April 29, 2011 by The Orbitter

Orbiter takes first at OSMA

NHS members inducted April 21

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Volume 32 Issue 5

Streetsboro High School

Streetsboro, Ohio

Friday, April 29, 2011

‘Big Bad’ takes stage tonight, tomorrow >> Orbiter Staff “Big Bad” will take the stage tonight and tomorrow in the gym at 7 p.m. This show features the trial of the Big Bad Wolf, who is charged for “huffing and puffing with intent to destroy, grandmother impersonation, sheep abduction and lurking in the forest,” director Jim Boardwine said. “It has a comedic twist,” said sophomore Heidi Janyan, who plays Judge Wise Old Woman. “The show is appropriate for young children, but is witty enough for high school students and older adults alike,” Boardwine said. Each period today, the first half of the show is being previewed free of charge for select classes. Presale tickets for tonight and tomorrow’s shows are available in the main office or from any cast member. A $50 prize will go to the cast member who sells the most tickets. Tickets will be $10 at the door. Cast members agree the play has been fun to prepare and they have gotten along well. Sophomore Marshall White, who plays the Boy Who Cried Wolf, said having a group of people, working together as a team and making things perfect is the best part of participating in the play. One complication, however, was filling the lead role of the Big Bad Wolf. Boardwine originally cast senior Juran Hill for the role, but the role was later given to sophomore Brandon Gency due to Hill’s academic ineligibility. Boardwine said Gency is doing well in the play, juggling his honors classes and playing Varsity baseball at the same time. Another complication was a delay in the set up

Photo by Courtney Sackett

Dress Rehearsal Senior Da’Nae Redding crawls into place as one of the three little pigs while senior Melanie Long and freshman Desiree Anderson prepare for the scene.

of the lighting. Junior Brett Boardwine spent a total of 13 hours with professional lighting installers between April 21 and 23 setting up the stage lighting. However, during a dress rehearsal April 26, Brett

Boardwine was unable to practice the lighting effects. The cast ran through the play as Boardwine explained what the lighting effects would be for each scene. The play was eliminated last year due to multiple levy failures and restricted after-school building use. “I’m just really excited to finally have the play back,” said junior Natalie Pinkerman, who plays Red Riding Hood. “It was really unfair that we couldn’t do it last year.” Not only will actors be featured, but singers and dancers as well. Opening the show with their take on Sam the Sham and the Pharaoh’s classic song, “Little Red Riding Hood” are senior Alyse Golak and sophomores Janyan, Jacey Kepich and Nicole Basich. The girls will be accompanied by Jim Boardwine on piano and junior Dakota Luzader on guitar. Assistant directors include SHS alumni Desiree Boardwine and Katylyn Kuchta. Boardwine said the assistant directors have contributed to the “costume, set and theatrical nuances.” They did a “good job” coaching the three little pigs, played by seniors Lauren Freeman and Da’Nae Redding and freshman Desiree Anderson, Boardwine added. Boardwine said he is “happy” with the cast this year and how dedicated they are. “This is a hard-working cast – comprised of some of Streetsboro’s finest students,” Boardwine said. “Most of them are not only doing a great job in the classroom, but are participating in varsity sports and yet have been fully committed to the play in the evenings,” Boardwine said. The cast and crew of the play gathered Tuesday, April 26 for a dress rehearsal. They practiced the entire play, working with the lights and music for the first time.

Photos

by Cou

Practicing the opening scene are singers Nicole Basich, Hiedi Janyan, Alyse Golak and Jacey Kepich. Cast members gather before beginning rehearsal. Bobby Eckert and Austin McDole work with the spotlights for the first time.

rtney S

ackett

Japan radiation detected in Cleveland

Field trips not counted in senior exemption absences

>> Courtney Sackett, Tyler Sanders Editor in Chief, Staff Writer

>> Courtney Sackett Editor in Chief

Radiation from the nuclear power plant meltdown in Fukushima, Japan March 11 has been detected in the Cleveland area, science department head Matthew Featherstun said. Iodine-131 is the specific isotope the plant is emitting into the air, which makes it “easy” to trace, Featherstun said. “It’s kind of like a radioactive microchip… There’s no question where they came from.” Although the radiation has been detected in Cleveland, “We don’t believe it’s high enough to do any damage,” Featherstun said. “There’s a lot of hysteria.” The 8.9 earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan were the cause of

the power plant meltdown. Featherstun explained because Japan is an industrialized nation, the outcome is not as bad as it could have been. “If this had happened in, for example, in China, the whole continent of Asia and the United States would probably be in a different scenario,” Featherstun said. Featherstun said Japan has safety protocols to contain the contaminated areas. “Soil, people, water don’t leave… You can’t afford to take shortcuts on safety.” He said although “Radiation… isn’t something to be taken lightly,” the United States has nuclear reactors “as Continued on page 4 See ‘Radiation’

School field trips are the only absences that will not count against seniors working toward earning final exam exemptions, principal Eric Rauschkolb clarified. Whether the absence is excused or unexcused, it is still counted toward the five-day requirement. “An absence is an absence,” Rauschkolb said. “That’s for any reason: doctor’s appointments, funerals, hospital stays...” Rauschkolb said for a trip to be considered a “school field trip,” “it has to be school sanctioned and with a teacher, with that class.” None for Under 21, therefore, was a field trip and will not count against those who attended. The Chamber of

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Commerce Luncheon and AP tests will not count against students either. College visits and shadowing days are not school field trips, however, and will be counted against a student. Senior Nikki Kuklisin said college visits should not count against a student because they are “important” and teachers encourage students to go. Senior Kayleigh Louis agreed with Kuklisin and added, “I think that [the absence requirement] is really stupid, because if you still have an ‘A’ in the class...if you miss a day, I don’t see what the big deal is.” Rauschkolb said he and assistant Continued on page 4 See ‘Exemptions’

Inside >> Superintendent Page 6

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Friday, April 29, 2011

Editorials

F ‘qui ourth te a i n scre am’

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saga

“Scream 4” is a spine-chilling, edge-of-your-seat film that is sure to win over its audience. This newest addition to the legendary horror trilogy’s legacy tells the story of teenager Jill Roberts, played by Emma Roberts. Roberts’ character is the cousin of the renowned Sidney Prescott, who left Woodsboro after the traumatizing events that occurred years before. Prescott is now an author, having written a book called “Out of Darkness.” Prescott wrote this book to tell her story and explain how she came from the disturbing, dark times and into her new optimistic life. This outlook, however, ends quickly with her return to Woodsboro. The original psychopath known as “Ghostface” returns with one thing on his mind: revenge. After murdering Roberts’ best friend right in front of her, Ghostface goes after Prescott. Ghostface blatantly lets Prescott know he is not going to come after her right away; he will save her for last and let her panic. Alongside Neve Campbell, who plays Prescott, are Courtney Cox and David Arquette, also original cast members from the previous “Scream” movies. Luckily, the primary director, Wes Craven, has returned to the “Scream” marvel as well. Not only does Craven live up to his high standards, he goes above and beyond them with his “Scream 4” production. The plot from earlier “Scream” movies is still there and noticeable. The new plot is still able to emerge, but does not overpower. The returning actors are wonderful, as expected, and the new actors are just as superb! Hayden Panettiere plays Kirby, an edgy friend of Jill’s. Kirby is the movie buff of the group. Her knowledge of horror films becomes very beneficial later on in the film. Not only does the film have you scared out of your wits -- and I mean really scared -- it also has you laughing. I realize this may sound a bit strange considering it is a horror film. Yet lines in the movie remind you that even Sidney Prescott needs a good laugh once in a while. Along with these comical lines, are others that hint at the theme of the entire movie. For example, Arquette’s character, Dewey, says “One generation’s tragedy is the next one’s joke.” This represents the underlying theme of the movie: no one worries until it happens to them. The ending of “Scream >> Maddie Oslejsek 4” is not only surprising, Movie Reviewer but eye opening. With horror films, nothing is as it seems. Overall, “Scream 4” was quite a… scream.

Orbiter Code of Ethics As preservers of democracy, our school publication shall protect, encourage and enhance free speech and exchange of ideas as a means of protecting our American way of life. The Orbiter, the official newspaper of Streetsboro High School, has been established as a forum for student expression and as a voice in the uninhibited, free and open discussion of issues. The Orbiter and its staff are protected by, and bound to, the principles of the First Amendment and other protections and limitations afforded by the Constitution and the various court decisions implementing those principles.

Absence rules too strict The Launch Pad >>Staff Editorial The one thing that may ruin seniors’ opportunity to exempt to finals is confusion about what really constitutes an absence. Those who think we have five or fewer absences this semester could sorely be mistaken. During a class meeting in early February, seniors were given a half-sheet of paper listing all of the requirements that, if fulfilled, would allow us to exempt two of our finals. Most of us glanced at the sheet and thought, “Okay, this can’t be that hard” or “Oh no, I need to step it up.” One of the requirements, five or less absences throughout the second semester, seemed pretty easy at first. “Scream is a spine-chilling, Limiting 4” ourselves to five absences edge-of-your-seat film that is sure is the hardest requirements. We had to win over its audience. a whole semester to work on our This and newest addition grades, several optionstoforthe taklegendary horror trilogy’s legaing, if we had not already, the ACTs/ cy tellsbut theabsences story ofare teenager Jill we SATs, something Roberts, played by Emma Robcannot get back or make up. erts.Every Roberts’ character theopyear, we are givenistwo cousin of the renowned Sidney portunities to go on college visits. Prescott, who left Woodsboro The school always encouragesafus to ter the traumatizing take the time off and events explorethat the coloccurred years before. lege campuses. What was not mentioned at the class meeting is even though college visits are encouraged, they still count as absences. A lot of us have already taken advantage of both college visits this semester, which leaves us with only three absences to work with. If part of the student body or an individual needs to leave for schoolrelated matters, a field trip form must be signed and turned in to the office. Under those circumstances, students must be transported by a school bus to their destination.

Cindy Deng Senior Editor Maddie Oslejsek Movie Reviewer

Lacy Dean Asia Wells Taylor White Haley Zabawski Staff Writers

1900 Annalane Dr.. Streetsboro, Ohio (330) 626-4902

Tyler Sanders Webmaster Polly Dierkens Adviser

Believe it or not, a funeral counts as an absence. No matter how many days you are out of school because you are grieving over a lost loved one, or if your family needs your help to arrange the funeral, each day counts as an absence. Funerals are a special circumstance; to count them as an absence toward the exemption requirement is just wrong. Lately a few of our senior classmates have gotten into car accidents or have been hospitalized for various reasons. Serious hospitalizations even count as absences. Administrators have said the reason funeral and hospital stays count as absences is so students do not take advantage, and also so no individual gets special treatment. Special circumstances warrant special treatment, however; anyone can attest to that. Administrators have also said the exemptions should be viewed as a reward. The opposite of reward is punishment. So, in essence, it’s like punishment for those who have already gone through their five absences, to lose their opportunities to exempt, because of situations like hospitalizations or funerals. Since Renaissance club was eliminated last year, this exemption opportunity gave us incentive to stop slacking. It motivated us to work harder on our assignments, and show up on time to our classes, for a nice reward before graduation. Combating “senioritis” was the main goal. If we really want to exempt our finals, it is our responsibility to track our progress to earn the reward. If an individual can complete the other requirements for exemption, is the absence requirement even necessary?

Boro Babble

What was your most memorable invitation to Prom?

“I asked my girlfriend Jillian [Meisinger] to Prom in front of the entire school during the student/teacher basketball game with the help of Mrs. Kidd and my Spanish IV class. I surprised her with flowers and she loved it.” Senior Sean Corron

The Staff Courtney Sackett Editor in Chief

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“While I was at work, Sawyer [White] and Angela [Nunns] snuck into my room and decorated it with red rose petals, streamers and red balloons. Sawyer also made a massive sign that he hid behind that said ‘You + Me = Prom?’” Senior Kristin Monahan

“Reggie [Bates] asked me to breakfast one morning before school. Once we sat down, he handed me an envelope and on the front of the envelope was a picture of me he had drawn. I opened the envelope and inside was a long poem and at the end of the poem he asked me to Prom. There were boxes to check ‘yes’ or ‘no’ but I made my own box and checked ‘heck yes.’” Senior Katie Robinette

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Orbiter takes first in state competition Individual students won 34 total awards in the pre-judged categories for OSMA April 8, including seven Superiors, 14 Excellents and 13 Honorable Mentions.

Superior:

Courtney Sackett, Senior: Newswriting, Personality Profile Lacy Dean, Senior: News Feature Matthew Knight, Senior: Art/Non-editorial hand drawn Madeline Oslejsek, Freshman: Review Shay Colescott, Gaby Ryczek & Breanna Komara, Graduates: Front Page Newspaper Design Craig Donovan, Graduate: Sports Feature

Excellent:

Orbiter Staff: Facing Pages (x2) Courtney Sackett, Senior: Front Page Newspaper Design Cindy Deng, Senior: Newswriting Jaclynn Hess, Senior: Yearbook News Photo Alex Westerh, Graduate: Front Page Newspaper Design Shay Colescott, Graduate: Sports Page Layout, Yearbook News Photo, Yearbook Sports Photo, Yearbook Sports Spread Karlie Grigoli, Graduate: Yearbook Student Life Spread Sarah Henderson, Graduate: Best Overall Coverage in a Single Yearbook Spread Danielle Radic: Ad Design (x2) Shannon Roseberry, Graduate: Yearbook Student Life Spread Gaby Ryczek, Graduate: Yearbook Sports Photo

Honorable Mention:

Orbiter Staff: Editorial Courtney Sackett, Senior: News Feature, News Package Jaclynn Hess, Senior: Yearbook Sports Copy Taylor White, Junior: General Feature Shay Colescott, Graduate: Yearbook Sports Spread Karlie Grigoli, Graduate: Yearbook Student Life Copy Sarah Henderson, Graduate: Best Overall Coverage in a Single Yearbook Spread Breanna Komara, Graduate: General Feature, Yearbook Feature Photo Danielle Radic, Graduate: Infographic Gaby Ryczek, Graduate: Art/Non-editorial, computer assisted Court Willa, Graduate: Yearbook Feature Photo

>> Lacy Dean Staff Writer The Orbiter placed first overall in the small-school newspaper category at the Ohio Scholastic Media Association contest and conference April 8 and 9 at Kent State University. Individual students won a total of 34 awards in OSMA’s pre-judged contest categories including seven Superiors, 14 Excellents and 13 Honorable Mentions. The staff, advised by journalism teacher Polly Dierkens, submitted three issues published in 2010 of the newspaper, as well as multiple entries in the newspaper and yearbook categories, for overall judging and critiquing by journalism professionals prior to the contest. Senior Editor in Chief Courtney Sackett said winning first was exciting, but it “wasn’t good enough.” “We received our score sheet, and I was disappointed,” Sackett said. “The judges didn’t even give us feedback we could use to improve.” Sixteen students interested in journalism, photography, graphic design or advertising and marketing attended the conference, which featured sessions throughout both days and an awards banquet the first night. Seven students participated in the on-site “Day-of Contest” April 8, judged on their writing, photography and/or design skills, as well as the ability to work under pressure in a two-hour time frame. Senior editor Cindy Deng participated in the Day-of News competition and then attended sessions on sports journalism. “I plan on going into a journalism field and all the sessions I went to taught me to look at story coverage in different approaches and angles,” Deng said. “I came in with public relations on my mind

Photo by Polly Dierkens

Bittersweet Results Reading over the comments left on the score sheet for the Orbiter after receiving first place are seniors Cindy Deng and Courtney Sackett and freshman Maddie Oslejsek. and I left with sports journalism on my mind.” Juniors Natalie Pinkerman and Allana Miura teamed up to win third place in the Day-of Yearbook Design competition. “The contest itself was so nerve-wracking,” Miura said. “I really wanted to better our yearbook by learning new techniques [for arranging] pictures and layout. It was a great experience and I think Natalie and I had a lot of fun.” Sackett received two of the highest honors in the pre-judged competition: Superiors in both Newswriting and Personality Profile categories. She also competed in the Dayof Newspaper Design competition, but said she was frustrated because of all her training up to this point has been on PCs, not Macs, which is all KSU has in its labs. “I went in and sat down at the Mac computer and didn’t even know how to open the file,” Sackett said of her competition. “It was hard to design the front

page because I had no idea how to use a Mac; I’d never used one before. I ended up throwing a lot of it together at the last minute and I was not happy with the outcome at all. I know I could have done better if I had a different computer.” The Orbiter and yearbook staff members who attended OSMA plan to incorporate the techniques learned at OSMA in the last three issues of the newspaper and in the remainder of the yearbook pages. This was their seventh year competing in the OSMA contests and attending the conference. The Orbiter won first place overall five previous times and “All Ohio” honors, which is the level above first place, in 2006 and 2007. “I was very pleased with the outcome of the conference this year,” Dierkens said. “We had won first place or better the last seven years and winning anything less than first would have been disappointing. My students have worked incredibly hard this year and I’m thrilled that they received the recognition they all deserve.”

Briefs Arlesic receives $21,000 grant Head football coach John Arlesic received a $21,000 grant to improve the weight room from the Lowe’s Charitable Educational Foundation. “Essentially, we are doubling the weight room,” Arlesic said. A speed and agility room will be added to accompany the original weight room. Arlesic and his wife wrote the grant with assistance from student liason J. J. Huber and technology specialist Maureen Haska.

Grass to plant in muddy remains Grass will be planted in the area left muddied and empty since the removal of the modular units, principal Eric Rauschkolb said. The sidewalks running along the side of the building will be kept, however the sidewalks that ran out to the modular units will be removed. Rauschkolb said turning the area into a parking lot is “not a bad idea,” but insurance will only pay to restore the area to the way it was, before the fire. A parking lot would cost money the district does not have, Raushkolb said.

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Nontraditional induction for 26 NHS members >> Haley Zabawski Staff Writer Twenty-six juniors and seniors were inducted into National Honor Society April 21 in a shorter ceremony, held later in the day and later in the year than usual. “I wish the inductions were like they have been in the past. I feel like it’s a tradition to have the inductions at the beginning of the day for a longer period of time,” junior Hannah Benson said. “This way the assembly isn’t rushed, the inductees can leave school for the day, and have a proper reception after. I feel like we deserve to have all of those things, after all the hard work we have put in to getting inducted into NHS.” Junior Pete Hannan agreed. “I think they should have been in the morning because people were probably anxious for the three-day weekend and wanted it to be over with,” he said. Because of the inductions being cut so short this year, several things did not happen as they did in previous years. “They cut out a large portion of things I do,” junior Joey McCormack said. “Mr. Rauschkolb could not even fit all of what he had to say in.” Inductees also were not able to wear the traditional robes they have in previous years due to the lack of

Photo by Fatemah Gill

Historical signature Junior Hali Crouso is accompanied by senior Kristin Monahan as she signs the official NHS book before lighting her candle. time to put them on. The ceremony was moved to 1:00 p.m. to make it easier for inductees’ and members’ parents to take off during the afternoon, said NHS adviser Julie Dalton. The formal induction ceremony was held five months later than usual due to the rebuilding of the gym. “As a freshman and sophomore, I saw the inductees get their flowers

Radiation Continued from page 1

Exemptions Continued from page 1

small as crock pots” releasing radiation every day, in addition to larger ones, such as the Perry power plant in Cleveland. Social studies teacher Sherry Maruna, who lives near the Perry power plant, said living near the plant “really” makes her think about what could happen. She said she is worried about where she would have to go in a similar situation. Maruna said she is not seeing an adequate amount of government response to the Japan earthquake or meltdown. She said she felt like people were more aware of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti than the tsunami and earthquake in Japan. “I don’t see anything except the dog,” Maruna said in response to coverage of a dog found in the rubble. Maruna said the economic effects of Japan’s earthquake and nuclear power plant meltdown “are not huge for us” now, but will turn into a “trickle effect.” Currently, 18,000 people from the U.S. are assisting others in Japan, Maruna said. Some people are helping those suffering in Japan by taking them into their homes. Junior Alex Landgraf will have a Japanese study abroad student, Keisuke Kajiwara, who is currently attending Walsh University, stay with his family for the summer. Kajiwara, who was unavailable for comment, attends WU with Landgraf’s brother, 2010 graduate Taylor Landgraf. Kajiwara and his parents do not want him to go home while the country is so unstable, Landgraf said. “It would be pretty stressful,” he said of Kajiwara’s situation. Landgraf said he is happy to have Kajiwara stay with him and help him while he is in the U.S.

principal Natalie Wininger were concerned about senior attendance as “senioritis” kicked in. “We wanted to make sure seniors were not missing a lot of school at the end of the year,” Rauschkolb said. Without strict requirements, some students may “abuse the exceptions,” he said. “We wanted this to be a reward,” Rauschkolb said of the exemptions. He said the exemptions are a privilege for seniors. Those who meet the criteria to exempt are rewarded, but those who do not meet them are not being punished, he added. “They’re a nice way to end senior year,” senior Paul Trycinski said. He agreed the exemptions are a reward and is happy he will be able to exempt his chemistry final. Junior Justin Maurer said he agreed with Trycinski and it will be great to have the same option next year. Senior John Sulik, who was in the hospital for four weeks after a car accident, said the exemptions are a privilege, but it is unfair he cannot exempt any finals because “I deserve the reward.” “I still kept up all my work, I still have straight A’s,” Sulik said. “It is crap that I got hit by a car and I’m not allowed to exempt now.” Rauschkolb said he is aware of Sulik’s condition, as well as others. “Is it a perfect system? No. Will we ever have a perfect system? No.”

as a surprise and it just seemed like a special moment,” Benson said. “I wish the circumstances were different, but they’re not, and I guess that’s just what makes my induction special.” Another change that made this year’s inductions special was having the ceremony in a new gym. “We all were first to be inducted in our brand new gym that has never held an induction ceremony,” McCor-

mack said. During the induction, the officers made speeches and lit four pillar candles representing character, scholarship, service and leadership, which each inductee lit his or her own individual candle from. “Officers did an excellent job on their speeches,” Dalton said. “I feel the speeches were very motivational to get the underclassmen to strive to do better in school and one day be inducted into NHS,” Hannan said. The officers’ speeches caught the attention of staff and students also. “I thought everyone did a fantastic job with their speeches,” senior David Tackett said. “I thought it was great that senior John Sulik stood up to do his speech, and walked to light the candle.” Inductees being able to light their own candles from one of the pillar candles was the most exciting part for some. “As I was being inducted and lighting my candle it made me think, and I remembered a year ago sitting in the bleachers, watching the induction ceremony take place, telling myself that I would do everything I could to earn the honor of being in NHS,” McCormack said. “It was a goal for one year and it’s amazing to think how much has changed because of that goal.”

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House flies have a lifespan of two weeks.

The electric chair was invented by a dentist.

Most elephants weigh less than the tongue of a blue whale.

randomfunfacts.com

Staff guess who

Hometown: Celina, Ohio Favorite Toy: Tike Bike School activities: Basketball, football, newspaper Best memory: While dribbling down the court with time running down, he made a half-court shot with two seconds left on the clock to score the winning points. See answer in next issue *Last issue’s answer: Lauren Mehlmann

First amendment Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble; and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

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Toro adjusts to America after leaving Columbia >> Haley Zabawski Staff Writer Fifteen year-old freshman Gabriela Toro moved here with her family from Bogota, Columbia in Jan. of 2009. Toro lives with her mother and her stepfather. Her mother got married and moved to Streetsboro. Toro had the choice to stay in Columbia with her father but wanted to try living in the U.S. She has one sister who is 25 and still lives in Colombia. Toro said her mother is her idol and the person she looks up to most. “She taught me that I can do whatever I want and I don’t have to be afraid of anything,” Toro said. Toro wants to become a lawyer when she is older and possibly move to Europe. “I want to be a lawyer, because I like discussions and always speak my mind,” she said. “I can’t just not say what I’m thinking or how I’m feeling.” She said she wants to go to Europe because it is something different. “I love to meet new people, go to new places, and try new stuff,” Toro said. Even though Toro was raised with a different type of lifestyle, she said she lives her life like any other kid. “I like to dance, hang out with friends, go to parties and do regular stuff,” Toro said. Toro has taken rap and hip-hop dancing classes and also likes to act. She used to act in her old school and is taking acting classes now. “I don’t want to be an actor but I would like to do stuff like commercials and stuff

Di ‘D am rip on pin ds g ’ M in ay 7

Your must knows

Features like that,” Toro said. She likes to hang out with different people and groups, but mostly hangs out with freshmen Aleah Grafton and Whitney Poston. “She is very outgoing, strong willed, fun to be around, straight up, and very understandable,” Grafton said. “She is very trustworthy and I can always count on her to make me feel better.” Toro said she loves her friends and also loves it here. “I love America and American people,” Toro said. She also said she is “in love” with actor Ashton Kutcher. “I think he’s pretty hot,” Toro said. She said she got wrapped up in Kutcher while watching his movies and “That 70’s Show.” “I just like that kind of guy,” Toro said. “He knows what he wants and is smug.” Toro had to adjust to a lot when she first came to America. She went to a private school where the kids did not switch classes, but the teachers moved room to room. Students were allowed to use their cell phones at lunch, which was about an hour and a half long. Their days were a little bit longer, though, she said. “School was a little tougher but every Wednesday you could go to a special club and go to the pool or play sports and do what you wanted,” Toro said. She played soccer for nine years but is going to try out for volleyball in the fall. Sports in Colombia are all pretty much the same as American sports, she said, except

Photo by Allana Miura

soccer there is called football. Along with school and sports differences, Toro has noticed differences in family styles also and feels Americans are more “cold.” “We in Colombia kiss and hug our parents hello and kiss our friends on the cheek like in France,” Toro said. She said she was shocked to hardly see any of that in America. Toro also likes the fact that America has more liberty here than in Colombia. “Here, it’s just like you can do whatever,” Toro said. “You can do what you want.”

May 1

is the

With a theme of “Dripping in Diamonds,” prom will be held May 7 from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. at the Bertram Inn in Aurora Guest forms for those bringing students who do not attend SHS are in the main office and are due May 5. Guests over the age of 20 are not permitted to attend the dance. Music Connections DJ Entertainment Services will provide the music for prom. After prom will be from 12:30 to 4:30 a.m. at Fun N’ Stuff, 661 Highland Road East, Macedonia. Students will be able to play miniature golf, laser tag, bowling and go-karts, player and video games. They will also be able to roller skate, rock climb, tryout batting cages, eurobungy, and inflatables. Those under 18 need permission slips to attend after prom. Tickets for prom ($60 per person) and after-prom ($15 per person) are on sale through, May 3. Junior Jessica Oktavec won a half-price prom ticket (discounted $30), for this prom ticket design, in a competition between the third and fourth period Advanced Graphic Design classes April 25.

Freshman Gabriela Toro

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New superintendent ‘student-centered’ >> Courtney Sackett Editor in Chief Robert Hunt worked directly with a “shy, introverted, young man” who “struggled transitioning into high school” when he was a principal. When the young man graduated, he went up to Hunt, shook his hand and thanked him “for making a difference in his life.” Hunt said this is one of his favorite memories from being involved in education. Hunt was elected the new superintendent of Streetsboro City Schools April 14 by a 4-1 vote from the board of education. Hunt said he is eager to begin working at Streetsboro because “I’m a people person and I’ll have the opportunity to build further relationships.” His intentions for early on, he said, are to “get to know the people and understand the story of Streetsboro.” “I think one of the biggest mistakes leaders can do is come in and start mandating things right away and making changes without... understanding the history of the schools and the community,” Hunt said. Junior Mindy Chadima said she agreed with this leadership method. “If it’s their way or the highway, it just isn’t gonna work. They have to have some moving ground.” She added, “They have to know how to take charge, though.” Hunt said he will be a good leader because “My experiences have prepared me to take the next step.” He has been involved in education for 16 years, beginning as a seventh and eighth grade English teacher at Kenston Middle School. As years progressed, he became a middle school assistant principal, athletic director, high school principal and adjunct professor. Currently, he is the assistant superintendent of Chagrin Falls Exempted Village

Meet a Rocket

Photo courtesy of Robert Hunt

Applying Technology Robert Hunt watches Chagrin Falls seniors Gordon Zenisek and Victoria VonSauken demonstrate their use of computers in their AP chemistry class.

Schools. “I want to make a difference in the quality of education,” Hunt said. As a superintendent, Hunt said “the decisions you make have a greater impact.” He said he wants to be involved with the students as a superintendent so he can stay informed and understand them. As the principal at Chagrin Falls, he did this through a principal advisory board. He would invite students to come discuss issues so he could get their perspective. He plans to create a similar superintendent advisory board to work on community service projects and raise money for special events.

Promise Brown How old are you? 16, a sophomore

What is one thing you want to accomplish in your lifetime? “Have a successful job that I love.” What do you want to be when you grow up? “I’m still trying to figure that out.” Who do you look up to most and why? “My mom because she has taught me so much and I’m the person I am right now because of her.” What accomplishment are you most proud of thus far? “I’m proud that I’m doing really good in school.” What is one thing you miss most about your childhood? “I miss nap time and recess.”

“I’m a very student-centered person,” Hunt said, which is why he wants to make sure he is making the best decisions he can. Junior Taylor Goodman said she hopes Hunt will be more involved than past supers and “actually know the students.” She added “caring for the students” is the most important quality a leader can have. Hunt said his past experiences have made him care about the students and what they learn. When Hunt was 10, his father’s job transferred his family to Iran. Hunt said they were originally supposed to stay three to five years, but after two years, the Iranian government took American hostages near the town they were living in. After the situation was resolved, Hunt’s family moved back to the United States. Hunt said his experience in Iran “made me appreciate what we have in America,” and gave him a “passion” to expose students to the world. He said he first decided to become a teacher while he was in high school. “It was teachers and coaches who really inspired me and made me believe in myself... and motivated me.” Hunt attended Kenston High School, where he was involved and “very athletic.” He played football and wrestled. His favorite subject was English, and so he decided to major in English at the University of Dayton. Hunt said his two children are also athletic in Kenston. Ashton, who is in fourth grade, plays soccer and Braydon, who is in first grade, plays any sport in season at the time. Engaged to be married in June, Hunt said he and his fiancé spend their weekends taking the kids to sporting events and “spending time together.” Hunt said his involvement in education will help him encourage his own children “to be the best students they possibly can be.”

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Page 8

Friday, April 29, 2011

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Sports

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Today in sports April 29, 1931: Cleveland Indian Wes Ferrell pitches a no-hitter with a 9-0 win against the St. Louis Browns. April 29, 1986: Boston Red Sox pitcher Roger Clemens struck out 20 Seattle Mariners. He is the only pitcher to accomplish this twice in his career. The other was in 1996. www.brainyhistory.com

Pro update

Lake Erie Monsters:

The Monsters’ 2011 Calder Cup Playoff North Division SemiFinal press-time record is three wins and four losses. They lost 4-1 April 26th against the Manitoba Moose in game seven, unable to move on to the North Division Finals against the Hamilton Bulldogs.

Cleveland Indians:

With a press-time record of 14 wins and 8 losses, the Indians are holding first in the American League Central Division. Their home record is 8-2 and 6-6 on the road. Injured players include Carlos Carrasco, Trevor Crowe, Jason Donald, Jared Goedert and Mitch Talbot. They play tonight at home against the Detroit Tigers at 7:05 p.m. Indian Jeanmar Gomez is expected to pitch tonight’s game.

Photo courtesy of Tom Fesemyer Jumping over high obstacles Freshman Marra Woods leaps over the pole in the high jump at the Ellet Invitational April 9. She jumped 4 feet 10 inches.

Photo courtesy of Tom Fesemyer Running to finish the relay Freshman Destiny King and sophomore Peyton Julian run the 300-meter hurdle relay at the Ellet Invitational April 9.

Track team excels despite dwindling numbers Cindy Deng >> Senior Editor Though the $150 sports fee, work obligations and lack of motivation to participate, caused the track roster to drop from 117 to 66 participants, athletes continue to reach individual goals and inch closer to breaking school records. A number of athletes began getting jobs and/or working more hours when the Payto-Play fee increased by $90 this year. “It has affected us in some manner that we’re not getting some of the athletes out we may have gotten,” Head coach Tom Fesemeyer said. “I’ve had kids flat out tell me, ‘I’m not coming out because of the money, I’m not going to run,’ and that hurts.” The boys’ team is down 25 participants this year, while the girls’ team is down 24 from last year. Coach Robb Kidd said a smaller team has less depth because there will always be a need for extra athletes to fill in. He said because the athletes have had to step up this year, they are at a higher risk of getting injured. Senior Amanda Groff said having 23 runners on the distance team gives Kidd the opportunity to watch each athlete individually to keep her or him in check. “We don’t have the depth, but the kids that we have are tremendous workers,” Kidd said “I think our achievements are still going to be comparable to past years.” Fesemyer said he is not as concerned about this year’s team as he is for the underclassmen still willing to participate in the future.

Kidd said he hopes the loss of particiapnts will stabilize based on the participation fee. He said incoming freshman athletes will help strengthen the team over time. Fesemyer said the team is stronger in the invitational meets than in the dual meets. Dual meets can have unlimited participants, while in invitational meets, each team is only able to enter the top two athletes. He said the larger a group of participants is for dual meets, the better their chances of winning. “We just don’t have that depth we’re used to having,” Fesemyer said, adding that a bigger team makes a difference. “All of those points add up in the end.” Even with the team’s lack of depth, the boys’ team is currently 5-0 overall and 3-0 in the league. Junior Alex Todd threw his personal best of 142 feet 7 inches in discus April 18 against Garfield and Waterloo. He also finished strong April 12 against East Canton, nearly breaking the school’s shotput record by one foot eight inches. He has his sights set on breaking the school’s shot (5.3 feet, 9.5 inches) and discus (162.1 meters) records, set back in 1978 and 1982, respectively. “I really want to beat it because it has been so long,” Todd said. “I feel like for the guys’ team, that even though we have less people, we’re still really good.” Senior Edward Julian, a first-year team member, scored his personal best of 18’10” in the long jump. He and fellow senior Stevie Magic, junior Dakota Luzader and sophomore Dorian Williams participate

in the 800 meter relay together and placed first each race. “The team is off to a great start. We really are,” Fesemyer said. “If we stay injury free, we’ll be okay. We’re only going to get better as the season goes along.” In addition to the boys’ success, the girls are 3-2 overall, 2-1 in the league. “This might be the most well-rounded girls’ team we’ve had,” Fesemyer said. Freshman Destiny King broke the 100yard hurdle record at the Aurora Invitational April 21 with a time of 15.8 seconds in the preliminaries, and then again with a time of 15.77 seconds in the finals. Another freshman, Marra Woods, achieved her personal best of 5 feet in the high jump April 18 against Waterloo and Garfield. At the same meet, sophomore Peyton Julian also earned her personal best in the long jump at 14 feet 11.5 inches. Junior Mercedes Oliver achieved a personal best in the shot put at 36.75 feet on April 2. Oliver said although the girls are doing well, she feels they can step up more. Fesemyer said as the weather gets nicer, he is looking forward to seeing the athletes drop more of their times, because their bodies will loosen up to perform better. “All of these things that you see that look really good now, we know can get better,” he said. The team competes tonight at Mogadore, then at Woodridge May 3 and Columbia May 7. They traveling to Ravenna for the Portage Trail Conference championships on May 11.