THE WOOSTER BLADE
WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NEWSPAPER • 515 OLDMAN ROAD, WOOSTER, OH • DEC. 14, 2018 • VOLUME XIX, ISSUE 7
that’s a
rap Graphic by John Gorman Photos by Maddy McCully, Rachael Schmidt, Reece Mitchell, Theresa Wendell and Kristi Hiner
The 2018 year in review
Index: On Campus 2-3 Feature 4-5 Focus 6-7 Sports 8-9 Cover 10-12 Arts 13-15 Trends 16-17 Views 18-20
ON CAMPUS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 2
Year of firsts: Recognizing new faces and improvements
ELECTIVES: Mythology returns to WHS this year after taking a several year hiatus. It focuses on mythology of many different cultures, from Norse to Egyptian.
COACHES: New coaches include boys soccer head coach J.P. Lytle, head Speech and Debate team coach Holly Custer, debate coach Kenny Rogers and Academic Challenge and boys soccer JV coach, Dylan Ruff.
WELCOME CENTER: The welcome center in WHS has been upgraded from last year. It now has a full-time attendant, Tiffany Gutierrez, and a new system for passes. TEACHERS: New teachers this year include History Dept. member Oliver Warren, English Dept. member Kenny Rogers and tenth grade inclusion teacher Hollis Coldwater, amongst other new staff members.
ADMINISTRATORS: There are two new administrators now working at WHS this year: Sara Crooks, the new associate principal, and Nate Steiner, the new administrative intern.
POOL: The Ellen Shapiro Natatorium received new renovations, including a new pool surface, non-slip flooring, new lockers and a new sound system.
Blurbs by Haley Balas and Leo Riley. Graphic by John Gorman. Photos taken by Theresa Wendell, Jacob Gooch, Rachael Schmidt, Maddy McCully and Skyy Khounborin.
THE WALL: A new security wall was added to the hallway entering the school from the west side. in order to increase school safety.
SPIRIT: New spirit activities have included all sports-inclusive pep rallies, door decorating competitions and record turnouts for the student section.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | ON CAMPUS | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 3
Alice Noble welcomes opportunity for elementary students to ice skate KORBIN REED staff writer The Alice Noble Ice Arena in Wooster is a public facility that is used for recreational purposes, ice skating lessons, hockey games and is now being used by the four elementary schools in the Wooster City Schools District. Seth Greenberg, general manager of Alice Noble, said this is the second year the elementary schools have used the facility. “We host the schools at no charge, compliments of the Noble Foundation, to introduce young kids to ice skating. Most of the kids that participate have
never skated before, and this is a great opportunity to teach them how to skate,” Greenberg said. When the elementary school students use the ice arena facilities, ice skating outreach leader Penny Vanata and ice skating instructor Barb DiScipio help teach the schoolchildren how to skate. “We partner in running the school gym classes. We enjoy seeing the progress they make week to week in their accomplishments,” Vanata said. This year, first and third grade students in the district get the opportunity to use Alice Noble for some of their physical education classes. Melrose Elementary third
grade teacher Holly Chelf shares her opinion about the opportunity that these students have to learn how to skate on ice. “It was a great way for the students to experience ice skating. Each time we went, you could see the little improvements as they grew more comfortable with being on the ice. It was also a good break for the students who need to release some built up energy,” Chelf said. Alice Noble has given elementary students the opportunity to learn how to ice skate free of charge, which gives the students a new hobby and another way to spend their day through school.
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First graders from Parkview Elementary get to have their time out on the ice as a part of their physical education on Dec. 3.
Holiday event features tuba tunes SOPHIE GAMBLE staff writer Throughout the months of November and December, musicians who play the tuba and other similar instruments gather to perform holiday music in venues throughout the world at annual Tuba Christmas performances. Tuba Christmas has spread in popularity since its inception in 1974. Originally started in New York City, this tradition has spread to Wooster, thanks to Douglas Bennett and Steve Thornton, and for 22 years, has remained a beloved annual event. Bennett and Thornton participated in Akron’s Tuba Christmas for three years before deciding to bring it to Wooster, and hope to break the record number of 100 musicians participating this year, according to Thornton. Tuba Christmas was created by Harvey Phillips to honor his teacher William J. Bell, and works to, “honor all great artists/teachers whose legacy has given us high performance standards... professional integrity, personal values
and a camaraderie envied by all other instrumentalists,” according to the official Tuba Christmas website. Ethan Keating (8), a WHS band member who has attended the concert since he was three-years-old, and now plays in it, described the importance of this event to him personally. “Tuba Christmas is important to me because it has always been a part of my family’s holiday tradition. I also chose my instrument in band so that I could eventually play in Tuba Christmas... It also is a national event, so wherever I end up, I can continue to take part in it,” Keating said. People from all over Wayne County attend, according to Connie Mann, a retired WCS teacher. Mann plans on attending again this year as she said she enjoys seeing her former students on stage and hearing the band. A Pancake Breakfast and Basket Raffle precede the concert in the WHS commons. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
FEATURE
THE WOOSTER BLADE | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 4
The Best Books of 2018: Avid faculty readers weigh in on good reads
Diane Mealey Maddy McCully
Book: Truly Devious Author: Maureen Johnson
MADDY MCCULLY
PBS broadcasts “The Great American Read” to choose the American public’s favorite work From May 22 to Oct. 23, PBS hosted The Great American Read. First, a national survey was conducted to determine the top 100 fiction books for readers. Beginning on Sept. 11, weekly episodes were released, each containing new information about the common themes of each of the books. After the episodes were aired, another nationwide vote took place in order to choose the winner. For more information on The Great American Read, visit www.pbs.org.
#1 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee #2 Outlander (Series) by Diana Gabaldon #3 Harry Potter (Series) by J.K. Rowling #4 Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen #5 Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien #6 Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell #7 Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White #8 Little Women by Louisa May Alcott #9 Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis #10 Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
“The book has all my favorite elements: a boarding school, quirky characters, a mystery and a murder. The sequel comes out early next year, and I can’t wait.”
Brett Hiner
Book: Into the Black Nowhere Author: Meg Gardiner “It’s the second in Meg Gardiner’s ‘UNSUB’ series, and her gift is to take the mystery genre to a literary level. If you know me, you know I don’t use the ‘couldn’t put it down’ comment lightly, but that is, most definitely, the case here.”
Kristi Hiner
Book: Time’s Convert Author: Deborah Harkness “Although I can’t say this is my favorite book of the year, or my favorite book by Deborah Harkness, I can say this book will immediately prompt readers to go back and reread Harkness’All Souls Trilogy, which is definitely worth their time. If people have not read this series, they need to add it to their list because they will not be disappointed.“
Kelly Grayshock
Book: Lethal White Author: Robert Galbraith “Wonderfully written with tons of twists, turns and surprises. And, just when you think you have it figured out, surprise! You’re wrong!”
THE WOOSTER BLADE | FEATURE | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 5
Back to Basics:
Photographers experiment with analog cameras
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Often, photographers are able to automatically focus, set lighting conditions and correct issues in their images without understanding the principles behind the actions. This challenge forced BLADE photographers to learn, or re-learn, how to function without auto-focus and corrective lighting systems. They also had to accept the shots the way they shot them, without any “fixes.” Vote on which photo you like best at thewoosterblade.com/vote.
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GRACE BROWNSON
MADDY MCCULLY
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4
1. This photo depicts Reece Mitchell (11) preparing to flick a football through the uprights. This photo displays a more artistic touch with a near, but not perfect focus. 2. This image of a sunset displays the benefits of a digital filter, not present due to the analog camera’s nature. Although the image captures beautiful color in the sky, it is unable to turn down the sun’s intensity. 3. Looking out the window displays the ability of analog cameras to more capture a moment. This viewing is enhanced because the editing present in a digital camera often changes lighting and corrects imperfections, whereas analog captures exactly what is seen by the photographer. 4. Leo Riley (10) is pictured deep in thought. This picture shows the superior capture potential with analog cameras as Riley was in motion and does not look blurred out. Explanation and blurbs written by Jacob Gooch.
THERESA WENDELL
JACOB GOOCH
FOCUS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 6
2018 Year in Review: National and World Events ANTHONY BOURDAIN PASSES AWAY AT 61
THE ROYAL WEDDING OF PRINCE HARRY AND MEGHAN MARKLE
JOURNALIST AND DISSIDENT JAMAL KHASHOGGI KILLED
JUNE 8
MAY 19
OCT. 2 FCC ROLLS BACK NET NEUTRALITY REGULATIONS JUNE 11
HAWAII PANICS AFTER ACCIDENTAL MISSILE LAUNCH WARNING JAN. 13
HURRICANE FLORENCE MAKES LANDFALL IN THE CAROLINAS
PRESIDENT GEORGE H.W. BUSH PASSES AWAY AT 94 NOV. 30
JUDGE BRETT KAVANAUGH IS CONFIRMED AS SUPREME COURT JUSTICE OCT. 6
AUG. 31
2019
HISTORIC U.S.NORTH KOREA SUMMIT TAKES PLACE
DEMOCRATS WIN BACK THE HOUSE IN THE MIDTERM ELECTIONS NOV. 6
SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN PASSES AWAY AT 81 AUG. 25
JUDGE BRETT KAVANAUGH IS NOMINATED AS SUPREME COURT JUSTICE
ROBERT BOWERS KILLS 11 WORSHIPPERS IN PITTSBURGH SYNAGOGUE
FEB. 6
OCT. 27 JULY 11
JULY 9
SPACEX SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHES A CAR INTO SPACE
TRUMP ANNOUNCES UNITED STATES IS LEAVING IRAN NUCLEAR DEAL MAY 8
MARK ZUCKERBERG TESTIFIES TO CONGRESS REGARDING FACEBOOK’S CAMBRIDGE ANALYTICA DATA BREACH APRIL 10
JUNE 12 TEAM USA GYMNASTICS DOCTOR LARRY NASSAR SENTENCED TO 175 YEARS IN PRISON JAN. 24
UNITED STATES MOVES U.S. EMBASSY FROM TEL AVIV TO JERUSALEM MAY 14
FBI RAIDS TRUMP’S LAWYER MICHAEL COHEN’S OFFICE APRIL 9
TWELVE YOUTH SOCCER PLAYERS AND COACH SUCCESSFULLY RESCUED FROM CAVE IN THAILAND
STEPHEN HAWKING PASSES AWAY AT 76
NIKOLAS CRUZ OPENS FIRE AT MARJORY STONEMAN DOUGLAS HIGH SCHOOL IN FLORIDA, KILLING 17 FEB. 14
MARCH 14
Facts compiled by John Gorman. Graphic by John Gorman
THE WOOSTER BLADE | FOCUS | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 7
Joyful Cafe offers new opportunities PAULINA SALAZAR staff writer Healthpoint, a medically based health and wellness facility in Wooster, is bringing a new addition, Joyful Cafe, to its building. Joyful Cafe opened as a way to provide the community with a retail coffee shop and to offer job opportunities to people with disabilities, according to their website, joyfulcafe.org. Heather Yates, a mom who envisioned this project when she decided she wanted a workplace that would hire people with disabilities, said she was inspired by the idea of the Joyful Cafe because her daughter, Amanda, was transitioning from going to
school to work. She said she was inspired by intervention specialist Holly Pope’s idea of General Grounds, the coffee shop located within the WHS media center, so she decided to make a similar business in the community. “Joyful Cafe gives our employees a place of employment, teaches them independence and responsibility along with providing acceptance,” Yates said. Yates added it is important to open businesses that hire people with disabilities to show that people with disabilities can be an active part of the community and also to illustrate the fact that these workers will probably
be the most hard working, dedicated employee a business can have, while also giving those individuals fulfillment and pride, as well as accomplishment. Yates said that opening the coffee shop went fairly smooth. She also stated that her favorite part of having the coffee shop was meeting the employees and seeing the joy they had because of their employment. Additionally, Joyful Cafe teaches its employees independence, Yates said. Pope took part in helping organize and jumpstart the cafe and previously worked to organize and implement General Grounds at WHS. “It gives people with disabilities meaningful
Thank you to Certified Angus Beef and the McCully family for providing food for our Dec. 10 work night.
- THE WOOSTER BLADE
MADDY MCCULLY
Three employees, from left to right (Conrad, Becky, and Isabel) of the new coffee shop Joyful Cafe are hard at work serving costumers. employment; it allows the community to see their abilities,” Pope said. She stated that the Joyful Cafe was, “created to provide opportunities because other businesses are not as open to
hire employees with special needs.” Joyful Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is welcoming any donations in order to help fund the continuation of itself.
Miss Amy’s Bakery offers a wide variety of choices for customers JACOB NURSE staff writer Miss Amy’s Bakery opened in June and offers a variety of baked items made fresh every day, according to the owner, Amy Crosland. Crosland discovered her passion for baking when she stayed home to care for her daughter who was born with an autoimmune deficiency along with a chromosomal defect. Crosland said she started baking, and when she was offered a space to open up a shop, she took it. “I want my daughter to always have a job, and work with people who are understanding of her defect,” Crosland said. Crosland and her husband worked for five months to turn a garage space, with no electricity or heat, into what is now Miss Amy’s Bakery. Crosland offers gluten free versions of almost all of their treats. “I understand
people with special needs and don’t want people with dietary restrictions left out,” Amy said. Some fan favorites, according to Crosland, are the scones, cinnamon rolls, lobster tails and cream puffs. Nathan DeRodes (11) tried six different pastry items, including the fan favorites, and said he enjoyed all of them. “This is the best cinnamon roll that I have ever had in my life,” DeRodes said. Crosland donates leftover items to different organizations, including Hilltop Veterans Home. In the future, Crosland hopes to gain more clients and to collaborate with Nick Amster Workshop, so adults with developmental disabilities can work for a couple hours each day in the bakery. The bakery is located on 1494 E Smithville Western and is open Tuesday through Saturday, according to their website.
SPORTS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 8
Students pick 2018’s most memorable sports moments
First Wooster Football game of 2018 against Orrville Aug. 31
2018 WHS First Frontline appearance Aug. 31
2019
Browns win first game of season versus the New York Jets Sept. 20
France versus Croatia World Cup final July 15 College Football Opening Weekend Aug. 25
Lebron James signs with Los Angeles Lakers July 2
2019
Wooster Football defeats Ashland in last OCC game of 2018 Oct. 26
2018 World Cup Begins June 14
OSU versus Michigan football game Nov. 24
March Madness Selection Sunday Mar. 11
Upcoming Winter Sports Events WHS Swimming Canton Christmas Invitational @ Canton Dec. 15 Varsity Bowling @ Barberton Dec. 15 Girls Varsity Basketball @ Wooster Dec. 15 Coed Unified Basketball @ Massillon Washington High School Dec. 18 Gymnastics @ Massillon Dec. 19 Boys Varsity Basketball @ Wooster Dec. 21 Boys Varsity Wrestling @ West Holmes Dec. 22
Students were polled regarding their favorite sports moments from 2018. Polls distributed by Mason Garcia and Melina Mera in study halls and academic assists on Dec. 5 and Dec. 6.
Wooster swimming competes in OCC tournament Jan. 13
Super Bowl LII: Eagles versus Patriots Feb. 4 2018 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony Feb. 9 Graphic by John Gorman
THE WOOSTER BLADE | SPORTS | DEC. 14 , 2018 | PAGE 9
Sports Editors offer their views on Eight Teams the college football playoffs Four Teams GRIFFIN MURPHY sports editor The college football playoffs bring stress and anger to fans every year who hope their team might be brought into the desired final four. The final four, however, could easily be expanded to an eight team playoff bracket that allows more teams to compete. The current way the college football playoffs are organized bring out competition among teams, however, what about other teams that are not ranked where they deserve to be? We see, repeatedly, multiple teams that because they are known as historically good teams, receive much higher preseason rankings than other teams, so teams that are underdogs, and maybe even go undefeated in their season, are not given a chance. One such underdog team is the University of Central Florida, which has gone undefeated for their second season in a row. Central Florida is not in the playoffs, while Oklahoma is in the top four with one loss, Georgia has two losses, Ohio State has one loss and Michigan has two losses, all of these teams are ranked above undefeated Central Florida. Although some people may worry the competition might
SKYY KHOUNBORIN a&e editor This past soccer season, Kole Emplit received the George Bell Coaches Award, created this year. According to JP Lytle, head coach for the boys soccer team, “George Bell and Roger Sherman were part of the success of starting Wooster
be lesser, due to expanding the playoffs, they would be wrong. There is a one game difference between the top eight teams, allowing competition for a spot in the playoffs, still gaining the fairness of allowing teams who may not have been placed where they deserved to be in rankings still earn a spot in the playoffs. Three teams tied with a 9-3 record sitting at 10, 11 and 12 place. In ninth place is University of Washington with 10 w i n s . This
h
a n d every win matters. That is what makes it so great. Each week is entertaining to watch, and every week, new rivalries are battled, fighting for a spot in the playoffs.
The coaches and alumni chose the senior on the team who best embodied the commitment, courage and community of Wooster boys soccer, according to Lytle. Kole Emplit (12) said he feels honored to be the first to receive this award. “It feels really cool and I’m
glad I can be the first recipient of this amazing award,” Emplit said. Lytle and JV coach, Dylan Ruff, agreed that Emplit received the award due to his character and determination. “Kole has been one of the most consistent, hard working and driven individuals during his four years in Wooster High School,” Lytle said.
sports editor The college football playoffs provide a level of competitiveness that other sports just can not match with a four team bracket. College football currently has a four team playoff bracket which means the best four teams at the end of the season make it into the playoffs and compete for the national championship. College football is structured so each game matters from start to finish, every loss
shows o w
competition is still brought out in lower level teams like the top four. Everyone loves to see an underdog story. If you see a team that does not normally get a shot to do some damage to Alabama, fans can agree it is something worth watching.
The best four teams make the playoff, meaning that if teams want a chance, they can only lose one to two games in a season. If college football playoffs expand to an eight team playoff bracket, that would take away the competition created from each game a team plays during the regular season. It would let teams in that do not deserve to make the playoffs. If college football expands to eight teams, the playoffs would consist of some three and four loss teams, and these teams are not as deserving of a playoff spot. Every year, teams are going to be kept out of the playoffs, and every year, people will be unhappy, but if we expand to an eight team playoff format, fans will still run into the same problem as we are having of almost just making the cut and then people will want to expand more. Where is the limit? Where is the line that is drawn to stop expanding and try and preserve college football’s competitiveness, which is unlike any other sport? Every week matters for a team’s final outcome when competing for a spot in the playoffs. That is why we must not expand the college football playoffs and stay at the current four team design. It is not broken; we do need to fix it.
REECE MITCHELL
Photos by Grace Brownson and Reece Mitchell Graphics by Griffin Murphy
Emplit wins alumni soccer award
soccer.” Bell returned for the 40th anniversary of Wooster soccer this year and many alumni who played under Bell were able to make it, as well. The alumni discussed the idea of creating an award and decided to make an award in Bell’s name. Lytle explains, “[George Bell’s]
and Roger Sherman’s name[s] mean so much to Wooster soccer and everyone who graduates from the high school now will understand what he means to the program.”
THE WOOSTER BLADE | COVER | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 12 MADISON HELMS
Test anxiety affects students Graphic by Corinne Wiles
staff writer With midterm exams approaching, many students may feel the pressure of these tests growing and looming over them, creating a nervous state of test anxiety. According to “Test Anxiety,”an article found on adaa.org by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, test anxiety is a type of performance anxiety when one is prepared for a test, yet is so anxious for the test that they perform poorly regardless of their preparation. Test anxiety can be caused by, “Fear of failure… Lack of preparation… and a poor testing history,”says the ADAA website. The ADAA site also cites pressure, last minute studying and past failures as things can lead to students developing test anxiety. Test anxiety can also result in physical, mental and even behavioral impairments. Such impairments include excessive sweating, feelings
of fear, and difficulty concentrating, the ADAA stated. In a poll conducted in WHS on Dec. 5 and 6, students affirm these symptoms of test anxiety, as well as state additional hindrances they experience. When asked how they see anxiety before tests manifest itself, one student says, “my stomach hurts really bad. I start shaking and I want to cry.” Another student states, about test anxiety, “My mind starts racing and I usually can’t focus on that subject.” Out of 115 students polled during study halls, 85 of them said they experience test anxiety, which means over 70 percent of students are affected by test anxiety in one way or another, whether it is sweaty palms or thoughts of doubt. Additionally, students were asked whether or not they thought this anxiety is avoidable. Of those polled, 35 percent answered no, meaning that 65 percent of those polled said there is hope for those who
experience test anxiety. Many students shared their ideas on how teachers can help ease the test anxiety of students. One student suggested that teachers can avoid psyching students out by talking less about how difficult the test will be and how much they need to study, and, instead help students focus on what and how they need to study and prepare for their assessments. When asked how students can cope with test anxiety, guidance counselor Julianna Hamad says, “A mild amount of test anxiety is normal and often healthy in staying mentally alert and motivated. The best way to combat test anxiety is to be prepared. Instead of cramming the night before, it is best to chunk the content being covered over multiple days/weeks leading up to the test for maximum retention.” Hamad adds that test anxiety can be combated by utilizing tools such as Quizlet and flashcards to help better prepare for tests.
A&E
THE WOOSTER BLADE | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 13
Top Picks in Entertainment of 2018 Q: What was your favorite...
Song? “‘Happy Now’ by Zedd, because [Zedd’s] songs are really upbeat songs to listen to while doing homework.” - Emma Yoder (11)
Movie? “Bohemian Rhapsody, because Rami Malek did a phenomenal job and the cinematography was incredible. ” - Ellie Snider (10)
“Panic! at the Disco’s ‘High Hopes.’ Because it’s hype and energetic and gets me emotionally stirred.” - Ben Haven (10)
“The Incredibles 2, it makes me think of how much I loved The Incredibles growing up.” - Lane Wilson (12)
TV show?
“Young Sheldon. I like the Big Bang Theory and it’s a spin off of the Big Bang Theory and it’s funny.” - Emily Lay (12) “The Haunting of Hill House, because of its constant suspense and fear in each episode.” - Theo Ollier (9)
MOVIES
TV SHOWS
Infinity War (1)
“Nice For What”-Drake (1)
Big Mouth (1)
Black Panther (2)
“I Like it”-Cardi B (2)
The Good Place (2)
The Incredibles 2 (3)
K E Y
MUSIC
“No Tears Left to Cry”-Ariana Grande (3)
BoJack Horseman & Homecoming (3)
Paddington 2 (1)
“I Like it”-Cardi B (1)
The Good Place (1)
Leave No Trace (2)
“Sicko Mode”-Travis Scott (2)
Homecoming (2)
Student Picks Critic Picks
Quotes were collected on Dec. 11 by Maeve Florence-Smith and Bryn Savidge. On Dec. 7, Dec. 10, Dec. 11, 108 students were polled during first, second, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh periods by Anna Nacci, Madison Helms and Julia Hootman. `
Movie and TV show critic picks are according to Rotten Tomato’s Best Movies & TV shows of 2018. Music critic picks were found on BillBoard’s Top 100.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | A&E | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 14
Winter traditions:
Nightmare Before Christmas
Eg gn og
52% prefer to give gifts candy canes ham turkey What is your favorite holiday food?
es to s ta ie po ok ed co sh rk ma ba
nt mi er
pp pe
gingerbread pie stuffing
58% p be wi refer to 74% prefer to th fam ily stay home Spend the holidays with friends or family?
Graphics by Jacob Gooch
t c apple cider h rm oc int o mo lat ch e a
Students pick holiday favorites
89% prefer to Snow during have snow the holidays or no snow?
pe pp e
Christmas Story Polar Express Grinch
Giving or Receiving?
ho
Elf
What is your favorite holiday drink?
sparkling juice milk
What is your favorite holiday movie?
“Last
e C R tle ” hit the Mis You n “ o s “W ph l o r” as I cati ud ee “R eind istm Va R as hr ” r C stm lls Be t Fo hri le an e C ing “J l I W lon A l “A me Ho
” Christmas” tmas osed ” N is hr ed toe
What is your favorite holiday song?
Travel for the holidays or stay home?
Information was compiled by Mya Vandegrift, Molly Schneider, Holly Miller, Korbin Reed, Rheanna Velasquez, Grace Brownson, Bryn Savidge, Sophie Gamble, Skyy Khounborin and Mason Garcia throughout the school day in the week of Dec. 3. For the poll, 160 students were surveyed.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | A&E | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 15
Local ballet companies create dance community Ballet Wooster prioritizes education over competition RACHAEL SCHMIDT
cover editor Ballet Wooster is a non-profit, non-competitive dance school originally established in 1983, and re-established as Ballet Wooster in May 2015, said Stephanie Sustar, co-artistic director and instructor. According to balletwooster. org, their mission is, “... to provide students and community members with educational and performance opportunities in dance and the performing arts in a safe and encouraging environment. We desire to promote and inspire our community to be more involved in the arts through non-competitive dance education and quality performances that develop an appreciation of dance and the performing arts.” Ballet Wooster performs a story ballet each spring and performs The Nutcracker every other year. “Since 1990, our directors have choreographed, staged, and produced 12 narrative ballets, including 13 Nutcracker productions, as well as many contemporary and classical pieces,” Sustar said. Sara Daughtery danced with Ballet Wooster for three years and performed in Cinderella, The Nutcracker, The Blue Fairy and A Summer In Paris. Daughtery currently dances at Cleveland State University’s dance program and said, “Ballet Wooster gave me the training I needed to excel in other dance programs through
memorization, technique and choreography.” Neena Shell (10) is a student who has danced with Ballet Wooster for 10 years and said ballet has taught her focus and discipline, along with the ability to bring people together through art. Shell and Daughtery both agree that Ballet Wooster is a very personal dance school in which they found a second family. “They [Ballet Wooster instructors] also have combined professional experience in performing and teaching over multiple decades. The instructors create intricate performances that also include short dances in the style of not only ballet, but modern and jazz. Most importantly, we feel very safe at Ballet Wooster and we all feel like a big family,” Shell said. Shell said that outside of the performances Ballet Wooster holds each spring, the dancers also do volunteer work and perform small performances at nursing homes and churches. According to Sustar, “We strive to maintain our heritage of outstanding ballet and dance instruction in the Wooster and surrounding communities. Our directors and instructors bring to the classroom over 65 collective years of professional experience as successful directors, teachers, performers, choreographers, mentors, and dance educators.” On May 4 and 5, they will be performing Sleeping Beauty at the WHS PAC.
GRACE BROWNSON
As seen in the photo above, Wayne Center for the Arts dancers perform the opening scene of The Nutcracker. The main character, Clara, is seen holding the nutcracker doll that her father has just gifted her. The Ballet showcases many WHS students who have joined the company to pursue dance.
WCA dances into the spotlight CLARA LEE on campus editor The Wayne Center for the Arts dance program has been operating for over 30 years. The mission of the dance program, according to Kimberly Payne, Dance Coordinator at the Wayne Center for the Arts, is to enrich lives and strengthen communities through art. Payne notes that Wayne Center Ballet offers classes for all ages and says the ballet classes WCA offers include: ballet technique, pointe, prepointe and conditioning, contemporary, jazz hip-hop, tap, pre-ballet and tumbling, Toddler and Me, adult ballet, family classes, specialty workshops and ballroom dancing. The WCA dance program offers two school divisions. “The pre-professional school of dance is for students pursuing the discipline, excellence and professionalism of dance studies; the community school of dance offers flexible class
schedules with short-term sessions and tons of fun and experimentation with dancing,” Payne said. According to Payne, a unique aspect of the program is their faculty, as they offer 110 years of classical ballet experience and 80 years of experience in traditional and contemporary dance styles combined. Payne says many alumni of Wayne Center Ballet have continued to dance throughout college. Gillian Fannin, WHS alumna and recent graduate of Wayne Center Ballet, danced at WCA for 15 years. Fannin is continuing her dance career at Bowling Green State University with University Dance Alliance and says that WCA had an impact on this decision. “WCA definitely influenced my decision because I had danced there for so long, and I knew that being without dance would make me feel like I lost a part of myself,” Fannin said. Fannin says that dance can become an outlet for her on bad days, so going without it would be difficult. Oneli Basnagala (10) has been
taking ballet at WCA for three years. According to Basnagala, WCA ballet is unique because the dancers are like a close family. Fannin concurs with Basnagala’s statement, saying the family-like atmosphere was her favorite aspect of the program. “I had known a lot of the newer kids for only a year before I graduated and it was super tough to say goodbye,” Fannin said. Like Fannin, WCA ballet has influenced Basnagala, who says she will dance for the rest of her life. “The lessons I have learned will follow me throughout my life... spending time with the WCA Ballet Company has made me who I am today,” Basnagala said. Wayne Center Ballet performs a biennial Nutcracker production. According to Payne, they are also introducing an original ballet, The Journey of Sunshine, in April. Created by their Artistic Director Brian Murphy, it will include special guest dancers of Walnut Street Ballet.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 16
New
Fashion and Technology
A new trend that is rising in shoe companies like Vans and Nike is the platform shoe. This shoe is similar to a wedge, however, the whole foot is raised and not just the heel. Plaid pants have been one of the most different trends seen in the past couple of fashion seasons. They can be worn with any top and will look very trendy and cute. This trend originated in the ‘90s.
TRENDS
Trends of
2018
One of the most popular trends from the ‘80s that has returned in 2018 are scrunchies. Scrunchies are worn in hair or on the wrist. They are a great, casual and cute addition to any outfit. This trend is one of the newest, along with the most comfortable trend. Fluffy jackets originated through Instagram and many stores are starting to bring it in style. After years of research, Tesla has shown that it is here to stay. As of Nov. 28, Tesla owners have driven one billion miles with the car’s auto pilot feature. In 2020, Tesla will re-release the Roadster, an electric sports car, touting a record breaking 1.9 second zero to 60 mile per hour acceleration and 620 mile range. Augmented reality has taken off in the tech world with new tech being created for users to experience something out of this world within the confines of a computer or other machine. AR technology has been used to help with physical therapy treatments and video game development. Blockchain is the security on which the entire cryptocurrency market is built. Unlike most transactions with a bank creating ledgers, the ledgers are spread out between hundreds of thousands of devices, making it, theoretically, more secure. The internet of things, in the simplest explanation, is smart technology that is incorporated into everyday devices that most wouldn’t think would be connected to the internet. Examples include a smart refrigerator, smart smoke detector or speaker.
Fashion trends are found from Elle.com, Allure.com and TheFashionSpot.com. Tech trends from Bloomberg, “Tesla Customers Rack Up 1 Billion Miles Driven on Autopilot,” ZDNet, “The 4 hottest tech trends that are transforming the world in 2018,” BusinessNewsDaily, “Why Businesses are Embracing AR in 2018” and CoinDesk “What is Blockchain Technology.” Fashion blurbs compiled by Molly Schneider and technology blurbs compiled by David Cheng. Fashion drawings by Haley Balas and technology graphics by Jacob Gooch and David Cheng.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | TRENDS | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 17
Students explain the benefits of staying home during holidays ALEXA MITCHELL & MAEVE FLORENCE-SMITH editor-in-chief & staff writer Although many families travel for the holidays and winter break, some families choose not to travel or can not because of other commitments. Jhon Fajardo (9) said that he likes to stay close to home during breaks. Fajardo commented, “I don’t feel like I would want to go
anywhere for the holidays unless it’s to be with some other family members (most of my family lives in Colombia) because holidays, for me, are to be celebrated with loved ones.” Fajardo spends some of his winter break visiting a close friend. They binge watch the Harry Potter movies and they participate in Novena, which is a Catholic tradition in which people begin nine days before Christmas and read a little bit of a book each night and sing
carols. Allyssa Foster (10) says she spends winter break in Wooster with her family where they partake in traditions like a Secret Santa Gift Exchange. Foster and her brothers occasionally go ice skating over winter break. Foster said the reason they stay in Wooster for winter break is, “My eldest brother had to practice swim over winter break when he was in high school, and now I have dive practice over break.” Anna Monroe (11) says her favorite part about winter break is getting a live Christmas tree. Monroe explained, “My favorite part about being home for the holidays is getting a live Christmas tree, rather than putting up a fake one when we travel and getting to be with my family in Ohio.” Monroe says usually her family watches Rudolph or The Grinch and they bake Christmas cookies.
Brittany Brinkerhoff (12) does not have to travel because her family lives in Ohio. Brinkerhoff says, “My family is in Ohio, so it’s just my brother and sister who come home from college for the holidays.” Brinkerhoff said playing euchre after the Christmas Eve service until midnight is one of her family’s traditions. Laura Rapport (8) explains she and her family celebrate Hanukkah, which takes place while she is still in school and not over the winter break, because Hanukkah starts before then. “Hanukkah, for me, is about spending time with my family and celebrating my religion. Since I usually don’t get school off during Hanukkah, I celebrate during the evenings,” Rapport said. Even if families stay home over winter break, most families stay busy with traditions and family time.
Staycation ideas around Wooster -Visit, Unlocked, the escape room in Wooster -Go sledding at Oak Hill Park -Play ping-pong with friends -Go to the movies at Cinemark Movies 10 -Go shopping downtown -Go bowling at Wayne Lanes -Go Christmas tree shopping -Go ice skating at Alice Noble
Wooster Dairy Queen will be filling evening and weekend positions. Apply in person Saturday January 19th and Monday the 21st from 10-2 or any time after Febuary 1st at 4771 Cleveland Rd Wooster. 330-345-8307
VIEWS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 18
Xander Danehart (10)- More power behind sports; yes
Zoe Chamberlin (10)- Get better at lacrosse; yes
Kole Emplit (12)- Get a 6-pack; yes
Michael Nguyen (9)- Eat more lettuce; yes
Nathan DeRodes (11)- Don’t buy more V-bucks; no
Natasha Murzda (11)- Stop eating so much cheese; no
The value of adopting a New Year’s resolution feature editor With the new year coming up, many people will make resolutions to better themselves, but many may not know that this practice has been going on for about 4,000 years. According to Sarah Pruitt’s article, “The History of New Year’s Resolutions,” at history.
Bailey Harpster (10)Get a job; yes
Cameron McCarty (11)- Be nicer to Nathan DeRodes; no
What was your New Year’s resolution? Did you achieve it?
Sydney Ebin (9)- Gain 25 pounds in muscle; no, but close
GINA VAN LIEU
Data compiled by Alec Pauley during academic assist periods from Dec. 3 to Dec. 7.
com, most of the Babylonians were one of the first people to make resolutions and in making those, they made, “promises to the gods to pay their debts and return any objects they had borrowed.” If the Babylonians kept their word, their gods would favor them and show them the benefit of the doubt, but if they did not keep their word, they would not be in their gods’
Paige Flickinger (10)- Become a vegetarian; yes
favor, according to history.com. The Romans also practiced making resolutions that are similar to what we do today. Julius Caesar changed the calendar so that January, named after the god Janus, was the first month of the year, according to history.com. The Romans believed that Janus symbolized looking back at past mistakes and looking ahead to the future so the Romans, “offered sacrifices to the deity and made promises of good conduct for the coming year,” according to history.com. Early Christians also celebrated the new year by thinking about their past mistakes and deciding to be
Jaide Brandon (11)Find a path after high school; yes
Victoria Machado (11)- Stop shaming people; yes
Olivia Hiner (8)- Get good grades; yes
and do better. John Wesley, founder of Methodism, created the Covenant Renewal Service, at which scripture was read and songs were sung. This service was an alternative celebration to the other rambunctious parties that were being thrown, according to history.com. Now, some Protestant churches have services held on New Year’s Eve that are often spent praying and making resolutions for the coming year, according to history.com. Today, people make resolutions more to themselves than to gods, but by the second week of February, 80 percent of these resolutions have failed,
according to health.usnews. com. Erin Buchholz, a school psychologist in WCSD, says the biggest mistake people make in creating New Year’s resolutions is setting unrealistic goals with no plan to follow through. “It’s much easier to follow through with a goal if you have a weekly plan and time to reflect on your progress each week,” Buchholz said. To make New Year’s resolutions more attainable, people should set an achievable and realistic goal, make a weekly plan, and have an accountability partner to check in with to keep on the path to the goal, according to Buchholz.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | VIEWS | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 19
Argument arises regarding Fans support art morality of supporting Artists work reflects identity despite artist criminal artists CORINNE WILES
CATHERINE STRONG graphics manager
trends editor Recently, an argument arose in the BLADE room regarding the release of Tekashi 6ix9ine’s latest album, Dummy Boy. The argument brought up the question of whether people can still support art from an artist who has said or done something against personal morals or the law. In this discussion, I came to the conclusion that it is possible to separate artists from their art in most circumstances. People are able to support art without condoning the actions of the artist with whom we do not agree. Just because artists are unlikable based on their actions or character, should not stop people from enjoying the art they have made. While art often reflects the artists, as people, or their experiences throughout their lives, their character does not have to define the motives behind their art. Suppose the work of art motivates positivity and speaks the truth: does the producer’s morality, as a human being, matter when compared to the message of the work? Their character should be considered, however, it is possible to look beyond the creator if the art truly has potential to speak to people and help them. You do not have to credit the artist for the piece of art that you love. An example of a questionable artist would be Kanye West who has recently caused lots of controversy in the media about important subjects, including slavery. Although I do not agree with his statements about this subject, such as him saying slavery is a choice, I still support his art. The things he has said do not change the way his music sounds or the meaning behind it. Any astounding artist can have an immoral character, so separating the art is sometimes necessary.
Students dispute the merits of linking art to the artist Poll distributed by Corinne Wiles, Catherine Strong, and Holly Miller on Dec. 10 and Dec. 11. Graphics by Corinne Wiles.
What happens when we love a work, it personally connects and resonates with us, but we find out something negative about the artist? Something morally reprehensible, something that is unacceptable and unable to be supported? Can we separate the art from the artist? If we truly love a piece of work, perhaps a movie from our childhood or a favorite song, there is no need to feel guilty for doing so. Just because we like the aesthetics of art created by a sex offender does not mean we are bad people. However, it is important to take into consideration how the creator affected the piece of work. Are there traces of immoral values implemented in the moral of a story? Are the lyrics of a song a call to action for illegal or immoral activity? These traces of an artist will never leave the art, so it is important to take them into consideration and not let our personal morals be thwarted by those of the creator. Take for example Frida Kahlo’s work. Embedded in her paintings is identity expression that complete the piece. In Kahlo’s case, it is impossible to separate the art from the artist. Frida was not a criminal, however, which permeates the argument in modern criticisms. This question of art and artist usually comes up with creators in the music industry. Music is a form of self-expression, like any other art, so the character of creators leaks through into their songs. Take for example the work of rapper 6ix9ine, who pled guilty to sexual activity with a child. His music and lyrics ooze misogyny, marking his character in his art, and thus linking himself to the art. 1. can 1. Do Do you you think think that that you you can of art intrinsically link their identity and character The creators Graphic by Griffi n Murphy support art but not the artist who created it? into personal works, support art but not the artist who created it? therefore, making it nearly impossible to Photo by Maddy McCully separate the art from the artist.
2. 2. Would Would you you support support artists artists who who have have commited a crime by paying for commited a crime by paying for their their art? art?
1. Do you think that you can support art but not the28% artist who created it? 28%
2. Would you support artists who have
commited a crime by paying for their art? 72% 72%
28%
42% 42% 72%
58% 58% No No Yes Yes 58%
42%
THE
WOOSTER
BLADE
Editors-in-Chief John Gorman, Alexa Mitchell Webmaster Jacob Gooch Graphics Manager Jacob Gooch, Catherine Strong Business Manager Anna Nacci On Campus Editor Clara Lee Investigative Feature Editor Alexis Florence Focus Editor Henry Gamble, 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, Gina Van Lieu 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 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
THE VOICE OF WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL
THE WOOSTER BLADE | VIEWS | DEC. 14, 2018 | PAGE 20
OUR VIEW
Editorial Board advocates for the importance of voting no on city Ordinance 2018-025 The Wooster Blade Editorial Board urges the members of the City Council of Wooster to vote no on Ordinance No. 2018-025, which would amend Chapter 521 of the Wooster Codified Ordinances, at their Dec. 17 meeting. This ordinance was proposed to City Council during their Nov. 19 meeting, according to the council minutes. The ordinance would ultimately make homelessness a crime by making it against the law for a homeless person to, according to the ordinance, “lodge on a public sidewalk, tree lawn, right of way, or other public place,” if shelter is available to them. The language of the ordinance says, “A person may be cited or arrested for a violation of this section if the person fails to comply after receiving the oral request or order and refuses to go to or be transported to the available shelter after being given one hour to relocate from the sidewalk or other public place.” In response to the ordinance, the American Civil Liberties Union Foundation of Ohio wrote a letter to City Council on Dec. 3, explaining that the ordinance would be, “... constitutionally problematic and would be utterly ineffective.” The unconstitutionality of the law, the letter furthers, is due to the fact that the city can not, under the First Amendment, force a person to seek shelter in a religious institution. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board firmly stands behind the ACLU on the point of unconstitutionality. Although the board would like to acknowledge the great work religiously affiliated organizations, like the Salvation Army, do in Wooster. We believe it is in the best interest of the city to respect a person’s choice to not enter into a religiously affiliated institution. Furthermore, The Wooster Blade Editorial Board wishes for the City
Council members to examine the legal risk if the ordinance passes, considering the court case Martin v. City of Boise. In a memo from the city’s director of law, John Scavelli, who proposed the ordinance, he writes, “Following this ruling [Martin v. City of Boise] opens the City up to the smallest chance of legal challenge.” However, The Wooster Blade Editorial Board believes if there is a even small chance that the city could be subject to legal challenge, then there is a chance that the city could be imposing an unconstitutional law on its citizens which is something City Council must consider in their decision on whether or not to vote for this ordinance. While The Wooster Blade Editorial Board believes issues with the homeless population within our city must be addressed, but we do not believe ordinance 2018-025 is the way to do it. Assistant police chief Scott Rotolo further elaborated on the types of complaints from businesses and other citizens in Wooster. “Main Street Wooster, some of the downtown business owners, and other citizens have expressed their concern for the people who have been just hanging out downtown, in the area of Buckeye and North St. and also at the north end of the city. Whereas some have expressed their concerns, over the last couple of years, criminal activity has remained virtually unchanged in these areas. Our goal has been, and will continue to be, to do patrols in the downtown area and community outreach to anyone who is homeless,” Rotolo said. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board believes if the city truly wants to aid the homeless population, they should work on rehabilitative measures, not criminal punishments, and should consult groups like the Coalition on
The Wooster Blade Editorial Board believes if the city truly wants to aid the homeless population, they should work on rehabilitative measures, not criminal punishments... Homelessness and Housing in Ohio or the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless before proposing a plan to effectively and compassionately aid the homeless population in Wooster. At the very least, the Editorial Board advocates for the Wooster Police Department to continue their outreach to the homeless population in Wooster and to let people know where the property lines of business are and where homeless people can safely and legally live downtown. Overall, The Wooster Blade Editorial Board advocates for every citizen to read more about the effects of Ordinance No. 2018-025 for themselves, to contact their City Council representatives with their opinions or show up to the Dec. 17 meeting at City Hall at 7:30 p.m., so that the vote taking place on Dec. 17 can accurately represent what the people of Wooster want for their city.