Blue & Gold - April, 2013

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PROM

Prom fashions, preparations

NEWS

FEATURE

Spring

Most interesting man at FHS

Play

WEATHER

After deciding not to have a second fall play, director Debbie Benson chose to run her show And They Came For Me in the spring.

Before he began teaching History, teacher David Barkey worked as a garbage man in Germany while enjoying and learning about the culture. page 5

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TODAY Partly Cloudy High: 57 Low: 56

TOMORROW Partly cloudy High: 51 Low: 36

FEATURE How to battle senioritis page 6

Barkey

take a

quick look hats off

Art students win awards Several art students received awards at the Findlay Art League Student Art Show. Senior Rebekah Shaffer won second for her work, and six other students received Honorable Mentions.

5

things that make you look smart today

1. The average cost of a prom dress is $195, and the average ticket price is $75.

2. Throughout history, left-handed artists have been more successful than their right-handed counterparts.

3. The first NCAA Basketball Final Four ever played took place in Evanston, Illinois, where Oregon defeated Ohio State.

4. Artist Francis Cugat designed the cover for The Great Gatsby before the novel was finished so F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote it into the book through Dr. T.J. Eckleburg’s eyes.

5. World Cup referees generally run about 12 miles during each game throughout the tournament which is about five more than the players. sources: everydayhealth.com, statisticbrain.com, funtrivia.com, unc.edu, cnn. com

news around the country

Boy runs touchdown in Nebraska scrimmage Seven-year-old Jack Hoffman scored a 65yard touchdown in the University of Nebraska’s spring scrimmage. Hoffman was diagnosed with brain cancer two years ago and became friends with star running back, Rex Burkhead so the director of football decided to include him the annual game. blast from the past

First female astronaut Sally Ride was named the first ever female astronaut by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration on this day 31 years ago.

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Friday, April 19, 2013 Volume 90, Issue 5 1200 Broad Ave., Findlay, OH 45840

SUNDAY Partly cloudy High: 57 Low: 34 INDEX Editorial...............2 Entertainment....3 News/Feature.....4

Feature................5 Feature................6 Sports..................7 Prom....................8

Findlay High School will host Relay for Life event n By Kaitlin Coward

Findlay High School will host an upcoming Relay for Life event for the American Cancer Society on the new track, May 17-18.

This will be the first time a high school in this area of Ohio has organized the event.

“As the student government of Findlay High School, Student Council was approached by the American Cancer Society with the idea to host Relay for Life on the brand new track,” Student Council adviser Dianna Schweinfurth said.

“When we agreed to this, we found out that we would be the first high school in this quadrant of the state to hold the event.

“We decided to take on this enormous responsibility in order to help out.”

The group is encouraging students to get involved with Relay for Life to reach a goal monetary amount of $25,000.

“We’re really excited because most service clubs and sports teams are getting involved,” Schweinfurth said. “Millstream is also donating, and we’re asking around the area for more donations to support the cause.”

This event can bring the student body together because of its pertinence in most people’s lives.

“Cancer is something everyone can relate to or has been affected by,” sophomore Elise Light said. “It really brings us all together for this.”

Joining in this fight along with the students will be the leaders of the area American Cancer Society group.

“I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease at the age of 20 years, and several years later a lady from my church said she knew of an event that she thought I would like,” local Relay for Life manager Karla Batt said. “I was hired by the American Cancer Society (ACS) in 2005 and was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2008.

“Working for ACS and supporting the Relay for Life is more than a paycheck. I love to see people have fun and do great things in the fight against cancer.”

Along with this help, sections of Student Council will divide into groups, where they will split up the responsibility of setup and events on the night itself.

“My part is the luminaria, which is a very somber and calm ceremony where people who have lost their lives will be remembered,” Light said. “I’d love to be in charge of the fun activities, but seeing it (the luminaria) will definitely give me such a good feeling, and it really shows the most important aspect of Relay for Life.”

All of the funds go towards supporting the American Cancer Society.

“This relay will help towards raising funds for programs and services to assist cancer patients and their families in Hancock County in addition to research dollars,” Batt said.

Cancer by the numbers In the luminaria ceremony, individual luminaria bags or candles are placed along a track, sometimes in the formation of the word ‘hope’. Each bag or candle honors someone who has been diagnosed with cancer or has lost their life to cancer. They come with a personalized message and the victim’s name.

Ohio is the sixth highest state for estimated number of cancer victims in 2013.

Cancer causes one in every eight deaths worldwide, which is more than HIV/ AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined.

past luminaria

Students are eager to see others help out this great cause.

“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone together, working together towards something important,” Light said. “It’s something very positive that we can do to help out.”

The event can also serve as a learning experience for students in order to help avoid preventable cancers.

“We need to educate our kids to make good choices and take care of themselves to reduce the chances of them getting cancer in the future,” Batt said. “When people don’t use tobacco, eat right and get regular exercise, the chances of getting

Breast cancer is expected to be the highest individual number of new cases with 234,580, and respiratory system cancers are expected cause the most deaths with 163,890.

information from the American Cancer Society

cancer are reduced tremendously.”

The overall experience and funding is just one step to help try to cure cancer.

“Cancer, unfortunately, affects many friends and loved ones of everyone,” Batt said. “There are so many more people surviving today and if we can continue raising funds we will lose less of our loved ones.”

Students interested in forming a team should stop by room 264 or talk to any Student Council member.

To register or join a team, visit relayforlife.org/fhs.

Art show to be judged for first time n By Cheyenne Garnes

Findlay High School’s Art Show is going to be a juried art show, for the first time ever.

Students will submit pieces, and they will be judged to decide if they go into the show or not.

During the actual show, a judge (hopefully an art professor from the University of Findlay) will judge the winners of the show.

Having a juried art show means there will be more competition to have work displayed which ultimately means a smaller and more intimate collection and display, but more importantly, it brings a hope from teachers for a better reputation for Findlay High School’s and Findlay City School’s art departments.

“The goal is to raise expectations in the program and the students,” Jason Wagner, painting and ceramics teacher, said. “However the goals for what the art show is expected to bring goes on further.”

In a world of teaching to the test, students don’t always have the ability to think creatively, like they would in an art or a music class.

“With Standardized testing, we fail to nurture the right side of the brain,” Wagner said, “We fail to teach creative problem solving.

“It isn’t to have a right side thinker or a left side thinker we’re aiming to create a whole brain thinker.”

The expectation for the art show is not only to promote

art and creative thinking, however.

“There is also hope that it will show a more realistic show for the future art student because it is more selective,” art teacher John Gaberdiel said.

This ties in with the hopes for a better art program that is more suited to the needs of the art student.

“People often think of art careers as being ‘low paying’, but it is a very flourishing industry,” Wagner said. “There are many different jobs in fine arts, industrial arts, interior design and architecture.

“It’s crippling to not treat the arts seriously.”

Some teachers believe that art can be perceived as underappreciated subject.

“There’s an ignorance towards the art world,” Wagner said. “Art is truly everywhere, people don’t see it, they don’t get it.”

Students are looking forward to presenting their work in the juried art show.

“It is important for students to have their work displayed because it demonstrates the skills and knowledge obtained by students through each of their art classes,” sophomore Jake Brock said.

Pieces can be submitted to Wagner, Gaberdiel, or art teacher Nancy Frankenfield anytime before April 24, by any first or second semester Findlay High School art student.

The show will be held from May 6 to 17, and work will be displayed throughout the halls by the main office.

SHOW OFF

Senior Brittanne Burnside prepares for the art show by scoring coils to make a new lantern. The first ever juried Art Show will run May 6 through 17 with work displayed throughout the hallways by the main office. photo by Krystal Kornblatt

blue & gold

friday, april 19, 2013

EDITORIAL

2

OUR VIEW

Staff policy

OUR VIEW

Blue & Gold is a monthly student publication for the students of Findlay High School.

Blue & Gold is a public forum which is funded by advertising.

Relay for life event helps to support a good cause

Unless you have neglected to see the purple paint written on most of the windows or have completely missed the purple feet draped across your locker, you have probably heard about the Relay for Life event Findlay High School is hosting.

While at first glance these feet may be a little odd, they are plastered throughout the building for a good reason.

These feet represent walking for Relay for Life, a great cause that everyone in the school can soon help support.

The event, first mentioned at the OGT (Ohio Graduation Test) Lecture Series, is a program run through the American Cancer Society where people, and in this case students, get the chance to walk overnight to help support the cause of cancer research.

The night will be filled with both fun fundraising activities and a somber, memorable luminaria to honor those who are battling cancer or have lost their lives.

Cancer is such a huge issue that nearly everyone has been affected by it in some way, whether that is directly or indirectly.

Even if a person has not been influenced by cancer, it is highly likely that it will eventually have an effect on his or her life.

Cancer research is continually progressing, and it is hoped that a cure will be found within our lifetime.

While directly helping discover this cure for cancer is not in many of our futures, it is still possible to help out the cause, which should be enough to encourage participation.

With so many tragedies occuring lately, we really should do the best we can to take steps to help others in any way possible, whether it is to donate blood or to donate time in this event.

Helping others out is always important but especially now do people need to lend a helping hand.

Plus, this is the first time that a high school in this region has had the wonderful opportunity to host one of these events so a nice turnout is not only expected but also needed.

Most of the sports teams, clubs and activity groups have already formed teams, which is positive support for this event.

Community service always boasts well for a person, but this event can truly help fund a great cause.

No one wants cancer to affect their lives, but unfortunately, the number of victims is still rising. By donating a little bit of time, we will become one step closer to stopping such a harmful disease.

Letters to the editor As an open forum for students, letters to the editor are welcomed by the staff, but we request that they be 300 words or less due to lack of space. All letters must be signed. Blue & Gold staff reserves the right to edit letters without changing the meaning. Letters may be dropped in room 286.

Staff editorials All editorials without a byline reflect at least two/ thirds opinion of the Blue & Gold staff but are not necessarily the opinion of the administration.

Contact us Blue & Gold 1200 Broad Avenue Findlay, Ohio 45840 (419)-427-5474

About us Blue & Gold is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association, Quill & Scroll and the Ohio Scholastic Media Association.

Honors students regret not balancing fun with achievement n

The staff

By Lydia Bauler

With the end of the year and my high school career coming to a close, there has been a lot of talk amongst my fellow seniors and friends about the meaning behind the past four years.

Inevitably at every social gathering since March hit some talk of regrets or just long suppressed feelings have come up. The theme at large amongst several honors kids is that a good portion of suffering they put themselves through wasn’t worth it in the end.

This partly could be just senioritis talking and exhaustion wearing thin on those who are pushing to maintain or gain those coveted top positions in the class, but I think that would be discounting some very wise revelations that really only dawn when a long fight is over and the bloodshed has

already occurred.

These students are certainly reaping the rewards of their hard work with acceptance letters from top universities and scholarships arriving in the mail, but there is a definite cost to all that success.

I can’t tell you the number of times I have heard “I enjoy nothing on my resume”. Coupled with those statements also is usually something like “I used to be able stay up all night to get my homework done, now I fall asleep with my face in a textbook before hardly anything is done.”

Academics, or maybe more accurately the game of academic success, is a lot like economics. You, the student, the company, gives up resources to produce that stellar grade point average and resume which means some evaluation of how those valuable raw

materials are spent in relation to the profit is in order.

There are only so many hours in the day and so much time before caffeine ceases to give you enough of a jolt to keep you going through those eight hours of homework, studying and activities.

Basically what I am trying to say is think about how much your pristine transcript will mean at the end of high school in relationship to the reward you obtain before you run yourself into the ground.

While hard work does always pay off, it is not always nearly to the amount we come to hope for or expect. Many of those same students that may have spent long, very grueling hours chained to their desks and were accepted into amazing schools, are not able to attend because college is expensive.

Not only is college very expensive, but obtain-

ing financial aid at any school is incredibly difficult in today’s competitive, hard-pressed world. It is an unfair blow that many students who work so hard to get into those elite institutions are unable to attend because those big financial aid packets are MY so elusive.

When you spend as much time and energy on schoolwork, the payoff should be huge yet often that isn’t the case so slow down and have a little fun.

Lydia Bauler Editor-in-chief Kaitlin Coward News editor

VIEW

lydia’s outlook

to the

LETTERS EDITOR Recognize the helpers in the face of local, national distasters Dear Editor, Of late, we citizens of Findlay have suffered through a great deal.

We have been flooded, and are forced to sit passively while the deluge continues to taunt us.

We have witnessed the tragedy in Boston, only the most recent example of the many tragedies this year that seem to be growing in regularity.

Some of us have even been stripped forevermore of our loved ones, whom we care for so deeply and perhaps have taken for granted from time to time.

Though I am too afraid, I am told by people whom I hold in high regard that if one watches footage of the Boston Marathon tragedy, one would see that the responders, or “helpers” as Mr. Rogers would say, were well organized and deliberate in their actions.

They appeared on the scene in a matter of seconds, and immediately set to work helping anyone they could.

These are the heroes that we depend upon, the people who step up to the plate when terror ensues.

And what’s more, they never asked for anything in return.

For that very reason, it is a gross injustice for today’s media to forget about them.

It is necessary for the media to cover tragedies, but I hold that it is equally necessary to

acknowledge the helpers as society’s defenders against terror.

It is easy to forget about mankind’s good side; like the dark side of the moon, I often wonder if it will ever be seen.

However, we must remember that the helpers are out there, though they will never boast about themselves.

So even when the media fails to acknowledge them, know that they exist and that terror will never overcome them.

Life goes on, our city will flood again, terror will return, and we will continually be reminded that life is fleeting.

Rain, rain, rain. And the helpers will be faithfully waiting. senior Samuel Duling

EDITOR What was your initial reaction to theLETTERS Boston Marathon bombing? to the

YOUR VIEW

Indeed, when it rains in Findlay, it is a torrential downpour.

I was on Twitter the day of the Boston Marathon tragedy and noticed a powerful quote from Mr. Rogers: “I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

Never before have I seen a statement that so accurately summarizes both what is wrong with today’s society, and what we must do to fix it.

Plenty of people don’t care for the news, but their reasoning varies.

My reason is this: one can always count on the news to cover the tragedies, but can never expect to hear anything positive about mankind or the world in general.

sophomore Avrey Rob“I was in

shock. The first thing that came to my mind was 9/11.

There have been so many different tragedies occuring recently.” junior Ashley Feasel

“It was kind of freaky with North Korea lately. You can’t even be happy about doing anything anymore because you won’t know what will happen next.” senior Tess Hiatt

“It was such a tragedy because there were so many unnecessary injuries and deaths.”

senior Nick Winters

“It sounded like another thing in the news. It was tragic but just the next thing to happen.” senior Zoe Wahbeh

“I was scared because Boston is kind of close to us. If it could happen to them, it could happen to anyone.” junior Breana McPherson

“I was confused.

It was very unexpected and hard to believe that someone was capable of doing such an awful thing.” junior Bailey Duvall

Adam Beaty Sports editor Krystal Kornblatt Emily Wolfe Photo co-editors Emily Eckhardt Photographers Brandon Emsweller Zoe Houdeshell Aaron Long Tess Marshall Emma Penrose Catalina Petrescu Tim Pollele TJ Stennett Reporters Cameron Roth Artist Andy Cantrell Adviser

blue & gold

friday, april 19, 2013

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Hit List 4

To Be Loved out soon Michael Buble’s highly anticipated new studio album, To Be Loved, will hit shelves April 23.

Check out the big band inspired singer’s new croons that are said to be instant hits. In keeping with his previous albums, this release also features swingy and sappy classics, like You’ve Got a Friend in Me and Have I Told You Lately That I Love You.

5 She and Him

She and Him, a charming folksy indie duo, will release their third album, Volume 3, May 7. The group reportedly sticks with their sunny, vintage sound. With tunes reminiscent of the beach and slow summer days, this is the perfect album to satisfy that itch for vacation.

7 Crossing Cultures

1

The Great Gatsby

With a star-studded cast and thrilling plot line, The Great Gatsby promises to bring the classic novel many of us have read for our literature courses to life. The cinematography, scenery and costumes are enough to lure watchers in for a visually interesting and eerie take on one man’s quest for the American dream.

Crossing Cultures exhibition at the Toledo Museum of Art features more than a 120 pieces of art indigenous to Australia. The collection offers modern artists takes on the traditional themes and mediums found in ancient Aboriginal pieces. Come spend a free afternoon exploring the new face of present-day Australian art.

9 CAPA series

2

3 Pain and Gain Based on a true story that was originally chronicled in The Miami Times, the film follows a band of bodybuilders turned criminals as they try to take down a corrupt business man. The unfortunate antiheroes soon find their mission goes terribly wrong in a kidnapping, extortion and murder debacle.

The Big Wedding Something has to go wrong at a wedding, like the cake falling, but the GriffinO’Connor nuptials take a much more dramatic blow. With the religious, long lost birth mother of the groom arriving for the ceremony, the divorced Griffins must put on a show that they still are married as they prepare for their adopted son’s wedding. Trouble ensues as family dynamics are thrown through a loop.

Columbus’s arts organization, CAPA, has a wonderful spring seasoned planned with War Horse and Les Miserables both coming to the stage.

Sheeran and Swift

Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift will be in Columbus at Nationwide Arena on May 8. The two musician’s vastly different styles guarantee the evening will be filled with variety.

Columbus Crew Columbus Crew will be playing D.C. United at Columbus Crew Stadium at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 27.

Tickets start at $25 for a fairly affordable, fun night out with friends or family.

10 Saturday Night Live

Christoph Waltz hosts

Catch the Oscar-winning actor getting goofy at 11:30 p.m. on Saturday. Most likely known to audiences for his performance in Inglorious Bastards, Waltz promises to be a hysterical host with his slapstick comedy and awesome accent.

imdb.com, www.filmofilia.com, huffingtonpost.com, righteousfilm.com, www.filmequals.com, movieinsider.com, jaciburton.com, wunderground.com, musicboxtheatre.com, imjustsaying.info, comingsoon.net

From music to movies, we tell you the good, the bad and the ugly MOVIES

The Host surprises n By Catalina Petrescu

Title: The Host Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Jake Abel, Diane Kruger Plot: Based on Stephenie Meyer’s bestselling book, this sci-fi movie relays the story of what happens when creatures from another world take over the bodies of your loved ones. Seekers are “aliens” in human bodies that search for remaining humans to replace them with ‘souls.’ Wanderer is the soul put in Melanie’s body, but Melanie refuses to let go, pushing to stay alive. This is the story of how she fought back for herself and the survival of everyone she cares about.

Why see it: The Host takes a bit of a different path than its novel, starting out with a rising conflict between the main seeker (Kruger) and Melanie/ Wanderer (Ronan). The seeker follows Wanderer’s every step, insisting that Melanie’s memories are the key to the last remaining human resistance. The acting, emotional depth, well-adapted screenplay, beautiful scoring and visual triumph are what makes this film a success.

Unlike Meyer’s other works, The Host is creative, touching and significant.

The movie may not go as deep as the book, but it is a good adaptation and is very enjoyable for those who have and have not read the book.

Grade: A-

G.I. Joe: Retaliation falls short n By Catalina Petrescu

Title: G.I. Joe: Retaliation Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Bruce Willis, Channing Tatum Plot: The G. I. Joes have to save the world by fighting their enemy, Cobra, and the infiltrated United States government.

Why see it: G. I. Joe Retaliation has too many mini-plots scattered throughout the film. The main idea of the story is poorly executed and at many times leaves the audience asking the person next to them “Uh, what is going on? I thought…” There are barely any action sequences worth the appeal of this “action” movie. Snake Eyes and Storm Shadow are the only reason to watch this film. Other than the ninjas, there is really nothing else. The audience is supposed to accept the idea that the huge Roadblock (Johnson) is second in command to Duke (Tatum) even though “The Rock” is a massive and much bigger man than his commander. His entire entrance into this sequel is forced. There is not enough Duke (Tatum), and there are no spots of comic relief like the movie’s predecessor. G. I. Joe: Retaliation is disappointing and makes the audience wish the next possible good movie, Oblivion, would just come out already.

Grade: C

TELEVISION

Mad Men premieres strong n By Lydia Bauler

Title: Mad Men Starring: January Jones, Jon Hamm and Christina Hendricks Plot: Season six opens as several characters navigate old issues in new arenas. Peggy (Elisabeth Moss) battles to prove herself worthy as a woman of her position at a new advertising firm. Pete (Vincent Kartheiser) and Don (Hamm) both continue their cheating ways with new mistresses. The office is moving with the times, but the characters themselves largely are doing what they do best, selling ads and behaving badly.

Why see it: Mad Men can be counted on for a few things, great clothes, complicated relationships and good writing that manages to please yet not surprise. The series rarely leaves viewers slack-jawed with surprise at plot twists since the characters generally behave so true to their forms, but it has some of the strongest personas on television. This tradition continues in the new season with nothing particularly changing except for time, which is aggressively pushing towards the 1970s.

Grade: A-

MUSIC Timberlake picks up where he left off n By Emily Wolfe

Album: The 20/20 Experience Artist: Justin Timberlake Sound: R&B/Pop Last Release: FutureSex/LoveSounds Why Buy It: Like the album title states, Timberlake’s newest release is more of an experience than an album. Although most tracks last longer than seven minutes, it will keep you entranced and wanting more. The mix of R&B in tracks like That Girl and catchy pop songs like Body Count show the uniqueness of this album. Even though Timberlake took a seven-year break from music, The 20/20 Experience picks up where he left off.

Download this: Blue Ocean Floor Grade: A+

OneRepublic shines with Native n By Kaitlin Coward

Album: Native Artist: OneRepublic Sound: Pop/Rock Last Release: Waking Up Why buy it: OneRepublic has created a hit in their third studio album. The group manages to combine the upbeat, feel-good melodies that they are known for with a variety of new sounds.

This release blends the increasingly popular dance beat with powerful vocals from front-man Ryan Tedder, while still managing to make each track sound original in its own way.

In one song, Light It Up, the band even develops a sound reminiscent to that of indie rock band The Black Keys. The lyrics are well thought-out and meaningful, and Tedder’s falsetto really shines throughout the album, along with the skill of each of the musicians. In a time where autotune and synthesized music has run rampant, it is really refreshing to hear a variety of instruments, lyrics and vocals in an album. OneRepublic shows off their creativity and talent in Native, which is arguably one of the best albums released so far this year.

Download this: I Lived Grade: A

Fall Out Boy makes comeback n By Kaitlin Coward

Album: Save Rock and Roll Artist: Fall Out Boy Sound: Pop Punk Last release: Folie à Deux Why buy it: After the band broke up about five years ago, a return was highly unexpected. Following multiple rumors of their comeback, the group officially announced their return in late February. Save Rock and Roll brings Fall Out Boy’s usual pop punk sound, but it also includes songs more suited to the radio. The album is littered with surprising accompaniments from Courtney Love to Elton John, making some of the tracks sound a little odd and unorthodox, which works on some occasions but not others. The lyrics can also get a little repetitive with the same lines being repeated too often. Save Rock and Roll channels more pop than punk through lead singer Patrick Stump, who does stand out with a wide range of vocals. While the album overall may not be the greatest, the beats are definitely contagious and catchy.

Download this: Save Rock and Roll Grade: B-

dlo19, g &2013 eul friday, april

blue & gold

NEWS/FEATURE

4

COMING SOON

Choir heads to state n By Aaron Long

Concert and Symphonic Choir will compete at State at Van Buren High School Saturday, April 27.

“Both choirs have a very strong work ethic,” director Craig VanRenterghem said. “The concert choir has some issues in focusing on musicality, but this is a very minor problem.”

Although the Symphonic Choir has run into some trouble with intonation, the directors seem confident enough that this problem does not majorly detract from the choir’s overall quality.

“Our kids are going to do really well,” director Kevin Manley said. “Our reputation is our biggest challenge. We have to live up to that.”

Findlay first edition presents annual cabaret n By Zoe Houdeshell

DONATE

Senior LyAnne Salinas listens to the nurse’s instructions on donating blood. The two day blood drive was held at Millstream with help from the Red Cross.

photo by Emily Wolfe

Senior speaks at naturalization event n By Lydia Bauler

Senior Zoe Wahbeh addressed 37 newly minted citizens at a naturalization ceremony this past Monday, April 15.

Wahbeh was one of four seniors from area schools to speak at the event about the duties and privileges of citizenship.

“I gave a speech on the benefits of citizenship,” Wahbeh said. “The benefits of citizenship, to me at least, are definitely the fact that you can vote and influence the government.

“You are protected by the United States government no matter where you are and your residency as a naturalized citizen cannot be revoked at anytime.”

Other benefits of citizenship discussed in her presentation included, the freedom of expression and ability to help others become a member of the United States.

“You have the freedom to express yourself or if you feel that you are not able to voice your concerns, fight for that change as a citizen,” Wahbeh said. “If you had a non-American family member, you could now sponsor them for permanent residency.”

Wahbeh has a unique perspective on naturalized citizenship since her own father became a citizen in 1996.

“It was a very cool thing to witness the new citizens taking their oath,” she said. “It

was very nerve-wracking, but it was kind of cool being at a naturalization ceremony where I’ll actually have some memories from it since I was little when my dad went through the process.”

Wahbeh was able to share a small excerpt from her father’s speech that he shared with his own naturalization class.

“It was definitely a good moment getting to share the experience with him, but it was a moment,” Wahbeh said. “We both moved on pretty quickly after that.

“I don’t talk to him about his naturalization very often, but it is was nice to have him there to hear my speech.”

Homelands

Band plays in OMEA concert Where the new citizens immigrated from: - United Kingdom - Somalia - India - Mexico - Russia - Serbia - Canada - Brazil - Iraq - Jordan - Vietnam - Philippines - Jamaica - Ghana - Portugal

Students will perform in newly added spring play n By Krystal Kornblatt

ACT OUT

Sophomores Anthony Oyer, Cheyenne Garnes and Emma Penrose rehearse a scene from And They Came For Me. The play follows a girl who hid with Anne Frank in Nazi Germany and her struggle after her family is separated. photo by Krystal Kornblatt

After finishing the spring musical, The Wizard of Oz, Activities Director Debbie Benson is starting her spring play And Then They Came For Me. The play is about a girl who is locked in the hideaway with Anne Frank and her family in Nazi Germany.

Not knowing what will happen to her, the family gets split up and taken to different concentration camps.

“This play is very different from anything I have ever done,” Benson said. “It takes audio and video from real Holocaust survivors, Ed Silverburg and Eva Schloss and incorporates it within the acting.”

Benson normally has a fall play but after careful consideration, she decided to have it in the spring.

“We didn’t have enough guys to do the play

Findlay First Edition will showcase their talent in the annual Cabaret May 3 at 7:30 p.m. and May 4 at 2:00 and 7:30 p.m. in the R.L. Heminger Auditorium.

Students enjoy participating in Cabaret each year, especially as seniors.

“Cabaret is always amazing because it gives it’s such a great chance to showcase our individual talent to our audience,” senior Danya Crow said.

Admission is $5 for students and $10 for adults. Tickets can be purchased Monday through April 29 to May 3 or at the door.

in the fall,” Benson said. “Kids who had tried out in the fall got the chance to do it now. “ Benson had a select few students she wanted to email about being in the play, and those who are participating are sophomores Anthony Oyer, Emma Penrose, Maysen Beard, Cheyenne Garnes and juniors Cody Bloomfield, Sierra Klotz and Destinee Ansel.

Not having any seniors in this year’s production is very rare.

“There will always be controversy not having any seniors,” Oyer said. “ It will be good though, we won’t have to dread their departing since it would have been their last show.”

Students are eager to perform in one of the first spring plays.

“I’m most excited to see the audience’s reaction,” Oyer said. “Since we are incorporating so many different audio and video effects into the play, it will be good.”

n By Kaitlin Coward

Band will compete in the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) State Contest, April 26 and 27 at Findlay High School.

The group is looking forward to performing against other Ohio bands.

“Anytime we have a chance to set the bar higher, it’s a good thing,” director Tim Mattis said. “While every year is a new experience, the one thing we do consistently well is keep our focus towards our goal.”

Tickets are free.

HEADS UP Speaker Sarah Panzau shares her survival story n By Kaitlin Coward

Drunk driving survivor and speaker Sarah Panzau shared her story with the juniors and seniors in a presentation April 9, 2013 in the R.L. Heminger Auditorium.

Panzau spoke about her crash and how her life changed since the accident.

“The paramedics gave me a zero percent chance to survive,” Panzau said. “I literally showed no signs of life, but fortunately the emergency team was able to stabilize me.”

Along with talking about her background, Panzau advised students to avoid drinking and driving and to use her as an example.

“You see those pictures (of accidents) plastered all over Driver’s Education classes and in the news, but you never think something like that could happen to you,” she said. “As a teenager, you think you are invincible when the reality is that you aren’t.”

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friday, april 19, 2013

FEATURE

EXPLORER

5

History teacher David Barkey tells his many tales about his younger years. Stories of exploring Europe and other adventures give him the title of The Most Interesting Man at FHS.

photo by Emily Wolfe

History teacher shares European travels and experiences

n By Lydia Bauler

While history teacher David Barkey claims he really is not very interesting, students frequently thrill in his anecdotes, like his accidental participation in a Communist chess club.

Though he went on to live and travel around several European countries acquiring experiences he often relates in the classroom, Barkey grew up in Findlay.

“I was kind of an outsider,” Barkey said. “I went to prom one year and I was on the debate team with Mr. Bell (a fellow-former Findlay history teacher). I was a low profile kind of a kid.”

According to his daughter, junior Sarah Barkey, he led a very typical life for the time period in Findlay.

“He was such an average 1950’s kid,” Sarah Barkey said. “He was a Boy Scout and played Monopoly and watched war movies.

“But he also did weird things like buying a tomato for a snack instead of ice cream on a school trip.”

After spending a fairly quiet childhood in Findlay, Barkey attended an ivyleague college.

“I went to Dartmouth as a history major,” David Barkey said. “I also did a major in German, but it never showed up on my transcript for some reason.

“I chose German because I had a horrible time in French so I figured maybe I would pick up another language more easily. I caught on much faster and it was much easier for me to learn German.”

Barkey pursued history due to his long-standing enjoyment of the subject.

“I just always loved history,” Barkey said. “I wasn’t sure what exactly I wanted to do with it, but I wanted to know how things worked and how they came to be the way they are.”

After completing his college education, he put his knowledge of European

history and German to use as he lived in Europe.

“I went off to Europe and took a job as a garbage man in Germany after college,” Barkey said. “I wanted to learn the language and raise more money to travel the next summer in Europe.”

The social studies buff enjoyed experiencing German culture firsthand.

“I was young, free and easy,” Barkey said. “It was a classic getting to experience the world on your own for the first time.

“It was the first real time getting to know that part of the world. It was that sense of the world opening up for the first time. It was different than studying abroad and it was just so different from Findlay.

“It was exciting to, without effort, pick up a German magazine and indulge in this exotic culture. It was a sense that the doors were opening.”

In addition to taking pleasure in being able to engage in the language, Barkey was able to partake in many aspects of German life across class divisions.

“They knew I was a student so I was able to spend time with the (garbage) company owner,” Barkey said. “I experienced quite a range of German life with my work as a garbage man.

“My crew ate lunch once a week at this place that reserved tables for regulars. We shared a table with a bunch of chimney sweeps with their black sooty clothes and scarves. I had no idea there were still chimney sweeps like in Mary Poppins.”

Barkey also encountered interesting political differences while in Europe.

“Once I went down from Germany to Greece and when I got to the border there were all these guards with big guns so that was a little scary,” Barkey said.

“The whole concept of the iron curtain is a lot different over there.

“While doing one of my two quarters studying abroad, I took a trip to West and East Berlin. We crossed the wall with all the guards and the wall is a lot scarier over on the East German side.”

May 15, 2013

May 15, 2013

PIN POINT

The countries where Barkey has traveled that were mentioned in the article are marked with a dot.

Source: infoplease.com

friday, april 2013 dl19, og & eul friday, february 22, 2013

blue & gold

6

FEATURE FEATURE

Battling senioritis n

By Lydia Bauler

It’s that time of year

when the college recruitment mail has trickled off and the interest level of seniors has quickly followed.

Senioritis is characteristically running rampant with increased absences, genuinely excused and “excused,” and untouched homework that is sloppily copied from that one kid that still kind of cares.

“I would say my seniorits is pretty bad,” senior Kaliegh Alge said.

“I am definitely ready for the year to be over.

“I guess just not really having a lot of motivation to do my schoolwork is the biggest one (symptom). Other than physics I don’t worry too much about my classes.”

Plan ahead for lack of interest Teachers typically notice this change in student’s attitudes.

“I definitely notice seniors starting to have problems with senioritis,” physical education teacher Jodi Garver said. “Usually I start to notice it at the start of fourth quarter.

“Some classes even begin to lose focus at the second semester.

They don’t think they need to work as hard and the attendance drop is sometimes noticeable.”

This lack of motivation for many students is something they anticipate and plan for their senior year.

“I partially chose classes that were less challenging since it was my senior year,” Alge said. “I knew I did not want to take Calculus, but part of it was just because I didn’t do great in Pre-Calc so that’s just part of why I am taking Algebra III.” Jumping Alarm Clock The perfect wake up call for a heavy sleeper, this alarm clock jumps off your bedside table when it goes off in the morning.

Remember school still matters Other seniors combat their lack of motivation by having a determined attitude.

“I motivate myself by just kind of making myself continue to work,” senior Lauren Klingel said. “I know it’s almost the end of the year so I do not have to hold on for much longer.

“It still matters because colleges will ask for your last semester transcript, and I do want to end high school on a good note since I have been a pretty good student since starting out freshman year in honors classes.”

Even those who largely remain dedicated to getting their schoolwork done experience difficulty concentrating on academics.

“There are some nights that I don’t even get my books out of the car,” Klingel said. “I am doing much better than my friends though who don’t even bring books home anymore.”

With the lack of motivation, comes the practice of focusing on more entertaining activities.

“I like to avoid doing my homework by doing things like online shopping or going on Pinterest,” Klingel said. “I will lay out my clothes and plan my outfits instead of studying.”

Students typically have a tendency to stray from their normal everyday schedules.

“I will do fun things on a school night and I don’t really pay as much attention to what time I am going to bed anymore or things like that,” Alge said. “I may decide to watch a movie when it’s already like 10:30 rather than just going to bed.”

Oh the Places You’ll Go The perfect send-off to a nail-biting graduate, this book will give an instant boost of confidence.

Mason Jar Sewing Kit This kit provides all the necessary materials to keep your graduate’s wardrobe in tip top shape, even without their mother present.

Poster No matter your graduate’s interests, they will undoubtedly want something to spice up the bare cement walls of their dorm room.

Eco-friendly Phone Charger For an eco-friendly grad, this charger shuts off when your phone is fully charged to conserve energy.

Watch To balance college courses, friendship and Grey’s Anatomy, it will be necessary for your grad to keep a close eye on the time.

How to be a Gentlemen This book is the perfect reminder to a graduating male of how to remain (or become) a stand-up gentlemen in college.

Coffee Maker Perfect for late nights and early mornings, coffee is a perfect pick me up whether cramming for a test or rolling out of bed.

Make the most of time left Teachers use this desire for a change of pace to hold students’ attention. The Huffington Post recommends educators involve seniors in more real-world lessons to help satisfy the craving for change.

“In physical education, it’s a little easier, but I really try to give seniors alternatives so that they have a little more freedom,” Garver said.

“I try to give them other things to do that are a little more interesting.”

In order to ensure that homework is completed in a timely manner despite reluctance to do it, some seniors attempt to tackle schoolwork during study halls.

“I definitely don’t spend as much time doing homework or studying anymore so I try to get most of my work done before I go home,” Alge said.

Isolating yourself from distractions also helps you to make the most of the limited study time put in by students.

“I try to make a definitive list of things I have to get done,” Klingel said. “I also try to stay off of Twitter and Facebook while I study and use my phone as little as possible.

“That way it doesn’t take me an extra two hours to complete an assignment because I am not really concentrating on it.”

Upperclassmen’s biggest piece of advice to future and fellow seniors is to stick with it throughout the last year.

“Just try to stay focused on your schoolwork and keep your grades up because it will pay off once you are finally getting ready for college,” Alge said.

Cleaning Supplies Although cleaning may not be most people’s idea of fun, these cleaning supplies can be a subtle hint to the organizationally challenged.

Backpack Whether carrying their schoolbooks or laptop, no student ever outgrows the use of a sturdy, wellmade backpack.

Price of college becomes key factor n

By Brandon Emsweller

Every year thousands of students enter high school with the thought that if they work hard, they will have a real chance of getting into the college or university of their choice.

Today, the average cost of attending a four year college or university is on average $43,289 a year for private colleges and $22,261 a year for state colleges.

When students are looking for a college or university, their first thought is cost and availability of scholarships.

“At first, I didn’t look at the price of the school but once I narrowed to two schools, it came down to which school offered me the most money,” senior Becca Snedeker-Meier said.

“I chose the school that allowed me to go to school at a reasonable price.”

Once a student narrows down the colleges they can afford, then comes the choice of attending a private or public college, which they

then pick the one that is right for them.

“I picked a private school because I wanted a smaller school where I can have a close relationship with my teachers,” Snedeker-Meier said.

Sometimes students pick a college because they can afford it and are not able to go to their first choice because it is too expensive.

“Of the schools I was accepted to, it was my first choice but cost was also a factor,” Snedeker-Meier said.

When getting accepted into college there are opportunities beforehand that can help increase scholarship choices for college payments.

“My grades and ACT score were good because I took the ACT twice so I understood the time limit better,” Snedeker-Meier said. “I also had to write three essays for certain scholarships like Academic, Leadership, and Religious.”

Underclassmen can also prepare for paying for college by taking steps now to prepare.

“Right now I am looking into what type of

career choices I want to do,” sophomore Dakota Callaway said. “Another thing I do is check my GPA and look at colleges that will offer me scholarships, and I also practice for my ACT.” Despite the work needed to secure your ability to continue your education financially, student’s benefit in the long run.

“I want to go to college so I can learn about my career choice, and it also can be easier to get a job with a college degree,” Callaway said Interest in military is another option for paid education and financial aid.

“Well since I am going to do a program called Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) it will help pay,” Callaway said. “It’s a program for people interested in the military, which pays for college.”

With how important college is to the success of students, it also is a good investment for the future.

“Apply for as many scholarships as you

can,” Snedeker-Meier said. “There are even scholarships you can apply for before your senior year, and take the ACT serious because most people I’ve talked to that have gotten good scholarships also had a high ACT score.”

Universities also recommend focusing on a strong academic and financial base.

“When preparing for college payments the biggest thing they can do early on is focus on academics,” Ed Recker, head of Financial Aid at The University of Findlay, said. “To keep a solid GPA will go a long way. The other thing is save what you can, and save early.”

You can also sign up for a Financial Aid plan for the college you want to attend.

“Fill out a complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA),” Recker said.

“It is a document that will help institutions with students in need of money and federal aid.”

Recker said. “You also could contact universities for hidden scholarships.”

PREPARE Freshmen: •Start high school with good grades •Take challenging courses

Sophomores: •Get a job •Build your resume •Take the PSAT or PLAN test

Juniors: •Start looking at colleges •Take the SAT/ACT •Look for early scholarships

Seniors: •Apply for college, scholarships and grants •Avoid senioritis

friday, april 19, 2013

blue & gold

SPORTS Basketball tournament brings memorable moments n By Brandon Emsweller

An eventful March Madness has come to an end with Louisville winning the 2013 Basketball National Championship.

This spring’s tournament had many historical moments, including plays and injuries that will be remembered for years to come.

A game that was special to basketball and Michigan fans alike was when Trey Burke hit a long three pointer that put the team into overtime against Kansas. In the end Michigan won, closing the big second half point gap.

“This game was huge for Michigan, because they had to come back from a huge deficit,” senior Montrel Moss said. “Then, when Trey Burke made a game saving three against Kansas was amazing. If he never hit that three pointer they probably would not have gone to a Championship game.”

The Ohio State Buckeyes also had the same luck as Michigan by having two buzzer beater games against Iowa State and Arizona.

“They were very strategic and knew they had confidence to pursue these two buzzer beater games,” senior Christina McQueen said. “These two games showed that Ohio State plays until the last second, which made these games special.”

Rising from the first fifteen seed, Florida Golf Coast University “dunked” their way to the Sweet Sixteen.

“Dunk City was possibly the best dunking team, and it was great to see them make it to the Sweet Sixteen, but it was probably the first and last time they will make it,” said Moss.

La Salle was another big name in the tournament while beating top seeded teams to make it back to the Sweet Sixteen for the first time since 1955.

“I picked La Salle for my bracket because I had a lot of faith in them,” McQueen said. “La Salle put a statement in the basketball nation that any team can make the Sweet Sixteen.”

The biggest dark horse and the most unexpected team to make to the Final Four was Wichita State.

Everybody knew their name after they beat the number one seed Gonzaga, then La Salle and Ohio State to ultimately play Louisville in the Final Four.

“Wichita State shocked me this year because they weren’t expected to go very far,” McQueen said. “This team showed that they were capable to work as one against big name teams, and a Final Four appearance showed that hard work was worth it in the long run.”

Arguably the most memorable and unexpected event of March Madness was the Duke and Louisville game, when Kevin Ware broke his leg deflecting a shot.

This injury was very shocking to the basketball world, but was a motivator for the Louisville team.

“It was probably one of the most gruesome injuries that was uncensored on live television,” Moss said. “When the injury happened Louisville was inspired to get to a National Championship, which gave bench players like Luke Hancock his time to shine when entering the Final Four.”

7

Passing the test

Pulling the yellow card Students referee for summer job

n By Adam Beaty

s while others are Summer is slowly creeping closer, and students are planning their vacation looking for summer jobs. certified class threeJunior Eric Beard was among those searching, but recently he became a baseball umpire as a summer job. of money,” Beard “I had friends who did it as a job for awhile and they were making a lot thought if I learned I played.

I when calls easy up messing said. “I was also tired of bad umpires others.” the all than better how to then I could be to high school and The baseball certification process is based on three classes, three for up one for professional games. at the end of “For class three, you have to pay for a class that starts in January and stops rules that the the d discusse we class, the “In said.

Beard test,” a pass to March, then you have instructors wanted us to. call on the field.”

“I need to have a great understanding of each rule so I can make the right tion process. certifica different a has which soccer is Another sport for students to referee way up with the your work and nine grade at start you soccer, for levels “There are different year you “Each said. nd lower the number the higher level of match,” junior Clayton Hildebra year.” every tweaked have to recertify because the rules and regulations are Although many referees are certified, it is not always necessary. take a test, while “When first starting in soccer, you have to take a couple day classes then in the city,” umpire to for baseball you just have to take a one day class with no charge in order Hildebrand said.

Hildebrand do it.

Refereeing isn’t a common first time job, but athletes such as Beard and said. “I’m too old Beard ,” Baseball Youth Findlay umpired I so certified “Last year I wasn’t the best view have I game. to play so it’s fun to be on the field again and watch a good baseball on the field.” it would be fun.

While Beard wanted to do his best while earning money, Hildebrand thought game,” the love I since enjoy I that g somethin be would it knew I “I play soccer and how to handle it.”

Hildebrand said. “Although the parents and coaches can be a pain, you learn keep doing my job to way best the it’s them, “The last couple of years I just learned to ignore them.” to speak to have I unless it gets really out of hand then ing.

Even though referees have to learn how to deal with them, it is still challeng argue a call, “I hate when the parents from the stands yell at me, I understand if the coaches Series World the in is kid their like act but there is no stopping the parents,” Beard said. “They when he is not, it’s really just a game.”

Despite the difficulties, both plan on continuing this as a job for a while. said. “I could “I will probably continue doing this into college, if I get better at it,” Beard I get older.”` when majors the even or league possibly be able to do college, minor

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Fashion design student creates dress for prom n By Tess Marshall

Whether you have been searching for the perfect prom dress since freshmen year, or will be making a quick run to the thrift shop the weekend before, every prom attendee struggles with the perfect outfit for the special night.

Senior Anna Laube has taken the search into her own hands by designing her own dress to wear to prom.

“What inspired me was an idea I saw on Pintrest,” Laube said. “I wanted a color that would complement my skin tone.”

Anna took her idea to fashion teacher Laurie Collert, who told her making her own dress would be a great idea.

“I designed the dress and created my own pattern with Mrs. Collert’s help and created my dream prom dress,” Laube said.

Laube has been a fashion student for four years, beginning her classes as a freshman.

“I signed up for fashion design in eigtth grade because I thought it would be fun,” Laube

said. “It wasn’t until sophomore year that I really started to love fashion.”

Laube has taken Collert’s classes each year, now being a “fashion four” student.

“Anna started in my class when she was a freshman,” Collert said. “With freshmen, I try to build confidence. Being able to do something like fashion design gives the kids a sense of achievement, self-expression and individuality.”

Many of Collert’s students have created their own prom dresses and even achieved the Grand Champion title at the Hancock County Fair.

“Anna is a level four fashion design student,” Collert said. “The difficulty level of making a prom dress is very high, being a challenge for almost any student to achieve.”

Laube completely created her own dress, meaning that she set all her own guidelines.

“She has been working on the dress for about a month and a half,” Collert said. “She even created her own pattern, so it involved a lot of time and effort on her part.”

Although the dress can be a challenge, Laube approached the dress with a head-on attitude.

“First I had to make a fake dress, just to get the fit right, and then I ripped it apart and used the fake dress as my pattern,” Laube said. “The construction was not difficult, but putting all the beads in the right places and learning how to do the fish lining on my skirt were definitely the hardest parts.”

The fashion design program has been beneficial to many students circulating through Findlay High School.

“We always did crafting at home which I do think helped spark her interest, but the true spark came from her fashion design classes,” Anna’s mother, Mrs. Laube said. “Mrs. Collert and her design classes are the reason for Anna’s interest in fashion. Anna says many times that Mrs. Collert has changed her life in many ways.”

Anna plans to attend Ursuline College in the fall to major in Fashion Design and minor in business.

“I find fashion design beyond beneficial. I

went into the class not knowing one thing about sewing,” Laube said. “Mrs. Collert has given me skills I can carry with me throughout my career in fashion.”

She aspires to own her own bridal boutique and design wedding dresses.

“In the future, I plan to keep making my own clothes,” Laube said. “You cannot go to a store and buy a garment that is made specifically for your body.”

Laube also plans on attending her senior prom, where she will be the only attendee boasting her own original creation.

“Anna’s dress looks great,” Mrs. Laube said.

“I am very proud that my daughter has the talent to make her own prom dress.”

Despite all of the college plans and career aspirations, Anna will give one final send-off to Findlay High at her senior prom, sporting her one-of-a-kind dress.

“The best part of it all is that I know no one at the dance will have my dress,” Laube said.