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BLUEPRINTS GRANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL • GRANVILLE, OHIO • MARCH 2017 • VOL. 7 ISSUE 4

Mental Illness: The face behind the mask

Uncovering the truth about the problems many face

Inside:

Rachel Lilly rallies Granville in helping fellow girls overseas Other Prom offers safe haven for all students Competition cheerleading wins first place at states Hunter fiddles her way to NYC’s Carnegie Hall blueprintsonline.org

Letter from the Editor

Photo courtesy of Anna Minton Wherever you look, it is clear to see that spring has sprung in Granville. And here at BluePrints, we are gearing up for one of the best Spring Breaks yet. In this issue of BluePrints, we talk about some of the tell tale signs of spring in Granville High School: Prom. Read about the new prom trends this year, along with the plans for making After Prom bigger than ever. You can also learn about the Baseball team’s $200,000 donation, and how the team plans to use this generous gift. Another thing almost synonymous with springtime is jam packed schedules. Between AP testing, end of year course exams, and conflicting music schedules, it’s a wonder students haven’t torn all their hair out already. In this issue, we take a look at the busy spring time schedule, and what goes into coordinating all of these activities. While the end of the year can be stressful, we at BluePrints believe that it is important to take care of yourself in

the midst of all the chaos. Take a look at our in depth report of the different types of mental illness, and the truth behind the stigmas. Despite all of the stress, we at BluePrints are excited for the upcoming spring. We invite you all to celebrate the end of school year, and all that this time brings. 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.

BLUEPRINTS STAFF

editor in chief Anna Minton

management editor Morgan Prachar

news editor Hannah Dear

sports editor Justin Thompson

opinion editor Carsten Savage

entertainment editor Emma Naille

features editor Daniel Brnjic

social media editor Megan Coffey

photography editor Dustin Braden

staff

Anna Minton Editor-in-Chief

Sydney Bednarski Ashlyn Brockway Mackenzie Chesrown Sam Dunham Mackenna Finley Jordan Gummere Karissa Harris Ava Kunar Lexi Marelli Hannah Musick Jake Purdy Elijah Smith Chris Volzke Riley Vradenburg Cortez Yannie

adviser Mrs. Amy Tolbert

online

blueprintsonline.org

2 March 2017

CONTENTS BLUEPRINTS • March 2017

OPINION

4 Stigmatization of mental illness is dangerous for victims 5 Working slowly and steady each day keeps senioritis at bay 5 Other prom offers safe haven for all students 6 Senioritis ravages the Global Scholars program 7 Thanking Rachael Shoemaker

NEWS

8 April Weekend becomes scheduling nightmare 8 Rachel Lilly rallies Granville in helping fellow girls overseas 9 Students plan for annual YG conference 9 Senior lounge recieves dramatic makeover 10 Mental Illness: The face behind the mask

SPORTS

13 Spring sports quiz 14 NBA races near the finish line 14 College basketball roundup: freshman frenzy wrecks havoc 15 Baseball team recieves $200,000 donation 15 Competition cheerleading wins first place at states 15 Standing Ovation

FEATURES

16 Hunter fiddles her way to NYC’s Carnegie Hall 16 Prom Committee plans for After Prom this upcoming year 17 Prom 101: How to prepare for the big event

ENTERTAINMENT

ON OUR COVER Rachel Lilly rallies Granville in helping fellow girls overseas 8 Other Prom offers safe haven for all students 5 Competition cheerleading wins first place at states 15 Hunter fiddles her way to NYC’s Carnegie Hall 16

BLUEPRINTS GRANVILLE HIGH SCHOOL • GRANVILLE, OHIO • MARCH 2017 • VOL. 7 ISSUE 4

Mental Illness: The face behind the mask

Uncovering the truth about the problems many face

Inside:

Rachel Lilly rallies Granville in helping fellow girls across seas Other Prom offers safe haven for all students Competition cheerleading wins first place at states Hunter fiddles her way to NYC’s Carnegie Hall

18 “9-5” fights sexism in the workplace 18 It’s time to be a man: Easter 19 How I would have done it: “Batman v. Superman” 20 “Before I Fall” movie adaptation promises drama 20 Easter treats to make this season blueprintsonline.org

Opinion

Stigmatization of mental illness is dangerous for victims

STAFF EDITORIAL eing a high school student is not without its challenges. Today’s teenagers juggle school, sports, extracurricular activities, part time jobs and countless other demanding commitments. For some the troubles do not stop there. Many teenagers struggle with another added pressure: mental illness. Mental illness is defined as a disorder that affects mood, thinking and behavior, and can take on many forms. In any case, mental illness is a heavy load to bare, especially as a young adult. One of the aspects accompanying mental illness that is most challenging to overcome is stigma, or the preconceived notions and negative stereotypes associated with these psychological disorders. Stigma can be debilitating to victims, and often prevents them from seeking the proper medical attention. These stereotypes are dangerous and need to be combatted, and the best way to do that is correct this misinformation and address these specific examples of stereotype. This preconceived idea that mental illness is not a real illness is very much alive in today’s society. Instead of legitimizing it as a true medical complication, it is pushed aside as nothing but a figment of the imagination. It can come from the general public, or the victims themselves as a self-inflicted stigma. This notion could not be further from the truth. Mental illness often stems from an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. With the proper medical attention, patients can have their neurological state improved if not completely remedied; however, because of this preconceived idea, those who suffer from mental disorders are often too ashamed to seek help. This stigma takes a fixable problem and leaves it unsolved. Too often, victims of mental illness are portrayed by the media as criminally disturbed. This is almost always not the case. Despite what the TV shows and movies might lead others to believe, those suffering from mental illness are very rarely dangerous. All too often they are able to hide their mental illnesses to a point not only where no one can identify their struggle, but also where no one can help

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them. This stigma is dangerous, not those who fall victim to it. In addition, people who have mental illnesses are blamed as being responsible for their condition. As I previously noted, mental illness can more often than not be explained on a neurological level. These illnesses are not self-inflicted. They are problems that people can spend their entire lives running from. Victims of mental illness are no more responsible for their condition than someone with a broken arm or cancer. Perhaps the most dangerous of theses stigmas is that there is no treatment for mental illness, and the loudest source of this stigma may come from within the victims’ minds. All too often people with mental disorders suffer in silence believing they have nowhere to turn and no hope for a brighter future. They sit quietly and fight wars with their own minds, and

listen to all these stereotypes and negative voices crashing down on them. This does not have to be the case. Although there isn’t always a cure, there are treatments to combat symptoms, alleviate moods, and make life more enjoyable. There is no need to suffer in silence. Stigma is all around us. It is in the streets we walk through, and the programs we watch. It even finds its home in our own minds. However, these hazardous viewpoints are easily contested if only we stay informed and aware. When we make the decision to fight against ignorance, we make the choice to fight for all those suffering from mental illness. It is time people stop passively accepting the so-called “truths” that society claims of mental illness. It is time to start questioning the validity of these dangerous fallacies and time to start seeking the facts behind the issue. And today is the day to start.

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.

Working slow and steady each Other Prom offers a safe day keeps senioritis at bay haven for all students he common sentiment around the coun-

try is that eleventh grade is the most challenging year academically, while twelfth grade is lighter in course load but full of college applications and scholarships to complete. As a current senior, however, I’ve learned that—depending on the classes—a THE SAVAGE’S senior’s academics can be the most rigorous JUDGMENT and time-consuming of high school. Many students take calculus, AP Statistics, AP Psychology, AP English, AP languages and AP history. On top of this, we have a ten-page research paper to finish by April 17 and a senior project as well. As college decisions trickle in and many of us decide where we will go, how do we keep ourselves motivated to finish the year strong? First, we must work hard but make sure to never overwork ourselves. If we’re afraid of getting senioritis in the spring, we will probably put in too much effort, and this will only ensure that we burn out later in the semester; we realize that the strain we are putting on ourselves is unnecessary, and we adopt a lackadaisical attitude as a result. What we need is stamina. Stay motivated by doing one or two fun activities each day after school instead of doing nothing but homework, and make sure to spend time doing family activities and hobbies on the weekend. If we seem to have no time to relax, we must make time. Make sacrifices to keep school breaks relaxing and free from work. Bingeing the research paper over spring break will make us bitter that we invested all our time in homework during our last high school vacation. If we save all our homework for senior skip day—a time to slack off—we will feel as if we overworked ourselves when we shouldn’t have and will be more prone to burning out. Instead, we might try taking our work slow and steady; we should finish a page of our research paper each weekend so that we can relax during spring break and make it memorable, and should keep on top of our late work to prevent it from piling up and overwhelming us. By overworking ourselves during breaks, we make up for that lost time during school weeks and become the stereotypical lazy seniors. Keep expectations for academic performance reasonable. If we strive to get all A+’s second semester to blow colleges away with final year grades, we will be putting too much stress on ourselves. There’s no reason to do that at this point in our high school careers. We must always strive to do our best, but if our best is a B, we should accept it. Few colleges would rescind an offer of admission because our statistics grade dropped from an A- to a B-. We should put in enough effort that our colleges of choice don’t question our work ethic, but we can’t wear ourselves out by unnecessary pressure and become lazy the rest of the semester. Stamina is key. Keep motivated by having a little fun even during the most school-intensive days. Avoid tarnishing vacations with homework and huge projects and tackle them over the course of a few weekends instead. We have classes, college applications, scholarships, a research paper and a senior project, and many students—those in AP Environmental or Global Scholars—have additional projects. Work hard, but do whatever it takes to keep afloat.

BY MACKENNA FINLEY (‘17) STAFF MEMBER rom season is quickly approaching and the minds of high school students everywhere are being flooded with the same manic worries as they do every year, from finding the perfect dress to finding the perfect date. However, for some teens this time of year is accompanied by much heavier choices. These teens are worried about whether or not their parents will let them leave with their date. They are worried about administration preventing them from entering the dance together. They are worried about cruelty and even violence from their peers. Prom should be a time of fun and dancing, not fear and hiding, but for LGBTQ students this is not the reality they are living. Year after year news stories pour out about schools refusing entrance to same sex couples, or transgender students being physically or verbally assaulted by their classmates for the attire they have chosen to wear. Year after year, while others dance the night away, LGBTQ students are left in fear, hurt, and even bitter regret for the prom night that was taken away from them. No high school student should hurt because of who they love or how they express themselves. No one should hurt like that. According the Kaleidoscope Youth Center official webpage, the organization responsible for putting on the event, “Other Prom is a free alternative prom for LGBTQ youth ages 12-20 and their allies,” and takes place at Wexner Performing Arts Center. The purpose of the event is to offer the school dance experience to those who are excluded from their own prom by whatever circumstances. The dance is drug and alcohol free, and people are encouraged to wear whatever they wish to from formal wear to super hero costumes. “Dress to express,” the website says underneath the description of the event. The openness of Other Prom allows gender nonconforming teens a venue to express themselves in their attire without fear of judgment or hate. This all-inclusive event promotes community amongst the LGBTQ teens, as well as allies, allowing everyone to feel safe and protected. Other Prom, and events like it, should not be necessary. No one should be denied access to a high school rite of passage like prom because of who their chosen date is, or the clothes they wear. No child, teen, or adult deserves to suffer for their sexual or gender identity. Perhaps one day they will not need to exist, but it is out of necessity that Kaleidoscope Youth Center hosts this prom every year. The date for Other Prom 2017 has yet to be set, but in years past it has taken place in late May. Teens can expect the date to be announced soon.

“Prom should be a time of fun and dancing, not fear and hiding.”

blueprintsonline.org

Hurricane Senioritis ravages earth. (BluePrints Photo Illustration/ Carsten Savage and Dustin Braden)

Senioritis ravages the Global Scholars program BY JUSTIN THOMPSON (‘17) AND DANIEL BRNJIC (‘17) SPORTS EDITOR AND FEATURES EDITOR would like to begin by saying that the Global Scholars program was one of the most rewarding and important programs in which I participated in high school. This program focused on international issues and perspectives. It prepared me for today’s world, which is becoming smaller than ever. The three years I spent doing extra work were absolutely worth the time and effort. The program definitely prepared me for my future career in our interconnected world. As our senior year was coming to an end we were presented with a new Global Scholars project that drove multiple students out of the program. Senior year is full of long-term projects; the research paper and senior project are both massive assignments that take up a lot of time.

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This Global Scholars project focused on community service at the local level. The goal is for students to be passionate about the project, and to continue it even after they graduate from high school. The idea sounds good in theory, but in practice the project lacks practicality. For seniors burdened by work, this just adds to the unnecessary stress of senior year. At this point in the school year most seniors already know where they will be attending college. Some students picked projects like saving the local snapping turtle population. While we have war crimes in Syria, ISIS threatening innocent people in Iraq, children dying in Yemen, China threatening free trade in the South China Sea, Iran testing nuclear weapons, North Korea doing God knows what, are we really worrying about local issues? Granville students live in a bubble and do not understand the dark world around them. Focusing on local problems only

perpetuates the arrogance of the Granville student. The hope is that students will pick a problem they will be passionate about and continue the project after graduation, but I doubt I’ll make it home to save a snapping turtle. So the long-term goal of this program is pure fiction. The stresses of senior year are caused by two main projects: The research paper, and the senior project. This senior project already has an international focus. Every student is put into a group and assigned a country. For example, my group and I are focusing on Somalia. If this sounds like a Global Studies project, you would be correct. This project was inspired by the Global Scholars program. So why do Global Scholars’s students have to do two projects that are very similar? Seniors who know where they are continuing their education in the fall do not need the stress of a third major project when they should be trying to enjoy their last days in this lovely bubble we call Granville. If we do the Global Scholars project, we should be completely exempted from the senior project. The Global Scholars project rivals the senior project in scope; the two are different in various ways, but both require roughly the same amount of effort. By doing only the Global Scholars project, we would be doing the same amount of work as students who are not in the program. Those who are getting the Global Scholars Diploma deserve to do extra work, but we’ve been doing extra work for Global Scholars all throughout high school. There’s no reason to overload us with a redundant assignment right before we graduate. Our withdrawal from the Global Scholars program is only because of our own lack of willingness to do extra work that seems unnecessary. If students are passionate about local issues, I commend them. They are better people than I! It is my belief that the Global Scholars program should focus on how we can improve international problems. Join the Environmental Club if you want to save snapping turtles, and if you want to improve race relations go be a community organizer or a cop who encourages change. My point is that it is redundant for GLOBAL SCHOLARS to focus on local problems. That defeats the entire point of one of the most beneficial programs offered at the high school.

Thanking Rachael Shomaker BY EMMA NAILLE (‘18) ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR achael Shomaker is a senior and four sport athlete who cheers for the football, basketball and competition teams and also runs track in the spring. She joined the varsity cheerleading squad her freshman year during basketball season and has since led the team, consistently receiving MVP for all three seasons. Shomaker is an incredibly talented athlete. She is known for her tumbling and jumping abilities, and for good reason. Shomaker has had a full, one of the most advanced skills school cheerleaders can perform, since her 8th grade year. Shomaker also has had the “last pass” in the competition routine since her sophomore year. In cheerleading, the “last pass” is the last running tumbling done in the first part of the routine and is the most difficult tumbling in the routine. Shomaker’s pass is one of the most advanced of the competition team’s division. She does a roundoff back handspring arabian into a roundoff back handspring full. Shomaker also performed a standing full, the most difficult skill Granville cheerleading has ever competed, her sophomore and junior year. Before competition season, cheerleading camp is an opportunity for the cheerleaders to start performing and winning awards and is the one of few opportunities for the cheerleaders to win individual awards. At the last UCA cheer camp at The Ohio State University, Shomaker won the standing tuck competition by doing around 30-40 standing tucks one after another,

more than anyone else at the camp. Before this she also won the handstand contest, displaying her strength by staying in a handstand the longest. Shomaker also won the “jump off,” which she has won for the last six years, by performing a triple toe touch tuck. At camp, Shomaker has also made the All-American team several times. According to Varsity, the organization that owns UCA, out of thousands of those who try out, only 10% make it. To make All-American, cheerleaders are judged on their dance ability, jumps, motions and leadership skills. All-American is a prestigious team where cheerleaders have the opportunity to cheer in a Thanksgiving parade, receive a medal and a certificate. Underclassmen are invited to be in a parade in Philadelphia and upperclassmen are invited to be in a parade in London. At her last camp, Shomaker was also one of a few senior cheerleaders who were recruited by UCA to become a camp staffer, which she plans on pursuing as a summer job. During her four seasons on the competition team, Shomaker helped her team win several competitions. The most prestigious ones include OAC state, the OSU competition and OASSA state. Shomaker also lead her team to a fifth place finish at the National High School Cheerleading Competition this past February. Though Rachael is obviously incredibly talented, she is truly so much more than her talent. She is kind and funny, motivated and inspirational, competitive and yet still humble. Shomaker’s humility is what makes her unique. Despite being, inargu-

“Kids care, so fantastic!”

How often do readers wear makeup?

Cheri Bregel on Karissa Hariss’s “Winter Formal dance raises $1200 for Lou Woods Foundation.”

Rachael Shomaker and Emma Naille hold a trophy together. (Photo courtesy of Carley Naille) ably, the most talented cheerleader Granville has ever had, she is also probably the most humble. She never brags and I can say with confidence that she works harder than anyone else. Shomaker is a leader. She fits the role of a cheerleader perfectly and is a supporter of not only the football and basketball teams, but of all the other cheerleaders as well. Rachael is not only a great role model, but a great friend. Her humor and silliness makes her so fun to be around and her humility in the face of such talent makes her someone to look up to. I am so glad I had the opportunity to be her teammate and her friend. Because of her complete dedication to Granville Cheerleading for the past four years, her encouraging leadership and her loyal friendship, Rachael Shomaker deserves to be recognized. So thank you, Rachael, for all that you have done for the cheerleading program and all that you have done for me.

50%

Percentage of readers who said they.wear makeup every day.

Percentage of readers who said they only wear makeup on weekends.

Percentage of readers who said they.only wear makeup for special occasions.

36%

Percentage of readers who said they never wear makeup. BluePrints Twitter Poll

“Just another holiday to scam men for their money.” Kyle Zies (‘16) on the poll “How do you feel about Valentine’s Day?” blueprintsonline.org

News

Rachel Lilly rallies Granville to help fellow girls overseas BY KENZIE CHESROWN (‘18) he community is lucky to have the necessary products required for everyday life. In other cities, states, and countries, this cannot be said. The Global Scholar Program is full of great opportunities to make a real impact on the world. “The Level 2 Global Scholars Take-Action project requires students to select an issue that they are passionate about and identify a need that they could address with that issue,” teacher Jeremy Hopping said. Their newest project has sparked an interest in junior Rachel Lilly. “I believe that this project is valuable in that it requires the students to go beyond the hypothetical,” Hopping said. Lilly has chosen to aid girls in getting feminine products. They will come in the form of care packages that include a hand decorated form of reusable period protection. “Its through Days for Girls which works to better health and education standards for girls in impoverished countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America,” Lilly said.

Days for Girls reports that after kits “One of the major fundraisers is partnerwere distributed, school absence rates for ing with Breathe Yoga in granville to have girls significantly dropped in places like a glow yoga class that’ll have proceeds Kenya, Uganda and even in Queens, NY, go toward supplies for the organization,” USA. Lilly said. “The organization’s main purpose is Lilly is going above and beyond in her to supply the girls with these kits so that efforts and trying to create a big support they can maintain proper health while still system. attending school,” Lilly said. “At Whit’s we will have a special sunShe is prepared to put as much time and dae for a week called the ‘Days for Girls energy into this project that’s needed. Sundae,’ and money from that will be “For my project I’m raising money in a donated,” Lilly said. ton of different ways. I’m making and selling bath bombs, starting a GoFundMe and holding a drive for supplies that are used to assemble the kits,” Lilly said. Lilly plans to get as many people as possible on board. “I plan to talk to the principles of the high school, middle school, and intermediate school about having a hat day fundraiser,” Lilly said. Lilly chose to create a unique sundae to raise money This project is open to for her Global Scholars project. One dollar from every anyone who can lend a helping hand and strives to create sundae will be donated to this cause. (BluePrints photo/ Hannah Dear) change.

April weekend becomes scheduling nightmare planned at the statehouse on the aforementioned weekend; only two weekends were available for this event, and the alternative dates conflicted with Spring break. The band has their state contest set for that weekend and the musical premiers the following weekend meaning all day tech rehearsal is scheduled for Monday, April 24th. The event causing the largest conflict is Prom at the Bryn Du Field House. With all of these events competing for the students time, the questions and complaints from students were to be expected. “It really is a number of variables competing together,” Principal Matt Durst said. “It results in a pretty challenging balance.” Prom is the only factor The chaotic scheduling in April results in overlapping that administrators at GHS activities. (BluePrints photo/ Hannah Dear) BY MORGAN PRACHAR (‘17) outh in Government, music contests, Prom - oh my. The weekend of April 22-24 has become a weekend of conflicts for students involved in many activities. Youth in Government has an outing

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have a say in, but all events came up a bit too late. “I’m not sure if they [the students] understand how far in advance we plan Prom dates.” Durst said. Durst made it clear that Prom was not planned with these activities in mind, but instead the other events were scheduled on top of Prom. All day tech rehearsal has been moved to the Monday after Prom instead of its usual Saturday date. “It’s a fun little rubix cube to be honest with you,” Durst said. “It used to be that having prom in April was great, but now seems like the back end of April and the beginning of May is actually some of the busiest four weeks of school.” The students do receive a break during spring break and also a four day weekend April 14 to April 17 to celebrate good friday. With the school year ending earlier than it did in the past student schedules are getting much busier at the end of the year.

Students plan for annual YG Conference

believe in.” BY KENZIE CHESROWN (‘18) jobs of actual senators. After the weekend I had a new understanding of what I Youth in Government is a program that very year a group of students believe in and what I don’t.” has been growing ever since its establishtravel to Columbus to be a part of Bills can be whatever one pair chooses. ment. something bigger. “I’m currently working on a bill with “It started off way smaller than it Youth in Government (YG) is a promy partner about integrating foreign is today,” junior Taylor Ryan said, “I gram where students can create a bill with languages earlier in the school system,” began YG my 8th grade year through the a partner, or choose to be a part of the Lilly said. YMCA. This is my fourth year, and we judicial branch and fight for or against or They can range from changes in the continue to bring in more students interestfor a case. school system into those of everyday life. ed in the experience. It honestly is a lot of It is held at the end of April and students “My partner and I plan to make our fun and I recommend it to anyone looking are assigned hotel rooms near the state for a greater understanding of the state house. house and wants to have a weekend full No matter what political party one is of memories.” for, YG offers an opportunity for new YG involves a dance, formal clothes memories and a greater understanding and a couple days in the state house. of the lawmaking system. “We take over the thing,” junior “YG conference is one of my favorite Mitchell Miekle said, “It’s super cool times of the year,” junior Lily Rogers and anyone with room in their schedule said. “We work all year on creating and should try to fit it in.” practicing bills and cases to change YG usually holds meetings during ohio legislation. We then present to the late arrival mornings once or so a rest of our other ohio YG members to month. debate and vote on them at the ohio Members of Youth and Government debate their state house in april. It’s really awesome bills in front of a mock congress. (BluePrints photo/ To anyone who has an interest in understanding the law making system, to see everyone’s hard work pay off Megan Coffey) or looking for a fun and interactive club, when the bills and cases pass in commitbill involving free swimming lessons to YG holds many admirable aspects. tee and in debate on the house or senate children under a certain age,” junior Annie “The amount friendships you make floor.” Penland said. through this conference is so heartYG is for anyone, not just those who Bills are potential laws that hopeful warming,” Rogers said. “Everyone is so have a heavy background on politics. students create with the idea of bettering supportive, kind and will be your friend “I went into this club my freshman year society. for a lifetime. going to the conference and without really being into politics,” junior “I think it’s a great program,” junior seeing all your old friends and making Rachel Lilly said. “You spend two nights Ethan Shaw said, “It gives students a new friends is so fun and such a great and a day in Columbus, and there are all voice so they can communicate what they experience.” kinds of real life situations that mirror the

Senior lounge receives a dramatic makeover have also started to attract more seniors to BY JORDAN GUMMERE (‘17) it. There are no more couches with tears he torn, dirty and gross couches and chairs of the senior lounge are and stuffing coming out, or food and trash no more. This year’s student council presidents were able to arrange for new couches, while Mathieu Holt, a senior involved with tech design and building helped finish the tables started last year. They planned out everything they wanted and thought was needed in the senior lounge in order to please seniors. “I think the senior lounge is much more inclusive of more seniors which is The new tables and couches create a great place what we were going for,” senior Teddy Parsley said. “But there can definitely be for seniors to study. (BluePrints photo/ Dustin improvements like maybe a microwave Braden) or Keurig.” tucked into the cracks. There is more room The improvements of the senior lounge

for seniors to get their work done at the high tables whilst also relaxing in the nice new couches. “It’s much better than it was before. It’s not gross,” senior Spencer Kruse-Melfi said. “Maybe I will sit in there more.” The new improvements have not only attracted more seniors, but also allowed more room for the increased number of them. Seniors have many group projects they are working on such as the Senior Project, or Jim Reding’s AP Environmental Science Take-Action projects. “I think the couches in the senior lounge are very comfortable and give us more room so we can have the new tables,” senior Carley Barrett said. “I feel as though the new tables give us seniors a workplace to actually get work done.” blueprintsonline.org

Mental Illness: The face behind the mask How stigmas and misconeptions about mental disorders hide the truth about the students affected BluePrints Photo/ Morgan Prachar

10 March 2017

BY MORGAN PRACHAR (‘17) AND MACKENNA FINLEY (‘17)

ental illnesses have become more common to see in teens, but a lot of information still remains unknown to many. The National Alliance of Mental Illness states that one in five children ages 13- 18 currently have or will have a mental illness. With suicide raising to the third leading cause of death in individuals ages 10-24, raising awareness and education is becoming imperative. Half of the mental illness cases often begin by age 14 according to The National Alliance of Mental Illness. “A lot of mental health concerns do come up in high school that we may not have noticed in elementary school” School psychologist Mariah Koons said. As teens are growing up and are changing, many symptoms become more visible. “I don’t know that I’d say it’s increasing, but really I think we are identifying it more often,” Koons said. Ms. Koons feels that the severity of mental illnesses in Granville students is more concerning than the number of students fighting mental illness.

A look inside the illnesses Depression is one of the most common mental disorders and the leading cause of disabilities in individuals starting at age 15 in the United States, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Granville Psychologist Dr. Mackenzie Peterson finds it’s important to differentiate between depression and sadness. “Clinic Depression is different from sadness because it begins to negatively impact the person’s life,” Peterson said. Sadness is a normal human experience as a reaction to difficult obstacles in life and usually passes with time. When an individual battles depression, it begins to interfere with their daily life. There are three main types of depressive disorders including; major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder. According to I Need a Lighthouse, a depression and suicide awareness program, about 20% of teenagers will suffer depression before they reach adulthood with numbers like these, it is reckless, irresponsible, and

immoral to ignore the silent of struggle of those with mental illnesses like depression. Like depression, anxiety is normalized by emotions that are common place. The feeling of being anxious is one of the most familiar feelings across all of the human race. Worry and fear are strangers to no one. However, it is important to understand the difference between being anxious and having an anxiety disorder. “ When worry and anxious feelings begin to negatively effect your life this can be an Anxiety Disorder,” Peterson said. “Anxiety Disorders cause worry that feels uncontrollable and overwhelming to the person.” Anxiety disorders are characterized by worry, fear, and distress that consume the life of victims and inhibit their normal functioning. Statistics from The National Alliance for Mental Illness show that most victims of anxiety are under the age of 21, and that women are 60% more likely to develop the disorders than men. Anxiety disorders are not only painful, but debilitating, and despite the hardships faced by those suffering anxiety is continuously written off as normal fear or worry. This reckless disregard for the illness is only perpetuating a culture in which anxiety can grow and conquer the lives of victims. Obsessive- Compulsive Disorder is another disorder that has been stigmatized and belittled in today’s culture. OCD is a neurobiological disorder that affects the way the brain functions and the serotonin levels in the brain. Despite common belief, OCD is not just liking things to be tidy but intrusive thoughts and compulsions that differ from individual to individual. According to WSPS, about 21% of individuals suffering obsessive compulsive disorder will notice symptoms by the time they are fifteen. Those with OCD begin to create rituals that they need to repeat, family members and friends may feel that they can help by doing these rituals but doing the rituals will not “cure” OCD. Because OCD is a neurobiological disorder, not getting help can be detrimental to an individual’s daily life, CBT or cognitive behavioral therapy can help gain relief from the thoughts and symptoms, exposure therapy and habit reversal training are also common to help ease the symptoms. Similarly to the aforementioned mental illnesses, societal norms have heavy hand in the development and perception of eating disorders. It seems that we live

in an age where everyone’s on a diet and gym memberships are more common than library cards. This environment makes it hard to discern when dieting turns to disorder. Eating disorders are all too common, yet each person’s experience is unique. “There are many causes for eating disorders and each persons cause, symptoms, and recovery are all individual to them,” Peterson said. According to the National Alliance for Mental Illness, 1 in 20 people will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their life, making this one of the United States’ most common mental health concerns. So with all the potential harm eating disorders can cause, it’s important to be able to differentiate between healthy diet and exercise, and a possible disorder. NAMI also states that one of the early signs of an eating disorder, and perhaps the most defining of the signs, is the constant obsession with food consumption and weight that has developed to a point at which it impedes on everyday life. If you or someone you know is constantly counting calories, or purging themselves of food, it is time to seek help. Aside from anxiety, depression, OCD, and eating disorders, there are less common mental illnesses that plague the minds of teenagers and adults alike. It is normal for people to feel anxious or have times of sadness in their lives, but some feel overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression and extreme mood swings. Bipolar disorder is less commonly known as manic depressive illness. Severe changes in behavior and mood are two major symptoms of bipolar disorder, individuals experience times of extreme joy as well as depression and sometimes they will occur together in a mixed state. Bipolar 1 is the most common form of the illness where an individual will experience recurring episodes of mania and depression. Bipolar 2 disorder does not include extreme mania but will experience hypomania that alternates with depression. Without seeking help, the risk of suicide becomes greater. Individuals with bipolar disorder can begin medication, treatment or a combination of both. As with other mental illnesses, bipolar disorder can also be overcome. Post traumatic stress disorder is another of these lesser noted mental illnesses within the youth population. The illness is most commonly associated with war veterans. However, though PTSD is not uncommon amongst those who fought for blueprintsonline.org

our freedom, the disorder is not exclusive to veterans. The National Center for PTSD claims that people of all ages can develop PTSD. PTSD occurs when the body’s natural response to trauma causes damage to the brain’s response system. As a result, PTSD is characterized by severe avoidance, dissociation, intrusive memories, and hyper vigilance. Events that lead to PTSD can range from house fires to abuse. However, regardless of how or why the disorder was developed, it is important that those suffering understand that there is help available, and treatment is not out of the question.

Make a change Mental illnesses should be taken seriously, each individual will experience different symptoms and different severity with each illness. Having a mental illness makes daily activities more difficult just as a physical illness is, both should be handled in similar ways. One of the greatest dangers in the face of mental illness is looking away. Although these illnesses are not visible and are not always accompanied by physical symptoms it is important that they be

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treated as the legitimate illnesses they are. Do not look away. Do not ignore these symptoms as being everyday occurrences. To do not belittle the struggle of victims by attempting to normalize their strife. Reach out, seek help, and make a change in the war against mental illness. Remember when trying to help your loved ones work through mental illness, it is not something that should be taken into your own hands. The best way to help them is most often finding them professional help. “Be supportive and get them professional help,” Peterson said. Students can talk to school staff if they are struggling with mental illness. Teachers, administration, school psychologist, and any of the counselors are available to talk to students and help refer them to get the help they need. “The staff are very supportive and respectful of students’ privacy and take it seriously” Koons said. Reaching out to individuals suffering from mental illness is the first step to getting help. A doctor can refer the person to different psychologist or psychiatrist depending on which they feel is better suited for that individual’s needs. The national suicide prevention helpline can be reached at (1-800-273-8255), trained crisis

workers are available to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In an emergency that is potentially life threatening individuals should call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.

Sports

Spring Sports Quiz

How well do you know these spring athletes?

BY JUSTIN THOMPSON (‘17)

QUESTION 1

b.) This spring their QUESTION 3 will be ten seniors Which returning playing tennis

d.) Twenty-two seniors are trying out for the tennis team this season.

QUESTION 2 Which senior football player is also playing lacrosse serving as the JV goalie? a.) Alex Eckels: Stocky senior whose cat-like reflexes make him an ideal goalie. b.) Mathieu Holt: Competitive senior who embraces getting hit. Known for his acrobatic saves in goal.

a.) Thomas Patton: Hard working senior who is known for his closing speed. b.) Jack McGonagle: Competitive junior runner with long strides. c.) Jonny Lukins: A graceful gazelle of a runner who covers a lot of ground with every step. d,) Dustin Braden: Coaches have told Dustin that he often looks like a “salamander running on a treadmill”.

Who is the hardest hitter on the boys lacrosse team?

pitcher has the lowest ERA?

a.) Clay Piatt: Senior flamethrower has a cannon for an arm. b.) Parker Tietz: Senior pitcher who relies on exceptional placement on the mound. c.) Justin Carson: Junior pitcher who pitches his best in big games. d.) Sean Bossart: Junior pitcher who is known for his curveball.

QUESTION 4

How many freshman are playing softball this season? a.) Zero, there are no freshman on this years team. b.) Nine freshman will be a part of the softball team this season. c.) Twelve freshman are on this years team.

QUESTION 5

QUESTION 6

a.) Penny Hunter: Nimble freshman who likes to start fast.

a.) Raleigh Conway: Lanky junior who has plenty of momentum on his serve.

b.) Natalie Price: Senior runner who is committed to Indiana University to run track.

b.) John Puronode: Senior skyscraper whose serves comes from a uniquely high angle.

c.) Ciahnna Winston: Energetic senior known for her blazing speed and determination.

c.) Duncan Penland: Experienced senior with a knack for perfect placement on his serve.

Who broke the state record in the 60 yard dash?

Which tennis player has the fastest serve?

a.) David Parkinson: The former offensive lineman is playing lacrosse for the first time QUESTION 7 this year. His build How many seniors makes him a likely is the girls lacrosse candidate for this team replacing? spot. a.) The girls lacrosse team doesn’t b.) Thomas Krock: have to replace any A tall and well seniors from last built senior whose years team. muscles makes him b.) The team has to a deadly hit man. replace six seniors from last season. c.) Nate Miller: Athletic junior who c.) Ten seniors need to be replaced from loves to deliver big last seasons team. hits. d.) With eleven girls on the field at once, the team needs to replace a whole teams worth of seniors

d.) Paul Crock: Tall and lanky junior who is normally on the giving end of a big hit.

QUESTION 10

Which baseball player is mostly likely to hit a home run? a.) Nate Stone: Athletic sophomore has impressed with his power in scrimmages. A threat to take one out every time he steps to the plate. b.) Jake Peterson: One half of the deadly duo of twins. His quick swing and high exit velocity give his hits four-bagger capabilities c.) Jack Peterson: The other half of the twin combo. An experienced senior who has the timing and the picture-perfect swing to hit a tape measure blast during any at-bat. d.) Brandon Anderson: A behemoth of a senior whose raw power gives him the ability to hit home runs at a high clip.

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Photo Credits: Justin Thompson and Dustin Braden

c.) David Parkinson: A world class athlete who has the hand eye coordination to stop nearly any shot.

QUESTION 8

Answers: 1-B, 2-C, 3-C, 4-B, 5-B, 6-B, 7-D, 8-C, 9-C, 10-A

a.) Five seniors are on the tennis team this season.

c.) Fifteen seniors are on this years team.

Question 9

Who is the fastest runner on the track team?

How many seniors are on the boys tennis team?

NBA races near the finish line BY ELIJAH SMITH (‘18) he NBA All-Star Break just passed a few weeks ago, and now most fans are looking forward to how their team will fare the rest of the season. In the West the favorites are the SMITTY’S Golden State Warriors, SPORTS but many people are forgetting about the omnipresent Spurs. The Spurs are only 3 games back from first place in the west, sitting at 52-14. Kawhi Leonard and Lamarcus Aldridge could be a problematic duo against the Warriors in the Playoffs. There is no question that the Warriors are favorites in the West. Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant, and Draymond Green were all on the West All Star lineup. With Kevin Durant recently going down with a knee injury, it opens up the west a little bit more until he is healthy. PREDICTION: Western Conference Champion- Golden State Warriors (If they don’t blow a 3-1 lead). In the East things have gotten interesting. The Dominant Cleveland Cavaliers have slowed down and the Boston Celtics have sped up. The Celtics are lead by 5 foot 9 Isiah Thomas, who is averaging 29.2 points a game. More importantly they have one of the best coaches in the league, Brad Stevens needs to continue to emphasize defense first, if the Celtics want to upset the Cavs in the playoffs. Of course the world champion Cleveland Cavaliers are favorites to repeat. Lebron and Kyrie are the most dynamic tag team in the NBA. Deron Williams has provided valuable veteran savviness and Kyle Korver is instant offense off the bench. If Lebron has anything to say about it, no one is stopping the Cavs from another Eastern Conference Championship. PREDICTION: Eastern Conference Champion- Cleveland Cavaliers (If Lebron and Kyrie step on the floor)

14 March 2017

College basketball roundup: Freshman frenzy wreaks havoc BY SAM DUNHAM (‘17) ut what really defines a season of college basketball? While March Madness certainly has the box office appeal, the 68-team tournament is just that: Madness. So much so that the entire regular season hardly seems to matter come tourney time. There are simply so many variables that play into these games that nearly anything can happen, which is why this humongous bracket of college teams is so entertaining in the first place. However, it is perhaps time to think back on how all of these teams got here in the first place. The NCAA tournament may have all the flair and drama, but the regular season is when players become stars and teams become champions. There seems to be a certain stigma in college basketball these days that the recent influx of “one-and-done” players (athletes who play one year in college then go pro) is a bad thing. While the glamorization of these teenage talents definitely has some cons, there is no doubt that this season, they have benefited the game in a big way. Freshman talents create interesting storylines when their brash play is juxtaposed against the more mature style of seniors. Going into this season, there was a lot of hype surrounding this year’s recruiting class, some claiming it was the best in 10 years. This claim may be incorrect however. This could quite possibly be the greatest recruiting class in decades. While it may be too early to assign any titles, there is no doubt that this group of freshmen have taken over this year’s college basketball. Duke and Kentucky, as always, pulled in immense talent, with Malik Monk from UK leading the pack as SEC Freshman of the Year and First-Team All SEC. Jayson Tatum from Duke proved to be their star freshman as he served as their number two scorer behind Luke Kennard. De’Aaron Fox and Bam Adebayo also made SEC all-honors for Kentucky and Harry Giles and Frank Jackson for Duke were both highly touted freshman as well. Perhaps the two most dynamic freshmen came from out west in the PAC-12, with Lonzo

Ball from UCLA and Markelle Fultz from Washington. Ball led the nation in assists while Fultz was the sixth-highest scorer in the country. Both players could potentially be drafted first and second in the 2017 NBA Draft. Some other outstanding performers in their first year were dynamic point guard Dennis Smith Jr. from North Carolina State, Josh Jackson from Kansas, a do-it-all forward with a unique skillset, and Miles Bridges from Michigan State, a freak athlete with a game-changing ability. This year in college basketball, what has been another exciting aspect of the game is the amount of talent at the top. While last season there were only a few times that stayed at the peak of the rankings for most of the year, this year there have been nearly 10 teams vying for a top spot, with just as many in the next tier down looking to work their way up. While Villanova, Kansas, North Carolina, and Gonzaga earned the number seeds in this year’s tournament, there were many other teams that were maybe one game away. Three teams out west in UCLA, Arizona, and Oregon all garnered two or three seeds and ended the season in the top 10. Kentucky as well, who dominated the SEC all year, spent the season consistently in the top 10 powered by their dynamic freshmen class. Speaking of great freshmen classes, Duke was a team that struggled early and gained its footing in the late season and ended up winning the ACC by making an improbable run through the conference tournament and winning four games in as many days. This lack of disparity at the top of the power rankings is what makes this college basketball season, and the ensuing NCAA tournament, so exciting. While in other leagues such as the NFL, not having dominant teams can make the game boring, this is not the case in college basketball. Quite simply, the more competition, the more talent, the more great games, the better the season is overall. With talented frehsman around the country being coupled with savvy veterans, games are simply more fn to watch this season. Almost any major conference team can beat any other on any given day. Buckle up, march will surely be madness this year.

Standing Ovation Highlighting winter sport’s top athletes BY JUSTIN THOMPSON (‘17) New facilities will soon be added to the baseball complex. A batting cage as well as a locker room will be located adjacent to the field. (BluePrints Photo/ Justin Thompson)

Baseball team receives $200,000 donation BY JUSTIN THOMPSON (‘17) he baseball team will be upgrading their facilities thanks to the help of a generous donor. New facilities will be added next to the baseball fields following the end of the upcoming season, thanks to the anonymous two hundred thousand dollar donation according to senior first baseman TJ Carney-DeBord. Two new batting cages, a new pitching facility and a locker room will be added. The new complex will be a significant upgrade over the current facilities and players are expectedly excited. Despite his upcoming graduation, senior outfielder Jake Peterson is excited about what the donation means for the future of

the program “I’ll be able to come back and use the cages after I graduate so it’s kind of bittersweet,” Peterson said. Junior Grant Foster said, “It’s great for all of the young players coming up through the program. The alternative training facility is the Newark YMCA so it’s a nice upgrade for the team.” Additionally, the team set a record for money raised through the annual mulch sale. they sold more than $14,000 worth of mulch, breaking the previous record of $11,500, according to sophomore Nate Stone. Thanks to their own hard work and a large donation, the baseball team is lucky enough to have new facilities on the way.

Cheerleaders place first at states BY KENZIE CHESROWN (‘18) n March 5th the competition team made school history by placing first at states. This was accomplished through endless hours of practice of the dance, cheer, and tumbling passes “Our choreographer, AJ, is the best,” junior Melissa Murphy said. “He has always given us a routine that tests our limits which we eventually work up the stamina to perfect.” The competition girls started practice the summer before school, all in hopes of receiving the state's trophy. “This is the first time that the Granville cheerleading program has won OASSA states,” junior Riley Vradenburg said. “It’s amazing to get to share this experience with my team and I’m super proud of all of them.”

A few weeks prior the girls just competed in Florida for Nationals as well. “This was a great year for the team,” junior Ava Kunar said, “It was full of a lot of opportunities.” There were 17 other teams at the state competition. “Nothing compares to that feeling when 2nd place is called out and you don't hear your name,” Vradenburg said. “That's when you know you won, and we all went crazy. Pretty sure everyone cried.” The girls are proud of each other and are overjoyed about their achievements. “The rest of the day after we won, it didn't even feel real! I had to keep reminding myself that we were state champs because I couldn't believe it,” sophomore Georgia Bain said. The competition cheerleading team etched their place in school history.

Rowan Moore: Moore swam the 100 yeard breaststroke in under a minute at states, earning him a ninth place finish Competition Cheerleading: The competition cheerleading team won the state competition and placed fifth at nationals. Mathieu Holt: Senior Mathieu Holt wrestled six times at the state meet. He placed sixth in the 182 pound weight class. Natalie Price: The senior runner and Indiana University commit set a new state record by completing the 60 meter dash in 7.55 seconds. blueprintsonline.org

Features

Hunter fiddles her way to NYC’s Carnegie Hall BY MEGAN COFFEY (‘18) ophomore Ceridwyn Hunter recently got the opportunity to play in an orchestra comprised of high school musicians from all over the world. This exceptional group of students were invited to play at Carnegie Hall. Hunter has been playing the violin for many years and was excited to get this opportunity. According to Hunter, she was nominated by a teacher and had to submit a recording of her playing an excerpt from a piece of music. She then waited for her results. “Students from across the world submit a recording of an excerpt that is given,”

said Hunter. The finalists then met in New York City to practice and perform together, and even have a little fun getting to see the town. “The actual event was three days long” said Hunter. “Everyone in the orchestra meet up in New York City.” The group of high school musicians then spent two days touring New York and practicing for at least eight hours a day. “The people I met were just fantastic” said Hunter. On the last day they ran through the pieces and had the performance. “It was amazing.” said Hunter “It was one of the best opportunities I’ve had in my life.”

Ceridwyn Hunter and fellow student musicians have fun in New York City. (Photo Courtesy of Ceridwyn Hunter)

Prom committee plans for After Prom this upcoming year BY ASHLYN BROCKWAY (17’) fter Prom occurs after the dance, but is a tradition of the past. After Prom is a tradition where a few students plan a few activities and where it should take place. The class officers and the prom committee are planning the event. In previous years After Prom has cost a ton. The committee isn’t sure about the exact amount they ended up spending, but they knew it was more than what it needed to be. The reason After Prom used to cost so much is that they would get a bus and take the kids to sky zone or laser craze. Unfortunately, they spent a lot of money and only about three kids showed up to participate. Once the class officers decided to switch After Prom to the high school gym they realized they saved close to $1,000 and also had 95 students show up. They had a much better turn out last year and didn’t spend nearly as much money. Lily Mattimoe who was in charge of the

16 March 2017

After Prom last year said, “I’m not sure what the After Prom is going to look like this year, but we were all really happy with the turnout for last year’s After Prom.” “Another thing to note is that the school has to provide a safe After Prom alternative, but it’s up to the junior class officers

“The class officers and prom committee have spent hours trying to plan out the After Prom” or prom committee what type of After Prom they have” Mattimoe said. Kate Plaugher is the one who will be in charge of the planning of prom and After Prom this year. They have decided to run things a little differently and have the junior class officers help plan this event. Plaugher said “We’re still trying to figure out what exactly After Prom will

consist of but we’re looking for ideas to help increase the number of participants to make for a fun After Prom.” While After Prom has been a tradition for Granville, not many students tend to go. The class officers and prom committee have spent hours trying to plan out the After Prom and making it as fun as possible where students will want to show up. Travis Wollenberg who is a senior said “To be honest I have never been to the After Prom that this school throws.” Wollenberg said. “I think it looks fun I just have never been that interested to go because my friends never wanted to.” While 95 students showed up to last years After Prom the junior class officers are only looking to increase that number and have more student participation. If anyone has any suggestions Kate Plaugher would love to hear them as they want as many students to show up as possible.

Prom 101: How to prepare for the big event BY LEXI MARELLI (‘18) whole day of nothing but makeovers- hair, nails, makeup, and dresses make up the day of Prom. Most girls say their favorite part of high school dances is getting ready. It is always exciting to decide between a black dress or a blue one, an up-do or a down-do, and even deciding what makeup and shoes to wear. The entire day of Prom is usually taken up with last minute things before the dance. There are many decisions to be made: getting acrylic nails or gel, or deciding what flowers to put in the boutonniere or corsage. Getting ready for Prom can look very different for each student. “This year I am going to do an up-do” junior Melissa Murphy said. “I have done down-dos and I wanted to switch it up,” Other students have experimented with hairstyles at previous dances, and like to stick with one style. “I want my hair half up half down,” junior Grace Petryk said. “Just recently I put my hair half up half down for winter formal and I liked it a lot,” Up-dos tend to be a little bit more complex, and some students like to keep things simpler. “I will probably just leave my hair down and curl it,” junior Christina Harrison said. Another thing students do when preparing for a dance is makeup. Some girls like

to stick with what they know and do their own makeup, however others like to go all out when it comes to school dances.

Megan Coffey and Kassie Kozlowski show off their finished prom looks. (Photo Courtesy of Teresa Coffey)

“I am getting my makeup done by the person who did it for my senior pictures through the Kent Smith program,” Petryk said. Other girls do not like the idea of a pricey makeover, but also do not want to do it themselves. “I don’t want to pay money for someone to do my makeup, so I will probably just ask one of my friends if they would do it,” Harrison said. There are many other things that make prom preparation so special. One of these things is getting a manicure, pedicure or both. “I usually like to get acrylics for Prom and Homecoming,” Murphy said. With all of these appointments, it can be hard finding the right time to schedule all of them. “I think the best times for appointments are hair at around one, makeup at around four, and you can do nails anytime in-between,” junior Maura Masterson said. Whether you have three different appointments or choose to do your own hair, makeup and nails, the day of Prom is usually a bit stressful, but worth it in the end. “It’s a very busy day, but makes for a really fun night,” Masterson said.

Graphics by Ava Kunar

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Entertainment

‘9-5’ fights sexism in the workplace

It’s time to be a man: Easter BY CHRIS VOLZKE (‘17) uys, believe it or not, Easter is one of my favorite holidays. Now I wouldn’t say it’s the manliest of holidays, TIME TO BE but I still think it’s A MAN fun. Something about going over to the grandparent’s house and finding eggs filled with money and candy just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside. Trust me guys, if I can find a way to make Easter manly and fun, then so can you. First thing to do on Easter is to get up and get dressed. On Easter, I usually rock the pink button up or polo with some navy-blue khakis. Maybe throw on the new Nike’s and maybe a nice flat cap. If you don’t own a nice flat cap, check out Harris Tweed, they made some really nice hats. Now that you got the perfect Easter outfit, the next step is to go to church. Church is one of the essential parts of Easter, even if you never actually go. That’s where the whole family gets together and afterwards everyone goes to lunch. Then you got to hide the baskets. Easter is a holiday where it is still nice to give out little gifts, and you have to cleverly put them in a basket and then hide that basket super well. Maybe your parents got you a few things and decided to hide a basket of your own. When looking for the basket, please do not ask for hot and cold (when people tell you if you are getting hotter or colder in terms of distance to your basket.) You’re a grown man, and no matter how well they hid it, you will find it on your own, unaided. That’s no better than when they do the same thing for your baby cousin. Man up and find the basket on your own. I know it may be hard to find and take you forever, but hold onto your pride and find that basket. Easter is an interesting holiday. There aren’t really any special foods or anything, but you can still make it a great success and a manly holiday nonetheless.

The script of the theater’s next musical, “9-5.” Rehearsals for the musical have already begun in preparation for opening night next month. (Blueprints Photo/Emma Naille) BY EMMA NAILLE (‘18) he theater recently wrapped up their production “Almost Maine”, a whimsical story about love and turning points in people’s lives. The next show is a musical that tackles much more serious themes. “9-5” focuses on a the female perspective in a male-dominated workplace through three main characters. “9 to 5 is about three women overcoming sexism in the office,” said junior Kate Plaugher. “All three women have different incidents and struggles while trying to fight back against their misogynistic boss.” Rutherford said there are 35 people in the show, with four leads. Judy is a new secretary and will be played by Anna Minton. Rowan Sharkey was cast to play Violet, one of the older secretaries. Doralee is a southern belle played by Kate Plaugher and Frank, the boss of the office, will be played by Rick Duffus, according to Olivia Rutherford. Rutherford plays Missy Hart “the wife of the male lead, Frank.” Rutherford said she is “looking forward to the big hair, costumes, and the overall sound that we will have when the pit instruments come together with the singers.” “9-5” was originally a movie that starred Dolly Parton as Doralee Rhodes, the character Kate Plaugher has been cast for. “She is a secretary in the office who is often underestimated and looked past because she is a stereotypical ‘dumb blonde,’ Plaugher said. “However her character is much deeper than that. She wants to be seen as more than ‘a pretty face’ and she

18 March 2017

works so hard to prove to her counterparts that she is capable.” Plaugher said she likes that Doralee is a fun character to portray because she is witty and “has sharp humor and good comebacks.” Sophomore Anna Dunham is also in the musical. “I’m in the ensemble which means I’m gonna be one of the secretaries in the office,” said Dunham. She said the show is a lot of fun so far, specifically the music. “I’m really excited about all the singing,” said Dunham. “There’s a lot of harmonies that sound really cool and it’s very upbeat music.” Rutherford said she prefers the show “because it really brings the story to a new level and brings it to life in a way that can’t usually be depicted on screen.” Dunham has also seen the movie and says the plot is the same but that it “doesn’t have singing and the specific plot is a little different.” This production will be student directed by Mackenna Finley along with Drama teacher Sara Sharp. The theater students have already started working on the show and started rehearsing on February 27. Opening night will be April 28 at 7 p.m. and the second show is the following night at the same time. “This show has so many great musical numbers and all of my cast-mates are incredibly talented; I can’t wait to see what they do with this show” said Plaugher.

How I would have done it: ‘Batman v Superman’

“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” came out in theaters on March 25, 2016. It starred Henry Cavill as Superman and Ben Affleck as Batman. (Photo: Warner Bros) them fight, rather than Lex Luthor creto get rid of both Batman and Superman BY CHRIS VOLZKE (‘17) ating a terribly designed Doomsday that because he is in business with the Russian ere we are once again, a movie nobody liked. At this point Batman has mob that Batman has been steadily taking that could have been so good if a deep-rooted hatred for Superman, but out. it wasn’t so bad. Zack Snyder he isn’t just going to go kill him because Lex kidnaps Superman’s mom, Martha, was given everything that he needed to that is against his moral code. He does and brands her with the famous Batman make a great movie and he let us all down. continue to go after the Russian mob and logo. He then ties her up, and strangles her But, to be fair, it isn’t all his fault. DC is labeled as a terrorist. Superman, being to death. Superman, knowing how much should have known that he wasn’t the best a hater of terrorists, decides to come after Batman hates him, believes that Batman choice to direct this movie. So let’s get Batman. could have done this out of rage. this over with, here is how I would have Batman and Superman get into a conSuperman now goes after Batman in done it. frontation where, obviously, Superman fury and is going to hill him. However, I, surprisingly enough, would have kept physically dominates Batman. Batman Batman has received the kryptonite from the cast. I thought Ben Affleck’s Batman calls Superman a hypocrite because he Lex and can fight back this time. was the best part of the movie and I really has destroyed so many lives from his fight So, Batman cripples Superman and enjoyed it. Henry Cavill is not anywhere with Zod. Superman, in Batman’s eyes, is brings him down to his level, and Batman near as good as Ben Affleck but at this the real terrorist. Batman, realizing that he just destroys him. In his final moments, point I think he is the best we got. He at himself can’t defeat Superman, decides to Batman takes the spear of kryptonite and least looks like Superman. I can’t make a meet with Lex Luthor. stabs Superman through the chest, killing judgment call on Gal Gadot yet but, so far, Lex Luthor has publicly been an anhim. I like what I’ve seen. As far as a bad guy ti-Superman advocate for a while, and he Lex Luthor realizes that Batman was goes, I think people give Jesse Eisenhas thousands of people that believe him. a little more formidable than he thought, berg too much crap, I don’t think it was Now Bruce has always known that Lex because he assumed that him and Superentirely his fault that his character wasn’t hasn’t always been 100% on the side of man would kill each other. Batman, after that good, it was more the writers’ fault. the law, but he decides to ignore that fact defeating Superman, goes after Lex. Lex But enough about actors, let’s get into the due to his hatred for Superman. So, Lex of course is unprepared and Batman takes story. pulls the wool over his eyes, and tells him him down. Superman needs to be painted as the that he can get his hands on some krypBruce, realizing that he had been tricked villain. I would keep the intro that the tonite. Batman of course goes along with and Superman really was good for the movie already has with Bruce Wayne it, because it is the only thing that can take people, feels bad. He vows that he won’t driving through Metropolis as Superman Superman down. let heroes turn on each other again, so tears through it fighting Zod. This creates On the exterior, it seems like Lex is ache seeks out the other superheroes in the a reason for Batman to want to stop Sutually trying to help Batman, but he wants world and begins to form the Justice. perman, and I think it is enough to make

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‘Before I Fall’ movie adaptation promises drama

Easter treats to make this season

BY KENZIE CHESROWN (‘18) ust like any other holiday, Easter holds the promise of sweets and baking. Common themes for Easter include carrots, bunnies and pastel colors. There are all kinds of recipes perfect for these themes that are easy to make. One recipe would be a simple cookie cake. This can be followed on the back of any bag of chocolate chips. Instead of separating the dough into individual cookies though, place the desired amount evenly in a cake pan. Then add pastel M&Ms for an Easter addition. This is always a favorite and any picky eater will still enjoy it. A carrot cake is perfect for anyone with a major sweet tooth this season. Follow the trusty recipe by Tammy Elliott on All Recipes called Carrot Cake III. This recipe will be more time consuming, but even more rewarding. A carrot cake is for those with more experience in the kitchen and who have more time to allow for the process. Another idea for baking would be a simple cheesecake. One can switch up the flavors upon preference but the core ingredients remain the same, and for this I recommend http://allrecipes.com, just search for the flavor and this site will have options to choose from. Cheesecakes are a crowd favorite and a homemade one never fails to impress. Just like the carrot cake, this is for those familiar with baking. For people looking for a quick baking idea, cupcakes can always be an easy route. These can also be varied in flavor (maybe even carrot cake). Or if one chooses to go with a simple flavor from a box, you can decorate the top with fun, colorful icing to get into the spirit. A fun and creative idea for something to do as well as something to bake, is Easter cookies. Make them with the same ingredients as Christmas cookies, only cut them out into fun seasonal shapes. The cookie cake, cupcakes, and cookies are all for those relatively new at baking and are crunched on time or ingredients. Baking is an activity that can bring the family together this season, either during the process or at the dinner table. No matter what dessert one decides to make this holiday season, enjoy and be sure to have a wonderful Easter.

“Before I Fall” is based on a novel by Lauren Oliver. The movie version was released on March 3. (Photo: Open Road Films) BY ASHLYN BROCKWAY (‘17) efore I Fall” is a drama-filled movie that came out on March 3 of this year. This movie has already made a big hit in the theaters. This movie will be out in theaters for a couple more weeks. The movie starts off with the character, Samantha Kingston (Zoey Deutch), who is appeared to have it all. She has the crush-worthy boyfriend, the big house, and her core group of friends. The audience soon realizes that her and her group of friends are rude to almost everyone in their high school to make sure they stay “on top.” The movie takes place on Friday and Samantha goes through the day just like any other day. Samantha and Lindsey (Halston Sage) are best friends, and they target many girls in their high school. They enjoy torturing Juliet Skyes (Elena Kampouris) who dresses poorly and does not take care of her hygiene. The group of girls go to a typical party on Friday night at Kent McFuller’s (Logan Miller) house while his parents were out of town. Unfortunately, this party takes a turn for the worst when Juliet shows up to the party. When the girls leave the

20 March 2017

party upset with the sequence of events, a terrible tragedy happens. Samantha then has to relive that day over and over again, until she realizes what actually happened and how to change how she views and treats the people in her life. This part of the movie, which showed her waking up on the same day, became very repetitive and boring to watch. “Before I Fall” was not realistic to how high school really is. This movie showed the character, Lindsey, being super mean to a lot of the minor characters and although she acted the part perfectly, it just was not realistic. This movie would be best watched by girls as it’s more of a drama movie. This movie had an ending that would not have been expected, and everyone should go out and see this movie unravel in theaters.