Visor Issue #2

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Breakdown of “Carnival at the Castle� events.

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page 9 Hoban teachers share about their furry companions.

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Boys soccer undefeated and making Archbishop Hoban proud.

archbishop hoban high school n Issue 2 n October 12, 2012

the

Decision:

Photo by Hannah Caprez

A glipse at the platfroms of presidential candidates.

editorial

two

Project policy proves problematic

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ast year, the spiritual growth project served as an opportunity for juniors to further investigate their faith and take time to reflect on their lives. Juniors had several options to fulfill the requirements of the project including going to morning Mass, reflecting on scripture and writing a reflective paper about a spiritual retreat they attended.

At the beginning of the 2012-2013 school year, the spiritual growth project was expanded to encompass all grades. The Administration and Religious Studies department’s reason for making the changes were in observing many students starting out not wanting to complete the project, but by the end of the semester growing to enjoy the experience. This change has resulted in a dramatic increase in the attendance at morning Mass and groups such as Basic Christian Community (BCC). This increase has made it difficult for the people who wish to take the project seriously as well as those who attend regardless of the project to participate.

Recently, morning Mass and BCC groups have been overflowing with students who appear to only be there in an attempt to get credit. Students like this simply go through the motions which takes away from the experience for more active students.

It is now common to see students without seats in the chapel or BCC groups so crowded that some cannot even participate.

Spiritual growth should not be a project but instead something which students take on themselves. Matters of faith and religion are of great personal importance and should not be turned into a graded assignment.

When grades are assigned, students will simply approach Mass or BCC with a negative attitude as it is something that they have to do rather than something they want to do.

The Visor Editorial Board understand that the idea behind spiritual growth projects is to encourage students to have a more active faith life, however we believe that having a more active faith life cannot be forced upon someone who is not willing to take it seriously. When a grade is placed on certain religious activities those religious activities become more about the grade than the actual religious experience. Before school Mass and groups such as BCC should be for students who are genuinely interested in advancing their faith. That being said, we do encourage students to approach the spiritual growth project with an open mind and an open heart in order to fully appreciate the Catholic faith.n

Syria in hysteria as rebels struggle

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ver the past several months, Syria has gone through a devastating revolution against a brutal regime. Yet, unlike most other countries that also revolted against their autocratic rulers, Syrian rebels seem to be struggling to win over support. The issue is that the current ruling power, President Assad and his government, are strong and structured. The rebels on the other hand are neither unified nor organized. They have yet to formulate any real plans for a future controlled under their people. Because the rebels have no unified goal, the revolution has taken longer and been more difficult to continue.

Without any official plans, the rebels are basically fighting for lands they cannot control.

In Libya, while the revolution was still underway, a preliminary government was formed by the rebels that worked with other nations to overthrow and overpower ex-president Gaddafi. On the other hand, Syrian rebels have no makeshift government formed.

As a result, other nations are more hesitant to support their cause by providing the much needed weapons to the rebel army. For example, Saudi Arabia is currently raising funds to donate to the rebels, however they lack any

instruction of where to donate the money.

It is understood that this is a very challenging time for Syria, but rebels are only adding complications to the revolution. Their window of opportunity to oust Assad is closing, and they are wasting valuable time constantly fighting to control cities that they cannot operate at this point.

The rebels need to convene and create a strategy that will prove effective and productive. Currently, the only thing they are doing is fighting for territory. However, once the land is won over, the rebels give no direction to its inhabitants. The civilians in rebel controlled areas lack any form of government.

Therefore, they resort to the only form of government they have ever known, the regime’s.

This puts Syrians in a tough spot, because once they are free, they have nothing but the old ways of life to live by. Without rebel instruction, the common Syrian must go back to what they can rely on, which undermines the power of the rebels. If the rebels want to see their dream come true, then they better follow suit with the other rebel nations and move in a forward direction, starting off by forming a government of their own.n

the

visor Archbishop Hoban High School Mailing Address: One Holy Cross Blvd.

Akron, OH 44305 Online: www.hobanvisor.com E-mail: visor@hoban.org AWARDS •CSPA Gold Medalist •NSPA First Class Award •Quill & Scroll Int'l First Place •OSMA First Place

The Visor subscribes to the ASNE/MCT Campus news service and to APStylebook.com.

Signed letters for publication are welcome.

Mailbox is in the main office. Unsigned editorials represent the consensus of the editorial board. Signed opinion represents the views of the writer only.

Staff: Editor-in-chief Kaitlyn Stepanek Managing Editor Daniel Lloyd Features Editor Anna Baumhoer News Editors Allison Griffith and James Axson Sports Editors Jack Srail and Benjamin Easton Copy Editor Emily Dunn Photo Editor Hannah Caprez Website Editor Kyle Knapp Staff Reporters Timothy Brennan, Sarah Carmon, Danielle LaRose, Theodore Lesiak, Rachel Mealy, Jonathan Sapp.

Adviser Natalie Meyer

opinion

three

“Twitter fights” provide funny, yet hurtful, entertainment

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ccording to Twitter’s official blog, the average number of tweets per day is 140 million. That is 140 million random thoughts, ideas, conversations and pictures that can be seen by the estimated 225 million Twitter users at any given time.

With the evolution of social networking and the continually expanding Twitter community, conflict and controversy is bound to occur. This exchange of opinionated comments has given way to the nasty phenomenon known as the “Twitter fight”. A twitter fight is an exchange of tweets back and forth about a common topic between two or more people. I find today’s Twitter fights to be some of the most interesting and hilarious, yet mean-spirited entertainment out there. In fact, if given the choice between watching a highly-acclaimed movie or seeing a Twitter fight go down, I would have to go with the Twitter fight because of its unpredictable and typically relatable content.

A Twitter fight can happen between people from any walk of life. From battles between celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and Dr. Phil to a Hoban and St.Vincent-St.Mary face off, these wars can get fierce. Often

these fights are small arguments with clever burns and sly remarks. However, when a conflict between two spirited schools like St. Vincent-St. Mary and Hoban is taken to the Twitter world, it can become messy.

With the freedom to type whatever they think within seconds and behind the safety of a screen, fellow tweeters can often take school pride a step too far.

With a single shot, or in this case tweet, a fight can break out. Typically, a Twitter fight consists of students defending and offending each other’s schools, and even each other. Commenting on past negative occurrences, sporting events or latest high school drama, there are no boundaries for some tweeters. “One school is good at sports, and one has good looking kids... that’s how it is!” one Hoban tweeter asserted after a girls volleyball game. “I forgot St.V doesn’t recruit. #mybad,” another Hoban tweeter said. It is pointed tweets like these that take tension to a whole new level. But then a clever, witty guy, such as junior Joe Gale, comes along and cuts the tension with a knife. “St.V may have sports and Lebron James but we have a little thing

‘cording to

capes

by hannah caprez I like to call Gifford,” Gale said. It is tweets such as these that add to the hilarity of the Twitter fight.

While Twitter fights can be amusing, certainly Twitter users need to consider the negative implications of their remarks.

I personally think that Twitter fights can have a really damaging effect on people because ever y insult traded is viewed by perhaps hundreds of followers. However, when people follow these Twitter fights they must remember to keep it classy and harmless. So my fellow tweeters, I urge you to recognize when tweets cross the line from good fun to hurtful jabs and know when to stop. n

Victories against Irish overshadowed by big-sport losses

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n recent years, Hoban has been cursed with unfortunate defeats against the Irish in the two most watched sports in high school: football and basketball. Both teams pour their hearts and souls into those two events, and put forth their best efforts. Yet, the hard work the Knights put into defeating the Irish in other sports has not been in vain. Last year Hoban sports teams won a majority of sporting events against the Irish. Yet, those triumphant victories go nearly uncelebrated, and many teams’ hard work unrewarded.

Hoban beat St. Vincent-St. Mar y last year on the varsity level in women’s soccer, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s golf, men’s and women’s volleyball, women’s basketball, men’s bowling, baseball and softball. This year we added to that list another victor y in men’s soccer in a shutout of 2-0, and a crushing defeat over the Irish in freshman football with a score of 50-0.

Having put that into consideration, it seems somewhat odd that St. V-M would consider themselves to have bragging rights over Hoban. In many cases, Hoban not only beats the Irish, but either

shuts them out entirely or ver y clearly shows them who is truly dominant on the court, field, diamond or track. But even with those distinct victories, many of our own students look only for a victor y in football or basketball. While those two sports are certainly the largest crowd gatherers, many others have the potential to draw large crowds and offer just as thrilling of a game. In addition, many of those neglected sports can promise something essential to our morale: a victor y.

I understand that most high schools, including ours, put extreme emphasis on their football and basketball programs.

They are typically the sports programs that receive the most funding, inherit the most attention, draw the largest fan base and in turn make a profit. But it is unfair to ignore the sports that students put just as much effort into and receive no recognition for their efforts when they continuously crush the Irish. Being a member of the tennis team, I remember last year in the spring when we beat the Irish in a 4-1 varsity and a 5-0 junior varsity tennis match. There was no pep rally before-

sapp

city by jonathan sapp hand, no dress down day and ver y little recognition after wards. It was not even on the announcements. Of course, people are not as inclined to watch a four hour tennis match when they could watch a football game instead, and I can understand why.

But the mere fact that Hoban’s community failed to recognize what our team considered the most triumphant victor y of the season was a bit of an upset. I’m not saying ever y sports team should receive the same amount of pregame enthusiasm, but at least some acknowledgement is in order to boost the school’s overall morale. Ever y Knight works their hardest to beat the Irish, but not ever y Knight is rewarded. n

news

four

by tim brennan, ben easton and rachel mealy

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ith just one day left for final preparations, the buzz surrounding Homecoming is in full swing. Thanks to the efforts of the student council, students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities tomorrow night. This year’s dance will feature a carnival styled theme including a cotton-candy machine as well as a snapshot photo booth.

Many freshmen are anticipating their first high school dance. “I’m really excited to see how the gym will be decorated,” freshman Nick Kaiser said, “and I can’t wait to dance and have a good time with my friends.”

In addition to the photo booth, formal pictures will also be available to couples and groups of friends courtesy of L yon’s photography. Standard format pictures for couples will cost $25 and additional format styles will range from $15 to $45.

“Having the opportunity for pictures,” Senior Paul Gutbrod said, “will be a great way for ever yone to remember the night.”

Due to the diligent work of student council, the various festivities of the dance, and the carnival styled theme, students are bound to have an enjoyable time tomorrow night. n

Dancing with

[ class ] Br. Bob comments on dance conduct

What is the policy regarding inappropriate dancing this year?

We are a school of moral values and any dancing that is deemed sexual will not be accepted. Grinding at the dance is like spitting in the punch at a picnic.

How will the policy be enforced?

Students will be asked to leave and will not be permitted to attend future dances such as Sweethearts and Prom.

What are your hopes for the student body at Homecoming this year?

We have had a great start to the year and my hope is that this will continue. My goal is not to stop students from having a good time, but students will be expected to act as upstanding Christians.

While most students only experience homecoming from eight to 11, many

behind the scenes.

Sun. Photo booth Sat. Student Sat. 8:00is set up, p. council Waking up early, stu- 5:00p. m. cotton candy 7:00p.

11:30 m. members dent council mem- DJ arrives, m.

7:30 Homemachine drag thembers work diligently Lyons pho-

are unaware of the hard work that goes on

Fri.

3:00p.m.

Student council begins decorations until final preparations by stringing lights, are complete. hanging streamers, and posting couple Sat. a. cards. m.

8:00

tography professionals arrive and set up.

Chaperones and turned on, concessions Moderators arrive, lights in the gym are prepared.

Sat. p. dimmed and music m. is turned on.

6:00

coming Dance

Sun.

selves out of bed to clean up a. the gym.

9:00m.

Graphics by Anna Baumhoer, Hannah Caprez, Sarah Carmon amd Katie Stepanek

Castle Carnival at the

news

NEWS IN BRIEF Freshmen enjoy their first class retreat at Hoban by emily dunn

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n Oct. 3 and 5, excitement filled the air as the entire freshmen class gathered in the Barry Gym for a day of fun and spiritual growth. “It’s so exciting, they’re all so young and so new!” freshmen Religious Studies teacher Karen Dyrlund said.

Freshman retreat is the first of many retreat opportunities for Hoban students. For some, it is the first retreat they have gone on. “The first semester course for freshmen is welcoming them to ‘the family.’ The retreat is a part of that course. It is part of our way of welcoming them,” Director of Spritual Formation Mary Bulgrin said. “It’s memorable because they get to come together as a class, they get to be with some of the upperclassmen who are already leaders in the school and the way it is set up is very memorable– there are a lot of fun activities that they get to be involved in.”

Some of the most popular retreat activities are the talent show, skits, and human foosball. “My favorite part of past retreats has been the talent show, especially Armani Stevens Davney laying down his raps for everyone there!” Freshmen Religious Studies teacher Benjamin Rossi says of his favorite retreat memory. “To me, it’s always the best part because you never really know a student until they get out there and do their thing up on the stage.” The freshmen class had a good time getting to know each other, especially with the skits that they wrote and performed. “The skits were a lot of fun because we got to see the creativity of all of our classmates. It was difficult, though, because of the crazy props we had, we had a ton of random items.” freshman Isabella Judge said. “It was also really fun to meet new people. Even though I’m in a lot of classes with many people, I did get to meet some new people.”

One of the many spiritual aspects of the retreat involved the freshmen listening to upperclassmen who shared stories to inspire the students’ spirituality. “We learned that you have to rely on your faith. When things get tough, it’s not time to quit, it’s time to get closer to God,” freshman Olivia Bittner said. “Even when things go wrong, you can always go to someone you trust.

They can help you grow stronger.” A goal the retreat leaders hoped to achieve with each retreat is to imbue within the class an attitude of acceptance, towards themselves and others while getting closer to God. “It was a great retreat.” freshman Olivia Bittner said.n

five

New Hoban club promotes literary opportunities by katie stepanek

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or many students, assigned reading is a task so daunting they leave the job for Sparknotes or Shmoop. However, for the particular brand of student who looks forward to the new literary opportunities offered in english class and even chooses to read for pleasure and on their own time, there is a new club at Hoban that will provide for them a safe haven.

“My hope was for people who enjoy reading outside of school to have an environment to intellectually discuss books,” junior club founder Rachel Mealy said.

At the book club’s first official meeting, book suggestions were discussed and plenty of titles were swapped among potential members.

The atmosphere was one of increasing excitement as members began to realize that they were among their fellow readers. Heated conversations about common favorite novels and series, as well as voiced anticipation for future meetings commenced.

“I wanted to get ideas of good books to read,” junior Maria Albanese said, “and Mr. Yanko is one of the moderators. That was a big part of my decision to join.”

For more information about club activities and book selections, contact president Rachel Mealy, or club moderators Robert Yanko and Tina Braman.n

Elementary students experience Revolutionary War Day by danielle larose

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n Sept. 24 and 25, walking onto Hoban’s band field resembled entering into a settlement in the 17th century. During this time, the principles of modern American were being formed along with the foundations of current technological advancements. Known as the colonial period, not many students had known or experienced the lifestyle of an early American until, right here at Hoban, it was recreated.

Meant to represent the setting of Fort Laurens, Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort, the field’s set up consisted of eleven stations. These stations were dedicated to different aspects of art, mathematics, science and economics practiced in colonial America and were all led by Hoban teachers or groups of Hoban students. Throughout the day, which consisted of a morning and an afternoon session, students rotated from one station to the next, all excited to learn about the colonial lifestyle. When asked what they were most eager to see, most students responded “the cannons” while fifth grader Aryanna Jones responded, “how people acted and did in the Revolutionary War.” This growing enthusiasm towards history shown by Aryanna and other students was one of the main objectives of history teacher Jason Anderson who started the program in 2010 after doing a study about the American Revolution at Mt. Vernon. “After I came back, I discussed with colleagues how we could create something hands on that involved multiple subjects,” Mr. Anderson said.

Now hosting up to 1,000 elementary school students, this interactive experience has expanded both in size and popularity.With stations for next year already in development, help from the GAR Foundation and the leadership of Mr.Anderson, 2013’s Revolutionary War History Day will be its biggest and most hands on yet.n

centerspread

six REPUBLICAN

Healthcare

In order to save Medicare, the Republicans want to modernize it by empowering its participants and securing it financially. High spending on Medicare and Medicaid results in high cost of healthcare. Republicans aim to reduce this by moving from a defined-benefit entitlement program to a defined-benefit contribution program meaning benefits are based off of contribution to the system rather than simply guaranteeing benefits to certain people. They aim to repeal Obamacare and rely on a free market system in the hands of the people. They will promote cost transparency, competition among insurance agencies and technology enhancements for health records. “Putting the patient at the center of policy decisions will increase choice and reduce costs” (Republican Platform 2012).

Foreign Policy

The party’s goal is to have the President work closely with Congress in order to unite with the people and keep America safe. “The Republican Party is the advocate for a strong national defense as the pathway to peace, economic prosperity and the protection of those yearning to be free” (RP 2012). A Republican Administration will advocate religious liberty as a central part of our diplomacy with foreign nations. The party will promote effective foreign aid. The Republicans support African nations under assault by radical Islamic forces. They will demand the dismantlement of North Korea’s nuclear weapons and promote human rights in North Korea. The Republican party supports Israel unequivocally as an ally in the Middle East. Romney will call for the restoration of Lebanon’s independence as well as support to the people of Iraq. In regards to Iran, the party will support the Iranian people but not the current regime.

Economic Plan

B M RO

The Republicans wish to restore the values of American free enterprise and market capitalism where self-reliance, hard work and ethical conduct are rewarded. They wish to lower taxes on iased b n u n An business and reduce regulations in order to promote business esidees r p formation and job creation. They aim for a tax system that is “simple, transparent, flatter by jam and fair” (RP 2012). The Republicans also wish to cut back spending on government programs in order to reduce the national debt. A shift to private capital will allow for a scaling back of government’s role in the housing market. Republicans stand ready to implement countervailing duties on China if they do not reform their currency policies. Romney will promote a National Right-to-Work law to promote worker freedom and economic liberty.

Other Plans

They plan to make America energy independent, a task which will promote the creation of new jobs, limit international spending and promote innovation. This energy is focus on utilizing America’s coal, oil and natural gas, nuclear energy and cost-effective development of renewable energy.

For more information on th Republican Platform visit: http://www.gop.com/2012-republican-platform_home/

centerspread

seven

Healthcare

The Obama-Biden plan provides accessible healthcare for all Americans, builds on the existing health care system and uses existing providers, doctors and plans. Under the Obama-Biden plan, patients will be able to make healthcare decisions with their doctors, instead of being denied by insurance companies. Under the plan it is promised that current health insurance remains the same except costs will go down by as much as $2,500 per year. Those without health insurance will have a choice of new, health insurance options, but there is a $1,500 penalty for those without any insurance. The Democratic Party pledges to continue building on the new healthcare law. It says accessible, high-quality healthcare is part of the American promise, that Americans should have the security that comes with good health care, and that no one should go broke because they get sick. “No law is perfect, and Democrats stand willing to work with anyone to improve the law where necessary, but we are committed to moving forward” (Democratic Platform 2012).

Foreign Policy

The Democratic Party states that it has responsibly ended the

war in Iraq, put the Al-Qaida terrorist organization on the path to

defeat with the killing of Osama bin Laden and reversed the Taliban’s

momentum to set the stage for the drawdown of U.S. forces in

Afghanistan. Democratic leaders back further reductions in the

nuclear weapons stockpile, building on the hard-fought U.S.-Russia

treaty that Obama got through the Senate in December 2010.

Currently, there is a lack of foreign policy in the Middle East

resulting in the rise of terrorism in Egypt and Lybia including

the killing of a United States Ambassador. Also, the

Democratic Platform has dropped a line from its 2008 platform

regarding Israel. The 2012 platform no longer upholds that “Jerusalem is and 012 will remain the capital of Israel.” The party says it wants to maintain a strong 2 e h t

military, but argues that, in the current fiscal environment, tough e to budgetary decisions must include defense spending. n guid tio

A M BA

ntial

elec

iel lloyd

nd dan

a s axson

Economic Plan

President Obama and Democrats are fighting to

strengthen our economy further and create jobs for American workers by investing in a clean-energy economy and putting Americans to work rebuilding our infrastructure.The Democratic platform calls for extending the middle-class tax cuts for the 98 percent of families who make less than $250,000 a year and promises not to raise taxes on them.

The platform claims a typical family has saved $3,600 during Obama’s first term. ‘‘Now he’s fighting to stop middle-class families and those aspiring to join the middle class from seeing their taxes go up and to extend key tax relief for working families and those paying for college, while asking the wealthiest and corporations to pay their fair share” (Democratic Platform 2012).

For more information on the Democratic Platform visit: http://www.democrats.org/democratic-national-platform

Designed by Anna Baumhoer and Danielle LaRose

DEMOCRAT

features

eight Everyone has a locker buddy at Hoban-someone to talk to between classes, someone who can give help when it’s needed, or someone who can make rough days a little brighter. Here’s a look at some unique locker buddies.

Jacob and Josh Romero (Freshmen) What are the pros of having your brother as a locker buddy?

Josh: I have English first period, and Biology third period, and he has it the other way around. So we share advice, homework we’re expecting, or just help each other out in that class.

Is there a bad side?

Jacob: I just have too many classes with him! Well, there’s not really anything bad about having Josh there, but he gets kinda annoying sometimes.

Josh: Yeah, same.

Any stories or experiences that make your relationship at school stand out?

Jacob: As they say, we have twin telepathy, which means we can communicate with each other without really speaking. We do that a lot.

Josh: We’ll hear people’s conversations, or someone by us says or does something, we look at each other and just know what we’re thinking.

Jacob: We do that a lot.

Kevin O’Neil and Graham Onders (Sophomores) How long have you had lockers by each other?

Kevin: Two years.

What are the pros of being by each other?

Graham: Discussing homework, like stuff we did in the day. We can help each other out.

Kevin: Or if either of us need to borrow something really quick, like a book.

And the cons?

Kevin: You see him every day!

Graham(sarcastically): Yep, seeing Kevin every day just ruins my day.

Kevin:Don’t touch me.

If your locker buddy relationship” were a TV show, what would it be like?

Both: It would be a comedy show, definitely.

What would you call your show?

Kevin: “Graham Antagonizes Kevin.’

Graham: You’re not a very good TV show namer.

Osahar Latson and Caitlyn Laughlin

(Seniors) How long have you been next to each other?

Caitlyn: Since freshman year...

Osahar: ...our first encounter.

Photos by Emily Dunn

by emily dunn

Locker Buddies

What are the pros of having your lockers next to each other?

Osahar: We see each other every day... But that’s also a con!

Caitlyn: Yeah, it’s a pro and a con.

If you had a TV show about your locker buddy relationship, what would it be like and what would you call it?

Caitlyn: “Caitlyn and Osahar Plus Eight,” because we have been bringing more people into our “locker buddy family”.

Osahar: But they’ve disappeared!

Caitlyn: Only one of them did!

Greg Brown (Sophomore) and Caroline Brower (Senior)

How long have you been “locker buddies”?

Greg: I’m gonna say the beginning of this year, because last year I was terrified of Caroline. I would walk in every morning, and she’d just have this stern look on her face!

Caroline: Nuh uh!

Greg: Oh, yes you did! But then this year, I started to cheer her up which is why she smiles all the time now- because I talk to her.

Caroline: Our lockers have been next to each other for two years.

What are some of the pros of having your lockers close together?

Greg: Sometimes, I bake her goods. I bake her cookies, sometimes cupcakes. No, I’m kidding.

Really, in between classes we like to joke around.

Caroline: We love to cheer each other up.

Are there any bad sides to it?

Caroline: Sometimes he smells...

Greg: Ok, that’s not my fault! Other people put their stuff in my locker. I honestly think I smell great.

Do you have a favorite memory together?

Greg: On Mum Day, I was walking around with streamers strewn about myself. I came to my locker and saw Caroline, and she just looked at me. We had this crazy stare down. We’re gonna be talking about that every day. We’ll just be like, “Remember that one time, with those streamers?”

Caroline: Oh, I remember...

features

nine

Teachers find companionship with furry friends by hannah caprez

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he bond between a person and his or her pet often reveals an unseen side of them. Many know the teachers inside of school, but a closer look into their lives reveals a soft spot for their furry friends.

Art teacher, Zach Feador loves his cats, but few students know exactly how many cats he has. “I personally have three cats,” Feador said “Melosh, D’lo and Lilo. My family owns 11 including my three, and a pit bull, Lucy.” Over the years, the Feadors have taken in these cats from no-kill shelters and off the streets. Out of all of this ‘Teacher’s Pets,’ one of his fabulous felines emerges as his favorite. “Right now, Melosh is my favorite." Feador said, "He plays fetch with a fuzzy toy ball and jumps on my shoulders, sometimes when I am not paying attention which hurts.” The relationship he

has with his cats shows how much Feador cares for them and the person he really is.

The saying goes that cats have nine lives, but without the help of Mr. Feador these felines may have run out of luck.

While Feador takes in pets in need, this summer math teacher Jenny Spontarelli was the one in need of a companion. With her fourth and final son leaving the nest to go to college, she set out to find something to fill the void. To give a sister to her long-time dog Ruthie, she bought Ellie Belli Spontarelli, a ten month old Cavachon. “Ellie is very sweet. She has really big brown expressive eyes. She loves to sit on my lap at night,” Mrs. Spontarelli said. “It is definitely easier to have two dogs, but you should see it when they are all here! More good times!" Spontarelli said when asked if it was easier having four boys in the house

coffee drinks

by sarah carmon and katie stepanek

Salted Caramel Latte

The salted caramel latte from Starbucks was definitely one to try. At first glance you are warmed by the look of the whipped cream, caramel and salted toppings in the traditional white Starbucks cup. The latte smelled of chocolate and caramel. The warm caramel flavor along with the chocolate flavor gives it a unique, and surprisingly delicious, bitter taste. This drink is great for the non-coffee lovers, due to the fact that it does not have a strong coffee flavor.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

The pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks is a great drink for coffee lovers. At first glance, the drink’s whipped cream topping with a light powdering of cinnamon on top makes the drink appear like every other cinnamon item on Starbucks’ menu. However, the unusual part about the drink is its orange color. This latte had a strong coffee taste and a pumpkin undertone with a very small hint of the fall spice. As you take the first sip of the drink you have a strong cinnamon taste with the whipped cream. As you reach the bottom of the cup, the cinnamon flavor dwindles into the coffee and pumpkin flavors.

Pumpkin Chai

Chai tea is made by boiling tea leaves with milk, sugar, and sometimes spices. Due to its cinnamon flavor, this hot, foamy beverage is reminiscent of apple picking. Its name boasts of pumpkin and yet, the aroma and taste are more closely compared to spice and apple than anything else.

Despite its false advertising, the drink is a sweet delight.

Pumpkin White Chocolate Mocha

This is the drink for the caffeine addicts. However, due to its overwhelming coffee taste, the pumpkin has been compromised and is only slightly detectable while the white chocolate mocha aspect of the beverage is still present. Because the pumpkin flavor is lacking, the pumpkin white chocolate Mocha feels more like an everyday beverage than a seasonal one.

Graphics by Anna Baumhoer amd Katie Stepanek

Seasonal

or two dogs.

Music teacher Kyle Kelvington not only has lungs that can hold a note for minutes, but a heart with a soft spot for his dog, Banksy, a one year old lovable Pug from Nashville, Tennessee. Banksy’s sister Margot is also in the family and belongs to Kelvington’s friend, Amy. “As soon as I get in the door he runs up to me with a little whimper and does a sort of Yoga stretch with his paws on my knee,” Kelvington said. “It's so nice to come home to him so excited to see me.”

We all need a stress reliever, and for teachers it is essential to come home to that furry little face after a day of whining teens and grading papers. Whether it is a pet in need of a home, or an owner in need of companionship, the relationship between pet and owner can be as close as family. n

Pumpkin Latte

Visions of pumpkin patches and vivid leaves are as absent as the pumpkin flavor in this drink. The pumpkin latte, while an improvement over the next beverage, has yet to capture that autumn zest evoked by comtetitors’ seasonal drinks. Its coffee taste is relatively strong but falls flat as a flavor of the season.

Iced White Chocolate Mocha Pumpkin Latte The name is a mouthful, and just as it is difficult to say, the beverage is difficult to drink. Dunkin’ has ruined its original coffee with some artificial pumpkin flavoring that is certainly hard to swallow.

This drink falls flat of usual Dunkin’ Donuts expectations and leaves America dragging its feet.

sports

ten

Senior sharp-shooter takes aim at Olympic goal by sarah carmon

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ing events. He shoots with many different people all over the state in this competition.

The Civilian Marksmanship Program holds National events at Camp Perr y Militar y Base in Port Clinton, Ohio.The shooting matches bring strong competition.

“The gun I use when Abernathy and father Larry win Tactical Rifle Youth-Adult I compete nationPartner match, with an aggregate score of 1158-44X. ally is a 10/22 ruIn 2016, Aaron is aiming to compete the gar. That’s a fancy Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. He also is planname for a long rifle,” Abernathy said. ning to keep competing after high school.

For the past three consecutive years, “If I don’t play football in college, I’m going Aaron and his father have won the Tacto tr y to earn a shooting scholarship and tical Rifle Youth-Adult Partner match. compete at the collegiate level,” Aaron said.

This year is Aarons second year of winAs boys sit and watch a good game of footning the Nationals for the 18 and under ball with their dads making noise crunchclass, also known as the Junior Tactical ing chips, Aaron will be making noise Class. Being a national champion is his bonding with his dad over shooting guns.n greatest accomplishment to the date.

Photo courtesy of Aaron Abernathy

o one quite knows what it is about guys and their guns. Aaron Abernathy has the muscle and the firepower. As a receiver and a cornerback on the football team, he definitely has the muscle. But what undoubtedly sets him apart from ever yone else is his firepower.

Most people spend their time with their dads watching football, playing catch or bonding over music. Unlike ever yone else, Aaron spends his time with his dad, Larr y, shooting guns. While for some shooting is for recreation and target practice, Aaron and Larr y shoot to compete.

At age five, Aaron’s dad introduced him to firearms. It became something that they bonded over. He became addicted to the firepower and by age 12 he was competing in competitions on the national level. He fell in love with competing and did ever ything he could to get better. “I love the feeling I get when I shoot and compete,” Aaron said. “And shooting with my dad makes it even better.”

At Canton McKinley Rifle and Gun Club, Aaron shoots at local matches which then qualify him to compete in national shoot-

Team bonding fails to impact athletic performance

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hroughout the sports seasons, high school teams are constantly tr ying to find ways to improve their team chemistr y and unity.

This goal, although ideal, is often difficult to achieve. An event that has emerged as a popular way to bring a team closer together is one that can involve anything from a sleepover to a pool party: team bonding.

Team bonding is becoming more and more frequent among high school sports teams. Many teams, especially at Hoban, have ritual bondings that are a part of the team’s annual traditions. Other teams come up with random ideas throughout the season to improve their team’s togetherness. The harsh reality is that although these planned events may be a great way to spend time with the team, they really are not going to improve the ability of a team to perform well on the court, track or field.

When it comes to high school sports, it is inevitable that some sort of drama will

arise at some point throughout the season.

One person will be upset about playing time, another person is jealous of someone taking their spot, someone will be angr y at the coach- the list is endless.

Somehow the proposed solution always seems to be to have a team bonding session. While this can be a good way to relieve stress and have an enjoyable time, it is not going to end a team’s problems and it will certainly not produce better results athletically.

A better solution that the team captains can come up with is to perhaps hold a team meeting where players are allowed to express their issues openly with their teammates. Or maybe the answer is to simply accept the fact that there will always be issues on any sports team, just like any other group of individuals working together, and that it may be best to just focus on the sport by improving at practice each day.

I am certainly a fan of team bonding. As a three sport athlete, I can say that I defi-

ten points for

GRYFFINDOR by allie griffith nitely would not enjoy my seasons as much without the friendships I have made with my teammates. However, when it comes to the actual effect team bonding has on improving chemistr y and performance on the field or court, I would say it fails. The only way a team can truly increase their level of skill and overall performance during a season is to come to practice focused and willing to work hard together on the drill at hand. When it all comes down to it, a team will win more when they are putting their heart and soul into a game, regardless of the amount of team bonding activities.n

sports

eleven

season

by trey lesiak

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oming off big wins against CVCA and rival St. Vincent-St. Mar y, Hoban’s varsity boy’s soccer team now look towards the post-season and a run to the state championship. With a 12 -0-2 record, the Knights are now third in Division II and are in second place in the Kent District behind Revere. When asked what his expectations for the rest of the season were, senior Justin Spear said, “I think we all know that answer: Columbus!”

“What makes our team so successful is the confidence we as players have with one another,” junior Kevin Outwater said. The family atmosphere the team as a whole possesses comes from their team bonding before games and indoor exhibition games during the past winter. This has allowed them to trust one another on the field and as a result defeat many of the competitors that have crossed their path.

“It’s never felt better to play with such a talented group of guys,” captain Tim Delaney said. “With such a beautiful style of play it has been an honor to be a captain of such an amazing team.” The brotherhood

that the boys have developed ranges from their before game ritual of “ziggy zaggy”, the chant the starters use to get ready to play, to the lifelong friendships that stretch farther than the 120x80 yards of the pitch.

“The team’s chemistr y is a direct result of its hard work on the practice field,” coach Octavian Muresan said.

After the hiring of head coach “Tavi” two years prior, the style of play has changed to a more eloquent game of passing, patience and possession rather than a direct style used by most high schools. Even though this technique requires hard work at practices it has allowed the team to flourish in games while dominating opponents.

“Winning is a habit and it certainly makes the game more enjoyable when you see your work in practice pay off in games,” coach and histor y teacher Jason Dzik said.

“I have been coaching soccer here for eight years now and this team is certainly one of the best as far as individual talent, leadership and of course overall success.”

“Of course, our team would be nothing without the student body at our side,” goalkeeper Andrew Markowski

said. “With the support of superfans and fellow classmates, from freshman to seniors, we find it easy to acquire motivation to beat our opponents.”

Certainly, the best example would be when the Knights faced off against the team from across town.

“After seeing the spirit showed at the St. Vincent-St. Mar y game, nothing can compare when you shut out your rivals and celebrate with the entire student body,” Tim Delaney said.

Not surprisingly however, by being one of the few undefeated teams left in Division II, a target is put on the Knight’s back. “There has been a lot of pressure placed on our shoulders entering each game,” junior Jordan Sar ver said. “Our fans have helped to assuage that pressure. They have been a great support so far and I hope they continue until the end of our journey.”

Their journey continues against the Walsh Warriors in the final game before the postseason tomorrow at noon at Walsh Jesuit High School. So, as coach Paul Traxler said, “Come out and support your Knights. It’s the right thing to do.” n

Photo by Hannah Caprez

undefeated the knights’

sports

twelve

Frustrating calls by neophyte referees upset fans

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by jack srail

t only took three weeks, two blown game winning calls and one day for the NFL to finally come to their senses and realize that the replacement referees were not doing their jobs. The first three weeks of the current NFL season were plagued with many blown calls by the replacement referees with the final straw being the blown call in the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks game on Monday Night Football in week three.

The touchdown or interception, depending on which referee you were watching, helped cause a catastrophic outrage and taught the NFL a very valuable lesson. It became very visible that the replacements referees were nothing like the referees the

NFL is used to. When a division three college referee blows a game winning call, making the playoff and superbowl contender the Green Bay Packers come away with a loss, it causes a huge roar of controversy to begin.

Within hours of this controversial call the NFL finally did what was needed to be done: coming to terms with the old referees and allowing them to withdraw from their holdout and return to the NFL. “It was hard to watch the game,” senior Drew Lakos said. “I would rather watch paint dry then see that call again.”

The replacement referees only had a couple of weeks notice before being thrown into live game action. Most referees take years to perfect their craft, so it may not entirely be their fault for the controversial calls

Sports overview

Boys Soccer

The boys soccer team currently has a record of 12 wins and 2 ties and is seeded 2nd in the Kent District for the Division II State Tournament. Their first playoff game will be Saturday, October 20th. The Knights have proved their talent with their exceptional play against #1 ranked Western Reserve by tying 0-0. The Knights also defeated the St. Vincent-St. Mary Irish soundly with a score of 2-0. Students are encouraged to support the Knights tomorrow at Walsh Jesuit as the boys take on the Warriors at 12PM. Led by senior center-midfielder Tim Delaney and junior forward Shane Weidt, the Knights look to continue their impressive season.

Girls Soccer

The Lady Knights earned the #1 seed in the Division II Kent District and have a buy for the first round of playoffs and also have home field advantage for the District Tournament. With a record of 10-4-1, the girls have played a competitive schedule including powerhouse teams like Walsh, Holy Name, and Clear Fork. Led by the consistent scoring of junior Mykaela Zingale and senior Jamie Dean, the girls had impressive victories over St. Vincent-St. Mary and Lake Catholic. The Lady Knights’ first playoff game will be Thursday, October 18th at Hoban.

Girls Volleyball

The Lady Knights look to have a fresh start in the tournament despite their tough schedule this season. With the rising talent of sophomore Alexandra Hall and the help of the six seniors, the Knights are looking forward to clinching their first tournament victory on Thursday, Oct. 18 at Tallmadge High School against the winner of Canton South and Coventry.

that were made.The replacements referees did not know all the technicalities of the NFL rulebook and the result of this was gamechanging calls. The NFL referees take the time to learn the rule book from cover to cover. While they do miss calls from time to time none are as big as the ones made by the replacement referees.

“I personally had better refs in my fifth grade CYO football games than the NFL had for the first few weeks of the season,” junior Jake Tersigni said.

Although there are bad calls made every week the fans can be thankful that the refs are back from their short absence, and now get back to the usual as they continue to critique and slam the referees for every call made good or bad.n

Football

Coming off of a great victory against the Padua Bruins last Friday, the Knights are looking to win the North Coast League by winning the next three games. Tonight they will take on NDCL for the Homecoming Game, next week they play Benedictine for Senior Night, and the last regular season game is against the Walsh Warriors.

Girls Tennis

The girls team has had an exciting season thanks to the new tennis courts, which opened up numerous opportunities for the team. They were able to host the North Coast League Tournament where they earned 4th place. Tonight, the District Tournament continues with singles player junior Anne Kramer and doubles team senior Elisa Dimeo and junior Michelle Feldon.

Cross Country

The Hoban runners will be facing off in the North Coast League Meet tomorrow and stand-out runners James Axson, Joey Brennan and Katie Frego look to make their mark against the competitive Walsh Warriors. Following the NCL meet, the Knights will be running in the District Tournament next week where they hope to continue their season in the Regional tournament.

Boys Golf

The boys golf season completed their season with competitive showings at the North Coast League Tournament and the Alexaner Reece Gilmour Tournament. The Knights placed 2nd in the NCL, led by freshman Nathan Yoak, junior Justin Bober and senior Chase Parker. Parker also placed 1st in the Gilmour Tournament and the team placed 3rd overall. The golfers missed advancing in the Sectional Tournament by only one stroke.