Issuu

BLUEPRINTS GRANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL • GRANVILLE, OHIO • MARCH 2016 • VOL. 6 ISSUE 4

The truth about substance abuse

Why high school is becoming the foundation for addiction

Inside: Are AP classes worth it? April Fools’ Day is becoming a joke March brings out the madness in everyone How-to guide to Promposals Spring Fashion

blueprintsonline.org

Letter from the Editor

BLUEPRINTS STAFF What are you doing for spring break?

editor in chief Anna Minton

news editor

Grace Montgomery

sports editors

Kyle Zies and Cole Jaquith

t’s official! Spring has sprung here at BluePrints. The birds are chirping, the bees are buzzing and students are anxious to spend as much time outside as possible. With seven months of experience under our belts, we believe it is time to show off some of the skills we have mastered and delve into some topics that are critical to our life here at GHS. First, our staff has done an indepth investigation to discover the truth about drugs and alcohol here at Granville High School. Staff writers decided to look at this critical and often uncomfortable topic to discover what it will take to stop this serious epidemic. Interviews include not only a perspective of how teens could handle various situations but also how a parent’s action and reaction to situations can often do the most harm. We also tackle the questions of the logic behind AP courses in high school. This article will present two different opinions regarding whether the rigorous classes are truly worth the effort. Since its March, of course we will dive into March Madness. You may be amused how even the 2 March 2016

PHOTO BY OLIVIA EBERSOLE

teachers are ready for the excitement this special tradition and tournament brings. You’ll also learn how to pick up a date for Prom, and how even the smallest gestures can make a big impact. With the seasonal change our staff will ensure that you are up to date on the latest fashion trends and learn how just a small adjustment to your wardrobe could put a spring in your step. All of us here at BluePrints hope that you will enjoy this issue. We certainly had fun writing and creating this one. We always strive to put our best foot forward, and hope to inform you all about the happenings around you. Of course we’d love to hear what you think and learn of any recommendations for improvement. Please drop us an email at ghsblueprints@gmail.com. Or, talk to us through one of our social media sites. You can follow us on Instagram, @granvilleblueprints; Facebook at GHS Blueprints ; or on Twitter @GHSBluePrints.

opinion editor Carsten Savage

entertainment editor Olivia Ebersole

features editor Justin Thompson

business manager Morgan Prachar

social media editor Madeline Walker

staff

“I am going to Florida!”

Ashlyn Brockway Gillian McCracken Sophia Ehlers AnnDe Jo Cook Hunter Brown Daniel Brnjic

adviser

Mrs. Amy Tolbert

“I am going on the school Peru trip”

online

blueprintsonline.org

Anna Minton Editor-in-Chief

“Staying home and writing my research paper!’”

@granvilleblueprints

CONTENTS BLUEPRINTS • MARCH 2016

OPINION 4 Staff Editorial 5 Are AP classes worth it? 6 April Fools’ Day is becoming a joke 6 Club pictures aggravate students 6 Letter to the Editor 6 Yea or Nay

NEWS 8 Inside Granville

COVER

10 The truth about addiction

SPORTS

12 Zies’ Pieces 13 Spring sports preview 14 March brings out the madness in everyone 15 Lacrosse stick analysis

FEATURES 16 Bachelor and Bachelorette 17 A How to guide to Promposals

ENTERTAINMENT 18 Spring Fashion

ON OUR COVER

Photo by Grace Montgomery Are AP classes worth it? 5 April Fools’ Day is becoming a joke 6 March Madness14 How to guide to Promposals 17 Spring Fashion 18

BLUEPRINTS GRANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL • GRANVILLE, OHIO • MARCH 2016 • VOL. 6 ISSUE 4

The truth about substance abuse

Why high school is becoming the foundation for addiction

Inside: Are AP classes worth it? April Fools day is becoming a joke March Madness How-to guide to Promposals Spring Fashion

blueprintsonline.org

Opinion

Hidden perpetrators lurk in the school’s drug scene STAFF EDITORIAL he people of Granville are known for their appreciation of education, small-town life and good food and music. Unfortunately, it is also well-known that many of the students are also drug users; marijuana, heroin and alcohol of all kinds have become an established element of Granville teenage culture. While it may seem as if students and ignorant parents are the main culprits, though, Granville’s well-informed adults are also responsible. Many highly-educated parents indirectly create the addictions that have taken hold throughout our school. When students hear their parents talk about their own drug experiences in college, the students feel that they can take drugs as well. Parents laugh as they share their college stories with their children,

“Many highly-educated parents indirectly create the addictions that have taken hold throughout our school.” talking about how they “could not understand their professor” or “stumbled across campus trying to look sober,” and although they intend to discourage their children from taking drugs with these anecdotes, they unknowingly give their children the green light. The adolescents decide that since their parents tried drugs and found some fun in it, they should be allowed to as well; as long as they avoid their parents’ pitfalls, they think, it is only fair that they be granted permission to try their luck and see what drugs can do. Parents’ lenience is also to blame for narcotics’ infiltration into the school community. Parents understand the value of letting their teenagers take care of themselves, but the laissez-faire policy often goes too far when parents openly allow their children to do drugs and drink alcohol. When moms and dads let their kids abuse substances just

4 March 2016

EDITORIAL CARTOON BY MORGAN PRACHAR to be “cool” parents, they unknowingly set responsible for students’ addictions. The them up for both immediate and long-last- police need to punish parents for giving ing disasters; parents’ incomes allow them or encouraging their children to do drugs, to regularly buy alcohol for themselves and and while the consequences should not be their kids, and their ability to afford “harm- severe, they should be weighty enough to less” substances like marijuana can trans- remind parents how to be responsible overform drugs into household staples. seers. Moms and dads need to take their Parents are role-models for their children children’s addictions seriously and ensure and should provide the resources that al- that their homes stay drug-free. Since texlow their children to transform into strong ting came along, it may not be as easy to adults. Moms and dads who make their watch over children as it used to be. That is drug experiences sound fun, though, are no excuse, though; as technology evolves likely to arouse their children’s interest in and it becomes easier to obtain drugs and substances, and parents who readily allow alcohol, adults need to make both the rules their kids to drink and do drugs are direct- and regulation clearer than ever. ly responsible for the minors’ addictions. Parents should be open about their drug and alcohol incidents, but they should not EDITORIAL POLICY talk about them in a way that makes their BluePrints, Granville High School’s newsmagkids want to do them if they do not want azine, is published by students in Journalism. their kids to do them. In addition, moms As a forum of student expression, the goal of and dads who allow their children to try the Blueprints is to provide the high school stualcohol they buy have no one to blame for dents’ perspective on relevant issues concerntheir children’s addictions but themselves; ing the school, the community and the world. Editorial decisions are based on timeliness, if a parent does not want his or her kid to relevance and appropriateness. Opinions exget addicted, he or she should make no pressed in the newspaper are not necessarily compromises and should make the conse- that of the entire staff, student body or school. quences of intoxication clear. Letters to the editor will be published as space While students should be held account- allows. Blueprints does accept advertisements; able for their drug use, the police should however, the staff reserves the right to withnot forget that parents are often equally draw ads.

Opinion PHOTO BY CARSTEN SAVAGE

Controversial AP courses divide students

BY ASHLYN BROCKWAY (‘17) STAFF MEMBER o both challenge themselves and save money in the future, high school students take AP classes. AP stands for Advanced Placement, and the classes allow students in high school to earn some college credits ahead of time. I have not taken an AP class yet in high school, but I do plan on taking two during my senior year. While the classes are more difficult than are the normal classes that are offered, getting a good grade in these classes will help your overall cumulative grade-point average. Taking an AP class rewards the student with a grade boost if he or she gets a B- or higher, preparing students for college as well. At Granville, an A in an AP course is worth a 5.0, and a B is worth 4.0. These classes help students prepare for the rigorous courses that they will experience in college. Even though AP classes are rough, you also get a lot of benefits from taking one of the many AP classes that Granville offers. Some students might be more ready than others to take on the challenge of an AP course, but all find some reward in the high standards and college-style currriculum. If students keep up with the homework and hard tests that come with taking the classes, they will not regret taking the college-level classes. Getting adjusted to college expectations before college by taking these courses is an opportunity than every student should consider, and since there are AP courses in many different subjects, a student is likely to excel in at least one of them. There are more advantages to taking AP classes than there are negatives.

Yes.

“These classes help students prepare for the rigorous courses that they will experience in college.”

BY HUNTER BROWN (‘16) STAFF MEMBER dvanced Placement courses are college classes that high schools offer to allow students to earn college credit early. If a student scores a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP exam, he or she is eligible to earn college credit for the class. The goal is to be exempted from a course when he or she gets to college, allowing the student to save money down the road. I have completed one AP course, and I currently have my hands full with two more. Sophomore year, I took AP European History and received a B in the course, which counted as if I got an A for the year. It boosted my GPA, but it was a very tough course, and I did not enjoy it at all. I am taking AP Biology and AP US History, and they are both very tough courses that I wish I did not sign up for. While taking an AP course does have its benefits, it has its negatives as well. There is increased homework, and there is always the risk of getting a bad grade because the class is too tough. AP courses usually have homework every day, and it is difficult. The student does not always know how hard the class will be, so he or she may end up shocked when the work-load ends up much heavier than expected. In addition, if the student’s grade falls below a B-, he or she receives no grade boost for the semester. Therefore, some students are more prepared to take AP courses than others. Colleges want to see students who have taken AP courses and succeeded in them, but it is a risk, requiring more effort to complete the course than normal classes. Students should always challenge themselves in school, but they need to know what they are getting into beforehand.

No.

“He or she may end up shocked when the workload ends up much heavier than expected.”

blueprintsonline.org

Opinion

April Fools’ Day is becoming a joke

BY ANNDE JO COOK (‘18) STAFF MEMBER pril Fools’ Day is supposed to be a day filled with practical jokes played on everyone. On the first day of every April, though, the number of pranks people do gets smaller and smaller. No one seems to get in the spirit of April fools except a small handful of enthusiastic jokesters. Some people who continue to try and carry on the tradition are actually making the holiday less enjoyable. These people are the ones who take it too far, and what they think will be the greatest prank ever turns out mean and not funny at all. We need to bring back the comical joy that April Fools’ once brought before it became an outdated holiday. In place of personal, face-to-face pranks, we are moving towards media-driven jokes. People love to get on Twitter and see memes and other jokes, but they are forgetting how funny real-life pranks can be. Jokes are supposed to be fun, and many people bond over practical jokes. In our world today, personal connections are dying with increased use of technology for communication instead of getting to know each other in person. Escaping technology for a day and playing some classic jokes on your friends will help bring the fun back to April Fools’ Day. Wrap your friend’s car in plastic wrap, or even put a simple whoopee cushion under a his or her chair, and you will do April fool’s day justice. If they are done in the right spirit, pranks make for good memories that can make you laugh every time you think about them years later.

Club pictures aggravate students

BY CARSTEN SAVAGE (‘17) OPINION EDITOR n club picture day this year, students in various clubs stayed after school until up to 7 pm to have their pictures taken. Although pictures were taken after school so as not to disturb classes during the day, the students found many problems with the evening’s schedule. Some school-recognized clubs did not get pictures. The journalism staff, for example, never got a slot of time in the schedule for a picture. Student-run clubs were also forgotten in favor of long-established clubs and honor societies. The pictures did not take time away from classes, but they inconvenienced students during precious after-school hours. Some students had one photo at 3 and another at 6, so they either had to waste gas driving back and forth between home and the school or had to find something to do at school for the evening. Many busy students participating in sports and clubs after school were not able to get pictures. Students have no problem participating in pictures during the school day if they get to miss class, but when presented with the choice between going to either after-school activities or after-school pictures, students will usually pick the activities over the pictures. Thus, the new schedule prevented many students from participating. Next year, students are hoping that club pictures are taken during school.

Trending Topics Bernie vows to reYEA OR NAY? Letter to the Editor

invigorate America

respect Bernie Sanders because he has maintained the same political stances since he first entered government. While Hillary is notorious for changing her positions depending on what is popular, Sanders has maintained the same views throughout his career because he has confidence in his beliefs. White, male Congressmen should not be able to control a woman’s ability to have an abortion, and Bernie supports abortion being a decision solely between a woman and her doctor. He is correct in his conviction that wealth should be redistributed; there are too many struggling individuals within the U.S., trying to make it week by week, while the upper class just sits back and watches. In addition, Bernie is just as concerned with the health of the planet as he is with the health of the country. He acknowledges the huge environmental issues occurring right now and is focused on trying to find a solution to our dependence on fossil fuels, our lack of public transportation, and climate change. Since I care about these issues deeply, Bernie is the candidate that has won my complete trust and full support. GRACE BUTLER (’17)

6 March 2016

BEN HIGGINS “He’s a down-to-earth type of guy. He’s in it for good reasons. I think he actually wants a wife.” Gabriella Schnaidt (‘18)

SPRING BREAK “I don’t like spring break because it’s not long enough.” Megan Clark (‘17)

Vietamese-inspired street food in downtown Granville Clmays Construction New homes, remodeling, Custom Cabintry

Christopher Mays, Owner Email: clmayscon@gmail.com 2111 Silver Street Granville, OH 43023 Phone: (740)403-8765 blueprintsonline.org

News

Cheerleaders rally Environmental to 4th place at states club takes root

The girls stand by their 4th place trophy at Saturday’s competition. PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVIA BURKHOLDER.

Gayla Wolcott, co-founder of the Environmental Club, paints a mural of the Earth as a project given to them by Mr. Durst. PHOTO BY MADELINE WALKER.

BY OLIVIA EBERSOLE (‘16) ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR heerleaders took the floor on March 6 at the OHSAA State Competition. They tumbled and cheered their hearts out and left it all on the floor. Family, friends and classmates showed up to support the team at their competition. The only senior on the team, Olivia Burkholder, was proud of their hard work. “It was a really challenging routine and having so many freshman on our team, about seven out of fourteen, they adapted really well.” , Burkholder said. Burkholder was emotional at the competition because it signified the end of the season. “It’s so sad,” she said. “I love my team and I love everything that we have accomplished this year. We’re a little family.” The girls took home fourth place out of eighteen. They cheered loud, had fun and had difficult tumble passes. “Some people fell, but that was our only downfall,” said Burkholder. “I think we all worked together really well.” According to Burkholder there were some very good teams there competing, and while she may be sad the season is over she still had very positive thoughts for her teammates. “I think that they’re going to do great moving forward because they’re so talented.” The competition cheerleading team ended their season with a bang, something Burkholder will hold close as the season ends.

BY MADELINE WALKER (‘17) STAFF MEMBER he Environmental Club is making a big impact during their first year in action. The group of eco-friendly students have championed many projects around the school. Co-founder, Gayla Wolcott, discussed the group’s activities so far. “We attended the Licking County River Roundup and helped pick up trash,” Wolcott said. “We also go on lots of group hikes and we even went on a trip to The Wilds this fall.” The club is passionate about making a difference here at school and has taken up projects to spread awareness. “We have been collecting the school’s recycling on Fridays. After sorting we put the paper in a larger recycling receptacle and take rinsed bottles to Denison,” Wolcott said. The group has also been working on a bit of a passion project. The club was commissioned by Mr. Durst to paint a new mural to hang in the hallway. The club paints twice a week and has been making progress. The mural depicts a view of Earth from outer space. The Environmental Club has had a banner first year of service projects, unique experiences and creative ventures. Wolcott says she can’t wait for the group to grow and be more involved with the school. “Everyone should join. We’re going to revolutionize this whole community.”

8 March 2016

High school raises over $6,000 for Pennies for Patients BY COLE JAQUITH (‘16) SPORTS EDITOR

ennies for Patients has officially come to a close for 2016, and this year the high school alone raised $6497.47. The staff always has a competition to see who can raise the most money for the organization. This year math teacher Susan Hoben raised the most money through selling candy, drinks and the always popular Canes chicken fingers. Since 2004 the high school has fundraised for Pennies for Patients and is organized by guidance counselor Ann Raffay. Pennies for Patients has come a long way since it was started. In the first year the high school raised just over $1000 and has increased throughout the years. The high school raised their highest total

of $8467.67 in 2013. Raffay has hopes that the high school will reach that number in years come. Although the high school raises a great deal of money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Raffay wants to do more than just raise money. "The tradition has been that Pennies for Patients is a competition between the teachers,” Raffay said. “But by doing that I feel like the message sometimes gets lost because the students just want food or things like that.

Yearbook staff works hard for new edition BY MORGAN PRACHAR (‘17) BUSINESS MANAGER

earbooks have been around for many years to recap the school year. This year's yearbook staff has plenty in store for this year's edition. The theme is "bet you didn't know" which will focus on fun facts about Granville that most people do not know about. This edition is being published through a different publisher and a new software has been used to format the pages. The staff hopes this will produce a better yearbook than years past. Along with adding finishing touches, the staff is recruiting new members for the 2016-2017 school year. "It seems a lot students have signed up without being recruited." Henderson said. "It sounds like we are going to have hard choices to make for next year's staff." Only 18 to 20 students are on staff due to the need to use computers almost every day. Yearbook students had the opportunity to attend an all day workshop at Otterbein

Choirs win big in districts, move on to states BY MORGAN PRACHAR (‘17) BUSINESS MANAGER

he high school choirs recently had a sweet success at their large group competition. Symphonic Choir walked away with 1s on all their songs and a 2 in sight reading; the women’s and men’s choruses walked away with all 1s. Director Kristin Snyder led the choirs to this success. “I was really really pleased with large group,” Snyder said. “I feel like it all came together really well.” Due to their success they will move on to a contest at the state level the weekend of April 22-23 at Gahanna Lincoln High School. Judges will judge most of the same pieces they performed at large group as well as a few new songs the choirs are working hard to perfect now. The choirs hope for all 1s in both sight reading and their pieces. Symphonic will be competing AA and the other choirs will be competing class A.

University, which was a new experience that has not been available in the past. This excursion is in addition to the summer yearbook camp they attend over the summer. Yearbooks are now available to purchase. To order a yearbook students can bring a check made out to "Blue and White" to Mrs. Henderson (Room 199). Students can come before or after school or during sixth period. There is also the chance to pay for it by going online to "Pay for It" which is connected to the district website. blueprintsonline.org

The truths about addiction BY MORGAN PRACHAR(‘17) AND GRACE MOUNTGOMERY(‘16) ne of the most common memories invoked into the high school experience are the high school parties. Substance abuse has become a problem for the kids of the 21st century. Kids are bypassing the law without any idea of the severity of the consequences on their future. While the rates of drug and alcohol use have not significantly changed over the last years at the high school, administration is increasing efforts to decrease student substance abuse.

Substance Abuse at GHS Granville seniors and sophmores every other year participate in the PRIDE survey, which is Parent’s Resource Institute for Drug Education. This anonymous survey indicates the consumption of drugs and alcohol at the high school level. According to the 2015 survery, on average the senior class has somewhere around 1 in 4 students are smoking marijuana and 1 in 2 students have consumed alcohol in the last 30 days. What is more worrisome to the administrators is that the substance abuse is happening during the schoool day or at after school activities, which has caused them to rethink the substance abuse policy. Currently, the substance abuse policy is considered to be a zero tolerance, with the 1st consequence being a 10 day out of

10 March 2016

school suspension. If student goes through chemical dependency counseling, however, it can be reduced from 10 to 5 days. “I believe in the power of a treatment program because it can help avoid long term use or addiction,” Durst noted. The second consequence is a recommendation for expulsion to the Superin2015 PRIDE SURVEY RESULTS In 2015, on average students used alcohol at age of 14.8 and marijuana at 15.4. 47.6 % of 12th grade students use alcohol at a friend’s house. 62% of seniors use alcohol on the weekends. 40.1% thought marijuana was risky. 22.2 percent of students use drugs to take part in school activities. 36.2% use drugs to take part in community activities. Of the 347 surveyed, 19.3 % have gotten in trouble with police. tendent. The first punishment covers a variety of scenarios with the possibilities of if a student intends to, is under the influence of or is in possession of a substance. The suspension that results from any one of these instances is strictly for out of school, which is bothersome to Mr. Durst “Out of school suspension is a vacation for a student, depending on what a

Photo by Grace Montgomery parent does with a student in their home,” Durst said. “In-school suspension makes them wake up in the morning, be here on time and be productive. I understand the function of out of school suspension, but philosophically I believe in in school suspension because the students are still producing work and getting credit.” Mr. Durst also remarked that next year some of the policies, especially the out of school suspension, are going to be modified. “I don’t think it is very good educational practice to impact suspended students grades based on their behavior,” Durst said. “That is not sound and that is really the bigger conversation we had district leadership level. My opinion of a grade is a mastery of content (how much do you know and how well you know it) and I believe your behavior does not feed into that.” Addiction Contrary to popular belief addiction is not only a habit formed but can be passed down from generation to generation. Children with addictive parents are eight times more likely to form some kind of addiction in their lifetime according to addictionandrecovery.org. Scientists have yet to pin one certain gene that can cause this but have found many different gene and personality factors that influence it. Just because an individual does not have

addictive genes in their family does not mean they will not form an addiction. Addictions are also formed by poor lifestyle choices and poor coping skills formed by the individual. Studies show that 90% of adolescents that are hooked on alcohol or begin before age 18, according to U.S. News Health. High school is when peer pressure and experimentation are introduced, but in college this sense of fitting in is heightened with more parties and more resources to obtain the substances. The brain is still developing as teenagers so subjecting oneself to risk by using any substances can cause adverse effects. Athletic Director Kevin Jarrett talked about the effects of substances on the brain. “When you’re under 21 you brain is like a sponge and it wants everything it can get always, nicotine, alcohol, it wants that. If we can keep adolescents not using that there’s a greater chance you won’t become addicted to it in life.” When a person first uses a drug they may perceived positive effects and they believe they are in control. Drugs take complete control of a person’s life, making even the most pleasurable activities into something less pleasurable. Looking at the brain, “The difference between normal rewards and drug rewards can be described as the difference between someone whispering into your ear and some shout into a microphone,” according to the National Center for Drug Abuse. When something is too loud, the brain adjusts to the surges in dopamine by producing less dopamine and as a result dopamine’s impact on the reward circuit in the brain can become abnormally low. This can lead to lifeless, depressed feelings. In order to get the level back up to normal the person needs to keep taking drugs and at higher doses. It creates a vicious cycle that is very difficult to break. The substances out in the world today contain addictive chemicals such as nicotine and tobacco which cause your system to crave these chemicals. The same part of the brain works with all addictions. If an individual is in recovery for abuse of a particular substance they must quit all addictive substances because the body will still crave the feeling those substances can give. Some of these signs and symptoms of addiction may include drinking more or doing more drugs than usual due to the

tolerance built up over time, neglecting and losing interest in their normal activities and hobbies and removing themselves from events to hide how much they are using. Sports Specifically looking at the rise of substance abuse for those that participate in sports, athletes that abuse drugs and alcohol will feel the effects in their bodies and in their performance. According to narconon.org 12% of boys and 8% of girl athletes admitted to abusing painkillers perscribed by a doctor. They do not only use the drugs to relieve pain from injuries, but they have found them as a means to escape from the stress high schoolers tend to draw upon themselves. Other than pain killers, drugs such as marijuana as well as alcohol can ruin an athlete’s career. Many coaches claim to have a zero tolerance policy with their players but students committed to drinking and smoking will find a way around that. Jarrett stated how sports is a privilege and not a right, therefore it can be taken away. “If you want to participate we have certain rules that need to be followed. there’s no requirement that says you have to take part in sports. You freely joined those teams . If we have guidelines in place that say here’s what you need to follow, and you don’t follow those then yes there should be consequences.” Dimitrious Stanley, a former Ohio State football player, is now passionate about youth’s safety. “Coaches should always have a zero tolerance policy,” Stanley said. “Drinking and doing drugs hurts the body and clouds thinking, which leads to slower reaction time and overall effects performance quality.” Jarrett commented on the policies in place currently. “We have a self turn in policy, which means if you come to a coach and let them know you did something.” Jarrett said. “There is no penalty but you have to seek assistance through a professional that evaluates you and recommends what you need to do. Now if they are caught by a drug test, police or pictures on social media and then they try to turn themselves in, that’s too late. Then there is a percentage of games they have to miss with the first time missing 10% of the season and so on. The third strike is being taken out of sports for

a year.” The policies have changed in the last few years to help students remain substance free, the policy used to only be in effect during the season but was changed to a year round policy that is in effect August 1 to July 31. The Athletic Director feels that only having the seasonal policy was sending the wrong message that athletes only needed to remain substance free during their specific season. Prevention Tips Substance abuse is preventable for all ages. Education was said to be one of the most important prevention tips shared by both Dimitrious and school nurse Mrs. Varasso. “Education should be ‘beefed up’ starting at a younger age, but I also think that parents need to be educated also so they can empower their kids to say NO,” Varasso commented. Starting education surrounding substance abuse at a younger age can inform both students and parents about the dangers of abuse before they reach the high school age. “Students want to experiment, which is fueled by peer pressure,” Varasso said. “I do believe everyone makes mistakes and I know kids are going to experiment and try stuff out. But truly in my heart, I really wish students wouldn’t experiment because drugs, especially, are so much more dangerous today than they used to be. We don’t know the long term effects of drugs now.” Keeping students occupied gives them less time to branch out and try new things. “One of the best prevention tips is keeping them occupied,” Stanley said. “Doing sports, reading, chess, checkers, whatever it is, keep their attention. Because if they’re bored, they’ll find other things to do.” Durst commented how he believes substance abuse can be combated. “Policies are fine but when students can govern themselves and their own behavior as students and can help peers understand the best courses of action to take,” Durst said. “That is always more effective than us creating rules. Student led work is always more effective, or grassroots movements. If you have 50% of the students not consuming alcohol, like last year, they need to be more vocal than other 50%. That is how you push the number.” blueprintsonline.org

Sports Baseball

As Ohio weather tries to make up its mind, the Aces baseball club looks to find ways to practice in order to prepare for the upcoming season. The Aces have had field time when (or not) the weather permits and have seen increased time in the batting cage, at nearby TAD Sports Complex facility. Senior Sam Stewart said, “It’s nice to get the extra hitting work in but at the end of the day, we are all just ready to be outside and getting into a routine.” Head Coach Vince Ghiloni scrambles to find anything and anywhere for his team to get work in as he knows teams around the county are in the same boat.

NFL Notebook In this era of the NFL, where salary takes precedence, franchises are forced to cut key members of their team to open up cap space in order to pursue other needs in free agency. Mario Williams, Malik Jackson, Brock Osweiler, Bruce Irvin and others highlight this year’s class. With a week draft class of immediate talent, this free agency class becomes much more enticing. The Raiders, Jags and Cardinals could all make a splash this offseason. The Jags already brought in Malik Jackson and Chris Ivory... Dare I say the Jags could be a force in 2016? Houston broke the bank too with the signing of Brock Osweiler for $72 million. $72-flipping-million.

Breaking up the big three The NBA trade deadline has come and gone and the Cleveland Cavaliers roster has remained mostly intact. That hasn’t stopped rumors and NBA insiders to question the future of the big three in Cleveland: LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love. LeBron James is staying and Cleveland. Done. No discussion. Irving and Love are a different story. The three haven’t meshed as well as hoped and may be up for trade discussion at the conclusion of the season. Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love are big ticket, and big price tag, names. They will only be moved for the right deal.

Zies' Pieces Boys' Lacrosse

BY KYLE ZIES

After a 2015 season of turmoil that saw a change in head coach mid-way through the campaign, the 2016 season looks to have more stability. New boss Billy Taylor, looks to bring in a winning culture to the club and put the Aces in a position to succeed today, tomorrow, and for the future. Senior Alex James stated positive remarks toward Taylor, “He’s serious about this. He wants to win and we are all right there with him.” The Aces will begin season play at the end of March as practices pick up and the intensity rises in hopes of a forceful comeback to the spotlight.

NHL Trade Deadline With the playoffs approaching, NHL clubs looked to bolster or unload their roster as the season winds down. The Chicago Blackhawks added center Andrew Ladd and the New York Rangers acquired center Eric Staal from the Rangers leading up to the deadline. Deadline day, however, was a snooze fest. A late flurry of trades ramped up the total trade number (24) but, nothing was eye opening. Those who took the day off to celebrate this North American holiday, did nothing more than catch up on a few hours of sleep.

Spring Training

12 March 2016

Baseball fans drool as their respected ball clubs take the field for spring training in the warm weather of Florida and Arizona. Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees wasted no time to get back in the swing of things as he homered on his first at bat of the campaign. Scott Schebler made SportsCenter and the Cincinnati Reds notice his stellar outfield play with a leaping grab in left field that certainly turned some heads. As the season opens in early April, all 30 clubs sort out their depth charts in preparation of the grueling 162 game season that we all know and love.

The power of the coaching tree

f there is one thing a football coach needs to learn besides the obvious of x’s and o’s and wins and losses, he needs to learn the power of networking. The cruel and unforgiving sports world requires knowing people. Important people. Looking at coaches across the nation at any level, college or pro, every head coach has his own coaching tree. One that he was plucked from and one that he has begun to grow. Every coach has followers. Disciples, if you will. Each disciple worked under their head man at some point in their career and believes in their basic principles and ideas which emulates in their own coaching. As we credit coaches with their geniuses, some are deserving, and some are not. The hard part of coaching is not finding a scheme or idea. It’s taking that idea to the next level of your predecessor, one branch above you in your coaching tree. Kliff Kingsbury? A Mike Leach disciple. Mark Dantonio? A member of the Nick Saban tree. Now look at Dantonio, almost fifteen years into his own head coaching era has begun a tree of his own, sprouting Pat Narduzzi (Pittsburgh), Dan Enos (formerly Central Michigan) and Don Treadwell (formerly Miami). The power of networking lands jobs. Lands million dollar jobs. Maybe money really does grow on trees.

Spring Sports Preview Girls' Lacrosse

Tennis

Softball

BY GILLIAN MCCRACKEN (’17) ith spring sports starting, that means the beginning of the girls’ lacrosse season. There are a total of thirty two girls trying out for the team. The seniors playing this year are Laney Naille, Elise Morrison, Parris Miller, Emilee Brown, Jaclen Moxley, Arel Neuenschwander, Allison DePage, Abbey Pitcock, Karen Mayet, Gracie Parsley and Mackenzie Ebel. Varsity player Maddie Krock claims, “I think we will have a strong team this year, were definitely going to have to work hard if we want to make it into the tournaments.” Their first game is March 31 at Granville, vs. Pickerington North. JV will be playing at 5:00 p.m. with Varsity playing at 7:00 p.m. Go support the Lady Aces!

BY GILLIAN MCCRACKEN (’17) s spring sports begin, the boys’ tennis team is preparing for an awesome season. With the coaching of Keith Mullins and Clint Story, the boys are expecting the season to go very well. The captains for this year’s season are Matt Hills (senior), John Purnode (junior) and Jack Bain (junior). The seniors playing this year are Matt Hills and Logan Evans. Although their games haven’t started yet, Granville boys’ tennis is ranked number eight in the “State Top Ten D2 Boys Tennis Team Pre-Season.” Varsity player Jackson Terry says, “I think our season will be good. Theres a reason were ranked top 10 in the state before the season even starts, I expect our ranking to go way up once we start winning.” Their first game is March 30 at Granville vs. Pickerington North with the game starting around 4/4:30. The boys are expecting a great season and would love the support from their classmates.

BY HUNTER BROWN (‘16) ast year, the softball team won the state tournament against Lakewood, and was the first softball team to win a state title at Granville High School. Ready to defend their title, the team gears up to be ready for their first game in March. The two returning seniors include Vega Theophilus and Shelby Sprouse, and many of the juniors had a significant role on that championship team. Coach Stewart has chosen which players are going to be on varsity, and those who will be on junior varsity, and the team is beginning to prepare for their first scrimmage coming up.

Boy's Lacrosse BY SOPHIA EHLERS (17’) s spring rolls around so does the seasons of the schools most competitive sports: baseball and lacrosse. Over the years there has been a feud over which sport is better, lacrosse or baseball? The boys’ lacrosse team’s season will be underway as March approaches. Along with a new season, new players and new leaders, the team also has a new head coach, Billy Taylor. There will be a JV and varsity team but the coach is in the processes of deciding which players will be on which team based on their performances in practice. Though the teams haven’t been decided the captains have: Austin Miller (senior), Alex James (senior), Cole Jaquith (senior), and Thomas Krock (junior) will lead the boys’ lacrosse team this season. The team will begin scrimmages towards the beginning of March and their first game will be on April 2. The team is looking for redemption from last year’s season and second round play-off loss in the Division II state tournament.

Baseball BY HUNTER BROWN (‘16) he boys’ baseball team is ready to begin their season with seniors Matt Crudele, Zach Vanderink, Zach Blumling, Sam Stewart, Peyton Ley, Andrew Hammond and Zach Hayburn. With five returning senior varsity players, experience will not be an issue for the team. Building off of their season last year, the goal for the team is to make a run in the tournament at the end of the year. Coach Ghiloni has tons of experience, and has been the head coach of the Granville team for many years now. With promising juniors, and strong underclassmen, the team should be better than in the past.

Track BY GILLIAN MCCRACKEN (’17) s the spring season begins, so does outdoor track. With Coach Green as the head coach this year, the team believes to be set up for success. Senior runner Olivia Burkholder claims, “I think we’re going to have a strong season and team this year, we work really hard at practices and put a lot of effort into this sport.” The team’s first meet is March 31 in the evening at Zanesville. The Blue Aces are setting themselves up for an amazing season and cannot wait to see the outcome.

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Sports

March Brings out the madness in everyone BY cole jaquith ('16)

Photo by Cole Jaquith

14 March 2016

4 teams, 63 games, 21 days. This is March Madness summed up in 6 words. Bracketology (the process of predicting the field of participants in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament) has become the most interesting and frustrating part of March. Last year, ESPN estimated that around 40 million people filled out nearly 70 million brackets. If every bracket was on paper and spread them out, you could cover nearly 30 percent of the United states. There were more brackets filled out than the 66 million ballots cast for Barack Obama in the 2012 presidential election. Speaking of Barack Obama, even the president fills out a bracket. Obama has filled out a bracket for ESPN every year since he was elected. His best finish was in 2011, when his bracket finished in the 87.4 percentile. Not all of his brackets were this successful though, and he has only picked the correct champion once (UNC in 2009). No one can really blame the president though, the chances of predicting the first two rounds correctly are one in 13,460,000. The odds of predicting the whole tournament correctly? One in 9.2 quintillion. If you want to round down,

that’s a 9 with 18 zeroes. “Last year my bracket didn’t even make it past the first round,” said senior Thaddeus Winston 9 million dollars in bets are placed on brackets annually, but everyone isn’t in it for the money. Traditionally, Mr. Ryan Bernath, former principal and current assistant super intendant, would have a contest where students could fill out brackets in order to win a chance to have lunch with him. Study hall adviser Mrs. Tierra Cramer also encourages students to get in on the madness by bringing in a TV to the study hall room and allowing students to watch games while they work. “It’s a good time to be at the high school,” said Winston. “There are only a few months of school left and everyone is usually stressed and tired, so it helps people relax a little and takes their mind off of things.” Whether you just want to test your luck or if you’re in it for the big money, make sure to fill out a bracket this month and follow the action, you won’t be disappointed

Lacrosse Stick Analysis Which part of the lacrosse stick makes the biggest difference: the Head or the Stick?

The Head BY COLE JAQUITH (‘16)

he lacrosse head is possibly the single most important piece of equipment that a lacrosse player owns. The shape, length, offset, flex, scoop and pocket all help to determine nearly every aspect of a player’s game. Shape effects the ease of catching, the length determines the release point, offset determines how the ball feels in the stick, flex determines accuracy and power, the scoop determines how easy it is to pick up groundballs and the pocket determines pretty much anything to do with shooting and passing. Without the proper head, a player’s game can be severely impacted. In every lacrosse retail store, there are more varieties of heads than shafts because heads have specific traits to fit the player’s needs. For example, attackmen want a narrow head due to all the checks they take from defensemen, but players have others things they want from their heads besides being narrow and companies cater to this. The most important part of the head is the pocket. The pocket is the most customizable part of any player’s equipment. If a player doesn’t have a functioning pocket, nearly half of their game is eliminated.

The Stick

BY HUNTER BROWN (‘16)

he handle of the lacrosse stick can make a bigger difference than the head of the stick. The proper shaft allows players to be more agile on the field, and hold the ball in their stick. It is important for lacrosse players to cradle while they have the ball, therefore if the shaft is light, players can cradle easier, and get away from defenders. Most players like light shafts so they are more agile on the playing field. Durability should also be taken into account when purchasing a stick. While on the field, players will break their shafts, and be forced to leave the game until they can get a new one. Therefore the player must go to the side lines, take off the head of the stick, and get a new shaft before they can return to the match. Against tough teams, they will take advantage of the missing starter, and that can change the whole game.

The Real Issue is not the Stick

common misconception is that the stick makes the lacrosse player. While the stick can make a great difference in a player’s ability, it is not all about the gear that makes you perform better, many other aspects go into the game, such as athletic ability, quick decision making, precision, and fast reflexes. Coordination plays a major role in the sport, because it is important to throw the same way you have before, and shoot accurately. Lacrosse also imposes a difficult challenge; while most kids will not use their non-dominate hand for anything, it is required at some point they will be forced to pass in catch in that hand. It proposes a new challenge, and varsity lacrosse players must learn how to handle the situation, or they will not see the field. It is very easy to blame your lacrosse stick for the problems you’re having on the field, but eventually, each player will be accountable for themselves. Coaches will tell players to practice on their own, and get used to the way their stick throws and catches. It is on the player, not the stick.

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Features

Bachelor & Bachelorette

Catching up with two of Granville’s most eligible singles

What is your favorite 90’s jam? John Purnode: “Gangsters Paradise” by Coolio Avery Bednarski: “Five Years” by David Bowie What is your all time favorite movie? John: The Gods Must Be Crazy Avery: “Before I Disappear” Describe yourself in three words. John: Tall, Funny, Competent Avery: Pain in the butt If someone wrote a biography about you what would it be called? John: The Secret Life of John Purnode Avery: I’m pretty boring I don’t do much Unexpected song on your playlist? John: “I Kissed a Girl” by Katy Perry Avery: “Rack City” by Tyga Who would be your dream celebrity date? John: If I were a girl, Tom Brady. But since i’m a guy, Anna Ivanovic. Avery: Matthew Gray Gubler What would be your last meal? John: Waffle Avery: Red Velvet Pancakes 16 March 2016

John Purnode

Avery Bednarski

What is your best trait? John: My legs Avery: Honesty

What is your dream vacation destination? “I would love to go to Austria.” -Wyatt Caravana

What college football do you support? John: Ohio State Avery: Hawaii Do you belive in Bigfoot? John: No Avery: Yes Who would play you in a movie made about your life? John: No one, I’m a unique person Avery: Avery Bednarski

“New Zealand.” -Teddy Parsley

Pick two celebrities to be your parents. John: Steve Carell and Jennifer Lawrence Avery: Matthew Gray Gubler and Ellen Degeneres If I came over to your house for dinner, what would you make for me? John: Waffle and steak Avery: Ramen noodles

“France.” -Megan Clark

A how to guide to

PROMPOSALS

BY OLIVIA EBERSOLE (’16) s the years go on, the pressure on girls and boys, mostly boys, to come up with cute ways to ask dates to dances increases. As homecoming and winter formal have come and gone, the time for Promposals has begun. A promposal is a cute and unique way a boy or girl can ask someone to go to the dance with them. But how does one find a great promposal? One on the best places to go for ideas is “Pinterest.” If you’re in need of an idea here’s some great Promposals.

1. Flowers and Chocolates. While Promposals usually are seen as unique and extravagant, there’s nothing wrong with the traditional route. Going up to your date with a handful of candy or flowers and simply asking, “Prom?” is a safe zone. This approach is charming and sweet. It’ll make your date feel good and make you feel even better when they say yes. 2. Pizza Prom For a more class clown type approach and a sure way into anyone’s heart, bring out the pizza. Buy any type of pizza, your date’s favorite is great if known, and write on the top of the open box, “I know this is cheesy but, Prom?” This cheese filled promposal will bring a simile to anyone’s face and after they say, “YES!” lunch is ready to be shared.

4. Elephant in the room For anyone to use, this fun and unique promposal is a great way to get a yes and a laugh from your date. Make a sign that says, “Let’s address the elephant in the room, Prom?” To top it off with a sweet gesture give your date a stuffed elephant. Or if you’re feeling super generous give the girl an Ivory Ella shirt. This promposal shows you can have fun and care about your date. 5. Sweet Surprise Lastly, one super sweet way of asking can get Who says boys are the only ones who can prompose? Juyou any date. Get either nior Gillian McCracken asked Max Margraf to Prom with cupcakes, donuts, cookies this creative sign. or even a small cake and use icing to write the word, 3. BEARy good proposal “Prom?” For any sweet tooth person this is For any date that loves to cuddle, you a sure fire way to get a yes. This promcan’t go wrong with this promposal. posal gives your date a warm feeling and Make a sign that says, “Prom would be sweets can go all around. unBEARable without you.” To complete No matter what promposal you use, it give your date a teddy bear, nothing even a simple and sweet question can go a extravagant needed, just a simply teddy long way with you and your date. for them to remember the moment. This promposal is a cute and fun way to get a date for the dance.

Thank you to all the students, teachers and families who support local business. blueprintsonline.org

Entertainment

1.Melodie Faur looks stunning in a simple black long sleeve shirt and patterned pants. The gold and black patterned pants keep one warm and stylish, with cinched ankles and a soft material. By wearing plain black shoes and a shirt it matches the pants while allowing the pants to be the main part of the outfit. Hair natural down gives the look a classy feel. This is a great warm look for the changing season of winter to spring. 6. Claire Duncan looks charming in a pink rain coat with big gold buttons. She used it to cover up a super cute red and blue dress to ward off rain in a spring storm. The coat is longer on the sides for a sweet and flirty feel. To top it off she wore small kitten heels with ankle straps, perfect for a night out shopping.

2. Riley Torrenece looks perfect in her flower patterned pink and white dress with a black background. To keep the look bright she topped it off with a crochet white sweater. For an elegant look Riley wore smooth nude flats with a scalloped edge. Rileyâ€™s outfit is great for any spring day.

3. Bailey Clark looks amazing with her spring flower dress. To keep any chill away she wore a white blazer with cute big buttons. A high pair of brown boots give the look a fun sporty feel. To top it all off she put on bright red lip stick for a pop of color. This look is great for a school day and hanging out with friends.

4. Tori Flowers looks gorgeous in a plain black skirt and flowered patterned skirt. To keep warm she matched her skirt with a light pink long sleeve sweater. The long sweater style looks great on anybody to lengthen the body and keep warm. To give her look a sporty feel she wore dark drown suede boots. This look is perfect for a spring shopping trip.

18 March 2016

5. Tom Fowler looks classy in his pants and t-shirt outfit. He wore a simple blue t-shirt to match with a stand out blue belt with a white pattern on it. To keep the look from getting to busy he paired it with an olive color pant and light brown suede shoes. This look it great for spring with a pop of color while the long pants keep one warm from a bit of winter chill in the air. Tomâ€™s outfit works for a day at school and a night out on the town.

7. Olivia Ebersole pulls off high black rain boots with a multi patterned flannel. Light blue jeans keep the look bright for Spring and a blue tank top ties in the flannel. The flannel hads three types of flannel and some lace, becoming the main part of the outfit. Stylish black rain boots work perfectly for any piles of left over snow.

8. Camden Henderson-Joliat looks adorable in a multi-patterned flower panel dress. To keep warm against chilly breezes she paired it with a black long sleeve sweater. To keep the look fun and easy she wore black combat boots for any muddy weather. This style is great for a shopping trip in the spring.

spring fashion Spring and winter styles at Granville 11.Sarah Demeter looks very cute in a pair of dark jeans to match her shades of blue chevron shirt. To keep the look sporty she wore a pair of brown Sperry’s. To keep warm for a night out at dinner Sarah wore an olive green army jacket. 12. Bailey Bradshaw looks great in a super popular green army jacket. She wore light blue jeans with rips by the knee and black sandals to give the look a spring feel. To top it off she wore a white necklace to bring out the white in her gorgeous patterned shirt.

10. Jaclen Moxely looks beautiful in a plain black t-shirt dress, one of the in styles this year. Wearing a pair of white converse keeps the look cute and fun, while an olive army jackets keeps the colder weather away. To complete the look Jaclen wore a two layered gold necklace with delicate adornments. This look is perfect for a night out with friends.

11 & 12

BY OLIVIA EBORSOLE (‘16)

9 9. Jake Dorman looks confident in a perfect Spring outfit for any left over chill in the air. Jake paired a blue pair of pants with a gray and blue flannel to keep the look classy. Rolling the sleeves up to his elbows allows for a spring feel. To top it all off he wore a pair of gray/blue Sperry’s. Jake’s outfit works perfectly for any guy wondering what to wear in the spring to keep warm and stay stylish. blueprintsonline.org

20 March 2016