The Wooster Blade, Volume XIX, Issue 14 by The Wooster Blade

THE WOOSTER BLADE

WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NEWSPAPER • 515 OLDMAN ROAD, WOOSTER, OH • MAY 17, 2019 • VOLUME XIX, ISSUE 14

Then and now: examining our journey thus far

Sophie Gamble

Index 2 • On Campus 3-4 • Focus 5-7 • Sports 8-10 • Trends 11 • A & E 12-14 • Senior Section 15-26 • Feature 27-30 • Views 31-32

INDEX

THE WOOSTER BLADE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 2

8S po

rts

: Page

rts

12 A

Editors-in-Chief John Gorman, Alexa Mitchell Webmaster Jacob Gooch Graphics Manager Jacob Gooch, Catherine Strong Business Manager Anna Nacci On Campus Editor Gina Van Lieu Investigative Feature Editor Alexis Florence Focus Editor Rheanna Velasquez, Emily Jewell Sports Editor Reece Mitchell, Griﬃn Murphy A & E Editors Skyy Khounborin, Melina Mera, Catherine Strong Trends Editor Molly Schneider, Corinne Wiles Cover Editors Maddy McCully, Holly Miller, Rachael Schmidt Views Editors David Cheng, Alec Pauley Feature Editors Anna Nacci Staﬀ Writers Keifer Dilyard, Maeve FlorenceSmith, Sophie Gamble, Mason Garcia, Madison Helms, Julia Hootman, Jacob Nurse, Korbin Reed, Leo Riley, Paulina Salazar, Bryn Savidge, Mya Vandegrift, Theresa Wendell, Lena Wiebe, Henry Gamble, Clara Lee, Melina Mera Head Photographer Maddy McCully Photographers Grace Brownson, Alexis Florence, Jacob Gooch, Maddy McCully, Reece Mitchell, Rachael Schmidt, Theresa Wendell Artists Haley Balas, Catherine Strong Adviser Kristi Hiner The Wooster Blade is a biweekly student publication printed every other Friday by the Newspaper Production classes at Wooster High School. The paper is designated as an open forum and follows publishing guidelines as established in a district-wide publications policy protecting students’ freedom of expression. All copy, art and photography are property of The Wooster Blade and cannot be reproduced without permission. Letters to the editor are limited to 300 words and The Wooster Blade reserves the right to print and edit as per length and content. The Wooster Blade is a member of Quill and Scroll, National Scholastic Press Association and Columbia Scholastic Press Association. The Wooster Blade is printed in cooperation with Wooster’s The Daily Record. Letters and inquiries should be addressed to The Wooster Blade, 515 Oldman Road Wooster, Ohio 44691. The Wooster Blade can be contacted at 330-345-4000 ext. 3210. The newspaper can also be found at thewoosterblade.com

e S 6

Pa g

7 Foc us

BLADE

2 5 : ge 1

r o i n

Page :

WOOSTER

In the Issue:

THE VOICE OF WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL

THE

Page:

29 Feature

Graphic by Alec Pauley

Thank you sponsors! - East of Chicago Pizza - All Events Rental - Wooster Community - Bogner Construction Hospital Company - Jodi’s Closet - Bosco’s Pizza Kitchen - Murr Printing & Graphics - Buehler’s Fresh Foods - Roomscapes - Critchfield, Chritchfield, & - Orthodontic Specialists of Johnston Attorneys Wooster - Dairy Queen - Dyer Roche & Company, Inc.

ON CAMPUS

THE WOOSTER BLADE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 3

District Retirees reflect upon tenure in WCSD One word to describe experience

What inclined you to start working for WCSD?

Rose Reed

“I started teaching in Wooster at Cornerstone Elementary as a kindergarten teacher in 1996. My family moved to Wooster from Columbus. I had taught in Columbus Public Schools for 10 years.”

Kean Reading Teacher

Dan Adams WHS Music Dept.

Kelly McKinley Bus Driver

“I had just finished my Masters at Northwestern and was looking for a job. There was an opening here, I applied, got the job... the rest is history. “

“Well, it was my Aunt Lynda Meyer who asked if I would be interested in driving a school bus. I had two daughters attending school at Wooster, plus I could work while they were in school and be off when they were off. It was, and is, the perfect job.”

Karen Archer Cornerstone Paraprofessional

Roberta Burr Transportation Secretary

WHS Intervention Specialist

Douglas Railsback Responses collected by Bryn Savidge on Friday, May 10.

Anne Jenkins Melrose Grade 4 Teacher

Rewarding

“I began working here because I did not really like my experience with the school I was in. They were not forward thinking.”

“I taught in Akron Public Schools for 20 years and was looking for a change.”

Rewarding

Excellent

“I just thought it would be interesting to work at Wooster City Schools.”

“I had been working for a finance company in Wooster... I started looking for a more secure job with benefits. I enjoyed school and thought I would really like being a school secretary. Applying for a position with WCSD was one of the best decisions of my life.”

Cynthia Henshaw WHS Math Dept.

Family

Interesting

Satisfying

“I grew up in Wooster and attended WCS. It was a positive experience. I respected my teachers and wanted to be part of the WCS educational team.”

Rewarding

THE WOOSTER BLADE | ON CAMPUS | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 4

Turning a new leaf: Reading Under the Lights seeks to inspire students in summer reading JACOB NURSE staff writer Reading Under the Lights is an event set up by a collaborative effort from the Wayne County Public Library, United Way of Wayne and Holmes counties and the WCSD to promote reading over the summer for children in grades K-6, according to the WCSD flyer. The WCSD is striving to create a culture of literacy within the community, according to Director of Elementary Education Karen Arbogast. “The timing is critical because as we move into the summer months, we want to ensure that students are reading and that they have the resources in their home,” Arbogast said. For some students, like Nolan, a third grader who attended the event, reading is not an enjoyable event. Reading

in general is not very fun sometimes for some students. “I hate books and want to murder all of the pages,” Nolan said. Nolan stated he reads less over the summer, and Samantha Pete, a second grader standing close to him in line agrees that reading over summer is harder. Pete loves reading because it takes her to a completely diﬀerent world but admits that her reading slacks over break. Pete says she will ﬁnd out if the event inspires her to read more over the summer, as she waits in line with the over 200 people standing in line to get into Maurer Field. Katie Koglman, Executive Director of United Way and member of the planning committee for the event said that 11 thousand dollars alone, coming from sponsors like Akron Brass, PNC, Elks Lodge and the Freeman Building, were spent on the books that were

distributed throughout the event. “If the kids are able to pick out their own books they are more likely to read them,” Koglman said. Koglman stresses the impact of reading in the success of the children later in life. “We work a lot with people obtaining good employment and reading is so important with that,” Koglman said. In addition to access to all of the books, students were also provided with activities ranging anywhere from a free dinner to reading circles with celebrity readers. “This year we added a station with a local author, Marcy Campbell... We also had seventh grade students from Edgewood who published books, and students had the opportunity to hear these stories and receive a copy of the books,” Arbogast said.

Student Council experiences transition and looks forward to continuing impact SKYY KHOUNBORIN A&E editor This school year, Jennifer Wright, English Dept. member, took over the role as adviser for student government. Since then, the name has been changed to Student Council in order to implement new groups to provide more specific jobs

for members. “This year has been a transition year. We are in the process of adding three subcommittees into Student Council. These subcommittees are: student government, social and emotional well-being, and school spirit,” Wright said. These subcommittees would serve different roles in regards to addressing school issues.

According to Wright, the student government subcommittee would be handling all policy changes that would involve students, the social and emotional wellbeing subcommittee would be in charge of making WHS a positive place for students, and the school spirit subcommittee would be in charge of running pep rallies and overall

JACOB NURSE

The third Reading Under the Lights event took place at Maurer Field on May 10. A Parkview literacy coach works with an elementary student to select some reading material for the summer. Robert F. Brenneman, Mayor of Wooster, has attended this event all three of the years it has taken place. Brenneman says reading is very beneﬁcial in many areas in everyone’s life and he just enjoys spending time with all of

the kids. “I want the kids to have fun, reading is a way to learn a lot of new things and also have fun,” Brenneman said. Over 1,200 people attended the event, including 100 volunteers, according to Arbogast.

spreading school spirit, as well as, collaborating with Frontline. Student Council will also be overseeing Frontline starting next school year. Current Frontline co-leader, Adam Frank (12), explains that over the past year, the involvement between the Student Council and the Frontline has become more collaborative. “I really appreciate and enjoyed working with Student Council. It’s a perfect fit because both groups have the same goals, but have different ways of accomplishing them. Being able to work with Student Council was very

helpful and beneficial,” Frank said. Lexi Nolletti (12), current student body president, said next year will show a positive impact. “I am very optimistic about the upcoming years. I was impressed with the leadership I saw from the underclassmen this year and am confident that the graduation of this year’s senior class will not mark the end of the inclusive environment we worked so hard to foster,” Nolletti said. Student council members for the next school year will be announced at the end of this month.

FOCUS

THE WOOSTER BLADE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 5 concerns regarding safety have risen as well. “Almost any tool can be used for good, evil, and everything in between. In the DIY genetic engineering movement, there is the possibility of doing both harm and good depending on the desired application,” Harvard Postdoctoral Fellow Jeff Wagner said. Wagner identifies the primary risks to biohacking as unintended health effects or engineered organisms persisting in and altering the environment. However, Wagner also notes the difficulty of creating engineered organisms that out-compete natural organisms. Describing biology as incredibly complex, Wagner explains it is difficult to know what the outcome of genetic changes will be. “There is a heavy temptation

The ODIN promotes increased access to genetic engineering RHEANNA VELASQUEZ focus editor For the past three years, the Oakland, California-based company The ODIN has been at the forefront of the biohacker movement, bringing genetic engineering information and technology to the public’s doorstep. The ODIN sells kits to engineer or modify yeast, frogs and bacteria, according to www.the-odin.com, and recently expanded in the past year to teaching classes. “We teach genetic engineering on a

very basic level. I’ve had middle school students all the way up to 70 year old retirees. Now I have over 300 students internationally. It’s insane,” ODIN scientist Esther Kim said. Kim attributes the massive rise in accessibility, interest and innovation over the past five years to the discovery of CRISPR, expediting the process of genetic engineering. “There’s been a massive explosion of genetically modifying everything, especially in the Bay Area, all working toward curing cancer, c u r i n g aging,

working with agriculture to produce more food, becoming more green, making renewable meat sources,” Kim said. Looking toward the future, Kim expressed hopes that The ODIN will be able to continue its mission of making science accessible. “It’s not rocket science... what I really hope for the ODIN is to keep its roots of being able to give people, biohackers, students, anybody interested in genetic engineering an opportunity or chance to do this type of technology,” Kim said. As the technology has increased in availability,

in the general public to view the relationship between desired traits and genes too simplistically. We tend to think of a trait like height as being controlled by one gene where in reality, there are hundreds of genes that all contribute to an individual’s stature. All of these gene products are linked into complex networks that control what we perceive of as traits. I tend to look at genomes like the stack of blocks in the game Jenga. Like the blocks, some genes can be altered, removed, or replaced, while others are essential to the structure,” Wagner said. Ultimately, Kim said, gene editing is happening no matter what. Kim and Wagner agree that moving toward a better understanding of the technology is crucial as it continues to develop over the next several decades.

Graphic by Haley Balas

The use of genealogical DNA testing increases in popularity MAEVE FLORENCE-SMITH staff writer DNA tests that can tell people about their ancestors and health are becoming more popular, and the market for them is expanding, as can be seen by the increase of people having these tests done and the number of companies who will perform these tests; however, the tests do have limitations.

Araam Abboud, a College of Wooster graduate with a BA in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and a BA in Classical Studies, explains that there are constraints on genetics tests. “One of the largest limitations [for DNA tests] as of right now is sample size, and the ability to pinpoint the exact location of people’s descendants when what they’re doing is going to the places and taking DNA from

the people that live there.” Abboud also commented that, specifically, Ancestry.com updates its information every time they have new information or new sample sizes, which changes the genetic data. Abboud, herself, said she did an ancestry test and, originally, it said she had family from a bunch of different cultures, ranging from Europe to the Middle East and Africa.

Then, about a year or two afterward, she went back online and they company updated the information because they started adding more samples to it. Based on these changes, her genetics reading really changed, as her ancestry test was focused solely only in the Middle Eastern and Africa. The website for the AncestryDNA tests says they have, “20 billion records and 100 million family trees...you’ll get—a loop of discoveries. Plus, we add 2 million records every day.” Tests like these have pretty big potential, says Abboud, “if they decreased the amount of money that it costs to get a genetic test. Lots of people don’t have the

ability to purchase.” Abboud also says there is a social element because people who take tests like these can find relatives that they never would have been able to find before. John Schinner, MD, of Milltown Family Physicians, states what he thinks about the future of DNA tests in a medical sense: “I think they can be useful in a clinical sense. My concern with any of these genetic tests...from a medical perspective is that if insurance companies get hold of it, will that then penalize the patient down the road.” Both Abboud and Schinner think that DNA tests have great potential, especially if a few changes are successfully implemented.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | FOCUS | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 6

Religious Community unites around attacks LENA WIEBE staﬀ writer According to the FBI’s most recent annual report upon hate crimes, reported hate crimes increased by 17 percent since 2016, and 20.6 of those hate crimes committed were found to be targeting a religion, according to fbi.gov. In the past few years, acts of terror have targeted places of religion, which have, historically, been considered places of sanctuary in many

different cultures. These acts of terror have included the attacks upon New Zealand Al Noor and Linwood mosques, the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pa., the Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C., the Oak Creek, Wis., Sikh temple, and a Catholic church, the Overland Park Jewish Center in Overland Park, Kan., Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in the Philippines. With religious disagreements becoming subjects of

contention, animosity, and even violence, places of faith are no longer considered sacred ground by prospective terrorists, and in fact, are targeted specifically. While the majority of these acts of terror have been targeted against ethnic and religious minorities, particularly African-American churches, Muslim temples, and Jewish synagogues, other places of religion have not been completely safe from such violence. A 2019 bombing of a Roman Catholic church, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in the Philippines, brought the issue close to home in many Roman Catholics, and a series of bombings at Christian churches in Sri Lanka in April of this year made some believers feel fear in their places of worship. In an age where the internet and social media document

every intimate horror of such terrorism, it can be even more difficult not to feel fear

“RECENTLY, TERROIST GROUPS HAVE BEGUN USING THE INTERNET AND THE MEDIA TO SPREAD FEAR AND AFFECT PUBLIC OPINION. THE ISLAMIC STATE USES THE INTERNET TO RECRUIT FOLLOWERS.” regarding one’s religion or faith. According to The Conversation, a Georgetown

University newspaper, found on theconversation.com, “Recently, terrorist groups have begun using the internet and the media to spread fear and affect public opinion. The Islamic State uses the internet to recruit followers.” In fact, if the goal of such attacks is to spread fear of practicing one›s faith, preventing mass dissemination of every detail of the attacks could help derail the goals of such movements. Regardless, the religious community continues to rally with victims of these attacks. Across the country, according to the BBC, vigils and protests have been held, and religious leaders continuously condemn the attacks, according to bbc. co.uk. If the goal of such terrorists was to cause divides between religious communities, it would seem that, in this way, they have failed.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | FOCUS | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 7

Ballet Wooster produces Sleeping Beauty HENRY GAMBLE staﬀ writer Since its creation in 1983, Ballet Wooster has produced 12 different narrative ballets, including 14 Nutcracker productions, according to their website, ballet wooster.org. In 2015, the Ballet Wooster organization was established under a new name and emphasizes its mission as an opportunity to, “provide students and community members with educational and performance opportunities in dance and the performing arts in a safe and encouraging environment,” according to the website’s mission statement. Ballet Wooster has also produced Cinderella, The Enchanted Toy Shop, Summer In Paris, and The Sleeping Beauty in the past few years.

For 14 years, Neena Shell (10) has been dancing and, most recently, participated in the performance of Sleeping Beauty. These performance were on May 4 at 7 p.m. and on May 5 at 2 p.m. in the WHS Performing Arts Center. Shell said that her favorite part of the program is, “the fact that I get to dance with some of my closest friends.” “We’re like a family,” Shell added. More than 100 dancers make up Ballet Wooster. One of them, Lizzie Meyer (11), has been dancing ballet for 13 years. She also participated in the spring show of Sleeping Beauty, playing Bluebird, who performs a solo. Every year Ballet Wooster puts on a spring show and every other year, a winter show which

Photos above are courtesy of Stephanie Sustar, Artistic Director of Ballet Wooster. From Left to right: Chloe Gettles plays the role of Little Red Riding Hood, and Isabel Smith plays the role of the Fairy of Beauty in Ballet Wooster’s spring production of Sleeping Beauty on May 4 and May 5. is The Nutcracker, according to Meyer. The spring show marked

Camp Invention introduces students to the sciences during the summer RACHAEL SCHMIDT cover editor Every year, Camp Invention spots for students quickly fill within 24 hours, according to coordinator Karen Linch. In 2012, Linch took over as coordinator of Camp Invention following in the footsteps of Connie Massaro. “If you know [Connie] Massaro, you know how she makes everyone feel - you’re the most important person in the room. She is a very personable lady who loves people – adults and kids - and she’s not afraid to let you know it! She thought I’d do

a good job as director. When your peers believe in you like [Connie] Massaro believed in me, there’s no better compliment,” Linch said. According to Linch, Camp Invention is available for kids finishing grades K-5. Linch said at camp, “Campers learn about different scientists. They practice working in groups. They work to discuss a problem and think through ways to solve problems. Then they create things to follow through with their ideas.” Students in grades nine and above are able to become Leadership Interns, who stay with a group of campers

throughout the day and help the teachers, said Linch. Grace Buchholz (11) will be a Leadership Intern at Camp Invention this summer for the third time. Buchholz said it is her job to be there for the kids and guide them through the games and projects. “My favorite part about camp is, 100%, the kids. I like making special bonds with them at lunch and watching them grow during the week. By the end of the week, they can show off what they did to their parents, and I just think it is great to see how proud they are of themselves,” Buchholz said. Andrew Savidge is a WHS

the last performance of three seniors in the Ballet Wooster program; Rebekah Combs

(Triway), Katee Ritchey (Triway), and Carrie Boak (Northwestern).

alum who is attending Kenyon College and majoring in biochemistry. Savidge attributes his passion for science to his time at Camp Invention as a student and as a Leadership Intern. “Being encouraged to explore the realm of science in a comfortable environment was beneficial to my overall opinion of science. Science is fun, comprehensive and crucial in problem solving. Receiving that kind of introduction to science in primary education is key to developing how we generate a meaningful understanding of the world around us,” Savidge said. According to Linch, Camp Invention is fully funded by the Burton D. Morgan Foundation, so all students can participate without worry of financial difficulties. Linch said the teachers,

Ashley Tomassetti, Karen Manges and Marge Forbush, love the curriculum and come back to camp each year. “It takes a lot of people to make sure Camp Invention runs smoothly each year. Wooster City Schools provides the space for the program each year. Teachers give up their classrooms. Wooster provides free lunches for all campers and staff; the food service staff are always kind and flexible. Wooster’s custodial staff may cringe with everything we ask of them, but they are always gracious and helpful. Wooster’s transportation department safely delivers huge shipments of supplies to the camp site every year,” Linch said. This summer, camp will be running from June 10 through June 14 and July 17 through July 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

SPORTS

THE WOOSTER BLADE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 8

Spring athletes wrap up season ADRIA LEMMON

THERESA WENDELL

ADRIA LEMMON

THERESA WENDELL

MOLLY SCHNEIDER trends editor

SKYY KHOUNBORIN

MADDY MCCULLY

Pictured (left to right): Zoe Chamberlin (10), Francis Sim (11), Avery Becker (11), Cassidy Brown (10), Trevor Leighty (11), Aiden Strand-Fox (9) and Vince Fiorita (11) are practicing and competing for their spring sport seasons.

Spring sports are quickly approaching the end of the season, which include boys and girls track and field, baseball, softball, boys and girls lacrosse and boys tennis. The boys track team had a record of 6-0 and placed seventh in the OCC. The boys also placed first at the Orrville Invitational and a second place finish at Nikki Reynolds Invitational. According to boys distance runner Evan Miller (11), there is a lot of natural talent on the boys team, despite many of them being underclassmen. The girls track team had a record of 5-1-0 and placed third in the OCC. The girls team also tied for first with Norwayne at the Nikki Reynolds invitational

and placed second at the Orrville Invitational. According to thrower Brooke Huffman (12), “My overall experience has been great and was different than any other sport I’ve done because it is an individual sport but you are still part of a team environment..” The baseball’s teamwork and chemistry has led them to a 17-8 record and a fourth place finish in the OCC, according to senior captain Adam Frank. Some of the team’s other strengths are quickness and aggressiveness, according to Frank. Their last season game was May 11, and playoffs started May 16. Major changes came this year to the softball team with an entirely new coaching staff, consisting of Rich Siegenthaler, Carrie Becker and Chad Welty. “This year was a completely different experience from the past since we had a new coach, but I think the coaching change was for the best because we worked hard every day in practice, and it was satisfying to see our hard work pay off,”

Avery Becker (11) said. The softball teams current record is 6-15-4 and placed third in the OCC. The boys tennis team has made great memories from this season and built a strong camaraderie, according to Tyler Strand-fox (11), saying, “... We are all close friends and enjoy practicing together so we always had fun.” The tennis boys ended their season with a 5-14 record and a fourth place finish in the OCC. The boys lacrosse team’s current record is 11-4 and is hoping to win at their next tournament game on May 16. With the lack of experience that some players may have, what drove the team to victory was their athleticism, according to Ian Michaud (11). “Our strength was how athletic our team was, lack of experience was our weakness,” Michaud said. The girls lacrosse team’s record currently is 8-8 with tournament play to come May 18. Despite newcomers’ lack of experience in the sport, the hard work that every player put in at practice pays off, according to senior captain Emily Jewell. “It has been enjoyable, frustrating at times, but also rewarding because of all the people I have met and how we all work as a team,” Jewell said.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | SPORTS | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 9

NFL Draft

Browns, Blair and Seahawks among winners in offseason selection process

REECE MITCHELL sports editor The 2019 NFL draft had some big winners and some big losers. With the number one draft pick, the Arizona Cardinals took Heisman winner Kyler Murray. The Cardinals really

wanted Murray, as they already took a quarterback first round last year that they have to trade. According to espn.com, Cardinals new head coach Kliff Kingsbury said, “ I’d take him with the first pick in the NFL draft if I could.” The interesting part about that was that was back in 2017, when he was the head coach at Texas Tech University. The Cleveland Browns did not have a first round pick, but got a steal at pick 46, taking Greedy Williams, a cornerback from LSU. Williams went up to the stage and said, “I know one thing: the Browns are going to the Super

Bowl this year.” Head coach Freddie Kitchens was not to happy with the rookie’s bold prediction, as he had a talk after with Williams about guarantee things, according to NBC Sports. Wooster’s own Marquise Blair went in the early second round at pick 47 to the Seattle Seahawks, even though he had been projected to go in the mid too late third round or early fourth round. The Seahawks also got a steal in that round, drafting projected first round wide receiver DK Metcalf in the second round as well. Overall, the team with the

PHOTO FROM BLADE ARCHIVES

Pictured above is Marquise Blair on a kick return touchdown in a 2014-2015 home football game in his senior season at WHS. worst draft pick was the New York Giants who took Daniel Jones with the sixth overall pick. Jones was not a projected

first round pick and another team actually had asked him to workout as a tight end because they did not believe he could make it as an NFL quarterback.

Memorabilia: Sites offer quality and options at fair prices

GRIFFIN MURPHY sports editor People often look for ways to get a jersey or a team t-shirt without having to spend a crazy amount of money on the classic sites like Fan Shop, but they can use an easy alternative. There are many other options of sites to find good sports memorabilia at much cheaper

prices than the classic sites that may pop into your head when I were to ask you about where to find a jersey. The average jersey on NFLshop.com is $110, which serves as a reference for the prices of these other sites that will be shown. These jerseys, along with many other sports memorabilia items, can be purchased through NFLshop. com. These items are solid true purchases of great quality items, however, they are very expensive items. The average NFL jersey on the site DHgate is $23.45. DHgate is an alternative site that ships non authenticated jerseys out of China distributors for very cheap prices along with free shipping to anywhere.

The main drawback to this site is the time it takes to ship your product, It takes, on average, about three to four weeks from purchase. Another very reasonable site to find any kind of sports memorabilia is Ebay. eBay, as long as the seller has been authenticated, is a very reasonable site that gives the buyer a good description on the product. The main drawbacks for this site, however, is that you cannot guarantee the product will be exactly as pictured. Now, on the other end of the spectrum of prices there is Sportsmemorabilia.com which has 100% authentic items from any sport at a fairly reasonable price for what the product that

PHOTO BY GRIFFIN MURPHY

Pictured above are 27 jerseys from various sports, purchased by me, from DHgate, eBay and Sportsmemorabilia.com, all for under $50. you are getting. Now this site is not a $20 purchase site, but is more like a $100 purchase for an good quality autographed item. You are getting amazing quality for a fairly awesome collectible. These three sites are easy

alternatives to the traditional fan shops or other type of websites that would attempt to overcharge you or rip you off with poor quality items when you could just go to one of these sites and get similar items for cheaper.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | SPORTS | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 10

Blue Jackets make historic run in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs GRIFFIN MURPHY sports editor The Columbus Blue Jackets have been around since the franchises first season began on Oct. 7, 2000. This season, the Columbus Blue Jackets, were barely able to earn the wild card slot with a record of 47 wins and 31 losses to make it into the playoffs for the 2019 season; however, they needed to compete against the one seeded Tampa Bay Lightning to advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoff, which had yet to

happen in the history of their organization. This year, however, the Jackets came in and swept the top seeded Tampa Bay Lightning in just four games, advancing easily past the one seed to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Jackets were led by forward Artemi Panarin, who scored 11 goals across these 10 playoff games, Matt Duchene with 10 goals and Seth Jones with 9 goals. The Jackets were knocked off by the Boston Bruins in game six in the second round of the playoffs

In the series, the Bruins beat the Blue Jackets in game one 3-2. Game two of the series was won by the Jackets 3-2. The Jackets won game three of the series 2-1. The Bruins won game four of the series 4-1. The Bruins won game five of the series in 4-3 and then clinched the series in game six with a 3-0 win. This loss ended the Blue Jackets playoff run, but because of their successful season, it looks like a promising future for the franchise for future seasons, as it looks like they will not be losing any of the core team members.

CORPORATE SPONSORS Corporate $250

According to bluejackets.com writer Jeff Svoboda, general manager Jarmo Kekalainen, said at the trade deadline, “We have our core in place. It’s going to be in place no matter what happens with the (unrestricted free agents). We have a lot of good players. We’re going to have a good team next year no matter what happens with the [Unrestricted Free Agents].” The Blue Jackets will need to deal with the upcoming free agency carefully, due to the potential loss of many of their key players in the jackets organization. The Jackets have eight players entering unrestricted free agency that could be a large turning point for the future of their franchise and how successful they will be able to be. The eight athletes that are

entering free agency: Sergei Bobrovski, Artemi Panarin, Matt Duchene, Ryan Dzingel, Matt Letestu, Adam Mcquaid, Tommy Cross and Keith Kinkaid. The Blue Jackets will be faced with the reality that this free agency that they will not be able to keep all eight of these athletes and depending on the ones that stay, could begin next season drastically different version of the Blue Jackets than the one this season. The Blue Jackets will have many of the same key players in each of their lines. Nick Foligno will be returning as captain for the Columbus Blue Jackets and will have Seth Jones to help him lead a likely younger Jackets team then we have seen in recent years. The Jackets will need to make some impressive draft moves to make up for the free agency losses.

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2019

Bogner Construction Company Critchfield, Critchfield, and Johnston LTD. Dyer, Roche and Company

208 E Milltown Rd Wooter 330-345-3070 woosterorthodontics.com

TRENDS

THE WOOSTER BLADE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 11

The

KEIFER DILYARD staﬀ writer With the growing prominence of the concept of an extended universe connecting multiple

Cinematic Universe creates once in a generation event films together, it is important that we take a look at whether this trend is really a good thing for the fans. The most prominent and recent example of an extended universe comes with the April 26 release of Avengers: Endgame, is the Marvel Cinematic Universe, or MCU. The MCU is a currently 22 movie strong franchise, according to marvel.com, and will expand to 23 on July 2, with Spiderman: Far From Home.

Another, much smaller extended universe is M. Night Shyamalan’s three movie universe of Unbreakable, Split and Glass, according to imdb. com. With the MCU’s enormous size and critical success, it is a concern that other extended universes will be tempted to crop up, and capitalize on the success of Marvel. With an incentive to create multi-movie franchises, it may be appealing to the film industry to push forward

Inﬁnity Saga

Endgame leaves editor in awe of impressive story arc that brings excitement for future

DAVID CHENG views editor After 21 box office hits and 11 years of storytelling in the making, Avengers: Endgame has concluded the infinity saga, the first saga of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film has been building up to this final encounter ever since the first Avengers film in 2012.

However, after years and years of hype, anticipation, botched theories and trying not to spoil the endgame, nothing could have prepared anyone for what would happen in this film. We, as the audience, had the general gist of what the movie would be about, but the directors, Anthony and Joe Russo, made so many unexpected choices, we never could have seen all of them coming. Writing off some of our favorite characters in the process, filming fake footage to throw off all of the fans, basically the journey leading up to this moment was very stressful on the fans and producers, all fairly unsure of what it was that would come out of this huge production

from the directors. Although the film does rely on an, admittedly, lazy narrative trick, it was very well done. Yes, it does seem lazy to retcon everything that had already happened in Infinity War, but we all knew it was coming. So many characters had more films that this had to happen. Despite that lazy plot device,

quantity over quality, greenlighting movies based on their ability to produce a sequel or connect with others, rather than on merit alone. These concerns, though, are unfounded. As of yet, there have not been any extreme examples of major extended universes failing or any signs of the practice stagnating creativity or otherwise adversely affecting the film industry. Avengers: Endgame scored an 8.8 on imdb.com, receiving

critical acclaim and no serious outcry over series stagnation, so throughout its 22 movie long history, it has managed to close out its current plot arc with a bang, with more yet to come. The concept of an extended universe is another tool for filmmakers to use and has currently resulted in a critical success with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Though the long term effects of this practice are yet unknown, it has not failed the film industry yet.

the movie still felt well made as it tried to make sense of that science mumbo jumbo. Avengers: Endgame is as much the child of Marvel and Disney’s as it is of the main cast. The film is a testament to their dedication and a tribute to their years of work as the main members of the cast throughout all of these years in the culmination of this series of films. That being said, it had to end with a

have faced in this saga. However, Marvel is far from done with the fallout of Endgame. The end of phase three is with the next film being released this year, Spiderman: Far From Home and this next solo film will tie back to the struggle we all endured in those tense final moments. The next phase is not announced technically, but we have a general idea according to Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios. Marvel already has several films for phase four planned out, specifically eight films that were untitled Marvel projects coming out during the next three years, and with its recent acquisition of Fox, the universe just got a whole lot bigger Although it is hard to deal with the emotional impact the movie has had on us, it opens up the doors to the next phase of Marvel movies, and that is what’s most important about this film. Graphics by Corinne Wiles and Jacob Gooch

bittersweet goodbye to our favorite heroes, because there is no happy ending in a world where half of life gets snapped away, yet it still feels fulfilling to see our heroes move on from the trials they

ARTS

THE WOOSTER BLADE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 12

WHS honors retiring director, Todd Patterson HALEY BALAS

Photos courtesy of Brett Hiner and Emily Patterson

artist

From Top to Bottom: Patterson poses with Emily Patterson after a WHS production. Patterson inducted into the WHS Fine Arts Hall of Fame. Patterson plays John Adams in the musical 1776.

Todd Patterson is a retired WHS science teacher, and is, this year, retiring from his role as Drama Club director. Patterson started teaching at Wooster in 1985 until he retired in 2013. Even so, his passion for teaching did not end, as he still teaches marine biology part-time. Patterson initiated the marine biology class and ﬁeld study for WHS students and has been leading it for the past 30 years. His teachings also expand further than the classroom, as he has been director of the WHS Drama Club for 20 years; staying on as a director even after retiring. Being so passionate about teaching, Patterson explains, “Providing young people the opportunity to grow as individuals and be a part of a group eﬀort that provides them lifelong memories is what it’s all about,” Patterson said. However, now Patterson is passing on his role as director to WHS English Dept.

member Brett Hiner. Hiner began working with the Drama Club as an assistant director last year. This year he switched roles with Patterson and became the head director. Going forward, Hiner said he is grateful for Patterson’s mentorship and dedication to the drama; Hiner described his past two years with the group as a theater internship with the seasoned director. “Honestly, I love him and will think of his tutelage every moment I am in the PAC,” Hiner said. Students such as Drama Club member, Stuart Courson (11), will also miss Patterson and the passion he displayed for theater. “You can tell from his [Patterson] actions and his words... this [theater] is his passion,” Courson said. From acting in shows as a high school student to sitting in the director’s chair, Patterson lives by example of what he hopes that his students remember after they graduate: that theater is a lifetime sport and never has to end.

“HONESTLY, I LOVE HIM AND WILL THINK OF HIS TUTELAGE EVERY MOMENT I AM IN THE PAC.” HINER SAID.

Summer Stage presents Oklahoma! ALEXIS FLORENCE investigative feature editor

Summer Stage Wooster’s Artistic Director, Todd Patterson, comments that the group will need all hands on deck this summer for their upcoming production of the American musical classic Oklahoma! “...Artists of all kinds have an avenue to express themselves through their participation. Actors on stage are joined by vocal and instrumental musicians, dancers, sound and lighting technicians, set builders, set decorators, painters, make-up artists, hair stylists, customers and the list goes on and on. There is truly something for everybody in a theater production,” Patterson said.

The community theater group recently cast the roles for their production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, and the characters will be portrayed by current and past WHS students, as well as members of the greater Wooster Community. Emma Yoder (11), current Drama Club member at WHS, will be featured in the ensemble and is hoping to, “get the most out of this [experience] as I can: become more professional, learn more of the theatre world, develop my skills as an actress and singer, meet new people and, of course, have fun.” The casting call for Oklahoma! also brought back familiar faces to Wooster, including 2017 WHS graduate Hannah Reikowsky and 2018 WHS graduate Daniel Carpenter. As a member of the ensemble,

Reikowsky comments that she is, “most excited to be sharing the stage with incredibly talented people, some of which I was not sure if I would ever share the stage with again.” Carpenter, who will be playing the role of Will Parker, commented that he is, overall, excited for the chance to perform in the summer. “Every show and every role is a challenge, and I am eager to work hard and, hopefully, grow throughout the process,” Carpenter said. Summer Stage Wooster’s performances of Oklahoma! will take place on July 20 and 21 as well as July 26 through the 28 in the WHS Performing Arts Center. Tickets will be on sale in advance on the website summerstagewooster.org or at the door.

Photo courtesy of Emily Patterson

Summer Stage Wooster’s Artistic Director, Todd Patterson, portrays the role of Jud Fry in a 1981 production of the classic musical Oklahoma!.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | A&E | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 13

Staﬀ recommends classic movies for summer viewing We based our movies on the AFI’s top 100 movies list and our copy was spurred on by Citizen Kane not being at the top of the list for the ﬁrst time in so many years.

Psycho PAULINA SALAZAR staﬀ writer Psycho, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, is a slasher movie with suspenseful music, an ominous background and mysterious characters that leave the viewer wondering what will happen next. Alfred Hitchcock presents a great thriller with a side plot of romance. The movie follows Marion Crane, portrayed by Janet Leigh, as she robs from

her boss’s client and runs away to be with her boyfriend, but ultimately ends up in a motel run by Norman Bates, portrayed by Anthony Perkins. The build-up to the movie’s climax definitely does not disappoint when the movie’s climax is reached. Psycho, nominee for four Academy Awards, is a suspenseful thriller that I recommend for those looking to watch a classic thriller or those that are curious of the slasher genre.

Schindler’s List PAULINA SALAZAR staﬀ writer Winner of seven Academy Awards, three Golden Globes, one Grammy, and many other awards, Schindler’s List is a movie based off German industrialist Oskar Schindler’s pursuit to save as many Jewish people during the Holocaust. Directed by Steven Spielberg, Schindler’s List is definitely one of the best films based on the Holocaust. The graphic imagery continuously shocks the viewer, but only to show the horrors

that millions of people went through. The film’s plot, along with the characters, is great, however it is meant for mature audiences as there are many violent and graphic scenes. It is a true classic, with a beautiful soundtrack by John Williams and is filmed in black and white. I recommend this film for anyone who wants to learn more about the Holocaust, is interested in the life Oskar Schindler or simply wants to watch a classic film based on true events.

LEO RILEY

JULIA HOOTMAN

PAULINA SALAZAR

staﬀ writer

Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid LEO RILEY staﬀ writer Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid is the defining western, the western that all other westerns aspire to be. It has everything you could want in a movie - comedy, action, romance, suspense and tragedy - all wrapped into one incredible two hour experience.

It follows Butch Cassidy the leader of, and brains behind, the Hole in the Wall gang, and his right hand man, the Sundance Kid, as they attempt to escape the law after a robbery gone wrong. Redford and Newman truly made this an unforgettable movie and you find yourself rooting for them to both go straight and for their next

robbery to go well. A film that truly stands the test of time, Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid’s stellar shines through, with special mention to Ali MacGraw who adds more layers to not only the movie, but to it’s two leads as well. George Roy Hill’s masterpiece has more than earned its spot of #73 on the AFI top 100 movies list, as well as a viewing of it.

Dirty Dancing JULIA HOOTMAN staﬀ writer With a brilliant soundtrack, wonderful dance choreography, and superb acting from stars Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, Dirty Dancing is a must see romantic chick-flick. Frances “Baby” Houseman (Jennifer Grey) is spending the

LEO RILEY staﬀ writer Citizen Kane. Orson Welles’ Magnum Opus. Generally considered to be the world’s best movie by AFI, BBC and more, this is truly a movie everyone must see at least once in their lifetime. Drawing heavily from the life of William Randolph Hearst,

summer in a boring resort in the Catskills with her family when she meets the dashing resort dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze). Johnny recruits Baby as his dance partner and the two fall in love while preparing for the last big dance of the summer. While many modern films do not have Patrick Swayze, this

one does, making it a classic. Swayze’s triple threat talents shine through as he acts, dances and even sings on the soundtrack, in “She’s Like the Wind,” which is a classic in itself. Dirty Dancing features legendary chemistry and dance skills between Swayze and Grey and tells a story that your heart will love.

Citizen Kane Welles blends real life with his own personal brand of movie magic to create a masterpiece that still remains as one of the greatest of all time. The movie takes place right after the death of its titular character, Charles Kane, as a reporter learns about his story from those with whom he was closest and attempts to unravel the secret of his iconic final

words, “Rosebud.” Unparalleled acting, much of it by Welles himself, and unprecedented camera techniques have carried Citizen Kane to the top of many movie goers favorites and its brilliant story and memorable script have kept it there ever since. Truly the movie of a lifetime, Citizen Kane, deserves a watch from cinephiles everywhere.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | A&E | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 14

Detective Pikachu ﬁlm HBO and Pokémon ﬁlms entertain audiences delights Pokémon fans and newcomers alike Game of Thrones continues to thrill

TV and Film Reviews:

JOHN GORMAN co- editor-in-chief I confess, I am a little behind on popular TV shows. Well, perhaps more than a little behind. I still have not seen Breaking Bad. Or Lost. Or even The Wire. But, after seeing just how much hype was building up around season eight of Game of Thrones, I decided I did not want to miss out on the final season of what Rotten Tomatoes called the greatest show of my lifetime. So, I decided to start the show over spring break with the knowledge that many of the show’s most shocking moments were spoiled for me on Twitter

or via Saturday Night Live sketches. Almost eight seasons and less than one month later, it is safe to say that the spoilers did not matter. The show completely blew me away. It was not just the colossal battles that seem more at home on the silver screen than a TV screen. It was not just the political gamesmanship and conniving that makes modern-day political discourse look tame. It was not just the character development that made characters easy to love and others even easier to hate. It was not just the direwolves, dragons and droves of other CGI masterpieces that felt so real. It was all of it put together. Take “The Spoils of War,” an episode in season seven. In under one hour, Game of Thrones combines a capital alliance with the international bank to purchase mercenaries, the reunion of family separated in season one, backstory on the army of ice zombies marching on the lands of men, and a

surprise attack culminating in a queen riding a dragon into battle, which all takes place without any storyline feeling forgotten or neglected and each building along to a central goal. Perhaps the most unique aspect of Game of Thrones is the truly evil characters. From Joffery Lannister to Ramsay Bolton, Thrones never lacks a target for the viewers to hate. While any show can create characters fans adore, it takes a special one to give the upper hand consistently to wicked and depraved individuals they can imagine. Now, the show is not perfect. Game of Thrones can tend to be a bit gratuitous in its depiction of sex and violence and the show’s writing has faltered a bit in the later seasons. Regardless, these minor flaws are more than covered up by the incredible ensemble cast, cinematography and special effects. Though there is only one episode remaining in the series, I implore anyone remotely interested to go back through and give the show a shot.

Thank you to Bosco’s Pizza Kitchen for donating a work night meal to our May 13 work night.

THE WOOSTER BLADE Staﬀ

RACHAEL SCHMIDT cover editor I love Pokémon Go. Honestly, I do not really know all that much else about Pokémon, but I did know that I absolutely had to see Pokémon Detective Pikachu. Why? One reason. Pikachu is freaking adorable. Detective Pikachu is a coffee lover, adventurer and the perfect companion, not to mention wonderfully voiced by Ryan Reynolds. Watching Pikachu bring happiness and companionship to Tim Goodman (Justice Smith), who discovers his seemingly impossible ability to talk to Pikachu, drew me in to solving the mystery of Tim’s

missing father. This movie is fitting for all ages and audiences, even those who would not previously consider themselves Pokémon fans. The main character, Tim Goodman, and his estranged relationship with his father is clearly introduced, so viewers new to the Pokémon world can easily catch on to the storyline. I especially admire Pikachu’s witty attempts to spark a love interest between Tim and Lucy Stevens (Kathryn Newton), the persistent and curious reporter who accompanies Tim and Pikachu along their journey. I greatly appreciate the vibrancy, accuracy and lifelike nature of each Pokémon in the film and love how each of their unique personalities are so well represented. From Magikarp to Apom, Psyduck to Bulbasaur, each Pokémon is just plain adorable. With a surprising ending, that I certainly did not guess, I left the theater slightly confused, but satisfied by getting to see my favorite Pokémon come to life on the big screen.

Thank you: To the WHS and WCS faculty, staff and administrators for your help with our stories and to The Daily Record for your expertise and assistance. THE WOOSTER BLADE Staﬀ

Class of 2019

Graphic by Alexis Florence

Senior Section

Class of 2019

May 17, 2019 | Page 18

Evaluation critical to Senior Section choosing future path Class of 2019

May 17, 2019 | Page 25

ALEXA MITCHELL co-editor-in-chief Unless you are a freak of nature and your talents are on display at athletic tournaments multiple times, you have to work for what college you want to attend. For most standard athletes, they think college recruiters will come to them, but that is not true. You have to get yourself out there and advocate for yourself, this applies for any sport. For me, it was volleyball. I had to advocate for myself at my volleyball tournaments. Next, you have to figure out what you want, not what anyone else wants you to do. If you want to play a sport in college, you have to decide how dedicated you want to be. You might be good enough to play a D1 sport, but if you do not want your life run by the sport you play for four years, that might not be the road for you. When I began my search, I started with coaches. Every athlete knows what kind of coaching technique they respond best to. In my case, I like a coach who critiques me every time I set the volleyball.

Someone who will explain what I am doing wrong and tell me how to fix it. I need not someone who will just yell and tell me to change it. Not only do you have to look at the coaches, but also the players. You want to make sure you fit in with the team when I visited programs. I had to ask myself, do I play like them? Do I act like them when I am on the court? I remember watching Mercyhurst, the college to which I have committed, play a game and when looking at the dynamic of my team, compared to the team they were playing, I knew I made the right choice. The other team was very cheerful and almost over the top when celebrating for points. Acting over the top is not a bad thing, but that is not how I play. Once you have gone on visits and put yourself out there, you should you what you want. This is where the hard part comes in because not only do you have to figure out where you want to go, but the college has to want you also. For some people, athletic scholarship are not a big deal, but for others, that is the only way they are going to pay for school. Depending how important a financial package is for you, depends on how picky you get to be with where you want to go. After the long process of not knowing what was going to happen, I finally found my home. All the right coaches, all the right players and now I get to be a Laker.

odd

On The Wooster Blade staﬀ, there is an ongoing tradition in which the graduating seniors write columns as a ﬁnal farewell and accompany their writing with baby photos instead of their traditional pictures.

Don’t worry, be happy:

Worry over uncontrollable events proves fruitless

JOHN GORMAN co-editor-in-chief I have no idea where to begin. Four short years ago, I went from a class of nine students at St. Mary to nearly 300 at WHS. I knew almost no one and most people with whom I was familiar knew me as either “Joseph’s brother,” “MG’s brother” or “Little Gorman.” I like to believe that is no longer the case. One of the very first assignments I can remember doing at WHS was writing a six-word memoir in Intro to Media with Kristi Hiner. The idea was just what it sounded like: sum up your life in six words. Mine was this: Following siblings, blazing my own trail. I like to believe I have done that. I cannot thank Joseph and Mary Grace enough for all they have done for me. I got involved in BLADE, Speech

and Debate, tennis and band because of them. I took classes and picked extracurriculars on their recommendations, and they gave me incredible legacies to follow. But, I was tired of just being “Little Gorman.” So, while I followed in their footsteps, I did my own things too. Jazz band, Academic Challenge, pit orchestra, anything I found interesting that they did not do, I wanted to try. So, I did. And, I loved it. Then, about halfway through my junior year, there was a stretch of almost a month where I would go in early to school for something or other and get home at 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. after other extracurriculars. I was gassed. I thought maybe I should scale things back, carve out more free time, but I couldn’t let myself quit. There was always that feeling that if I quit, I would be admitting defeat, that I could not go beyond the mantle of just “Little Gorman” and do more. So I endured, and in the process, learned one critical lesson. At the end of senior year, people reminisce. They look back at the highs and lows, the ups and downs of school, sports, friendships, everything. Someone said to me, “John, I’ve never seen you mad. Why don’t

you get mad?” It is not yoga. It is not meditation. It is not clean living. What I have learned is to ask myself two questions. (This is the important part) Question 1: Is there a problem? No problem? Fantastic! You have got nothing to worry about. If there is a problem, move to question two. Question 2: Can you do anything about the problem? If you can, perfect! Nothing to worry about. But, if you can not do anything, do not worry. No point in wasting energy over something you cannot fix. That is my advice, to anyone, in any situation. Do not worry so much about things out of your control. I made the biggest decision of my 18-year life last month and picked a college. I had it narrowed down to Fordham University (in New York City with Joseph), Saint Louis University (in Saint Louis with MG) or Loyola Chicago. I maintained the first half of that six-word memoir all through high school. I decided it was time to fulfill the second half. And so, as I head to Chicago this fall, I have no idea where to begin. But, as I venture into that unknown, I tell myself one thing. Do not worry: It is not worth the time.

A guide to getting into elite institutions

ALEXIS FLORENCE investigative feature editor Ha. This headline is misleading, but if you were intrigued by the potential message it implies, then you are just the student who needs to hear what I have to say, so strap in and enjoy the ride. Let me start by giving you a snapshot of how my senior year started in May of my junior year: I was in a stairwell, crushed up tissues in my hand, crying. I felt alone and inadequate. To be honest things did not really kick oﬀ from there. Shocker. For me, senior year, and high school, in general, were never the catchy musical that Disney painted it out to be. But, in my time at WHS, I have learned a myriad of lessons and since I know none of you actually read anything longer than a summary for most of your classes anyways, I will give you the SparkNotes version of my advice to high school students. 1. Wooster is not actually a terrible place. When you get the chance, pull a road runner and LEAVE, but while you are here, you might as well make the best of it. Go to the cute shops downtown and get involved with diﬀerent groups in the community. The world does not revolve around WHS, so please leave your high school bubble and meet some new people. 2.Appreciate your teachers, advisers, coaches or any adult

that puts in time to give you something to put on your college applications. Tell them “thank you” often. 3. NO ONE CARES ABOUT YOUR ACT SCORE. We are ALL tired of hearing you talk about it. 4. Have good friends. A good friend encourages and supports you. Heck, they even help out when you get a bloody nose in the middle of Rockefeller Center. A good friend is unapologetically honest, but will never tear you down 5. Know the importance of a good handshake and a positive personality. 6. For all the self-motivated ladies out there, just know that you are not bossy. If you were a boy people would call you an ambitious leader. 7. For all the gents out there, you have a stake in gender equality, so please read up on toxic masculinity and feminist activism. 8. For all my gender nonconforming people out there, you just do you. 9. Try every extracurricular activity you can. They have value. However, only stick with the ones you actually care about and do not EVER, “do it for the college apps.” 10. Everyone’s education matters and has value. If you are pretentious and look up your nose at the classes people take or schools they attend, karma WILL get you in college admissions. I have seen this happen to multiple people. That is the abridged version of the advice I wish I received at the start of high school. However, I know most lessons are best learned through experience, so if you ﬁnd yourself crying in a stairwell just take a moment to stop and breath. Then, go get yourself some perogies at Local Roots. They are amazing.

Self-discovery Class of 2019

Senior Section May 17, 2019 | Page 19

You will be FOUND

Here’s the tea, sis... Guide gives advice for happiness

RACHAEL SCHMIDT cover editor Here’s the tea, sis: high school was not glamorous… at all. Every time I thought I was moving in the right direction, something would change and, suddenly, I was off course. Or, so I thought I was, until I realized I was on a direct path to finding myself. If you know me, you know I am bubbly, a little moody, passionate, determined, and despite how it may seem at times, I am a true people person. But, if you have known me for a long time you might remember that I used to be incredibly shy. I realized over the years I was shy because I was intimidated. Many students, especially eighth graders, come into the high school feeling intimidated, but I want all incoming and current students to know: you are going to be okay. Here are some things you should be prepared for as you

journey through high school. Sometimes it is incredibly hard to be honest and genuine, because not all people want to hear the truth. Sometimes when you tell the truth, people lash out and hurt your feelings. It hurts, and sometimes even if you are being honest, you are not always in the right, which we all have to accept and admit. But, if you truly stand by what you say, you will find the right people, and drift away from the people who are not meant for you. Not all friends are forever friends. If you do not vibe with someone, you just do not vibe. Remember to always be kind, but do not force yourself to hang around people who bring you down. Find your passions and hold on tight. Persist. Always. Believe in yourself and the work you are doing because sometimes it is going to feel like no one else cares and no one else wants to help you, but if it is important to you, then it is important. Fight for your passions. Lastly, be respectful, be responsible, be kind. These qualities will make you “cool” to the people who really matter. You will find yourself, you will find your people, and you will find your passions. Be patient, persist, and love the process.

Senior Section May 17, 2019 | Page 20

Class of 2019

Senior Columns: Aspiring Writer and Theater Nut reﬂect on their time at Wooster High School

GRIFFIN MURPHY staﬀ writer

In WHS, role models can be seen every day ranging from a student who looks up at a teacher and wishes to be the best parts of them to a freshman seeing how a senior acts and then hopes to be just like them in four years.

These people become role models because of the impact they leave behind each of the people with whom they interact, as the legacy they leave in this school. I know the legacy of my role models, whether they are famous or are my friends and family, have had a huge effect on my development as a person and as an athlete. They have had a lasting impact on my life and I will always be grateful for having known them and having them there to lean on when I need them. Every English teacher I have ever had has been a role model for me and has had an influence

the music department, as well. These opportunities are available to most students in the Wooster City School District, but the extent of support to the arts in all places, whether it is in our schools or out in our communities, has been in doubt as of late with the loss of funding and general move toward science, math and technology. JACOB GOOCH Robert L. Lynch, CEO of webmaster Americans for the Arts, Over the course of my high writes, following the slashing of all funding by school career, I have had the the federal government in opportunity to participate President Trump’s FY2018 in multiple areas of the arts, budget plan to the National speciﬁcally in the area of theater, but I also took part in Endowment for the Arts, how

LEADERSHIP IS ONE OF THOSE QUALITIES THAT AS A SENIOR, YOU HOPE TO HAVE SHOWN TO EVERYONE YOU ENCOUNTER. on my life. I hope that as students come through WHS, they are as lucky as I have been in finding these role models. The legacy people leave behind is based on their choices and decisions because they are the ones who decide what they exemplify to their peers in their time here. Leadership is one of those qualities that as a senior, you hope to have shown to

widespread the consequences of such reductions are, citing a representation of 4.2-percent of the United State’s GDP, which supports 4.8-million jobs in the Unites States, including the addition of 12 art therapists in 12 military hospitals, and the endowment which helps yield a $26-billion trade surplus for the United States. Frankly, even after looking at the economic support of the arts in the United States, we still have to look at the health, speciﬁcally mental health beneﬁts, of the arts. The National Institutes of Health write in a Dec. 17, 2018, research report entitled, “The

everyone you encounter. I hope to have been a leader to my team and to my friends and to my little siblings coming toward the high school each year. A legacy, as a leader, that is what I hope to have left behind at WHS and wish that other students can follow an example of leaving behind the best part of who you want to be remembered as. My advice to you is to be the

eﬀectiveness of art therapy for anxiety in adults: A systematic review of randomised and nonrandomised controlled trials,” that although more thorough studies need to take place, there is evidence that art therapy helps mental health, speciﬁcally test anxiety. Which brings us to education. Our schools expose children to all manner of new ideas in the core classes, including math, science, history and English, but with funding and support from government disappearing, that becomes harder for schools to sustain. Often, it is the public schools that lose the funding and

person who is always smiling and is nice to everyone, regardless of whatever backstory or bad blood there is between the two of you. Be known as the person who did not allow for the past to define you, but instead thrived in the present. Breathe life into every room you walk into. Be the person you would want to be with. Everyone has the opportunity to be the awesome people they hope to be in whatever it is they do. So, think about your legacy of what your actions say about you. Is this the legacy you want to leave behind?

private schools are able to sustain their programs on tuition and fundraising. Participation in the arts should not be based on whether students can afford the private school with the programs, it should be available to all students in all schools. To conclude, during the WWII, Prime Minister Winston Churchill was asked to slash arts funding for the war effort, to which he responded, “Then what would we be fighting for?” As Churchill was trying to express, the arts and our creative elements are the back bone of our culture, and of our humanity.

Class of 2019

Senior Section May 17, 2019 | Page 21

Extracurriculars provide clarity

GINA VAN LIEU on campus editor In the past four years, I have been involved in FCA, NHS, The Wooster Blade staff, soccer, basketball, track, band, and have taken many challenging courses. I have enjoyed being in so many different activities, making friendships that will last and being able to do all the things I love, while also being able to have different opportunities to try new things. I have learned so many lessons, including how to better manage my time and how to deal with others with whom I do not agree. I have also

learned that not everything someone says about you is true and you have to ignore them. And, I have learned that you can not define yourself by how your coach sees or treats you and to stay positive as there is always something good in every situation, even if it is hard to find. I have seen the type of person I do not want to be like when I grow up, and can say I know now what I really enjoy and would want to do later in life. I have also come to appreciate how to work hard for what I want and to be passionate about what I am doing. The point I am trying to make is: be involved, but you should do it for your enjoyment and make sure you are dedicated because no one likes people who do not try and do not seem to care. Yes, there were some very stressful, busy and frustrating times when I wanted to quit, but I did not and I am really glad I stuck it through, so I could play with my friends and make so many memories together.

Senior events:

Senior Give Back Day Monday, May 20

Senior Awards Night Thursday, May 30

Graduation

Sunday, June 2

Editors encourage students to enjoy high school experiences

Reﬂection enhances fun ﬁnal year

EMILY JEWELL focus editor My biggest advice to the underclassmen of WHS is to put yourself out there. Regretfully, I spent most of my high school career at home, hanging out with my parents. Not that hanging out with my cool and hip parents was not great, but I just wish I put myself out there a little bit more. What I mean by putting yourself out there more is: One, talking to different people, throughout my senior year, I had a goal to talk to a different person every single day. Some days it did not happen, but on the days it did, it felt really good to be able to get to know at least one more person in this massive school.

Two, take time to talk to your teachers. I have never been the type of student who gets really close with teachers, but for me, I wish I took a few moments whenever I could just to talk to them and see how their day was going. Everyone should really try to do this task because we truly have some amazing teachers here at WHS. Third, simply be more involved with all of the wonderful things that happen at WHS. Even within the activities in which I was involved, I did not let myself enjoy them. I almost took them too seriously. In lacrosse, my coach, Tammy Despoy, often jokes that this year is the first year she has seen me smile at practices. So, students, join clubs and sports and just let loose, be yourself and have fun. Many people say middle school is the most awkward time of a person’s life, but no one ever tells you it carries over into high school. So putting yourself out there may seem like a daunting task right now, but trust me when I say it is worth it in the long run.

Senior Section May 17, 2019 | Page 22

Class of 2019

Senior encourages students to branch Current event class creates out of comfort zones in high school open-minded discussion

HALEY BALAS artist Before high school, I went to St. Mary’s Elementary School, beginning at the age of four. Going from a total of 11 people there that I had known for years in my seventh grade class to 200 in eighth grade was a huge change for me, not including the fact that I was now in a building I had never

been in with absolutely no one that I knew. I wore jeans and a soccer hoodie, with ugly chunky tennis shoes every day. I never talked to anyone, because I had no one to talk to. My grades slipped, and I felt so lost. It was not until January, when I sat next to Michelle Sibilia in science class, that I made my ﬁrst new friend. She convinced me to run track, which I grew to love. As my environment became more positive, so did my outlook on the transition. Going into freshman year, I found success and belonging on the soccer and track team. Sophomore year, I found my best friends and new experiences in Speech and

Debate and Drama Club. As my senior year now comes to a close, I reflect on whom I was compared to now. I no longer wear the same clothes every day; I wear a different outfit almost every day, and am going to college for fashion merchandising. I am not the shy student I once was; I speak out about what I am passionate, whether it is at a speech tournament, on stage or in this newspaper. If you can gather anything from my little story, talk to the new person next to you. Try out for the sports team that seems vaguely interesting to you. Join a club, even if it may involve public speaking. It might change your life, or even someone else’s.

Extracurriculars build strong work ethic

KORBIN REED staﬀ writer My high school experience was, overall, a lot of fun when I set aside the stress that comes with it. I learned many things through the course of my four years here, and if I had to give any advice about what I have

learned is to pay attention and do your homework. Life in high school is so much easier when you understand what the teacher is teaching. By paying attention, most of the time, I really enjoyed my classes and teachers at WHS. Another thing I enjoyed were extracurricular activities. I joined student government, band and BLADE staff, which kept me very busy. I have also met friends by doing these activities and it kept me busy and helped me to learn new things along the way. Also, my high school experience would have been nothing without sports, which started with track my freshman year. I was not very good at all,

but my teammates who also became my friends, helped me to be so much better. I learned to never give up in a race, which also helped me to never give up in school. My joy for long distance running led me to join cross country and to challenge myself even more I joined swimming. The swim team is a group of guys I will never forget, and my high school experience would have been nothing without them. My last piece of advice is to not stress out senior year and just enjoy it. Apply for colleges and scholarships early, so you can finish strong on your school work and have fun at the same time.

DAVID CHENG views editor After attending WHS for five years, you start to notice things, but one thing that I have noticed, or at least noticed the lack thereof, is knowledge of current political events. These past few years have been the most polarized and divided our country has ever been. That division for us is probably based on the fact that we believe our political beliefs to be a part of us and if our ideas about those beliefs are challenged, we feel attacked. Whether we are Democrats, Republicans, Liberals, Socialists or Conservatives, we are all to blame for the way our country has been recently. It is the purpose of the school to prepare us for the future, whether it is academically, or just by teaching us useful life skills. However, those useful life skills include the ability to communicate and cooperate with people. When it comes to political ideas, it gets harder to listen to others, because, quite often, we block them out and only care about our ideas and our side. Whether we like it or not, the

problem with ignoring ideas that differ from our own is that these are the exact ideas, people and situations we will deal with in our futures. This failure to recognize the importance of hearing differing viewpoints and perspectives is what leads me to the conclusion that WHS needs to have a class dedicated to the discussion of current political events in school. Having students of different backgrounds, political ideology and faiths in an educational environment will allow us to talk about and examine our differences and try to better understand, and perhaps even respect, from where each of us are coming. It is important that the school starts now because as we get older, it may get harder to change ideas. If students can grow up in an environment surrounded by diversity and learn from those around us, we can talk out our issues with other people. If we, as the younger generation, can be more open minded, we can contribute to fixing the problems in our country. The viral videos of white nationalist and ANTIFA protests, like those that took place at Charlottesville two years ago, are just shameful to our democracy. Peaceful protest is healthy, but violent, hate filled protest from the left or right, is toxic. Implementation of this class, allows us to talk out our issues. We are the ones making the future decisions; it is our time to make a change.

WHS alum oﬀers advice to students heading oﬀ to college next year

AMBER SWIGART guest columnist It is hard to believe that I have already completed a year of college. As I approached graduation at this time last year, I received constant life advice from the people around me. However, I think I struggled to truly process the sage wisdom I received amidst the chaos of prom, AP tests, extracurriculars, and all of the other responsibilities and sentimental moments that take place during senior year. While I know many readers

may be in this busy position now, I encourage you to take a moment to really think about the new challenges you will face in a few short months. From the moment I arrived at Ohio State, I was constantly surrounded by strangers. Moving from a place where I see familiar faces every day to leaving my house to a place where I can go weeks or months at a time without seeing anyone I knew well was overwhelming. Becoming comfortable with this new self containment is liberating, but it takes time. Getting involved in extracurriculars and going to events specifically for your major are great ways to make friends. Do not simply cling to the first people you meet on campus. Learn to be patient. Admittedly, social media may make it hard to have a patient approach to making friends. You will probably see constant

Gifts to give graduates for their next step HOLLY MILLER cover editor

photos of your old classmates with new friends and new college adventures. Try not to have a fear of missing out because of these photos. Great friendships do not develop in a day. Staying in touch with friends from high school will require effort, but friendships that can handle a bit of strain are the only ones worth keeping. Make yourself available for old friends but do not use these friendships as a crutch or let those relationships, as valuable as they may be, stand in the way of new ones. Develop good academic habits. Final exams and projects are weighted much more heavily than anything else in college, but skipping class or falling behind on weekly assignments will hurt you in the long run. Set yourself up for success and do not rely on cramming. Right now, you may look back on your freshman year and

As graduation is approaching, seniors are preparing for the next chapter of their lives after high school, whether it is going to college, taking a gap year or going into the workforce. One benefit to graduating, in addition to embarking on a postsecondary path, is all the gifts these graduates will receive for their 12 years of hard work. After polling 22 high school seniors, 81% said they would like to receive cash as graduation gifts, allowing them to buy whatever they need for the next step of their lives. Seniors who are attending college after graduation will need many items for their dorm and to continue their education. These items could include

Senior Section

Class of 2019

May 17, 2019 | Page 23

regret your lack of involvement or academic responsibility. Do not make the same mistake in college. Be a considerate roommate and set boundaries with them early in the semester. You do not want to have a poor or nonexistent relationship with the person with whom you live. You will always remember your first roommate(s), and it is partially up to you to determine whether they will be remembered as a special

and learn about yourself, in small ways and big ways. Try new foods or take a class in an extremely different field than your own. Attend different club meetings and see which ones interest you. Get to know your campus and the city. Take advantage of the opportunities presented to you. You never know where they will lead. Call your family members. They will be glad you called, and so will you.

Go out of your comfort zone and learn about yourself, in small ways and big ways. person who was by your side in a transitional period of your life or a roommate from your nightmares who made every day of freshman year excruciating. Go out of your comfort zone

dorm decorations, bed sheets, bathroom items and supplies for school. An easy way to let the graduate get what they need is to give Amazon, Ikea or Bed Bath and Beyond gift cards. Some seniors will take other paths after graduating, including taking a gap year or studying abroad, which can take lots of planning and deciding what they will need in another country. These grads need traveling necessities, including luggage, backpacks, notebooks for journaling, outlet adapters and a camera, according to the studyabroadguide.com. Finding the perfect gift for graduates depends on what path they will be taking after high school.

Whether your plans for the future include college or not, a completely new part of your life is about to begin, and only you can determine the mindset with which you approach it. Good luck, graduating seniors!

“AFTER POLLING 22 HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS, 81% SAID THEY WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE CASH AS GRADUATION GIFTS, ALLOWING THEM TO BUY WHATEVER THEY NEED FOR THE NEXT STEP OF THEIR LIVES.”

Senior Section May 17, 2019 | Page 24

Class of 2019

Seniors look up to underclassmen “Hannah Johnson (10), because she has inspired me to work harder during track and basketball and she works very hard.” -Anna Zerrer (12)

“Ben Haven (10), because he always laughs and provides positivity.” -Stone Nicholson (12)

WHS students look back on year with role models

“Sydney Ebin (9), because she is courageous, confident, bold and so very sweet.” -Savannah Ebin (12)

“Marion Dix (9), because she is so incredibly talented and hardworking as a freshman and very caring.” -Lindsey Adams (12)

“Lauren Crum (10), because she isn’t afraid to be herself.” -Lindsay Kastner (12)

“Justin Roberts (10), because he is always positive and having a grand time.” -Ben Otto (12)

“Hannah McNeil (8), because she is always happy and bubbly and is friendly to everyone. “-Anna Birk (12)

“Jenson Bauman (10), because she is always happy and super hard working and always has a great attitude with what she does.” -Elizabeth Cicconetti (12)

“Rebecca Lay (8), because she is personable.” -Emily Lay (12)

“Mason Shamp (9), because he shows a lot of strength and compassion with anyone he is close to.” -Meghan Crouser (12)

Corridor collected by Gina Van Lieu May 9 and May 10.

Upperclassmen inspire younger students “An upperclassman that inspires me is Andrew Martinez (12). He inspires me because he puts all of his eﬀort in everything he does. Whether it’s school or sports he always tries his best. I really love his personality and leadership as well. Andrew shines in whatever he does and helps several people along the way.” –Heather Wolfe (9)

“Henry Wright (12), he is just a really inspirational person in general.” –Alaya West (10)

“Dakota Braddock (11), because when I was in track, he came every day with a positive attitude to improve his throwing skills.” –Benjamin Flinner (10)

“I looked up to Holly Miller (12) during swimming and diving season for always being nice, cheering me on, and being my big sister.” –Jocelyn Aguirre (9)

“Breydan Hann (12) has been a big role model for me. I ran track and cross country with him and he always worked hard and helped me on how I could get better. After every practice, he took me home too. He is someone that I look up to and want to be like.” –Lucas Niro (10)

“Lily Williams (12), because she encouraged me to do yearbook and soccer and is always a positive inﬂuence.” –Lauren Crum (10)

“Savannah Ebin (12), because she’s a hard worker, but knows how to have fun at the same time.” –Marion Dix (9)

“My sister, Addy Dossi (12), for teaching me the importance of getting good grades.” –Drew Dossi (9)

Corridor collected by Corinne Wiles May 13.

Class of 2019

Senior Section May 17, 2019 | Page 25

Seniors evaluate classes based on their experiences Dream Classes “I think we had something similar in the past, but Advanced P.E., with like lifting and diet tracking. “ - Evan Hootman (12) “A class that teaches us how to survive outside.” - Oksana Novanty (12) “My dream class at Wooster would be a life class, to teach life skills.” - Trevar Meese (12) “A class that teaches flex yoga.” - Alyssa Sims (12) Graphics by Madison Helms and from The Wooster Blade Archive

Best Classes Dream classes corridor distributed by Alexa Mitchell on May 6 and 7. Best classes corridor distributed by Emily Jewell on May 7 and 8. Hardest classes corridor distributed by Anna Nacci and Alexa Mitchell on May 7.

“Contemporary Composition prepared me for college and taught me how to write better.” - Gabby McClure (12) “AP Chemistry because it helped me prepare for college.” - Ben Otto (12) “Acting with Mrs. Broda because I was able to express myself while having fun.” - Danny Fash (12) “Psychology because I feel like I learned a lot about understanding people, and I really love Mr. Sullivan.”- Alexa Sommer (12)

Hardest Classes “Pre-calc. Trigonometry makes my brain hurt, and reading the textbook is like trying to decipher ancient Nordic runes using a German-to-English dictionary.” - Lucas Lindemuth (12) “World History. Every night I had Cornell notes and packets. My teacher wanted us to teach ourselves so I had to read out of a textbook… it sucked. I didn’t learn much, but I passed, so it’s all good. Also, I had mental breakdowns.” - Cally Stoffer (12) “AP Stats, lots of homework, didn’t understand [the] material.” - Zarria Kingery (12) “AP Physics. Not much homework, but there was a lot to memorize.” - Seth Musselman (12) Graphics by Catherine Strong

Senior Section May 17, 2019 | Page 26

Class of 2019

Seniors weigh in on lessons from their high school experience What is the least useful What is the most useful thing thing you learned at WHS? you learned at WHS?

What is something you wish you learned at WHS?

“The most useless thing would probably be reading and annotating books in English. I gained no knowledge from that and just memorized what I needed to get by.” - Melody Ashworth (12)

“The most useful was probably learning that no question is dumb. You can always ask for help; you don’t have to know everything.” - Lauren Schmidt (12)

“I wish I would have learned more handy skills, like home repair and car maintenance and stuﬀ like that.” - Danny Fash (12)

“Other people’s study habits because not every habit applies to you. Everyone learns at diﬀerent paces and cramming may work for someone, while study weeks ahead works for someone else.” - Ben Otto (12)

“The most useful thing I’ve learned would probably be anatomy I guess because it helped me figure out what I want to do when I grow up.” - Brittany Brinkerhoff (12)

“If there is one thing I would want to have learned, it would be how to deal with the drastic change to adulthood.” - Lucas Lindenmuth (12)

“The most useless thing is how to write a poem in iambic pentameter.” - Dominique Nguyen (12)

“Honestly it would he to be Mr. Lee’s classes, they prepare you for life and you use that stuff in everyday life.” - Kristian Scalf (12)

“I wish I ﬁgured out the real cost of living and how to pay for it. A house, food, utilities, loans and bills… they add up.” - Emmily Moses (12)

Education the lifeblood of a community 330-264-2223

@murrprinting.com

FEATURE

THE WOOSTER BLADE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 27

Micropolitan Journal : Original Mission Statement: The Wooster Blade is trying something new: The Micropolitan Journal. The Micropolitan Journal is a place for Wooster community members to share their stories of the odd, ﬂeeting moments that make Wooster special. Whether you are gameside at Follis Field or Kinney Fields or street side on Main or Liberty, tell us your talk of the town. We want to hear the punch lines delivered by teachers, bus drivers, bosses, and co-workers; the funny phone conversations; the silly arguments you’ve had with your friends, parents, or kids; and, if you caught any funny or odd moments on your camera that you feel particularly represent Wooster or would only happen in Wooster, share those pictures. The Wooster Blade would love to hear and publish your stories and pictures that capture the ways of Wooster.

SOPHIE GAMBLE & LEOTA HUTCHISON staﬀ writer & resident at West View Healthy Living Leota Hutchison grew up in Ohio and has lived in the state ever since. Her first story is about the home she opened for mentally challenged men. She opened up this home and ran it for 35 years, with the help of her husband before he passed away. The home was like a family to her, and the men who lived in it were “[our] kids,” according to Hutchison. Everyone had their own responsibilities, such as tending to the garden and cooking. The home was on a seven-acre farm and each member had their ‘own’ animal to take care of that was theirs. She feels as if she had made a difference

How to Submit

in these men’s lives as she had provided a loving home for them. Leota was adopted when she was a few months old and, “raised by a really good family on a fruit farm.” Later, she wanted to figure out where she came from. She wrote to the Health Dept. in Franklin country, Columbus and found out that her mother had passed away. She was able to do research based on the last name that she was given. The story she heard was a sad one, but she learned about how brave her mother was to leave her home and Leota to a better life.

MAEVE FLORENCE-SMITH & JEANNIE BLADE students, Maeve Florence-Smith and Sophie Gamble, went to West View Nursing Home and talked to residents Jeannie and Leota Hutchison about their lives in Wooster for The Micropolitan Journal series. Florence-Smith and Gamble reﬂect that they would love to go back and talk to Leota and Jeannie again, as well as color with them. They are also interested in meeting new people and hearing about their lives. Please contact Maeve at 20mﬂorence-smith@ woosterk12.org if you have a special story about Wooster and would like to be interviewed.

Guidelines: 1. Open to all ages 2. 25-200 words 3. The Wooster Blade is a high school newspaper that is read by members of the community, so please make sure your submissions are appropriate for all audiences. 4. You must have your ﬁrst and last name along with your entry. 5. If your story includes real people, you must have permission from them to use their names. 6. Please give a brief title to your story or photograph. 7. Submit your entries over social media by tagging them or DMing them to any of The Wooster Blade’s social media (thewoosterblade), or email them to thewoosterblade.com or wstr_khiner@woostercityschools.org What can be entered: 1. Short stories 2. Photographs (please include a couple sentences of context) 3. Drawings 4. Cartoons 5. Sketches 6. Funny one liners (please include context) GRAPHIC BY CATHERINE STRONG

staﬀ writer & resident at West View Healthy Living Jeannie, a resident at West View Healthy Living, grew up in Wooster, but when she was growing up things were diﬀerent. Jeannie worked at the Wooster Brush Company for seven years and then married her boss. After they were married, Jeannie and her husband decided to get three sheep; however, those three sheep quickly turned into 100. The vet came to take care of the sheep, so one day, while stitching up a sheep, she told Jeannie that it

DAN STAVNEZER guest writer Hugs. They are one of my favorite things to give and to receive. I love getting them from family and friends and it’s an essential part of my day. Another great place I have received hugs, is at Cornerstone Elementary School. Both of my children attended that school and I still volunteer there on a weekly basis. Since my wife and I were actively involved in their classrooms and supporting their teachers,

would be much cheaper and more eﬃcient if she did her own vaccines and procedures on her sheep. So, Jeannie began to give her lambs their vaccinations and performed some minor procedures. One day Jeannie came home to ﬁnd the door open. She went inside and found that one of her lambs come up the stairs and into the house. She walked in and found the lamb playing with their poodle in the living room where they made quite a mess.

we have spent a great deal of time around students. During those times, many of them asked for and provided us with hugs. And still do every week I volunteer. I know it may not seem like much, a simple hug, but it reminds me that everyone has needs. Though it is only brief encounter, it has taught me that even though we all need hugs, some people may need them more or more of them. And to some of the kids at Cornerstone, I believe that a brief encounter means a lot.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | FEATURE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 28

Honoring a legacy:

Exploring the impact Dan Adams had on WHS and students

Matt Lorentz Class of 2018

“As my director for five consecutive years, I learned a great deal from Mr. Adams. Not only did he teach me music, but he set an example for how to live humbly and happily. Thank you, Mr. Adams, for everything.”

Leah Sim Class of 2017

“I have invaluable experiences of being a part of ensembles led by Mr. Adams and have gained important lessons of teamwork from him that still apply to so many different aspects both in and beyond music.”

Zack Buchholz Class of 2015

“His character and enthusiasm for music and people was incredibly inspiring. He was so caring, positive and attentive to everyone and was an amazing role model many look up to today.”

“My time with Mr. Adams made me realize music is something I don’t have to focus on only in high school- arranging music and performing in a variety of groups reinforces the importance of music in my life. For that, I am thankful.”

Eric Heller Class of 2003

“Mr. Adams not only taught me how to play music and be part on an ensemble, but also how to live my life in a respectful, sincere, and most importantly, fun way.”

Andrew Savidge Class of 2017 Paul Lindemann Class of 2017 David Burnett Class of 2015

“Mr. Adams has made a tremendous impact in my life. All of the friends I still talk to today, two years after high school, were band members that were brought together through the music we shared in Mr. Adams’s class. Mr. Adams gave me some of my best memories in high school, from Europe to Disney, to class everyday. He gave me my appreciation for music, something I will have for the rest of my life.” “Mr. Adams is one of the single-biggest influences I’ve had in my life. Far beyond just the music, he has taught me lessons in humility, professionalism, and what it means to be a great teacher. I will never be able to thank him enough for the impact he’s had on my musical journey, but I hope he knows how crucial he was in so many students’ lives. I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for Mr. Adams.”

Peter Gooch Class of 2015

Nathan Greene Class of 1999 Emily Broda Baxter Class of 1997

“Mr. Adams has always been a musical role model for me. From a very early point, he really showed a lot of support and tried to give me lots of opportunities to further my skills. There were multiple pieces that he wrote specifically for myself and other students to perform. It’s very cool for me to have gone on to study in college. As far as mentors go, he is one in a million.”

“Mr. Adams is a great ambassador of music. My first career was as a music educator because the language is universal; which is one of the things I learned while traveling to Europe with Mr. Adams and American Music Abroad.”

“Mr. Adams is the consummate example of professionalism, class, poise and outstanding musicianship. His leadership and guidance as a teacher led me to a lifelong career in education. I will always be grateful for Dan Adams’s influence in my life.” Blurbs were compiled by Skyy Khounborin

THE WOOSTER BLADE | FEATURE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 29

WHS music director retires after 29 years of teaching KRISTI HINER

RHEANNA VELASQUEZ focus editor The aftermath of WHS music director Dan Adams announcing his retirement was not unlike the bird-dropping pandemonium of the American sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati episode “Turkeys Away.” “Everyone was crying,” symphonic band flutist Elizabeth Meyers (11) said at the time in January. Yet, Adams was far from done, reducing students to tears once again in March with the introduction of a song titled, “Saying Goodbye,” symphonic band member Rebekah Barnett (11) recalls. “I cried my eyes out when he passed it out. I cried the whole period. I cried so much, I couldn’t play,” Barnett said. Ultimately, however, the distress of the students acts as testimony to the enduring legacy Adams has built during his time at WHS. Adams, a Mansfield native and valedictorian, received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from The Ohio State University. Afterwards, he taught at Mount Anthony Union High School in Bennington, Vt.

Adams went on to receive his Master of Music in Band Conducting from Northwestern University, where he studied with John Paynter, before arriving at Wooster with his wife Diane in 1990. “Although I wasn’t planning on coming back to Ohio... the job called me, and I knew I would be part of a school system that appreciated music. And that was real important to me,” Adams said. Adams quickly became active within the school and beyond, as an adjudicator, brass musician, conductor and composer with memberships in the Ohio Music Education Association, National Association for Music Education, American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, College Band Directors National Association and American Federation of Musicians Local 159. “I’ll never stop playing. I’ll never stop being a musician; that doesn’t stop with being a teacher. That’ll continue, as I hope it does with all you [students], too,” Adams said. Adams looks forward to the time he will spend composing and travelling after retirement, although he says he knows he will miss the people.

Concert Band Director Doug Bennett, colleague of Adams for almost 30 years, said throughout his tenure at WHS, Adams has been an outstanding organizational, musical and inspirational leader. Not only a leader among his colleagues, Adams has also proved mentor, educator and inspiration for countless students. Out of homage to his frequent puns, Class of 2018 alum Matt Chidsey describes Adams’ role in his music development at Wooster as quite instrumental. “From the first rehearsal to the last, he demanded our best, whatever that may have been for each individual. He also had a knack for telling us when we were not presenting our best musical attributes... often. He programmed music that was both enjoyable to play and gave us opportunities to grow as musicians. He offered as many opportunities as you were willing to accept. He was also a fabulous conducting role model. Personally, I could have never developed the passion for music necessary to know I wanted to teach music without his guidance and persistence. I came to Wooster High School knowing how to like music, but

Mr. Adams taught me how to love music,” Chidsey said. French horn player Emily Lay (12) echoes the sentiment, also identifying Adams as a major influence on her love of music. “Way back in eighth grade, he saw something in me that I didn’t. I can’t imagine where I would be now without him,” Lay said. Asked for any parting words to students, Adams encouraged students do the things that are important to them. “What are the things you miss? It’s something that had an impact on you, something that meant something to you. You miss the things you value, and that’s a good thing. That means you’ve done something that has been important to you. So my lesson is: do things that are important to you,” Adams said. The community has been so fortunate to have such a talented teacher and director for three decades, WHS Music Parents Association President Brent Rice says. “Working with Dan Adams has been a true pleasure. It is really easy to support a music program that strives for and achieves such success year after year. Mr. Adams and all of his colleagues challenge students

to give the best of themselves and, collectively, they reach a level of excellence it is easy for the audience to recognize and enjoy,” Rice said. Rice knows the Music Parents Association is as supportive of Adams in his decision to retire as of his leadership throughout the Wooster City Schools music program. “Any time you lose someone of that stature you wish it could extend just a little bit longer. Yet, in reality, his time has come to see through other pursuits on which he has set his sights, and he deserves the opportunity to step away from a profession to which he has given so much of himself for so long,” Rice said. Plans are underway within the Music Parents Association to establish a scholarship in Adams’ honor. “To honor and recognize Mr. Adams for his three decades of commitment to Wooster music students - and the level of excellence he has continuously reached with those students the Music Parents felt this was an appropriate way to thank him for his extraordinary service,” Rice said. Rice anticipates the first scholarship gift to be given at the end of the 2019-20 school year.

THE WOOSTER BLADE | FEATURE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 30

Summer events abound near Wooster

Concerts

Over the summer, there will be many concerts all over the country, and quite a few will take place here in Ohio. Between the House of Blues Music Hall in Cleveland and the Madison Theater in Columbus hosting three different performers, Leela James, Stephen Marley, and the Muck Sticky band, in the month of June alone, concerts and shows are held all year round.

Movies

Outdoor Activities

Whether it is a dark stormy day or the sun is blaring down hot enough to cook an egg on your windshield, the weather is always a great time to see a movie this summer. A few to look forward to will be Godzilla: King of the Monsters, which comes out May 30 Spider-Man: Far From Home, coming out July 2 or Toy Story 4, which is released June 21.

Travel

During the summer, the weather allows for many outdoor options for exploration, including exploration of one of the water parks we have right here in Ohio. Kalahari in Sandusky and Zoombezi Bay near Columbus offer an easy way to stay cool and have fun on some of the scorching summer days. Another way to spend the good weather is at Cedar Point in Sandusky or Kings Island in Cincinnati.

As the school year ends, travel is a much more reasonable option for students to use to enjoy their free time and getting outside of Wooster provides many new experiences. Out of country travel is a great experience, but if it is unreasonable between cost or timing with other activities, here are a few places to visit right here in the United States. New York City, national parks such as the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone, or any of the beaches lining the coasts near North and South Carolina, Florida, California, are all out of state options that will provides experiences like no other. If more inner state plans are all you can do, then the larger cities such as Cincinnati and Cleveland always have something to do, or maybe fishing up at Lake Erie will better tickle your fancy. All of these options are a little more out of the way than traveling around Ohio, but far enough away that you will find a completely unique experience you may not get anywhere else. Blurbs by Alec Pauley

Student demand remains high in summer jobs SOPHIE GAMBLE staﬀ writer As summer approaches, new job opportunities arise for high school students across the city of Wooster. For some students, figuring out where to apply and actually doing so can be a struggle. According to WHS Guidance Secretary Carol Mills, part of the reason students are often scared is

that they are unprepared for interviews. Mills recommends highlighting accomplishments, past jobs and extracurriculars when choosing a job or writing a resume, in order to choose a job that might fit. Having a summer job is not only a way to make money, but is also an opportunity to gain experience and explore career options. According to an article by Middlesex University

Mauritius, job experience helps develop key skills such as problem-solving, teamwork and communication. Businesses across the city of Wooster are currently hiring. Downtown, Dari-Land is looking to employ high schoolaged students for the summer. Other companies such as Smucker’s, Schaeffler and BCI Buckeye Division are open for entry-level applications for students age 18 or older, while

organizations like The Boys and Girls Club of Wooster is looking to hire for summer camps and is also looking for volunteers. Volunteering is a way to make a difference in the community and to gain experience in a possible job field, according to Erwin Riedner, a current volunteer at the Wooster Community Hospital. Riedner added that

“[volunteering helps to] get a wider view of the world and where needs may be,” and teaches humility. Wooster Community Hospital and Local Roots Market and Cafe are both places in town that welcome volunteers of all ages during the summer or during the academic year. Information about job openings and internship possibilities are available at the WHS Guidance office.

VIEWS

THE WOOSTER BLADE | MAY 17, 2019 | PAGE 31

Scandal exempliﬁes classism in the U.S.

MYA VANDEGRIFT staﬀ writer When news of the college admissions scandal broke, I was not surprised. Celebrities and economic elites have always seemed to be able to get into good schools, and as an elementary student, I always thought that it was because they worked extra hard. But now, as a high school student, I realize that most of us also work extra hard. And, because of modern social media and means of communication, I have observed that kids my age, with more money or power, sometimes use their economic standpoint as an excuse to not to work as hard. The college admissions scandal is a direct representation of the issue of economic privilege in the United States, also known as classism. Classism appears individually through attitudes and behaviors, institutionally through policies and practices, and culturally through norms and values, as defined by classsism.org. If this blatant allowance of economic privilege within the college admissions scandal is not an example of classism in our country, I do not know what is. Administrators who should

have been there to foster a diverse learning environment instead prioritized how they personally could profit. Not only does the admissions process itself require reconsideration, but our nation’s attitude toward rewarding those who work hard, regardless of salary, does as well. When middle/lower economic class students are not given the same opportunities

WHEN MIDDLE/ LOWER ECONOMIC STUDENTS ARE NOT THE SAME AS THE ELITE, THERE IS A BLUNT UNFAIRNESS THAT IS SOLELY BASED IN CLASSISM. as the elite, there is a blunt unfairness that is solely based in classism. As a high school student, this dishonorable truth about our county disheartens my confidence and leaves me regarding every sleepless night and cram session as meaningless, able to be signed away by a simple paycheck. Americans must begin to think about the underlying socioeconomic classes that exist in our supposedly middle-class nation. Classism affects our perceptions of one another, ourselves, and must no longer be tolerated as a glass ceiling for anyone who wants to pursue higher education.

OUR VIEW A simple service project that you can do without having to go far from your house would be helping your neighbors. This could include raking leaves, taking their trash to the curb, getting their mail for them, and if they have a dog, taking it for a walk. Reaching out to your neighbors is a simple task, but can make a difference. Lifecare Hospice is a nonprofit organization that provides service for the community. Here, patients are able to receive full time care and rehabilitation for their specific needs. Money donations are always needed in order for the facility to care for their many patients. Students can also go through volunteer training through the Hospice training program in order to provide both direct and indirect support towards the patients. This summer, teens can volunteer at the Wooster Hope Center. The center provides food and hygiene products for residents of Wayne County. They are looking for volunteers, and according to their website, they need 80 volunteers a week to keep the center running. If you cannot volunteer, they are always looking for donations in the form of food, hygiene products and financial contributions.

How can teens make a difference over the summer?

The Wooster Blade Editorial Board provides a service guide in order to help students to reenergize over the summer and give back to the community in which we live. Both the Wayne County Humane Society and the Wayne County Dog Shelter have several opportunities to help adoptable cats and dogs live a full life. To volunteer at the Humane Society, a form must be completed and minors must be accompanied to turn in the form by a parent. Orientations for the Dog Shelter take place at 10 a.m. on the second Sunday of every month. The Boys and Girls Club of Wooster is open June 10-Aug. 2, from 7:30 a.m. through 5:30 p.m. every weekday. BGCW is a wonderful place always looking for safe and friendly volunteers to interact with the kids. It is an incredibly rejuvenating place for volunteers to meet new people, as the staff is full of wonderfully genuine people. One organization in which students can participate over the summer is Summer Stage Wooster, a lcommunity theater group that provides support for our Drama Club. Summer Stage provides students with more than an just opportunity to provide service, it generates an opportunity for students to submerge themselves in the arts if they cannot do so throughout the school year.

Senior Section

Class of 2019

May 17, 2019 | Page 32

A MIXED BAG:

seniors give RECOMMENDATIONS and THANKS to WHS Make sure to keep up with your work until the very last day. Staying ahead on your assignments will make your last week lots of fun and a lot less stressful.

KRISTI HINER

Senior Staﬀ (Front to back): John Gorman, Alexa Mitchell, Rachael Schmidt. Second Row: Jacob Gooch, Alexis Florence. Third Row: Korbin Reed, Haley Balas, Gina Van Lieu, Emily Jewell. Back: Griﬃn Murphy, Catherine Strong, Holly Miller. Not Pictured: David Cheng.

Thank you to Mrs. Custer and the rest of the Speech and Debate coaching staff. You have helped so many students find their voice. Stop pressuring underclassmen to take AP and other accelerated classes early in their high school careers. Students deserve the right to just be a kid and have time to explore other activities.

Thank you to all the teachers who are understanding of students who have busy schedules outside of school and are willing to help at any time.

Make sure you treat everyone with respect and are being the real you and not the you others want you to be.

Thank you to the Arts Dept. for making sure every student can be a part of the arts programs, before, during and after school hours.

Thank you to all of the teachers who take so much time out of their already busy schedules to help us all through our own struggles whether it be school or personal.

Students need to be kind to one another whether it be inside of the school or outside. Being kind and caring will make everyone’s experience of WHS much more tolerable. Thank you to all the advisers, coaches and other adults who devote themselves to helping students in extracurricular activities at WHS.

Take the time to do what you want to do in high school. Don’t always listen to what other people are telling you to do.

Don’t let people deﬁne who you are, just because someone says something doesn’t mean you have to listen. Thank you to WHS custodial staff. You all do so much work with not enough appreciation, especially from the students. On behalf of The Wooster Blade Editorial Staff we say thank you. Students need to feel heard. Continuing to build relationships between guidance counselors, administration and students will always help students feel more welcome and cared for. Students are more likely to positively respond to teachers/administrators who put students ﬁrst during the school day.

Try the arts as soon as possible and if you don’t like it, quit, but you don’t want to miss out on something you may have loved. Thank you to everyone who thought I couldn’t do it, you have motivated me to do it. Thank you to the people that were there by my side telling me I could.

Thank you to the entire Music Department and the Music Parents Association. Your energy, enthusiasm and dedication builds passion within students who hold the potential to do wonderful things through music. The senior music students are incredibly grateful for all the lessons and fun experiences provided by the Music Dept. throughout our time in Wooster.