Gatsby Inspired
Homecoming Elicits
Glitz and Glam
Homecoming 2018 festivities made for
an elaborate week of fun for the green and
gold. Beginning September 24, the event
ushered in traditions both new and old
featuring a Great Gatsby theme with a spirit
week, football game, and coronations.
At the pinnacle of the celebration was the
selection of a court. Honored to be chosen
by peers were Jasmine Caldwell, Airys
Gould, Nina Munoz, Julia Roussos, Maria
Smereka, Nathan Latta, Cameron Heiser,
Matthew Harris, and Gabriel Prepelka.
Capping off a spirit-filled week, a pep
rally was held at the end of the school
day September 28. The rally included the
formal introduction of the court, a hysterical
Charleston dance off, and a frenzied
scavenger hunt. Gabe Prepelka was named
Homecoming King, attracting a rowdy
endorsement as a crown was placed upon
his head.
The extravagant glitz and glam of
homecoming was emulated by a parade
with floats parodying the Roaring 20’s.
Cardboard-fashioned Model T’s, glamorous
flappers, and of course, the court and
marching band, made for a captivating
procession to all those who gathered along
Washington Avenue in Carnegie. The parade
ended at Honus Wagner Stadium, just in
time for the kick off of a football game
between the Riverside Panthers and the
Cougars.
The highly anticipated announcement of
homecoming queen came at half time of the
football game as the band performed songs
of the “Night” followed by the introduction of
the court. Standing under the lights before
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Gabe Prepelka escorts Maria Smereka as they
are introduced at a pep rally held in the high
school auditorium.
family, peers, and fans, Jasmine Caldwell
appeared stunned as her name was announced
as the 2018 homecoming queen. Arieona
Smith-Purdue, last year’s queen, offered a
hug and a glittering crown before Jasmine
was surrounded by members of the court who
offered heartfelt cheers.
Nearly 200 students attended a semi-formal
dance the following evening. The high school
gym was veiled in a golden glow with lighted
crystal chandeliers that hung from the ceiling.
A sprawling buffet and tables adorned in black
linens with feathered centerpieces were set
apart from a dance floor which was occupied
most of the night as students danced to music
provided by a deejay.
Though homecoming promotes the custom
of welcoming the return of alumni, the once-
a-year tradition also boosts school spirit and
embraces the extracurricular endeavors of high
school students. Activities such as this build
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Members of the court demonstrated the Charleston before a dance off contest between grades.
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Carlynton-Montour