READY TO SERVE. Private second class Autumn Ladines learns urban assault tactics during training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, Jan. 30.

photo/C. MICHAEL BERGEN/THE STATE/MCT

photo/BRIAN CASSELLA/CHICAGO TRIBUNE/MCT

hi-lights thenews 5Friday, May 10, 2013 hilights.org

WORDS OF ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN Things will change, but change is good.

Andrea Carreno, senior

WORDS OF ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN Don’t drop out.

Andrew Khoury, senior

SURVIVOR. Malala Yousafzai, seen in this handout photo at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, London on Oct. 26, said Monday that she was prepared to risk her life again for the cause. Giving her first interview on Feb. 4, since she was shot in the head by a Taliban assassin in October, Malala Yousafzai, 15, told Pakistan’s Geo News channel from Great Britain that she had recovered her eyesight and was able to talk and walk again.

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HERE IT COMES. In the district final game against Dr. Phillips, senior Rachel Neely serves. “I think we did really well the whole season, although we should have gone to states,” Neely said. The girls made it to regional semi-finals and were district and metro champions.

photo/MADISON NAGLE

WE’RE THE CHAMPIONS. After the Edgewater game on Nov. 9, the team poses for a photo with the Boone - Edgewater barrel. “It was the best feeling I’ve ever had as a football player. It’s a long standing tradition, and it felt good to bring back the barrel for our senior year,” senior linebacker Richard Liley said. The team won 13-12.

photo/PHABULOUS PHOTOS

RUN IT. At the state competition on Nov. 17, senior Wyatt Smith pushes ahead of the pack. “For only running for one year, getting to compete at states is probably something I’ll remember for a long time,” Smith said. The boys placed eighth overall at the state competition.

photo/LEGEND YEARBOOK

GET IT. Selected to be apart of the National Coaches Athletic All American team, senior Conor Wood runs for the ball. “[Being selected] was a surprise. I knew I was nominated but I didn’t expect out of all the nominations I would be chosen,” Wood said. Wood also earned the Brighthouse Boys Soccer Player of the Year award.

photo/KAYLA COMBS

FLUTE FANATIC. At the honors band performance in Indianapolis, sophomore Savannah McGuigan (second row, fifth from the left) plays her flute. She had the opportunity to perform with world-renowned trombone player Joe Alessi (bottom left). “It was a whole new experience. It was unbelievable to be playing with such talented musicians and work with a great conductor. I learned a lot from that experience,” McGuigan said.

photo courtesy/DAVID MCGUIGAN

By COOPER BROCK

Having been involved in the organization and execution of over 20 campus events, including homecoming, prom and Big Man on Campus, student body vice president Brendan Francis has been in Student Government since his freshman year.

“[When I joined SGA] I wanted to be a part of everything that was BHS, and I wanted to leave a legacy behind,” Francis said. “I wanted to make BHS a better place after I left than it was before I got here.”

On Dec. 1, Francis began work on the Canned Food Drive, an event geared toward collecting food to make Thanksgiving dinner for the less fortunate.

“His charisma really gets people to follow him. He makes people want to better themselves by instilling self confidence,” SGA Cassandra Stilwell said.

SGA members collected over 350 pounds of canned goods, and then distributed baskets to families in need before Thanksgiving break.

“Making Thanksgiving baskets was a really awesome event, because you get to directly see the fruits of your labors, when families who are less fortunate get to enjoy an American Thanksgiving dinner,” Francis said.

Thanksgiving dinner wasn’t the only good will the less fortunate received from SGA. The Just 1 Book drive was collected books to give to libraries and schools located in areas of a lower socioeconomic status.

“The organization Just One Book was something I had heard about from another student at Boone. All the SGA officers came together and found a way to organize and innovate an event for this cause. We all felt so passionate about,” Francis said.

Due to the efforts of SGA members, they collected 3,500 books by the end of November.

“Giving back is really what SGA is all about,” Francis said. “Everything we do is to better the high school experience in general, or community where we live.”

Francis was recently voted student body president and hopes to make next year just as successful, if not more than this year.

“From taking on so much this year, he’s learned to balance his priorities and he’s discovered his strengths and weaknesses,” Stilwell said.

Junior gives back to community

photo/DELANEY SEACORD

PREACH. At the canned food drive, junior Brendan Francis collects cans. “I think it is important that everyone be involved at school,” Francis said. “When everyone comes together, that is when real memories are made.” 350 pounds of cans were collected.

Sophomore makes first chair

By MEGHAN COTTON

Students hold their breath as they await to hear who will be playing first chair in the All-County band competition. Sophomore flautist Savannah McGuigan earned the coveted spot.

“I get a rush that makes me feel honored to be a part of groups like that,” McGuigan said.

McGuigan started playing the flute in sixth grade. She became interested in playing because she thought the sound of the flutes music was pure.

“She had a lot of natural talent. I wanted to focus all her skills and techniques to put her at a higher level,” music teacher Jose Eslava said.

After four years of playing, McGuigan received the honor of not only playing first chair in All-County but in All-State as well.

“The intensity level [of All-State] was greater because we had to adapt to new surroundings and new people,” McGuigan said.

McGuigan makes an impact in her section in band. She pushes the other players to be the best that they can be.

“Over time she pushed for the group to be a stronger section. I definitely notice a big difference in the section this year,” Eslava said.

McGuigan practices everyday and has lessons from two

different teachers. “[She stands

out] because of how much she works. She always signs up to do extra auditions for honors groups,” Eslava said.

M c G u i g a n also played in an honors band in Indianapolis. She had the

opportunity to perform with world renowned musician, Joe Alessi. She learned much from the experience.

Next year when McGuigan is a junior, she will be in the higher level competition and will have to compete against other juniors and seniors.

“[Next year] I hope to have the same dedication I have now and reach what I was able to this year,” McGuigan said.

For the rest of McGuigan’s high school career, Eslava hopes to see her get out of her comfort zone and have her branch off to other styles of music such as romantic, French and other kinds of classical music, as opposed to the baroque and contemporary she plays now.

After high school, McGuigan wants to continue to excel in her music. Her hopes are to attend Juilliard School of Music and become a professional performer.

Flautist plays in All-County and All-States as a sophomore

[Next year] I hope to have the same dedication I have now and reach what I was able to this year

Savannah McGuigan, sophomore

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6 Friday, May 10, 2013 hilights.org featurestories hi-lightsWORDS OF ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMENStay focused, but have fun. After all, high school is supposed to be the best years of your life, but remember it’s the start of the rest of it.

Amanda Swartwout, senior

WHO WAS YOUR INSPIRATION THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL?I pushed myself to strive on through difficult times being tenacious, I always was

determined to do my best and get good grades. Shelby Hill, senior

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Student raises funds, builds wellStudent helps Ethiopian village and wins award

By MEGHAN COTTON

The Prudential Spirit of Community Award is a national award that recognizes 10 national honorees and 102 state honorees for service to their community. Senior Merrie Harding is one of the recipients.

Late last year, Harding organized a service project, “Get Pumped Braves,” to collect money to build a well in Ethiopia. Every summer the Harding family travels to Ethiopia to help provide villages with clean water.

“It’s been a great opportunity. I’m

blessed to go and get to know the people. It’s a good reality check for how I live my life in America,” Harding said.

Harding’s goal was to raise $2500 through donations and selling tee shirts as well as water bottles; to her excitement, she raised $3,300. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes also partnered with Edgewater High School to raise an additional $300 of donations to bring the total to $3,600.

Harding’s mother, Mary Harding, has supported her daughter in all of her extracurricular activities.

“I was proud of her thoughtfulness and initiative. I also thought it would be a good learning opportunity for her to plan, organize and carry out,” Mary

Concert comforts ConnecticutBy TOMMY MCDONALD

After the Newtown tragedy, senior Glynn Hollingshead was personally devastated by the horrific shooting. “[The Sandy Hook shooting] made

me realize that it only takes a split second for your whole world to change, and I could only imagine if it was my niece that was in one of those classrooms,” Hollingshead said.

Although being shocked and saddened after a disaster is not uncommon, in the wake of sadness, Hollingshead decided to take action. Hollingshead decided the best way to deal with it was to give back.

“I wanted to help the families,

because I know if it were me in their situation I would want the same, so I started Concert for Connecticut,” Hollingshead said.

He organized a fundraising concert for Newtown at Conway United Methodist Church.

During the concert on Feb. 23, a band of students from across the county performed “Praying for Sandy”, “I’m a Believer”, “Shout!” and “We are the World” among other songs. The band was composed of musicians who played horn and wind instruments to create an inspiring and uplifting atmosphere, according to Hollinshead.

On top of raising $1,100, the

ATTACK. Sophomore Jace Burrell faces his opponent on the mat. On Jan. 9, the wrestling team defeated Winter Park, Colonial and University at home. “[When we win] I feel like I’m on top of the world,” Burrell said. The wrestling team ended their season with a 6-3 record.

photo/MORGAN ROWLAND

KICKIN’ IT. On Norton Baker Field, junior Sabdie Alvarado runs for possession. “This was one of the best seasons with the team. Making it to regionals was a huge accomplishment,” Alvarado said. On Jan. 17, Winter Park defeated the girls soccer team, ending their season 15-5.

photo/KARINA FLORES

HUSTLE. In the Wayne Rickman Gymnasium, freshman Sadie Desroches takes the ball down court. After a 17-10 season, the girl’s basketball team made it to the district final on Feb. 1, but lost to Dr. Phillips in a 38-73 blowout. “It was a close game during the first half. Unfortunately, it went downhill,” Desroches said.

photo/DEAN STEWART PHOTOGRAPHY

RECOGNIZE. McDonald’s All-American team nominates senior Bailey Florin and senior Robert Rimmer. “I felt very proud and honored for the hard work I’ve put in over the years,” Rimmer said. Rimmer is attending Stanford University, and Florin is attending University of North Florida.

photo/LINDSAY ALExANDER

Harding said. Harding also received the Martin

Luther King Jr. award which recognizes students who have provided a service in some way and have made an impact in their community.

“I wasn’t expecting it at all. I didn’t even know that it even existed,” Harding said.

The award is given to one student from each high school in Orange County. The students also get the opportunity to march in the Martin Luther King Jr. parade.

“I think it is great for young people to be recognized. [I was] so proud of her. I was surprised she won, but it’s been fun marching in the MLK Jr.

DIG DEEP. In an Ethiopian village, senior Merrie Harding uses the new well she helped provide. “It was really satisfying to see [the well] being used,” Harding said. The well provides villagers with clean water.

photo courtesy/MERRIE HARDING

photo courtesy/MERRIE HARDING

GET PUMPED. This plaque on the wall recognizes Boone for their contributions.

photo courtesy/GLYNN HOLLINGSHEAD

LEAD IN. During the concert, senior Andrew Markel conducted a song he wrote just for the concert. “It was great to use my talents of music to help out the community,” Markel said.

event had a positive impact on the Orlando community. Canned foods were donated from the community to local charities. Besides that, the concert offered aspiring musicians a chance to perform for a cause.

For Hollingshead, the best part was when he realized the concert made a difference by raising money for the town. A constant idea for Hollingshead is using music as a vehicle for greater things in life.

He received a scholarship to William Penn University in Iowa and plans on majoring in law and political science. After college, Hollingshead wants to become a lawyer.

parade and meeting the mayor,” Mary Harding said.

In addition to the MLK award, Harding was recognized by the Prudential Spirit of Community Award.

“It was shocking. I didn’t think I was going to get in the top 10. It’s nice to be recognized,” Harding said.

In the future, Harding would like to work overseas in a third world country. Her goal is to make a difference wherever she goes.

“I want Merrie Grace to grow in her love for the Lord and I am excited to see what career choices she makes as she seeks God’s will for her. Whatever she does I’ll be proud and love and support her,” Mary Harding said.

hi-lights featurestories 7Friday, May 10, 2013 hilights.org

MOST MEMORABLE TEACHER OR CLASS?Mr. Hortze because he always wants to make sure you’re happy. He’s so friendly and you don’t see that anymore.

Whitney Williams, senior

WORDS OF ADVICE TO UNDERCLASSMEN Enjoy all the little moments because you can’t get them back.

Sarah Seaver, senior

COMMUNITY SERVICE. At the Trinity Lutheran School, senior James Walls and his fellow Troop 24 Scouts set up shelves to reorganize the athletic closet. “The project aimed to benefi t the athletes and the coaches at Trinity Lutheran Church and School,” Walls said. Scouting has run in the Walls family as both his father and his cousin are also Eagle Scouts and his grandfather was in Boy Scouts of America for 40 years.

INTENSITY. In a close game on Feb. 8, Boone pulled out the win 61-58 against Dr. Phillips. “Dr. Phillips won fi nals three years straight, so it was a great accomplishment for the team,” junior Barry Taylor said. The Braves brought the district title back home for the fi rst time since 2002.

photo/DEAN STEWART PHOTOGRAPHY

HERE IT COMES. In the game against Dr. Phillips, freshman Megan Mansfi eld pitches the ball. “I think we did well; we worked together and worked hard, Mansfi eld said. The girls fi nished the season 15-11, and made it to regionals for the second consecutive year.

EYE ON THE BALL. At bat, sophomore Roman Alejo prepares to hit the ball. “[My most memorable moment] was when Tripp [Robert Coble] hit a walk off to win districts; it got the adrenaline pumping and everyone was really excited,” Alejo said. The boys had a 17-10 season going into regional fi nals.

By CONOR CURRY

As she drew her needle through a stitch, sophomore Katherine Rohe paused to admire the chain she created.

Although Rohe’s mother, Art 2D teacher Cathy Rohe, is artsy, she could not teach her daughter how to knit or crochet. K. Rohe learned how to crochet from a class she took at Joann’s Fabrics in fourth grade and spends her free time perfecting the art since then.

Since learning to crochet, Rohe has created socks, hats and sweaters. One facet of Rohe’s creations are the ideas she gets from the online knitting forum Ravelry. The forum allows Rohe to share patterns with others who crochet.

“It’s phenomenal. She takes on the hardest stitch combos and makes it look simple. Her goal is to challenge herself,” C. Rohe said.

Crocheting and knitting are similar practices of stitching materials together to make fabric or clothes. Rohe states that crafting these clothes is a cathartic release and is something she does as often as possible.

“[I sew] for the same reason people read or play video games. It’s just pleasurable to me,” K. Rohe said.

C. Rohe knitted when she was younger as well; however she practiced the European style, the opposite of American knitters. The terms and language for patterns are very much different in British and European crocheting. Because she wanted her daughter to learn the proper way, C. Rohe held off on teaching her personally. According to K. Rohe, her mother’s style and her style are opposites.

“We get into a lot of trouble [because] we have crafts going on at all times. The garage is always full. In addition to that, we go to a lot of art shows together,” C. Rohe said.

In addition to personal works and projects from the knitting forum, Rohe undertakes requests for specific patterns or clothes. Her first sweater, a complicated work with a hoodie, was a commission for a friend.

A more radical art form that K. Rohe practices is something called “yarn-bombing.” Yarn-bombing uses balls of yarn to create a design to cover an object, for example, a street sign or bench. Rohe has bombed twice around South Orlando.

Ever since taking the class from Joann’s Fabric, K. Rohe has been absorbed in the practice, beginning new projects often. Rohe jokes about making popular clothes instead of buying them.

Student finds her own knitch

photo/BRIDGETTE NORRIS

IN STITCHES. After her math lesson, sophomore Katherine Rohe knits while talking to Pablo Moragon. “[My favorite part of knitting is] the aspect of creating something real,” K. Rohe said. K. Rohe also knits in the commons before school starts.

Seven students complete Scouting journey

By THOMAS EGAN

Seven male students earned the Eagle Scout ranking and joined the small minority of Boy Scouts of America who achieve the honored and respected title.

In Scouting, Eagle represents the highest attainable rank of the Boy Scouts. Since introduced in 1911, only approximately two million Boy Scouts have reached Eagle. This represents 5 percent of the boys who have participated in Scouting.

For those who do earn the rank, it is a title held for life, which is where the phrase “Once an Eagle, always an Eagle” derives. Those who earn the badge gain a significant amount of respect from others in Scouting and join a prestigious group of individuals. Some notable men who earned the badge as a teenager include over 40 astronauts, President Gerald Ford, Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer and film director Steven Spielberg.

“Boy Scouts has been a major influence on my character. It’s helped shape me into the man I am today,” senior James Walls said. “My experiences as a Boy Scout taught me some of the most important things I know.”

To become an Eagle, one must earn a minimum of 21 merit badges, demonstrate strong leadership in the Scout troop and complete an “Eagle Project,” a service project which shows leadership and drive.

Walls was one of the seven boys -- also seniors Cayman Bryan, Andrew Gomes, Justin Petrali, Trent Sellers, Christopher Slason, and junior Clayton Wills -- who earned his Eagle rank and pin.

For his Eagle Project, Walls rebuilt the athletic closet

at Trinity Lutheran School. He, and the Scouts and adults who assisted in the project, gutted the closet, hung new shelves and then organized the equipment in the closet. The work itself took two days, but Walls also had to draw up plans for funding and organize the project.

“[The Eagle Scout rank] takes years of hard work and service that some people are simply not cut out to do, or they don’t have the motivation,” Walls said.

For his Eagle Scout project, Slason built dog houses for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Orlando. He gathered other boys from his troop and spent days designing the plans and building the houses.

“I’m extremely proud of the accomplishment, especially considering it carries with you for the rest of your life,” Slason said. “Many police officers, politicians and executives are Eagle Scouts, and to be included in a group with such prestige makes me proud.”

Slason was in scouting for six years before reaching his Eagle, showing the time and effort it takes to ascend through the Scouting ranks. A boy must first start as a Scout, before earning his Tenderfoot rank, then Second Class rank, First Class rank, Star rank, Life rank and then finally earning Eagle.

“It takes many years to acquire because you have to work through the ranks,” Slason said. “It’s a lot of hard work and not everybody has the patience for it.”

The Eagle Scout rank is highly respected in society and opens doors for those who earn it, but besides this, the experience they earned in the journey to getting Eagle will aid them for the rest of their lives.

photo/DELANEE BOGAN photo/SARAH BERLINSKY

8 Friday, May 10, 2013 hilights.org featurestories hi-lightsFONDEST MEMORY THROUGHOUT HIGH SCHOOL? Being in my fi st senior snake, the energy was unbelievable!

Peyton Fisher, senior

FONDEST MEMORY THROUGHOUT HIGH SCHOOL? Being the fi rst soccer team to beat Bishop Moore in over 20 years, and dumping the Gatorade jug on Coach Bobby.

Bruno Ferrari, senior

photo/BRITTANY HOPE

DRIVE. After the snap, senior Alexis Washington rushes to grab the Cypress Creek quarterback’s fl ag. “I think we accomplished our goals and played our hardest. I was overall pleased,” Washington said. The team fi nished 14-2 in the regional fi nals.

photo/JOVANN MARTIN

DRIVE. In the game against Bishop Moore on March 14, senior William Hendry drives past a defender. “[I felt] a sense of pride that we were the fi rst Boone team to beat them,” Hendry said. The lacrosse team had their best season in school history with a 12-2 record, beating both Winter Park and Bishop Moore.

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