November 22, 2011

“We can continue on and move forward”

Superintendent Robert Hunt

ganization accomplished its goal of bringing the community closer to the schools. PASS spent countless hours researching successful cam-

paigns, organizing, meeting, communicating daily with cam-paign leadership, creating materi-als, and communicating with the community in various ways, Mra-kovich said. “For three months, a few of us lived and breathed the levy campaign,” she added.

Str

eets

boro High School

The

Tuesday, November 22, 2011Streetsboro, OhioVolume 33 Issue 2

NHS inducts 17 new members

Continued on Page 4See “Black Friday”

>> Natalie PinkermanSenior Editor

rbiter

Black Friday may be an exciting time for shoppers but those who work in re-tail have very different feelings about the shopping holiday. On the one side of Black Friday is the joy shoppers find in great deals; the other is the time and effort retail workers put into making these deals possible. Senior Asia Wells who worked at Polo in Aurora Farms last year on Black Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m, described the over-all experience as “exciting.” “That night made me fall in love with working in retail,” she said. Wells enjoyed the energy of Black Fri-day and the shoppers as well. “I love when the customers get excited about sweet deals,” she said. Wells also described customers as “aggressive” because of the get-in, get-out mentality of Black Friday. This year, Wells will be spending Friday at a different Aurora Farms outlet store: PacSun. She will be working the midnight shift,

which is from 12-8 a.m. Wells said it will be “nice” to work the “early” shift and get done before the day even starts. Well’s classmate and fellow retail em-ployee, senior Ally Gilliland, has a differ-ent memory of working Black Friday last year. “The customers were so rude,” Gil-liland said. Gilliland who is employed by Rue 21 in Aurora Farms and last year she worked from 3-11 p.m. last Black Friday. She said she “hated” the whole experi-ence and “wishes” she did not have to work it again. Yet the store’s policy – like most oth-ers – is all employees must work this after-Thanksgiving event. Like Wells, Gilliland will be working the overnight shift from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. She will then return that evening to work 5-11 p.m. “It’s pretty much a bunch of impatient people destroying your store,” she said. Gilliland expects this year to be “a lot

>> Natalie PinkermanSenior Editor

Seven people were honored October 28 as the first inductees into the district’s new Athletic Hall of Fame. “The inductees were highly recom-mended and really set the standard for fu-ture Hall of Famers,” said athletic director Randy Tevepaugh. Recognized at halftime of the Crest-wood football game were wrestling stand-outs, Jim Boardwine, Joe Boardwine, Butch Inghram, Joe Blasiole and John Purcell. “I feel honored to be recognized for all of my accomplishments in high school career,” said Jim Boardwine. Also inducted were former athletic director Gary Huber, and Gaynelle Shope, who coached and taught physical educa-tion, as well as the 1997 state champion wrestling team. “It’s an honor to be recognized for coaching and helping the middle school girl athletes,” Shope said after being in-ducted. Shope was recognized for “her relent-

less work ethic and commitment to the Streetsboro School district,” said Tevep-augh. To be considered for inductions stu-dent athletes nominees had to have been graduated for at least 10 years, earned first or second team All-Ohio honors or placed in the top three in the state for individual sports. School officials, coaches and com-munity members have to have made ma-jor contributions to the sports program to be considered.

>> Mikaela DombrowskiStaff Writer

Retail workers dread shopping holiday Hall of Fame recognizes athletes, staff

Thirty-two letters went out November 3 notifying ju-niors and seniors if they would be inducted into National Honor Society during the November 11 ceremony in the gym. In past years, inductees were tapped at the ceremony to symbolize their acceptance. This year letters were sent out, a change made by ad-viser Julie Dalton. Dalton made the decision to inform in-ductees by a letter instead of the traditional tapping to help encourage those who did not get in to work on their weak points and better prepared for next year inductions. “I felt if they knew why or why not [they would be inducted] it would make it easier on their feelings,” she added. Dalton said another reason she chose to do the letters this year was because the number of those getting inducted was about equal to those who did not. A total of 48 students were able to apply for having

With the 5.1 dual purpose re-newal levy passing November 8 by 64.69 percent, high school stu-dents will feel the effects as staff-ing levels, class sizes and bussing all stay the same. “Maybe it’s not directly im-pactful, but when you think about the cuts that this district has seen before that really impacted the high school, I think all of that is good,” superintendent Robert Hunt said. From a facility, infrastructure and technology standpoint, he said, the district will see a com-mitment to make wireless avail-able to staff and students, in order to integrate technology in the next couple of years.

Hunt and Michelle Mrak-ovich, head of People’s Alliance for Streetsboro Schools, both said they are grateful for the levy re-sults. Hunt said the high percent-age by which the levy passed shows how much the community supports the schools. “For me, being new, that’s certainly a good way to start rath-er than having to worry about cuts and having to make up deficits,” Hunt said. Involvement from the levy’s support organization, PASS, staff, students and the community were all crucial in organizing and de-livering a clear message to the voters, Hunt said. Mrakovich said she now feels relief as well as pride in the community. She believes the or-

Although Mrakovich admits she was doubtful the levy would pass due to the economy, she said PASS had to prove to the stake-holders in the community that the district is being fiscally and aca-demically responsible. “PASS was successful in reaching a large number of voters and getting critical information out about what our school district is positively doing,” she said. Hunt said the goal of the dis-trict is to stay off the ballot com-pletely next year. Another levy going on the ballot next year is dependent upon whether the district’s expen-ditures run out, he added. Since this levy was a renewal, no additional taxes will be added, and the revenue amount that the district is bringing in will remain

the same as before, Hunt said. Due to state budget cuts last year, sport fees could not be low-ered, despite the passage of the recent levies and rumors about that being a possibility. A com-plete analysis of what pay-to-play costs were for this and other dis-tricts was reported to the school board in October of this year. Since this last levy was a re-newal, Hunt said, he does not see sport fees going away, but he does want to put a cap on “pay to play” for families. “If you have two or three students trying to play multiple sports, it just becomes a finance thing at home and I don’t think that it’s fair to our kids and our

>> Hannah BensonSenior Editor

3.5 cumulative grade point average. Thirty-two students turned in their applications, then a five-member teacher committee looked over each application carefully before choosing the 17 inductees. Junior inductee Kayla Tuma said she was glad to be informed before the actual ceremony. “It would have been embarrassing to get all dressed up then not be tapped,” Tuma said. Senior James Minyard was a “little disappointed” to find out through the letter. But, was “still excited” to be inducted. Junior inductee Seema Sandu shared Minyard’s feel-ings, saying she would rather have been tapped because it would have made everything “more exciting.” Parents usually inform the students before the cer-emony anyway, Dalton said. Junior inductee Ashley Miller confirmed; she said getting the letter did not really make a difference since she was going to have her parents tell her either way. “I wanted to know. I didn’t want it to be a surprise,” Miller said.

Renewal passes with 64.69 percent support from voters

Continued on Page 6See “Levy”

HONORInstructing junior Abood Alkazaz as he lights the candle signify-ing his induction is senior Tyler Sanders.

Photo by Fatemah Gill

Continued on Page 8See “Fame”

2011 Honorees:• Jim Boardwine (1992)• Joe Boardwine (1993)• Butch Inghram (1997)• Joe Blasiole (1984)• John Purcell (1985)

• Gary Huber• Gaynelle Shope

• Wrestling State Champs (1997)

Seniors, juniors face off in annual Powder Puff

gamePage 8

64 pints collected

during October 31 blood drive in

gymPage 7

EditorialsEditorials Follow “The Orbiter” on Twitter

Tuesday, November 22, 2011Page 2

orbiterboard, to fall under the legal definitions of mate-rial that is libelous, obscene, materially disruptive of the school process, an unwarranted invasion of privacy, a violation of copyright or electronic manipulations changing the essential truth of the photo or illustration, or which advertises illegal products or services. Specific definitions for these instances of unprotected speech can be found in Law of the Student Press. With this in mind, student journalists have sole right to determine content of official student publications. By not interfering with the content of The Orbiter or other publications, school officials are therefore not liable or responsible for content. Likewise, The Orbiter adviser will do just that: advise students through each step of the publica-tion process, but will not act as a censor. The paper has the right to praise or construc-tively criticize individuals, organizations and policies in an objective manner. Editorials reflect the majority opinions of the editorial staff -- not the faculty or the administra-tion -- and do not need to be signed. If a division exists among the staff, the paper may print both opinions. An editorial commen-

As preservers of democracy, our school pub-lication shall protect, encourage and enhance free speech and exchange of ideas as a means of pro-tecting our American way of life. The Orbiter, the official newspaper of Streets-boro High School, has been established as a fo-rum for student expression and as a voice in the uninhibited, free and open discussion of issues. The Orbiter and its staff are protected by, and bound to, the principles of the First Amendment and other protections and limitations afforded by the Constitution and the various court decisions implementing those principles. The function of the paper is to inform, influ-ence and entertain; to serve as a record of events; to educate student journalists; and to provide a forum for free expression to those within the Streetsboro High School community. The paper has the freedom to cover news not only within the school, but also the local, state, national and international news through direct reporting and editorial comment in compliance with the First Amendment. The Orbiter will be free from all prior re-straints and censorship. The paper and its staff will strive to avoid publishing any material deter-mined by student editors or the student editorial

Orbiter Code of EthicsThe StaffHannah Benson

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Mikaela DombrowskiMaddie Oslejsek

Taylor WhiteStaff Writers

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tary differs from an editorial that reflects an indi-vidual’s opinion, and must be signed. Opinions can be expressed in Letters to the Editor, guest features or guest columns, provided they are 300 words or less and contain the au-thor’s name and grade. Names can be withheld for valid reasons. All letters will be verified by an editor or by the adviser as to the author of the statements and the authenticity. The editorial staff has the right to edit the spelling and grammar of all materials submitted for publication. Should a letter contain additional errors in fact or be too long, it will be returned to the au-thor for resubmission. A letter or column may be returned to the author for more information, if editors determine the piece contains items of unprotected speech as defined by this policy. Deadlines for letters and columns will be no later than two weeks before the next publication date. If questions arise over specific copy as defined within this policy, advice from a communications attorney with the Stu-dent Press Law Center is recommended.

Tevepaugh enhances athletic program Orbiter Staff

New athletic director brings positive attitude, along with Captains’ Council & Hall of Fame

New athletic director Randy Tevepaugh is a great addition to our school. Not only has he helped create several new traditions for the school, but he does his job with a warm smile on his face.

In the few months he has been here, Tevepaugh has already started new programs and traditions, including the Captains’ Council and Athletic Hall of Fame.

Captains’ Council involves senior leaders or captains of the sports teams participating in ser-vice projects throughout the community. Tevepaugh eventually wants the indi-vidual teams to create and then participate in their own service projects in years to come.

The council recently visited Streetsboro City Hall to play chair volleyball with senior citizens. Tevep-augh also plans to take the high school participants to the Cleveland Clinic later in the year to visit sick chil-dren.

We think this a really unique opportunity for our students, because most of them would never do these projects otherwise.

Athletes who work hard and display leader-ship abilities are not only

acknowledged by the invi-tation to serve on the Cap-tain’s Council, but they are also able to develop char-acter, making them well-rounded individuals.

We believe this coun-cil makes not only the ath-letes better, but the school as a whole, because when students see the peers they look up to participating in these projects, they will be more inclined to do so themselves.

Another tradition Te-vepaugh has helped create for the school is the Hall of Fame, which was created

to recognize athletic and lifetime achievements of former students and staff of Streetsboro schools.

The Hall of Fame gives athletes something to work for. The hope of being in-ducted is a good incentive for athletes to do their very best.

This program is likely to increase not only the effort and talent of our school’s athletes, but also the pride our community has in its athletics.

As far as we know, previous athletic directors may have attempted to im-

prove the athletic program as much as Tevepaugh, but Tevepaugh’s positive at-titude sets him apart. No matter what he is doing, he always seems to have a smile on his face and a can-do mentality.

He is much more vis-ible than previous athletic directors have been. On a daily basis he can be seen in the hallways, willing to help anyone with a ques-tion. The proximity of his office is also very conve-nient for coaches and ath-letes to make contact with him.

The fact that we even know his name and accom-plishments already, after three months of school, is astounding.

Tevepaugh also greets many students by name. Even those he doesn’t know, he still greets with a warm smile and a “hello.” Some of us were surprised when after only two encounters with him, he remembered our names.

We also appreciate how he treats the different teams equally, no matter how successful each team may be. For example, the

soccer teams have not been particularly successful in previous years, but Tevep-augh was willing to work with our coaches to re-schedule games and Senior Night due to muddy field conditions.

Whenever a curve-ball, such as the weather, has been thrown at him, it seems Tevepaugh has han-dled the situation calmly and with optimism.

We appreciate Tevep-augh’s efforts and believe he will continue making positive changes through-out the whole school.

Athletic director Randy Tevepaugh stands proudly with the Rocket Rowdies during the “Blackout’’ football game against West Branch September 9. For more infor-mation on Tevepaugh, see the Q&A with him on Page 8.

Photo by Jessica OktavecPRIDE

Online at streetsboroschools.com/orbiter

Cheerleaders treated unfairlyEditorialsEditorials

Tuesday, November 22, 2011 Page 3

Taylor WhiteNatalie PinkermanChelsey Carpenter

It is unfair that the cheerleaders pay $150 just like all the other athletes, yet do not receive the same treatment.

Our practice space is the cafeteria, which is enough space and very much ap-preciated, considering we have 24 girls per season.

To get enough space, however, we must move the tables and chairs out of the way, then sweep the food-covered floor, which still does not clean everything off of it.

During practice, while we’re dancing or cheering, we slip on various substances, which throws off our counts, and puts us in a disgusted mode. Some routines and exer-

cise moves require us to get down on the unsanitary floor.

Moving the tables back and forth also eats away at practice time. No other sport

has to move tables or clean up before they are able to start practice.

Before running a meeting in the cafe-teria, a staff member was so grossed out by

the food and trash on the floor, he decided to move the meeting elsewhere.

We understand why he would not want to hold a meeting in the cafeteria, because it is unsanitary, but then why is it good enough for us to practice in?

Cheerleaders who participate in two seasons ultimately have to pay $300 just to participate. That is not including extra cost like shoes, apparel and gifts for players.

Many cheerleaders wonder why we have to pay a sports fee when many of the students and staff do not consider us a sport. And neither does the Ohio High School Athletic Association, however our school considers cheerleading a sport. Hence, why we must pay a fee and receive a letter as a varsity sport.

The effort to recognize us by Mr. Rauschkolb and Mr. Tevepaugh was very much appreciated. But, that does not change the fact that we need a better prac-tice space.

“With actors like Sandler, Al

Pacino, and Nick Swardson, it

was an assured masterpiece.”

Adam Sandler deliv-ers yet again in the comedy “Jack and Jill.”

Sandler plays a twin -- actually twins -- who are complete opposites of one another. Jack is a suc-cessful advertising execu-tive who has had it easy his whole life.

In high school, he was the popular one, whereas his twin sister, Jill, was the “outcast.”

In the film, Jill is com-ing in from the Bronx to visit Jack and his family for the holidays.

Jack isn’t particularly looking forward to this visit because Jill has a tendency to be a bit…obnoxious. She also has a little issue with

Maddie Oslejsek

Film Critic

Sandler pulls off double roles in ‘Jack and Jill’being subtle.

For example, when Jack and his family invite a local homeless man to have Thanksgiving dinner with them, Jill is unaware of who the man is and “whispers,” “He’s homeless right?” Jack replies with, “Are you whispering with a bullhorn or something? Everybody hears you!”

To go along with the twin theme, director Den-nis Dugan runs video clips of real twins at the begin-ning and end of the film.

These real life twins joked and mocked each other like only siblings can. It was phenomenal.

Jack and Jill dem-onstrated this behavior throughout the movie as well.

While sitting around the table for Thanksgiving dinner, one of Jack’s chil-dren asks Jill if they have

twin powers, like being able to feel each others pain.

Jill responds by saying she isn’t sure so she slaps herself in the face.

Jack, trying to humili-ate Jill, says he does not feel it and suggests she try hit-ting herself a little harder. Jack’s wife, played by Katie Hol-mes, tells Jill to ig-nore Jack.

Jack’s son strikes Jill in the face and knocks her down.

“ F e e l that Dad-dy?” the son asks.

Sandler’s character replies with, “You know what, I did feel something there, pride in my son!”

The son is portrayed

by Rohan Chand. Chand is the most entertaining, hys-terical and amusing child actor I’ve ever seen.

His character has an obsession with tape; taping pepper shakers, food, and animals to himself through-out the film.

D u r -ing one part of the film, he is r u n n i n g through his house with a hamster taped to his back while mak-ing am-b u l a n c e , “ w e e -

woo” sounds.

I would definitley like to see this young actor in more comedy films.

The movie was abso-

Paying same sports fee as other teams, but lacking proper practice facilities

lutely hilarious, however, if you are planning on using it as a reference in biology class (for some odd reason) I wouldn’t. The film does have one factual error.

According to the Inter-net Movie Database, “It is impossible for a male and a female to be IDENTICAL twins. Identical twins are a result of the embryo split-ting into two identical parts after it has been fertilized and begun developing, thus they must both be the same sex.”

Nevertheless, I believe this movie is still a hit! With actors like Sandler, Al Pacino, and Nick Sward-son, it was an assured mas-terpiece.

I personally remem-bered Swardson from his comical role as Hector in the film “Blades of Glory.”

I have seen that movie so many times, but Sward-

son’s character never seems to get old!

Pacino, best known for his roles in “Scarface” and “The Godfather,” was an absolute side-splitter in “Jack and Jill.”

He played himself, a very funny side of himself, might I add!

One of my favorite moments was when San-dler’s character was show-ing Pacino a commercial he had made featuring the renowned actor.

Pacino’s response when he was finished watching the commercial preview was, “Burn it. No one must ever see this.”

Overall, I’d say this film deserves two thumbs up!

Get ready to see double when you watch this film – double the Sandler, double the comedy, and definitely double the laughter!

Online at streetsboroschools.com/orbiter Friend “The Orbiter” on Facebook

Black Friday GuideBlack Friday GuideSearch for “StreetsboroHigh” on Twitter

Tuesday, November 22, 2011 Page 4

What will you be fighting for this Friday?Compiled by Chelsey Carpenter

“A laptop. My parents

promised they’d get me one before I graduate. I want a MacBook Pro, but I know

that’s not going to happen.” Senior Cal Lupica

ShoppingContinued from Page 1

different” since she will be working the busiest shift. Government teacher Kris Gaug agrees with Gilliland that Black Friday is very stressful for workers. Gaug who, during his col-lege years, worked in the loss prevention at Kaufmann’s in the Rolling Acres Mall, de-scribed his time working Black Friday as a “nightmare.” He said the customers treated him “poorly.” “I had someone shove me out of the way to get in the store,” Gaug said. Gaug said this shopping day is “ridiculous.” He also does not under-stand how people can act the way they do about saving a few dollars. “When did saving $5 be-come more important than be-ing courteous?” he wondered.

Boro Babble

“I think I’m going to get a whole bunch of clothes, and gifts for my mommy. She wants

to buy a T.V. I also want to get shoes and boots.”

Junior Demika Smith

“I want shoes, mainly a pair of UGG boots. I’m going to go to the mall and get the

short ones because they’re cute.”

Junior Olivia Beale

“I’m probably going to buy a Wii for my

little brothersat Walmart.”

Junior Sandy Atkinson

“The Kindle Fire. It’s in color and I love to read. It really looks cool. You can

play games and stuff. I’m going to get it wherever the best deal if they don’t

have a waiting list.”Secretary Holly Kocis

Money for all your great finds!

Cell phone to communicate and tell time.

Snacks, in case you get hungry...can’t waste time

eating an actual meal!

Bring a tent and lawn chairs if waiting in line overnight .

First-Aid kit... you might get hurt fighting old ladies!

Bring a buddy...if you get lost, you’re not alone.

The ads -- can’t forget every-thing you are going for!

Entertainment is a must. Waiting to check out can take a long time.

Proper attire. If you show up at a store long before it opens, you’re likely to be cold waiting outside!

A watch...very handy, especially if you lose your phone in a stampede.

The most important item is gas. You can’t go anywhere without it.

Muscles, like junior Dalton Cupka’s, are key. When pushing to get in, you might have to throw a few punches.

Checklist: Top 12 shopping neccessitiesOnline at streetsboroschools.com/orbiter

Black Friday GuideBlack Friday GuideTuesday, November 22, 2011 Page 5

Shoppers vs. Non-Shoppers

Walmart:Thursday 10 p.m.- Saturday 12 a.m.

Target:Friday 12 a.m.-11 p.m.

Toys R Us:Thursday 9 p.m.-Friday 1 p.m.

Kohl’s:Friday 12 a.m.-Saturday 12 a.m.

Sears:Friday 4 a.m.-1 p.m.

Gander Mountain:Friday 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

Best BuyFriday 12 a.m.

Gamestop:Friday 12 a.m.

Dick’s Sporting Goods:Friday 12 a.m.-11 p.m.

Kmart:Friday 5 a.m.-11 a.m.

JC Penny:Friday 4 a.m.-1 p.m.

Macy’s:Friday 12 a.m.

Aurora Farms:Friday 12 a.m.-10 a.m.

Strongsville Mall:Friday 5 a.m.-10 p.m.

JoAnn Fabrics:Friday 6 a.m.

“They’re crazy and rude,” Rumsey said of Black Friday shoppers. “Everyone is in a hurry...It seems that everyone forgets

their manners.

Attendance officer Pam Rumsey

“I had a good experience last year; I got all the items I was looking for

at four in the morning.”

Classroom aide Jean Utz

Science teacher Julie Dalton

“Sometimes good deals, sometimes okay deals, my husband and I just make

it a date and go Santa shopping.”

Lahm said he would “rather get punched in the face” than

go Black Friday shopping.

Referring to Black Friday shopping last year, “I had a terrible

experience. People shoved me.”

Freshman Nathan Piechowiak

Secretary Joyce Wilcox

“I remember standing in line forever for the Cabbage Patch

Doll, for my daughter.”

STOR E

HOURS

>>>>>>>>>

Friend “The Orbiter” on FacebookOnline at streetsboroschools.com/orbiter

SeniorChris Lahm

Second News & AdsSecond News & AdsSearch for “Streetsboro High” on Twitter


Depending on retirements this spring, the administration will determine whether job openings will be a possibility, said Hunt, but staffing levels will stay the same for right now. Though no drastic changes will be made as a result of this levy’s passage, no negative changes will be made either. Its passage serves as a gesture of support and encouragement to the school district. “It was truly a great experience watching students come out and staff come out and everyone work together to educate the community, so I’m very thankful for all those involved,” Hunt said.

LevyContinued from Page 1


GETTING YOUR HANDS ON EDUCATION

7075 State Route 88 Ravenna, OH 44266

330-296-2892 www.mwood.cc

NewsNewsTuesday November, 22, 2011 Page 7

>>Maddie OslejsekStaff Writer

Halloween blood drive falls shortLack of intervention, donors, low iron blamed for lower numbers

Taking courses outside of high school gives students the opportunity to graduate early.

Senior Crystal Tacke, who would originally have been a junior this year, took classes her ju-nior year and is now eligible to graduate with the class of 2012.

“I decided to graduate early because I heard about it from my friend, Tabitha,” from Gar-rettsville High School. “She said it really put her ahead and she didn’t have to take filler classes,” Tacke said.

Tacke’s friend participated in early gradua-tion at Garfield High School, in Garrettsville.

Students and parents must take the initiative to learn about early graduation, said Bill Smer-glia, the guidance counselor in charge of juniors and seniors. Counselors do not avidly promote it.

“Early graduation has been handled on an individual basis,” counselor William Smerglia said. “They let us know it’s their intent.”

Based on students’ individual circumstances, including the classes they have taken and have left to take, Smerglia decides if they are eligible to participate in early graduation. Principal Eric Rauschkolb then has the final approval.

Smerglia said usually seniors only need an

English and government to graduate their last year.

Students like Tacke can take one or more of these core classes at participating summer or on-line schools. Tacke is taking English and gov-ernment 12 using Virtual Community Schooling, online classes.

Smerglia said any courses taken outside of

school needs to be approved by him.Smerglia said Maplewood also offers sum-

mer school as do Ohio Virtual Academy and Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow.

“It‘s becoming something people are consid-ering,” Smerglia said.

Smerglia said juniors and seniors are not the only students eligible to take on summer or on-line course loads.

Freshmen and sophomores are more than welcome to take classes as well.

Students also have the option to participate

Sixty-four pints of blood were collected, saving 192 lives, at the American Red Cross blood drive held October 31 in the gym. Approximately 95 teachers and students donated. One pint of blood was collected from most, though double-donors gave two pints of blood. Each pint collected saved three lives. First time donor, junior Dorian Williams, was one of the double-donors. “It makes me feel good know-ing I helped someone out with such a simple task,” he said. For every 50 pints collected be-tween the fall and spring drives, the school receives a $500 scholarship to award to a graduating senior. Though one $500 scholarship has already been earned, the goal of those organizing the event is to col-lect 100 usable pints in the spring in order to then give out three $500 awards at Senior Awards Night. Heading up this year’s drive are senior chairperson Chelsey Carpen-ter and juniors Kayla Tuma, Steph-anie Judd, Christine Koporc and Amber Lesak. Thirty additional volunteers

worked on Halloween. Though it was her first year heading up the drive, this was Car-penter’s fifth helping out with it. “Usually there is only one head but next year there will be four. These girls really do a very nice job,” she said. A few mishaps still occurred, said careers counselor Joseph Hu-ber, who organizes the drive every year. One major problem Huber said he saw was the number of students denied for one reason or another. Not eating breakfast and having low iron are likely reasons, he said. Self-ear-piercing could be an-other, Carpenter added. Encouraging everyone to drink enough fluids prior to donating will help decrease the number of denied students the next time around, Hu-ber said. Another issue with the fall drive was the difficulty communicating. “There are five of us working and only three of us usually came in contact,” Tuma said. “It was a lot more difficult to keep in touch with-out intervention.” Carpenter agreed having inter-vention would have improved the communication error. “Intervention was the key role in the blood drive,”

she said. An improvement over last year’s blood drive, Carpenter said, was “there weren’t that many unneces-sary people like the ones who just come in to say ‘hi’ to their friends.”

Tuma agreed with Carpenter. “It was a lot calmer this year, prob-ably because there weren’t as many people to fit in.” Last year, 106 people donated at the fall drive.

Junior takes online courses, eligible for early graduation>>Chelsey CarpenterSenior Editor

in post-secondary. If someone wishes to, and gets accepted, he or she could do post full-time senior year, attending college for free.

Senior Emily Kocis, takes college classes at the Twinsburg campus of Kent State and had never heard of early graduation.

Kocis said even if she had known about early graduation, she would not participate. She also said she would not want to do post-secondary full-time because she wants to be in school with her class and would miss everybody.

“I did greatly debate post-secondary,” Tacke said, adding she decided against doing post be-cause she plans on going to a distant or private college.

She also did not want to make big commit-ments such as studying for college exams instead of going to her senior prom.

Kocis said post-secondary has benefitted her because it involves free college credits, and it has introduced her to college and what it is like. Ko-cis, as well as Tacke, recommend post-secondary to other students.

Juniors who participate in early graduation get the same treatment as regular seniors said Smerglia.

They may park in the senior lot, play on the senior powder-puff team, and do any other ac-tivities.

“I did greatly debate

post-secondary”Senior Crystal Tacke

GIVINGBeing there for each other at the fall blood drive on Halloween are senior Amanda Barile and her little brother, junior Austin Barile.

Photo by LaRae’ Nevels

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Junior middle hitter Lexi Brewster has received All-Ohio Honorable Mention in volleyball for the sec-ond year in a row.

“I’m really happy for her and take pride in her for receiving the recognition, and knowing enough coaches realized that she is that caliber,” said head volleyball coach Bill Smerglia.

Brewster accumulated a total of 262 kills for the season, with a 39 percent killing average. She had a serving percentage of 89 and an ace percentage of 16. Brewster also had 22 solo blocks, 30 assist blocks and 152 block deflections, along with 246 digs.

“When she plays she sticks out,” Smerglia said. “She is a cut above the normal or average player.”

An All-Ohio Honor is the highest recognition a player can receive individually, said Smerglia. Last year’s All-Ohio Honorable Mention came as a surprise to Brewster, she said. “It took a while to take in.” This year’s win “was a total surprise and not at all expected,” she said.

“I feel accomplished and that this is a good motiva-tion to make me work hard in and next year’s season,” Brewster said.

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Sports

Despite doubts from the senior class and high expec-tations from the junior class, the senior Powder Puff team managed to pull out a 22-6 victory in the November 11 game.

In the weeks prior, several senior practices were can-celled due to lack of attendance. When practices did occur, they lasted 30 minutes to an hour. The juniors held several more practices than the seniors, practices that lasted up to two hours.

“They thought they were more organized and would win, but we had less plays to memorize,” senior Amanda Barile said.

Junior Christine Koporc said the coaches were “won-derful” teaching the team during practices.

“The juniors talked about how organized they were, but in the end our experience won us the game,” senior Sam Rydzinski said.

Koporc and junior Ashley Garman both agreed their first Powder Puff experience was fun.

“It was really nice because the juniors became more like a family,” Koporc said. “We went on the field unit-ed.”

Garman particularly enjoyed painting up before the game. Seniors who had played in the game the year before, said they believe last year’s seniors were able to get away with more than they were this year.

“They were so mean last year,” Rydzinski recalled.Players from both the junior and senior class agreed

the referees called the game more fairly this time than in the previous year. Barile said referees did not favor the seniors, as they did in 2010.

Junior and senior players had mixed emotions about

Winter sports teams and coaches are looking forward to their first season in the new gym.

They say it feels good to be back in the gym because after the June 1, 2010 fire, both boys’ and girls’ basketball teams, the cheerleaders and the wrestling team were left without space in their own building to play or practice.

Due to the construction of the gym last year, the homecoming pep rally had to be held outside.

This year, two pep rallies have already been held in the new gym.

“That was really fun just to get back in there,” said varsity cheerleading coach Cristy Lindstrom. “I think it brings the school together a little bit more.”

Junior cheerleader Stephanie Judd said she is scared about cheering in the new gym because the squad had more space to cheer in the old Ravenna High School gym.

Last year, both the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams practiced in the middle school gym, with the girls also playing their home games there and the boys play-ing in the old Ravenna High School gym.

“It is nice to have a place to call home again,” boys’ basketball coach Nick Mar-cini said

Rachael Kolke also said she is excited to play in the new gym for her senior bas-ketball season because she had fun being back during volleyball.

“I’m excited to have a 20-foot walk to practice,” said girls’ basketball coach Allison Carey. “Having my room nearby will help when watching film before and after practice.”

While the basketball teams practiced in the middle school gym last year, the

wrestling team’s practices in the middle school teamed them with the middle school wrestlers.

Coach Rick Charlton said the best part about having the wrestling room back is the convenience. The team is able to do more in its space here.

Senior Chris Ashburn said it feels good to be back in the wrestling room be-cause practicing in the middle school caf-eteria “sucked.”

The team had to roll out the mats in the cafeteria, delaying the practice until 3:30, and then had to roll the mats back up af-terward.

“It was an inconvenience,” Charlton said. “But we try not to make any excuses for our team, so we dealt with our situation and made the best out of it.”

Last year, the wrestling team finished 2-3 in the PTC, and 3-14 overall. Anthony Skulina and Vinnie Valenti were two key athletes lost to graduation last year.

Last year, the senior boys’ basketball players did not get the opportunity to play their Senior Night game in the new gym like they thought they would.

The team, cheerleaders and fans spent the entire season traveling, since home

games were played in the old Ravenna High School gym.

Although the girls had to deal with traveling down the hill, Carey pointed out her team was still able to have “home” games, unlike the boys.

“Playing really wasn’t all that differ-ent,” Kolke said. “It just seemed like we had more of a crowd because the bleachers were smaller.”

Last year the girls’ basketball team fin-ished its season 3-18.

With the loss of graduates Jaclynn Hess, Jordan Genovese and Shawnee Spinks, who led the team in defensive stats, the team will lose 13 points per game.

Carey said the team does have eight returning varsity members.

“Seniors Rachael Kolke, Mercedes Oliver, and Colleen Rimmel will be key in leading this team to a better year,” she said.

Last year, the boys’ basketball team went 16-6 overall and 12-2 in the league, winning the Portage Trail Conference and sectional championships.

Marcini said he would notice at times near the end of the season where the situation started to wear on the team, but they were ultimately a tough group of guys who handled the adversity well.

“Playing at Ravenna was a totally dif-ferent environment because we rarely had students at the game, but we still played hard and had fun every game,” said senior Ben Gency, who was PTC County Player of the Year last year.

Gency said he has put the award in the past to focus on this year.

“I’m going to feel a little pressure, but I’m not going to keep it on my mind,” he said. “I am more focused on this year and making sure we work hard to win another championship.”

Coaches, athletes excited to be back in gym

“It was tough riding the bus to every game,

but we made the most of it.”

Varsity Basketball Coach Nick Marcini

>>Hannah BensonSenior Editor

Seniors win 22-6 >> Hannah BensonSenior Editor

the end result of the game. “We ran into the middle and hugged each other be-

cause it was the last senior game,” Barile said. Both Barile and fellow senior Asia Wells said they

were excited and happy to win their last Powder Puff game.

Wells added she felt like crying because she loves the senior class, but managed to hold back her tears.

“We could have won, but we made silly mistakes,” Garman said. “And I would have felt bad if the seniors lost.”

Overall, the game came down to experience and how well the teams were able to execute their plays.

“It’s not about organization and not about practice,” said senior coach Dakota Luzader. “It’s about experience, heart, toughness, the insanity of our girls and having fun.”

Brief

The football team and cheerleaders are in the running to receive new uniforms from Nike and are asking people to vote at nikefootball.com/nikerivalrycontest or on Facebook.

People can vote once a day.Juniors Brad Wolfe and Sam Miraglia

put together the video, which features the school’s rivalry with Crestwood.

Vote for football video online, FB

After being told to take a break by Principal Eric Rauschkolb for cussing, senior Jessica Oktavec throws her arms up in anger.

Photo by Carly KreierhoffFURY

Teams must have achieved the status of state champi-ons, state runner-up or regional champs. A Hall of Fame committee, consisting of Tevepaugh, sports boosters, administrators and board members decides who will be inducted. The theme this year was student athletes. Next year’s theme will be academic life achievements. The selection criteria for inductees will remain the same. “This will be a tradition for Streetsboro High School from now on,” said Tevepaugh.

FameContinued from Page 1

Brewster All-Ohio>> Mikaela DombrowskiStaff Writer


Documents

November 22, 2011