the
archbishop hoban high school one holy cross boulevard january 22, 2016 // issue 8
visor
HEROIN’S
DEADLY GRIP
The drug epidemic that is infecting Ohio... and the nation. FULL STORY ON PAGE 6 Pink Tax contributes to gender inequality across the globe. page four
Star Wars Episode VII breaks records, impresses millions of fans. page nine
Meet a few seniors who have committed to playing a sport in college. page twelve
two HIV should be better understood
H
uman Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV, is a virus that progressively attacks the immune system, allowing opportunistic infections and cancers to develop. HIV can be transmitted through blood, semen, vaginal fluid, or breast milk. The disease infects cells in the immune system, specifically helper T cells, and a low count of these cells leads to cell-mediated immunity. Thus, the body becomes more susceptible to developing infections and diseases. If untreated, the virus can develop into Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, or AIDS, the most advanced and destructive stage of an HIV infection. There is currently no cure for an HIV infection. HIV came into the public eye in the early 1980’s, when groups of homosexual men and injection drug users contracted an unknown disease that led to various forms of cancer. After more outbreaks and research, the virus was named the Human Immunodeficiency Virus in 1986. Since the beginning of the epidemic, almost 78 million people have been infected with the HIV virus and about 39 million people have died. Because of the early development of the virus among gay men and injection drug users, there is a stigma placed on HIV/AIDS by society. Organizations such as AVERT have worked effortlessly to educate the masses and end the negative stigma that surrounds HIV and AIDS. A common misconception among society is that HIV and AIDS are synonymous. AIDS is the rare, late stage of HIV if the virus goes untreated. Fortunately, we live in a day and age where most people have the means to appropriately treat the HIV virus and avoid AIDS, which often leads to death. Unfortunately, some people infected with HIV cannot pay for treatment, which is why the fatality rate of HIV is still relatively high. Because of the virus’ beginnings, many believe that only homosexual men and injection drug users can contract HIV. While HIV can be transmitted through unprotected male on male intercourse and the re-usage of drug equipment, there are several other means as to how one could contract or transmit the virus. For example, a woman living with HIV can transmit the virus to her child through pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. HIV can also be transmitted through needles and syringes from blood transfusions and organ transplants, not just heroin needles. Famous people living or that lived with the HIV virus include Magic Johnson, Freddie Mercury, and Arthur Ashe, most of whom were not openly homosexual, and none of whom were cited as injection drug users. Similarly, according to a study composed
by UNIAIDS to investigate the presence of the virus in Africa, “there are an estimated 380,000 new HIV infections among young women aged 15-24 every year, accounting for 60% of all new HIV infections among young people in 2013,” further proving that the virus is contracted by not only homosexual men, but also by heterosexual men and women. In many cases, people who test positive for HIV become examples of social isolation and ridicule. Pieces of legislation around the world have barred the rights of individuals with HIV or AIDS. As of September 2015, 35 countries have laws that restrict the entry, stay and residence of people living with HIV. These restrictions are unacceptable in today’s society where the disease is easy to detect early and regulate. There have been many reported cases of discrimination over the years. A common example is the story of Ryan White, a boy expelled from his middle school because he had HIV, before he died of HIV complications in 1990 at the age of 18. Over a hundred parents at his middle school petitioned for his removal because of misconceptions about the transmission of the disease, including the misbelief that other students would contract the disease if they used the same drinking fountain as White. Similarly, a primary school teacher living with HIV in China filed a lawsuit in 2012 after he was fired because his employer found out he was HIV positive. He won the case in 2013 and received compensation. Discriminating against someone because they are HIV positive is as rude and derogatory as discriminating against a person who suffers from any other clinical disease. The stigma that surrounds HIV/AIDS sets the movement back, for it suppresses knowledge about HIV testing and treatment services, making transmission in the future more likely. If everyone in the world knew more about the disease, perhaps they would fear the disease less. Nonetheless, the disease still reaches millions of people, so the thought of transmission will forever, understandably, terrify people. If everyone understood that HIV is a disease that can’t be transmitted through basic physical contact, perhaps the discrimination towards HIV-infected people would decrease. While the outcome of the disease can be fatal, the progressiveness of the disease can be regulated, and oftentimes, halted, and many people living with HIV today plan on living full, healthy lives. The virus can infect people of all genders and sexualities. By placing an emphasis on HIV/ AIDS education, perhaps mankind can take one step closer to ending the global epidemic and the stigma around those affected by the disease.
editorial
the
visor
archbishop hoban high school mailing address: one holy cross blvd. akron, ohio 44316 online: www.issuu.com/thevisor email: visor@hoban.org
awards
CSPA Gold Medalist NSPA First Class Award Quill & Scroll Int’l First Place OSMA First Place The Visor subsribes to the ASNE/ MCT Campus news service and to the 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 marilyn icsman joseph santucci managing editor julie ciotola opinion editor gabriella wittbrod news editor julia susany features editor brian rozumny sports editor kara marshall webmaster joseph brennan staff reporters mara bahmer, madeline grosklos, lucas lauterjung, shamael muhammad, andrew ross, angelina sapp, elizabeth stitzel, bridget wiedt, victoria woodburn, kameryn zingale adviser katharina cerny
three opinion Pink Tax raises questions of gender inequality
W
omen have undoubtedly faced injustices throughout history, most of which have been remedied here in the United States. However, as recent movements have begun to draw attention to more subtle, culturally-ingrained forms of sexism, many have spoken out against the “pink tax.” The pink tax refers to sexist pricing policies by a company, store or government. Consumer Reports found that drugstores often set higher prices for products aimed at women, and a study by the University of Central Florida showed that women pay more for deodorants, razors and body sprays at national retailers. Though I had heard of the pink tax before, I started thinking more about it when a peer told me about her experience. “When I tell people I use men’s razors, they are usually in complete shock and question why I would do such a thing,” said senior Olivia Bittner. “The reality is just that the blades are sharper and made with better quality, yet way cheaper.” Her experience is not an isolated one; Many of my friends prefer men’s deodorant because of a higher concentration of the active ingredients and cheaper prices. This pricing inequality doesn’t stop at razors and deodorant. Perhaps the most problematic of policies is most states’ luxury
tax on feminine hygiene products. Instead of applying the tax break that most states have for necessities like groceries and medicine, feminine care products carry a “luxury” tax. I think most would agree with me when I say that tampons are certainly bought out of necessity rather than indulgence. Canada recently became the first country to eliminate this tax, and now advocates are encouraging other governments to do the same. Here in Ohio, a bill has been proposed that would drop the sales tax on feminine care products. Three representatives from the Ohio House— Greta Johnson, Emilia Sykes and Kevin Boyce— proposed the bill. “Women only earn 77 percent compared to their male counterparts in Ohio but are forced to spend a significant amount of their wages on these essential healthcare products,” Sykes said in a news release. “The ‘Pink Tax’ is an additional burden placed on women that intensifies the gender wage gap and makes preventative healthcare for women more expensive.” As the Ohio representatives pointed out, the elimination of the pink tax will “level the economic playing field for women.” Though this bill addresses only feminine hygiene products, it could serve as a catalyst for companies to analyze their own pricing of women’s merchandise. In poor nations, products are so expensive
by marilyn icsman
JUST FUN WOMAN TALK
and hard to find that only the wealthiest women have access to them, forcing many women to miss school or work. This in turn creates a domino effect of insufficient education or skills, often contributing to teen marriage and unemployment. This problem is a simple one to improve if awareness and a concentrated effort are raised. The abolition of the pink tax here would help povertized women in our own nation and encourage others around the world to do the same. In addition, public consciousness of the matter would aid women in developing countries and benefit organizations that are currently working to to combat the issue. The pink tax needs to end--on all products. Taking this step opens women to more economic freedom and stability around the globe. Until then, you’ll find me looking for razors in the men’s section.
Student discusses benefits of block scheduling
T
he bell rings, bringing class to an end before your teacher was done with the lesson. You rush to gather the materials from your class. Venturing out of the room, you navigate through the densely packed hallway past hundreds of other similarly irritated students. The question you had to ask your teacher after class took an entire minute out of your substantial five minutes. You make your way to your locker, which doesn’t have a lock on it because you don’t have time to use it. You grab your new books and binders and travel to the other half of the school. You make it to class just in time, without going to the restroom or getting water from the fountain. Your teachers seemed to have met in secret to assign you tests for the same night, and you also have a mountain of homework. You’re left scatterbrained at all the information you processed in a single day. I’m confident that most of the students reading this can relate to some degree. In reality, there is a simple solution that can lift mountains of stress off of students. It can open time for students to pursue jobs or internships to start building their resume or allow student athletes time to complete their homework and have
a social life simultaneously. It prepares students for college life. It gives teachers extended time for planning and more time for individualized instructions with less students. Students can reflect more on the lessons they learned that day rather than reprocessing the material they were just taught. This is known as block scheduling. Block scheduling is a simple concept. Rather than going through every single class every day, classes are split up to alternate every other day and extended normally to an hour and a half long. While the idea of suddenly making a class 90 minutes may seem frightening to many, it has advantages. According to The Report on Block Scheduling in 1994, the average class size would drop by about five. Also, because there are fewer students in a semester, teachers would have fewer papers to grade. Students could earn eights credits each year rather than seven. On top of those eight courses, many schools that use the blockscheduling method give students a “student resource time,” which is essentially a free period for students so that they would not need to take a study hall. Students have lighter homework loads with only four classes a day. While it is not as simple as just changing
Dandy Andy by andrew ross when the bell goes off, I cannot imagine that it is anywhere near “unaffordable” for our school or any other. “The traditional assembly-line schedule has become inflexible and is virtually obsolete when you consider the academic needs of high-school students today”, said David Hottenstein, author of books on alternative scheduling and principal of HatboroHorsham (Pennsylvania) High School. I’m drawing attention to a method that is better for students—a method that has shown to decrease dropout rates and disciplinary issues, while making significant improvements in grade point averages, ACT and SAT scores, AP scores and higher scores on state proficiency tests.
four opinion Independence, freedom, There is no God but Allah and the Islamic Republic. In- Muhammad is his Prophet. There dependence, freedom, is no God but Allah and Muthe Islamic Republic. In- hammad is his Prophet. There is no God but Allah and Muhamdependence, freedom, the Islamic Republic. Inde- mad is his Prophet. There is no God but Allah and pendence, freedom, the Islamic Republic After the execution of a Shiite cleric by Saudi Arabia and a retaliatory Muhammad is his attack on the Saudi Embassy in Tehran, tensionsRebetween the Saudi Idependence, freedom, the Islamic and Iranian governments are rising. These heinous acts serve as a Prophet. There reminder that conflict resolution in the region will be difficult to achieve. public. Independence, freedom, is no God
THE MIDEAST
DIVIDE
by gabriella wittbrod
T
he Middle East experienced violence and conflict in 2015 that exceeded recent years. Amid peace talks and nuclear negotiations, the West hoped to see an appreciable decline in fighting for 2016, but Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region seem to have different intentions. On Jan. 2, the Sunni monarchy in the Saudi capital of Riyadh executed 47 men throughout the country, the largest mass execution in Saudi Arabia in over 35 years. All accused of having ties with Al Qaeda, the men were mainly of the Sunni denomination of Islam, which is the country’s official religion and the overwhelming majority denomination of Islam in the world. Sunnis account for 85 percent of the world’s Muslim population according to the Council on Foreign Relations. However, the Saudi’s execution of one man, Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr, has sparked outrage by the other major denomination of Islam, Shia, notably by Shia-dominated Iran. Nimr, a Shiite cleric, was killed along with the other prisoners on Jan. 2, in what many see as a senseless attack on the Shia denomination. Neither having received a fair trial nor found to have any ties to Al Qaeda, Nimr stands as a representation of the dismal human rights situation in Saudi Arabia. The Sharia-based judicial system in Saudi Arabia consistently disregards the rights of individuals, making arbitrary arrests that often center around mere speculation and racial and religious prejudice rather than proof. Saudi women are largely discriminated against with legislation existing that mandates a male-guardianship system that prohibits women from mar-
rying, obtaining driver’s licenses, traveling or accessing higher education without the approval of their male guardians. The government arrests people for peacefully dissenting the monarchy, and unfortunately for Nimr and others like him, incarceration and execution often follows. Nimr’s death resulted in mass protest by religious minorities in Saudi Arabia, who see the event as another example of how Shiites are systematically persecuted. However, the indignation was felt by Shiite Muslims across the region, with Iranians seeing the execution as an attack on their country. Shiite Iranians took to the streets, carrying signs with Nimr’s face, at first peacefully, to show their solidarity with the religiously persecuted. These protests turned violent when Iranians attacked and set fire to the Saudi Embassy in the Iranian capital of Tehran, which prompted Saudi Arabia to cut all diplomatic ties with Iran. Several other countries followed suit, including Bahrain and Sudan severing relations with Iran. The United Arab Emirates also announced that they would be downgrading their relations with Iran, showing their support for Saudi Arabia, a major Sunni ally. At a time when tensions are mounting in the Middle East, the actions by both Saudi Arabia and Iran are reprehensible. Saudi Arabia’s blatant disregard for the consequences of their Jan. 2 executions shows once again that regional peace is not one of their priorities. They have repeatedly demonstrated that their intentions lie in preserving their strong Sunni influence rather than controlling the violence that is perpetrated all around them
by sectarian divides and the Islamic State. Iran is not innocent in this either—attacking the Saudi Embassy was a foolish action to take if the protesters’ goal was to promote conflict resolution in their country. But even Iranian President Hassan Rouhani condemned the attack on the Embassy. “We do not allow rogue groups to commit illegal actions and damage the holy reputation of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Rouhani said in a statement. Though violent retaliation is never a justifiable answer to Saudi Arabia’s antagonism, there should be some kind of accountability for both sides’ actions. As one of Saudi Arabia’s Western allies, the United States needs to end the justification of their aggression. The nuclear deal that was negotiated this summer between western forces and Iran regarding its nuclear program is scheduled to take effect this month, but the country’s conflict with Saudi Arabia could complicate the logistics of the deal. This conflict could also slow negotiations to end the Syrian Civil War that has devastated much of Syria and displaced around 6.6 million Syrians. As the Middle East enters another year of conflict, these countries must realize the gravity of their situations and understand that senseless acts of violence to further intimidation will only worsen the situation. Their economies cannot handle a full-scale war after the destruction that has already been caused by the Islamic State, the Syrian Civil War and other proxy wars. Neither Iran nor Saudi Arabia is solely to blame as both have had their barbaric moments, but in order to stop violence in the region they must not continue to foster it.
opinion
five
JANUARY’S
TRENDING TOPICS T
ON HOVERBOARDS
he biggest gift of this holiday season was hoverboards, which look like segways without the handlebars. Their motion is activated by the shifting of body weight on the board. Some controversy about the electronic device surfaced when it was found that several exploded due to a malfunction with the battery when charging. Despite setbacks, hoverboards continue to be extremely popular, especially among young people.
“
I have a hoverboard and I think it’s super fun. I feel like people are caught up on how stupid you look riding it and how they are just an ‘overrated’ trend. The people who say this have probably never ridden one.
“
Joseph Santucci, Editor-in-Chief
“
I once saw a guy riding a hoverboard in Acme, my place of employment. I thought it was pretty cool. After learning that the small machines have faulty batteries which cause small explosions, I don’t think it’s the right toy for me.
ON CELEBRITY DEATHS
R
ecent celebrity deaths have saddened many fans around the world. Music phenomenon David Bowie and actor Alan Rickman both passed away this month due to cancer, at age 69. Bowie was best known for hits such as “Space Oddity” and released a new album, Blackstar, shortly before his death. Rickman was famous for his role as Snape in Harry Potter and in other films such as the British romantic comedy Love Actually.
“
“ “ “
I absolutely love Alan Rickman’s voice and acting style. He will be missed in the cinematic world. My personal favorite performance by him was his role in Love Actually, the best Christmas movie of all time
The recent passing of David Bowie has given me time to reflect on his legacy. His gender ambiguous “starchild” look of the 70’s left a mark on LGBT history, as well as inspired millions of performers to express themselves however they see fit
Marilyn Icsman, Editor-in-Chief
Lucas Lauterjung, Staff Reporter
ON THE IOWA CAUCUSES
I
owa caucuses are just one week away, and candidates and voters alike are gearing up for the important event. The Republican Party is still divided, with Trump in the lead but many expressing apprehension at his possible nomination to the Republican candidacy. Fellow conservative Ted Cruz appears to be catching up to him in polls. On the Democrat’s side, it is a close race between former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.
“
Brian Rozumny, Features Editor
“
“
I’m excited for the Iowa caucuses to begin; the race is close on both sides, and it will be interesting to see what happens once people start voting. What happens in Iowa could largely affect the outcome of the race, though Iowa is not exactly representative of the U.S. as a whole.
The Iowa caucuses will be interesting look at modern politics no matter the outcome. With both Trump and Sanders doing so well in the polls, it is evident that people on both sides of the aisle are ready for a radical change in leadership and policy.
Gabriella Wittbrod, Opinion Editor
Julia Susany, News Editor
six
centerspread
HEROIN: A DEADLY ADDICTION
by bridget wiedt and victoria woodburn
design by brian rozumny
A
lthough most people know what heroin is, few realize the severity of heroin usage and the drastic, lifelong effects it has on its victims. Due to its cheap and readily available nature, heroin usage has run rampant throughout the nation. In 2011, 4.2 million Americans ages 12 or older had tried heroin at some point in their lives. In perspective, more people have tried heroin than live in the state of Oregon. Out of these 4.2 million, about a quarter of them will become addicted. The relevance of heroin in our daily lives is becoming a prevalent issue now more than ever, with usage skyrocketing 150 percent in the last six years. In a recent study, researchers have linked the rise in heroin to the change in the formula of Oxycontin, a narcotic used to treat moderate to severe pain, making it harder to crush and snort. Also, doctors in general have lowered the number of pain relief pills they prescribe. These combined factors influence addicts to turn to a cheaper, more readily available alternative-- heroin. Scientists identified a direct correlation between the use of heroin and prescription pain meds, with 80 percent of heroin users having used pain killers. Out of this percentage, almost all users have experimented with another drug, while an astonishing 61 percent have claimed to have used three others drugs along with heroin. Although the long term effects of heroin are seemingly ignored by first time users, the list is long, and its repercussions are endless. Sharing needles has led to an increase in Hepatitis C and HIV patients, leading to suggestions that local governments provide free, sterilized needles. To many, this seems counterproductive; however, the position its advocates take
is that because heroin is so addictive, addicts are going to continue using no matter what scary statistic they are shown. Because of this unfortunate reality, supporters argue that the protection against deadly diseases is one fight in which they can make an immediate difference. Because death is so frequently the tragic outcome of a heroin addict, many overlook the long, tortuous road traveled by addicts seeking recovery. Some of the painful withdrawal symptoms listed by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) are as follows: pain of the bones and muscles, diarrhea, vomiting and cold chills (flulike symptoms), involuntary jerking of the muscles, restlessness and severe cravings. For most, the worst symptoms of withdrawal last one week. However, detoxing is different for everyone depending on their personal dependency; a person with a stronger reliance on the drug may experience these symptoms sporadically throughout their recovery. Although the worst of the physical pain is endured throughout the first short week, the mental repercussions of heroin are a lifelong consequence. The idea of heroin is frequently viewed as a foreign problem, yet Summit County possesses one of the largest heroin user populations in Ohio and the number increases dramatically each year. Heroin overdoses, whether accidental or on purpose, averaged at 23 deaths per week in Ohio in 2014. Out of these 23 each week, approximately three were in Summit County. Among the top areas in Summit County in regards to heroin usage are Cuyahoga Falls, Akron, Barberton and Norton. One of the primary factors contributing to the heroin epidemic in Summit County is
its geographical location. As a midway point between Chicago and the East Coast, Summit County provides a centralized distribution area to both of these places, as well as Detroit, New York, Youngstown and Columbus. Additionally, the 2,669.87 miles of roadways that can be found within the borders of Summit County are commonly exploited by Drug Trafficking Organizations. Canadian drug traffickers also have easy access to these routes. In response to the escalating heroin problem, law enforcement and government officials are taking actions to counteract the spread. In 2013, Summit County officers were able to remove $5,731,638.65 worth of drugs from the streets, with $174,462.50 of that coming from heroin. Officials such as Cuyahoga Falls Mayor Don Walters are starting programs like “Not Me, I’m Drug Free” with schools, police and local businesses. “I want to be able to say to anyone out there that needs help come to us and we’ll get you placed somewhere and we’ll get you help,” Walters said. Similarly, Munroe Falls Mayor Frank Larson believes that the key to alleviating the drug problem is not just creating drug awareness programs, but getting the public to connect to them. While working with the Ohio attorney General’s office, Larson hopes to implement programs that will teach elementary level children how to cope with stress and depression, two factors that commonly contribute to heroin usage. Heroin is no longer an uncomfortable issue that we can overlook. The abuse of heroin is expanding at a rate too dangerous to ignore and the optimal way for people to fight back in the war on heroin is to get educated.
centerspread
seven
BY THE NUMBERS percent increase in heroin use throughout the U.S. since 2006
Those most at risk for heroin use percent of heroin users report use of other drugs
Non-Hispanic whites and People between the ages of Medicaid recipients Men People without health insurance People who make less than
a year
heroin related deaths in Ohio each week
heroin related deaths in Summit County each week
percent of current heroin users report having used prescription painkillers in the past
Heroin is manufactured from opium poppies cultivated in four primary source areas: South America, Southeast and Southwest Asia and Mexico. statistics from WKYC and The Verge
eight news Oregon militia occupies small town of Burns by julia susany
T
he small town of Burns, Oregon, rang in the New Year on Sunday, Jan. 3, by protesting the federal government. About 300 people marched through Burns to protest the reincarceration of father and son, Dwight and Steven Hammond, on charges of arson. The two men were previously arrested and served time, but were ordered to return to jail because they were not originally sentenced with the mandatory minimum. The protesters also accused the United States federal government of overreaching and pushing ranchers off their land in an attempt to land grab. Roughly 20 people from across the nation occupied the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge for thirteen days, as of Jan.15. This group is led by Ammon Bundy and his brother Ryan, sons of rancher Cliven Bundy who garnered attention in 2014 for refusing to pay $1000 in grazing fines. The Bundy’s as well as many of the protesters belong to a group called the Citizens of Constitutional Freedom. “We plan on staying as long as we have to,” Ammon Bundy said. Although the occupying militia has made no direct demands, they have stated over Twitter that they would not vacate the building until the land was returned to state and local governments. Members of the group are armed, but the situation has remained peaceful. “We’re not looking for bloodshed,” stated Ryan Bundy. One of the main reasons cited for the protest was the reincarceration of Dwight Hammond Jr. and Steven Hammond. They were accused and incarcerated for igniting
fires in federal lands in 2001 and 2006. They cited the need to clear invasive species and to preemptively prevent a wildfire from starting that would have consumed their ranch. The Hammonds were also accused of child abuse towards Dwight’s grandson and Steven’s nephew Dusty. The allegations include Steven rubbing Dusty’s face in gravel, forcing Dusty to eat a can of chewing tobacco and sanding off initials that Dusty had carved into his own chest. The two men served their time, but were resentenced this year to comply with mandatory minimums. Though a large part of the protest centers around the Hammond’s’ arrest, the family has chosen to distance themselves from the group through their lawyers. The protesters are occupying Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have not as of yet shut off power to the building and have not commented on this choice. Pictures and videos have shown that the power is still on in the building, as the protesters have been seen sitting at government computers without coats. It is unclear how much money this will cost taxpayers, but Harney County Judge Steve Grast intendeds to make Ammon Bundy pay the price for his group. Grant said he intends to “send Mr. Bundy the bill,” adding, “I’m going to send Mr. Bundy a fine when we’re done. Will he pay it? No.” The bill will also include the charges for a destroyed fence. On Jan. 11, the militants removed about 25-30 yards of fence. The fence was installed by the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service in an efforts to prevent a neighboring family’s cattle from grazing on the public land. Bundy claims the family showed the protesters where they wanted the hole to be in the fence. Locals seem split over the protest, which has caused issues between community members. The community has divided even further on social media where citizens have attacked each other’s opinions. “It’s time to go home, return to your families,” local Sheriff David Ward said at a press conference Monday. “These men came to Harney County claiming to be part of militia groups supporting local ranchers, when in reality these men had alternative motives, to attempt to overthrow the county and federal government in hopes to spark a movement across the United States.” Another group angered by the protesters’ actions is the Burns Paiute tribe. The wildlife refuge lies within Paiute ancestral lands and members of the tribe feel that the protesters are “desecrating sacred property.” The tribe signed a treaty in 1868 with the United States federal government that requires the government to protect the tribe’s safety, and have worked with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management to preserve archaeological sites. Tribal Chairperson Charlotte Rodrique has spoken out about what she perceives to be a great irony. “You know, who are the rightful owners?” said Rodrique, adding, “It just really rubs me the wrong way that we have a bunch of misinformed people in here — they’re not the original owners.”
Many privately owned organizations forbid those holding guns to enter their establishments and often refuse to do business with them. It has also been reported that several citizens have attempted to carry guns into their places of work, resulting in private business owners harboring a dislike for the passed legislation. Other citizens, however, seem to be notably neutral, or in favor of the nearly ubiquitous law “It’s kind of strange to be able to have a gun and not be able to carry it,” said a Texas citizen in an interview with InfoWars, “that’s how I feel about it. If police can waltz around with their guns, why can’t everyone else?” President Obama continues to push for gun regulation laws nationwide, not just for gun-toting citizens, but even for police officers themselves. “People are dying, and the constant excuses for inaction … no longer suffice.
That is why we are here today. Not to debate the last mass shooting, but to do something to prevent the next one,” Obama said. The President has expressed his strong dissatisfaction with the continued passing of open carry laws in 45 states. “Our unalienable right to life and liberty and the pursuit of happiness were stripped from college kids in Blacksburg and Santa Barbara, and from high schoolers in Columbine, and from first-graders in Newtown. First-graders. And from every family who never imagined that their loved one would be taken from their lives by a bullet of a gun,” Obama said. “[This] happens on the streets of Chicago every day.” Obama claims that he will continue to push gun regulation despite the number of states allowing open carry, most of which do not require any written permit or registration to do so.
Free-carry law concerns gun control advocates by shamael muhammad
C
oncern has risen among many United States citizens in regards to the recent spread of the “open carry,” also commonly referred to as “free carry,” law. This legislation allows citizens to openly carry firearms of any kind, including but not limited to handguns, assault rifles and machine guns. The firearms carried do not have to be hidden nor concealed to the common viewer, and they can be loaded. While this varies from state to state, an unregistered and loaded weapon is permissible under the open carry law in Ohio. Strong opposition and fear toward the law is voiced by citizens hailing from a wide variety of communities and occupations, as many claim that the solution to the increasing gun violence and crime in the U.S. does not include a permit for citizens to freely carry their guns in public.
features
nine
Star wars
EPiSoDE vii:
the force awakens by mara bahmer
Trivia Test your Star Wars knowledge 1.) What genre of movie is the Star Wars franchise classified as? A.) action and adventure B.) space opera C.) drama D.) horror 2.) Who is the most talked about Star Wars character on social media? A.) Luke Skywalker B.) R2D2 C.) Darth Vader D.) BB-8 3.) Which actor from The Force Awakens was paid the most to appear in the film? A.) Harrison Ford as Han Solo B.) Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker C.) Adam Driver as Kylo Ren D.) Daisy Ridley as Rey 4.) How much money did it cost to make The Force Awakens? A.) 100 million B.) 200 million C.) 300 million D.) 400 million
design by gabriella wittbrod
Force Awakens could easily be the best Star Wars film so far. “The characters are great,” said reporter German Lopez in his article for Vox. “Rey, Finn, and Poe Dameron all stand up on their own — even while sharing scenes with characters as iconic and charismatic as Han, Leia, and Chewbacca.” If not the best Star Wars film, The Force Awakens is definitely the most widely renowned. Its trailer has over 84 million views, and it continues to dominate television advertising, with companies such as Dodge and Verizon using the movie to promote their products. According to Forbes.com, Star Wars merchandise will probably bring in about 5 billion dollars in the next twelve months. Disney even initiated “Force Friday” on Sept. 4, a shopping day dedicated to Star Wars merchandise that only fell short of Black Friday sales by 46 percent, and short of Cyber Monday sales by a mere 15 percent. Star Wars continues to be a major force in the movie industry, and Disney could not be more pleased. While Disney purchased the rights to Lucasfilm for 4 billion dollars, it will make more than that sum in merchandise sales alone. It also claimed the rights to sale of the previous Star Wars films, which proved to be popular Christmas purchases in 2015. With the second film in the new trilogy set to come out in the spring of 2017, there is hope for a new Star Wars legacy, a trilogy capable of making history.
Answers: B, C, A, B
E
ver since Disney purchased Lucasfilm from George Lucas, the creator of the original six Star Wars films, in 2012, avid Star Wars fans have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new Star Wars trilogy. The first new Star Wars movie, Episode VII: The Force Awakens, hit theaters on Dec. 18, 2015, and did not disappoint. Currently grossing about 800 million dollars in North America, it has the highest total earnings of all time for a film in the United States and Canada. Globally, the movie has raked in 1.5 billion dollars, and after just three weeks in theaters it is the fourth highest grossing film in history. In order to become the highest yielding film in movie history, The Force Awakens must bring in over 2.7 billion dollars, the worldwide earnings of the current number one highest grossing movie, Avatar. The Force Awakens has been setting records since Oct. 19, when online tickets went on sale after the release of the final trailer. On Fandango, it sold eight times as many tickets on the first day of ticket sales as the previous record holder for first day sales, The Hunger Games. It even outsold the previous Star Wars film, Revenge of the Sith, selling four times as many tickets in the same amount of time. Although many characters from the original Star Wars trilogy, episodes IV, V, and VI, appeared in the new film, it is the new additions to the cast that are gaining the most attention. Critics are arguing that The
ten
features
2015 R E V I E W YEAR IN
by julie ciotola
JANUARY 7
Offices of the French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo were attacked in Paris. The violent encounter that left 12 people dead and 11 others injured was said to be the work of Islamic terrorist group Al-Qaeda.
MARCH 7
President Obama marched alongside fellow Americans to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The event took place in Selma, Alabama, where thousands of citizens crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge in celebration of equal rights.
MAY 2
On May 2 in Las Vegas, five- division world champion Flloyd Mayweather Jr. fought and defeated eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiano. The fight proved to be the highest grossing fight in history, accumulating over $410 million in revenue. Due to its popularity, the event was deemed “The Fight of the Century.”
JULY 5
The U.S. wins women’s soccer team won the 2015 FIFA World Cup. They managed to grab an early lead in the game, scoring 4 goals in just 16 minutes, and holding off Japan for the rest of the game with a final score of 5-2. The team was awarded $2 million for their victory.
design by joseph santucci
SEPTEMBER 28 Nature Geoscience announced the discovery of water on Mars on Sept. 28. The water is suspected to play a vital role in creating dark streaks seen on the surface of the planet. This discovery has led NASA researchers to believe Mars is capable of supporting and sustaining life.
NOVEMBER 13
A series of terrorist attacks struck Paris, France, leaving 130 people dead. Several suicide bombings were conducted as well as mass shootings at cafes, restaurants, and a concert hall. The Islamic group commonly known as ISIS took responsibility for the attacks, claiming they were in response to French airstrikes in Iraq and Syria.
FEBRUARY 5
RadioShack filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The 95 year old company reached a deal to sell up to 2,400 of its stores to hedge fund Standard General. While most locations will be closing, customers will still be able to purchase some RadioShack products through Sprint.
APRIL 25
the country of Nepal is struck by a massive earthquake. The natural disaster left over 8,000 dead and close to 18,000 others injured. Among the dead were 19 individuals at a base camp on Mount Everest who were hoping to climb the world’s largest mountain.
JUNE 26
The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that same sex couples can marry nationwide. This decision was announced June 26 and celebrated throughout the country as a remarkable victory for gay rights advocates. This decision made the United States the 21st country to legalize same sex marriage nationwide.
AUGUST 6
The Republicans held their first debate, which included approximately 75 candidates. Donald Trump stood out to the audience among the large group, behaving in an outspoken manner, previously unseen in all other presidential races.
OCTOBER 29
John Boehner said his farewell speech in Washington, D.C. after announcing his resignation as Speaker of the House. The Senate elected Republican Paul Ryan in Boehner’s place. Before being appointed speaker, Ryan served as Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.
DECEMBER 11
The 21st annual climate conference concluded on December 11. This event called together the European Union and leaders of 185 countries. The main goal of the conference was for these world leaders to discuss how to keep global warming below 2 degrees celsius.
sports
eleven
on the court
Boys’ Basketball on a roll by kara marshall
T
with Hoban’s basketball teams
Record to date:
12-1
Lady Knights undefeated in the North Coast League by madeline grosklos
F
ifteen games into the season, the Lady Knights basketball team has found much success. Led by a core of six seniors, the team is 12-3 overall and 6-0 in North Coast League play. “I think this season is going so well because we are playing together as a team,” senior Dani Carlson said. This teamwork has enabled the girls to snatch two extremely close wins. The first was over league opponent Padua, where senior Kara Marshall shot two free-throws in the last seconds to give the girls a 51-49 victory. The second nail biter was the very next game against St. Joseph Academy. In this case, freshman Emma Tecca gave the Knights the lead with a three pointer with only 10 seconds left in the game. The team also accomplished a big rivalry win over Walsh Jesuit early in the season. Although the Lady Knights have already competed in several exciting games this year, they still have a rematch with Walsh at Walsh on Jan. 23 along with a huge game against St. Vincent St. Mary in Barry Gym on Feb. 3. At this winning pace, and with the majority of last years’ team returning, the girls basketball team is on track to find not only success in the remainder of their season, but also possibly repeat their 2015 district championship and bring yet another trophy back to Hoban. “In order to repeat last years’ playoff success we must keep playing team basketball, pressing opponents that we know we can beat in the backcourt, and sticking to the game plan. We have to never give in and keep fighting until the last buzzer,” senior Nora Minter said. If the team remains on the same page with these values and ideals many believe that they will be well on their way to victory in the final eight games of their season along with the playoffs.
Record to date:
12-3
design by lucas lauterjung
he Hoban boys’ basketball team is on an twelve game winning streak and does not plan to lose anytime soon. After falling to Youngstown Ursuline in the first game of the 2015-2016 season, the Knights have dominated the scoreboard every game since. Losing just three seniors last year, eight varsity players have returned, as well as a number of underclassmen who contribute immensely on the court. “Being the leaders on the team and creating bonds with each other is so different when you’re a senior,” said senior guard Jacob Bonner. With eight seniors-- six players and two managers-- looking to make a lasting impression on the boys’ basketball program, there are no limits the team cannot surpass. “It’s so special to simply watch a group of guys become a team and I can’t wait to see their potential as a team develop as the season continues on” said senior manager, Avery Bable. “In order to keep winning, we have to take everything one game at a time and the boys have to go out each game and leave everything on the court.” The team has only played four home games so far this season, meaning they have traveled to eight different arenas for games. Playing in an unfamiliar setting causes many teams to struggle, but not the Knights. Beating Walsh Jesuit in a nail-biting contest and Lake Catholic on the road have allowed the team to remain undefeated in the North-Coast League. The Knights, however, have a four home games scheduled from January 29 - February 9, including important contests against Walsh and St. Vincent - St. Mary. “‘No talking, boy, we came to play’ is what we chant in the huddle before games and it gets us in the mindset that we have work to take care of and that we are ready,” said senior guard Mike Clark. With the second half of the season around the corner, the boys’ basketball team hopes to continue their success and hard work throughout the rest of their games.
photos courtsey of andy drebek
Mike Clark ‘16, Brenden Spaulding ‘16 and Collen Gurley ‘18 celebrate a win against Walsh Jesuit in December.
Nora Minter ‘16 and her teammates take the court before their victory against Laurel earlier this season.
twelve
sports by madeline grosklos
C #1
ERICA ROBERTS
JACOB BONNER
COMMITTED FOR VOLLEYBALL
COMMITTED FOR BASEBALL
design by joseph santucci
Q: Where are you going? A: The College of Wooster Q: Where is it located? A: Wooster, OH Q: What division are they for your sport? A: Division 3 Q: What is your intended major? A: Business Management Q: Favorite non-athletic aspect of the university? A: I love the learning environment! It’s very similar to Hoban.
JACK GRIFFITH COMMITTED FOR FOOTBALL
ollege sports are a draw for many prospective students, both athletes and fans alike. While most seniors decide to leave varsity athletics in high school, talented players often pursue their sport in college as well. Whether playing at a large or small school, college sports are a serious commitment for athletes. As the senior class continues their college decision-making process, these athletes have already committed to attending a school and joining a varsity team.
Q: Where are you going? A: Baldwin Wallace University Q: Where is it located? A: Berea, OH Q: What division are they for your sport? A: Division 3 Q: What is your intended major? A: Pre-Physical Therapy / Exercise Science Q: Favorite non-athletic aspect of the university? A: Love that it is close to home..
Q: Where are you going? A: Marist College Q: Where is it located? A: Poughkeepsie, NY Q: What division are they for your sport? A: Division 1AA Q: What is your intended major? A: Sports Communications Q: Favorite non-athletic aspect of the university? A: Location: The fact it is far from home and on the Hudson river which is so cool.
SYDNEY HUCKABEE
COMMITTED FOR SOCCER
Q: Where are you going? A: Assumption College Q: Where is it located? A: Worcester, MA Q: What division are they for your sport? A: Division 2 Q: What is your intended major? A: Business Management Q: Favorite non-athletic aspect of the university? A: The city surrounding the college is really nice.
ASHLEY DOBBINS COMMITTED FOR SOCCER
Q: Where are you going? A: Marshall University Q: Where is it located? A: Huntington, WV Q: What division are they for your sport? A: Division 1 Q: What is your intended major? A: I am undecided Q: Favorite non-athletic aspect of the university? A: Marshall is a big school with a small school feel, making it a perfect place for me.