Akron Winter Break Recommendations
Pages 6-7
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS STARTS UP HOBAN’S CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
BY KORBEN HAHN
It’s time! The start of Hoban’s annual 12 Days of Christmas has officially begun with brand-new themes, events and activities.
Over the course of 12 days, Hoban is spreading school spirit and holiday cheer through dress-up days and community-focused events. This countdown brings the entire school together and keeps the energy high leading into break.
For day one, the Christmas tone was set with a brand new tree lighting located at the central office. The Christmas tree greeted the Hoban community and set a festive spirit throughout all of Hoban.
On day two, Hoban celebrated St. Nick’s day during the 5th period. The students were able to leave their shoes at the entrance of their classroom, then St. Nicholas came around and placed delicious treats in everyone’s shoes.
The next day was laid back due to mass occurring in the middle of the day. To bring back Christmas energy in Hoban’s mind, cookies were sold in the student center to stay in the cozy Christmas spirit.
For the fourth day, Hoban’s student body was challenged with a scavenger hunt, with small trees, presents, and elves spread throughout the school.
The winners were gifted for their hard work and observation skills with gift cards, candy, and a lunch line fast pass.
“I was super happy, and
Max Gursky spotted one of Santa’s little workers with his observation skills. PHOTO COURTESY OF MAX GURSKY.
Girls Wrestling Page 9
everyone was asking me about it and congratulating me,” scavenger hunt winner Max Gursky said.
Continuing the Christmas spirit, on day five students came into school with their wonderful winter hats. Students’ heads either had a Santa hat or some sort of festive beanie on top of it.
Day six was a dress-down day with specific themes. In order to dress down, seniors had to dress as Santa, juniors as reindeer, sophomores as snowmen and freshmen as elves. The hallways were a spectacle, and sophomore Hadley Franjesh said, “It was so funny to see everyone’s costumes roaming in the hallway.”
On day seven, students had ugly sweater day and wore their most hideous Christmas sweaters.
On day eight, Hoban let the students guess the song. Before
every period, Hoban played a song, and the first room to ring it up and name the song got a special prize.
On day nine, Hoban was visited by a very special someone: Santa Claus came to town and ate breakfast with the students. The Hoban community is thankful for lots of laughs and pictures that were shared with Santa.
For day 10, Hoban had a whiteout. Students dressed head to toe in white, just like in a winter wonderland.
Then, for day 11, Hoban will give the student center “merry kisses.” The merry kisses are Hershey Kisses in a plastic candy cane for 5 dollars.
Lastly, for day 12, Hoban will end with a bang. It will be another dress-down day with a Christmas pajama theme. To start winter break, the Hoban faculty and students will be comfortable and end the final day with an early dismissal.
On day seven, the students wore their most ugly sweaters they could find out of their winter wardrobe. PHOTO BY KORBEN HAHN.
WINTER BREAK FIRST, EXAMS LATER
BY ALEXANDRA LAGOS
Hoban Knights will be experiencing a shift in their Midterm schedule for the 2025-2026 school year. The exams have been moved to two weeks after winter break. The reason behind the shift was due to the academic year having a late start.
After winter break, classes will resume for two weeks, and then students will have exams on January 20-23. The change is to ensure students have enough time to cover all required material before ending the semester. In result, the additional instructional days must be provided before testing students on their understanding of the curriculum.
Previously, students were used to midterm exams being held the week before Christmas break. While many may fear the change, the new schedule is not permanent. It is only necessary to accommodate this year’s different introduction.
“I think our Hoban community realizes that this year is unique,” said Associate Principal of Academics Candace Bates. “Next year, we will return to having exams before we depart for Christmas break.”
It is important for students to know the temporary delay is for the best. Without the extra time, they would have been forced to complete exams unprepared. Although it is easy to view the different schedule as an inconvenience, it can be
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The midterm schedule remains the same despite shifting to after christmas break. GRAPHIC BY ALEXANDRA LAGOS.
taken as a blessing.
While some may appreciate the extra time to prepare, the change will without a doubt worry others. After all, upperclassmen spent years accustomed to completing exams before break and returning in January to begin their second semester.
Given the shift in exams, students are expected to embrace a new challenge this semester.
“Hoban Knights can do great things,” Bates said. “This year will be no exception.”
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BY GEMMA ALEXANDER
STUDENTS FROM CLASS OF ‘26 RECEIVE COMMENDATION
Seven Hoban seniors have been named Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. Reighan Brooks, Phillip Constant, Danielle Ferree, Katherine Folk, Alexander Haran, Sutherland Moore and Sasha Paonessa are recognized for their outstanding performance on the qualifying test, the PSAT. Commended students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered into the 2026 competition by taking the test. The Hoban Family congratulates these seniors on their accomplishments.
HOBAN IMPLEMENTS NEW STRATEGIC PLAN
The Hoban Board of Directors has recently created and approved the 2025-2028 Strategic Plan. The plan aims to grow Hoban’s identity as a Catholic and Holy Cross institution, better student outcomes and better academic achievements. Steps include expanding outreach to donors, expanding the Future Knights program, updating the school’s maintenance and safety systems, propelling the growth of music and fine arts, and fostering a culture that encourages students attendance and attracts high quality faculty.
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Staff Writers: Kayla Johnson Griffen Waugh Korben Hahn
Lily Obhof Drew Towell
HOBAN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS LEND A HELPING ‘CAN’
BY JESS KREJSA
Every year, Hoban participates in their annual canned food drive. Students are encouraged to bring in items including toiletries, canned food and non perishable items. In exchange they earn a dress down day and a smile knowing they are helping those in need. Usually this canned food drive spans over two whole weeks, but this year, Campus Ministry decided to shorten it to only a week. Amazingly, despite the shortened time as a school, Hoban collected a whopping 8,027 cans, surpassing the total of previous years. Though this canned food drive might seem like a simple act, it is much more than what meets the eye.
After the cans are collected, Campus Minister Kelsey Sees and Christian Service Coordinator Chris Fahey, with the help of their Campus Ministry enrichment, must organize and sort the cans to get them ready for pick up.
“We donate to a number of local agencies and they come pick the cans
up and then they are available for distribution at their food pantries,” Sees said.
Some of these local agencies include Saint Vincent de Paul Societies, Saint Vincent Church, Sacred Heart, Saint Bernard, Hoban’s Pantry and Project Hope.
As a long standing tradition at Hoban, the Canned food drive started as something small and has since grown into something bigger than itself.
were filled up
PHOTO COURTESY OF JOCELYN PERSON.
“When it first started, people would drop off bags and go door-to-door through the neighborhood, trying to get cans that way,” Sees said.
This simple act of service brings the Hoban community together, cultivating faith in special ways. This is especially
crucial in the approaching winter and holiday season as families are in greater need of basic necessities such as food.
“We are called by Jesus to take care of our neighbors, living as Christ in our world today,” Sees said.
STARBUCKS SERVES COFFEE WITH CONTROVERSY
BY LILY OBHOF
Holiday cheer is spreading fast as Christmas grows closer, and Starbucks is no different with their holiday menu being released. However, this Christmas season, coffees are coming with a shot of controversy.
The release of the holiday menu came with hordes of people seeking the coveted bearista cup, a limited edition collectible cup resembling a bear. Only a few teddy bear cups were released at each Starbucks location, leading to long lines for anyone trying to grab their morning coffee.
Senior Dani Ferree was in the line the day of the release and said that it was not intentional to go on the day that the holiday menu and bearista cup dropped.
“It took me like 20 minutes to get my drink,” Ferree said.
Many people sat through the long lines, some even camping out in front of the building or starting fights, in hopes of getting their hands on the cup. However, due to limited supply, many stores only received a handful of cups, or none
at all. This limited supply has caused controversy online as bearista cups were resold for hundreds of dollars, and customers complained about the scarcity of the cups. Starbucks released a public apology, stating that they will restock the cup.
In the midst of the bearista controversy, Starbucks workers chose to go on strike. On Nov 13, 2025 the “Red Cup Rebellion” was launched, with workers stating “No contract, no coffee.” Over 1,000 baristas at more than 100 stores went on strike on Red Cup Day, demanding better pay and staffing. Several stores in Ohio went on strike, potentially affecting where Hoban students get their coffee.
Some Hoban students may also have to change their drink orders, as the return of the holiday menu has omitted some drinks. The cran-merry refreshers, toasted white chocolate mocha and Irish cream cold brew are gone, causing disappointment in some customers.
Ultimately the main item on Starbucks’ holiday menu this season is controversy,
worrying many.
“I think it effects Hoban students a lot because most people depend on it in the mornings to get through our days,” Sophomore Alyvia Severns said, and finds the controversies “very upsetting.”
BY LILY OBHOF.
The controversial bearista cup appears holding a strike sign, highlighting the latest dissension threatening coffee across the country. CARTOON
Brooklyn Blair helped load donated cans so they could be given to local agencies. All the cars
with donations, showing great success.
This year, Hoban takes on a new midterm schedule. The decision to shift midterm exams to the weeks following Christmas break has raised the concern of how students can take on the challenge of retaining information while trying to relax and celebrate the holidays. However, Hoban’s response to this change demonstrates a commitment to student success.
Hoban Faculty is working in favor of students, to ensure Knights are well prepared for this challenge.
“Teachers will provide study guides by December 19 so that students can begin preparing over break,” said Associate Principal of Academics Candace Bates. “Many classes will have a review during the second week of January.”
While trying to prepare for exams and continuing classes may be stress-inducing, Hoban makes sure to give time specifically for exams.
“Schoolwide, Wednesday, January 14 will be an important day for exam preparation,” said Bates. “That morning from 8 - 9 a.m., every teacher will be available in
their classroom for students to stop in and get help preparing for exams or finishing assignments from the second quarter.”
By embracing these resources and adopting effective study strategies students can approach midterms with confidence.
There are even study opportunities meant specifically for underclassmen.
“We will also have a review that day after school for freshmen and sophomores in the Holy Cross Center,” Bates said.
It is amazing that Hoban gives Knights opportunities to ensure they put their best foot forward, but the most important part is how students choose to prepare themselves.
The new schedule prompts students to rethink their traditional winter break routines. Instead of completely disconnecting from schoolwork, this year they will subconsciously think about the exams and classes they are required to complete. It is agreeable that no one wants to spend Christmas Eve working on an exam review packet, but waiting until classes resume to begin studying will lead to stressfully cramming months of education in two weeks.
This year challenges students, but the wise tactic of beginning to study as soon as one receives their review guides will allow students to enjoy their break and reduce the stress ahead of time.
FLRT ENERGY DRINK REINFORCES STEREOTYPES
OPINION BY KAYLA JOHNSON
Monster Energy is releasing a new, women-centered line of energy drinks called FLRT, and they are expected to be in stores early in 2026. These new drinks claim to boost collagen as well as support skin and hair health to cater towards women and their supposed needs, ultimately leaving no room for male consumers while simultaneously discouraging women from consuming Monster.
“I think any person, any gender can benefit from skin and hair strengthening,” said junior Leah Trautman.
Beyond just the beauty marketing angle, FLRT has pastel packaging with a simple, colorful flower on the front as well as names like “Berry Tempting” and “Strawberry Fling.” While the packaging is fun and the names are cute, energy drinks should not be gender-specific as the ingredients will not change based on who is drinking it.
“It’s not necessary to have separate energy drinks from a performance standpoint because the same ingredients
that make you energized or alert will be the same for a male or female,” said religion teacher Jared Topp.
The brand’s angle is clever, but the market for energy drinks is already saturated by brands like Celsius and RedBull, both of which are gender-neutral brands. There is not a need for a hyper-feminine energy drink line, when there is no lack of females consuming energy drinks, or Monster for that matter.
On top of this, FLRT will also have to compete directly with the extremely popular, women focused brand, Alani Nu.
FLRT’s website reinforces the stereotype of women’s flirtatious nature with their colorful branding. IMAGE COURTESY OF DRINKFLRT.COM
Furthermore, FLRT cans will be 12 fluid ounces while Monster cans are 16 fluid ounces. Given that FLRT is for women and is supposed to have beauty improving qualities, they will likely be more expensive, or the same price as the larger, Monster cans.
“I’m going to guess more expensive because in the past, feminine products have been more expensive than the male equivalent,” said Trautman.
In the year 2025 there is no need for drinks to have genders. Do not support this sexist money grab that preys on the flirtatious stereotype of women.
Senior Sophia Burgoyne shows the potential outcome for midterm grades depending on each student’s studying habits. IMAGE BY ALEXANDRA LAGOS.
COUNSELORS RECOMMEND STUDENTS TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR MENTAL HEALTH
BY DREW TOWELL AND KAYLA JOHNSON
High School is stressful. School work, friends, relationships, sports and other things all add pressure to the daily lives of high school students. Professionals say that the age range that experiences the most substantial amount of stress is 13 through early 20-years olds, roughly the same age group as high schoolers.
“There are multiple different things that cause anxiety for students; the college application process, social pressures and appearance can all influence emotions and stress levels,” said mental health therapist and business owner Mary Beth Rowse.
An interesting point that Rowse brought up was the effects that Covid-19 has had on social interaction tendencies. The lack of in-person interactions and increased isolation has created an unprecedented effect psychologically on social awareness and the ability to read others’ body language. Years of talking to friends and peers over screens fostered an environment where in-person speaking skills were not frequently utilized. The inexperience of life events because of the two year blip set teenagers significantly back in understanding everything that comes with life, including stress. Combining pressure from social media, classmates and friends to all be well rounded, “normal” people, high
schoolers are more stressed than ever.
“Never be afraid to ask for help. Talk to someone if you need to. More people care about you than you think.”
- Mary Beth Rowse
New social standards and societal pressures have reached Hoban students. With upcoming mid-terms and increasing work loads, many students are feeling the effects of stress. The everyday events that come with being a high school student can cause high levels of anxiety. Due to the late start this year, mid-terms are pushed back after winter break, giving students less time to prepare for exams. After a recent poll, roughly 46 percent of Hoban students feel that school work and homework combined cause the most stress in their lives. The end of the first semester is approaching and the work load is piling up.
When asked, multiple students felt like going to the tutors and using enrichment to talk with teachers was the most beneficial. Balancing school, sports, family and friends can be a difficult task but asking the counseling staff for help decreasing the build up of anxiety is a healthy habit. Using time given in school can also benefit students with busy schedules. Opportunities such as a study hall or enrichment may be used in school to get assaignments done.
Even though there are multiple things causing stress that can be hard to deal with, actually fixing anxiety problems can be easy. First, with all the stress that is experienced
This pie chart displays common stressors amongst 274 Hoban students who responded to an anonymous survey, with the biggest stressors being school and homework. INFOGRAPHIC BY KAYLA JOHNSON.
during the day the build up of adrenaline can cause teenage bodies to increase stress hormones, causing stomach aches, chest pains, sweaty hands and anxiety attacks. Adrenaline also prevents healthy sleep cycles, which causes more mental health problems. Getting rid of or limiting adrenaline before sleeping is pivotal to mental health. Starting or maintaining a healthy sleep schedule is ultimately one of the most important ways to prevent any tension.
Rowse also said that cognitive distractions like solving puzzles and other things that need hyper-focus can help distract individuals from anything that causes stress mentally. The human mind can only focus on one thing at once, so using puzzles and other games instead of TV shows or movies can help limit the amount of time spent thinking about the stressor.
“Diaphragmatic breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation can help with the physical anxiety symptoms,” Rowse said. Mary Beth emphasized high intensity exercise is the most effective coping mechanism for anxiety and depression because it can boost serotonin and dopamine levels. Both help alleviate somatic issues that deal with mental health issues.
Rowse’s final piece of advice was “never be afraid to ask for help. Talk to someone if you need to. More people care about you than you think.”
The Health Policy Institute of Ohio reported statistics of Ohio high school students, by grade, who reported poor mental health in 2023. INFOGRAPHIC BY KAYLA JOHNSON.
TEACHERS SHARE UNIQUE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS THE VISOR CELEBRATES
“It’s Tiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiime!”—Mariah
BY SOPHIA BURGOYNE & CATHERINE BORDENKIRCHER
BY PAIGE SMITH
For each holiday season, most families have their own traditions and nostalgic ways to celebrate. During Christmas, not all traditions involve moviewatching or tree-decorating. Two Hoban staff members shared their interesting and memorable traditions that could spark a new tradition for other families.
“I’ve never slept in my own house on Christmas Eve,” English Teacher Jamie Adaway said.
Every year, Adaway and her kids spend Christmas Eve and Day at her mom’s house, and they have many traditions all spanning from night to day.
Adaway’s mother Karen Gee opening her stocking on Christmas Eve. Another tradition is that Gee is the only one in the family who opens her stocking that night, the rest of the family opens theirs on Christmas morning. PHOTO COURTESY OF JAMIE ADAWAY
“On Christmas Eve, my mom always has one gift for us to open and traditionally it’s always pajamas,” Adaway said. “After we put on our pajamas, we put out cookies and milk even though my children are 22 and 24.”
Even on Christmas morning, they do not stray from tradition. Once they wake up, Adaway and her kids are not allowed downstairs. They brush their teeth, get ready and take a picture together before they go downstairs and open presents.
Adaway details her views about being involved in every tradition.
“Now that I am an adult, I get it,” Adaway said. “I am always my mom’s kid, it doesn’t matter if I’m 7 or 53.”
Director of Family and Community Engagement
Kristan Heller’s tradition started with having a bunch of leftovers from Christmas through New Year’s. The day after Christmas, Heller and family did not want to cook but did not know what to have for dinner.
“One of the teenage cousins said he was in the mood for egg rolls.” Heller said. I was like, ‘are you kidding?’” But her husband had the idea of making leftover egg rolls.
“We usually had filet on Christmas Eve, so we did an egg roll with filet,” Heller states. “Then it evolved into Philly cheesesteak ones, lasagna, breakfast, sloppy joes, taco and so many more.”
Heller calls it the “Heller Egg Roll Extravaganza.”
Going on 20 years of this tradition, it never fails to circle back for the holidays.
STAN
HYWET: With Christmas quickly approaching, always make sure to celebrate despite that pesky holiday stress. This December, commemorate the season by visiting the historic grounds of Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens.
Located at 714 N. Portage Path, the grounds can be visited on determined dates throughout the season until Dec. 30.
View the manor, conservatory and surrounding gardens in all their holiday glory, decorated with over 1.4 million lights. The experience grants visitors an opportunity to roam the property and admire the house details as well as the striking collection of greenery and intricate outdoor elements. Make this season one to remember by visiting this historical capsule of Akron.
BRANDYWINE & BOSTON
MILLS: For some wild winter action, consider traversing the slopes at Boston Mills and Brandywine. Skiers and snowboarders can experience the versatile terrain, as both locations feature hills to fit every skill level.
Whether patrons have never before set ski on a slope or are veteran snowboarders, Boston Mills and Brandywine can accommodate all who seek that cool winter rush. When the snowy chill becomes too much to bear, warm up in the resort lodges: each location offers
LOCK
3: Brace the cold and visit Downtown Akron’s very own Lock 3, at 200 S. Main St. Featuring attractions like Ice Bumper Car and Polar Putt-Putt, Lock 3 has exciting winter activities for everyone in the Hoban family, with the most traditional, and perhaps most loved, being Ice Skating.
food and refreshments, rentable equipment and a spectrum of gear for an excursion up the slopes.
“I have been skiing for 10 years, and Boston Mills has always been a favorite of mine,” Senior Isabelle Ralph said.
“Ice skating is such a fun way to connect with family and friends over the holidays,” said Senior Ehbway Nay.
Lock 3’s ice rink is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
PHOTOS BY 1. CATHERINE BORDENKIRCHER; 2. TONY BURGOYNE; 3 & 4. WENDY BURGOYNE 5; GRACE MAHANEY
CHRISTMAS AROUND AKRON
MEDINA SQUARE:
From the historic town’s Christmas decorations to the traditional Christmas tree standing in the center of the town’s square, Medina County has a little bit of everything to fully embrace the joy of the holiday season. Castle Noel, for example, located at 260 S. Court St., is definitely number one on the Christmas To-Do List. As one of America’s largest indoor Christmas entertainment attractions, the family-friendly Castle Noel features exhibits with Hollywood movie props and costumes from fan-favorite films like “The Grinch,”
BLITZEN’S HOLIDAY
POP-UP: For students and families looking for some extreme holiday revelry, highly festive decor and a bite to eat, visit Hudson’s very own Blitzen’s Holiday Pop-Up Bar and Restaurant, located at 80 N. Main St.; open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
“Elf,” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” and so much more. Taking a magical tour through the incredibly unique exhibits and window displays is the best way to get into the holiday spirit.
From their goofy holiday menu, featuring Santa’s Loaded Nachos and ELF Spaghetti, to their extensive Christmas decorations, like the classic Polar Express train that circles around the dining area, Blitzen’s is a perfect spot that always delivers: holiday cheer, a merry environment and some traditional pub food that always hits the spot.
AKRON
ZOO: For those seeking a festive experience filled with wild fun, prepare for an excursion to the Akron Zoo’s Wild Lights festival. Sponsored by Akron Children’s Hospital, guests can enjoy the broad spectrum of featured animals while delighting in holiday amusement. Alumna Sarah Mahaney ‘18 describes how “This year’s event is unique because the zoo has added a few new displays.” Nestled in the heart of Akron at 500 Edgewood Ave., the Wild Lights are a local favorite for festive fun. View
the park decked out in dazzling light displays, indulge in the various holiday treats and enjoy the many other attractions the zoo has to offer.
OPINION:THOUGHTFUL GIFTS OUTSHINE THE DOLLAR SIGN
BY EMMA POMEROY
The most wonderful time of the year is simultaneously the most stressful, bringing the question of what gifts to give the people you love dearly. Maybe nothing ever seems like enough, or everything seems too expensive or the person you’re shopping for can never make up their mind enough to write a wish list. Despite the perceived hard work of handmade gifts, they tend to make your holiday season easier.
Gifts don’t always have to break the bank, in fact handmade gifts could be easier, more affordable and have deeper meaning than any pricey present.
“I always really like ceramic gifts, things that you can make,” said art teacher Elaina Karafillis. “Paintings or doing photography for people … it’s the thought that counts. I think anybody would appreciate the effort you put in towards your work.”
Wish List
—-Stocking Stuffers—
- Gift Cards, especially from Target, Starbucks, Bath and Body Works, Barnes and Noble, Dicks Sporting Goods, and Amazon.
Not to mention, the life skills you could gain from sewing or crocheting—learning to make a cute stuffed animal for someone and carrying this knowledge with you the next time you find a hole in your shirt—are very practicable.
Admittedly, this is easier said than done. For those who aren’t as attuned with their creative side, there are also cheap and meaningful alternatives to expensive gifts, and the Visor has given you a wishlist of inspiration to help with that holiday burnout and make showing your friends you love them a little easier.
- Scented Candles, Essential Oils, or Car Fresheners
- Sugar Scrubs, Scented Soaps, Deodorant
- Lip Balms and Chapsticks
- Fuzzy Socks!
- Favorite snacks or candies, packs of gum
- Earrings, bracelets, necklaces (ask gold or silver**)
- Travel-Sized cologne —-Handmade gifts—
- Sewn stuffed animals
- Crocheted stuffed animals, hats, or scarves - Personalized Ceramic mugs, plates, bowls, etc.
- Colorful and fun scented candles
- Paintings that are personalized or reference your relationship with the recipient
- Picture frames/collages
- Beaded bracelets that reference inside jokes
- Handmade cards and written letters
HOBAN ALUMNI OWN THE MERCHANT TAVERN
BY ALEX KROHN
Looking for new local restaurants to try? Look no further than The Merchant Tavern, owned and operated by alumnus Anthony Piscazzi. Only 20 minutes away from Hoban, the restaurant offers good vibes, food and people.
Opened in 2013 in Merriman Valley, the half-bar, half-restaurant aims to serve all kinds of crowds. From the hostesses to the kitchen, everyone has a smile on their face.
They are open every day except Mondays and holidays. They operate from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m Saturday, and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.
“The Merchant Tavern offers a unique experience of family atmosphere with a lively feeling,” Manager Danielle Richmond said.
This is shown through their versatile choice of room and seating. They have “a patio, a distillery, a sun room, a dining room, and a bar to seat people,” Richmond
said.
“All kinds of dietary needs can be accommodated such as vegetarians, gluten-free, and allergies,” Richmond said.
“My favorite thing about the restaurant is the energy from the staff. I had a great server who made me laugh,” Intervention Specialist and frequent visitor Jennet Congeni said.
Congeni highly recommends The Merchant Tavern for students and educators alike.
The Merchant Tavern shows the bar and decoration adorning the restaurant. The decor gives off a welcoming vibe for all.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MERCHANT TAVERN.
Congeni often “go[es] with coworkers for a nice meal” and says it is “fun to see students outside the classroom.”
Another great thing about the restaurant’s Hoban relation is that they hire many students.
Stop by The Merchant Tavern to support a Hoban Alum while exploring all Akron has to offer.
COMMUNITY GROUPS OFFER OPPORTUNITIES TO GIVE BACK
BY LEXXI SCHMITT
December can be a very chaotic month. Everyone is getting the last of the Black Friday deals, gift shopping for friends and family, and finishing off the first semester of school. Through all this, it is easy to forget that the Christmas season is truly a time meant to give back and help the people that are less fortunate. Some organizations including Blessings in a Backpack, Salvation Army and local food banks are places Hoban students can all help out.
Blessings in a Backpack is an organization that works to provide food for elementary school children over the weekends. Many kids rely on free lunches and breakfasts at their schools because they cannot always get it at home.
Sophomore Olivia Horning is someone who is an active participant in this activity.
Horning says that at Blessings in a Backpack, they “package… [food] into grocery bags and the kids will take it home on Thursday night to have for the weekend.”
Salvation Army is an organization that
Blessings in a Backpack participants are putting soup and applesauce into bags for kids to take home the following day. These sessions happen once a month on Thursdays for roughly two hours at Helen Arnold as well as at other participating Akron local schools. PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVIA HORNING.
becomes very active during the holiday season, and one of their main ways to give back is through their Angel Tree program. An Angel Tree is a Christmas tree, typically stationed in local Walmarts, with cards for people to buy presents for kids who otherwise would not get any.
Lastly, there are a handful of foodbanks located all around the Akron area, but to highlight one, the work of St. Mary’s food bank in Massillon is on another level. Apart from their normal schedule of giving food to the people who need it, they have an extra special Christmas drive.
Director of Operations Ken McLaughlen says that 144-plus “families will receive six bags of groceries… and a gift card to Giant Eagle for $50… for Christmas dinner.”
Along with this, they receive presents from local parish families who will pick up a tag from the “Giving Tree” in the church.
Lots of people forget how privileged they truly are. It is important to remember to look at the bigger picture and make sure to help those who cannot help themselves.
NEW GIRLS WRESTLING PROGRAM STARTS UP AT HOBAN
BY KORBEN HAHN & ALEX KROHN
Up until this year, there has only been a boys wrestling program, but through the effort of students such as junior Natallie Edwards and sophomores Natasha Sombati and Deborah Reller, the girls wrestling program has been created and refined to compete this year.
In past years, the boys team had much success, sending many wrestlers to states and even winning it all. For example, last season Bryden Feister won states in a fearsome weightclass. This success is what inspired the coaches and players to extend it to girls wrestling too.
Under the direction of Coach Dominic Cursio and Coach Zach Feador, the girls will compete in different invitationals and matches this year as the coaches look for opponents. There are high hopes for this program as Natasha Sombati competed in a recent wrestling tournament at Lake high school. She was able to win two matches out of her four.
“It was kind of really just Coach Cursio had thought about making a girls team and then last year when I did stats I kept asking and was super persistent about if they could make a girls team because I really wanted to wrestle and here we are,” Edwards said.
Edwards is overjoyed at the opportunity to learn wrestling and help to start a new program at Hoban. There have been two additional girls who also bravely joined the fresh team and are representing Hoban this year.
“I am so grateful to be able to have this opportunity, and all thanks to Coach Cursio and Coach Feador. I am excited to see how this season plays out,” said Edwards.
This brand new girls wrestling program is exciting and with support and new members this team will thrive. Hoban is one of the only private schools in Ohio to have a girls wrestling team and, with three brand new members, Hoban will take down future competition. Once this program takes flight, Hoban will have another successful sport to add to their growing list of competitive athletic programs.
EARLY GRADUATES TAKE ON NEW CHAPTER BEYOND THE CASTLE
BY JESS KREJSA & LEXXI SCHMITT
Every year, a handful of seniors earn the rare opportunity to graduate a semester early. This year, a total of five senior football players are taking that leap to get a head start on their next chapter.
These players include Ace Brown, committed to Colorado State; Sam Greer, headed to The Ohio State University; Nick Kinsey, who will play at Eastern Michigan; Payton Cook, committed to Louisville; and Rock Hill, headed to The University of Southern California.
For these athletes, graduating means more than a getting out of high school early card. It is the result of years of hard work, discipline and determination. Many of them are already anticipating the high demands that come with being a college athlete.
Hill is prepared “To catch up on the film and play book to get out on the field,” he said.
“The main thing is to get on the field and play early, to get a head start on schoolwork, and to get acclimated with the team,” Cook said.
Cook also encourages future athletes to consider early graduation if the chance comes.
“If anyone has the opportunity to graduate early, I’d say take it… it could put you ahead,” Cook said.
Even with all of the excitement surrounding this opportunity, early graduation comes with sacrifices. These athletes are choosing to give up their final months of high school as they move toward something great.
“I’m going to miss a lot of family since I won’t be able to see them for a long time,” Brown said.
On the other end, Eastern Michigan commit Kinsey is ready to embrace the college lifestyle head on.
“I’m excited to feel like an actual college student and to live in the dorms and have roommates,” Kinsey said.
For these seniors, early graduation is a new chapter and a major accomplishment marking the beginning of the next big steps in their athletic and academic careers.
Deborah Reller, Coach Dominic Cursio, and Sophomore Natasha Sombati are pictured at their Lake Tournament where they made Hoban history. PHOTO COURTESY OF MELANIE WHITE.
From right to left in the foreground, Seniors Rock Hill and Payton Cook take the field against Hudson. These seniors led the Knights to a huge win against the Explorers. PHOTO COURTESY OF JONATHAN DIORIO.
KNIGHTS PARTICIPATE IN CYO BASKETBALL
BY GEMMA ALEXANDER
Outside the walls of the castle, students are taking part in Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) basketball.
CYO is a low-pressure youth sports program organized by the Catholic Diocese, allowing students to play in parish or community leagues for fun.
From Hoban, students of all grades participate in teams for St. Sebastian, Holy Family, St. Hilary, St. Vincent St. Mary and Immaculate Heart of Mary. Many Knights enjoy the friendly rivalry with classmates who play on opposing teams.
Junior Andrew Kerr, playing for Holy Family, says that he and his peers are only “friends off the court.”
Sophomore Harry Lehman shares that he joined CYO basketball “just for something to do. It kind of started
off as a joke” and they participate “mostly for fun.”
Junior Grady Chmielowicz shares that practices are “only twice a week and not mandatory.”
Despite this relaxed atmosphere, the boys Holy Family team went 7-1 last year.
Senior Katie Jeffries, member of the St. Sebastian’s team, stated that practices began in mid-November and their first game was Saturday, December 6.
Jeffries encourages students to “recruit friends to do it with you. It’s a fun way to be a part of the community.”
Additionally, Jeffries shares that she had no prior basketball experience, but is learning along the way.
Team updates can be found on instagram at @ stsebgoats2026and2028 and @hfsbasketball2027.
A schedule for the CYO games can be found here.
These are just a few of the teams Hoban students take part in.
If students are looking for a relaxed way to play basketball, have fun with friends, and meet new people, they should consider signing up for CYO basketball next fall at a parish near them. If students are not playing, they can try supporting their classmates at their games; students may even get to witness the intense, yet funny, rivalries between Hoban students on opposing teams.
BOWL SEASON BEGINS FOR COLLEGE FOOTBALL
BY DREW TOWELL
With the college football regular season coming to an end, bowl season starts. The college football playoff landscape has been mixed up due to multiple unexpected finishes during conference championship week.
Teams like Ohio State, Virginia, and North Texas were all upset. Due to the loss, Ohio State was moved down from number one in the nation to two and was moved across the bracket. Virginia is kicked out of the playoffs as well as North Texas. Notable teams that missed the playoffs include Notre Dame, Texas, and Vanderbilt.
As the college football playoff committee announces their final 12 teams, controversial decisions shape up the CFP. The Alabama Crimson Tide lost three games including a convincing loss to Georgia in the South Eastern Conference Championship and a disappointing loss to unranked Florida State in week one. Alabama finished ninth overall in the playoff bracket which is where they were before the loss to Georgia, while 10-2 Notre Dame missed the playoffs completely.Their losses came against two top 12 teams in the nation.
This year’s playoff will have multiple teams making their first appearance in any college football playoff game. Multiple preseason favorites dropped in ranking allowing new teams to take advantage.
Smaller schools also used the help of upsets like Duke upsetting Virginia which allowed two groups of five conference champions to get a bid. Preseason favorites include Texas, Penn State, and Louisiana State University with Texas being the only team to finish ranked in the top twenty-five out of the three.
The first round of the playoffs starts December 19 through 20. Indiana, Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas Tech all get a bye week for the first round. Ohio State was selected into the Cotton Bowl for the second round of the playoffs. Indiana was selected to play in the Rose Bowl. Georgia will play in the Sugar Bowl while Texas Tech plays in the Orange Bowl.
Members of the Holy Family CYO Basketball team line up following their first game on Saturday, December 6. The team brought home a win against St. Vincent St. Mary. PHOTO COURTESY OF HAROLD LEHMAN.
ANOTHER DECEMBER TRADITION TO KNOW: KENNEDY CENTER HONORS
BY GRIFFEN WAUGH
The Kennedy Center Honors, dedicated to celebrating those in the performing arts, have been presented annually since 1978, with the most recent ceremony having taken place on Dec. 7.
The five inductees this year were Broadway actor Michael Crawford, who gained fame portraying the titular character in The Phantom of the Opera; singer Gloria Gaynor, who had several disco hits during the 1970s; the original members of essential 1970s rock group KISS (Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss), who rose to fame with their live performances, featuring bassist Simmons’ bloodspitting and guitarist Frehley’s instrument smoking; Hollywood actor Sylvester Stallone, known for his many “strongman” roles, including the titular characters in the Rocky and Rambo franchises; and country star George Strait, who is one of the best-selling country musicians of all time, having an impressive record of 44 number-one songs on the Billboard charts.
With the unexpected death of Frehley
this past October, he is only the third posthumous Kennedy Center Honoree, owing to the center’s policy of only choosing to induct honorees while they are alive.
KISS in particular has inspired many musicians, both past and present, to pick up guitar, bass, or drums, one such individual being Hoban Faculty, Health and Physical Education Chair Mitch Wagner.
“My very first rock concert I ever went to was KISS when I was a freshman in high school,” Wagner said. “KISS had an enormous impact. I mean, the whole ‘theater’ of rock and roll and the dramatic performances, a lot of that stemmed from KISS and their makeup and costumes.”
History teacher Rob Yanko appreciates Sylvester Stallone’s role as the title
character in the Rocky franchise, and considers him to embody American exceptionalism.
The generally conservative political affiliation of many in this group of honorees has also drawn significant attention, owing to President Donald Trump’s takeover of the center early on in his second term.
However, regardless of their political leanings, the honorees are still incredibly popular with many Americans.
DIVINE BRINGS BACK NOSTALGIA THROUGH RECREATION OF VINE
BY DEIDRE DRENSKY
When Vine shut down in 2017, the world lost a defining piece of internet culture. However, now the nostalgia can return through the upcoming release of diVine.
The early-access version of diVine released on November 13, but work continues as many features remain unfinished. The app gives access to more than 100,000 archived Vine videos, and users are able to create profiles and upload their own videos. However, diVine will prevent AI content from being posted to remain as authentic as possible.
For junior Nora Lightel, the return is highly personal. She became a Vine star around the age of 4.
“There was the ‘I’m a cupcake’ Vine where I ran around in a cupcake costume,” Lightel said. “And another one where my sister asked me, ‘Nora, do you pee your pants?’ and I said ‘Sometimes.’”
Her Vines reached audiences all over
the world, even drawing the attention of famous celebrities.
“The Jonas Brothers reacted to one of them,” said Lightel. “Apparently Lady Gaga commented on one too.”
While Nora views Vine through the eyes of a creator, science teacher Cooper Davies remembers Vine as a viewer.
“I got Vine when I was in sixth or seventh grade,” he said. “I loved watching it, but I never made any.”
As diVine prepares to launch, Nora is not sure if she will restart her Vine career.
diVine live up to its predecessor?
“I think it’s hard to recreate something like that,” Davies said. “It might become popular, but I could also see it dying out—kind of like how BeReal did.”
“I think my Vine career is done,” Lightel said. “4-year-old Nora can keep that legacy. However, I might recreate one if my family asks.”
The real question is: Will the release of
Whether diVine takes off or fades away, Vine’s cultural influence will forever remain solidified in pop culture. For both students and teachers, its return is a reminder of a nostalgic time full of creativity and humor. One thing is for sure: Vine’s legacy lives on, thanks to diVine.
Vine’s original logo remains an iconic symbol in pop culture. Although the logo for diVine has not yet been released, the fresh spin on the logo will certainly draw users in. IMAGE COURTESY OF LOGOSWORLD.
The Kennedy Center’s Class of 2025; from left to right: George Strait, KISS, Michael Crawford, Gloria Gaynor, and Sylvester Stallone. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE KENNEDY CENTER.
The Visor’s Holiday Playlist:
Open Spotify and scan the code to listen
“It’s The Most Wonderful Time of The Year” by Jschlatt
Submitted by Korben Hahn
“This just fills the Christmas spirit. I feel magical and festive when I listen to this perfect song for the winter. Even more importantly, it’s made by one of my favorite YouTube creators, Jschlatt. His amazing voice just fits the song so well and I truly think that this is one of the best Christmas songs.”
-Korben Hahn
Laubacher Shares Famous Recipe:
By Paige Smith
It’s Christmas cookie season Knights! Science teacher John Laubacher has a chocolate chip cookie recipe that he has perfected over the years. So much so, that whenever he gives out the recipe, no one can recreate his delicious chocolate chip cookies. He humbly shares this famous recipe with us this holiday season for you to make for your family and friends. If you make his recipe, be sure to let him try it so he can be the judge if your batch is successful!
Ingredients:
- One cup salted butter (softened)
- One cup white sugar
- One cup dark sugar
- Two teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Two large eggs
- Three cups unbleached allpurpose flour
- One teaspoon baking soda
- One and a half teaspoon baking powder
- One teaspoon salt 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- One bar semi sweet chocolate (chopped up)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking soda, baking power and salt. Set aside.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, add butter, sugar and brown sugar and mix until combined.
4. Add eggs and vanilla and mix until combined.
5. Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until mixed.
6. Add in chocolate chips and chunks.
7. Roll the cookies into an imperfect ball and evenly space on the cookie sheet.
8. Bake them for 8-10 minutes (Laubacher does 8) and do not overbake! They will seem a little undercooked when removed but will keep cooking while they cool. This is the secret. And lots of love.
9. Sprinkle with sea salt while they are still warm. 10. Enjoy!
The Visor’s Holiday Movie Recommendations:
By Deidre Drensky & Emma Pomeroy
“‘I Want A Dog For Christmas, Charlie Brown’ is the best Peanuts Christmas special! This special focuses on Rerun, Linus and Lucy’s younger brother, as he tries to convince his mom to get him a dog for Christmas. I watch it every year during the holiday season! I think this episode is very heartwarming and adorable because it focuses specifically on Snoopy and his brother Spike!” -Deidre Drensky
“‘The Santa Clause’ series is a great selection of Christmas movies. It combines both humor and festive spirit in this wholesome movie. The acting and CGI make it a wonderful experience. The nostalgia is also insane. This is one of the first Christmas movies I had ever watched and will always have a special place in my heart.” -Korben Hahn
“‘The Year Without a Santa Claus’ is and always has been my favorite christmas movie. It is so silly and nostalgic and I watch it every year on Christmas Eve. I remember turning on the fireplace, making hot chocolate, and cuddling up with my mom on the couch to watch it. Snow Meiser and Heat Miser always used to make me giggle. It is arguably the best Christmas movie.”
-Emma Pomeroy
“‘Home Alone’ is a great movie for Christmas, displaying themes of family and freedom as Kevin takes charge of the holiday season and becomes the man of the house. It also addresses the real world issue of burglary around the holidays, as the Wet Bandits take advantage of Christmas vacations to rob people.”
-Lily Obhof
IMAGE COURTESY OF SCHLATT.CO
PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN LAUBACHER