The Royal News, April 2021

APRIL 2021

THE R O YA L NEWS FOR STUDENTS, BY STUDENTS

TABLE OF

CONTENTS 5 6-7 8-9 10 11 12-13 14-15 15 16-17 18 19 20-21

EDITOR’S COMMENTS NRHS CHEERLEADER DESTINED FOR GREATNESS THE SHOW MUST GO ON THE RETURN TO SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHER PAVES WAY FOR WOMEN SOCIAL MEDIA, FRIEND OR FOE? A PROBLEM IN HOLLYWOOD MARVEL DOES IT AGAIN SPORTS: ON TRACK FOR A GREAT YEAR PROM 2021 AMAZING SCIENCE POLITICS COVER PHOTO: EMMA KELLEY INSIDE COVER PHOTO: EMMA KELLEY

Editor

S TA F F

EMMA KOLICK

Staff Advisor MR. HEMERY

Writers

BRANDON BARRETT PETER CARAM CASEY CHARLES JARET GOLD BRIVAN IBRAHIM EMMA KELLEY GRACE KELLEY JASHHVANTH TAMILSELVAN MOLLY PETRINA DYLAN SAUNDERS

PHOTO BY EMMA KELLEY

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NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

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s the weather breaks and the number of vaccines shot into Americans’ arms continues to increase exponentially, the nation is approaching a fresh beginning following a year marked by turbulent crises that appeared never-ending. Decreases in cases, an influx in immunity, and a respectable return to many treasured places, like schools and our grandparent’s homes, all serve as evidence of the great alterations our country is enduring.

This transformation has extended into communities such as ours, as full-time in-person learning recently commenced, much of the staff is fully immunized, and seniors are beginning to eagerly anticipate their postsecondary plans where they will showcase their extraordinary talents beyond the walls of North Royalton High School.

Looking towards the future, a paradigm shift has transpired in which our expectations of the upcoming months are no longer marked by despondency and unease, but rather a sense of hope in realizing our world will soon look markedly different.

Given the increasingly positive news on the COVID front through the consistent decrease in cases, coupled with the massive expansion of vaccine distribution that promises to accelerate the nation’s healing timeline, there’s ample reason for hope -- but, hope is an immensely tricky and unsettling emotion to feel right now. With much of the past year being characterized by

mounting death tolls and the introduction of dangerous variants, it feels as though any semblance of optimism will inevitably be crushed by another spike in cases that further delays our return to normalcy.

Within this issue, North Royalton’s student journalists chose to fully embody this unnerving feeling of hope. While moments of hesitancy in cautiously believing in a better tomorrow are inevitable, both their topic choices and their consistent determination to write stories they believe matter immensely are reflective of the optimism they wish to spread with the community. From looking ahead to hallmark high school events and activities, energizing college plans, and national space exploration that hopes to investigate the possibility of future residency on Mars, hope for the upcoming months and years is distinctly evident in these students’ words they worked tremendously hard to pen.

Though the fight against this global crisis isn’t over, the promise of increased immunity and the gradual return to regularity allows for a vast light at the end of the tunnel, providing the nation with a new sense of optimism. Undoubtedly, the students’ stories within this paper contribute to this refreshing feeling of hope. Thanks for reading.

-Emma Kolick April 2021 T HE ROYA L N EWS

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Maddy (top center) prepares for The Cheerleading Worlds competition with her stunt group in Orlando, Florida. Maddy said her favorite cheer teams so far are her sophomore year and senior year teams. (Photo by Michelle Yuzwa)

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NRHS CHEERLEADER STICKS THE LANDING ON OSU CHEER TEAM

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n a tie-breaking decision, the Ohio State Cheer team has accepted senior cheerleader Maddy Yuzwa as one of their newest members. Maddy started her cheer career at three years old. She is beyond excited to see the realization of her years of dedication to the sport.

Maddy’s mother enrolled her in a cheer program when Maddy was very young. Neither Maddy nor her mother knew how passionate Maddy would become about cheerleading.

“There is so much I love about this sport. I love |

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succeeding with my teammates and having lifelong sisters,” said Maddy. “I also love how hard cheerleading pushes me as a person. It makes me want to be better… every day.” Practice allows Maddy to escape from real life and feel accomplished.

Currently, Maddy cheers with World Elite Cheer on the most competitive and challenging team, which she has been on since 7th grade. As she practiced and perfected her sport, Maddy set her sights on The Ohio State University’s cheerleading team and pharmacy program.

“I’ve been a huge fan of The Ohio State University ever since I was a little girl,” said Maddy. Her brother, Mason Yuzwa, cheers at Bowling Green State University. Maddy briefly considered cheering with him, but ultimately decided that The Ohio State University better suits her. Her acceptance into both the Early Assurance Pharmacy Program and the OSU Cheer team allow Maddy to pursue both of her dreams.

Maddy’s application to the cheerleading program started in August. As with most things in 2020, COVID made the process a bit more complicated. All potential cheerleaders sent the OSU Cheer team a recruitment video, a list of their skills, and answered a questionnaire.

“After that,” said Maddy, “It was a very, very long wait. The coach couldn’t technically pick his new team members yet because of COVID.” During the waiting process, Maddy honed her cheering skills and kept the coach updated with her progress. In January, the coach announced that his decision was tied between Maddy and a few other applicants.

He would allow all remaining applicants to send in one final cheer video for consideration. Maddy felt incredibly anxious as she waited for the final decision.

“Every time I thought about [the decision] I would get a lump in my throat...I wanted this so bad and I didn’t have a set ‘Plan B’ because I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else,” said Maddy. Eventually, the coach made a decision. “He called me on the phone while I was at school and told me he wanted to offer me a spot on the team,” said Maddy. “I broke down in tears.”

Maddy shows off her tumbling skills before a Friday night football game. As an OSU cheerleader, Maddy will perform in the Ohio Stadium, which seats about twenty times as many fans as Serpentini-Chevrolet Stadium.

(Photo by Hailey Dyson)

Mason Yuzwa holds Maddy during a Bowling Green Football game. Maddy’s family has been very supportive of her cheering career. (Photo by Michelle Yuzwa) After college, Maddy plans on becoming a clinical pharmacist and working in a hospital setting. “I enjoy math, science, and helping others, so I always knew a medical path would be the perfect fit for me,” Maddy said. Despite her challenging career path, Maddy wants to stay involved with cheer. She could see herself judging competitions or even coaching a team of her own one day.

For now, Maddy is excited to join the OSU Cheer team. To all the young cheerleaders who hope to follow in her footsteps, Maddy said, “Work hard to reach your dreams, but don’t be too hard on yourself.”

In her experience, every setback is an opportunity for growth.

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s the characteristic events of high school activities persisted through early March of 2020, runners lined up on the starting line at the high school stadium and the spectacular voices of the theatre department could be heard through the PAC doors as they rehearsed for their approaching musical. Practicing for months, the cast continued to prepare for their production of James and the Giant Peach, as their hard work would soon culminate into a polished story for both students and the community to excitedly view onstage. Allowing for a sneak peek into their work, the cast decided to travel to each of the North Royalton elementary schools on March 12 and showcase their performance, creating delight for the young children as they giggled at the absurdity of the story.

While the students were mesmerized by the magnificent production, and the cast felt immense pride in knowing their months of rehearsal had generated a remarkable musical for all to see, school administrators and local officials alike were amid deep conversations in regards to potentially closing schools given the impending threat of the newly-identified

A HEARTWARMING REVIVAL BY: EMMA KOLICK

Last year’s crew emotionally huddles around one another during the final run-through of the show, following the devastating news that their upcoming performances were cancelled.

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COVID. Following grave discussions and intense forethought, Governor DeWine appeared in his daily press briefing, announcing an extended three-week spring break that would ultimately result in an enduring cancellation for the rest of the school year. Stunning the nation with his unprecedented move, with this announcement came heartbreaking disappointment for the cast of the musical in knowing their incredible production would never be performed onstage for the community, as COVID unjustly ripped away their future plans.

“We went to lunch at 3 Spot on the day we were performing for the elementary schools, and I had to break the news to the kids that we were being shut down,” said Ms. West, assistant theater director for the high school. “I remember debating if I should even tell them, and everyone was heartbroken. There were lots of tears.”

Arriving back to the high school after their outing, aware that their time together was soon coming to an end and numerous students stayed in the building for sports practice or club meetings, the cast eagerly gathered Performers (L-R) Sophie Howell, G everyone left in the loja, and Maddie Geschke eag school and performed one after-school rehearsal for t last time. Though the production was not entirely polished, as a few weeks of rehearsal still remained, this opportunity to perform in front of an audience provided members of the theatre department with a semblance of closure. However, a sense of immense sadness filled the air, with the performers knowing this would serve as their final musical for the school year, unable to be shared with a larger audience.

“The worst part was knowing I wouldn’t get to properly perform with my sister, Emily, before she graduated,” said Meg Howell, who was given the lead role of James. As she acted for a miniscule audience in the PAC, she noted her sister crying offstage as she watched Howell sing to an audience that should have been far larger. “She was crying because she was so proud of me, but also because this day was

the last time she’d perform with me,” Howell continued.

Despite this heartbreak, and the departure of the seniors who made up the original cast, North Royalton’s theatre program is repossessing what the school closure stole from, as they are set to perform James and the Giant Peach in late April. As vaccine distribution increases, optimistic updates continue to be given on the COVID front, and the district recently began full-time in-person learning, the program intends to open this performance up to the community. Allowing for approximately 125 people clustered into the PAC, the cast will perform with proper COVID protocols, including clear masks that will enable viewers to see the actors’ facial expressions.

“It creates a sense of excitement being back in live theater and seeing our new castmates give their own spin on their roles,” said Braden Goloja, who is reprising his role as the centipede in this year’s musical. “We are all so excited to be able to perform this amazing show for our peers and community.” He went on to say that he feels this story will be immensely enjoyable for the audience, as this fantastical adventure holds an interesting plot and captivating moments filled with both laughter and intrigue.

Adapted from author Roald Dahl’s original novel, a Grace Isabella, Braden Goyoung boy named James Hengerly await the start of ry Trotter endures heartless treatthis year’s musical. ment from his two aunts. While chopping down an old fruit tree, he stumbles upon a magic potion that produces an enormous peach that James is able to enter.

Acquainting himself with unique, talking insects he discovers inside the massive fruit, including a centipede, spider, grasshopper, and earthworm, they proceed on a magical journey characterized by laughable conflicts and distinct personalities that are sure to touch the hearts of the audience. Through the performance of this story, cast members hope to generate a sense of closure following the events of last school year.

“I miss our original cast, of course,” said Howell, as she remembered her sister who was set to perform. “But I believe that bringing this musical back after all the work we’ve done is a proud victory,” she continued. She went on to say that

Crew members immerse themselves in constructing an elaborate tree on a busy Saturday morning. choosing this story also provided ease in this disorderly year, as the vast majority of cast members are well-acquainted with this tale given their countless rehearsals and prior knowledge of the musical.

“Most of the cast was there last year, so there’s a sense of familiarity with the story that’s helpful, given how taxing this year has been,” said West. Along with this, much of the props and setups are already created, substantially easing the crew’s role in ensuring the cast members have the proper materials.

With many cast members reprising their roles, and some having a general awareness of various other positions given their earlier work, this close understanding of the musical has presented a sense of ease for all those involved in the production.

Practicing nearly every day after school, the members of this year’s musical continue to excitedly rehearse in preparation for their performance that will finally be presented to the North Royalton community in a large setting. Currently following all COVID precautions, as performers are masked and socially distanced, crew members mostly prepare for the musical in-person on Saturdays, reducing the number of people in the theatre department’s practice space. Though the loss of last year’s performance was undeniably devastating, students are remarkably eager to perform this incredible musical in late April, showcasing immense dedication and excitement throughout their rehearsals.

“It’s nostalgia,” said West, “but not in a sad way.” Given the thoughts of those involved with the production of James and the Giant Peach, it’s clear that members feel a sense of ultimate triumph in knowing their tremendous work will culminate into an amazing performance. “Really, it’s just a feeling of finally being able to get this done,” said West, with a proud smile.

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T H E P O S T- H Y B R I D N R H S B Y B R I VA N I B R A H I M

n March 22, students at North Royalton Most students at NRHS feel the same High School returned to school full time way as Isabel. She concluded, “My after over a year of online learning. The hopes are that all goes well and that COVID pandemic had many effects on peo- we are able to finish the school year ple around the world and students were no exception. positively and with a feeling long They have had to adapt to something they would nev- missed normalcy.” Indeed, normalcy er have expected: Learning from the comfort of their is something that feels foreign nowadays. In fact, many home. And while it may have sounded easy, students students will have to make new adjustments to adapt to soon found out that it came with its own set of predica- this new normal. For example, many teachers who have ments. Teachers have also had to modify their teaching been giving open-note tests all year will switch back to methods and ensure that students remain engaged in traditional paper and pencil tests. This might be espethe learning process. After months of uncertainty, the cially hard for freshmen who will, for the first time ever, North Royalton Board of Education decided that it is have a high school experience similar to the traditional finally safe for in-perone. son students to return However, while full-time. this kind of tran With this new sition is exciting adjustment comes for students who several modifications will be seeing some within the school in of their friends in order to ensure the school for the first safety of the students time this year, those and staff members. who remain virtuFor example, adal will perhaps face ditional lunch and the most difficulStudents crowd the den on the first day back. study hall spaces have been ties. One sophomore who added to contain the larger has been virtual nearly all number of students who will be attending. While such year weighed it on the issue. “I personally preferred the changes may seem minor and insignificant, they will hybrid and I thought it was better. It’s very helpful for considerably help in maintaining safe social distancing. the virtual kids to have others attending online school Everyone will still be required to wear a face mask and with them because then they won’t feel like they’re the teachers will continually make sure their classrooms only ones going through this.” This statement highlights are sanitized. Of course, even with the extra measures one of the main issues teachers will face. Keeping virtuthat are being taken, there is still a risk of spreading al students involved within the classroom will become the virus. However, the school has kept this in mind as a challenging task, as they might have to plan lessons students are only back full-time for two weeks before separately for those in-person and those online. spring break begins.

The transition from hybrid to in-person will not be Students themselves have mixed feelings about the easy on students or teachers. But with the past year, it new adjustment. Junior Isabel Paulesc said, “I believe has become evident that no challenge is too big when that the faculty and school board are doing their best to it comes to education. While a global pandemic was take the necessary precautions to bring everyone back. the last thing anyone expected, North Royalton High Obviously COVID-19 is still a risk but I believe it is now School definitely rose up to meet the challenge. And an important factor for the students to follow guidelines even though this is far from over, the students as well as and rules so we can work towards a more normal learn- adults who make up the NRHS community are ready to ing environment.” move forward despite the obstacles they may encounter.

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A SNAPSHOT OF THE WOMAN BEHIND THE CAMERA

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BY JARET GOLD

or those involved at North position, and sometimes their names. Not as good with Royalton High School, you’ve names.” Justina plans to keep doing photo shoots full time likely encountered school for a few more years and notes that it is harder to keep up photographer Justina Saxby. with athletes, especially the track team. But her family will She does senior photos. She shoots always have her to document birthdays and weddings. football games and team practices. Saxby isn’t just a photographer. She was also a fireSelf-taught, Saxby has documented the people and com- fighter for over thirty years and holds the record for being munity of NRHS for well over a decade. one of the first ten woman firefighters for Cleveland. This “I’m a very competitive person,” Justina said. “I love important part of her life began when she was a 24-yearsports. I love sports photography.” Saxby takes photos for old part-time tumbling coach for little kids. “One of the many North Royalton High School sports, dads commented on how athletic I was everything from football to golf. However, and told me I should consider trying out her favorite sport to shoot is gymnastics. to become a firefighter,” Saxby said. “At “I’ve always been into it, and both my kids the time, Cleveland was trying to recruit did it in school,” Saxby explained. “It’s so women to take the entrance exam.” impressive, what those kids do. The pic Saxby, who had never considered tures turn out great.” On the other hand, becoming a firefighter before, decided to shooting the swimming team is a chaltake the test. She loved the training, and allenge. “The lighting especially is hard; though she finished higher than 70 percent swimming pools are so dark, and it’s a lot of the applicants, she wished she did better. more work to get the photos looking nice.”

She never thought she would actually be Because she’s been a school photograadmitted to the force until three years latpher for so many years, it’s no surprise that er when a court ruled the city’s firefighting Justina has taken some unusual shots. Fire Lieutenant Justina Saxby, tests to be discriminatory against women “A few years back, there were two high early in her career. While ex- and ordered the top women who took school football games going on at the periencing some sexist hurdles the exam to be admitted to the force. same time, which was a shame because early on, Justina never let that “This was three years later when I was I really wanted to get them both,” Saxby take away her spirit and love for coaching gymnastics in Avon Lake, and said, recalling one such experience. “At when they told me they were processing the job. the one I ended up going to, I had set up my application, I didn’t even know what my camera and while I was taking shots, they were even talking about!” As Saxby I captured a player breaking their leg.” Naturally disorient- finished highest among all the women who took the test, she ed, Saxby decided to leave and go to the other game. “And automatically got the job. guess what: some kid in that game broke their leg as well. It Saxby looks back on her time as a firefighter warmly. was a weird coincidence.”

“I loved every minute of my job,” she said. “There was the While Justina has no formal training in photography, pressure to keep up with the other guys, to prove I wasn’t she’s always had a knack for it. “When I was little and our just some ‘affirmative action placement.’ I did beat them a family was doing anything,” she said, “I’d be the one with lot of the time.” the camera.” She originally took pictures for other schools, To date, Saxby has taken hundreds of senior photos but because she lives closest to North Royalton, she be- and countless athletic shots during her involvement with gan to solely concentrate on that. Having shot for NRHS NRHS. Her fun, competitive spirit has made her a presfor over a decade, Justina has taken thousands of sports ence at the school that shouldn’t be overlooked. Passionphotos. Impressively, she can remember specific kids from ate about what she does, Saxby hopes to inspire students many years ago, but in an interesting way. “I remember to get into photography and capture the world around their jersey numbers. From there, I’ll remember their them.

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SOCIAL MEDIA FOR TEENS: PROS AND CONS

BY GR ACE KELLEY

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hen teens open isolation during the pandemic. their phones, they Although social media has its ups, it also has often head towards its downs. Cancel culture can impact teens, yet social media. some don’t even know what it is. When someone Here’s the big question though: is is thrown out or pushed away from a group, this social media harmful or helpful? is often due to saying or doing something that Oftentimes, we hear mixed evalu- is offensive and/or racist. Teens must be aware ations that whatever they when it comes to post could affect social media. Some them down the road. may say it is bad Although cancel because it inclines culture is normalteens to stare at their ly seen most in the smartphones for long lives of celebrities, periods, while others it can easily affect a claim that social meteen’s future. Oftendia is beneficial betimes, colleges study cause it helps keep someone’s social teens in contact with media who has apone another. plied for the school.

Social media can If a person who apbe a great outlet for plied has made an teens. It helps keep offensive post in the them in contact with past, they may not friends and family, be considered for especially during the acceptance to the COVID pandemic. It school. Many busihas been a hard year, ness places often so teens have used take similar considPopular social media apps that are utilized by teens. social media as a way erations as colleges. to keep in touch.

The effects social media After getting quarantined, Mazilyn (Mazi) Rit- posts can have on a teen’s future is much more ter, a Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School daunting than it seems. student, was not allowed to see any friends. “I re- Making new friends is another beneficial facally depended on FaceTime and Snapchat to keep tor of social media. Social media acts as an outlet in touch with everyone,” Mazi said. “Being able to for teens, and this opens up the opportunity to see my friends really helped make the situation meet new people who share similar interests. “I better. When you’re stuck at home and you can’t spend multiple hours a day on social media,” said hang out with anyone, talking to friends makes Maria Naim, a North Royalton High School stuthe day a lot less boring.” Social media can keep dent. “I’ve met people through social media and teens in touch so they don’t have to struggle with now, they’re some of my best friends.” The benefit 12

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of making friends on social media not only helps a teen make connections, but oftentimes helps improve a teen’s mental health. Connecting with new people aids teenagers’ need for social interaction, especially during these difficult times due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Other risks that come along with the perks of social media include cyberbullying and sex trafficking. Sometimes, people hide behind their screens and fake names to ridicule or harm others. Cyberbullying is an intimidating or threatening nature that makes the receivers unsafe. Teens sometimes fall into the victim category of cyberbullying, while others are the causes of cyberbullying. Teens’ mental health can be incredibly diminished by cyberbullying. Additionally, sex trafficking is the selling and transporting of people for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Some teens, both men and women, are catfished (luring someone into a false relationship with a made-up persona) and later get captured against their will.

Most of these teens eventually go on to get sold and transported to others. As of 2020, love146. org states that about ten million teens and kids fall victim to sex trafficking. These scary statistics could degrade one’s opinion of social media.

During such an interesting and difficult time, social media has brought the United States, as well as the world, together. People have banded together, sharing their stories and offering help to those in need. There have been countless acts of good throughout social media in the past year.

Whether people are reaching out to wish someone a happy birthday or donating money to help a financially struggling family, there can be good.

Spreading awareness for multiple causes, including inequality for certain races, people have joined together to show support. Bringing people together is something that social media does very well.

The pros and cons of social media are very present. The advantages and disadvantages are not limited to the ones listed. Social media can help people as well as harm. It simply depends on how you balance out the pros and cons. There are many ways to look at it, but at the end of the day, it’s an individual decision.

PHOTO BY CASEY CHARLES

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H O L LY WO O D T H R O U G H T H E PA N D E M I C , O S C A R S B Y M O L LY P E T R I NA

espite the constant uncertainty that has plagued the film industry during the pandemic, the release of new films returned with a vengeance, mostly in the medium of at-home releases and collaborations with streaming services. It seems that Hollywood used its fortune and fame to save many of their most profitable projects, while business owners and other industries looked on with envy. Nevertheless, now the best releases of the year compete for the favor of Academy voters. This year is a monumental milestone for diversity in the film industry. Surprisingly, the beginning of these changes started in 2015, when the Twitter hashtag #OscarsSoWhite mocked the previously prestigious Academy for their nominations. Now, the Academy has implemented diversity requirements as a result, making sure that their nominations are diverse enough for public opinion. However, many find these strict guidelines to be artificial and prove the hypocrisy of the Academy.

As the city of Los Angeles ramped up requirements for restaurants and other congregating places during the pandemic, large crews and casts gathered in production studios to continue on the latest projects. Even though filming continues, many new layers of protection have started to become commonplace to protect the cast and crew. The first major movie set to return to filming amid the pandemic was “Jurassic World: Dominion,” which became the model for other productions looking to return to work.

Everyone involved in the project took part in mask swapping, electronic temperature checks, and color-coded zoning to limit interactions between different groups. These alterations to sets cost millions of dollars, with certain groups also getting tested for COVID three times a week.

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Ultimately, the argument is not whether films are being safe while filming, but whether it is fair that they can still film. In one incident, a restaurant owner in Los Angeles grew extremely angry when she had to watch as the filming crew sat and ate in open tents identical to her own while feet away from her shut down restaurant. Her restaurant was closing because they had run out of loan money while building an outdoor patio, and on this particular day, the woman was also giving her employees their last paychecks. This is just one example of the film industry’s privilege during the pandemic. This is no new behavior, however, as Los Angeles has always favored the film industry since becoming its home. The movie, “He’s All That,” almost shut down a COVID testing site so that they could shoot there with the support of the government.

After public outcry, the situation was obviously reversed, but it also shows the elitism of the film industry amid the pandemic.

Nevertheless, the best films of the year have been nominated for the Oscars, and it seems that the Academy has made more of an effort to be diverse. In the past, more and more filmmakers and actors have begun to speak out against the institutionalized racism that has become commonplace in many legendary awards shows. There were two particular moments that changed the Oscars forever. In 2015, a woman named April Reign created the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite in response to the lack of any nominations for people of color. From there, this would grow into a social justice campaign that would fight for diversity not only in nominations, but also in the voter population. This occurred the year after a movie called “12 Years a Slave” won. The lack of diversity in the 2015 nominations after such a momentous occasion worried people of color throughout the film industry that the change was

a temporary trend. Another moment that greatly impacted the Oscar’s credibility happened when writer Issa Rae was announcing the nominations for Best Director at last year’s awards ceremony. Upon finding that not one of the nominees was a woman, Rae famously quipped, “Congratulations to those men.” Filmmakers Greta Gerwig and Lulu Wang were expected to make the list, which is why Rae was ready to criticize the Academy immediately after reading the results.

After these occurrences, the Academy has implemented many diversity obligations in order to meet the public outcry for representation and equality. Despite the controversy over these new developments, such movies that may have been previously ignored seem to be dominating the Oscars nominations. This year will mark the first time that two women, Chloe Zhao and Emerald Fennell, will be nominated for best director at the same time and will become the sixth and seventh women to ever be nominated for Best Director. Chloe Zhao is also the first woman of color to be nominated for best director, as well as the first woman to receive four nominations for one year. Emerald Fennell is the first woman to be nominated for her debut film in directing. The final notable achievement is that of the posthumous nomination of Chadwick Boseman for a leading role, the first posthumous nomination for a person of color.

However, many feel that the challenges that the Oscars face are more deep seeded and institutionalized, and cannot simply be eliminated with guidelines. The idea comes from an examination of the Academy voter population, and the findings were astonishing. As of January 2020, 84% of voters were white and 68% were male. Additionally, these statistics come after the induction of 2,688 new members to atone for the lack of the diversity that already existed before. Now it becomes obvious why the Oscars fail to explore other perspectives and be proactive about foreign films and films made by people of color. The voting population is so disproportionate to the film industry’s actual population that movies made by people of color never had the chance to compete. As a result, many detest the Oscar diversity obligations, pointing out that they do not truly solve the problem. These guidelines only require films to have two underrepresented groups present in the film and do not take into account more dangerous narratives or stereotypes that are involved in some movies.

Furthermore, the movies that are passed up by the Oscars are truly wonderful and inventful stories. These films do not require a diversity or representation guideline to win awards.

Instead of requiring a biased artist to include these films into nominations, we should support a population that represents the movie-lovers of all populations. Only then can we truly see a change in not only the films nominated, but the films that win as well.

N E W M A RV E L S H O W S OA R S O N D I S N E Y P LU S

BY PETER CARAM

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s spring begins, Marvel and Disney Plus are releasing a new TV series called The Falcon and The Wintersoldier. The series will be setting the table for the new storylines for phase four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) for the two heroes of the story. The plot of the first episode starts with Sam Wilson, “The Falcon” (played by Anthony Mackie), deciding if he is worthy enough to be the new Captain America after Steve Rogers passed his shield to him in the 2019 Avengers cinematic finale, Endgame. Sam is worried about taking the mantle and name that belonged to his old friend and feels guilty to be the new hero that everyone looks up to.

Meanwhile, Bucky Barnes, played by Sebastian Stan, is trying to move on with his life after he was brainwashed

by Hydra and became the murderous assassin, “The Winter Soldier.” As Bucky is trying to get over his trauma and PTSD from the past, he is also trying to right the wrongs with relatives of the victims he has killed. As the two heroes are struggling with these issues, they must unite to fight the villainous gang called the “Flag Smashers.”

The debut of the series was full of highs with only one flaw: the pacing of the show slowed considerably after an action-packed first sequence. The slower pace may have been necessary to fill in the background for the audience, but hopefully it will accelerate with future episodes.

Overall, the premiere was very positive. The prospect of the series digging deep into both Sam Wilson’s and Bucky Barnes’ character arcs is exciting. Another enjoyable part of the first episode was the first ten minutes was action-packed, unlike the recently-concluded Wandavision, which frequently came up short on action.The acting performances in this show were spot on--it really shows the audience how dedicated Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan are to their roles.

Overall, the show was a 9.1/10; Not only does it promise to be a good series, but I’m a diehard Marvel fan who loves watching the MCU. For those looking for the “next big thing” when it comes to streaming, this is the series to watch, as it’s going to “soar” high into the spring skies!

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ONE TRACK MIND: A SPRING SEASON TO REMEMBER B Y C A S E Y C HA R L E S

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t has now been over a year since Governor Mike Dewine issued a three-week extended spring break in order to “flatten the curve” on March 12. Although many did not know it, for many high school students across Ohio, this would be the last few hours of in-person team practice for spring sports in 2020. Now, an entire year later, spring sports are back in action, with safety precautions, cloth strapped to athletes’ faces, and many, many, temperature checks. This month, North Royalton Track and Field Team members, including multiple sophomores, returning juniors, and one departing senior, have a few thoughts regarding the upcoming season.

Just minutes after classes dismiss and buses are rolling out, additional cars are flooding the parking lots, and athletes stream in through the new Athletic Entrance. It may seem like a nuisance for those trying to leave the building, but it is a sure sign that track season is in full swing. Not long after rounds of thermometer scans, students are positioned by the band bleachers, stretching and preparing for what the next hour and fifteen minutes might have in store for them. For virtual learning students, this is the best social interaction they receive on an average school day, five days a week. For a majority of students, this month marks the termination of hybrid learning. While most athletes are itching for a chance at redemption from last year, there is no one more ready for what this season has to offer than the head coach, Mr. Francescangeli.

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“The opportunity to see the kids working every day and seeing their faces in person, all things considered, it’s gone really well, and I think the kids are eager and excited to be back in person. We’ve seen a lot of growth and we’re excited to have this season and what’s to come,” Francescangeli said.

Long-distance runs, short distance sprints, and team relays are a crucial part of every track meet, but field events also play a very important role in the track season.

These events include shot put, discus, hurdles, long jump, high jump, and pole vault. With plenty of options to choose from, sophomore Ian Finnecy has decided what he plans on participating in this season, saying, “I will be running the 800m, the 1600m, and the 300m hurdles.” No matter what students plan on doing, it will require dedication, hard work, and pushing oneself past one’s limits.

Even without the different circumstances put in place this season because of COVID, track and field can be a demanding yet rewarding experience.

Sophomore Claire Kramer explained the level of commitment it takes to be a hard-working participant in track and field in saying, “The hardest part about doing track in the spring is the time. I’m involved in club soccer as well as preparing for high school soccer, however, these challenges do not change the fact that track is my number one priority in the spring.”

One of the most notable qualities about track is the immense size of the team. Because there are so many people on one team working towards similar objectives, there is a tight-knit family that emerges from the daily practices. Sophomores Brady Miozzi and Charlie Putnam understand and appreciate the broad social interaction that track incorporates. “I see track as mostly an individual sport,” said Charlie. “With this being said, I think that North Royalton does a great job of also incorporating a team mentality,” he continued. Brady remarked that his team makes a significant difference when it comes to performance throughout the season, saying, “My teammates have a large impact on my track season. We all look to motivate and push each other to the best of our capabilities. I can always count on my teammates when I need to.” The oversized family that track creates has had to deal with more bumps in the road than usual, but together they continue to crush the barriers that stand in the way of a season to remember.

Besides the benefits of a positive social environment, track allows student-athletes to take in valuable advice from coaches and teammates. Junior Claire Casey has experienced this, detailing that “the best advice I’ve received during track was ‘Mind Over Matter.’ By the end of a race, when you have almost nothing left, it’s about being mentally strong to get you to the finish line.” Running track can be physically draining at times, so a tough mentality can be key to constructing positive results at practices and meets. One man who fits this criteria is junior Austin Kling. Austin prepares for each practice and workout by “coming in with the mindset of wanting to be better than I was yesterday. I want to do whatever I can to make the team and the people better. Always be prepared to be uncomfortable, always be willing to adapt.”

Clemson football head coach, Dabo Swinney, once said, “Always remember, the goals that we have achieved pale in comparison to the daily commitments it took to get there.” Like other sports, establishing goals in track and field can pave the way for athletes to make progress and see success over the remainder of the season. With as many events as there are in track, there are vastly different goals that students may set for themselves. Sophomores Fiona Parker, Leah Dziedziak, and Isabelle Stannert have various items they want to improve on and what goals they have already set for the season.

“I never really saw myself as a track athlete, but once I started playing soccer for North Royalton, I was encouraged by others to try it. I decided to give it a try because not only am I improving my stamina and speed, which helps for soccer, but I am also doing a sport I now greatly enjoy with people who push me to get better,” Fiona said. Similarly, Leah said that her goals were “to gain more stamina and become a better runner. I hope to have better technique by the end of this season, and I also hope to meet new people at the meets.” Last but not least, Isabelle expressed that “since track really isn’t a team sport, I am looking forward to making it a team sport by creating relationships with teammates and coaches. I’m also excited to push myself and compete with other people.”

With as tough of an ending as it was for last year’s seniors in track, this year’s seniors are hoping to make the most of their last season of track, no matter how unusual this season has looked so far.

Senior Bri Knull had a lot to say about what she will remember from her years of doing track at North Royalton High School. “For me, track has always been where I’ve felt most comfortable. No matter how hard a workout is, I always find myself laughing through the entire thing,” noted Bri. “That’s what track is... having the best time even when you don’t want to.” Knull momentarily reflected on all the people who impacted her experiences in the sport, commenting that, “I’ve made friends with people who aren’t in my life anymore and people who will be in my life for a long time, but I’m always going to have those memories that will last forever.”

For all spring sports this year, adapting to the changes the past few months have brought is a completely new experience for practically everyone.

While a vision of returning to normalcy seems to be on the horizon, it is still hard to tell exactly how close students are to that point. Until then, not only track athletes, but all of North Royalton’s spring athletes have proven time and time again that they will do everything possible to keep their seasons alive.

To all the senior athletes participating in their final weeks of high school sports, best of luck this season and through whatever else the road ahead may offer. To all the track athletes who make the sport so distinct, make sure that when the final gunshots of track’s last meet sound, that the season was unlike any other.

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PROM 2021: BAL ANCING SAFET Y AND FUN

BY EMMA KELLEY

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or a lot of seniors, prom is one of approaching, nothing has been completely the biggest events to experience decided on yet, though some ideas being throughout their high school cadiscussed include a hypnotist, a school-apreer. It gives students a chance propriate comedian, or a magician. With to dress up, have a nice dinner, and crethe current restrictions that are in place, ate amazing memories with their friends, the school is leaning towards entertainers dates, and other classmates. Many students who can interact with students from afar. have been looking forward to attending prom for Recently, Governor Dewine announced changyears.

Bees to restriccause of tions, which the evare more e r- c h a n g i n g conducive to COVID-19 large events. rules and Because the r e g u l at i o n s , state recomNorth Roymendations alton High have been School will changing as be holding COVID-19 prom on May has begun to 22, 2021, on improve, the North Royadministraalton’s very tion is closely own football monitoring field. Despite the situation The site for Prom 2021, as administration and students work to devise having a locato provide the a safe and fun experience for students. tion for the event, most opportunithere are still many unknowns, as the state-mandated rules change almost daily. At the time of the writing of this article, the school is still unsure whether or not dancing will be allowed. Also, in an effort to control the spread of the virus from outside of the district, dates that don’t attend NRHS won’t be permitted to attend.

According to student council advisor, Mr. Ciha, blueprints have been drawn out for the tent, tables, and DJ stage that will be set up on a section of the field. If dancing isn’t allowed because of social distancing, the school might provide live entertainment after dinner. Although the event is quickly 18

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ties for the students.

The students and administration are working to find middle ground that will keep everyone safe and still provide a memorable night of fun. Some students with significant others outside the district have suggested that outside dates could show a negative COVID-19 test result from the previous 48 hours in order to attend, though this could become complicated from a clerical and safety-monitoring standpoint for the school.

Hopefully from now until May 22, more restrictions are lifted and the district can come up with more ideas to include everyone.

P E R S E RV E R A N C E : A S T O RY O F E A RT H LY V I RT U E

BY BRAND ON BARRET T

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erseverance is defined by Merriam Webster as “continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition; the action or condition or an instance of persevering.” This definition rings more than true for the story of Perseverance, a rover that landed on the Martian landscape on February 18 of this year. It launched during one of the most chaotic periods in American history--namely, the COVID pandemic. However, it managed to overcome the odds and arrive at the red planet safely, just as students have during recent months in school.

Many students are tremendously excited about this project, namely sophomore Colin Finnecy, who said in regards to the project, “I feel it is very cool since we do not know much about the universe and it can lead to new discoveries and technologies.”

The main goals of the rover is to search for signs of ancient Martian life through geological surveys of the red soil and to determine possible habitability for human travelers.

This goal will be accomplished through the use of several scientific instruments that will meticulously inspect the Martian landscape. These instruments also study the geologic history of Mars, collect Martian soil samples, and bring them to Earth, testing pieces of technology that could help make a human presence on the Red Planet possible. In addition to these incredible scientific tools, advanced technology is also making history in this monumental rover mission.

A helicopter attached to the main rover, named Ingenuity, will soon become the first flying craft in the Martian atmosphere. Of these machines and the rover itself, Finnecy said, “I feel it is very interesting and mind-blowing that scientists can create a robot type machine that can gather data from another planet so we can do research and learn about other extraterrestrial things."

The daily work of Perseverance involves geologic sampling and searching for organic chemicals. First, scientists use the rover to search for intriguing rock samples and subsequently drill a core sample from the material. Following this, the rover seals the sample in a hermetic tube and transports it to a predetermined location on the Red Planet. To bring this effort to a climatic end, Perseverance’s deposits of the sample will be brought back to Earth by a later mission that will occur around 2031. This will serve

as a treasure for the scientific community, as the rover will provide valuable data on the geology and potential former biology of Earth’s nearest neighbor, solving the existential question of the existence of alien life that has permeated all of history.

The craft containing the rover first launched on July 30 of last year, departing from Earth at a speed of 24,600 mph. The historic trip took about seven months, traveling a distance of over 300 million miles. Landing on February 18 in several stages, the process began in the atmosphere as the craft took pictures, measuring the distance to the ground and avoiding obstacles. Finally finding its landing spot, it deployed its parachute. Following this land, a vehicle referred to as the “sky crane” broke away from the main craft and used rockets to slow its landing to walking speed, pushing the rover to the Martian surface. As the wheels of the rover touched the surface of the planet, the sky crane flew off and crashed onto the Martian surface. Perseverance’s transformative mission began immediately after.

This mission is simply incredible, as Americans were able to overcome their differences in one of the most difficult times in modern history. In its most basic sense, this exploration truly is a symbol of perseverance in the United States. Further, this rover will soon become a treasure for all of humanity as humans prepare to go to Mars. People across the country will earnestly be looking forward to this new information, especially Finnecy, who said, “Space exploration can allow society to advance and create new possibilities for the future.”

With surrounding communities showing interest in astronomy, or pure excitement for potential discoveries, there are several resources linked below. One of them, an article in Time magazine, contains the famous first sound ever heard from the Red Planet. Additionally, the video linked down below also plays this sound, as it serves as one of the first of the myriad discoveries this rover is set to make for America and the rest of humanity.

Links to further reading and other resources: https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/ https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-021-00698-5 https://time.com/5947848/perseverance-rover-sound/ https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1OSbWzqXdOc THE ROYA L NEWS

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OPINION: FORCING BIPARTISANSHIP OR HALTING PROGRESS: THE FILIBUSTER’S TWISTED PURPOSE By: Emma Kolick

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hrough President Joe Biden’s campaign and turbulent entry into the White House, his resolute advocacy for a renewed sense of bipartisanship filled the nation with a renewed sense of promising unity. Hoping to pass through progressive policies in response to urgent crises as Democrats took the majority in the Senate, the newly ousted Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell made a last-ditch plea to Senate Democrats, asking that they maintain the filibuster to uphold the unity that President Biden continues to promote. Despite McConnell’s clear self-interest in this appeal, as the filibuster serves as his most powerful tool to prevent the Biden administration from passing its agenda, Democratic senators are at odds on how to approach this Senate procedure. Notwithstanding this internal conflict, Democrats marked inability to pass legislation blatantly emerges in part of the outdated and ineffective filibuster rule that must be abolished in order to pass meaningful legislation.

Despite the filibuster procedure conjuring mental images of the virtuous minority party making impassioned protestations on the Senate floor in hopes of obstructing partisan legislation, with senators reading out of phone books for hours in order to delay debate, this vision is largely outdated. Essentially, the filibuster serves as a tool used by members of the U.S. Senate to delay voting on bills, and despite mental pictures of long-winded speeches, the sheer announcement of a filibuster prevents a bill from moving forward and allows the Senate to proceed with other business, leaving the potential piece of legislation in a Given increasing partisanship o state of limbo. ber of filibusters utilized in Thus, an extremely small number of senators can prevent legislation from legislation has incr going to a vote, making the U.S. Senate one of the few bodies in the world that cannot act when the majority is in agreement. Given that sixty votes are needed to end a filibuster, legislation is now rarely brought to the floor if senators believe their bill will not receive great bipartisan support, drastically reducing the amount of meaningful legislation that would help the American people.

Following a markedly contentious presidential election, coupled with political polarization across the nation, partisan gridlock has extended into legislative bodies, particularly the Senate. Given the current 50-50 split, as Vice President Kamala Harris’ tie-breaking vote provides Democrats with the majority, passing most pieces of legislation would require ten Republicans to come to a bipartisan agreement, given the sixty votes needed to terminate a filibuster.

Yet, this proposed scenario of a sudden outbreak of bipartisanship is inconceivable, and while many contend that the filibuster promotes debate and collaboration through the need for sixty votes, it’s clear that this Senate procedure only works to ensure that issues of importance cannot be addressed given this supermajority threshold. Despite the pressing need for solutions to pervasive problems like climate change, racism, wealth inequality, and immigration, the few dissenting voices of the minority party are amplified, thus preventing the current Biden administration from passing any piece of significant legislation.

Though proponents counter that this need for sixty votes must continue due to its long history in the Senate, this delay of legislation allows the country to struggle with massive issues while effective solutions exist 20

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in legislative text. As the filibuster renders it impossible to pass significant bills through a divided Senate, this inability to help the American people cannot persist based upon vague ideas of tradition that somehow provide the filibuster with innate importance.

While the history of this Senate procedure can be traced back centuries, its original purpose has been perverted, as it has ceased to relate to persuasion and rather is utilized as an obstructionist blocking of potential laws for pure political gain, regardless of potential public benefits or support.

The minority party holds the opportunity, motive, and means to block the party in power from passing significant legislation through the use of the filibuster, and as voters notice immense partisan gridlock from Washington, they subsequently turn to the party out of power in hopes of achieving political action from their representatives. As Republicans are well-poised to take back majorities in both the House and the Senate in the next election, they hold rational political incentive to block Democrats from implementing substantial laws that receive support from the majority of Americans. Given that 65% of voters hold a favorable view of Biden’s policies, Republican’s repudiation of bills that garner national support based upon a self-seeking desire for political power serves as evidence of the great disservice that the filibuster enacts.

Furthering this disparity between voter beliefs and the actions of Senate Republicans is the lack of equal representation, as the fifty Democratic senators represent 41 million more people than the fifty Republican senators. Tacking on the filibuster supermajority requirements in addition to this disproportionality results in a massive handicap to the Republican side that allows for a select few senators to override the will of the American public through utilizing the threat of a filibuster to prevent incredibly popular bills from passing through Congress.

As a democracy, the American people should vote in the political party that upholds their supported agenda, and the opposition party must publically state their preferred courses of action. Following this session, voters can approve of legislation passed by the body or express desire for the opposing party’s ideas, and subsequently vote their preference into public office.

Instead, constituents vote a party into power and become frustrated with the on the Senate floor, the numlack of political action from the majority, and the public remains largely unaware n an attempt to obstruct of why pressing issues remain unsolved. Growing anger is directed towards the reased drastically. party in power, and the opposition runs against the majority on the grounds of partisan gridlock they claim originates from the majority, resulting in a cyclical fight of accountability due to this outdated Senate procedure.

Unsure of whom to hold responsible for gridlock on the Senate floor, politicians are left free of scrutiny, robbing the nation of knowing who to hold accountable in the next election. Thus, voters are robbed of their power over the political system given their uncertainty on whom to vote for as a result of opaque Senate rules, particularly the filibuster.

In an increasingly polarized society, a Senate running on the filibuster is massively ineffective in solving contemporary problems. To combat this structural issue that hinders the ability to pass meaningful legislation, Senate Democrats must work to eliminate or weaken the filibuster, as the momentous shift in partisanship has counteracted the potential benefits of the filibuster that was originally meant to foster genuine deliberation and debate.

Only requiring a simple majority vote in the Senate to eliminate the filibuster or ratchet down the vote threshold from sixty to a more feasible number, the Democratic party must abolish this outdated practice in order to enact bold, progressive legislation.

While pressuring representatives will assist in emphasizing the need for a fair Senate that works for the American public, it is ultimately up to politicians in the Senate to recognize the urgency of this moment and push against this wall of unjust Republican resistance.

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PHOTO BY: EMMA KELLEY