The Chronicle, 3.4

William Mason High School Mason, Ohio

The

Chron l cle

Rising above the rest, Comets are headed toward another FAVC title, see page 15 Volume 3 Issue 4

6100 South Mason Montgomery Road, Mason, Ohio 45040

M AN &WOMAN Y EAR 2005

OF THE

Bright dedicated to serving school district

Bizzarri raises the bar of excellence

BY OLGA BORODULIN Chronicle Editor

BY STEPHANIE VISSCHER Chronicle Staff Writer

Long before senior Angela Bizzarri His office laden with sculptures and paintbecame a legend at Mason High School ings by Mason students, his desk filled with for her outstanding track accomplishready-to-be sent cards for honor roll student ments, she was just another new face athletes, and his door displaying a collage among the many incoming freshman. of fourth and fifth graders' published carBizzarri, who had just moved to Mason toons, superintendent Dr. Kevin Bright is from Lawrenceburg, Indiana, found not your average leader. But without seeing being a member of the Cross Country the contents of his work space, this fact team helpful in her transition to a new could be recognized by his demeanor during school. the battle for school funding beginning in "I remember being in cross country mid-April of 2005. Bright was able to stand and, as with anyone else, being in some his ground during attacks, unwavering in type of group [helps] you feel like you his confidence in Mason schools. This act of know people once you get to school," leadership exhibited by Bright is just one of Bizzarri said. "I think when you train the few feats that has made him The with people, you're both working very Chronicle's 2005 Man of the Year. hard, so you build a friendship."

Part of Bright’s success can be attributed It was not long after Bizzarri became to his constant attendance at school basketthe state champion for cross country in ball games, wrestling matches and swim fall of 2002, that she was immediately meets. Bright always makes an effort to thrust into the spotlight. attend, knowing that his attendance is "I guess it was kind of a weird position appreciated by students, teachers and because I was really young and [being] coaches such as varsity wrestling coach judged. I didn't know how to exactly deal Craig Murnan. with that," Bizzarri said.

"His presence lets the wrestlers know Senior Katie Chaney was also new to how much he cares about what they do and Chronicle photo by Josh Geiger Mason when she first met Bizzarri in the the commitment it takes to compete at the GOING ALONG FOR THE RIDE, Mason City Schools superintendent Dr. Kevin summer of 2004 while training for cross level they are. He often writes motivational Bright and senior Angela Bizzarri were selected by The Chronicle as Man and country. notes to them in support of their actions Woman of the year for exhibiting leadership throughout the Mason community.

"I met Angela last year in the summer and performance," Murnan said. when I first moved [to Mason]. She was the first one that really told us everything Bright is not only present at student athletic matches but also at Rotary and training-wise that [the team] did and that kind of stuff," Chaney said.

Kiwanis meetings, toothpaste tastings at the Intermediate school, success speeches According to Chaney, Bizzarri exhibits humility towards her outstanding track from middle school students and snowmen trivia games in Gayle Ertel's class. career and does not stand out among the other members of the track team.

According to vice president of the Mason school board Connie Yingling, Bright's car"She never says anything unless she's asked about winning or about her races," ing attitude towards all students is due to his "huge heart."

Chaney said. "She actually blends in a lot. [Angela] is kind of quiet, she leads by "I have often jokingly told him that [his huge heart] may get him in trouble one example on our team." day. He is a truly caring person. He cares about every student and family in our disSenior Elyse Gabel, also a member of the track team, was surprised by Bizzarri's trict," Yingling said. modesty.

Bright's efforts can all be attributed to his ability to prioritize and distinguish "I was kind of scared because I thought she was going to be all stuck up, but I just what's most important for him as a husband, father and superintendent. love her because she's so humble about how great of an athlete she is," Gabel said.

"You need to balance the psychological, emotional, social, spiritual and physical.

"She's grateful for her gift and that carries into her performance."

Once you're able to balance those and bring your life into balance, then you'll be able Tim King, who coached Bizzarri in cross country her freshman year, saw firsthand to handle pressure and deal with problems as they arise," Bright said. the grace with which she handles her accomplishments.

Bright's contributions to the community have already been recognized locally and "I was happy that a person so humble and nice had accomplished something great," state-wide as he received the 2003 Ohio Superintendent of the Year award, while also King said. receiving the Superintendent of Snow Days award from Gayle Ertel's class.

Although she is modest about her own success, according to Gabel, Bizzarri is a "It could be a card from a student or a [state-wide award] but both are important source of inspiration for the team. Bizzarri was particularly supportive of the team and mean just as much to me," Bright said. during training for the 2004 Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) state Bright looks upon his awards with pride yet regrets not being able to have his competition. father, who is now deceased, and his 92-year-old mother, who suffers from

If Israel were to get a new Prime Minister, do you think it would have a significant impact on the United States foreign policy?

P ll

39%

no

32% yes

29%

(Based on a survey of 200 students.)

not sure

INSIDE...

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 5 SPORTS

15

OPINION

19

SNEAK PEEK

The Chronicle was recently awarded a Gold Medalist Certificate by the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. Publications from the 2004-2005 school year were evaluated. The Chronicle was commended for its wide variety of coverage.

Chronicle

NEWS Flash

The Chronicle earns gold medal

CENTERSPREAD

!"Please see BIZZARRI page 2

!" Please see BRIGHT page 2

Burning Questions!

We have all the answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask.

2

The

CHRONICLENews

Noteable newsmakers of 2005 Nancy Ziegler Math teacher Nancy Ziegler has always shyed away from the spotlight. But in the spring of 2005, she finally decided that believing in something meant standing up for it, even if it meant that she would have to let go of her own public speaking fears. She began the MHS AIDS Angel Ride, a schoolwide effort for students to donate money towards Oprah’s Angel Network. The school goal was to raise $10,000 for those diagnosed with AIDS. But Ziegler’s goal wasn’t just to raise money. She wanted to make a concerted effort to inform every student about the horrors of AIDS, and its impact on the world.

After reaching the school’s and her own personal goals, Ziegler trekked across nine Atlantic states, spreading the story of how a student body rose to understanding the truth behind the epidemic.

Bobby Yu As senior class president, captain of the debate team, and last year's captain of the tennis team, Senior Bobby Yu is a stand-out leader in the school. Leading by example, Yu claims he takes on such responsibilities because of his desire to help others. In the summer of 2004, while on a trip to China, Yu tutored children in the community in English. He believes the children of the community were in the same place he had been in his whole life, because they are all striving for excellence. With the motto of "Just Do It," Yu has been on a roll of excellence ever since he stepped into MHS. His hard work and dedication finally paid off when he was accepted into Harvard Univeristy, but Yu still looked upon Harvard as just another stepping stone. He continues to give back to the community and volunteer tirelessly.

Hans Loewe Students may not even know that Hans' last name is Loewe.

While it may seem odd students call this staff member by his first name, Hans believes students should be comfortable enough with him to call him by his first name, instead of the formal Mr. Loewe. When coming out of retirement from a management position with Kroger, Hans wanted a job where he could help people, not only students but teachers, administrators and the entire staff.

He believed Mason High School to be an excellent opportunity for this, and now Mason is lucky to have him. Although he may not remember your name as you walk by the hallways, he will always be a friendly face, happy to help in any way that he can, whether it’s counting down the minutes before the tardy bell rings to joking with students about whether wearing a Steelers jersey is acceptable under school dress code.

MaryAnn Meyer MaryAnn Meyer began her junior yea like most students, with anxiety about what was to come. But unlike most students, her father, John Meyer, is president of C.A.R.E., an anti-levy group that pushed for less school funding at the beginning of spring last year. Due to the great amount of controversy over the levy, there was a large number of levy supporters who were not so fond of her father’s beliefs, and some of the people who disagreed with her father sat right next to her in her classes. However, MaryAnn stayed levelheaded with a positive attitude. "[I just told myself] that people have different opinions and that was okay. It didn't bother me, I just wished they would see both sides of the issue and realize this is only one thing my dad does," Meyer said.

Nikki Armstrong When Nicole Haught, the district community resource coordinator and a member of the Mason Coalition for Drug and Alcohol Free Youth, decided to introduce the idea of “No Empty Seats” to community members and students at Mason High School in early September, she had no idea that the Friday after presenting the campaign to students there would be an empty seat to be found on Monday morning. The vacant seat belonged to Spanish teacher Nikki Armstrong who passed away on September 11, 2005 because of injuries sustained from a collision on I-75. Three months later, in December, some justice was brought upon the situation. Sammy Couch, of Elsmere, Kentucky, was convicted of causing the multiple car crash that took Armstrong's life.

He was charged with two counts of aggravated vehicular homicide. Though she passed away, she was able to teach a final lesson to students and staff members on the importance of making safe decisions and understanding how much of an impact an empty seat makes.

Mindy McCarty In Mindy McCarty's first year as an assistant principal at MHS she was handed the responsibility of the logistics of the Ohio Graduation Test. With all the pressure to realize success on the OGT, McCarty performed admireably, introducing a plan to foster optimal testing conditions. She made juniors and seniors happy with a plan that allowed them to come to school later in the day so that the focus of the entire school could be on those students who needed to take and succeed on the test. McCarty chaired a committee of students to determine what would work best for the students during the OGT week. This trust in the students was rewarded with outstanding OGT results. Not only were students rewarded with a Friday OGT festival to celebrate the succesful completion of the test, but when test results arrived later in the year, Mason students achieved more than a 90% passage rate in each section of the test which was among the highest among Warren, Butler, and Hamilton Counties.

- compiled by Caroline Johnson

January 27, 2006 Bright remains optimistic towards future An immense amount of pressure was placed on Bright during the battle for votes between the anti-levy groups and Alzheimer's, enjoy seeing that the hard the school board. Yingling was one of work they put forth during his childhood several board members who noticed finally paid off.

Bright's courage during the levy.

"They worked extremely hard so that I "The district came under fire during could achieve my goals…they were my the campaign and some of the informainspiration," Bright said. tion was incorrect and Bright was raised in downright hurtful. Kevin Lucas, Ohio and under"I was always taught to kept his composure and stands how fortunate Mason students are for treat everyone the same. handled everything with dignity and integrity. He all the opportunities No matter their race, never once lost his tempresented to them. religion, creed, or position per," Yingling said.

"When you have a Bright's ability to stay graduating class of 50 in life. To always treat levelheaded during diffistudents or less, you everyone the same.” culties stems from won't have as many morals instilled in him as opportunities. We dida child. n't have a swimming pool. There were "I was always taught to treat everyone only five sports and two languages the same. No matter their race, religion, offered," Bright said. creed, or position in life. To always treat This lack of resources was what pushed Bright to pursue education in col- everyone the same," Bright said.

Bright still holds optimism towards lege. He received a Bachelor's degree any future disputes between the board from Ohio State University, and then and the anti-levy members, believing took a job as a part-time teacher and a that "if we share enough and talk enough part-time principal at Finneytown Jr. that we'll be able to bring [the anti-levy High School. During this time, Bright members] around and show them that began taking classes for his master's we're doing a good job." degree, and afterwards, he pursued his "Hopefully, it will come to a point doctorate at Bowling Green State where we let bygones be bygones and University. Bright's pursuit of managework together. That's my hope," Bright ment positions stemmed from wanting to said. "have a bigger impact."

Bright's constant optimism has been a "I felt like as I looked around there guiding light for the district during his were things that I would've done differpast 16 years at Mason, and now, at 53 ently and the more I thought about it, years old, his optimism stays unchanged. the more I told myself that if I want to Bright's goals have not stirred since he impact more students and their lives first became a superintendent, and he then maybe I should go into administrastill wishes to guide each student tion," Bright said. throughout his or her path in school as Even after receiving a large number of Bright asks himself every morning, accolades, he still feels pressure to be "What can I do to have a positive impact successful.

"I feel like so many people are counting on the lives of our students everyday?" on me and this district to provide an excellent education for their students," Bright said.

!"from BRIGHT page 1

Bizzarri motivates others through dedication do the best based on myself and not based on other people," Bizzarri said.

Bizzarri's motivation will be useful "She's really motivated us during the when she goes to college next year where track season, especially sophomore year she hopes to study Bioengineering. when we won state. We know we can go Bizzarri chose this major because she places with her," Gabel said. feels it mixes several subjects she enjoys.

According to King, Bizzarri helped to "When I run it's kind of like figuring motivate the cross country team to focus out how much you can push yourself, on their training. searching for your lim"Girls were used to its. [Bioengineering] is working hard, but it kind of similar, it's just "I'm motivated and helped to be around dedicated no matter what. in a scientific way," Angela because she Bizzarri said. stepped the effort up a It's hard for me to draw a Bizzarri will also connotch," King said. line. I'm kind of almost a tinue running in college, In addition to running, although the future of perfectionist in areas Bizzarri also plays the her track career remains flute in Honors Wind because I have to have it unclear.

Symphony. Bizzarri feels "I'm excited right now done right," playing music helps her to be running in college to express a more creand have that opportuative side. nity. After that it really all depends on if "I remember I heard [the flute] in fifth you're good enough, and you just never grade and I though it was really pretty know until you get [to that point]," so I wanted to try it," Bizzarri said.

Bizzarri said.

Although she is not sure if she will parAs Bizzarri has moved forward in life, ticipate in a collegiate band, Bizzarri her drive has shown no signs of dwinhopes to continue music in the future. dling. For Bizzarri, it is her goal to do "I'd like to continue some form of it. her best in everything she tries.

Right now I'm teaching myself how to "I'm motivated and dedicated no matplay the guitar, so that's another musical ter what. It's hard for me to draw a line. thing I'm trying," Bizzarri said.

I'm kind of almost a perfectionist in Despite the possibility of athletic schol- areas because I have to have it done arships, Bizzarri continues to work hard right," Bizzarri said. to excel in the classroom as well. This King also has high expectations for year she is enrolled in three different Bizzarri.

Advanced Placement courses including "Angela has a bright future. There Physics, British Literature and Calculus, aren't many girls who run, breathe, AB. According to Bizzarri, her scholastic train, work like she does. We will be achievements are the result of standards hearing from her in the future," King she has set for herself. said.

"It's a personal kind of goal, like I can

!"from BIZZARRI page 1

The

January 27, 2006 Do you know who is on your City Council?

Mayor Charlene Pelfrey Pelfrey received her degree in Education from Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. Pelfrey plays piano and keyboard for church and school events while being an active member of the Kiwanis of Mason, the Mason Veterans' Memorial Committee, and the Warren Country Republican Women's Club.

Vice Mayor Tom Grossmann Grossman is now on his second term on the council since his reelection in November 2005. He received a B.A. in Political Science from Miami University. He is a member of Area Progress Council, Northeast Chamber of Cincinnati, Grace Chapel, is on the boards of Citizens for Community Values and the Boy Scouts, and is a partner in the Taft, Stettinius & Hollister LLP.

Council Member Victor Kidd Kidd is now serving his second term on Mason City Council. He attended Trevecca Nazarene University and the University of Cincinnati, and is now part of the Masters of Theology program at Xavier University. Kidd is involved in Ohio Prayer Machine, and is the pastor of Living Leaf Church.

Council Member Tony Bradburn Bradburn attended the University of Cincinnati and received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree and a Masters in Education.

He served on the Springdale City Council for 12 years. He has a private pilot's license and has flown a Russian Mig 29 fighter jet and L-39 trainer near Moscow, Russia. He has visited areas of Australia, England, Germany, Switzerland, and Russia.

Council Member Matt Kline Kline coaches, and is the president of the Warren County Soccer Club.

He was Mayor of Bolivar, Ohio, Village Administrator of Canal Fulton, Ohio, and Director of Public Service for Dover, Ohio. He attends St. Susanna Parish.

Council Member Steve Osborne Osborne attended Miami University studying Applied Science and EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University studying Arts. He runs Top Gun Sales Performance, and is a member of Living Leaf Church.

Council Member Todd Wurzbacher Wurzbacher has earned a bachelor's degree in Information Systems at Thomas More College. He is a precinct chair for the Warren County Republican Central Committee,and vice chairman of the Warren County Young Republicans Club.

CHRONICLENews

3

Pelfrey daughters proudly proclaim “My mom’s the mayor”

BY SHARON STEWART Chronicle Staff Writer They're not captains of their softball team, they're not valedictorians of their class, and they're not presidents of their school clubs. Junior Brittany and freshman Whitney Pelfrey don't necessarily live in the spotlight, but they have certainly been impacted while living with one of the most influential people in Mason: their mother and mayor, Charlene Pelfrey.

"I feel like she's accomplished a lot over the years being a housemom, piano teacher, preacher's wife, mayor, and she still finds time to be with the family. It gives me a lot of motivation. I'm proud of her even though I know that most people could care less who the mayor is when they're 16," Whitney said.

One might assume that a household run by a pastor and a mayor would be filled with late-night stress, fast-paced decisions, and overwhelming responsibilities.

While these things are more than easy to get wrapped up in, priority is the single thread unifying the family during their busy schedules.

"If anything, [my mom] has tried to spend more quality time with us since her participation in city council. She has definitely inspired me to take a step back and see the importance of my family and community and their needs over my own. Her position has helped me realize that helping people is more important than helping yourself," Brittany said.

The Pelfreys keep connected with each other by showing signs of affection by leaving each other notes on lunch napkins or giving 'get out of trouble free' cards and movie slips. Small outings have also become a family ritual.

"My mom loves taking Whitney and me out a night or two a week and just really making us feel special," Brittany said.

"It's like: family, church, community, then herself. She's always put her needs last."

Whitney agrees with her sister about her mother's commendable priorities.

"I'm very impressed with the way she's managed her time with all the things she has to do. I never wish for more time with her," Whitney said.

Using adjectives like 'sacrificing' and 'down to earth' to describe Mrs. Pelfrey, the mayor's daughters have no doubt about the selfless nature of their mother.

"The free time she could spend on herself she spends with us," Brittany said.

"She got herself a nice haircut a few days ago, but as soon as she came home she was ready to be with her kids. One thing I

Chronicle photo by Sharon Stewart

Junior Brittany (left) and freshman Whitney Pelfrey (right) enjoy seeing their mother, mayor Charlene Pelfrey (back) during city council meetings. love about my mom is that she schedules Whitney agreed, "but I wouldn't want to her appointments while Whitney and I take on this role. With all the things my are at school. That's important to me mom has had to deal with, I don't think I because it's all the more proof that our could handle them as well as her." family matters that much to her."

Since their childhood, the sisters have The girls maintain a good balance of supported their mother in every challenge humility and awareness regarding their she has faced. mother's authoritive position. Brittany “ We remember riding in parades holding believes that since she signs saying, ‘Vote "If anything, my mom has tried to for didn’t get her mother my mom!’ the position as mayor, spend more quality time with us Brittany said. "I've since her participation in city she can’t take credit stuffed envelopes for her accomplish- council. She has definitely inspired and gone door to door ments. me to take a step back and see the with her passing out Whitney also apprefliers.

Also, on importance of my family and ciates her mother’s community and their needs over Election Day, work as she is able to my own. Her position has helped Whitney and I have develop a better sat outside the me realize that helping people is understanding of what polling station and more important than helping it takes to make a comtaken shifts holding yourself." munity like Mason signs up.”

Brittany Pelfrey work.

The experiences "I definitely agree provided by having a with everything my mom says politically- political leader as a mother have brought speaking because we have the same Brittany and Whitney insight into politics morals instilled in us. If I ever went into while bringing their definition of a family politics, I know that I'd have great advice to a new level. from my mom who served her own com"I've gotten a new perspective on politics munity for two terms [eight years]. I and how to be a devoted mother and have would be well-rounded for the job," a successful career at the same time, and Brittany said.

I'll never forget the importance of family "I have respect for the politicians and first," Brittany said. what's going on in my community,"

Interested in working for The Chronicle?

To become a member of The Chronicle staff you must complete an application and return it to Mr. Conner in room C110 by January 30.

Applicants will be interviewed and notified of their acceptance into the Journalism program.

Teacher approval is required for admission into Journalism.

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CHRONICLENews

January 27, 2006

News Notebook

World Perspective

Pasta for Pennies coming soon

Future of Israel a concern after Sharon stroke

Pasta for Pennies will kick off Friday, January 27, and last until Friday, February 17. All the money donated to Pasta for Pennies will go to help find a cure for Leukemia. This year inspiration for the fundraiser is coming from three students at Mason Heights, who suffer from Leukemia. Although this is not a new fundraiser for Mason High School, National Honor Society plans to try a new approach.

In years before, the competition has been held between individual classes.

This year it will be a competition between grades. The grades will compete with Penny Wars, where the goal is to get as many pennies as possible. The reward will be a spirit cart which will go around to the winning grade a week after the competition ends. The results will be announced on Monday February 20.

Money will be collected at lunch, basketball games and the talent show.

Ehud Olmert seeks to become official successor

BY MATT PARTINGTON Chronicle Staff Writer Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon suffered a massive hemorrhagic stroke on January 4, 2006, sparking international concern over the health of both Israel and its political figurehead.

The cerebral hemorrhage caused bleeding in Sharon's brain, forcing doctors to perform several operations in hopes of halting any further blood loss. Currently in a deep comatose state, the 77-year old Sharon remains in "critical but stable" condition at Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem's suburbs. Ehud Olmert has taken Sharon's spot as Acting Prime Minister until the next series of elections on March 28, 2006.

"This is a very painful event on a human level and an absolutely negative one on the political level," Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi said. "[Israel] faces a difficult future in a moment that might have been historic."

A controversial figure who became Prime Minister in February of 2001, Sharon's success as a military leader during the 1973 Yom Kippur War launched him to an iconic stature, although his reputation would be later stained by accusations of war crimes taking place in the 1982 Lebanon War while Sharon acted as Defense Minister. "A towering figure, not only in Israel but in the whole of the region," according to British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, Sharon has since been treated as a war champion to Israelis and, for Palestinians and others, a threat to diplomacy in the Middle East.

Sharon's unexpected decision to withdraw from the Gaza Strip in 2005 became

SEEK Activities fair to be held On Tuesday, February 7 from 7-8 pm, the SEEK Activities fair will be held in the High School Commons. Information on various summer activities will be available for students of all ages. The subjects vary from arts, math, sports, social studies, science and technology as well as competitions and contests.

Speech and Debate members recognized at Toledo competition Mason High School Speech and Debate Team competed at Sylvania Northview and Southview in Toledo Ohio on Friday January 13 and Saturday January 14. The Public Forum debate team of Bobby Yu and Jeff Bieszczak finished in first place, Shalini Goyal finished 5th in Original Oratory and David Ernest and Dennis Furia finished 6th in Duo Interpretation. The team is coached by Melissa Donahue.

- compiled by Caroline Johnson

a significant step towards mending the hostile Arab-Israeli relationship.

The stroke follows a string of other tumultuous political transitions taking place late last year including the voting out of the Labor Party's veteran leader Shimon Peres. Twelve days later, on November 21, 2005, Sharon decided to leave his own Likud Party, which he was a founding member and leader of, and start a new centrist party, Kadima.

Kadima has already become Israel's leading political party and is expected to take most of the seats in Israel's parliament following the next election.

Ehud Olmert, the Acting Prime Minister, has gained popularity in recent weeks and anticipates becoming Israel's next official governmental leader given the unlikeliness of Sharon's return to the political front.

Dr. Philip Stieg, Weill-Cornell Medical College in New York, does not feel optimistic about Sharon's condition, which "suggests that the brain damage is as serious as we thought it was based on earlier reports," Stieg said. "He's not turning the corner, he's not waking up... they're having to do more things to keep him alive." The measures taken to keep Sharon alive include a tracheotomy to assist his breathing, and a subsequent operation to replace a malfunctioning respiratory tube.

Taken off sedatives on Saturday, January 14, Sharon has shown minimal signs of activity. He has responded to pain signals, and purportedly one of his eyelids moved upon hearing a recording of his grandson's voice although the hospital denied these allegations.

"It can be anything from him waking up to having a seizure, or it could be involuntary," Dr. Maurizio Miglietta of New York University's School of Medicine said. "I would take nothing from it."

Given the unpredictability of when Sharon may wake from his coma, severe cognitive brain damage has become a more pertinent issue.

"People can often wake up over a period of weeks and months but if they wake up faster obviously it bodes better," Dr. Howard Riina of Weill-Cornell Medical College said. "The fact that he's not completely awake at this point does not bode well for a good neurologic recovery."

According to Hadassah Hospital spokesman Ron Krumer, however, "The period of time it takes a patient to wake up from such a condition after undergoing such an event differs from one patient to another."

Dr. Jose Cohen, one of the surgeons aiding Sharon, stated that Sharon's likeliness for survival is "very high," but "to say after such a severe trauma as this that there will be no cognitive problems is simply not to recognize reality."

Hospital officials like Cohen recently came under fire due to Sharon being prescribed blood thinners following a minor stroke he had on December 18, 2005, which did not incapacitate the Prime Minister.

Doctors believed that a small hole in Sharon's heart caused the minor stroke although there is seemingly no correlation between this defect and the cerebral hemorrhage. Sharon was scheduled to undergo surgery to fix the small hole in his heart on January 5, merely one day his major stroke occurred.

"Let's say they would have given him less or wouldn't have given him anything and then suddenly he would have developed a clot in the brain instead of bleeding in the brain," Cohen said on Israel TV. "Then everybody would have asked why didn't you give him a higher dosage of blood thinners?"

Sharon's condition has kept Israel socially distraught, and following the first week of treatment many citizens dutifully listened to the scheduled hospital updates with hopes of positive news from the intensive care unit.

"We are a people who need a father," Israeli peace negotiator Amos Guiora said. "Now we are a little bit fatherless.”

The Hubley Driving School Student of t he Month Hubley Driving School & The Chronicle are proud to honor Grade: 12

ALEXEY GIBSON

Favorite Class(es): Anything where the teacher is engaging with the class

In school accomplishments: Highest Honor roll 3.9 GPA for three years Member of Southeast Asia, Burma Model United Nations Member of Academic Team

Future Plans/Goal: Attend college, major in International Relations

Out of school accomplishments: Participates in Boxing Muay Thai Personal Quote: “He who speaks does not know, he who knows does not speak.”

-Lao Tsu

Teacher Quote: “Alexey is just the sweetest kid.

He is always kind and polite, and always telling me to have a nice day. He is intelligent and awesome.”

-Ms. Deborah Sicking, Spanish teacher Chronicle photo by Michelle Rotbart

5606 Tylersville Rd Mason, OH 45040 754-8652

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5606 Tylersville Rd Mason, OH 45040 754-8652

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January 27, 2006

CHRONICLEArts&Entertainment

5

15 Drama department to put on The Diviners The Mason High School Drama Department is presenting The Diviners, one of the most critically acclaimed plays of the last twenty years. The Diviners by Jim Leonard Jr. is one of the most critically acclaimed plays of the last 20 years.

Set in the mythical town of Zion, Indiana during the Great Depression, the play tells the story of Buddy Layman, a young boy whose mother drowned when he was only four years old. Buddy is filled with an overpowering fear of the water, and yet has a supernatural gift to sense it. In order to provide an intimate setting for this production, the audience will be seated on stage with the actors. Only 200 seats for each show will be made available.

The Diviners has a cast of 11 students and features Austin Bender as Buddy Layman, Matt D’Auria as C.C. Showers, Robyn Novak as Jeanie Mae Layman, Brett Valls as Ferris Layman, Mike Weingand as Basil, Andrea Hatfield as Louella, Claire LaNicca as Norma, Alexa Brown as Darlene, Lindsay Waide as Goldie, Matt Van Slyke as Dewey, and Ian Gibson as Melvin. The show is stage managed by Hannah Lewis, assistant directed by Samantha Daily, and assistant technical directed by Andrew Marley.

The play is produced by special arrangement with Samuel French.

Showtimes are February 2nd at 8:00 pm, 3rd and 4th at 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm.

The cost is $8 and $6 for students, children and seniors. Seniors are invited to attend the last dress rehearsal at 7:00 pm on February 1st (free of charge). For more information, call 513-229-4070.

Book talks at Mason Public Library On Tuesday January 17, the Mason Public Library Book Discussion Group will be discussing Lie in the Dark by Dan Fesperman and on February 21st, the Memoirs of Pontius Pilate: A Novel by James R. Mills.

Mason Fine Arts Council teams up with Cincy Bell Mason residents who choose Cincinnati Bell for phone service can help raise funds for the Fine Arts Council.

Sign up for one of Cincinnati Bell’s service bundles and you’ll qualify to start earning donations for the Mason City Schools Fine Arts Council. The Fine Arts Council provides support to all of the district art, (performing and visual), programs. The council has provided funds for pianos, uniforms, instruments, display boards and much more.

Tournament Chess Lessons at Symmes Library Learn to play chess with Alan Hodge, a tournament chess player, at the Symmes Township Library on January 24th and 31st from 6:30-8:00 pm.

- compiled by Sarah Fukatsu

minutes of fame Junior Gina Scibetta (left) is featured in a Stand commercial that aired throughout the midwest during July of2005.

Television commercials feature local talent Mason students get first taste of fame in small television productions

BY RACHEL SLEZAK Chronicle Staff Writer There is fame among us at Mason High School. On top of the star athletes and the academically high-ranking students, a handful of students are on their own road to fame.

Such students have been featured in commercials and videos, giving them a taste of stardom. Junior Tara Roberts is one of the students to experience the fame, yet she was only five years old when she received a small role in the music video of The Psycho Dots, a local band.

"My face flashed onscreen for a few seconds," Roberts said.

Roberts did not need to audition for this role, landing it on appearance alone because of family connections.

"My dad is friends with the bassist of The Screaming Mimes. He directed the video and his wife choreographed it," Roberts said. "They thought I was cute so they put me in."

Though Roberts is actively involved in theater, she does not see her first cameo as a start to her acting career, but as a fun experience with a favorite band.

"I've been a fan since I was like five. It didn't get national airplay, but all my father's friends knew about it," Roberts said.

Junior Ashley Ostendorf got her acting debut at around the same time as Roberts. Ostendorf was in a Christian children's video called Sing Stretch and Play.

Though it was ten years ago, Ostendorf says that she still remembers everything about the experience. Ostendorf found out about the job from her church and was one of 500 kids who auditioned. The audition process was different from typical scenarios.

"They literally had us play Ring around the Rosie," Ostendorf said.

Though she had never done any acting previously, Ostendorf was not nervous for her audition.

"I had no idea what was going on. I thought I was just there to play with a bunch of friends," Ostendorf said.

Because the video was for Ostendorf's church, the kids in the video had to perform songs that were given a Christian spin.

"There was one that was like Simon Says that was supposed to show kids to 'obey your parents.' Another one was All God's Creatures where we had to act like animals," Ostendorf said.

Ostendorf has no interest in doing more acting and views the video as simply a fun project from her childhood.

"The first time I saw it, I thought it was absolutely hilarious, and I still think it is," Ostendorf said.

The younger crowd of Mason is also getting into showbiz as Mason Intermediate student Jeress Pendleton had his taste of fame when he appeared in an Xbox commercial.

"I'm on a jump rope team. My coach knows this other coach who's friends with a manager. He wanted five jumpers, and I was one of them," Pendleton said.

The commercial was filmed in New York, which was quite a culture change for Pendleton. In addition to the excitement of being in a new city, Pendleton was drawn to the job because of the money he would be paid.

"I thought it would be a neat experience, and I got ten

thousand dollars," Pendleton said.

Pendleton has saved most of his money rather than spending it.

"I haven't spent very much of it. I'm saving for college, or for a car," Pendleton said.

Although the monetary rewards were of great significance, Pendleton was happy to just see himself on television. After appearing in the commercial, Pendleton is considering finding other acting jobs.

"We're looking at other agencies, but we haven't found anything yet," Pendleton said.

Compared to such early starters, junior Gina Scibetta is getting a late start on her media career. Scibetta has been modeling for almost four years for New View Management, a local modeling agency.

"I do odd jobs. I've done a runway show for the fashion department at UC, and I've been a spokesmodel for Crest Whitestrips," Scibetta said.

Last summer she appeared in a Stand commercial, and was able to make a national stand on smoking in public places. Scibetta found the commercial to be an exciting experience and a great way to begin her career in modeling.

Scibetta found out about the Stand commercial from her modeling agency and had to audition for the role.

"I went to a casting in Indiana, and then there was a second casting in Cincinnati," Scibetta said.

The audition process was different from the work Scibetta had done in the past.

"It was weird. I had to act with things that weren't there," Scibetta said.

After getting the job, Scibetta went to tape the commercial at the Original Pancake House. Scibetta describes the set as being very different from a normal modeling setting, while still being interesting.

"There was all this smoke, because there were supposed to be smokers, and the cameras were going in the middle. It was pretty cool," Scibetta said.

Although the commercial only lasts about 4 minutes, filming it took several hours.

"I went there straight after school, and we were filming until 2 a.m.," Scibetta said.

Most of that time was spent waiting to act, and watching others perform their role during their taping time.

"I was one of the principal actors. We were all wearing jackets, and we had to take them off to show that we were wearing orange T-shirts that said 'No Smoking Section' to make the smokers feel uncomfortable," Scibetta said.

Though the commercial required a great deal of time and effort, Scibetta still remembers the commercial for the experience and knowledge it provided her with.

"It really prepared me for future castings and showed me exactly what happens on set. I'm glad that I have some prior experience now," Scibetta said.

Though she plans to continue working for her modeling agency, Scibetta has no specific plans on pursuing any acting jobs.

"I don't plan on doing it professionally or anything. It was something fun for me to do last summer," Scibetta said.

For Scibetta, her fifteen minutes of fame were enough, and she will always have a memento of the experience - the t-shirt.

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CHRONICLEA&E

Domestics cooking up new trend in teen hobbies

BY REBECCA ZIEGLER Chronicle Staff Writer In the 1930's women were predominately housewives whose sole job was to stay home, sew, cook, knit and do other household activities. Until recently, women fought against the domestic persona, but a group of Mason students are bringing back the traditional pastimes.

Senior Natalie Pfennig has been sewing since she was four years old and has made it into one of her favorite hobbies.

"I used to make doll clothing and things like that. I was off and on with it for awhile, but this year I have really gotten back into it," Pfennig said.

Pfennig believes that sewing shouldn't be considered a feminine activity, but rather something anyone can enjoy.

"I think everyone should sew. It's not necessarily for one gender. Most boys think that what I make is cool.

They always compliment it and that's good to hear," Pfennig said.

Despite technology today, Pfennig chooses to stick with sewing as a hobby rather than doing other modern teenage activities.

"I feel more individualized [while sewing.] I enjoy technology, but I like sewing better. People need to learn to be self-sufficient because others can't always do things for you," Pfennig said.

Like sewing, cooking is also picking up among local teenagers. Student Activities Director Lori Fox-Allen started a cooking class to teach students more about depending on themselves, and, more importantly, to enjoy cooking.

"I don't view cooking as something for only women to do. All seniors need to know how to cook because they will be living out on their own after this school year. I want them to learn that cooking is fun," Fox-Allen said.

Ironically, there are two boys signed up for the cooking club. Sophomore David Miller was one of the first people to sign up for the class.

"I've always liked cooking, and my mom and dad are good at it. My mom is a gourmet chef. I work at a Thai restaurant, so I've always been interested in it," Miller said.

Miller's male friends are supportive of his joining of the class, despite the feminine stereotype associated with cooking.

"I have talked to a few of my friends about it. They all think that it's really neat that I joined [the club.] I don't know how many people are signed up to do it, but I just think it's interesting," Miller said.

Miller wants to learn how to bake and make different desserts in the club. His parents inspired him to join.

"I think that if you really want to do something, then you'll eventually be good at it. Since I enjoy [cooking,] then I'll be able to put a lot of effort into it and eventually get better," Miller said.

Miller is one of many that will benefit from knowing how to cook once he is in college. Many college students deem fast food chains an easy way to grab a bite to eat.

Fox-Allen is offering a healthy alternative to the unhealthy food, all while bringing back the lost art of culinary.

"Cooking can provide fun opportunities to bring people together. Every celebration we have is centered around food. Part of the fun of eating it is making it!"

Fox-Allen said.

Cooking and sewing are certainly lost pastimes, but knitting is also becoming another rising popular trend.

Junior Kelsey Carpenter recently took up knitting thanks to Helpers Of People Everywhere (HOPE) Club advisor Mrs. Shneider, who donated scarves knitted to the AIDS Angel Ride. Shneider taught her students how to knit blankets during Carpenter's freshman year. "[After the HOPE Club knitting lesson] I started to get better at knitting and made scarves, then worked my way up to blankets," Carpenter said.

Carpenter has influenced peers to start knitting, as well as learned more from her family.

"A lot of my friends knit because I taught them how to. It's been in my family since I was younger and I think that it's just cool to do," Carpenter said.

Carpenter finds knitting useful and hopes that she can pass it down to her children one day.

"Knitting is a good way to show people that you care about them. I'd like to think that one day my kids would appreciate a homemade blanket," Carpenter said.

Despite the advent of new technology and the stereotypes broken down by other females, domestics haven't died out yet. Sewing, cooking and knitting are just a few of the traditional hobbies making a comeback, and could possibly be here to stay.

"Stick with [your activity] and don't give up. You can start out with a brilliant idea and it might end up looking really bad in the end, but just having the idea in the beginning is the best part," Pfennig said.

January 27, 2006

Reading enthusiasts sift through the shelves of Half Price Books for hidden treasurers and great deals Junior Louise Vidjaer has found many a required English book at the store.

"When I need a book, for either school or just for fun, I MHS English teacher Patricia George's first trip to always go [to Half-Price Books] before I go to the 'expenHalf-Price books was quite brief, to say the least. sive' stores," Vidjaer said.

"I first went about ten years ago to the store at the Perhaps the biggest Half-Price Books enthusiast is junOutlet mall and left immediately because the clerk said ior Wendy Wei, who goes to the store at least once a week. their books were not arranged by author," George said.

"Last weekend I had free money, thus I wanted books," However, as Half-Price Books Wei said. organizational skills improved so In addition to finding school books did George's attitude towards the for low prices, Half-Price Books wide store. She is often awestruck by the selection of merchandise can provide wide selection of items the store for a fun afternoon of "treasure huntcarries. ing." Vidjaer is just one of many who "I usually get too overwhelmed do not always have a strict mission with all the choices and I have to when visiting the store. leave," George said.

"I like to go there if I'm in that area Half-Price Books was first startand then just look around for a good ed in 1972 by Ken Gjemre and Pat deal or a good book," Vidjaer said.

Anderson. Located in Dallas, Vidjaer also likes to look for "classic" Texas, the first store was filled c.d.’s. with over 2000 books from Gjemre "Sometimes they happen to have a and Anderson's personal collecgood one," Vidjaer said. tions. The chain has now spread to Wei also claims to have found a spe14 states with more than 80 locacial item in the store "several times." tions.

She has been to the store to look for Over the years, Half-Price books Chronicle photo by Stephanie Visscher early editions of The Pictue of Dorian has begun to show a philanthropic Mount Notre Dame junior Chloe Fasano Gray and Catcher in the Rye. side to their business. The stores browses through classic records at Half"[My favorite purchase was] hold many drives for gently used Price Books, some selling for less than a Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, books that are donated to children's dollar. ordinarily thirty dollars, but nine at hospitals. In addition, each year Half-Price Books," Wei said. the chain holds a contest for an original bedtime story.

Last summer George found a novel that she still considProceeds from the sale of the winning work are donated ers her "favorite new book." to programs working to root out illiteracy. Mother Earth "I found Atonement by Ian McEwan, my new favorite is not let out of the loop; as the website boasts, over 16 author. Atonement tells of an enormous, unfortunate mismillion books have been recycled through the stores, understanding from two points of view. [The story] takes which translates into roughly 650,000 saved trees. place in England before, during, and after World War II," Half-Price Books also helps students to save another George said. kind of green. The store's wide selection of books helps Although Half-Price Book is always paying for previousstudents find required reading books for low prices. ly used titles, from which a good portion of there stock George is quick to suggest Half-Price Books to students comes from, George is not likely to make such a transacsearching for assigned novels. tion soon.

"I always recommend Half-Price Books to my students; "Once I buy a book, it's mine until I give it away or lose the books we read are classics of literature, so Half-Price it," George said.

Books is likely to have them in stock," George said.

BY STEPHANIE VISSCHER Chronicle Staff Writer

Student course selection was much easier in 1970

BY RACHEL SLEZAK Chronicle Staff Writer In 1970, Advanced Placement classes did not exist.

Short Hand I and II were the closest things to art classes. Once students completed Algebra II, they were finished with math. However, with over 19 math classes available to students now, it's obvious that Mason has come a long way. Counselor Gary Popplewell has been a counselor at Mason for twenty three years. He has been one of the people that has watched Language: Mason progress over the Spanish I, II, III years.

"Twenty years ago there English: were not even half the classes English I, II, III, IV offered," Popplewell said.

Popplewell attributes the Math: great increase in classes to the Algebra I, II addition of electives.

Geometry I "All our elective programs [are recent additions]. Art, Science: business, and applied technolGeneral Science ogy have all grown," Biology Popplewell said.

Chemistry As the number of electives has risen, students are able to History: have more variety in their US History schedule than they did twenty Government years ago.

"There wasn't a lot of choice [when I first came to Mason.]

Students had one science they took junior year. It was like that with all academics," Popplewell said.

Popplewell has found that having more classes offered has changed the attitudes of students.

"Students today are more serious about having a fouryear plan," Popplewell said.

This emphasis on a four-year plan has also been affected by changes in graduation requirements.

"Back then you needed seventeen credits to graduate.

Now you need twenty-four, and there is more variety of which classes make up the twenty-four credits," Popplewell said.

An example of a new elective is Technical Theater.

There were not theater classes offered in 1970, and even by 1998, the only two theater classes offered were

Drama I and Drama II, both mostly focused on acting.

Technical theater teacher Stephen Branch has only had the opportunity to teach these classes for a short time.

Branch relates the increase in class options with student interest.

"Advanced technical theater classes are for students who want to do something with technical theater in college," Branch said.

Another example of a new elective is advanced digital image design. In 1998, there was only one available digital image class, Computer Life Skills: Graphics. Junior Eric Ditzel Home Economics is glad that he now has the Health ability to take Digital Image Physical Education III, which will be new next Short Hand I, II year.

Typing "It's really fun, and it's Bookkeeping something that I could potentially use for my job," Electives: Ditzel said.

Senior Business Office In addition to electives, Education many AP classes have been Civics added. Sophomore Lauren Stefan is looking forward to Musical/ having more options in her Instrumental: schedule next year.

Concert Band "I'm exited to be able to Men's Choir have new experiences in new Women's Choir classes," Stefan said.

Stefan is particularly interested in taking AP French sometime in the next two years, a class that would not have been available in 1998.

"I'm looking forward to taking AP French. I'm good at it, and it's probably my favorite class," Stefan said.

Stefan enjoys having the opportunities to take these classes available, but finds some negative aspects in having too many choices.

"It gives you a lot of freedom, but that makes it harder to focus on just one subject," Stefan said.

Stefan anticipates that the trend will continue, and in the future there will be even more variety of classes offered at Mason High School.

"Twenty years from now there will be more classes about all kinds of crazy topics," Stefan said.

Courses offered at MHS in 1970

The

January 27, 2006

Sam Goldsmith Music Review The Strokes come back into spotlight, inspire bands to reach for new heights The Strokes have come back from a three year absence to release their third album. They became a mainstream success after being cult figures and heroes in the indie-rock scene, thanks to their acclaimed 2001 debut album Is This It? But after accusations of repeating that same formula, half-baked, on 2003's "Room on Fire," they took a break, switched producers and polished up for "First Impressions of Earth."

The Strokes rise and fall with their frontman and creative force, Julian Casablancas. With the first track, "You Only Live Once," and the first single, Juicebox, he shines as an exceptional rock songwriter. Now, given his really cool swagger that has been imitated in groups ever since he came on the scene, you get a rock presence. Finally, if you add his having complete confidence in a very accomplished group of musicians behind him that benefit from having a clean production by David Kahne; voila!

-- you have an ideal leader of a rock band.

But not everything is ideal about Julian though. Sometimes the repetition of the cool swagger of his voice compromises the very fine music; it gets lost and you tune out of the album. Also, I have this very odd feeling that he wrote this album out of mockery or spite. In the songs "Ask Me Anything" and "15 Minutes," he implies that his rapid success with the group has left him with nothing left to say.

These things aside, I do admire The Strokes. If it weren't for them, the alternative scene wouldn't have come out as much as it has. This album proves that they have not just been part of a revolution and disappeared. The Strokes are an artistic force that inspires many bands now and will inspire many bands to come.

Editor’s Note: Sam Goldsmith and Eric Ditzel are contributing writers to The Chronicle.

Eric Ditzel Video Game Review ACOD2 lets you experience WWII in grave detail The elusive Xbox 360 was launched with the best WWII game to date, Infinity Ward's Call of Duty 2. While you probably won't be able to play this game until March, unless you were lucky enough to snag a 360 after launch, this game is a necessity for history buffs and shooter fans.

The first thing I noticed when I began the campaign was the level of detail in the environments. Infinity Ward really put a lot of thought and care into the way they textured everything.

From the rocks at Point Du Hoc to the deserts of North Africa, no two objects are exactly alike. Even something as bland as a desk or chair has superb sharpness.

Also, the smoke effects, especially on the smoke grenades, are the best I have ever seen, period.

Once you let one of those babies off, within a minute you can't see more than a foot in front of you through this dynamic cloud. The sound was also stunning: shells explode and cause all sound to white out, comrades and enemies scream back and forth, and all the other horrific and invigorating sounds of war come flooding out at you with nonstop intensity.

Above all, however, is the quality of the gameplay. While you are basically forced to follow a scripted path through most of the game, the nonstop action and confusion of battle make it seem very subtle, and it almost seems as if you have more freedom in gameplay than you really do.

All of the weapons are historically accurate and almost all of them feel just right in combat. Rather than having crosshairs, all of the weapons use iron sights (looking down the barrel) which you can bring up to your face by pressing the L-Trigger; this effect adds a great deal of realism to the gameplay.

You are able to play as Americans, Russians and British in three campaigns: each has their own sayings and mannerisms which can be quite funny.

Overall, this game has great entertainment value. There is an awesome single player, crisp graphics, and engrossing sound. This title is most definitely worth your time.

Candice Philpot Book Review

CHRONICLEA&E

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Matt Partington Movie Review

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a mix of mystery and comedy

The New World captures beauty uncommon in cinema

As elementary school students we are taught that we should never "judge a book by its cover." I will admit, however, to have broken this rule. One evening, while at Barnes and Noble, I quickly tried to find a book, skimming over the covered tables. My eyes were attracted to the first book whose cover I found visually stimulating: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is written from the point of view of a fifteen year old boy with mental disabilities named Christopher. The novel opens to the protagonist finding a dog, punctured by a garden fork, dead in his neighbor's front yard. After concluding that the dog, a black poodle named Wellington, had been murdered, Christopher sets out to investigate the crime, eventually raising more questions, such as the supposed death of his mother and the ability to overcome his illnesses.

Written as if Christopher is writing it himself, the novel is based on a serious underlying theme. Haddon, however, has incorporated humor into the book through Christopher's words, actions and thoughts.

At the start of the novel I found myself confused as to why the chapters were jumping from 7 to eleven, then thirteen to nineteen. It is then that Christopher reveals to the reader his love of prime numbers, and why he thought it best to number his chapters in this way. Christopher also possesses an extreme dislike of the color yellow, for which he gives a list of reasons, including yellow fever and double yellow lines.

Even through the humor, the reader follows Christopher as he brings up questions of honesty, human emotion and self reliance. Although, because of Christopher's bluntness, the writing is sometimes offensive, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is an ingeniously written piece that surrounds one boy's struggles to live in a world that he is unable to fully comprehend.

I would suggest this novel to anyone who is tired of reading about stereotypical characters, anyone who feels restricted to one specific genre and all who enjoy a good mystery. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is one of those novels that stays with you even after you have turned the last page, and I can say for once that I'm glad I initially judged a book by its cover.

Director Terrence Malick has only made four films in his 32-year long moviemaking career. A visionary, poet, auteur, and one of the most sought-after talents in the industry, Malick's 25 year hiatus ended with 1998's The Thin Red Line, a box office failure but artistic success. The New World, a transcendental and philosophical look at the historical story of John Smith and Pocahontas, thrives on the same thematic substance as The Thin Red Line, and although it is an incredibly slow-moving film, the viewer will not come out feeling short-handed if they enter with a mind open to structural experimentation.

The New World is not a dramatic interpretation of Disney's Pocahontas.

Malick, a former Rhodes Scholar and professor of philosophy at MIT, doesn't bother extending the relationship between Pocahontas (which they never call her in the movie) and John Smith to unrealistic heights either. Rather, Malick uses the mystical tale and applies it to larger sociological themes still applying to our culture today. The entire film, just like The Thin Red Line and 1978's Days of Heaven, is interlaced with poetic voiceovers which question events going on in the film in through a philosophical and existential screen. There are constant cuts to vivid backdrops of nature as the film intends to simply roll over its viewer while they (assumedly) ponder the interpretive allegory or simply bask in its enormous subtleties.

Pace will always keep Malick from being loved by mainstream audiences his movies are slow, considered pretentious, and not easily absorbed on first viewing. Those who do become fans of his works, however, open themselves to a wealth of beautiful artistry that is truly unmatched by any living director today.

The story remains grippingly honest, and both Colin Farrell (John Smith) and newcomer Q'Orianka Kilcher provide confident performances in roles littered with indecision and perplexity. I wouldn't advise, however, to go to this film for its acting, or its pure entertainment factor.

You will yawn a few times, check your watch and probably can spare going to the bathroom. Yet in the end, I find it hard to believe that those who bare it through any Malick film don't feel the slightest bit more cultivated or rewarded in understanding new ways of watching movies.

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January 27, 2006

ADDICTED

Popularity of tobacco use among teens expected to rise

BY MATT PARTINGTON Chronicle Staff Writer It's not too far uncommon a situation: a student sits anxiously in his fifth period classroom, anticipating the last bell and an after-school cigarette.

Antsy, short-tempered, and impatiently driven to quell his physi400,000 tobacco ologi

related deaths per year in the U.S. More than 1 out of 5 deaths in America are caused by cigarettes Every day nearly 3,000 young people under the age of 18 become regular smokers If current tobacco use patterns persist, an estimated 6.4 million children will die prematurely from a smoking-related disease Every eight seconds, someone dies from tobacco use Evidence shows that around 50% of those who start smoking in adolescent years go on to smoke for 15 to 20 years Between 80,000 and 100,000 children worldwide start smoking every day

cal craving, roughly one in four high school students go through this struggle everyday.

"After coming to school for eight hours you need something," senior Tyler Davis said.

Among the estimated 15% of Americans that smoke tobacco products, teenagers remain as one of the most concentrated demographics for use. Drawing marketing attention from cigarette companies attentive to the millions of potential new smokers between the ages of 12 and 18, heavy shifts in public policy and sentiment towards teens and smoking have taken place within the last decade, resulting in a societal polarization of young tobacco users.

Despite the publicized health risks, however, cigarettes continue to have an active presence in any American high schools, and have furthermore been ingrained into many social structures as a bonding tool and ticket to acceptance among one's friends.

"It becomes second nature to people to see others smoking when in actuality it is illegal," Mason school psychologist Jeff Schlaeger said.

A recent University of Michigan study of 49,347 8th, 10th, and 12th grade students discovered that approximately 23.2 percent of high school students have smoked tobacco sometime in the last 30 days, a number which is down from its peak of 38.8 percent in 1976.

The legal action taken against the tobacco industry, as well as publicized attempts to disclose the manipulative workings of it, led to a sharp decline in teen smoking beginning in the mid-1990s. This decline, however, is slowing, and many involved in the war against tobacco are worried by such a signal that could prophesize a rise in teen smoking.

The statistics are well known: more than 400,000 tobacco-related deaths per year, 80% of smokers start before the age of 18, and more than 1 out of 5 deaths in America are caused by cigarettes. The level of validity in these statements remains irrelevant in light of larger topics concerning the motivation that leads one to tobacco, and the entailing struggle that one experiences because of such an addiction. The answers to these questions, however, may be simpler than what expected.

"I thought it smelled good when I was a little kid," senior Arthur Tripp

said. This, he believes, led him to his first cigarette.

"Friends and curiosity had a lot to do with it," Davis said in regard to starting his love-hate relationship with nicotine.

"I love cigarettes," Davis said. "[but] I'm going to try to stop once I get through college."

To many, a cigarette acts as an escape from the hustle of everyday life, a vice for relaxation, and an item aimed to comfort. "The rest of the day goes to the backburner for a few minutes," Tripp said.

The larger portion of non-smokers are seemingly perplexed by the paradox of such an addiction. Why would one want to subject themselves to the torment of physiological dependence?

"Despite its negative connotations, smoking cigarettes still proves to be one of the best stress relievers. It's like meditation for the impatient," one senior said.

The physiological and psychological habit caused by nicotine still remains as the primary reason why most young smokers continue the habit. As an organic compound, nicotine affects the brains neurotransmitters and ignites the release of dopamine among other chemicals causing sensations of euphoria, relaxation, and elation.

"Anxiety is lowered through smoking and the smoker knows that smoking can help lower their mental and physical addiction," Schlaeger said. "It becomes an addictive behavior. Students tend to have difficulty focusing when that addiction is not being met. More cases than not, this addiction is not being met during the school day."

The notorious symptoms of nicotine withdrawal can include anxiety, uneasiness, short temper, and headaches.

"It feels like my head is going to implode," Tripp said.

"Every part of my body has this need for a cigarette."

Although an estimated 70 percent of smokers would prefer to quit, many are not left without some form of satisfaction the habit.

"You get a social connection with another smoker," Tripp said. Schlaeger believes that the first step to prevent teens from smoking is action before the habit begins.

"Early intervention is the best way to prevent smoking in teens," Schlaeger said. "Also not modeling the behavior is best as well, because if students see their role models smoking, it will force them into believing it's acceptable."

With parents who both smoked, Schlaeger's reason for not ever smoking tobacco continues because of childhood sentiment.

"I was disgusted by it. I have never had a puff of a cigarette because I was so nauseated by it growing up," Schlaeger said.

Schlaeger hopes most of all that students who choose to smoke at least make an educated decision unadulterated by the commercialized nature of the industry.

"I would wish for students who smoke to research what they're going through during smoking. I think knowing the effects that this truly has upon them can push them to change their actions. But their need to stop smoking is based upon an internal need to change," Schlaeger said.

January 27, 2006

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January 27, 2006

CHRONICLECenterspread

Well, they have the fireplace in there so the teachers can trade camp fire stories, sing songs and roast marshmallows and hotdogs. ~A.J. Stewart

They don't want the lockers to feel lonely with the kids carrying their backpacks with books instead of leaving their books in the lockers. ~Dylan McKinney

Why aren't there clocks in the hallways?

Architects put that in for us for no charge. They felt that it gave the school a friendly feeling. ~Dr. Dave Allen

Why are dangerous chemicals kept here at school?

In case we go to war with Lakota. ~Jen Phillips

They’re pool chemicals.

Chlorine. It’s for quick access. ~Dr. Dave Allen

Mason High School has its share of secrets we all want to know. now The Chronicle gives you the chance to hear the truth about all of your...

Because they don't want us to know that we really don't have five minutes between bells. ~Jacob Lewis

Why is there an “M” on the soap dispensers?

By seeing the Mason ‘M’ on the dispensers gives me a sense of comet pride. It helps me clean my hands with the speTo recognize cial Comet pride soap.

Mason City Schools. ~Tomas Diaz ~Dr. Dave Allen

I don't know. We felt there was never a need for clocks in the hallway. ~Dr. Dave Allen

Why do the bells ring twice in a row?

People that assign parking pick their favorite students for the close spots and send the jerks and morons into the boondocks. ~Tony Rapp

Why is it so cold inside the school?

So girls don’t wear short skirts to school. ~Chris Izurieta

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Why is there a fireplace in the lobby?

Why can't we carry bookbags?

School safety and security. ~ Mr. George Coates

CHRONICLECenterspread

We are conscientious of our utility bills. We feel the temperature is appropriate. ~Dr. Dave Allen

It's by seniority. Senior, Junior, sophomore, then freshmen.

First come first serve. We try to hold spots for seniors that are on vacation or haven't signed up yet. ~Mr. George Coates

Well, I find the bells to be quite relaxing.

It’s like Mozart to my ears.

-Coleman Sanders

Because there are about 50 schedules programmed and sometimes they tend to collide and switch. ~ Mr. Kevin McDonald

Compiled by Sarah Fukatsu

12

The

CHRONICLEAds

January 27, 2006

The

January 27, 2006

CHRONICLEFeature 13

After 45 years in business Big Top is closing its doors "I went to Big Top seven days a week for eighteen years.”

BY CANDICE PHILPOT Chronicle Staff Writer

Chronicle photo by Candice Philpot

The Big Top Restaraunt has closed and taken down all welcoming messages after 45 years in Mason.

George David gets into his car after locking the doors of the darkened building. The restaurant, which was once bright and alive, is now a desolate shell. David pulls out of the empty parking lot, glancing up at the sign which bears the world: Closed.

The Big Top, a restaurant that had become a landmark in Mason, first opened its doors on May 26, 1961.

After 45 operating years, Big Top has closed its doors.

Although several reasons were given, owner George David, whose family owned the restaurant since 1970, says money was the ultimate reason.

"We weren't bringing in enough money. There was too much competition for a small business," David said.

David, instead of feeling angry, has come to accept the urbanization of Mason.

"It is just hard for any small business, in any trade to keep up with big businesses," David said.

Even though Big Top's financial status has been facing problems for the last couple of years, David found it hard to explain his feelings when he came to the realization that Big Top would have to shut down.

"I was really bothered. I was really, really bothered by the whole situation. I didn't cry. Just about, but not quite," David said.

Events after the official close also proved to be trying.

"When we boxed up some of the

Whether it’s a beemer or a beat-up,

“We’ll put you behind the wheel”

[equipment] and sold some of the equipment off; that was depressing.

That was pretty bad," David said.

Even though loss of a business and depleted profits has caused hardship, David claims that these aspects were not the worse part of the closing process.

"The hardest part was telling the customers and telling the [employees] that we were closing," David said.

David attributes his best memories of working at Big Top to these people.

"Some of the best memories were definately around the holidays; celebrating with the customers and [employees]. The whole year was always fun but especially around the holidays," David said.

After years of business, The Big Top had gained a group of loyal, "regular" customers, including Mason resident Earl Grogg.

"I went [to Big Top] seven days a week for eighteen years. I went at 6 o'clock on weekdays and 8 o'clock on Sundays," Grogg said.

Grogg, who was informed about the close after reading the marquee, was shocked at the news. "'Why?' That was the only thing that came to mind. 'Why?'" Grogg said.

Along with Grogg, Anna Marsh, who worked at Big Top for five years, found herself asking the same question.

"It will be strange," Marsh said.

"It's a landmark and you're used to it being there."

The customers of Big Top found themselves saddened and confused at

the loss. Jim Stewart, a Mason resident and parent, visited Big Top every Saturday morning since he was in the eighth grade.

"Now I've got to go some other place to hang out," Stewart said.

Grogg also found himself bewildered about what was going to happen next.

"I hate to see it go. I always went there. It had good food and it was like a family. I actually cried when they said they'd be closing up," Grogg said.

Among the customers and staff, most could agree that the family-like atmosphere is what kept people coming back.

"It had a homey, family-like atmosphere. Everybody knew everybody," Marsh said.

Sadie Harper began working at Big Top the year it opened, and worked for the family who founded the restaurant for a total of forty years.

Harper claims that sheer enjoyment is what kept her working.

"I love waitressing and I love the people," Harper said.

With the doors officially closed, David has yet to make any plans for the future.

"I think once I get some things situated I'm going to take some time off. I might go out of town," David said.

With years full of memories, good times and struggles behind them, the employees and customers of Big Top bitter sweetly say goodbye to the iconic restaurant that has been their home for the past four decades.

"I'll miss it. It was just the ideal spot to go," Grogg said.

14

The

CHRONICLEAds

January 27, 2006

The

William Mason High School Home of The Comets

Chronlcle

Steeler fanatic Ricky Hart stays loyal to his Steelers in the heart of Bengal Country, see page 17

JANUARY 27, 2006

SPORTS Shorts

SPORTS COMETS ARE

Freshman Zach Brown has made a significant contribution to the Comet basketball team, see page 16.

V OLUME 3 I SSUE 4

GETTING DEFENSIVE

Hoops squad employs suffocating defense to take FAVC lead DEFENSIVE

Girls volleyball coach retires after 16 years

GEMS

Mason 50 Anderson 35

After 16 years as head volleyball coach Julee Hills is retiring. Prior to coaching at Mason, Hill coached at Reading and Roger Bacon.

Mason 60 Winton Woods 32

Hill

Mason 60 Walnut Hills 28

Hewes holds top spot in three events in FAVC Sophomore Spencer Hewes holds the top times in the Fort Ancient Valley Conference in the 200 yard freestyle, 200 yard I.M. and 200 yard breastroke. Hewes led Hewes the Comets to a fourth place finish at the Southwest Ohio High School Swimming and Diving Classic, a meet that hosted thirty-eight teams from all over the district.

Bowling teams prepare for playoffs Since beginning the regular season with a 9-0 record with wins over local powers Moeller and Glen Este, the Mason boys bowling team are currently ranked 11th in the state of Ohio. The team was led in the regular season by Gene Lunsford, who averaged 205 pins per game.

The girls team, finished the first half of the regular season with a 5-4 record.

Both teams will continue their regular season with matches at Little Miami and Norwood and then the Ohio High School Bowling playoffs on February 4th.

PORTS

STATS

13

Number of wrestlers the varsity team placed at the Kevin Cleveland Memorial. See story page 17

Did you know?

Former MHS principal and current volunteer assistant wrestling coach Dr. Bob Carter played briefly for the San Francisco 49ers. Carter was drafted in 1959 from the University of Denver.

Mason 57 Amelia 38 Mason 36 Kings 19 Chronicle Sports photo by Josh Geiger

Defensive specialist Matt White locks down an opponent while Andy Krusling prepares to help.

BY MORRISON TRACY Sports Staff Writer The trademark of Mason boys’ basketball has always been a disciplined offense and a stingy defense. Last Friday night at Anderson the Comets once again gave another FAVC opponent a lethal dose of the Comet's brand of basketball as they defeated the Redskins 50-35.

The Comets are 11-2 overall and lead the league with an 8-1 record. The defensive intensity brought by Mason has forced their opponents into numerous turnovers resulting in offensive success. Now in his 10th season coaching the Comets, Coach Greg Richards has prided all of his teams on the defensive end.

"The pressure defense has been the key to all of our wins so far this season," Richards said. "Everyone is doing their job on the defense side of the ball and we are forcing a lot of turnovers making it easy on our offense."

The Comets have been limiting the scoring opportunities for the opposition holding opponents to league leading 39.3 points per game. In the first game of the season Mason held Kings to a season low of 19 points and in the most recent game against Anderson the Comets only allowed 34 points.

Approaching the second half of the season, Richards wants the team to stay focused on the tasks ahead and avoid any potential let downs like the one they experienced against Loveland, who shocked the Comets on their home floor 63-59. "Everyone wants a piece of us and we just need to keep our minds in the right place," Richards said. "When we came out against Loveland no one had any focus. We were flat and laid back. That's why we got beat."

Despite their tough loss, the Comets still aim to accomplish their team goals.

"Everyone knows what we want and that's to win the FAVC again and win Districts for the first time ever," Richards said.

The focused team play has led Mason to wins over Glen Este, Anderson and Amelia. The players and coaches have made it evident that this season is a complete team effort.

"There isn't just one player leading our team this season,” Richards said. “We have a very balanced team effort offensively and defensively. Everyone is doing their job so it's hard to name one or two players who carry our team. Travis is scoring a lot but without the players around him to get him the shots he needs to

!see DEFENSE page 16

Russell will step down as athletic director at year’s end

BY BROOKE BARIA Chronicle Sports Editor Receiving little recognition as he worked tirelessly to ensure the Mason athletes were always provided with opportunities to succeed athletically and in all they did, MHS athletic director Rod Russell Russell will be remembered for the pride he took watching the students achieve their goals.

After Russell announced his retirement to the community, many began to take note in all that he had accomplished.

Russell taught at Little Miami High School for four years before coming to Mason where he was a math and computer science teacher for twelve years.

Russell's transition from teacher to athletic director at MHS was not difficult because he had always been involved in athletics.

"My dad coached and I have always been around athletics. Being athletic director

doesn't even seem like a job because it has always been a part of my life," Russell said.

Although the transition was not difficult, the athletic department has overcome obstacles under Russell's guidance the past 15 years. As Mason's population has vastly grown the athletic department had to provide more opportunities for the Mason athletes.

"Mason has always been competitive but with the growth we had to provide more opportunities. We had to expand the program but have the budget and facilities to do so. The whole community stepped up and now there is a lot to be proud of," Russell said.

With his ability to guide the athletic department through great changes, Russell has gained respect throughout the school system, community, and other schools. His ultimate goal in carrying the program through this change was to see that all the athletes were successful. Such traits will be valuable throughout the new process of hiring a new athletic director.

"The new athletic director will encompass what coaches, faculty, parents, and

athletes want collectively. The new director must have the desire to see kids be successful and go the extra mile to promote our student athletes and to provide them opportunities," Mason High School principal Dr. Dave Allen said.

As Russell encompasses all the new director is looked to uphold, the community has made it evident he will be greatly missed, but Russell is sure to stay involved.

"I'll have more time to enjoy watching the athletes. I've just been honored to be in a program where the community entrusts you," Russell said.

Just as Russell feels fortunate to have been a part of Mason athletics, the administration, faculty, student body, and community will always see Russell as an asset to our school.

"We'll miss someone with a lot of experience and knows the community and the school system in and out. We'll miss his knowledge and relationships with other schools in and out of our league and the respect he had from coaches, other schools, and our athletes," Allen said.

16

The

CHRONICLESports

Gameday Rituals

“

January 27, 2006 Panera never gets old for senior basketball player Lauren Gentene

I always eat at Panera on game day, and we have a c.d. that the team will listen to in the locker room before the game. Also, we pray together, and I read a chapter out of a book called Mind Gym on Lauren Gentene , Senior game day.

Varsity Basketball

”

Lauren is currently averaging 5.6 points per game and is second in the FAVC with 3.8 assists per game. The senior has led the Comets to a 4-2 FAVC record and 6-5 overall record.

HIGHLIGHT REEL Senior varsity swimmer Sarah Griffiths is currently ranked second in the FAVC in the 50 and 100 yard freestyle events. She is currently ranked seventh in the state.

Varsity basketball player Zach Brown has seen significant playing time primarily as point guard.

Just a freshman, Brown has played an important part in the Comets’ fast start start this season.

Brown recently chipped in six points in a crucial FAVC win over Amelia.

Senior varsity wrestler Eddie Suess placed 2nd at the Georgia Holiday Duals in Atlanta and 1st at the Kevin Cleveland Tournament. In addition to placing at three tournaments, Suess has posted a 21-5 record for the Comets.

- Compiled by Drew Allen

How I got Started...

Senior varsity basketball player Andy Krusling averages 7.2 points per game and 4.5 rebounds per game. Against rival Loveland he scored nine points and brought down five rebounds.

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

"I started swimming for a summer club when I was four because my dad was a coach and my brother was also a swimmer. I just kept on swim-

Mike Whipkey, Senior ming from then.”

Campus Scene

Varsity Swimming

Mike is among the league in multiple categories, ranking third in the 200 yard freestyle, second in the 200 Yard I.M., first in the 100 yard butterfly, third in the 100 yard freestyle, second in the 500 yard freestyle and second in the 100 yard breaststroke.

- Compiled by Drew Allen

What’s Your Take?

What are your expectations for the Bengals in the 2006-07 season?

100 students surveyed.

Winter Sport Stars In this month’s College Watch we are checking on a former Mason High School student-athlete.

Dan Mizener: Class of 2005 A 2005 graduate of Mason, Dan Mizener has continued his winning ways at John Carroll University of the Ohio Athletic Conference. As a member of the Blue Streaks wrestling team, he has seen significant mat time in his freshman season where he has split time between the 141 and 149 weight classes. Mizener has posted an 8-7 record with a 3-1 record in duals.

The Blue Streaks are currently unranked with a 3-4 record in dual meets, John Carroll University and the team placed Facts fourth out of 15 teams at the Florida Citrus Nickname: Blue Streaks Open.

Colors: Blue and Gold Mizener During his senior year Conference: Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) at Mason, Mizener won Famous Alumni: Tim Russert the Fort Ancient Valley Conference (NBC Newscaster), Don Shula Championship and placed second at the dis(NFL Player and Hall of fame trict tournament on his way to a seventh place NFL Coach), London Fletcher finish at the state tournament. He also record(Professional Football Player) ed 315 takedowns throughout his career, and posted 40 wins in his senior season alone. Mizener also placed second at the prominent SWOWCA Coaches Classic and solely scored 222 team points, the fifth most in Comet history.

- Compiled by Drew Allen

DEFENSE: Bid to repeat as champs bolstered by team’s stingy defense !from DEFENSE page 16

Chronicle Sports photo by Josh Geiger

Comet junior guard Chase Conn fires a three against Anderson.

take, he wouldn't be in the position he's in."

Reigning FAVC player of the year Travis Brown has led the Comets in scoring with just under 18 points per game.

Despite his individual accomplishments, Brown credits his teammates for playing tough defense.

"Our stifling defense has really shut down our opponents and has been the key for our success," Brown said.

Brown went on to mention that Richards has preached defense all season. Although the Comets are satisfied with their defense, improvements need to be made.

"We really need to improve our rebounding as the season progresses into tournament time," Brown said. "Mostly that and finishing inside, we really need to work on that," Brown said. Mason is converting over 47% of their shots.

This season's team is made up of veter-

ans regularly starting four seniors on game night. Senior point guard Matt Hunter has helped structure the Comet offense.

Hunter is currently among the leaders in the FAVC with 40 assists. Senior center Andy Krusling has been the defensive presence blocking six shots in 2006 and senior forward Tyler Lyon has been a significant defender recording 11 steals thus far.

According to Richards, not only have the seniors been the key for the Comets, but role players like junior guard Chase Conn and junior forward Matt White are the reasons their winning games.

"Our team's defense is really coming together. Matt White and his aggressive style of play has really been a big part of forcing the opposition into a lot of turnovers with amazing ball pressure," Richards said.

Conn is the sixth man on Mason's experienced roster this season. In his first year

on varsity, Conn is averaging just over six points per game currently fifth on the team behind the starting seniors Brown, Hunter, Krusling and Lyon. In his most recent game, Conn scored a career high 23 points hitting five of seven from three point land.

"We all play together very well. When you have a team made of close friends you never have conflict," Conn said. "The team unity is unbreakable."

Conn later commented that the team does have improvements to make but also some work needs to be done in his own game.

"I'm not shooting as well as I'd like this season. I missing too many easy ones," Conn said. With only half the regular season left, the Comets look to win out and for the first time this year win at districts.

"We really need to come out and just get all over our opponents and shut them down all together,” Conns said. “Let them know that we are the best in the FAVC."

17

The

CHRONICLESports

Sports Notebook Boys swimming makes name for themselves, girls follow Under third-year coach Mark Sullivan, the boys have made tremendous strides in making a name for themselves in Southwest Ohio.

"The girls have been dominant over the last eight years," Sullivan said. "Now the boys are starting to take over."

In the Fort Ancient Valley Conference, a Comet owns first place in every swimming and diving event. Collectively, the sophomore duo of Brad Langford and Spencer Hewes own six of the top eight times in the individual swimming events.

Hewes is the middle-distance specialist, holding top times in the 200 yard free, 200 yard I. M. and 100 yard breaststroke.

Langford has showcased his versatility for the Comets, holding the top times in the 100 yard freestyle, 500 yard freestyle and the 100 yard backstroke.

Senior Mike Whipkey, is a reigning member of the FAVC all-conference firstteam. He owns the top time in the 100 yard butterfly.

"With the boys, we knew we had everyone back from last year," Sullivan said.

"We felt we could improve upon what we did last year."

Sullivan, the reigning FAVC Coach of the Year, was especially pleased with the team's performance at the Southwest Ohio High School Swimming and Diving Classic, a meet that hosted thirty-eight teams from all over the district. The team finished fourth overall, their highest finish ever.

"Hopefully we can repeat as league champs," Sullivan said. "Then we can clinch a top five finish at districts, and ultimately earn a top ten finish at state."

The girls have always managed to put a competitive team into the swimming pool.

However the loss of a marquee swimmer and inexperience of the team as a whole could hurt their bid as three-time conference champions.

Melissa King, a state qualifier, graduated in 2005 and is now one of the top swimmers at Kenyon College "It is hard to replace [Melissa,]" Sullivan said. "Not having that big swimmer like Melissa really hurts."

Senior Sarah Griffiths was an all-conference first-team selection for the 100 yard freestyle in 2005. Senior Amy Bland holds the best time in the FAVC for the 100 yard breast stroke and senior Colleen Casey, Morgan Parker, and freshman Mary Wunderle have contributed as well.

"The girls dropped a bit [at the Southwest Classic], but it's not the end of the world," Sullivan said. "We still have the league championships."

Girls basketball team enjoying solid season The Mason varsity girl's basketball team resides in a comfortable third place position in the Fort Ancient Valley Conference behind Winton Woods and Glen Este respectively. The Comets are 8-6 overall and 6-3 in the league.

Future University of Dayton Flyer, senior Denise Fairbanks is tied for third in scoring in the conference averaging 15 points a game and is among the top in field goal percentage. Fellow senior, point guard Lauren Gentene is among the league leaders in assists with 3.5 apg.

The Comets under the guidance of first year coach Rob Matula recently knocked off Amelia and Anderson to push their record above .500.

Mason will get tournament play under way on February 15 when they play third seeded Oak Hills, a team they’re very familiar with after scrimmaging the Highlanders in the preason.

-Compiled by Matt Scruta and Peter Springsteen

January 27, 2006

Hart stays loyal to his team in the heart of Bengal country

BY JOEY D’AMICO Chronicle Sports Writer The Bengals fans are silent; their season came to an abrupt end. However, there is still one fan cheering because his team…the Steelers, lived to play another week.

Mason junior Rick Hart is that one fan amongst the silence that is still cheering. Having lived in Pittsburgh, it is no surprise that Hart bleeds black and gold.

"I was born in Pittsburgh and my dad's entire family is from there," Hart said. "I lived there until the third grade and then I moved to Mason."

During the 16 week NFL season, Hart and his dad never missed a Steelers home game.

"My grandparents have enough season tickets for the entire family," Hart said. "We have had season tickets since the days of Three Rivers Stadium."

With Pittsburgh being approximately four hours away from Cincinnati, Hart and his dad usually make their trip a two day journey to the Steel City.

"We usually leave on a Saturday and come back on either Sunday or Monday night," Hart said. "I usually miss school on Monday if we go."

With the popularity of the Bengals growing amongst the residents of Cincinnati, Hart has found that his pride for the Steelers has continued to grow despite the opinions of those who surround him.

"I actually like to wear my jersey more now," Hart said. "It seems like Bengals fans are wearing their jerseys because they are winning. It tells me they are not true fans."

One can only assume that the tension between the Steelers and Bengals rivalry will only increase over the years. As this happens, Hart will have to deal with an overwhelming amount of criticism from Bengals fans.

"I just laugh at the comments I receive now," Hart said.

"However, I do make some comments back. I tell them at least I haven't waited 15 years for a playoff game."

When the Bengals were eliminated from the NFL playoffs on January 8th by the Steelers, Hart proudly displayed his number 86 Hines Ward jersey to school the next day and soaked in all of the sarcastic remarks and excuses from Bengals supporters.

"I don't care what they think," Hart said. "I know who the bet-

Chronicle Sports photo Joey D’Amico

Mason High School junir Rick Hart comes from a long line of Steeler fans. Hart’s room is filled with Steeler memorabilia. ter team is and who has the better fans."

Hart's love for the Steelers goes beyond the weekly trip to Heinz Field. He and his dad collect Steelers memorabilia and merchandise.

"I buy two new hats each year and get two new jerseys for Christmas," Hart said. "My dad and I also have a bunch of jerseys and terrible towels signed by players like Franco Harris and Terry Bradshaw."

Having been raised a Steelers fan by his family; Hart admits the Steelers are a very high priority in his life.

"After my mom and dad, it's Steelers football," Hart said. "It's a way of life for me. I try to go to every game, and if I can't be there, I watch it on TV for sure. I bleed black and gold."

Wrestlers poised for title repeat

BY MATT HUNTER Chronicle Sports Writer The Mason Comets' wrestling team has picked up where it left off last season, building off their Fort Ancient Valley Conference championship run, and making a statement early in the season.

The team started the season placing 29 wrestlers including 11 first place winners, out of the five tournaments they have competed at. At the Kevin Cleveland Invitational the Comets had their best performance of the season, placing 13 wrestlers out of 14 including six first place finishers.

Leading the Comets this season is a talented group of seniors, including Brian Porter, who is the top ranked wrestler in the 189 weight division in the FAVC. Porter has won 30 matches this season, which is the most out of any wrestler in the FAVC this year.

Porter has also reached a milestone by earning his 100th career victory at the Kevin Cleveland Invitational. He is in good company, joining the likes of Dustin Center (116), Kyle Brenier (106), Sean Lambert (103), and Zach Marshall (111) as the only wrestlers in Mason's history to achieve 100 career wins. Porter admits that he was unaware that he needed a win to accomplish 100, but was excited to do so.

"It was a goal of mine, but I didn't know until after the match that I got 100 [wins]," Porter said.

With Porter's continuing success, head wrestling coach Craig Murnan believes that Porter can be as good as he wants to be. "[Porter] is a phenomenal athlete, but he has also worked to get where he is at," Murnan said. "Everybody sees what he does on the mat, but they don't see him in the weight room or at practice."

Murnan is currently in his first year as head coach and is hoping to guide Mason to a second consecutive league title.

"I think we are competing with the best," Murnan said. "One of the differences between last year and this year is that we are winning matches that on paper, we aren't supposed to win."

Porter is not the only Comet wrestler having a prosperous season. Mason has 13 other wrestlers that are within the top three of their weight class in the FAVC. The seniors on the wrestling team have played a major role for Mason this season, accumulating a 106-30 record.

One particularly surprising wrestler is Eddie Suess, who moved up from the 125 pound weight class to the 130 pound weight class this season. Ending last season with 21 wins and 11 losses, Suess has already garnered 21 wins with a month left in the wrestling season.

"I just dedicated myself to lifting," Suess said. "For my first three years of wrestling, I only lifted when the team lifted. This year, I lifted in the summer and I lifted with the football team."

His dedication in the off season has paid off. Suess is one of only three wrestlers to win 20 matches this season. The other two wrestlers to accomplish this feat are Brian Porter (30 wins) and Joel Cooperstein (27 wins).

"Eddie [Suess] has really been a surprise this season. He's winning matches that he's not supposed to. He really wrestled well against Lakota West, and pulled out a win against a two time state qualifier," Coach Murnan said.

Lifting weights over the off season hasn't been the only aspect that has helped Suess this season. Last year, a tragic car accident took the life of senior wrestler James Horning, who was a significant part of the wrestling team. His death was a constant reminder to Suess to push himself. "[Horning] really motivated me to work hard. He was the hardest working wrestler, and that really inspired me to work as hard as I could," Suess said. "His dad is always around, and seeing him makes you want to work even harder because he reminds you of James."

With the season winding down, Coach Murnan remains set on the fact that his team must stay focused on what they want to accomplish.

"We can't go around chasing [records]," Murnan said. "It's a great accomplishment, to break records, but we have to stay focused."

A familiar face joins wrestling staff

BY JOEY D’AMICO Chronicle Sports Writer Familiar face, same place. This can be said of former Mason High School Principal Dr. Bob Carter. Retiring after the 2003-2004 school year, Carter has returned to his old stomping ground as a volunteer coach on the varsity wrestling team.

"I work with the heavy weights," Carter said. "I try to be supportive and encouraging to the wrestlers. I teach the team what I know and reinforce what the coaches say."

While Dr. Carter enjoys helping out with the wrestling team, he admits the interaction with the athletes played a strong role in his decision to help with the team.

"Quite frankly, the bottom line is I have a passion for [working with] high school students," Carter said. "I have gravitated to what I like doing which is working with students and athletics." Carter said.

Over winter break, Dr. Carter traveled with the team to Georgia for a tournament and was amazed by the tremendous amount of growth he saw in many of the wrestlers. He credits the athlete's and team's success to the coaching staff.

"The coaching staff at Mason is wonderful," Carter said. "The wrestling coaches as a core are very strong. They know the sport well and give a lot of time and energy to the program. They not only talk to the athletes about wrestling, but also about life in general."

Having a strong past in the sports of football, basketball, and track, one can't help but wonder why Carter chose to assist in the wrestling program.

"I like wrestling because you're out there by yourself," Carter said. "You lay everything out there on the line every single time you step on the mat."

After retiring, Carter helped out at Loveland High School as an offensive line coach on their varsity football team.

However, there is something about Mason that brought him back.

"Mason is special," Carter said. "The students are special, the community is special, and it's a very good school district. I have very deep feelings about Mason."

18

The

CHRONICLESports

January 27, 2006

Aponte’s Pizzeria BRIAN PORTER, SENIOR,

WRESTLING

Senior Brian Porter, a four year varsity starter for the Comets, recently broke into the record books as he became the fifth wrestler in Mason history to win his 100th career match. Porter currently has 105 career wins with a month remaining in the season.

Porter is currently ranked first in the Fort Ancient Valley Conference with a 30-1 record. His only loss was at the Southwest Ohio Wrestling Coaches Association Coaches Classic where he placed third.

Traveling to Canton, Georgia for the Georgia Christmas Duals, Porter led his team to a fourth place finish placing first individually.

He led the Comets to a 26.5 win over Pickerington North to win the Dublin Scioto Tournament. Porter also clenched his fourth first place finish for the season.

After qualifying for state last season, Porter is ranked among the top ten wrestlers in Ohio this season. With the post season approaching, he looks to qualify for state once again.

Because of his accomplishments The Chronicle and Aponte's Pizzeria are proud to present Brian Porter as the January Athlete of the Month.

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The

January 27, 2006

CHRONICLEViews

19

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 Logistics M anager Michelle Rotbart Editorial C artoonist Peter Springsteen 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

LETTER

TO THE

EDITOR

Reader feels humans are justified in animal consumption There are two main reasons to be a vegetarian, and one I fully agree with, while the other is just naïve. The first of these is simple, and we all do it with some type of food: not liking the taste.

If someone doesn't eat meat because they dislike the taste of most meats, then I can, being a picky eater myself, fully understand and agree with this reasoning. Your likes and dislikes of how food tastes is not a conscious act.

You cannot one day say, "I like broccoli," and then enjoy your broccoli for dinner. A taste just is, and for some it is enjoyable, and for others it isn't. Not eating a food because of that is perfectly acceptable.

Conversely, the other reason that has some people refraining from meat is a purely conscious decision, but beyond that, is a poorly thought-out decision. We kill animals for food. We slaughter them, brutally, and with no thought at all how they may be feeling. They die in tremendous amounts, merely to feed humans.

That is the argument many use to explain why they abstain from eating meat.

Yet this argument defies the very

nature of life itself. Animals of all shapes and sizes kill other things. Not out of brutality, but for their very own survival.

Watching a lion rip the body of its prey to bloody shreds and callously eat it all would cause many to flinch away in disgust.

Yes, it is brutal. It is slaughter. So I propose a possible solution: let us kill every lion in the world. That should save a substantial amount of innocent animals in the world. You could be saving the lives of millions of zebra. That way, no animal would ever be killed for another's food.

You need only know a small amount of biology to realize the disastrous results if such a thing were to ever occur. The herbivores would become overpopulated.

They would eat off too much of the plant life. They, themselves, would starve, and what would follow would be extinction unlike any other.

Humans are just like other animals, and we need a varied diet to be healthy.

This includes meat, which means that, just like we have been doing for millenniums prior and other animals have for much longer, we will have to kill other

animals. But although humans are widely populated and widespread (allowing us to gain resources from almost everywhere,) we do have starvation and hunger in many places.

Personally, if I had the choice of 100 pigs leading horrible lives and dying painfully or having one innocent child die, or even suffer of starvation, the choice isn't hard. I would choose the child 100% of the time.

If I knew that we could feed twice as many people using growth hormones, then by all means use them. Do I feel sorry for the animals? Yes, of course. Yet between an animal's life or a human's life, I choose the human's.

And I have no doubt that if they situations were reversed, the pig would choose its own life. That is the nature of a species; its own survival. If we can have other species' comfort while doing that then great. But human life and health comes first every time.

Mike Michalak Sophomore

Feedback Question: What was the most newsworthy event of 2005?

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Adviser Mr. Dale Conner Compiled by Michelle Rotbart