Issuu

BLUEPRINTS

GRANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL • GRANVILLE, OHIO • DECEMBER 2015 • VOL. 6 ISSUE 2

Teachers feel the force How the Star Wars Saga influences students and teachers alike

Inside:

Regifting: Is it okay? Christmas carols bring holiday cheer Multi-Sport athletes The value of vinyl Fall fashion blueprintsonline.org

Letter from the Editor

BLUEPRINTS STAFF editor in chief Anna Minton

news editor

What is your favorite holiday movie?

Grace Montgomery

sports editors

Kyle Zies and Cole Jaquith

opinion editor

“Not really a movie but episode 9 of season 9 of The Office.”

Carsten Savage

entertainment editor Olivia Ebersole

features editor Justin Thompson

business manager

personally believe that Andy Williams says it best when he sings, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” The months of November and December are full of fun, excitement and cheer; and it would take a Grinch to say otherwise. So, for this issue of “BluePrints,” we decided to have some fun and focus on the little joys of the season. We went on a quest to discover what makes this time of year so wonderful in our world. We start with the highly anticipated holiday hit, taking a closer look at the movie “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” We know that all generations are excited to see this blockbuster. Carsten Savage takes a look at how the series has impacted students and teachers alike. Of course, what kind of holiday issue would this be without discussing the fundamentals of the season? We discuss the proper etiquette of re-gifting and value of old vinyl records in today’s iTunes world. We talk about the pros and cons of different Christmas carols, and whether they’ve simply gone out of style. This edition also

2 December 2015

PHOTO BY ANNA MINTON

has an intense debate on one of the top issues of the day: Real tree, or fake tree? Last, but not least, this issue examines the multi-sport athlete whether this trend is dying. Cole Jaquith interviewed a number of different multi-sport athletes and explored their pressures on and off season. We hope our publication makes you smile and helps you ring in the holiday spirit. As always we’d love to hear what you think, good and bad. We thrive on recommendations for improvement. Please drop us an email at ghsblueprints@gmail. com. Or, talk to us through one of our new social media sites. You can follow us on instagram, @granvilleblueprints; Facebook at GHS Blueprints; or on Twitter, @ GHSBluePrints.

Morgan Prachar

social media editor Madeline Walker

“I like The Polar Express or Elf ”

staff

Ashlyn Brockway Gillian McCracken Sophia Ehlers AnnDe Jo Cook Hunter Brown “Elf, or Santa Daniel Brnjic Clause is Coming

adviser

to Town”

Mrs. Amy Tolbert

online

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GHSBluePrints @granvilleblueprints

CONTENTS BLUEPRINTS • DECEMBER 2015

OPINION

4 Staff Editorial 5 Regifting: Is it okay? 5 Yea or Nay? 6 Real tree vs. fake tree 7 Christmas carols

NEWS 8 Inside Granville

COVER

10 Teachers feel the Force: How the Star Wars Saga influnces teachers and students alike

SPORTS

12 Multi- Sport athletes 14 Zies’ Pieces 15Player of the Month 15 Winter sports preview

FEATURES

16 Bachelor and Bachelorette 17 The value of vinyl

ENTERTAINMENT 18 Fall fashion

ON OUR COVER

Photo by Olivia Ebersole Regifting: Is it okay? 5 Christmas carols bring holiday cheer 6 Multi sport athletes 12 The value of vinyl 17 Fall fashion 18 blueprintsonline.org

Opinion

Melodies animate galaxies

STAFF EDITORIAL hen we say that we are “going to see a movie,” we really mean that we are going to “experience” it. In an experience, dialogue and sound effects are just as important as a movie’s visual components, and the soundtrack may be even more so, such is the case in the “Star Wars” saga. The saga’s themes have influenced the world more than most could have ever imagined. People everywhere can recognize and recite specific songs, and some fans can even identify a song with its specific scene. The soundtrack is so legendary that it makes a person wonder whether “Star Wars” would be what it is today if John Williams had not been the composer. Unlike some other franchises that chose different composers for each movie, John Williams was invited back to produce new scores for every consecutive “Star Wars”

“Williams’ score gives life to the aliens themselves.” movie after “A New Hope.” The reason for this is clear: while George Lucas creates the planets, Williams is able to breathe realism into the galaxy itself. As the orchestra plays, it creates the rich, profound sound for which Williams is known. This effect gives the galaxy a vast, diverse aura, emphasizing the thousands of habitable planets and the different species of those planets. While the strings often play softly and the brass create the drama and energy, their roles can also be reversed, making a reference to the naturally incidental switching of predator and prey roles found in the movies and in our world. The galaxy is overwhelmingly enormous, but only John Williams is able to fill its enormity with his orchestra’s richness. Williams laces the saga with sadness in order to make it more human. As Anakin mounts the steps of the Jedi Temple with legions of clones behind him in “Revenge

4 December 2015

EDITORIAL CARTOON BY MORGAN PRACHAR

of the Sith,” preparing to destroy those who were once his friends, the combination of the strings and choir creates sorrow that means something. The score is so effective because, instead of trying to make the scene exciting and fun, it emphasizes the grave consequences of Anakin’s betrayal. The variety of voices in the choir builds upon the idea that the galaxy is immense; in the immensity of the galaxy, thousands of species are going to be affected by Anakin’s actions. Williams suggests that what happens in the galaxy does matter; victories of the dark side are not just meaningless ends of thrilling battles, but instead are great setbacks that bring grief upon everyone. While the orchestra’s comprehensive sound expands the galaxy, Williams’ score gives life to the aliens themselves. In the cantina in the beginning of “A New Hope,” the audience is treated to a performance by a band called Figrin D’an and the Modal Nodes. Catchy melodies lie on the surface, but what is underneath is even cooler; the extraterrestrial concert makes the universe more believable. Most of the inhabitants of this far-away planet, Williams hints, are not trying to have adventures, but instead are just focused on working and making money to feed themselves. Music is a universal language that the different aliens enjoy and pay money to hear, and that is why the

concert is so effective: Williams and Lucas do not try to convince you that the galaxy is real by emphasizing foreign languages and alphabets. Music is enough to create believability. This realistic portrayal of selfishness is even more prevalent in “Return of the Jedi,” when Williams and George Lucas present the audience with Max Rebo’s performance in front of Jabba the Hutt. As Rebo’s group jams away in front of the scum of the galaxy, there is a message with which many in the audience can relate: aliens, like humans, will do anything for money. Williams and Lucas appeal to our conviction that in the real world, there will always be those who serve the evil instead of the good for better pay. If our world and the “Star Wars” galaxy both revolve around wealth, then, both are real. Throughout history, the most successful entertainment has always been that which can connect with and teach humanity. “Star Wars” is no exception. The soundtrack is only one reason why fans everywhere have bonded with the saga, though, and of the soundtrack, only some of its brilliances have been uncovered here. Now, we can only wait with anticipation until “The Force Awakens” debuts, the day when John Williams binds two galaxies together once more.

Trending topics

YEA OR NAY?

Starbucks Cup Controversy

PHOTO BY MADELINE WALKER

Carols are still in style BY MADELINE WALKER (‘17) STAFF MEMBER s we approach the end of November, the idea of Christmas looms over our heads. The weather turns colder as we begin our race to Dec. 25. There are many signs pointing towards winter: red and green decorations on your neighborhood’s lawns, the annual trip to Timbuk Farms and the sight of Kris Kringle taking letters at the mall. Perhaps the sweetest of these winter traditions is the singing of Christmas carols. To me, Christmas carols evoke warm feelings of winters past, gathered around the fire with family. I recall fond memories of The Candlelight Walking Tour and strolling through the snow with friends. Christmas carols always had the ability to make us forget the cold, as we hummed the time-old tunes on the way home. I am a Christmas carol supporter, 100 percent. However, the appeal of Christmas tunes is not universal. Some people just don’t like them. But that’s no reason to take away another man’s tinsel, to knock the star off another man’s tree. There’s nothing worse than a regular Ebenezer Scrooge telling you what you can or can’t sing and when you can sing it. Many people argue that nowadays carols are sung too early in the year, and I could not agree more. As early as Halloween, carols could be heard ringing through the choir and band hallway as the music program began preparations for their winter concert. To me, carols represent a very short, special time of year. And singing carols too early will make them seem less

special. The controversy over Christmas carols has caused frustration and fights among friends. It most certainly would make Santa sad to see all of the people in Whoville fighting during the most wonderful time of year. I think it’s important to remember the original purpose of Christmas carols: to bring people together and celebrate family and friendship. In every carol there is a lesson, which can be applied no matter what season it is. “Home for the Holidays” tells the story of people around the country, so excited to be on their way home to celebrate the holidays. “Let It Snow” adds a twist to the dreaded polar vortex Ohioans know all too well. The song teaches us to enjoy the winter for all of its beauty and not to dwell on the negatives. “Frosty the Snowman” is a story of magic when a group of children see a snowman come to life. Christmas carols have the ability to make adults kids again, and make even the most skeptical people believe in fairy-tales. “Aud Lang Syne,” the classic New Year’s song translates to “times long past” and celebrates the ups and downs of another year. Christmas carols are a glimpse of humanity in this often rough and tumble world. When in the right context, they can bring out the absolute best in people. So take heart, my Christmas comrades! The season is upon us and it is time to sing. I ask all of you carol-skeptics to keep an open mind. And a message for my musicians, enthusiasts, and the jolly amongst us: keep singing- and enjoy a mug of eggnog while you’re at it.

“It’s just a cup. You’re going to throw it away anyways.”

Macey Boring (‘17)

“It’s dumb. What about Kwanza? I think we should celebrate that.”

Craig Zies (‘19)

Ugly Christmas Sweaters “They make me feel like a grandma; sometimes I need that in my life.” Isabelle Yeager (‘18)

“I’d hate to be the Grinch who stole Christmas, but thumbs down. Aren’t they called ugly sweaters for a reason? Craig Fouts (‘17) DRAWING BY RILEY TORRENCE

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Opinion

An artificial Christmas tree brightens a house. PHOTO BY ANNA MINTON

Are real trees better than fake trees? BY ANNDE JO COOK (’18) STAFF WRITER I can’t speak for everyone else, but the moment Thanksgiving is over, the Christmas tree is up in my house. Christmas means many things, like decorating, cooking, spending time with the family and deciding whether to buy a fake tree, or cut down your own. My family actually uses an artificial tree; my mother, just like many other people, is allergic to real ones. Even though my family has a fake tree, though, I prefer natural trees. The most important advantage of the real tree is that it makes your house smell good and radiate Christmas warmth and spirit. I also think if you find the right natural tree, it looks ten times better than what a manufactured tree could boast. A fake tree looks blatantly artificial. A tree that you cut down, though, looks perfect with all the presents underneath, and it gives the house an authentic Christmas feeling. We need not forget how enjoyable it is “It makes to get the family together every year and cut down a tree. Few holiday traditions, in fact, could be better. Waking up, go- your house ing to pick out a tree with the family and then decorating is one of the best parts smell good of Christmas. Real trees might not be as perfect as fake trees, but they have charm and radiate that makes them unbeatable. Their holes and little imperfections may seem disap- Christmas.” pointing at first. When you start to decorate it, however, you realize that you can place ornaments in the holes so that the whole tree flourishes. Although natural trees do shed, there are many ways to handle it to make it less of a hassle to clean up. It is easy find tree skits that will catch all the needles and save you the trouble of sweeping, but still give you the pleasure of having a real tree. Part of the fun of getting a new tree every year is being able to cut it down together and re-decorate it with your family every year, and you never get the same tree twice. There is no doubt about it: getting a natural tree just feels right in this festive season.

Yes.

6 December 2015

BY GILLIAN MCCRACKEN (‘17) STAFF WRITER As October and November come to an end, it becomes Christmas season, and that means all things Christmas. Snow, decorations, presents, family time, Christmas carols and the tree become priorities. Before you get to decorate the tree, though, you face a dilemma: should you buy a fake tree, or a real tree? From personal experience, I know what it is like to have both a fake and a real tree. I prefer artificial trees; on the other hand, my parents prefer natural trees. While it can be nice to have a real tree that you cut down yourself, I like Christmas decorating to be as mess-free and easy to put together and take down as possible. If you’re looking to buy a fake tree for the holiday season, there are many different places you can go to buy a real-looking tree. Target, Kohl’s, Walmart and any other store that sells Christmas decorations should carry fake Christmas trees that are easy to assemble and look realistic. If you do buy “They are a fake tree for Christmas, most trees include instructions and are usually easy to manufacset up; you don’t have to cut it down, it is divided into a few sections which make tured to be assembly quick, and unlike natural trees, decorated.” they are manufactured to be decorated. No matter what kind of tree you have once the Christmas season ends, taking the ornaments off and getting rid of the tree is always a hassle. If you have an artificial Christmas tree, though, it is much easier to clean up; all you have to do is take off the ornaments and lights, then disassemble the tree and put it into the box. Real trees are much more inconvenient. In addition to taking the ornaments off, you have to clean up all of the fallen pine needles, continue watering it, and then eventually go and throw it away. Whereas artificial trees are reusable, saving yourself money in the long term and the repetition of going out and cutting your own tree down every year, natural trees can be expensive. I would rather save the time, money and hassle and have a better Christmas.

No.

Traditions make the winter season meaningful BY MORGAN PRACHAR (‘17) BUSINESS MANAGER any families have holiday traditions that have been formed throughout the years; these traditions help make the holidays special and allow people to bond with both intermediate and extended families. Students’ traditions are charming, unique and often comical, but all demonstrate what makes the holidays so wonderful. Zack and Lexi Robertson spend their Christmas morning watching horror movies before beginning the festivities. Junior Macey Boring has a tradition that she has practiced for years. “My family always makes ‘reindeer food’ by mixing dry oats and glitter,” Boring said. “After we make it, we spread it around the yard for the all reindeer to eat.” Abbey Wells starts her holiday traditions on Christmas Eve. She sleeps downstairs with her two little sisters since the tree is upstairs. They are not allowed any sneak peeks that night, and then they wake up and continue celebrating. Even though the Wells are growing up, their holiday tradition is as strong as ever. “Although we don’t believe in Santa anymore, we still set out carrots for the reindeer and cookies for Santa,” Wells said. “My parents still take bites out of the food, just as if Santa and his reindeer ate

them.” Her parents make monkey bread and egg casserole. When the dishes are finished, the family takes their time opening stockings while eating homemade breakfast. When it comes time to open presents, each family member receives three bigger gifts instead of many little random ones. This represents the father, son and holy spirit as well as the religious aspect of the number three. Sometimes traditions don’t go as planned. Junior Erin Hirschi and her family bought their new dog a stocking for Christmas, but they didn’t know that the stocking would end up as trouble and give the family a story to remember for years. “There was this one year when my family got a new dog and we decided to get him his own Christmas stocking,” Hirschi said. “We stuck a rubber hamburger toy in the toe of the stocking, but that was all that was in it. On Christmas day, we gave him the stocking and tried to get him to take the toy out, and while he was trying he got his head stuck and we had to cut the stocking off his head.” Putting up the tree and decorating is one way many families bond during the holiday season. Junior Kelsey Frahn and her siblings always take turns putting the star on the top of the tree. One year, however, Frahn had a conflict with her sister about

who got to put the star up. “My sister and I would always fight about who put the star on the tree.” Frahn said. “I kept fighting it and since I was the youngest, my parents let me put the star on the tree. My dad picked me up so I could reach the top of the tree. Right after the star was placed, my dad set me down and the star fell off and onto my sister’s head.” Although holidays do not always go as planned, they are still a time to be with family and celebrate what the holiday is truly about. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or any other holiday, spending time with family and friends during this time of year filled with joy makes it special. EDITORIAL POLICY BluePrints, Granville High School’s newsmagazine, is published by students in Journalism. As a forum of student expression, the goal of Blueprints is to provide the high school students’ perspective on relevant issues concerning the school, the community and the world. Editorial decisions are based on timeliness, relevance and appropriateness. Opinions expressed in the newspaper are not necessarily that of the entire staff, student body or school. Letters to the editor will be published as space allows. Blueprints does accept advertisements; however, the staff reserves the right to withdraw ads.

The moral dilemma of regifting BY ANNDE JO COOK (‘18) STAFF WRITER veryone has gotten that one bad gift that no one wants. Most people’s initial response is to smile, pretend to like it and then regift; they do not want to waste a gift by neglecting it instead of giving the gift to someone who would actually use it. The holidays are about charity, and giving the gift to someone else is an admirably charitable act. Regifting, though, is not always righteous. What most people forget is that whoever bought the gift for you was thinking that you would enjoy it. They are hoping that you will keep the gift and use it, giving the gifter satisfaction that the money was

spent well and with good taste. If you give the gift to someone else, the gifter may realize that you no longer have it and will believe that you thought the gift was overwhelmingly terrible. I think regifting is unacceptable in some cases. If your boyfriend or girlfriend gets you something special, you should keep it even if you hate it. You should also keep anything that has sentimental value, or if it is something that has been passed down through your family. Something like that should not be given away, no matter how ugly or useless it is. In some cases, though, you should feel justified in regifting. If a family member gives you something that you know some-

one else would like a lot more, give it to them and save the gift from a life in your basement. When someone gets you something you already have, there is no reason to have two. While regifting a duplicate is acceptable, never make the gifter feel bad by telling them you already have it. In other words, regift secretly and always be thankful for the thought. Many people think regifting is perfectly fine, and I definitely agree in some cases. If you can regift it and still keep a clear conscience, regift away.

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News

How to get a snow day

An Aca-awesome workshop BY MORGAN PRACHAR (‘17) BUSINESS MANAGER he Bluenotes and Aceapellas recently attended an acappella camp to improve the quality of their works and work with professionals. Throughout the day the singers attended many different workshops such as vocal hygiene, tune it or die and a looping class. They also worked with professionals before performing for different groups. Junior Mackenna Finley attended the workshop with the GHS Bluenotes. Her favorite class was the looping class out of the many classes they took that day, “Vocal hygiene was really interesting, which I didn't expect.” Finley said. “But looping was my favorite; everyone should check it out.” The group performed on stage better than they usually do after working with the professionals. Macey Boring went with the other GHS acapella group, the Aceapellas. After the day was over Boring feels she grew personally and the whole group learned to work together. ”I grew personally as a singer and learned that as a group we needed to work together more,” Boring said. “During the performance that's what we did, and I think we definitely had a better sound.” Both students said they would love to attend the workshops again. “I would live in an a cappella world,” Finley said.

T There is nothing better than seeing this scene on a winter morning. PHOTO BY MORGAN PRACHAR BY MORGAN PRACHAR (‘17) BUSINESS MANAGER hen the weather outside gets frightful, snow days are on the top of many students’ wish lists. In the winter of 2014-15 the district was closed eight times due to snow and cold weather. In Granville, it is tougher to call snow days because the district wants students to be in classes as much as possible, according to administration. Principal Mr. Durst explains the factors that go into the decision of calling a snow day. “There are a few factors that go into deciding.” Durst said. “The current road conditions, which many people think of first. Also the upcoming inclement weather; the roads could be fine but if every meteorologist says that at 9:00 a.m. we will have the blizzard of the century, the superintendent would have to evaluate if he wants to have kids stuck at the building if this were to happen.” There is a group of bus drivers who wake up early, get their buses and drive the roads. The Superintendent also drives the roads before people begin commuting. After the bus drivers report back and the superintendent has completed the drive, he begins to evaluate the options between a delay, a snow day or if classes will still in session. The state of Ohio runs on an hour system. All schools are required to be in session a minimum number of hours. Granville has more hours than the state requires in case of calamity days. There is a number of hours we can submit for snow days that roughly calculates to five days off and three blizzard bag days, for a total of eight days off due to weather. Mr. Durst and Mr. Carpenter do agree with parents’ decisions to keep their student home if they do not feel comfortable with their children commuting to and from school. “That’s not something I will argue about,” Durst said. “If the parent is looking at their roads that I have never driven on and don't feel safe with their student driving on them, I won't argue with that decision.” Although snow days could be used to catch up on school work, many students use it as a day to themselves. Junior Natalie Price likes to go downtown to help people shovel their driveways, but sometimes she choses to stay in and knit.

8 December 2015

Marching Band heads to the Peach Bowl

BY DANIEL BRNJIC(’17) STAFF WRITER his winter the Granville band program will be preforming at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta, Georgia. The Peach Bowl is a college bowl game that will be between two NCAA division one football teams. The band will be an important part of the festivities before and during the game. “I am absolutely stoked!” said band director Mr. Smith. “This is a great opportunity for the students and the program. You have to be invited to participate, so it’s a big deal” Every student who is involved in the band has a chance to go. Both the concert and marching bands are going, which makes up around one hundred students. Three coach buses will be required to ferry all the students and chaperones to Atlanta. Along with playing during the game the band will be going to Coke world and the Atlanta Aquarium. “This is a great honor to play at the Peach Bowl, but it is also a stepping stone to bigger events such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade and other events of that magnitude,” said band director Mr. Krumm. Playing at a bowl game is such a huge honor, and this does put our band program on the radar for other events. “I am really looking forward to the trip. I am looking forward to spending time with my friends and playing in such a great venue,” said band member Chad Davis.

“Take Action” projects take on the world

The garden is an example of a take action project created by AP Environmental students. PHOTO BY GRACE MONTGOMERY BY GRACE MONTGOMERY (’16) NEWS EDITOR tudents in AP Environmental are given the opportunity to solve firsthand problems discussed in class and in the process learning communication and problem solving skills that are critical in the 21st century. There are two AP Environmental classes, and each are going in completely different directions. One class is attempting to acquire the rights to clean up a past superfund site. “Granville Solvents was a company that existed in Granville that took in toxic waste for disposal and recycling,” Environmental teacher Mr. Reding commented. “As a result of that they accumulated a significant amount of these chemicals. They had several violations and eventually they closed down and moved out, leaving most of this material behind.” The property is located by the bike path, underneath the bridge that comes out from Creno’s and goes into town. It has a chainlink fence with barbed wire and two boats on the property. “The site is still active today,” Mr. Reding said. “The EPA is monitoring it to make sure it does not impact the groundwater.” One of the significant problems of Granville Solvents is that it is located about 50 feet away from the water treatment plant, meaning the active chemicals could leak into the groundwater. Seniors Ryan Reding and Emilee Brown discussed the goals of this project. “We want to bring this issue back into the limelight because a lot of people have no idea it exists,” Reding said. “We want to spread public awareness and educate the community.” “We want to create a reparion zone,” Brown said. “A reparion zone is basically when you plant a bunch of trees that help the process of bringing animals into the area as well as some of the toxins up to the surface that are in the soil. We want to make it a thriving habitat again.” Right now the plan for this class is to go to the Ohio EPA to get access to the land itself. “If we get approved, we will divide into tackling the environmental problems there,” Reding said. “Also we our goals are spreading education, getting into publications, and getting community members involved. Research will be ongoing throughout the whole process.”

Reding also talked about why she was inspired to pursue this project.“I was interested in the fact that it was so hushed,” Reding said. “There were so many illegal actions going on and it made me so angry. This is my town and I have lived here my whole life, and I thought I knew everything about Granville. It is all happening under the surface of this perfect little town.” Brown mentioned how the students are gaining life skills through this project. “We are working with political systems, the EPA and we are taught how to talk to them correctly. We ultimately learn how to present ourselves.” “Even if you are not scientifically inclined, it is an amazing experience in public speaking,” Reding added. “We are learning about our local government, zoning laws, property taxes and ownership.” The other AP Environmental class is focusing on building a permaculture. “A permaculture is an agricultural system based on ecomimicry,” Reding said. “It mimics the natural environment. So it has a multistage growth where you are dealing with trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials. It produces a massive amount of food continuously throughout an extended season, and it does it in a way that has very little input in terms of labor, chemicals and fertilizers. It is sustainable agriculture to its pinnacle.” They plan to do this below the greenhouse and continue out from the garden. “It is the final stage that was originally supposed to be part of that whole complex that exists now,” Reding said. Reding also talked about why the class chose this project. “The class liked the idea of creating something, building something, and being able to complete in this year. I also think they liked the idea of having chickens, too.” The take action projects arose years ago when Mr. Reding wanted to solve the problems discussed in class. “We talked about the problems and the potential solutions to fix the problems discussed in class. I still felt that the students left feeling overwhelmed and discouraged that these are bigger problems then we can handle. I wanted students to feel empowered that they could be part of change.” Reding also discussed past take action projects. “The garden, the landlab, recycling programs were set up at the high school. We did a project called strive not to drive where we looked at decreasing the amount of students driving to school like increasing other options like walking, carpooling, taking the bus. We have done smaller projects like a fair for biodiversity where we talked to Intermediate school students, as well as recycling drives.” Emilee Brown said the take action project has made an impact in her life. “I have started looking at environmental majors. I have always liked the idea of actually doing something rather than talking about it. It allows students to understand how you can doing anything, it gives and even the little things can make a huge difference.”

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News

TEachers FEE S

BY CARSTEN SAVAGE (’17) OPINION EDITOR

tar Wars fans have been waiting to “see what happens next” for almost four decades. Now, “The Force Awakens” looms in the near horizon, and the “Star Wars” filmmaker, Lucasfilm, is feverishly trying to tailor the new trilogy to please both younger and older audiences across the world. The movie that started everything, “Star Wars: A New Hope,” astonished audiences across the world with breathtaking scenes, charming characters and a soundtrack by John Williams. After the two successful sequels “Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi,” expectations for “The Force Awakens” are soaring higher than Cloud City. It may be extremely challenging, if not impossible, though, to please everyone. Since there is such a variety of ingredients that comprise each movie, every fan cherishes the saga differently. As a generally older audience, for example, it would seem as if our teachers have similar views; the teachers admire the light side of the Force, are impressed by the dark side and look forward to the new trilogy. In reality, however, their opinions vary greatly, demonstrating the

10 December 2015

diversity of “Star Wars” fans’ views in general. One contributor to the division of the fan base is each movie’s ability to appeal to one generation while being disregarded by others. For Mrs. Braaten, a mathematics teacher whose first Star Wars experience in theaters was “The Phantom Menace” in 1999, “The Empire Strikes Back” is the flagship movie of the saga. Social studies teacher Mr. Jeremy Hopping also said that “Empire” was his favorite movie. He noted, though, that “‘A New Hope’ and ‘Return of the Jedi’ run a close second.” On the other hand, “A New Hope,” the original “Star Wars” movie, has won the heart of English student teacher Mr. Cristopher Au and English teacher Keith Mullins. “I don’t know that another ‘Star Wars’ film could replace the memory of watching ‘A New Hope,’” Au asserted. Mullins agreed that “A New Hope” made the largest impression on his generation. The “original blew my mind,” he said of his experience as

a six-year-old. Thirty-eight years later, Mullins remains confident in the movie’s timelessness, affirming that it still “works without the new digital effects.” Expectations for the new actors are relatively high, but for a majority of the original “Star Wars” generation, Han, Leia and Luke are the pinnacle of the “Star Wars” saga. “Having them in supporting roles, with a new cast in the lead roles, will enhance the continuity of the story,” Mrs. Braaten stated, referring to “The Force Awaken’s” continuation of the saga after “Return of the Jedi.” Hopping agreed, saying that seeing the original actors once more will be “a necessary bridge between the originals and this new generation.” In addition, he is counting on the original actors staying faithful to their original roles and characters. “I will be disappointed if Han Solo acts like a grandpa instead of a sarcastic tough guy,” he warned. Ms. Caye, who went to see “A New Hope” with her younger sister, is optimistic about the quality of the performances of Han, Leia and Luke in “The Force Awakens.” “It could be great seeing them again, depending on what storyline they fit into,” Caye said. She predicts that Mark

EL THE FoRCE Hamill, Harrison Ford and Carrie Fisher, the stars of the original trilogy, will outperform the newest additions to the “Star Wars” saga, asserting that “it would be hard to replace the cast of the first ones.” Mullins believes that “The Force Awakens” will focus on “new central characters” instead of centering on the famous trio of the originals; he believes that Han, Leia and Luke must still play significant roles, however, saying that their inclusion needs to “work with the story line” instead of being just “cameo appearances” used mainly for trailers. Some fans, such as Braaten and Au, have made some predictions concerning “The Force Awakens” by following “Star Wars” news and trailers. Au has envisioned which actors will take the spotlight and which ones will play minor roles, predicting that some of the actors’ injuries will limit their screen time. Braaten, on the other hand, has developed theories about how the movie will unfold. “I think that BB-8 will be pivotal to the plot, and that it will hold key information,” Braaten foretold. Caye and Hopping, though, have decided to wait and see what happens when the movie arrives in theaters, preferring not to learn about the storyline, characters and plot-twists until it debuts. “I’m afraid to,” Caye said. The teachers

Sixth graders Ellie Hussey and Ava Minton fight granville teacher Mr. Hopping PHOTO BY ANNA MINTON agree unanimously that the definitive “Star Wars” experience is in the theater. Each one, however, has different plans for seeing “The Force Awakens” for the first time. While Braaten has been lucky enough to secure tickets for “The Force Awaken’s” premiere on Dec. 17, others are less eager to encounter the

humongous crowds. “Going to the theater [at all] is special enough,” Hopping said. Au concurred, saying that he prefers to “see the movie a week or so after the release, after the crowd dies down a bit.” For Caye, seeing “The Force Awakens” as early as possible is not her greatest concern; she would rather see it when her family is able to join her. “I saw the first three with my sister,” she said. “I may try to wait until we can see this together, too.”

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Sports

The high school’s most recent twelve varsity letter winners. PHOTO BY COLE JAQUITH

The Death

of the Multi-Sport Athlete BY COLE JAQUITH (‘16) SPORTS EDITOR ur high school, which sponsors 29 varsity sports, offers a tremendous athletic opportunity that many other larger schools do not; students are able to play more than one sport. Even though this opportunity is available, the multi-sport athlete is becoming less and less common. “Athletes are starting to specialize and play one sport year round,” said athletic

12 December 2015

trainer Brei Miller. “Girls may play soccer year round and boys may play baseball year round, which is limiting our participation.” Athletic specialization has become a huge issue recently in high school sports. “A lot of people think you have to specialize to get to the top level,” said Miller. Students and parents alike believe that specializing in a sport is their ticket to an athletic scholarship, and although this has become the common assumption, it is not

necessarily the truth. 42 of Ohio State’s 47 football recruits since 2013 have been multi-sport athletes, according to TrackingFootball.com Wayne Gretzky played hockey and lacrosse growing up, Michael Jordan played basketball and baseball professionally, Jim Brown played football and lacrosse at Syracuse, and Bo Jackson played professional football and baseball. The professional multi-sport athlete may not be very common now, but athletes

who played more than one sport in high school seem to dominate the ranks of professional sports. Nearly 90% of the players drafted in the 2015 NFL draft were multisport athletes, according to usafootball.com. NBA players LeBron James, Nate Robinson, Allen Iverson, J.R. Smith, Matt Barnes and Glen Davis were all football stars in high school. Athletic specialization is not only a detriment to participation in school sports, it’s also a detriment to the athletes themselves.

Photo from gobearcats.com ATHLETE PROFILE: Kirk Willis Willis participated in football, wrestling and lacrosse while at the high schoool. He is now the starting longsnapper at the University of Cincinnati and is an NFL prospect.

“Playing more than one sport is really important from an injury standpoint,” said Miller. “Especially with overhead sports, like volleyball and baseball, and we’re even starting to see it in lacrosse. When you’re constantly using one motion all the time, your body gets really exhausted really fast. For example, if you have a

girl going from soccer, to basketball, to softball, they’re using completely different muscles, and it gives certain parts of their bodies a break and helps them develop their muscles more completely.” Head basketball coach Adam Teeters recalled a similar instance with one of his players. “We had a player last year who played all year round, either AAU (Amateur Athletic Union), or with us in season, and his body began to break down; he needed time away from the sport,” said Teeters. I think sometimes you can overdue it, and sometimes you end up losing your passion for the sport as well.” AAU, and other club organizations like it, are what fuel athletic specialization. They allow athletes to play and be seen by college coaches throughout the year. Athletes think that the more they are seen, the more likely they are to be recruited, but the same coaches that are recruiting the athletes will have a different opinion. Attend any recruiting seminar, and coaches will say that if an athlete is good enough, colleges will find them. Teeters sees no problem with his basketball players playing more than one sports. “I think for a school our size, you need to play as many sports as you can, it’s definitely not something I would ever discourage, as long as it’s for the right reasons,” said Teeters. If the student athlete wants to play, then by all means play, but I don’t think it’s something they should ever be coerced into doing by peers or coaches. I feel like for me as a coach, it’s a good thing to have, simply because it gives the basketball players a break from hearing my voice for three or four months, which must feel like reaching heaven early.” The death of the multi-sport athlete has been swift over the past few years. It’s not coming from the coaches, and it’s not coming from a lack of opportunity, so one is left to ponder the reasons. It seems like athletes need to stop looking at the trends, and start looking at the pros if they really want to make it big and remain healthy.

WHy do students play multiple Sports? BY HUNTER BROWN (‘16) “I play multiple sports because I like the feeling of being on a team and staying in shape in the off season.” Olivia Burkholder (‘16) “Figure skating is my favorite sport, but lacrosse and tennis are also fun and they keep me in shape. Abbey Pitcock (’16)

“I play basketball

to keep my endurance up, and to get ready for next football season.” Colin Freeman (‘19)

“I run cross country to stay in shape and have fun with friends. It makes me a better lacrosse player. Noah King (‘18) “The multiple sports that I play benefit athletically, and help me during softball season.” Anna Moorehead (‘16)

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Sports NFL N otebook Through Week 12, only one team remains undefeated. The Carolina Panthers blew the doors off of Jerry Jones’ mega-million dollar stadium and defeated the Dallas Cowboys in crushing defeat to cruise to 11-0. Brock Osweiler and the Broncos pulled out an overtime win over the New England Patriots to halt the Pats’ undefeated dreams. The playoff race is just now heating up as the playoff picture is a murky mist that hovers over 22 NFL teams as the remaining 10 try to play the spoiler role and have their sights set on the 2016 NFL Season. Sorry, Cleveland.

Girls' Soccer Perhaps the end of an era is upon us as the Aces graduate arguably its best class yet to take the field. Record breaker Nikki Cox took one final go around in the Division II Championship Game against Bishop Hoban. A crushing loss in overtime left her silent as her Granville career came to an end. “It made me more confident,” Cox said in regards to her career, “I have gained a lot of friends and that’s what sports are all about.” As she continues her soccer career at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, Cox leaves behind a team searching for answers and hungry for more.

the Game After being trounced by Michigan State at home, the Buckeyes made a major rebound by putting a beat down on Michigan in the Big House. A 42-13 dismantling led by running back Ezekiel Elliot, who carried the ball for 214 yards and saw the end zone twice in the win. Even after the win, the Buckeyes needed Penn State to defeat Michigan State in order to earn a berth in the Big Ten Championship Game. The Nittany Lions did not deliver and the Buckeyes will remain on the practice field and play the waiting game until bowl games are announced. The Buckeye State has their fingers crossed in hopes of a spot in the top four.

Zies' Pieces Boys' Basketball

BY KYLE ZIES

Here we go. In an earlier addition of Zies’ Pieces, head coach Adam Teeters stated his thoughts on his young team. Now, it’s time to put it into action. Looking for the youth of the Aces to step up and deliver, senior Drew Dilger is ready for the spotlight for his senior class. “We are ready to show what we have as a team and it’s time for the talk to be over and show what we can do on the court,” said Dilger. The Aces have many questions to answer and they will have to figure them out on the fly. Ready or not, here they come.

MLB Rumors With the MLB Winter Meetings arriving, team general managers hover over the shoulders of each other looking to make a deal to improve their ball clubs. Aroldis Chapman of the Cincinnati Reds may be the hottest target in the league and GM Dick Williams will sit and wait for the best offer. Royals’ ace Johnny Cueto is searching for a new deal after delivering a clutch performance in the World Series and GMs will be looking to make some room for a sizeable financial commitment to Cueto. Just a few million, that is.

Who's Going Bowling? Consider it what you will but the College Football Playoff Committee and NCAA have announced that teams below a .500 record will have to be invited to bowl games this season as there are not enough 6-plus win teams to cover all 80 bowl spots. Whether it be a higher strength of schedule or just a funky year in college football, some lower teams are going to get redemption and another shot to make a statement in the spot light. Or there will just be some bad football games.

14 December 2015

The fall of Rome

or weeks, I have refused to believe that Peyton Manning’s career was coming to an end. I refused the facts before my eyes. I mean, this is the Peyton Manning we are talking about. The all-time touchdown and passing yards leader. The Super Bowl Champion, the five time league MVP, the man who brought football to life in the basketball state of Indiana. I still have a hard time wrapping my head around this topic. The fact that Brock Osweiler is a better option for the Denver Broncos than Peyton Manning nearly brings tears to my eyes. This is the end. Not exactly a storybook ending that some of the great ones have been blessed with but, every athletes’ career must come to an end. Much like Rome, a fast rise and faster fall is at the forefront of people’s minds. But, they will never forget the endless battles with Sparta, or Tom Brady, and years of rule over the world, or the NFL. Peyton Manning is hardly done though, a talented mind like his will not go to waste. His plethora of knowledge will be picked by coaches and front office members for years. Peyton Manning is not going away, the curtain is merely being closed.

Winter Sports Preview BY HUNTER BROWN (‘16)

PHOTO COURTESY OF TORI LONG

Player of the Month: Tori Long BY SOPHIA EHLERS (’17) STAFF WRITER ori Long is player of the month because of her extraordinary perseverance. Long has become a vital part of the girls soccer team, as a goalie, during her four years. “I’ve been playing soccer ever since I could walk.” During Long’s freshman year she showed promising potential in the goal as a starter and then on to a stand out goalie, as a sophomore, when the girls soccer team went to the State finals in 2013. Longs future was bright, but her extraordinary athleticism is what ended up hurting her in the end. Long had been a multiple sport athlete and suffered a devastating ACL tear during her sophomore season of basketball. An ACL tear may be the most devastating injury a student athlete can endure. She threw in the towel for basketball, got surgery and spent a long 8 months recovering to come back stronger for her junior season of soccer. “Recovery is long and studious, at moments it threatened to break me but I had amazing support and the motivation of next year’s season,” Long said. Long had been looking stronger than ever and so did the team, everyone expected just a much success from them as the previous year and that’s why no one expected what happened next. One day as a junior, Long showed up to practice and she got in goal. She was diving for the ball and cutting to make saves then all the sudden she felt a devastating pop in her knee, she tore her ACL again. “All I can say about that moment was my heart broke.”

Not one but two injuries that require surgery and 8 months of recovery set Long back, but she stuck through it, got surgery, went through physical therapy again and came back for her senior season. “Going into my senior year I felt my two ACL tears gave me the opportunity to be stronger than I ever thought I could be,” Long said. As a senior Long was named a captain. She worked plenty of extra hours to make sure she would not tear her ACL for the third time. “The doctor told me if I tore it again I could never play the sport I love anymore, I wasn’t going to let that happen”. Tori was leading the team to success on the field and in practice. She is truly a role model to student athletes. Just when the season was at its peak, she was making a save in goal and… It was torn, for the third time. “In that moment I felt no physical pain, only that of my athletic career ending,” Long said. What happens next is why Tori Long is one of the most amazing athletes at Granville high school. Her doctor and trainer told her she could not play and she would, yet again, need surgery. Long said, “No. I’m playing.”, and she did. She braced up her knee and played alongside her team, with a torn ACL, all the way to the state championship game. Long is the player of the month because her story is a one of unimaginable amount of strength, courage, and sacrifice, all in honor of her team.

Boys’ Basketball The boys’ basketball team looks to build off the success they have had the past few seasons. With a few upperclassmen who have varsity experience are returning to the court, the team has some underclassmen who will be able to contribute to the team. The team will be led by seniors Jacob Alexander, Peyton Lee, Drew Dilger, Alex Meurer and Trent Tackett. Swimming The swim team has had great success over the years. Granville has produced some of the fastest swimmers in the LCL, and even in Ohio. Coach Doner hopes that seniors Colin McDermott, Baily Bradshaw, Avery Bednarski and Cheyenna Hansen will step up this year and lead them. Wrestling The wrestling team is almost ready to begin their season. The men are currently lifting, and trying to gain or lose weight in order to fit in their desired weight class. Coach Bright looks to his seniors to be role models and to show the underclassmen the work ethic they need to have in order to do well this season. Girls’ Basketball The girls’ basketball team has worked hard in the off season in hopes to be the best team in the league. Led by seniors Maggie Wolfe and Journey Link, many upperclassmen have experience on varsity, and the team looks to build off that. Also the freshman class is bringing in good height, and a few might see the court in varsity games. Indoor Track The indoor track team is currently conditioning heavily, preparing to race some of the fastest schools in Ohio. At meets, over twenty teams around Ohio show up to race each other, including many teams from Columbus. Schools that are serious about their track program most likely have an indoor track team and are prepared to compete. blueprintsonline.org

Features

Bachelor & Bachelorette

Catching up with Delaney Hill and Nick Kurek, two of Granville’s most eligible singles

Bigfoot or Big Hoax?

Some thoughts on the mighty Ape-Man BY JUSTIN THOMPSON (‘17) FEATURES EDITOR

BY JUSTIN THOMPSON (‘17) FEATURES EDITOR

What is your favorite 90s jam? Delaney: “I Want it That Way” by the Backstreet Boys. Nick: “Boyz N the Hood” by Eazy E. What is your favorite “Rocky” movie? Delaney: “Rocky II.” Nick: “Rocky I.” Describe yourself in three words: Delaney: Cats, Christmas, Cookies. Nick: I squat 500. If someone wrote a biography about you, what would it be called? Delaney: Title it “Meatball.” Nick: Title it “Meatball.” Unexpected song on your playlist? Delaney: “Crazy Rap (Colt 45)” by Afroman. Nick: “What Do You mean?” by Justin Bieber. Who would be your dream celebrity date? Delaney: Donald Trump-- that hair, though! Nick: Barbara Bach circa 1977. She’s a hot Bond girl! What would you choose as your last meal? Delaney: Pancakes and waffles. Nick: Hyde Park steak.

16 December 2015

When did you stop believing in Santa Claus? Delaney: Santa’s not real? Nick: 2nd grade-- I was the guy who ruined it for everyone. What is your best trait? Delaney: I can put both legs behind my head. Nick: My legs. What college football team do you support? Delaney: Ohio State. Nick: Ohio State. Do you believe in Bigfoot? Delaney: I do not believe in Bigfoot. Nick: Of course. Who would play you in a movie made about your life? Delaney: Anne Hathaway. Nick: Mark Wahlberg. Pick two celebrities to be your parents. Delaney: Tom Hanks and Merryl Streep. Nick: Mark Wahlberg and Mark Wahlberg. If I came to your house for dinner, what would you make me? Delaney: A bowl of cereal. Nick: Meatballs.

“I believe in Bigfoot because I saw a tree snapped clean in half with two handprints on it. I believe it to be the work of the Bigfoot.” -Bob Compton

“I don’t believe in Bigfoot because I’ve been hiking in the woods many times and have yet to encounter a Bigfoot.” -Tori Flowers

“I do believe in Bigfoot. I’ve seen a big mysterious creature in my backyard and have stumbled upon a giant footprint.” -Emily Massey

The value of vinyl

What is it about vinyl that seems to intice young people? These students seem to know the answer BY JUSTIN THOMPSON (‘17) FEATURES EDITOR ith the pace that technology moves at today, it would be easy to think that classic vinyls would be stacked up in landfills as far as the eye can see. But for some reason, vinyls heaven’t met the same fate as other outdated phenomenons such as pagers and Walkmans. Vinyls remain especially popular with certain groups of young people who are able to recognize the value in the prodution, the artistry, and the sound quality. Why, you might ask? There are plenty of students here in our own school who are proud to be vinyl fanatics and have some interesting reasons why. Will Sharp is a junior who has been listening to vinyl for as long as he can remember.“My dad has a wicked collection with all the greats, he bred me into it,” he said. Sharp has begun quite the extensive collection of his own, ranging from Mumford and Sons to Neil Young to the Chicago Bears Super Bowl Shuffle. Sharp says that he listens to vinyl “because the cover art is always incredible and the sound quality surpasses that of anything else in the music field.” Anyone who knows Jenna Wagner knows that she is a walking encyclopedia of musical knowledge. Her taste in music covers the best of almost every genre. She says that she listens to vinyl because it “has more character and a better sound than digital music. It’s way more fun to collect physical copies of music and be able to sit back and look at your collection than to just have songs on iTunes.” While other outdated methods of media have faded into obscurity as millenials sieze power from baby boomers, vinyls continue to excite young adults today just as they did for the young

adults of yesteryear. In today’s world of fast paced technology, vinyl represents one of the few ways that young people can relate to their elders, and what better way to do it than through music, the one universal language. Max Moller might be a notorious goofball, but when it comes to vinyl, he doesn’t play around. Moller is a huge Pink Floyd fan and has went so far as to do his sophomore English multigenre project on the band. “It has a better sound quality to it,” Moller said. “Sometimes you will get a vinyl record and it’ll have this

crackling sound because it has been played so many times.” Moller also enjoys the thrill of hunting for the perfect records. “Looking for records is a lot of fun and you get to meet some cool people,” he said.

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Entertainment

1.McKenna Smith looks stunning in a two toned burnt orange dress with two layers. The layers different materials give the dress an expensive look, and the color reminds one of leaves falling from trees in autumn and looks great with her blond hair. She paired it with a dark brown pair of boots and high knee socks of a sweater material for a fall feeling. The long sleeves and socks are great to keep warm. To complete to the look she wore a neat long gold necklace with a mini clock.

6 2. Claire Duncan pulls off a sweet look with high kneed lace up boots, white polka dot tights and a button up brown skirt. Her top gives a lovely pop of color with a cute white collar to tie in the white tights. High boots have been a hot pick since last year, and they don’t seem to be going out of style any time soon. These lace up boots are completely gorgeous and great with almost any outfit.

6. Bailey Bradshaw looks gorgeous in this grey-purple sweater with open shoulders. This open shoulder look has been coming into style lately and looks great in a sexy and sophisticated way. She paired it with a light blue pair of jeans and a white statement necklace for a pop of color. This look is great for a night out on the town.

3. Simon Krajewski looks classy in a plaid button down shirt paired with khaki pants. Leaving the top two buttons undone gives the look a relaxed feeling. He also wore tan “Sperry’s” to tie it all together and keep it dressy. This look is great for any guy. The long sleeves and pants are great for fall and winter weather.

4. Nicole Cacciato look fabulous in an emerald green skirt with a crop top long sleeve grey sweater. The long sleeves and high neckline can help keep you warm on a breezy fall day. These colors pop against the yellow and orange leaves. Her black boots complete the look with a sleek and stylish feel. Skirts and sweaters are a go to for fall fashion.

18 December 2015

5. Olivia Ebersole pulls off a maroon cape sweater with high waisted jean shorts and black tights. She paired it with black high knee socks to tie in the black on the sweater and to top it all off a pair of lace up maroon heeled boots. The top of the boots include a maroon and purple plaid pattern for a bit of flair. These colors scream fall and the cape sweater is perfect for a chilly fall day.

Photos by Olivia Ebersole and Anna Minton

7. Madeline Rogers looks stunning in her fall sweater and scarf. She paired black leggings with a burnt orange sweater, using a scarf with fall colored leaves on it as an accessory. She put on black combat boots with black and white socks peeking out. She pulled her hair back from her face for a sophisticated look. This outfit is perfect for a fall walk outside with your friends. It will keep you warm and fashionable.

8. Claire Stoll looks perfect with her dark hair and mint green shirt. She paired it with a matching “Francesca’s” head band and little crystal earrings. This color really brings out her eyes even with a simple shirt. She wore black leggings with it to keep comfortable and warm in the fall weather. Don’t be afraid to try simple outfits for sometimes they can look the best.

fall fashion

fall and winter styles at Granville 10. Elia Taiganides looks fierce in a comfortable striped shirt paired with a long sleeve plaid shirt tied around her waist. Her ripped loose jeans give the look an edge, with black tights underneath to match the shirt. She rolled up the jeans to show her matching black converse. To bring it all together she put on a dark lipstick and wore her hair naturally down. This look is great for a night out in the city; it’s stylish and perfect to keep you warm in the fall weather.

11. Olivia Burkholder looks adorable in a peach colored dress with embroidered flowers on the neckline. She wore it with a sleeveless jean jacket along with lace up brown combat boots to give the outfit a country look. To top it off she wore a pink lipstick for a pop of color along with the dress. This outfit is perfect for a fall date night.

BY OLIVIA EBERSOLE (‘16) ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

9 9. Emma Petryk pulls of this great fall look with a pink button up shirt under a navy vest with gold zippers. Vests have been a popular article of clothing this fall and look great with dresses, sweaters and, such as Emma’s outfit, a button down shirt and jeans. To complete the look she wore tan high knee boots and an adorable messy bun.

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Vietamese inspired street food in downtown Granville

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20 December 2015

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