The Bruin - December 2022

WADSWORTH HIGH SCHOOL

VOLUME XLVIII, ISSUE 3 DECEMBER 2022

THE TWINS OF WHS

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Staff Editorial:

STUDENTS SHOULD CONSIDER STAYING IN OHIO

On page 9, it is discussed that students plan on leaving Ohio after their schooling. It is a bad idea for too many people to leave Ohio. According to Spectrum News 1, “Ohio ranked ninth for states where more people left the state than moved in.” This is an issue because it not only affects the economy, jobs, and overall state pride, but it also affects how much representation Ohio gets. In fact, based on the current census, Ohio lost one of its 16 congressional seats. It is imperative that our state gets a say in national politics, and people moving out is detrimental to our national power. Ohio is a greatly historic state, and it is terribly important to maintain its prominence in American history. Instead of moving out of Ohio, students should consider looking for jobs in the area. Unemployment has been increasing, and consequently job opportunities are opening up. Thus, in turn, this would help the economy and decrease unemployment. Another important factor for Ohioan success is trade workers. There is a great need for people, even straight out of high school, to work for trades! Throughout history, Ohio has been completely instrumental in many unforgettable events, and that should not change just because of the newfound negative stigma surrounding Ohio.

Class of ‘23

Happy Holidays!

Class of ‘22

Class of ‘24

From,

The

BruinStaff

BRUIN STAFF 625 Broad Street Wadsworth, OH 44281 CO-EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Lily Chesbro & Carley Sorrent

ADVISOR Eric Heffinger

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Katie Griffin

SPORTS EDITOR Carson Bernard

FEATURES EDITOR

NEWS EDITOR Katie Allen

OPINION EDITOR Luke Houser

STAFF WRITERS Aiden Brown Alex Banks Angel-Belle Jones Drew Bowerman Lizzy Edwards

IN-DEPTH EDITOR

Grace Barrett Joseph Davis Lauren Ball

Haley Reedy

Lezlie Tinney Lily Love Mallory Gershutz

Katie Basinger

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Brenden Barlett

Noelle Allen Olivia Benner Jade Wilcox Sydney Blake Bri Perkins

Editorial Policy The Bruin is a monthly publication produced by the Newspaper II and Newspaper III students at Wadsworth High School. The Newspaper I class produces the May issue. The staff will do its best to inform the

student body and the community of intra-school, community or national events that affect the student body. This paper provides on-the-job training for the staff members. All decisions are made by the staff members with the advice and suggestions of the adviser. The school administration works closely with the staff to ensure accuracy. We, as the students of journalism, hold the same rights and the same responsibilities as professional journalists as we strive for professional standards. These rights include the right to print any material that is not libelous, obscene or excessively disruptive to the school process. The Bruin will not discriminate against anyone on the basis of religion, color, creed or sex. The staff members accept full responsibility for everything appearing in this publication. The staff strongly encourages students to express their opinions through the letters to the editor column, which is printed every month. The staff also encourages the members of the community to express their opinion as well. Space permitting, all letters will be printed. We reserve the right to edit or omit any portion of any letter because the staff accepts the responsibility for the contents of the paper. All letters must be signed, but the name will be withheld upon request.

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WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 3

NEWS THE BRUIN

ST VINCENT DE PAUL: HOW WADSWORTH GIVES BACK

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BY LUKE HOUSER

he holiday spirit is in the air as this year’s Christmas approaches. One of the ways people can give is through the Saint Vincent de Paul Society (SVDP) at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Wadsworth.

“We help with food every Monday and Thursday night,” said Greg Pero, president of the Wadsworth SVDP society. “We provide money for utilities, rent, broken-down cars– just about anything that needs help.”

SVDP has been operating out of Sacred Heart Church for the past 30 or so years.

They are open every Monday and Thursday night from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Any struggling resident of Wadsworth and its surrounding area can enter and get aid.

“You don’t have to be Catholic... You can be purple for all we care,” said Sheila, a volunteer at SVDP. There are currently around 70 members of the organization in Wadsworth who consistently help out, and many of them are tasked with specific jobs relating to how they can help the most. SVDP offers opportunities for the youth who may be looking for volunteer work to come in and help with the pantry.

Pero lives in Norton but sent his children to Sacred Heart School. There, he and his wife discovered SVDP and began volunteering. They volunteered together for seven years before he became president.

“We helped with CYO [Catholic Youth Organization] and coached in Wadsworth; when [our] last [kid] didn’t need us anymore we started to give our time here, so my wife

and I volunteered,” Pero said. “We started out just helping with the pantry, then the financials, giving money away, interviewing clients, then one thing led to another and next thing you know I’m the president.”

Pero claims SVDP is one of the best-kept secrets in Wadsworth. In other words, he feels it is a testament to how helpful SVDP is but how few people know about it. Pero believes that if more people knew about the benefits of SVDP, the range of people they could help would increase significantly.

Only being closed on the holidays, SVDP constantly works throughout the year to support those who rely on them for food, financial matters, and more. Pero claims that they help around 3,500 people each year, which encompasses about 300 different families.

To help as many “WE JUST GAVE people as SVDP 75 COATS TO A does, it costs them around $15,000 a LOCAL SCHOOL month. Currently, TO KIDS WHO SVDP is deficit spending, meaning COULDN’T they are spending AFFORD COATS.” about $10,000 - GREG PERO, more a month than PRESIDENT OF THE SVDP they are bringing in, so they are always looking for more funds and people to help.

“We’re trying to give away as much money as we can,” Pero said. “My theory is that it’s not doing us any good in the bank. At one point during the summer, we had a limit of $1000 for rent and $500 for other bills, but

now we’ve cut back little on that, it’s a little lower now,” Pero said.

To spread the word, SVDP advertises their special events through the Wadsworth radio. Otherwise, most of their advertising comes from word of mouth.

Pero feels it is crucial that people know about SVDP in order to help out the most people, especially with food pantries.

“So what we do with our food pantry is we check [our clients] in, we give them a grocery list, and then we have our volunteers pack the groceries up,” Pero said. “It takes about 20 minutes tops. We help with housing as well. If someone comes in and doesn’t have a place to stay, we can put them up in temporary housing at one of the local hotels until they can find another connection and another place to go.”

“The best part is when we can help somebody get out from under a big bill, and you can just see the relief lifted from their shoulders, that’s really it,” Pero said.

“Meeting the people when we give them food, that’s great too.”

Helping people in the food pantry and offering financial help is not all the SVPD does. They also help with a variety of other services, including volunteering at the Ozanam Center in West Akron and helping at the College Street Laundromat every month.

“We also do a coat drive,” Pero said. “We just gave 75 coats to a local school to kids who couldn’t afford coats. We touched the lives of so many different people.”

To have the funds to continue SVDP’s operations, the society organizes several

SVDP was founded in 1833 in France with the goal of helping impoverished families in Paris. It has since spread to an international level, with an estimated 800,000 members serving in 153 countries around the world.

Photo courtesy of Fair Use.

ways to obtain the necessary funds. Firstly, they apply for several different grants, and they receive the food they give out from the Akron Canton Regional Food Bank.

“Our funds–it’s amazing,” Pero said. “We say God provides, but he works through people. We have one main fundraiser every year called the ‘Iron Chef’... Last year we got about 70,000 dollars to support us, which is great, but last year we spent 190,000.

So we get [money] from parishioners [at Sacred Heart], we get money from the county–they’ve been helping us lately–and we get money from generous donors.”

Everything that SVDP receives is donated back to the people of the community.

Its continued support, primarily through people donating their time through volunteering, will ensure that places like SVDP can keep helping those who need it the most.

WADSWORTH BUSINESSES TAKE PART IN THE MCEDC BUSINESS AWARDS

BY BRI PERKINS

M

any Medina County businesses have recently been recognized for their success. 11 of these businesses were recognized on October 25 by the Medina County Economic Development Corporation at their 19th annual Medina County Business Awards with one business winning their category.

Many local businesses were nominated for this award such as Bellezza Avanti Spa/Salon, Luke Engineering & Anodizing Company, Revolution Trucking, Re/Max Oasis Dream Homes, Annette Cannone, Johanna Perrino, Jenny Young, SHE Did It Videography, Ann’s Pastry Shop, and Water Main Grille.

The American Classic Snack Company was not only nominated for the award, but was the Business Growth Award Winner.

The American Classic Snack Company started in 2011 and is located at 322 Grandview Avenue in Wadsworth, Ohio. It is a small town local business that has worked to develop the “Finest Quality Popcorn on the Planet” according to their slogan. The company credits its growth over the years to its hardworking team and dedication to their business. One of the owners, Bob Walker, believes that in business, if you are not moving ahead, you are backing up.

Walker was honored to receive the MCEDC

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 4

Business Award and in each category found it humbling (Business Growth, and unexpected.

Capital Investment, “We consider Community the award to be Advocate – confirmation that Corporate, our formula of great Community people producing a Advocate – high-quality product Individual, and and servicing Entrepreneur of customers the way the Year). Then, a we want to be treated second panel of is both correct and judges review and sustainable,” Walker select the winners. said.

The winners are According to Kathy not released until Breitenbucher, an the event.”

Interim Director of Breitenbucher the Medina County Bob Walker, owner of The American Snack Company, thinks the Convention and poses with his MCEDC Business Award. Walker started awards are said his business in 2011 as a small town company in his Visitors Bureau, hometown, but it has grown to sell popcorn to stores to be a way to to get nominated around the US. recognize Medina companies, partners, Photo courtesy of The American Snack Company. businesses and non-profits, and their bring the business teams to submit nominations. Each nominee community together. One of the nominated is interviewed so the judges can compare companies, Revolution Trucking, believes each nominee apples to apples. She is one that their nomination reflects all the hard of the representatives who help choose and work they have put into their company. Kevin interview the candidates for the awards.

Bemiller, the Vice President of Revolution “Nominees are submitted by companies, Trucking, believes in going above and beyond partners, non-profits, and our staff.”, for his customers by being different from the Breitenbucher said, “They are reviewed by a industry standard and creating a communitypanel of judges who select three candidates oriented business to provide the best

service for any customer. For Bemiller, being nominated for the award impacted the drive behind his business.

“The award has allowed us to see the impact of bringing our business to Wadsworth, and it allows us to give back and acknowledge the work we try to do around the community,” Bemiller said.

Alongside Revolution Trucking, SHE Did It Videography was also nominated for an MCEDC Business Award. Jenny Young started SHE Did It Videography to create the job she wanted. She started her business to provide the freedom she needed in her career and do something she loves. Her goal is to provide small-town businesses with a quality videographer for all of their needs. Being nominated for an MCEDC Business Award was a big deal to Young as she started her business from the group up.

“I know that my hard work paid off and that the community supported me as the recipient,” said Young.

All of the nominees and winners around Wadsworth who were recognized at the MCEDC Business Awards are a part of the business community that is brought together by this ceremony.

“This is the premier business event in the county. We bring 250 business leaders together to celebrate the accomplishments of their peers. We love hosting this event to promote our businesses!” Breitenbucher said.

NEWS THE BRUIN

WHS MARCHING BAND PARTICIPATES IN PEACH BOWL

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BY JADE WILCOX

housands of people will line the streets and fill the stadium of the Georgia Football Peach Bowl and Parade.

The Wadsworth High School Marching Band is playing and marching during the Chick-Fil-A sponsored event. This wonderful opportunity will allow the band to view many different sights that they might not have had a chance to see before, including watching the Ohio State football team play in the Peach Bowl for the first time. The team will play against Georgia in the massive game.

This is the Peach Bowl packet the students

Received. It has all of the information necessary for both the parents and the students, including the schedule to the most finite known detail.

Photo by Jade Wilcox.

The first day is going to begin at five in the morning. The students will check in their luggage at the early time, and will leave for Georgia at 6:30. The bus ride down will be approximately 15 hours. At 9:30 PM, they should arrive at the Atlanta Airport Marriott hotel.

The Wadsworth Band will get to sight see the following day. They will travel to the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium, and even have fun at Medieval Times with dinner and a show. A food stop will be made along the way at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, which will allow the travelers a bit of downtime before continuing their exciting trip.

The next day, the band members will depart for the Mass Band rehearsal at 8:30 AM. “We’re going to be in the Georgia dome…the Mercedes-Benz stadium,” Mrs. Hire said. The 2009 stadium has a capacity of 93,000, and it has a retractable roof; therefore, no matter what the weather is, the marching band will be able to rehearse on Friday, December 30, and perform the following day.

When rehearsal gets finished around 1:00 in the afternoon, the band will travel to the Varsity for lunch and then prepare to head to the MLK National Historic Site.

After honoring the memorial, they will begin preparing for a banquet that will be occurring that night.

“The attire is semi-formal so maybe a nice dress,” Eleanor Kopfstein (12), the cymbal section leader, said when asked what she would wear for the evening.

The following day is the day the members

Wadsworth High School marching band marches at football games, band shows, and special events, such as the Peach Bowl. The marching band has been planning this trip for two years, and are prepared to perform in front of many.

Photo courtesy of Wadsworth City Schools.

of the Marching Band are preparing for.

The parade steps off at 11:30 AM. The organizers of the event plan for the parade to be over an hour later.

At the OH vs GA game itself, the Wadsworth marching band will play a multitude of popular songs. Selections will include Katy Perry’s Firework, Happy by Pharrel Williams, Take On Me by A-Ha, and even Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars.

Ethan Kowalski, a former Wadsworth resident will “dot the i” for the second time, an extremely rare occurrence, during the Ohio State Marching Band’s signature “Script Ohio.” Ethan is excited to “dot the i” in front of the Wadsworth High School marching band, due to the fact that he will be performing for his hometown residents.

He is performing this special tradition on the visitor side of the stadium, which will most likely be where the Wadsworth Band is sitting while the game is going on.

Next, the band will “relax” and eat dinner while having fun at the Stars and Strikes Event Center, allowing them to participate in both bowling and gaming, as they will receive a one hour game card. Since that is New Years Eve, the band plans to stay up all night and ring in the new year. This is subject to change, due to the fact that the Peach Bowl game might start at a later time than written.

The next day will be the ride homeward.

They will stop for food, drinks, and restroom breaks along the way. The band will arrive at the Wadsworth High School at 9:30 at night.

The Wadsworth High School Marching Band is practicing during the month of December to prepare for this big trip. Each hour and a half practice is spent marching and playing the music in order to march and play by memory.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience will be one nobody will forget.

TEA TIME BRINGS VARIETY TO WADSWORTH’S MENU

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BY GRACE BARRETT

adsworth has finally revealed the long-awaited opening of the city’s first bubble tea shop. Tea Time, which is located in the Weatherstone Commons in Wadsworth, had its grand opening on December 1.

Even within the first few hours of opening, Tea Time had a steady line of customers ready to order.

The shop has many different seating options for its customers to choose from, allowing them to use the space to socialize, do work, and enjoy their tea.

This new establishment was opened

by Leon and Rita Chang, who also own the popular Japanese restaurant, Kasai.

They have been business owners for over twenty years, with much experience in the food service industry.

Due to their previous success, the

Decorations located in Tea Time’s lobby that feature the shop’s logo. There are many decorations like this throughout the store, adding to the comfortable environment.

Photo by Grace Barrett.

Changs felt inspired to go beyond Kasai and began to think of new business ideas.

According to Leon, the couple has been planning on opening up a bubble tea shop for around a year. When an opportunity arose in Wadsworth, they took the chance and started organizing plans for Tea Time.

The Changs want to remain in Wadsworth with their single location.

Tea Time centers around making bubble tea, a trendy drink that customers can personalize. When ordering at Tea Time, a choice of traditional black or green tea is offered, as well as Thai and Taro milk tea.

Next, customers can pick a flavor for their drink such as mango or peach.

Customers can then add a “tea topping” to their drink, which includes the three choices of boba, lychee jelly, and coconut jelly. Tea Time also sells coffee drinks, Korean cheese corn dogs, and mochi bread.

“We might do some variations with the flavors,” Leon said in regards to their menu. “If Rita and I can come up with some new ideas, we’ll bring them in, so it will be a periodical thing.”

To the Changs, one of the most rewarding things about owning Tea Time is seeing the customers’ reactions when they try their tea.

“When they order the bubble tea, I can see their smile and enjoyment for the moment,” Leon said. “It’s interactive with all sorts of people.”

As well as this, Leon explained how he is excited to have more face-to-face interactions with his customers.

What is your go-to bubble tea order?

“I usually get green tea with peach flavoring, strawberry bubbles, and lychee.”

Tea Time’s logo that is printed above the entrance to the building. The building is located in the Weatherstone Commons and has plenty of space for customers.

Photo by Grace Barrett.

To celebrate the holidays and their opening, the Changs decorated the shop with elaborate Christmas decorations.

They incorporated fun aspects for children, including a fully-dressed Santa Clause which welcomed them into the shop.

One thing that sets Tea Time apart from other bubble tea restaurants in the area is the fresh ingredients that they use in every menu item.

“We use high quality products, so eventually, people will come back and choose us,” Leon said.

Another unique feature of the shop is a large mural that depicts appealing designs of the tea and food that they sell.

Tea Time has greatly expanded Wadsworth’s food and drink industry, attracting the younger generation to the city and bringing the community new and greatly anticipated options.

-Stephanie Novak

“I normally like to get regular coffee milk tea.”

-Mar Elis

“This is my first time getting boba, so I ordered the taro milk tea with boba.”

-Kenzie Pawlak

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 5

THE BRUIN OPINION

WHS DRESS CODE NEEDS DRASTIC CHANGE T OPINION BY ANGEL JONES

here have been many changes in Wadsworth High School within the past few years. However, one thing has blatantly been swept under the rug; the WHS dress code.

“I don’t think we’re very strict, I think there are legal ramifications that can become involved when you are too strict,” said WHS principal Dr. Suber. “Tinker V Des Moines Iowa 1969, where kids can wear certain things... there are laws in use because of the Supreme Court.”

The Wadsworth High School student handbook directly states, “The Board of Education recognizes that each student’s mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual preference. The Board will not interfere with the right of students and their parents to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their choices interfere with the educational program of the schools. The Board authorizes the Superintendent to establish a reasonable dress code in order to promote a safe and healthy school setting and enhance the educational environment. The dress code shall be incorporated into the Student Code of Conduct or Discipline Code.”

There are many problems with the dress code. Firstly, as a student, there is not a clear statement on what is in violation of the dress code. Secondly, each student and each staff member has their own ideas of what is “reasonable”, “safe”, and “healthy” for a students appearance at school.

Wadsworth needs to make sure that

administration should look at what most students wear today. For example, crop tops are a “reasonable”, “safe and healthy” option for a student.

As for shorts, they should not be so short that they are showing inappropriate things, but a student should not have to follow the fingertip rule.

The fingertip rule explains that a person’s shorts have to be as long as their arms when they are relaxed next to their legs. This rule is difficult for students to follow because different students’ arms are different lengths, making it an unfair rule to those with different body types.

Students should be comfortable wearing shorter shorts as long as they follow a distinct guideline. The same principle should apply to skirts.

Pants with rips in them should be acceptable to wear to school as long as they do not have rips above a specific measurement. Another type of pants that should be considered “reasonable” are leggings, even if they fit a student differently or more tightly.

In other words, a good dress code would allow a student to express their style with very little restrictions.

However, there are a few things that should not be allowed to be worn since they may damage school property.

“If a student comes in wearing a big spiked bracelet or something spiked, that would be a no-go,” said Mrs. Hamsher.

Many student’s wear crop tops or tanktops, that In Hamsher’s example of a spiked expose their shoulder’s and middrifts. In many people’s view of the dress codes, this is considered accessory, the spike could be rubbing on the desk and making scratch marks, innapropriate.

Photo by Angel Jones. causing property damage. It could also be every staff member and principal knows what the dress code is, so that everyone is on the same page. Then, further explain what is expected of the students to wear.

Students should directly know what is right to wear. Today, different students express themselves through the clothing that they wear. Since each student dresses differently, what one is wearing may be suitable in their eyes, but seem inappropriate to others.

Students should not be punished for violating the dress code because it is not currently being clearly explained.

The student handbook fails to specify which pieces of clothing negatively interfere with education. As well as this, it lacks a defined distinction between what is and is not appropriate.

When coming up with a dress code,

Student’s often wear ripped jeans that expose skin.

In the current dress code, there is no distinction on whether are not these could be deemed inappropriate by teachers and other staff members.

Photo by Angel Jones.

used dangerously, including as weapon, which is something not wanted at WHS. Another potential issue could be someone having blocked vision.

“Sunglasses or things that cover eyes [are not allowed],” Hamsher said.

Sunglasses are dark and can block students vision as to what the teacher is teaching.

Students at WHS should be able to come to school confident that what they are wearing is appropriate and conforms to their individual style. With that being said, the WHS dress code needs to be altered.

WHS SHOULD STAGGER RELEASE STUDENTS AT THE END OF THE DAY OPINION BY LILY CHESBRO

of possible solutions to address and potentially solve the problem.

Buses students get released before ith the parking lots between the everyone between the middle and high student lot of the high school school so they are out of the way when and the buses, that take both students and parents are trying to leave. middle and high school students, there Buses are required to let students/ should be some sort of staggered release parents in between each bus. implemented. Once the buses get going The high school could bring back what we they do not let any cars from the student did during COVID, even rooms get released lot go between them anyway so there one week and odd rooms get released are two options that could be potential first the next alternatives, to end of day week to help dismissal. The students who with some of the ride the bus from both the congestion. middle and high schools “3- this way should be released first to the buses get the buses out of the way can still get or the students at the high out relatively school should get released efficiently but by room number, similar to students and what the high school did parents don’t during COVID-19. have to wait As we near the winter for a long months, having the traffic The student parking lot has two entrances that period of come nnd go from. At the end of the day problem solved at the end people time for all there is a lot of congestion within these roadways of the day would result in a and having a staggered release to give students a of the buses safer way to exit the parking head start on getting out could be helpful. Photo to exit. I just lot for both students, by Lily Chesbro. feel that this parents, and buses. would be a Riley Wenger, junior at WHS, when good compromise,” Wenger said. interviewed was given different ideas Considering the high school has already

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6 DECEMBER 2022

implemented this before, it would be an easy thing to help solve the traffic.

Another option of a potential solution would be to give the buses a separate exit.

Senior at WHS, Savannah Tucker, agrees that having a staggered release schedule would be beneficial to the end of day traffic that high school students and parents face.

“Students don’t let every other person go at stop signs. Buses take forever to go.

People always cut me off and speed crazy fast,” Tucker said.

Students not following the rules of the traffic signs in the parking lot are just one part of the big problem but this will kind of always be an issue, there are always going to be drivers that do not follow the rules.

A staggered release option would be an efficient alternative, considering WHS has already had this implemented in the past.

“Have a staff member direct traffic at the stop signs at the two exits,”Tucker said.

As this would not solve all of our issues this could allow some students to make it out faster if the law of the stop sign were obeyed rather than treating it as a yield.

With the list of alternatives above Tucker thinks that option two would be one of the better options. The staggered release could still be implemented but the group that gets released second each week that may get caught up by the buses could potentially

benefit from the buses being required to let a certain number of cars go between them.

Accidents, frustration, and effectiveness of the after school release could be helped by using these methods.

WHS BELL SCHEDULE WITH STAGGERED RELEASE

1st period

7:35- 8:20

2nd period

8:24-9:09

3rd period

9:13-9:58

4th period

10:02-10:47

5th period

10:51-12:07

6th period

12:11-12:56

7th period

1:00-1:45

8th period

1:49-2:30 FIRST RELEASE 1:49-2:34 SECOND RELEASE

The bell schedule with a staggered release could potentially look like this. Giving students who get release first each week four extra minutes to get out to their cars and make it easier for the students who get released second. Graphic by Lily Chesbro.

ADS THE BRUIN

101 Greenwich Rd. Seville, OH 44273 (330) 769-3107 ElPatroncuisine.com

Thank you to all our patrons.

Your generosity makes it possible to deliver this paper to every student at the high school and to members of the community.

Mike Banks, The Griffin Family, Realtor Amanda Daily, Mr. and Mrs. Bishop, Eddie’s Mimi and Papa, Ari Kaser, The Henderson Family, Kay & David Alley, Thomas & Nancy Peltier, Barlett Family, Michael Peltier, Grace Pantalone, Dave & Laurie Griffin, Tara Griffin & Kevin Anderson, Jon and Karen Edwards, Jim and Marilyn Edwards, The Perkins Family, The Williams Family, Alice Basile, Andrea Basile, The Tinney Family, Rose Petkunas, Mr. and Mrs. Ted Lysiak, Peggy Shiflett, Art and Cindy Reedy, The Reedys, Aunt Anne, Mary Cunningham, Jay and Patty Barrett, Lena Barrett, Marge Hevener, Maia Edwards, Anne Peltier, Vicky Chesbro, The Poling Family, Sra. Victoria Mateos, Roxann and James Young, The Love Family, The Sorrent Family, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Basinger, The Sieber Family, The Maxwell Family, Mr. Knapp, Annette Merle, Tim Short, Russ and Patsy Chesbro, Russ & Marj Allen, The Allen Family, Tina Allen Kolessar, The Valeri Family, The Long Family, Kevin and Lisa Tinney, Mary Ellen Cunningham, The Keifling Family, Jaime Bowerman, The Kundmueller Family, Cara and Bill Nolan, Lara and Marvin Shipley, Mrs. Love, The Love Family, Lisa Smith, Kaufman Family Farm, The Hendershot Family, Steve & Brittany Basinger, The Houser Family, Grandma and Grandpa Koontz, Gramma and Grampa Houser, The Estep Family, The Basinger Family, Steve and Karen Blankenship, Carol, The Bernard Family, Bailey Family, Ball Family, Joe & Lisa Hanna, Hilary & Rod Bowerman, Coach Hutchinson and Family, Mr. and Mrs. Steven Smeltzer, Kristy Nichol, The Serger Family, Dave and Nancy Porter, Alaina Zigler, Ken, Amanda, and Max Allen, Matt, Teresa, and Vada Porter, Rick and Marguerite Blake, The Dente Family, Karen & Dan Gerschutz, The Riddle Family, Gilbert Family, Jon and Jessica Allen, The Gorbach Family, Steven and Ruby Mallory, The Williford Family, Carol Mallory, Granny and Pappy Baker, Bill and Diane Blake, Russ and Melissa Chesbro, Mrs. Snyder, Ferguson Family, Mrs. Sheehan, Amanda Hutcheson, Fr. Patrick Schultz, Tony Yorlano, Candy Young, Theresa Petkunas, Pam Voss, Ann Hartman, The Osborn Family, Dan and Laurel Houck, The Gerschutz Family, Amanda Hutcheson, Daugherty Family, Megan Crawford & Dustin Likens, Aaron and Sue Dupont, The Moore Family, Bill & Milann Daugherty

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 7

THE BRUIN FEATURE

BY LILY LOVE AND MALLORY GERSCHUTZ

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alking through the halls of Wadsworth High School, many sets of twins can be seen. Several positives and negatives come along with being a twin.

Riley and Reagan Hunt, sophomores at Wadsworth High School, are mirror identical twins.

“It’s basically like looking in a mirror, so when we were little I would grow a tooth on the left side and Reagan would grow it on the right side and she’s right-handed and I’m lefthanded,” Riley said.

Reagan explained how she is more outgoing and finds it easier to make friends, while Riley’s personality tends to be more introverted. Although their personalities are very different, they believe that they balance each other out.

According to the Hunts, having a twin gives them a ‘built-in best friend’ with a bond that can only truly be understood by twins. They both agree that they would not take back being a twin for anything.

“It’s definitely a different relationship than you’ll ever have with anybody, different than any other sibling,” Riley said.

Olivia and Taylor Turner, juniors at WHS, are identical twins, meaning their physical features are perfectly matched. They agree that having a twin has a much different dynamic than relationships with other siblings or friends.

Naturally, twins have a close bond because they are raised in the same environment,

doing almost exactly the same things at the “It’s like a sibling that’s the same age as same time. you,” Brady said.

Collin and Brady O’Connor are sophomore Growing up, it was hard for the Hunt twins to fraternal twins at WHS, meaning they are not become their own person, a common theme identical in looks. They do not agree that they amongst all twins. are as close to each other as they are other “We’ve always been known as ‘the twins’ siblings. or ‘the Hunt twins’ , never Riley or Reagan,” “A lot of other twins are really close and say Riley said. they can’t go without each other,” Collin said.

The Turner twins have also experienced this “We’re different people so obviously, we get stereotype. on each other’s nerves.”

“People ask all the time why I drive separate Always being together comes with many from her to school, but its because I have a advantages, such as sharing separate life from her,” Taylor said. almost everything, including Commonly, siblings are often “People ask all clothes, rooms, and friends. compared with one another in Both the Turner’s and The the time why I terms of intelligence, physical separate attributes, and character. However, O’Connor’s agree that one of drive the best advantage to having a from her to this stereotype worsens regarding twin is being able to share social school, but its identical twins. The Hunt twins circles. mentioned that they struggle However, being together so because I have a with people comparing their often can also have downsides. separate life from appearances when genetically they Twins still fight or have petty her,” are exactly the same. arguments just as much as any “I think it’s important for people -Taylor Turner, Junior other siblings do. to realize that we are our own Identical Twin “[Brady] gets on my nerves people, we don’t like the same sometimes, but you always things, we don’t sound the same, we don’t have a friend with you,” Collin said. always look the same, and one action isn’t the Since twins are always seen together they other person’s,” Riley said. sometimes struggle with creating their own Being a twin is a unique relationship that identity. Many people tend to view a set of has many positive and negative aspects. twins as being the same person and expect Being the same age as your sibling will always them to act and look the same. come with challenges, but it is a gift that few However, the O’Connors believe it is people are able to experience. important for people to understand that twins And just in case you were wondering if twin are just like every other set of siblings, as they telepathy is real, all the twins interviewed said still have unique aspects of their personalities. no.

KNOW YOUR TYPES OF TWINS Conjoined

Mirror

< 1%

8%

33%

25%

1

2

3

Identical twins, or monozygotic twins, occur when a single zygote splits into two. This zygote will split into two very early in development, resulting in two separate embryos. Identical twins do not run in the family.

Most of the time you can only decipher between identical or fraternal with a DNA test.

Fraternal

Identical

THE TWINS OF WHS

Fraternal or dizygotic twins can be either the same or different genders, due to their DNA being different. Unlike identical twins, fraternal twins only share half of the same genomes. The probability of having fraternal twins increases if the mother is a fraternal twin. These twins are no more alike than siblings born at separate times.

4

Boy-girl twins are always fraternal, meaning they do not share the same DNA. They can be determined by either ultrasound or DNA testing.

Boy/Girl 33%

All data has been pulled from the National Institute of Health, also known as the NIH.

Mirror twins are always identical, sharing the same genetic makeup. This means that their defining physical characteristics are matched as if they are looking in a mirror.

They can not be determined as mirror twins until after birth

Conjoined twins are caused when two embryos join together, resulting in the twins being physically connected. Commonly by the abdomen, head, or chest. Conjoined twins are rare, and always identical.

1. Collin (left) and Brady (right) participating in Wadsworth youth football. Both Collin and Brady are involved in sports now, Brady is on the football team, and Collin is on the lacrosse team.

Photo courtesy of Collin O’Connor.

3. Taylor (left) and Olivia (right) seated for a toddler portrait. As they have grown up, they continue to look more alike. Photo courtesy of Olivia Turner.

5. Riley (left) and Reagan (right), at the Twinsburg Twins festival, in 2011. Reagan and Riley attend this festival yearly, and have won the festival’s twin contest 3 times.

Photo courtesy of Riley Hunt.

2. Collin (left) and Brady (right) before WHS Homecoming 2022. They attended homecoming with a group of their friends. Photo courtesy of Collin O’Connor.

4. Taylor (left) and Olivia (right) after a cheering for a home football game. They both cheer for football and basketball and participate in show choir. Photo courtesy of Olivia Turner.

6. Reagan (left) and Riley (right) pose for a photo to be on the cover of the Bruin. Riley and Reagan moved to Wadsworth at the beginning of their Freshman year. Photo by Mallory Gerschutz.

8 DECEMBER 2022

5

6

WHS ALUMNI TAKE OFF AFTER GRADUATION

FEATURES THE BRUIN

O

BY KATIE GRIFFIN & DREW BOWERMAN

ver the years, many former Wadsworth High School students have left Ohio post-gradation. Whether it is for college, a career, or simply for a new start, many former students have found themselves across the country after leaving the walls of WHS. There are drastic differences in tuition costs, with the option of remaining in Ohio being substantially cheaper than out-of-state tuition.

According to College Tuition Compare, “For the academic year of 2021-2022, the average undergraduate tuition and fees for Ohio colleges is $7,991 for in-state and $17,689 for out-of-state.”

Even with the price difference, attending an out-of-state college after high school is desirable to students. Out of 67 WHS students surveyed, about 49 percent plan to stay in Ohio for various reasons. These statistics follow similar trends to previous years, where many WHS students left the state to pursue a college education.

Kade Miros, a WHS class of 2022 graduate who is currently attending Johnson University in Tennessee, feels that he had nothing to lose by leaving Ohio. He initially viewed outof-state education as a means for discovering more opportunities.

“Ultimately, it opens you up to a whole new world of opportunities, and if those don’t work, it’s fine because you know some [opportunities] in Ohio, and you have connections in Ohio, so you’re fine,” Miros said.

Of the 67 students surveyed, around 13 percent only plan to leave Ohio for college and return to their home state afterward. While Miros feels he gained a lot from leaving Ohio, he is not opposed to returning.

“I really don’t know [if I will come back to Ohio] because I’m an education major, music education, and I think I’m just going to see how that goes,” Miros said. “But I wouldn’t

mind returning to Ohio to intern for someone for a bit because I have to do that as part of my education.”

Cara Griffin, a graduate of Wadsworth High School’s class of 2021, also decided to pursue her future outside Ohio. Instead of remaining near home to continue her education, she ventured across state borders by attending Arizona State University for Business Management.

“I think since I was little, I always said I’d go out of state,” Griffin said. “It started from me wanting to go to Hawaii, then to one of the southern schools.”

Comparably, some WHS students desire colleges that exist in warmer climates due to the cold weather that permeates Ohio lifestyles. 37.3 percent of students do not want to return to Ohio after graduation, largely due to the weather variable.

For Griffin, leaving Ohio has brought various challenges into her life that have allowed her to extend her growth and freedom as an individual.

“Moving to Arizona, I knew absolutely no one here,” Griffin said. “My closest family is 4.5 hours away. It forced me to put myself out there and make new relationships. I was challenged and have experienced so much personal growth.”

Like the new relationships that Griffin was forced to develop, statistics even show that many students at WHS wish to gain these new peers by traveling out of state for college.

Even though Arizona enforced initial hardships upon Griffin’s lifestyle, she feels that the benefits ultimately outweigh any of her original struggles.

“Although I could’ve stayed closer to home for a similar college experience, leaving was the best decision I made,” Griffin said. “I’ve truly had to learn how to live on my own and how to rely on myself for hospital visits, school problems, stress, and new situations.”

Similarly, many WHS students agree with this mindset, claiming that they do not want to miss out on beneficial

13.4%

35.8% 13.4%

37.3%

35.8% - I would like to stay in Ohio for college and leave after 13.4% - Yes, I plan to leave for college, but return after 37.3% - Yes, I would like to leave Ohio permanently 13.4% - No, I plan to stay in Ohio permanently

Poll Results of 67 students surveyed about their plans after high school. 37.3 percent of those polled wish to leave Ohio permanently, while 35.8 percent plan to stay in Ohio for college and leave afterward.

opportunities that the world has to offer.

With a considerable distance between Griffin’s home life at Wadsworth and her study at Arizona State, she has discovered that the most significant distinction from her previous lifestyle involves connections worldwide.

“The biggest difference I’ve noticed to life outside of Ohio is how yesterday doesn’t really matter and how much the world is connected,” Griffin said.

A portion of the student body at WHS also agrees with this new perspective, as many students have expressed their ambition to expand their worldview and discover new things.

Not only do most families in Wadsworth know each other, according to Griffin, but the students in classes together also quickly gain perspective on each other’s lifestyles.

Many WHS students even expressed their discontent with this because they do not always cooperate with the people that make up their environment in Ohio. However, Griffin

explains that life in Arizona has completely changed her outlook on this concept.

“Once you step outside of that bubble, you realize that none of it defines who you are,” Griffin said. “The drama is completely forgotten, pushed away.”

Regardless, Griffin still claims that smallworld connections remain prevalent in her life.

“In my dorm, I became close with one of the girls on the floor below me,” Griffin said.

“After talking for a while, we found out that her cousins go to Wadsworth. It’s little moments like that that bring people and the world together and make it seem not so big.”

Griffin wishes to continue her future outside of Ohio after she completes her college education.

“I want to start my own event planning company through starting with small parties and then climbing the ladder to work with large corporations and plan events for Fortune 500 companies,” Griffin said. “As of right now, I don’t plan on returning to Ohio.”

DO YOU PLAN TO BE IN-STATE OR OUT-OF-STATE AFTER GRADUATION?

Hannah Hoffman (11): “In-state because out-of-state tuition is too expensive for me to afford and there would be an excessive amount of debt post-graduation if I don’t stay in Ohio.”

Ryan Poling (10): “In-state because making new friends is hard if you can’t learn anything about others from peers who know the person who you’re trying to be friends with. Also, I wouldn’t know how to act without my friends there.”

Hailey Harris (11): “Out-of-state for a fresh start and to have new experiences. I wouldn’t mind staying in Ohio, but I think leaving would be a great opportunity to see what’s out there.”

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 9

THE BRUIN SPORTS

A LOOK INTO WINTER SPORTS

BY LAUREN BALL & CARSON BERNARD

After an offseason of preparing for success in their respective sports, many Grizzlies are ready to take on the winter season. From basketball to bowling to swim, you will be sure to find these athletes taking on their seasons with determination as December commences.

SWIMMING

Some Grizzly swimmers are pictured at their “pink out” practice from 2021. Many of these swimmers hope to repeat their success from last season and advance far into the postseason.

Photo courtesy of Trevor Hines.

Members of WHS’s boys bowling team circle up before a match. Photo courtesy of Bradley Triplett.

The 2021 Grizzly girls bowling team is pictured.

With a new season comes goals including finishing in the upper half of the Suburban League. Photo courtesy of Cecelia Craig.

If one steps into the Grizzly Pool at the Wadsworth YMCA, chances are they will see the swim team hard at work. Their practice has set them up for a continuation of last year’s successful season.

Building upon last season’s success is vital for many of the swimmers.

“Last year, we had some swimmers go to the state meet, and we had a really great district meet, so I think the goal for the team and coaches is to get as many kids to districts as possible,” said Annalisa Lobello, senior at WHS and member of the swim team.

To attain the success that the Grizzlies strive for, they have been relentlessly training via swimming and weightlifting to ensure that their stamina and physical fitness levels are at their peak when their season commences.

“A lot of our athletes have been lifting and swimming some laps leading up to the start of the season, which really helps ease that transition because some of us practice twice a day, and that can be a big adjustment,” Lobello said.

To see these athletes in action, be sure to catch their first home meet on December 21.

Team camaraderie is built between the swimmers not just in the pool, but also via events like this team breakfast. Photo courtesy of Trevor Hines.

BOYS BOWLING

The bowling team is striking forward in the hopes of a strong season. Members of the team have put in work on their own to not only up their game, but help the overall chances of the team to have success.

“Individually, we practice,” said Bradley Triplett, senior on the WHS bowling team. “I practiced the entire offseason.”

Their practice seemed to translate to the bowling alley at their first tournament on November 18, where they finished third as a team.

This is just a starting point for the team who looks to continue to improve and achieve their goals which they are continuing to develop.

“We don’t have any [goals] yet because our first practice was last week, so we haven’t been together that long,” Triplett said. “But a good goal is always just to be .500.”

The early season tournament finish is only the beginning, and no doubt the team will be striving - and striking - for success as the year goes on.

GIRLS BOWLING

Bowling season is underway for members of the girls’ bowling team at WHS. With a new season comes goals that these athletes hope to achieve and valuable team bonding time.

Cecelia Craig, sophomore and member of the bowling team, touched on the training she and her teammates did before the start of their season.”

“For off-season training, most of us go bowling on our own at Kolony or Charger with a group of people to get some practice in while the coaches aren’t doing anything,” Craig said. “This helps prepare the team for the season and gets us back into bowling habits.”

Once the team is back into the swing of things, in-season and post-season success is one of the top goals they are looking to achieve this season.

“Our goal for the season is to keep building experience and place top five in the Suburban League, along with advancing an individual - if not the whole team - past the sectional tournament,” Craig said.

While winning is something that all athletes strive for, the camaraderie found on the bowling team is one that Craig said she and others are excited about.

“I’m looking forward to bonding with my girls and boys teammates this season and going to the Columbus tournaments,” Craig said.

With a combination of team bonding and readiness to win, girls bowling is on track for a successful season.

Coaches and players on the Grizzly bowling team converse during a bowling match. Photo courtesy of Bradley Triplett.

Bowlers in action during the team’s first official day of practice and tryouts. Photo courtesy of Wadsworth Athletics.

CHEERLEADING

Grizzly cheerleaders cheer during Wadsworth’s home basketball game against Brunswick on December 7. They kept the student section excited all throughout Wadsworth’s four overtime win. Photo by Lauren Ball.

10 DECEMBER 2022

As the football cheerleading season ends, a new season of winter basketball cheering begins. Members of the cheerleading team will provide support and constant cheerleading for WHS’s varsity, JV, and freshman basketball teams.

Gianna Turano, a sophomore at WHS and varsity cheerleader, touched on the role cheerleaders play for a successful game day.

“The goal is [for the cheerleaders] to all look together and be very clean,” said Turano.

“We just want to know our material and make sure we look good doing it.

Their cheering on the court helps create a fun and energized atmosphere for both the spectators and the athletes.

“We help the boys by cheering them on,” said Turano. “We get the crowd going, which helps the boys get more excited. It’s always a super fun environment.”

Aside from the actual cheering aspect, the cheerleaders are responsible for getting snacks and candy for a player that they are assigned to as a way of wishing them good luck.

Some of the cheerleaders such as Turano will flip and tumble across the court in front of the student section and fans Photo by Lauren Ball.

SPORTS THE BRUIN

AT WADSWORTH HIGH WRESTLING

Seniors of the Wadsworth Wrestling team posing for their honorary senior photo. The team has a strong senior core, some of who have been wrestling with each other since middle school.

Photo courtesy of Wadsworth Athletics.

The Wadsworth Wrestling Team is more ready than ever to get a jump start on their season. The team is heading into their season ranked 27th in the nation. On top of that, the team has two reigning state champions in senior Christopher Earnest and junior Jaxon Joy. The team has put a lot of time and effort into earning this ranking. During the preseason the team practices twice a week, and some athletes even competed over the summer in tournaments and various camps and matches.

“The team’s goals this year are to improve our national ranking…and to chase down a state title as a team,” Joy said.

On top of the team goals, Joy has a few in mind himself. After recently committing to Cornell University to wrestle for the school’s program, he looks forward to continuing his education and wrestling career. Joy also looks forward to the Wadsworth’s match against Brecksville as well as the state tournament.

From left to right, Chris Earnest (12) Coach Clay Wagner (middle) and Jaxon Joy (11) being recognized as state champions at the football game. Photo courtesy of Jaxon Joy.

GYMNASTICS Wadsworth’s gymnastics team is set to start their season strong. The team has put a lot of time and effort during their offseason having three practices a week as well as lifting. The team has their mind set on some tough goals that will definitely be a challenge, however senior Addison Beck knows the team has put in the work, and their talent will show.

“The team’s goal would ultimately be to go undefeated as well as qualify to districts like we have in years past,” Beck said. “We lost a lot of skilled seniors last year and have a very young team so I am excited to see what these girls can do.”

Beck as well as her team are looking forward to coming together and making the best of whatever comes of the season and having a fun time overall.

With a smaller sized team, one of the focus points for the preseason was for the team to grow close to one another. Photo courtesy of Addie Beck

The team coming together to run things over during a timeout. Photo courtesy of Mcguire Hiscock.

BOYS BASKETBALL The Grizzlies boys basketball team is looking sharp heading into their upcoming season. A strong, experienced team with an overload of talent, the team is looking to bring home the gold and walk away with winning the Suburban League title.

This has been a goal of the team for some time now, and that is where the team looks to be focusing their mind on. Senior Solomon Callaghan talked about the team working hard during the preseason, and all the work that the team put in, “We did a lot of individual and 3/4 man workouts this summer, there were lots of guys eager to get on the court and work even though it wasn’t the actual season,” Callaghan said.

The team lifted 3-4 days a week on top of practicing. Callaghan says that this definitely helped the team build chemistry on the court as well as off the court as the team spent so much time together. After recently committing to Wright State, Callaghan knows that his team looks up to him as a strong leader.

“My goal this season is to try and lead my teammates in the best ways possible, and help as much as I can to push us towards that league championship,” Callaghan said.

Callaghan is looking forward to his senior season of his high school legacy. With a strong senior core consisting of seniors Luke McMillen, Caden Madigan, Alex Neville, and Elliot Simmons, Callaghan knows this will be the last dance for him and his fellow senior teammates.

Some of the team practices outside of the team practice participating at outside clinics and private lessons. Photo courtesy of Addie Beck.

Solomon Callaghan (12) signing to Wright State on senior signing day at Wadsworth. Photo courtesy of Wadsworth Athletics.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

The Lady Grizzlies are prepared to head straight into their season with their heads up high. The team held multiple open gyms before the season as well as team lifting sessions. As is custom to every pre-season, the team also scrimmaged against other schools in the area and neighboring districts. Ana Pinkerton, a sophomore at WHS and current varsity player, says the team has put in countless hours not only perfecting their game, but growing closer as a team, “The goal is to obviously win and to get better and stronger and just grow as a team,” Pinkerton said.

On top of the team goals, Pinkerton hopes to perfect her skills on defense as well as improving her communication skills on the court. The team has its goals set, and the season is looking to be a promising one.

The Lady Grizzlies hope to grow to be a strong team in the conference and win the Suburban League. Photo courtesy of Macie Roberts.

Coach and team players running over a play during a break. Photo courtesy of Macie Roberts.

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 11

THE BRUIN FEATURES

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF WADSWORTH’S SUPERINTENDENT

BY KATIE ALLEN

people that I need to call,” Dr. Hill said. “I work from that list, and that he 2022-2023 school year marks list fluctuates and grows everyday.” ten years since Wadsworth’s When 9:00 o’clock rolls around, superintendent, Dr. Andy Hill took Dr. Hill heads over to Overlook the job. Superintendents bear various elementary school. He does the same responsibilities as many members of the thing he had done earlier in the day, community have seen during these past greeting students and now, parents too, years, but what exactly does a normal as they drop off their children. day as a superintendent look like?

By 10:00 o’clock, Dr. Hill returns to his Dr. Hill’s day typically starts around office and joins a Zoom meeting. This four in the morning when he wakes up. specific meeting consisted of a large He then reads the news before starting portion of superintendents in the state his work day. of Ohio, and some government officials.

“I get up somewhere around four, I Throughout the session, they read, I look at papers. I look at headlines discussed some laws that might bring and read different stories and kind of changes to the policies within school see where there’s themes that may buildings. impact education here,” Dr. Hill said.

“I do a lot of our policy work, and I “Then I usually get up and do some try to operate a lot of what we do with work, like this morning I got up and did committees that work to get things some emails and did some minutes for done,” Dr. Hill said. “Polices basically our academic council meeting from a tell us what we are allowed and not week ago.” allowed to do based on certain topics, After working on what he can in the and they pretty much mirror what the morning, Dr. Hill runs for a little bit before state law is.” beginning his day. For Dr. Hill, that is the Some of the policy work Dr. Hill works most consistent part on also comes from of his morning. Then, programs that take depending on what place at Wadsworth.

“THAT’S ONE OF THE he needs to do, his Behind the scenes schedule differs for of school events like GREAT THINGS ABOUT OUR the rest of the day. drama productions, SCHOOL DISTRICT IN MY About an hour before lots of policy work OPINION, OUR PEOPLE the school day starts, takes place.

ARE VERY INTEGRATED Dr. Hill then makes his Later in his day, way to the high school Dr. Hill takes on the AND INVOLVED IN THE or middle school. He next task on his list.

COMMUNITY, AND OUR often takes time to He makes a call to COMMUNITY IS VERY talk with teachers work on the terms of and administrators SUPPORTIVE AND INVOLVED a drama production. and helps with what He reviews IN THE SCHOOLS.” he can. By 7:00 contracts, making o’clock, Dr. Hill heads changes to what -DR. HILL outside of either the is not within the SUPERINTENDENT high school or middle school’s policies. school and stands Going back and forth outside the main with the company doors where students Dr. Hill sometimes get dropped off. Greeting students with has to get the district’s legal council a “good morning,” he stands outside involved to work with the opposing legal until the tardy bell rings at 7:35. council. Once the terms fit the school’s After greeting the students, he makes policies, he can bring them to the Board his way around the school, surveying the of Education for them to approve. area for dangers. By the time he has “I also review contracts, so we have reached the end of the high school’s things that by law we are not allowed main hall, during a particular instance, to agree to as a public school,” Dr. Hill he spots a tear in the rug. He points out said. “So when we have a program, and that something like that can be a trip they want to purchase something, a lot hazard to students and sends a quick of the time there’s a contract or terms of email to see about fixing it. conditions or privacy policies, different As he finishes his rounds around the things that go with it, and if there’s a school building, Dr. Hill then heads to cost associated with it, it has to go to the administration office. This point is the board.” where each day starts to differ for him.

A unique part of Dr. Hill’s job, which Because every day can be so busy and many other superintendents do not do, different from the last, Dr. Hill has to comes from the Four Cities Compact. stay very organized with his work.

This compact, which involves three “I have a list of stuff that I do and other school districts, Barberton, Copley, organize myself with. I have things and Norton, brings many different that I need to do, people that I need opportunities to students in the classes to talk to and catch up with, and then offered. Because this compact involves four school districts, another part of

T

12 DECEMBER 2022

Dr. Hill’s job involves working with the other districts’ superintendents and the director of the Four Cities Compact.

“We have a monthly meeting with Mr.

plan include surveys and enrollment projections which help to create the main goals. Some of these goals center on areas like finance, school and community relations, and technology.

Then, after all that research, the fiveyear plan is finished, and they bring it to the board to be approved.

“This is probably a six-month to a year process to put the plan together, then it really becomes the road map for what we plan to do for the next five years,” Dr. Hill said. “There’s going to be things that happen that Dr. Hill seated in his office within the Administration offices. This is aren’t on the plan, where he spends most of his work time when not visiting the schools. but we always come Photo by Katie Allen. back to it to make Wright, the compact director, where he sure we are keeping on track with what’s goes through things. The four of us are needed.” kind of like his board for what he’s hired After various meetings with other to do. We collaborate pretty closely when administrators, parents and students, we meet,” Dr. Hill said. “Outside of just and others, Dr. Hill often attends school for the compact, I see those guys at a events in the evening to end his day. lot of different meetings that I’m at. We “I try to get to different stuff [events] collaborate a lot during the winter with in the evening, like the athletic events, snow days and decisions on that, and drama productions, honors assemblies, there’s a lot of texting and conversations all of those types of things,” Dr. Hill that go on really early in the morning.” said. “I try to be part of and an active A big aspect of Dr. Hill’s job as participant in community events.” superintendent involves planning for the After a decade as Wadsworth’s school district’s future. To do this, Dr. superintendent, Dr. Hill feels very Hill works with a committee to formulate fortunate to work with such a supportive a five-year plan full of goals for the Board of Education, staff, and district. community.

“We put these “That’s one of the great together, and things about our school it’s a five-year district, in my opinion. plan which lays Our people are very out the things integrated and involved we are going to in the community, and look at, who’s our community is very going to be supportive and involved responsible, the in the schools,” Dr. Hill timing of when said. “Which is why we we are going are able to offer so many to do this, and things for students, then we work with programming and through it,” Dr. classes and other stuff, Hill said. “But to we are pretty fortunate.” get here, we do community and staff surveys, and we even had some students submit them too. We try to take all RS of that stuff, YEA and we put it together into these different areas, then we send out the draft and get some additional feedback on it.”

The research and work on the five-year

10

ENTERTAINMENT THE BRUIN

CHOIR PREPARES FOR HOLIDAY TOUR

Rocking around the Christmas tree, Have “However, if you show you a Holly Jolly Christmas, It’s the most are good enough at concerts, he Wadsworth High School Choirs Wonderful Time of the Year, Silent Night, singing, dancing, you move up will perform on December 14 and O’ Holy Night, and many more beloved to Rhythm in Red.” 15. The concert will be located in classics.

Rhythm in Red has the most the PAC at WHS. The Show Choir Holiday The choirs are split into four different complex dances and songs, levels. The difficulty of what and it is the group participating they perform is based on in the Show Choir Holiday Tour, each different level. The first where they will go to schools in level is split between men Wadsworth and perform for the students and staff. and women, Rhythm in Red is the with the men’s “I REALLY ENJOY top show choir that chorus and PREFORMING, a person can be in the women’s BUT THE WEEKS during their career chorus.

This at Wadsworth High is mostly LEADING UP Senior Myles Fortner singing at one of the choir practices.

School. composed of TO CONCERTS is in Rhythm in Red and New Edition. really excitedFortner freshmen, but Courtesy of James Welsh.

CAN GET REALLY for“I’m it, actually. I used people who did in front of the class and Mrs. Davis,” to love it when they came to my Welsh said. “It is not based on grades not make the STRESSFUL.” elementary school,” said Joe or anything. We don’t do that. It is Senior Erik Schnell auditions for a solo at one of the choir practices. audition groups -SAID JOE MAAG A, Schnell is in Rhythm in Red and Mens Choir.

Maag, a sophomore at WHS and based on who can do the part the best. are also a part of SOPHOMORE AT WHS. Courtesy of James Welsh. a member of Rhythm in Red. the chorus.

Everyone has a chance.” tour is spread throughout December 8, 12, To prepare for their “[The men’s chorus] has the To practice, they have their whole and 16. concerts, they go through the music class period and can also practice “Usually, the day after the concert, we run easiest songs. They usually only dance to and learn their different parts. After during Academic Lab. over what we did well on and what we can one or two songs in a concert,” Welsh said. that, they have a choreographer who is New Edition has the role of being the Performance length varies, but it is do better,” said James Welsh, a Sophomore commissioned to create and teach them usually around an hour or an hour and meeting point for both men and women. at WHS and member of Rhythm in Red. a dance. The third part of preparing for a half.

After that, the different choirs begin They both work together to make songs, their concerts includes finalizing solos and it is the second highest level.

Throughout December, the different practicing their performances and songs. and improving on everything taught to choirs work hard to prepare themselves “They have a bit more complicated The choirs will sing and dance to several create the best possible show for their for their concerts, and they hope to well-known songs, such as: Feliz Navidad, dances and more songs, and if they can audience. prove themselves to Mrs. Davis, then they have a fantastic performance for their Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer, “To get a solo, you need to audition winter concerts and holiday tour. move up to New Edition,” Welsh said.

T

BY LEZLIE TINNEY

CALL OF DUTY: MODERN WARFARE II IS HERE But is it Worth the Steep Price Tag?

BY BRENDEN BARLETT

O

verall, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II is both worth it and not worth it. For those short on time, that is all they need to know. But for those willing to listen, sit tight–if there is anything Modern Warfare II players agree on, it is how the game is very discussioninducing.

Prior to the game’s update on November 16, it felt very underdeveloped, with its biggest gripe being the lack of flexibility in what players could do and the minimal amount of maps the game possessed. However, the implementation of Warzone 2.0, DMZ (which is essentially Call of Duty’s take on Escape from Tarkov), the Battle Pass, and a few new maps have greatly improved Infinity Ward’s latest addition to the Call of Duty franchise.

“Besides the maps, it feels well developed.”

Said Dylan Bushi, a senior at Wadsworth High School. “The core gameplay feels great, none of the guns are inherently bad, and marksman rifles are actually useful for the first time in who knows how long. I also like how they did cameos.”

Bushi’s critique of the game’s maps and favor towards its guns and general feel were nearly unanimous amongst those interviewed, as Tommy Arnold, a senior, agreed the maps were terrible and guns were enjoyable, while Alex Buchanan, another senior, went as far as to say the game’s guns and gameplay felt great.

“The maps kind of suck, but the game still feels developed,” Arnold said. “I think the problem with the maps could be fixed if they

shortcomings, all three were confident just added some of the classics back they would continue to play as it develops in like they did with Shoothouse. Put over the coming months. They also all Terminal in; put Shipment in. Shoothouse agreed it felt better than most of Call of is the most fun map in the game, and it’s Duty’s recent additions. the only thing I’m gonna play till it goes “It is better than the last few games.” away.”

Arnold said, “I definitely think it is Bushi agreed Shoothouse was fun and enjoyable but aside from Cold War, I that the classics were worth implementing think the rest of the Black Ops games are but took a firm stance against the current definitely better than MWII.” state of Modern Warfare II’s maps.

All three of them said the game is worth “It does not matter that they’re not A player aiming in Team Death match.

This is the Shoothouse playing but felt its base price of 70 USD classics; it just matters that they are game mode, where players can only play on the Shoothouse terrible,” Bushi said. “They are boring. Theymap. Courtesy of Fair Use. Gameplay Screenshot by Brenden (around 75 when taxed) is too much. As for the Vault Edition, however, no one was able are very boring, and there are too manyBarlett. modes in Modern Warfare II, the other being to justify spending 100 USD (not including spots to camp, which doesn’t help when the way kids play the game is extremely annoying.” Knockout, a game mode that neither of the tax) for the game.

“It (Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II) is fun, While both Arnold and Bushi felt very three felt very passionate about. The idea of Prisoner Rescue is as it sounds–one team of but they are trying to gouge you,” Buchanan strongly against the game’s maps, listing them as its weakest point, Buchanan admitted he six has hostages, and the other team of six said. “You got to take into account whether has to rescue and escort them to safety. you think it is really worth buying Vault edition liked them.

At the end of the day, despite Modern or the upcoming DLC in the future, considering “The maps are pretty controversial, but I like them,” Buchanan said. “I really like Sariff Warfare II’s various strengths and how expensive the base game already is.”

Bay and Farm 18, and the visuals and lighting for the maps, but I can get where people are Positives: The In-Betweens: Negatives: coming from for not liking most maps.”

Stepping away from the game’s maps -Guns feel great; -You will die a lost; -Nearly 75 USD base price; and guns, Arnold, Buchanan, and Bushi all -Playing with friends; -You are gonna have a very -Nearly 105 USD for Vault agreed the variety of game modes to play felt -Nostalgia factor; rough k/d; Edition; underwhelming at best, with Arnold going as -Looks great; -The current strategy is -Runs inconsistently on far to say there was simply “a lack of game - performance on pc and very scummy; a lot of last-gen consoles; modes.” new gen consoles; people camp, hide, window -Terrible game UI and “I think Free-For-All is very weak,” Bushi -Warzone 2.0 and DMZ sit, etc; interface said, “and I think there is no point to DMZ… are free; -cameos; -No memorable maps; It just feels underdeveloped, but honestly, -Visually and audibly -Battle pass; -Spawn points; Prisoner Rescue is actually kind of fun which appealing.

-Weak playable skins so Bang for Buck: most players can hit the 70-90 hour mark surprised me.” far.

Prisoner Rescue is one of the two new game making the game viable for purchasing.

Breaking MWII Down:

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 13

THE BRUIN IN-DEPTH

UNCOVERING AMERICA’S

OBSESSION

WITH THE COUNTRY’S MOST HIGH PROFILE MURDERER

BY KATIE BASINGER

D

ahmer”, Ryan Murphy’s new Netflix miniseries, has just become one of only three shows to exceed one billion hours viewed on the popular streaming service.

Just days after its release, scenes were being used to make online edits of Dahmer, people were bragging about their immunity to the gruesome elements presented, and the trend of dressing up as “

Dahmer for Halloween skyrocketed.

People believed that the show was beneficial because they were able to sympathize with the serial killer.

Viewers began to see Dahmer as less of a horrifying killer and more of a fictionalized super villain.

With the uprise of inappropriate and insensitive reactions to the show, it proposed the nagging question-why are so many Americans fascinated by one of the world’s most notorious murderers?

John “Derf” Backderf, author

Ryan Murphy’s new series holds the title of the second most streamed series after only 28 days of being released. The show stayed at the top of Netflix charts as the number one spot holder forUse. 21 days post-release.

Photo courtesy of Free Photo courtesy of Fair Use.

14 DECEMBER 2022

of “My Friend Dahmer,” was high school friends with Jeffrey Dahmer in the Revere School District, barely 20 minutes away from Wadsworth, Ohio. He spent his high school career associated with Dahmer.

Backderf, as well as his friends, let Dahmer hang out with them, all while Dahmer continuously inserted himself into the mix of people that Backderf referred to as the “Dahmer Fan Club.” This “Fan Club” was a group of Backderf’s closest peers through school. They were fascinated by, and even encouraged Dahmer’s odd behavior.

In an interview with the Bruin, Backderf expressed his confusion with the nation’s obsession. He mentioned how people like to play the “Six Degrees of Jeffrey Dahmer,” a “game” essentially inspired by the “Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon,” where players can see how close they can relate two actors together only based on the works they’ve done, but in this case it involves people from Ohio trying to explain how they are in some way personally connected to Dahmer.

“It’s like a documented phenomenon,” Backderf said.

“Everybody has some connection to this guy in some way.”

The Bruin made a post on Wadsworth Neighbors, asking if anyone would be interested in commenting on their personal experiences. This led to almost 100 comments of people sharing how exactly they knew Dahmer or knew of someone in the same situation.

Our own high school teachers were no exception to this. Many had met Lionel Dahmer, the father of Jeffrey Dahmer, who worked as a substitute teacher at Wadsworth High for many years.

Everyone’s attempt to be recognized by their story or anecdote

John “Derf” Backderf

B

ackderf, is a local cartoonist and author from Bath, Ohio.

He graduated from The Ohio State University with a B.A. in journalism.

His comic strip, The City, has appeared in over 140 different publications. He also has multiple graphic novels published, including “My Friend Dahmer”, “Punk Rock and Trailer Parks”, “Trashed”, and “Kent State: Four Dead in Ohio.”

Photo courtesy of Derfcity.com.

amplifies the question at hand. Why do people so desperately wish to have their names associated with a notorious killer?

According to Coltan Scrivner, a research scientist specializing in behavioral science, another plausible explanation could be viewers’ interest in connecting to morbid curiosity.

Scrivner explained in an interview with the Bruin what morbid curiosity means in his field of study.

“I define it as an interest in learning information on things such as real threats, like what you see in the news, or sort of true crime,” Scrivner said. “But it could also be fictional threats like what you see in horror movies.”

The Bruin asked Scrivner about

some of the connections between types of people and their interest in morbid curiosity.

“If you think about what anxiety is or what it causes you to do, it causes you to be more vigilant or observant,” Scrivner said. “[This] means you’re going to pay more attention to them and learn more about them. People who are more anxious tend to be a little more curious because it motivates them to seek out threats.”

Fear triggers adrenaline and that explains why people love horror movies and other fearsome media so much.

Scrivner said that it is typical and harmless to indulge in morbid curiosity in small doses. The anxiety behind it keeps one aware of their surroundings and helps one prepare for the future. However, it is very easy for it to turn pathological.

Backderf was asked if he had any theories behind the obsession of Dahmer’s crimes.

“The Dahmer series was a big mystery to me, I don’t know why they did that,” Backderf said. “I don’t understand why it became a hit. I thought it was completely off in tone and not accurate. They didn’t capture the spirit of the place or the spirit of the time. I don’t think they got Dahmer right.”

In 2017 Backderf worked to adapt his book into a movie. The “My Friend Dahmer” movie was released and had

a great response from audiences.

Backderf explained that he feels the adaptation of his book is the only accurate portrayal of Dahmer that has been produced.

Backderf described Dahmer as a quiet oddball that got darker and darker over the years, not the ticking bomb he was depicted as in the Netflix series.

“It’s my belief that he could have been saved or at least stopped. If just one adult stood up and said wait a minute there is something really wrong with this kid.”

“My Friend Dahmer” gives an inside look onto the behavior and escalation of Dahmer’s behavior and actions while he was still an adolescent.

Backderf believes that if an adult had reached out to Dahmer at some point in his life and offered support, then it could have prevented a number of tragedies.

“I didn’t see that progression [in the Netflix series],” Backderf said.

“He was the same in the beginning of the episode that he was at the end. That’s not how it was. There was a progression [in real life], he kept getting worse and worse and worse.”

That leads people to question: if all these are flawed renditions of a terrible tragedy, then why does Hollywood continue to publish countless versions every couple years? Why after 40 years have passed, are people so obsessed with

the gruesome crimes?

Hollywood, but more specifically, big name streaming services like Netflix and Hulu continuously produce new true crime content which continues to sensationalize the disturbing crimes and leads to the romanization of malicious figures.

In 2019, Netflix came out with “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile’’.

The film meets Ted Bundy just a short time prior to his first murders and then through his arrests, jail time, trial, and inevitably his execution.

Other than their drama style production, “Dahmer” as well as “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile,” both star famous actors.

Jeffrey Dahmer is portrayed by Evan Peters and Ted Bundy is played by Zac Efron.

Additionally, The 2002 production of “Dahmer’’ featured Jeremy Renner. “My Friend Dahmer” showcased Ross Lynch. Oliver Cooper has played David Berkowits, aka the Son of Sam. Mark Harmon has also played Bundy.

Backderf said that none of the renditions of the twisted tale are accurate to the story at all.

While directors and producers can expect a large profit and millions of views from attracting A-List stars to their true crime dramas, people begin to watch these films, no longer being fueled by morbid curiosity, but as a personal obsession with the actors.

Casting fan-favorite actors to play these celebrities can be perceived as harmful for two reasons. First, it becomes more and more difficult to separate the actor from the role. And secondly, it brings to fruition a position to glorify the heinous crimes.

When “Dahmer’’ (2022) came out of Netflix, it was instantly a hit. However, many criticisms came to light because many people felt it was hurting the families of the victim’s.

Members of the victim’s families came forward to speak out against Netflix and the fact that its new series was rehashing such a tragedy. Many were upset that Netflix was producing the TV

This is a page out Backderfs graphic novel, “My Friend Dahmer”. Backderf told the Bruin that he generally receives a lot of praise for his book. In his opinion, his critics are often people who glamorize Dahmer.

Photo courtesy of Derf Backderf.

IN-DEPTH THE BRUIN show at the expense of the grieving families. The families were not even told about the production, let alone financially compensated.

The constant revisions of the Dahmer crimes through television has not only set people’s sense of morals off, but has ultimately failed the seventeen, innocent victims and their grieving families.

While some people may not follow the crowd of internet users, jumping at the chance to romanticize the murder, they are not immune to the issue of not separating the actor from their role.

People see stars like Efron and Peters up on their flat-screen and are amazed by their professional acting skills, however the lines start to blur after the credits roll.

There continues to be new content, despite the protests of many. Backderf spoke about how incorrect these documentations of Dahmer were, however, the question remains as to whether the continuous revival of the story does more harm than good.

Screenshot courtesy of Katie Basinger.

Coltan Scrivner

S

crivner is a research scientist, specializing in behavioral science. He holds a Ph.D. In Comparative Human Development, an M.S. in Forensic Science, and a B.A. in Anthropology.

He currently works for the Recreational Fear Lab at Aarhus University in Denmark and is a UX researcher for Meta in California. Scrivner is in the process of writing his first book on morbid curiosity and the fascination of true crime.

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 15

ONLY IN OHIO TIK TOK TREND DISSES OHIO

THE BRUIN OPINION

BY OLIVIA BENNER AND ALEX BANKS

WHAT IS THE TREND?

Ohio is known for the beautiful city of Cleveland, agriculture, and the widespread activities across the state. However, not everyone within the United States sees the true beauty of the state. One of the newest Tik Tok trends, “Only in Ohio”, makes fun of the state and the odd qualities of it. Typically, someone will post a weird video and one of the first comments to show up on Tik Tok will be someone saying “Only in Ohio”. This has been circulating around the app for a couple of months, and some are beginning to think it is overused.

ARE YOU PROUD OF LIVING IN OHIO? GABBY BAILEY ”I would

BUT OHIO’S NOT ALL THAT BAD. . .

say that I am proud of Ohio in some respects. Ohio has its ups and downs but overall, I am more proud of the people who surround me and the memories Wadsworth holds. I like the community.

Ohio may have its rough area but the majority is extremely peaceful and people are really friendly here compared to other places I have been with my family.”

CEDAR POINT This is an

“Giant Wheel”, the Ferris wheel at Cedar Point, is shown with “Wicked Twister”. The Ferris wheeler has been open since 1972 but “Wicked Twister’ was recently torn down.

Photo by Grace Barrett

amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio, by Lake Erie. It has around 70 rides and has been open since 1870. Some of its most popular roller coasters include Millennium Force and Valravn, but it also has things such as Snoopy Land for younger kids and families. It also has restaurants and hosts events for people who might not be into the rides. Cedar Point Shores Water Park is also near with water slides and pools.

JAXON DORLAND “I am proud, Ohio shows a lot of diversity in people, places, and activities.”

OTHERWORLD Installed in

Columbus, Ohio, Otherworld is an art exhibit that immerses the people visiting it. It has 32,000 square feet that visitors can explore and the art has a science fiction and fantasy theme. It has 47 rooms for people to see and 40+ artists have worked on it. In addition, a total of over 190,000 LEDS are used.

HUNTER COLE “No, [I’m not An exhibit from Otherworld is featured. It has been open since May of 2019.

Photo by Alex Banks

ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME Located in Cleveland, the

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame stands in Cleveland, Ohio in November. It was designed by the architect I. M. Pei, the designer of the Louvre in Paris.

Photo by Angel Jones

proud of living in Ohio] because recently on social media people think all bad things come from Ohio. Like people bash us for some schools and especially The Browns.”

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a staple of Ohio and the museum has been open to the public since 1995. This year, it has musical artists such as Eminem, Dolly Parton, and Duran Duran. To get the privilege of being inducted, the musical artist’s first recording must be at least 25 years old. Over the years, it has inducted people such as Louis Armstrong, David Bowie, AC/DC, Black Sabbath, and ABBA.

DO YOU HAVE PRIDE IN OHIO? Other: 3

Yes, I love Ohio: 17.9

WEIRD THINGS THAT REALLY ARE ONLY IN OHIO...

WORLD’S LARGEST CORN HENGE Field of Corn of “Corn Henge” is an art insulation in BASKET In Newark, Ohio, people Dublin, Ohio. It is a concrete field of corn are able to find the largest basket in the world. The landmark is 185,000 square feet. It stands around seven stories tall and was, at one point, the headquarters for Longaberger, a brand that made baskets.

16 DECEMBER 2022

No: 23.9

where each is six feet tall. It contains 109 corn cobs, where an old corn field used to stand. The artist behind this was Malcolm Cochran.

FLAG Out of all fifty states, Ohio is the only one that has a flag that is not in the shape of a rectangle. The flag contains seventeen stars because in 1803, Ohio became the seventeenth state to join the union. The red and white stripes on the flag are meant to symbolize Ohio’s roads and waterways.

67 students were surveyed

Meh, it’s okay: 55.2