Crimaldi Signs Off from The Spectrum

Livie Crimaldi

Well friends, I have to admit, I didn’t expect my last day in Avon Lake High School to be a somber 30 second walk around the commons to drop off my textbooks, but I guess you take what you can get. Regardless of the underwhelming ending that befell the Class of 2020, I can confidently say I have enjoyed my four years at ALHS, especially my involvement in Avon Lake’s most trusted news source.

Looking back at my freshman year self (significantly shorter and probably a little too eager to please), I remember the thrill of listening to the senior editors shape The Spectrum every month. They were savvy, confident, and everything I wanted to be when I grew up. In an effort to get as involved as possible, I took whatever story was handed to me, dreading the intimidating interview process but feeling accomplished when I saw my name in the black and white print. Speaking from experience, that feeling will keep you asking for another article every month.

Now, four years and many articles later, I am incredibly grateful for the lessons learned throughout my time on The Spectrum staff. Interviews coaxed my shy underclassmen personality out of its shell, teaching me how to communicate with others in real world situations and training me for the infamous college interviews down the road. I was also able to meet incredible individuals in our community that I never would have discovered on my own, such as Matt Maroon and his inspiring nonprofit Determined to Develop. The job of Editor-in-chief allowed me to develop my leadership skills and learn how to coordinate a group of people (believe me, each edition is a team effort). I also now know my way around the often frustrating platform of Adobe InDesign, although I question how helpful that may be in the future.

I cannot say enough about the great opportunities of working on The Spectrum at ALHS. Many of my fondest memories were formed in the newspaper office, whether it be lunch with friends or the satisfaction of finishing each month’s edition just in time. I strongly encourage anyone who has an interest in writing to join the club next year. You never know, you may find yourself writing your own editor farewell one day.

As the curtain falls on the Class of 2020, I am excited to see what the future holds. I’ll now leave you with what I attempted to make my senior quote, but what I doubt will be included: Goodnight, and big balls.