Vol. 10 No. 1 (Nov. 2019)

SHEMAR CHILDS

THE CLOWN OF CRIME

THREEPEAT?

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Vol. 10 No. 1 $2

GRANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

CLIMATE CHANGE HAS GOT TO GO October 2019 1

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR T he beginning of fall brings a period of adjustment for students and teachers alike, as we are all finally adjusting to the ins and outs of school. F. Scott Fitzgerald said it best in his novel, “The Great Gatsby” that “life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” It is clear that this fall season is truly a time of new beginnings and change around the school, as well as the community.

One of the most notable changes within the school is the introduction of new athletic director Josh DeVoll, who took over for Kevin Jarrett. Entertainment editor Anna Mialky has written a “getto-know” feature on him, in which she outlines facts students may not know about him.

Fall is a time of personal change as well, and staff member Kennedy Ogden has written a feature on rapper Shemar Childs and his personal growth as an artist. Ogden explores the shift between his past name and current one, and what inspired him to do so.

With Halloween season in full swing, it is seems appropropriate to review the newest thriller in the Batman/Joker series that was released in October. Opinion editor Nick Williams has compiled a list of the best Joker performances in which he assesses the portrayal of each, and explains how the role of the Joker has evolved over the years.

Change is also happening at a global level as teens all over our nation, as well as the world, have been protesting in hopes of inspiring a change in environmental regulations amidst the climate change crisis. In response to this, staff members Gavin Robinson, Paige Grund-

Photo by Emily Gold en and Faith Blankemeyer have created an environmental package, in which they cover both the climate strikes and what you can do to be more environmentally conscious.

With changes happening all around our community as well, returning news editor Molly Wilson and staff member Lauren Kiernan have compiled a list of updates that directly affect students, such as the newest graduation requirements.

With a staff composed of almost entirely new members, we have overcome several obstacles and adjusted to a new dynamic in order to produce our first issue. I am proud of the work we have done, and look forward to sharing it with you!

FOLLOW US:

FEATURES EDITOR Grace Portzline

SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Emily Gold

Twitter @GHSBlueprints

SPORTS EDITOR Andy Hoben

STAFF Lauren Kiernan Paige Grunden Jake Barry Kennedy Ogden Faith Blankemeyer ADVISER Amy Tolbert

OPINION EDITOR Nicholas Williams

2 www.blueprintsonline.org

OPINION

Reader Opinion Staff Editorial Op-Eds

News Briefs climate change

SPORTS

sports briefs getting to know Star Spotlight hobie’s hot takes three-peat?

FEATURES

NEWS EDITOR Molly Wilson

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Anna Mialky

VOL. 10 NO. 1

NEWS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sarah Carpenter

WEBSITE EDITOR Gavin Robinson

CONTENTS

Instagram @granvilleblueprints Facebook GHS Blueprints

a call to help trends

ENTERTAINMENT

3 4 5

6-7 8-9

10 11 12 12 13

14 15

the clown prince 16-17 shemar childs 18-19 on the calendar 20

READER OPINION ON TOPICS WE ARE COVERING THIS MONTH

Q

Q

What’s your favorite Shemar Child’s song?

9% 9% 37% 45%

“Baja Blast” “Bert Cobain”

Who is your favorite Joker?

15%

68%

Jack Nicholson

Heath Ledger

15%

2%

Jared Leto

Joaquin Phoenix

STORY, PAGE 16

go to Q Dotheyounewark Generals games?

44%

56%

Yes, I love supporting them!

No, but I want to start attending!

“HUF Boy”

“SoloDolo”

STORY, PAGE 18

Q

Do you recycle?

82%

18%

Yes! Let’s save the Earth!

Nope, it takes too much time

To stay in touch with our magazine, follow us at @GHSBLUEPRINTS on Twitter

STORY, PAGE 8

is your favorite Q What comeback trend?

0%

Vans

57%

Scrunchies

0% Plaid

43% Baggy Shirts

STORY, PAGE 13 STORY, PAGE 15

October 2019 3

OPINION

SCHOOL DESERVES PRAISE FOR SUSTAINABILITY

between what is fact, theory or myth.

The dedication shown towards the garden and land lab is also commendable. Produce from the garden, including vegetables, syrup and eggs are used in school lunches. Students volunteer to maintain the garden and greenhouse after school.

The Take-Action projects undertaken by AP Environmental Science classes are a great way to provide students with experience in directly improving their surroundings. Every year, student driven Take-Action Artwork by Kennedy Ogden. projects provide incremental improvements to the garden, land lab and

BY GAVIN ROBINSON (‘20) sustainability of the school district. he district takes great pride in its variSustainability continues into the lunchous environmental initiatives, whether room, where more than 40% of food they are student or staff-driven. While contains produce from either the high students work with James Reding on school’s own garden or local farms in Take-Action Projects and tending to the garden, the staff is instrumental in making Licking and Knox counties. Buying food from local sources cuts down on food the school energy efficient and environmiles, or the distance food has to travel mentally aware. before it is eaten. Food miles are an While it may be tempting to focus on important factor when evaluating the susthe next step, it is always good to stop tainability of a food program. The lunch and appreciate what has already been room also cuts down on waste by using done. The district’s efforts in both enviwashable plastic trays and silverware. ronmental sustainability and awareness Smaller efforts such as water bottle reare extremely admirable. filling stations and energy efficient lights The hard, scientific view of climate are also invaluable in saving the environchange posed by the high school’s ment. Many small changes to everyday environmental science courses is in stark life can make a powerful impact on contrast to other schools across the country. According to a study by Science carbon footprint and pollution. Teachers and staff help ensure these efforts go Magazine, a third of science teachers include climate change denial within their into effect.

Although it is important to always keep lesson plan, while half do not introduce the environment in mind, the school has evidence when discussing climate already made many important strides change. In the high school’s environin the right direction. Staff and students mental science courses, climate change deserve praise for their efforts. is discussed in the context of data and trends, and a clear distinction is drawn

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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.

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What is your greatest concern about the environment?

“The pollution, especially by plastics and the fact that they don’t break down and we keep producing more and more of them.”

Tori Bergstrom (‘20)

“Where the recycling goes because there is a lot of trash in our environment and it affects our wildlife.”

Caitlyn Daube (‘21)

“It’s hard to pin it down to just one concern about the environment cause there are lots major factors that contribute as a part of it.”

Conor Male (‘22)

“My biggest concerns is climate change and no one is doing anything about it and it can change the world.”

Trent Walker (‘23)

“My biggest concern is our oceans and how we are destroying our oceans and all that stuff.”

Keith Mullins

BY EMILY GOLD (‘20)

GOVERNMENT, CORPORATIONS MUST TAKE MORE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ENVIRONMENT

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he earth is in a crisis. The environment is suffering due to humans and their impact on climate change. The current President administration is failing to take measures and actions that would PAIGE GRUNDEN help slow down or even stop climate change. In fact, it has gone ahead with many environmental rollbacks which may potentially increase the amount of greenhouse gases released and actually speed up climate change.

In addition to rolling back rules and restrictions for companies and wewhen it comes to the health of the environment, the government is grossly underplaying the potential effects of climate change.

This needs to stop. Climate change and its effects are important, and it’s crucial that people understand that this is a real threat to the world.

There are measures that people of all ages can take to help lessen their impact on climate change. One of the most major ways to help is by driving

less. Cars are one of the major offenders when it comes to pollution. By taking public transportation, riding a bike or walking, we can greatly reduce our impact on climate change.

Another measure that we can take is changing their diets. The food industry is a huge contributor to climate change. According to BBC, “If cattle were their own nation, they would be the world’s third largest emitter of greenhouse gases.” By simply cutting back on meat and dairy products, we can help to reduce our carbon footprint in the world.

It is not just climate change that is impacting the environment though. Plastics are a huge topic right now due to their harmful effects on the environment.

According to NRDC, plastic is uniquely problematic because it’s nonbiodegradable and therefore sticks around up to 1,000 years longer than other forms of trash. This is a major problem for marine life, due to a lot of the plastic pollution ending up in the oceans.

While going completely plastic-free may seem impossible to some due to how prevalent it is, there are simple solutions to cutting back on the amount people use in their day to day lives.

Some of the ways we can reduce our plastic consumption is to stop using disposable plastics, including everything from straws and utensils to plastic wrap and bags. A good way to cut back on these things is to purchase reusable bags, glass tupperwares and even bamboo utensils. There are even small mesh bags that can be used for produce at grocery stores.

Using reusable water bottles has become more and more popular, but according to NRDC, close to 20 billion plastic bottles are tossed each year. By using a reusable water bottle, we can stop buying, and wasting, single use ones.

While there are many things that we can do in ourindividual lives to help slow climate change and reduce pollution, we should not stop there. We need to put pressure on our government and on corporations to do something about the environmental crisis. Writing letters or emails, making phone calls and participating in strikes or protests will all make a difference. Getting voices out and heard is potentially the most important thing in helping to save the earth, and everyone has a voice that can be used.

PEOPLE MUST CHANGE THEIR HABITS NOW

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KENNEDY OGDEN

mall things we do every day, like driving, are hurting our environment little by little.

The reason people aren’t trying to limit their consumption of non-eco-friendly products is because the effects of these actions are not

immediate.

Living environmentally-consciously is becoming increasingly easier, but people do not think it is necessary to change because they don’t know the actual science. People need to take action by buying tree-free paper towels, reusable plastic bags, reusable water bottles and reduce the use of grocery bags. With small changes like these, you could reduce your carbon footprint.

According to a Harvard Business Review, people aren’t taking affirmative

action because the current effects of climate change aren’t in their backyards.

For example, Greta Thunberg states “As it is now people don’t seem to be very aware of the actual science and how serious this crisis is” . There is a large percentage of people that are not experiencing the current effects of the climate crisis because of where they are located.

People are constantly producing plastic waste because that is what is readily available in industries. As for at home there is no reason for people not to have an eco-friendly household.

Many people are not making the switch to green products because of the cost. In a study produce, by RetailMeNow they found that 61% of people would only buy the product if it were equal to or less than the price of a non-green product.

The problem with this is that before the customer has even looked at the price they have already assumed it is more than average and turn away. On the other hand there a people struggling to

keep afloat, therefore, they cannot afford gree products whatsoever.

To solve the problem of simple oneuse plastics like grocery bags could place a tax on all single-use plastic. This program is already set in places like California. In 2014 the state of California set a statewide ban on all single-use bags in large stores, and in some regions, there is a ten-cent charge on paper bags and reusable plastic bags. For states that are not above the curve concerning the current issues with plastics, the U.S. an education program from a young age to teach about sustainable living. Lastly, grocery stores like Kroger could begin implementing more bulk package free buying options. Kroger currently has beans, lentils, dried fruit, and nuts in the package free buying style, but they could add more bulk package products.

If people don’t begin change soon, in turn mother nature will fix the problem but it may be at the cost of our lives and other generations to come.

October 2019 5

NEWS

MEET THE FOUR SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES

BY PAIGE GRUNDEN ('20) four candidates running for a position on the board of education in Nov. Ceciel Shaw and Barbara Lechner have tossed their hats in the race for the first time, while Amy Leeds and Fred Wolf up for re-election.

Board members typically serve for four years, and there are five members on the board at any given time.

Candidates have to be qualified for the position, but they don’t necessarily have to have prior involvement with schools and the education system to be elected, according to Superintendent Jeff Brown.

“If you are at least 18 years old, a resident of the state for at least 30 days preceding the election, a resident of the school district for at least 30 days preceding the election, registered to vote in the school district for at least 30 days preceding the election you are eligible to be a Board member,” Brown said.

Once elected, the board members are tasked with multiple aspects of the schooling system.

“Their main role is to set policy for the school district and to hire the Superintendent and Treasurer,” Brown said. “They also have the ability to place a tax levy on the ballot to secure funding for initiatives in the schools.”

The candidates are also in charge of policy that “involves all aspects of the operation of the schools such as the student handbook, curriculum, employment terms and handbooks to mention a few,” Brown said.

The candidates for the November election have posted their platforms to the Vote411 voter’s guide.

Amy Deeds has served on the Granville GVSD School Board for 12 years. She has served as a member, vice president and president. She has also served on the GEVSD Financial

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Committee, the Community Committee and the Whole Child Committee, as well as the Granville Education Foundation and Granville Community Foundation.

“The district has created committees to focus on student wellness and the ‘whole child,’ to ensure that each child is a well-rounded individual who can achieve his potential,” Deeds wrote on the Vote411 voters’ guide.

Barbara Lechner has not served previously on the school board. She has worked in Licking Memorial Hospital, as an administrator at Language Experience Center, at a preschool, and “The district needs to continue to address school safety, the use of alcohol/cigarettes/drugs, diversity, bullying, proper weighing of academics, arts, and athletics,” Lechner wrote on the Vote411 voters’ guide.

Ceciel Shaw is one of the two candidates who has not previously served on the School Board.

“I want to make sure we honor student diversity—whether it is differing learning abilities or a student’s race, religion, sexual orientation or gender,” Shaw wrote on the Vote411 voters’ guide. “Young people in high achieving schools are struggling with anxiety and stress and I’d like us, as a community, to work on understanding this issue and supporting the mental health of the students.”

Fred Wolf is running for reelection, as he has served on the Granville school board since 2018.

“In addition to continued work with other community partners on economic development, Granville Exempted Village School District is addressing the behavioral health needs (mental health and substance use) of our students,” Wolf said on the Vote411 voters’ guide.

DISTRICT INCHES CLOSER TO NEW STADIUM GOAL

BY Molly Wilson ('20) he athletic department is only $100,000 away from reaching the $3.25 million goal needed to fund the new stadium.

The Reese Family Foundation has offered a “two to one dollar match” according to the weekly Blue Ace newsletter.

Many other community members, organizations and families have come forward and contributed by donatingmoney to the new stadium.

This new stadium will provide "safe and accessible athletic facilities," according to the newsletter.

There were major fundraiser opportunities at the last home football game. The goal was to raise $50,000 by the end of the night.

There are four ways to donate, according to the website www.GameOnGranville.org.

1. A general donation of any amount.

2. Granville wall donation (minimum of $1,000). With this option the donors name will be included on a plaque inside the stadium.

3. The five aces entrance wall ($5,000). With this option, donors names will be included on a wall at the enterance of the new stadium.

4. Naming writes option. There are four naming writes donations still available on the website.

The stadium is on its way to taking shape next year. With just a few more donations, the district will be ready to break ground.

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STATE IMPLEMENTS NEW GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

BY LAUREN KIERNAN ('20) he state has introduced a new, permanent set of graduation requirements for the classes of 2023 and beyond. This new plan is to ensure that high schools inspire students to recognize paths for future success in specific areas and that they all demonstrate a varied amount of skills and knowledge in different fields.

There are new state-issued diploma seals that, according to the Ohio Department of Education will “demonstrate academic and technical competency in the foundational areas of English language arts and mathematics, as well as readiness for their next steps” and they only apply to the classes beyond 2023.

Overall, the ninth graders that entered high school after July 1, 2019, are given more flexibility to choose a graduation pathway that helps build their own strengths. They need a minimum of 20 credits that are subject-specific.

Along with the credits, they also need to pass the Ohio mandated Algebra I and English II tests. If they do not pass, then they have to be given a retake at least once, however; there are three ways to get out of testing. One, demonstrate two career-focused activities; two, enlist in the military; and three, complete college coursework. And lastly, to graduate, they need to show readiness by earning two diploma seals.

According to principal Matthew Durst, the requirements are “a responsible thing to do in response to what they saw with graduation rates- because they saw graduation rates drop because of tests scores” in regards to the state. However, for the purpose of the school, Durst does not believe that these new state mandated requirements will affect the students here.

For the previous requirements, Durst said that “testing exclusively is a pretty limited way to look at how ready someone is to graduate.”

These new requirements not only allow for people to not stress about testing, but they also will give people who do not do well with testing multiple different chances to still graduate.

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The school board recognized National Merit semi-finalists Anya Mitton-Fry, Becky Miller and Andy Hoben at its last meaning. Fiffteen students total were honored for their PSAT scores. Photo courtesy of Matt Durst.

FIFTEEN STUDENTS EARN PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL MERIT RECOGNITION

BY Molly Wilson ('20) ifteen students were selected from a pool of around 1.5 million as honorees for the National Merit Scholarship, according to Principal Matt Durst.

Three students-- Andy Hoben, Anya Mitton-Fry and Becky Miller-- were recognized as National Merit semifinalists.

Twelve of these students were named “commended scholars.” These students include Rudy Bradley, Cade Brautigan, Riley Chodak, Naudia Ferbrache, McKenna Fuhrman, Annika Green, MaryKate Hill, Nathaniel Homan, Alexandra Mazik, Allison Moore, Abigail Parsons and Tate Smith.

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Testing coordinator Bobby Seidel recognized the scale of this acomplishment.

“You’re compared to the entire world and awarded on your ability at a very high level," Seidel said.

National Merit scholarship is a scholarship that students qualify for by earning a particular score on the PSAT test. By earning a score of 1400+ students are eligible for the scholarship.

The scholarships mission is “to recognize and honor the academically talented students of the United States”, according to the National Merit scholarship website.

DISTRICT EARNS AN "A" ON REPORT CARD

BY Molly Wilson ('20) wo years in a row the district has earned an “A” on the state issued report cards. The district earned an impressive “A” rating almost across the board. They earned a “B” in the section grading the “Performance Index” of the district and in the section titled “Prepared for Success,” according to the Ndistrict website.

The district is measured according to six categories. These categories are Achievement, Progress, Gap Closing, Improving At-Risk K-3 Readers, Graduation Rate and Prepared for Success. They are given a letter grade for each individual section and another letter grade which grades the schools as a whole, according to the Ohio Education website.

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The districts “A” rating differs compared to the other schools in Licking county. Some of these schools include Heath and Licking Valley who both earned a “C” while Lakewood schools earned a “D”, according to the Newark Advocate.

This achievement provides a clear view for parents interested in the quality of education students receive at Granville schools.

October 2019 7

COVER STORY SAY GOODBYE TO THESE PRODUCTS Microbeads are essentially little balls of

plastic, so they do not degrade and stick around in the environment for hundreds or thousands of years.

Wet wipes often contain plastic fibers that

are not biodegradable, so when they eventually end up in the ocean, they float around and get eaten by sea animals.

Single use plastics are used so much that many people don’t think twice about tossing them in the trash. The plastic ends up in the environment, and it will take years for it to break down.

Antibacterial soaps and sanitizers often

contain a chemical called triclosan, which causes bacteria to undergo mutations in order to survive in its presence. It protects them against triclosan and other antibacterial products, and makes the bacterial harder to kill with antibiotics

Detergents containing phosphates Phos-

phates, once in the waterways, can lead to the eutrophication of bodies of water.

This leads to overgrowth of plants in the water and the death of animals that live in the water due to a lack of oxygen.

SAY HELLO TO THESE PRODUCTS

reusable coffee cups and water bottles help reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in the environment. Brands: Miir, Yeti, Hydroflask

Reusable Produce bags - Many people

know about reusable grocery bags but not all know about mesh bags that can be used for produce in place of the flimsy, thin plastic bags that float around Brands: EcoBags, Earthwise

CLIMATE CHANGE HAS GOT TO GO

Young people are poised to be the first generation to put a stop to climate change. Teens are making a difference by changing the products they use on a daily basis. Additionally, they are using their voices to put pressure on the government and on corporations to do something about the environmental crisis. By writing letters or emails, making phone calls and participating in strikes or protests, teens are making a difference.

TEENS STRIKE FOR CLIMATE CHANGE AT STATE CAPITOL

BY FAITH BLANKEMEYER (‘20) ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY PAIGE GRUNDEN ('20)

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s the world begins to heat up, so are students and young adults. Everyday more people are becoming educated and more passionate about

clothes that use 100% recycled products is

another great, environmentally friendly option to thrifting or buying second-hand.

Brands: Recover Brands, REPREVE, Everywhere

Fair trade items are items that have been sustainably and ethically sourced. Many of these items are food items, but they can also be clothing and other materials Brands: Loomstate, Indigenous Reusable sandwich bags are a great alter-

native to typical plastic bags that are very hard to decompose and will stay in the environment for many years Brands: Lunchskins

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Seniors Paige Grunden, Allison Moore and Emily Gold. Photo by Aggie Vonheim

the climate’s growing problems.

Dozens of Granville students rallied with other teens from the state on Sept.

20 to protest the government's lack of action regarding climate change.

Young people everywhere are taking to the streets near their statehouse and local government to support and increase climate change awareness.

Giving demands to governors, making pledges, protesting, voting and inspiring others are all ways that the United States is seeing a shift within generations.

The organized rally was planned to occur just before the United Nations meet for the climate summit, to urge major countries to cut down on carbon emissions.

Despite promises from presidents, prime ministers and other officials in power, little change came out of the meeting. The US vowed to pull out of the Paris agreement, which is a united pact for countries to limit and fight against climate change.

The strike was created for three main reasons: to transition to one hundred percent clean energy, to halt fossil fuel production, and to help those who have been affected by climate change.

According to the Global Climate Strike

GRANVILLE

DOES RECYCLE

BY GAVIN ROBINSON ('20)

S Students Mackenzie Grunden, Sophia Dunkin, Chloe Dement, Nona Hunter, Faith Blankemeyer, Paige Grunden, Emily Gold, Penny Hunter, Lily Brown, Clinton Paulsen and Willow Heichel rally together in support of climate change. Photo courtesy of Allison Moore. website, a record number of people took to the streets to strike for climate action within governments. Approximately 7.6 million people joined, making it the biggest climate movement in history.

Many of the people who joined this protest were students who were excused from going to school in order to show their support without repercussions. The students’ main goal was to voice their frustrations.

“It’s frustrating to have so many people fighting for a topic that is proven, and still not seeing any change at a higher level,” said Chole DeMent, a senior who went to the strike.

This climate strike is not a one and done protest; the conversation continues to grow. No longer will climate change be background static, the volume is ever increasing as more people become aware and educated on the topic.

“The more the conversation grows and people talk about it, the stronger it becomes. If enough people start to shout, politicians have to listen,” senior Sophia Dunkin said.

Students from across the globe are uniting to halt the crisis that is an ever-growing problem. Help comes in

many forms, from spreading the word, writing to government officials and protesting.

Students can also get involved by being active on social media.

"Posting stuff on social media and making everyone aware, you can support politicians that you know have beliefs that are similar to yours,” Sabrina Kreig said. “Especially now since most of the seniors will be voting in the next presidential election. It’s important to stay educated so you can make that choice with your vote.”

The hope of the climate strike is to create a change from within the government. The thought is if enough people stand together, politicians will have to listen.

Although there are many way young people can stay active in the conversation, they say there are always obstacles to overcome.

“It’s kind of gotten to a point where the Baby Boomers are holding onto anti-climate change ideal," Kreig said.

Krieg is hopeful, however, that change will happen.

"Once we move into the position of power, things will change gradually.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE GLOBAL CLIMATE STRIKE: https://globalclimatestrike.net/ FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE NATIONAL WASTE & RECYCLING ASSOCIATION: https://wasterecycling.org/news/426888/NWRA-Celebrates-America-Recycles-Day.htm

tudents may have seen that the highschool’s waste bins are all dumped together into the same truck. Spawning countless rumors, some students now suggest the school merely pretends to recycle.

The truth is that the school employs a single stream recycling program. Single stream recycling is a program that allows different types of recyclables to be mixed together. In customer-sorted recycling, any cross contamination between two types of recyclables can lead to the whole batch being thrown out, or can even cause damage to the recycling facility.

The school’s single stream recycling is handled by the Waste Management facility in Canal Winchester, according to Account Manager Brooke Standley.

Waste Management allows plastic, metal cans, paper and cardboard to be mixed and handled by a sorting facility.

However, food waste can still irreversibly contaminate a batch of recycling if it leaches into the surrounding materials.

Items such as plastic grocery bags can also tangle machinery and slow down the sorting process.

Waste Management started its single stream program due to high levels of recycling contamination, according to a 2018 notice. Recycling contamination has become a critical issue as regulations on clean recycling have tightened.

The National Waste & Recycling Association states that 25 percent of the items taken in by recycling plants are unusable. If students become more conscious of what is placed in the recycling bin, the process of recycling can become much cleaner.

October 2019 9

SPORTS after losing 10 seniors from their 20 win squad a year ago. Key players on the team included senior libero Kylie Hamilton and junior hitters Gabby Black and Livi Wells.

They advanced to the district semifinal, where they fell to Utica.

BOYS’ SOCCER (10-9-1)

The football team takes the field against Lakewood. They are in position for a third consecutive playoff berth. Photo courtesy of Laura Atchinson.

FALL TEAMS CAPTURE SIX LEAGUE TITLES

BY ANDY HOBEN (‘20) FOOTBALL (8-1)

The football team is still in the hunt for a home playoff game after a loss to Licking Valley in the penultimate week of the regular season.

The Blue Aces have allowed just 71 points scored against them over the course of the season, and quarterback Bo Buttermore is among the area leaders in passing yardage.

The Aces take on Watkins on the road at 7 pm for their last game of the regular season.

GIRLS’ SOCCER (12-4-5)

The girls’ soccer team recently won their 6th straight LCL championship this season. They are led by seniors Alex Sokalik and Madelyn Vradenburg as well as all-Ohio juniors Karah Van Horn and Ella Rogers. They captured a district title in come-from-behind fashion over Big Walnut on the back of two goals by Rogers, and defeated Fairfield Union 6-0 to advance to the regional finals. They will play Norwayne on Saturday, Nov. 2.

BOYS’ XC

The boys’ team captured the LCL title yet again. Led by seniors Will Schieber and Rudy Bradley, the team placed second in two of

10 www.blueprintsonline.org

their regular season meets.

Schieber ran a team-best 16:38 5K in the first meet of the season. They secured the fifth qualifying spot for the Division I regionals in their district race and placed tenth in regionals.

GIRLS’ XC

The girls’ cross country team repeated as LCL champions. In the league race, three Granville runners finished in the top four, including winner Reilly Zink and her school record time of 17:56. The regular season included two team meet victories. They won their district and won in resounding fashion in the regional race, with Zink again taking first place and sophomore Regina Rose placing first. The state race will be ran on Nov. 10 at National Trail Raceway.

GIRLS’ TENNIS

The girls’ tennis team had a successful season while playing against some of the top Division 1 teams in the area this season. They wrapped up their season in the sectional tournament.

VOLLEYBALL (8-17)

The volleyball team is led by an exciting mix of experience and youth this season

The boys’ soccer team won their third straight Licking County League title. They are led by returning all-Ohio senior Silver Abraham and fellow seniors Andrew Lemert and Owen Pireu. The Aces won the district semi-finals against Bishop Watterson, with Abraham scoring four goals in the win. They fell to Columbus Academy in the final by a score of 1-0 in the district final.

BOYS’ GOLF

The Blue Aces boys’ golf team wrapped up league play in late September, capturing the LCL title for the second consecutive season. Led by first team all-league senior Casey Boch and Nick Hock and Nate Garman, the Aces finished top three in all four of their league matches. Boch shot a 76 in the sectional round of the postseason and qualified for districts.

GIRLS’ GOLF

The girls’ golf team finished their regular season with a top 3 finish at the LCL championships. They have been led by senior Madison Snipes who garnered first-team all-league recognition at the conclusion of the match. Their season concluded at the sectional tournament.

FIELD HOCKEY (7-10-1)

The field hockey team found success with an influx of new talent after losing 11 seniors from last year. Sophie Shaw, an all-Ohioan on the lacrosse field, led a group of seniors that includes to a 7-101 regular season record. They wrapped up their season in the second round of the playoffs with a loss to top-seeded Columbus Academy.

BY THE NUMBERS These Blue Aces have turned in great seasons in their respective sports so far.

Let’s look at their success by the numbers.

1,714

Passing yards by Bo Buttermore through eight weeks, which is top five in the area

4

Goals scored by senior Silver Abraham in the district semifinal against Bishop Watterson

14

The split, in seconds, for the boys’ cross country team’s best times, third best in all

6

Consecutive Licking County League titles for the girls’ soccer team

20

Digs that senior Kylie Hamilton had in the match against Heath, which put her in first place for single season digs in school volleyball history

GETTING TO KNOW...

MR. DEVOLL A NEW FACE, A NEW ACE

BY ANNA MIALKY (‘20)

W

hether it is cheering for Granville’s athletic teams, selling ticket stubs or mopping the gym floor during the pep rally, the high school’s new athletic director Josh DeVoll has displayed that he is up to take on any challenge he may face as the AD. Athletic director DeVoll takes on a new challenge as he begins his first year at Granville after six years as AD in other school districts. After replacing Kevin Jarrett, who retired last spring, DeVoll has already taken the initiative and made changes within the high school’s athletics.

DeVoll has a B.A. in American History from The Ohio State University, a Master’s in secondary education and teaching from Mount Vernon Nazarene University and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the Ohio Dominican University.

Before accepting his current position at the high school, Devoll worked as a Deputy Clerk, Director of Youth Athletics at Newark High School, a varsity assistant football and basketball coach for Newark City Schools, and a linkage coordinator. In addition, he was an official at OHSAA, a director of athletics at Columbus City School, an athletic director at Buckeye Valley Local School District and an athletic director at Westerville City Schools.

His varied experience stood out to the interview committee.

“He has a professional skill set that includes organization and effective communication.” high school Principal Matt Durst said. “His diverse experience in an urban, suburban and a more rural district gives him a well-rounded view of high school athletics.”

To DeVoll, sports are a way for young athletes to learn valuable life skills.

“Values such as discipline, determination and responsibility can be learned through many levels of sport,” DeVoll said. “Athletics instill self-confidence, teach leadership and goal-setting skills, and set a strong foundation for social and emotional well-being.”

After only a few short months, DeVoll has already created a favorable impression on the student athletes.

“Mr. DeVoll is taking steps in advancing Granville’s sports,” senior football and lacrosse player Jimmy Fisher said. “He has more of a focus on improving the brand of athletics and really cares about the students.”

In addition to working with student athletes, DeVoll is also responsible for other aspects of the athletic program. “[DeVoll is] working extensively on the new stadium project, planning with our Athletic Boosters for improvements to other facilities, and bringing a sense of together-

New Athletic Director Josh DeVoll stands at his desk working on a new website. This year, DeVoll has placed emphasis on social media and the athletic website in order to keep students and community members updated. Photo by Emily Gold. ness and camaraderie to the coaches” Durst said.

Although previous athletic director Kevin Jarett will be missed, many students are excited to have a new face representing Granville’s athletics and to experience a change of pace. His inclusive attitude and his ability to be a fan and a leader have allowed DeVoll to excel at his job and positively impact the high school. “[Josh DeVoll’s] fresh perspective as a relative ‘outsider’ to Granville Athletics has been extremely valuable because he is seeing everything we do in athletics for the first time” Durst said.

“My favorite part about being an athletic director is watching all our student-athletes compete on game day,” DeVoll said.

LIGHTNING ROUND Favorite sport?

Loves all sports Favorite sports team?

Ohio State Favorite pro sports athlete?

Any Browns or Cavs player Time spent working with athletes?

Most days 12 hours, some days; everyday closer to 15 October 2019 11

SPORTS STAR SPOTLIGHT

Zach Walsh catches a pass during the playoff game against Sheridan in 2018. Walsh garnered honorable mention all-Ohio accoldaes as a junior for the Blue Aces. Photo courtesy of Laura Atchinson.

WALSH PROVES KEY ROLE

BY MOLLY WILSON (‘20)

A

s the football playoffs are just around the corner, senior captain Zach Walsh is itching to go on a playoff run better than last year’s.

In his freshman year, Walsh made varsity at corner and kick returner. In his sophomore season, Walsh proved how he was key to the team’s success and has been starting on both offense and defense since.

“On offense Zach has been one of our leading receivers the past two years and has accounted for many big plays in our offense,” varsity football coach Justin Buttermore said. “Several times when we have needed a big play Zach has been the person to provide it.”

So far in his high school football career Walsh has racked up an impressive 100+ catches for 1830 receiving yards, 21 touchdowns, 4 interceptions, 4 fumble recoveries and 2 forced fumbles.

These stats show how vital Walsh has been to the success of Granville football, success that has been recognized.

“On special teams Zach has also made a significant impact as both a kick and punt returner,” Buttermore said. “He has returned one kickoff for a touchdown this season and has made several big punt returns on the season as well. Many of these plays he has done with a cast on his broken hand,” In just his sophomore year, Walsh made the 2nd team LCL and earned an honorable mention all-district. He upped the awards after his junior season making 1st team LCL, 1st team all-district, 1st team all-region and honorable mention all-Ohio.

“Zach plays defensive back and often defends the other teams best receiver,” Buttermore said. “Zach has been valuable not only as a pass defender but also a run stopper for us on the defensive side of the ball.”

The team aspect of football is what has kept Walsh’s energy for playing at a high and has urged him to continue to pursue football beyond the high school level. Football is the “ultimate team sport” in Walsh’s eyes.

“Everyone on the team has to do their individual job in order to help the entire team win,” Walsh said. “In all 11 players have to trust in each other to do what they are assigned to do.”

Buttermore affirms that one of Walsh’s greatest strengths is being a team player.

“Zach is a great practice player who not only works hard to make himself better but also helps coach our younger players on the fundamentals of being a great wide receiver and defensive back,” Buttermore said.

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HOBIES HOT TAKES GRASS PLAYING SURFACE BETTER THAN TURF With the announcement of the new stadium and synthetic at the field starting in 2020, it meant the end of an era for many of the outdoor sports at the school with the implementation of ANDY HOBEN a new playing surface. The turf surface is in many ways better and more logistical touse. However, as anyone who has ever called a grass field home, the feeling of running, sliding and falling on a natural surface is actually preferable to turf if the grass is in good shape. Many college and pro football teams still use well-manicured grass on their fields for this reason, and so while the new renovations to the field and stadium are much-needed and great for future players, the end of playing on a natural surface does have its drawbacks.

RED CARDS SHOULDN’T MEAN SUSPENSION One of the most polarizing penalties in sports is the red card in soccer, which warrants an automatic suspension for the player receiving the penalty as well as possible suspensions for future games. This rule has impacted the boys’ soccer team in two of the last three seasons at the playoff level, and is objectively a very heavy-handed and outdated disciplinary action to be taken on a player for an in-game penalty. In nearly every other sport, there is a sliding scale for penalties.

However, in soccer, all it takes is one hard tackle, one wrong glance at a referee, or one misplaced word and a player can be suspended for multiple games. This practice needs to end. While I am still in favor of a red card warranting an ejection, carrying the punishment into future games is unfair and counter-productive.

GIRLS XC TEAMS NEED MORE RESPECT Cross country is not a highly attended event by fans, making the visibility of a successful program somewhat difficult. Nonetheless the girls’ team has proven themselves perennially as one of the best in the state. After capturing the Division II state title in 2014, the girls’ have continued to stay competitive at the state level year in and year out, with a third place finish in 2018 and another top finish potentially on the way this year. The 2019 has already captured a district title on the back of standout senior Reilly Zink, who recently broke the school record for the 5K, and hope to bring another state title home to Granville. In a town where nearly every school sport is competitive, the girls’ cross country team can consider themselves one of the most dominant.

THREEPEAT?

GENERALS TAKE SHOT AT ANOTHER STATE TITLE

BY ANDY HOBEN (‘20)

A

bout ten minutes outside of Granville stands the Lou and Gib Reese Ice Arena, a rink that serves as the home ice for the Newark Generals club hockey team. Granville does not have its own hockey club or school team, so many Blue Aces over the years have taken their talents to Newark to play for the Generals, a team that has become competitive on the state and national level.

In fact, the 2017-18 Generals varsity team had a staggering 12 Granville seniors on the roster. The village of Granville has adopted the Newark Generals as their home hockey team, and with their influx of Granville talent they have found great success.

That 2017-18 team, led by leading scorers, dominated their league on their way to a state championship. After graduating many of their key players and hiring a new coach, the 2018-19 squad won a second consecutive state championship, advancing all the way to the national semifinals. Many key Granville players from those teams return for the 2019-20 season, and they have their sights set on another outstanding season.

“This years roster is full of players who have experience and will make an impact,” senior defenseman Tyler Dickerson said. “The key to our teams success this year will be remaining faceless and nameless, because we know we will be the team to beat.”

Having a “faceless and nameless” attitude is something that has become a part of the Newark Generals identity.

However, senior Nick Williams believes that their success has more to do with their gameplan than their intimidating reputation.

“It doesn’t matter who the team is or where they are from, the Generals will play with the same intense and fastpaced style that makes us who we are,” Williams said.

Fellow senior Jack Bortle harped on their strategy having a lot to do with the

The Newark Generals pose after winning the 2019 State Championship. Many key players returned this year, and they have their sights set on another title. Photo courtesy of Kris Bortle.

Generals recent success as well.

“We try to play very tight and structured defense. Our offense comes naturally if we play good defense because we are typically very skilled and disciplined.”

“This team has the tools to be better than my previous three teams,” Bortle said. “It’s just a matter of buying into what coach [Nate] Handrahan says and getting better every day.”

“This team is built on a core group of guys that have played with each other in previous years,” Dickerson explained.

“We all know each other’s tendencies and are able to benefit off of them. We all know where each player is on the ice at all times.”

The Granville players in the Generals organization have become a key element of the team’s chemistry, with most of the players on the team from the small village having known each other and spent time with each other for much of their lives.

“I’ve played in Newark my entire life, and the whole organization is like a family to me,” Bortle said. “Everybody from the varsity team to the youngest levels knows each other.”

Even for a player like Williams, who moved into the area before his junior year, thinks that the organization is special in many ways compared to teams he has been on before.

“I may have had some bigger or more skilled players than the Generals on my previous teams, but I wouldn’t trade any amount of talent for the chemistry and comradery that we have at Newark,” Williams said.

Mikey and Matt Chaykowski (‘23) will be a part of the upcoming varsity roster, and are no stranger to the success of the previous Generals squad, as the oldest

two of their three older brothers are state champions. Mikey, also a defenseman, has appreciated the experience of watching his two older brothers greatly.

“It’s been really fun watching Patrick and Nathan play for the Generals, and they both set big goals to win a state championship,” Mikey said, “And we hope to do the same.”

Nathan Chaykowski, thinks they will have the same success as his state championship teams.

“There are a lot of good skaters and defenseman coming up through the ranks,” Nathan said. “I think it should be a great year with the leadership coming back and I would expect nothing less than another ring.”

Aside from the family ties, Mikey Chaykowski can attribute his admiration for the Generals organization to its closeknit, hard-working atmosphere.

“One of the things I like most about playing for the Generals is that you can meet new people that live in the same county as you, and be coached by great coaches at all levels,” Mikey said. “The coaches all push you hard, and want you to become a physically and mentally tough hockey player.”

Whether it be through blood or through relationships built on and off the ice, the chemistry of the Newark Generals has been a key element to their recent success as they try for an unprecedented third-straight state championship.

“Winning back-to-back state championships was an unreal experience,” Nathan Chaykowski said. “Seeing my brothers bring home a third straight would be incredible.”

Nathan continued, “The Newark Generals are more than a hockey team. They are a family.”

October 2019 13

FEATURES

ADECKERCALL TO HELP FAMILY ADOPTS THIRD CHILD

BY LAUREN KIERNAN (‘20)

M

any people might not know that social studies and English teacher Dana Decker has adopted not only one child, but now three. Decker and her husband, David, have four children, three of whom were adopted and one who is their biological child.

The first time the Deckers decided together to go through with an adoption, it was because they had room. Their oldest two children were both adopted from the foster care system at ages seven and eight. “[We had] literal room, like a bedroom,” Decker said. “We had stable jobs, a good marriage and a good support system.”

Going through adoption can be tricky, not only for the child, but also for the adoptive parents, according to Decker. The first time through they were required to take a class in Columbus that lasted two hours twice a week and because this class was mandatory, her husband would have to take hours off of work to be able to go.

After these classes, the next step was a home study, meaning a social worker came in to study the Deckers’ house in

order to make sure the home was up to code. Each of them then had to have separate interviews with the social worker. “[It] took hours of discussing things that maybe my parents didn’t even know about my life,” Decker said. “It felt very personal. I’m a pretty private person and so it felt a little bit like my life was being opened up to the world.”

Years after they adopted their two older children, the Deckers had a biological child, Ainsley. Then, when Ainsley was a teenager, the Decker family decided that it was time to open their hearts and home to one more child. This time around her husband was the one who pushed harder to open their home.

When her husband brought it to her attention that he wanted to start thinking about fostering again, Decker said, “Do you remember how hard this was?”

Again, they had to go through the same classes, but this time it was in Newark and they were much more prepared because it was not their first time going through the process. It took about one year to get everything figured out and paperwork filled out; after already having this boy in their life for about a year and a half. They finalized the adoption on October 10, 2019.

Decker said the process of being an adoptive parent has been “the hardest thing [I’ve] ever done in [my] life.”

When a new child comes into a new home, a lot goes into making them comfortable. For Decker, her main priority was to create a sort of structure for the basic needs of the child.

“When do they need to go to bed? How many times a day do they brush their teeth? Where do they put their dirty clothes at the end of the day? Here is your room, here is the TV.” These are all things that Decker makes known when the child first comes into her home.

For example, the Deckers only drink soda on Fridays and on special occasions, but this young man came into their home with having soda on a regular basis. Within the first year of him being with them, he lost 30 pounds by just changing his soda intake.

For both the adoptive parents and the child, Decker said there are “adjustments to lifestyle differences.”

Decker and her husband felt that they were called to help these children. They were thinking of ways that they can help change the world and all the problems in it. Adoption was the answer. They had been blessed with a good life and stable jobs and can afford to help others.

“If you are given a lot, you are responsible for giving a lot.”

Decker said.

“[Adoption is] The hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life.”

The Decker family are all smiles after the adoption of their son was finalized. Jerimah, 11 became an official member of the Decker household as of Oct. 10, 2019. Photo courtesy of Dana Decker.

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BACK IN SEASON:

Photos by Sarah Carpenter and Emily Gold

TRENDS MAKING A COMBACK

BY SARAH CARPENTER (‘20)

Contrary to the craze of tighter and form-fitting clothes of the early 2000s, it seems that comfort is back in style with the comeback of loose, large shirts. Commonly seen paired with leggings, baggy shirts are more user-friendly than their tighter counterparts.

Once only worn for working out, spandex has evolved to becoming an everyday outfit. People have started wearing spandex, biker shorts and leggings on an everyday occasion. They have become a specific style and people are buying them on purpose to wear them as an outfit and not only underneath dresses.

A major comeback recently has been jeans will rolled cuffs. Both boys and girls have started rolling up their jeans as a daily style.

In the late 80s and early 90s, high-waisted and baggy jeans were all the rage and quickly became a major trend. Now known as “mom jeans,” they have many different colors and styles and are a staple in most girls’ closets.

The popular shoe brand Vans was big in the 80s. More recently, Vans have made a big comeback, and are now some of the most worn shoes among high schoolers.

Known for their unique style and bright colors, Vans are pefect for skaters, students and everyone in between.

Originally popular in the 90s, scrunchies have made a comeback and are a trademark piece of the ‘VSCO girl’ style. Although intended to hold up hair, scrunchies are just as likely to be found around wrists, and are commonly used as a soft, cute bracelet.

The iconic 90s pattern is back and better than ever with the return of the plaid.

Although most commonly seen on winter flannels, the plaid pattern is also used on shirts, skirts, jackets and shoes, and is quickly becoming a staple in popular culture.

Denim jackets have made a huge comeback. Oversized and ripped denim jackets are now back in popular fashion culture.

With the help of social media, Vans, scrunchies, mom jeans and many other trends have become a staple in the daily outfits of high school students.

October 2019 15

ENTERTAINMENT

THE CLOWN E PRINCE OF CRIME

Heath Ledger’s performance of the Joker took “The Dark Knight” to a whole new level. His performance is just one of many memorable performances of the Clown Prince of Crime. Artwork by Abby Hoben.

A GUIDE TO THE BEST PORTRAYAL OF BATMAN’s ARCH NEMESIS

16 www.blueprintsonline.org

BY NICHOLAS WILLIAMS (‘20) ver since his debut in the first issue of “Batman” nearly eighty years ago, the Joker has been the object of analysis as well as speculation. His story is clouded in mystery, making all guesses in regards to the Joker’s history just that: a guess. Many comic book writers, animators, screenwriters, directors, and actors have all put in their take as to how they think the Joker should be portrayed, and as the versions of the iconic comic book villain evolved over time, there have been some that stand above the rest. Here, we go back in time to the most famous versions of the Joker to compare and contrast how each version differs from the rest.

CESAR ROMERO “Batman” (1966-1968)

Back when “in color” was still something to brag about when presenting a show on television, the original “Batman” series is one of the most parodied series of all time.

Out of all the Joker renditions, this one is by far the goofiest, with the Joker, played wonderfully by Cesar Romero, acting as if he is a prankster rather than a legitimate criminal. His personality does not qualify as “insane” but instead takes a more flamboyant tone, perfect for showcasing his hilarious presentation and silly demeanor. The successive portrayals of the Joker would take increasingly dramatic steps towards being more crazy and serving as an agent

timeline of chaos rather than merely an annoyance.

JACK NICHOLSON “Batman” (1989)

In Tim Burton’s rendition of the Batman story, he employs the talents of Jack Nicholson.

For fans of Nicholson, it is not difficult to see that he did not try to become someone else when playing the Joker, instead he just acts as a more dramatic version of himself.

The entire movie has more of a hammy, goofy tone to it which, in turn, effects how Nicholson played the Joker.

In contrast to the renditions of the Joker perhaps more familiar with our generation (such as Ledger, Leto, and Phoenix) this version strikes a different chord, one that may seem cheesy to some and genuine to others.

MARK HAMILL “Batman: The Animated Series” (1992 - 1995)

For many kids that grew up in the ‘90s, this series holds a special place in their hearts, for it molded their idea of The Caped Crusader, creating the iconic Batman moments that fans all know and love.

With these iconic moments comes Mark Hamill’s archetypal portrayal of the Joker.

The laugh, the look, the style, everything screams Batman’s arch-nemesis. It would not be a stretch to say that without the success of this series and the well-received rendition of the Joker, we would not have the versions of Batman that we have today.

HEATH LEDGER “The Dark Knight” (2008)

There is nothing I can say about this movie that hasn’t already been said a million times before. The story, direction, cinematography, score, etc. are all feats of the film industry and all have been analyzed to their

utmost potential by anyone with a brain cell. However, the one thing that everyone remembers from Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece is Heath Ledger’s legendary portrayal of the Joker. There is a saying in storytelling that goes something like “your story is only as good as your villain” and there are few examples better suited to support this idea than The Dark Knight, for the hero’s character arc is directly related to the villain’s actions. Everything that the Joker does in this film is done so that Batman can grow from the hero the city needs to the hero the city deserves, where he can finally become the Dark Knight. The villain, and the movie, would have been great, even without Ledger, but his performance took the movie to a whole new level and delivered the best performance modern cinema has ever seen.

JOAQUIN PHOENIX “Joker” (2019)

While other reincarnations of the Joker have shown him at his peak of power, with henchmen, money and connections, “Joker” elects to instead take a look at how Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) came to gain all that he has been shown to have so many times. This film is easily the best character study of the Joker, for it shows Fleck go from “Clown-for-Rent” to struggling stand-up comic to killer then finally proud leader of the people. The transformation process is a disturbing experience, a process that director Todd Philips clearly took care in crafting. Every scene feels like it adds something even more petrifying to Fleck’s psyche, the cumulation of which build up and eventually result in the transition of Arthur Fleck into the Joker, a transition that is brought to life via the Oscar-worthy performance from

Joaquin Phoenix. However, the brilliant execution of each scene would be stranded without Hildur Guðnadóttir’s haunting score. The Icelandic composer expertly conveys the perfect tone and emotion for every scene, adding even further to the distress and chaos that Fleck is going through. At this time it seems appropriate to mention the soundtrack choices. There are many songs used very appropriately, such as Frank Sinatra’s “Send in the Clowns” and Cream’s “White Room”.

However, the implementation of these songs is not the problem, it’s tonal shifts that they suggest. Sinatra’s jazz and swing style of music is a drastic change when juxtaposed with the rock n’ roll styles of Cream. In light of all that the movie got right, this misguided decision can be overlooked, but not forgotten.

While most superhero movies nowadays are brushed off as run-of-the-mill action films, “Joker” shares nothing in common with them, for his film has a message that it is not afraid to share, utilizing every opportunity possible to get it across.

However, this strength also feeds into one of the biggest drawbacks: how surface level the theme is. It is very clear to the audience that “Joker” is about how unaccepting our society is to those that are different (this idea is taken to the extreme but the point is made nonetheless). This is not necessarily a bad thing but a little subtlety to the film would have been appreciated. Ultimately, “Joker” is a breath of fresh air when it comes to the superhero genre, with its stellar acting, unique score, and clear directorial presence.

Expect this movie to make a push for wins in multiple Oscar categories this awards season.

“Batman” - TV Show (1966) “Batman” - Film (1989) “Batman: The Animated Series” (1992) “Batman: Mask of the Phantasm” (1993) “The New Batman Adventures” (1997) “Justice League” (2001) “The Batman” (2004) “The Dark Knight” (2008) “Batman: The Brave and the Bold” (2008) “Batman: The Killing Joke” (2016) “Suicide Squad” (2016) “Justice League Action” (2016) “The Lego Batman Movie” (2017) “Joker” (2019) “Harley Quinn” (2019)

October 2019 17

18 www.blueprintsonline.org

Photo illustration by Kennedy Ogden Photo used with permission by Eleanor Male

SHEMAR CHILDS ASPIRES TO INSPIRE

BY KENNEDY OGDEN (‘21)

S

enior Christian Rogers is nothing but himself, whether it is wearing a flashy outfit or dancing through the halls.

But he expresses himself mostly through his music, by telling his story, sending a message to people or simply just making music for his followers to enjoy.

Rogers, known as Shemar Childs in the music community, publishes his music on Spotify, Apple Music, Soundcloud and iTunes. Rogers has produced three singles and one album titled Shemar.

Since that album was produced, Rogers has begun the process of being scouted by RCA. Originally from Corpus Christi, Texas, Rogers moved here about two years ago from Cleveland. While in Granville, Rogers has made large strides in his music career and his life.

“Everything I like went through or some kind of experience was what motivated or something that you know I could feel,” Rogers said. “I could put down on a pencil and paper and just like go from there.”

Rogers started writing music at a young age. He recalled the first lyrics he wrote at age 11, the night he tried his first malt milkshake: “Up in the sky, you look like a fly you make me wanna cry with your big fat eye now don’t be a snitch.” looking like a bleep.”

For a short time, Rogers lived with a military sergeant and his family. While bonding over the style of Rick Ross, an American rapper from Minnesota, the sergeant said that he believed Christian could be a rapper. After that Rogers’ music career was born.

When Rogers started his music persona, he was known as Yvng Rose. His intention with the letter “v” was to make his name more unique than just Yung Rose. As his music career progressed, his name evolved into Yung Rose because he believed the letter “v” was corny over time.

When Rogers dropped his debut album Shemar, which is inspired by life experiences, he decided that Shemar Childs had a closer meaning to his life so he changed his name.

In June, Rogers found out that he was being scouted by the Radio Corporation of America (RCA). He heard the great news on his way back to Ohio after a trip to Michigan. Rogers had received word that Sideline Sports and Culture, a D.C. based media organization, had written a feature on his new album Shemar.

Shortly after that, he received an email from an official RCA employee explaining how they scope out up and coming artists under aliases to match and promote their growth for possible future deals.

“They have a bunch of people or employees from their work of area and then Spotify or whatever who view my stuff and make sure I’m active and actually, like, good,” Rogers explained. “But also I’m true to my sound you know, they see you as an outcast and are like ‘Hey, dude. Keep an eye on that person.’”

Through this process, all of Rogers’ music was put under the copyright of RCA. Although the album was completely produced by Rogers and other collaborating artists, RCA copyrighted the album to prevent other artists from using his tracks, name and lyrics. The RCA employee that is scouting Rogers makes sure that no one is using his material.

Roger’s finished his second album titled “Child’s Play.” It was released in late October. This album will feature new material that goes back to what Rogers originally started producing. The style of the album will also stick to his high-spirited rare distinct beat.

Rogers credits his experiences for his success. “[I’m a] foster kid who went through a lot of life experiences, but who now my roads lead me to where I am now to have a lot of opportunities and open arms to run in.”

October 2019 19

Calendar

ENTERTAINMENT

“GET SMART”

“Get Smart” stars Cian McDermott and Mckenna Fuhrman smile before their first rehearsal in costume. Photo by Anna Mialky.

On the

NOVEMBER 7 Music Concert Spooky Steel Skeleton HIGH SCHOOL THEATER AT 7:00PM GHS Band’s Fall Blue Steel group is putting on a jazzy Halloween themed show!

Their spooky music directed by Krumm and featuring Granville’s Steel Drum group is sure to be entertaining and worth your while.

NOVEMBER 9 Music/Shopping Craft Show TIME AND IN THE HIGH SCHOOL COMMONS Be sure not to miss the annual craft show hosted by the Granville Music Program!

There will be a number of homeade crafts available to browse and purchase. In addition, you can see student performances by the Blue Steel, vocal and instrumental soloists and ensembles, and student readings of children’s books.

NOVEMBER 16

Your guide to Granville’s Winter entertainment.

BY ANNA MIALKY (‘20) Photo by Emily Gold.

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Music Concert Marching Band Indoor Concert: Disney Dystopia HIGH SCHOOL THEATER AT 3PM Come support Granville’s marching band as they end their season with a Disney themed concert. It will include several songs from their seaon such as “Play That Funky Music,” “No Roots,” and “Trashin the Lamp” which is a combonation of “Trashin the Camp” and “Friend Like Me.” In addition, the band will recognize their seniors as they finish their journey as members of the GHS Marching Band. Be sure to come out and support the Marching Band in their last show of the season!

NOVEMBER 29, NOVEMBER 30, AND DECEMBER 1 Ballet “The Nutcracker” MIDDLAND THEATER NOV 29 AT 8:00PM, NOV 30 AT 2:30PM and 8:00PM, and DEC 1 AT 2:30 Don’t miss the Middland’s annual holiday tradition The Nutcracker by The Central Ohio Youth Ballet. Tickets range from $14-$24. Don’t miss the stunning performance featuring local student dancers.

NOVEMBER 2 AND 3 Fall Show HIGH SCHOOL THEATER AT 7:00PM Come see Drama Club’s hilarious and family-friendly production of “Get Smart.”

The comedic mystery directed by Sara Sharp, Stephanie Stanton, and technically advised by Tim Stanton will be sure to impress. The production stars seniors Cian McDermott as Maxwell Smart, Cole McDermott as Mr. Big, Mckenna Fuhrman as Agent 99, and Matthew Steele as Chief.

DECEMBER 7 Holiday Event Candlelight Walking Tour DOWNTOWN GRANVILLE FROM 1:00PM9:00PM Granville’s 34th annual Walking Tour is back again for another day of fun! Enjoy a horse carriage ride, music at the local churches, events hosted by downtown buisnesses, delicious food at stands or unique resteraunts, or shop at Granville’s shops. The Candlelight Walking Tour will be a night to remember.

DECEMBER 11 AND 12 Music Concert Holiday Concert HIGH SCHOOL THEATER AT 7:30PM All music groups will come together for one entertaining concert filled with holiday fun.

The annual show consists of performances by the choir, orchestra and band.