November 2017

MOCK TRIAL

KNEELING VERSUS STANDING

Mock Trial team prepares for competition [ NEWS, page 7

hilights

Two writers discuss peaceful protest during the anthem [OPINION, page 3

KISS THE PIG

Student government creates Thanksgiving baskets for Boone families [NEWS, page 6

for students, by students

William R. Boone High School ß1000 E. Kaley St. ßOrlando, FL 32806 Friday, November 3, 2017 ß boonepubs.com

Volume 65 ß Issue 1

Houston shifts from Eagle to Brave Teacher reflects on his experience at Edgewater High School

By KYLA MCCRARY Since 1952, Boone High School has played a rivalry football game against Edgewater High School.

Richard Houston played in the rivalry games in his junior and senior years.

At this time, the symbolic barrel did not exist.

However, the cross town rivalry still held importance.

Houston, economics teacher, began attending Edgewater in his junior year, and graduated in 1975.

While in high school, he was on the football and tennis teams, and was a member of the National Honor Society. His father coached football and his mother coached tennis, which prompted his involvement.

He began playing football at a young age and joined the team as a way to have a better chance of playing in college. “[My favorite part was] the time spent with teammates, the hard work together trying to win for our school,” Houston said.

In Houston’s junior year, Boone proved victorious winning the game, 29-0.

However, during his senior year, Edgewater won the barrel back defeating Boone, 36-24.

“It was a fun rivalry

game and it was great to compete under that pressure,” Houston said.

After teaching at Dr. Phillips for 20 years, Houston moved to Boone to teach.

Along with teaching, Houston coaches the football team. He started as a varsity coach working specifically with the linebackers. He now coaches the freshman football team.

“The head coach verbalizes the importance and we work special plays that are specific to help us win,” Houston said.

While this game holds no impact over a team’s ability to make the district playoffs, meaning the game holds no negative impact if one loses. Yet for both teams, this game holds importance.

“The game is so intense, it’s special for us despite being a non-district game,” Houston said.

Houston works with his team in hopes of getting a rivalry win.

Despite attending Edgewater and previously teaching at Dr. Phillips, Houston sees Boone as his home school.

The tradition makes him proud, seeing students carry on what he once participated in.

“I am proud to have participated as a player and a coach. Some kids see me as an Eagle but I am a Boone Brave without a doubt,” Houston said.

photo/ LEXIE WATERS

PUT ME IN COACH. Richard Houston walks with the freshmen team after a win, 20-14, against Wekiva High School on Oct. 27.

Barrel rivalry ignites tradition Festivities and traditions heighten with anticipation of the rivalry game photo/JACK RUMMLER

RHYTHMIC. Brent Sturno, class of 2017, hits the drum on the day of last year’s rivalry game, a tradition among football seniors.

ßrandomfact When hippos are upset their sweat turns red.

INDEX lfe 2 editorial 3 special 4

By JACK RUMMLER As the rivalry game between Boone and Edgewater arrives, students

news 6 feature 7 review 8

ignite their school spirit through traditions, which amplifies the heightening excitement for tonight’s home game.

Likewise the student body, student organizations that are active during the football game have to prepare extensively for the

GET INVOLVED Check us out on facebook follow us on Twitter @boonepubs

game. Preparation for the rivalry game also brings traditions.

“We usually give out small rubber chickens to all of the seniors as a keepsake for the game,” band director Joshua Jackson said.

From band’s rubber chicken to football

player’s mohawks, several organizations practice their own rivalry rituals.

Turn to the special feature pages to read about Bravettes, student aids, band, cheer and football.

SEE AND HEAR MORE go to boonepubs.com for photo galleries, soundslides featuring students and weekly sports’ beats

[ FEATURE, pages 4-5

2

Friday, November 3, 2017 boonepubs.com

insight JACK of all trades

That’s right, it’s Battle of the Barrel week and our Braves are ready to defend the Barrel. We are in the heart of football season and it gives me goose bumps to even think about it.

Dusty Johns, letter from the principal

ßnews2note school Boone has first pep rally in five years

In honor of the rivalry game against Edgewater, there will be a pep rally today. There will be a Wednesday bell schedule and after seventh period, the pep rally will begin in the stadium. There will be contests, prizes and performances. The Orange Army tailgate will be at the freshman, sophomore patio at 5:30 p.m.

local

Jack Rummler, column

Principal Dusty Johns is named OCPS Principal of the Year finalists

Principal Dusty Johns was named an OCPS Principal of the Year finalist. In the Orange Peel, an OCPS employee publication, Johns reveals his motivations and competitiveness. “First, I know God put me here to change lives. I have that chance every day, and you don’t find that in many career fields. If you take that seriously and believe it, that’s really the only motivation you need,” Johns said. “Second, I get to serve the community that I live in, which is pretty special.”

The road ahead

With almost three months of the school year completed, the repetition of daily activity feels solidified. Teachers and students are well acclimated with one another, students understand the expectations of classes and rules and procedures are set in stone. However, there were roadblocks that did not ease the process.

In early September, Hurricane Irma swept over the northeastern Caribbean, Florida and other Southern states.

While Central Florida did not face as much destruction as the Keys and Caribbean islands, the community still faced a plethora of damage. Driving down roads two months later, one may still see fallen poles, branches and limbs clustered together. A large amount of debris polluted the sidewalks that was nonexistent prior to Irma’s landfall.

After Irma passed over Central Florida, it took nearly three weeks for all homes to experience restored power.

According to the Orlando Sentinel, energy companies’ prices, such as Duke, nearly doubled, and real estate sales for Orlando homes dropped nearly 30 percent, proving that even less affected areas such as the counties of Central Florida are still struggling.

Irma’s shock wave continues to leave the community in a state of uncertainty.

There is still a hunch that the content of learning is behind schedule or that there are still setbacks to the problems faced in the aftermath. This can seem concerning because every day of academic progression matters for standardized testing.

Additionally, Irma threw a wrench in college applications. When Harvey, Irma and Maria made landfall in three different parts of the U.S. and its territories, colleges proved to be accommodating towards student needs.

University of Florida pushed back its application deadline and Texas Christian University offered fee waivers.

As a senior, college applications surmount extra stress on an already rigorous and busy schedule. In a time where safety and recovery from after the hurricane trumps all, college applications took the back burner.

For most schools, applications were due November 1, so the weight of applying is nearly over. Now comes the waiting game of acceptance.

Overall, this year may feel like one that started with insecurity and unfamiliarity. The atmosphere of the school year after a slow start seems unfulfilled. However, students should strive to not only live day-by-day, but to keep their future in mind.

The future for every person means something different. Whether it is a long term goal of a successful career, or a short term goal like acing a test, each student must bear in mind what he wants from himself. Even though minor setbacks occurred in the beginning, restrictions should never exist.

hilights

UCF President John Hitt announces retirement

University of Central Florida President John Hitt will retire in 2018. After 25 years in his role, the 76-year-old, announced he will retire next year. A committee will conduct a search for a candidate and Marcos Marchena, chairman of the UCF Board of Trustees, said they hope to have a “new president approved by the Board of Trustees and confirmed by the Board of Governors by June 30,” according to the Orlando Sentinel. photo/STEPHEN M. DOWELL/ORLANDO SENTINEL/TNS

state Hurricane Irma FEMA assistance deadline extended The deadline to apply for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been extended to Nov. 24. Assistance is available to renters, homeowners and business owners in the counties that were declared disaster areas, according to Florida Today.

Those interested should visit DisasterAssistance.gov.

national Majority of Puerto Rico remains still without electricity

Although more than a month has passed since Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, citizens from Puerto Rico are still fleeing the island. “Since Oct. 3, more than 73,000 individuals arrived in Florida from Puerto Rico through Miami International Airport, Orlando International Airport and the Everglades Port,” Florida Gov. Rick Scott’s office said in a statement. The majority of residents in Puerto Rico are without power and are likely not to regain it for months, according to CNN. photo/CAROLYN COLE/LOS ANGELES TIMES/TNS

world Catalania fights for independence

The Catalan Parliament voted to declare independence from Spain. The motion, which calls for the transfer of legal powers from Spain to an independent Catalonia, was approved in October. However, the Spanish Constitutional Court is likely to declare it illegal. Thousands have been protesting. Several countries like U.S., Germany and France have expressed support for Spanish unity, according to BBC.

Visit boonepubs.com for more news.

photo/MIQUEL LLOP/NURPHOTO/SIPA USA/TNS

ßletterfromPrincipal We are ready! That’s right, it’s Battle of the Barrel week and our Braves are ready to defend the Barrel.

Beginning in 1952, with an Edgewater win (14-0), this tradition is 65 years old and one of the most storied rivalries in Central Florida.

With playoff implications for the Braves, and a much improved

Edgewater team from last year, this game is sure to be one for the record books.

This will also be the first year for the rivalry game to be played on our beautiful new turf field at the McCoy Federal Credit Union Athletic Complex.

I can’t wait to hear the sound of

ßbeheard Send letters to the editor to HiLights, 1000 E. Kaley St., Orlando, FL 32806, or drop off in Room 224. You can also send to boonepubs@ gmail.com. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

To be considered for print, all letters must be signed and cannot contain libelous information.

that drum beating in the courtyard all day, combined with a pep rally and “Orange Out” tailgate before the Orange Army load the stands at kickoff.

We are in the heart of football season and it gives me goose bumps to even think about it.

Go Braves!

ßfollowus On Twitter @boonepubs On facebook.com/boonepubs

Friday, November 3, 2017 boonepubs.

BAND COMPETES AT STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS The Sound of the Braves will travel to State Marching Band Championships in Tampa on Nov. 18. Band members will perform their show, The White Table, in the 5A Preliminary Competition.

WHAT IS YOUR STANCE ON KNEELING FOR THE NATIONAL ANTHEM?

“So many people fought for and died for the flag. Kneeling is pretty much the equivalent to stomping on a veteran’s grave.”

Joseph Hamilton, junior

Kneeling divides nation’s citizens viewpoint

By CHASITY MAYNARD The national anthem boasts proudly of the resilient American flag waving through the War of 1812. “O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave’’ musically symbolizes a freed nation and its liberated citizens. Yet some professional athletes, such as football player Colin Kaepernick, kneel during the anthem as a form of protest. Kaepernick kneels to highlight the failure of the United States to uphold the ideals of its anthem, specifically, rampant police brutality against people of color.

A growing pool of NFL players joined Kaepernick, and even college and high school athletes began kneeling during the anthem to draw attention to police brutality. Advances in technology over the past decade, such as officer body cameras and dashboard cameras, provide visual evidence of brutality, especially white police officers against black citizens. Americans view seemingly countless videos of police shooting unarmed people. The frequency of new accounts of brutality elicit emotional responses from the public. Studies show that more white people are killed by police officers annually, but proportionally more African Americans died at the hands of police officers. According to Washington Post, “African Americans account for 24 percent of those fatally shot and killed by the police despite being just 13 percent of the U.S. population.” The statistics and visual evidence support Kaepernick and his supporters decision to take a stand, or rather, to kneel.

Americans choose to ignore why Kaepernick is kneeling and instead focus on perceived disrespect of the anthem. They argue that kneeling disrespects America and the valiant members of the military who fight and sacrifice their lives for the country. At first glance, the kneeling may seem disrespectful.

However, disrespect is not the protest’s purpose. Engulfing oneself in the initial offended feeling the protests cause is narrow-minded. Choosing to be angry at perceived disrespect of the armed forces or the country provides an excuse for Americans who are unwilling to open their eyes and consider the flaws in the nation’s police systems.

Considering the freedom the flag represents is the very freedom that Kaepernick is exercising; spotlighting a lack of freedom for Americans of color, provides a different perspective to those angered by the kneeling.

People should focus on why athletes protest. President Trump’s call for suspension of NFL players who kneel suppresses the First Amendment freedoms the armed forces fight to defend. Fighting the kneeling distracts from the issue of police brutality, prolonging the protests and delays the discussion. Former Attorney General Eric Holder advises people not to act with offense because NFL players demonstrating their First Amendment rights should not be controversial. He says Americans could make significant steps forward in resolving police aggression toward African Americans if they focused on the issue instead of the protest.

If skeptics would only consider other historical protests and the progress they achieved, they would perhaps appreciate the importance of respecting kneeling during the anthem. Sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement, for example, were initially met with anger and violence because they were viewed as disrespectful. Eventually, a majority of the population came to understand and support their cause.

Americans lack the courage to face the actual problem at hand and consider the possibility of change. They must choose involvement over ignorance and anger. No one can effectively oppose a cause they refuse to hear.

NFL athletes should have the right to kneel because the freedom to peacefully protest is secured in the Bill of Rights.

hilightsnewspaper EDITORIAL BOARD Senior Editor-In-Chief Jack Rummler Junior Editor-In-Chief Kyla McCrary Business Manager Caroline Casola Reference Editor Chasity Maynard

STAFFERS Samar Baig, Taylor Clark, Kaitlyn Connolly, Juliet Marcus, Chelsi Peter, Cali Turner

OTHER

Adviser Bridgette Norris

Principal Dusty Johns

49ers quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, sparked national controversy in August of 2016 when he sat during the national anthem as a means of protest. This protest has drawn attention to oppression of people of color, and to police brutality, as well as the differences between protesting and disrespect, and what the flag symbolizes. Writers take a stance on whether athletes should kneel during the national anthem.

By CAROLINE CASOLA Sundays, once dedicated to family and football, experienced NFL athletes politicization since Aug. 26, 2016. Black or white, religious or atheist, should not Republican or Democrat, football players sought no purpose but to kneel for play a game and unite the family, until Colin dropped to his knee the national during the “Star-Spangled Banner.” anthem Protesters can march against oppression and violence-- there because it is an appropriate time and place for civil debate. However, sporting is not an events do not fulfill that purpose. appropriate The national anthem and American flag serve to bring the time to country together. Disrespecting the two divides what ought protest. to serve as America’s common ground- no matter one’s race, economic standing or political beliefs.

The national anthem and the flag represent American history, freedom and victory, dedicating gratitude to every man and woman who chose to risk his and her life for the protection of the country.

The military fights for the flag and it is draped over the caskets of the fallen. Veterans of Foreign Wars national commander Keith Harman said, “I stand for our flag and anthem, and I kneel for our fallen. That’s what patriots do. We rally around the flag of our country, not use it and our Constitution as both shield and sword.”

Kaepernick’s wealth and fame allowed him to choose a number of venues for his protest, yet he specifically chose the flag and the anthem for which to show his disdain. The issue at fault is not necessarily the content of what he protests, but rather, the time and place in which he conducts his objections.

Furthermore, the Bible writes, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” In a time of crisis, the American flag serves as a symbol of unity. Less than a year after the 9/11 attacks, 75 percent of Americans said they displayed the flag, according to Pew Research Center.

The protests serve a domino effect. For example, The Santa Clara Police Officers’ Association said, “If the 49ers failed to take action against Kaepernick’s protest, officers could respond by choosing not to work at the facilities,” according to a letter that the Union members wrote. Roughly 70 Santa Clara police officers staff home games.

Additionally, taking a knee during the anthem serves as an ineffective way to promote a cause-- one of perceived violence and oppression. The perception Kaepernick created: the disrespect toward the national anthem and the American flag, muddled his reason for his protest. The American flag and the national anthem do not serve as his enemies. Instead of kneeling, one could perhaps lead a delegation to city hall to protest perceived violence and oppression.

The national anthem and the American flag serve as symbols for Americans to rally behind. When standing, one expresses gratitude for the privilege of living in a uniquely blessed nation, despite its faults.

There are 21.8 million veterans of the U.S. armed forces as of 2014, according the Census Bureau and standing pays respect to those men and women. As Patrick Henry wrote in the Federalist Papers, “United we stand, divided we fall.”

Editorial Policy POLICY STATEMENT

3

Hilights is a student publication of William R. Boone High School, 1000 E. Kaley St., Orlando, Florida, 32806. The ideas and views of the aforementioned students and faculty are not those of Boone or the Orange County School Board. Opinions expressed in unsigned editorials are those of the editorial board, who determine the content. Opinions expressed in columns are those of the authors.

Comments, letters, stories and ideas are welcome and encouraged under the following: 1. The material is not obscene or libelous 2. The material is signed The staff reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, length, punctuation, accuracy, invasion of privacy and potential disruption of the school.

viewpoint

hilights insight

SCHOLASTIC ASSOCIATIONS

Hilights is associated with Florida Scholastic, Columbia Scholastic and National Scholastic Press Associations and Quill and Scroll.

OUR MISSION

This paper is a quality product whose sole purpose is to pursue the truth, and to provide information and factual news pertaining to Boone and the community around it. Any questions or comments can be directed to 407-893-7200, extension 6012614 or Room 224, as well as by email to editor at boonepubs@gmail.com. If you find any errors, please call our offices or visit us.

SEE MORE

Check out boonepubs.com for up-to-date news and information.

4

Friday, November 3, 2017 boonepubs.com

specialfeature

hilights [Traditions] bring everything together. They bring the school together.

Annette Montgomery, AP Human Geography teacher

Edgewater, Boone rivalry a Band members involve crowd through music

Bravettes prepare a fused routine and assemble a tailgate

By KYLA MCCRARY After preparing all season long and competing at statewide competitions, band will showcase their best performances during the annual Battle of the Barrel game.

Not including class time, band members spend eight hours every week preparing for their performances and competitions. Band members perform for 9 and a half minutes during halftime and they play throughout the game.

“We prepare for each performance with the same approach. By the time Edgewater rolls around, we usually have our entire halftime show completed,” band director Joshua Jackson said.

Two sections of the band have a tradition during the Edgewater game they call “The Chicken War.” This tradition originated around 20 years ago. The trombone section and the clarinet section each hide a rubber chicken in their section while the other works together to find it.

“It’s always been crazy because my section has always got together and made a plan to steal the chicken from the trombones. Last year the clarinets got the trombones chicken and it was a big win,” junior Julia Cademartori said.

Each section has different methods of hiding the chicken. One year, the trombone section handcuffed their chicken to a band member.

Each year the current seniors sign the chicken and pass it down to the rising seniors. At the end of the year, the seniors each receive their own rubber chicken to remember the tradition.

“It’s nice to have something to laugh about during the game, rather than focusing on the figurative war going on in the stands and on the field,” Cademartori said.

During the game the band plays a variety of songs, ranging from Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance“ to “The Chop”. During “The Fight Song” and photo/DELANEY O’DONNELL “The Chop”, the fans participate in movements PLAY IT LOUD. Band members perform during that symbolize school spirit. They perform the half time. This years performance is called The songs during quarter changes, when the football White Table. “We were looking for something team scores or to try and motivate the crowd. unique and simple. The White Table could mean “The Chop is the one that gets the band a variety of things,” Jackson said. students and the crowd excited the most. It can be pivotal to lifting the football team,” Jackson said.

By CAROLINE CASOLA The Bravettes, or the campus’ dance troupe, will perform a blended routine at the Battle of the Barrel game.

Coach Jamie Bortner sponsors the organization, but likes to let the girls tackle the choreography. The team attended the UDA dance camp at Lake Buena Vista, where they originally learned the choreography for the dance. The routine will incorporate pom, hip-hop and jazz styles of dance.

“When we practice, we really have to stay focused. It’s go-go-go all the time,” junior Grace Herlong said.

The Battle of the Barrel draws a huge crowd, so the Bravettes concentrate on repetition to avoid mistakes when they perform on the field.

“It’s scary to go in front of a large crowd and it’s hard to get everyone engaged, Herlong said.

To improve technique, they attend a leaps and turns class at Dancer’s Pointe, a local dance studio, every other week. At practice, the girls break the dance into segments to perfect each one.

“The Battle of the Barrel is great because I enjoy getting hyped up before the game,” senior Alexa Withey said.

The Bravettes will enjoy a team tailgate at a teammate’s house to get the team excited and to ease apprehension before the game. They will set up tents with decorations and listen music together. Team parents prepare the girls’ favorite foods, including grilled chicken, fruit and cake pops for them to enjoy at the tailgate.

“It’s fun to be a part of cheering for a team that has been rooted in tradition for so long,” Herlong said. “I like having school spirit and pumping everyone up for the game.”

Football players participate in rivalry traditions

By JULIET MARCUS While seeing football players with mohawks and hearing the beating of a drum all day might be unusual, it is expected on the day of the annual Battle of the Barrel game.

In honor of the rivalry game, each year, senior football player take turns beating a drum outside the media center. At all times throughout the day someone is hitting the drum, which symbolizes the beginning of the battle.

Aside from the noise, football players adopt a new hairstyle. One of the most recognizable traditions are the mohawks on the football players.

The day before the Edgewater game, the senior football players go to varsity coach Andy Johnson’s house to shave their heads. Each player receives a different style, width and height making each mohawk unique.

“We all just get our minds right in a sense of we’re in this together and we all are in it because now we all have mohawks,” senior Reece Blankenship said.

While less visually recognized on school campus, the players also sit around a burning shoe and discuss what being a Boone football player means to them. It helps commemorate their experience and create a community.

“It kind of illustrates the passing of the torch from one season to the next,” Johnson said. “It’s kind of a low key thing that we always do at the last practice of the Edgewater week.”

To prepare for the game, coach Johnson asks a former Boone football player, Robin Parkhouse, class of 1968, to speak to the players about his experience as a football player in the Edgewater game.

While the traditions make for a chance to show school spirit, the team’s main goal is to win and keep the barrel.

The game scores are written on the orange or the red side of the barrel and the winning team receives the barrel, and bragging rights.

“Everybody’s really focused but really hyped and excited,” junior Paul Jacquet said. “It is a rivalry game, so obviously you want to beat them and get the barrel.”

hilights specialfeature GOLF STATE TOURNAMENT The Class 3A golf tournament is today, Nov. 3, and tomorrow, Nov. 4, at Mission Inn Resort. Senior Nicholas Bessire will be playing.

Friday, November 3, 2017 boonepubs.com HOW CAN STUDENTS CELEBRATE VETERANS DAY?

5

“As a veteran, I would tell students to celebrate Veterans Day by celebrating the freedoms they have because of the work veterans do.”

Vleet Roberts, Naval Science

awakens school traditions Student aids support football team at Battle of the Barrel game

By CHASITY MAYNARD Athletes train for the highly-anticipated Edgewater game with the support of Athletic Trainer Molly Carver’s student aid program. Student Aids dedicate a minimum of 20 hours per week at every football game and practice, supporting football players preparation efforts.

“We make sure they’re feeling one hundred percent, but if they’re not, we take them to Ms. Molly to see what we can do to get them to 100 percent for the game,” senior Leticia Nixon said.

Student Aids begin the afternoon prepping water bottles, coolers, fanny packs and first aid kits before practice.

The girls then migrate to the practice field. Student aids help players “tape up,” or supportively tape injuries before practice starts.

Nixon explains that student aids prepare for the Edgewater game the same way as any other, but the pressure of the rivalry increases performance intensity. “[The Edgewater game] adds a lot of pressure because players are putting in their full effort and trying their hardest, which can lead to more injuries,” Nixon said.

Reaffirming that players are prepared and healthy for their upcoming battle counters any increase in injuries. Student aids and crowds alike fuel players on game day.

“This is the game they most want to win. This is what the coaches have been preparing for,” Nixon said.

Student aids begin preparation for the game immediately after school. The program also goes out to dinner before every game, then return to the sidelines for the sports event.

This year’s rivalry game versus Edgewater at home requires the sports medicine program to provide these materials to the Edgewater team, as well.

“Our prep includes not only our side, but their side too. It takes a lot more [preparations] on our part, and brings a wider crowd.”

This partnership, fostered by the head athletic trainers at each school, provides a welcoming and friendly partnership between both teams’ sport medicine programs. The Student Aids and trainers exchange gifts at the Edgewater game annually.

FINAL SCORE, 2016

17 44 0 WINS SINCE 2004

Cheerleaders aim to involve crowd through cheers, cadences

By CHELSI PETER As the oldest rivalry in Orange County, the game brings not only the school together, but the community.

“The game is a big community get together,” varsity cheer coach Cynthia Hutsell said.

“School specific traditions form an atmosphere with not only school spirit, it also adds alumni (into the picture too.)”

While cheer traditions have changed over time, the team performs some cheers and cadences that have stayed the same.

“I do love [especially within my team] traditional cheers and cadences. Anyone can come back, such as alumni or family members and recognize those cheers that have been around for years,” Hutsell said. “The students who come to the regular season football games express a lot of school spirit, but it is magnified at the Edgewater game.”

While cheer doesn’t have specific rituals for the rivalry game, they make it their mission to boost the crowd’s already enhanced school spirit and try to get the crowd cheering along with them.

“This is my first year on varsity cheer so it is exciting to be able to be really close to the field and root the players on,” senior Abby Hutsell said.

“Whenever it comes to Edgewater, I get really into the game.

I love the rivalry and getting the crowd even photo/ROBERT MCDONALD more excited.”

Although some school GET LOUD. At the football game on Oct. 13, sophomore traditions have faded over time, Aubrey Dean encourages the team. the cheerleaders are hopeful to create new ones and revive some of the old ones. “[Traditions at Boone positively impact the team in a way which] boosts the moral of the cheerleaders and football players,” senior Jada Lock said.

In honor of the rivalry game, the first pep rally in five years will be today.

“Just the idea of a pep rally would bring immense school spirit and bliss,” C. Hutsell said.

“One thing that solidifies us is our purpose. We are here to support the school. We have that rich tradition not many schools have. We are Boone Braves.”

2007 2004 2009 2005 2012 2006 2013 2008 2014 2010 2016 2011 2015

24 SENIORS 1

2

3

5

9

11

12

15

21

24 25

27 28 31

10

32 35 37

42 43 54 70 81 88

6

Friday, November 3, 2017 boonepubs.com

thenews

hilights

I’ve seen how horrible and unfair life is at times. Kiss the Pig is a great opportunity for individuals to get involved with an important cause close to home.”

Ana Ciro sophomore

photo/MOLLY COOPER

PORCINE OF INTEREST. After solidifying her third consecutive Kiss the Pig win, social studies teacher Sydney Olson puckers up. This year, Olson raised $1,108. “Success is any donations my kids are willing to make; even if they’re not able to give in a monetary sense, they’re able to open their eyes to a different culture and life. Even if we don’t win, we are still supporting our community,” Olson said.

Fundraiser feeds 60 Boone families Sophomore class forms Thanksgiving baskets

photo/KAITLYN CONNOLLY

WALLOWING IN MONEY. While sporting pig costume accessories, journalism teacher Bridgette Norris offers candy to students when they donate money to the Kiss the Pig fundraiser. This was Norris’ first year participating in the Thanksgiving basket fundraiser.

By KAITLYN CONNOLLY While Kiss the Pig started as a junior class service project in 1994, it quickly became a Boone tradition.

The annual fundraiser, now held by sophomore class, raises money to fund the creation of Thanksgiving baskets for Boone families who may not be able to afford a holiday meal otherwise.

This year, the funraiser raised $3,200, almost doubling donations from the last two years.

“This isn’t just raising money. It’s

about supporting our families in need,” sophomore class president Ana Ciro said.

In previous years, student government was able to create between 30 and 50 baskets.

The increased amount raised this year will allow stuent government to support and provide baskets for over 60 families.

“I’ve seen how horrible and unfair life is at times. I would want someone to help me. That’s why my main goal is to help as many people I can,” Ciro said. “Kiss the Pig is a great opportunity for individuals to get involved with an

important cause close to home.”

For this fundraiser, teachers compete against one another in an attempt to raise as much money as possible through student donations.

The winner kisses a pig at a football game.

This years’ winners include Olson, Bridgette Norris and Cassandra Stillwell in first, second and third place, respectively.

“I talk about it and once I do, they really want to donate to people we know. Families are willing to donate ebcause they know it’s going to our community,” Olson said.

Saturday school offers student educational opportunities New school service gives students a chance to improve grades

By CALI TURNER In an effort to raise letter grades, students can attend OCPS’ newest service, Saturday school offered from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Classes offered include math, English, Spanish and AP Human Geography, with hopes of expanding the program for biology and U.S. history.

“It is an opportunity for students to get direct instruction from teachers in areas where they need help,” assistant principal Lenore Guastella said.

“Some teachers even offer extra credit for coming.”

While not a requirement, Saturday school allows

students to catch up on work or re-learn a lesson that was taught earlier in the week.

Teachers accept missing work that students complete if they attend these sessions.

Transportation and free breakfast is also included.

“At the end of the class, we do a drawing for door prizes. We give away five dollar gift cards. The students in attendance write down their names, and we draw three or four of them,” Guastella said.

Even with its perceived benefits, not as many students are seizing the opportunity as expected. So far, only about 35 students are signed up and regularly attend, despite a projected attendance of 80 students.

“It is so important for students to take advantage of this, for something they are struggling with in

class,” Spanish teacher Maria Cubero said.

Class periods during school offer a short amount of instructional time, while Saturday school gives teachers the opportunity to focus on individual students for longer periods of time.

“Teachers love it. It is easier to teach one on one, or in small groups, because you can give students more attention,” Guastella said. “I think that is a frustration for a lot of teachers. Only having 50 minutes in a period, and 30 students, you know there are days where you’re not even touching content knowledge of some students.”

Faculty and teachers hope to see increased attendance by informing students about the opportunity to improve grades, complete missing work and receive extra help.

ßyourthoughts What is your opinion on Saturday school?

It ‘s so important for students to take advantage of. We have to work to get more participation.

Maria Cubero, Spanish

It gives teachers with the opportunity to go more in depth and provide enrichment.

Monica Bourret, Hearing Impaired

[Students] work in a small group environment to practice skills they are struggling with.

Kathleen Carroll, Algebra 1

Saturday school is a terrific idea, anything to benefit the students and their needs.

David Martinson, Critical Thinking

hilights

Friday, November 3, 2017 boonepubs.com

featurestories

7

This will be my first year so I’m super excited to see the production theme and the unique events.”

Brac Love technical theater teacher

Mock trial team develops first case Team members form case for competition

photo/SAMAR BAIG

DIG DEEPER. Sophomores Kiley Smith and Jacqueline DeVelder work together on witness statements. “I keep in mind what type of character I’m playing, I dress up and deliver just like they would,” Smith said.

By SAMAR BAIG As one walks into law teacher John Dempsey’s classroom after school, they can feel the intensity of competition preparation. In total, the team will spend over 400 hours prepping.

The mock trial team will compete in the 6th annual Capital City Invitational at Florida State University on Nov. 11 and Nov. 12 at FSU’s College of Law. With sixteen students on the team and daily practices for nearly two months, competition serves as a bonding experience.

“Competitions are a really fun experience overall,” junior Wesley Harris said.

For competition, the

team prepares a case using case facts, statements and evidence related to both the prosecution and defense side. At competition, the members present both defense and prosecution twice, for a criminal case surrounding a drug charge against a man pulled over for a traffic violation..

“We are going to get familiar with the rules of courtroom procedure,” coach Dempsey said.

Each member has a specific role. Dempsey decides each member’s role according to their personality.

“I try and match up a person’s personality to a role that I feel best. It depends on their interest and skills.

[For example] some people have better acting skills,

which would make them more likely to be a witness,” Dempsey said.

Attorneys are assigned to write questions and uncover holes in the case.

They also focus on building the characters of witnesses and analyzing evidence to bring to court. Witnesses memorize their statements and practice answering cross and direct examination questions.

Co-captains Harris and senior Valerie CintronMalave manage the team to ensure practice runs smoothly.

“It’s great getting experience hanging out with people all year, then getting to do something you enjoy and were working hard for.

It’s fun seeing the final product,” Harris said.

Drama, technical Team strives for superior Drama and Technical team prepares for first district competition of the year

By TAYLOR CLARK As the District 5 Thespians drama competition rounds the corner, drama students and the technical theater team prepare for what they deem the best weekend of their school year.

The district 5 competition is held at Ocoee High School on Nov. 16 to Nov. 18. Students from high schools across Florida will perform numerous plays, musicals and short scripts.

“This will be my first year so I’m super excited to see the production theme and the unique events,” technical theater teacher Brac Love said.

Schools are ranked from poor to superior and the highest ranked school will continue to the state competition.

Students from technical theater team prepare for the competition by

working on their individual events.

The individual events include the production team, costumes, scenic designs and makeup designs team.

Love is excited to see his team collaborate with one another as they compete against the other high schools, and discover new ways to better improve their skills.

“I’m most excited to see the different events and see my old friends from other high schools that love theater as much as I do,” junior Alexandra Claure said.

Claure will participate in the competition as part of an acting group with her fellow classmates.

Both the drama and the technical team will take part in a “one act.”

The one act scene is a series of stories that are performed as a group with drama students as acting and technical theater as makeup and costumes.

Both teams are striving for superior, hoping to make it to the state competition and take home the win.

ßquestionanswer Taylor Rosicka, junior

How are you preparing?

“Reading through my play, maing sure With the District competition getting closer, what are you looking forward to I understand my characters emotions and the most?

“Seeing the other events and seeing what personalities.” the other troops bring.”

Are you feeling nervous? If so, what are you most nervous about?

“I’ve never done a solo before and the judges judging me and my makeup is just spooky”

Have you done competition before? If so why do continue to be apart of it?

“This is my second year. I’m doing what I love and I like seeing other people share that love.”

(top) RAISE THE ROOF. Freshmen (left to right) Miranda Fuller, Josephine Panfen and sophomores Rachel Gimbel, Gabriella Fatigati perform their dance routine for Nadine and Brac Love during the”mock districts” performances. “I am excited for what is to come and see the audiences reactions,” Gimbel said. The group assembled together to create the routine for districts. Once they had all of the pieces together, they auditioned in front of N. Love.

They are now preparing for the real thing come Nov. 16 to Nov. 18. (left) HAND IN HAND. Juniors Clay Dixon and Kerline Decembre perform their duet acting scene from the play “All in the Timing of Eyes” during the “mock districts” rehearsal.

8

Friday, November 3, 2017 boonepubs.com

insight

hilights

The atmosphere of the school year after a slow start seems unfulfilled. However, students should strive to not only live day-by-day, but to keep their future in mind.

Jack Rummler, letter from the editor

Lake Eola provides calm yoga setting

photo/CHELSI PETER

DON’T TREE ME. While in the standing split pose during yoga class, sophomore Savannah Partlow masters the position perfectly. “It was relaxing being outside and being able to disconnect from everything,” Partlow said. “It helped me start my day with a good attitude. I just felt better and more energized after yoga. It works a lot on building strength and flexibility and teaches you to let loose.”

Lake Eola offers soothing, inexpensive yoga class every Sunday morning

By CHELSI PETER With students back into the school grind, yoga at Lake Eola park provides a great opportunity for students and the Orlando community to participate in a soothing activity to suppress the week’s stress.

The founder of the weekly yoga class, Amanda Reh created the class in honor of International Yoga Day. Every Sunday at 11 a.m., a group of rotating yogis teach the class. They meet at the northeast corner of the park. There is a $5 fee, with each class lasting about one hour.

Whether amateur or experienced, you are welcome.

Participants should bring a yoga

mat, water bottle and a face towel.

Surprisingly, one does sweat a lot during yoga, so a face towel becomes necessary during the class.

The teacher talks everyone into each position. If one is struggling, the instructor encourages going into a comfortable position instead.

The somewhat self-paced class allows participants not to feel forced or strained into a position that he or she is not comfortable in. It also helps create a sense of independence and selfdetermination for those who are willing to perfect a specific pose.

The yoga instructor makes sure to go through a variety of poses, allowing each participant to encounter a feel of the numerous poses that one can individually practice on a daily basis.

The instructor and participants are very friendly and welcome new people and regular classmates.

The environment is very friendly and down to the earth. No one should

feel unwelcome or out of place.

The atmosphere is inviting and the people are down to earth. The instructor and members tried to make everyone feel welcome.

The park offers a very peaceful and quiet setting, which is great and a perfect yoga destination.

At Lake Eola, the park is filled with a vast number of people who are either doing their own thing or taking part in a community activity.

While engaged in the class, it is best to be in the present moment. Put your issues behind you and allow yourself to actively participate, during the class.

Lake Eola offers a community activity that many people around Orange County are willing to engage in with people in their community, as well.

Throughout the class, many different partner activities were meshed in. For instance during the tree pose stance, the instructor made participants

photo/CHELSI PETER

AIMING FOR BALANCE. While at yoga class, sophomore Savannah Partlow practices partner yoga positions with a fellow yogi.

Both yogis enjoyed the serene setting, and came equipped with yoga mats and wore comfortable attire.

lock arms with a neighbor. Allowing each other to lean on one another while either bent backward or forward together.

If one has any concerns or questions, the instructor was accommodating.

They offer to answer to any questions one may have about the class or how to further your yoga skills.

The instructors also offer ideas of different yoga types you can explore and learn to give a try.

Attending this class really helps relax one’s muscles and distress. It carries one throughout the day with an open and light mind.

Yoga at Lake Eola mirrors a friendly environment and calming aura resulting in a worthwhile Sunday morning.

Sunday morning yoga at Lake Eola definitely proves for a great way to begin your week, meet fellow yogis and relieve stress through your mind and body.

#the411

Where:

Lake Eola Park, across the street where the old Panera Bread used to be.

When: Every Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

How much: $5

Extras: Bring a yoga mat, bottle of water and face towel.

photo/CHELSI PETER

I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW. During yoga class. sophomore Savannah Partlow focuses on mastering her triangle pose in Lake Eola park.