The Leprechaun Gold
St. Vincent-St. Mary High School * Volume XXXIX * Issue 2 * October 2009
John Chapman
Commentary
Leprechaun Gold
St. Vincent-St. Mary High School
15 North Maple Street
Akron, Ohio 44303
On the Web: www.stvm.com
Advisor
Mrs. Maureen Harrigal
Assistant
Mrs. Barbara Wood
Editors-in-Chief
Caitlin O’Neill
Nick Shook
Staff Reporters
Maria Arnone
Kaitlyn Carlier
Rachel Dodson
Victoria Lambert
Kathryn Latimer
Sarah Lovelace
Halle Marchetta
Photos
Yearbook Staff
Ms. Harmon
Mrs. Burdon
Front page art-John Chapman
AN IRISH PRAYER
May the road rise ever
to meet you
May the wind be
ever at your back
May the sun shine
warm upon your face
May the rain fall
soft upon your fields
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the
Palm of His hand.
The Leprechaun Gold is published throughout
the year for the students of St. Vincent-St. Mary
High School. There is no charge for the paper
but donations are accepted and appreciated.
Unsigned editorials represent the consensus
of the editorial board. Letters to the editor
are encouraged, provided they do not contain
material disruptive to the educational process
and that they are signed. The Leprechaun Gold
reserves the right to edit submitted material
for length.
2
Leprechaun Gold
College stress can be avoided
Caitlin O’Neill
CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
In today’s ever-changing society, it comes as
no surprise that the college process is different
now than in the past. Students go to extremes
to stand out in the sea of applicants, pushing
themselves to build an impressive resume and
improve test scores. Yale graduate and author,
Alexandra Robbins, wrote a novel entitled Overachievers about high school students at her alma
mater who were going through the application
process.
“Education is no longer about a learning
experience,” said Robbins. “It’s a game of Survivor where kids are strategizing to work against
each other and beat the system.”
STVM Senior Caitlin Hoff commented,
“As a high school senior with homework, a job,
and extracurricular activities, I feel stressed at
the prospect of applying to college when I’m
bogged down preparing for college.”
In a sea of equally-qualified applicants,
many students find it difficult to stand out from
the crowd. While test scores and GPA’s are important to colleges, there are many other aspects
that are reviewed. Many admission counselors
recommend students take the time to reflect and
figure out what makes them unique, and then do
their best to express that to prospective schools.
Mr. Van Buskirk, author of Winning the College
Admission Game, and former admissions dean at
Franklin & Marshall College, informed students
of what college admission counselors look for in
a prospective student.
“Kids need to follow their passions. I worry
that there are a lot of young people right now
who are being remade into the images of what
somebody thinks a dean of admissions wants to
see, at the expense of lives well lived,” Buskirk
told U.S. News, “The reality is that deans of
admissions are constantly looking for that
something different in a young person that is
genuine.”
As this stressful, time-consuming process
carries on, there are several time-saving,
stress-relieving tips that can help students
get into college without having a breakdown.
STVM college counselors, Mr. James Endress
and Mr. Jerry Rotunda, are available during
the school day to help students apply to colleges, look for scholarships, and make decisions. The most important piece of advice for
students, Endress said, is “Start the process
early.” At this point in the school year, seniors
should be narrowing their college choices,
making college visits, visiting the college
representatives at lunch, keeping their grades
up, and of course, visiting the counselors with
questions. “There is no dumb question,” said
Endress.
In her article, Acing the College Application, Ann Bezbatchenko stressed the importance of deadlines. As students who are in the
process of applying to college know, there are
deadlines for everything. There are deadlines
for applications, deadlines for scholarships,
deadlines for test registrations, and deadlines
for payments. With so many deadlines to keep
track of, one of the most important things for
students to do is to make an all-inclusive timeline to ensure everything gets done on time.
Waiting for the future-deciding letters
doesn’t need to be a nail-biting time for
students. Getting things done early (such as
the STVM Thanksgiving deadline for college
applications) can help students, especially seniors, enjoy the remainder of the school year
without having to worry about applications
and deadlines.
October 2009
Leprechaun Gold
Shamrock Alley
Caitlin O’Neill
CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
STVM hosts Career Connections for upperclassmen
On November 4, 2009, STVM juniors
and seniors will attend the 2nd annual Career
Connections event. The event, which will be
held in the gym, will give juniors and seniors
opportunities to talk to about 60 professionals
from various fields and learn more about
specific career paths.
NHS sponsors 4th annual
Books for the Bahamas
STVM National Honor Society sponsored
the annual Books for the Bahamas drive and
brought in 3072 books to be sent to the Andros
Islands to stock school libraries.
The winners of the homeroom competition
for each grade were Mr. Boarman’s freshman
homeroom with 221 books, Mr. Salvatore’s
sophomore homeroom with 326 books, Ms.
Sanor’s junior homeroom with 124 books, Ms.
Harmon’s senior homeroom with 442 books
(and special recognition to Mr. Allison’s senior
homeroom with 414 books), and Liturgical
Choir (special homeroom) with 305 books. The
winning homerooms were awarded doughnuts
during homeroom. Mr. Paul Wagner, STVM
math tutor, belongs to the group who will take
care of delivering the books to the Bahamas.
The Leprechaun Theatre
Guild will present A Dark
and Stormy Night
The Leprechaun Theatre Guild will present
A Dark and Stormy Night as the 2009 fall play.
Performances will be Thursday, November 19,
at 7:30 p.m. Friday, November 20, at 7:30 p.m.,
Saturday, November 21, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, November 22, at 1:30 p.m. Tickets will be
$8. For more information, contact Mr. Neary.
Showcase is another success
Showcase’s theme of “New Orleans Jazz”
was held at Tangier restaurant.
Parents Dr. Susan Ray and Dr. Joe Finocchio were the 1st and 2nd place prize winners
of $8,500. They generously donated all of
their prize money back to STVM. Mrs. Elaine
Yeaton won 3rd place cash prize of $1,500.
Co-chairs Debbie Chiarappa and Beth
Piglia chose the theme for the fun-filled
evening and took part in creating the menu
and making the colorful centerpieces. Many
students and parents volunteered for the event.
The 25th anniversary of Showcase will
be celebrated Saturday, October 23, 2010, at
STVM.
Victoria Lambert
staff reporter
October 2009
Feature
Pat Dunlavy gives advice
Sarah Lovelace
staff reporter
Speaker Series
Also, it’s important to effectively commuAlum Pat Dunlavy (V67) came to speak to
nicate
your ideas. “Speech will help you no
the seniors on October 23 after a very successmatter
what you do,” said Dunlavy. “Read.
ful Speaker Series presentation the previous
Write.
Listen.
Speak.” He told the seniors the
day. His speech was geared to talk about coltop
people
in
each
profession are able to speak
lege interviews, life skills and what he majored
well and express themselves effectively.
in--Communications and Speech.
Dunlavy then proceeded to talk about his
Dunlavy did not intend to go into the comnovel
Just One Thing. The book is a time
munication world, but he accidentally stumbled
travel story about his classmate from St. Vininto it. When all of his business classes were
cent High School, Jim Vinciguerra, who died in
full, a football budVietnam. Dunlavy is
dy suggested he
given the opportutake some speech
nity to go back in
classes because
time and change
they were “so
the outcome of any
easy!” He wound
one situation he
up getting some
chooses. Like a true
C’s in his business
St. Vincent student,
major and all A’s
he goes back and
in his communicachanges the outcome
tion minor.
of that year’s St.
The first bit of
Vincent vs. Hoban
advice he had for
football game. After
the seniors was
realizing that’s a
about interviewshallow
wish, he
Mr.
Pat
Dunlavy
poses
with
students
after
his
Speaker
ing. whether it
decided to go back and
Series presentation.
be for a job or a
change the course of
college interview,
his
friend’s
life,
so
it
didn’t
end in his death.
always make sure to to have a firm handshake,
“This book is a way for me to give back to
make eye contact, and maintain good posture.
When an interviewer asks a question, be enthu- his family, and relive my life,” he said.
In closing, Dunlavy had seven wishes for
siastic and sound confident. At the end of the
the
senior
class. “Go to college, further you
interview, applicants shouldn’t just say “thanks
education,
have curious minds, be flexible and
for your time...it was nice meeting you,” but
be
versatile,
let your life continue to change,
instead, applicants should ask for the job. Conand
be
compassionate
and productive citizens,”
vince the interviewer that you’ll do a good job
he expressed to them.
for his/her company. Make yourself stand out.
Is senioritis an epidemic?
Halle Marchetta
staff reporter
Senioritis is a disease affecting high school
students all across America. In this epidemic,
seniors complain about the “unnecessity” of
the last year of high school. Syptoms include
severe laziness, a drop in grades, a disinterest in school activities, and excessive goofing
around. The only known cure is an event
these seniors will experience only once in their
young lives, high school graduation.
Temporary treatments are available. Events
such as football games, Homecoming, and
inside jokes such as the “Senior Goose” have
been proven to ease the symptoms of this ailment. The disease usually becomes prevalent
among seniors around the time of college application due dates. This year senioritis has hit
STVM a little earlier than expected, and with
much more force than previous years.
Senior Sam Stacks says, “I can’t wait for
this whole year to be over! I feel like I’m al-
ready ready for college. Senior year feels like
a waste of time!”
STVM juniors seem to be a little more
optimistic about the disease. Junior Ellen Rochford says, “I think senioritis is a myth! Some
kids are just lazy and others work hard. I think
senioritis is just an excuse for those lazy kids
to stop working. I think teachers use it as an
excuse to crack down, too.”
Senior Molly Miloscia says, “I’m already
sick of all the college applications. I already
applied and got accepted to my first choice college. I just don’t understand why I need senior
year.”
Most seniors aren’t as fortunate as Miloscia
and are still going through the college application process. The stress from this process
is increasing the effect of senioritis on these
unfortunate students. Senior Sarah Lovelace
agrees with this statement. “I can’t wait to just
finish all these applications and spend the rest
of the year having fun!”
3
Feature
Leprechaun Gold
Halloween costumes are still popular
Maria Arnone
staff reporter
satanic. The word “Halloween” itself originated from Roman Catholic
beliefs, coming from the day “All Hallow’s Eve,” which is the day
before All Saints Day that takes place on November 1.
Halloween is a time of playful pranks, trick-or-treating, and most of all,
Some schools’ reasoning for the zero-tolerance in celebrating Haldressing up in crazy costumes. This spooky holiday has been a favorite
loween is because the holiday does have religious roots and the schools
among children and adults alike for generations. However, some schools
don’t want to offend students of different beliefs.
have done away with this tradition and have banned its
“Taking away the rights to dress up in a costume
students from dressing up and having Halloween paron Halloween is a downright shame! I love expressties in the classroom, or at least, set some restrictions
ing my creativity by dressing up in costumes!”
on the merriment.
exclaimed sophomore Matt Olszewski.
Several public schools in the area, including WadMany other students agreed with him in thinking
sworth, Firestone,and North, cannot celebrate Hallowthat the only way Halloween is offensive to other
een because of the potential disrespect it might show to
religions is that it’s a sin not to participate in the
other religions. Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy,
holiday’s festivities.
also known as CVCA, represents a private school that
Junior Nick Conlon’s cynical and comical view
does not engage in Halloween activities.
of wearing costumes on Halloween was crystal clear
Being part of an endangered species, Fairview,
English teacher Mr. Phil
when he said, “ Halloween is a ridiculous event that
Copley, and Highland High Schools are three public
Alvord enjoyed the spirit of
makes fun of the supernatural. We mortals should
schools which are full of festivity and allow students
Halloween last year by dressing as
not mess with the mysterious powers unknown to
to participate fully in Halloween fun. Hoban and
a monk.
man.” This just proves that there will be an Ebenezer
STVM are two private schools who also permit dressScrooge for every holiday.”
ing up for Halloween. “ All my friends and I are so excited to all dress up as Power RangRevere and Barberton are schools that have set some restrictions on
ers!” shouted David Bowen, clearly expressing his excitement of dressHalloween celebration. Barberton allows students to dress up, but masks
ing up on October 30 here at school.
are not permitted. Revere students can have parties in the classroom and
It can be seen that the majority of people believe that dressing
wear costumes, but blood and weapons are forbidden.
up has no religious views or meanings, but it is simply an occasion to
Why aren’t schools allowed to dress up? It’s harmless fun, right? Not
dress up and have fun. So while some schools forbid the festivities
to everyone. Halloween has been said to be the holiday of the devil. Halor restrict them, STVM students can bask in the glory of the
loween does, however, have some religious roots, but none of them are
Halloween spirit!
Eighteen students receive Academic Awards
Rachel Dodson
staff reporter
These awards were presented to the following recipients at an allschool assembly.
An Academic Letter was awarded to eighteen students. These students
Second year Academic Letter recognition for the 2009 school year
are eligible to purchase a school letter jacket with the letter placed on the
was
given only to one student, senior Christine Maria Kenngott.
front and the chenille Lamp of Learning on the back of the jacket.
First year Academic Letter recognition went to seniors Hollen
The criteria for the winning the “letter” are as follows:
Campbell, Rachel Dedinsky, Renee Horn, Natasha Kanakkanatt,
1. A student is
Molly Miloscia,
eligible after his/her
Mariam Sovacool,
sophomore year.
Olivia Walter, and
2. A student has
Kelly Wheeler; juniors
received eight or
Jessica Durbin, Anna
more class/course
Mion, Mark Murphy,
academic awards,
Jessie Neumann,
which become
Alyssa Paolucci,
cumulative,
Melissa Paydo, Jaime
at the Spring
Raglow, Sara Stanger,
Academic Award
and Jasmine Wyatt.
presentations.
3. A student must
be in good standing
with the Dean of
Academic Letter winners and the Department Heads and Headmaster pose after the
Students in terms
assembly. They are (front row l to r) seniors Hollen Campbell, Molly Miloscia, Kelly Wheeler,
of discipline and
Natasha Kanakkanatt; juniors Jessica Durbin, Mark Murphy, Jessie Neumann, Alyssa
attendance.
Paolucci, Melissa Paydo, Jaime Raglow; (back row l to r) Mrs. Gorman, Mrs. Windhorst,
4. A student must
seniors Olivia Walter, Rachel Dedinsky, Renee Horn, Mariam Sovacool; juniors Jasmine Wyatt,
hold a cumulative
Sara Stanger, Mr. Rathz, Mrs. Harrigal, Mrs. Haddox, Mrs. Chionchio, Mrs. McElhaney, and
grade point average
Ms. Godshalk. Not pictured are senior Maria Kenngott and junior Anna Mion.
of at least a 3.3.
4
October 2009
Feature
Leprechaun Gold
Students and faculty enjoy pumpkins
Victoria Lambert
staff reporter
and carved it so he could wear it on his head and went as a “Pumpkin Head!”
Junior Joanna Engels
Pumpkin carving is a tradition that brings family together to have fun
Q: Do you know how pumpkin carving got started?
and make silly designs in a large orange pumpkin.
A:“The pilgrims needed a light source so they cut holes in to
The history of pumpkin carving goes back to the Celts. They would
pumpkins and lit a candle inside.”
celebrate and welcome the dead loved ones by carving turnips and
Junior Jacob Lee
gourds. The Celts would light these gourds by setting a candle inside to
Q: Do you prefer painting or carving?
illuminate the faces.
A: “Carving”
In America, a carved pumpkin was a symbol for the harvest season
Junior Kelly Schuerger
many years before it was associated with
Q: What in your opinion, is the best
Halloween. It did not catch on in America
design you’ve ever carved into a until late 1837 when the jack-o-lantern
pumpkin?
referred to a carved vegetable lantern. The
A: “Chief Wahoo”
S pi der :
carved vegetable lantern did not become a
Senior Allyson Dewell
2%
part of Halloween until 1867 and has been
Q: What do you look for in choosing a celebrated in many countries ever since.
pumpkin to carve?
O th er :
When Irish settlers arrived in America,
A: “A big, round one that isn’t dirty and 37%
they liked this tradition and decided to join in
is very orange”
J a ck -othe fun. They found that the native pumpkin
Teacher Ms. Beth Harmon
L a n ter n s :
was larger and much easier to carve than a
Q: How do you carve your pumpkin?
49%
gourd or a turnip and used the pumpkin to
A: “I never carve my pumpkin anymore. carve their version of the jack-o-lantern.
I try to save it for as long as it will G h os t: 6 %
Some people had opinions about pump
last without rotting. I never put kin carving.
the pumpkin outside after I find C a t: 4 %
Junior Danielle Freeman
it in the pumpkin patch. I had one
Q: What is your favorite part about carvthat actually lasted two years! I did not
B a t: 2 %
ing?
throw away my pumpkin from last HalA: “Getting out all the guts and putting a
loween until August!
light inside.”
Sophomore Mikey Humphries
Teacher Mrs. Pam Murphy
Q: What was your most fun pumpkin carving experience?
Q: What are your pumpkin memories?
A: “After we carved about 4 pumpkins, my brother, sister, and I then
A: “My family members all carve their own pumpkins. We even played baseball with them. It was a good time”
have our son-in-law and future sons-in-law carve pumpkins. Sophomore Stephanie Beck
One of the funnier pumpkins that I remember was the year that
Q: What was the worst pumpkin you’ve ever carved?
someone carved the pumpkin and put braces on it made out of A: “The worst pumpkin I carved would be when I made a bunch of
tin foil. When Coach Murphy was with the Green Bay Packers shapes and tried to make a face.”
he had to dress up for Halloween. He took a very large pumpkin How to “Go Green” for Halloween
Kaitlyn Carlier
staff reporter
Reuse Old Costumes
Look through either your closet or your parents’ to see if you can find
something to spark a creative idea.Trade past costumes with your friends
and family if you don’t want to repeat a costume. This will not only save
you money, but save the time of going to Halloween stores and searching
for a costume.
Use Nature to Decorate
Leaves, hay bales, pumpkins, and gourds all make great fall decorations. Before going to a store to pick up some already made decorations,
check out both your backyard and the local farmer’s market to create
your own unique decorations.
Light up the Night
Use LED lights instead of traditional twinkle lights in your decorating
and use beeswax or soy candles to light up the night with spooky jack-olanterns.
Have a Party
Make your invitations out of recycled materials or make the invitations something your guests will want to keep. During the party, use festive paper products, aluminum cans, and plastic u tensils, because they
October 2009
are all recyclable. This will not only help
the environment, but also make your job
of cleaning up a breeze.
Save Gas
Instead of driving around the
neighborhood or driving someone else
around while they trick-or-treat, go with
a group and walk. That way, one can
save gas, get some fresh air, exercise, and admire the
decorations your neighbors have displayed.
Use Reusable Bags
North Americans use over 420 million bags a year and these often end
up littering the countryside or killing marine life. For trick-or-treating,
use a durable, re-usable bag, or better yet, an old pillowcase.
Use Your Pumpkins
Don’t just throw them out when Halloween is over—use whatever
you can to make pies, muffins, or other desserts, including the seeds,
and toss the rest into a composter or compost pile. Contrary to popular
belief, food does continue to break down in the cold.
October 2008
Faces in the Crowd
Leprechaun Gold
Student “Faces in the crowd”
Name: Joe Bedell
Halle Marchetta
staff reporter
Name: Cathleen Consilio
Age: 17
Grade level: Senior
Siblings: Christopher, 13
Most exciting memory
so far: My most exciting
memory of high school
so far is basketball States
‘09.
Best part of senior year:
Getting away with more
things.
Biggest word you know:
antidisestablishmentarianism
If you could have one
superpower what would it be and why?: I would want the power to
stop time so I could get done.
Which came first, the chicken or the egg?: The egg.
Favorite movie: Boondock Saints
Favorite joke: What has a head and a tail but no body? A quarter.
Least favorite activity: Cleaning
Favorite food: Sushi
My Halloween costume was: A robot because my friends would not
dress up as Star Wars characters like I wanted to do. My cat named Kitty
dressed up like a devil for Halloween.
and a googley eyed cat for companionship.
Why did the chicken cross the road? Because the goose was on the
other side.
Favorite candy? Charleston Chews
If you could trade places with anyone, who would it be? Captain
America
Favorite movie: High School Musical 3
Favorite joke: A turtle is robbed by a pair of snails. When the police
arrive the turtle says, “It all happened too fast.”
Least favorite activity: Filling out questionnaires.
My Halloween costume was: a Power Ranger with a few of my friends
because Power Rangers are awesome!
Name: Carin Marchetta
Name: Tessa Weigand
Grade level: Sophomore
Siblings: Hayley (VM 08)
Something no one knows
about you: I don’t feel
pain.
Favorite color: My favorite color is orange because
it is the color of my cat,
Ted.
Favorite joke: What’s
brown and sticky? A stick.
Favorite Movie: Slumdog
Millionaire
Favorite gum flavor:
Cinnamon
Favorite staff member: Mrs. Wood
Favorite TV show: I like The OC.
Favorite Pastime: My favorite thing to do is sleep.
First memory: I don’t remember. Ha Ha Ha.
Favorite thing about STVM: The people because they are funny.
Favorite thing about cross country: Winning
Favorite thing about Coach Lancianese: He’s inspiring
Favorite food: Ice cream
Favorite Gatorade flavor: Grape
My Halloween costume was: A sumo wrestler, just because!
6
Grade level: Junior
Siblings: Margaret (VM
08), Max, 22, Tricia, 28,
Katie, 31.
Favorite class: APAS,
because I learn something every day.
Favorite holiday and
why: Flag Day because
of its uniqueness.
What three things
would you bring on an
island with you? Season
2 of Gilligan’s Island,
the Bible coloring book,
Grade: Freshman
Siblings: Halle (STVM 10),
John, 11
How many pets do you
have? I have two dogs,
Bentley and Toby.
Favorite artist and why:
Christopher Drew because
he’s very talented.
Favorite candy: Cow Tails
Favorite color: pink
Something no one knows
about you: I’m pretty
sure one of my fingers is
crooked.
If you could switch places with anyone who would it be? I would
switch places with Meghan Fox so I could be in a movie with Shia
LaBeouf.
Favorite Sport: Volleyball
What do you like most about STVM? I like how everyone is so nice
and the teachers really seem to care. I also like how much school spirit
everyone has.
Most annoying habit: I crunch ice like a maniac. It drives my sister
crazy!
Favorite animal: Horse
My Halloween costume was: Batman because I have a life long love of
bats and Super Heroes who represent them.
October 2009
Staff Spotlight
Leprechaun Gold
STVM staff members in the spotlight
Sarah Lovelace
staff reporter
Name: Ms. Angela Sanor
What’s it like having your
son here? It’s equal parts of
frustration and fun. It’s good
to always see him around
his friends and I always
know when he doesn’t do his
homework.
Favorite place to shop:
Dillards.
If you had $1,000,000 how
would you spend it? I’d take
all my friends on a vacation
to Europe all summer.
If you had a time machine
and you could travel back
to any point in time, where would you go and why? To the 40’s and
50’s. It seemed like everyone was nicer and classier with everything
they did. Even when they fought, it was classy.
You’re stuck on a desert island, what 3 things do you have with you?
Fresh water, sunscreen and my laptop with WiFi.
On coaching at Cuyahouga Falls: I coach 8th grade girls volleyball
and we’ve won 4 games so far.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? On a beach in Hawaii teaching
English.
What is your favorite holiday and why? Thanksgiving because we get
about 50 family members in one place and there is lots of good food
What did you want to be when you were little?
I wanted to be an FBI profiler and interview serial killers.
Name: Mrs. Rita Lancianese
What is your son’s
name and how old is he?
Dominic and he’s 8. I also
have two step-kids named
Anthony and Angela.
What is your favorite style
of art? Design and I like
patterns.
Why did you become an
art teacher? I have always
loved art. I went to college
for graphic design and I was
also tutoring kids in Spanish,
since I’m fluent in it, and I
loved teaching and art.
Where did you grow up?
Argentina.
Which artist do you admire most and why? So many! I love Da Vinci
because he was a genius in both art and science. He also loved what he
did.
Did you have any weird jobs before this? I was a cook at Dontino’s
and Yocono’s. I also worked at the library as a film slider.
What’s your biggest fear? Losing someone close to me.
What inspires you most to create art? Colors and advertisements.
What do you do for fun? I like to make cards with stamps. I make my
own stamps.
If someone wrote a biography of you what would it be called? Senorita Rita, because that’s what everyone used to call me!
October 2009
Name: Mrs. Jennifer McElhaney
How many children do
you have? Two boys;
Kenny and Daniel.
Pets: We have a minilop bunny. His name is
Bunny.
Favorite dessert: I like
carrot cake, any type of
spice cake, banana or
pumpkin bread, things
like that.
Last good book you
read: The Twilight series.
Favorite item of clothing: Black pants that fit
just right.
How do you like your coffee? I hate coffee! I like iced tea and water.
What method of teaching do you find most effective? I like to get to
know my students.
Are you a strict dress code enforcer? Like you need to ask! Yes!
If you could have a super power what would it be? My super power...
elasticity...then I could finally stretch enough to reach items on the top
shelf without having to ask for help!
When are you most proud? I am very proud when I am successful at
something I thought was virtually impossible for me or totally out of
my comfort zone. Likewise, I am so proud of my students (and my own
sons) when they put their absolute best efforts into learning. I love to see
my students succeed! (And that aha! moment is really cool, too.)
Name: Mrs. Joanne Kropf
Where are you originally
from? Chicago.
Coffee or tea: Black breakfast tea.
What is your favorite
flavor of ice cream? Mint
Chocolate Chip
What do you do when
you’re not busy at school
or grading papers? I like
to play with my dog, Brady.
She’s a mutt that we got
from a rescue group.
If you could meet any
famous or historical person
from the past, who would
it be? James Madison. He
was brilliant! He was also the architect of our government.
Where all have you traveled to? China, Italy, Spain, Greece, Mexico,
Bonair, England, Fiji, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Bermuda,
Belize, Curacao.
What is the last book you read? Olive Kitteridge. It’s a book about a
woman’s life; it’s really good!
What would you do if you won the lottery? I would donate some, buy
a sailboat, spend time on my sailboat, and travel.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned in school while
being a teacher? I’ve learned to accept and appreciate students for who
they are. And be flexible!
If you could get rid of any of the U.S. states, which one would it be
and why? Texas. I think people from there have a hard time accepting
the viewpoints of others.
7
Feature
Leprechaun Gold
Texting while driving is now banned
locally in Summit County
Kaitlyn Carlier
staff reporter
The average teenager sends
and receives around 80 text
messages per day, but keeping in touch with friends could
potentially put people in harm’s
way.
Texting while driving is an
epidemic that has recently been
sweeping the nation, specifically in the younger generation of
drivers. Cell phone texting use
is a controversial issue among
lawmakers, and there are various laws for the different states.
Eighteen states have banned all
texting and driving, while nine
states have banned it for people
with their learner’s permit or
who have just received their
license.
Some states let local jurisdictions decide on the laws, while others
count it as only a secondary offense. Although there are so many different laws around the country, most Americans agree texting is a major
distraction from driving. According to a study from the Virginia Tech
Transportation Institute, text-messaging while driving a car causes the
risk of a crash or near crash event to go up 2.8 times.
Nearly 21 percent of car crashes involving teenagers are a result of
cell phone usage, and drivers are 23 times more likely to crash if they text
when they drive. Nearly 50 percent of teenagers admit to texting while driving, even
though 46 percent agree that it is dangerous.
When a group of seven juniors were
asked, they all admitted to texting and
driving, and most agreed that even a law
banning texting behind the wheel wouldn’t
stop them.
“People who can’t text while they drive
are simply untalented!” said one of the juniors. Other teenagers, however, understand
why they shouldn’t be doing this.
STVM junior Holly Middlecoop said, “I
never text when I’m driving because it is a
major distraction, and I know how dangerous it is.”
In Ohio, laws are made by jurisdiction,
and as of Monday, October 19, texting
while driving became illegal in Summit
County. Anybody who is caught reading or
sending a text message behind the wheel will be fined $150. The city of
Cleveland has a similar ban, and proposals are being made to the Ohio
General Assembly to make a state-wide ban. The Summit County councilman who proposed this legislation, Jon Poda, commented, “If passing
a text messaging ban can assist in saving even one single life, then this
effort will have been a success.”
Service hour opportunities for students
Kathryn Latimer
staff reporter
One of the things that makes STVM stand out as a high school is
the volunteer program. Each year students are required to complete a
total of twenty five hours of Christian-based community service, so that
by graduation one hundred hours are completed. The volunteer work required for students
enhances college and job applications and
helps the community.
Some places that are available to complete
volunteer hours are nursing homes, hospitals,
soup kitchens/shelters, and other outreach
opportunities. If students are looking to interact with elderly people, or work with other
individuals or families in need, then nursing
homes are a good place to start. Some nursing homes in the area that are available for
volunteers are Briarwood Nursing Home,
Cuyahoga Falls Country Place, C.Y.O. Adult
Day Care, Edwin Shaw Rehab Center, Heather Knoll Retirement, Hickory Ridge Rehab,
Visiting Nurse Hospice, Rockyknoll Retirement, Stewart’s Caring Place,
Stow Glen Retirement Village, Sunrise Assisted Living, and Village at
St. Edward’s. Addresses and phone numbers for these places can be
provided by Mrs. Haddox, who is in charge of the religion department
and the service hours.
Some hospitals in the area that are open for volunteers are Akron
8
General Medical Center, Barberton Citizens Hospital, Children’s Hospital
Medical Center, Summa Western Reserve Medical Center, Medina General Hospital, and Summa Health System (Akron City Hospital).
Another volunteer option for students is working at the local soup
kitchens or shelters. Some of the local soup kitchens are ACCESS, St.
Bernard Hot Meals, Catholic Worker Homes, Gennesaret, Good Samaritan Hunger Center, Haven of
Rest Rescue Mission, Open M Food Pantry, and St.
John’s Hot Meal Program. At these places the work
would consist of babysitting children, assisting in the
preparation of the meals and also the serving of the
meals for the needy.
An alternate opportunity is working for the
All Star Training Club, which is run by Mr. Dan
Lancianese. At this volunteer job, students would be
working and playing with others who have special
needs. This includes coaching soccer, basketball,
bocce ball, and bowling.
Another opportunity is working at the Pregnancy
Care Center in Tallmadge, helping the new and
expectant moms with their babies.
Students can also volunteer with Right to Life, Ronald McDonald House,
Salvation Army Holiday volunteering, Seeds of Change Tutoring, “Katy’s
Kids”, Weaver Learning Center, Pegasus Farm, Catholic Social Services
of Summit County, or H.M. Life Oppurtunities.
Volunteer forms can be obtained from religion teachers, or at www.
stvm.com.
October 2009
News in brief
Leprechaun Gold
Around the Globe
1.
South Korean researcher convicted of embezzling
On Monday, October 26, Hwang Woo-suk, 56, was convicted for
embezzlement and other charges after having falsely claimed to have
found major breakthroughs in stem cell research. He was conviced of embezzling research funds and illegally buying human eggs for his research.
The Seoul Central District Court said Hwang showed remorse, and providing that he stays out of trouble for the next three years, Hwang will not
serve jail time.
2. 3.
1.
2.
Iraq suffers deadliest attack in more than two years
On Sunday, October 25, two suicide car bombings in Iraq’s capital killed at least 147 people and injured at least 721. Two government buildings, the Ministry of Justice and the Baghdad Provincial Council, were targeted in the attack which occurred a few hours before a meeting
between political leaders to set guidelines for the upcoming elections. As Iraq approaches elections in January, many worry that the violence, which
had been steadily decreasing, will begin to increase.
3. Violence escalates in Pakistan
On Wednesday, October 28, a car bomb killed at least 90 people and wounded a minimum of 160, in a market in the city of Peshawar. Earlier in
the day, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrived in Pakistan and was in a closed-door meeting with other government officials at the time of the
bombing and was unharmed.
Sea to Shining Sea
2.
1.
3.
Charges to be pressed after balloon hoax
1. On
October 16, 2009, after releasing a flying saucer balloon, the Heene
family of Los Angeles feigned hysterics claiming that their 6-year-old son
was thought to be on board the balloon. After authorities mounted a 50-mile
rescue operation across three counties, the son, Falcon, was not inside. Falcon
was found safe at home, where he had been throughout the ordeal. Later that
night on “Larry King Live,” the Heenes asked Falcon why he didn’t come out
when they called his name. Falcon responded, “You guys said we did this for
the show.” There may be charges filed against the parents.
2.
3.
Hawaii switches to 4 day school week
Hawaii schools have switched to a 4-day school week for
most of the academic year because of the economic conditions.
Fourteen percent of the school budget was cut, but the schools
decided not to lay off any teachers for the next two years and to
instead shorten the school week. Parents are concerned about the
effect the shorter school week will have on the students’ education, and parents who count on their children being at school
during the day are also unhappy with the change.
UConn football player stabbed to death
UConn cornerback Jasper Howard was stabbed to death early Sunday
morning, October 18, 2009. The football player was stabbed on campus
during a fight when a school dance was evacuated after the fire alarm was
pulled. Brian Parker, a UConn redshirt freshman, was also stabbed; however,
he was released from the hospital after being treated. Although authorities have
classified Howard’s death as a homicide, no charges have yet been made. A
candlelight vigil was held in Howard’s honor on October 21, and a moment
of silence was observed before the October 24 football game against the West
Virginia Mountaineers. In honor of the late Howard, the Mountaineers wore
Howard’s number (6) on the back of their helmets.
The Heart of it All
1.
Shaq looks to continue law enforcement in Cleveland
2.
Cleveland Cavaliers player Shaquille O’Neal hopes to continue his law enforcement career in Ohio.
1.
O’Neal applied to become a special sheriff’s deputy, an unpaid job that would allow him to carry a gun
and make arrests. If his application is approved, O’Neal would have six months to go through thirty six
hours of police training and pass the Ohio police exam to be able to fill the position.
3.
2. Ohioans debate Ohio Issue 3
Ohio State Issue 3, if passed in November, will bring casinos to Ohio cities, Cleveland, Columbus,
Cincinnati and Toledo. The issue is said to create 34,000 Ohio jobs, as well as a minimum of $1 billion
to the four largest Ohio cities; however, Youngstown Mayor Jay Williams is concerned if Issue 3 passes.
“The people have a right to know who will own, build, and operate this casino monopoly which Issue 3
Caitlin O’Neill
CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
creates,” said Williams.
Akron woman plots to kill mother
3. In an attempt to collect a hefty inheritance, Taylor Marks,20, sought help from her boyfriend, Brian Smith, 20, and his friend, Troy Purdie, 19,
to kill her mother. The plot unraveled and the three confessed to the crime only hours after Marks’ mother, Kristie Marks, was stabbed to death
on Saturday evening, October 24.
October 2009
9
Sports
Leprechaun Gold
Shamrock Athletic Happenings
Junior Maria Arnone
was featured on the
front page of the Akron
Beacon Journal as the
Papa John’s Athlete of
the Week for her outstanding performance
in cross country.
-Sarah Lovelace
10
October 2009
Sports
Leprechaun Gold
Athletic Update
Boys’ Soccer
Rachel Dodson
STAFF REPORTER
District semi-final: Hoban L 1-0: The game ended in a 0-0 tie
and went into a sudden death overtime period during in which Hoban made
the first goal.
sectional final: Coventry W 2-1: At halftime STVM held the
win at 1-0. Goals were scored by sophomores Antonio Manfut and Patrick
O’Brien. Irish assists were made by senior Austin Booth and Manfut.
STVM goalkeeper sophomore Michael Humphreys had three saves.
Sectional Semi-final: Triway: W 3-0
Irish goals were scored by junior Chris Motley (2), sophomore Vitaly
Pinter.
Sylvania Nothview: L 4-3
Sophomore John Vandevere scored two goals for the Irish, and Manfut
scored one.
Medina Highland: L 2-0
Berlin Hiland: L 1-0
Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy: L 6-1
St. Thomas Aquinas: W 1-0
The score was tied at 0 until the beginning of the second half when Motley
Girls’ Tennis
Halle Marchetta
STAFF REPORTER
DISTRICTS:
Wedlake L Hathaway Brown 3-6, 0-6
Wedlake: W 6-3, 6-2
Bennett: L 4-6, 3-6
Klein: L 2-6, 1-6
In the District tournament Wedlake won her first match defeating
Poland 6-3, 6-2. She lost her second round match to Hathaway Brown 3-6,
0-6. Wedlake beat JFK 6-3, 6-4. In her state qualifying match Wedlake
suffered a loss to Gilmour, losing 7-5, 3-6, 4-6. Bennett lost in her first
round match to Hathway Brown 4-6, 3-6. Klein also suffered a loss in her
first round match losing to JFK 2-6, 1-6.
SECTIONALS:
Wedlake: 2nd match 6-0; 6-0 3rd match 6-0 6-1; 4th match 6-0, 6-1.
Winer and Welsh: 6-2, 5-7, 6-7
The team had all three singles players, Wedlake, Bennett, and Klein advance to the District tournament this year. Wedlake had a bye the first round
and then defeated Triway 6-0, 6-0. In her third round match, Wedlake
defeated Our Lady of the Elms 6-0, 6-1, and then won her District qualifying match 6-0, 6-1 against Chippewa. Bennett won her second match
defeating Canton South 6-1, 6-2. Bennett also easily won her fourth round
match against Canton Central Catholic 6-2, 6-1, qualifying for the District
tournament. In her semifinal match, Bennett lost to Canton South 2-6, 0-6.
In her final seating match Bennett defeated STVM’s Klein 6-2, 6-2, making her the third seed for the tournament. Klein won her first round match
against Orrville 7-5, 6-3. She breezed through the second round with a win
over St. Thomas Aquinas 6-0, 6-0. Klein won a nail biting round match
against Marlington 4-6, 6-1, 6-2. Klein defeated Canton Central Catholic
6-1, 6-1 to advance the the District tournament. The doubles team of senior
Caity Welsh and junior Maddie Winer lost to Marlington 6-2, 5-7, 6-7. The
doubles team of senior Halle Marchetta and junior Danielle VanDevere advanced to the secong round with a defeat of Field 6-4, 6-3 and then winning
their second round match against Kidron 6-2, 6-4, and finally losing a third
round match to St. Thomas Aquinas 1-6, 1-6.
October
2009
.
Girls’ Soccer
Caitlin O’Neill
CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Regional semi-final at Lexington on Wednesday, November 4
Record: 15-2-3
The Lady Irish soccer team was ranked #6 in the state for Division
2 and received the #1 seed in the Division 2 Brunswick District.
DISTRICT FINAL: Chippewa W 2-1: The game was tied at
halftime, 0-0, and with nine minutes into the second half, junior
Kylie Woyat scored from twenty yards out to give the Irish a 1-0 lead.
Chippewa tied the game with ten minutes left in the second half, and
regular time ended in a 1-1 tie. The 15-minute round of sudden-death
overtime ensued, and sophomore Sam Duagherty scored the winning
goal for the Irish by heading in a corner kick by sophomore Miranda
Yeaton. STVM also led the match in shots on goal, 10-7, and corner
kicks, 5-1.
DISTRICT SEMI-FINAL: Woodridge W 2-0: Sophomores Rachel
Hutson and Emma Davis scored for the Irish, and were assisted by
Yeaton and senior Erica Hutson. Junior goalkeeper Adrienne Henterly
recorded her eleventh shutout of the season.
SECTIONAL FINAL: Canton Central Catholic W 3-0: E. Hutson,
junior Miranda Mondozzi, and Yeaton scored for the Irish. Yeaton
and junior Becca Bridenthal had assists. STVM had 30 shots on goal,
Canton Central Catholic had 1. Henterly had her tenth shutout.
SECTIONAL SEMI-FINAL: Triway W 6-0: Davis had a hat trick
(3 goals), juniors Kelly Fulkerson and Woyat each scored a goal, and
Yeaton scored. Assists were made by sophomores Daugherty, Sam
Kirk, and Davis, and junior Kylie Woyat. Shots on goal were led by
the Irish, 41-3, and corner kicks, 6-0. Henterly recorded her ninth
shutout of the season.
Norton W 5-1: Irish goals were scored by sophomores R. Hutson (2),
and Daugherty (2), and senior Nora Wisor. R. Hutson had 2 assists for
the Irish, and juniors Fulkerson and Bridenthal each had one. Shots on
goal were led by STVM 17-9.
Hiland W 2-0: Sophomores Sam Kirk and Daugherty scored for the
Irish, and Yeaton had an assist. Irish led the match in shots, 17-2, and
corner kicks, 6-2. Goalkeeper Henterly broke the school record with
her eighth shutout of the season.
Western Reserve W 1-0: R. Hutson assisted Daugherty for the Irish
goal.
Hathaway Brown L 1-0
Volleyball
Sarah Lovelace
STAFF REPORTER
SECTIONALS:
Triway L 14-25, 18-25, 14-25:
Senior Kelsey Swords had 11 kills. Senior Rachel Wilson had 6
service points.
Cuyahoga Falls W 25-18, 25-18, 25-20:
Kills Leader: Swords,15; Service Points: Wilson,16
Brunswick L 24-26, 10-25, 22-25:
Kills Leader: Swords and Wilson 8 each; Service Points junior Annie
Nanez, 9
Hoban – L 13-25, 22-25, 18-25:
Kills Leader: Swords,7; Service Points senior Ryanne Oldham, 6
11
Sports
Leprechaun Gold
Athletic Update
Cross country boys and girls make school
history by both qualifying for the state meet
Maria Arnone
STAFF REPORTER
Girls:
The girls’ team will compete in Columbus on Saturday, November 7 at 11:50
a.m. at Scioto Downs.
regional: 1st place
Led by junior Maria Arnone, who finished as the regional runner-up, senior Emily Tomei finished 10th, sophomores Tessa Weigand finished 14th,
closely followed by Annie Davis in 15th place, freshman Marissa Rosetti in 16th place, senior Molly Miloscia in 19th place, and junior Anna Mion,
who rounded out the scoring in 23rd place. The team scored a total of 57 points and beat the defending state champion, CVCA, by 16 points which
had been their goal all season.
Districts 1st place: The girls were led by Arnone who finished 1st. Following close behind was Tomei with a 3rd place finish,Weigand
with a 4th place finish, Rosetti, with an 8th place finish, and Miloscia with a 9th place finish. The girls made history by being the first female team in
school history to win the district meet.
LEGENDS INVITATIONAL 1ST PLACE: The girls came in 1st defeating the defending Division II state champion, CVCA. This victory moved
them to 1st place in the polls. Arnone finished first for the Irish in 3rd place followed closely by Tomei in 6th. Weigand finished 11th, Mion finished
15th, and Miloscia came in 17th.
Boys:
The boys’ team will compete in Columbus on Saturday, November 7 at 2:05 p.m.
at Scioto Downs.
Regional: 2nd Place
The boys’ team was led by junior Jacob Swords in 9th, senior Landon Davis in 12th, senior Greg Gannon in 14th, sophomore Patrick O’Brien in
29th, freshman Mick Iacofano in 39th, Brian Raglow in 50th and followed by junior Ian Walsh.
DISTRICTS 4TH PLACE: Davis led the Irish with a 6th place finish, followed by Gannon who finished 16th, Swords who finished 17th, O’Brien
who finished 21st, and Walsh who finished 22nd.
LEGENDS INVITATIONAL 3RD PLACE: The men were led by Swords who finished in 6th place for the Irish followed by Davis in 8th. Gannon
came in 14th, and Walsh came in 24th.
STVM girls’ cross country team and the coaches pose
after Regional 1st place finish at Boardman.
12
STVM Boys’ cross country team pose after Regional 2nd
place finish at Boardman.
October 2009
Sports
Leprechaun Gold
Athletic Update
Football
Nick Shook
CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Oct. 27:
Oct. 28:
Oct. 27:
Oct. 27:
Boston Celtics L 89-85
at Toronto Raptors L101-91
at Minnesota Timberwolves W 104-87
Chicago W 90-79
CORNER
Sept. 13: Minnesota Vikings vs Minnesota L 20 - 34
Sept.20: Denver Broncos @ Denver L 27 - 6
Sept. 27: Baltimore Ravens @ Baltimore L 34 - 3
Oct. 4: Cincinnati Bengals vs Cincinnati L 20 - 23
Oct. 11: Buffalo Bills @ Buffalo W 6 - 3
Oct 18: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Pittsburgh L 14 - 27
Oct. 25: Green Bay Packers vs Green Bay L 3 - 31
Nov. 1: Chicago Bears @ Chicago L 6 - 30
Since coming back as an expansion team 10 years ago, the Browns are
55-113 with one playoff appearance and appear to be on their way to their
eighth season of double-digit losses since ’99.
“On the grounds of frustration and irritation with performance, then
that’s the medicine I (we) are going to take, and I accept that,” said
Browns’ owner, Randy Lerner. “The goal this year was to rebuild the
culture of the Browns. We felt at the end of last year that we lacked any
overall philosophy, approach or direction regarding recruiting, drafting,
coaching, preparation or training. As a result, each season was feeling like
starting over and 4-12 following 10-6 felt painfully not all that surprising.” Lifelong Browns fan and season-ticket holder Mike Randall, aka “Dawg
Pound Mike,” is encouraging other Cleveland fans to stay away from their
seats for the opening kickoff of the Browns’ Nov. 16 home game against
Baltimore which ironically is on Monday Night Football.
Earlier in the season, Kokinis, in what he thought would be a positive
move for thecompleted a trade with the New York Jets that sent troubled
wide receiver Braylon Edwards to New York for wide receiver Chansi
Stuckey, special teams ace and Ohio native Jason Trusnik, and two 2010
middle-round draft picks.
“To me this is a chance for Braylon to really have a fresh start,”
Mangini said. “That’s good for him and what we were able to get in the
trade is good for us.”
CAVS
The Cavaliers ended the 2008-09 season on a disappointing note, losing to the Orlando Magic in the Eastern
Conference Finals. The Cavaliers’ front office, headed
by general manager Danny Ferry, was determined to add
more productive pieces to the Cavaliers to assist LeBron
James. A large piece was added on June 25, when the
Cavaliers traded swingman Sasha Pavlovic, aging center Ben Wallace,
and a 2010 second-round draft pick for 15-time All-Star Shaquille
O’Neal. O’Neal, who has been nicknamed as the “Big Witness Protection,” had his best season in three years during 08-09 and is poised to
help bring a title to Cleveland.
The Cavaliers also signed swingman Anthony Parker and high-flying guard Jamario Moon. Parker was a key bench player for the Toronto Raptors last season, averaging 10.7 points per game coming off
of the bench for Toronto, and his long 6’ 6” frame gives the Cavaliers
the height they lacked at shooting guard. Jamario Moon is a player that
is similar to Parker, but younger. The 6’8” guard possesses an extraordinary vertical leap, is growing as an outside shooter, and provides the
Cavaliers with bench support that they lacked last season. Cleveland
also added forward Leon Powe, who is currently rehabbing his injured
knee and is expected to be back on the court in mid-January for the
Cavs. After these crucial additions, the fans and team members alike
were excited to start the 2009-2010 season.
Nick Shook
CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
PLAYOFFS: STVM will play Poland Seminary in Poland, Friday, November 6, 2009.
Record: (6-4)
URSULINE L 38-24
Junior Oliver Hildebrandt threw for 237 yards and two touchdowns to
junior Doran Grant, the first was a 76 yard pass and the second was an 8
yard pass play. Junior Mark Murphy had a 59 yard run and senior Dan
Toth kicked a 30 yard field goal and the game was tied at 17 at halftime.
Ursuline began the second half with an 85 yard kickoff return and STVM
came back with its last score of the game.
UNIVERSITY W 21-19
The Irish victory over University School was led by Murphy who had
a 4 yard touchdown run and two defensive interceptions, and quarterback
Hildebrandt who had 128 yards passing and two touchdowns, one to senior
Dominique Mitchell and one to Grant. STVM held a 21-12 lead in the 4th
quarter until the University quarterback threw a touchdown pass and closed
the gap to 21-19. With less than three minutes remaining in the game, University missed a field goal and the Irish were able to hold on to the lead.
Youngstown Cardinal Mooney (L) 34-9
The Irish looked to rebound against the Cardinals after a last-second
loss to Walsh Jesuit. The Irish once again hosted the Cardinals at Green
Street, and computer points were on the line, with Mooney being ranked
number one in the Irish’s state region, Region 9. The Irish quickly jumped
October 2009
out to a 9-0 lead after a Toth field goal and a touchdown pass from
Hildebrandt to Mitchell. The extra point conversion was blocked,
which left the score at 9-0. The Irish never got back on the board, and
Mooney scored 34 unanswered points to take a 34-9 lead. The Irish
dropped to 5-3 and 6th place in Region 9.
Walsh Jesuit (L) 17-14
The Irish started the game when senior safety Mike Kagafas
intercepted Warriors’ quarterback Connor Cook’s errant pass. The Irish
took advantage of the good field position and scored the first touchdown of the game on Murphy’s 1 yard touchdown run. The Irish held a
7-0 lead until a bad snap to punter senior Jon Adams, forcing Adams to
fall on the ball and give the Warriors great field position. The Warriors
scored but the extra point was missed, leaving the score at 7-6. The
Irish didn’t score again until the third quarter, when Grant returned a
punt for a touchdown, extending the lead to 14-6. The Irish held the
lead late into the 4th quarter when senior linebacker Brian Foster made
a crucial sack on fourth down. The Irish took over possession, but a
fumble gave the ball back to the Warriors deep in Irish territory. The
Warriors capitalized on a 14-yard touchdown run by Cameron Ontko.
The two point conversion was successful, tying the game at 14. Near
the end of the game with three seconds to go, Walsh’s kicker made the
field goal to win the game, and it was the first victory over STVM in
five years.
13
Feature
What is a kakistocracy?
“A government where cacti
are the rulers.”
- junior Hayley Bryan
“A religion that revolves
around the noise cats make
when they have a hair ball.”
-senior Reid Klein
“A building that has nothing
but Michael Jackson wax
figures.”
- junior Holly Middlecoop
Leprechaun Gold
Rachel Dodson
STAFF REPORTER
“A bathtub filled with kittens
and cacti.”
- junior Alyssa Chiarappa
THE REAL DEFINITION: a government which is run by its worst citizens.
Local haunted houses provide scary thrills
Kathryn Latimer
STAFF REPORTER
Akron’s own Haunted Schoolhouse and Laboratory was ranked as
one of the nation’s best haunted houses by AOL. The AOL study ranked
The Haunted Schoolhouse and Laboratory as 3rd in the nation.
Junior Kelly Fulkerson visited the haunted house and commented, “It
scared the pants off me!”
Another haunted attraction that
had high ratings in the area was
Seven Floors of Hell. This haunted
event featured seven different
haunted houses. The first haunted
house was called Black Out which
consisted of 2800 feet of total darkness. The second haunted house
was called The Cemetery and it had
over 30 animations and 100 tombstones. The third haunted house
was called Insane Asylum which
was a 4800 square foot prisonthemed haunted house that featured
an electric chair. The fourth haunted house was called The Crypt and
consisted of 3000 skeletons and
bones. The fifth haunted house was
called Psycho Circus in 3D and had
4800 square feet of crazy clowns. It included a 14 foot tall evil clown
and a vortex tunnel. The sixth haunted house, which was also the most
popular, was called the Butcher Shop. This haunted house revolved
around nothing but blood, guts, and gore. Finally, the seventh haunted
house was called The House of Nightmares. It included 30 rooms with
100+ animal heads.
14
Junior Mary Corpas commented, “It took a long time to get through
all of the haunted houses, and only some of them scared me.”
The Carnival of Horrors at Blossom Music Center was another local
haunted house that grabbed the public’s attention. It has been voted one
of Ohio’s best attractions every year. This haunted house consisted of
a fun house, Wicked Woods, Freak Show in 3-D Terrorvision, and an
Oblivion Cage Maze.
After visiting The Carnival of Horrors junior Becca Bridenthal said, “The
first house was the scariest but the rest
weren’t as good.”
Another haunted event in the area
was in Youngstown, Ohio, and was not
only a haunted house, but also a haunted
hayride, and had the haunted attraction,
Fear Forest. The haunted house Insanea-tarium was rated #1 in its area and
is only a forty five minute drive from
Akron.
Sophomore Abby Burke commented,
“Well, when I saw this Wicked Forest,
I regretted not bringing an extra pair of
panty hose.”
This next haunted attraction, located
in Cleveland, Ohio, featured four different haunted events for one low price.
Spooktacular Nights held at Rockin R’ Ranch celebrated their 19th year
of service this year. Spooktacular Nights offered a haunted hayride, a
haunted barn, a night creepers’ haunted house, and a family fun house.
This haunted house is known for combining scary with humor and surprise in all of their featured haunted attractions.
October 2009
Leprechaun Gold
Halloween Pictures 2009
October 2009
Halloween
15
Halloween
Leprechaun Gold
Halloween facts and jokes entertain
Kathryn Latimer
STAFF REPORTER
Halloween Jokes
--What is the favorite health insurance for Goblins, Ghosts and Monsters?
Medi-Scare
--What do goblins and ghosts drink when they’re hot and thirsty on Halloween?
Ghoul-aid!!!
--What is a Mummy’s favorite type of music?
Wrap!!!!!
--What do you call a witch who lives at the beach?
A sand-witch.
--Why didn’t the skeleton dance at the party?
He had no body to dance with.
--Why is a ghost such a messy eater?
Because he is always a goblin.
--What do you call a goblin that gets too
close to a bonfire?
A toasty ghosty.
--What tops off a ghost’s ice cream sundae?
Whipped scream.
--What kind of makeup do ghosts wear?
Mas-scare-a.
--Where do most werewolves live?
In Howllywood, California
--What instrument do skeletons play?
Trom-BONE.
--How can you tell a vampire likes baseball?
Every night he turns into a bat.
--Why are vampires like false teeth?
They all come out at night.
-Why did Dracula take cold medicine?
To stop his coffin.
--When does a ghost have breakfast?
In the moaning.
Halloween jokes courtesy of http://www.humormatters.com/holidays/
Halloween/halloweenriddles.htm
16
Halloween Fun Facts
-Orange and black are Halloween colors because orange is associated
with the Fall harvest and black is associated with darkness and death.
-Jack o’ Lanterns originated in Ireland where people placed candles in
hollowed-out turnips to keep away spirits and ghosts on the Samhain
holiday
-Pumpkins also come in white, blue and green. Great for unique monster
carvings!
-Halloween was brought to North America by immigrants from Europe
who would celebrate the harvest around a bonfire, share ghost stories,
sing, dance and tell fortunes.
-Tootsie Rolls were the first wrapped penny
candy in America.
-The ancient Celts thought that spirits and ghosts
roamed the countryside on Halloween night.
They began wearing masks and costumes to
avoid being recognized as human.
-Halloween candy sales average about 2 billion
dollars annually in the United States.
-Chocolate candy bars top the list as the most
popular candy for trick-or-treaters with Snickers
#1.
-Halloween is the 2nd most commercially successful holiday, with Christmas being the first.
-Bobbing for apples is thought to have originated from the Roman
Harvest Festival that honors Pamona, the goddess of fruit trees.
Halloween Fun Facts courtesy of http://www.halloween-website.com/
trivia.htm
October 2008