The Chronicle, 3.2

William Mason High School Mason, Ohio

The

She’s number ONE! see page 10

Chron l cle

November 4, 2005 Volume 3 Issue 2

6100 South Mason Montgomery Road, Mason, Ohio 45040

NEWS Flash Students and staff members contribute to worthy causes Students, staff members and families raised funds for The Robert Peraza Foundation and The Wendy Faulkner Memorial Children's Foundation, established in the memory of local residents who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Donations to the two foundations amounted to $3,326.18.

The district was also very generous in collecting funds for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. As a district, Mason City Schools contributed $37,959.68 to the American Red Cross for Hurricane Katrina relief.

In other relief efforts, MHS English teacher Betsy Carras led an initiative that collected nearly three truckloads of school supplies for Acadiana High School in Lafayette, Louisiana. In the intermediate school, students collected schools supplies and backpacks that are being shipped to students at Kennedy Elementary School in McComb, Mississippi.

Voters to decide the fate of Mason schools...again

BY OLGA BORODULIN Chronicle Editor Mason residents will be returning to polls on November 8 to decide on the longdebated issues concerning school funding.

The ballot will include different candidates running for three open school board positions. The ballot will also include eight referendums, seven of which were petitioned by the Mason School Board, and 1 from the opposing levy group, CARE, or Citizens for Accountability and

Results in Education.

CARE founder, John Meyer, has been actively working in Mason to "make the school board look at unnecessary spending and become more accountable." Meyer attests that CARE is simply trying to look out for the interests of senior citizens and low-income families who cannot afford the tax increase.

School board officials have been asking residents for support using their campaign slogan, "Vote NO in NOvember."

In the midst of the battles for votes, sen-

BY MATT HUNTER Chronicle Staff Writer

Chronicle

P l l 48% no

42%

yes

10% not sure (Based on a survey of 200 students.)

INSIDE...

SPORTS

14

OPINION

22

CENTERSPREAD SNEAK PEEK Senior Cody Hanson and sophomore Leah Bromley survived a horrific car accident over the summer. In the centerspread, you’ll see how they are lucky to be alive.

see Referendum page 2

Fifth Grader brings Carson to school

Should the issue of abortion play such a major role in the confirmation of Supreme Court Justices?

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 7

ior and future voter Brent Burnett can understand why some community members may be confused on the voting topic.

"Since I've attended several board meetings and researched the topic, I understand it. However, if you don't understand the issues and take time to look at the issues, then there are [community members] who will be confused," Burnett said.

Such confusion has been centered on the change in the Mason School Board cam-

Chronicle photo by Josh Geiger

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer is escorted into Mason Intermediate School by fifth grader Drew Matula who brought Palmer to school on October 25.

For a day in late October, Drew Matula was the man. On Tuesday, October 25, the Mason Intermediate fifth grader was able to bring his newest friend to school.

The new friend, only the NFL’s early favorite for Most Valuable Player and Bengals star quarterback Carson Palmer.

Matula was one of thirty-four students across the nation that won the grande prize for the Take an NFL Player to School program, in which one student from every NFL market was given the opportunity to take a local NFL player to school. Matula and Palmer emerged from their chauffer-driven limousine at Mason Intermediate to hoards of students, staff members, and the media.

Palmer got an early morning surprise when he found out that Drew was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan. It was an ongoing joke between the two all morning.

Palmer said it was okay, as long as he didn't put on a Ben Rothlisberger jersey.

"You don't have a Rothlisberger jersey, do you,” Palmer joked with Matula while they appeared on ESPN’s Cold Pizza.

Palmer spent much of the morning with students, answering questions and tossing footballs. The highlight of the day for the rest of the intermediate students was when Palmer spoke to them and answered their questions, which ranged from "who can cover 85 in 2005?" to what was his favorite subject in school.

"It's good to remind these kids that school is important. It's more than recess, it's a chance to learn and set yourself up for the rest of your life,” Palmer said.

Skateboarders may soon have a place to call their own

BY CANDICE PHILPOT Chronicle Staff Writer Skateboarders in Mason may soon have a place to call their own. After months of anticipation, debate and minor tiffs with the local police, the dream of skateboarders is finally becoming a reality.

Forty-nine Mason students of all ages filled the conference room at the Mason Municipal Building on October 13 to attend the first meeting for designing the skate park that will potentially be built in Mason.

"I know a lot of the skateboarders have been waiting a long time for this. I know it's been talked about, but it's finally happening," park chairman Steve Gayfield said.

The design ideas included input from

local skateboarders who have been closely following the situation.

"The plans are really specific, and [the park board] wants to build what [the skateboarders in Mason] want," freshman Collin Martin said.

SITE Design Group, a skate park design and building company, will be carrying out the construction of the Mason skate park project.

"The two skate park styles we will be looking at are a street-style park, and a bowl- or ramp-style park," SITE Project Manager Brad Siedlecki said.

Although the Mason Skate Park Board is currently in the process of designing the park, the actual construction of the park is still only a possibility.

"Right now, we are just starting the design. We're not talking about construc-

tion. City Council has to approve the money to build the park," Gayfield said.

The site for construction has been chosen.

"The skate park is going to be built right behind the entrance to the Mason Pool,” chairwoman of the Mason Skate Park Board Ginny Sundin said.

Although possible designs for the skate park have already been made, no design plan has yet been finalized.

"We plan on finishing the design at the end of this year," Gayfield said.

As the Park Board members and SITE designers steadily work on the layout of the park, Mason Skateboarders must wait in anticipation, knowing that the design opportunities are numerous.

"We can build anything we want. That's the beauty of concrete," Siedlecki said.

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The

CHRONICLENews

What people are saying...

“If the school board will have to make a substantial cut, it makes me nervous not knowing where those cuts will be and how it will affect our family," Karl Tripp Mason Resident

November 4, 2005 Worst Case Scenario

Mason hopes to avoid the fate of neighboring school districts

BY CAROLINE JOHNSON Chronicle Staff Writer If the eight referendums placed on the November 8 ballot pass, the Mason school district will have a total loss of $24.8 million including $6 million in 2006, $8.3 million in 2007 and $10.5 million in 2008.

Superintendent Dr. Kevin Bright can relate to such a loss as he experienced a loss of $1 million in failed levy funding at his previous school district and claims the damages still haven't "healed."

"The previous district I was in was about the same size as this school district and one million dollars cost us so much in personnel that we had to make cuts that still haven't healed 17 years later. If I look at what will have to cut out of our budget, it will devastate the district," Bright said.

Mason School District Treasurer Dick Gardner believes if Mason does not receive the funding the district is asking for, similar cuts to those districts around the state will be made, since "[Mason] has the same kind of funding mechanisms as all the other districts in the state."

On November 2, 2004, Fairfield passed a 4.9-mill operating levy on its fifth attempt, while Lakota failed in passing its

7.7-mill levy. Before Fairfield passed the levy, the school district made several changes to cope with the financial losses due to the four failed levies. Beth Wagner, School and Community Relations director at Fairfield, saw direct results of the failed levies on students.

"When the levy failed [the fourth time] parents came together to organize a way to collect fees to keep [the school district] from eliminating extra-curriculars. They literally took charge," Wagner said.

Fairfield also cut back on busing, eliminating transportation for grades 10-12.

Extra-curriculars continued, but in a "simplified" form.

Lakota Public Relations director John Weidlich noted similar affects due to their failed levy.

"Our class sizes have gone up tremendously. The high school classes have gone to 30-35 people per class and almost as large at the elementary level," Weidlich said.

Lakota was also forced to cut back on busing, drop advanced placement classes, and downsize on custodians, administrators and support education staff.

MHS Principal Dr. Dave Allen can see how similar cuts could be felt at Mason if

the referendums pass.

"Potential ramifications to students could be larger class sizes and a decrease in clubs. There could be any number of things, because 24 million dollars over three years is a significant amount of money that we would have to find from somewhere," Allen said, stating that the loss of funding could hurt Mason High School's goal of 100 percent involvement.

Although board members state the criteria that will be used to make the cuts will have the least impact on the classroom as possible, Bright believes that "[the levy] can't help but have an impact on the classroom because 88 percent of our costs are in personnel salaries and fringe benefits."

Allen has also commented that research in past studies have shown that when levies supporting the schools fail, home values in the community decrease.

"We are the envy of other school districts in the Ohio because the parents and people in this community see that we are getting a good bang for our buck and that our students are performing at an exceptional rate. [If the referendums pass], we won't be able to operate in the same capacity that we operate now," Allen said.

Best Case Scenario "I haven't completely made up my mind. It seems there are excess in spending with the way our country is right now. I think there could be ways to look at the spending without harming the education. I think it is okay [that the referendums are on the ballot.”

Mary Jo Pagel Mason Resident

"I think some of the CARE members have legitimate concerns, but they are going about it in the wrong way. They shouldn't be going against the school. I'm voting NO because I think it is important to give the school the money we promised them. I have volunteered at each school and have seen that they are very frugal with their money."

Kim Stein Mason Resident

School district will continue to look at ways to reduce costs

BY OLGA BORODULIN Chronicle Editor Mason School hallways and classrooms may seem a bit darker in the next couple of months. This darkness, however, will not have anything to do with students or teachers, rather the Mason School Board's effort to conserve energy and cut energy costs by "de-lamping" lights from four bulbs to two in each school building.

According to Superintendent of Mason Schools Dr. Kevin Bright, such cuts will have to be made, even if the levy passes, in order to extend the length of time the levy lasts. These cuts have begun to worry community members like Karl Tripp, who is not sure how they will affect the schools. "[If the school board] will have to make a substantial cut, it makes me nervous not knowing where those cuts will be and how it will affect our family," Tripp said.

Mason City School District Treasurer Dick Gardner has mentioned that regardless of the election outcome, the school board "will continue to look at ways of reducing cost, and reducing annual expenditure by over $4.5 million on specific items over the next three years [in order to help extend the levy over a period of 4 years.]"

Gardner has also mentioned other actions that the school board has thought of incorporating after November 8 is to try

Referendum: School officials hoping for a “No” vote on November 8 ballot from Referendum page 1

"Since I've attended several board meetings and researched the topic, I understand it.

However, if you don't understand the issues and take time to look at the issues, then there are [community members] who will be confused."

Brent Burnett MHS Senior

and "refresh Mason's collection [of classes,]" by replacing classes that have lost relevance or interest with newer classes, instead of continually adding more classes.

In May of 2006, the school board is also planning on presenting the district with a bond levy, which will not increase taxes, for the completion of construction in the high school.

Another way in which homeowners will feel the passing of the levy is the addition of taxes. A $100,000 homeowner will pay an additional $200.29 in 2006, $252.35 in 2007, and $304.41 in 2008; totaling $575.67 a homeowner will pay in tax dollars in addition to tax dollars they're already paying.

School board members have avoided from revealing their plan of action after the passing or failing of the levy.

"We will not say at this point in time where cuts will be made. Our advice is to refer to the actions taken by neighboring school districts with failing [or passing] levies," Gardner said.

Sycamore School District experienced a failed 7.9-mill continuing levy in August 2004. The district came back in November with a 5.5-mill levy that passed.

According to Sycamore Treasurer Beth Weber, there was no decrease in property value since the levy passed. However, in order to compensate for school cuts, students in sports and club activities were

paign from May when voters were asked to vote "yes," whereas now Mason School Board officials have been asking for a "no" vote from residents.

This switch is due to a series of events in which the Mason School Board tried to protect school assets.

After having passed the levy on May 3 with a 53% pro-levy vote, CARE petitioned a 2-mill referendum with the Warren County Board of Elections on May 24, after having collected 1,344 signatures for their petition.

In response to the CARE petition, Mason school officials filed a petition with the state minimum reduction.01-mill to counter CARE's petition, and in June, school officials filed seven other petitions on continuing

school levies dating back to 1967, so that CARE could not file any other petitions concerning previous levies, and possibly deduct more revenue from the school.

After disputing the CARE referendum at the Warren County Board of Elections and at the Ohio Supreme Court, both of which did not force the 2-mill levy off the ballot, according to School Treasurer Dick Gardner, school board members have decided to simply wait until election day and, in the mean time, try to rally support for the levy and increase knowledge about school board candidates.

Mason school officials are asking all voters to vote no on November 8 on all eight referendums. A no vote will alow the school the funding that was given to them when voters passed the original levy back in May.

forced to pay fees in order to continue.

There was also a cut in staff and administrative members, amounting to 120 job cuts as a result of reduced school budget financing. Although the decrease in transportation was an option, Sycamore decided not to cut transportation or limit sports. "[The Sycamore School Board] simply implemented a participating fee. It wasn't something we wanted to put on the students, but the board wanted to maintain the same opportunities that [Sycamore] had," Weber said.

Despite such cuts even with a passing levy, Weber admitted that excellent results are still being achieved, and the school board is working with community members to establish a community in which all expenditures are evaluated.

"The school board really strived to listen to the community and evaluate their decisions based on the community's needs," Weber said.

This mentality of listening to the community is something that Bright believes, despite any cuts, will be a chief goal of the school board. "[The Mason School Board] will continue to listen to our community, and continue to try to accommodate their needs. We are lucky to be in such a community, and to have so many residents behind us…With this positive attitude, I know [Mason] will succeed," Bright said.

Other Warren County school districts relying on voters Springboro Community Schools has placed a 10.06-mill operating levy on the Feb. 8 ballot, which, if approved, will last for three years and generate $7.2 million. The funds generated by this levy will be used to build two new elementary schools, and help finish additions at the junior high and the high school. The Springboro School District has stated that without the passing of this levy, it will go into financial deficit.

Little Miami School District is trying for the third time to pass a bond issue because of the district's rapid population growth. If passed, the 6.15-mill bond levy on the Nov. 8 ballot will be used for construction of classrooms and renovations. It will span over a period of 28 years and will raise $59 million.

Lebanon City School District has placed a 6.15-mill levy on the Nov. 8 ballot, which is to avoid operating deficit. The district has been monitored by the Ohio Department of Education, and is projected to have a $4.7 million deficit by June 2006. If approved, the levy is projected to last 3 years and generate $4.2 million. If voters defeat the levy, the school district plans to cut spending by $5 million, and school officials believe that the school district's deficit will grow to $7 million by June 2007.

The

November 4, 2005

CHRONICLENews

3

School board candidates respond to questions posed by Chronicle

MARIANNE CULBERTSON,

CONNIE YINGLING, 48, a ten

46, a 21 year resident of Mason.

Current Board Member

year resident of Mason.

Current Board Member

Education: Bachelors degree in Business Administration from the University of Maryland

Education: Degree in Business from Miami University at Oxford.

Employment: Realtor with Sibcy Cline Realtors What will be your top priorities and goals if elected? "Continuing to provide an excellent educational opportunity for the students of Mason and Deerfield township and to do that while being fiscally responsible."

Do you feel the school does a good job of balancing its budget? "Yes, Mason is one of the best values in the state of Ohio," said Culbertson. "We consistently spend below the state average per pupil and we've had the highest ranking on the state report card since it started in the year 2000."

If the referendums are passed, which programs will you decrease funding for or cut and which programs would you protect?

"If the referendums were to pass and we were to take an eight million dollar hit to our budget we [could] not continue to run the school at the level we do today," Culbertson said. "If we were to cut eight million dollars out of our budget, a big chunk of that would be in staff," she said. "It's absolutely not what I want to do. When you cut teachers you are directly affecting the students."

Do you support using levies to obtain funding for Mason City Schools? "Until there becomes another way of funding schools, school districts have very little options.”

Why did you decide to run for the Mason City School Board? "I love serving this community on the Board of Education and it has been very rewarding and a privilege for the past 12 years.”

What qualities do you feel you can bring to the school board?

“I understand where we've been in the district and where we need to go."

Culbertson is also carrying out her personal belief that "providing an excellent educational opportunity for children is one of the best things a community can do."

If you could wave a magic wand and change anything about Mason Schools, what would it be? "I would not allow taxes to be a burden for families to pay for what we need to pay for, whether it be senior citizens or any family.

Is your campaign supported or endorsed by any organizations?

Culbertson has been endorsed by the Mason Education Association.

- report compiled by Stephanie Visscher

Declined...

Editor’s Note: School board candidate Jennifer Miller declined THE CHRONICLE’S request to participate in this forum.

Employment: Loss prevention manager at Luxotica retail.

What will be your top priorities and goals if elected? "My top priority will be to continue to provide a quality education for our students and to pursue the efforts of the committee that has been set in place for senior citizens tax relief."

Do you feel the school does a good job of balancing its budget? "I feel they do because our students perform well academically in the top one percent of the state and our pupil expenditures [dollar amount per student] are less than the state average."

If the referendums are passed, which programs will you decrease funding for or cut and which programs would you protect? "I don't know the first place I would go but because 86% of our budget is salaries and benefits, I might look into that.

However, it would be devastating for the school district to have to make these kinds of cuts. I support extra curricular activities. I believe they complete each student's education."

Do you support using levies to obtain funding for Mason City Schools? "I'm not opposed to levies, but I think the state needs to take on a larger responsibility. The state of Ohio needs to make major changes. When schools depend on levies, it is difficult on senior citizens on fixed incomes.

Senior citizens should not bear the same financial responsibility as individuals who are still in their income earning years."

Why did you decide to run for the Mason City School Board? "I see the school board member's job as community service and I enjoy doing community service. I believe I can still have a positive influence on the work we still need to do.”

What qualities do you feel you can bring to the school board? "My six years of experience [on the school board] will allow me to provide continuity to the board. I have business background and experience in tutoring at risk children in the classroom. I also believe we are responsible to all of our citizens, not just parents of school aged children.”

In what areas do you think the school district could improve and how would you go about correcting those areas? "I think the school district can continue to look for ways to be more efficient and continue to find ways to serve each student because students have different needs. The school district can also continue to find ways to communicate better with the public."

If you could wave a magic wand and change anything about Mason Schools, what would it be?

"I would have every child in every state and school in this country develop a life long love of learning and have all the resources they need to allow that love of learning to grow."

Is your campaign supported or endorsed by any organizations?

Yingling has been endorsed by the Mason Education Association.

- report compiled by Joey D’Amico

TERRI STIGERS, 44, a 41 year

EDWARD BOAZ, 51, an eight

FRANCIS P. MILLER, 64, a ten

year resident of Mason.

year resident of Mason.

resident of Mason.

Education: Bachelors in Elementary Education from University of Cincinnati, Masters in Educational Administration from Xavier University, and Doctorate in Education from University of Cincinnati

Education: Bachelors in Chemistry from Manhattan College in New York, Masters in Chemistry from George Washington University in Washington, DC, PhD. in pharmacology from Indiana University.

Education: Bachelor of Science in Education and a degree in Recreation and Park Administration from Eastern Kentucky University.

Employment: Social Worker for Cincinnati Public Schools

Employment: Worked for 25 years in drug development, 10 years as a realtor broker, and taught at Raymond Walters for 4 years.

What will be your top priorities and goals if elected? Boaz, who worked for Cincinnati Public Schools for 26 years, aims to "continue the unbelievable academic success." Boaz believes Mason has achieved this by hiring the best educators and having a professional development program that is "unparalleled" and would support the programs as an important part of the school district's success.

Do you feel the school board does a good job of balancing its budget?

"I think the school board does an outstanding job," Boaz said. Despite the levy opposition's claim that Mason is spending too much, Boaz has seen that "every objective review says that's not true."

If the referendums are passed, which programs will you work to protect and which will you cut or decrease funding for?

"I would try at any cost to keep class size down and I don't want to lose any teachers because salaries go down," "I don't think the community wants to make those decisions.

That's why I'm optimistic the referendums won't pass," he said. "They voted for the levy in May and it passed, I think that was [the community's] statement."

Do you support using levies to obtain funding for Mason City Schools?

"I do think we need to lobby the state to change the funding system," Boaz said.

Why did you decide to run for school board?

"I'm pro Mason Schools and that's why I'm running," Boaz said, adding that the new candidates (besides Culbertson and Yingling, who are up for re-election,) are "either not pro school [or] they're undecided." For Boaz, it is important for the school board to have supportive members in the event that the referendums pass.

"If the referendums pass, and you have to make those cuts, and you have people who are already antischools making those cuts, that's a dangerous thing," he said.

What qualities do you feel you can bring to the school board?

"Honesty, integrity, [and] leadership," said Boaz, who can also bring the experience of 26 years in education.

If you could wave a magic wand and change anything about Mason Schools, what would it be?

"I would make the C.A.R.E. (levy opposition group) go away. They can't argue with our success so they argue with how much we spend," Boaz said.

Is your campaign supported or endorsed by any organizations?

Boaz has been endorsed by the Mason Education Association.

- report compiled by Stephanie Visscher

What will be your top priorities and goals if elected? "Whatever it takes to get more people involved, I'm for," Miller said, who has asked the Intercommunity Regulatory Commission to tape the board meetings for public access channels. “[They said] they would be really happy to come in if someone invited them,” he said. Miller would also establish a public forum. “In a public forum you could have a much more fruitful discussion about spending,” he said.

Do you feel the school does a good job of balancing its budget?

“I really don’t know. I hear from [both sides]. This is another problem the board has, [people] don’t know where the money goes. I really need to be on the board [to have all the facts],” Miller said.

If the referendums are passed, which programs will you decrease funding for or cut and which programs would you protect? “if the referendum passes, the school will no doubt put another levy on the ballot in May. I wouldn’t cut anything. It would just create a disruptive situation for a short time.”

Do you support using levies to obtain funding for Mason City Schools? "I have to support them because that's the way it's done," Miller said. Miller does not feel levies are the problem but the way schools are funded in general. "The system has to be changed so it doesn't come down to a school levy based on property taxes," he said.

Why did you decide to run for the Mason City School Board? “I’ve been attending school board meetings for two years now [and observed] that they’re having trouble keeiping communities engaged,” Miller said.

What qualities do you feel you can bring to the school board? "I'm good at developing a consensus with different groups [and] successful at getting groups to work [together]."

If you could wave a magic wand and change anything about Mason Schools, what would it be? "I would like to see levies passing more in the range of 30/70 rather than a 53/47. And that people wouldn't be irritated by how things were done.”

Is your campaign supported or endorsed by any organizations?

All funding was collected personally

by Miller.

- report compiled by Stephanie Visscher

Employment: Inside sales executive with Packaging Corporation of America.

What will be your top priorities and goals if elected? "My top priority would be to improve the communication between the community and the school system. They are not putting things in terms that everybody can understand. They need to make clear the misunderstanding."

Do you feel the school does a good job of balancing its budget? "I think they do a good job of balancing its budget, but yes I believe there are small areas and ways to improve.

Everybody always has room for improvement. An area I would look into is ticket sales and booster money."

If the referendums are passed, which programs will you decrease funding for or cut and which programs would you protect? "I would defend building maintenance, teacher salary, and curriculum spending. I would look at extracurricular activities or clubs. I would also look at minor issues that are self sufficient. Anything that benefits the kids I would support.

The students are what it is about."

Do you support using levies to obtain funding for Mason City Schools? "At this point I sort of have to. The Ohio legislation are the ones that are forcing the schools to rely on the public for funding. Problem with funding starts with the state. Also, The Ohio Supreme Court ruled that the present funding system in Ohio is unconstitutional."

Why did you decide to run for the Mason City School Board? "Running for the school board has always been a long term goal of mine. I am fortunate that life and certain situations have given me the chance to run."

What qualities do you feel you can bring to the school board? "I can bring educational background. I worked in school systems throughout Butler and Warren Counties. I have also coached for 10 years, from recreational to varsity. I have been in management, inside sales, and have been a quality control supervisor. I feel could bring different views and understanding to the school board."

In what areas do you think the school district could improve and how would you go about correcting those areas? "I think the school district can improve on communication to the district. What I would want to do is reword things in ways in which everybody can understand. I would also like to distribute information throughout the community with the permission of local businesses."

If you could wave a magic wand and change anything about Mason Schools, what would it be?

"What I would like to have for one day is have the community come together as one, and not be divided as it is today."

Is your campaign supported or endorsed by any organizations?

"No, I'm solely independent and not associated with any group or organization what so ever."

- report compiled by Joey D’Amico

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News Notebook Sadie Hawkins Dance Mason High School will be having a Sadie Hawkins Dance on November 19 in the Mason Middle School arena. Tickets will be $4 presale and $5 at the door.

Financial Aid meeting An important meeting will be held on November 30 in the Mason High School auditorium regarding filling out the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The meeting will begin at 7pm.

Interested seniors and their parents should plan on attending.

Ski Club Registration Registration for ski club is going on now through November 11. The first trip is on January 9th. There is a $45.00 bus fee.

See Mr. Eric Blask in room C202 for more information.

Mason to host ACT Mason High School will be holding ACT testing on April 8. Registration is available by mail or online at www.ACT.org (the school code is 363-275). Please register as soon as possible if you want to be guaranteed a spot in Mason. The final deadline for registration is March 3.

Christmas pageant Students interested in participating in the 2005 Christmas in Mason Pageant should visit the Mason High School front office for sign-up sheets. In addition to other prizes, the winner will receive a scholarship worth $250. The final deadline for registration is November 9. Judging will take place at the Mason Municipal Center on November 13.

MMS to honor Veterans Mason Middle School will host a studentled Veterans' Day ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. in the MMS Auditorium.

Call 398-9035 for more information.

- compiled by Stephanie Visscher

November 4, 2005 World Perspective

Political pressures force Supreme Court nominee to withdraw

BY MATT PARTINGTON Chronicle Staff Writer Harriet Miers, President Bush's nominee to replace Sandra Day O'Conner as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, recently withdrew herself as candidate for the high court.

"Protection of the prerogatives of the executive branch and continued pursuit of my nomination are in tension," Miers said in a written letter to Bush, renouncing her contention. "I have decided that my confirmation should yield."

Bush has nominated appeals court Judge Samuel A. Alito in place of Miers.

Miers, a distinguished lawyer and close friend of Bush, started her career serving as law clerk for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas eventually became Bush's private attorney during his time as Texas governor and currently serves on the White House counsel.

Although endorsed by an array of organizations including the Texas Supreme Court justices, who said she is "a great lawyer, and will make a great judge," Miers' lack of judiciary experience became an ever-swelling problem.

"We spent about 1,200 hours together and had in excess of 6,000 agenda items, and I never knew where Harriet was going to be on any of those items until she cast her vote," Jim Buerger, a Dallas council colleague, said.

With no judicial paper trail and few court cases to demonstrate how she would vote as a Supreme Court judge on key social and political issues, Miers became a target for Democrats and Republicans alike.

"The central problem," Dan Coats, a former Senator from Indiana who traveled with Miers to several senate meetings, said is that "senators rightly wanted to see some objective evidence of what her judicial philosophy was. But as special counsel, she was in a position where she wanted and needed to protect the executive privilege of the president. . . . She was

troubled by this conundrum."

Other accusations, particularly from Democrats, stated that Miers nomination was a product of cronyism, or that she is a close friend of Bush and he chose her out of personal loyalty. This also contributed to questioning Miers' judicial competence.

OUT

Harriet Miers Politicians on both sides of the fence were unsure of Miers stance on many issues.

IN

Samuel Alito A Third Circuit Judge, Alito appears to be in for a fight.

Bush wants him confirmed by year’s end.

Several days before Miers' withdrawal, Democrats and Republicans began to demand legal papers intended to reveal the nominee's slant on key issues. The White House refused to disclose the papers, and Miers was unable to produce them.

She consequently yielded her nomination, only 24 days after being nominated and 11 days before her scheduled interview with the Congressional panel. Only three days later Bush nominated Alito for the Supreme Court.

"Judge Alito is one of the most accomplished and respected judges in America, and his long career in public service has given him an extraordinary breadth of experience," Bush said in a radio address announcing his choice for Associate Justice.

Alito, who went to Yale Law School and thereupon served as editor of the presti-

gious Law Journal, is a more experienced although divisive character than Miers, and his nomination will likely garner a bitter reaction from the left.

Unlike Miers, Alito has served as judge for several years and also has a substantial amount of Supreme Court experience, arguing 12 cases there. As a Third Circuit judge, Alito argued in Planned Parenthood v. Casey that women seeking abortions should have to first get confirmation from the father.

The case eventually went to the Supreme Court where Alito's sentiments were ruled against. This case, and ones similar, has resulted in Alito being labeled with a famously conservative history with “extreme” beliefs.

Strong convictions are expected to be drawn from liberals who fear Alito might try to overturn landmark cases such as Roe v. Wade which struck down legal restrictions on abortion. All ready in talks is the potential of a filibuster from Democrats refusing to hear or vote on Alito.

This could force Bush to nominate someone else in place of Alito, but the President has all ready stated that he desires Congress to vote on Alito’s seat before the year’s end.

With two Supreme Court nominations in less than a month, some are wondering if Miers was a mere puppet intended to escort in Bush's real nominee.

Recent developments in Washington, precisely the legal indictments against House Majority Leader Tom DeLay and one of the top assistants in the White House, I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, has created an even wider separation between the left and right in the last month.

Alito’s nomination comes at the tail end of what some consider Bush’s “worst political week yet,” and many hope that Alito may confirm Bush’s dedication to the G.O.P. and tie together any loose ends created by the Miers’ nomination and eventual withdrawal.

The Hubley Driving School Student of t he Month Hubley Driving School & The Chronicle are proud to honor Grade: 10

BEN MILLER

Favorite Class(es): Algebra

In school accomplishments: 7th grade Student of the Year Rotary Awards freshman and sophomore years Student of the Month in October 5th and 8th grade Out of school accomplishments: Employed at Donatos Passed all levels of Arrow of Light and Scouts Participates in community service through youth group, Faith Alive Personal Quote: "Sometimes the smallest groups make the biggest difference."

Future Plans/Goal: Hopes to attend a good college, start a family, and become an Algebra teacher Teacher Quote: “Ben is probably the most genuine and sincere student I have ever taught. He has a joy for school and loves being here. He greets every student and staff member with enthusiasm every day, and genuinely cares about each one. He works his tail off in his studies.”

Social Studies teacher, Mr. Jerry Schrock

Chronicle photo by Josh Geiger

5606 Tylersville Rd Mason, OH 45040 754-8652

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5606 Tylersville Rd Mason, OH 45040 754-8652

November 4, 2005

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Out...

Thrift store shoppers step out to make a statement

BY REBECCA ZIEGLER Chronicle Staff Writer Imagine waking up in the morning and not worrying about what shoes to wear, what shirt to throw on, or what pants to dig out of the laundry for the day. To a growing population of "underground" thrift store shoppers, this is their everyday life.

"Thrift stores are just cheap, comfy, affordable, and unique," sophomore Jenna Garchar said.

Thrift stores have become a growing source for buying clothing including shirts, shoes, dresses, pants, hats, belts and every other item of clothing people can wear. While thrift stores used to be considered a place to shop for less fortunate people, dirty clothing and embarrassing to be seen in, students in Mason admit to choosing these stores as their favorite place to shop.

"In the beginning, I started shopping at thrift stores because my sister would take me. It was fun to look at the stuff there. Now it's mostly to save money, but it's just fun to go," Garchar said.

Garchar shops at thrift stores almost every time she needs clothes.

"I used to think the clothes might be dirty just because they were used. But it's just a better deal. It makes more sense to get a twenty dollar outfit instead of a twenty dollar shirt at the mall," Garchar said.

Another full time thrift store shopper is senior Omair Quadir. Before Quadir moved to Mason last year, he shopped at thrift stores in California with such regularity that they started to know him by name.

"The old thrift stores I used to go to knew me by name, but since I moved, they're going to know my name soon," Quadir said.

Quadir has shopped at thrift stores since he can remember.

"I started shopping at thrift stores when I was little with my grandma because I was brought up to not waste anything," Quadir said.

Despite having the freedom of choosing where to shop, Quadir still prefers thrift stores to any other store.

"I continue to shop at them because it's a treasure for me all the way back from the 40's and 50's-a history of clothes. You ask yourself 'I wonder who's worn this' or 'what's the history of this jacket,'" Quadir said.

Like Quadir, junior Maureen Adaghebalu has shopped at thrift stores since she was young.

"I grew up wearing thrift store clothing because we didn't always have much money," Adaghebalu said.

Adaghebalu shops at thrift stores now for the style aspect and the low cost.

"They have a large variety of stuff that name-brand stores do not, and that no one else is wearing. I always feel the need to do something different so that I don't look like everyone else. I get bored. I want to be an individual," Adaghebalu said.

Sophomore Jordan Hager shops at thrift stores for the same reason.

"I shop at thrift stores partially to save money, but it's usually the only place where I can get what I want," Hager said.

Thrift stores are becoming one of the latest trends from clothing all the way to fur-

niture, appliances and books. The frequent thrift store shoppers recognize the trend.

"A ton of people are shopping at thrift stores now. I don't think that shopping there makes you unique, so I don't feel any less unique knowing that other people are starting to," Hager said.

Garchar agrees about the increase in shoppers, but dislikes the increase in the trend.

"Thrift-store shopping is catching on more and more since people like the vintage look. There are even vintage tees at stores like Abercrombie now," Garchar said.

Quadir still feels unique despite more people shopping at thrift stores.

"Although it's catching on, you still get to pick out what you wear, and the clothes are one of a kind at the store. I've always felt unique, whether people shop there with me or not," Quadir said.

This growing trend of thrift-store shoppers may be due to the more name brand clothing appearing in thrift stores. Sophomore Tyler Boland shops at thrift stores like Plato's Closet and Gabriel Brother's for Abercrombie and Hollister type of brands.

"I used to think it was for lower class people, but my mom took me one day and I liked it," Boland said.

Boland thinks that the thrift store clothing is just as good as the high-end store brands.

"They are exactly the same, just less expensive. I saw a shirt from Abercrombie at a thrift store and bought it for ten dollars less," Boland said.

Boland buys his own clothes and feels that it makes more sense to use thrift stores.

He knows that some peers are afraid to admit where they bought an outfit.

"I'm not scared to tell anyone that I shop there. I used to shop at Abercrombie but it just became too expensive," Boland said.

Junior Halie Limpert also shops at the name-brand thrift stores.

"I don't care if shopping at thrift stores is embarrassing to some people because I don't pay attention to that. When people ask me where I bought my clothes, they are usually complimenting them. Most of them come from thrift stores," Limpert said.

Not only are thrift stores a growing attraction for cheap and trendy shoppers, but they also carry a lot of different and various items including videos, furniture, electronics and art.

"A lot of my friends will go to thrift stores like Goodwill to buy fun things. They have cheap, fun and awesome stuff you can't find anywhere else," Limpert said.

Quadir likes to look at all of items in thrift stores when he goes shopping.

"You can find cool stuff there, not just clothes, from old generations. It's just neat," Quadir said.

There are those students in Mason who are embarrassed to admit their time spent in thrift stores, but for these students, shopping in them is a way of life. Whether they shop for bargains or fashions, clothing or appliances, thrift store shoppers have independent minds that identify their styles.

"I don't want to be labeled as anything. You aren't the clothes or music you listen to you. You are just you," Quadir said.

Chronicle photo by Rebecca Ziegler, Photo art by Matt Vollet

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CHRONICLENews

Just thought you would like to know...

Why the pumpkin?

Jack-O-Lanterns arose from an Irish folktale,from the eighteenth century, in which a man named Jack was forced to walk the line of Heaven and Hell. The devil gave him a piece of coal to light his way, which Jack put inside a turnip, that has now evolved into a pumpkin.

A Halloween icon This image, popularly associated with Halloween, arose from a Revolutionary War legend. In the story, the ghost of a soldier who had lost his head in a battle could not be put to rest until he found his lost head.

This legend was popularized by its inclusion in Washington Irving's 1819 novel The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, featuring the wanderings of this horseman.

Halloween options Many churches in the area offer an alternative to the typical night of trick or treating.

Whether its a fall harvest party or Trunk or Treat, these churches offer a night where kids can come decked out in their costumes, play games, and get candy in a non-threatening environment.

November 4, 2005 When did Halloween become a holiday?

Night of ‘Tricks and Treats’ becoming a mainstream holiday; ranks second to Christmas in consumer spending

BY RACHEL SLEZAK Chronicle Staff Writer Each October, Americans lavishly celebrate Halloween, and this year is no exception. According to CNN.com, Halloween spending was expected to reach $3.3 billion this year, up 5.4% from last year.

The same study found that over half of American consumers planned on celebrating Halloween this year. This makes Halloween the second-most expensive occasion after the winter holidays, raising questions about its origins and how a day that isn't even a nationally declared holiday is so universally popular.

According to the History Channel, Halloween has its origins from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.

Taking place on November 1, the celebration of summer's end and winter's beginning had strong connotations of death.

The night before Samhain, October 31, was said to be a night when dead spirits came back to the earth. Typically, bonfires were lit, often for sacrifices, costumes were donned, and fortunes for the upcoming season were told.

Because of its pagan roots, some people in Ohio do not observe this holiday. One of these people is junior Annie Cai. "My church doesn't believe Halloween is the best holiday," Cai said.

Cai's church believes that "little kids might get confused" about what the holiday is celebrating.

Rather than ignore Halloween, Cai and her church simply observe the day differently. "[My church has] a fall fest where kids can get candy without going trickor-treating," Cai said.

While not an observation of Halloween, the occasion is still included in seasonal spending, along with celebrations of those who enjoy the holiday.

But cases like Cai's are rare. Junior Miharu Kato would go so far as to say that "nobody cares" what Halloween is actually celebrating.

Kato believes that Halloween's popularity is extremely universal.

"Everybody wants candy," Kato said.

Sophomore Jennifer Clay is one of the many students at MHS who see the holiday in a positive light.

"Halloween is popular because people get to have fun," Clay said.

Clay's holiday celebrations are fairly

"typical of a teenager."

"I usually get together with a group of friends and go trick-or-treating," Clay said.

Clay noted that most of the expense involved in Halloween is the costumes.

"People want advanced, cooler costumes," Clay said.

Clay also includes candy as an important aspect contributing to cost and has developed her own "Halloween techniques."

"We usually concentrate on houses with the larger [more expensive] candy," Clay said.

Other Mason students do different things for Halloween each year.

Sophomore Josh Bruening said he likes to go on "haunted hayrides."

Junior Sam Smit believes she is too old for trick-or-treating and now celebrates Halloween with "parties."

However, Smit still remembers being a little kid and enjoying the holiday. She believes the popularity of Halloween is because of the fun and memories involved.

"It's fun. You get to dress up and be something you're not," Smit said.

Positive attitude keeps Yost in business despite challenge from corporate giants

BY RACHEL SLEZAK Chronicle Staff Reporter

view The Chronicle online at masoncomets.org Mason High School’s award winning website

Driving through downtown Mason, it is nearly impossible to miss the distinctive blue awning with the border of Y's. An iconic establishment in Mason, Yost Pharmacy has been open for 60 years.

"We've been on this corner from 1945," owner Dick Yost said. The pharmacy has been family-owned since it opened. "I bought [Yost Pharmacy] from my father in 1972," Yost said.

The pharmacy has been exactly where it is now ever since. Yost hopes to continue the tradition and keep the pharmacy in the family.

"I have a son and daughter who are pharmacists," Yost said.

But with the growth Mason has experienced in recent years, it might seem amazing that a small, familyowned business has been around for so long.

"As Mason has grown, competition has grown," Yost said. "We're competing for the same people."

However, Yost says he "didn't really have concerns" about staying in business. Yost has not found that competition has increased too dramatically in the last few years.

"The competition has been there all along," Yost said.

In fact, Yost believes the growing population of Mason has helped him gain "stability."

Yost also credits customers who return year after year with his success.

"We've had a lot of loyal customers," Yost said.

According to Yost, many of these customers have been coming to Yost Pharmacy for twenty years or more.

Construction is currently being done at Yost Pharmacy, changing the layout to something close to how it was in the past. Yost has seen several returning customers who will say "I remember when it used to be that way."

Yost feels these customers continue coming back because of the quality they can find at his business.

"We try to give a fair price," Yost said. "Sometimes our prices are lower than the discount stores."

Yost also strives to provide good service to his customers. "We try to treat them right," Yost said.

Chronicle photo by Olga Borodulin Community member Audrey Butterfield has been coming to Yost Pharmacy for five years. Butterfield prefers Store owner Dick Yost has Yost to other pharmacies because of its central location watched the pharmacy and community grow for over 60 years. in Mason.

"It's more accessible. It's closer to home," Butterfield said.

Mason resident Maria Pelopida is also a loyal customer and has been coming to Yost Pharmacy since 1988. Pelopida keeps coming back to Yost because of the "service", the "prices", and the "hometown feel."

According to Yost, the construction project is all that is planned "for right now."

But as Mason continues to grow and change, Yost strives to "keep up."

Yost feels confident that his business will remain in Mason for several years.

"I try to have a positive attitude," Yost said.

Yost feels this attitude is one of the reasons the pharmacy has been successful, attributing his initiative with his actual success.

"If you're afraid to fail, you probably will," Yost said.

November 4, 2005

The

CHRONICLEArts&Entertainment

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TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD Drama department to put new spin on classic tale Mason artists featured at Xavier art exhibit Three Mason High school students' artwork have been chosen to be displayed at Xavier University's Annual Regional High School Exhibition. Students include senior Mindy Carson, taught by Beth Eline, senior Carrie Hayward, taught by Liesa Eichner, and junior Gina Scibetta, taught by Aaron Roberts. The artwork will be displayed from November 11 through December 2. The opening will occur from 5-8 pm on November 11th, where awards and prizes will be given to the artists at the reception. For more information, call: 513-745-3811 or visit: yontz@xavier.edu.

Mason Public Library to host book talk on Nov. 15 Mason Public Library will be discussing Debbie Macomber's novel Can This Be Christmas?. Can This Be Christmas? is a story of extremely frustrated strangers abandoned in a New Hampshire train depot on Christmas. The group will meet at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, November 15, 2005.

For more details, call 398-2711 or send an e-mail to masonplcir@oplin.org.

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof featured at the Playhouse Cincinnati's Playhouse in the Park is featuring "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" by Tennessee Williams, a Pulitzer prize winning drama, located at Robert S. Marx Theatre. "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" is about a wife named Maggie who strives to win back her alcohol addicted husband and keep her family whole. The program is held on Nov. 5th: 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, 6th: 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm, 8th and 9th: 7:30 pm, 10th and 11th: 8:00 pm, 12th: 5:00 and 9:00 pm, 13th: 12:00 pm and 7:00 pm,15th: 7:30 pm, 16th: 1:00 pm and 7:30, and 17th and 18th: 8:00 pm.

For more information, visit www.cincyplay.com.

Anime Film Fest to be held at Cincinnati Library On November 19, 2005, the Anime Film Festival and CosPlay Take 2 will be held at the Cincinnati Library from 1:005:30 for ages 12-18. You can come dressed as your favorite anime/manga character and try to win a prize, or talk to a comic book expert about your favorite manga. CosPlay events and judging will be from 1:00-5:00 and the Anime Film Festival will be from 3:30-5:30. The Cincinnati Library is located on 800 Vine Street. For more information, call: 513369-6900.

photo provided by Mason Drama Department

Seniors Annie Straub playing the role of Scout and Justin West as Atticus will bring the classic To Kill a Mockingbird to the stage on November 10, 11, 12 at the Mason High School theatre.

BY MATT PARTINGTON Chronicle Staff Writer There are few novels from the American canon that are as beloved as Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. First published in 1960, the poignant story of Scout and Atticus Finch has mesmerized generations of readers and continues to be a staple text in educational curriculum. Mason Drama Club will be presenting a theatrical adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird for its fall production in the Mason High School auditorium on November 10, 11, and 12.

Mason's rendition is based on the play

by Christopher Sergel, and will differ slightly from the book. Allen Young, Mason's drama director and the play's director, points out that, "the character of Miss Maudie serves as the narrator of the production and has a more expanded role than in the novel."

Also, "a good third of the play is comprised of the court scene." Despite these alterations, Young believes that Sergel's adaptation remains more authentic to the spirit of the novel than others, and confided that "the playwright did a great job of distilling the novel into something that is both theatrically engaging for the audience and faithful to what Harper Lee accomplished in the book."

"Since it's such a beloved story, I thought it would definitely be risky to make changes," senior Matt Trexler said, who is playing the role of Heck Tate,

Atticus Finch's best friend and the town sheriff. "The changes that were made, however, make the play a much more cohesive whole."

Senior Harry Paul sees the play in a new light due to the changes made.

"You have to accept the fact that it's not the book," Paul said, who is in the play as the antagonistic Bob Ewell.

Paul said he was drawn to the character of Ewell because "he has a lot of powerful scenes," and although it's not the biggest role in the play, "you can't have the good without the evil and sometimes it's fun to play the bad."

Because of the point of view and backdrop of To Kill a Mockingbird, the cast and crew have had to take a more realistic approach to the production than in the past, but with a romanticized twist.

"The dialogue, the acting style, the costumes, and the setting all need to be idealized versions of a small city in the South during the great depression," Young said.

"We have tried to present Maycomb as the place Scout would remember as an adult."

In turn, To Kill a Mockingbird's set has become a substantial endeavor. "The set is massive, with multiple near full-size houses that replicate the time period," Trexler said.

The play's cast has also had to make a great effort in order to capture the tone and mood of a small southern town facing paradigm societal changes in the 1930s.

"We spend a great deal of time in rehearsal making each character the actor's own,"

Young said. "We strive, using the script as a foundation, not to imitate another performance, but build the characters from the ground up."

The audience will also be more directly involved with the performance because they serve as the jurors during the court scene. "When people are on the stand, they aren't acting to another cast member, they're bringing the audience into the story," Trexler said.

The cast and crew hope that students respond better to Mockingbird since such a large portion of the school has read it, and it is more easily understood than something along the lines of Shakespeare.

"Sometimes people in the play don't even understand what's going on," Paul said, alluding to the complexity of some storylines in theatrical productions. "It should be more enjoyable for the audience because most have read it."

"It's a play about right and wrong, good and evil, and the people that are brave enough to stand up to what's right, and those who are too cowardly to do so," Trexler said.

"It's such a powerful piece of writing, you just can't help but be moved by it."

Young added, "I don't know if there is a more universally loved book than To Kill a Mockingbird...It will give [students] an opportunity to view the work in a new light, and might answer some questions they had about the work or raise new ones,� Young said.

Winning posters Mason Coalition for Drug and Alcohol Free Youth poster contest winners in the grade 9-12 area are: Junior John Overly (1st), Junior Gen Tripp (2nd), and there was a tie between third with Senior Lauren Kirch and Sophomore Jack Sauer. 1st place was awarded $200, second place, $100, and third place, $50.

Horror Film Festival to be held at Symmes Library The program "Heritage of Horror Film Festival" will be held for ages 12 & up from 7:00 - 8:30 pm on November 9, 15, and 17 at the Symmes Township Library.

The library is located at 11850 Eastern Enyart. For more information, call: 513369-6001.

Second Place Gen Tripp, Junior

Anime Film club to meet The Anime Club will be held on November 16, at 7:00-8:30 pm. This event is for ages 13 and up and requires registration. The Anime Club will take place at Symmes Township Library located at 11850 Eastern Enyart. For more information, call: 513-369-6001.

- compiled by Sarah Fukatsu

Third Place Lauren Kirch, Senior First Place John Overly, Junior

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CHRONICLEA&E

November 4, 2005

‘Band’ of MHS students pursue dreams as members of prestigious orchestras

BY SARAH FUKATSU Chronicle Staff Writer When incoming freshmen make the varsity teams, congratulations are in order.

But when fellow Mason High School students are accepted in the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra, your jaw can't help but drop.

Sophomore Emily Hayes agrees that students who participate in such an activity are in a league of their own.

"It's pretty impressive," Hayes said.

Junior Andrea Sohn and senior Norman

Wang play with the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO), while junior Sarah Min plays with the Southwest Regional Orchestra (SRO).

CSYO is composed of students from grades 9-12 that represent 30 schools from southwestern Ohio, southeastern Indiana, and northern Kentucky.

Currently, the students are studying Beethoven's Fifth Symphony. CSYO is directed by Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (CSO) Assistant Director, Eric Dudley. "[Eric Dudley] likes to call us the 'top

Chronicle photo by Sarah Fukatsu

Junior Andrea Sohn applies her talents every Sunday at Cincinnati Conservatory of Music where CSYO practice is held.

level high-schooler orchestra of Cincinnati,'" Sohn said.

Sohn has been playing since she was six years old, and remembers how her passion of music began. "I knew I wanted to play something, so my parents let me pick an instrument," Sohn said.

Sohn is the first chair violin in her Orchestra class, and can see the difference in difficulty of orchestra class compared to CSYO. "I wouldn't say orchestra class is easy, but it's a lot easier than CSYO," Sohn said.

Junior Sarah Min, another ambitious high school musician, plays with another orchestra known as SRO, an orchestra for grades 9-12 spanning from Cincinnati to around Dayton. SRO feeds into All-State Orchestra and is connected to the Ohio Music Association Education.

"I used to play the violin and the piano, but I hated the violin and I didn't want to play the cello or a band instrument. Plus, the viola sounds really pretty. It's mellow and awesome," Min said.

Min played for ten years prior to her position as first chair viola in Orchestra class here in Mason.

"For the SRO and CSYO [audition], they ask for a solo, a scale, then they ask you to site read, and they send you an excerpt which they ask you to prepare. As usual, I was scared, and it was nerve-racking," Min said.

Min auditioned for SRO last year, and has decided to audition again this year.

Recently, she received the information that she has been accepted into SRO, but even more exciting, she has been accepted into the All-State Orchestra.

"I don't want to play professionally, because I don't play to be good. I play to express myself, and because I enjoy playing," Min said.

Another fellow CSYO musician is senior Norman Wang who has been playing

since he was seven years old.

"I was taught by a former CSO player, Allen Martin, for 6-7 years," Wang said.

Wang has played solos for Community Orchestras in Lebanon, Ohio, toured Chicago in 7th grade, and Australia in 5th grade. "I don't like to practice, but I like to improvise," Wang said.

This leads to his decision that the most he'd carry out with violin as being a profession would probably be striving toward a minor in violin.

Another local orchestra here in Cincinnati is called Basso, where freshman Jaslyn Sahota and Tim Scruta practice and perform.

"I play the double bass. So I'm the first and only chair of double bass in Orchestra class," Scruta said.

Scruta has been playing since the 4th grade, and would like to play for CSYO in a year or two.

"I love the double bass because it's different, and I plan to play professionally," Scruta said.

Freshman Jaslyn Sahota is also a member of Basso and Orchestra class here in Mason High School, which she was told as a suggestion to take private lessons.

"I found out that private lessons work much more effectively than learning with a group," Sahota said.

"I want to audition for CSYO next year, and then when I reach college, hopefully my college will have an orchestra I can join," Sahota said.

All of these musicians love doing what they do, and it's not because of hours of practice that brought them where they are now. It's the passion they have for playing for themselves and not for someone else.

"Before I just played because it was required of me, but recently, it's become extremely personal. I love playing the viola, and I will never stop," Min said.

The

November 4, 2005

Sam Goldsmith Music Review Franz Ferdinand leaps from the underground with much anticipated release Franz Ferdinand has been one of the most impressive groups that has come out in the last five years. Even though the Scottish band is popular, like The Killers, they can still be considered underground. The anticipation for the second album was heightened, due to the popularity of their first surprise hit "Take Me Out." Overall, this sophomore effort could be considered a success in that it approaches the quality of the first album. It just doesn't surpass it.

One of the great joys of Franz Ferdinand is the swagger and power of guitarist and lead vocalist Alex Kapranos. He has great energy and conviction whenever he sings, particularly on the first single, "Do You Want To," which, by the way, starts out in mono and expands to stereo to great effect.

His spirit goes on through the entire album. The band itself is quite well constructed musically.

From the anger in "The Fallen" and "Evil and a Heathen" to the softness of "Fade Together," the band is tight and sounds as if its members have been together longer than their three year history.

My only true concern regarding this album is that, at a first listen, it is hard to differentiate between the songs. I had to wonder at times which track I was actually listening to. Repeated listenings could perhaps lead to an understanding of certain subtleties, but it will not win over the casual listener.

Despite this nagging problem, Franz Ferdinand continues to do what they do well: give the general public a taste of indie music. Like The Killer's Brandon Flowers, Kapranos has a genuine rock voice that demands attention.You Could Have It So Much Better could be better, but in fact, it's better than a lot of other popular music out there.

Editor’s Note: Sam Goldsmith and Ben Brown are contributing writers to The Chronicle.

CHRONICLEA&E

9

Ben Brown Video Game Review

Candice Philpot Book Review

Stephanie Visscher Movie Review

World of Warcraft creates ultimate world of gaming

Classic novel a favorite among students

Elizabethtown provides more than just a pretty face

It's energy draining, time consuming, and in many gamer's opinions, the most addictive item to be sold. It's already captured over ten million people worldwide. And no, I'm not talking about Lost on Tuesday nights. Rather, "it" is the newest and fastest growing sector in the video game industry, the emergent land of MMORPGs or “massively multiplayer online role playing game.” If you don't know what I'm talking about, I'd advise you to run. Save yourself. It's too late for those of us who have been sucked in.

World of Warcraft or WoW can appeal to just about everyone. To those who use AOL Instant Messenger, which is most of the Mason community, World of Warcraft may just be the most interactive chat room known to man. There are at least six different ways you can ask where the nearest reagent vendor is, and there's always a way to talk to someone, even if they're a virtual continent away.

You can digitally scream a series of words or use any leetspeak language, which is a cryptic form of spelling replacing letters with numbers, to what may be the only community on earth that can interpret such a proclamation. At its core, WoW is as multiplayer as games like Soul Calibur and Super Smash Brothers. You could play it solo, but you'd miss out on huge portions of this truly massive game including Player versus Player, where at the most basic level, your character and someone else's character try to kill each other.

In WoW, the characters are divided into two "factions" including the Alliance which includes humans, dwarves, elves, and gnomes (hobbit-like animals), and the Horde, which includes orcs, trolls, undead, and tauren (bipedal cows). Both these character groups share Azeroth, the "world" of World of Warcraft, and are in a perpetual state of war. Ever felt the urge to go raze a village now and then?

In WoW, you can simply take some other raiders and go ahead. Just watch out for the level fifty five computer-controlled guards.

Between races, classes, professions (blacksmithing, alchemy, etc), equipment, talents, pets, and more, this game is fully deserving of its "massive" title in MMO, and there's always something new to work on. Nick Carey, aka outlawfoxx the tauren warrior, says it in a simpler way: "It's basically the best game ever created."

See you in Azeroth everyone.

As an English student at Mason High School, so far there has been no required reading that I have enjoyed more than Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. The curriculum of MHS requires all students to have read this Pulitzer Prize winning novel by the end of sophomore year, a requisite I fully support.

To Kill a Mockingbird takes place in the small southern town of Maycomb, Alabama in the 1930's, a period of history that was shadowed by the Great Depression, and where segregation was a familiarity. In the midst of her father's court trial, where a black man is accused of raping a white woman, Scout Finch must adjust to all that is changing around her, and the personal growth she is forced to make.

To Kill a Mockingbird revolves around two main plotlines, one of which is Atticus Finch's court trial, where he is the lawyer of the accused rapist, Tom Robinson. The majority of the reactions from the citizens of Maycomb are negative, some of which are even directed toward Scout and her older brother Jem. This teaches Scout about human dignity and makes her realize for the first time that Maycomb is not the perfect place she once imagined.

The second plotline involves the children's growing friendship with the "malevolent phantom" and neighborhood recluse, Boo Radley. Lee's description of Boo, and the actions the children do to "make Boo come out" are very humorous and wellwritten.

Lee did an exceptional job writing from a child's point of view, and the dynamics she was able to create between the children are outstanding. The mood of the book fluctuates from lighthearted and humorous to dramatic and emotional throughout, and well-written transitions are incorporated between each change of mood.

There are some aspects of the novel, however, that are difficult to understand upon the first reading. There are some passages where the writing is not clearcut and straightforward. In order to comprehend the writing, the reader must look deeper into the passage and analyze characters and situations.

I would recommend To Kill a Mockingbird to anyone who has never been able to simply read it for enjoyment.

This is a stimulating novel that takes a comical look on adolescence, influencing the reader to recall memories from childhood and is filled with life lessons about dignity, honesty and human behavior.

I'll admit it. Orlando Bloom makes my heart flutter. But lately even I have been forced to admit that a handsome guy with a sword does not automatically make a good movie (exhibit A: Kingdom of Heaven, Bloom's most recent movie that tanked at the box office).

Fortunately, Bloom's new film is lacking in the medieval weapons department, so the promise was good that it would be enjoyed by more the one million or so Future Mrs. Blooms wandering the world. And fortunately for Bloom's career, Elizabethtown delivers.

The story starts when Drew Baylor (Bloom) makes a major mistake and loses the shoe design company he works for.

His suicide plan is thwarted by a phone call from his sister informing Drew that his father, Mitch, has passed away.

Drew must then travel to Mitch's hometown of Elizabethtown, Kentucky to retrieve the body. On his red-eye flight out he meets a perky flight attendant named Claire (Kirsten Dunst) who gives Drew driving directions as well as her phone number (supposedly) just in case he has any questions. Lonely one night, Drew calls up Claire. Romance ensues.

But all this you could have learned from the trailer. The fear that this would be yet another film that showed all the good parts in its preview also ran through my mind. But, as it turned out, I need not worry at all. The film is filled with tons of subplots that enrich the story and (gasp!) even cause a few laughs.

From Drew's cousin's parenting problems to his mother's coping with becoming a widow, the movie leaves the audience with plenty of entertainment in addition to Drew and Claire.

There were only major problem with the film is that it is slightly drawn out. It takes forever for the audience to find out if Drew and Claire ever get together.

There is also a road trip Drew takes at the end of the film that has the only purpose of taking up time. But hey, that just means more time to gape at the beauty being pictured on the screen. And by that I mean the lovely Kentucky scenery, of course.

Many of you will disregard this review because it is about an Orlando Bloom film. But I can honestly say that Elizabethtown has universal appeal. At least it beats watching Dakota Fanning's newest film (and I use the term "film" loosely).

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CHRONICLEFeature

November 4, 2005

I’m number one, I’m number one....Senior proudly perched at the top of the ‘class’

BY DANIELLE WILLIAMS Chronicle Staff Writer During the crucial years of high school, many students strive to be number one, ultimately finishing at the top of their class and to accept anything less is not an option.

These dedicated students devote hours to ensure their work is flawless and compete to make the rank.

Students involved in sports practice hours in order to claim the status of most valuable player.

However, while these students are deeply focused within their studies and performance they are oblivious to one student who has already conquered the prestigious number one spot in all aspects, senior Kaitlin Abbas.

Out of 8,843 students in the district, she is alphabetically first on the list, making her first on every school list in school. People yearn to be number one while this honor has been handed to her at birth.

"I feel honored and privileged," Abbas said.

In fact, Kaitlin is not the only one who shares this honor at being number one. Abbas is a popular Arabic name, spelled the same, but pronounced differently. Its meaning is the description of a lion, as the king of the jungle; it is first in its class.

"I'm strong-willed like a lion, I won't quit," Abbas said.

Abbas' two older siblings were once number one, but now she has been given the title. As she claims the number one spot, the outlook of her future is anything less than average.

Nevertheless, as with many things, being number one has its advantages and disadvantages.

Abbas has found people recognize

her more because of her infamous name, which can be useful as she is involved with Student Government, Yearbook, MBC, and a member of Mason Youth Organization's softball team.

"It is a way for people to know me," Abbas said.

In school, being first has other perks as well. There are always class lists, lists for assignments, and projects, but with her name at the top of the list, she never needs to be searched for on the roster.

Furthermore, when picture day rolls around, she can guarantee her picture will be flawless. "Being first has been good for picture day because I get my pictures done first," Abbas said.

Although she has the number one spot on the top of the district list, being first has pushed her to strive to be number one in school as well as in other activities. "I try to do the best in everything that I do," Abbas said.

Nonetheless, being first at times can ultimately cause stress. "Sometimes I feel pressure to set a good example considering I'm always first," Abbas said.

A perfect instance will come spring of 2006, as Abbas will be first to walk at graduation.

"I'm excited because I'm going to be the first to graduate. I'll be the first one from our class and I can say I was first to walk," Abbas said.

As her senior year is swiftly passing, her future plans are now a priority on her agenda.

Abbas wants to major in Early Childhood Education or possibly Psychology and

S ENOUR F LAHERTY I NSURANCE A GENCY 7451 Mason Montgomery Road

(513) 398-6966 Agents Jack Flaherty Duke Flaherty

plans to attend either, Ohio University, Miami University, or University of Dayton.

While Abbas is in high school, she will remain number one, and it is likely she will still be holding the number one spot throughout her future.

"It would be interesting if I'm number one later," Abbas said.

November 4, 2005

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November 4, 2005

CHRONICLECenterspread

By Drew Allen Chronicle Staff Writer "The whiplash and G-forces from the car were so immense it snapped off the C7 bone in my neck," senior Cody Hanson said. "The bone floated around in my spinal cord for a day."

That gruesome injury was suffered by Hanson on August 19th, four days before Mason students would pack the hallways at Mason High School. While turning onto Kings Mills Road, Hanson's car hit the curb and slammed into a pole.

"The shock was so instantaneous; I had no time to think. I couldn't even feel the pain in my neck. The only thing that came to my mind is 'I hope everyone else is okay,'" Hanson said. "The entire time it felt like a dream."

Hanson was not the only one in the car, nor was he the only one injured.

"I was riding with four other people. After the crash, my friend on the passenger side immediately got out of the car and just leaned on the car, trying to grasp what had happened," Hanson said. "I just looked around, trying to take into account who was still in the car. No one else was left in the car except for [Sophomore Leah Bromley]," Hanson said.

With his seatbelt wrapped so tightly around his legs that they lost circulation, Hanson lost all feeling in his legs and was unable to get out of his seat. After realizing he was trapped, Hanson began to lose his sense of calm.

"I freaked out, because I couldn't feel my legs and I thought had become

paralyzed. After I started screaming, my friend came around to my window and held my hand, trying to calm me down," Hanson said.

However, Hanson would soon see something that would scare him beyond anything he had ever experienced before.

"The rescue squad had arrived, but I did not know they were there yet. And I looked over and saw that a white sheet had been laid over Leah," Hanson said. "I thought she was dead."

In truth, the sheet had been laid over her to protect her from the glass shards that would fly from the car when the rescue squad attempted to cut her out of the car. An identical sheet was placed over Hanson to protect him when the squad cut him out of the car with a device he described as the Jaws of Life.

However, even though he had been liberated from the car, the horrible ordeal was not over yet.

"I was put on a wooden board and lifted into the ambulance. For the next five hours in the emergency room I was stuck on that board," Hanson said. "I didn't get a room until four in the morning."

Later that Saturday, Hanson was forced into making a quick decision that would affect him for a good portion of his life.

"The surgeon came in and told me I had to decide in 10 minutes if I wanted surgery or not, because he had only one opening," Hanson said.

"That was a huge decision, because I had only ten minutes to make it."

After surgery, Hanson said the pain was "unbearable and difficult to endure."

"The pain was so bad that I couldn't talk, and I was constantly falling asleep," Hanson said.

"My diet was basically Jello and water following that."

Once the pain wore off, his hospital experience dramatically improved.

"I was walking by that Sunday, which was really fast," Hanson said. "But the really amazing part was

watching Leah walk so soon, because we didn't know if she could walk. It was really cool watching her walk down the hallway with all of our friends there to support her."

Because of his quick "recovery," Hanson was able to leave the hospital that Monday. Being housebound for over two weeks, many friends came over, helping the time to pass just a little faster.

"I was limited to the couch," Hanson said. "But lots of people visited, so that made things better."

With the accident almost three months behind him, life has returned to normal for Hanson.

"People really didn't treat me weird," said Hanson.

"They mostly just asked me how I was doing, constantly. But life has returned to normal."

Despite the pain and suffering he endured from his injury, Hanson believes he still would go back and experience the wreck again, with one thing different.

"Because of how much of a reality check the crash was, I would go back again and be in the wreck. I think about how I don't remember the last thing I said to my mom, so I'm more careful with what I say. I'm also more careful as a whole, because I now know how fast life can be taken away," Hanson said. "But the only thing I would change is for Leah to not get hurt."

Even with the accident almost three months in the past, he still has a daily reminder of that horrible night.

"It hurts every time I see Leah with her brace on," Hanson said. "It's a constant reminder of what I did and what happened that night."

"I looked over and saw that a white sheet had been laid over Leah. I thought she was dead."

Cody Hanson, Senior

By Sharon Stewart Chronicle Staff Writer On August 19th, Sophomore Leah Bromley distinctly remembers that it was a dark night and everyone inside of the car was singing along as the music was playing. Bromley remembers hearing a red car revving its engine and seeing senior Cody Hanson looking over his shoulder while driving. Then she recalls junior Kaitlyn Crowe screaming for him to watch out. Bromley looked and saw the beams of light from their headlights getting bigger and bigger on a pole in front of them. The car kept going, but the pole didn't move. Then she blacked out.

"When I woke up it was only Cody and myself in the car," Bromley said. "I was in shock and didn't feel pain. I felt uncomfortable, though, so I unbuckled myself and laid down flat across the back seat with my knees curled

The

up."

Junior Brittany Pelfrey had been in the back seat with Bromley and had not suffered any serious injuries. Pelfrey was the first person Bromley came in contact with.

"Brittany opened up the right hand door and just held my hand. With my left hand, I reached backwards and felt a bone sticking out of my back. All I kept saying was, 'This is a dream, this is a dream,' over and over," Bromley said.

Little did Bromley know, driver Cody Hanson had suffered severe whiplash resulting in a broken neck.

"Cody was screaming to me asking if I was okay, but for some reason I wasn't answering. I started to feel the pain all over my back side and I started screaming to Brittany asking if everyone else was alright," she said.

Bromley couldn't be consoled until the rest of the passengers came to reassure her of their safety at the emergency room.

"That was the closure I needed that they were alright. I had been buckled, but it was the middle seatbelt, and that's just how it happened- my body snapped in half," Bromley explained.

"Doctors gave me the maximum amount of morphine and two other drugs, and I still felt pain," Bromley said.

X-rays revealed a broken L3 and L4, which are two vertebrae in the lower back.

"They gave my parents the option of either having me wear a brace for three to six months or having surgery, and my parents wanted to try what was the more natural way," she said.

Being numb and in

shock, Bromley said the fracture in itself didn't even sink in until the next day.

"They fit my back for a brace with this hot iron. It was the worst pain I've ever been through," Bromley said.

She was able to find the positive in the hospital and speak fondly of her five days there.

"Everyone was just so nice to me, though. In fact, when I get my brace off, I'm bringing my nurses flowers and cards; they were all amazing," she said.

Constant love and support from friends and family was shown to Bromley in one of her most trying times. "[Sophomore Lauren Heslop] would stay with me and read my magazines while she would watch me sleep and all that best friend stuff.

[Senior Andrew Riley] was there almost every day and my parents took shifts of watching over me," Bromley said.

She now places a higher value of gratitude on her family.

"My parent's first reaction was what any parent's would be when they hear that their child's hurt. They were worried and nervous. Now, just being with them makes me feel good, like sometimes when I'm at school I just want to call my mom and have her come over just so I can see her," Bromley said.

Now that she has her brace, Bromley has found an easy way to start conversations with new people.

"I have the opportunity to meet new people. Now they have a chance to hear my story and take away something.

Anything," she said.

Not even a car crash can hinder Bromley's consideration for her friends.

"I never felt any anger towards Cody for the crash; I just wanted him to be okay. I didn't even think about anger until I was out of the hospital and at home," Bromley said.

As glad as Bromley was when she was discharged from the hospital, her house was a strangely difficult place to adjust to with the realization of new restrictions.

"When I got home, my parents brought down my little

“With my left hand, I reached backwards and felt a bone sticking out of my back. All I kept saying was, 'This is a dream, this is a dream,' over and over," Leah Bromley, Sophomore

CHRONICLECenterspread

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sister's bed into the living room, so I lived in there for the first week. I blacked out a few times when I started going to the bathroom; I hated having to do that. Also, I wasn't allowed to go in a car for the first two weeks either, so I was stuck at home. The biggest thing was that I couldn't take a shower by myself," Bromley said.

Bromley proudly admits to having more appreciation for the people around her now.

"I'm more willing to say how I feel about everything.

If I want to say that I'm sorry, I would say it today and not tomorrow because that's how fast life can be taken away," she said.

A new outlook on life lets Bromley account for what she has been blessed with.

"I don't want anything I have to go to waste. The crash made our youth group realize how lucky we are to have each other."

Speaking with peace of mind and a smile on her face, Bromley said, "The little things you take for granted really become prominent. I believe the only reason I'm alive is because of God and His plan for my life."

Bromley believes those two seconds it took to buckle up saved her life.

"I could have been thrown through the windshield and killed instantaneously. I view it as a miracle that I'm alive, and I would do it all over again and the only thing I would change is that Cody wouldn't get hurt," she said.

Bromley understands that God's "got her back" and notes how amazing it is to see the wreck shine light on withheld qualities she didn't know she had.

"You don't realize how much strength you need in situations like this until its necessary to apply it. I never needed to use the strength I had until this. I had to be brave for my friends. I had to be brave for my family. I had to be brave for Cody."

Photos Contributed

The

Chronlcle

NOVEMBER 4, 2005

SPORTS Shorts McCall and Pham finish in top eight at state.

McCall

Pham

Sophomore Ashley McCall and freshman Emily Pham recently qualified for the girl’s state tennis tournament. The pair is the first to make such an appearance for Mason since the 1999 season. McCall and Pham upset the number one seed from Perrysburg and finished in the top eight.

William Mason High School Home of The Comets

SPORTS

Senior Angela Bizzarri looks to claim her sixth individual state title this weekend. See feature on page 20.

V OLUME 3 I SSUE 2

Since 1964 the Fort Ancient Valley Conference has been in existence. In that time many schools have come and gone.

One school has stood head and shoulders above the rest. In the fall of 2005 the Mason Comet dynasty established itself as the dominant program in this historic league capturing six league championships.

Flaherty headed to Xavier Senior Kelsey Flaherty will sign with Xavier University November 9.

Flaherty will run cross country and track for the Musketeers next year. Flaherty was named second team All Conference.

Flaherty

PORTS

STATS

5

Mason High School Athletes have captured seven total individual state championships and Angela Bizzarri owns five. See feature page 17.

Did you know?

Two weeks ago, junior quarterback, Matt Koman threw five touchdown passes in a win over Harrison breaking a record that had stood for 40 years. Koman’s five TD’s broke the record held by former Mason football coach and quarterback Tim Lichtenberg who threw for four touchdowns against Waynesville in 1965.

Photo art by Matt Vollet

Pictured: Chris Rapp, Faith Juillerat, Chase Conn, Ryan Britenriker, Emily Sweetman, Arun Sathyanathan, and Maggie Chaney

Comets dynasty dominates FAVC opponents during fall season

BY BROOKE BARIA Chronicle Sports Editor Dynasty. Over the course of history, the Hanovers, Windsors, Stuarts ruled over England for centuries. Julius Caesar dictated Rome in his reign. And Napoleon took control of France through his conquests that threatened the world. His empire symbolized his dominance for generations.

Dynasty. Over the course of history, Mason has started its own rule over the Fort Ancient Valley Conference. Mason has captured the All Sports Trophy seven times in the the past ten years and with the success from this fall season, Mason looks to obtain yet another after clenching six of the nine conference titles during the fall sports season.

After beating Glen Este, the Comet football team guaranteed themselves a share of a third consecutive league title.

Boys and girls soccer also captured the league title as they

both finished undefeated in the FAVC. The boys team hasn't captured a league title since 1994 while the girls won their first championship in six years under new coach Paul Reedy.

Boys and girls golf swept through the conference tournament after they secured the conference championships by more than ten strokes.

With four seniors leading the girls cross country team, they were able to claim the FAVC title for the third consecutive year.

Girls volleyball, boys cross country, and girls tennis all finished second in the conference this season.

Winning six of the nine conference titles and for the remaining three teams to finish second, Mason has proven its dominance in the FAVC. Like the royal families, Caesar, and Napoleon, Mason's dominance has threatened the rest of the FAVC as the Mason athletes spread their influence of their athletic dynasty.

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November 4, 2005

Boys golf claims conference title

BY MATT SCRUTA Chronicle Sports Writer The Comets boys golf team claimed a league title led by the talented Chase Conn, who was named FAVC Player of the Year. The Comets finished the season atop the FAVC final season standings.

With a final score of 39, the Comets finished ahead of Loveland (36) to win the league title outright for the second consecutive year.

At the FAVC tournament, the Comets fired a team score of 327 beating Loveland by 14 strokes.

"This is the first time in years that we have been listed in the top ten of the city for three straight weeks," coach Dick Sutphin said. "Maybe in the near future we will compete for the top spot in the city."

Individually, junior Chase Conn and freshman Rajan Bawa finished first and

second in the FAVC in stroke average.

Conn finished the season with a 37.90 stroke average, while Bawa finished with a 39.2 stroke average. Sophomores Jeff Stephens (40.20) and Eric Prater (40.40) also played consistently well this season.

On their way to the league title, the Comets won a thrilling FAVC tournament. Four players were tied at 81 at the end of regulation. Tyler Davis and Stephens went on to play a six hole playoff to guarantee the Comets a league title.

Stephens won the playoff against Davis to claim the FAVC title. The Comets continued playing well in the post season making it to districts where Conn shot an impressive 75, one stroke away from the state tournament.

Coach Sutphin and Conn earned coach and player of the year honors respectively. Prater, and Stephens made first team All FAVC and Bawa earned second team honors.

Girls soccer undefeated in the FAVC

BY MORRISON TRACY Chronicle Sports Writer The 2005 Lady Comets played with the swagger they needed in order to capture the FAVC title. The girls finished with a record of 12-6-0 and a perfect conference record of 7-0-0.

It was a season of firsts as first year head coach Paul Reedy was at the helm for the 2005 campaign. "Winning the FAVC was our number one goal from the start. When you accomplish your most important goal, you have to be satisfied,” coach Reedy said.

With only four seniors, the Comets fielded a young and feisty team that was very competitive right from the start.

The Comets were tested early in the season by a highly ranked Sycamore team, but the Aviators ranking didn’t impress the Comets as they notched a 1-0 victory.

As the midseason approached, the girls continued to work hard and prove to their new coach and the entire league that they were for real.

"There really isn't a game that I can look back on and say that's the turning point in the season. As we got midway through the year, we started to show a lot of consistency and we really started to come together and roll off some key wins. The

girls worked hard and it showed on the field with their performance," Reedy said.

Senior forward Faith Juillerat led the Comets in all major offensive categories.

Juillerat was second in the conference with 38 total points and 15 goals. Ashley Thompson, senior midfielder, led the FAVC with nine assists.

Excellent defensive play from juniors Ashley Lintz, Darien Cooper, Noel Amend, and Brittany Bare played a significant part in keeping the team in every game.

"Strong defense was really our main contribution toward winning this year.

We played tough, physical defense and that's the reason we won a lot of the games we did," Reedy said.

According to Reedy, it took an entire team effort throughout the season to accomplish this lofty goal. Juniors Ali Bagley, Chelsea Baysore, Susan McKinley, Danielle Crotty, and seniors Maddy Pittman and Jenny Duffy were instrumental on the Comets’ success.

As a team, the Comets outscored their opponents by a mark of 35-17. Junior goalkeeper, Ashley Wheaton, ranked second in the conference with a total of seven shutouts including three conference shutouts.

Football team wins third straight league title

BY JOEY D’AMICO Chronicle Sports Writer The football team managed to earn their third consecutive shared league title. In 2003 the Comets shared the title with Anderson while last year there was a three-way tie with Winton Woods and Glen Este. This year, they share it once again with Glen Este. Though a win over Winton Woods last Friday night would have given the Comets sole possession of the Fort Ancient Valley Conference, the season was a success.

"It was a good season; I wish it would have ended better but there is nothing to be ashamed of," varsity football head coach Gary Popovich said.

After starting the season 1-2, the Comets strung together a six game winning streak which put them in position to gain a share of the league title. Despite a shaky start to the season, Popovich

thought their ability to finish 7-3 showed the team's character.

"It's a character thing. It's a belief in the program. We trust our kids, and they trust us," Popovich said.

The week seven game against Glen Este was looked upon as the game of the season for the rallying Comets.

A win over the Trojans turned out to be a crucial victory because a loss wouldn't have given Mason even the opportunity to claim a share of the league title. Glen Este beat Winton Woods 42-14 finishing the season 9-1 and fourth in the city rankings.

Earning a share of the league title for the third straight season shows that Popovich has high expectations.

"I think winning is contagious. I'm really proud of winning league, it shows we have consistency," Popovich said. "It shows our kids understand what it takes to be champions."

CHRONICLESports 15

Boys soccer wins first title since 94'

BY MORRISON TRACY Chronicle Sports Writer The drought is over. The 2005 boys varsity soccer team finally claimed their first FAVC title in over 10 years. Closing the season with a record of 10-3-4 and a conference record of 6-0-1, the team clinched their first league championship since 1994.

A combination of strong defense and explosive offense kept the Comets in the driver’s seat for nearly the entire season.

The Comets outscored opponents 34-12 That explosive offensive was kick started with the help of Long Island, New York transfer, Arun Sathyanathan.

Sathyanathan led the FAVC in total points and goals, and was tied for fourth with five assists.

Sathyanathan blended his offensive talents with an experienced team that played as unit the entire season. Senior leadership held Mason together through a league race that went right down to the wire.

Tough defensive pressure was present throughout the season from seniors Kyle Wilking, Travis Vornberg, Tim Sparks,

and Daniel Bethel. Senior goalkeeper, RJ Winkler, posted a city leading eight shutouts and led the conference with four shutouts.

Senior and captain Tom Burnette was the vocal leader on the team. "It just feels so good to finally win the FAVC. I'm so proud of my teammates and to be the team to end the drought is just awesome," Burnette said.

"We accomplished our number one goal from the start. We had big wins all season. Beating our rival Loveland 2-0 was huge for us. After the Princeton game, I felt like we got our reality check being it was our first loss, but we began to roll after that game and really turned our entire year around,” Burnette said.

The turn around for the Comets contributed to the success offensively led by Sathyanathan. He was supported by fellow seniors Zach Parr, Andrew Moore, Jay Steiner, Mike Federle, Tom Loughead, and Tyler Chini.

The team bowed out of the state tournament with 2-1 defeat at the hands of Lakota West after an impressive 5-0 drubbing of Oak Hills.

Girls golf captures second consecutive league title

BY MATT SCRUTA Chronicle Sports Writer For the second consecutive year, the girls golf team claimed the Fort Ancient Valley Conference Championship.

The girls, led by FAVC Coach of the Year Fred Reeder, won the FAVC tournament in dominant fashion.

Their low-score of 345 beat runner-up Kings by nineteen strokes. Although Kings had the top individual finisher in the tournament, the Comets claimed three of the top four spots on their way to the team title.

Leading the Comets was freshman Alexis Nelson, who shot an 82 for second place overall. The third and fourth place finishers were sophomore Kelsey Nelson and senior Emily Sweetman. Senior Brooke Baria rounded out the scoring

quartet with 92 which was good enough for eighth place overall.

"They played well," Reeder said. "They were the favorites, so there was the pressure to perform. They were dominant, and left no doubt that they were the best team in the conference."

During the regular season, the girls also played dominantly. Alexis Nelson also finished atop the FAVC in stroke average with 40.18 strokes per round.

Nelson, along with Sweetman (41.85), Baria (45.00), senior Lauren Riley (45.64), and Kelsey Nelson (45.70), swept the top five averages in the FAVC. The girls boast an impressive resume.

To go with Reeder's Coach of the Year honors, the Nelson sisters, Sweetman, Baria, and Riley made first team AllConference. Sophomore Tara Buesking was second team All-Conference.

Girls cross country continues FAVC dominance

BY DREW ALLEN Chronicle Sports Writer The last three seasons in the Fort Ancient Valley Conference has been dominated by one team and one team only.

Having won the last three team titles, the Mason girls cross country team has established themselves as the dominant program in the league.

With a team score of 30, Mason achieved their goal of defeating Loveland at the conference meet.

"We came back to beat [Loveland] in the FAVC meet to become league champions for the 3rd year in a row," Head coach Kelly Affatato said.

With five of the seven girls on the team placing in the top 10, the Comets ran away with the meet. Angela Bizzarri won first place, along with Emily Staresinic at fifth, Stephanie Chaney at seventh, Kelsey Flaherty claiming eighth and Danielle Terreri placing ninth.

The team was rounded out with Maggie and Katie Chaney placing 11th and 12th, respectively.

This victory was further extended with

a team title at the district meet. Bizzarri claimed her third straight district title, with Flaherty placing sixth. Freshman Emily Staresinic was the third Comet to place in the top ten, with a finish of ninth place.

"We'd like to make it to the state meet again, as a team, after our first team appearance last season," Affatato said. "If we make it that far we'd like to improve on our third place finish from last year."

Rapp going to state

BY BROOKE BARIA Chronicle Sports Editor A fifth place finish at the regional meet guaranteed senior Chris Rapp a spot at the state cross country meet this weekend. At the district meet at Rapp finished fourth to qualify to the regional meet with a time of 16:12.20.

Rapp improved his time to 16:04.00 at the regional meet held in Troy. Rapp is the first individual in boys cross country to qualify for state since Dennis Sherrow in 1987.

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CHRONICLESports

November 4, 2005

JV Journal

Fantasy Sports gains popularity among students

Girls JV Soccer concludes season with the FAVC Title

BY JOEY D'AMICO Chronicle Sports Writer

JV boys soccer finish undefeated in 2005 Not a single tally in the loss column for the 2005 junior varsity boys soccer team was recorded. In their second to last game the only thing close to a loss for the boys this season, was a 2-2 tie against Fairfield. This season, the Comets outscored their opponents 59-5 in a showcase of pure dominance in the FAVC. A potent offense and a dominating defense was the key to the Comets strong play in 2005. A perfect 6-0-0 FAVC record gave the Comets outright first place of the conference title.

"We have had success this year because we are truly a team. We have 18 guys that contribute day in and day out at practice, and that carries over to the playing field for games. The talent never drops as we make substitutions,” coach Adam Schaffer said.

Combining the experience of upperclassmen with incoming freshman never seemed to present a problem for this dominating team.

"I have many returning players from last year, so the team in general knew what to expect from me in terms of style of play and the work it would take to be successful. The new players that we added fell right into place early, and made a good team from last year even better."

Schaffer said.

The strong offensive play from junior Peter Springsteen and sophomore Scott Burnette translated into high scoring for the Comets. Both players had a conference leading nine goals. Junior goalkeeper Bryan Fusco and sophomore Patrick Lipka combined for 11 shut outs on the season and only gave up five goals the entire season.

Next season looks bright for these players as the varsity program will be heavily hit by graduation but if this season is any indication the Comet varsity squad could be chasing another FAVC title in 2006.

- Compiled by Morrison Tracy

about the players, but I do check the internet and other sources for additional news on players," Timmons said.

Though the key to success in fantasy sports is based primarily on one's knowledge of the game and players, prediction and luck are also important factors in the selection of a player.

"It's fun to predict which players are going to have breakout seasons and watch my predictions that my friends thought were wrong turn out to be correct," Timmons said.

Some fantasy sports, such as football, require a player to update their team only once a week, while other sports such as baseball, hockey, and basketball require a player to make roster and lineup changes on a daily basis.

"I usually check my teams every morning before school to see how they did, and if necessary, I will make roster and lineup changes," Wilson said.

As more people become introduced to fantasy sports everyday, they will have to decide between making them a side hobby or a time consuming addiction "I think there is a fine line between hobby and addiction," Timmons said. "And even though I might dance with it, I do realize it is just for fun."

MHS grad returns to intern in Mason Athletic Department

BY BROOKE BARIA Chronicle Sports Editor "There are two pictures in Mr. Russell’s office. One was the football field with a barn as the concession stand and the bus garage right behind the school and the second of Dwire field today. He's transformed our Athletic Department into what it is today, and that's why I wanted to come back to Mason," 2002 Mason High School graduate, Eric Silverman, said.

As a well received student-athlete by the faculty and his peers, Silverman returned to what he fondly calls home as an intern with the Mason Athletic Department this fall.

After graduating and going to Florida Southern College and then on to Ohio University, Silverman recognized the importance of involvement in high school and could not let his passion of high school sports dwindle.

"I wanted to give back because I was a student-athlete and saw all that Mason

FAVC All Conference

If it wasn't for a September 28th game in Loveland, you would be looking at an undefeated girls JV team. The Comets finished the season 14-1-1 making this one of the most successful seasons for the girls JV program. A bright future lies ahead for the Lady Comets due to the youth of this year's dominant JV team.

The team included nine freshman and nine sophomores. A strong overall team contribution was the key for the Comets in 2005. The leadership of sophomores Dori Steele, Abby Laymon, and Alyssa Wilking has been the glue that's held the Comets together throughout the season.

The consistent play of freshman Hailey Morris and Megan Matula was a spark in the Mason offense throughout this successful season.

Morris' speed and ball handling skills kept her among league leaders in goals. With the Varsity program graduating four starters from this year’s championship team, there will be plenty of opportunities for these young players to step in and contribute next season.

You see the students running to the nearest computer on a Monday morning. For some, it is time to check their grades on Edline, but for fantasy sport players, it is time to check the results of their fantasy team, or in some cases, teams.

To a fantasy player, Monday morning is when the preparation for next week's game begins. Monday morning is when you cut the players on your team that aren't putting up numbers.

Monday morning is when you make that blockbuster trade for LaDainian Tomlinson. Monday morning is what separates a hobby from an addiction.

More than 15 million Americans participate in fantasy sports, and the students here at Mason are no exception to this statistic.

Though the 2005-2006 NFL season has brought out new members to the game, many remain seasoned veterans to this fast growing hobby.

"Justin Brown started a league about four to five years ago with some other students and friends, and we have continued to play every year," senior Derek Wilson said.

While fantasy football holds the crown as the most popular and played fantasy sport, other sports such as baseball and basketball are climbing up the list.

"Besides football, I am part of fantasy baseball, basketball, and NASCAR," Wilson said.

Each year, the fantasy sports industry makes more than 150 million dollars in profit off people that pay to play and from players that purchase special stat packages.

While most high school students do not pay to play through a website, some students do participate in friendly leagues that have a pre-determined fee you must pay in order to join the league and play.

"One of my fantasy football leagues I am in had a ten dollar buy-in. It's pretty simple, the winner at the end of the year takes home the pot," Wilson said.

While money adds to the competition, some players make the money a second priority to the fun and competitiveness they experience with their friends.

"I have paid to play but it really wasn't my idea. Usually the money becomes secondary to the bragging rights and friendly competition," senior Mike Timmons said.

Most fantasy sports players play to win. However, while some players are satisfied with a mediocre team, others won't settle for anything short of a league championship, which usually means discovering ways to obtain the best team possible.

"I usually watch Sportscenter and have always had knowledge

You may not be a star on the playing field, but in fantasy football land you can become the star player.

had invested in me. I was just coming back to a school I graduated from and cared about," Silverman said.

Returning to Mason has given Silverman insight to his past as well as his future.

After seeing student-athletes today, Silverman wishes he would have trained harder because of its advantages in competition. By interning at his alma-mater, Silverman has gained more than realizations about past experiences.

Returning to Mason taught him the strenuous tasks that athletic department must complete for everything to be run smoothly.

"A high school athletic department does more than arrange simple schedules. The entire job it takes to operate an athletic department is monumental," Silverman said. Although the job of an athletic director is demanding, Silverman cannot wait to be involved at the high school level.

Silverman had the option of working at the high school, collegiate, or even professional level. There was no question where his heart was.

Boys Soccer Coach of the Year Jay Reutter Player of the Year Arun Sathyanathan 1st Team Tom Burnette, Senior Andrew Moore, Senior Zach Parr, Senior Arun Sathyanathan, Senior R. J. Winkler, Senior 2nd Team Seth Petrey, Senior Kyle Wilking, Senior

Girls Soccer Coach of the Year Paul Reedy Player of the Year Faith Juillerat 1st Team Ali Bagley, Junior Faith Juillerat, Senior Ashley Lintz, Junior Ashley Thompson, Senior Ashley Wheaton, Junior 2nd Team Allison Ott, Junior Maddie Pittman, Senior

Girls Cross Country Coach of the Year Kelly Affatato Player of the Year Angela Bizzarri, Senior 1st Team Angela Bizzarri, Senior Stephanie Chaney, Emily Staresinic, 2nd Team Katie Chaney, Senior Maggie Chaney, Senior Kelsey Flaherty, Senior Danielle Terreri,

Volleyball 1st Team Beth Riestnberg, Senior Molly Rowland, Junior 2nd Team Justine Congdon, Sophomore Jessica Priessman, Senior

Boys Cross Country 1st Team Chris Rapp, Senior 2nd Team Jacob Huggins, Junior Mike Kelly, Senior Alex Larcomb, Senior

Boys Golf Coach of the Year Dick Sutphin Player of the Year Chase Conn 1st Team Chase Conn, Junior

"You are able to be a part of a high level of competition but at the same time the main focus of athletes at the high school level is the love for playing the game," Silverman said. "High school athletics or activities in general are one of the most important parts of being in high school. It allows you to gain social and team skills as well as work towards goals and achievement."

After the few months Silverman interned at Mason, he now has an even stronger desire to work as an Athletic Director.

"I got a taste of the highs and lows as an Athletic Director. But at the end of the day I will be able to look in the mirror and say I've set these young people up for success. To be able to teach high school athletes to set goals and the determination to succeed makes me want it even more," Silverman said. "Rod Russell watches athletes develop as they achieve their goals every day and because of that, Mason has the best Athletic Department in the state."

Eric Prater, Sophomore Jeff Stephens, Sophomore 2nd Team Rajan Bawa, Freshman Girls Golf Coach of the Year Fred Reeder 1st Team Brooke Baria, Senior Kelsey Nelson, Junior Lauren Riley, Senior Emily Sweetman, Senior Alexis Nelson, Freshman Kelsey Nelson, Junior 2nd Team Tara Buesking, Sophomore

Girls Tennis Coach of the Year Carol Lehman 1st Team Emily Pham, Fr., Singles Ashley McCall, So., Singles Susanne Martie, So., Doubles Annika Olsson, So., Doubles 2nd Team Amanda Downey, Jr., Singles Football As of press time the football all conference selections had not been released by the FAVC.

November 4, 2005

ANGELA BIZZARRI

Anatomy a

of

CHAMPION

SENIOR Angela Bizzarri, one of

the most decorated individual athletes in Mason High School history, heads to Columbus this week in her quest for yet another state championship.

MUSCLING her WAY “We lift twice a week during cross country season and because we don’t sprint, being stronger definitely helps with endurance at the end of a race.”

No GUTS no GLORY Diet plays a significant role in the success of runners, except for Bizzarri who has been known to eat her share of fast food. However, her regiment on race day is a little different.

“I eat waffles every Saturday before my race.” Although her eating habits don’t affect her performance, her nerves do.

“If there’s someone that’s fast, I get nervous because I know I have to run well.”

CROSS COUNTRY

The most incredible FEAT 2002: State Champion 2003: Conference Champion FAVC Athlete of the Year 2004: State Champion Conference Champion FAVC Athlete of the Year 2005: Undefeated Conference Champion FAVC Athlete of the Year

TRACK

2003: 3200 State Champion Conference Champion FAVC Athlete of the Year 2004: 3200 State Champion 4x800 Relay State Runner-Up Conference Champion FAVC Athlete of the Year 2005: 3200 State Champion 4x800 Relay Fourth Place Finish Conference Champion

COMPILED BY BROOKE BARIA, Chronicle Sports Editor Chronicle photo by Josh Geiger

The

CHRONICLESports 17

HEAD in the GAME

Also an outstanding student in the classroom Bizzarri, with a 4.4 GPA, has the ability to not only ‘out run’ her opponents, she often ‘out thinks’ them with her ability to focus unlike any of her competitors, especially as she takes the early lead in every race.

EYE on the PRIZE With five individual state titles, Bizzarri will continue her dominance at the collegiate level. She is being recruited by colleges all over the country such as Michigan, Illinois, and Duke, but remains undecided.

HEART of a CHAMPION

Bizzarri is not only successful because she’s talented. She craves victory and every time she tastes it, she craves more.

“It all depends on how much you want to win. Every race, I want to win and I have to go in expecting to win,” Bizzarri said.

KICKING some BUTT Throughout the season, Bizzarri has been dominant, crossing the finish line on average nearly a minute and half ahead of her opponents. At the FAVC meet, Bizzarri finished 35.40 seconds ahead of the 2003 state champion Sarah Leeper of Loveland.

The SUPPORTING Cast KELSEY FLAHERTY, Senior An outstanding competitor, Flaherty has already committed to run track and cross country at Xavier.

KATIE CHANEY, Senior With a personal record time of 19:20.00 this season, she is being recruited by many Division I programs, including Ohio State.

DANIELLE TERRERI, Sophomore As a second year varsity member, she contributed to the league title by making Second Team All FAVC. EMILY STARSENIC, Freshman Just a freshman, Starsenic finished fifth overall at the FAVC meet.

MAGGIE CHANEY, Senior Like her twin sister, her personal record time this season is 19:20.00.

Maggie is also considering OSU. STEPHANIE CHANEY,Sophomore The youngest of the Chaney sisters made a name for herself when she finished seventh at the FAVC meet.

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CHRONICLESports

Sports Notebook New coaches gear up for opening of winter sports As the winter sports season approaches, and official practices begin, first year varsity coaches, Craig Murnan and Rob Matula, look toward a successful season.

Murnan, returning assistant coach from last season, has stepped up to fill the varsity wrestling head coach position after vacated by departing coach Jerry Shrock.

The wrestling team returns seniors Joel Cooperstein, Nick Ford, An Nguyen, Jamie Morton, and state qualifier Brian Porter.

"We have a mature team returning with experience," Murnan said.

"We have kids in all weight classes ready to step up to varsity."

Murnan is excited by the prospect of many talented athletes competing for varsity spots. "We have a lot of individuals and competition in the room to see who will get the varsity spot," Murnan said.

Like Murnan, Matula, first year varsity girls basketball coach, hopes for a successful season.

Matula also looks to experience and maturity as key to a successful season.

"We have a lot of returning players and three key seniors that will step up," Matula said. With a positive outlook prior to the season, the Lady Comets expect to win a lot of games.

"We'll find out what we're made of after the Princeton and Beavercreek games, but we should have a successful season," Matula said.

Post season wrap up This fall, several of Comet sports teams had a successful post season. After clinching six of the nine Fort Ancient Valley Conference championships, the Mason varsity teams were prepared for postseason play.

Boys golf qualified for Districts at Weatherwax Golf Course after firing a team score of 315. After making it to districts, Conn fell short of qualifying for state by one stroke.

The girls varisty golf team joined the boys at Weatherwax after shooting a school record 319 at sectionals. The girls missed going to state after finishing 4th while the top three teams qualify.

The girls soccer team made it to the second round of playoffs beating Loveland 2-1 but ending on a tough loss to Lakota East 2-1. The boys soccer team shut out Oak Hills 5-0 and continued their post season against Lakota West where they were narrowly defeated 2-1.

Sophomore Ashley McCall and freshman Emily Pham qualified for the girls tennis State tournament and competed in the doubles division finishing in the top eight.

The girls volleyball team finished their season after defeating Hamilton, but falling to St. Ursula in the sectional finals Chris Rapp and the girls cross country team qualified for the State tournament which will be held November 5th.

- Compiled by Brooke Baria

November 4, 2005

SUPERSTITIOUS COACHES Some coaches won’t admit it but these Comet coaches reveal secrets to their success

BY MATT SCRUTA Chronicle Staff Writer Over the years, the Comet athletic stature has grown in the Fort Ancient Valley Conference. Whether it is football, wrestling, basketball, cross country, tennis or soccer, the multitude of league titles and trophies that Mason has earned express overall dominance by the athletic department. Many things contribute to this success: The long hours of practice, the spirit of competition, and, of course, superstition.

Yes, superstition could be the key to a successful season. "Anything that you can do to get your mind in a state where you feel more confident about what you are about to partake in is key," Coach Craig Murnan said. "I don't like to get out of a routine, because I feel like it then takes you out of where you need to be focused mentally."

The respect for superstition is expressed at all levels of competition. Professional moguls such as Michael Jordan wore lucky shorts, and the coaches at Mason High School have their own superstitions. Mason coaches share these customs, and reveal secrets to their success.

BRIAN CASTNER Varsity assistant football coach Head Fast Pitch Softball coach

CRAIG MURNAN Varsity wrestling coach

"I wear a certain tie for a certain reason, and I keep that reason to myself," Murnan said. "Once I accomplish that goal, I'll let everybody know why I wear a certain tie. Until then, I keep the reason to myself, as personal."

"On game day, a lot of us teachers eat from the same restaurant, as long as we're winning," Castner said. "We eat in the conference room, and the same people have to sit in the same spots."

Every Friday morning, Castner works out in preparation for the game that night. He also listens to Frank Sinatra's song, My Way, one of his favorites. "[Senior Josh] Geiger does a video for us every Friday," Castner said. "We didn't do a video for the Hilliard-Davidson game and we lost."

GREG RICHARDS Varsity boys basketball coach

PETE RUDOWSKI Varsity assistant soccer coach

"I always gotta stop and get my coffee at UDF," Richards said. The veteran basketball coach also believes that if something is not broke, then you don't need to fix it.

"We play a game and lets say we win," Richards said. "That game, I am wearing a coat and tie so the next game, I am wearing a coat and tie. If we get beat, then I'm going with a sweater vest."

"If I wear a shirt and we lose," said Rudowski. "I try not to wear that shirt again. If we win, I try to wear the same stuff." Rudowski, who has also coached baseball, had some superstitious rituals in that sport as well. "You never step on the foul lines," Rudowski said. "If we were doing well in an inning, then I wouldn't leave the spot where I was standing."

HIGHLIGHT REEL Emily Starsenic Cross Country Freshman

Freshman Emily Staresenic finished in 5th place recently at the girls Cross Country Conference Meet. She was named to the All Conference First Team and helped the cross country team to their third FAVC title in the past four years.

Chris Rapp Cross Country Senior

Senior Chris Rapp finished this season as the fourth ranked runner in the FAVC. With a personal best time of 15:59, Rapp was the only Mason runner to make FAVC All Conference First Team.

Zach Parr Soccer Senior

The Boys Varsity Soccer team clinched the FAVC for the first time this season since 1994.

Senior Zach Parr helped the Comets clinch their title by dishing out seven assists, which was second most in the FAVC, and has scored a total of eight points o the season.

Matt Koman Football Junior

Quarterback Matt Koman has led the Mason Varsity Football team to seven straight wins and their third straight Fort Ancient Valley Conference Title. Koman also broke a 40 year old school record by throwing five touchdowns against the Harrison Wildcats.

The

November 4, 2005

Gameday Rituals

“

Graham crackers are key to Kel l y s success

THE NIGHT BEFORE WE HAVE A MEET, I HAVE TO STAY UP LATE. BEFORE WE GET READY TO RUN I LISTEN TO MY IPOD AND THEN EAT SOME GRAHAM CRACKERS. WHEN WE GET READY TO RUN, I ALWAYS PRAY RIGHT BEFORE WE START."

”

Mike Kelly ,

Senior Varsity Cross Country

Kelly, in his senior season, is in the top 15 for total time in the FAVC. The hard work from Kelly and the other seniors on the team Mason in the hunt for an FAVC title. The team ended the season with a solid second place finish at the conference meet.

- Compiled by Morrison Tracy

How I got Started...

The Chronicle wants to know how you got started playing your sport...

"I started playing when I was 4 because it was really the only sport you could play at that age. I would look up to my older cousin who played and I just

Zach Parr, Senior wanted to be as good as he was one day. He was probVarsity Soccer

CHRONICLESports 19

Campus Scene Fall Sport Stars In this month’s College Watch we are checking out two former Mason High School students. Both were stars for the Comets during their days in high school and are continuing to see success at the collegiate level.

Danielle Young: Class of 2004 Danielle Young has become one of the most prominent young players for the Lady Bobcats of Ohio this season.

Young, only a sophomore, is one of only four players to start all 12 games this season as a midfielder. She has recorded seven shots, including two on goal. Young scored her first collegiate goal against Northern Illinois in her freshman year. During her freshman year, she appeared in 18 games, started six games, Ohio University and took nine Facts shots , which was Nickname: Bobcats second most among Ohio's Conference: MAC (Mid American freshman.

Young Conference) Young had an outstanding high school career, scoring 13 Famous Alumni: goals and 31 assists as a four year varsiRoger Ailes (President of FOX News), ty player for Mason. She was a two time Nancy Cartwtight (Voice of Bart Simpson all conference selection and helped lead and other characters on The Simpson's), the Lady Comets to a district title in 2001.

Arsenio Hall (Comedian), Matt Lauer (coShe was also selected to an all academic Host of NBC's Today Show), Mike Shmidt team for all of her four years. She played (Hall of Fame Third Baseman), Dave for Cincinnati's prestigious club team Zastudil (Punter for the Baltimore Ravens), Cincinnati United Premier, and was a three time state runner up.

ably my main inspiration in playing.”

Parr is in his senior season and has a total of ten points which is good for top ten in the FAVC. As a junior last season, Parr was a first team AllFAVC player. Parr currently is tied for second in the conference with sixassists and is striving to be on this years All FAVC team as a senior.

- Compiled by Morrison Tracy

What’s Your Take?

We surveyed 100 students and asked what fantasy sport is your favorite?

Jessica McCann: Class of 2004 Jessica McCann, currently a sophomore at Bowling Green State University has proven herself to be a dominant force as a member of The Lady Falcons golf team. As a freshman, McCann finished second on the team with an average score of 81.55 per eighteen holes.

Currently, McCann is enjoying a good start to her sophomore season. At the Youngstown State Invitational, McCann tied for second with a two round score of 154. Her success carried over to the Ball State Cardinal Classic Bowling Green State University where she finished first Facts on the team and 21st Nickname:Falcons overall in the tournament McCann with a two round score of Conference: MAC (Mid American 159.

Conference) McCann, a 2004 graduate of Mason was a three year varsity letter winner. She was named player Famous Alumni : of the year by the Ohio Golf Course Owners Tim Conway (Actor), Nate Thurmond Association for winning two tournaments and fin(member of the NBA Hall of Fame), ishing second or third four separate times.

Orel Hershiser (Cy Young Award McCann received first team all league and city Winner), Dorothy and Lillian Gish honors during her sophomore, junior, and senior (Actresses), James Baldwin (writer), seasons. During her senior season, McCann Rob Blake (hockey player for the placed third at the districts tournament. Not only Colorado Avalanche) Scott Hamilton was McCann a contributor to the golf program, (professional figure skater) but also was a four year letter winner in the softball program.

- compiled by Joey D’Amico and Matt Hunter

Gary’s Barber Shop Gary Oglesby

314 W. Main Street Mason, OH 45040

Phone: 398-8801

Hours: MTTF 9-5:30 Saturday 8 - 2:30 Closed Wednesday

20

The

CHRONICLESports

What coaches say...

November 4, 2005

Proper nutrition and eating habits play a big role in athlete’s success Coaches and trainers paying closer attention to the eating habits of athletes

BY JOEY D'AMICO Chronicle Sports Writer

"There is a direct correlation between performance, nutrition, and diet. You can tell how a kid responds during competition and how well a kid manages their nutrition."

Craig Murnan Varsity Wrestling Coach

"We promote easy lifestyles with all of the fast food restaurants. It's okay to eat out every once in a while, but it can't become a big part of your diet. You have to be smart about what you are eating and putting into your body.

Paul Eversole Strength and Conditioning Coach

We don't always think of athletes to be at risk when it comes to their health.

However, some even believe that couch potatoes live longer than athletes because athletes are not meeting the nutritional demands that are placed on their bodies from high levels of activity.

While the athletes themselves may overlook the importance of nutrition, most coaches make it a point to address their team about its importance.

"Not only do we talk to our guys about the importance of nutrition, we give them websites, handouts, and give information to parents at our parent meeting," Varsity wrestling coach Craig Murnan said. "The parents have to be involved."

Though athletes may not believe that good nutrition can affect their physical performance during competition, the way you eat and the food you put into your body can affect one's performance during a game, meet, or match.

"There is a direct correlation between performance, nutrition, and diet. You can tell how a kid responds during competition and how well a kid manages their nutrition," Murnan said.

Strength and conditioning coach Paul Eversole also stresses the importance of nutrition to all athletes and he, too, can notice when athletes are failing to provide their body with the proper amount of food.

"You can tell when athletes aren't eating," Eversole said. "They lose weight and their performance lacks and they become tired, which can lead to injury."

Injuries are a big fear and concern

amongst athletes and coaches. While some injuries can't be prevented, other injuries result from fatigue and poor nutrition, which an athlete can try to prevent through proper eating habits.

"Injuries such as stress fractures usually occur because of nutrition. The athlete usually isn't drinking enough milk and receiving enough calcium," Varsity girls track coach Tony Affatato said. "If you're not providing your body with proper food and nutrients, your body will deteriorate and breakdown, resulting in fatigue and injury."

In order to prevent fatigue and injury, athletes need to put more nutrients and minerals into their bodies and replenish it more often than the average person. The seven most essential minerals for athletes include calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, selenium, sodium and zinc. The benefits from these minerals range from keeping bones strong to minimizing fatigue.

To make sure their athletes are receiving the proper nutrients and minerals, coaches have their own individual way of informing their team about what they need to be eating before competitions.

"We talk about pre-race meals, a lot of pastas, chicken, fruits, vegetables, and water," Affatato said.

While some coaches talk to their team about maintaining proper nutrition, other coaches provide their team with the necessary food.

"On pre-match day, our parents provide the food for the kids," Murnan said. "They receive a bottle of water, a banana which gives them potassium, a sandwich which has protein, and some power bars they can eat throughout the day."

Athletes have to be very disciplined and careful about what they put into their bodies in order to perform well during competition. However, this becomes very difficult for student athletes whose lives are constantly busy. The quickest option usually takes precedence over the healthier choice.

"We promote easy lifestyles with all of the fast food restaurants. It's okay to eat out every once in a while, but it can't become a big part of your diet. You have to be smart about what you are eating and putting into your body," Eversole said.

"Eating habits of athletes and people now will stick with them later on in life."

The coaches and training staff realize teaching the athletes the importance of proper health and nutrition now is setting them up for a healthy future.

"What we are trying to teach the athletes is not only good in the short term, but also in the long term," Murnan said. "People are creatures of habit, getting into good habits now can carry on in life."

Though educating the athletes on the importance of nutrition continues to improve, coaches still believe it is being overlooked.

"Not every team works out in a weight room, so some athletes and teams aren't informed," Affatato said. "In some sports nutrition matters more, but in every sport nutrition is important to give the athletes the best possible performance."

While nutrition seems to be focused on more in the lives of athletes, it can be healthy habit for everyone.

"Talk to somebody who is educated on nutrition," Eversole said. "Nutrition isn't just for athletes, but for everybody."

The

November 4, 2005

CHRONICLEAds

21

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After transfering to Mason at the end of his junior year, Arun Sathyanathan has been a significant member of the Varisty boys soccer team this season. As a first year Varsity player for the Comets, Sathyanathan led the team to their first Fort Ancient Valley Conference title since 1994.

Sathyanathan leads the FAVC in all offensive categories. In the conference, he had nine goals, three assists, and 21 points. Overall he had 13 goals, five assists, and 31 points.

Because of Sathyanathan’s leadership on the field, the Comets remained undefeated in the FAVC at 6-0-1.

Sathyanathan had two hat tricks (three goals) this season in games against Walnut Hills and Glen Este. His individual success helped the team in an effort to prepare for post season. He had one assist and one goal against Oak Hills to win 5-0 and advance to the second round of playoffs where the Comets were knocked off 2-1 by Lakota West. Sathyanathan made a tremendous impact on the Varisty boys soccer team this fall and because of his accomplishments, The Chronicle and Aponte's Pizzeria are proud to present Arun Sathyanathan as the November Athlete of the Month.

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22

The

CHRONICLEViews

November 4, 2005

STAFF POLICY The Chronicle is the official student newspaper of William Mason High School. The Chronicle is produced by students enrolled in Journalism I, II, and III. Editorials reflect the staff’s opinion but do not neccesarily reflect the opinions of the school administration or the Mason City School District.

The Chronicle is published monthly.

Call 398-5025 ext. 33110 for information regarding advertising in The Chronicle. The Chronicle reserves the right to refuse advertising we deem inappropriate for a high school publication.

As an open forum for students, letters to the editor are welcome, but are subject to be edited for length, libel, obscentiy, clarity, and poor taste. Letters to the editor may be dropped off in room C110 and must be signed.

The Chronicle is a member of The Columbia Scholastic Press Association, The National Scholastic Press Association, Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society for High School Journalists, and the Journalism Association for Ohio Schools.

CONTACT INFORMATION The Chronicle William Mason High School 6100 S. Mason Montgomery Rd. Mason, Ohio 45040 398-5025

THE CHRONICLE STAFF Editor Olga Borodulin Sports E ditor Brooke Baria Business M anager Kelsey Flaherty Editorial C artoonist Peter Springsteen Logistics M anager Michelle Rotbart Staff P hotographers Michelle Rotbart Josh Geiger Sarah Fukatsu Rebecca Ziegler Sharon Stewart Technical a nd G raphic Assistants Matt Vollet Josh Geiger Sarah Fukatsu Staff W riters Drew Allen Joey D’Amico Stephanie Visscher Caroline Johnson Sarah Fukatsu Matt Hunter Matt Partington Candice Philpot Matt Scruta Rachel Slezak Sharon Stewart Morrison Tracy Danielle Williams Rebecca Ziegler Business S taff Sarah Fukatsu Danielle Williams Michelle Rotbart Adviser Mr. Dale Conner

STAFF EDITORIAL

Maybe distractions can finally come to an end with Nov. 8 vote Mason has been an unlikely battleground for over a year now. The district has waged a war against CARE (Citizens for Accountability and Results in Education) in their effort to raise funds for this growing district while the state continues to cut back on the money they provide.

Besides being bombarded with e-mails, letters, door-to-door requests, articles, and signs the Mason community has also endured school board meetings in which cruel words were exchanged, and no solutions made.

Mason superintendent Dr. Kevin Bright and his entire administrative staff have spent months defending themselves against a litany of requests.

The CARE group has kept school officials busy by making requests for previous information ranging from a variety of subjects usually dealing with money or how money was spent. A look inside Mason City School’s Treasurer Dick Gardner's office would reveal the amount of work he has to complete, knowing that most of it will be go unused.

At Fairfield, district officials are still picking up the pieces after CARE leader Arnie Engel and his group waged war in their district. Throughout this whole process it seems as if this fight has brought

out the worst in all involved.

The CARE group may be well intentioned in their call for responsible spending and especially in a time where everyone is watching their wallet. But many of their methods should be questioned.

Spending and fiscal responsbility is on the agenda of every school district in this financially strapped state. But at a time when meaningful dialogue could occur at how to address these matters and its burden on tax payers, all that has happened is a string of raucus school board meetings that spend more time focusing on shouting attacks rather than the positives of a school district that is considered by many the envy of all others in this state.

The voters of Mason spoke back in May and their message was in favor of their excellent schools. Now the district is defending itself once again, all the while using valuable resources and time to defend itself rather than focus on all the good that goes on in this gem of a school district.

This battle has divided Mason. A quaint community nestled between Cincinnati and Dayton where parades still happen with fire trucks and bands now is home to hurt feelings and factions.

It is safe to say that not only will the

I just don t think anyone will listen to me....

school district be glad when this is all over but so will the people who really matter....the kids.

Mason teachers in all buildings have done a tremendous job educating students.

That is their charge to execute the mission statement of our school district. Teachers have been loyal to their school, they have worn t-shirts at football games and wrote post cards but most importantly they have stayed loyal to their students. Despite all these distractions they have taught the students with the same passion and vigor that has made Mason one of the top school districts in the state.

Hopefully the distractions will end soon.

The distractions in our community have literally forced our school officials to focus solely upon explaining and cooperating with CARE every day.

The multitude of tasks set before the school board has forced them to give up time usually spent on trying to research how to make our schools better to at times listening to incredible requests or criticisms about the district.

Hopefully after November 8 the district and this community can begin a time of healing and get back to the business of what Mason City School does best, educate kids.

Have you ever thought about writing a letter to the editor?

The Chronicle is always willing to listen.

The

November 4, 2005

“No” vote means yes to Mason schools At the Mason football tailgate, I looked over to what I believed to be a group of Mason moms, and saw them wearing "Issues 29-36: Vote No" stickers. At first I was angry and confused, assuming it meant they were against the schools. However, under closer inspection, I saw "Defend Mason Schools" written on the bottom of the sticker, easing my concern.

I was aware that CARE had discovered a loop-hole in the law allowing the issues from the May levy to be revoted on, however, I was not well versed in these matters and did not fully understand what was really going on.

Upon further research I discovered voting "no" on this ballot was supporting the schools, because each referendum was a cutback on the total amount of money the district would acquire. Also, a cutback of approximately 24.8 million dollars over three years would be made if the referendums passed. This would obviously make a huge impact on our school district, and I became nervous whenever I think about it.

This nervous feeling arises because I am actively involved in the school, and not because I am told to do so, but because I enjoy being in clubs. I look forward to going to my meetings after school. I think they give me an out of the classroom experience that is precious.

Not only do I believe these experiences help me academically, but socially as well. I can't fathom what kind of a negative impact my life would take if any of these programs were cut because the school did not have enough funding.

Academically, the extra-curriculars I am involved in help me tremendously. They make me a better leader, a better writer, and a better public speaker. They teach me to work in well with my peers, and allow me to express my opinions.

Socially, the extra-curriculars I participate in enhance my high school experience. I have made a large variety of friends and gain self-confidence. Clubs also have made me a well-rounded student, and without them I believe my chances of into getting into a good college may be hindered.

Although administrators will try to make cuts as far away from the classroom as possible, a 25 million dollar loss is a lot of money to cut from the budget. I believe class sizes are excellent where they are right now because teachers are able to focus on a single student if necessary.

If the referendums pass, class sizes may go up which could hurt student's academic careers. Also the large variety of classes offered at the high school allow students to get a real world perspective and hands on experiences that will help students in later years. If classes are dropped because of funding, it will impact students' educations and futures.

I have faith in the Mason community. I believe many of us moved here for the schools, therefore we want to support the schools and see them at their best, meaning we must continue funding the programs that make our district excellent.

I will be heartbroken if these referendums pass. Our schools need the funding in order to maintain the excellent level that they operate at right now. I will be pained to see programs ripped away from students; programs which allowed us to grow and learn both socially and academically. I will be sad not only for myself, but for all my classmates who were stolen from, by the elimination of opportunities that made Mason students stand out.

I ask you as the Mason community to be well informed, know the facts and don't be swayed by rumors. On behalf of Mason students, I ask you to vote "no." Support our school district, and allow the next generation to experience the opportunities Mason can offer. Vote "NO" on November 8, and don't let anyone compromise our futures.

True love can wait From birth, teenage girls are brought up to go to school, graduate, and start a life with the "man of their dreams."

Usually the dream ends with having a couple of kids in the suburbs and growing old. These girls consider their lives to be complete because they met that spectacular man and got married.

What would have happened if they had followed their dreams before they met their sweetheart in high school or college? One might never know. After marriage and children, it is almost too late to chase a dream.

Relationships in high school change every girl, and usually, not for the better. It happens all the time. Your best friend gets into that "momentous" relationship, swears that she is in love after two weeks of dating him, and before long you are out of the picture. If for some reason you are still in the picture, Mr. Perfect is talked about for hours on end, which is probably not the friendship you wanted.

Girls in high school, and maybe even in general, spend too much of their lives worrying about the opposite sex.

No one, including boys, should need to live through anyone else. No one should ever have to make friends or have a social life because of their boyfriend or girlfriend. What ever happened to creating your own happiness? Or following through on what is, or used to be, important to you as a person?

High school is a time to find out who you are and decide where you want to be in the future. Basing plans such as college or leaving the town in which you grew up on a high school relationship is not only ignorant, but depressing to the family and friends that know you best and love you the most.

Teenagers need to come to the realization that they probably will not end up marrying their high school sweethearts. If they do, the divorce rate is highest for these relationships. According to a report in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, "early marriage is a key predictor of later divorce. Nearly half of people who marry under 18 and 40 percent under age 20 end up divorced. It's only 24 percent for people who marry after age 25." National Center for Health Statistics said, "nearly half of marriages in which the bride is 18 or younger end in separation or divorce within 10 years."

“Nearly half of marriages in which the bride is 18 or younger end in separation or divorce within 10 years."

The bottom line is that as you grow older, you change, and you are not the same person that you were in high school. It is unrealistic to settle for the first person that you were attracted to when you are a teenager.

Sometimes it is more fun to sit around with a group of friends and laugh, rather than to worry about why he didn't call, or who he might be with. There is no use in spending your four years of high school on someone who could possibly limit your life and the awesome experiences you can have. Besides, after the break-up, who wants to be bitter and broken-hearted for relationships to come?

The excitement of true love comes when you least expect it. The happiest love should come when you are content with yourself and most situations in your life, thus making that person only add to your happiness and not create it for you. It is important to have a sense of self and selfworth, because it allows people to better respect you.

When you are in misery about a relationship gone awry, I challenge you "to live deliberately" as Walt Whitman once said, and figure out what you want out from the world, aside from romance. When you realize where life can take you, the new you will resurface and be more aware of what kind of person will best suit you later on.

Figure yourself out first. It is worth the exploration.

After all, confidence is very attractive.

CHRONICLEViews

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We owe it to ourselves to take school safety measures seriously School security has changed drastically in the six years since the Columbine shootings. Schools are now equipped with metal detectors, security cameras and in many cases their own police officer. Mason has had its own threats since then.

The sad fact is that schools are not as safe as they used to be with out these precautions. I am very glad Mason High School takes security seriously, and for the most part I feel completely safe at school. Where students fail, however, is that they do not take the drills seriously.

Take for example the most recent lockdown during which my entire class was told to hide behind the wall with the classroom door by crouching down and covering our heads.

There were many snickers among the students, as well as many opinions as to why the drill was "ridiculous" and a "waste of time." The most prevalent reasoning behind these opinions was that the students who could fit directly along the wall (the space of which is limited by a book case) would be hidden from view, but as the class crowded as close to the wall as possible the majority of the students were in clear view of the window and any attacker passing by.

People also commented on how the locked doors provide little protection considering the attackers could easily break the window and enter the classroom.

It is quite understandable why students would have these opinions because they are not informed of the reasoning behind their instructions. I myself was confused how hiding behind a classroom wall would keep me safe.

After talking to a teacher, I now know that all studies of school shootings show that the safest plan of action is to keep students in the classroom. Leaving to find another hiding spot or evacuating the building puts people in direct contact with the attackers. Also, keeping staff and students contained in the classroom isolates the shooters, so they are easier to apprehend.

When it comes to student safety, students shoud not have to seek out information on their own. The problem of students not taking the lockdown drills seriously has be prevailent through out all three of my years at Mason High School. As soon as this problem was noticed, action should have been taken to better inform staff students. The reason this has yet to be done is because no one actually believes a school shooting could happen at Mason, so both staff and students may think correcting students’ attitudes is a waste of time. But if there is one thing we have learned from school violence, it is that it can happen anytime, and anywhere.

“When it comes to student safety, students shoud not have to seek out information on their own.”

I'll admit that I've laughed at some of the jokes people make during these drills, but it is something that should make everyone ashamed when they think about the real people killed in school shootings. It is disrespectful of their memory to make light of school shootings. To survivors, the situation is very real.

By not taking lockdown drills seriously, we are not adequately preparing ourselves for the event of a real emergency. Students need to be informed about our safety procedures so that they can respect the schools plans of action and, most importantly, feel safe at school.

Feedback: Do you plan on voting in the November 8th election? " Yes, because being a part of a democracy, it is important to fulfill your civic duty of voting."

Tom Loughead Senior

"No, because I didn't register and the issues don't concern me."

Erica Centers Senior

"Yes my mom encouraged me to register because it's a right I have."

Sarah Griffiths Senior

"No, I wanted to but I forgot to register!"

Naomi Kristie Calvert Senior

"I'm 18 and it's important and I feel the need to help the community."

Travis Brown Senior

Compiled by Michelle Rotbart