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We’re going Green!
Sylvania Schools changed to a color-based planning system this year. Find out what your classmates think of the Red, Yellow, and Green plans!
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Fun Fall Activities
Are you obsessed with all things Fall? Check out page 8 to see some outfit ideas, everything pumpkin spice, and how to carve pumpkins!
TUDENT prints
Volume 95, Issue 1
Teachers want their voices heard Fordham Regan Co-Editor-in-Chief
2020 seems like it’s the year for rallies and protests, and Sylvania teachers are taking advantage of their first amendment rights. On October 13, educators at-
tended a rally outside of the administration building prior to the evening board meeting. Each teacher had their own personal concerns that led to the formation of the rally, but the main cause was that teachers felt they weren’t being heard.
Northview Sylvania Alternative Learning Academy (SALA) teacher Perry Lefevre attended the rally in hopes of getting his message across. “We teachers have been struggling to offer quality education to our students under conditions that none of us were
HUEY HOLDING THEIR SIGN AT THE RALLY are Sylvan teachers Jamie Fletcher, Brandon Arndt, and Lisa Ward. Almost 300 teachers stood for over an hour outside the administrative offices rallying on October 13 as supportive horns honked from traffic driving by.
prepared for,” he said. According to the president of the Sylvania Education Association, Dan Greenberg, there is no consistent system of communication between the school board, administration, and the educators. In the midst of a pandemic, communication is key, but teachers’ needs are not being met in this area. “There’s often inconsistent answers,” he said. “It’s frustrating and difficult.” “The Board of Education and administration want to make decisions about how to best provide that education, but they often don’t listen to the professionals who are really the frontline workers in our field, the teachers,” Mr. Lefevre said. As a Southview English teacher, Mr. Greenberg understands the concerns that educators have when it comes to how the school system is being handled during COVID-19. These issues have predated the pandemic, but the virus has made matters even worse. Fixing the communication problem involves creating a consistent way of relaying information to teachers, according to Mr. Greenberg. Consulting educators earlier in the decision-making process, rather than after plans have already been made, allows room for their voices to
be heard. “It’s hard to make adjustments ten steps down the line,” he said. Students are always hearing about the inconvenience of these “unprecedented times”, but teachers feel the exact same way. “There are big decisions that need to be made more frequently during the pandemic than normal times,” Mr. Greenberg said, which is likely strenuous when the system of communication is not stable. Many district members aside from teachers, such as education support professionals, attended the rally, which is helpful when it comes to spreading awareness about problems the school system is facing, and also creates a way for more educators’ voices to be heard. “We want a voice in the decisions being made that impact us,” Mr. Lefevre said. After this rally, it is hopeful that the school board and superintendent are working to create a better system of communication, as well as practicing open-mindedness when it comes to teachers’ opinions. “I think that teachers want to work with the district leadership because we believe we are all working towards the same goal, which is making our schools as strong as they can be,” Mr. Greenberg said.
New superintendent joins Sylvania Minor Reegan Co-Editor-in-Chief
Sylvania Schools gained a fresh pair of eyes this school year. Dr. Veronica Motley was named Superintendent in April of 2020. Dr. Motley served as the Assistant Superintendent of South Euclid Lyndhurst Schools before she came to Sylvania. Dr. Motley knew that she wanted to be a superintendent, but isn’t “someone who chases a title, rather someone who waits for the perfect opportunity,” Dr. Motley said. Before being offered the Sylvania position, Dr. Motley was asked to be the superintendent of many other schools. However, she didn’t find any of them to appeal to her or what she wanted. Once Sylvania reached out, Dr. Motley knew she had the chance to do something great. The transition this past summer for Motley hasn’t exactly been easy. “I thought that with everything being online it would be easier, but it was actu-
ally more complex,” Dr. Motley said. If this were a typical year, Dr. Motley would have just made a trip back to Cleveland for a couple of days here and there to provide support for the community she was leaving. Since everything was virtual though, she had to be in two positions at once. The con-
land area. She has new ideas and concepts that she wants to incorporate into Sylvania Schools. Along with that also comes her 30 years of experience, which has enabled her to grow and learn many skills. “I value the STEM field, as it provides many opportunities,” Dr. Motley said. Dr. Motley believes that she can
“These children deserve to have amazing opportunities and I strive to make that happen.” - Dr. Veronica Motley venience of online meetings made it so that Dr. Motley was constantly being pulled in both directions, but she did manage to handle it. Previous Sylvania superintendents were already rooted in the area. Dr. Motley brought a fresh perspective with her, having moved from the Cleve-
help the community become more innovative. Dr. Motley would like to create a “road map for what we want to do and how we want to do it,” she said. Dr. Motley’s goal is to establish a set vision for the community and to put that vision into action to further the community’s innovation.
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A large part of this plan includes interaction with the students. “Visiting the schools is something I love to do because it feeds my spirits and ambition to succeed,” Dr. Motley said. She has made the extra effort to visit various Sylvania Schools departments, not just the schools. Dr. Motley went to the bus garage and food services because to her, building relationships is the most important. Dr. Motley is also involved in the Chamber Council and the Rotary. “I have a special drive in me to help the children because I didn’t have the gift of having my own children,” Dr. Motley said. She wants the kids of Sylvania to have all the opportunities in life and the skills that will help them do well. “These children deserve to have amazing opportunities and I strive to make that happen,” Dr. Motley said. Dr. Motley will do anything to assist the children of Sylvania in accomplishing their dreams. Moving away from her hometown wasn’t easy for Dr.
Motley, but she sees it as a positive change. “People have been so kind and welcoming to me. Even with everything going on, I still find community members reaching out and it reassures me that I made the right choice in coming here,” she said. It’s clear that Dr. Motley
is a great addition to Sylvania Schools, especially considering her distinguished morals and insightful plans. With all of the unprecedented situations this year, it is important to have someone in charge who is persistent, determined, and ready to take on whatever comes.
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NEWS 1
EDITORIALS 5
FEATURES 8
A&E 10
SPORTS 11
2 Air pollution down, mask littering up NEWS
October 26, 2020
BenStaffRiterWriter
2019’s trend of “saving the turtles” has been taken to a whole new level this year. But instead of plastic being littered across oceans and cities… it’s masks. Because of most states’ mandatory mask rule, many people cannot wait to get home and rip their masks off. However, most of these face coverings end up on the streets. Masks are becoming more and more of a pollution problem all around the world, including a rise in sea and land pollution. “Covid waste,” as referred to by Joffrey Peltier from the French non-profit group, Opération Mer Propre. Along with aluminum cans and plastic bottles, masks, gloves, and empty bottles of hand sanitizer are scattered all over the streets and beaches. “On a beach about 100 meters long, we found about 70,” Gary Stokes of OceansAsia said. Rain and wind carry used masks and gloves down storm drains and into nature. These can cause clogged drains and make streets flood a lot faster and easier. Gloves and masks can be mistaken as food by wildlife, and if eaten, could kill them and harm the ecosystem. During quarantine, which was March 13 through June 6, animals started roaming the streets as river waters got clearer. “About a year ago, Los Angeles was ranked the worst air quality in the entire country,” the CEO of IQAir Glory Dolphin Hammes said, “now, we’re seeing some of the best air quality, not just in the country, but in the world.” However, the quality of the environment is likely to decrease as more people are coming out of quarantine. Preventing these extra masks on the street might be hard because they’re now part of everyday life, but little things like throwing away disposable masks at the end of the day and washing the reusable masks will help make a change. Picking up a piece of waste when you see it will also have a huge impact on the amount of covid related pollution.
IT SEEMS THE NORTHVIEW parking lot is not immune to littering, this mask was found just outside the backdoors. To prevent mask littering just remove your mask in your car or house and throw it away there, or if you have a reusable and washable mask, wash it and save it for the next day.
President Trump’s COVID views Lockshin EllaFeatures/Graphics Editor
A recording of President Donald Trump was released where he admits to “downplaying the pandemic.” On February 7, the president was interviewed by journalist Bob Woodard. During the interview, President Trump said, “You just breathe the air and that’s how it’s passed,” and that it is “more deadly than even your strenuous flus.” On February 28, he called the pandemic a “Hoax” while giving a speech in South Carolina. In September, when asked, President Trump said he and his team handled Covid19 “Phenomenally. We’ve done a phenomenal job. Not just a good job. A phenomenal job. Other than public relations, but that’s because I have fake
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news, you know, I can’t -- you can’t convince them of anything, they’re a fake. But we have done – on public relations, I give myself a D,” President Trump said during an interview with Fox and Friends. Since then, President Trump and his wife contracted the illness. After suffering from Covid19, the President promised to make the medications he received widely available. The White House also said they would have 300 million doses of a vaccine ready by January. “I am a firm believer of masks and science; masks are used to help slow the pandemic. Statistically, we are one of the worst countries because we ignore science,” social studies teacher, Mike Czerniakowski said. If Mr. Czerniakowski was president, he would request we wear masks as a patriotic duty and ask for social distancing.
Work continues on vaccine for COVID H
annah Jablonski Staff Writer
A vaccine for the Coronavirus would be a big step forward in helping stop the spread of COVID-19. Currently there are no vaccines approved for full use. Although, there are 29 vaccines undergoing testing safety and dosage, 14 undergoing expanded safety trials, 11 in large-scale efficiency testing,and five approved for early
or limited use, according to The New York Times. In order to speed up the process the Trump Administration has started Operation Warp Speed to help accelerate the development and distribution of a vaccine for the Coronavirus. It has $10 billion worth of funding and a goal of having a vaccine ready by January 1, 2021. According to the CDC, the process to develop a vaccine is: Exploratory Stage, Pre-Clinical Stage, Clinical Develo p ment, Regulatory Review and Approval, Manufacturing, and Quality Control. On average it takes about 10-15 years to devel-
op a vaccine so this is an accelerated plan. “It is hard to say when the vaccine will be ready for public use. The vaccine must go through clinical trials to prove effectiveness,” MedTech teacher Melissa Cafferty said. One difficulty in distributing the vaccines is the public’s willingness to take the vaccines. “There will also be a barrier for those unwilling to get the vaccine due to the nature of it being so new,” Mrs. Cafferty said. “New vaccines have limited information on side effects or potential negative effects (long-term), which will affect many individuals’ decision to receive the vaccine.”
3 STUCO going strong despite COVID NEWS
October 26, 2020
Clark Alexis Staff Writer
From assisting with school activities to strengthening community relationships, the Student Council has a spot for everyone. “We are student-led,” advisor Kylie Goebel said. “What students want is what we set out to do.” The Student Council is responsible for planning Color Cloud, PowderPuff, Turnabout and more. Students are encouraged to take on leadership roles, but everyone is welcome to come and participate, according to StuCo president Ava Tuschman. “We make the school environment one that is inclusive and welcoming to the entire student body,” Ms. Goebel said. Aside from planning fun events, StuCo is a great place to connect with others. “The relationships I have built through this organization are ones that I will treasure forever,” Tuschman said, “I have met my best friends through StuCo.”
Tuschman is passionate about creating positive change at school and in the community, and StuCo allows her to do that. “I have been presented with so many opportunities to help better both of those things, and I think those are always the most fun and rewarding things I get to do,” she said. Though COVID-19 has prevented them from holding big events, StuCo is still working hard. “Some things are in the works right now,” Ms. Goebel said, “so be sure to be on the lookout for announcements on upcoming events.” An all member meeting was held after school in the Performing Arts Center on October 6 for group A students and October 8 for group B students. “We went through the slides and updated everyone with the upcoming events and activities we have planned,” Tuschman said. “It was super fun to have this meeting though because it felt nice to see everyone’s face and have a little bit of normalcy.”
EVEN IF STUDENTS were at home they could participate during their virtual school days in these spirit days. DESPITE LIMITED FANS due to COVID restrictions, NV still won BCSN Student Section of the week and students were given SSTOTW masks. Photos Courtesy of Ava Tuschman
Business rates as low as 2020’s morale T
aylor Hartland Staff Writer
In one industry alone, COVID-19 has caused over $332 billion dollars to be lost during this pandemic. Specifically in the travel and entertainment industries, within businesses under the B.E.A.C.H. category (booking, entertainment and live events, airlines, cruises and casinos, hotels and resorts). Many of the largely affected businesses within this industry include; Disney, Delta Airlines, Las Vegas Sands and Marriott Hotels. Across the globe the travel industry has hit an all time low. During the course of this year's pandemic, all cruise lines were closed and amusement parks were shut down completely. Prices on things such as airplane tickets were so low that many com-
panies were having trouble making a profit. The sudden shutdowns caused investors to lose confidence in the companies, which marked a loss of $42 billion on cruise lines alone. In the entertainment industry ticket sales have fallen immensely due to the large amount of cancellations and postponements. This fact alone meant that around the globe the film industry had lost $5 billion during the pandemic. There are so many more examples of this occurring in so many more businesses that fall under the umbrella of B.E.A.C.H industries. Until the travel wave had begun to hit again, hotels, casinos, and airlines barely had enough business to continue to make a hefty profit. Even now, amusement parks, such as Cedar Point and Disney Parks, are open, but business definitely isn’t the same as it was before.
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, completed a study of over 5,800 small businesses across the U. S. to understand the economic impact of the coronavirus. This study took place between March 28th and April 4th at the beginning of the pandemic. At this point in time a large number of closures had already occurred. Employees had been laid off and some were even fired because the business could not afford to pay them. As more and more businesses realized that this pandemic would continue for a long while even more closed. Owners of these businesses were greatly affected because of the loss of profit their business has experienced. It slowly became harder and harder for small businesses to pay bills on things such as rent on the building. An average business can have monthly
expenses up to $10,000 and they only had about a few weeks worth of their normal income rate. Danielle Dale, owner of two small businesses local to the Sylvania area, said in an interview “ one of the biggest struggles I’ve faced has been finding cleaning products.” With such a high demand , cleaning products are very scarce making it hard for businesses to meet the requirements of their local health department. With very little income many of these businesses have relied heavily on online orders. Although this wasn’t possible for service based companies, like hair salons, that faced a very brutal economic front. Many were forced to seek funding through the CARES act, Coronavirus Aid, Relief , and Economic Security. Smaller companies/ businesses are very fragile financially right now and
COVID-19 has caused a huge economic shock hurting a majority of these businesses. Whether they are a large corporation, like Disney, or a smaller business, like a personal trainer or hair salon, they were affected greatly by the current coronavirus pandemic. There was a huge economic shock that came globally affecting all businesses both big and small. Most have found ways around their financial troubles with online solutions, however, this does not work in all cases. Tourism has decreased around the world preventing many businesses from surviving. In all COVID-19 has closed the doors to many businesses, but once coronavirus rates are down and it is safe again many of these businesses will hopefully begin to thrive again even better than before.
Coping with COVID: school edition Schmitt Maggie Staff Writer
There is no doubt that the coronavirus pandemic has greatly affected the way people function in their day to day lives. Many people have had to make changes to adapt to the ever changing state of the country. Schools across the United States have been putting in place new plans in order to cope with Covid-19 while still maintaining a positive, productive learning environment for their students. Lucas County is no stranger to this. Our county boasts 139 public and private schools with over 70 thousand kids enrolled in classes for the 2020-2021 school year. This means that our school systems had to create a safe learning environment where kids could still reach beyond their full potential. Coming up with a solution to school this year has not been easy for most schools. Every school has a different amount
of space in which they could hold their students. Because of this, they had to take into consideration how they could social distance throughout the school day. Many of the private schools in the area had the ability to go back four days a week due to their small class sizes. Notre Dame is currently going to school four days a week with one day spent entirely for cleaning the school grounds. Schools such as Ottawa Hills, and St. Francis are also on a similar form of what Sylvania Schools calls the Green Plan. Larger schools such as Anthony Wayne, boasting a student body of over 1,300 kids in their high school alone, does not have this same capability. “AWLS is currently utilizing the hybrid schedule K-12,” Superintendent Jim Fritz said. They have divided the days students attend school by last name. Many other schools in the
area such as Sylvania and Perryburg have been on a similar plans this year. Other schools such as Toledo Public and Springfield started out on a virtual plan (Red Plan in Sylvania) but have slowly transitioned to a Hybrid Plan. Both Sylvania Schools and Maumee are trying to safely transition onto the Green Plan. Almost all of the schools in Lucas County are providing an online learning system for students who do not wish to attend hybrid or fully in person school as well. Sylvania schools provides a system called the Sylvania Alternative Learning Academy, better known as SALA. Students who are learning through the SALA program must continue learning this way until the end of 2020. At the beginning of the third quarter, students will have the opportunity to transition back into the school buildings. The size of a school's student body is not the only thing that determines whether a
school is going to be online or in person. There were many other things that the schools had to consider such as transportation to and from school, cleaning procedures, availability of materials, lunch and meal plans. Although buildings are able to hold many students at a time safely, transportation through busing does not. “Ottawa Hills does not have school buses. All of our students walk, ride their bike, drive their own vehicle or their parents drive them to school,” Superintendent Adam Fineske said.
Some schools in the area are following the same path as Ottawa Hills. Other schools are continuing their busing program this year but with some changes. In Sylvania Schools, busing is offered to students who need it for day to day transport. All students are required to wear a mask on the bus until they are home. When it comes to sports there is no busing or transportation offered. Due to the spread of Covid-19, lunch time can not be handled in the same manner as in previous years. Schools offering hot lunches like An-
thony Wayne and Sylvania are pre-packaging lunches so as to have a grab and go lunch style. This is meant to limit the amount of people who come across the food. Everyone is currently making sure to closely follow the Lucas County Health Department in order to keep their staff and students safe as well as to isolate those who have tested positive for the virus. The schools across Lucas County are doing their very best to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for the 20202021 school year.
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NEWS
October 26, 2020
We’re going Green!
Wait... what?
The district announced that on November 9, 2020, middle schools and high schools will return to full capacity.
But why?
As long as Lucas County’s COVID numbers remain at less than 100 cases per 100k people and less than 8% positive RT-PCR tests in the last 14 days.
How?
Students will attend school Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in person, Friday will remain a virtual work day.
What measures will be taken? - Continued use of masks
- Contact tracing
- As much social distancing as possible (preferably a 3 foot distance)
- Plexiglass barriers in classrooms and highly populated common areas
- Hand sanitation
- Quarantine/isolation protocols for students and staff when needed
- Cleaning and disinfection of surfaces (desks, computers, etc)
- Following health department guidelines INFORMATION FROM THE PHASE 2 REOPENING GUIDE
What do you think?
“It’s easier at actual school and I prefer it, but I also like being at home.” - freshman Molly Green
“I like being in school better because it’s easier to focus.” - sophomore Joey Chauvette
“I’m excited because it will be easier to learn and ask teachers questions in person.” - junior Logan Thor
“It’s crazy that we already have plans to go Green so soon, especially since there’s so many students here at even half capacity.” - senior Trent Woelfl
The Legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg Cherry L una Staff Writer
On September 18, 2020, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Ruth Bader Ginsburg died from complications with pancreatic cancer. She was 87 years old and served on the Supreme Court for 27 years. She was the second woman and the first ever Jewish woman to serve on the Supreme Court. Many of her cases were those dealing with and bringing great attention to women’s rights, causing Ginsburg to gain fame as a feminist icon, being given the nickname “Notorious RBG”. After having served the nation for so long, Ginsburg’s death has left many shocked. However, while the emotional reaction here
may be one of mourning for many, for some it is also mingled with fear over what this means for the current political situation. Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s dying words to her daughter were to inform her that “my most fervent wish is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed.” With the presidential election so quickly approaching, this the topic of much political tension. President Trump is currently pushing to fill her seat on the Supreme Court with conservative circuit judge Amy Coney Barret rather than wait for after the election, given that should Joe Biden win the 2020 presidential election, it would fall to him to appoint a replacement. Ginsburg’s seat is now a pawn in the nation’s growing political tension, with each party attempting to fight for
more control as the very issues the court has a serious degree of control over are now being hotly debated around the nation. On October 12, Barret began a multiple-day confirmation hearing that is ongoing as of this article being written and will ultimately determine whether she is to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the US Supreme Court. Since her passing, many vigils and memorial events have been held in Ginbsurg’s honor. On October 12, an “honor her wish” virtual event was organized by a plethora of politicians, actors, and musicians to serve as both an eventful memorial to Ginsburg and to advocate for respect for her dying request. No matter what happens to her seat on the Supreme Court, it is unquestionable that Gins-
burg’s work has played an important part in shaping the country, whether one believes that work to be good or bad. It is also certain that her family should be shown sympathy, having lost a loved one not only in the midst of the pandemic but during also the important Jewish holiday Rosh Hashana. Above all, with the political turmoil her death has caused, it must be remembered that though her passing has been made into an issue of politics, she was a human being who lost her life. In times as uncertain and ripe with fear and disunity as this past year has been, the importance of human life is something that must not be forgotten. As is proper to say when honoring deceased members of the Jewish faith: may her memory be a blessing.
OPINIONS
October 26, 2020
Which plan is best?
Trying to lean towards Green
Students need a consistent learning environment with social interaction. Sylvania School has created three different learning plans; Red (all online), Yellow (hybrid), and Green (all in person). Being in the school full time allows students to get the social interaction that’s vital for learning. The “digital format loses out on human connection that’s important in learning. Students learn best when they’re engaged and feel valued. Connections allow for students to thrive,” psychology teacher Sarah Rhine said. Being in the building provides accountability for each student. It’s all too easy at home to not do an assignment. Many students don’t feel the need to actually understand the content because they know that when test time comes, their phone and notes will attain that 100% score. “I tend to procrastinate at home because I don’t have the drive or motivation to learn,” senior Alexandria Olzak said. The Red learning plan is what the district began the year with due to COVID-19. While it does appeal to the safety side of learning, since it’s the only one where no contact between others is made, it has many disadvantages. “I prefer learning in person because I enjoy the energy of the classroom from both my teacher and classmates,” Olzak said. At home, students don’t get that interaction amongst each other that sparks creativity in
some and even competitiveness in others. In the classroom, there are the little things that were taken for granted before that are evident now. Being able to work collectively and bounce ideas off of others can really only take place in person. The excitement and love of learning thrive off of those interactions. “Curriculum will be met by those pushing themselves to do it and they will make it happen. Others will check out and it’s easier because there is no physical accountability. Content can be delivered and I can make it as best as possible, but it will only be impactful on those who want to learn it,” Mrs. Rhine said. The Yellow plan may seem like a compromise between safety and in-person interaction, but things get messy. It’s difficult for students and teachers to have to continuously switch between online and in the building. Students of different groups (A and B) aren’t on the same page and can’t collaborate or seek help from each other. Students need stability and consistency to succeed and the Yellow plan disrupts that. The Green plan can be accomplished with the school adjusting classrooms appropriately and students taking the rules seriously. Material is delivered and understood best with an in-person learning environment. At the end of the day, the most important thing is that the students learn comfortably and never lose the love of learning, which is done through the Green plan. - Reegan Minor
5
Keeping it Yellow The start of school is quickly approaching and students are presented with a three-part colored plan. What does this mean? The three different colors are Green, Yellow, and Red. Each colored plan means a slightly different thing. The Green plan allows all students in the building to attend school regularly, how it was before COVID-19. The Yellow plan is a hybrid style where half of the students are in the building and the other half are at home. One group of students, group A, goes to school Monday and Tuesday and learns remotely Wednesday and Thursday. The second group of students, group B, goes to school on the opposite days. The Red plan is everyone learning remotely at home. The hybrid plan is the best way to go about the 2020-’21 school year. One reason the yellow plan is the best way to maintain proper precautions regarding COVID-19, is that with half of the students in the building, this allows more space to be socially distant. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends having six feet of distance between yourself and other people. Classrooms will be less packed allowing desks to be spaced out. Students wearing face masks while being socially distanced in the classroom to help reduce the spread of the virus is the ideal way to prevent COVID-19 while attending school. Another reason is it allows students to learn in the building and interact with their peers and teachers while remaining safe. This gives them the opportunity to socialize and learn directly from their teachers. Researchers have proven that in person learning is more
effective than online learning. On the Yellow plan students have two days in the building to ask questions and retain information more accurately in person. On the other hand, University of Potomac released a set of data that said 70% of students claimed online learning was just as good, if not better, than in person learning. Each student has a different perspective on what system works best for them. The Yellow plan addresses both of these learning styles which helps target all students’ learning needs. Also, according to The American Academy of Pediatrics, having kids back in school is best for their mental, physical, and social health. The Yellow plan allows students in the building for two days out of the week. This gives them the chance to improve their health and social skills for a few days while staying safe. Some people hope to go to the Green plan because they want everything to go back to normal. The only way to get back to normal is if face masks are being used and social distancing is practiced. Another concern with the Yellow plan is not being able to see all their friends in the building at once, because some people in a friend group might be going to school on different days than others. However, weekends are the best time to hangout with friends, not in school, and hopefully in a safe and socially distant way. We need to use the Yellow plan for however long it takes to lower the number of COVID positive cases and deaths. The Yellow plan is the perfect way to make sure students are learning the best way possible, in school, and it takes COVID-19 precautions into consideration. - Ally Parker
Stop the spread...take us back to Red This year, Sylvania schools had a very important decision to make; how we would resume school for the 2020-’21 school year. They helped guide us with their decision making through the colors of a stoplight. Green meaning we go back full time, Yellow meaning we return on a hybrid plan, and Red meaning we do all work online. I personally think it would have been smartest for Sylvania schools to return fully online, the Red plan. Coronavirus is spreading everywhere and we have not yet found a cure. According to CNN, as of September 20, America has had over 200,000 deaths caused by
Coronavirus. In total there are currently over 6.9 million cases, with many still undiagnosed. There is simply no need to put so many more lives at stake by returning to school. Online school is a much safer alternative to the actual classroom. Older or pregnant teachers are put at a higher risk, children raised by grandparents, parents with health issues, children with health issues; the list could go on and on. The safety and health of families are much more important than returning in person to the classroom. The online school offers a variety of ways to make it similar to the traditional classroom.
They have online meetings, online lessons, for the younger students they even offer interactive games. Of course, I missed school, but the return back does not feel like the school I loved. Students complete all assignments individually and many teachers only teach from their desks. All interactive learning has stopped. This is exactly how online learning is done, we sit alone while the teacher teaches from their desk. Since the way we are taught in both plans is so similar, it is a much safer idea to keep students at home. - Ella Lockshin
All online Hybrid with online and in person All in person
Day in the life of a 2020 covid student Picture this: you’re walking down the hallway in a single-file line on your way to lunch, where you’re placed in an assigned seat at a specific table. Doesn’t it remind you of kindergarten? Welcome to a day-in-the-life of a 2020 Northview student, where I walk you through how a “normal” day goes. Thanks to the spread of COVID-19, NV High School took the summer to implement multiple new rules for students to follow for the time being. The school day has changed drastically, and even after several weeks of participating in the Yellow Plan, I am still getting used to the differences. Let’s say it’s a Monday. You’re in group A, which means you’re only in school for two days this week. Normally, you prefer getting to school earlier in order to catch up on the homework you refrained from doing over the weekend. However, this year, you aren’t able to enter the building until 7 am. It’s finally 7, and you’re walking into the building after pulling your mask onto your face. Instead of heading through the doors by E-hall like you used t o , you now have t w o choices: the front entrance or the Auxiliary Gym doors. But before you go to your first class, a
are.
Students receive a warm welcome from staff with a pun and a colorful poster. “I put the poster up to help students deal with the topic of Coronavirus and masks in a lighthearted way,” Guidance Secretary Ann Kuebler said. teacher with a thermometer scans your forehead to make sure you don’t have a temperature above 100 degrees. There’s no need to worry about stopping by your locker anymore, as students now have to carry their backpacks with them at all times and were not given a place to store their belongings.
As you walk to your first period classroom, you make sure you’re following the guidelines on the floor. Cones are placed at intersections to ensure that students stay on the right side of the hallway, almost like a road. When you arrive there could be anywhere from two students to 18, class sizes are now half of what they usually
After class, you almost pop your Air Pods into both ears before remembering that only one pod in each ear is allowed. You make your way to the next few periods as you breathe through the cloth that is covering the bottom half of your face. It’s lunch time, so you move to the cafeteria. You look for the one friend who has the same lunch period and find them sitting at one end of the table. You throw your backpack down onto the floor and plop into a seat six feet away from them. Anything you have to say must be shouted across the table and over or around the plexiglass barriers. Your next few classes drag by. When you arrive at home, you get a head start on assignments that are to be completed during group B’s days, when it’s your turn to attend school virtually. Some of your classes during your B days might require you to attend Google Meet sessions, or stream class live while others have assignments for you to do each day varying from reading, writing, and doing work to practice what you learned. The Yellow Plan is your new “normal”. Every single day that passes by requires more adjusting to everything that life continues to bring. School has become yet another obstacle that you’re still learning how to work with. But at least we’re all in it together. - Regan Fordham
6
OPINIONS
October 26, 2020
ACT/SATs may be a thing of the past Last spring, when COVID-19 first hit, high schoolers all over the nation felt the shock of missed tests, classes, and experiences. Many things have changed since then, but one thing remains the same; It’s college application season. We spend years learning test taking strategies, comprehension, and problem solving skills all in preparation for standardized tests, like the ACT and SAT. We are taught that competitive schools require competitive test scores, right? Well, not necessarily. After widespread cancellations and a shortage of test seats, many col-
leges have decided to go “test optional.” This means that college applicants are not required to submit an ACT/ SAT score. At least 1,600 colleges, including Ivy League schools, have made the choice to waive this requirement. Without these test scores, colleges focus on your high school grades, essays, extracurricular activities, and achievements, according to collegedata.com.
While a lot of students appreciate the change, some believe these tests help students set themselves
orado College, examined five years of admissions data to understand how often test scores made the difference in the decision to accept or reject a student. He found “cultural, social and economic biases of test design,” including access to preparation materials, study guides, and courses, according to a 2019 announcement. “Such design and preparation strategies can have a significant
Without these test scores, colleges focus on your high school grades, essays, extracurricular activities, and achievements, according to collegedata.com. apart from other candidates. Mark Hatch, the Vice President of Col-
Controversial Question
- Alexis Clark
“I feel like the Yellow plan is the most appropriate plan because in this way there is not a lot of exposure for the kids.” - senior Simrah Ahmed
Red
“I feel safer under the Red plan because I have uncontrolled asthma and cannot risk getting sick. I have also adapted to the red plan and feel much safer in my own home.” - sophomore Mackenzie Aulwurm
impact on scores, with the results being standardized test scores tend to be higher for wealthier students and for white students.” The test-optional movement is changing the way students apply for college. By removing the requirement for ACT and SAT testing for college admission, students are able to decide what is best for themselves, their academic needs, and career path. Overall, these changes promote diversity within schools and work towards leveling the playing field for all college applicants.
Yellow
Green
Which plan do you prefer: Red, Yellow or Green?
24%
41% 35%
“I prefer to be in school and in person because then I have a teacher instructing me on what to do, when I’m online I have the tendency to struggle to turn things in or do everything.” - freshman Kaiden Ulrich Poll out of 130 students
THE
Sprints
TUDENT
Volume 95, Issue 1
Co-Editors-In-Chief: Regan Fordham and Reegan Minor Adviser: Sarah Huey Opinions Editors: Maia Dray Sports Editors: Tyson Bernath Features/ Graphics Editor: Ella Lockshin Photo Editor: Abby Clark Staff Writers: Serena Carter, Luna Cherry, Alexis Clark, Nikolas Echelmeyer, Spencer Gallup, Taylor Hartland, Elizabeth Humberger, Hannah Jablonski, Ally Parker, Ben Riter, Maggie Schmitt The Student Prints is the official student-produced newspaper of Sylvania Northview High School. It is distributed monthly at no charge to serve the purpose of informing students, faculty, staff, administration and the Sylvania community of current issues. The main goal of The Prints is to present coverage of events in an unbiased and accurate manner. The paper also respects the opinions and ideas of the entire NV community. Signed letters to the editors are encouraged and should be no longer than 300 words. All letters can be turned into the publications room, E-6. The Prints reserves the right to edit letters that contain grammatical errors, accuracy and profane or libelous comments. The newspaper staff is entirely responsible for the content of the paper and supports the First Amendment to the Constitution. Unsigned editorials published in The Prints are written by staff members, and agreed upon by a majority vote of the editorial board. The Prints is carefully examined by its staff and adviser prior to publication to prevent incorrect or libelous information. The newspaper staff does not endorse advertisements published in The Prints. Advertising specifications may be obtained by calling (419) 824-8708. The newspaper follows the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook guidelines for punctuation and grammar. The Prints is a member of the National Scholastic Press Association, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, and Quill and Scroll.
Attending school wasn’t working So she switched to SVA This year due to COVID-19 regulations online school is an option for students who did not feel comfortable coming in for in person classes. Those students could sign up for SALA, the Sylvania Alternative Learning Academy. I began my senior year with the impression of doing hybrid, but once I came into the school I was overwhelmed and decided that an online school was a better option for me. I decided to switch to SALA, but it was past the deadline. So I talked to my counselor and we both decided to pursue SVA also known as Sylvania Virtual Academy. Sylvania Virtual Academy is an option for students who find they are doing well with traditional school, just don’t feel comfortable coming to school, and is a place where credit deficient students can recover
those credits they are missing. Sylvania Virtual Academy was established before COVID-19. The classes allow you to move at your own pace and go back if you need help. You will see the calendar outlining what work you should do on certain days. The lesson includes instructions, assignments, tests, exams and quizzes. If you have questions or need to ask the teacher for help you can ask SVA teacher Mandy Ballantyne, she is in charge of taking care of classes for students who are interested in joining SVA. “SVA has some creative ways to allow students to learn without sitting in traditional classes all day,” Ms. Ballantyne said. SVA classes are a great option for students struggling with anxiety or just having diffi-
culty staying focused in school. I found it helpful to establish a schedule for myself and get up early like any other school day. Another question I get often is if I’m receiving as good an education as I would if I was doing in person school and the answer is yes, I have lessons just like any other student. When I was thinking of switching to SVA I was concerned about still being a student at Northview and participating in certain school functions; after talking to my counselor I discovered I would still be considered a NV student. I am still able to participate in school functions such as sports, clubs and dances. SVA was a great option for me and I’m thankful for the understanding I received through this whole experience. - Maia Dray
7
OPINIONS
October 26, 2020
Voting from a distance this election season
Mail-in voting is not new to this year. Absentee voting became available during World War II to allow soldiers to vote while fighting for the country, according to election lab.mit. edu. California also allowed for its civilians to choose absentee voting even if they weren’t soldiers in the 1980s. Ohioans were able to choose absentee voting beginning in 2005, according to ohiosos.gov. Due to the recent outbreak of COVID-19, mail-in voting will be widely used amongst different states to ensure minimal passing of germs. The wide use of these ballots is what strikes some controversy. Some have the belief that postal voting will allow for fraud to occur by allowing people to vote multiple times. “Fraud isn’t a concern of mine because studies have shown that the results of absentee voting are accurate
and that fraud is pretty rare,” government teacher Steve Kwiatkowski said. An issue that may arise from the postal voting is that “results may come in days — or even weeks — later,” according to apnews.com. Absentee ballots do take longer to count, which
Postal voting allows those who lead busy lives the time to vote. “I chose the absentee ballot before COVID because it’s easier, especially because I have a long commute to the polls and I have a small child. I mean once I went to a voting location and polls opened at 6 am. I got there before that, but still waited 45 minutes,” Mr. Kwiatkowski said. Many registered voters simply do not have the time to make it out to the official locations to cast their votes, so this is a solution. “The only other solution I could see would be for election day to be a national holiday, to allow for people to have the day off,” Mr. Kwiatkowski said. Mailing in ballots isn’t ideal for efficiency purposes, but it’s legitimate and will be a common way used by voters this election season.
“Studies have shown that the results of absentee voting are accurate and that fraud is pretty rare.” - Government Teacher Steve Kwiatkowski may cause more people to question the validity of it. However, just because the votes are taking more time to count doesn’t mean they are any less accurate and this way may be more convenient during this time of social distancing.
- Reegan Minor
egan’s
Wrap-Up
Since COVID-19 has caused many changes, it can be difficult to focus on the specifics when everything is moving so fast. As someone who enjoys slowing down for a few seconds just to appreciate the present, I find myself wishing I could live through some of the fun moments since the future is always in the back of my mind. For my column this year, I wanted to focus on the minor details. You know, the ones that we tend to forget to talk about because there’s so much going on. 2020 is a rough year for everyone, and maybe I will be able to shed some light on an event, idea, or trend that has happened between each issue in order to give our readers a little bit of a recap. I wanted to discuss something that has consumed my life for the last month. The topic of this issue’s Regan’s Wrap Up is a game that is extremely fun and COVID-friendly. Among Us was released on June 15, 2018, but gained an incredible amount of popularity in September, 2020. Among Us is played on mobile devices and computers, and each game lasts around 5 to 15 minutes. The app also features a multiplayer option for friends to join and play together. The game revolves around three different types of spaceship bases that you may choose from. The most typically used, however, is The Skeld. During the game, four to ten players are thrown into the ship and one of them is selected as the impostor. This player’s job is to kill the others and sabotage the ship while the other players - also known as crewmates - spend their time doing tasks and trying to figure out which one is the odd man out. If you are selected as the impostor, it is in your best interest to
attempt to blend in. Although impostors do not have tasks, they are advised to fake some in order to remain as unnoticeable as possible. If a crewmate sees that something is wrong or if they find a dead body, they are able to call emergency meetings. During these meetings, the players enter the chat to have a discussion. They try to agree on who the impostor is, and are able to vote people out of the ship. If the crewmates successfully find the impostor(s), then they win. But if the impostors kill everyone else or cause other players to be voted out, then they win. The best part about this game is that it helps promote social distancing by offering multiplayer services. My friends and I play together while on FaceTime so that it is easier for us to discuss. It’s a great way for siblings to interact through their devices, although it’s not guaranteed that the play-time won’t end up in a brawl. My siblings and I play Among Us almost every single night. It’s hilarious when you are selected as the impostor and pretend that you are on everyone else’s side. There have been many occasions where I fooled both my brother and sister into thinking that I was a crewmate, just like them. Those games in particular did not end well. In these unprecedented times, it’s really hard to find some small moments of entertainment when our minds are all focused on what is happening next. This year’s seniors especially are swarmed with work when it comes to college applications. A game like Among Us is perfect for when you just need to take a little brain-break. But be warned, it is highly addictive, especially when it’s finally your turn to play as the impostor. - Regan Fordham GRAPHICS BY FORDHAM
The one day we want to wear masks
If someone told me last year that the famous October 31 holiday would be in jeopardy due to a pandemic, I never would have believed them. Trick-or-Treating should be allowed everywhere this Halloween because it sheds a little light into the dark year of 2020. Everybody can stay safe while Trick-or-Treating on Halloween as long as they follow some simple steps and rules. You’d think after wearing masks 24/7 we’d be tired of constantly putting them on. But this Halloween is an exception, as kids, along with myself, are dying to wear a scary one. Although Sylvania is currently allowing children to participate in Trick-orTreating, not every single city agrees. Cities all around the world should permit Trick-or-Treating because it’s a fun thing to do. It’s the one time of year that people can be something else and dress up in crazy costumes. Halloween is also an opportunity to get free sweets, which could definitely be useful in a time where most of our days are spent inside, staring at a computer screen. One of the best parts about this year’s Halloween is that it’s on a Saturday, which means there is no need to go to bed early for school the next morning. This is perfect for anyone who tends to stay up late to watch scary movies or trade candy with their siblings. Who would want to pass up this opportunity? “Being able to Trick-or-Treat would make a lot of people happy this year,” senior Rachel Bell said.
“Having all of these restrictions is especially hard on the kids, so I feel like it’s important that they have a chance to get out and feel a little bit normal for once.”
Cities and states all over are pushing to cancel Halloween altogether
because of COVID, but we can wear masks with our costumes. Not just any ordinary surgical one, but custom homemade masks with ghosts, skeletons or mummies. There are so many creative ways to make masks
spooky. While I Trick-or-Treat I will stay six feet away
from my friends that I go with so we can look forward to more fun things in the future. Social distancing is a very important idea to consider when traveling from neighborhood to neighborhood, as we are bound to encounter many kids who are eager to run up to the next door. I also plan on keeping a small bottle of hand sanitizer in my candy basket so I’m able to clean my hands if I have to. It’s always a good idea to have some sort of sanitizer with you, even when you’re not Trick-or-Treating. If you’re someone who passes out candy from your house on Halloween, then a way to keep yourself and others safe is to give out sanitized baggies, or even place a “take one” bowl right outside your front door. “You just have to make sure you’re being safe, especially when half of the town is going to be out that night,” Bell said. Limiting the amount of people you Trick-or-Treat with can help reduce the spread of the virus. Also, you can always just go with your siblings or close family members to limit contact, as well. Make a note to you wash your hands prior to touching your goodies and be smart before entering crowded places. Our goal is to have fun, but also to be safe and mindful when around others. Have a great Halloween night and don’t let the vampires bite!
- Ben Riter
8
FEATURES
October 26,2020
How to Carve a Pumpkin in 5 Easy Steps
1
by: Maggie Schmitt
Using a serrated knife, cut a hole in the top of the pumpkin. Make sure it is large enough to fit your hand inside.
2
3
Scoop out the pumpkin guts and seeds using a large spoon then set aside.
4
Sketch out your scary design onto the pumpkin. Chalk or a pencil works best.
When satisfied with the design, begin to cut using a sharp knife, making sure to pop out each piece. side, pop on the lid, and enjoy your falltastic masterpiece!
Fun Fall (socially distant) Festivities by: Ella Lockshin
“Here’s a picture of me, my mom, and my brother at Gust Brother’s,” Suneha Shelke said.
It was such a blast. I went with friends for my birthday. We went in the way back then just came to the front really easily. It was all of my friend. She found us out of the maze. We took so many pictures and it was so much fun,” Isabella Elmore said.
“Cherry and regular donuts are both so good from Gust Brothers,” Kendall Kleinschmidt said.
Fun Fall Fashion for staying cozy by: Ella Lockshin
Skin tone pieces are a perfect fall staple.
Cheetah Print is a fun way to spice up your fall look.
Flowy tops are always adorable.
Flared yoga pants are back! These comfy pants are perfect for a cozy fall day.
Layering is always in style, I love to layer a turtleneck under my sweaters.
Pinafore dresses are perfect for dressing up.
9
FEATURES
October 26, 2020
How is music dealing with COVID?
Mr. Heath - Band
Q:What changes have been made to ensure the safety of students during band class, practices and performances? A: “We have had to accommodate for social distancing and facial coverings (whenever not playing). For social distancing, all of band camp was outside and marching was limited because of space in between students. We also had to do temperature checks before each practice.” Q: How has performance been affected by the changes that have been made? A: “We are still able to perform, which is great! Our focus has been how we SOUND, since we cannot do marching drills and movement. That being said, despite the moving restrictions, the students have played some really good sounding music this year!” Q: Do you feel as though the music has had to be changed or shortened due to lack of time and separation of students? A: “The biggest change was due to the shortened football season. Usually we have two shows, including a dress up show , plus Homecoming and a separate senior show. We did a modified second show and senior show which was different, but we still highlighted our senior (which they most definitely deserve).” Q: Have there been opportunities missed this year that have been a tradition in the past? A: “The biggest thing missing so far this year was the older students having MORE time to get to know the younger students. That being said, our leadership has done a great job so far in creating a fun and accepting band FAMILY. The leadership is also planning future events for the rest of the year to help bridge the gap to make the connections we share like a ‘normal’ year. Throughout the year, the older students will continue to build that fun NV BAND family we all love!”
Kira Eichenburg - Academy Orchestra
Hayden Boyer - Women’s Chorus
Q: What changes have been made to accommodate social distancing? A: Students sit individually, without stand partners. “We have cohorts now too, so on off days when we don’t have school we meet together in groups.” Q: How have these changes affected performance? A: “Everyone tends to play a lot quieter.” Starting new pieces this year has been hard for students and has required a lot of adjusting. Q: Do you feel as though music has had to be changed at all because of lack of time or separation of students? A: “No, we still play music at the same level of difficulty as we would’ve if we weren’t separated … now every cohort group also has another piece that is different from the other groups.”
Q: What kind of things have had to change to accommodate social distancing? A: ”Instead of being in the choir room, we practice in the auditorium and are all very spread apart.” Q: How have performances been affected by some of the changes? A: “For the performance we have to go into the school to record us singing our separate parts so that Mr. Davis can put all of the videos together.” So their performances are virtual and appear as though everyone is singing together. Q: Do you feel as though your songs have been changed or have become more difficult because of lack of time and separation of students? A: “Yes, it’s harder to hear everyone singing together when we are all separated.” Songs have become much harder for students because they are not able to hear all of the other parts when not everyone is present. - Taylor Hartland
Theatre quotes Quaran-teens in play Following the cancellation of last year’s 2020 spring play, the Theatre Department plans to open their doors- or curtains- for their fall production. This year, they will be performing a new show entitled Quaran-Teens. Contrary to what has been done in previous years, the theatre department switched their production schedule. Typically, Northview performs a musical in the fall and a play in the spring. However, due to the predicted lack of audience this year, director Don Wachowiak decided to allow for a play in the fall and a musical in the spring.
Quaran-Teens is set to open on November 19 and follows a group of high schoolers who have had their lives change due to COVID. However, it is still undetermined whether the theatre department will be performing with a live audience or online. “In my acting class at UT, we talked about how a play depends on its audience,” senior Taryn Wachowiak said. “As actors, we perform for an audience, not ourselves. So when we’re performing for an invisible audience, we don’t feel that sense of energy and it becomes like a
dress rehearsal.” In-person rehearsals are scheduled to resume on October 26. But with the constant changes nowadays, it’s hard to assume that specific dates like this one are locked into place. For now, the Quaran-Teens cast and crew have been rehearsing virtually over Google Meets. The cast was split up into four different pods, and each pod has a designated day each week to rehearse with directors Rosie Best and Mr. Wachowiak.
These two hour time slots each day are broken up into about 30 minutes for each actor or actress to have one-on-one time with Mrs. Best. “I would much rather be in-person,” senior Marissa Gonzalez said. Gonzalez rehearses in Pod 3 and spends her time practicing lines for her character Isabel. “It would be nice to rehearse more than one day a week.” It is easy to say that each cast and crew member of Quaran-Teens hopes that their days in NV Theatre can return to normal as the school year moves on.
Marching bands continue tradition For over 50 years the Northview and Southview Marching Bands have been combining together to perform during the week of the NV/ SV game, and they were not about to let a pandemic stop them. They did a show at Veteran’s Field on October 1. Each band did a separate performance of a halftime routine of their choosing. Then, they ended with a combined performance of the French National. NV’s theme for their performance was Broadway. It featured pieces from The Sound of Music, Greece, and West Side Story. “I think our performance went really well,” senior Majorette Jillian Soldner said. “It was nice to keep the tradition going and be able to perform with Southview.” Following NV’s halftime show was SV’s. They had a Latin theme for their performance and they featured pieces
by Chuck Mangione and Walk the Moon. In preparation for the show the bands practiced separately at their own schools, according to Associate Band Director Carter Adams. “When Thursday arrived, both the bands met a Veteran’s field to practice these two songs together. After that, we were set for the performance,” Mr. Adams said. The location of this performance was Veteran’s field. “We chose Veteran’s field because it provided us with a large, grassy space big enough to fit both of the bands using social distancing guidelines,” Mr. Adams said. “The large grass field at the park also sat adjacent to a parking lot, allowing parents and community members to drive in and watch from their cars.”
STANDING TOGETHER are the NV and SV Flag Corps.
Senior Portraits due November 13 email Ms. Huey your photo
10
SPORTS
Taking online tickets Gallup Spencer Staff Writer
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watch the game. It is almost like just getting a ticket and having it scanned at the gate, just digitally. Tickets are all pretty much, first come, first served with families of athletes being given a certain number of tickets per game. Hopefully after COVID-19 we can go back to normal tickets and have a lot more fun at games. But thankfully we can still watch the games, just at a social distance, as we need to follow the protocols that were given to us by the C D C and the OHSAA. The football games are not the same without the loud and packed student section, but you can still cheer on the Wildcats from afar as some games are on BCSN. But at least with online tickets you can still go to the games and cheer on the Cats, even if far apart.
ADMIT ONE that done, a barcode should be sent to you with your information on it along with the barcode to get you into the game. Finally, bring that barcode that you receive to the gate and have the person up front scan it. If everything is correct it should scan through and you should be able to go through and
What do you think about the online tickets?
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With everything this year being uncertain, another thing that was uncertain were sporting events. But after months of waiting we finally got our answer, we were gonna play. However, there were rules that we had to follow so that we could safely go and watch the Wildcats play. One rule that was created during all of this is that you could no longer buy tickets at the gate and that you had to order them online. With the risk of transferring COVID we had to take precautions to make sure that we could safely give out tickets, and that is exactly what we did with the online tickets. “Ticket Management due to limited crowds and eliminating the exchange of money (protecting our tick-
et sellers/takers, was key,� Northview Athletic Director Chris Irwin said. The Online ticket system is simple, you go to the link in your email that is sent by Mr. Irwin and then follow the instructions given on the site. After putting in your information you then pay for the tickets through debit or credit card. Once you finally get
October 26, 2020
“I think everyone should be able to have as many people come as they want. I like that you can get them before hand though.“ - Sophomore Macy McCartney
All golf teams swinging into action Bernath Tyson Sports Editor
TUCSHMAN
TUCSHMAN
JOELSON
JOELSON
Featured at the top is junior Nathan Tomkinson. Here he is following through with his shot to the hole. Bottom right is senior Brendon Sharp. This is Brendon’s first year playing for The Wildcats and here he is lining up his shot. The second on the bottom is sophomore Kennedy Grohnke. She is practicing her shot for future matches against the competitors. The bottom right photo is junior Avery Albers. She has been working hard this season in an attempt to make it to states.
The Wildcat Golf teams really got into the swing of things this season. The Boys’ team was a core of older more experienced members leading the way. The Boys have won the last three NLL Championships and were determined to keep that streak going. Senior Lucas Patterson showed his X-factor when he hit his first career hole in one during the match. Patterson was tied with his opponent going into the 17th hole of the match when he hit the shot of a lifetime. “I was in shock, to do it here? Now? That is just insane. I couldn’t have wanted it anywhere else.� Patterson and his team would take third in the match. A disappointing end to their winning streak, but still a very solid season for the Boys as they only lost one match against Anthony Wayne during the regular season. The Boys beat the St. John’s Jesuit Titans and the Anthony Wayne Generals in the Regional championship. The Boys will continue their trek to the top at the State Championship. The Girls’ team faced some struggles besides the COVID pandemic this season. One of which is working with a young team. The LadyKats are in a rebuilding process; training younger girls to lead the future teams. The team would struggle during the regular season and had difficulties staying on top of their competition. Despite this, the LadyKats placed fifth at the NLL Championships. With such a young team, the future of LadyKat golf is looking promising. The LadyKats did not, however, make it any further than the NLL championship. When asked about her thoughts on the season, Senior Jessica Zuchowski said, “We have a really young team, so it was a lot of rebuilding.� For many of the girls, this will be a starting point. A place to work from and get better, but for others, this is the end. Your high school career is only four years. No matter what you make of it. This program looks like they will make something out of its’ future though.
SPORTS
October 23, 2020
Can’t stop, won’t stop running The Boys’ Cross Country team has consistently finished in the top five at their races this season. “Our season has been going really well and we have
our biggest group of 26 athletes,” Coach Briggs said. “We have very good freshmen who train hard.” Each week the top seven get to run for varsity. “Everyone’s motivation is to make Varsity and it could potentially change each meet because everyone’s potential is really high,” senior Gabe Singh said. The team practices Monday through Friday each week at Wildwood Preserve Metropark or Secor Metropark. They run on average 50 to 60 miles each week, according to Coach
Briggs. “We have a very fluid training environment and we train all summer and the kids are doing very well,” Coach Briggs said. One of the major challenges the team has faced this season is COVID-19 restrictions. At practice the team runs in smaller groups while social distancing. In addition they do temperature checks and wear masks before and after they run, according to Coach Briggs. “We make sure to stay
11 Bernath Tyson Staff Writer
polite and courteous to the people around us on the trail,” Singh said. On October 17 the team had their Northern Lakes League race. The boys gave a valiant effort in the race. Led by junior Gavin Losey’s career best time of 16:34.5, the boys placed fourth. After this race they will begin their post season and start focusing on bringing their times down. The Girls’ Cross Country season came to a sudden halt due to the Coronavirus. The team was exposed to a COVID positive person and they had to quarantine for 14 days. Despite this setback the team still participated in the Northern Lakes League meet on October 17. In preparation they practiced on their own. “Running alone has been tough mentally, but I’m excited to be able to run with my team again soon,”senior Abby Goecke said. The team would take third in the race. led by senior Emma Steingass’s first place finish. The girls will continue their season at the District meet on Oct. 24. Quarantining has also not caused the team to miss any meets. The girls’ usual practice schedule involves running Monday through Friday with races on Saturdays. “We’ve been running about 40 miles a week,” Goecke said.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MRS. BRIGGS
LadyKats Volleyball defeats P-burg NikStaffEchelmeyer Writer The LadyKats Volleyball Team has had to overcome many challenges so far this season. The team just ended a five game winning streak on October 8 with a devastating loss to Southview in the fourth set, taking their overall record to 11-7 and 9-3 in the NLL. Despite this small upset, Coach Chad Rutkowski is very proud of the team’s hard work and effort this season. The team is currently third place in the NLL. This is Coach Rutkowski’s fifth
year coaching the LadyKats Volleyball Team. As a former opposite hitter for Bowling Green State University, Coach Rutkowski understands the many challenges that the team has faced on the road to success. This year has been particularly challenging due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Early in the season, the team had to quarantine for two weeks when a few players became ill. Thankfully, everyone has fully recovered. As a result of this loss of valuable time, the team has had to adjust the structure of practice sessions. “Each practice session is crucial,” Coach Rutkowski said. “We have had
to be very quick learners and learn from our mistakes because we don’t have those extra opportunities to work things out. We are really learning on the fly,” he said. Third year Varsity player Madi Taylor is very proud of the way the team has rallied together to overcome this challenge. Standing at 5’10”, Madi is an outside hitter and defensive specialist who is extremely versatile on the court with the ability to play almost any position. Taylor complimented both the coaching staff and the team members for taking extra steps to keep everyone safe. “We can’t risk losing more of the
season than we already have, so everyone is way more cautious. We have our own personal caddys to carry our personal equipment and matching masks to encourage everyone to wear them,” she said. One of the biggest highlights of the season was defeating Perrysburg with a 3/2 win at NV. After losing the first two matches 25-20, the LadyKats flipped the switch and came back to win the last three matches in a very hard fought game with final scores of 25-21, 2518, and 15-12. This was extremely impressive because this is the first time they had beaten Perrysburg since
2015. Coach Rutkowski said, “That was a huge win for us to get that monkey off our backs! The best volleyball matches are played in set five, but when you have a chance to play that deciding set at home and come away with a victory it is definitely a bonus.” “It was amazing,” Taylor said. “I was really proud of everyone on the team because it took every one of us to pull it off!” Taylor said that the team's “chemistry has gotten much better over the past few weeks” and she is excited to see what the rest of the season holds in store for them.
Girls’ Tennis almost goes undefeated Clark Abby Photo Editor
The Varsity Girls’ Tennis team is nearly undefeated as they push through the end of their season. “This tennis season is like no other,” senior Jillian Turner said. “All of our hard work in the offseason and preseason has definitely paid off.” The girls have been working all year to ensure that this season would be the best yet. With the current pandemic, some of the rules have changed, leading to a different practice experience. “Before every practice, we get our temperature taken and are required to use hand sanitizer, we wear masks before while we’re getting ready and after when we’re packing up too,” Turner said. As for matches, the players have to wear masks during the announcement of lineup, and while they’re cheering on everyone else waiting to finish. The ladies have won 13 out of the 15 games played, only losing to Central Catholic and Perrysburg. They have earned many titles this year in-
cluding Fostoria Invitational Champions, Ottawa Hills Invitational runner up, and their biggest achievement is being the league champions of 2020. “We hadn’t won an NLL (Northern Lakes League) title since 2011, Perrysburg has had it for the past seven years - but we had to end that streak,” Turner said. The most important thing in any sport is the bond between your teammates and you, and these girls have really proven how far it can get you. They’ve worked hard all season and have accomplished a tremendous amount in only one season. Sadly, this year team bonding outside of practices isn’t allowed for any sport including tennis. This hasn’t stopped them from being the best they can possibly be. “Unfortunately, team bondings aren’t allowed this year which has been different,” Turner said. The team has done great things this year and will continue to improve over time. Due to the limited number of spectators at games, tickets are presold for a certain amount of time.
STEVENSON SOPHOMORE BRYNN CHAFFEE is fighting to win her match against Bowling Green High School. This is Chaffee’s second year playing tennis for The LadyKats. She began her freshman year and started off playing first singles, competing against the best players in the league.
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SPORTS
October 26, 2020
Northview Football gets their first ever playoff win against Springfield Bernath Tyson Sports Editor
This season may look different for the Wildcats thanks to COVD-19, but that didn’t stop them from overcoming adversity. The Wildcats started the season with back to back losses against Anthony Wayne and Bowling Green. They struggled on both sides of the ball, failing to score and stop the other team. They would break this losing streak with a close 28-21 win against Springfield. They then rolled with this momentum to hang 42 points on Maumee while holding them to 0. A great effort from both the offense and the defense led NV to this monumental victory. NV then traveled to Napoleon where sloppy play led to a 36-14 loss. The Wildcats then took on their crosstown rival, the Southview Cougars. The Wildcats had a rough start allowing CREECH a safety and a field goal in the first quarter. From there they would keep a clean SENIOR QUARTERBACK Brandon Motter runs a QB draw. Northview defeated Maumee 42-0. slate winning the match 14-5.
The Wildcats then entered the playoffs ranked number 15 with a 3-3-0 record. They would face the dreaded challenge of beating a team twice as they were placed against the number 18 Springfield Devils for the second time this season. With a solid game from junior Quarterback Logan Thor and senior Wideouts Drew Sellers and Nick Shaffer the Wildcats prevailed and won 29-10. This would go down as the teams’ first playoff win in school history. The Wildcats then traveled to the home turf of the number 2 ranked Central Catholic for the second round of the playoffs. The undefeated Fighting Irish would be the best competition the Wildcats would see this season. Things did not go to plan for the Wildcats. The Fighting Irish had their way with them leading 48-0 at the end of the third quarter. The Fighting Irish would send in their backups for the fourth and go scoreless for the quarter. The blowout win continued the Irish’s winning streak to 6-0 and knocked the Wildcats out of the playoffs.
Cheering on Cherry L una Staff Writer
If you attended any Northview football games this year, you probably noticed the cheerleaders on the sidelines hard at work on cheers and routines. It’s an important part of any football game’s atmosphere, but as we all have in the wake of the coronavirus, the cheer team has had to make changes and adjustments and faced much uncertainty as to how things would go for them this year. The games were a source of confusion for the team, according to senior cheerleader Riley Rammuny. “We didn’t know we were cheering any football games ‘til a week before the very first one, or how many we would cheer,” Rammuny said. “It’s kind of sad we only got six, but I’m grateful we got any at all.” The decreased time the team gets to spend together, be it at games or in practice, is made up for in the
intensity with which they practice. The team’s practice schedule has been cut down from five days a week to two, meaning that they have to put a lot more effort in to make the practices that they have count. They’ve also had to move their practice times due to lack of gym space, meaning they know practice from 7 to 9 pm. Football season may be coming to a close now, but the cheerleaders are still hard at work preparing for upcoming events, such as their now-outdoor NLL competition. The team plans to be involved in more competitions this year, although it’s still up in the air as to how some of those competitions will be held in order to accommodate social distancing guidelines. “Some might be virtual and live broadcasted, while others might just not be allowed to have an audience. It is still in debate,” Rammuny said.
THE CHEER TEAM PERFORMING a stunt routine for football fans. The team successfully demonstrates their talent every Friday night.
CREECH
FEATURE ATHLETE Senior Football player Drew Sellers has had an impact on all sides of the ball this season for the Northview Wildcats.
Sellers
“What is your most memorable football memory?” “My most memorable football memory would be when I got my first interception returned for a touchdown. It was my sophomore year on JV, ironically, against Springfield. It was also the first time I had ever played on defense.” “What is the most important thing on the field?” “The most important thing on the football field is communication. Without communication you can’t be a strong defense or even a whole team.” “When did you start playing football?” “I started playing football in 8th grade.” “Do you plan on playing in college?” “I do plan on playing football in college but do not know exactly where.” “What is your favorite part of being on the team?” “My favorite part about being on the team is the friendship that comes with it. I wouldn’t even call them friends. They’re family, brothers.”
Drew
CREECH