Class of 2020 Senior Scrapbook

A supplement of

SundayMiami Valley News 2 Thursday, May 14, 2020 2020 Senior scrapbook Miami Valley Today SEPARATED TODAY

UNITED ALWAYS Together*Resilience*Own It *You Matter Congratulations Troy High School Class of 2020! OH-70185768 Miami Valley Today 2020 Senior scrapbook Thursday, May 14, 2020 3

Congratulations to the Piqua High School Class of 2020 from the Piqua Board of Education! he administration and sta of Tthe Piqua City School District are proud of you and wish you the best of luck in the future.

Thank You to the Piqua Community for Your Continued Support! OH-70185778 4 Thursday, May 14, 2020 2020 Senior scrapbook Miami Valley Today

I was in Indoor Percus- can go outside again and seniors and continue on in zoology. ing out I got accepted into sion, Musical Pit, Math won’t have to keep asking, school traditions. We will “Making my choice to the college I wanted to go Club, Xtreme Bots, Pep ‘When will my life begin never get to have those Kent State official, and the to, Kent State. Band, NHS, school, and (again)?’” memories of finishing beginning of a new chapter “Even though my had a job. Then it all just out high school like we in life! senior year got cut short, stopped. Things changed dreamed of, but I’m glad “This year was definitely I made sure to make it so quickly. I’m a very social I had the chance to be a one for the books. It start- one to remember. There Brooke Stockslager person, so this has been senior while I could.” ed off with football games, was never really any dull Brooke Stockslager, tough for me. I’ve con- homecoming, figuring out moments this year, but it’s Troy High School nected with friends using what friends I had in my sad not being able to have “This picture means a the internet, but we all class, and also deciding that last goodbye moment lot to me. What I’m wear- know it’s just not the same. Emmie Jackson who I was going to sit with in the high school. Though ing, holding, and where But it’s all we’ve got right at lunch for the rest of the I am grateful for the rest I am are all significant to now. I’m handling things Emmie Jackson, year. It was fun, being able of the year, and couldn’t of me. I have been a part of the best I can, I think. We Troy High School to see my friends everyday, asked for it to go any other band since the 6th grade all are. I’m just trying to “This picture means Nolan Lutz having study sessions, and way!” and it means everything to take it one step at a time, a lot to me because this participating in different me. The rock I’m standing one day at a time. This will was the biggest game of Nolan Lutz, clubs and activities. on is just in front of Prouty all be over soon, but I can’t our season and Troy High School “There were also stress- Plaza, where the band just sit and wait for it to be we came back and beat Nolan participated ful times, such as when plays when it’s there. So over. In addition to doing our rival at home and in student government, feeling overwhelmed with this is just a really mean- my homework, I’ve been then the student section National Honors Society, the amount of homework Future Begins Today, ingful photo to me. gaming, sewing, paint- stormed the court. received, the last minute drama club, and was a “This year has been a ing, and crafting. Doing “I am very sad about this papers and studying, try- Thespian. He participated Jordan Klemt roller coaster, for sure, those things have kept my ing to decide how I was year because my whole in the “Mamma Mia” and even before all of this. going to write my college Jordan Klemt, spirits up. Rapunzel is my class has gone through 12 “Footloose” musicals. My senior year was crazy favorite princess, so this is essay, to make sure it stood Troy High School years of education waiting Nolan will be attending “I have been looking and I was constantly busy all a bit close to my heart. out. And, finally, there was for our turn to become Kent State and majoring forward to my senior year and trying to balance life. But I know that one day I the joyful moment of find- WE LOVE OUR TCHS SENIORS CLASS OF 2020 AARON GILLESPIE BRADY CLAWSON CHERISH PIERCE EMIL BOWEN IZAAK FRANTOM KAITLYN MISIRIAN MATTHEW BEACHY TRIPP SCHULTE AARON WARDEN BRITTIN WILLIAMS CHRISTOPHER SETSER EMMA TAYLOR JAELYN MANLEY KALISTA SWIHART MICAH TRIMBACH ROBERT VENTURA ABIGAIL GILFILLEN CALEB HUNDLEY CLAUDIA FECHER ETHAN TURNER JARED CHONG KATIE NEFEDOV NATHAN WALTZ RYLEY KINCAID AIDEN TKACH CALEB SCHROER COLLIN SEBOR GABRIEL ISON JASON BLAKE KELLY TIGHE NATHANIEL HUNNICUTT SAMANTHA LENTZ ALEXIS SALAZAR CHARLES WOLFE CONNOR PETERS GRACIE GLASER JENNA DOUGLAS KIRSTEN STRAIT OLIVIA VOISINET SARAH EARHART ANDREW SHAFFER CHASE AIVALOTIS CONRAD ECHEMANN HOPE SANDO JOEL KELLAR KRISTEN RODRIGUES OWEN BAILEY TYLER JACKSON ANNA HIVNER CHASE TANNER CRAIG MONTGOMERY ISAAC GRAY JONAH MATHEWS LAURA JOHNSON PRESTON LAIR WILLIAM KENWORTHY BENNETT LOWRY CHASE WEYRAUCH ELEANOR SMITH ISAAC LEGANIK JORDAN ISENBARGER LAUREN CAMP RACHEL STEWART ZACHARY SEAGRAVES

OH-70185772 Miami Valley Today 2020 Senior scrapbook Thursday, May 14, 2020 5 since I was just a little been my life since the age girl. This would be the of 4 and the uncertainty year that I would spend of not knowing if I will with my friends and get to play my senior classmates before we all softball season is left for college. The year heartbreaking. It is so that, as a senior class, crazy that something that we would have pulled Iverson Ventura meant the world to me off the most epic senior Iverson Ventura, was taken from me in the prank. The year I would Piqua High School blink of an eye. No matter have walked the halls where I end up in life I one last time. The year I Grace Ryan, will always be a Bulldog would have had the most Piqua High School (right) at heart. beautiful prom. The year “These are my friends “This year was a I would have sat in the and I. We call our friend normal year until the cafeteria with my whole group ‘The Gal Pals.’ last day of my third class for the senior din- We met in chemistry quarter. That is when ner before we graduate. our sophomore year and everything took a turn Finally, the year where I have done EVERYTHING for the worst. It is so sad would graduate with my together ever since. the uncertainty about senior class. It’s going to be so hard whether I will get to “While I will not have missing prom and senior spend the last few weeks many of these experiences, activities with my best of school with my best I am forever grateful to be friends.” friends or not, have my a Trojan. I am thankful for Piqua High School friends, back row from left to right, seniors Danielle Widney, Reece Tate, Ana senior prom, if I will get the friends I have made, the Adams, Audrey Jacomet, and junior Alyssa Murphy, and front row from left to right, seniors Lilly to play any of my senior most amazing teachers and Kendall, Kathy Young and Grace Ryan. softball season, or if I will staff, the sporting events, even get to walk across and the many moments for boot camp in February. Upper Valley Career Cen- the stage to receive my that have shaped me into Currently at Parris Island ter has given me many diploma. This is all so the person I am today. Just Marine boot camp, in opportunities, like the heartbreaking to me. It because my senior year Johnathan Delasancha South Carolina, Randy is Early Placement and a Ger- is so hard to think that did not end like I wanted scheduled to graduate at the many Exchange program, all the things you are it to does not mean that I Johnathan Delasancha, end of May. as well. My senior year has supposed to look forward am not thankful for all the Piqua High School been one to remember for Nick Jess to as a senior such as opportunities and lifelong Johnathan played PHS sure, and for the coronavi- prom, your last year of friends that I have made. football as a junior and Nick Jess, rus, thanks for shutting all sports, and graduation Thank you Troy High senior. He enjoys hanging Piqua High School of that down…” may never happen. It is School, I love you.” out with his friends and so sad for all of us seniors family. to have put in all this work for 12 years and not Andrew Fogt even get to walk across the stage in front of your Andrew Fogt, classmates and your Upper Valley Career Center family.” Jenna Bertke “This picture was my favorite time of my Emma Grunkemeyer Danielle Detter Kyle Peters Jenna Bertke, entire senior year. That Emma Grunkemeyer, Danielle Detter, Tippecanoe High School picture was myself getting Upper Valley Career Center Piqua High Schoool Kyle Peters, elected to be one of the “This picture is from my Danielle, daughter of Piqua High School SkillsUSA Ohio Regional first day of senior year.” Stuart and Joanne Det- Kyle is a graduating officers for the Southwest ter, is a four -year honor senior of the Piqua area of Ohio. The candle roll recipient; National class of 2020. Kyle I am holding is my Hunter Maggert Honors Society member; played and ceremonial candle when I Hunter Maggert, three-time varsity letter football through his was inducted into office. Miami Valley Career high school years. He winner in Cross Coun- Randy Swabb Jr. With getting elected and Technology Center try; two-time varsity enjoys fishing and other going through training “I am taking aviation outdoor activities. After letter winner in Track; Randy Swabb Jr., I became the President Bree Nevels maintenance at MVCTC. and a Big Brothers/Big graduation, Kyle will be Upper Valley Career Center of the SkillsUSA Ohio When this Coronavirus Sisters sponsor. She will attending Edison State Randy studied welding Southwest Region. Bree Nevels, pandemic is over, I will be attending Kent State Community College in at UVCC, working hard “My senior year has Milton-Union High School still have to go back University, majoring in the fall. to graduate early to leave been pretty good to me. “This picture means chemistry. Being a senior at the a lot to me. Softball has See seniors | 4 6 Thursday, May 14, 2020 2020 Senior scrapbook Miami Valley Today

From seniors page 3 confined to talking to them over the phone or other to school for another social media. The biggest 3 months to be able to struggle for me is not receive my Power Plant being able to see or hug my License. grandparents.” “I love to get my hands dirty working on all types of engines. I have met Sylvia Mitchell, left, with many long time friends at her long-time friend and MVCTC plus my Miami fellow cheerleader Angelique East friends. LeMaster. “I am disappointed Sylvia Mitchell, with the way my senior Miami East High School year has worked out. No “To me this photo has Nichole Hood school pranks, no prom, no a lot of meaning. It is a Nichole Hood, countdown to the end of picture of me and my best Miami East High School school and maybe not even friend (on the right) since “This picture was taken a commencement (we are kindergarten, during our at the last sporting event still hopeful). senior year cheer season. I was able to attend as a Left to right, Miami East seniors Michael Bair, Christian DeWeese, Paige Blauvelt, Cameron DeWeese, “One of my favorite Leaning on each other senior. It is me and my and Alex Hayes. sayings: ‘Ain’t nothin’ to it, through the good times boyfriend Nick LeValley. in from Troy and did not East, I can’t help but think but do it.’” and the bad times. “My feelings about know anyone. However, of the person I was when “Hunter has grown so “At the beginning of senior year are best before school even I started and the person much as a young man and my senior year, I was described as a roller started up, I was able I became. I started as we can not wait to see involved in many different coaster. There have been to start meeting people a quiet kid who talked where all of his schooling, activities such as dance, highs and there have been thanks to joining the to mostly just his close passion and hard work leads cheer, yearbook commit- lows. While COVID-19 soccer team. friends; the friends I made James Rowley him. We could not be more tee, and National Honor continues to try to take “So, when school from band, track, cross proud.” -Mom and Dad Society. I was enjoying this special time from me, I started up, I had a nice country, 4-H, or Young James Rowley, every moment, knowing am trying to do everything selection of friends to Life. But then, I look at Miami East High School I would encounter a new in my power to not let that go through this crazy the person I evolved into: “James had the great milestone in my life once I happen. I Facetime my adventure with. Overall, someone who had their honor of directing the last graduated. When COVID- friends, keep up with my I would call these four mind set on what they song on our Miami East 19 entered our world, and homework and do anything years of my life exciting. wanted to do. I definitely field on senior night for my life, everything changed. fun I can possibly manage. Everyday, I would find grew my senior year into marching band this fall.” It became one of the most My senior year is unique. something new to do, or a person who was more challenging events of my It’s different than any other to laugh over. I always mature and had a better Tylan Redinbo life. The things I always senior has experienced wanted to enjoy my understanding of what I took for granted are now in their lives. I don’t plan time here. And that’s needed to do to accom- Tylan Redinbo, questionable possibilities, on letting this virus ruin something I am glad I plish what I wanted. Miami Valley Career such as my graduation cer- my year. While things did. I enjoyed my time. “Unfortunately, it wasn’t Technology Center emony and the events that are going to be different, It’s a little sad it has to the ideal year. My last year “I’m Tylan Redinbo. I go along with it such as the of high school was met postponed, and canceled, I end like this. But hey, Christian DeWeese attend MVCTC’s criminal clap out, signing day, and am going to keep my head every dream has to end with many challenging justice program. the senior sunset, which are high and enjoy it as much at some point.” feats that I had to over- Christian DeWeese, “The picture (in a soccer things I’ve looked forward as I can!” come, including a partially Miami East High School uniform) has meaning to to since elementary school. Cameron DeWeese, torn achilles during cross “This photo is of me me because I have played “Also, my senior prom, Miami East High School country and the corona- running at a cross country soccer for most of my life, which I have been plan- (above) virus, which put a stop to race. Cross Country was starting at the age of three ning since junior high; the “This is a photo of the the things I enjoy, running, my favorite part of high years old. This picture school musical where I seniors on the cross coun- and being at school with school. I know that I am is special because it is finally stepped outside of try team this year. Little my classmates. It wasn’t not alone in sharing the the first season that my my comfort zone and had did I know this would be the year I hoped it would fact that I am disappoint- boyfriend, Eli, and I both a speaking role, and my Brian Wickliffe, left, spent the last sports season I be, but it was the year I got ed with how the end of played for Piqua’s teams. final dance recital I’ve been time volunteering at the Miami would ever have. These and I learned to overcome this year has shaped out. “I was in Cuba for the working toward since I was County Animal Shelter during four other people were those challenges, accept The class of 2020 is being picture (with the chil- only three years old. Not his senior year of high school. with me throughout my them, and grow from them deprived of what we have dren). I have gone on two only did I take advantage of entire running career and to become the person I am been looking forward to missions trips there in the events in my life but I Brian Wickliffe, will continue to be with today. I thank God for the for our whole lives to the the past two years. Cuba also took advantage of the Miami East High School me throughout the rest of opportunities I did have fault of COVID-19. holds a special place in freedom I had, from being “Alright, I started my my life. this year with my class- “Although this is tak- my heart and the people with my friends everyday high school career on a “When I reflect back on mates, teammates, and ing the best parts of our are amazing.” at school to now only being weird note. I just came my senior year at Miami friends.” senior year away from Miami Valley Today 2020 Senior scrapbook Thursday, May 14, 2020 7 us, it is important that at all this going on in the ories to reflect on while we remember the good world is that I have been all the negativity weighs memories of not only our able to spend more time down the world. senior year, but our whole with my family and help “Obviously, the ending time in high school. with my family business.” of my senior year was not “When I think back to what I was expecting, at senior year, I will remem- all. And, yeah it completely ber this, and I will ponder sucks! I’m very lucky to what it would have been have a support system like, had it been normal. through my family and But my fondest memories school. The Miami East will be of the time I spent staff are truly amazing! with friends, on sports Seniors: this will get better Gretchen Frock, right, with best teams, at games, and friend Kearsten. and we have big things in even in the classroom. I store for us! The Senior have made great friends Gretchen Frock, Legends will live on!” in high school and made Miami East High School great memories, as well. “This picture was taken I feel that having gone during the last home From left to right, Troy High School marching band members Meredith Post, Ambrosia Westcott, through this, I will have a football game of the sea- Taylor Henn, and Abby Oberbeck. son, where all fall senior deeper appreciation of the “Robert has big plans for athletes are honored. little things in life, and his future and there is no I am so happy to have learn to savor those times doubt he will achieve his spent my last night in the with friends.” dreams. Robert has grown Blue Crew student sec- Jeffery Martin into a caring and mature tion with my best friend Jeffery Martin, young man who his father at my side, cheering our Bradford High School and I are very proud of.” fellow Vikings to victory “I was always the Olyvia Malone Chandler Langston under the stadium lights. student that tried to take Olyvia Malone, Chandler Langston, Meredith Post, Kearsten is a ray of sun- the easy way out. But Piqua High School Piqua High School Troy High School (above) shine and supports me it never worked out for Olyvia is a three-year “My best friends and I through everything I do. me. So I ended up just varsity soccer player, was Faith Hammond are in the marching band. I’m so very lucky to call doing it the first time involved in Big brothers/ Marching band has taught Faith Hammond, her my best friend. I love and saving myself the Big Sisters and Link Lead- me how to work together Miami East High School you Kearsten Lynne and I hassle of extra work. I ers, and will attend Ohio with a team and time man- “My name is Faith Ham- wish you the best! have chosen this picture University in the fall. agement. It allowed me to mond and I am a senior at “My senior year hasn’t because I feel that I was make new friends.” Miami East High School. I lived up to the expecta- able to let myself go and am also a senior in the Vet- tions that all the movies just relax and enjoy the Robert Ventura erinary Science program at have shown; this was outdoors. Instead of what Robert Ventura, MVCTC. Right now is very nothing like ‘High School is going on in the world Troy Christian High School stressful for me. I have Musical.’ But, I have so right now.” “Robert Ventura is a watched my three older many good memories part of the class of 2020 sisters go through their with the class of 2020 Colin Roe at Troy Christian School. senior year making memo- that I can cherish as I His senior year started ries; prom, senior walk, fin- step into a new chapter. Colin Roe, out promising when he Zane Switzer ishing the year earlier than We had so many spirit Piqua High School qualified to run at State Zane Switzer, everyone else, their senior weeks and, of course, the “Congratulations! We in Cross Country. In the Troy High School class trip; and being able seniors go all out. Pow- are so proud of you and all fall, he was part of the “This photo means a lot your accomplishments! We to walk across the stage at derpuff was the most fun Tia Bass distance winning team to me, it shows who I truly graduation. When I have thing I did with my class. love you! — Mom, Dad, in the Pumpkin Chuck am after years of not know- a thought in my mind that The Senior Legends Tia Bass, and Caylee” at WPAFB. He attended ing. This photo shows the if I get the chance to walk pulled off a win against Upper Valley Career Center Bradford’s Homecoming real side of me, the side no across the stage it is not the juniors without a “My most memorable dance with his girlfriend has ever seen before. going to be as soon as I single practice! My senior time as a senior is break- and continued with his “My feelings about my thought it was going to homecoming was the best ing the Troy High School job at Cinemark. Robert senior year are bittersweet. happen, I start to stress. by far; my friends and I record in rebounds, with ran throughout the winter I am happy that I am done When I start to have a were the last ones off the 832 total. I had a GREAT in the hopes of a success- with high school, and that lot of stress build up, I go dance floor. I finished my coach that pushed me to ful track season and was I get to move on to the to a family friend’s barn volleyball career by break- better myself. Hopefully planning on attending next chapter of my life, but and relax there almost all ing a record and being a this fall everything will be Cameron Foster his senior prom — then I am sad that my senior day with their horses and District champion in the back to normal and I will COVID-19 and everything year was cut short. During it almost instantly calms same game. There are be able to play again at Cameron Foster, changed. me. A positive way to look more than plenty of mem- Wilmington.” Piqua High School See seniors | 8 8 Thursday, May 14, 2020 2020 Senior scrapbook Miami Valley Today

time spent with friends and young 4-H’ers. laughing; and being part “Looking to the future, of the homecoming court Fletcher made a com- with my friends. I had a mitment to serve in the great basketball season that United States Army as a I will always remember. Go Calvary Scout. Fletcher Buccs 2020!” will serve in the US Army Fletcher Metz starting in June 2020. Fletcher Metz, Best wishes, stay safe, Covington High School and serve your nation “Fletcher also attended with honor and pride! Go Upper Valley Career Cen- Army! ter in the Environmental “Unfortunately, the Jonathan Post, along with fellow Troy marching band members. Occupation program and senior Class of 2020 Brock Barga doubled-up on program was cut short in experi- From seniors page 7 taught me time manage- to happen, nobody did. It’s requirements to success- ences, but there will be so ment and how to work been difficult. One of the Brock Barga, fully complete in one many more experiences senior year, I accomplished hard towards a goal. My biggest things I’ve learned Covington High School year. Fletcher thoroughly and opportunities in the a lot that I never thought years of high school would throughout this is to have “Through high school we enjoyed the Environmen- future! Go forth to be a I could accomplish. It was never have been the same hope and count your bless- learn about many things, tal Occupation program leader and give back to my friends and the amaz- without it.” ings everyday. I have faith including overcoming and displayed a pure pas- your community! ing teachers that pushed that we will all get to come obstacles, becoming lead- sion for the career. While “We love you and look me to keep going and to together at some point and ers, and enjoying life. We attending Covington H.S., forward to see how you not give up. Throughout celebrate our accomplish- learn to appreciate small Fletcher was in marching grow and develop person- high school, I have met ments. I pray that we get things and we grow as band, jazz & pep Band, ally and professionally in so many amazing people, to have graduation and individuals. COVID-19 may cross country, , the future. Love you very and I wish nothing but the everything we had hoped have cut our senior year and track. much! — Mom” best for them. So many for in our senior year. short, but it has again rein- “Outside of school memories have been made forced what we have been Bailey Tipps, Savannah Travers “This is a picture of me activities, Fletcher was and I’ll keep them with the moment I found out I learning and then some. a leader within the Covington High School me forever. As we go on Savannah Travers, had passed my state board We now know the power of community and county (below) in life, there is one thing Troy High School exam for Cosmetology. a virus and we appreciate as he was a nine-year “Here’s a photo of our that’ll always connect us “Senior year has been This was the most reward- more than ever hanging out 4-H member in Darke marching band seniors on together: we are a part of a wave of many different ing feeling ever.” with our friends (especially County 4-H Program, senior night in October. the Trojan Family, and that emotions. Some days I in groups of 10 or more), served two years as the This year, our marching lasts forever.” don’t know exactly how to handshakes, hugs, movies, Friendly Farmer’s 4-H band seniors helped bring feel about all of this. I have restaurants, haircuts, health Club President, and has home the first state supe- Jonathan Post, been so blessed by all of care, the power of a sneeze, completed 4-H projects rior rating in many years. Troy High School (above) the opportunity that has and the distance a cough in Market Lambs, Market Our football team did bet- “This photo is important come my way. Starting my can travel. This chaos has Rabbits, Meat Turkeys, ter in playoffs than they’ve to me because this was career as a cosmetologist taught us to rise up and and Wood Working. done in the past few years, taken our senior year dur- has been nothing short of check on one another. We thanks to the leadership of Spencer Brumbaugh Fletcher passed his ing marching band season. amazing. I had so many have accepted the change enjoyment, passion, and the seniors on the team. I am so thankful that we big events planned in these Spencer Brumbaugh, and we have grown because excitement on to other The cheer team, with the got to have it, now that next months, big mile- Covington High School of it. Change is a sure thing 4-H members as he served leadership of their seniors, everything is cancelled. stones that I’ve been work- “Some of my greatest in life and we, the Class as a Darke Co. 4-H Camp won competitions all year Being a part of band gave ing towards and looking memories are attending of 2020, are prepared to Counselor for three years. round, and went to nation- me the best friends and forward to for quite some Covington sporting events conquer whatever change Fletcher enjoyed leading als. Though we have things awesome memories. It time. I never expected this and cheering on the Buccs; comes our way.” and mentoring other to mourn, we still have OH-70186393

From left to right, Covington High School marching band members Bailey Tipps, Josie Schaurer, Joshua Wall, Michael Schafer, Fletcher Metz, Hailey Baker, and Sarah Barnhart. Miami Valley Today 2020 Senior scrapbook Thursday, May 14, 2020 9 these successes and our never missed an assign- and continues to give her uncertainty of being able to futures to look forward to. ment, and maintained best to set herself up for see our daughter cross that We all are leaders, every her GPA through all of success. stage to get her diploma one of us, waiting patiently it. She now, will reap “Her family is so proud is still unknown we still until it is our time to once the benefits of her hard of her! Way to go Alexis!” celebrate her and all of her again be leaders in what- work, reaching her goal of accomplishments.” — Mom ever community we find graduating High School ourselves in.” and getting her Associ- “When Bailey entered ate of Arts degree at the CHS as a freshman, she same time. Bailey’s AVM made a bold statement has shrunk and her health From left to right, Alexa Burns, Alivia Knor-Sullivan, James Staugler, saying, ‘I’m going to grad- has improved over the last and Dusty Conner. uate Edison the same year several months and she Kadin Presser James Staugler, I graduate high school,’ will finish her high school Shelby Coulter and in a few weeks, she career very strong. Never Kadin Presser, Piqua High School (above) “We took this picture will do just that. A year lose hope, have faith, love Covington High School Shelby Coulter, during breakfast in 8th ago, we were not sure people and always remem- “Kadin had great suc- Piqua High School grade, just a simple group this would be possible ber … sky’s the limit. cess this year in football Shelby is a five-year photo. Alexa and Alivia as Bailey was diagnosed Bailey will be attending and basketball and was marching band member. hoping to continue on in While attending her are being silly like they with a brain AVM in the the University of Virginia Mitch Fletcher and plans to pursue a track until it ended. He senior year of high always used to, I’m just left occipital lobe. Unbe- awkwardly leaning forward, Mitch Fletcher, knownst to us she was career in Bio Statistics had big goals for his track school she also attends and research. #classof- season this year. He’s hop- Edison State where she and Dusty’s just chilling. Piqua High School born with this brain mal- It’s not the highest quality, “Mitch Fletcher, Senior formation. The AVM was 2020strong.” — Mom ing to make more great majors in business. After memories like graduating but it has always had a very CC, Piqua High School. discovered after a car acci- graduation she plans to on his 18th birthday if special place in my heart. Thanks for all of the won- dent that landed her in the further her education at they don’t reschedule.” Edison. This was my first real derful CC and track memo- ER after rolling a vehicle friend group and they hon- ries! Keep running! Love, 3 times across a field. The estly saved me from a very Mom and Dad” only injury incurred was dark time in my life, and sore muscles, scrapes and it all started by just saying an underlying condition “Hello” to the guy dressed called a brain AVM. Alexis Meyer in black sitting alone.” “This diagnosis started Alexis Meyer, a ball rolling that landed Covington High School Dylan Lucas Lauren Mitchell us at the Cleveland Clinic, “Alexis is planning to with some of the best attend Wright State Uni- Dylan Lucas, Lauren Mitchell, Ryan Barr specialists, for GAMMA versity (pre-dentistry) Covington High School Piqua High School Knife Radiation. Surgery in the fall. She hopes to Dylan’s home school is Ryan Barr, and embolization were continue cheerleading at Covington High School Piqua High School not good options for and he attends UVCC and Ryan attended Miami WSU and is currently try- Zach Fletcher her because of the com- ing out for their team. is in the auto collision Valley Career Technology plicated location of the “Alexis has had a very program. He played Zach Fletcher, Center, and was part of the AVM. After radiation, she successful four years at while in high school. Piqua High School Piqua Show Choir “The could not catch a break. Covington High School. “We are so proud of Company” for four years. She started to have vision He will join the workforce She ran cross country 4 Tyler Partin you, Zach, Piqua Gradu- issues and debilitating years, as well as cheer- ate, 2020!!! Good Luck at MedWay Tool. headaches and fatigue. leading. She has main- Tyler Partin, at OSU! Go Bucks!!!” — Many Emergency room tained a 3.5 GPA. Recent- Piqua High School Mom and Dad See seniors | 10 visits and testing left us ly, her high school cheer without answers as to team won first place at what was going on. Each Ohio State. In February, Allyona Plantz visit to the Emergency she was able to perform Room was to rule out a cheer at a national level Allyona Plantz, brain bleed or stroke and in Disney World. Piqua High School thankfully, we walked out “If you asked her, her After graduating, Allyo- of each one without that senior year was full of a na is going to the Univer- diagnosis. lot of achievements, but sity of Cincinnati where “Bailey kept on with it truly breaks her heart she will get her criminal her school workload of she may not have the justice degree to become college and high school appropriate graduation a police officer. classes through all this. ceremony, prom, or grad- “We are so proud of our She fought hard and never uation celebration. She is senior and though these Russia, Ohio lost sight of her goal. She remaining in high spirits are hard times and the OH-70186256 10 Thursday, May 14, 2020 2020 Senior scrapbook Miami Valley Today

From seniors page 9 midway through this made the year before clair in the fall and enroll- year, I quickly found a right by my side too. I ing in they Dental Hygiene group of friends that honestly just wish that program. She appreciates made me feel very I could have had senior the help she’s received from welcome. One of my best prom with my friends, her teachers through the memories is when some and been able to spend years and the friends she of my fellow classmates these last few months has made in Troy the last and I went to Savannah with them before we all two years! #ptbt (proud to as a Girl Scout Troop to go our separate ways. be a Trojan).” Keenan Kelly visit the home of Juliette “Since my freshman Keenan Kelly, Gordon Low, the founder year, I have been looking Riley Hubbard, Piqua High School of Girl Scouts.” forward to being a senior Troy High School (below) “Keenan Kelly, PHS and getting to enjoy the “I have had a great Class of 2020 Valedictori- last year with my clos- four years at Troy an, has always been excited est friends beside me but High School. This to learn and share knowl- unforntally that did not photo represents great edge. At the early age of 15 happen. I will say that this memories of my final months, his favorite past year has made me open my days as a Troy High time was playing school eyes to everything around School football player and with Winnie the Pooh and Nicolas Karnehm me and I have learned that amazing friends made memorizing the spelling I have to work hard to get along the way.” of his favorite words. As a Nicolas Karnehm, to where I want to be in a young adolescent, his love Piqua High School few years and that is to be Nicolas also attends of reading and writing con- an emergency room nurse.” Upper Valley Career tinued, and he began shap- Center. He is leaving ing the dream of one day From left to right, Destiny Taylor, Kylie Noble, and Katelynn for bootcamp at Parris Hawkins. attending an Ivy League Island immediately after University. graduation. Kylie Noble, “Through steadfast Breanna Miller, left and Kat “Nicolas has always Troy High School (above) Brush, right search of knowledge, scho- dreamed of being in the “My senior year was lastic dedication, sacrifice USMC. He even gave up going well. From August Kat Brush, Lexi Piper and self-determination, football early to begin till January I was work- Troy High School his childhood dream has getting in shape and ing on getting my STNA, Lexi Piper, “The friends I made become a profound reality training for bootcamp.” Troy High School and new skills I learned Ellie Jones and on Jan. 18, 2020, I with his acceptance and — Mom passed the test. My best “For Lexi, graduating will stick with me commitment to Brown Ellie Jones, friend since 7th grade means the beginning of a forever. I made the most University, Class of 2024. Piqua High School came back and I had new chapter for her. She is of my senior year by “Ellie’s accomplishments “We are so proud of you, another friend that I had excited to be attending Sin- volunteering for kid’s Keenan, and the wonderful include: Show Choir - 2 accomplishments you have years; Concert Choir - 2 achieved in 18 short trips years; Soccer - 4 years around the sun! We love (Captain); Varsity Track - 4 years; Cross Country - 1 you and look forward to Ethan Heidenreich watching this new phase year; Link Leaders - 1 year; of your life unfold. In Deo Ethan Heidenreich, Homecoming Court; and speramus ~ In God we Piqua High School AP Art. hope! Congratulations and “I have played Varsity “She plans to attend UC Best Wishes to the entire soccer for four years, and in the fall and major in Psy- Class of 2020!” varsity Track & Field for chology. We are proud of 3 years. One of the best her & excited to see what times I had in school the future holds!” was competing in the Global DI Destination Imagination competi- tion in Tennessee. I also enjoyed playing soccer and track & field (long Alyssa Pepiot jump & hurdles). I plan Alyssa Pepiot, to attend The Ohio State Riley Hill Piqua High School University in the fall “Even though I joined studying accounting and Riley Hill, Back row, from left to right, THS football players Ethan Freed, Dawson Hildebrand, Sean Keenan, Piqua High School business.” Piqua High School Tito Fuentes, Coach Scott Brewer, Riley Hubbard, Adam Tibbitts, Colby Harris, Zach Ray, and Jakob Moorman. Front row, from left to right, Brayden Siler and JJ McCoy. Miami Valley Today 2020 Senior scrapbook Thursday, May 14, 2020 11

from my sophomore year to now. This year took a lot away from us seniors but will never take away the memories that we made together. It stinks we can’t see each other for a while, but I know they will always be there for me when I need it.” Nathan Kleptz with friends Austin Stanaford and Brayden Siler. hair cuts and helping at the Troy Hayner Cultural Center during Halloween. All the love and support from others to all us 2020 graduates is Jacob Motz overwhelming, and I am Kit Wolke and Mackenzie Nosker Jacob Motz, thankful for everyone’s Kit Wolke, Milton-Union High School help in these hard times.” Troy High School From left to right, back row, Blake McIntosh, Luke Barnes, Mason Gooslin, Ryun Schlecht, and front “Music holds special sig- “This picture means a row, Kelsie Tomlinson, Sierra Smith, Ally Lyons, and Karma Gillette. nificance in my educational Nathan Kleptz, lot because it is from our career and is an immense Troy High School (above) senior banquet coaches, and parents who have worked so hard for a senior I got to live out a part of my identity. I was “The photo I chose is when we both received have tried to make this bet- so long, never taking a dream of mine when I got involved with the music of me and my two best the coaches award.” ter for us. It’s appreciated. semester off on top of to help announce for my community both in and out- friends Austin Stanaford Good luck to all of the kids working and attending high school soccer games. side of school, each activity and Brayden Siler. We Ally Lyons, from the class of 2020.” clubs and other services “The second half of the progressively molding me have all known each Milton-Union High School that I will not experience year, however, didn’t live into the person I am today. other for a really long (above right) a moment where I can up to what I had hoped it “My first piano teacher time and I am glad we “When it comes down to walk across the stage would. I looked forward to inspired my profound had our senior year a favorite memory of HS and be recognized for playing my last season of expressionism and passion together. I couldn’t pick just one. everything I have done. with my friends, for music. I experienced the “My senior year has Throughout track, cross However, I know within graduating and celebrating thrill of performing onstage had a lot of ups and country, and show choir myself I am proud with with the people I’ve spent in fourth grade as Winthrop downs, and it might not I’ve had so much fun! My in, ‘The Music Man,’ (or Kimberly Riquelme all the experiences I have all four years with. I look be ending the way I like, junior year in track I broke overcome and I know I forward to the day when should I say, Muthic Man!), but when I look back at the school record in the Kimberly Riquelme, will do amazing things in all of this is over and I can and I developed a keen it I have a lot of great high jump. In cross coun- Milton-Union High School the future.’ get together with all my respect for the practice memories from it. Miss- try we advanced to region- “At Milton, Kimberly “We love you Kimi and friends again and celebrate and dedication manifested ing out on the end of the als. In show choir we won played softball and was are so proud of you! — finishing high school and offstage through my partici- year has definitely been grand champs at our last on the quiz team. She is a Mom, Jennifer, Michael moving into this new chap- pation and later leadership very hard and upsetting invitational before the sea- member of Buckeye Girls and Melissa” ter of our lives.” in band. at times. My classmates son was cut short. State, Girl Scouts and “Looking back on my and I have missed out on “This picture embod- various clubs at Sinclair school years, it is disap- many different things, ies the idea that working Community College. Along pointing not to share the but I think in a way it together with friends with graduating from traditional senior celebra- has brought us closer you can accomplish any- Milton-Union High School, tions with the community together. I would like to thing! Friends keep you she will also graduate from I’ve grown up in, but the thank my family for help- motivated, cheer you up Sinclair Community Col- current isolation has fur- ing me get through all when you’re down, and lege with an associate’s Owen Bailey Andrew Setser ther demonstrated the this. I would also like to are always there for you, degree in Biology. She healing power of music and thank the teachers and whether it be in sports, will be attending Olivet Owen Bailey, Andrew Setser, strengthened my devotion staff at Troy High School school, or show choir. Yes. Nazarene University study- Troy Christian High School Troy Christian High School to better others’ lives. I for such a great four years I’m missing track, prom, ing Biology/Pre-Medicine. “I plan on going to the “This picture shows plan to study music educa- and for helping me get to show choir, senior picnic, Kimberly also has received University of Dayton in me and my family walk- tion at Ball State Universi- where I am now. Lastly, and graduation, but none scholarships from College the fall for Pre-Physical ing down the field for ty, and after the inspiration I want to say thanks to of those activities would Board and the Thelma Therapy. The beginning senior night. This picture from everyone that has sup- my fellow classmates for mean as much without my Ross Dalton Memo- of my senior year was means a lot to me from the ported me throughout my so many great memories, friends. rial Scholarship from the great, going to football and team on the field to them journey, I couldn’t be more and for making these last “As I know this will get Miami County Foundation. basketball games with my becoming my family off excited.” four years so enjoyable better, for now it really “She says, ‘I am disap- friends and leading cheers the field. This reminds me for me.” hurts. Thank you teachers, pointed and upset how I as a group of seniors. As from where I came from See seniors | 12 12 Thursday, May 14, 2020 2020 Senior scrapbook Miami Valley Today

From seniors page 11 wouldn’t change anything many instances throughout besides the last couple my senior year where I Alexis Summers, months of my senior year. was able to maximize my Milton-Union High School I wish I could have told all opportunities and enter- (right) my friends goodbye and tain those around me. “My name is Alexis that I will miss them. If “I have had a great time and I was a new student anybody wants their piano in high school and I don’t to a different school tuned, I know a guy (that’s think there will ever be a my senior year. This me). I am a music lover four-year period again in photo is of some friends and will continue to play my life where I go through I made by joining the music in my spare time. I such drastic change. At Colorguard and it holds a love playing video games the beginning of my senior good memory that I will and playing with my ani- year, I was nervous that the cherish forever. It was in mals. I am hopeful that my year would slip by me and November and we took it friends will remember me I wouldn’t be able to stop From left to right, Ava Fulker, Milani Good, Alexis Summers, and Zoie Rench. during practice. I cherish as the happiest guy they the elusive sands of time as this because it was my ever met, and remember they would rob me of any last time doing fall guard with many ups and downs, will have lots of stories to that I will always be your and all memories I had yet and it was a good season. not knowing what might tell our kids and grandkids friend no matter where to make. Now, at the end, I My senior year was full happen from one day to about our senior year.” you are. I am only a text can confirm that it went by of a lot of ups and downs, the next. We have all had or call away!” incredibly fast. However, but I wouldn’t change good times and bad times, packed full of memories I’ll anything about it. It but most importantly never forget. ended really early and I we all made it. This year Riley Houser “I am very thankful to didn’t spend a lot of time forced me to step out of all my teachers, friends, at my new school, but I Riley Houser, my comfort zone a bit. I Bradford High School and family who made this made more friends than I formed stronger bonds such a fun and exciting ever did any other year. “To me, this photo is a with my fellow classmates representation of some- Korey Lauck year. A year full of fun, but “Being a senior meant and it was nice to see us not without its fair share experiencing my last one who is determined all grow closer before we Korey Lauck, David Osting and Mr. Meyers to go after their dreams of mental breakdowns over homecoming, prom, walked out those doors, Miami East High School David Osting, nothings and occasional football game, etc. I and aspirations, while which meant starting our “My senior year has Miami East High School also enjoying the finer anxieties of the future. experienced a sense of own lives. been anything but normal. “This photo was taken Despite it being cut short, loss after each last went moments in life. I see “To encapsulate my I have enjoyed spending moments after the crown- someone who is being I’ll remember my senior by and I hoped that it senior year of high time with all of my friends ing achievement of my year for many reasons, their pure, natural, and school, I would say that wouldn’t end. This meant but also I have enjoyed senior year; I was awarded (aside from the glaring authentic self. When I it was an experience that growing up and it is hard, teaching the underclass- top prize in the Mr. Mey- one) regardless of how look at this photo of me, was filled with optimism since all we’ve ever known man the ropes of this ers look-alike contest. This quick things seemed to fly I instantly start reminisc- and support from my is high school life. I loved school that has been my contest was a part of our by. But maybe it’s not such ing about the past and the friends, family, and teach- senior year and I hope my home since kindergarten. homecoming spirit week a bad thing it flew by. The events that molded me ers. This may be the end class can continue to grow My high school experi- of which I helped to coor- faster things go, the more into the person that I am to one chapter of our now that we are reaching ence has been great and I dinate. This was one of the often memories are made.” the end of the year today. I got to where I am lives, but another is just and move on to bigger now because I never gave beginning!” adventures.” up. I believed in myself when others might not Ethin Bendickson, (right) have. Finally, I told myself Miami East High School that I am resilient and I “My favorite memory of can achieve anything that my senior year was the fun I set my mind to. I had in my Agricultural “Even though our Education class. I only had senior year at Bradford a few people in the class so was cut short due to the we really bonded. The other Milani Good unexpected circumstances people in my class are also Milani Good, with Covid-19, it was still very passionate about agri- Milton-Union High School an experience that I will culture like I am so as we “This is a photo of me forever cherish. I feel like grew closer we were able at our first color guard this year was the most to learn even more than we competition this season. memorable and the most were being taught in the The rest of the season revealing. That is to say classroom. It is a bummer for all color guards was that I know more about that the COVID-19 pan- cancelled but I still have who I am as a person and demic has happened during Miami East FFA 2019-2020 Officer Team. Front row, left to right, Lauren Wright, Kearsten Kirby, Ethin the best memories with what I want from life. our senior year, but the one Bendickson, Michael Bair. Back row, left to right, Emma Sutherly, Adam Bensman, Sam Sutherly, them.” “This year was filled kind of cool thing is we Carter Gilbert. Miami Valley Today 2020 Senior scrapbook Thursday, May 14, 2020 13

continuing to persevere and succeed in these crazy times! Good luck to you all!“ Remember When LEFT: A young Michael Ray Schafer Jr. Twins Elizabeth and Zachary Mitch Kuntz and Michael R. Schafer Jr., Zach Covington High School Zachary Kuntz, Fletcher “Our son Michael Covington High School Ray Schafer Jr. will be Joseph Franke Elizabeth Kuntz, graduating with honors Joseph Franke, Covington High School from Covington High (above) School this spring. Covington High School Throughout his high school career, he has been a CCP student while Provided Photos Young Chandler Langston LEFT: staying very active in Young both academic and sports Keenan activities including cross Kelly country, track and field, marching band, jazz Colton Francis Madison Shortridge band, pep band, concert Colton Francis, Madison Shortridge, band, National Honor Covington High School Upper Valley Career Center Society, key club, Spanish Colton also attended “This year has been hec- club, SADD club, and the Miami Valley CTC. tic. My feelings were, ‘Oh quiz team. He has also He was a member of yeah, it’s Senior Year!’ Now earned his Eagle Scout I don’t want it to end. With award, represented the FFA and four-year member of the baseball doing online schooling, it’s Covington at Buckeye flying by and I’m sad about team. Boys State, has served it. My whole life is about to He attended MVCTC as a section leader and change forever and I don’t leadership team member majoring in Electrical know if I’m ready for that. I in marching band, and is Trades. He is currently am beyond proud of myself a blood donor. employed at Area Electric for everything I have done “Michael will be in Sidney. to make sure I passed this attending The Ohio Colton will be attending year. I put all of my effort State University — Lima Edison Community into this year to make my this fall majoring in College and will pursue parents proud! I’m proud Engineering Technology. an Education degree and of the whole Class of 2020! We are so proud of him playing baseball at the We got this ladies and and the class of 2020 for collegiate level. gentlemen!” OH-70186633 14 Thursday, May 14, 2020 2020 Senior scrapbook Miami Valley Today Memories & Moments 2019-2020

Brock Barga, in back, along with his fellow Covington FFA members.

Provided Photos Alyssa Pepiot and fellow Girl Scouts in Savannah, Georgia.

Covington seniors on the evening of the Covington High School Homecoming Dance, including newly crowned king Zach Kuntz, center, and from left to right, Teague Deaton, Josie Schaurer, Seth Redick, Bailey Tipps, Zach Kuntz, Liz Kuntz, Piqua football players Makeegen Kuhn, #37, and Riley Hill, #70. Josh Wall and Destina Wills. Miami Valley Today 2020 Senior scrapbook Thursday, May 14, 2020 15 Friends & Classmates GOOD LUCK Class of Provided Photos Milani Good and the Milton-Union High School Color Guard at the first competition of the season

RIGHT: Jenna Bertke, 2020! right, in costume for the indoor percussion show, “Raised By Wolves.”

LEFT: PHS seniors, at the Piqua/ Troy pep rally, Adde Honeycutt, Lauren Mitchell, 216 West Franklin Street Reece Tate. Troy, OH 45373 937-339-8935 [email protected] thetroyfoundation.org Growing a Greater Tomorrow OH-70185776 16 Thursday, May 14, 2020 2020 Senior scrapbook Miami Valley Today Celebrating Over 45 Years in Dentistry EXCELLENCE IN DENTISTRY Bentley, Stevens, & Jones • RESTORATIONS • ORTHODONTICS 937-335-4630 • EXTRACTIONS • WHITENING • SEALANTS 1523 N. Market St., Troy, Ohio • CROWNS & BRIDGES • COSMETIC DENTISTRY www.dentistintroyohio.com • ROOT CANALS • BOTOX & JUVEDERM • PREVENTIVE CARE • IMPLANTS • DENTURES & PARTIALS • IV SEDATION

MARK T. BENTLEY D.D.S. CHARLES H. STEVENS D.D.S. JULIE E. JONES D.D.S. OH-70185767