The Bruin - November 2019

November 2019

Wadsworth High School

Volume XLV No. 2

#BBEEBESTRONG:

Living with Hodgkin’s lymphoma Pg 10

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Bruin staff members have recently created the Beyond Bruin podcast, intended to allow readers to listen in on our interviewing process.

In this issue we have tackled many difficult topics, including the hard truth of being a veteran, what it is like for a transgender individuals and battling cancer as a high school student.

We challenged ourselves to use the podcast as a way to be able to truly capture the stories of our interviewees.

We had the chance to interview two veterans for our podcast.

They were able to correctly tell

A word from chief

their stories of what it is like to serve.

Beyond Bruin opened up the topic of what challenges transgender people are faced with, such as safety, and mental health.

Natalie Martin, alumnus, took the time to sit down with us and share her story in order to be heard.

Ben Beebe, a Wadsworth senior,

participated in a short interview which will be featured on our podcast, sharing the truths of battling cancer as both a student and an athlete. His insight gave us the opportunity to inform others of his life story.

All of these conversations gave us the chance to tell the reality of their lives. I challenge you to talk

with someone that has a story to tell, learn of their triumphs and defeats.

With the holidays approaching soon, try having a sit down conversation with a family member. There is a lot to be learned in a short time of talking face-to-face.

Having an environment that allows for people to open up has made our stories more powerful. Our goal is to inform the community of those who have a story to be heard. Listen in to the Beyond Bruin Podcast on Soundcloud to listen to these featured interviews and more.

@Wadswor thBruin

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Trends worth joining at WHS

19

Inside the Bruin Local election results...5 Next Netflix Hits...7

9 The future of CIS

Sophomore state qualified cross country runner

Transgender truths...12

10

Veterans of WHS...14

What life is like living with cancer

2019-2020

Bruin Staff 625 Broad Street Wadsworth, OH 44281 Editor-in-Chief Halle Shaeffer News Editor Anna Wolfinger Art Editor Emily Thompson Features Editor Morgan Porpora Sports Editor Jillian Cornacchione Online Editor Abby Wichterman Business Manager Logan Egleston

Social Media Manager Sarah Scobee Staff Writers Brianna Becerra Micah Beck Emily Brandyberry Andrew Clark Brian Coote Emily Kurtz Natalie Maher Kate Messam Alex Miller Axel Mueller Lauren Satink Seth Smalley Chris Steele Julie Wellert Adviser Eric Heffinger

Students of the Month C A R E E R

T E C H

Find more articles written by The Bruin staff members on

WadsworthBruin.com

Natalina Spaugy,12 Ethan Wise,12 Jillian Cornacchione,12 Bethany Baker,12 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.

New plan to spruce up Downtown CIS plans to build a new

BY SARAH SCOBEE

A new infrastructure plan for downtown Wadsworth has been set in place to improve the livelihood and safety of the core of the city. The plan aims to make downtown Wadsworth a destination spot and to connect people with the community.

The Downtown Infrastructure Project will improve the streetscape by renovating sidewalks, curbs and streets.

“Parts of our downtown infrastructure underground are over 100 years old and our downtown streetscaping is about 40 years old, so we are due for a project like this,” said Adrianne Krauss, Executive Director of Mainstreet Wadsworth.

Wider sidewalks, improved and additional parking for downtown and better flow of traffic are some of the core items that the plan aims to fix.

Another point of improvement is bike infrastructure for downtown.

The city wants to add better access to biking routes and city connections.

In 2020, the city will begin

their detailed engineering and design plan, and at the end of 2020 they will go out for bid. This means they will present a proposal and estimated costs. Construction is expected to begin in 2021 and continue through 2022.

To jump start the Downtown Infrastructure Program, they have added a temporary bike rack and patio on Broad Street outside of Valley Cafe. It was put up mid-September and will remain up through the beginning of November. The idea for the bike rack is to reconfigure the space the city already has to enhance curb appeal.

The plan focuses not only to

improve some physical aspects of downtown, but also to improve business flow and boosting community involvement. The plan will also include taking feedback from citizens and consultants about what people want to see for the future of downtown Wadsworth.

“During the Students in Government day, students told us that they wanted more green space and places to congregate,” said Robert Patrick, Director of Public Service for Wadsworth.

Mainstreet Wadsworth hopes to boost student involvement to encourage volunteering and community connection.

PHOTO BY SARAH SCOBEE

The temporary patio and bike rack outside of Valley Cafe is a part of the Downtown Infrastructure Project. It is in place to expand outdoor seating at Valley Cafe, which is one goal of the project.

New Pulp location coming to Wadsworth in near future

BY JILLIAN CORNACCHIONE

Smoothie and juice bars are a rising trend among all ages and Wadsworth is finally getting on board.

Currently, there are a few restaurants found in Wadsworth that display smoothie choices on their menu. However, these places only have a small range of flavors to choose from and most do not offer real fruit, vegetable, and protein smoothies to their customers. If you wanted a fresh smoothie made from real fruit, you would have to drive out of town to get one. Many students often drive to Robeks in Fairlawn or Pulp in Akron for these delicious smoothies.

“I love smoothies so I drive up to Fairlawn a lot to get one. But it would be so much easier and save a lot of time if there was a smoothie place here in Wadsworth,” said Haleigh Saylor, 12.

Wadsworth residents have long craved for a smoothie place

located near them, which is why they were exhilarated to find out their wish was finally coming true. Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar is set to make an appearance in Wadsworth. Although an opening date has not yet been confirmed, the smoothie bar will be opened at Wadsworth Crossing across the parking lot from Planet Fitness and Petco.

Customers can expect a variety of juices and smoothies made from fresh products to choose from, along with a few other healthy food options. There are many different fruits, vegetables, dairy products, nuts and other ingredients that go into making a Pulp smoothie that is sure to satisfy every person’s cravings.

Protein and energy enhancers are also popular and can be added to any smoothie.

“I have been to Pulp a few times in Akron and it never disappoints,” said Ally Haydu, 11. “I am glad and excited that Wadsworth is opening a Pulp.”

PHOTO BY SARAH SCOBEE

Pulp smoothie and juice bar is expected to make its debut soon in Wadsworth.

The choices offered serve as the perfect on-the-go meal when you are in a hurry. Many students also enjoy using smoothie bars as social gatherings, meeting up with friends to chat after school.

Without a set opening day and the rumors spreading quickly, Pulp has stirred a lot of hype and questions among the students at Wadsworth High School.

However, one thing is certain, Wadsworth residents were thrilled to hear the exciting news and are looking forward to the new addition to their community.

intermediate school

BY SARAH SCOBEE

The Central Intermediate School building is a historical landmark for the City of Wadsworth, however, this antique building is in need of $21,500,000 worth of renovations.

With this much work needed on the building, the CIS Committee has decided a new school should be built in another location. The site of the new building has yet to be determined as well as an exact date.

The City of Wadsworth does want to preserve some parts of the current intermediate building, mainly OJ Works Auditorium.

“It was also recommended that the board of education will preserve the current building, in some capacity, with a priority on the preservation of the OJ Work Auditorium,” said Laura Maslyk, assistant principal at CIS. A renovation plan would not add any new space to the building and it would keep the same floor plan the building currently has.

The committee came to a conclusion that the estimated cost of a new building, was similar to

PHOTO BY SARAH SCOBEE

The entrance of CIS is currently under construction. Some of the Terra Cotta needed replaced on the front entrance.

the estimated cost of renovations and it would be more beneficial to build a new building.

A goal for the new building would be to create a better learning environment for upcoming students. The outdated current building has created some issues for 21st century learners. The main issue is the lack of space and poor layout.

“Improved technology, more collaborative learning areas, and better accessibility for all students is what I would envision a new building to be,” said Mr. Stoner, sixth grade teacher at CIS. The city will continue to meet and discuss the time line and location of the new building.

The Whisperer celebrates 100 year anniversary

BY EMILY BRANDYBERRY

The 2019-2020 school year marks the 100 year anniversary of Wadsworth High School’s yearbook, The Whisperer.

To celebrate the milestone year, the yearbook staff plans on incorporating 100 years of yearbook in this year’s edition.

They are using old photos from sports and other activities which they will place with modern ones to show the progression of yearbooks through the years.

“The theme this year is the Roaring 20s,” said Editor-in-Chief Kate Messam, 12. “It's a fun play on our Grizzly mascot and the time that the first yearbook was printed in the 1920s.”

The staff will spend the course of the year going through old yearbooks pulling ideas to use for this issue. They hope to pay respect to the past and honor them in the best way possible.

“It's been so interesting to see how far the school has come,” said Advisor Laura Harig. “It's been

fun looking at the different themes of the book, how they honored seniors, how small the classes were and what activities and clubs used to be offered.”

Unlike the newspaper, the yearbook is only issued once a year, so they only have one chance to make it work. The staff is already super excited about what they have accomplished so far and look forward to where the book is going.

PHOTO BY SARAH SCOBEE

Wadsworth High School’s yearbook, the Whisperer is celebrating its 100 year anniversary this year. The staff hopes to incorporate themes from past yearbooks to celebrate the milestone.

Results of 2019 election of school board members and taxes are in

BY LAUREN SATINK

The local election that took place on November 5, 2019 concluded with the election of Ward 3 city council member Jeanne L. Hines and school board member Jill Stevens, the reelection of school board member Linda Kramer, the passing of Issue 11, and the renewal of the tax for developmental disabilities.

Jill Stevens said she wanted to be a part of the Board of Education because she thought the school board fit well for her passions of service, education and kids.

“I see a variety of challenges across all schools that Wadsworth is actively engaged in, including mental wellness,” said Stevens.

“My optimistic goal in anything I do is always to leave something better than I found it and add value beyond the expectation.”

To help her prepare for the election, Stevens attended multiple school board meetings and read agenda and meeting notes over the course of a few years. One of her goals is to be an active listener, learner, and to understand all perspectives on the issue at hand.

Linda Kramer, who ran for reelection, has been the president of the Board of Education this past year, and has served on various councils.

“I’m not ready to quit yet,” said Kramer. “I still have things I want to accomplish. I really enjoy being with students of all ages; they are inspiring to me.”

Jeanne L. Hines defeated incumbent Lee R. Potts with 65% of the vote in Ward 3.

In addition to the election, there was also a new tax levy that was passed. The tax levy was an additional tax that was intended for making appropriations for health, human and social services provided by the Medina County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Board.

There was also the renewal of a tax levy that was passed. It was for the benefit of the Medina County Board of Disabilities.

This was to provide the operation of community programs and services authorized by county boards of developmental disabilities to help run vital services.

The election has provided the community with new and returning representatives as well as a new and renewable taxes.

Member of Council (Ward 3)

ACT offers students new testing options starting in September 2020 Tentative 2020-2021 ACT Test Dates September 12, 2020 October 24, 2020 December 12, 2020 February 6, 2021 April 10, 2021 June 12, 2021 July 17, 2021

BY ALEX MILLER

Beginning in September 2020, ACT will be making some major changes to its testing policies.

The changes are aimed at better serving students, including section retesting, superscoring and online testing.

“Students come first at ACT, and these groundbreaking new options will directly benefit them,” said Suzana Delanghe, ACT Chief Commercial Officer.

“With these changes, ACT is evolving to meet students in the digital world in which they live.

We want to do a better job of helping them succeed.”

The greatest change coming next fall is section retesting, which will allow students to focus on individual subjects without having to study for the entire test again. Section retesting will be offered seven times each year, on the same dates as the national ACT tests.

“We are simply offering new ways to take the ACT, saving students time and giving them the ability to focus only on subject areas needing improvement,” said Delanghe.

To go along with section retesting, ACT score reports will now include a superscore.

A student’s superscore is an average of the four best section scores from each of their test attempts.

“I am really happy about the ability to retake one section,” said Andrew Piepho, 10. “The super scoring system will allow students to get a higher score overall.”

Since 2016, ACT has offered online testing at select test centers, and they now plan to expand this program to all national test centers. The advantage to online testing is that students will receive their test results in as soon as two business days. Students will still have the option of paper testing, but will have to wait two to eight weeks for results.

“Getting my test results back quicker would be nice for filling out my common applications,” said Leigh Hillegass, 12.

“Online testing would take away a lot of the waiting and anxiety.”

The September 2020 ACT test will bring many new options to students, with a goal of enhancing the testing experience. The changes have the potential to better reflect the academic achievement of students in the modern world of education.

College Board pushes early sign-ups for AP tests

OPINION BY BRIAN COOTE

Within the first three months of the school year, students are expected to make the decision of taking advanced placement tests, which cost $96 per exam. Students are given a fair time period, but lack information to make a wise decision.

Pushing early registration for these tests is an effective way for students to feel like they have a commitment to their AP classes, but signing up early causes students to pay for expensive tests they know little about or are qualified to take yet.

“I see both sides of the AP sign up debate; however, I definitely side with those who believe in an early sign-

up,” said AP language teacher, Mr. Singleton. “An early signup helps students to be more accountable. From quarter one, you have to buy-in to the idea that a daunting test awaits you in May.” The time period causes students to think ahead. While signing up is rushed, the test is taken at the end of the school year so the decision is not the complicated part. Students

have plenty of time to prepare.

The problem is the lack of information to students and the prices of tests.

The lack of information in the time frame and the cost of the AP test is what puts pressure on students. With students having up to 15 available AP classes and each test costing $96, the test becomes a hefty decision for students. While students have time to learn and prepare,

PHOTO BY BRIAN COOTE

Mr. Singleton preparing his 11th grade AP language students for the upcoming AP tests in May.

they only have a few weeks to decide to spend up to a hundred dollars or more. For students with financial need, the College Board only provides a $30 fee per exam reduction. This decreases cost for students, but a student in multiple AP classes would still be charged a large sum of money for a test they still know little about.

“I do think the tests are expensive,” said Elijah Heckler, 11. “A kid with little financial support for their family would struggle to find the money to take them.”

All students know is what is on the registration form and teachers past experience with the test. No information is given on passing rates, form of the test or the criteria of the test. With nothing to go off of students must unfairly decide to take the test.

More time and information should be given to students to make an accurate and responsible decision.

The expensive tests push sign-ups

PHOTO BY BRIAN COOTE

Registration form are given to students to sign-up for AP tests. Test prices can accumulate to over a hundred dollars for some students.

rather than preparing students thoroughly before the tests.

The College Board should change the system so instead of focusing on early sign-ups, they should give proper information to the students and teachers so when students sign-up they are financially and comprehensively ready for AP testing.

Chromebook restrictions benefit students and the school

OPINION BY ANDREW CLARK

2019 is the first year Wadsworth High School has given its students personal chromebooks, and the restrictions that come with them benefit students more than they know.

A lot of students are annoyed with the restrictions on their chromebooks, but what they don’t realize is that the restrictions don’t block sites such as Instagram or Twitter specifically, but instead blocks social media as a whole.

“It’s not a big list of sites,” said Phil Luthman, Director of Technology. “There are categories. There’s a drugs category, there’s a gambling category, and all I do is press a button on each category.”

These new chromebooks came with increased WiFi

capability to run all of the new technology, but it also came with restrictions that some students deem unnecessary.

“I have had multiple occasions where Securly blocked me from doing research,” said Gabe Collura, 12. “They even blocked me while writing a Comp paper last year.”

This disapproval could stem from the student’s lack of understanding for the system or from the frustration of having been blocked from a web page, but it is not a complex system made to monitor students every second of every day.

Sadly, everyone is afraid of big brother watching what they do in their free time. People put tape over the cameras of their computers and use VPNs to protect themselves, but the school’s system is nothing to be afraid of.

“The only thing I can see on your personal phone is when you’re on the WiFi, whether you have Securly on your phone or not,” said Luthman. “When you go home I get nothing; Securly can’t see anything.”

The only thing that WHS can track when students are not in the building is the school issued chromebooks. School issued, meaning, it is their property and they have a right to know what happens on them. This is a reasonable thing for the school to do.

In addition, they must manually check each student’s happenings on the chromebooks.

If they do not have any reason to think a student is up to something, they will not check on what a student is doing.

The school mainly uses a system called Securly, but they also utilize manual restrictions of apps, such as “unblock apps” on the Chrome store. Key words linked to the categories set in place by Securly can block a search, as well as sites or articles that may be connected to them.

This can lead to websites that should not be blocked, but it is not the school’s fault; they are not running Securly.

If students do run into a blocked website they think should be unblocked, students can press the “Contact Admin”

PHOTO BY ANDREW CLARK

Students are getting blocked by Securly and Safe Search on school issued chromebooks, while doing work for classes.

button. Students can then contact Luthman, who will consider emailing Securly to recategorize that page. This will give that student, and others, access to the site or article.

“If it looks like it’s a no brainer that shouldn’t be blocked at all, I’ll actually contact Securly itself and ask them to re-categorize this,” said Luthman. “Then they properly

categorize it and everybody can get to it.”

This system is not out to get students. They are made to keep students safe and protect school property, and there is nothing wrong with that. Measures are in place to unblock what should not be blocked. Besides being a minor nuisance at times, it works the way it should.

Bright Star brings a new feel to Wadsworth drama Get outside!

BY KATE MESSAM

The Wadsworth High School Drama Club is bringing the award winning musical Bright Star, a drama set in North Carolina after World War II, to life on November 21-23.

Bright Star follows Alice Murphy, played by Lauren Claxton, 11, during her life in the 1920s and 40s. During those years, Murphy experiences her first love and her journalism career takes off.

“It is very heavy with themes, and it is bound to jerk some tears or tangible emotion,” said Claxton.

Claxton’s character comes across two different people who influence her fate as she goes through her life: Jimmy Ray, played by Brendan Phillips, 12, and Billy Cane, played by Mason Currens, 11. As the daughter of a preacher, Murphy falls in love

with the mayor’s son, Ray. The two have a child together, but the baby is put up for adoption following the mayor’s concern for the reputation of his family.

Later in her life, Murphy finds a prosperous job as the Editor-in-Chief of the Asheville Southern Journal. Through her work, she meets Cane and sees the untapped potential that he holds as a writer. Cane helps Murphy fulfill the motherly role that she longs to feel after she lost her child.

Compared to her role last year as Ariel in The Little Mermaid, Claxton has struggled with the seriousness that this musical presents to its audience. “[The role] is really hard for me because, as opposed to Disney, these emotions are not melodramatic,” said Claxton. “I have to make it real.”

Brendan Phillips agrees with the intensity of Bright Star,

What is your favorite part of being in Bright Star?

PHOTO BY KATE MESSAM

PHOTO BY KATE MESSAM

Leigh Hillegass, 12 “Getting to hang out with the cast all the time because we all get along really well.”

Katy Andrews, 12 “The music is really different so doing this bluegrass style is really fun.”

saying that its heart wrenching plot sets it apart from anything else the drama department has put on.

“Beside Aida, I do not think there is any show that we have done in the past that is comparable to Bright Star,” said Phillips.

Bright Star is not only unique for the department, but it is also

allowing students to put their own creative twist on the performance.

“Needless to say, we are doing all of the choreography by ourselves and it is a much smaller cast so it should be interesting,” said Claxton. “We decided that we could put our creativity into it and use the extra money for better sets and costumes.”

Tired of the same shows? Try these on Netflix REVIEWS BY EMILY BRANDYBERRY

If you like Riverdale

Top Shows and movies

1.) Orange is the New Black 105 million views

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETLFIX

2.) Murder Mystery 73 million views 3.) Stranger Things 64 million views 4.) Triple Frontier 63 million views 5.) The Perfect Game 48 million views 6.) Bird Box 45 million views

If you like Friday night lights

All American is an American classic when it comes to television. When Spencer James, a star football player at Crenshaw South, is whisked away to play at Beverly Hills, his life is turned upside down.

Used to the gangs and streets of Crenshaw, James must adapt to living a posh life in Beverly Hills with the football coach, Billy Baker, and his family.

This show brings to light many issues facing inner city areas. It shows viewers the realities of gang life through Spencer’s best friend, Coop, and enemy, Shawn, as well as the very few opportunities that the kids growing up there are given.

Although the show has many good aspects, it is very fast paced. Some of the scenes can progress very quickly at various times in the show. The second season is currently airing on the CW.

8.) Money Heist 44 million views

10.) The Highwaymen 40 million views

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETLFIX

With pig races, hay rides, a 311 foot “Super Slide” and food for days, Mapleside Farms is a fun and eventful place to visit with friends and family. Located in Brunswick, Ohio, this farm captures some of the best fall views all while providing activities for everyone.

Each weekend, Mapleside holds different events and festivals for its guests. The farm is open all days from 10 AM-6PM except on Monday’s.

Castl e Noel

If you are in a festive mood heading into the winter season, you should check out Castle Noel.

Located in Medina, this spot is for those who love Christmas movies. They have props from many of the popular Christmas classics such as Will Ferrell’s costume from Elf and Cindy Lou Who’s bedroom from How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It is open everyday except for Monday and Tuesday and costs $21 a ticket.

Rittman Orchards Rittman Orchards, placed just outside of Wadsworth, has apple picking aplenty. This familyowned orchard offers acres upon acres of apples fresh to pick. After searching for the best apples, visitors can snack on homemade items from the bakery and drink fresh cider. Rittman Orchards is open all days from 9 AM-6PM except on Monday’s.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETLFIX

If you like The Office

7.) The Umbrella Academy 45 million views

9.) Tall Girl 41 million views

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is one of those shows that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat with so many dark twists, they never know what is coming next. The Netflix original follows the story of half-human, halfwitch Sabrina Spellman as she fights evils facing not only her but her family and mortal friends.

Spellman’s life is turned upside down on her 16th birthday when she has to decide whether she wants to continue her family’s legacy of signing the Dark Lord’s book or remain mortal. Her aunts, Zelda and Hilda, with whom she lives, expect her to sign the book due to her family's twisted past with the Dark Lord.

However, she does not want to leave her friends and boyfriend behind.

Like its sister show Riverdale, it keeps the 1960’s essence while adding in a touch of present day. Currently, there are two seasons with the third coming soon.

Maplesid e Farms

Bringing the essence of The Office with it, Arrested Development is a sitcom full of satire and laughs. The show follows Michael Bluth after he is forced to take over the family real estate business when his father is arrested for fraud. He must figure out how to handle his family who are used to being handed anything they want while taking care of his son at the same time.

Arrested Development contains a star studded cast list including Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Ben Stiller. The diversity from the cast brings forth a mix of acting styles for the viewer.

Although canceled in 2006, the show was picked up by Netflix and began airing again in 2013 with the final season airing in March 2019. This show is perfect for any fans of The Office or anyone looking for a good laugh.

Lock 3

Looking for something fun to do with friends on a winter day? Head over to Lock 3 in Akron. You can enjoy a fun-filled day of ice skating.

When you need a break, you can hang up the skates and grab yourself something to eat or drink from the concession stand. Whether you are an expert or beginner, Lock 3 is fun for everyone. It opens everyday at 11 AM except Monday with Winter Fest starting November 24, 2019.

WE LISTEN. WE CARE. WE CAN HELP. Depression, Anxiety, Substance use issues?

Cornerstone Psychological and Counseling Services

Founder’s Hall 195 Wadsworth Rd. Ste. 201 B Wadsworth, Oh 44281

330.722.4166

Girls cross country prevails through finish line

BY NATALIE MAHER

The success that Wadsworth girls cross country has experienced this season has not gone unseen.

Each runner has put in a lot of hard work to get to where they are now, not only training during the season, but in the off season as well.

Leading up to the official start of the season, runners were given the option to start workouts with the team in the summer, but they were not required to do so. These optional practices were held almost every morning Monday through Saturday during the summer. Several runners took advantage of this opportunity to improve their times.

“These girls were able to still run many miles over the summer and make sacrifices during the school year to help them become the best runner they can be on race day,” said Coach Zach Humrichouser.

At the official start of the season, they trained every day.

Once the school year started, they changed it to 3:00pm to 5:00pm after school.

“As a team, we have all put in a lot of hard work at practice every day after school,” said Clare Nicholas, 10. “We have both workouts and long runs at practice, and we know these will help us to perform well at our meets.”

The girls team finished their

season placing among the top five teams in all their regular season meets. In the majority of their meets, they placed either first or second.

Once the regular season ended, many individuals in cross country continued to display outstanding performances at the post meets. Nicholas placed first in the Suburban League National race for girls, followed by sophomore Rachel Murphy placing sixth.

This year, the girls team sent eight varsity runners to districts after placing second as a team at the Suburban League meet.

These varsity runners included: senior Allison Kidd, juniors Ashley Galek, Laney Corell, Julia Hartzler, Emma Codding and Michaela Davis, and sophomores Rachel Murphy and Nicholas.

“One of the things that makes this team special is their commitment to the sport of cross country and to their teammates,” said Coach Zach.

Within the whole Wadsworth cross country program, 16 runners on both the boys and girls team advanced to districts.

After success at the district meet, the girls placed fourth overall as a team and all eight girls advanced onto regionals.

From the boys team, Dominic Delmoro, 11, individually qualified.

These runners continued to put in hours of work everyday after school.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLISON KIDD

The girls varsity cross country team poses with three of their coaches, Coach Zach (far left), Coach Burton (far right), and Coach Gordon (third from right) at the Regional meet. The regional meet was held at Boardman High School. At this meet, the team placed 15 overall out of 24 teams.

At the regional meet, Nicholas lead the team, finishing with a time of 18:52 and placing sixth overall.

Because of her stellar performance in the regional meet, Nicholas was the only one to qualify from the girls team for states.

On November 2, Nicholas participated in the OHSAA Division One state tournament. It was held at the National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio. She, along with 182 other girls from around the state, lined up at the starting line to begin the race at 12:30 p.m. 18 minutes and 24 seconds later, Nicholas

crossed the finish line. This stellar time placed her at 17th overall. Nicholas improved her time by 36 seconds from last year’s state meet.

With this improved time, she also ended six places h i g h e r than the previous year.

Last year, Wadsworth High School had a successful season as well. They sent eight girls to states, Nicholas being one of PHOTO COURTESY OF HOPE HAGEMAN

them. As a team, these girls finished 14th overall at the state meet.

With this accumulating success and the loss of only three state qualified seniors in two years, the next couple of years look promising for girls cross country. The team is still relatively young and the underclassmen show a lot of potential, which ensures a bright future for the Wadsworth cross country program.

“Each year the girls have the opportunity of adding another chapter to the history of WHS Girls Cross Country,” said Coach Zach.

It is safe to say that these girls did not fail to add yet another rewarding chapter in the girls cross country program after the overwhelming success of the 2019 season.

Wadsworth High School Sports Hall of Fame accepting new inductees

BY JILLIAN CORNACCHIONE

Nominations for the new 2020 inductees to the Wadsworth High School Sports Hall of Fame are now being accepted through November 30, 2019.

The SHOF is a Wadsworth tradition that was founded under the guidance of Rex McIlvaine and, since then, has been passed down to the supervision of the WHS athletic director.

The first class of inductees was chosen in 1978. Originally occurring annually, the induction process now takes place every two to three years in order to encompass a larger class.

“The main purpose of the Sports Hall of Fame is to recognize those individuals who have made outstanding contributions and/ or brought recognition to the Wadsworth community through sports activities via participating

To access the 2020 WHS SHOF nomination form, scan this barcode using the camera on your device and click on the link that appears at the top of the screen.

as an athlete, a coach, or some way promote, help, and give service to the sport in a unique way,” explained former wrestling coach, John Gramuglia, who is on the Hall of Fame Committee.

The last selection process took place in fall 2017 where 17 individuals were chosen for the 2018 induction ceremony (pictured below).

The candidates must be WHS alumni and are required to be ten years post graduation year of 2009.

Players, coaches, and anyone who has aided in the success of the Wadsworth athletic association and,

if applicable, continued their athletic career after graduation is considered for the honor.

Upon receiving all of the nominations, the committee meets to make final decisions on the new members.

Once these individuals are chosen, they attend a banquet at the Galaxy restaurant where they will undergo the induction process and are recognized for the far-reaching contributions that they have made toward WHS athletics.

The banquet that celebrates the 2020 inductees is set for September 19 of next year.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GLEN RUTHERFORD

Wadsworth High School alumni who were chosen to be inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame were recognized for their contributions made toward the school’s athletics program at the last banquet in September 2018.

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Wadsworth senior, Ben Beebe, had to change his outlook on life after a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. ad

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LIVING

It all started with a sharp pain in his back; he never knew that a small checkup would change his life forever.

The pain became so severe that he was having restless nights during the week and he was struggling more than the average player to run during soccer fitness.

On June 20, Wadsworth senior, Ben Beebe, went to the emergency room where he received many tests and was referred to an orthopedic doctor.

“It was absolutely horrible,” said Beebe. “We tried everything: ice, heat, physical therapy, stretching and walking. Nothing helped.”

In the upcoming days, he underwent even more tests. From these tests, they were able to conclude that he had approximately two liters of fluid inside of his lungs, which explained why it was extremely difficult to breath. Hoping for some insight of what was truly occurring, he was sent to Akron Children’s Hospital to receive a CT scan. The results of the CT scan came back revealing that Beebe had a tumor in his chest. The doctors had suspected that it was Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that begins in the lymphatic system.

“My first thought was if I would be able to play soccer again,” said Beebe. “They told me I would not be able to play unless the team went deep into the playoffs, then possibly I would have a chance. Once I found out I probably would not be able to play again, I was really sad for awhile, but my family was there to help me.”

These results not only affected Beebe, but also the members of his family and his friends.

“When my mom called me as I was driving, I thought I was going to crash because of how much I was crying,” said senior Kate Messam, Beebe’s cousin. “I cried for three days.

After something like that I just could not function.”

Along with Messam, many of his other family members seemed shocked by this diagnosis and worried about how to get through it.

“My initial reaction was to focus on the treatment,” said his mother, Ann Hartman. “I thought about what I could do to get him through it. I tried not to not focus on the negatives or what he could be missing.”

His dad, Bill Beebe, also struggled to accept the diagnosis.

“As a parent, this is the last thing you want your kid to go through,” said his dad. “I wish I could have traded places with him. No one at that age should have to deal with something like that.”

The first step of treatment for Beebe included placing a port under his skin on the right side of his heart. The port allows the medical staff to extract fluids and pump chemotherapy drugs directly into the bloodstream.

The port meant that he could not do anything that required physical contact, as rupturing the port could have fatal results.

“It was very difficult to watch as Ben went through treatments,” continued his mother. “As a parent, you try to protect your children and help them through their struggles. In this case, Ben had to take the lead and find the strength to get through it one day at a time. We obviously supported him in any way we could, and we tried to keep him healthy and happy throughout.

His positive attitude helped all of us manage it better.”

Beebe was kept in the hospital for 11 days total.

During this time, he received his first round of chemotherapy.

“The first round was not too rough. I didn’t really notice anything during the first part of the chemo,” said Beebe.

“The more and more treatment I got, I started to feel more

nauseous and then I’d start puking. During my good week, I would try to do as much as I could do and be as active as possible because I could not do anything after that week.”

In the following weeks, he spent most days lying around the house, doing everything he could to avoid a risk of an infection.

“I got the chance to see Ben when he was in the hospital,” said Beebe’s friend and teammate, Matt Flaker, 12. “I was thrilled to see him, but he looked exhausted. It was hard to see him hurting like that. He was not able to leave the house some weeks because of how much the chemo had drained him.”

Although he was at the lowest point in his life, he had no shortage of support. His family had over 700 bracelets made for students and family members to show their support. The bracelets contain words of encouragement such as, “No One Fights Alone” or “Hang in There Tough.”

“My family and friends were constantly at the hospital at the time of diagnosis and the days following,” said Beebe. “I received so many inspirational texts from multiple people. It was nice to know that so many people were rooting for me and cared.”

His friends always tried to be there when they could and get him through this hard time.

“The first time we visited was Saturday, June 22,” said Allison Kidd, 12. “We took four car loads of people. We brought posters, encouraging signs, necklaces and all kinds of things to hang up in the room. After that, people were visiting him every few days and if someone couldn’t make it that day, we would facetime them so they could still see and talk to Ben.” Along with the support that came from his friends and family, Wadsworth High School’s boys and girls’ soccer program also became very supportive of Ben. Throughout the season, the boys program wore purple warm ups, the official awareness color of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, that stated “#BBEEBE STRONG” across the back. These shirts had the number two on the left sleeve, Ben’s number in previous seasons. Although he could not play, he would be announced before each game and if he was unable to attend the game, his jersey would hang above the bench to remind the boys to not take the game for granted, and to play to the best of their ability for their teammate.

“Before every game I would see his jersey hanging next to mine,” said senior captain, Connor Margo. “I knew that he would give anything to be in my position, and that is what motivated me to put my best foot forward and give it all I had.”

Prior to the season starting, the boys’ team, along with Beebe’s friends and family, shaved their heads to show their support before Beebe began to lose his hair from his treatments. While the boys had purple warm ups, the girls’ soccer team showed their support by wearing purple bows with Ben’s hashtag, “#BBEEBESTRONG,” and a piece of purple tape with the number two taped to their shin guards each game.

“We wanted to show that we were here for him through such a tough time for him and his family,” said Taylor Leatherman, 12. “It was important for us to show him that Wadsworth soccer is a family and that we care about him and had his back during this time.”

It was important to both the girls’ and boys’ soccer teams to show their support for their fellow teammate.

“I felt like I was truly a part of the team throughout the season,” said Bebee. “Every time I was with the team I got to feel normal for a bit. I am thankful for all that the girls team did, their support was amazing and made me feel stronger.”

Throughout the entire process, Beebe has learned a lot about himself and the life he lives.

“My mom and I both talked about how this should be the hardest thing I should ever have to go through,” said Beebe. “Now I know that the little things don’t matter as much because I went through something really hard and I am okay now. I learned to live every day like it was my last. I wish I could have done more things like replay my last soccer game and things like that because life would have been so different.”

Transparently

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hose who are a part of the transgender community often feel that they are unheard, overlooked, and misunderstood in society.

Alex Townsend, 12, is an openly transgender student at Wadsworth High School. He says that being a transgender student has presented him with new obstacles that other students will not have to face.

to notify his teachers of his pronoun preferences.

Townsend says that even though he specifies this for his teachers, some choose to ignore them.

“Being a teenager is stressful enough, but you have the added weight of ‘do I look , masculine enough’ or ‘is doing this too feminine’,” explained Townsend.

“I will email them on the first day of the school year with my pronouns, my name that is not my birth name, and they just do not use them,”said Townsend. “Some teachers have always been supportive, which is something that I appreciate as a student.”

Though he felt that he was a boy ever since he was four years old, he began his transition in eighth grade. Not only does he have to deal with transitioning publicly, he is also faced with the challenge of new family dynamics.

This leaves Townsend frustrated, as he feels that his teachers should always respect pronoun usage.

He urges others to be aware of preferred pronouns, as they are very important to the transgender community.

“My dad did not support it,” explained Townsend.

“My mom is now supportive, but wasn’t at first.”

Natalie Martin, a Wadsworth alumnus, transgender woman and parent of two, works as a music teacher at the Lippman School in Akron. She finds it important to talk to those students that may identify as something other than their birth gender and believes that other teachers should value this as well.

Many transgender teens struggle with being accepted by their families for making this life changing step.

Because of the initial friction caused by his decision, Townsend relied on friends for help during this life changing process.

“A lot of my friends are some type of LGBT and when I was a freshman I had a lot of people that just took me under their wing,” said Townsend.

“All the people I know are pretty accepting of me.”

Because Townsend is transgender, he prefers that others use masculine pronouns when addressing him. This was the first step he took while transitioning.

At the beginning of every school year, he makes sure

“I have had two trans students in my just over two years at Lippman,” said Martin. “I make sure to ask the students who might be somewhere along the spectrum what kind of pronouns they prefer.”

Martin finds that if she refers to her students the way they prefer, other students will follow suit.

After socially transitioning by changing pronouns, preferred names, and appearance, medical transitions can be the next step depending on preference.

Terms to understand TRANSGENDER A person whose sense of personal identity or gender does not correspond to the sex they were assigned at birth, or does not conform to gender stereotypes.

Sexual orientation varies and is not dependent on gender identity.

BISEXUAL A person who experiences sexual, romantic, physical, and/or spiritual attraction to more than one gender, not necessarily at the same time, in the same way, or to the same degree.

CISGENDER A person whose sense of personal identity or gender does correspond to the sex they were assigned at birth.

NON-BINARY A person who do not identify with any gender.

Some people’s gender changes over time.

People whose gender is not male or female use many different terms to describe themselves, with non-binary being one of the most common.

BY HALLE SHAEFFER AND BRIANNA BECERRA

Transgender

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eginning in 2008, Kids Pride Clinic at Metro Health Hospital in Cleveland was the second clinic in the entire country that was available for younger LGBTQ patients.

Terry Stanson, clinical psychologist and head of the child psychiatry psychology program, has been working with children and young adults at Kids Pride for 33 years.

“We begin with comprehensive mental health evaluations to try to help identify what the family’s needs are, and then we work to try to gain access to whatever healthcare we feel is appropriate and follows the standards of medical guidelines,” explained Stanson.

“We try to support kids along their journey and help them figure out who they are.”

Support is a large part when it comes to transitioning, and there are many sources available to help along the way. Townsend says that social media has been a great outlet for him, as he is able to both receive and give support to others.

“If you follow pages on Instagram or Tumblr or anywhere on social media, there’s info like how to be safe,” reported Townsend.

He says that trans supportive platforms on social media have become his favorite place to go when he feels discouraged or is in need of reassurance.

one point a constant presence in my life,” said Martin. “For the past six years, we haven’t spoken.”

Though she experienced some backlash for the decision she had made, Martin says that she received immense amounts of support.

Coming out was only the first step, as Martin was now tasked with picking a new feminine name for herself. Her second attempt proved to be successful when she landed on the name of Natalie.

She said that she selected this name because it was a singular letter away from being the phrase “not a lie”. This was important to her, as she was finally able to be honest with herself and the rest of the world.

Feeling safe in the community is another aspect that is important to transgender individuals. Martin states that she feels safe living in Wadsworth, but she is always on guard due to recent hate crimes that have occurred against the transgender community.

“When I first came out, one of the things that I learned was that I can’t go places at night alone anymore,” said Martin.

“It is where I feel most comfortable for support because I see people who are trans and who are transitioning and it gives me hope for my transition,” said Townsend.

She says that becoming a woman has presented her with a whole new range of challenges that she never even thought about when she was a man.

Natalie Martin highlighted how important mental health is when it comes to making the decision to transition.

“It’s something that is just a factor of losing my male privilege which I had in spades, but that I don’t have at all anymore,” explained Martin.

Martin detailed her struggles with suicidal thoughts and how her one year old daughter saved her from taking her own life.

“My children would much prefer having a living daddy that’s a girl rather than a dead dad who was a boy,” said Martin.

Even though Martin struggled with her mental health, she eventually realized that being honest with herself was the only route to self satisfaction. She says that it was neither easy nor practical, but it was what she had to pursue in order to achieve happiness.

“It was remarkable because for the first time in my life, I could see a future that I actually liked to see,” admitted Martin.

After finally accepting who she was, Martin was ready to take on the challenges that came along with transitioning. She came out to her family soon after she came out to herself, but not everyone was eager to accept her for who she was.

“I had a few people who really sort of saddened me to see their lack of accepting me, and one of them was a family member that was at

“Stay true to yourself. It will take you further than any other advice that anyone can give you.”

-Natalie Martin

Faced with the obstacles of transitioning, many families reach out to support groups to find others that are faced with a similar situation.

OutSupport, a Medina originated LGBTQ support group, helps individuals and families with support before, during and after transitioning. Another support group is Margie’s Hope, a nonprofit organization out of Akron headed by Jacob Nash. This group features both youth and adult programs for the transgender community.

“We hope to provide a safe-haven to teens and children in a world where people do not understand them,” said Nash.

Members of the community turn to support groups in order to help them ease into their transition. They encourage transgender individuals to accept themselves and allow them to meet others that are going through the same process.

“Stay true to yourself,” encouraged Martin. “As cheesy as it sounds, it will take you further than any other advice that anyone can give you.”

This is the advice that she offers to all students who are struggling with their gender identity. Her experiences have made her someone that people can turn to in need of support and advice. As transgender awareness is growing, Visit wadsworthbruin.com/podcast many people are feeling as if they or scan this code to listen to are able to be the best versions of Martin’s story. themselves.

a look into the life of united states veterans W

BY ANNA WOLFINGER

adsworth alumnus, Ron Samic, served in the United States Air Force for a total of 32 years. Samic has served in ten locations worldwide, twelve assignments and has been awarded nine medals of honor.

Samic’s first conflict deployment experience was in 1992 when he was stationed at an airbase in Aviano, Italy. It was at this time that incidents in Bosnia arose, and Samic, along with his fellow soldiers, had to prepare for conflict. The year-long Bosnian War occurred when Yugoslavia started to separate into different countries neighboring Italy. As training was being conducted from a unit sent from the United States, fighting started 420 miles away from Samic in Bosnia.

“All of a sudden, real world events occurred,” said Samic. “Training stopped and real world support started.”

Samic never saw true danger right outside his door, but he was just as dedicated to being involved as the troops were. Samic was in charge of sending soldiers into actual combat. He would send them to do missions such as stop oil wells that had burst into flames, or to drive trucks with night vision goggles because RPG’s, or rocket propelled grenades filled with explosive warheads, were thrown at their tanks and other vehicles.

“I had the good opportunity of leading and sending bright people,” said Samic.

When he was stationed at the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, he had the opportunity to get to serve. He was conducting a test launch of a missile when a tasking came down for a lieutenant colonel to deploy to Afghanistan. Someone else on the base was chosen to go, but he was not prepared. Samic on the other hand, was well ready to go. After getting the “goahead” from headquarters, Samic was ready to put his 20 years of training to use.

“No one ever hopes for war, especially when you’re in the military,” said Samic. “But when it comes, what I thought was, ‘This is what the American people have paid me for.’ I was ready and I was going to go do my job.”

Military training has had a major impact on the way Samic continues to live his life. It has helped him stay calm in stressful situations, and to know that every challenge can be solved. Without the training, he would not have been as excited as he was to serve for the United States.

“What I love about the military is that whatever your job is, the training is intense and it’s constant,” said Samic. “You’re always tested.”

Samic has been awarded a total of nine awards and medals in his time of serving, but his favorite was his Bronze Star Medal. To receive the Bronze Star, one has to be in a combat environment and distinguish themselves through heroic or meritorious achievement. Samic was in a deployed location, working 24 hours seven days a week. After this exhaustion, he got pneumonia and had to be medevaced to Spain for treatments. After he finally recovered, the doctors told him that he was able to return to the States and go home.

“I said, ‘No I’m not going home, I’m going back’,” said Samic.

Samic finally retired, and upon returning to his home of Wadsworth after 32 years of service, he expected the transition back into civilian life to be difficult. Most soldiers coming back into “regular living” have an extremely hard time adjusting to the non-combat lifestyle.

“I think the fact that I was associated with a government contractor who was working on military items helped,” said Samic. “I could still speak the same ‘military language’ and I was still talking with a lot of other retired military whether they were army, navy, air force, marine or coast guard. So that was a big help.”

After accomplishing many things during his service in the United States Air Force, Samic still lives in Wadsworth and is still engulfed in the aerial field, working at Lockheed Martin near the blimp air dock in Akron, Ohio.

“Those are memories I don’t think I’ll ever forget,” said Samic. “I wish I was 19 and back doing it all again. It was nothing but a great experience for me.”

ron samic: u.s. air force

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w a d s w o r t h r e s i d e n ts r o n s a m i c a n d t i m wilson reflect on their experiences s e r v i n g i n t h e u n i t e d st a t e s m i l i t a r y

BY MICAH BECK

W

adsworth High School alumnus, Tim Wilson, enlisted into the United States Marine Corps just ten days after graduating, at the age of 19. His military experience started as he was sent to Parris Island, South Carolina for boot camp and basic training, which lasted a total of 12 weeks with no communication outside the base.

“The Marine Corps did a good job at not only being physically challenging, but mentally challenging,” said Wilson. “We started with 150 people, and after 12 weeks, there were only 15. It did a good job at making you mentally tough.”

Wilson’s Military Occupational Specialty, or MOS, was operating a tractor and trailer company, which would provide such to troops in combat. He would go on to serve as a truck-master during Operation Desert Storm, the month-long combat operation of the Persian Gulf War in early 1991. Wilson also served in combat.

“I didn’t think of anything other than the people and the mission,” said Wilson. “You’re heading down a highway as they got hit with RPGs and blasts and such, and anytime you wanted to cross the Iraqi border, you were on full alert and had heightened senses.”

After Desert Storm, Wilson would go back to Iraq over ten years later to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom, as a First Sergeant. His duties included looking over everything involving soldiers, and looked for supplies and needs. He was deployed for two years, one of those spent in Iraq.

“Once the soldiers were sent out, you lost complete communication,” said Wilson.

During Iraqi Freedom, Wilson also had some considerable accomplishments.

“I never lost a soldier,” said Wilson. “That’s pretty tough considering the odds and things they had to do. Vehicles were hit with IEDs, RPGs, small arms fire, but based on the training and equipment, it all worked out. My proudest moment was being able to lead those soldiers and bring them back.”

Throughout his time in the Marine Corps, Wilson served in many different countries, including Scotland, Norway, England, Germany, the Philippines and Japan. Though he did not serve for long, discharging in 1979, his experience in the Marine Corps helped prepare him for situations later on in his life, specifically when he joined the Army Reserves in 1980. Wilson’s experience in the Marine Corps and the Army Reserves helped him in his everyday life as a civilian as well.

“It depends on what you want out of life.” said Wilson. “Everything I did out of the military helped me on my civilian side, and some of the training and schooling I had to go through directly helped me. It helped me with my leadership. The military can offer that for people.”

After 29 years, Wilson retired from the military with a Bronze Star medal for his achievements in Iraqi Freedom, and several other military medals and recognitions.

“I’m proud to wear them, and I am thankful for what I have,” said Wilson.

Wilson remains active as a commander of the VFW Post in Wadsworth and remains in contact with fellow soldiers and officers, some of whom live as close as Doylestown. He is also a member of the American Legion, and attends reunions regularly.

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Olivia Young, 10, dressed as a mermaid, poses with her sister.

Ella McNutt, 10, poses with her siblings.

Twins, Sami and Trey Shaffer,12, get ready to take on Halloween.

Emerson Lampert, 12, dresses up as a werewolf with her sister dressed as a zebra. They are about to “prowl” into the night.

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Blake Turano, 12, gets “towed” around for Halloween in his construction worker costume.

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BALLING ON A BUDGET: thrifting

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Recently, many teens and young adults have turned thrifting into the latest craze by finding vintage, well-known brands at affordable prices.

While reusing clothing and making donations are not considered new, thrift shopping is considered a new sort of trend.

According to an article in Time magazine written in 2018 by Olivia B. Waxman, thrift stores started appearing late in the 19th century as a result of high immigration rates and mass production.

People started to throw more things out and some of the public became concerned with the amounts of waste. A stigma arose from the idea of buying someone else’s used clothes. Today’s present day thrifters at Wadsworth do not let that fact stop them though.

Faith Merkle, 12, sees thrifting as something beneficial to her and the environment.

“I definitely think the stigma about wearing used clothes is real, but it doesn’t bother me because not only am I saving myself money, I’m saving the environment,” stated Merkle.

Merkle also sees the higher prices of mass-produced clothes as wasteful and unnecessary.

“I thrift mostly because I think people waste a lot of money on fast fashion at stores like Forever 21 when in reality you can get the same style and higher quality goods for cheaper when thrifting,” said Merkle.

Other students have also picked up thrifting as a hobby to find cheap vintage clothes at places like Goodwill and Salvation Army.

See what we are gobbling about

As November sets in, the excitement for the upcoming holidays begins to spur. The abundance of food and family traditions to come on Thanksgiving day has many students waiting in anticipation for holiday break.

Zach Suarez, 12, finds himself especially excited for Turkey Day. “My favorite Thanksgiving food is mashed potatoes,” said Suarez. “I know that sounds pretty basic but for me it’s pretty vital to my meal.”

Suarez sees the way that his family prepares the mashed potatoes as anything but basic.

“My family’s potatoes are typically pretty loaded. My dad usually makes the potatoes with ranch, garlic powder, Italian seasonings, and chives,” Suarez said.

Moving on to dessert, Abby Hermann, 12, loves her family’s homemade apple pie.

“My favorite Thanksgiving dessert is the apple pie my grandparents make,” said Hermann. “I love the filling they use and how it’s served with ice cream.”

Thanksgiving food has become a popular topic every November since its original celebration in 1621. The variety of foods and mix of cultures provides something nearly everyone likes to gobble about.

ALLIE KIDD, 12, POSES IN AN ENTIRE OUTFIT THAT SHE FOUND WHILE THRIFTING.

“The best part [about thrifting] is the cheap prices, but I also love that I find things at thrift stores that I would never find in the mall.”

- Lilah Nye, 11

Spontaneous socks become stylish Plain colored socks are a thing of the past with the newest socks presenting wild, bright patterns and popular characters. Many individuals, including teachers, have been finding these bright socks for low prices all around town at places like Target and Kohl’s.

Evi Goebel, 12, sees the socks as a way to help her make an outfit more exciting.

“I think it’s a little and simple way to spruce up an outfit and make it fun,” Goebel said.

“Honestly, they cheer me up and I look forward to picking out my fun socks.”

Some of Goebel’s favorite sock designs include ones that have dogs on them and socks that remind her of the 80’s. Brenna Flath’s, 11, favorite sock designs include Christmas socks.

“My favorite are Christmas socks because they remind me of the holidays and get me in the spirit for celebration,” said Flath.

Christmas, dogs, and the 80’s are not the only designs out there. The best thing about this trend is that there are designs and themes that can include everyone.

“I don’t necessarily look for specific designs, but more so just colors. I try to make sure that I have a nice array of colors to go with any shirt choice.”

-Mr. Hanna

“Stuffing is my favorite food ever, let alone Thanksgiving food. It has to be homemade though, not from a box.”

-Elena Vukovic, 12

“My favorite Thanksgiving dessert is pumpkin pie because it is a classic.”

-Mina Leopold, 11

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Chris Callahan, 12 and Kenzie Gaume, 12 visit Mapleside Farms in Brunswick Ohio.

Pick of the patch: Students doing fun fall activities!

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Jill Painting, 10 poses with some pumpkins.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF JILL PAINTING

Juniors : Abby PHOTO COURT ES T Hanna h Ihrig homas, Kyleig Y OF KYLEIGH TAYLO take a tr h infamo R ip to C Taylor, and us Hall edar Po oWeek ends. ints

PHOTO COURTESY OF HANNA HOESEL

Hanna Hoesel, 12 and Conner Morrison, 11 hang out at Ramseyer Farm together.