Meet the Eagle Staff

Eagle Staff

Chief Editors:  Nolin Marcus (COT) & Jem Montgomery (HA)
Chief Photojournalist:  Makaila Holsinger (HA)

Reporters:  

Samantha Amon (COT)

Presley Boots (CA)

Jeralyn Denome (HA)

Madison Hansotte (HA)

Skylar Harris (Cos)

Savannah Harris (Cos)

Makaila Holsinger (HA)
Nolin Marcus (COT)
Jem Montgomery (HA)

Kylie Smith (HA)
Halle St. Clair (CA)

Matt Tataseo (Mas)

Charlynn Todd (CA)

Kaitlyn Wright (HA)

Journalism Club:
Maxine Alexander (Mas)
Winter Beigley (VT)
Hallie Joyce (Cos)
Kayle McClure (CA)
Quevaughn Napier (EO)

Image Adapted from:  Soaring Eagle.  Digital Image.  Pearcy Elementary Library.  Weebly, Web. 29 Sept 2015.  <http://pearcylibrary.weebly.com/>.

NONDISCRIMININATION POLICY: The Lawrence County Career & Technical Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, or access, contact the Title IX Coordinator at: Title VI Coordinator, Title IX Coordinator and Section 504 Coordinator, Lawrence County Career and Technical Center,

750 Phelps Way, New Castle, PA 16101 724-658-3583.

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Maxine studies Masonry and Brickwork at LCCTC.  She enjoys singing and listening to music.  Friends would describe her as kind, thoughtful, and hard-working.  

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When her nose isn't buried inside a book, Samantha Amon Studies Computer Office Technology.  After she graduates, she plans to follow in the footsteps of her family as a 4th generation nurse.  Her friends would describe her as beautiful, kind-hearted, and one-of-a-kind.

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Although senior Commercial Arts student, Presley Boots, has dedicated herself to her shop, she has decided to further her dream beyond the artsy part of her life. After years of watching her mother care for many people, Presley has decided to further her education at BC3 this summer to become a registered nurse to continue the care for other people like her mother and other nurses do. In Presley's spare time, you can most likely find her working at her part-time job at Giant Eagle, spending quality time with those she loves, or hanging out with her pets.

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A senior in Health Assistance, Destinee Coats has her Nurse
 Aide Certifcation.She works as an aide at JamesonCare Center in
 Neshannock Township. Destinee spends her spare time reading 
books and spending her time with her friends. She is in Peer
 Leadership, SkillsUSA, and is in National Technical Honors Society. 
Gizzy, her cat is her pride and joy. She plans on getting 
her RN in the fall of 2016.

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Upon graduation, senior Health Assistant student, Jeralynn DeNome, plans to continue her education in the health field. She looks forward to becoming a Registered Nurse, but for now, she enjoys her co-op job working as a Certified Nurse Aid at the Jameson Care Center in Neshannock Township. "There will always be people telling you , 'You can't.' Look them in the eyes and say, 'Watch me'."

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Madison Hansotte is a senior from Health Assistance.  Madison is CNA certified and works at Shenango Presbyterian Home.  She serves as president of Peer Leadership and is an honor roll student.  This fall she will attend Sharon Regional School of Nursing.

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Skylar Harris looks forward to graduating with her classmates in 2016.  She states, "I'm a die-hard fashion girl who loves to read and write."  She hopes to one day open her own clothing line.  "Fashion is my passion" describes her perfectly.  She encourages others to "express yourself and make life FABULOUS."  She is an active member of the State Championship Opening and Closing Team and looks forward to competing in the SkillsUSA Nationals in June.

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Savannah Harris currently studies Cosmetology but plans to continue her education at Slippery Rock University in the fall. She loves to wear and experiment with makeup because she feels that it is important to be your best self in mind, spirit, and body! In her spare time, she loves to relax and listen to music, watch beauty videos on YouTube, and hang out with her family!

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"I don't know who invented high heels, but all women owe him a lot,"  Marilyn Monroe

Makaila Holsinger, expert selfie stick aficionado, studies Health Assistant and has recently landed a job working at Jameson Care Center in Neshannock Township.  Makaila is a trained Peer Leader, National Honor Society,  ROVA, and SkillsUSA.  When she's not snapping pictures, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, particularly her little brother.  When Makaila graduates, she plans to attend nursing school and become a RN. 

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Kalley McClure was born and raised here in Pennsylvania; her home school is New Castle. Seeing a better opportunity here in LCCTC, she decided to switch, choosing Collision Repair as her shop. She says her grades have improved significantly, and despite missing her friends, she does not regret switching. Outside of school, her time is usually spent talking to my friends and doing church activities, which she is actively involved in. She hasn’t given much thought to her life after high school, but the military is definitely something she’s looking at. Kalley is a member of the Journalsim Club.
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Senior Health Assistant student, Jem Montgomery has been sworn into the United States Navy as an E1 Seaman Recruit. After graduation, she will serve her country as a Medic and plans to continue her education to become a Psychologist or Therapist in a VA Hospital. In her spare time, you will most likely find her spending time with her family and friends OR with her nose in a classic novel. 

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Molin Narcus, a COT senior, plans to continue his education at Slippery Rock University and would one day like to work as a Information Technology Specialist. When he's not working on his computer, Nolin enjoys playing the bass. He hopes to become an accomplished musician some day.  

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Matt Tataseo, Masonry senior, enjoys being a part of the journalism class -- especially the research.  When he's not practicing his trade, he can often be seen with a stack of books from the library!  Upon graduation, he will serve our country in the Marine Corps

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"The only thing you should look back on is to see how far you've come!"  

Kylie Smith, a senior Health Assistant student, plans to continue her education at Youngstown State University for Nursing. Currently, she works as a Nurse Aide at the Haven. She is actively involved in Peer Leadership and is on the State Championship Opening and Closing Team. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with her dogs and watching her little brother play hockey.

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"Be soft.  Do not let the world make you hard." ~ Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

Halle St. Clair, senior in commercial art, has been class president for the past two years and is a three-year Opening and Closing team member.  She has two silver medals from state competition and this year, she is leading the team as president of the gold-medal State Champion team in Louisville, KY.  In the fall, she will attend Slippery Rock University for public relations.  She enjoys going to the gym and is a Dunkin addict.  She also loves her cat, Kellin, who will carry her wedding band down the center isle when she marries singer/songwriter John Mayer. 

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Class of 2016 senior, Charlynn Todd, selected Commercial Art as her shop in order to plan for her future.  She intends to make her best accomplishments within the comfort of her home by creating a photography studio and t-shirt design business.  Most importantly to her, she plans to raise a family of her own, loving home-sweet-home.  She uses her free time to work on her portfolio which will enable her to take steps toward the goals she's been planning, which includes a continuation of her education through online courses upon graduation and a move to Pittsburgh.  Other times, you can find her enjoying her free-time with family, laughing with friends, and playing with her pet turtle. 

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Kaitlyn Wright, a senior in Health Assistance. She currently work at Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe in Ellwood City. After school she is interested in going to YSU to continue her education in Nursing and become a Registered Nurse. She an active member of the State Championship Open and Closing team for SkillsUSA, a  trained Peer Leader, National Honors Society, Class of 2016 Student Council for the past 3 years, and has been on Holiday Court 2 years in a row. After school she enjoys reading.  The quote that she lives by is this:  “In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

Oh the Places You'll Go: "Best Wishes!" from Your Teachers

  OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO

“ You have the brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose, You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…”    -Dr. Seuss

Yes -- Dr. Seuss gives great advice, but so have our teachers. Here, we feature their messages -- just so you remember how important you are to them!

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To the class of 2016: As I see you during these past few days of school, I honestly don’t know whether to feel happy or sad knowing that this may be the last time that I will see you as I’ve always known you – young, carefree, and forever dreaming. As you enter the more complicated stage of adulthood, I can only hope that I played a tiny role in preparing each of you for it. I have always felt that my duty as your teacher goes far beyond me teaching you about healthcare. I want to thank each and every one of you for allowing me to be your “sometimes” parent, your teacher and your friend.

The joy that I feel in seeing you graduate on to another phase of your life is indescribable. Saying goodbye to some of you is extremely difficult; especially to those of you who made me part of your school family.

Ashleigh, Allison, Jem, Sarah, Madison, Bobbi, Makaila, Kaitlyn, Angel, Brindza, Jazmaree, Becky, Moneca, Mike, Jeri, Destinee, James, Brittany, Paige and Kierra:

One of my favorite memories will forever be your nurse aide classes. Sometimes I wonder how we made it! You were my first group of little Guinea pigs and you came through it with flying colors. You exceeded all of my expectations. I laugh when I think of us in the old LCCTC school van, holding the button in to make the radio play, the detachable rear view mirror, the horrible winter weather we had and our everyday adventures to Golden Hills. You have proven that you have so much potential. Some of you are continuing on with your education, some are starting to work. So whichever path you choose keep in mind that learning is a lifelong process so learn something new every day. Remember that "There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind." –C.S. Lewis.

I love you all, Ms. O______________________________

Dear Seniors,

As you leave LCCTC, remember:

-A yellow bus won’t stop at your door to take you to work.
-There isn’t a cafeteria in most businesses so learn to pack your own lunch.
-Get some thicker skin, it may just be a joke.
-And for my Oil and Gas workers, during a blowout... RUN!!!
-There will be good and bad days, try to enjoy them for what they are worth.
-Wear sunscreen
-Don’t worry about the future; it will be here soon enough
-You can’t win the lottery if you don’t play
-Don’t take responsibility for granted
-At the end of the day, be sure you can look in the mirror and respect the person looking back.

So say the consult of Oil and Gas!

-Mr. Parsons

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Graduating Class of 2016:  The world needs young people who are passionate about their work and in helping others.  I hope you find success in a career that you enjoy and that leaves a positive impact on others.  Congratulations and best wishes to you!  

Ms. Renea Young
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Cosmetology Seniors of 2016…I wish for you the most amazing and rewarding futures. I have enjoyed watching all of you grow into the mature, strong and beautiful young women you have become. Remember all of our hard work and dedication as we prepared for NOCTI’s and State Boards and how it paid off. Plan to use those skills in the future to achieve many more great things and opportunities. I will miss and remember all of you fondly in the years to come. I am a phone call away if you ever need me!

Love,

Mrs Cepro

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Congratulations class of 2016! Good luck on your future endeavors!

-Miss De Simone

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To Halle St. Clair:

I have known you since you were a little girl. It was my pleasure being your softball coach when you were a mere 8 years old. In my three years here, it has been my pleasure to watch you mature into a strong, young woman. You are a leader. You are a role model. You are an example for others to follow.

The future is yours! Good luck in your chosen path, I know you will do great!

Sincerely,

Mr. Len Rich

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Good luck to the graduating class of 2016!

Seniors, just remember this...the more you learn the more you earn whether it be knowledge or wealth.   -Mrs. Haynes

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Good luck and always follow Coles’ law (shredded cabbage with a lite mayo dressing)

 - dad A.K.A. Mr. Cole

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Best of luck and congratulations to the COT seniors! I really enjoyed having all of you in shop and i wish nothing but the best in everything you do. May all your dreams come true and you achieve all of your goals in life.

Ms. Gabe

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Congrats Seniors of 2016! You were today's learners now you are tomorrows providers. Take what you have learned here and apply it to being contributing members of society. The foundation has been set. Always remember where you came from. Impossible is NOTHING.

Mr. Pavia

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Seniors! Don't look back something might be gaining on you!

T.O.

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Welcome to the real world!

-Sperdute  

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Bye Felicia!

-Mr. Orelli

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Be careful out there! Use your head! People will take advantage of you, either on accident or on purpose! Trust but verify! I will miss the class of 2016! Especially ________ (Fill in the blank)!

 - Ms. Conder

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Happy Trails!

- Ms. Peay
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Best wishes on all your future endeavors! Shoot for the stars!

- Mrs. Lynch

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I will miss all of you! I leave you with this quote.

“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.” – Wilma Rudolph

Sincerely,
Mr. Neve
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To the Class of 2016 -

            What a year this has been.  Some of you can’t wait to graduate and leave LCCTC; others sound like you would like to stick around for another year or so!  I don't blame you; I've been in this room at that desk for 35 wonderful years.  I'm on my 3rd teacher's chair!  

To the Peer Leadership members –

            Thank You for sharing your Senior year with me.  With Ms. Palumbo’s passing you asked me to help out – what an honor.  I know that Peer Leadership was different than you were accustomed to, but we did our best to maintain the standards and meet the expectations that Ms. Palumbo would have desired. 

With your encouragement, a scholarship fund in memory of Ms. Palumbo has been established to honor her years in education and her dedication to her students.  You created the guidelines that, once again, were greatly influenced by Ms. Palumbo. 

Friendships have arisen; respect for each other has grown.  We have accomplished numerous things - too many to list!  We have met most of our goals.  We have been busy.  Thanks to you, the Peer Leaders, in February I received the Pride and Promise Award.

            Once again, "Thank You" to the Peer Leaders for asking and allowing me into your lives.  You are dedicated, accepting, respectful and ideal representatives of LCCTC.  Many of you will be facing the real world in a few short weeks.  Life will be different – YOU can handle whatever comes your way – YOU will succeed.

Blessings,

D. Blank

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To the Class of 2016:

A shout out to our beloved seniors! You have worked your tails off to get here, and congratulations are in order for a job well-done! Many people have dreamed of being where you are; however, when the fork in their road appeared, they took the path more traveled – but not you!

Life may not always be full of wagging tails and slobbering kisses, but it can be -- if you choose to look at the positive side of life. You will always have decisions to make, some as easy as “What do I want to eat?”  Others are more drastic. I had one of those life-changing decisions this year when I decided to become part of the LCCTC family. Although it was a difficult and huge decision, I wouldn’t change it for the world! I would never have been able to meet all you wonderful seniors who are going to make a positive impact on this world.

Reach for the stars, our young LCCTC minds. I’m here to tell you they ARE in reach no matter who tells you otherwise.

To Savannah and Kay:  Thank you for taking on the task of being my first year guinea pigs. You did a great job running in the wheel and being my sunshine on some cloudy days. You will both be missed greatly by me!

Love, 
Mrs. Yanak

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Paul Beighley:  I will miss seeing your smiling face in my classroom.   You are a good person with a good heart.   Work hard and never stop learning. –Love, Mrs. Lyons

Maryanna Colwell:  Maryanna, what will math class be without you yelling out an answer.  You are a smart and talented girl.  Do wonderful things and make a difference in this world. – Love, Mrs. Lyons

Sierra Custer:  I have seen so much growth in you this year.  You have worked so hard and done so well.  I am so proud of you.  Keep trying and never give up. – Love Mrs. Lyons

Zackaray Gilbert:  Oh Zack, where do I begin?  I can’t imagine not getting the news from what I like to call, “The Gilbert Report”.   Keep working hard and trying your best!  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Cameron Martwinski:  I know that  you never believed graduation would arrive, but it’s here!  Believe in yourself always.   Make good choices and life will take you anywhere.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Anthony Nicolls:   Who is going to yell at me and tell me I am solving the math problems incorrectly?  I will miss you, Anthony.  Always be a good person and teach others with your kind heart.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

William Quigley:  Oh,  my dear Quigles!  You are such a hard worker and such a respectful young man.  I know you will be successful in all of your endeavors.  Never lose your goodness.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Ashlynn Ramsey:  I know you have only been here one year, but you have grown so much.  I am proud of your efforts and improvements in class.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Schylore Altenburg:  Schylore, I have given much thought to what I want to say to you….  Schylore, in the grand school of life, stay out of the halls!”  Make good choices and learn from all of life’s lessons.  Thank you for your attention and respect in class.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Cassie Battles:  You are a strong and resilient young woman.  I am so proud of you as you graduate into the next phase of your life.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Gage Booher:  I know you have the ability to become a good, hard-working young man.  Make good choices and choose an honest path.  I wish you all the best. Love, Mrs. Lyons

Shianne Breetz: How is it that you are graduating?  Your effort  and commitment to your grades is so commendable.  I am so proud of your hard work.  Believe in yourself.  Dream Big.  Follow your heart.  I know that you are destined to make a difference.   Love, Mrs. Lyons

Alex Gunde:  I am so proud of the young man you have become.   You are respectful and have a caring heart.  Don’t lose that when you are out in this crazy world.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Cameron Jones:  Cameron, stay focused and work hard.  You are a smart young man.  Use those smarts to find success.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Anthony Kelly:   There is a new chapter beginning for you.  I wish your new chapter to bring you success and happiness.  Congrats!  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Jayvon Laster:  You have grown into a very respectful and hard-working  young man.  You have a strong mind and a work ethic to achieve all of you hopes and dreams.  I know you will do wonderful things.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Lesliann Liskooka:  Lesliann, I will miss you and your sense of humor so much.  You have always been a good student and a joy to have in class.  Pursue your dreams with confidence.   Mr. McFarland and I wish you all of the best in your future endeavors.  ;-)   Love, Mrs. Lyons

Mercedes Mitcheltree:    I am so happy to know that you are pursuing a career as a pre-school teacher.  I have tremendous confidence that your gentle spirit and kind heart will be a joy to all of your students.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Kiley Sarcinella:   I am so happy for you to reach the milestone of graduation.  I know how hard you have worked.  As you begin a new chapter, I wish you success and happiness.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Zachary Walters:  I know you are a smart young man with good values.  Hold those close as you enter the this world.  They will prove invaluable to you.  Congrats!  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Moneca White:  I am so proud of your success.  You work so hard both in and out of school.  Never lose that work ethic.  I know, as you continue with your path in the medical field, your patients are so lucky to have you.  Never give up!  Love, Mrs. Lyons

David Williamson:  I don’t know what is next for you, but I know you will find success.  You are a smart young man.  Make good choices.   Congrats.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Quinn Zak:  Quinn, thank you for your kindness and respect.    I hope the future brings you all that you wish.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Zack Custer:  So happy you were able to participate in the co-op program this year.  Congrats.  Wishing you continued job success.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Tommy Baker:  Your talent is extraordinary.  I know you will find success.  Congratulations!  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Brendan Procter:  Your class voted you most likely to become a millionaire.  I hope you achieve that success.  Good Luck!   Love Mrs. Lyons

Melody Johnjulio:  Congratulations!  I will miss seeing your smiling face.  Drem big and do wonderful things.  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Matt McConahy:  You made it!  You have no idea how happy I am for you.  Be strong and be safe in your next endeavor.  Congratulations!  Love, Mrs. Lyons

Chris Penwell:  Congratulations!  I am so happy that you are pursuing your dreams!  I hope someday you are a head chef and famous!  Love, Mrs. Lyons

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Dear Class of 2016,

People are going to say to you that they will always remember you and then say, “Don’t forget me!” 

For many of you that may be true. Others may want to forget. As for me,  I know that I will remember for the first time in many years, not only did I have you in tenth grade but then in 11^th grade, too. You were certainly ready for me (but was I ready for you? J) and what a ride it was!

I see such promise in this class and your faces in these halls.  My fondest memories will be of LEAPS and SAVE students who have risen to every challenge I have given to you. Thank you for always having my back. Stacy, Marranda, Spenser, Robert, Branson, Melody, and Angel. Thanks for always keeping me on my toes!

•  For the young men who always kept me on my toes—proclaiming I was your least favorite and yet visited me every chance you could during your senior year. I see you and appreciate you.
• Shawn, Damian, Josh, Bailey, and Garrett: there was never much time for a dull moment. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your learning experiences. I will NEVER forget your names! ;)
• For Kevin and Jake: I’m looking forward to meeting for lunch and seeing all of your accomplishments.
• For Jeremiah: I love you. You make my heart hurt, I’m so proud of you!
• Thank you to Nikki and Haley for sending me a smile, especially when I needed it. You have a gift for knowing when to lift others and you should always channel that toward others.
• Allison and Angel: I look forward to watching you become young women of integrity, respect, and goodness. Embrace who you are as strong, young women.
• James: I’m so glad to have you in my life! I will miss you most! You are the last of my devoted crew <3
• And to Bryce: My son, I love you and when I look at you, I see your strength and compassion for others as a reflection of who we are. You have lifted me from places that I could not have survived without you. I will never take for granted your genuine devotion to me and love you, love you, love you.   My oh my, how you have grown! If someone had told me 22 years ago when I started at LCCTC that my children would attend here, I would have guessed no, and yet, here you are! Beyond the lessons that I know I have taught you about tolerance, being mannerly, accepting people’s differences, having empathy, and simply being a good friend, you have taught me lessons that are far more valuable. You have taught me that change can be good. Knowing how to overcome adversity is going to happen and I can do it. Best of all, you will always help me, even when things seem impossible.  You will make my sides hurt laughing at you and bring tears to my eyes of pure enjoyment. You will always laugh when I give animals voices J.  I love you, Bryce, and I have been in love with you for 18 years. You have been helping me get through difficult journeys for as long as you can remember and I believe that has made you into a stronger young man. You have been a pinnacle of strength and I appreciate every day that I am able to point to you and say, “Yeah…see that little goofball. He’s my son”. Congratulations, graduate!  Love, Mom 

There is promise attached to your lives when you choose to affect others, good and bad. That’s simply a fact. I hope when all of you self-reflect on your legacy at LCCTC, that your mark is of genuine respect and kindness. That you can look at your friendships and know that you are a genuine friend and will never be alone. That you stood against intolerance and learned how to truly accept others, even when it was difficult to do.  I hope that you will be blessed with your friends throughout your adult lives. Lastly, that you will take the opportunity to apologize to those you have wronged and forgive those who have wronged you. I hope that you all know that you are young enough to improve your lives: that you each have the abilities and skills to make a place for yourselves. I am very proud of you and wish you all the best,  

Miss. Clark

State Championship Opening and Closing Team: "We're Going to Nationals!"

What does it take to succeed? It begins with two elements: the desire to do your own personal best and to work hard to make sure this goal is met.

It was 1974 when the Opening and Closing team won the state title for Lawrence County. Forty-two years later, led by three-year veteran and president Halle St. Clair, the SkillsUSA O & C Team proudly brought the gold back home. "Seeing our school's name in first place was the best feeling ever. I was beyond ecstatic. I've been working so hard for the past three years and to finally earn gold WHEN I'M PRESIDENT was everything I wished for and more!"

Dedication is the third element to success. Starting in October, once a week, every week, this team of seven pledged to stay after school to practice. For the first year since the Opening and Closing team began winning the district competitions four years ago, all seven members who started practice remained; this is no small feat.
Practices aren't easy, and being able to try and fail and try again is vital to perfecting performance for each individual and for the team combined. Each member must be able to give and accept constructive criticism. Kaitlyn Wright, a two-year member, states that being a part of the team has "helped me understand how to be a better friend.  If my friends need to vent, I can listen to all sides without becoming a part of their disagreements." 

They also learned the value of social media etiquette. Through Facebook group message titled, "Buns, Pearls, and a Tie," the team was able to stay connected; however, there were moments where they found the value of refocusing frustrations in avenues outside of social media. "Just because there is a problem to address, it may not be best to put it in print for all to see," warns Ms. McVicker, O & C Advisor, "Face-to-face dialogue -- even when the truth hurt -- worked much better for this team, and this type of conflict resolution is one of the most important lessons to take into adulthood. Keeping in mind the qualities of 'THINK' often helped them get through: Is it True? Helpful? Inspiring? Necessary? or Kind?"

Kylie Smith, also a member for the past two years, earned a silver medal last year, but she wanted more.  Wanting to contribute to the team in a more significant way, she stepped outside of her comfort zone and changed her presiding office to historian, a role that has allowed her to select a quote of the day. "I feel my confidence growing each and every practice. I understand that it's important to try and use my own words and speak like I own them. That's what I love about being historian and speaking on a quote."  

Brought to the team two weeks before state competition last year, Kayla Baker threw herself into her role by memorizing her speech and perfecting her movements in lightning speed. "Even before I really know what it was," Kayla recalls, "I always wanted to be on the team, so even when I was asked to come on so late in the game, it was a blessing."  Though her time on the team was brief last year, she made a significant impact, leading by example challenging the others members to step up their game and refocus as they guided her to be her very best.  That was the same year the team earned a second gold medal! She continues, "Being in SkillsUSA has made all the difference; I am now more confident and comfortable in front of crowds."  

Jenna Locke, the "baby" of the team, has served as Vice President and was the only sophomore member last year. Now, as a junior, being a part of this team has made a great impact on her outlook in school. "The team has really changed me in so many wonderful ways," she acknowledges. "At the beginning of my sophomore year I didn't know how to approach a stranger or even find the courage to speak up in class. It has really helped me come out of my shell and have a better outlook on life. I realize what it's like to have something so amazing to look forward to when I go to school every day." Jenna often doodles the phrase "Skills is LOVE; skills is LIFE" on her notebooks.

Rookies Skylar Harris and Jacob Troutman worked hard to become members this year.  "Being on the team means being a part of another family," Skylar comments. "It has given me the confidence to speak in front of people without feeling discouraged."  It is all about stepping outside of your comfort zone, and both Skylar and Jacob have risen to the challenge. "What I love most about being on the Opening and Closing team," reflects Jake, "is being surrounded by amazing people that I could always rely on to pull through."

Congrats to College-bound Seniors!

The following seniors from the Class of 2016 have been accepted to post-secondary schools and are making preparations to continue their education:

• Samantha Amon, New Castle, CoT ~ Pittsburgh Technical Institute, Youngstown State University 
• Jazmaree Bailey, New Castle, HA ~ Pittsburgh Technical Institute 
• Kayla Baker, Union, Cos ~ Slippery Rock University, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and Youngstown State University 
• Presley Boots, Ellwood, CA ~ Butler County Community College
• Shianne Breetz, Wilmington, Cos ~ Community College of Allegheny County 
• Allison Clingensmith, Wilmington, HA ~ Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Tennessee State 
• Ashleigh Farone, Ellwood City, HA ~ Pittsburgh Technical Institute 
• Madison Hansotte, New Castle, HA ~ Sharon Regional School of Nursing
• Michael Lin, Neshannock, CA ~ Pittsburgh Technical Institute, Butler County Community College 
• Lacey Lopes, Ellwood, Cos ~ Geneva College, Slippery Rock University
• Nolin Marcus, Shenango, COT ~ Slippery Rock University 
• Nikki Miller, Ellwood City, CA ~ Pittsburgh Technical Institute 
• Stormie Perell, Ellwood City, Cos ~ Pittsburgh Technical Institute
• Jeremiah Raisor, Ellwood City, CT ~ Pittsburgh Technical Institute 
• Kylie Smith, Neshannock, HA ~ Youngstown State University 
• Halle St Clair, Shenango, CA ~ Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock, Duquesne University 
• Mike Walters, Union, HA ~ Butler County Community College
• Angel Wojciechowski, Laurel, HA ~ Bradford University 
• Kaitlyn Wright, Ellwood City, HA ~ Pittsburgh Technical Institute, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Youngstown State University

If you know of anyone else who has been accepted, please see any member of the Eagle Staff and we'll be proud to add your name to this list!