VISOR E R O F E E R B Y WE S E R H T E TH THE
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A Visor staff member shares feelings on unjust criticism of millenials
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archbishop hoban high school - Issue 1 - September 19, 2014
Overview of Cleveland events from the summer of 2014
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Extra time on Thursday mornings creates opportunities for students.
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Since its inception in 1953, Hoban High School has been run by brothers of the Order of Holy Cross. Whether in the classroom, in administration, or even on the website, the Holy Cross brothers’ presences are felt all over the school. The Visor took the time to discover more about these familiar brothers before they had even considered joining Holy Cross.
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THE NEWS IN BRIEF
by julie ciotola
Hoban welcomes new Dean of Students
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or those who enjoy living on the wild side, perhaps by breaking dress code or refusing to buy a parking pass, a new face of discipline awaits them this year.Hoban is fortunate to welcome the new Dean of Students to the community. This role is designed for someone responsible and experienced, which is why Tym Tagliaferro was perfect for the job. Before arriving at Hoban, Tagliaferro worked at the Gilmour Academy for three successful years alongside Hoban’s President, Dr. Todd Sweda. Once Sweda came to Hoban, the two stayed in contact, and Tagliaferro was informed of all the exciting changes and events at Hoban. Before even applying for the job, Tagliaferro was exposed to the school’s impressive spirit and energetic atmosphere. “I was here on Mum Day, and as I walked in the door I saw the remnants of fog and decoration. I thought to myself ‘holy cow, look at all of the spirit
and support’” Tagliaferro stated. However, with so many memorable moments at Gilmore behind him, choosing to come to Hoban was a significant decision for Tagliaferro. “I loved Gilmore but when the job opened up I knew I had to apply. There is no way I would turn this down. It’s where I want to be” Tagliaferro stated. His eagerness to get involved shows his keen understanding of the importance of the Hoban staff. “This is my school and I take so much pride in it. I’m excited to help student council and bring my inside perspective. I also want to take a look at honor and dress code and I want to hear the student’s opinions on those” Tagliaferro said, looking forward into his exciting first year. The Hoban students are certainly in good hands under the leadership of Tagliaferro, who understands the importance of education and the core values instituted in all members of our community. n
Obama’s response to ISIS comes too late
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hen ISIS released a graphic video of the beheading of American journalist James Foley, the action received wide media coverage and caused fear and shock throughout the nation. The situation escalated when a second film showed the execution of journalist Steven Sotloff, forcing President Obama to finally address ISIS’s threats and publicly announce a plan to oppose them. On Sept, 10th, he announced to the nation that the U.S. plans to increase air strikes targeting ISIS in addition to training and arming both Iraqi troops and Syrian rebels against ISIS. Secretar y of State John Kerr y has met with international leaders in an effort to build a coalition against ISIS, with the goal of persuading nearby Arab nations to send ground forces to Iraq and Syria. President Obama made it clear, however, that American combat troops will not be sent to the region, gratifying the liberal, anti-war voices in Congress. While they and Obama would love for the nation to believe that his strategy will come together seamlessly and eliminate ISIS, the truth is that his current plan will probably not succeed quickly or easily, if at all. The expansion of air strikes in Iraq and Syria are a step in the right direction, but will not be enough to ultimately put an end to ISIS forces, which have expanded enormously in the last year. While air power alone may have been
sufficient if Obama had acknowledged the threat and taken action sooner, he continually downplayed the situation and ISIS’s growing power, saying in an inter view with the New Yorker in Januar y, “if a JV team puts on Lakers uniforms, that doesn’t make them Kobe Br yant.” Though his plan also includes training Iraqi soldiers and moderate Syrian rebels that can assist on the ground, establishing an effective army could take years. Furthermore, identifying moderate Syrian rebels has proven difficult in the past, as rebel groups often take American support only to use it against the moderates that the United States wanted to help. While a good idea in theor y, training and arming regional forces will be difficult to carr y out, especially in the timely manner that a threat like ISIS demands. Therefore, sending American troops to the area will be inevitable if Obama truly wants to realize his goal of defeating ISIS. No one wants a war, but the President’s hesitation may force the countr y into conflict. After avoiding action for so long, the United States is stuck playing catch up to ISIS’s extensive power and forces in the Middle East. Without direct intervention, the devastating impact of ISIS will continue to spread throughout the Middle East, and eventually the world. n
News & Opinion
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by joe brennan 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: Editors-in-chief Sarah Carmon Emily Dunn Managing Editor Joseph Brennan Features Editor Madeline Rotunda News Editors Christina Gorey Sports Editors Daniel Dicola Copy Editor Joe Brennan Photo Editor Ashley Kouri Staff Reporters Julie Ciotola, Christian Cook, Amanda Deighen, Marilyn Icsman, Alexander Lynch, Anna Reece, Joseph Santucci, Angelina Sapp, Elizabeth Stitzel, Kameryn Zingale Adviser Natalie Tannehill
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The Millenial generation faces unjust criticism
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he year 1982 was the start of a whole new image of the United States. It marked the beginning of the Millennial Generation- a group of roughly 100 million individuals with ages ranging from the early teens, to the late twenties. The Millennial Generation is criticized for being lazy, entitled and materialistic. We are labeled as “ The Me Me Me Generation� and as incompetent individuals with little gumption to take charge of the future and make worthwhile decisions. However, when I look at my generation, the Millennials, I see individuals who are open to a multitude of cultures, ideologies and traditions. We are more willing to accept ever yone as they are, despite their religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation. Our open-mindedness has paved the way for dramatic social change that promotes the rights of ALL people, and has led to the creation of many new, successful organizations. Despite the presence of many tragic events like the Sandy Hook shooting, the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, Hurricane Katrina, 9/11, Columbine and the Boston bombing, our generation
maintains a constant optimism and passion to change the nation so that events, like those stated above, never happen again. We are confident, we are optimistic and we embrace a strong sense of volunteerism and global awareness. A study released last year by the Pew Research Center reported that the Millennial generation is most likely the most educated generation in the histor y of the United States. Around 40 percent of Millennials between 18-24 years old were attending college in 2008. Never before has a generation pursued an education in such magnitude. This education has provided us with an amazing fount of knowledge that can be applied to the world around us and has granted us the ability to connect our thoughts and ideas with individuals across the globe. With at least 81 percent of our generation using some form of social media, it is no wonder our generation has the power to cause monumental changes in society. Through twitter we showed our support for Gaza with #freegaza, with Facebook we promoted the ALS ice bucket challenge and Instagram has allowed people across the globe to express their culture and beliefs
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through images, with others in the world. In spite of all of this, the Millennial generation has a lot of work to do. We cannot let our confidence cross the line to arrogance, and we cannot alienate ourselves in the digital world and ignore life as it passes by. We have a monumental task ahead of us; We are the next leaders of this great nation, and it is up to us to leave a legacy for future generations to remember. Take the initiative! Be confident, open and hopeful. Inspire others through words and actions, spread the word through social media and show support for just causes across the globe. The future is ours to seize, and it is our responsibility to capture it. n
Celebrity photo scandal violates individual privacy
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egardless of his or her fame, the privacy of any human being should never be violated. In late August, famous actresses, singers and models such as Jennifer Lawrence, Kate Upton, Mar y Elizabeth Winstead, Rihanna, Hope Solo, Scarlett Johansson and many more were victims of a relentless hacker who broke into the iCloud, Apple’s storage system. This hacker stole ptivate nude photographs that these celebrities had taken on their cellphones. The theft of these pictures is not the most concerning aspect of the crime, but also the vulnerability of the iCloud itself. Sensitive information is stored on the iCloud ever y day. Celebrities, or anyone for that matter, do not deser ve to be criticized for what is a clear violation of privacy. These intimate photographs were taken within the privacy of their own homes. Actress Mar y Elizabeth Winstead claims that she had deleted the nude pictures of herself off of her phone years ago. This suggests that either the hacker had collected the pictures for a
ver y long time, or that erasing pictures off of iCloud is more complicated than it seems. Celebrity leaks are not a new happening. In the past, these leaks have usually been publicized with little resistance from our society as a whole. People become passionate, but their drive quickly subsides as they return to daily life. This routine has been repeated multiple times. However, when the mass leak of pictures was released, Jennifer Lawrence decided to stand up for her privacy and pursue legal action. The most appalling part of this scandal is the difficulty Lawrence is faced with in this lawsuit. Lawrence was refused when she asked a pornographic website to take down the pictures of her that they had posted. The site is using copyright laws to block her case. Since it is not clear that she had taken all of the photographs herself, she does not have the copyright to the pictures, because whoever takes a picture owns the copyrights to it. This means the site can keep the leaked pictures online. It is shocking that
HOMEBOYARDEE by dan dicola this loophole is holding up considering that these are nude pictures of Lawrence were stolen and posted without her consent. Celebrities are deprived of their privacy ever y day. The paparazzi constantly swarms them for quotes, pictures or anything they can use in tabloids, magazines and on social media. It may seem that they volunteered for this attention as celebrities, but the hacking and leaking of these private pictures crosses the line. All people are entitled to privacy, and all people should respect that. n
RevolutionaryWar Day
Photos by Sarah Carmon
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Living History program sees unprecedented participation by anna reece
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istory books came alive earlier this week as the 5th Annual Revolutionary War Days commenced. Social Studies Teacher Jason Anderson dedicates a great deal of his time to this program every year and starts preparation months in advance. This year, Anderson, along with the Leadership Team comprised of dedicated Honors Government students, has once again exceeded all expectations. When the program began in 2010, it brought in a mere 250 elementary school students from the Akron area. The stations included a kitchen, marquee tent, surveying set and printing press and the program was led soley by the teachers. In the second year, the program increased to over 700 kids, a letter writing station and a fife and drum set were added. Every year since then, the number of students averaged around 900 and this year Revolutionary War Days accumulated an impressive 980 fourth and fifth graders from 17 schools,
many coming from outside of Akron to witness this rejuvenated history lesson. The enthusiasm from the senior Leadership Team was evident as they guided the young kids around all 13 stations. “My favorite part is getting to dress up in traditional colonial outfits. It makes everything feel more authentic and exciting,” senior Annie Tomei said. After dozens of meetings before school in preparation for Revolutionary War Days, this group of seniors was eager to be out on the field with the young students and see their hard work in action. The program was originally created to “provide history for kids who can’t afford to go on extravagant field trips while also giving Hoban students a chance to teach it,” Anderson said. Revolutionary War Days has exceeded even his expectations; over the past five years, Anderson, with the help of Hoban students and teachers, has taught over 4,000 local elementary schoolers. “I love watching the young kids get
fired up as they get off the bus, and also seeing the seniors get excited to teach them,” he said. Anderson is passionate about the program, going so far as to camp out on the field at night, sleeping in an exact replica of George Washington’s bed. There were many significant changes made to the Revolutionary War Days program this year. Anderson applied and was approved for a $50,000 grant that provided many new costumes for the students as well as a field hospital station, both giving the program more character and authenticity. Anderson and his students are also looking forward to taking the program on the road, visiting the State House in Columbus this Sept., Marietta in Oct., and Cincinnati in April. Anderson is looking forward to the future of this program and is “very thankful for the faculty for being so understanding and willing to work with the seniors to make this program possible.” n
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Getting to know the student body President and Vice-President by alex lynch
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Photo by Ashley Kouri
tudent Council President Jackson Miles, and Vice President Evan Nichols first met in 9th grade English by sharing a love for the dictionary. In a game they called “Word of the Day,” Miles and Nichols formed a friendship that blossomed into a student government duo. Last year, as they uttered the final words of their speech, there was a roar in Barry Gymnasium, seemingly predicting their election victory. Before they ran, Jackson and Evan had plans for the upcoming year. Their decision to run together was based on their shared ideas and, because of their past, they knew they could accomplish many things together. “Jackson and I worked really well together the past two years on student council and we thought we had some really good ideas we Jackson Miles (left) and Evan Nichols (right) take a break from could work on that would really benefit the school,” Nichols said. discussing Spirit Week plans. Although referred to as Vice President, Nichols holds many of However, Miles’ and Nichols’ ideas have come a long way since then. “Our campaign is looking really good. We have a lot of the same responsibilities as Miles. He is a leader in the student-run things planned that are in the proposal box as we speak. government and guides each person in Student Council, including We’re really hoping they follow through,” Nichols Said. the President. When not in school, he continues to challenge himThis is Miles’ third year on Student Council, but his position self in mock trial, academic challenge and cross-country. Nichols is much different from his previous roles as class officer. His even owns his own geography study website. “In grade school I various jobs are to oversee meetings, manage each class and was into geography bees, so over the years I created a binder of committee, plan events and provide assitance to his fellow Stu- study material and transferred it onto the Internet,” Nichols said. dent Council Members. “At this point there’s more planning in- Nichols plans to attend the University of Notre Dame, volved and there’s more coordination. Class officers have specific earn his business degree, and continue onto law school. Miles and Nichols are determined to encourage school spirit in jobs and we make sure everything runs smoothly,” Miles said. the next year. “We want to do things that are going to enrich the Along with Student Council, Miles is involved in numerschool atmosphere and bring a sense of enthusiasm - things that ous other activities at Hoban. He is a member of the ping-pong, make students excited,” Miles said. Together, they have the ability to current events and liturgical music clubs. He participates in lead Hoban High School into a new era of creativity, spirit and zeal. n varsity tennis and Project Hope, and recently became an Eagle Scout. Miles hopes to attend Wake Forest University to study business while pursuing his entrepreneurial ambitions.
New scheduling system offers students class flexibility
by kameryn zingale
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s of this year, the full term class experience has been forfeited in favor of a more traditional, collegestyle semester system. Many students were surprised this year when the they received their class schedules and saw that their typically simple and straightfor ward schedules had been replaced with a long, confusing list of semester-long classes. “The biggest reason [the schedules were changed] was to create flexibility; that and to fulfill as many student class requests as we could,” Associate Principal for Student Ser vices Kevin Hiller y said. With the year-long classes, it was difficult to develop a master schedule that suited all the teachers, class spaces and students. Hiller y, along with the help of
various staff members, uses computer software to create the schedules, but must enter the different variables into the system himself. The computer requires a list of constraints such as number and size of classes, teacher availability and prerequisites. After the system runs through this information, Hiller y must troubleshoot each conflict or “error” in order to create a usable schedule. Unfortunately, many conflicts cannot be resolved, and Hiller y must call each student who maintained an error in their schedules to the Student Ser vices office. “This year, we had somewhere in the neighborhood of 65 to 70 students who had a conflict and that’s pretty good.” Hiller y said. He also pointed out that this gives teach-
ers the opportunity to see their students at different times of the day, considering that a student may act totally different during first period than they would during tenth. “Although this system is new, we have not had many difficulties. I hope that this triumphance carries on into the second semesters when the switches will be made,” Hiller y said. Many students are also having positive reactions to this new system. “I like the new scheduling format. It will give students a completely fresh start after winter break,” junior Luke Lauterjung said. All in all, the semester class scheduling has been a success thus far, and it looks optimistic for the future. n
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H O LY C R O S S B R OT H E R S : The Holy Cross Brothers have witnessed the growth of students in and out of the classroom, and instilled the values of honesty, integrity and zeal at Hoban. They can be seen walking through the halls, teaching classes, and working in various administrative positions. However, the lives of the Brothers before they worked at Hoban have remained a mystery, until now.
and ran the 400 meter on the track team. I also worked with my dad in a shop he ran out of our garage. We made things other companies did not manufacture. I also covered a couple paper routes a few times. What college did you attend, and what did you study there? I started at Notre Dame, but went to Eastern Michigan University to study General Sciences and Math How did you come to be a Holy Cross Brother? At St. Eds there were lots of Holy Cross Brothers teaching classes, and they left a good impression on me. What has been your favorite memory since you started working at Hoban? Oh jeez, I would say it is the spirit of the students and the immense activity, support and involvement of the students show for their classmates.
Br. James Spooner
What is your birth date and what city were you born in? I was born on Jan. 4, in the “real Cleveland”, not in any of those suburbs. Do you have any siblings? Yes, I have four sisters. What is your favorite childhood memory? I always loved fishing on Saturdays with my father and two other gentlemen. Saturday was the day my dad did not have to work. What highschool did you attend, and what activities did you participate in? I attended St. Ed’s and was in Glee Club and Sodality Club where students would meet with African American families in Cleveland to learn about what their life was like, most were the families of the railroad porters. I was also a member of the Chair Crew club,
Br. Edward Libbers
What is your birth date and what city were you born in? I was born in Lafayette, Indiana on April 19, 1940. Do you have any siblings? I have one older sister and two younger brothers. What is your favorite childhood memory? On the Christmas of 1950 I received my first Lionel electric train. What highschool did you attend and what activities were you involved in? I went to Lafayette-Jefferson High School, which was a public school, for three years, then I went to Lafayette Central, which was a new Catholic school, for my Senior year. I was the editor of the Newspaper and participated in various plays. I also had a paper route and worked at a grocery store.
What college did you attend, and what did you study there? I attended Purdue for one year and then went to Notre Dame, where I majored in Chemistry and minored in math. How did you become a Holy Cross Brother? At Purdue, I was very active in the Newman Club, which was a club for Catholics at a non-Catholic university. A priest got me in contact with a Holy Cross Brother and the rest is history. What has been your favorite memory since you started working at Hoban? Oh my, there are so many of them. One of my happiest memories was when Hoban was closing and the Save Hoban rally started. I was part of the committee that organized the rally and when the curtains were pulled back, and I saw that the whole gym was packed, I was so stunned at the amazing attendance. I have never seen a group of people raise such a large amount of money in such a short time.
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A LOOK INTO THEN AND NOW
what did you study there? I attended the University of Notre Dame to study the Classics, which covers a broad range of topics like Latin, Greek and Mythology. How did you come to be a Holy Cross Brother? My high school was staffed by Holy Cross Brothers and I often would imagine myself as one of the teachers, and I found it to be a worthy calling. What has been your favorite memory since you started working at Hoban? I loved being an adviser for The Visor and teaching students how to write well.
What college did you attend, and what did you study there? I first attended Holy Cross College for junior college, then I went to Indiana University as a Social Studies major. How did you come to be a Holy Cross Brother? There was a conference for juniors and seniors at my high school, and I met some Holy Cross Brothers...the rest was history. What has been your favorite memory since you started working at Hoban? Definitely any of the Kairos retreats. The first two years I worked at Hoban I was the “bad guy�, and at Kairos I really got to know the students in a positive light.
Layout by Sarah Carmon
What is your birth date and what city were you born in? I was born on Jan. 17, in Marine City, Michigan. Do you have any siblings? I have five sisters, and am the second oldest. What is your favorite childhood memory? Hmm...It is probably when I was 12 or 13 and was finally able to get a horse. What highschool did you attend, and what activities did you participate in? I went to Holy Cross High School, but did not really participate in any activities. I grew up and worked on a dairy farm that was started by my grandfather, and then passed down to my father.
Br. Bob Livernois
What college did you attend, and
Br. Joe LeBon
What is your birth date and what city were you born in? I was born in Philadelphia on Jan. 24. Do you have any siblings? I have one older brother. What highschool did you attend, and what activities did you participate in? I attended Cathedral High School in Indianapolis. I was involved in Yearbook and worked as a page at the Public Library. I was the person who put the books back on all of the shelves.
What college did you attend, and what did you study there? I went to a few, which one would you like to know? Whichever you are the most proud of? I attended Eastern Michigan University and received a Master’s in British Literature. How did you come to be a Holy Cross Brother? During my senior year, when I was 19, a Holy Cross Brother came to visit my High School and the Holy Cross Brothers were exactly what I wanted to be- a teacher. What has been your favorite memory since you started working at Hoban? Anything related to the fine students; there are so many favorite memories that it is hard to differentiate them from one another.
Br. Philip Smith
What is your birth date and what city were you born in? I was born on March 15, 1945 in Gary, Indiana. Do you have any siblings? I have one younger brother who is five years younger than I. What is your favorite childhood memory? My favorite memory was probably when my great aunts would all bake all sorts of things on Thursdays and when I got back from school there would be a portion of the baked goods set aside for me. What highschool did you attend, and what activities did you participate in? I attended Andrean High School, participated in music, drama and chess club.
features
by kitchy cook
MOVIES:
Ever since 2012 with Marvel’s The Avengers, Hollywood has been coming to Cleveland to shoot scenes for blockbuster movies, bringing about a new film industry in Northeast Ohio. Fun Size, starring Victoria Justice, was filmed in the Cleveland Heights neighborhood in 2012, and Marvel again returned to Cleveland to film selected scenes for Captain America: The Winter Soldier. The main reason that many filmmakers choose to film in Cleveland is for the significant tax breaks they receive for shooting there. If you are interested in being a part of a movie as an extra or even auditioning for a role, visit the “Events” section of the Cleveland Film Commission’s website.
On May 2, 2014, nearly 25,000 people gathered in Playhouse Square for the “Dazzle the District” event. “Dazzle” unveiled the GE Chandelier, the world’s largest outdoor chandelier, as the dazzling new centerpiece of downtown Cleveland. The GE Chandelier is only the most recent facelift the theater district has received; the beautiful historic theaters, most famously the Hanna Theater, were restored from their former decrepit condition. Cleveland boasts the second largest theater district in the nation, tied with Chicago and following Broadway in New York City.
For the few that have not heard, Lebron James brought his talents back to Cleveland this summer. After four seasons and two championships with the Miami Heat, the Akron prodigy not only decided to return home, but also took over the Cleveland Cavaliers front office. He invited numerous free agents to join the Cavaliers such as Shawn Marion from the Dallas Mavericks, Mike Miller from the Memphis Grizzlies and James Jones from the Miami Heat. Along with the new additions via free agency, the Cavaliers were also active in the trade game. The Cavs traded guard Jarrett Jack and guard/forward Sergey Karasev to Brooklyn, center Tyler Zeller and a first-round draft pick to the Boston Celtics. Cleveland also received a future conditional second-round pick from the Celtics and the draft rights to forward Ilkan Karaman and forward Edin Bavcic from the Brooklyn Nets according to ESPN. The much larger trade was giving forward Anthony Bennett and forward Andrew Wiggins for the three time all-star player Kevin Love. With this top rated line up, the Cavaliers have the best odds to win the NBA Championship in 2015 at 16/5.
REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION:
BROWNS:
Starting with the hiring of their new coach, Mike Pettine, in January of this year and their new General Manager, Ray Farmer, in February, the Cleveland Browns have been working to better their organization. In the 2014 draft, the Browns came away with two first round draft picks in cornerback from Oklahoma State, Justin Gilbert, and the Heisman Trophy winner from Texas A&M, Johnny Manziel. In the second round they picked up the offensive tackle from Nevada, Joel Bitonio and Terrance West, running back from Towson University. The Browns received an A- draft grade according to NFL. com. All four players made the Browns 53-man roster and have played in every preseason game, so far dodging rookie injuries.
CAVS:
In comedian Mike Polk’s 2009 Hastily Made Cleveland Tourism Video, Polk lampoons the economic troubles of the Cleveland area including jibes such as “our economy is based on LeBron James” and that one could “buy a home for the price of a VCR.” Five years later, Cleveland has collectively turned a new leaf, becoming “the place to be.” The Visor examines some of the changes and improvements to the city’s dynamic.
PLAYHOUSE SQUARE:
Summer 2014: Cleveland’s Memorable Events
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This past summer, Cleveland won the nomination to hold the 2016 Republican National Convention over Dallas, Texas. “I will say it was a business decision, when it came down to hotels, the venue, the arena, it was unbelievable...In the end, as well, it’s Cleveland, Ohio, and as goes Ohio, so goes the presidential race.” said Reince Priebus, the chairman of the RNC selection committee, according to politico.com. Priebus is referring to Ohio’s pivotal involvement in the presidential election. Some of the RNC donors from Texas said that it is not a good time to have the convention in Texas because of its right wing views in a time when the party needs to expand it’s base. Priebus claims the date will either be June 28, 2016 or July 18, 2016, but they are leaning towards June to shorten the “bruising” primary process.
features
HOMESCHOOL to HIGH SCHOOL
by joe santucci
Each year, many students come to Hoban, making the shift from homeschooling to traditional school. These formerly homeschooled students recall their experience transitioning from home to Hoban.
Q: A:
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Did you know anyone before coming to Hoban, and if not, was it easy to make friends?
Joe Lofreso: When I first decided to come to high school, I knew I had to meet people so the first day experience wouldn’t be as awkward. So through activities such as summer gym and soccer, I became close with many new people. Bekah Greczanik: I knew Joe Lofresso but apparently he didn’t know me. Yet, I made most of my friends when I went to JAM the summer before freshman year. The experience allowed me to easily transition between high school and home school. Emily Clark: My sister was here, my second cousins, and a few kids from my church. It was easy to make friends because I truly believe the Hoban community is like a family and welcomed me with open arms. Angie Lofreso: I knew my brother and his friends, as well as some of the other homeschool kids. It was really easy to make friends because everyone was really welcoming.
ALS ICE BUCKET
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nine What was the transition between home school and high school like? Joe Lofreso: The transition went relatively smooth. It’s always weird entering new environments but Hoban made it pretty easy. Bekah Greczanik: It went pretty well because of the friends I made. There was not an extreme academic jump from what I was used to, so overall it was easy to get into the swing of things. Emily Clark: The workload wasn’t that difficult, it was really getting up in the morning that was the hardest thing to adjust too. I was used to getting up at 8:30, so waking up was really hard. Angie Lofresso: The uniforms were weird just because I was used to wearing pajamas. Also, I can’t eat whenever I feel like it.
What is it like being on a structured schedule? Joe Lofreso: It hasn’t been my favorite thing. Now that I’m a junior I definitely miss being able to sleep in. Bekah Greczanik: Well it was rough. Waking up early was definitely the most prominent issue. Usually I was done with my course work before lunch, so it was weird having to sit at a desk for eight hours. Emily Clark: It is really nice having deadlines so you can’t put things off. Angie Lofreso: I actually like it a lot more because it helps motivate me to get things done. I feel like now I have a timeline so I’m much more productive.
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hese words “I now nominate” have been splattered all over social media sites recently as many accept the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Ice Bucket Challenge. First introduced in mid- July, the challenge quickly went viral and has raised by amanda deighen over $100 million for the ALS Association. The challenge, created by Jeanette and Anthony Senerchia, Pat Quinn and Pete Frates, encourages individuals to either dump a bucket of ice water on their heads within 24 hours of their nomination or to donate to the foundation. Millions worldwide have already participated in the challenge, as well as celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Oprah and Lebron James. While one objective of the challenge is to create a lasting impression with the use of freezing water, the primary goal is to raise awareness of the debilitating disease. ALS, also referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease in which the neurons in the brain and spine are attacked. Once these cells die the connection between the brain and muscle is lost, often rendering patients paralyzed in later stages.The act of pouring the ice water on one’s head is to simulate the stunting effect of the disease on neurons. Approximately 30,000 individuals in the United States alone suffer from ALS. The proceeds from the Ice Bucket Challenge benefit research for treatments and a cure, as well as patients living with the disease. However, many participants have received criticism for lack of knowledge surrounding ALS. Skeptics raise the simple issue of numerous challengers being unable to identify the name of the disease aside from its acronym. While participation and donations are honorable and greatly welcomed, the movement of awareness the Ice Bucket Challenge hopes to ignite will be quickly extinguished if partakers are unwilling to accept the challenge of educating oneself on the disease. It is the hope of the ALS Association, as well as those diagnosed with the disease, that each individual elected for the challenge will also nominate themselves to learn and spread awareness on ALS. n
CHALLENGE
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HOW TO SPEND YOUR
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For the first time in Hoban history, the school has elected to shave an hour and 15 by joe brennan minutes off of every Thursday morning to allow for faculty collaboration. Although department conferences are an important development for the school, Hoban students are more interested in the various ways that they may now spend their Thursday mornings.
Collaboration
Out for Breakfast
Although it seems a perfect chance to take a break from school, many students are using Thursday mornings as an opportunity to finish schoolwork and, when permitted, to collaborate with classmates.
From McDonald’s to the Lamp Post, several restaurants have new business from Hoban students who formerly skipped the most important meal of the day.
On the final stretch of the school week, an extra hour of sleep in the morning proves, for some students, a huge push towards the weekend.
While it often seems impossible to gather an entire club after school, it has proved easy for students to show up early on Thursday and discuss their extracurricular ventures.
Sleeping In
Club Meetings
Q&A WITH THE NEW TEACHERS
This year, Hoban welcomed eight new teachers to the teaching staff. The group was briefly introduced during the first day of school assembly, but The Visor asked them about their first impressions.
by emily dunn
Miss. Sokol
Q:What
have you noticed about Hoban so far? “I graduated in 2010, so there are a lot of the same things, but I can still see it growing. Still, Hoban is all about finding who you are.”
A:
Mrs. Cook
did you first Q:When get interested in science?
always liked A:“I’ve science, even as a
kid. I didn’t decide to study science until I was a junior in college.”
Mr. Kappel
used to teach at Walsh Q:You University. How has the
transition from teaching in college to teaching in high school been? “A wonderful challenge. The students here are fantastic. I anticipate this new path will provide me with an invaluable opportunity for both personal and professional growth.”
A:
Mr. East
Miss. Rose
does Hoban Q:How compare to your past teaching experiences? “Everyone is just so nice! I love getting to see my cousin, Dom [Hinton].”
A:
were some of the Q:What activities you did in high school?
high school I did A:“In show choir, our school musicals, drama, track and cross country, French Club, International Club, National Honors Society and I did computer club; all kinds of things.”
Mr. MacDonald
did you Q:When decide that you
has music played into wanted to be a Q:How your life? teacher? grew up in a musical “In college I A: A:“I family, so it was secworked at a YMCA ond nature to me. In high school I did great in competitions and had music scholarships in college; it’s been a huge part of my life since I was a kid.”
Mme Stevens
Teen Camp over the summer. Working with those kids made me realize what I wanted to do, and after that I decided to be a teacher.”
Mr. Lucey
back at HoQ:You’re ban after a four year absence, what changes have you noticed, and what has stayed the same? “The technology, the campus, my classroom, and lots of new faces are new, but Benny, Mr. Milo, Mr. Horinger, mushie cookies, stromboli, and the great school environment remain the same.”
A:
sports
eleven
Freshman golf phenomenon takes course by storm
by emily dunn
T
he undefeated Hoban Girls Golf Team par tially owes its success to Freshman Hannah Finely. Despite her youth, Finley is already the second-highest scorer on the team with the average nine-hole score of 48. Finley golfed recreationally her entire life before joining the Hoban team. “My sister and dad both golf, and my sister plays in college now, so I’ve been swinging a club for almost my whole life,” Finley said. With a personal best of 40 and tying for the lowest team score, her natural talent has not gone unnoticed. Girls’ Golf Coach Ben Klafczynski was ver y impressed with the young golfer. “She’s ver y consistent,” Klafczynski said. “She works hard on her game, and she’s someone who always gets out there and gets her head in the game. She’s done well, and I’m ver y proud of her.” Despite her whopping 6 matches scoring in the mid40’s, Finley is always looking to improve upon her skills, especially techniques she struggles with. “Putting for me is terrible,” Finley said. “Putting is incredibly personal, and it’s hard to feel out. I really need to work on that.” Coach Klafczynski was also highly impressed with her movement towards improvement. “She’s ver y coachable and open to tr ying new things to improve her game,” he said. “It’s a quality that I think all our girls have, but she definitely shines in that. You can tell that she’s the type of girl who wants to work hard. She sets goals for herself and organizes them ver y well.” As the only underclassman on varsity, Finley has enjoyed the upperclassmen friends that she has made. “Hannah has contributed a lot to the team with her positive energy. She lifts us up as a team,” junior Morgan Stubbendieck added.
Freshmn Hannah Finley smiles for the camera two days before her NCL Tournament. Finley Scored an impressive 99 on the 18-hole course.
“She fits right in, like she’s been with us all three years.” With three years to continue developing her skills, Finley has plenty of time to decide on where she sees golf in the future. “I don’t really know what I want to do with golf,” she said. “I love it, but I can’t be sure at this point if I want to pursue it. I probably will, but I can’t say for sure.” However, her coach has a great deal of confidence in her. “I think she definitely has the potential to play college golf,” Klafczynski said. “She’s a college candidate, if she wants to be.”n
Tim Howard takes break from U.S. National Team by alex lynch
U
nited States Mens National Team member Tim Howard is taking a break from International Soccer. The American goalkeeper announced that he wanted to be able to spend time with his two kids during international breaks in the English Premier League’s schedule. He will return to the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) in September 2015. “Having played overseas for the last 12 years, making this commitment to my family is ver y important. I am grateful for the understanding of Jurgen Klinsmann [USMNT Coach] who is affording me the opportunity to spend some much needed time with my kids and to have the opportunity to compete for a spot upon my return. I understand that I will have to earn my place with the team and in the lineup when I come back, and I look for ward to doing that,” Howard said in a Facebook post. Howard recently began his ninth season as Everton’s starting keeper and has been the U.S. number one keeper for seven years, during which time he has started two World Cups. In Brazil, Howard made a World Cup-record 15 saves in an 2-1 overtime loss to Belgium in the Round of 16. He leads the program in victories (55) and appear-
ances (104) and comes second in shutouts (34). During his break, longtime U.S. backup keeper and Aston Villa starter, Brad Guzan, will assume the starting role. USMNT Head Coach Jurgen Klinsmann explained Howard’s departure, “I totally understand Tim’s situation. He was ver y straight for ward and honest in his approach, and I admire him for that. He has a wish to take a step back to take care of his family, and we came to the conclusion that it’s absolutely fine that he takes time off from international soccer until after next summer’s Gold Cup, and then we re-evaluate. I told him as long as he is the same Tim Howard that we always see performing well, he will be welcome back with open arms and right back competing for a spot. He knows that he has to prove that he deser ves to be back,” Klinsmann said in a press conference. At the age of 35, Howard’s sabbatical raises questions as to whether he will play in the 2018 World Cup in Russia. When asked in a USMNT inter view about playing in yet another World Cup Tournament, “Physically I feel as strong as ever, and right now my heart, mind and body all feel good about continuing on with the national team for the next World Cup. It is difficult to predict the situation in four years but I know this decision is right for me today,” Howard said.n
sports
The Hoban Pop Culture Grid
twelve
Student Athletes: Alex Hall
Senior, Girls Volleyball
Ben Rohrer Senior, Boys Soccer
Autumn Naragon Sophomore, Girls Soccer
Todd Sibley Sophomore, Football
Jack Bahmer
Freshman, Boys Cross Country
Most Fun Word to Say
Dream Pet
Lucky Charm
Ultimate Sundae
Best Sport to watch
“Phalanges”
Puppy
Bracelets from El Salvador
No sundae for me.
Football
Shacka-brah
Critter
My Hair (I have no luck now)
Hot fudge, reese’s pieces and a dash of love
Trick shot pool or the WNBA
Yeet
Snow Leopard
Allie Reece
Ice Cream, sprinkles and Netflix
Water Polo
Yeet
Tiger
A special certain someone
SPRINKLES
College Football
Don’t have one
Peanuts, hot fudge, whipped cream and maraschino cherries
Cycling
Discombobulate
Monkey
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T
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officials have a legal obligation to keep such matters confidential, it is difficult to cover such stories fairly. If disciplinar y policy of the school is questioned, the matter will be raised at a time when the reader is not likely to associate it with an individual infraction or its consequences. The Visor chooses not to take a position that is inconsistent with the teaching of the Catholic Church on clear matters of faith or morals, but may take a position contrar y to current church discipline or practice. For example, The Visor will not take a position that Jesus did not rise from the dead (contrar y to defined faith) or advocate premarital sex (contrar y to Catholic moral teaching), but may advocate that priests be allowed to marry (contrar y to church discipline and practice). The Visor is a member of, or affiliated with, the National Scholastic Press Association, and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. n