Senior Section

hi-lightsFriday, May 14, 2010

William R. Boone High School Student Paper

By DAVID MATTESONAs seniors leave high school, they move

on to various paths in search of what they deem as success.

A majority will enter college in the fall. According to a survey conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 69 percent of graduates go on to college.

“College allows you to find what you want to do in life. It expands your options in life. You’re really limited without a college degree,” senior Victoria Mason said.

With scholarships and other financial aid options more students have the option of attending prestigious out of state universities. The independence experienced by attending a four-year university is often an additional reason for why students choose to leave home in the pursuit of higher education.

Those who have invested in such programs as dual enrollment may choose to continue on this path by attending local technical schools. Here, students learn a trade which will track them with a particular occupation

after graduation. Those who do not attend school may

choose to fulfill their patriotic duties by joining the military. The ability to rise in ranks and make a successful career by serving one’s country can entice students to enlist. After completing a tour in the armed forces, those who have served have the opportunity to attend college with the financial assistance of the government.

“In the army not only are you receiving the education your serving your country; its a great way to get a good start on your life,” senior Bradly Peterson said.

Two final options include the choice to take a year off from school before pursuing a future path; this is often made out of necessity, as with senior Elizabeth Girdley who is undergoing her eighth leg surgery this year, or entering the workforce straight out of high school is one final option that students may choose.

While paths differ, each graduate is leaving the Reservation for a challenging, mature and hopeful future.

VALEDICTORIANS MAKE THE GRADE starting on page 2• AWARDS CEREMONY HONORS STUDENTS page 8•

For Students, By Students

senior brags

hilights.orgpage 2 May 14, 2010

Gina Marie AcostaAfter high school plans: Travel, study, dance and attend University of PhoenixPlanned Major: EnglishWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Teaching high school studentsInvolvement: Bollywood (12 Treasurer); Brave Aid (12); NJROTC (11 Special Projects President)

Brittani Elizabeth AcuffAfter high school plans: Attend University of Mississippi Planned Major: Broadcast JournalismWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: I hope to be married with a masters in broadcast journalism, working on a deal for my own show Involvement: Best Buddies (11 Historian/ICC Rep, 12 President); Bravettes (11, 12 Senior Officer); Cheerleading (9 Freshman); Class Council (9, 10, 11 President, 12); FCA (10 Board Member/ICC Rep, 11 Board Member, 12 Board Member/ICC Rep); Law Magnet (9, 10, 11, 12); Operation Smile (9, 10); SGA (9, 10, 11 Chair of Homecoming and Prom, 12); Weightlifting (10 JV, 11 Varsity); Young Republicans (12 Executive Board)

Natalie Ann AdamsAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida, become an English teacherPlanned Major: English EducationWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Teaching at BooneInvolvement: Boone Police Cadets (9, 10, 11 Sergeant, 12 Sergeant); Criminal Justice Magnet (9, 10, 11, 12); Environmental Club (9); Lacrosse (9); Law Honor Society (12); National Honor Society (11, 12); Spanish Club (9, 10, 11 Vice President, 12); Spanish Honor Society (9, 10, 11, 12 Chairwoman); Quiz Bowl (10) Christian Paul AmyAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: EngineeringInvolvement: Boone Police Cadets (9, 10, 11, 12); Football (9); Wrestling (11) Shontai BacaAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Respiratory CareWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Respiratory Therapist at Orlando HealthInvolvement: HOSA (9, 10 Secretary, 11 Vice President, 12 Co-President); SADD (9, 10, 11); Spirit Club (9, 10); UCF Crop (9, 10, 11, 12) Samantha Maria BahamondeAfter high school plans: Attend Florida Atlantic University and work

Planned Major: Finance/AccountingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Beginning a company to become successful to build a family Involvement: Class Council (11); Crew (10); Homecoming Float (11, 12); Prom Committee (11)

Thomas BarnetteAfter high school plans: Full time job, attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: TV ProductionWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Producing movies or showsInvolvement: Lacrosse (10) Evan BassAfter high school plans: Hopefully attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology Planned Major: ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Vice-Chancellor of the United Earth Coalition or working for Google, NASA or Lockheed-MartinInvolvement: Band (9, 10, 11, 12); Math Center (11 Tutor, 12 Tutor); Math Club (9, 10, 11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (12) Christina Jordan BennettAfter high school plans: Attend

University of North FloridaPlanned Major: NursingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working in a children’s hospitalInvolvement: District One Act Performer (9, 10, 11); Thespians (9, 10, 11, 12) Alexander BisbeeAfter high school plans: Play soccer at Rollins CollegePlanned Major: International BusinessInvolvement: Information Society (10); Latin Club (11); Latin Honor Society (11); Math Club (12); National Honor Society (12); SGA (12); Spanish Club (9, 10); Varsity Soccer (9, 10, 11 Captain, 12 Captain)

Emily BishopAfter high school plans: Attend Agnes Scott CollegePlanned Major: Voice or Creative WritingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Singing opera and writing booksInvolvement: Chorus (9); Concert Choir (10, 11, 12)

Tashara BlockerAfter high school plans: Florida Agriculture and Mechanical

UniversityPlanned Major: Nursing

Victoria BoatmanAfter high school plans: Backpacking across Europe, attend University of MississippiPlanned Major: Marine archaeologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Excavating ancient ruins and traveling the worldInvolvement: Art Club (9,10); Boone Police Cadets (9, 10, 11, 12); Crew (10, 11); Criminal Justice Magnet (9, 10, 11, 12); Cross Country (9); Environmental Club (10 Secretary, 11 Secretary, 12 Vice President); Florida Association of Police Explorers (12 Historian); Golf (12); Hi-Lights Newspaper (11, 12 Features Editor); National Art Society (12); Orlando Police Explorers (9, 10 Sergeant, 11 Sergeant, 12 Lieutenant); Political Club (9); Power Ten Rowing (12); Soccer (9 JV)

Rachel BoganAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegeInvolvement: Art Club (10); Legend Yearbook (11, 12 Clubs Editor);

Quill and Scroll (11, 12)

Ashleigh BoosAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida, then pharmacy schoolPlanned Major: Chemistry or BiologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working as a pharmacistInvolvement: Love Letters Club (11); Spanish Club (11); Varsity Tennis (9, 10, 11, 12)

Victoria Amanda BradleyAfter high school plans: Attend Keiser University and work at Sea WorldPlanned Major: Crime Scene TechnologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Work as a crime scene investigator and have a family of threeInvolvement: DECA Club (12); Drama Club (9, 10); Thespians (10)

Jasmine BrownAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: BiologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Medical FieldInvolvement: Cheerleading (9, 10); Latin Club (11)

VALEDICTORIANS SHARE HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCES

Student takes unusual course

By BRENDAN HALLIt is unusual for a class valedictorian

to not attend the high school bestowing the award. This is the path senior

Christopher Parrett has chosen for his junior and senior year.

After sophomore year, Parrett decided to attend all Valencia dual-enrollment classes for his junior and senior year. Parrett felt he

wasn’t receiving the proper college-level education to challenge him, so he decided to make the switch.

“I felt like I wasn’t getting anywhere with my AP classes. I enjoyed the teachers,

but with VCC I was really experiencing college for what it was worth. There is just such a wide gap between AP and VCC, and I felt like I wasn’t getting the college experience,” Parrett said.

Parrett was involved in Quiz Bowl, math competitions and even started a science club that included him and several of his friends. At Valencia, he is part of the honor fraternity Phi Theta Kappa in

which he is involved in community service and events.

Parrett’s favorite part of Boone was the teachers he had. His favorite classes were chemistry with Glenn Listort and AP European History with Christina Bay-Bay Bykov during his sophomore year.

“Listort set me up so well for organic chemistry and made a lot of great jokes; he was just a fun guy to hang around,” Parrett said.

Although Parrett’s father is a history teacher on campus, he says that the biggest influence on his academics has been his mother.

“My parents always pushed me to go that extra mile and make me a better person. My mother always pushed me the hardest and wanted to help me be successful in life,” Parrett said.

Parrett plans to attend the University of Central Florida, study micro and macrobiology and earn a dual major in biotechnology.

“I’m looking forward to getting started at UCF because I like to take life one step at a time and that is my next step; you can’t make a set path, life changes,” Parrett said.

GAP IN LEARNING FORCES UNORTHODOX DECISION

#1weighted

Christopher Parrett

Throughout this section, Hi-Lights has profiled the nine valedictorians and the one salutatorian.

These 10 students will each speak at graduation on June 4. Flip through to see what each has to say.

. . . I like to take life one step at a time and that is my next step; you can’t make a set path, life changes . . .

hilights.org page 3May 14, 2010

senior section

Sara Renee BurnettAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College/University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Some form of ITWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Have a good job and live in a nice houseInvolvement: Chorus (9); Spanish Club (12); Spanish Honor Society (12) Rayvon BurnsideAfter high school plans: Attend Florida Agriculture and Mechanical UniversityPlanned Major: Music BusinessWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Entertainment LawyerInvolvement: Chorus (9, 10, 12 Officer); Concert Choir (11, 12); Debate Team (10); SADD (11)

EmilyButterfieldAfter high school plans: Traveling the worldPlanned Major: Public RelationsWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Living in New York City and helping othersInvolvement: Basketball (9 freshman; 10 JV); Legend Yearbook (10, 11 Sports Editor, 12 Co-Editor in Chief); National Honor Society (11, 12); Political Club (11); Quill and Scroll (11, 12)

Club (9, 10, 12); Spanish Club (9, 10, 11); Spanish Honor Society (11, 12) Jake Ryan ColemanAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegeInvolvement: Drum Line (12 Captain); Jazz Band (9); Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12); Spring Drum Line (12 Tech); Percussion Ensemble (9, 10, 11); Wind Ensemble (9, 10, 11); Wind Symphony (12)

Angela CosmeAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College then University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Mechanical EngineeringWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working with carsInvolvement: ROTC (10, 11); Salsa Dance Club (9); Soccer (11); Unarmed Basic (10, 11); Unarmed Exhibition (10, 11); Water Polo (10)

Amy CottonAfter high school plans: Attend University of GeorgiaPlanned Major: Sports and Exercise ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working with athletes as a physical therapistInvolvement: Crew (9, 10 Varsity,

11 Varsity, 12 Varsity); FCA (9 board member, 10 board member, 11 board member, 12 Captain); National Honor Society (11, 12) Michael CumminsAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Music EducationWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: High school band director or music teacherInvolvement: Marching band (9, 10, 11 Low Brass Section Leader, 12 Low Brass Section Leader) Louis A. DavisAfter high school plans: Attend Florida Agriculture and Mechanical UniversityPlanned Major: BusinessWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Investing in many businessesInvolvement: Spring football (10); Weightlifting (11, 12) Wrestling (10, 11, 12)

Jeffrey A. DelanuezAfter high school plans: Attend a Florida college Planned Major: Criminal JusticeInvolvement: Swimming (12); Water Polo (11, 12)

Sarah Elizabeth DittmerAfter high school plans: Attend Florida Southern College

Planned Major: Computer science, MathematicsWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be aliveInvolvement: Algebra 2 Team (10);

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Natalie CalesAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College then Rollins CollegePlanned Major: Interior DesignWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Living in New York doing what I love Courtney CapehartAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: DentistryWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Having my own orthodontics officeInvolvement: FCA (10); Latin Club (10, 11 Historian); National Honor Society (11, 12); Track & Field (9, 10, 11, 12 Captain); Weightlifting (11, 12)

Alexander Oliver CarrAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: BusinessInvolvement: FCA (9, 10); Football (9 Freshman, 10 JV, 11 JV); Track (9, 10, 11, 12)

Jose Daniel CastilloAfter high school plans: MarinesInvolvement: NJROTC (10, 11, 12) Jenny Lee ChenAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Biology/PharmacyInvolvement: HOSA (12); Math

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senior section


Concert Band (9); Geometry Team (9); Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12); Math Club (12); Mu Alpha Theta (12); National Honor Society (12); Tri-M (11, 12); Wind Ensemble (10, 11, 12)

Ryan DriggersAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College Involvement: TV Production (10, 11, 12)

Brittany Marie DuBoiseAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College and University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Marine BiologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be a marine biologist Involvement: Cheerleading (9 freshman); NJROTC (10, 11, 12); SAFE Ambassador (10)

Braden Mackenzie DwyerAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Business

What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be a retired millionaireInvolvement: Basketball (9 freshman, 10 JV); Lacrosse (11 JV, 12 Varsity); Spanish Club (11)

Lindsey Jordan DyeAfter high school plans: Go to collegePlanned Major: NursingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be happyInvolvement: Hi-Lights Newspaper (9, 11 Campus/Local Editor, 12 Business Manager Editor); Powder Bowl (12)

Megan EllisAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Psychology What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Forensic PsychologistInvolvement: Chorus (9, 10, 11 Historian, 12 Vice President); Drama (10 Kander and Ebb Cabaret, 11 Seussical the Musical, 12 Steel Magnolia, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown); Jazz Band

(10); National Honor Society (11, 12); Tri-M (11, 12); Thespian Districts and State (12); Thespian Honor Society (12)

Chelsea Arynn ErnestAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: TheatreWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Acting/making music/coaching crewInvolvement: Chorus (11, 12);

Crew (10, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity); Environmental Club (10, 11 President, 12 President); Recycling (10, 11 Manager, 12 Manager); Tri-M (12)

Emily FarashAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegeInvolvement: Legend Yearbook (10, 11 People Editor, 12 Academics Editor); National Honor Society (12)

Jacqueline Christina FauraAfter high school plans: Go to University of Central FloridaInvolvement: Cheerleading (9); Cross Country (12); Legend Yearbook (10, 11); Spanish Club (12)

Elena FinerAfter high school plans: Attend University of Georgia What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Traveling the worldInvolvement: Boone Unique Sports (12 Historian); Crew (9, 10, 11, 12); Legend Yearbook (9, 10 People Editor); Math Club (9, 10, 11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (12); National Honor Society (11, 12); Spanish Club (9, 10); Spanish Honor Society (10, 11, 12 Historian)

Caitlin FrenkelAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Pre-lawWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Family law attorneyInvolvement: Cross Country (9, 10, 11, 12); Law Magnet (9, 10, 11, 12); Math Club (9, 10, 11, 12); SAFE (12); SGA (12 Treasurer); Spanish Club (9, 10); Track (9, 10, 11)

Lydia Grace FreyAfter high school plans: Attend

Student achieves academic successBy EMILY O’LOANE

With extracurricular activities ranging from National Honor Society president to Math Club officer, senior Kathleen Chitty not only pursued success throughout high school, but she also achieved it.

“A lot of my success has been because of blessings, a persevering attitude, a determined spirit and a lot of hard work,” Chitty said.

Throughout high school, Chitty pushed herself academically by taking as many advanced placement courses as she could. She will end her high school career with 10 college credits already on her record.

“[Two of my favorite classes at Boone] were my AP English classes because it has been fun to be with the same people in class [for two years in a row]; it creates a great learning environment. Ms. Nicoll taught me so much, and Ms. Hilley taught me so much too, as well as helped me work through personal decisions,” Chitty said.

Chitty will attend the University of Florida, but she is still uncertain as to what she will major in at college.

“I’ve thought about careers in everything from neuroscience to education, but I really don’t know yet,” Chitty said.

Chitty credits her family and friends for making high school an enjoyable time for her.

“My mom has been really supportive and given me the encouragement to keep going. She never pushed me to be better or strive for excellence, but just to be the best that I can be,” Chitty said.

However, Chitty’s favorite part of Boone was not her classes, but rather enjoying time with her fellow peers and the school’s traditions like homecoming week, football games, senior snakes and homecoming dances.

“My friends kept me positive; they taught me so much about myself and who I want to be in the future. They were one of the greatest parts of my time at Boone,” Chitty said.

The advice Chitty passes on to underclassmen is simple. “Don’t make your workload too overwhelming, but at the

same time, set your sights high. Look at all the things the world has to offer,” Chitty said.

photo/ASHLEY HILMER

IN THE OVAL OFFICE. During a math club meeting, senior Kathleen Chitty writes receipts for members. “I would say that becoming valedictorian was a dream or goal of mine for a long time,” Chitty, treasurer, said. Chitty tried to maintain a balance between school and extracurricular activities in high school.

FAMILY, RELIGION PROVIDE INSPIRATION

A lot of my success has been because of blessings, a persevering attitude, a determined spirit and a lot of hard work.

#1 unweighted Kathleen Chitty

Work hard, don’t slack off, make good friends. People who care about you will always be there to help.

- keri hermida

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senior section

Missouri University of Science and TechnologyPlanned Major: Chemical and Bio-molecular Engineering What you hope to be doing in 10 years: WorkingInvolvement: Concert Band (9, 10); Information Society (9); Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12 Drum Major); Math Club (11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12); Robotics Team (12); Tri-M (10, 11, 12)

Alexis Louisa Furukawa After high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegeWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Married with at least one kidInvolvement: National Arts Honor Society (12) National Honor Society (11, 12); Volleyball (9 Freshman, 10 JV, 11 JV/Varsity, 12 Varisty)

Juan Diego GalindoAfter high school plans: Attend Embry Riddle Aeronautical UniversityPlanned Major: Airline pilotWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Soaring through the sky

Carolina GarciaAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: LawInvolvement: Class Council (9 Vice President, 10 Vice President, 11 Vice President); Lacrosse (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity Captain, 12 Varsity Captain); Law Magnet (9,

10, 11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12); SAFE Ambassador (10, 11, 12); SGA (12 President) Spanish Honor Society (11, 12)Words of advice: Never waste an opportunity to be your best.

Kristy GarciaAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: BusinessWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Corporate lawyer, family, kidsInvolvement: Math Club (9, 10, 11, 12); Mock Trial (9, 10, 11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12) Prom Committee (11); SGA (9, 10, 11, 12); Social Justice Club (11); Spanish Club (12); Spanish Honor Society (12)

Shelby Lynne GarrettAfter high school plans: Work, attend Valencia Community College and University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Legal StudiesWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Owning a law firm and having a familyInvolvement: Cheerleading (9 freshman, 10 JV); National Honor Society (12)

Kathleen Gavern After high school plans: Attend State College of FloridaPlanned Major: BiologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Physician AssistantInvolvement: Basketball (9 freshman,

10 JV); HOSA (9, 10, 11, 12); Math Club (10); Powder Bowl (11, 12); Slow-pitch Softball (9, 10); Softball (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity); Weightlifting (11 Varsity, 12 Varsity)

Austin Tyler GreaneyAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College then University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Sports Medicine, minor in VideoWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working at a good company with a good jobInvolvement: Football (9 freshman, 10 JV, 11 JV/Varsity); TV Production (10, 11, 12)

Taylor Elizabeth GregoryAfter high school plans: CollegePlanned Major: BusinessWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working my way up the corporate ladderInvolvement: FCA (9, 10, 11 officer); Flag Football (9 JV, 10 JV); Math Club (11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12); SGA Council (11); Spanish Club (11, 12); Spanish Honor Society (11, 12)

Erica GunnAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College, Sports MedicinePlanned Major: NursingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Married with children and a good

paying, likeable jobInvolvement: Boone Police Cadets (9, 10, 11, 12); Criminal Justice Magnet (9, 10, 11); Slow-pitch Softball (9, 10, 11); Softball (9 JV, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity)

Kierstin HaddockAfter high school plans: Attend Liberty UniversityPlanned Major: Physical Therapy/Athletic TrainingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Missionary workInvolvement: Fast-pitch Softball (9 JV, 10 JV); Golf (12 Varsity) Law Magnet (9, 10, 11, 12); Political Club (11); Slow-pitch Softball (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity); Track and Field (12 Varsity); Weightlifting (10 Varsity, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity)

Charles Hall After high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: ZoologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Practicing veterinary medicine Involvement: Jazz Band (9, 10 Section Leader, 11 Section Leader, 12 Captain); Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12)

Leah Bonita HardingAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: Broadcast Journalism/ArabicWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Live in Dubai as an Arabic translator for Al Jazeera

Involvement: Crew (9); FCA (9, 10); Flag Football (10); French Club (9,10); Love Letters (10); NHS (11, 12 Officer); Track and Field (9); SGA (9, 10 Secretary, 12); SAFE Ambassador (10, 12); Soccer (9, 10)

Davis Don HarperAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: EngineeringInvolvement: Basketball (9 Freshman Captain, 10 JV Captain, 11 JV Captain); FCA (9 Board Member); Magnet (9, 10, 11, 12); Math Club (10); Spanish Club (9, 10)

Sean P. HealyAfter high school plans: Go to collegePlanned Major: MedicalWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Becoming a doctor or physical therapistInvolvement: Football (9 Freshman, 10 JV, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity); Weightlifting (12) Kari Fae HermidaAfter high school plans: Attend Santa Fe CollegePlanned Major: HistoryWhat you hope to be doing in 10 Years: Teaching high school historyInvolvement: Basketball (9 Freshman, 10 JV); Fallball Softball (11, 12) Fast-pitch Softball (10 JV, 11 JV Captain, 12 Varsity); Slow-pitch Softball (10 Varsity); Softball (9 JV); Volleyball (9)

Gabriel HernandezAfter high school plans: Attend

Clarinetist pursues math degreeBy EMILY O’LOANE

For senior valedictorian Sarah Dittmer, the band room became her second home in high school.

“My favorite activity in high school was band. It gave me a family within the school. Being a part of the Sound of the Braves [was my favorite part of being here],” Dittmer said.

Besides maintaining a perfect grade-point average throughout high school, Dittmer also made first

chair for clarinet her senior year, an accomplishment which she remains humble about.

“I have played clarinet for nine years. I tend to try to stay low about

[my accomplishments], but [being first chair] is pretty fun,” Dittmer said.

Dittmer committed herself to becoming valedictorian when she entered high school. Her dedication came from her own desire to succeed.

“[Becoming valedictorian] was a goal of mine. I didn’t center my high school life around it though. My parents are very supportive of me in whatever I choose to do. They are protective, but I work purely

out of self-motivation,” Dittmer said. She characterizes her high school

experience as being filled with hard work, especially in her advanced placement classes and in the band room.

“It feels like I worked hard in everything. [My advice to underclassmen would be to] work hard but still have fun,” Dittmer said.

Dittmer took nine Advanced Placement classes throughout high school, but her favorite class remains band and orchestra.

“Mr. Henderson was my favorite teacher because he was my first band director. He fostered a healthy environment where the band room became a second home. He was both a teacher and a friend,” Dittmer said.

Dittmer plans to attend Florida Southern College in the fall and to major in computer science and mathematics. Dittmer also excels in English and creative writing.

“I like to write stories. I would love to write a novel someday. It is more like a side hobby than a career I would pursue,” Dittmer said.

STUDENT EPITOMIZES MUSICAL CREATIVITY

#1unweighted

Sarah Dittmer

My favorite activity in high school was band. It gave me a family with the school.

Go big or go home. Do it big. You are only in high school once. Live it up.

- sean healy

#1 unweighted Kristy Garcia

My friends helped me survive. I get stressed out easily and they helped keep me centered.

senior section


Embry-Riddle Aeronaurical UniversityPlanned Major: Aeronautical ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Flying the skiesInvolvement: FCA (9); French Club (10, 11, 12); French Honor Society (11, 12); Soccer (9 JV, 10 JV/Varsity, 12 Varsity)

Suheil HernandezAfter high school plans: Move to Clearwater, attend St. Petersburg CollegePlanned Major: BiologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be working as a doctor or University of South Florida teacher in BiologyInvolvement: Chorus (10, 11); Spanish Club (10)

Casey Leigh HolmesAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: MedicineWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: To have started my career and be marriedInvolvement: Powder Bowl (12); Homecoming Parade (10, 11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12 Officer); Spanish Club (11, 12)

Kevin HolmwoodAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State University or University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Criminal Justice

What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Air Force OfficerInvolvement: Best Buddies (11, 12 Historian); Boone Police Cadets (9, 10, 11 Sergeant); French Club (10); Mock Trial (11); Political Club (10); Social Justice Club (11 Communications Director)

Stefanie IrizarryAfter high school plans: Attend Berklee College of Music Planned Major: Contemporary Writing and ProductionWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Traveling the world, hopefully I’ll have a place in New ZealandInvolvement: Chorus (9, 10, 11, 12 Officer)Advice: Be nice to everyone; you never know when you’ll need a favor later in life.

Louisa JeanAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community college for 2 years for an A.A. Degree, transfer to University of Central Florida for masters in Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Planned Major: Pediatric Nurse PractitionerWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working as a nurse practitioner, married and have at least two kids, be successful Involvement: Health Academy (10, 11, 12); HOSA (11, 12)

Jamie R. Johnston After high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida – M.B., Medical SchoolPlanned Major: Molecular BiologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Medical Doctor (Emergency Medicine) Involvement: Crew (9); Healthcare Academy (10, 11, 12); HOSA (10, 11, 12 Secretary)

Jenneth Lorain Jones After high school plans: Attend Daytona StatePlanned Major: PhotographyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Living Involvement: Concert Band (9, 10, 11); Crew (12); Environmental Club (11 Historian); German Club (10, 11); Marching Band (9, 10, 11)

Sarah Michelle Karney After high school plans: Attend Rollins CollegePlanned Major: International RelationsWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: WorkingInvolvement: Chorus (11); Information Society (9, 10, 12); Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12); Music Honor Society (11, 12); NJROTC (9); Tri- M (11, 12) Advice: Stand up for your dreams and make them happen one day. You are in control of your future

now, so live it up.

Robert Matthew Klinkel After high school plans: attend New College of FloridaPlanned Major: International Studies, Foreign LanguagesWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Living in Europe helping out in societyInvolvement: Drama (12 Improvisation); French Club (12 Tutor); Math Center (12 Tutor); Spanish Club (12 Tutor)

Justin Knight After high school plans: Attend Full Sail UniversityPlanned Major: Game DevelopmentWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Making video gamesInvolvement: Anime Club (9, 10)

Ava LaneAfter high school plans: Attend University of North Carolina at Chapel HillPlanned Major: Genetics or MicrobiologyInvolvement: Band (12); Quiz Bowl (10, 11)

Rachel LaQuea

After high school plans: Four year university, attend StetsonWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Travel and have a successful jobInvolvement: Chorus (9, 10, 11, 12); Hi-Lights Newspaper (11); Soccer (9 JV, 10 Varsity); Spanish Club (12)

Rachel Mary LaytonAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Non-Profit ManagementWhat do you hope to be doing in 10 years: Making a difference somewhere in the worldInvolvement: Best Buddies (12 Secretary); Law Magnet (9, 10, 11, 12); Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12 Flute Section Leader); National Honor Society (11, 12); Spanish Club (12 Treasurer); Sweetheart Court (12); Tri-M (11, 12)

John Carlos LeónAfter high school plans: Attend University of Florida/Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Interactive DesignWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years:

Creating interactive mediaInvolvement: Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12); Web Design (11, 12); Web Tech (11, 12)

Scott Mizell Livingston After high school plans: Travel the world, attend Valencia then University of FloridaPlanned Major: PhD in EntomologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Graduating with my Ph.D.Involvement: Drumline (11, 12) Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12)

Christopher Botting LumbertAfter high school plans: Go into seminary at Liberty University after two years of ValenciaPlanned Major: SeminaryWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Student Pastor and/or MissionaryInvolvement: Bowling Team (9 Leader, 10 Leader, 11); FCA (9, 10 Leader, 11 Leader)

Michael Lee Linxwiler After high school plans: Go to Valencia for two years then University of Central Florida to finish my four-year degreePlanned Major: Journalism

Student looks to pursue law

By BRENDAN HALLFor senior Kristy Garcia,

becoming valedictorian signaled reaching a goal she had been aiming for since freshman year.

“Becoming valedictorian was my proudest moment

at Boone. I planned on becoming valedictorian and achieved it by working hard, staying on top of all my homework and never giving up,” Garcia said.

Through all the hard work, Garcia made sure to establish a balance between work and fun. She cites her friends as a source of support, always

encouraging and supporting her and keeping her calm

when the stress piled up. As a member of the mock

trial team, Garcia made several close friends and became more interested in the career she wishes to pursue: becoming a lawyer.

“My friends helped me survive. I get stressed out easily, and they helped keep me

centered,” Garcia said.Her biggest influence, though, has

been her boyfriend, James Bowles.“He has been the one person who

continually supports me and raises my confidence regularly,” Garcia said.

Garcia decided to attend the University of Florida after also getting accepted to Florida State University, the University of Central Florida and the University of South Florida; she will major in business management. Garcia also plans on traveling to different places around the world after graduation.

“I’m most looking forward to traveling. I have a huge list of places I want to go, and I can’t wait to get there and experience the culture of all the different places,” Garcia said.

Garcia was involved in Mock Trial all four years and was also in Math Club, Spanish Club, Mu Alpha Theta and National Honor Society.

Garcia’s favorite class didn’t arrive until senior year when she took AP Literature with Jennifer Hilley. Although she really enjoyed the class, it was partly her favorite because of the teacher on top of the material.

“Ms. Hilley was my favorite teacher because she not only taught her kids but actually cared about us too,” Garcia said.

FRIENDS PROVIDE SUPPORT

Have fun, but don’t slack off. Take chances, but be cautious. Live on the edge, but don’t fall off.

- michael linxwiler

I’ve learned so much more than finance. I’ve learned life lessons that I’ll use for the rest of my life.


senior section

What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Writing for a newspaper or news center

Corry McCullough MaguireAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Industrial EngineeringInvolvement: BBC (11 Treasurer, 12 Treasurer); Boone Unique Disk Society (9); Boone Unique Sports (12 Assistant Treasurer);Class Council (10, 11 Treasurer, 12 Treasurer); Lovers of Literature (9 Secretary); Wrestling (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity)

Kaila Marie Mankamyer After high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida and become a teacherWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years:

Working as a teacherInvolvement: Best Buddies (11)

Autumn Nicole MartinAfter high school plans: Work, attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Applied Science in Interior DesignWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Having a familyInvolvement: Crew (10); Environmental Club (11 Vice President)

Benedykta Leanor MartinezAfter high school plans: Studying abroad at Florida International UniversityPlanned Major: International relationsInvolvement: Bollywood (12 President); French Club (11 Historian); French Honor Society (11, 12 President)

Victoria Leigh MasonAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College then Rollins College to pursue psychology degreePlanned Major: PsychologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Living close to the ocean, working as a therapist of some sortInvolvement: Drama (11 Improvisation, 12 Improvisation); FCA (9); Hi-Lights Newspaper (10 Reporter); Love Letters (11); Operation Smile (11); Track and Field (9)Advice: Try new things as often as you can. High school is just the start of finding who you are.

Erica Mayer After high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida

Involvement: Environmental Club (9, 10); Information Society (10 Vice President); Math Club (11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (12 Treasurer)

Michael Hallecks McEwanAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: BusinessInvolvement: Class Council (9 President, 10 President); Football (9 Freshman, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity Captain); German Club (11); Lacrosse (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity); Track (9, 10, 11, 12) Laura MendozaAfter high school plans: Attend University of Florida Involvement: Math Club (11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12); SAFE (9,

10, 11, 12); Spanish Club (10, 11); Tennis (9 Varsity)

Whitney Michielssen After high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: PsychologyInvolvement: Class council (10, 11, 12); Environmental Club (12); FCA (9); French Club (11, 12 President); Legend Yearbook (11, 12 Index Editor)

Donna Krystina MitchellAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: SociologyInvolvement: BBC (11 Historian, 12 Historian); National Art Honor Society (12); National Honor Society (12)

Scott MoranAfter high school plans: tour with Boston Crusaders Drum Corps, attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Musical educationInvolvement: Marching and concert band (9, 10, 11, 12 drum major)

Sydney MormanAfter high school plans: Work at Walt Disney World, attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Medicine What you hope to be doing in 10 years: ObstetricianInvolvement: Lacrosse (10 Boys’ Manager); Legend Yearbook (10, 11 Photo Editor, 12 Photo Editor); National Honor Society (11, 12); Political Club (11 Historian); Quill and Scroll (10, 11, 12); Soccer (9 JV); Winter Guard (12)

Gemsin MorroneAfter high school plans: Attend San Diego State UniversityPlanned Major: EngineeringWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Marine Corps OfficerInvolvement: Competition Team (9, 10, 11) Exhibition Armed Drill Team (12) Math Club (12); Mu Alpha Theta (12); NJROTC (9, 10, 11 Unit Staff, 12 Commander, Executive Officer, leading female); Push Up Team (9, 10, 11, 12); Spanish Club (11)

Michael Andrew Muñoz-Mejia After high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Information TechnologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Work with computers and take care of my momInvolvement: Anime Club (11)

Kalie Jane Murray After high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegeInvolvement: Boone Police Cadets (9, 10, 11)

Roxanne Neal

Aeronauticalinterestscaptivatefinancestudent

By BRENDAN HALLThere is no doubt in senior Ryan

Kobert’s mind what he plans to do with the rest of his life. He has dedicated his academic career to achieving success at his future professional career in aeronautical and astronautical engineering.

“I’ve always been interested in flight, ever since I was a little kid. This summer I began working on my pilot’s license because I believe that if you want to design a plane you should know how to fly it,” Kobert said.

Kobert chose to attend Purdue University, the college he has always wanted to attend, after also being accepted to Georgia Tech and the University of Florida. He received the trustees scholarship of $10,000, the highest non-full ride scholarship.

photo/ASHLEY HILMER

LISTEN UP CLASS. In Advanced Placement Physics, senior Ryan Kobert goes over a problem on the board. “My success in school has been due to everything they say: hard work, time management and a little bit of confidence,” Kobert said. Physics teacher Michael Undieme was Kobert’s favorite teacher.

STUDENT ACCEPTED TO DREAM COLLEGEKobert’s high school activities also

reflect his interest in math and science as he participated in Math Club, math competition teams, Quiz Bowl, the finance magnet, Mu Alpha Theta, Robot Club and Business Professionals of America. He was also part of the marching and concert band, National Honor Society and Modern Music Masters Honor Society.

“The Finance Magnet was my favorite activity in high school. I’ve learned so much more than finance; I’ve learned life lessons that I’ll use the rest of my life such as public speaking skills. Everything we did in that class was college preparation as well as preparation for real life,” Kobert said.

Of all the aspects of high school, Kobert said his favorite part was the

community. Kobert cited a moment while speaking at a rally for education funding in Tallahassee where, after announcing he was to graduate from Boone, the crowd began an uproar which surprised him.

“Anytime I go somewhere someone asks me what school I’m from and I respond ‘Boone,’ and they always know someone who went here or went there themselves. There is an instant connection. The Boone community literally extends beyond any physical bounds,” Kobert said.

Kobert advises the underclassmen to stay focused from the moment they enter high school.

“You can’t slack off, even for a minute, especially freshman. Colleges look at your entire high school career,” Kobert said.

#1 unweighted Ryan Kobert

awards ceremony


On Thursday, May 13, the Student Government Association sponsored the school’s annual Award Ceremony. Listed here are the awards and recipients known as of Wednesday, May 5.

Freshman Class President Taler CarneyVice President Manuela VelezSecretary Merrie Grace HardingTreasurer Taylor ClaussHistorian Maribeth Collins

Sophomore Class President Victoria MurrayVice President Sydney GerenSecretary Morgan GregoryTreasurer Taylor GiesHistorian Madison McElroy

Junior Class Council President Taylor DudleyVice President Sam MarozziSecretary Sarah DalyTreasurer Carissa GidelHistorian Anna Gentry

Senior ClassSenior Class Council Member of the Year Sederia WashingtonPresident Logan OpsahlVice President Zachary ThompsonSecretary Leah HardingTreasurer Corry MaguireHistorian Nicole Regan

SGA Council Member of the Year Chaquevia DumasCouncil Member of the Year Michael StringerPresident Carolina GarciaVice President Lizzy GirdleySecretary Ashley HilmerTreasurer Caitlin FrenkelHistorian Victoria ScottDistrict Secretary Mackenzie Sexton

ESOL (ELL) 9th Grade ESOL Student of the Year Annalie Valiente10th Grade ESOL Student of the Year Jessica Sayegh11th Grade ESOL Student of the Year Kanchana Lichtler12th Grade ESOL Student of the Year Iris Bruno Lampon

Business/Technology Deparment PC Support Technician of the Year Michael DigginsWeb Developer of the Year Austin ClementsWeb Designer of the Year John LeonDigital Design I Student of the Year Chrystal WisiakDigital Design II Student of the Year Alexa RossiDigital Design III Student of the Year Lindsey Cooper

Salutatorian Erica MayerValedictorians Christopher Parrett (weighted)Kathleen Chitty (unweighted)Sarah Dittmer (unweighted)

Kristy Garcia (unweighted) Ryan Kobert (unweighted) Laura Mendoza (unweighted)Emily O’Loane (unweighted)Kai Suganuma (unweighted)Russell Vann (unweighted)

Key Club President Caroline RoheOutstanding Member Corrine GrotheReading 9th Grade Outstanding Reading Achievement Grace Calderon10th Grade Outstanding Reading Achievement Maria Moscatello11th Grade Outstanding Reading Achievement Jordan Poveda12th Grade Outstanding Reading Achievement Dontae Johnson

Mock Trial Members Emma Allen, Carrie Comstock, Kristy Garcia, Josi Markel, Cailey McConnell, Megan Raitano, Lindsey Roberts, Armando Santin, Cathy TelferUnderstudies Emily Blaydes, Heather Keeler, Katy Shoemaker, Catherine Rocher

Social Justice Club President Megan RaitanoVP and Invisible Children Ashley HilmerTreasurer and Invisible Children Amanda ToddRussell Home Beth WielandSupport the Troops Lucielle Delvalle30 Hour Famine Matt SlasonInvisible Children and Big Man on Campus Hilary ArmstrongInvisible Children Thompson WoodAlan Crotzer project Lauren Wood

English Department 9th Grade English Student of the Year John Childers10th Grade English Student of the Year Heather Keeler11th GradeEnglish Student of the Year Kaitlin Cheatham12th Grade English Student of the Year Emily O’Loane

Magnet (Finance) Finance Magnet Scholarship Paul FlemingFinance Magnet Scholarship Peter MorganFinance Magnet Scholarship Ryan Kobert

Magnet (Law) Law Magnet Scholarship Megan Raitano, Kristy Garcia, Carrie Comstock

Healthcare Academy Medical Skills and Services Janet ChenHealth Science 1 Rachel MachadoHealth Science 2 Karl SolivenAllied Health Assisting 3 Jamie JohnstonNursing Assistant 3 Louisa Jean

Art Department Outstanding Achievement in Photography Zachary ThompsonOutstanding Achievement in Photography Hannah Allen

Most Improved in Ceramics Brittany BesudenMost Improved in Ceramics John LeonMost Creative in Ceramics Kathrine LantMost Accomplished in Ceramics Solimar GonzalezMost Accomplished in Ceramics Amber HolleyMost Creative in Drawing Natalie D’AmicoMost Creative in Painting Mayra BenavidesOutstanding Achievement in Painting Mary Claire DillardOutstanding Achievement in Painting Samantha ArcaraOutstanging Achievement in Mixed Media Kyla PeirceOutstanging Achievement in Mixed Media Wendy BennettMost Creative in Jewelry Jenny ChenOutstanding Service in Art Club Rachel BurchOutstanding Service in Art Club George Terry

Foreign Language Department Spanish 1 Emily Collins, Amanda Mayer, Trent SellersSpanish Speakers 1/Heritage Speakers 1 Angelica Maria Ardines, Elisa Castillo, Spanish 2 Nick CaslerSpanish Speakers 2/Heritage Speakers 2 Bianca Oliveira Spanish 3 Alicia BerlinSpanish 4 Danielle Griffin, Kendyl StewartAP Spanish Robert KlinkelSpanish Speakers AP Armando Jose Santin

French 1 Vivian Motta, Heather Keeler, Erika PlogstedtFrench 2 Ligia Borges, Sesaley Graciani, Alexis Mauerman, Rachel Machado, VictoriaTanenbaumFrench Outstanding Leadership Alex Acosta, Juan LondonoFrench 3 Courtney LewisFrench 4 Cramsci Choute

Spanish Honor Society Member Taylor Davis, Haley Gardner, Danielle GriffinMatthew Slason, Anthony Torres

Science Department Outstanding Science Student 2009-2010 Ryan KobertAP Biology Student of the Year Olivia SwartwoodAP Chemistry Student of the Year Russell VannAP Physics Student of the Year Ryan KobertHonors Chemistry Student of the Year Brandi Recker Honors Biology Student of the Year Emily PorterfieldHonors Physics Student of the Year Taylor DudleyChemistry Student of the Year Laura Bolivar

Physics Student of the Year John DreillyIntegrated II Student of the Year Cramsci ChouteIntegrated I Student of the Year Julia Becker

Tech Department Drafting Student of the Year Colin Smith

Math Department Algebra I Mitchell CapellGeometry Bryan CappsAlgebra II Trent Sellers, Tong ZhangAP Calculus Ryan KobertAP Statistics Dylan Fontaine

BBC Superior Work in BBC Travis Goldfarb, Joshua SmithOutstanding Work in BBC Alexander Carr, Leah Harding, Donna Mitchell, Laura Ramiz, Nick RobinsonOutstanding Job in Television Production Brittani Acuff

Athletic Deparment William R. Boone Top Male Athlete Samuel HutsellJohn C. Pitts Top Female Athlete Taylor ReevesIvan Repass Male Leadership/Character Samuel Lee, Bill Lowry Female Leadership/Character Stephanie WillsBHSAA Scholar Athlete Ashleigh Boos, Cameron Hooper, Conway Falcons Football Scholarship Tabarie SullivanConway Falcons Cheerleading Scholarship Santravia Long

Social Studies Department Outstanding Social Studies Student Senior Kai SuganumaOutstanding Social Studies Student Junior Kaitlin Cheatham

Outstanding Social Studies Student Freshman Tong Shu Zhang Sophomore Charles Glazer

Spanish Club Most Loyal Member Anthony TorresPresident Kaityn MangoldVice President Kristine GibbonsSecretary Shiyana FarrellyTreasurer Rachel LaytonHistorian Laura Hart

Business National BPS Conference Scholarships Seniors Shontai Baca, Ania Bang, Evan Bass, Daquan Benjamin, Kathleen Chitty, Amy Cotton, Alex D’Innocenti, Mary Claire Dillard, Sarah Dittmer, Haunani Joy Doromal, Lawrence, Henry Dunn, III, Megan Ellis, Laura Estupinman, Lydia Frey, Kristy Garcia, Danielle Griffin, Ashley Hilmer, Kevin Holmwood, Cameron Hooper, Margaret Hunsicker, Louisa Jean, Robert Klinkel, Gabriella Knipe, Ryan Kobert, Ava Lane,

Students earn awards, scholarships


senior section

Samuel Lee, Erica Mayer, Laura Mendoza, Gemsin Morrone, Kayla Nagle, Linh Nguyen, Juan Quiles, Emily O’Loane, Logan OpsahlJames Parker, Christopher Parrett, Bennett Parks, Andrew Pendleton, David Portee, Megan Raitano, Dillon Ramski, Taylor Reeves, Courtney Roberts, Lindsey Roberts, Melinda Rose, Natalie Ryan, Colby Sanders, Byron Scott, Matthew Slason, Colin Smith, Nathaniel Stiger, Andrew Stucker, Kai Suganuma, Andrew Tompkins, Russell Vann, Sederia Washington, Bryan Yovaish

Scholarships Juniors John Arvelo, Jack Capell, Shyana Fearrelly, Dillon Fointaine, Dustin Fointaine, Josily Markel, Rachel MottaCatherine Porter, Anthony Ray , Joel Robertson, Daniel Siders

Martin Luther King Humanitarian Award Mary Claire Dillard

William R. Boone High School Disney Dreamer and Doer Mary Claire Dillard Coite and Mildred Hill Scholarship Mary Claire Dillard, James Parker

Sorosis Scholarship Danielle Newton, Christopher Parrett

Earl K. Wood Scholarship Mary Claire Dillard

University Club of Orlando Leadership Award Logan Opsahl

Boone High School Athletic Association

Just Some Numbers!The Boone High School Athletic Association would like to thank all the students, faculty,

staff and community supporters of BHS athletes and teams. Because of your tremendous support during the 2009-2010 school year, you helped the BHSAA accomplish the following:

Purchased a new, state of the art, scoreboard for the stadium for $50,000.

Served 1,270 cups of hot chocolate, 11,766 bottles of Gatorade and water, 11,154 bags of chips and provided 6,550 items of Brave fan wear through the Trading Post, your on-

campus store.

Served 4,185 hamburgers and hot dogs, 15,024 drinks, 1,845 Chick fil A sandwiches, 944 slices of pizza from concession stands at 125 sporting events. And by providing volunteers

at these events, 14 teams and school clubs received checks totaling over $19,000.

Took over the streets with over 460 Brave runners at the Second Annual Reservation Run, allowing 37 school teams and clubs to received checks totaling over $6,500.

Support student publications by purchasing over $1700 in advertising.

Serve over 200 meals to game officials, coaches and administrators at home football games at a cost of just over $1,600.

Plans to refinish the gym floor (summer 2010) at a cost of $15,083.

We need you to help us decide what else we can do to support our Brave athletes, teams and school clubs! Become a volunteer or serve on our board of directors.

Contact Karen Smith, [email protected].

Thanks for the opportunity to support Boone High School!

The 2009-2010 BHSAA Board of DirectorsJay Berlinsky, John Burden, Dana Geren, Kurt Gies, Eric Hall,

Roseann Harrington, Yolonda Huhn, Dawn Lee, Bill McCormac, Margaret McMillen, Doug Patterson, Tom Porter, Linda Stauffer, Mark

Terry, Clay Townsend, Joe Trybus, Susanne Uncapher

Bennett Parks David Portee

Kevin Ferrell Memorial Scholarship Howard K. Fenner Haunani Joy DoromalSarah KarneyKevin McMillan II,Lucas RawlingsMelinda RoseRyan Simpson

CROP Enrichment Academic Award Linh Nguyen, Sederia Washington

Bridges to Success Scholarship Shantai Baca, Louisa Jean

Anderson and Moopen Orthodontics Award of

Excellence Brittany Bailey

Hugh Hattabaugh Principal Leadership Award Courtney Roberts

Class of 1963 “Make a Difference” Scholarship

Ashley Hilmer, Mary Claire Dillard William R. Boone Foundation Scholarship Amy Cotton Andrew Pennington

page 10 hilights.orgMay 14, 2010

October 9, 2009

special

Singer reaches

goals

By KAREN JAENThroughout high school, senior

Valerie Henriquez has endured military training in the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Corps. This experience influenced her decision to join the U.S. Navy.

Henriquez has signed an eight-year contract to become an aviation machinist mate. AMM are aircraft engine mechanics that work to build airplanes and inspect the airplanes to make sure they are working properly before every flight. She will also repair damaged airplanes brought back from flight. These technicians may also be asked to volunteer as a part of the naval aircrew.

“[This position was offered] because of my physical ability, and I liked it because it is hands-on. I went for it because I couldn’t imagine myself doing paperwork behind a desk all day,” Henriquez said.

Her four years of NJROTC have offered Henriquez an advantage; she will be able to join the Navy as an E-3.

Cadet pursues naval careerNormally, people join the Navy as an E-1 and begin with an average salary of about $1,500 a month. However, she will begin at a slightly higher pay, averaging about $1,700. She also received a $5,000 signing bonus.

NJROTC has also helped Henriquez prepare for what the Navy might bring.

“[On our trip to Georgia], we were c a m p i n g , and we had to keep our rooms clean like we would in the military. That showed me what it was going to be like,” H e n r i q u e z

said.Henriquez’s parents and friends

reacted positively to her decision to joining the Navy Reserve. Henriquez knows she will be stationed in Florida but she isn’t sure in what part exactly.

Both her parents are Navy veterans who served as engineers on a ship for most of their career. They have always encouraged their daughter to join the

military.“[They] always wanted me to, but

I would always say I wouldn’t do it. They were surprised when I told them,” Henriquez said.

The Navy Reserve also provides low-cost life insurance that gives their enlisted personnel up to $400,000 in coverage. Henriquez will be able to move up in her Naval career if she is ranked. The Navy allows members to enroll in the Navy Technical Training school. If a member completes this program, he or she may have more opportunities to advance in both the Reserve and their civilian career.

Before Henriquez begins her job in the Navy, she is required to complete Recruit Training Command, which is a nine week camp located in Great Lakes, Illinois. She leaves for the training camp on Sept. 7, and after she completes this she will go to A-School to learn about the tasks she must know to be an AMM.

“If [being in the Navy] is something you want to do, don’t let anybody influence you because they think it’s dangerous. It’s a steady job with a steady money flow,” Henriquez said.

If [being in the Navy] is something you want to do, don’ let anybody influence you to not join. -valerie henriquez, senior

By JONATHAN WARRENChoosing to go to a four-year university

can be a difficult process filled with decisions, paperwork and standardized tests. However, students

choosing this path feel, now more than ever, that it is one to success, as the number of college applicants has continued to increase. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, people with a bachelor’s degree or higher earn $18,500 more a year on average.

“I have always known my whole life I wanted to go to college. I didn’t want to stop in high school,” senior Stefanie Irizarry said.

In the fall, Irizarry will be attending Berklee College of Music in Boston where she hopes to pursue her singing by majoring in performing arts. Last summer she attended a five-week summer program at Berklee. After the program, she knew Berklee was the right fit for her.

“Berklee is the school of my dreams. It’s extremely well known and when I did the summer program, I knew it was where I wanted to be. The place was like home,” Irizarry said.

Whether or not a school is a good fit academically is not the only factor that affects students’ college decisions. In this current economic slump, finances are playing a bigger role in student choices. According to College Board, 64 percent of college bound seniors strongly agree that they are concerned about the impact rising costs might have on their education.

“If I hadn’t received a scholarship, I wouldn’t be going to Berklee,” Irizarry said.

Irizarry auditioned for her scholarship by singing “Put Your Records On” by Corrine Bailey Rae in front of judges. She received a scholarship for $15,000 a semester.

“I’m very proud of myself for getting the scholarship because I was very scared. A lot of people doubted me which just made me want to prove them wrong,” Irizarry said.

Despite financial complications, the number of applicants to private institutions continues to increase. Princeton, Duke and Brown all saw more than a 10 percent increase in applicants last year alone. For students today, the future value of a college degree outweighs its price.

After college, Irizarry hopes to travel as much as possible, so she can gain world experience before entering her career.

“College is a good place to start to mold yourself before you’re thrown into the real world,” Irizarry said.

page 11May 14, 2010

special

hilights.org

By RASHAD HARDINGWhile the rest of the senior class of 2010 walks

across the stage so they can head off to college, senior Elizabeth Girdley plans to take a year off before attending

either Parson’s New School of Design or Florida State University in the fall semester of 2011.

Girdley suffers from osteochondritis dissecans of the condyles, which is when fragments of bone and cartilage come loose from a joint. Her joint disorder resulted in a fractured femur, micro fracture throughout the knee joint, cartilage loss, multiple meniscus tears, poor alignment of the patella and a fractured condyle; she is one of only eight kids in the United States to have this condition. She was examined by 16 doctors to find out what was wrong and finally found a dedicated doctor that traveled to China to do research for her. When she was first told about her injury, she was devastated but fortunate because she could have lost the ability to walk or stand.

Girdley will take a year off before starting college because she will undergo her eighth and final surgery on her right leg on July 14. She will have a metal plate and six screws taken out of her femur. Girdley’s recovery could take up to eight months depending on how the surgery goes.

“Life will constantly push you down, and this is my push down and I’m going to rise back up,” Girdley said.

Girdley first realized her crippling condition when she experienced excruciating pain as a gymnast after a floor exercise at a competition six years ago. When it was nearly impossible for her to walk off the competition floor, she realized something was wrong and sought medical attention. She never thought the pain she experienced and the inability to walk would eventually lead to an end to her dream to be an Olympic contender.

“I think it has made us all feel more fortunate about getting up every morning without pain,” Marcia Girdley, Elizabeth’s mom, said.

Girdley feels fortunate to have the constant support of her family and close friends throughout her ordeal. Her mother has sat by her side and even held her hand over the years.

“I couldn’t ask for a better family,” Girdley said.Despite seven surgeries she endured on her leg to correct this

condition, she has persevered and set a goal to pursue her college career after taking a year off after high school. Her college plans include majoring in fashion and design with a minor in business. She feels this will prepare her for a career in the world of fashion. In the interim, Girdley plans to take sewing classes and other preparatory courses at Valencia Community College so she does not fall into a “post-high school lull”.

“It’s a small price to pay in this big picture of life,” M. Girdley said. “I want her to be able to handle daily routines.”

By KATIE EDWARDSAfter graduating high school in 2009,

Sheila Lapointe had to support herself by working two jobs and paying her own bills.

Lapointe got her first job at Panera Bread in December 2008 and started working at Jason’s Deli in July 2009.

“I live on my own and support myself and pay the bills. I have to work two jobs. It taught me a lot of discipline and responsibility,” Lapointe said.“I didn’t feel I was ready for college. I had other things I had to deal with that had to do with my family and I wanted to have my full potential

By AMANDA FLEMINGERAs graduation approaches and seniors get

ready to move on to colleges of their choice, John White has other plans.

From the start of his sophomore year, White enrolled in the dual-enrollment program at Mid-Florida Tech. With an early start to the program, White only needs to complete the summer and fall semesters of 2010 to receive his “completion certificate” in mechanics.

“[Tech schools] train you on material you want to continue [doing] in life instead of focusing on subjects like English. Four-year colleges don’t include the technical and hands on part,” White said.

As White continues studying diesel mechanics, his plans are to contribute to the family business. In 1969, White’s grandparents started Orlando Waste Paper Company, a full service recycling facility; he plans to become a mechanic there, working on the trucks and cars.

“[Already being a part of the family company], I feel lucky that I have a job unlike other people,” White said.

White already contributes to the business, sorting

Graduate lives independently

Cadet pursues naval career Mechanic builds careerthrough cardboard, taking out the garbage or welding garbage cans together; he makes $10 per hour. With the help of Mid-Florida Tech, White will soon increase his experience allowing him to work as a diesel mechanic.

White feels the mechanical side of the company is more interesting.

“It’s hands on and is better than sitting at a desk and staring at a computer screen all day,” White said.

Although this program is teaching White the skills he needs, he is still worried about his future.

“There are more senior mechanics around with a lot of experience. [I’m worried I may not] be able to find a job if I want to go outside the family company, [so that] I’d be able to make my own path rather than one that’s already made for me,” White said.

White’s entire family is incorporated with the business.

going into school.”According to Rebecca A. Ruiz with New

York Times 48 percent of students had preparation for college for as their number one priority and 42 percent for parents.

Lapointe plans on starting online classes in the summer to have time for both school and her two jobs, which she needs to pay for her schooling. She plans on getting her bachelors in business with a concentration in marketing. She would like to work in a large advertising company or help smaller companies who need it.

“Now there are a lot more options. It’s

hard to find the right school to make sure the school is accredited and that the credits will carry on to whatever I plan to do,” Lapointe said.

In the Nov. 28 2008 article of The Chronicle of Higher Education stated that a typical four-year-college graduate earns more than 50 percent more than high-school graduates.

“I sometimes don’t know whether to keep my phone on or even to go out with friends because I have to support myself. It made me grow up because mommy and daddy aren’t there to help anymore,” Lapointe said.

Injury causes hiatus

I tried to keep myself focused and didn’t settle for less than my goal. I believe in the work hard, play hard cliché.

#1 unweighted Laura Mendoza

After high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: BiologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: VeterinarianInvolvement: Best Buddies (12); Class Council (12); Concert Band (9); Environmental Club (10, 11); Health Academy (11, 12); HOSA (11, 12); Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12); Symphonic Band (10, 11); Wind Symphony (12)

Danielle Shakeyla NewtonAfter high school plans: Attend Florida Agriculture and Mechanical UniversityPlanned Major: Sports MedicineWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Athletic training for a professional sports teamInvolvement: Flag Football (12 Varsity); NJROTC (10, 11 Cadet Staff Sergeant Element Leader)

Emily Ann O’LoaneAfter high school plans: Attend Duke UniversityPlanned Major: History What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working as an archaeologist in the Aegean Sea or as a book editor in New York CityInvolvement: Cross Country (9, 10, 11, 12); FCA (9, 10, 11, 12); Hi-Lights Newspaper (10, 11 Copy Editor, 12 Editor-in-Chief); National Honor Society (11.12); Quill and Scroll Honor Society (10, 11,12)

Logan James OpsahlAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Political ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Being successfulInvolvement: BBC (10, 11, 12) Class Council (9 Secretary, 12 President); Latin Club (9, 10, 11); National Honor Society (11,12)

Getza N. OrtizAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Computer EngineeringWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Live a better life, wherever I may beInvolvement: Boone Dance Crew (11, 12)

Khaled Offane OtmaneAfter high school plans: Valencia Police Academy, attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Criminal JusticeWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Sergeant Police OfficerInvolvement: Wrestling (9 JV, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity)

Bennett ParksAfter high school plans: attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Sports managementWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: running a college or professional sports team

Involvement:Boone Unique Sports (12); Drumline (10, 11, 12); Marching and Concert Band (9, 10, 11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12) Meredith Paige ParksAfter high school plans: Become an elementary school teacher, attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Elementary EducationWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Teaching at a great school and have a great familyInvolvement: Best Buddies (12); National Honor Society (12); Softball (9, 10, 11 Captain, 12)

James Elliot ParkerAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: Pre-medWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Married and working with Doctors Without BordersInvolvement: Boone Unique Sports (12); Cross Country (9, 10, 11, 12 Captain); FCA (9, 10, 11, 12 Captain); Love Letters (10); Math Club (9, 10, 11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (11); National Honor Society (11, 12); Social Justice Club (12);

senior section


Track (9, 10, 11, 12)

Alexandra Renee PetersAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Marketing and Political ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: In Washington D.C., working on political campaignsInvolvement: National Honor Society (11, 12); Tennis (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity); Tri-M (11, 12)

Bradly Alan Peterson After high school plans: United States ArmyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Living life, good high pay job and a small family

Clay Pilkington After high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Settling down with my wife and bench-pressing 220 poundsInvolvement: Environmental Club (12); Wrestling (11 Varsity)

Derek PoirierAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: Nuclear EngineeringInvolvement: Information Society (12 Supreme Chancellor); Math Center (10 Tutor); Writing Center (12 Consultant)

Alexandria PorteeInvolvement: Art club (9, 10, 11, 12); Bollywood (12); Legend Yearbook (11,12)

Marisa QuallsAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Early Childhood EducationWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working as a teacherInvolvement: Early Childhood Education (9, 10, 11)

Megan Frances RaitanoAfter high school plans: Study abroad in Europe and Peace Corps; Attend University of Florida or LoyolaWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Helping people, starting a familyInvolvement: Basketball (9 Captain,

10 JV Captain); Math Club (9, 10, 11, 12); Mock Trial (11 Attorney, 12 Attorney/Captain); National Honor Society (12); Social Justice Club (11 Founder/President, 12 President); Spanish Club (9, 10, 11, 12); Spanish Honor Society (12); Volleyball (9 Captain, 10 JV Captain)

Taylor ReevesAfter high school plans: Attend University of MarylandPlanned Major: BiologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Peace Corps or getting graduate degreeInvolvement: Boone Unique Sports (12); The Haven (12); Soccer (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity); Swimming (11 Varsity, 12 Varsity Captain); Volleyball (9 JV, 10 JV); Water Polo (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity Captain)

Nicole Marie ReganAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Fine ArtWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Professor of Art, Art DirectorInvolvement: Class Council (12

Mother offers inspirationBy BRENDAN HALL

Family often plays a huge role in the lives of students, but for senior Laura Mendoza, her mother was not only her biggest inspiration, but also her biggest fan.

“I attribute most of my success to my supportive family- my mom especially. She has dedicated her life to her children and has truly inspired me,” Mendoza said.

Along with her mother, Mendoza attributes much of her success to her work ethic and steadfast determination to do her best in all aspects of life. She did not plan on becoming valedictorian initially, but after her sophomore year she decided to set it as a goal.

“I tried to keep myself focused and didn’t settle for less than my goal. I believe fully in the ‘work hard, play hard’ cliché. Also, in order to make it through each week, I would set little goals for myself,” Mendoza said.

On campus, Laura was part of numerous activities including SAFE, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Math Club, Mu Alpha Theta, varsity tennis, Green Up Boone and Chess Club her freshman year.

Mendoza’s favorite part of being in high school was the spirit and energy students showed, especially at football games. She participated in activities such as Polyester Paradise and homecoming week, as her proudest moment in high school was when she dressed up as Amy Winehouse.

One of Mendoza’s favorite teachers was Teresa Tachon, whom she said prepared her for both the AB and BC Calculus exams extremely well. Her other favorite teacher, Carl Overton, captivated her in a way other than teaching.

“Mr. Overton is probably the most genuinely sweet teacher, and even person, that I have ever met,” Mendoza said.

After high school Mendoza plans to attend the University of Florida where she will study medicine. After graduation, however, she is most looking forward to traveling to Ireland and other countries in Europe as well.

photo/MAHA MALIK

GOOSE. During a fire drill, senior Laura Mendoza plays Duck Duck Goose. “My favorite part of being a Boone Brave has been all the spirit and the energy at this school,” Mendoza said. Mendoza advises the underclassman to set their goals for college and not to compromise them.

DEDICATION PROVES KEY TO SUCCESS


senior sectionHistorian); FCA (9, 10 Board Member, 11 Board Member, 12 Captain); Legend Yearbook (11, 12 Ads Editor); National Art Honor Society (12 President); National Honor Society (11, 12); Quill and Scroll (11, 12); Swimming (9, 10, 11, 12); Water Polo (9, 10, 11, 12)

Parris Ryliegh RexroadAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegeWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Owning my own daycare

Diego RobayoAfter high school plans: Part-time job, attend Valencia Community CollegePlanned Major: Computer Science, ProgrammingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Air Force or Marines as an officerInvolvement: NJROTC (9, 10 Petty Officer Third Class, 12 Petty Officer Third Class); Soccer (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity, 11 Varsity Captain)

Courtney Jane Roberts After high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College Planned Major: Education What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Teaching, married and kids Involvement: Best Buddies (12 Treasurer); Bowling Team (10 JV, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsty); Class Council (11); FFEA (11 Historian,

12 President); Powder Puff Football (9, 10, 11, 12); Prom Committee (11); SGA (12); Young Republicans (12 Treasurer)

Tawni RochesterAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working at a successful career and living a good lifeInvolvement: Cheerleading (9 JV, 10 JV); SGA (9, 10)

Nicholas Andrew RobinsonAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: Political ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working as a lawyerInvolvement: BBC (12 Club Member/Anchor); Boone Unique Sports (11); FCA (9, 10, 11, 12); Math Club (10, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (12); National Honor Society (12); Writing Center (12 Consultant)

Coty Lee Moteo RodriguezAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida Planned Major: World Studies, History, ArchaeologyInvolvement: Football (11, 12); Wrestling (11, 12)

Melinda Anne RoseAfter high school plans: Attend Olivet Nazarene University

Planned Major: MarketingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Own my own home and be established in my career, possibly marriedInvolvement: Cheerleading (9 Freshman, 10 JV, 11 JV); FCA (11); Homecoming Committee (11); Lacrosse (12 Varsity); National Honor Society (12); Prom Committee (11); Spanish Honor Society (12)

Nathalie Anabelle RyanAfter high school plans: Attend Florida International UniversityPlanned Major: Criminology/ PsychologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Forensic Psychologist, FBIInvolvement: Chorus (9, 10) Class Council (11); Salsa Club (10)

Sierra SandersAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia, going back to CaliforniaPlanned Major: Film/Cinematography What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Traveling, filming/producing Involvement: Bravettes (9, 10)

Victoria ScottAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegeWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Happily married with a successful jobInvolvement: Class Council (9, 10,

11); Prom Committee (11); SGA (12 Historian)

Randall Trent ShortAfter high school plans: Attend William Penn University What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be active in the JAG corpsInvolvement: Football (9 Freshman, 10 JV Captain, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity Captain); Weightlifting (11, 12)

Ryan Boone SimpsonAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State University Planned Major: BusinessWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Operate a youth summer campInvolvement: Basketball (9 Freshman, 10 JV, 11 JV Captain/Varsity, 12 Varsity Captain); Class Council (9, 10, 11, 12); FCA (9, 10, 11, 12 President); German Club (10, 11 Treasurer); Math Club (9, 10, 12); SAFE (9, 10, 11, 12 President); Swimming (11 Varsity, 12 Varsity); Volleyball (10 JV Captain, 11 Varsity, 12 Varsity Captain) Advice: Be faithful to what you believe in, be constant in your actions, appreciate your friends, have no regrets, be respectful to your peers and seize opportunities, always making the most of your days.

Eric William SloanAfter high school plans: Professional

Always try hard, never give up and be persistent in what you want to do.

- justin knight

Good luck on a great senior year. Congratulations on a great junior year, you all deserve it!

Robert HallEconomy Car & Truck Sales

904 W. Michigan St.Orlando, FL 32805

Caleb Amy, Charlie Babir, David Ballard, Darah Barnes, Caley Brock, Tommy Boyd, Cinzia Calabretta, Wesley Caplan, Brody Dawkins, Taylor Dudley, Steven Espinosa, Gino Fakhoury, Carisa Gidel, Haley Guiette, Alex Hall, Brendan Hall, Nicky Hall, Caroline Harding, JL Hines, Connor Hungerford, Tyler Johnson, Kyle Jones, Walker Jordan, Justin Kane, Matty Love, Kaitlyn Mangold, Samantha Marozzi, David Matteson, Samantha Mills, Alix Murray, Connor Meredith, Emily Oswald, Catherine Porter, Tony Ray, Joel Robertson,Tyler Roland, Clay Townshend, Mackenzie Sexton, Clayton Walker, Jonny Warren, Thompson Wood, Natalie Zeitler

senior section


baseball, attend Bethune-Cookman UniversityWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Playing baseball for the Yankees

Jordan SmithAfter high school plans: Pursue performing arts and acting, attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Vocal PerformanceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Singing in your arenas and acting on the screen at your movie theaterInvolvement: Chorus (9); Concert Choir (10, 11, 12); Drama (10 Kander and Ebb Cabaret Musical, 11 Seussical the Musical, 12 You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown); Thespian Districts and State (10, 11, 12); Tri-M (12)

Joshua Daniel SmithAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida Planned Major: Film/Broadcast JournalismWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be a film directorInvolvement: BBC (11 President, 12 President); Boone Unique Sports (12 Secretary); German Honor Society (11); National Honor Society (12); Social Justice Club (12); TV Production (9, 10)Advice: In the midst of all your homework and stress, seriously live up your senior year… it will be the greatest time of your life.

Nathaniel Craig StigerAfter high school plans: Attend The American Musical and Dramatic AcademyPlanned Major: Musical TheaterWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Performing on BroadwayInvolvement: Chorus (9); Concert Choir (10, 11, 12); Drama (9, 10, 11 Advanced, 12 Advanced); KEY Club (11); Musical Theater (10); SAFE Ambassador (11, 12); UCF Crop (9, 10)Advice: People will talk about you all of your life and probably there after. Regardless of what they say, do not ever let them tell you that you cannot do something. I am proof that as long as you never give up, you truly can do anything.

Michael Stringer-BrattonAfter high school plans: Attend St. John’s UniversityPlanned Major: Political Science and MarketingWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Political AnalystInvolvement: Senior Class (12); SGA (12); Varsity Basketball (12)

Kai Lee Suganuma After high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: EngineeringInvolvement: Band (9, 10); Boone Unique Sports (12 Vice President); Cross Country (11, 12); Math Club (10, 11, 12); Math Center (12);

We are not here to merely make a living. We are here to enrich the world!

- jasmine white

Mu Alpha Theta (11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12); Quiz Bowl (12)

Kyle SuarezAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia/college in GeorgiaPlanned Major: Veterinary MedicineWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be a veterinarian in GeorgiaInvolvement: Football (9 Freshman); Lacrosse (9 JV); Wrestling (10, 11)

Matthew R. SveumAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Digital MediaWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Living and having a career as an animatorInvolvement: Anime Club (10, 11); National Honor Society (11, 12)

Stephanie Taczak After high school plans: A.S. at Valencia Community College/University of Central Florida for veterinary technical schoolPlanned Major: Veterinary ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Be a vet TechInvolvement: DECA (12); Drama (9); Volleyball (9 Freshman/JV, 10 JV)

Barrissa Patrice Taylor After high school plans: Attend Florida Atlantic University Planned Major: Business

What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Living on my own with a good jobInvolvement: Boone Dance Crew (9, 10); Color Guard (10, 11 Captain, 12 Captain); National Honor Society (12); Winter Guard (10, 11 Captain, 12 Captain) Alanah Marie Thompson After high school plans: Attend Valencia Community College/University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Pre-Medicine What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Beginning my own practice and married

Taylor ThompsonAfter high school plans: Attend Howard University, become a surgeonPlanned Major: Chemistry/PharmacyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Being an internInvolvement: Basketball (9, 10); Information Society (9, 10); Marching Band (9, 10, 11, 12 Saxophone Section Leader); Math Club (9, 10, 11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (11, 12); National Honor Society (12); Operation Smile (11 Treasurer, 12); Spanish Club (9, 10); Spanish Honor Society (10, 11, 12 President); Tri-M (11, 12)

Zachary Seth ThompsonAfter high school plans: Attend University of FloridaPlanned Major: History

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senior section

#1 unweighted Emily O’Loane

Newspaper editor chooses Duke

By BRENDAN HALLAs a member of the newspaper staff and cross country team

for three and four years, respectively, senior Emily O’Loane established a foundation of friends that would support her through her high school career.

“My friends are my favorite people at Boone. They’re so goofy and funny, and we’ve been in the same classes since freshman year. They’re some of the funniest people I know,” O’Loane said.

O’Loane is the editor-in-chief for the newspaper staff and enjoys it because it provides her with the opportunity to write more, which is something she loves. Conveniently, the class is taught by Renee Burke, O’Loane’s favorite teacher.

“Mrs. Burke is an amazing person and so dedicated to her students and helping us succeed,” O’Loane said.

However, her favorite class was AP European history with Christina Bay-Bay Bykov.

“It was the first AP class I took, and all the students were nervous, but the people in my class made it a lot of fun; plus, Ms. Bykov is one of the best teachers at Boone because she knows so much and makes it feel like a college class,” O’Loane said.

As far as college, O’Loane had a choice between four colleges: the University of Florida, Duke, Boston College and Bowdoin. After deliberating, O’Loane ultimately decided on Duke both for its beauty and its strong academic record. She is unsure of what her major will be, but knows she is interested in either history or English.

O’Loane’s family has had the biggest influence on her success in high school. Although she labels herself as a natural procrastinator, she said that her brother has been a driving force behind her in a more unconventional way.

“My older brother was super lazy, but he achieved a lot, and that served as my motivation to be better,” O’Loane said.

Through her success, O’Loane has learned to keep things in perspective and advises the underclassmen to do the same.

“Don’t get caught up in being perfect or being the best, just have fun,” O’Loane said.

photo/DAVID MATTESON

CHIEF OF STAFF. Getting her picture taken for the paper, Emily O’Loane jokes with the other staffers. “I love the newspaper staff because it introduces me to interesting people I never would have met otherwise,” O’Loane said. This was O’Loane’s third year on staff and second year as an editor.

STORIED ACADEMICS PROVE TOO PERSUASIVE

My older brother was super lazy, but he achieved a lot, and that served as motivation to be better.

What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Teaching history or living in another countryInvolvement: Class Council (12 Vice President); FCA (9, 10, 11); Football (9 Freshman); Love Letters (10, 11); Mascot (12); Social Justice Club (11, 12); Spanish Club (9, 10); TOMS Shoes Representative (11, 12); Track (9, 10)

Amanda Lynn ToddAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State UniversityPlanned Major: Engineering Involvement: Latin Club (9, 10); Math Club (9, 10, 11, 12); Mu Alpha Theta (11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12 Officer); Social Justice Club (11, 12 Treasurer); Volleyball (9 Freshman, 10 JV)

Estefania TrujilloAfter high school plans: Attend Seminole State College of Florida then New York University Planned Major: Public Relations/JournalismWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years:

Working at a fashion magazineInvolvement: Best Buddies (11); ESOL Newsletter (9, 10); French Club (11)

Leryn R. TurlingtonAfter high school plans: Attend Florida State University or Boston ConservatoryPlanned Major: Musical TheatreInvolvement: Chorus (9, 10, 11, 12); Drama (9, 10, 11, 12)

Emily Uncapher After high school plans: Attend Auburn UniversityPlanned Major: International Business Involvement: Information Society (9); Math Club (9, 10); Mu Alpha Theta (12 Historian); National Honor Society (11); Soccer (9, 10, 11); Spanish Club (10); Spanish Honor Society (11)

Sergio UribeAfter high school plans: Attend Florida Atlantic UniversityPlanned Major: Political ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working with the government or

federal law enforcement agencyInvolvement: Boone Police Cadet (9, 10 Lieutenant, 11, 12 Senior Squad); Class Council (10, 11, 12)

Sebastian VasquezAfter high school plans: Attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityPlanned Major: Air Traffic ManagementWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Working as Air Traffic Controller, Having a familyInvolvement: Soccer (10 Varsity)

Joshua Walker After high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: BusinessWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Own my own businessInvolvement: Lacrosse (10 JV)

Jessica Wargo After high school plans: Attend Seminole State College of Florida, Valencia Community College or Florida Atlantic University

Planned Major: BusinessInvolvement: LDECA Fashion Show (11, 12)

Jasmine C. White After high school plans: Attend University of Central Florida or Webster UniversityPlanned Major: Criminal Justice/ Forensic ScienceWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Running track in the Olympics and being a crime investigator working in the forensic fieldInvolvement: Basketball (9 Freshman, 10 JV, 11 JV, 12 Varsity); Criminal

Justice Magnet (9); French Club (12); Step Team (12 Secretary and Historian); Track (10 Manager, 11, 12 Co-captain)Words of advice: Keep your head up and keep moving forward. There’s nothing you can’t do if you try, and nothing is hard unless you make it. Everything is in your reach; you just got to want it.

Brianna Williams After high school plans: Attend University of South FloridaPlanned Major: CriminologyWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Owning several businesses and being an entertainment lawyerInvolvement: Boone Police Cadets (9, 10, 11, 12); National Honor Society (11, 12); SAFE Ambassadors; SADD (9, 10, 12); Spanish club (9, 10, 11, 12); Step Team (9)

Devante Wilson Planned Major: Business Administration What you hope to be doing in 10 years: Making millionsInvolvement: Class council (9); Marching Band (9, 10, 11); Football (12 Varsity)

Chrystal Anne WisiakAfter high school plans: Attend University of Central FloridaPlanned Major: Sports MedicineWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Athletic TrainerInvolvement: Math Club (12); Mu Alpha Theta (12); Softball (9 Varsity, 10 Varsity)

Jamie Nicole WoodAfter high school plans: Attend Western Carolina UniversityPlanned Major: Physical TherapyInvolvement: Basketball (9 JV, 10 JV, 11 JV, 12 Varsity); Class Council (10); Spanish Club (11); Sports medicine (9, 10, 11, 12)

Andreina Elizabeth ZambranoAfter high school plans: Attend Valencia Community CollegeWhat you hope to be doing in 10 years: Finishing medical school and opening my own practice Involvement: Health Care Academy (10, 11)

GENE LARKIN TRIBOU

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senior section


photo/THOMAS BOYD

JEOPARDY. At a Quiz Bowl match, seniors Ryan Kobert, Patrick Lauer and Kai Suganuma answer a question. “My favorite teacher was Ms. Bykov. She knows everything,” Suganuma said.

Math whiz likes to quizVALEDICTORIAN ENJOYED JEOPARDY-LIKE COMPETITION

By EMILY O’LOANEWith buzzer in hand, senior Kai Suganuma waits to answer a

question during a Quiz Bowl match. “I actually like Quiz Bowl. I had a lot of fun joking around,”

Suganuma said. Suganuma began participating in

Quiz Bowl his senior year; with his help, the team made it to the championship tournament before losing to the number one seed in the first round of play.

Other than Quiz Bowl, Suganuma ran cross country three years and was an active member of Math Club for four years as well as being in National Honor Society. Suganuma is also in his sixth year as a Boy Scout in Troop 24. He is currently working to become an Eagle Scout by refurbishing an area of Ferncreek Elementary School.

Before he got into high school, Suganuma was not a star student. The first year he got straight A’s was eighth grade.

“[Becoming valedictorian] just kind of happened. Studying and having smart friends to have study sessions with is what made me successful in high school,” Suganuma said.

Suganuma will graduate with over 10 college credits. Despite being academically successful, Suganuma says his parents still worry about his grades.

“They are very encouraging in my studies and very worried about my grades. I never went to them for help, but they were always on my case,” Suganuma said.

Suganuma plans to attend the University of Florida next year and to get a degree in chemical engineering. He also was accepted into Georgia Tech University.

“UF was the only school who had a chemical engineering major with a chemistry minor. I plan to go to graduate school after that. I am most looking forward to my career in the future, even though I have no idea what it will be. I’ve considered majoring in physics too in college and becoming an astrophysicist,” Suganuma said.

Because of his strong academic record and the opportunities it awarded him, Suganuma’s advice to underclassmen is to remain focused on academics.

“Stay on track. Have fun because it is high school and make sure your priorities are straight,” Suganuma said.

By EMILY O’LOANEFor senior Erica Mayer, the day she has been

looking forward to since her first day of high school is approaching.

“My proudest moment at Boone is just knowing that I finally made it [to graduation] and that my

class is about to graduate. My favorite part of my senior year so far was the feeling when I finally knew what college I was going to because I don’t have to worry about it anymore,”

Mayer said. “My favorite part of being a Boone Brave was knowing that it was almost time to leave for college.”

Mayer will attend the University of Central Florida next year and major in either political science or

mathematics. Mayer is the salutatorian

of the senior class, which means she has the highest

weighted grade point average with one B. Mayer did not know

what a salutatorian was until she achieved it.

“I don’t know what made me successful in high school because I never actually tried. Everything just kind of happened. I didn’t even know there was such a thing as a salutatorian; I thought I was in the clear [because I wasn’t going to be a valedictorian], but then they

were like ‘No, you still have to make a speech’,” Mayer said.

Mayer’s favorite part of high school was meeting people in her classes, especially her “less hardcore” ones.

“My friends made Boone a lot more fun because we did a lot of crazy things, and it cancelled out all the homework,” Mayer said.

Other than school and academics, Mayer enjoys playing the guitar and going for walks.

“I love getting out with my friends and just doing something,” Mayer said.

For underclassmen, Mayer advises a preventative measure to what she believes is a prominent issue.

“My advise is to put tin foil around your head so the government can’t read your mind,” Mayer said.

Collegiate future

motivates student

#1 unweighted Kai Suganuma

Stay on track. Have fun because it is high school and make sure your priorities are straight.

#10 unweighted Erica Mayersalutatorian

My friends made Boone a lot more fun because we did a lot crazy things, and it cancelled out all the homework.

#1 unweighted Russell Van

By EMILY O’LOANEEven after scoring a perfect score on the

reading portion of the SAT and maintaining a perfect grade-point average throughout high

school, senior Russell Vann never meant to become a valedictorian.

“I guess [I was successful in high school because] I always did my work as best as I could, and I didn’t stop until I was satisfied with it,” Vann said.

Vann was an active member of Math Club and Spanish Club throughout high school. He also ran junior varsity cross country for three years and track for two years. Because of his heavy workload at school, Vann used running as an outlet to relax.

“Cross country was a really fun group of people and gave me something to do to push myself. [I like

running because] it burns off energy and stress. I have one hour to not think about anything,” Vann said.

Vann’s favorite classes were his history classes, his favorite being Advanced Placement European History, which he took his sophomore year. He also enjoyed

Runner excels in classroomSTUDENT ACHIEVES ATHLETICALLY

his AP U.S. History course. “Mr. Dorman [is my favorite teacher] because he

is really funny and made class really interesting with all his facts about history,” Vann said.

Vann recommends all underclassmen to push themselves in high school.

“Take as many hard classes as you can so that you can have a hard schedule but still have fun. Join clubs and sports you enjoy,” Vann said.

Vann remains undecided about what he would like to major in. He was accepted into the University of Florida, Georgetown and Notre Dame, and will attend UF in the fall.

“In my future, I am most looking forward to the freedom to do what I want, pick my own job, live wherever I want and overall do whatever I want,” Vann said.

I am most looking forward to the freedom to do what I want

page 18 hilights.org

prom

May 14, 2010

STRIKE A POSE. During the Macarena, senior Taylor Thompson strikes a pose. “The theme was very cool and the acrobats were very good entertainment at dinner,” Thompson said. Thompson’s most memorable moment was Mr. Undieme’s goodbye in the senior video.

GET YOUR GROOVE ON. Moving to the beat, senior Benjamin Romulus snaps his fingers during one song. “[The most memorable moments] were the group dances like the electric slide,” Romulus said. Romulus thought the dinner this year was exceptionally tasty.

CLUTCH. During a Spanish-inspired song, junior Jalen Taylor dances with Assistant Principal Carlota Iglesias. “[I enjoyed the music at prom] because it was more 90s. It was nice to hear all the oldies again,” Taylor said. Taylor’s favorite part of prom was watching the silk aerial artists perform.

HOLD TIGHT. In the midst of a slow song, senior Megan Raitano dances with her date, senior Matthew Slason. “My most memorable moment was dancing to ‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing’ by Aerosmith because it holds a lot of memories for me and my friends,” Raitano said. Later that night she won “Most Likely to Change the World” as a senior superlative.

The best part was when everyone started dancing. It made it feel like everyone was enjoying themselves.

- breonna morgan, senior

[My favorite part] was the trapeze act. It was a lot of fun to watch.

- andrew hungerford, junior

ON PROM 2010

JUMP AROUND. Hands in the air, senior Nicole Wallace dances to the music. “I liked how the music wasn’t all club music, it was stuff I could jump around and have fun to,” Wallace said. Wallace’s favorite part of prom was the senior video.

page 19

prom

hilights.org May 14, 2010

Story By CATHERINE PORTERPhotos By KATIE EDWARDS

As the silk billowed around their bodies, the aerial artists twisted in mid-air 20 feet above the dance floor. The dull thump of the bass sounded as a mass of elegantly dressed people flooded the room, searching for their seats. Set to the theme of Cirque

du Soleil, the 2010 prom was seen as the school’s most detailed one yet.

“We started working on [prom] in the beginning of the summer. I think everything just came out great; I felt a sense of accomplishment and we all worked really hard,” Junior Class secretary Sarah Daly said.

Departing from tradition, the entertainment included more than the senior video, DJ and dancing. Instead, the committee of 16 brought in silk aerial artists and stilt walkers to carry out the theme.

“I thought prom was very good. I loved how we had [silk aerial artists]. I thought they were cool,” junior Kristen England said.

Junior Class proudly presents

SPIN CITY. Twirling her dress, senior Victoria Bradley (at left) dances with her date at prom. “[The most memorable moment] was dancing with all of my friends together since it’s our last dance and just having a ball with everything,” Bradley said. Bradley has been to three proms.

WALKING TALL. As the stilt walkers encompassed the room, one pulled senior Leydis Montero from the tables to join him on the dance floor. “I enjoyed the theme of prom; It was carried out well,” Montero said. Six stilt walkers helped carry out the Cirque du Soleil theme.

superlatives


Senior class recognizes personality

Mr. BHS and Ms. BHS

Logan Opsahl and Leah Harding

Most Changed Since Freshman YearConner Beaty and Davis Harper

By KAREN JAEN

From those who have abundant musical talent to those one could take home to mom, the Senior Class presented 20 different senior superlatives at prom, on May 1.

The class of 2010 voted on the superlatives. Only 25 percent of the senior class voted online from May 19-23. Seniors class hopes more people will take the time to vote next year.

“[We do superlatives because it’s] a tradition. It’s a nice thing to do,” Senior class Sponsor Sarah Kittrell said.

For students who showed pride for their school or those students who spent their high school career cracking jokes and amusing others, they have been rightfully awarded with an Oscar.

“I love Boone and I am so excited about calling it my Alma Mater. I had an awesome senior year and prom was definitely the cherry on top. I am honored that my peers have chosen me to represent the Boone seniors,” Ms. BHS, Leah Harding said.

Most Spirited Jacqueline

Dejarnette and William McCormac

Most AthleticCourtney Capehart

and Alexander

Bisbee

Best StyleDaquan Benjamin and Ashley Hilmer

Most Notable LaughTaylor

Reeves and Corry Maguire

Best SmileByron Scott and Carolina Garcia

Most ScholasticKathleen Chitty and

Ryan Kobert

Personality PlusLaura Ramiz and Christopher Lumbert

Most Artistic Garrett Furth and

Nicole Regan

Best to Bring

Home to MomEmily

O’Loane and Ryan Simpson

Most Likely to Brighten Your DayAlana Harrison and James Parker

Most MusicalArthur Ugalde and Leryn Turlington

Most Flirtatious

Lindsey Roberts and

Sebastian Carmona

Best Dressed at Prom Colby Sanders and

Mallory Dickson

Most Likely to Change the WorldZachary Thompson and Megan Raitano

Class ClownErica Mayer and Syed

Khan

Senior Section

Documents

college degree

university of mississippi

fouryear university

final options

senior elizabeth girdley

financial aid options

board membericc rep

historianicc rep