The JagRoar: April 2016 Edition

This Edition:

Seniors Struggle On: Ashley Domogala elaborates on senioritis, Page 2

WHS Band Travels to Canada: Students experience new culture, Page 4

Earth Day: Students celebrate planet with good habits, Page 5

Political Roundup: Find out where each candidate stands on important issues, Page 8

Pastry Arts: Fun and challenging class, Page 10

Kobe Goes Out With a Bang: Basketball stars ends career, Page 11

The Raptor: Windham’s track star, Page 12

What Will Windham Wear? This year’s prom dress styles, Page 14

Pageant Queen: Kaley Missert gets ready for Miss New Hampshire, Page 18

Photo by Brittany MissertSeniors Leyla Desjardin and Brian Mader model.

Story continues on Page 5 Photo spread on Pages 6-7

Students Hit the Runway$20,000 raised in STYLES and SMILES

Charity Fashion Show

ROARThe Jag APRIL 19, 2016

By Brittany MissertJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM- The 7th Annual STYLES and SMILES Breast Cancer Charity Fashion show was produced on Saturday, April 16 at 6:30p.m. It is the big event the SMILES club, led by Mr. Matt Bryant and Mrs. Kaleigh Davis, puts on every year.

“We start planning in early November,” Mr. Bryant said. “It takes about 5 months to plan, and in the end, it’s all worth it. It’s great to see the community come together and support something like this. It’s mostly student led at this

point, which is a great experience for the kids to participate in something bigger than themselves.”

“I like doing this show every year because I started it in the beginning with Mr. Mancinelli, and I’ve known a few people throughout my life who have experienced and fought with breast cancer. I’m in it to end it,” said Bryant.

The event on Saturday was hosted by Senior William Carpenter and Junior Kacie Flahive, and started off with a cheer routine performed by the Windham Wolverines.

Seniors Struggle On The struggle with senioritis continues on. As we get closer to

the end of the year, the disease gets more infectious, just like the sinus infections and strep throat that have affected some of the school’s population. I can personally attest to the terribleness of having different medical problems each week, from strep throat to a sinus infection that won’t GO AWAY to a sprained thumb (be careful around doors).

If you’re curious what senioritis is, here are some of the symptoms I have both experienced and observed:

• Not being able to find a pencil• Casually strolling into school 10 minutes

after the bell rang• Forgetting to go to school• Walking out of the room because you

don’t want to take a test• Watching T.V. instead of doing homework• Forgetting what “homework” is• Refusing to do work in class because

there’s “only 15 minutes left”• Not caringIf you are experiencing these symptoms, seek

help. Quickly. I suggest simply talking to a panicking under-classmen, preferably a junior, whose grades still show up on the transcript they will send to colleges.

In other news, seniors are picking their paths. Some have com-mitted to service in the military, a vast majority have committed

to colleges, and still others have decided to go directly into the workforce. No matter what path anyone has chosen, I wish them the best of luck.

I myself am in the midst of picking which college I want to go to, just like a few others members of the senior class. Although it seems like everyone I know has already decided on a college, I still have until May 1, the national decision deadline. I, like any

expert procrastinator, understand that means I can wait to make my decision until April 30 at about 10 p.m. (Sorry, Dad.)

After the senior class makes our decisions about our future, we simply have to get through AP exams if we took an AP class, and then we have so many things to look forward to. There is prom on May 27, of course, but also a Red Sox game to go to on June 5, our class trip to the beach on June 8, and finally, graduation. Graduation, the day we’ve been counting down to from the start of the school year (52 days from the day this is being published on April 19, if anyone’s curious). Graduation, finally offi-cially confirmed to be June 10 at 6pm. It’s just

around the corner; I can practically see it on the horizon, taste the freedom, touch the diploma.

However, we still have 1 month and 22 days to get through. We’ve got to keep it together until the end. Keep your heads in the game. We’ve come too far to fail out now.

EDITORIAL

Ashley Domogala

There It Is! The Light at the End of the Tunnel!Seniors: As of April 19, there are 52 school

days left until graduation. Everyone else: 59 days. But who’s counting?

I am. Not gonna lie.Don’t get me wrong - I love

Windham High School, and all the time I spend here during our school year. I love the students, my co-workers, and the fun classes and events that happen every day.

But I really love summer. And this year, I need summer.

If you’ve been reading my column over the course of the year, you’re well aware that I have strug-gled with stress. And if you’ve been in my classroom, you know I’m not alone in that struggle - the penguin on my whiteboard, drawn by news editor Brittany Missert to represent what students are feeling, is just about always going through the same stress as me.

I think it’s safe to say that it’s been a stressful year for all of us.

But every April, there’s a sudden sense that all of the things on my plate are actually going to

get done. Why? Because summer is fast approaching. I can suddenly and thankfully see the light at the end of the tunnel.

We will come back from April break to a mere month and a half of school. AP tests will be complete in the first two weeks, then seniors will wrap up their finals. Spring sports will suddenly be in full sea-son. Plants will bloom. The snow will (we can only hope) go away at last.

So to make it to April 22nd is like making it to the last mile of a marathon: you can see the finish line. So close. One final push to the end.

That light in the tunnel is going to get brighter and brighter for the next 59 days (or 52 for our parting seniors). So bask in it, Jags. We’re almost there.

Jag OpinionTHE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 2

EDITORIAL

Mrs. Ash

Table of ContentsOpinion - 2News - 4

Academics - 10Sports - 11

Features - 14Activities - 19

Get the latest editions online!

Follow us onFacebook:

facebook.com/whsjagroar

THE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 3OPINION

“I’m going to Disney World with Amanda Smith and Michelle

McAllister.”-Regan Krizan, freshman

“Just going on college visits and hanging out.”

-Emily Moore, junior

“Just hanging out with my friends.”-Jake Cragen, freshman

“Relaxing and hanging out with my friends and family.”

-Tessa Bellavia, freshman

What Are Your Plans for April Vacation?

Do We Really Have a Choice?

By Taylor MendesJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM - All year round, the guidance department has given us juniors the information and requirements to get into college. It is a very stressful time for a student. You need to decide what college you want to go to and what major you want to pursue. For me, I have some options already picked out for my future. But some students do not know what they really want.

At least every month, the guidance department has held assemblies to remind us about this information. They talk about requirements for class graduation, college admissions, and internship opportunities. This school strives for excellence in their students, and that is not a bad thing. But by pushing this information onto us makes us question how we truly feel about going to college.

Some students say to me that they either want to go to a successful college or a com-munity college, and some do not even want

to go to college at all. But yet, guidance seems to create stress and pressure for us to decide so quickly.

For example, in their last assembly, they told the juniors that it was acceptable that they wanted to go to community college or not go at all. But then later they described how it is mandatory for juniors to sign up for the Common Core Application so they could send your information out to every school in the country. By doing this, it can create a lot of stress for a student who still has no clue of what they want.

The information that they give us every month is useful and can be very helpful for students to have when deciding what they want. But the way it is coming across is very forceful and stressful to take in. Do not get me wrong, guidance is trying their very best to help us achieve our goals and get us into success, but I believe that they way they are doing it should be changed, especially for kids who would rather not want to worry about college right now. Take it from my experience!

PERSPECTIVE

JagRoar Staff

Ashley DomogalaEditor-in-Chief

Mrs. Katherine AshClub Adviser

Brittany MissertGeneral News Editor

Paige EspositoOpinion Editor

Taylor MendesFeatures Editor& Photographer

Nick TaurasActivities Editor

Katey VestaPR & Co-Marketing

Editor

Rachael PageAcademics &

Co-Marketing Editor

Matt PetrySports Editor

Copy Editors:Amanda AkkerBella PfeifferKatey Vesta

Staff Writers:Amanda AkkerBilly FischerAllie Millard

Rachael PageMatt Petry

Bella PfeifferBen Whitehead

The struggle of college decisions as a junior

Created by Brittany Missert

Penguin Problems

Contact the newspaper staff at [email protected] for story ideas or news.

Have a question, comment, or concern? Send it in!

Jag NewsTHE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 4

Photo courtesy of Eileen HughesThe interior of the Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal, where the WHS Choir performed.

WHS Band and Choir Travels to CanadaBy Nick TaurasJagRoar Staff

QUEBEC - The Windham High School Concert Band and Choir have just returned from a six-day trip, from Mar. 31 until Apr. 5, to the Province of Quebec, Canada. During the trip, students spent three days in Quebec City and then two days in the city of Montreal.

Senior band member Cierra Cowan, shared how her favorite moment was “exploring a new culture and language.” She added, “I really enjoyed the chance to make new friends with high school students in Quebec, and learn about their lives.”

During the trip, they were able to expe-rience the different culture of Canada with

the help of the two tour guides Chuck and Danny from Encore Tours. They were able to make the experience very educational and interesting with all of their knowledge about Quebec City and Montreal.

Mr. Jared Cassedy, Director of K-12 Fine Arts and Windham High School Con-cert Band Director, said his favorite part of the trip was “getting the chance to connect with my students outside of school and to make music for the pure joy of mak-ing music. There was so much focus on togetherness and camaraderie.”

The Band and Choir both had a chance to perform at the L’Eglise Nativite de Beaumont in Quebec City. The Choir had the opportunity to perform at the No-tre-Dame Basilica in Montreal.

Choir student Bridget Ergin, a sopho-

more at WHS, shared that her most mem-orable moment was “getting to perform in the Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal.” The Band and Choir both had outstanding performances and were able to meet some new people and make new friends.

Mr. Cassedy said, “The sound of our ensemble just filled the entire space and there was such passion and energy in our playing.”

The Band and Choir had an amazing time in Canada and would like to send a sincere thank you to the school admin-istration, teachers, and parents for their support to send the WHS Concert Band and Choir to Canada for this outstanding trip and cultural experience.

Note: JagRoar staff member Nick Tau-ras is part of the WHS Band.

Students explore new culture and connect through music

Story continued from Page 1

THE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 5NEWS

Windham Gears Up to Celebrate Earth Day

By Amanda AkkerJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM - Friday, April 22 brings the annual Earth Day. This event to show respect and support for a healthy earth first started in 1970 as proposed in a conference in San Francisco. Now celebrated worldwide in 196 countries, even students and adults in Windham High School plan to take part in the holiday.

“The Go Green Club is organizing a day during Earth Day weekend to clean up the campus and all the trash we see,” said Junior Kacie Flahive, member of the Go Green Club. “I focus on recycling and try my best to stay away from materials that harm the environment.”

Every year, Earth Day activities greatly increase recycling efforts, which reduce waste by use of reusable materials. Earth Day focuses on additional harms to the environment such as industrial pollu-tion and global warming.

However, the high school currently does not have recycling system in effect.

“Kids throw away everything, includ-

ing materials that can be reused,” said Custodian Mr. Dave McCarthy. “Although in many cases, the garbage place separates out the trash, when cups or other contain-ers that have liquid or food in them are thrown away, because of what is in them, they cannot be recycled. This results in tons of waste every day. I try, and want

students, to recycle and compost as much as they can. Anything like paper to aluminum can be recycled.”

Many members of the Go Green Club are hoping for ways for the school to incorporate recycling into the system, therefore reducing tons of waste thrown from students and teachers every day.

Although Earth Day is a successful day to raise awareness and support for the Earth, one should respect the earth yearlong in any ways possible.

“I bring a reusable water bottle ev-ery day,” sophomore Anna Desjardin said. “If there is enough light, I usually use natural light instead of turning on a light. Also, I try to conserve as much water as I can.”

After Earth Day originally launched, various acts were passed to aid in im-proving the environment. These include

the Clean Water Act (1977) and Water Quality Act (1987) which focus on water pollution and the importance of conserv-ing water.

As Earth Day comes up, see what you can do to participate in the event to help keep our planet healthy.

Photo courtesy of panampost.com

Different takes on what it means to go green

Students Hit the RunwayFollowing that performance, models

walked the runway sporting different en-sembles from T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, Black Moose Country Store, and Bench.

“I’ve been helping run this event for the past four years now,” said Alana Haggerty, a senior, as she got ready to go on the stage. “I’m very excited. Right now, I’m wearing a blue dress from T.J. Maxx, so I’m in the first set. It’s a bit bittersweet though, since it’s my last time. I know it will be a great show though.”

After the clothes from those sponsors were modeled, a large crowd of Junior Jags came out to walk the runway while wearing various shades and styles of pink.

The second act started with a perfor-mance from the Londonderry Dance Academy. A crowd favorite from last year also returned to the stage again. The international wear portion featured a Bol-lywood dance performance from the Sheth

family, Maddy Bursell, Carli Rubery, and Joe Zollo. After the riveting performance, the fashion show continued with students and community members modeling outfits from Zuzu’s Petals, Dresses by Sofabella, David’s Bridal, and Men’s Warehouse.

“I’m actually really nervous,” said se-nior Hannah Harootian, who was model-ing a navy blue prom dress from David’s Bridal. “This is my first time doing some-thing like this, so I really hope I don’t trip and fall on my face.”

The event finished off with Shanna Clarke-Pinet, who is currently fighting breast cancer. She said she “thought of her diagnostic as a gift” because she learned to find her voice and have strength. She ended her speech with “cancer physically starts with the word ‘can’, and I believe we CAN find a cure.”

The SMILES fashion show is always very profitable, and since its start 7 years ago, it has help to raise almost $20,000 for breast cancer awareness and research.

Photo courtesy of Jean CampbellWHS senior Mitchell Campbell report-edly participated in the Boston Mara-thon on April 18. He is pictured with his father Chris Campbell. According to the Boston Athletic Association’s web site, which allows users to track runners, Campbell finished in 5:34.28. For more about Campbell’s accom-plishment, check out the next edition of the JagRoar.


STYLES and SMILES

$20,000 raised for breast cancer

awareness and research


Charity Fashion Show

Photos by Brittany MissertClockwise from top left on Page 6: Windham Wolverines;

Nela and Klaudia Klonowski; Alana Haggerty; Mr. and Mrs. Sheth; Bob Klaasens; Sophia Alexandrou and members of the Project Runway team.

Clockwise from top left on Page 7: Jack Crowley and friend; Delaney Shea and Hannah Klaasens; Rachael Page; Middle schoolers; Carli Rubery, Ram Sheth, and Maddy Bursell; Joe Zollo.

Models strut their stuff

Photo courtesy of abcnews.go.com The five current presidential candidates. From left to right: Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, Donald Trump, Ted Cruz and John Kasich.

Political RoundupBy Katey VestaJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM - This year’s presidential primary has caused a lot of turmoil within the country, and will likely continue on this trend well past the general election in November. No matter what, this is going to be an extremely contentious election. However, despite the heavy media cover-age of all the candidates, many people are still unclear as to just what each candidate is fighting for. To clear up this uncertain-ty, take a look at this overview of each candidate’s main points and goals for the country.

Democrats

Hillary Clinton: The former Secre-tary of State and First Lady, Clinton has been heavily involved in the United States government for many years. She has been a registered Democrat for her entire political career. Her main campaign platforms include taking action to prevent gun violence, reforming immigration via better pathways to citizenship, and ensuring rights for the LGBT+ community and racial minorities. Her foreign policy experience and long-standing history of helping minorities has helped her become the current front runner for the Democratic party.

Bernie Sanders: This Vermont senator’s campaign came as a surprise to just about everyone this year. He began his career as Mayor of Burlington, VT, and is currently the only independent (neither Democrat or Republican) senator in Congress. His main issues stem around the wage gap in America: he plans to raise the mini-mum wage, provide universally available health care, and make community college tuition-free. Sanders plans to accomplish this by increasing taxes on Wall Street and on wealthy corporations/individuals. He is very popular amongst young voters.

Republicans

Donald Trump: A well known busi-nessman and celebrity, Trump has gained surprising momentum this election season. He has never before held a political po-sition, yet this has not stopped him from aiming high. His platform centers around increasing security within the United States by strengthening Second Amend-ment rights, preventing further foreign immigration to the country, and repealing liberal legislation such as Obamacare. Very few people expected for his cam-paign to go very far, but he is currently leading the Republican race by a very large margin of delegates. Most of his sup-port comes from people who want politics to be more upfront.

Ted Cruz: Cruz is a senator from Texas, and has a long history of involvement with the federal government. He is a more tra-ditional Republican than Donald Trump, and his campaign goals reflect this. He wants to make government more closely follow the Constitution, strengthen Amer-ica’s military for both domestic and inter-national pursuits, and push for traditional values such as heterosexual marriage and religious freedom. Cruz is presently trailing Trump in delegate count, but he is the favorite candidate among Republicans who denounce Trump for being too much of an outsider.

John Kasich: Kasich, the Governor of Ohio, has been involved in the U.S. gov-ernment since the 1980s. Despite his late entry to the race, he has outlasted many other promising candidates. He is focusing his campaign on increasing defense spend-ing, replacing Obamacare, and balancing the federal budget. Kasich is significantly trailing in the primary elections, having only won his home state of Ohio, but he has pledged to remain in the running until the Republican Convention this summer.

See the next page for a look at how the candidates stack up on the issues voted most important by WHS students in an infographic put together by JagRoar Staff member Bella Pfeiffer.

A look into current candidates’ political platforms for election


THE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 9

By Bella PfeifferJagRoar Staff

NEWS

Pastry Arts:A Piece of Cake?

By Ashley DomogalaJagRoar Staff WINDHAM - Recently, the Pastry Arts class held a cake-decorat-ing competition.

“It’s a very tough class, but it is amazing how much you learn,” said WHS senior and class member Kassi Gagnon.

“The students love the competition, the ability to be creative and set free from a recipe, and love to eat sweet things,” said teacher Mrs. Kay Shoubash. Students compete for a Top Baker award at the end of the year.

The class had two weeks to make their cakes and could deco-rate their cakes however they wanted.

Gagnon’s favorite part of the class since the start of the semes-ter has been “making the cake.” She and Erinne Curtin placed first in the cake-decorating competition with a spring-themed pas-try that looked like a basket filled with flowers. Gagnon said the hardest part of the cake for her was making the basket weaves.

When asked what his favorite part of the class was, senior Peter Caron, another member of the class, replied, “Definitely the

cake-decorating.” Caron and his partner Ted Piandes built a Scoo-by-Doo cake, placing second.

When asked why she joined the class, Gagnon said, “I love baking so I thought I could learn a few things in hopes I could end up selling some goodies for my roommates in college.”

Gagnon recommended the class for “students who really liked Foods (and Nutrition) and/or World Cuisine.”

“It’s a very tough class but it is amazing how much you learn,” Gagnon said.

Students compete in decorating competition

By Rachael PageJagRoar Staff WINDHAM - Windham High School offers several consumer science class to students to take. Ranging from Foods and Nu-trition to Fashion Design, these classes are known to teach “real world” skills, and students are always eager to sign up.

After interviewing students of WHS, the school wide census seemed to be that students like taking a break from their regular classes and having consumer science and art classes to break up their day.

Sarah Bowman, a senior at WHS, said that she enjoyed the consumer science classes Foods and Nutrition and World Cuisine. “I liked both classes, but I enjoyed World Cuisine better,” she said. “We got to learn more advanced skills once the basics were completed in Foods.”

“Interpersonal skills taught me life skills and gave me a broad-er view of the world,” said Erin Pacheco, a senior. She explained

how she liked Mrs. Shoubash’s style of teaching, so it was a class to look forward to.

Mrs. Janet Robbins and Mrs. Kay Shoubash teach most of the consumer science classes. Mrs. Robbins explained that starting next year, Fashion Design and Interior Design will be running every other year. “Since Fashion Design ran this year, Interior Design will run next year,” she said.

“My favorite class to teach is Foods and Nutrition,” said Mrs. Shoubash. “All of the students are new to it, and I love watching them advance throughout the course and watching them get excit-ed about what they achieved.”

Mrs. Shoubash also said she is looking forward to the annual Hummus Challenge for students, as well as catering for guidance and college events. Both Mrs. Robbins and Mrs. Shoubash agreed that they enjoy teaching classes that teach life skills that students can actually use in their everyday lives.

For more information on Consumer Science classes, students should not hesitate to speak to guidance or any of the teachers.

Consumer Sciences Offer Life SkillsClasses that students can use in their everyday lives

Jag AcademicsTHE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 10

Photo courtesy of Erinne Curtin

Jag SportsTHE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 11

Kobe Goes Out With a Bang

By Matt PetryJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM - Kobe Bryant finished his career in the most Kobe way possible.

For most NBA players, dropping 60 points in a single game is a career high that will never be topped. For Kobe, it is just one final jaw-dropping moment on a long list of incredible performances. In his final appearance in the NBA, Kobe gave the world one last vintage Mamba moment.

After 20 NBA seasons, Kobe has finally decided to hang up his jersey and call it a career. Over the course of his legendary career, Kobe won five NBA champion-ships, one MVP, two finals MVPs, was named to eighteen all-star games and eleven all-NBA first teams, among other accolades. Kobe also finished third on the NBA’s all time scoring list, behind Karl

Malone and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, while also becoming the first player to have 30,000 career points and at least 6,000 career assists.

The final few years of Kobe’s career have been riddled with severe injuries and many were not sure he would make it through his final season. As the sea-son progressed the wear and tear he had endured over the years was glaringly evident, and he often looked like a shell of his former self.

But along the way there were moments where Kobe turned back the clock, and none more were more memorable than his final game.

Although it took him fifty shots, Kobe was able to become the oldest player to score 60 points in a game and lead his Lakers to a rare victory over the ever-im-proving Utah Jazz. Throughout the game Kobe showed off all of the skills that made him the legend he is today.

Now that Kobe has finished his career, it seems like an appropriate time to reflect on his legacy.

Kobe will go down as one of the great-est basketball players of all time. Accord-ing to a survey of Windham High School about Kobe conducted by the JagRoar,

83 percent of the people who said they follow basketball believe that Kobe is one of the top ten greatest of NBA players of all time. He has countless accolades and accomplishments that solidify him as a guaranteed first-ballot hall of famer.

Kobe’s legacy goes beyond numbers and awards. He was widely recognized as the face of basketball throughout the 2000’s and was seen by many as this generation’s Michael Jordan. Not since Jordan has a player had such confidence and cockiness combined with the ability and success to back it up.

Kobe Bryant will go down as one of the most beloved yet hated superstars of all time. People hated his cockiness, when he defeated their teams in both the regular season and the playoffs; he often was con-sidered a ball-hog by fans and teammates alike. At the same time, people loved to watch every impossible shot, every awe-inspiring dunk, every clutch moment that made Kobe the legend he is.

Love him or hate him, there is no denying the greatness of Kobe Bryant, and there is no denying that he ended his career on his terms, carrying his team to one last victory and leaving the world with one last vintage Mamba performance.

Basketball star finishes career on high note, leads team to victory with 60 point outing

Photo courtesy of latimes.comKobe Bryant walks off court to adoring fans.

THE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 12SPORTS

The Raptor:

Windham’s Track Star

By Jaime CleasbyJagRoar Correspondent WINDHAM - Alex Jonson or “Raptor”?

Jonson, a senior, has had numerous accomplishments through-out his career, including placing at the Boston Holiday Chal-lenge, the Dartmouth relays, defending his Division 2 state title in hurdles, and becoming Windham’s first athlete to place at the New England Championship. Another notable accomplishment was running in New York at the New Balance Nationals, a very prestigious event.

A teammate of Jonson, senior Hannah Pesci stated, “Alex is an outgoing, kind, and hardworking teammate. I believe Alex got to where he is because he always went the extra mile after practice, on weekends, and even on his own time.”

“He truly does show what it means and what it takes to be a humble, yet incredible leader and teammate,” she said.

Jonson has participated in track throughout high school, and really began to make a name for himself his junior year when he won the Division II state title for the first time. Since then, he has been the competition to beat, and is continuing his track career in college at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

As Mr. Ryan O’Connor, track coach, put it, “Alex is painfully skinny, yet extremely fast,” hence his name “The Raptor.”

Mr. O’Connor also expressed how he believes Alex will com-pete even better in college, because the hurdles are taller and he is better designed for that. He also stated how Jonson had his pick from several Division I schools, but ultimately chose RPI due to their excellence in academics, despite the fact they are a Division III school.

Jonson explained how he was overjoyed about attending RPI next fall. He wants to pursue a degree in computer science, and also keep his competitive edge in track. He said he has always dreamed about running in college while pursuing a degree at a top-notch school, and now his dream is coming true.

As Mr. O’Connor would put it, Jonson is not just a student at school, but also at the sport itself. He discussed how Alex has tru-ly learned to perfect his craft - his biomechanics technique form – as well as appreciate the mental aspect the sport. Mr. O’Connor is extremely excited to see Jonson continue with his improvement and his success.

So many people are hoping that next year, “The Raptor” will be just as intimidating and successful as he is now.

“He approaches each race not with any pressure, but in excite-ment for getting a good race in. He sees it as fun, which is the best approach you can take, it’s a really mature way, and will help him towards even more success,” Mr. O’Connor said.

Hurdler will continue career at RPI

Photo courtesy of Wendy JonsonAlex Jonson at the Dartmouth Relays during the 2015-16 indoor track season.

By Billy FischerJagRoar Staff BOSTON - On Monday, April 11, the Boston Red Sox unfortunately lost their home opener in Fenway Park to the Balti-more Orioles with a final score of 7-9.

The Red Sox started out the game with a 3-run lead, until the Orioles bounced back and struck for five runs in the top of the third inning. Later on in the 4th inning,

the Red Sox came back to tie it up at 5. In the 6th inning, both teams got a run. Everything was going well for the Red Sox until the 9th inning, when the Orioles struck for 3 runs and the Red Sox came back with only one run. Home runs were hit by Mookie Betts (Boston), Chris Davis (Baltimore), and Mark Trumbo (Balti-more). This loss led to the Red Sox sink-ing to a 3-3 record, and kept the Orioles at a perfect record of 6-0.

Red Sox Opener Ends in Loss

Photo courtesy of amazonaws.com

THE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 13SPORTS

By Lexi LewisJagRoar Correspondent WINDHAM - This past summer, while people were hanging out with friends and lying on the beach, Susie Poore was running. Six days a week she ran outside, sometimes up to 13 miles at a time. This dedication to her fitness level was not just a result of self-discipline; to her, it was fun.

“I can’t pin one driving force that keepings me going except for the fact I just love to run,” said Poore, a junior. “There’s some-thing so freeing about it that I can’t find anywhere else. That’s what keeps me going.”

After her freshman and sophomore years dabbling in the sports of basketball and cross-country and sustaining an ankle injury, she seemingly came out of nowhere. Poore began her junior year as a stellar athlete by shattering records and making her mark in the running world.

Poore’s summer prior to her junior year at Windham High School was filled with training on her own. “I wasn’t doing work-outs or anything; I just ran,” she said. “It was quite the shock when cross country began to progress as it did because I certainly wasn’t expecting to do that well.”

“Well” is an understatement. This past cross-country season, Poore did not just break the school record for the 5k, she com-pletely destroyed it with a time of 19:05.6. She ran at the New England Regional championship race and also received the Divi-sion II All-Star Team honor.

Expectations were high as she began the indoor track season this past winter, and again Poore shattered all expectations. She ran a 5:27.59 mile (breaking another school record) and ran at the New England meet, crushing her PR in the 2-mile, running a 11:22:45 (another school record, by a long shot).

Hannah Harootian, friend and teammate of Poore, spoke to her progression as an athlete. “She puts in a lot of work at practice as well as on her own free time. Her consistent motivated and persistent energy inspires me to work hard myself, both at track and in school,” the senior said.

Mr. Ryan O’Connor, who has coached Poore for the past track and cross-country seasons, described her excellent approach to competition. “The bigger the meet, the better she performs,” he said. “She doesn’t let nerves stand in her way.”

Poore explained she is still uncertain as to what the future holds, but she expressed her excitement for the upcoming spring track season. She plans to run in the summer and attend running camps to build up for her three senior year seasons. She ex-plained, “I’d absolutely love to run in college, but it’s still up in the air as to where that might be.”

Poore proves that passion mixed with a commitment to work hard can allow you to achieve things you never once imagined. “If someone told me a year ago from now about the success I would have with running this year, I would’ve thought they were crazy,” she said.

“That proved to me that anything is possible and there’s no way to tell what the future holds,” Poore said.

Susie Poore: HowDoes She

Do It?

Star runner discusses her successPhoto courtesy of newhampshirecrosscountry.com

Jag FeaturesTHE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 14

What Will Windham Wear?By Hope CurtisJagRoar Correspondent WINDHAM - It is that time of year again; Windham High School is getting ready for its seventh prom season. Prom dresses are selling out everywhere, so girls are on the prowl to find the dress of their dreams before it’s too late.

“I need to get on that dress hunt right now!” said senior Brette Miller in March.

All of WHS’ junior and senior class members are invited to this year’s prom on May 27. Hosted by Atkinson Country Club, it will be a night to remember due to the fact it is one of the last nights that the class of 2016 will be together as a whole before graduation.

When it comes to the style of dress, there are several popular designers who control the market. The most prominent names in-clude Sherri Hill, Jovani and La Femme. Each designer adds her own unique flare and touch, making each dress a piece of art.

A senior at WHS, Gabi Aleksa, expressed her opinion about the style and trends of Windham High this year.

“I think that plain fitted black is one of the most popular and so is red lace,” she said.

Aleksa noted how this year’s trend that leans towards red lace and plain black fitted dresses are lacking personality and individ-

ualistic style. This is a major disappointment due to the creative potential involved in the dress shopping process.

Girls at WHS have created a Facebook page called “DON’T STEAL MY PROM DRESS 2016” to eliminate the possibility of two people sharing the same dress. Although this page was created, many of the girls still have the same type of dress, with a slight difference in color and/or design.

Senior Amanda Daly said, “I love the prom dress page; it really gives me a good idea on what the trends are this year. I also like it because everyone can make sure that no one has the same dress and you are able to comment on every picture!”

Prom dresses can be very expensive. The girls at WHS also created another Facebook page called “Prom Dress Sale-Wind-ham 2016” for girls to sell their old dresses from previous proms at a reasonable price. With the supply and demand of formal dresses only spiking at one time of the year, this page allows for older girls to be able to get rid of old dresses and for others to have a wider selection at cheaper prices.

In reality, prom dresses should not be this big of a deal because it is only a four-hour dance. However, the hard facts say other-wise as in some people’s opinion, it is the greatest night of their lives.

As Soirée Prom & Tux’s store manager said, “Prom dress sea-son is the best season.”

Prom goers discuss this year’s dress styles

Photos courtesy of Maddy Workman, Jordan Pellerin, and Ally Mullen via FacebookFrom left to right: Maddy Workman wearing a green sequined dress, Jordan Pellerin wearing a red laced dress, and Ally Mullen wearing a black fitted prom dress.

The ticket given to Sam Mague from officer Shane Mirisola.

THE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 15FEATURES

How to Prepare For Prom

By Emily HoweJagRoar Correspondent

WINDHAM - Every single girl has been dreaming and stressing over their prom day. Everything has to be perfectly planned and organized, or so you thought.

Windham High School’s prom is happening on Friday, May 27 at the Atkinson Country Club, which has been the venue of Windham High School’s proms for the past few years, and will continue to be so because of how successful and enjoyable previ-ous proms have been.

Time management is a key principle in the prom planning pro-cess. Getting many appointments and other prom variables done in advance will help you tremendously.

Amanda Daly, a four-time-prom-going senior at Windham High School, said, “I’ve learned the ways of time management: getting your dress early, making sure your makeup on time, etcetera.”

WHS Principal Mr. Bob Dawson, who has been to 25 proms in his lifetime, said, “The biggest advice I would give people on planning prom is to relax. Prom is a glorified dance. People spend so much time trying to make it the absolute perfect everything, and it’s hardly ever going to work out that way.”

The general prom process can be awfully stressful especially without the guidance of someone who has already been to prom in previous years. With the help and guidance of some upper-classmen that have already been to prom, I have formulated the perfect “how to” to ensure your prom process goes as smoothly as possible.

The first step in the prom process is to find that perfect dress. Your dress should express your personality, be classy, and also memorable.

Amanda Carey, a senior at WHS, said, “I went to get my prom dress at the end of February because I wanted to see the colors that everyone was getting already, and what colors to get and not get.”

The second step in the prom process is to make your appoint-ments. Normally prom day appointments include hair, nails, and makeup. The earlier you schedule your appointments, the better timing it will be on the day of prom. You do not want to add extra stress on a day that is already extremely stressful.

The third step in the prom process is to figure out who you will be going with. You may consider going with your friend, a boyfriend, or some random kid who just decided to ask you, but regardless, make sure you go with people that will make it fun for you. You want to look back at your prom experience without any regrets.

The final step in the prom process is to just simply have fun on the big day. It is extremely hectic, but remember to breathe and enjoy everything as much as you can because you are only in high school once.

A girl’s guide to planning the perfect prom experience

Stop! And Let Me Ask

You to Prom!By Chad DesautelsJagRoar Contributor

WINDHAM - I started by asking Officers Shane Mirisola and Greg Iworsky to help out with my promposal. We went through multiple scenarios we could do. Finally, we came up with the plan to have Officer Mirisola pull Sam Mague over.

I was on the phone 5 minutes before we reached the officers. Once we got on the road near where the officers were set up, I gave the phone to Sam so the officers had a reason to pull her over. Officer Mirisola then came to the win-dow saying she was speeding and on the phone. She was very nervous until she read the ticket that said, “Will you accept my ticket to prom?”

Photos courtesy of Chad Desautels

Officer Iworksy taking a picture of Sam, Chad, and Officer Shane Mirisola.

The final photo of Sam Mague and Chad Desautels along with Officer Shane Mirisola.


Batman vs. Superman: Superflop?

By Brittany MissertJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM - In a survey sent out to the student body and faculty via email, 49% thought Batman would win a fight between the two superheroes, while 37% thought Superman would win and 14% just didn’t care.

The much awaited Batman vs. Super-man: Dawn of Justice movie, directed by Zack Snyder, debuted across the world on Mar. 25. Since then, it has made headlines with its box office ratings (it was just past $700 million as of 4/8/16, according to variety.com) and its scathing reviews from critics. Rotten Tomatoes, a film critique website, gave it a 29% rating, which is grossly under average for any superhero movie.

In the same survey, 69 out of the 219 re-spondents said they have seen the movie, and from that 69, about half of the respon-dents liked it and the other half did not.

Jon Ferri, a senior, said, “I didn’t like it because it jumped around too much for me and it was not a consistent story line. If you go to see a 2-hour blockbuster,

you don’t want to see a 2-hour preview for whatever’s coming next. It was too serious. I actually ended up falling asleep halfway through.”

Mr. Michael Munsey, the school’s Latin teacher felt similar, saying, “There were way too many story lines and confusing details. I thought it was too dark. There was no levity. There was a lot of weird scenes. I didn’t understand it. I liked Won-der Woman though. All of the details with her were pretty good.”

Renee Gosselin, a freshman, did not agree with Ferri’s and Mr. Munsey’s opin-ions. She said she thought it was “very well done. The characters were great...I think it lived up to the hype.”

Similarly, Leo Ducharme, a sophomore, said, “I thought it was a great movie because it had a very good story and you could really understand the motivations of the characters when they finally came together to fight. The performances were great as well. Ben Affleck nailed it as Batman, and Henry Cavill does a great job a Superman. It was just a very entertaining movie.”

All in all, results and opinions about this movie seemed pretty split. As of this moment, future films by DC Comics are in the works and will be released soon. Some include Suicide Squad (August 2016), Wonder Woman (June 2017), and the Jus-tice League: Part 1 (November 2017).

Long-awaited film leaves fans’ opinions split

WHS Band and Choir Members Participate in All-States

By Ashley DomogalaJagRoar Staff

CONCORD, N.H. - WHS’ most talented Band and Choir students went to All-States the weekend of April 7-9 for a festival highlighting their talents.

Students Cierra Cowan, Brandon Jacobs, Emma Joanis, Meghan Pope, Sarah Monahan, Kaley Missert, Isabelle Eterian, Conor Leland, Kendrick Cole, Lillian Strang, and Alycia Nardini qualified to participate in the event.

“It’s a festival highlighting those students that scored the highest voice and instrumental scores,” said Mr. Jared Cassedy, WHS Band director. “They come together to rehearse and work with nationally recognized mu-sic educators, composers, and conductors,” he said.

The students mainly rehearsed and watched other ensembles perform in Concord.

“The best of the experience for me was the opportunity to develop friendships with talented musicians as we rehearsed under the direction of Colonel Fettig, the director of the U.S. President’s Own Marine Band,” said senior Cierra Cowan, a bassoon player.

The event ended with a concert on April 9 at Bow High School.

Festival highlights students’ talents

Photo courtesy of Mr. Jared CassedyFrom left to right: Brandon Jacobs, Meghan Pope, Izzy Etarian, Sarah Monahan, Connor Leland, and Ken Cole.

Photo courtesy of hindustantimes.com

Art FeatureWhat is a Zootopia?

By Katey VestaJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM - This spring has been unusually harsh, what with early April snowstorms and record cold temperatures, and this has really thrown a wrench into my plan for publishing a nice light recipe to match the warmer weather. However, due to the brisk weather, there is now more excuse than ever to make some nice comfort food. Everyone loves to have something warm and filling to eat when the weather outside is less than hospitable, and this chili does just the trick. It has the additional benefit of being made in a crock pot, which means it can be left to cook all day with minimal effort, yet still yields a delicious dinner with plenty of leftovers.

Directions:Put all ingredients besides corn starch into a crockpot or slow

cooker. Cook on high for four hours, then on low for eight hours. During the last 30 minutes, if the chili is too thin, mix together

some corn starch and water in a small bowl to form a thin paste, then add it into the chili and allow it to cook for a few minutes.Serve with corn chips, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream.

A warming, hearty dish to combat the unseasonal weather

Photo by cookingclassy.comAn example of the delicious chili.

Chili for a Chilly Spring

Disney releases new movie

Photos by Janet Robbins

Jordan Pellerin

Lily Shpak

Richard Hume


Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef1 lb hot sausage3 cans red kidney beans, rinsed and drained1 small can tomato paste1 can diced tomatoes1 medium red pepper, chopped1 medium red onion chopped

2 tbsp smoked paprika1 tbsp cumin¼ cup chipotle pepper sauce3 tsp salt2 tsp black pepper¼ cup molasses2 cups water2 tbsp corn starch (optional)

By Allie MillardJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM - On March 4, 2016, Disney released yet another suc-cessful movie called Zootopia.

It is directed by Byron Howard, Rich Moore, and Jared Bush. The movie stars Judy Hopps, an ambi-tious bunny who aspires to be the greatest police officer of Zootopia, and is the main protagonist of the movie. Judy moves from a small carrot farm to the huge bustling city of Zootopia, a colorful city

where every animal is able to co-exist with one another. The city is split up into 4 main sectors: Tundra Town, Sahara Square, Rainforest District, and the Burrows, each sector having different qualities.

On Judy’s first day at work, she gets put on parking duty where she meets Nick Wilde, a sly fox just trying to live a normal life, but gets dragged into Judy’s wild adven-ture. Judy takes a case in finding a missing otter in less than 48 hours or she would have to turn in her badge. She takes Nick with her to solve this case, which eventu-ally turns them into two unlikely friends that become close. When cracking the case, more issues ar-rive as Judy finds more to Zootopia than she expected, inlcuding find-ing her true self and realizing even the most unlikely of friends can become something more special.

Overall, the movie was spectacu-lar and touching for everyone.

Photo courtesy of gannett-cdn.com


WHS’ Kaley Missert Prepares to Compete at Miss New Hampshire

By Ashley DomogalaJagRoar Staff

WINDHAM - WHS senior Kaley Mis-sert will be participating in the Miss New Hampshire Pageant during April Vacation, on April 26-30.

This is the first year that Missert is eligible to compete. She was crowned Miss Granite State in January. There are 28 girls holding local titles like her out of over 60 girls who competed. The 28 girls will go on to compete for the title of Miss New Hampshire, and the winner will compete against other state title holders for Miss America in Atlantic City in September.

“I originally decided to start com-peting with the Miss America system because I had heard great things about the program- it is known for the large amount of scholarships they give out to young women,” said Missert. This year, $70,000 in scholarship is avail-able at Miss New Hampshire.

There are 5 rounds of competition: Talent (35%), Interview (25%), Eveningwear (20%), Lifestyle and Fitness (aka swimsuit) (15%) and Onstage Question (5%). A panel of 5 judges deter-mines the winner with the highest overall score.

“Pageant day is always extremely busy and crazy but also a ton of fun!” said Missert.

“I have made a lot of great friends through this program, all of the girls are very sweet. One of the things I love about pageant events is being able to see all of them,” said Missert.

Local competitions like the one in which Missert was crowned Miss Granite State are daylong events. The contestants are taught the opening number routine the morning of the event and talent is rehearsed. The competition is held after dinner and the winner is crowned that night.

Miss New Hampshire is a much bigger event, so rehearsals started about two months before the actual competition. At the rehearsals, which take place at least once a week, the 28 girls have learned production numbers, or group dances before rounds of competition. In addition to the rehearsals, local title holders have appeared at different events and volunteered throughout the week.

“I have been working really hard preparing for all areas of competition and getting ready for Miss New Hampshire,” said Missert.

Miss New Hampshire is a weeklong competition.On April 26, the girls move into a hotel room before meeting

with sponsors and going to rehearsals for the show. On April 27, the girls each do their 10-minute interview along

with rehearsal. “I’ve been preparing by paying atten-

tion to current events and watching the news because the judges can ask you anything in interview- whether it’s a question about politics, what my goals are for the future, gun control, or anything in between,” said Missert.

Thursday, April 28 is the real start of the competition, starting preliminary night number one at 7 p.m. Missert will be com-peting in Lifestyle and Fitness as well as Eveningwear. Missert has been practicing her walks for the swimwear and evening gown rounds.

“Walking on stage in front of hundreds of people in a bikini or evening gown and 5 inch heels can be pretty nerve wracking and is a lot harder than it looks!” Missert said.

On Friday at 7 p.m. again after a day of rehearsal, Missert will compete in Talent and Onstage Question. For the talent portion, Missert will play “River Flows in

You” by Yurima.On Saturday, April 30, the top 10 girls are announced and

re-compete in every round except the interview. The top 5 is announced, and then the winner is crowned Miss New Hampshire 2016.

People can vote for WHS’ own Miss Granite State at www.pgis.net/?ID1=123.

Missert hopes to make it into the top 10 this year. “Every vote counts!” she said.

Upcoming pageant sees entries from all over the state

Photo courtesy of Kaley Missert

Want to advertise in the JagRoar?Contact us at [email protected]

Jag ActivitiesTHE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 19

Book Club: Meetings on Tuesdays in the Media Center at 2:30pm. Contact Mrs. Morin for more info.

WHS Theatre Company: Our student production is underway. Seniors in the theatre program are directing “All in the Timing” by David Ives. The performance will take place on Thursday, May 26. Contact Mrs. O’Brien for more info.

Art Club: Figure drawing and open studio. Contact Mrs. Cole for more info.

Strength and Conditioning Club: Meets M, Tu, Th, F after school in the weight room. You can work on your own program or we can develop one together that will best prepare you for your next competitive season.

Climbing Club: Meets Mondays or Wednesdays. Contact Mr. Gilbert for more info.

Future Business Leaders of America: We are beginning to lay the groundwork for the 2016-2017 school year. Next year, FBLA-PBL will be celebrating its 75th year. The theme will be “A Legacy of Leadership.” We will be holding an informal informational meeting after April Vacation. Contact Mrs. Morse for more info.

Club advisors: To have your club featured in this monthly article, email [email protected].

What’s happening?

CORRECTION: On page 16 of the March 2016 edition of the JagRoar, the arti-cle titled ‘WHS’ Science Olympiad Has Strong Showing’ incorrectly stated that Casey Ergin and Nicole Maheu placed 3rd in Wind Power, when in fact it was Emily Moore and Nicole Maheu. The JagRoar staff apologizes for the mistake.

Image courtesy of mondomoda.org

Follow us on Twitter!@JagRoarNews

Remember the annual Café Rosa event at the Middle School? World language teachers and students worked tirelessly to decorate the cafeteria and prepare traditional French and Spanish food. Students also provided entertainment by singing, dancing, or playing instruments

for the crowd. This year, the WHS Spanish Honor

Society has decided to carry that tradi-tion up to the High School. Café Fiesta will take place on May 19 in the WHS cafeteria, and will have traditional Mexi-can food, decorations, and entertainment. Price and time are yet to be determined, so be sure to keep an eye out for devel-opments on this fantastic opportunity.

Spanish Honor Society President and the JagRoar’s own Editor-in-Chief Ash-ley Domogala said, “I am excited for the opportunity to expose the Spanish culture to the Windham community. I hiope that everyone comes out to experience a great night. The SHS has been working since the start of the year to finally make a high school Spanish cafe a reality.”

Image courtesy of wikimedia.org

SAT, ACT & AP Testing Dates

SAT: register online at collegeboard.orgTests math, reading, and English skills*New SAT has no required essay and no penalty for guessing

May 7 - SAT and SAT Subject TestsDeadline to register: April 26 for late feeWhere: Salem and Londonderry

June 4 - SAT and SAT Subject TestsDeadline to register: May 11 (May 25 for late fee)Where: Pinkerton, Londonderry, Alvirne

SAT price: $43 plus $11.50 for essaySAT Subject Test price: $26 plus $18 per test (up to 3 tests)Late fee: $28

Image courtesy of conejousd.org

ACT: register online at act.orgTests math, reading, English, and science skills

June 11 - ACT TestDeadline to register: May 6 (May 20 for late fee)Where: Alvirne

ACT price: $29 plus $14 for writingLate fee: $19

Club CalendarMonday2:30pm- NHS (5/6)2:30pm- Newspaper2:30pm- jagSAT2:30pm- SMILES (every other)2:30pm- Theater3pm- Strength and Conditioning6pm- Robotics

Tuesday7:15am- Mu Alpha Theta (monthly)7:20am- SALT2:30pm- Strength and Conditioning2:30pm- Book Club2:30pm- Yearbook2:30pm- JCA2:30pm- Robotics

Wednesday2:30pm- JagSAT2:30pm- Minecraft2:30pm- Theater

Thursday7am- Mathletes7:15am- DECA7:15am- Knitting Club7:20am- SHS (monthly)2:30pm- DECA2:30pm- Theater2:30pm- Latin Club2:30pm- Knitting Club2:30pm- Strength and Conditioning2:30pm- Robotics

Friday7:20am- Go Green Club7:30am- Friends of Rachel2:30pm- Marine Science2:30pm- Art Club2:30pm- Games Club6:00pm- Robotics

Saturday10am- Robotics

THE JAGROAR APRIL 19, 2016 • PAGE 20ACTIVITIES

Image courtesy of s2.onmycalendar.com

May Calendar2-13: AP Testing18: WHS Band Concert 7-9pm19: WHS Choir Concert 7-9pm27: Early Release27: PROM Grand March ~5:10pm Atkinson Country Club 6:30-11pm30: Memorial Day, No School

Want to advertise in the JagRoar?

Contact us at [email protected]

The JagRoar: April 2016 Edition

Documents