November 2010

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contents

Vol. 90 Issue 2 November 2011

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Times staff 2010/2011 Co-Editors-in-Chief Fiza Shah Deven Middleton

Editorial Board Members Haley McGinty Katy Eberl Design & Sports Editor Grant Graves Andrew O’Connor Lisa Kowalski Meredith Richards News Editor Peter Quigley Sam Cross Toby Tobin Lindsey LcEntee Opinon Editor Grace Coy Alberto Rodreguiez Juan Amador Lakewood Life Editor Tori Chesmar Julia Houska Sabrina Suleiman Copy Editors Wilson Sackett Melissa Gajewski Naseem Shean Gwen Stephen Paige Smigelski Lily Pollack Adviser Matt Majewski Karen Ballash

Behind the curtain For the first time in Lakewood High history the Barnstormers produced two plays at once.

Focus

Opinion

4 social media’s effect on our mind 6 facebook: making us all vain 8 dating through the times 10 everybody creeps

17 Staff Editorial 18 ask.me anything

News

19 a Ukrainian in America 21 lakewood club promotes unity

11 lakewood students join the fight against cancer 13 the odd couple: behind the curtain

Lakewood Life Sports 30 running to victory

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It is the mission of The Lakewood Times, the official newsmagazine of Lakewood High School, to serve as a public forum that promotes the gathering and exchange of ideas, and uphold high journalistic standards for the purpose of enriching the lives of our readers.

The Times is established as an open forum for student expression and as a voice in the uninhibited, free and open discussion of issues. The Times will not be reviewed or restrained prior to publication. Content of the Times, therefore, reflections only the views of the student staff or individual students and not school officials. Students may use online media to educate, inform, and entertain their readers. Both the school and the cyber community are entitled to the same protections and subject to the same freedoms and responsibilities, as all other student media outlined in this policy. Online media are forums for self-expression and are similar to traditional media, in their freedoms, responsibilities, and professional obligations. As such they will not be subject to prior review or restraint. Student journalists may use online media to report news and information, to communicate with other students and individuals, to question and consult with experts, and to locate material, to meet their newsgathering and research needs.

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We reserve the right to withhold a letter or column and return it for more information if we determine it contains items of unprotected speech as defined by this policy. Letters will be edited for spelling and grammar. Should a letter contain errors in fact, excessive grammatical errors or be too long, it will be returned to the author for re submission. Deadlines for letters and columns will be no later than ten days before the next publication date. The Times may choose to report student, staff, faculty, and alumnus deaths as he editorial board is made aware of them. We reserve the right to decide not to cover a death based on relevance, timeliness and circumstances. In cases where the editorial board decided not to cover death, letters to the editor in regard to that death could be printed.

November 2010

contents

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The face behind the facebook Exploring the psychology of social media and how it’s affecting us all

By Deven Middleton

Facebook

Art by Casey Miller

One hundred and thirty. This is the number of friends for an average user of Facebook.

Do you know yours? If you have less, does that make you unpopular? Were you relieved when you realized you had more?

Why should the number of friends one has on Facebook determine their happiness?

And why do so many flock to social networking sites to find comfort in numbers?

Facebook, the most popular social networking site, allows users to create a profile of their personality (post pictures, status’s, etc.) and interact with others who have an

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account. On Facebook, ‘accepting,’ someone as a friend works by simply clicking a button, which drives many students to add more and more.

“People with more friends feel better about themselves because it might make them seem popular,” said senior Missy Ricardson.

In research published last year in the Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, college students viewed Facebook profiles that were identical except for the number of friends--either 102, 302, 502, 702, or 902--and rated the target’s social attractiveness (without paying special attention to friend quantity). The number with the best results: 302. Appeal dropped off above and below that.

“All humans are social animals,” said Lakewood High Psychologist Ralph Pajka. “While technology makes it easier for people to reach their friends, some enjoy having more people than they can talk too.”

While some students use Facebook to recruit more people as friends, most talk to a very small number of the people they’re connected to. In a survey conducted by MTV/ Associated Press, 68% reported having 200 or more friends in their social networks online, but based on other data, very few were close friends.

“I have around 500 friends, but I really use it mainly for the people I’m friends with in real life,” said senior Maeve Diffenbacher.

“The other 450 are there just in case. You

Myspace

Twitter

never know when you might need to communicate.”

“Everyone wants to have friends,” said Richardson. “But having a lot of friends on Facebook doesn’t mean more people will want to hang out in the real world.”

Psychology teacher Kim Sheer thinks Facebook isn’t just a way to overcompensate when one has a lack of friends, but too show off personality traits people normally wouldn’t be able to see.

“Facebook is much more than a way to communicate with friends, for many it’s a direct way to a fantasy world,” said Sheer.

“We assume people want to be themselves online, but that’s not always the case.”

Facebook often acts as a direct billboard for any user with an account. They are free to portray themselves anyway they want.

“Certain people go to specific places, to be in pictures or to post a status about it,” said Sheer. “It makes them seem like the person they want people to see them as, not necessarily as their true self.”

Not all people are out to appear as someone they’re not, some are simply online to overexpose themselves. Their profile becomes a way for users to brand themselves, getting their name and face on the internet for the world to see.

“I have a friend who goes to parties sometimes just to be in pictures,” said senior Luke Fesko. “She likes the people there, but she really likes seeing herself tagged in pictures and other people seeing her in those pictures.”

Author Ethan Gilsdorf considers Facebook as an outlet for users to play pretend or to play a part, but not just on Halloween.

Instead, users are playing constantly.

There’s something at work with Facebook. It’s actually making role-players of us all,” said Gilsdorf, in an article published in

The Lakewood Times

Psychology Today magazine. “We all share that desire to be someone else. To be better, stronger, faster; to appear more handsome, more clever, more attractive than our fleshy selves might ever be, ‘My, aren’t we having fun?’ say our photos, snapped while we’re half drunk and posted in a day-after haze.”

“Eventually, we have to live up to these personas we’ve created,” said Gilsdorf. “And despite my hundreds of Facebook friends, I wonder who I can really count on in times of trouble.”

Sheer also said that choosing to appear differently online stems from self-esteem issues and that many are compensating for a lack of happiness offline.

“On Facebook people will post something and then check back to see if anyone responds,” said Sheer. “When someone likes or comments, the person who posted is happy, because they’ve received praise.”

In a study done by the Associated Press this year about college students 18-24, they found that the percentage of happy students rose from 64% to 81%. Although they don’t directly attribute this new ‘happiness,’ to social networking, they do suggest it has a large contribution.

“When someone is actively seeking, ‘did

anyone comment my status,’ they are looking for a enforced reward,” said Sheer. “One of the reasons so many people use Facebook now is because of the reward they receive every time they log on.”

Pajka thinks that our new need for instant communication between friends is what can determine our moods.

“Immediate feedback, which was not always a bad thing, has become important for the current generation,” said Pajka. “We must ask ourselves often, ‘is it necessary to have to find out everything now?’”

A new study suggests American college students are “addicted” to the instant connections and information afforded by social media. University of Maryland researchers concluded that most college students are not just unwilling, but functionally unable, to be without their media links to the world “Students expressed tremendous anxiety about being cut-off from information,” observed Ph.D. student Raymond McCaffrey, a former writer and editor at The Washington Post and a current researcher on the study.

“They care about what is going on among their friends and families and even in the world at large.”

“When I’m cut off from Facebook or my cell phone I am completely lost,” said Richardson. “Being disconnected feels like being deserted on an island.”

“But most of all they care about being cut off from that instantaneous flow of information that comes from all sides and does not seem tied to any single device or application or news outlet,” said McCaffery.

“As much as everyone says differently, humans naturally love learning, especially about other people. It’s why, when inhibited, some feel alone,” said Pajka.

Pajka agrees that Facebook is a helpful way to communicate with those close in our lives, but that not everyone is using it for the right reasons, and that eventually, we must turn off the computer and the cell phone.

“At some point you need to go outside into the real world,” said Pajka. “You need to deal with the people around you and live.”

A 12-step guide to quitting Facebook

By Katy Eberl

1. Acknowledge your addiction. Status updates are all you think about. YOU update your status about five times per day. You revolve 7. Stop checking Facebook on your phone. Just because “there’s your thought to make them fit into the small white rectangular box an app for that” doesn’t mean it’s any less destructive. that always has those words “What’s on your mind”.

2. Understand that this addiction IS a problem. You could think to yourself that Facebook isn’t interfering with your “regular” life. You’re 8. Stop checking Facebook at school. Self-explanatory. still a good student and get your work done. But what are you more focused on? The new photos being posted and status updates? Or who William Shakespeare was?

9. Delete your “fake” friends. This applies if he/she: a.) haven’t spo3. Ask the right questions. Ask yourself, “Why am I on Faceken to you and probably never will. b.) you saw them walking down book?” Is so everyone can see how popular you are, with all the the street and decided to add them. c.) makes you want to claw your people who tag you and leave nice and funny comments on your posts? Is it for the purpose of finding out personal information with- eyes out with all their bad grammar posts. d.) Facebook chats you every time you log on. out having to get ‘personal’?

4. Assess the answers. There’s no judging here, but the possible answers to the questions asked above are a.) to reconnect with friends you don’t really talk to as much as you wish you could, you are now considered a Facebook ‘creep’ congratulations, b) to get the latest news on current friends you are just too lazy to call.

5. Set a schedule. Such as, you are only allowed to log on during the hours of 5 p.m. -7p.m. on school nights, or only on the weekends, once a month, or every time your mom yells at you to clean your room at the approximate moment the clock strikes 8.

6. Keep a journal. A good idea would be to carry a notepad with you, so whenever you have the urge to express your feelings an set a status, you’ll jot it down instead of posting. No, your notepad will not ‘like’ your status or give you witty comments about it, but it also won’t criticize you when you misspell words such as “wenesday.”

Source: thespot.com

November 2010

10. Delete your ex, now. Your ex might bt the reason you log into Facebook every fifteen minutes in the first place. You have to find out where he spent last night and how his weekend was. No. you don’t want to be another one of those psycho-cyber stalkers, the world already has too many of those.

11. Change your password. Ask one of your “trustworthy,” friends to change your password and keep the new one a secret. That way you will only be able to log onto Facebook whenever that friend is around to do so for you.

12. Lastly, ignore all “FB” temptations. This means no posting pictures you’ve taken over the weekend or even commenting a single “Happy Birthday” to your dear friend. Do not set any more statuses and do not ‘like’ anything else. However, if you do have an over-excited urge to comment something, you can at lakewoodtimes.net

focus 5

Facebook promotes

By Fiza Shah

How often do you change your profile picture on Facebook? Do you look for the ones you look good in? If you won something, would your first impulse be to update your status?

Narcissism is defined as “inordinate fascination with oneself; excessive self-love; vanity.”

Michael W. Austin, an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Eastern Kentucky University, writes in a blog on the Psychology Today website, “Cynically, one might think that [Facebook’s] success is predicated on our desire to have others look at us and our accomplishments as we do the same.”

However, Austin asserts that Facebook is not turning its users into narcissist, but rather just bringing forward tendencies that are already present. Through Facebook, users are able to share accomplishments in search for some attention.

Austin’s solution is not to abandon Facebook, but rather for users to harness their own narcissistic tendencies.

“There’s something to Facebook that can feed into narcissism,” said Kevin Ritter, a senior. “Facebook is a medium that can emphasize the ‘self’ very easily. Status updates are often about what one is up to, listing plans for the night. So, I would say that there is an element of self obsession in social networking.”

In a study titled “Study of Facebook Users Connects Narcissism and Low Self-Esteem” on the Scientific American website, John H. Tucker writes, “Social-networking sites offer users an easy ways to present idealized images of themselves, even if those ideals don’t always square with their real-world person-

alities.”

Kimberly Sheer, a psychology teacher, wonders if people are knowledgeable about their own narcissism.

Sheer’s family has a tradition of sending Christmas cards every year, which are usually lists of good things that have happened over the year. One year, she and her husband, jokingly decided to send cards with, she says, “‘our son became a drug add i c t and our daughter’s i n jail f o r

and the dog poops on the carpet everyday.’”

“We made it all up, but it was all horrible.

You wonder if those people who put those letters out are aware that [they’re] painting this rosy picture of [their] life. I almost think of narcissism as they’re not aware of what they’re putting out.”

Jean Twenge, an associate professor of psychology in San Diego State University, studied the trend of narcissism among teenagers from 1980 to present day. she tracked 37,000 college students, studying their behavior to track narcissistic traits. In 1985, one in seven students scored a 21 or more out of 40 on a narcissism test. In 2006, that number increased to one in four.

According to a survey of 1068 college students, conducted by Twenge, 57% of those surveyed admitted that their peers used social networking sites as a vehicle for self promotion or attention seeking.

Those displaying characteristics of narcissism often try to present their own lives in a more appealing way.

Ryan Cleary, a junior, says he doesn’t think Facebook makes people narcissistic. “It merely magnifies the narcissism that we already possess, as it does all our traits, because it is a more open environment.”

Cleary says he tries to “ham up [his] good traits and try to avoid posting things that might reflect on me as a negative prospect [for potential employees and colleges].”

In her study conducted at York University

theft,

Art by Danielle Curran

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The Lakewood Times

I

narc ssism in Toronto, Soraya Mehdizadeh studied the social networking behaviors of 100 of her fellow college students. She noted how often her subjects logged on, the amount of time they stayed logged on, and the measure of their activities (status updates, photo sharing, wall posting).

According to Mehdizadeh, narcissists often

[

but we use it very differently than you guys do. We hardly ever post status stuff. It’s truly social networking,” said Sheer.

Mehdizadeh concluded that narcissism and self-esteem are directly correlated with one another. While there is no hard scientific evidence to justify this correlation, Mehdizadeh concludes that those with high nar-

“Someone can virtually see how many friends they have (or think they have), how many people talk to them (aka write on their wall or comment their pictures),” -Brian Brink, senior

use the world of virtual interaction in order to lessen their feeling of inadequacy. Moreover, those with low self-esteem are unable to retain friends or other long-term relationships, so they use virtual friends as a substitute for real relationships.

“One of the things we talked about in psychology was that we often have such a false and diluted sense of our own capabilities,” said Sheer. “So, again, if I’m the loner kid that doesn’t have any friends, but I can sit down on Facebook and can make this network, do I now tell myself that I actually am a social being with a social life when it’s really false?”

Sheer wonders if the creation of such a network is damaging to the student, or ultimately a needed vehicle for socialization for some.

“It’s interesting because my generation, I’m on Facebook and so are all my friends,

]

cissism would often have low self-esteem.

Those who constantly update their statuses, change their profile pictures, or check activity on their posts, need this instantly gratifying communication to make themselves feel wanted. These students would often spend an hour or more on Facebook. They would often promote themselves and their achievements through their statuses and photos.

“Someone can virtually see how many friends they have (or think they have), how many people talk to them (aka write on their wall or comment their pictures),” said Brian Brink, a senior.

He feels this vindication of friendship can be a good thing by adding to one’s self confidence, “but if it’s taken too far it can be selfdestructive.”

Do you... feel an impulsive need to constantly update your status, accomplishments or change your profile picture? update your about you?

content

have hundreds of “friends” without knowing all of them?

try to make sure your profile pictures are flattering?

have trouble forming long-term relationships.

brag about the number of “friends” you have?

Infromation from: ““Study of Facebook Users Connects Narcissism and Low Self-Esteem” Soraya Medizadeh study on narcisssism in Facbeook.

“Youth Narcissism and Social Networking,” by Michele Borba

November 2010

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Dating through the decades

By Lily Pollack

1942 LHS Homecoming Queen and King

1920s On a date, a guy might treat his girl to a soda at the local soda shop, buy her an ice cream, or take her to a dance hall. Girls were expected to look nice for this new-fangled “date” setting a precedent for the rest of time. Dating was considered informal because it was the first time that teens weren’t chaperoned, and usually it was just for fun. However, it was controversial because of the way some people looked at it, but became necessary for social growth, seeing that this great cultural period permitted it.

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1930s In the 1930’s, The Great Depression struck the United States. Americans had to find innovative ways to spend their time and to keep entertained cheaply, especially teens.

So what was a teen to do when there wasn’t a dime in their pocket? If a guy wanted to take a girl out, he could take her to the movies for 50 cents, and if he got lucky, he’d get away with putting his arm around her, or maybe holding her hand. Dating at this time determined a teen’s social standing in school. It was simple- the more dates you had, the more popular you were.

Dating did become more of a serious thing in some people’s eyes though, leading up to possible marriage after high school.

The same ideas continued through the 40’s.

Lakewood High School had a Social Activities Program, which organized eight after school dances each year, like the “Campus Frolic”, which occurred on the old football field in the old LHS stadium.

The “Witches Brawl” happened in a local barn with a ton of jitterbugging and swing dancing.

What to do after school? Teens walked to a friend’s house to play records and dance. Others walked to the park or to the valley on their first date.

When a guy wanted to go steady, he’d give his girl his letter jacket, or maybe his class ring. This meant they were “official”, but how long they kept it going is another story.

Friday night ice skating at an outdoor Winterhearst or Lakewood Park was a popular activity as well.

Often times guys would fight over who would lace a girls skates for her.

1940s

1955 LHS Senior Prom

All photos courtesy of The Cinema

1942 LHS Homecoming dance line

1950s

With the 1950’s rolling around, dating had now become more meaningful. Both men and women were in a hurry to get married. This meant that a couple was “going steady” much sooner. They might’ve exchanged a love anklet, or the girl might accept his fraternity pin.

Younger teens like middle school students were starting to date as well. Dating was gaining popularity all around, with the need to find a life partner becoming very important.

1955 LHS Snowball Dance

The Lakewood Times

The Psychedelic 1960’s brought on many changes to the previous conforming decade, bringing on new revolutionary ideas and actions. Teens especially took advantage of this. The early 1960’s were similar to the 1950’s in dating styles because dates were still formal, but as the decade drew to a close, dating became less and less formal. Society was allowing new concepts to be introduced, such as “free love” and pre-marital sex, redefining the whole concept of a “date”. The whole movement of feminism contributed to these concepts.

The 90’s were a time full of punk rock and sitcoms, along with the Internet. Getting to know people online started to become more popular with the computer now being affordable and widely used across the country. Instant Messaging was a way to talk to people without actually interacting with them in person, kicking off online dating and social networking.

1969 LHS Homecoming Queen and King dancing

1960s

1970s

The 1970’s were a bit more laid back than the hectic 1960’s. “Hanging out” replaced the term “dating” and often times the process of going on multiple dates was just skipped all together, meaning that people jumped into relationships more quickly. This era of disco brought on dancing like none other before, and going to a St. Ed’s mixer to meet new people was a popular activity. A couple might go out for pizza, or go to a carnival or fair.

Parties were also very prominent at this time, along with group dates.

A couple making plans in 1970

November 2010

1980s

And what about dating today? With various social networking sites out there, such as Twitter, MySpace and Facebook, teens now have an opportunity to look into people’s lives that they’re interested in. A teen may introduce them self online, getting to know a person through chat.

A compliment may be exchanged online, or someone may simply “like” a picture of someone. When you establish a relationship, it’s “Facebook Official” instead of “going steady.” Often time’s teens skip dating all together until after the relationship has been established because there is no need to get to know someone in person as much, thanks to these social networks.

2010 LHS Homecoming

1990s

Present

The flashy eighties brought on a wave of panic. With the discovery of HIV and AIDS, teens were now more cautious than ever in regards to casual sex. Relationships were modified as more teens realized that they had to question who they were in a relationship with. A Friday night date was pretty much the same as it always had been, consisting of a movie or maybe bowling.

A couple at a 1989 LHS Homecoming

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The art of creeping It’s not just you, swear.

Try to learn about someone from their profile information, then change your profile to the same in an attempt to look like you have interests in common.

Randomly adding someone you do not know, then chatting them two seconds later.

Deleting someone then adding them again to get them to notice you.

Repeatedly requesting someone who has obviously denied you numerous times before.

Tagging people in pictures they’re not in.

Incessantly messaging someone, “Hey ur cute, wats up?”

“Liking” someone’s post/status/ picture just so you can receive notifications from what other people are saying on the subject.

“Liking” over 50 items daily, really, we don’t care.

Stalking your crush/boyfriend/ girlfriend’s page, then confronting them with your findings.

Creating a friendship over Facebook, but when you see them in the hallways….duck and cover.

Finding any excuse to talk to someone.i.e. asking for an assignment you are already fully aware of.

Meter by Lindsey McEntee Art by Casey Miller

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By Lindsey McEntee

You’ve been guilty of Facebook “creeping,” but you’re probably not going to admit it. In fact, we’re quick to deny our own guilt, and quicker to accuse others, but you can’t lie to yourself. Based on what you scored on the meter to the left it’s pretty easy to see how far up the chain you’ve climbed.

In a study conducted by a British Facebook user in 2007, “The Psychology of Facebook Examined,” it was found that the main reason teens are so addicted to Facebook today is because it is used as a status symbol.

Just as belonging to cheerleading or math club puts you in a certain social standing, your Facebook profile does the same. If this image needs to be kept up constantly, and it is so easy to access, it will inevitably lead to time overly spent on the website, therefore causing you to look like a “creep.”

As if the hours spent on the actual Facebook website doesn’t take up enough of everyone’s time, there is a staggering number of blogs on the subject, too. All reflections seem to point to the same reasons for using Facebook.

The most popular social networking site takes the human need to compare, the natural urge of curiosity, inevitable boredom, a tendency for jealousy, and an overwhelming need to belong, and makes it all just one login away. With all these addictive qualities, the site naturally generates the phenomenon of the creeper.

Now of course, every time a high school user signs onto the website, they are not consciously thinking of a psychological reason for doing so, and there may not always be one.

Senior Karma Cornell says, “It’s pure entertainment is what it is. It is a way to get to know someone without having to talk to them.” When asking a table of freshman if they “creeped” on Facebook they erupted in a loud chorus of YES! Descriptions that followed solidified the majority vote that yes, everyone takes some part in the activity.

It becomes a problem if you’re being re-

ferred to as a creeper outside of your online fantasy life, you’ve created a slight problem for yourself. J.M. Prescott, editor of “The Glass Coin,” posted an essay on just how to keep yourself out of this situation. Prescott says firstly, keep your profile simple. This minimizes the people creeping on you, frees up your online time, and creates the image of “I don’t care about Facebook,” making you the least likely candidate for a creeper.

Second, don’t be the post-er. You want to find out as much information as possible, but don’t leave a “trail of breadcrumbs” for everyone to figure out where you learned it.

Lastly, have lots of friends. If you want to learn a lot about everyone, there needs to be people there to analyze.

As long as Facebook exists, there will be creepers. The trick is to hide the fact that inevitably, you are one.

One myth about creeping seems to be that girls are more guilty than boys; even girls seem to accept the fact.

Cornell says, “Some guys creep, but not to the degree that girls obsess.”

However, junior Jesse Littleton disagrees, “Guys do it way more than girls. If a girl has a cute profile picture, you just add them, it doesn’t matter who they are.”

The same psychological reasons are present for each gender, equalizing the playing field and making boys just as prone to the behavior as girls.

The word creep no longer has a dangerous connotation and has been accepted in the young adult world as something inevitable from the moment you sign up for your preferred social networking account.

Senior Grace Coy says, “That’s what its [Facebook] purpose is!”

On Facebook often a false online persona is created and the feedback you receive from that is the point of doing it in the first place.

The ultimate goal is the jolt of happiness when you see the little red notification box appear at the top of the screen, and creeping is the means to satisfy that end.

The Lakewood Times

Fighting for a cure Facebook pages help to spread awareness

By Sam Cross

symbolizing hope for a cure.

The question is, why can’t every month be breast cancer awareness month? Why can’t every month be cancer awareness month?

Inspired by the NFL, pink tshirts were sold to students in order to support breast cancer at the last home Football game of the season. After organizing the six dollar t-shirt sale, Harrington and Kostryk delivered 110 tshirts throughout the school on game day. “It was definitely a cool thing to see majority of the student section decked out in pink supporting tata’s nation-

wide,” said senior, Matt Piter.

“Facebook was a big help in getting people to buy the shirts,” Kostryk said. After sending out frequent updates, Kostryk spread the word and more people started to become aware about the sales. “I don’t spend much of my time on Facebook, but I know since everybody else does, it’d be a great way to spread the word,” Kostryk adds.

High school students aren’t the only ones using the online phenomenon. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) Facebook fan page provides updates of various activities being held throughout the U.S. annually, continuing the breakthrough advances in detection, prevention and treatment.

In the U.S. a woman will The informative Facebook page gives onlookers, donors die from breast cancer, on average, and supporters a chance to learn what BCRF has accomplished and what their mission every 13 minutes. continues to be. Without BCRF, the basic genetics of breast cancer might still be unknown, along The Breast Cancer Research Foundation with the knowledge of breast Something that might be making it a little easier for those clueless crowds who know about breast cancer, are the ones who know all about it. Seniors Danny Harrington and Maksym Kostryk took charge in the month of October by teaming up Donut Klub and Eaters of Lakewood to sponsor an event which became known as the “Pink-out.”

Breast cancer is fought by thousands of individuals daily.

Every year during the month of October, people become ‘aware’ of breast cancer through millions of supporters and the bold repetitive color of pink,

“

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”

cancer stem cells. Also, many therapies would not exist or be available to victims and survivors.

“I ‘liked’ the awareness fan page because my neighbor suffered from breast cancer.

It told me more about what research has really done to help bring us toward a cure,” said senior, Mikaela Tardivo.

Along with having over 8,600 ‘likes’, BCRF remains the most highly rated breast cancer organization in the U.S., outperforming over 5,000 other charities.

Just by simply clicking a button, a donation can be made to the organization.

From Facebook, there are more than 1,900 donors reaching beyond $67,300 worth of donations toward 145 causes relating to breast cancer prevention and research.

According to BCRF, “breast cancer is preventable and curable within our lifetime. The only thing that stands between today and a cure is funding.

Private support of research is more crucial than ever before.”

Lakewood fans gather in the front row of the student section in 40 degree weather to show support to the Ranger football team and those who have breast cancer. Photo by Gladys Favre

November 2010

news

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Two casts and the man

By Juan Amador

Lakewood High School’s drama teacher, David Gannon, has decided to take on the challenge of directing a play with two completely different casts. This year, Lakewood High School’s Barnstormers Drama Club performed the comedy The Odd Couple written by Neil Simon. Simon wrote the original male version in 1968 and later wrote a famle version in 1986.

When Gannon was looking at the shows, he knew he wanted to do something different. Gannon decided to have a male and female cast, creating two separate shows. “I love the play The Odd Couple, but it only has a cast of eight,” said Gannon.

Having two casts gives more students a chance to do crew and technical work, along with acting. The play isn’t as hard on the actors than it is on the crew because the set had to be done much earlier. Certain things had to be prepped earlier to give the actors a chance to do things.

“It’s Hi-larious [ the play ]. I never thought a play would be this funny, even from Barnstormers,” said Anna Marburger.

“Building the schedule was probably the biggest challenge because it’s something different,” said Gannon. Another new challenge Gannon faced was figuring out when to do what and

First Rehearsal This is basically the rundown of the show. Actors read through the play, which is broken down into small pieces where characters are explained more in depth.

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Maureen MacGreggor, Grace Lazos,Sarah Ghose, Anna Marburger and McCall Foster rehearse in the Try Out theatre.

directing both shows.

There were 40-50 kids who auditioned for the play. “Our goal was to give as many kids a chance as possible,” said Gannon. Although Gannon wanted to have two casts, the 40-50 students who auditioned could not all make the cut. Both leads are very similar. Minor characters can get a lot of laughs in a short amount of time and most good actors aren’t lead actors, they’re character actors. “When we try

Block Rehearsals Actors read from script and begin to discover where props will be. Furniture is placed to help actors manuever to get from one place to another.

to cast students, it’s like putting a jigsaw puzzle together without a picture on the box’s cover,” said Gannon.

“In comedy, timing is what it’s all about,” said Gannon. In a comedy like this, there are many challenges the actors face.

Young actors are challenged to create a character that would exist in everyday life. “They’re creating characters very different from themselves . . . They’re playing characters in their forties

Rehearsals after block rehearsals Actors begin to act! Actors are being challenged to start memorizing their lines by getting off script.

and that could be a huge challenge for any young actor,” said Gannon.

The play took seven weeks to prepare. A regular play with one cast usually takes five to six weeks to prepare for depending on the play. Thankfully, Gannon had two student directors, juniors Jenny Hood and Jimmy Mathiesen to help him.

Repetition Rehearsals Actors no longer have a script. They repeat a scene over and over again to get the scene memorized.

Polishing Rehearsals Actors put finishing touches on the play.

They have the movement and lines memorized. They go through what their character is supposed to be doing, along with their thought process.

The Lakewood Times

behind the curtain When David Gannon was hired in 1985, he was hired to do what he still does today - direct.

He was teaching in Newberry Heights, where he came across an ad in the paper looking for a drama teacher. Gannon wasn’t particularly interested in a new job at the time, until he recognized thirty people were interviewed for the English/drama position, yet none of them were satisfactory. After noticing LHS had more talent to work with, Gannon decided to seek the position.

Gannon now is a drama teacher at LHS and has been for 26 years. When Gannon began teaching at Lakewood, the program was “in the hole,” completely different from thirty some years before when the program was at a legendary high. “The best time to take over a program is when it’s in bad shape because you have nowhere to go but up,” said Gannon.

Gannon attended a Catholic junior high school, where being scared of the nuns gave him a reason to keep his grades up.

After middle school, Gannon attended a public high school, where nobody had pushed him to pursue good grades. Luckily, Gannon’s drama teacher helped him to get through high school.

“I don’t know where I’d be today without her,” said Gannon.

Gannon’s teacher used ‘the carrot-stick approach’ and that’s the method Gannon uses today.

The carrot-stick approach comes from the figure of speech ‘carrot on a stick.’ A donkey driver would tie a carrot on a stick and dangle it in front of the donkey to keep the donkey walking.

Gannon’s job is “like a recruiting job.” Gannon is one of the main reasons students get involved in drama and Barnstormers. The students who enjoy drama class tend to join the drama club, Barnstormers, or vice versa. The classes keep students

November 2010

Ryanne Meng and Rachel Geutling get acting help from Mr. Gannon.

involved. “Basically what I was hired to do,” said Gannon.

When Fox 8 voted LHS “Fox 8’s Cool School of the Week,” Gannon’s drama teacher saw him on TV. He received a letter from her, which he keeps in his desk, saying she is in her 80’s and hears from people who know him, about Lakewood’s successful program. “I guess I’m trying to do for my students what she did for me.”

Ryanne Meng, Kevin Ritter, and Rachel Geutling perfect their scene before opening night.

Above: Sarah Ghose, Kendall Lewis and Luke Lemmeier rehears the “date,” scene.

Right: Kevin Ritter portrays Felix in the Odd Couple. All photos by Juan Amador.

news 13

Blackout in a can

Users of new energy drink face dark consequences

By Haley McGinty

The new and popular Four Loko, a college campus experimental “must-have,” has recently been undergoing an investigation done by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and more than one state has tried to ban it.

College campuses have seen mixed drinks for years, but the latest concern is Four Lokos. Introduced in 2008 by three Ohio State University graduates, it is a pre-made mix of alcohol and energy drink. Leading to many sickly drunk and blacked-out college students, this canned drink has been criticized by those who have either had a bad experience or have noticed the damage it is causing.

Also referred to as “blackout in a can,” this 23.5 oz beverage contains 12% alcohol by volume, which is the equivalent of three to four beers. However the alcohol content isn’t the only thing making this drink so dangerous.

Besides the unusual amount of malt liquor in Four Loko, this brightly colored can also has “as much caffeine as one tall Starbuck’s coffee, along with other ingredients you can find in a regular energy drink, such as guarana and taurine,” according to the Four Loko website.

Caffeine is a stimulant, which wakes up the body’s central nervous system and temporarily restores alertness.

Alcohol, on the other hand, is a depressant.

Public heath officials worry that, by mixing a stimu-

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lant with a depressant the drink becomes more likely to attract teens and young adults.

It lets users get drunk and still be able to stay up and party, even if that means ending up in a hospital bed.

Four Loko comes in 8 different flavors: orange, fruit punch, grape, lemonade, cranberry-lemonade, watermelon, blue raspberry and lemon lime. All of these drinks come in color-coded cans specific to their flavor, which is the main reason why colleges and officials worry. These candy-flavored malt beverages are designed to attract teens and young adults. This is another reason some state and college officials are pushing for the removal of this dangerous drink not only from campuses, but from stores a s

well.

Many states have already to take action by banning this drink. A recent article in the Chicago Tribune says that on Thursday, November 4th, the state of Michigan officially banned Four Loko, along with many other alcoholic-energy drinks. The Michigan Liquor Control Commission states these drinks must be taken off the shelves within the next 30 days.

At Central Washington University (CWU) on October 8th 2010, nine students were found intoxicated and hospitalized with blood alcohol levels ranging from 0.12 to 0.35 percent. These students were considered “inexperienced drinkers,” all of them between the ages of 17 and 19.

An article in the Chicago Tribune states that CWU has banned the drink, as well as Ramapo College in New Jersey.

Stores in Washington will also be “Loko-free,” with a ban being put into affect on November 18th.

Although rumors state that Four Lokos are being banned through out the country, these drinks will not be immediately taken off the shelves in many states. Many colleges and universities have the power to prohibit any type of alcoholic beverage from their campuses but the FDA is still finalizing it’s investigation.

The Lakewood Times

Badat journeys back to find his future

By Grant Graves

Transitioning from middle school to high school can be hard enough for some freshmen, even harder is switching continents too.

Yakoob Badat, the new House 1 principal, made that very move at the age of 13 in 1993, but has never forgotten his roots.

Born in the country of Malawi, in the southeastern part of Africa, Badat grew up speaking the native language to Malawi, Chichewa.

He says growing up in Malawi was like growing up in one big family.

“Everyone in the village was really close, everyone knew everyone, and it was a family oriented environment.”

When Badat left Malawi for the States, he enrolled at St. Edward High School where he played varsity soccer. Upon his graduation from St. Eds, he attended Cleveland State University for two years. Badat then went to John Carroll University (JCU) to complete his four-year bachelor’s degree in communications.

Badat always wanted to return to Africa, and when he finished

his schooling at JCU, he did just that.

“I always wanted to give back to the place I came from. When the opportunity arose to go back and help, it was a no-brainer.”

Badat enlisted in the Peace Corps as a health volunteer. He was stationed in the country of Burkina-Faso in West Africa, where he also taught English to locals.

Badat’s first job as an administrator was at John Marshall High School (JMHS).

“JMHS has approximately 1700 students, so coming to Lakewood was not too much of a stretch for me.”

After his arrival at LHS, Badat was impressed by the advanced technology and the working environment. “We should take advantage of all the great opportunities we have.”

When it comes to dealing with students, Badat says listening is key.

“I always try to listen to find out what happened. My goal is to be fair and consistent, and to relate every infraction to a real world scenario. I say, ‘now how would

Badat deals with issues in his office. Photo by Grant Graves.

your actions here at school translate into life?’”

A big problem is being late and getting caught in hall sweeps.

“I say, ‘if you’re late to your job, you don’t get a detention, you get fired.’”

Badat also tries to put students into teacher’s shoes. “I ask them, ‘how would you feel about your actions if you were the teacher and one of your students acted out in such a way?’”

Badat is set on making a sig-

nificant change in the world. “I love being an administrator because I can see myself making a difference to teachers and students alike. My goal is to open my school back home in Malawi to help educate the children in that region,” Badat added.

“I feel blessed to have gotten a job at a school like Lakewood. It gives me an opportunity to study how a successful school district operates.”

Faculty hits the field

Staff members get in touch with their competitive side

By Paige Smigeliski

Do you ever think about what your teachers do outside of school? I bet the image is sitting at home grading papers. Well you may want to reconsider.

Many of the staff at LHS including Mr. Siftar, Ms. Flynn, Ms. Breckel, Mr. Badat and more, as well as teachers from Harrison Elementary school, are involved in an adult kickball league.

The Birdtown Bombers compete against other adult teams through the Recreation Department league. Every Thursday night the team of 20 gets together and plays a game of kickball at Harding Middle School or Foxx Field. Siftar says they don’t take the game too seriously (although some of his teammates disagree).

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The teams’ star pitcher, Breckel and firstbase woman, Flynn, played kickball about five years ago, but the team took a break.

This is the first year they have decided to start back up again and they seem to be enjoying themselves.

The players enjoy the camaraderie with their colleagues. Siftar explained, “I enjoy getting to interact with the people I don’t normally”. He mentioned that he see’s Badat often, but it is neat to get to know the technicians at LHS as well.

Breckel mentioned, “It’s like being a kid again! We are a bunch of grown adults playing kickball. What’s not to love?”

Flynn seems to enjoy the same aspects of the league. She said, “I like playing a game

I played when I was younger. You don’t see many adults playing kickball!”

Getting to see our teachers in a different environment other than LHS is interesting.

You get to see a personality that you don’t normally see during the school day. A lot of them seem more laid back since they aren’t at work.

Some of their games have been cancelled due to inclement weather, which has made their season go on longer than scheduled, by about two weeks. Many team members call it, “the league that never ends.”

According to Siftar they are the best in the league. With a record of 4-1 they hope to finish off the season by beating the first place team in the play-offs, putting them on top.

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By Grace Coy

FACE OFF Snooki vs. Booky

Every Thursday at 10:00 p.m, a record breaking 4.8 million people of all ages tune in to the tan guidos and guidettes of the hit reality show “Jersey Shore.”

Jersey Shore is one the most-watched shows on television because of its entertainment value. The content of the show might not be enlightening, but it’s a train wreck that you can’t look away from.

Snooki, The Situation, Pauly D, Vinny, J-woww, Ronnie and Sammi captured the attention of the nation with their crazy antics, making you feel like they’re your crazy friends.

Jersey Shore has all the qualities of every good TV show: relationship drama, violence, comedy and friendships.

Despite the hair pulling and slaps across the face, these people are a family. A dysfunctional one, but a family nonetheless. When they’re getting along, they have a good time and laugh together.

The “bromance” between Pauly and Vinny is absolutely adorable.

They always have each other’s back.

J-woww and Snooki have become best friends and do everything together during the show. J-woww is always there to wake Snooki up so she doesn’t miss her nail appointment or tanning session.

It’s heart warming to watch the roommates’ relationships with each other.

This show presents the positive concept of male grooming. The boys show that it’s okay to take longer than the girls doing their hair and to care about their dress. More boys should follow in Pauly, Vinny, the Situation, and Ronnie’s footsteps and take care of themselves.

Another reason “The Shore” has such a cult following is the hilarious catch phrases. Everyone loves singing the now hit song, “T-Shirt Time!” and imitating the boys of MVP (Mike “The Situation,” Vinny and Pauly D) before they go to the club. Pauly D’s antics of screaming, “The cabs are “HEEERRRE!” is very entertaining.

The party aspect of the show makes it appealing too. High school students are curious about what it’s like to go to the club.

The Jersey Shore shows us what its like, and the crazy antics involved in the club life. We want to see The Situation commit a robbery by taking Vinny’s girl. We want to see the boys fist pumping their hearts out.

Jersey Shore has been a cultural phenomenon. They have changed the way we dance, dress and talk. We are constantly referencing them in our daily lives. At Homecoming, everyone was fist pumping like our favorite Jersey guidos.

Snooki even started the revival of the poof hairstyle. Jen has her own clothing line. At every Halloween store, you can find a costume of fake abs and be the Situation or a glitter-crazy Snooki getup.

You can’t escape the Jersey kids, so you might as well get sucked into the fun.

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By Meredith Richards

Pop culture phenomena’s can often times dominate our lives, showing up in our everyday conversation. Every Thursday night at 10 p.m, millions of Americans turn their channel to MTV to watch Jersey Shore.

This widespread reality phenomenon has made its way to many people’s favorite television show list, and is currently mentioned in all facets of pop culture. Halloween costumes of “Snooki” are insanely popular. Quoting “The Situation” is painstakingly common.

The show follows eight, orange Italian-Americans that live in same house for the summer and consequently fight, party, tan, do laundry and go to the gym together.

The reality show is in its second season and still going strong. So many people talk about it that I still know everything that transpires at the Miami Beach house without watching a single episode. Whenever the topic of Jersey Shore comes up, I end up walking away from the conversation, confident that I’m not missing much.

Why Jersey Shore exists is a question I ask when my friends are discussing Snooki’s latest hijinks or the Situation’s situation. I cannot believe that anyone would waste his or her time watching this sad excuse for a television series. Not only is the content offensive, but it is also purely idiotic.

The show has absolutely no value whatsoever. I’m so disgusted with the cast’s shallowness that I forget to even be entertained by their stupidity. I think it’s interesting that kids can say they hate to read but are enthralled by Jersey Shore and all of the trashiness it brings.

I don’t actually understand who any of the cast is or what they do, besides being a “Guido” or a “Guidette” (names they gave themselves), and going to the gym, tanning bed, and to the clubs.

The cast mates have no credentials whatsoever and have acquired their fame solely through the show. They have become household names and are talked about as much as President Obama or the economy.

I decided to watch an episode before completing this article, and realized that everything I am saying is completely legitimate. The episode I saw showed them partying at the club, “hooking up” with complete strangers and fighting with one another repeatedly. Something gives me the feeling that this is what goes on in every other episode of Jersey Shore. I don’t even find their lack of intelligence humorous--it just makes me downright uncomfortable!

I can see why kids choose to watch Jersey Shore, though. The drama that it presents can easily fill the void of one’s dull life.

Maybe you watch it because you can’t find anything better to watch. Or you might watch it because you feel like you are missing out on something. Well trust me, before you waste your time watching this worthless television series, I suggest you catch up on your sleep instead.

Art by Tessa Newbacher

The Lakewood Times

Times Staff Editorial: The social garbage dump

Having a Facebook account is like being in a complicated relationship with millions of people. It’s a love/hate deal that can keep a disgruntled user online for hours without any complaint. A user can log onto Facebook to check the time and date of an event, and end up at their goal three hours later after wading through the social network of trash. For as helpful and resourceful as Facebook is, it is equally as annoying and time-consuming.

There’s no doubt that Facebook is one of the most powerful inventions of our time.

With a click, we literally have the world under our fingertips. Friends, family, employers, and photos of events past and present are all within our grasp. With Facebook at our disposal, we can interact with more friends in five minutes than we could have in five hours in person. So if we’re going to be on Facebook for hours anyway because of our own addiction, we might as well use responsibly.

This brings a movie quote to mind. “With great power comes great responsibility.”

Maybe Facebook users need to catch up on their Spider-Man. Why is Facebook so addicting? That’s simple: people. Just like Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg realized in the hit film “The Social Network,” people love to read and learn about other people. Better yet, we can feed our people addiction without ever having to project ourselves in person. If we use Facebook properly, we can project the best “us” we can to the world. We can show our attractive, intelligent, and fun sides; make us the perfect candidate for a relationship with the rest of the Internet. Sadly, a lot of us don’t do that. We forget that Facebook is shared with the rest of the world, and not just our own eyes or the eyes of our closest friends.

Where the relationship gets complicated is when the simplicity of the online world gets abused. Facebook is cool, fast, and unique. For a lot of teens today, if it’s convenient, good, and user-friendly, there’s

November 2010

no negative consequence. That’s not the case with Facebook. Everything we put on Facebook has the potential to damage our reputation among our friends. The truth is, we’re all different and don’t like all of the same things. Your angst-filled status update or overly-photoshopped profile picture might come off annoying and vain to others, while to you it’s perfectly justifiable. That party you attended might have been “wicked sweet,” but not all of your friends want to see what happened there.

Facebook has given us the option to “hide” the people that annoy us. But, every time that button is clicked, a little part of our social network goes to waste. Why? Instead of building friendships, we’re hiding them. Whatever goes on facebook is irresistible by design. No matter how irrelevant, we’re likely to read it. They’re our “friends,” so we might as well pay attention.

What needs t o

happen is self-awareness on Facebook.

Everything we put Facebook ends up there for a reason. It doesn’t matter if you, your friends, or the applications that access your account put it there, there’s always a cause for the effect. But, some of the things that end up on Facebook without a second thought aren’t necessary for the public to view.

Stop and think. Do you want your parents checking out your facebook profile? Would you want them reading your wall, seeing what you post on other people’s walls, or all of the pictures that you’re tagged in? No matter what your answer might be, that’s becoming more and more of a reality each day, because more parents are getting on Facebook. We, as students are forced with a decision: we can either start to filter what we say and do on Facebook, or continue to let it be an open and overly informational book.

Facebook users need to break off the bad habits with the “It’s not you, it’s me” line.

When all is said and posted, it really is us.

What we see on Facebook are our words, our emotions, and our choices. We’re to blame for the annoying status updates, the unnecessary drama, and the other normal occurrences on Facebook. Years ago, it used to be enough to just think before you spoke. Now, in our age of instant technology, we all have to learn to think before we post.

Art by Al Rodriguez

opinion 17

Ask.me a question, and make it dirty please Why Formspring.me is a step too far

By Melissa Gajewski

We all have our limits. Things we won’t do and things we won’t say because we’ve drawn a line, and we’re not going to cross it.

Lately, I’ve been feeling like these lines are drawn in pencil for most people, ready to be erased and drawn further away from their own standards.

Obviously, we live in an era that is more open than the past generations ever dreamed we could be. Our raunchiest jokes are widely accepted and tolerated. Making light of gender, race and class struggles is smiled upon and encouraged. The indie kids in school who would have been the unsung heroes of an 80’s cult classic aren’t so indie anymore.

All in all, we’re in a new age, fueled by constant phone-to-phone communication and the welcomed invasion of our cyber-privacy. Facebook and other personal sites of its ilk are here, and they aren’t ever leaving. As a product of this get-to-know-me-now generation, I do not think these sites are wrong.

Except for one.

Let’s see if you can guess what it is?

It can be completely anonymous if you wish it to be. You can let someone know exactly how you feel about them and never have to put your name behind it. You can spread a rumor or share a super-secret secret and never have to be the recipient of all the blame. You can destroy someone’s self-esteem with a carefully worded question and never get labeled as a “bitch.”

This networking pariah is Formspring. me, and it would be overused and far too popular if only one person on planet Earth had an account. The fact that so many people partake in this site is disgusting, and would give our generation a bad name if word got out to the adult public.

But, of course, I have to defend the makers of Formspring. I don’t think it was ever their intention for their website to become a ground-zero for petty yet explosive high school drama. If used wisely, I’m sure Formspring could be beneficial, especially for public figures.

For example, let a politician make an account so the public has easier access to asking him/her questions. Cen-

18 opinion

sor the vulgarity and overly-rude or unintelligent criticism, and you have a very helpful and accessible public forum.

See, that’s the problem with we, the hormonal people, having Formspring accounts, there’s just no censor...

But wait a minute, YOU’RE the censor!

Nothing goes on your wall unless you say all right.

So someone asks a question about a certain naughty something you did with a certain random someone, making it as vulgar as they possibly could. It’s really gross, but you can end it all there. Delete, don’t answer.

The asker never gets their cruel satisfaction from seeing your affronted, self-important, “Umm, you don’t even know me…” reply.

So why, if we can keep that garbage away from us, do I still see some of the most vi-

Image source: http://utahtib.blogspot.com/

cious, embarrassing, blush-inducing, sleazy nonsense posted on peoples’ walls, all answered and ready to be read by everyone?

We have the power to separate ourselves from this unwanted “drama.” Isn’t that what people say constantly these days, anyway? “I’m so sick of this drama…”

That doesn’t explain why so many of our peers profligate these dramacausing rumors online like it’s their job.

Ideally, we would all stop being so intrigued by the lives of others. That would solve a lot more than just this Formspring problem. But, it’s hardly a likely solution. Humans have loved to creep

on their fellow man since the dawn of time, even before it was called creeping.

The elderly do it and first graders do it.

Businessmen on Wall Street and workers in Wal-Mart do it. We all gossip and creep. Now, it’s just happening online instead of at a quilting bee or through a three, four or five-way call.

But, once again, there has always been that line you shouldn’t cross and, until now, very few ventured to the other side of kosher.

With Facebook and the other invasive tools we now have, it’s no wonder we’ve become a little too addicted to our peers’ private knowledge. The hampers are emptying of dirty laundry; what once was a watertight secret now is a status update. And according to our generation, that’s okay.

We’ve set our standards and now we live by them. I really don’t have a problem with that.

What I do hold a grudge against is people’s welcoming of invasiveness and then responding to it in offense, which is also known as Formspring. If you’re so scandalized that someone would dare ask you such a question, why do you answer it? Better yet, why oh why do you have a Formspring at all?

We all know that’s all that happens on that site, so if you get asked an inappropriate question and continue to respond to them, don’t act so shocked in your replies.

These questions should not be unexpected.

To you, the invader, I have a big problem with you. Do you really feel the need to advertise yourself (even if no one knows it’s you) as an uneducated, sex-addicted cad?

That’s usually my first impression of the writers of the questions I read on Formspring.

Supposedly chivalry is dead, but I never thought I’d see the total demise of class, too Really, let’s just all take a step back and reassess our obsession with, not only the internet and social networking, but our growing need to know everything about everyone else in general. Let’s try to stave off this longing for posting our life’s story, and, dear God, let’s stop inviting in the world to ask us whatever it pleases.

Think twice before you sign up for Formspring. You know what you’re in for.

The Lakewood Times

Can’t we all just get along?

Unity club promotes equal rights and attitudes

By Tori Chesmar

People come in all different shapes, sizes, colors, and races. So why do so many people resist these differences, and refuse to come together?

Most students at LHS don’t know of Club Unity. It’s a club that discusses diversity and talks about the issues of the gay and lesbian community. It has around ten members.

The organization has already been around for two school years and is still continuing.

It was created when three students approached, Spanish teacher Matt Heslep and asked if he would advise the club.

There was a Unity Club in the past, but eventually it fell apart. About twelve years ago Stephanie Boyd was one of the first Unity Club advisors, along with one of the student’s mother.

The club used to meet at the United Christian Church on the corner of Parkwood and Madison. Boyd feared that no one would come to the meetings, but to her surprise, the club became really popular. At their peak, they had about thirty members.

The rumor is, “Oh, that’s the gay club.” But it’s not. The club is for all students, regardless of sexual orientation.

Newest club member, Dani Stringer, a junior, found out about the club when she was finishing up a Spanish test.

“I thought the club was really interesting.

I feel that Unity is an amazing group. It has created a comfort zone for students whose sexuality is out of the ordinary. Each student is different, but [everyone] finds some way to relate to one another.”

The club helps students that are in the closet, or out. of It makes them feel more safe and comfortable at school. Discussion topics usually deal with bullying and topics related to homosexuality.

Because many of these students face bullying during school for their sexual orientation, this club offers support and comfort.

Staff members can join as well. The club members often feel like they are treated unfairly at school.

One of the members, sophomore, Ivy-Mae Hanrahan was disciplined for receiving a hug from her girlfriend Johnisa Price, a sophomore. However, across the hall there was a girl and a boy making out.

People often use the phrase, “Oh that’s so gay” in reference to some-

thing they don’t like. When you say that, you could actually offend a someone who is homosexual or bisexual.

Today, people abuse the words, gay, dyke, faggot and homo, even though these words are never appropriate. It really bothers most homosexuals and bisexuals.

“For those students that abuse these terms, have you ever put yourself in their shoes? Is it okay for someone to go up to a student and make fun of their sexuality because it’s different from yours? That’s not nice at all,” said club members.

Cyber bullying, harassment, and bullying at school is affecting many teens who are gay or bisexual. Club Unity, Heslep, and Boyd are worried that the rate of students dropping out of school, cutting themselves, committing suicide, and drinking is increasing because of the cruel words being said.

They wish that the rates would go down.

Unity visits the website, itgetsbetter.com, which helps teens get through such situations. The website is a program that supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT). People can share stories to get through their hard times.

The Unity Club members advise students to start off slow, admit to yourself who you are, and recognize who your true friends are.

Joe Ritter, junior, said, “Be who you want to be no matter what.”

In the future, Club Unity hopes to cut down seventy-five percent of the harassment at school, expand the club and help students learn more about diversity. They say they want to fill a lecture hall with club members one day.

The club meets after school on Fridays in A-107.

Unity Club marches in this years spirirt parade Photo by Tori Chesmar

Roots, they’re for people, too A Lakewood teen stays in touch with his ancestry

By Lisa Kowalski

For many people, heritage is not something they consider important. They might say, “my grandparents were Italian,” but they do not say “I am Polish.”

They are removed from their heritage.

Some people do not want to be “different,” others just don’t know. Senior Maksym Kostryk is a polar opposite of these people. For Maksym, heritage isn’t something that your grandparents were, it’s something that you are.

Kostryk was born in America, but he is 100 percent Ukrainian.

His mother was born of Ukrainian parents in New York City, and

20 lkwd life

his father was born in Hamburg, Germany while his family was on their way from the Ukraine to America.

The Ukrainian community in Cleveland has a strong influence, because Cleveland was one of the cities that the first Ukrainian immigrants settled in. There are four Ukrainian churches in the Cleveland area, and a Ukrainian museum in Tremont.

Ukrainians are very active in their culture because “it’s important to their life,” he said. “Maybe other cultures do it but, it’s not as big, or they don’t care. Like Irish people dance, but it’s not as cool. You should show off your

culture. It’s a part of America, a part of the melting pot,” said Kostryk From a young age, Ukrainian children are very involved with their culture and traditions.

Kostryk started in Ukrainian School at age 4, and graduated his sophomore year. He plans on doing this with his future children, because he would like for them to share the experience.

Kostryk attended Ukrainian school every Saturday from 9 a..m. to 1 p.m. from 1st to 6th grade. He learned the Ukrainian language (the equivalent of Spanish 1-3.) In 7th to 11th grade he studied the history, ge-

ography, culture, and literature of the Ukraine.

Another tradition practiced by the Ukrainian community is dancing. Kostryk enrolled in Ukrainian dance class at the age of 4, although at first he was resistant.

“When I was younger I didn’t like dancing because I thought it was girly, but now that I have grown up I’ve embraced it more. I realized that it’s a part of my life, and I like that it’s a part of my life.”

A large aspect of the Ukrainian culture is Plast, which is a scouting organization. During the summer there are Plast camps, such as sports camps, water camps, and just a regular summer camp.

The Lakewood Times

Opposite page: Kostryk (fourth from right) in traditional Ukrainian dance costume with fellow dance troupe members Clockwise from left: Kostryk with his Ukrainian academics competition team members, celebrating a win. Kostryk sporting a hairstyle depicting a Ukrainian symbol for freedom. Kostryk stands with children from his Plast summer camp. Photos courtesy of Maksym Kostryk.

This summer Kostryk was a counselor. It’s a worldwide organization, which is why Kostryk likes it, because he gets to “meet people from everywhere around the world.”

Kostryk does not spend as much time in the Ukrainian community as he once did, but at his peak he would be at Ukrainian school from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, PLAST from 1-3 p.m, and once a week he would go to dance class from 7-9 p.m. This made it hard to hang out with his other friends.

“You might not get to hang out with your American friends, but you create bonds with people you will see for the rest of your

November 2010

life.”

Not only is Kostryk very involved in Ukrainian culture, he also participates in many activities at Lakewood High School.

He is on the Varsity football team, cofounder of the Donut Klub, and the Father Chieftain of Eaters of Lakewood, although, he finds his true love and commitment lies in his Ukrainian Culture.

“It’s been a great experience that I wish more people had. Everyone should know where they came from; it’s a part of you, and you should learn about it.”

lkwd life 21

LHS 2

.0

From typewriters to computers, books to the Internet, the way people are learning and interpreting information has changed because of the technological advantages we have now.

Not too long ago people were excited about wireless cell phones used to call or text. Now, they’ve advanced to where almost every wireless phone has Internet capability.

So why are teachers still sending students to search in text books for information that, with a click of a button, can be found in a matter of seconds?

LHS 2.0 is a program started last year by a group of teachers who didn’t fully agree with the old methods of teaching. “It’s not just text book learning anymore” said 2.0 teacher, Sean Wheeler.

The name “2.0” comes from Web 2.0, which is about revolutionary new ways of creating, collaborating, editing and sharing user-generated information online. The program blends technology, learning, and student-tostudent interaction in hopes of

22 lkwd life

Blending technology to make a new way of learning

By Naseem Shean

bettering education.

As a reporter for The Lakewood Times, I was given the opportunity to shadow a 2.0 stu- Above photo left: Sophomore Deidre Penney works on computer. dent, sophomore Above photo right: Sophomores Daja Elder and Tabitha Adams work together.

Faith Davis, through Photos by Naseem Shean a typical 2.0 day.

I went to the first class expect- the material, rather than dismiss- tograph. The “research side,” ing to have an undoubtedly bi- ing the fact and moving on to a did actual research about the zarre period. new lesson. picture, and the “creative side,” When geometry class began, I “The program helps me learn used their imagination to formuwas surprised to notice that ev- the material better than classes late stories based on what they erything seemed almost custom- outside of the program because saw. The purpose of the activary to a regular geometry class. our teachers don’t move on until ity was to teach students to be The only thing that seemed dif- I understand, as opposed to the more attentive in the way they ferent was that the students teacher just accepting whatever view things. were set free the last twenty-five grade I get,” said Sullivan LHS 2.0 teaches students to minutes of class, to converse The classes seemed pretty work with what they’re given by with each other about what they straight forward, the kids were interacting with others on a topic didn’t understand. given a large quantity of time to and thinking outside the box; “I like that [this program] gives ask questions.

Otherwise known as “2.0 learnstudents the chance to be indeWith the students having so ing.” pendent,” said sophomore Liam much time on their hands it was When the program began last Sullivan. very easy for them to get off top- year, not many people underIt was like the students taught ic, and out of focus. “I hate all the stood the point behind it. the each other the material based side tracking,” said Sullivan.

“I think that the point of 2.0 is on what the teacher presented.

English teacher, Sean Wheel- to integrate technology use into As the day continued I noticed er’s class stood out the most. He school systems, and that our the other teachers attempt to separated the students into two LHS 2.0 classes are somewhat make sure students understood groups and presented a pho- the test dummies to see how it

The Lakewood Times

goes,” said 2.0 student, Faith Davis.

The program was originally a course for students in 9th grade, while this year it has expanded to students in the 9th and 10th grades.

Students are randomly se-

did not like the program at all. It was too confusing and the whole grading system is messed up,” said former 2.0 student Kira McCosson.

I believe that 2.0 focuses on teaching students how to interpret the information.

“It mostly focuses on really understanding the material we’re learning,” said sophomore 2.0

lected into the program.

After their first year, 2.0 students can decide to remain in the program or be removed from it.

“I chose to leave because I

student, Jake Antel.

The program gives students the opportunity to redo work, and ask questions.

“If we do badly on a test we have to do an assignment and retake the test and that makes

Sophomore Gwydion Gilbert works diligently.

November 2010

us have more time to learn,” said Antel.

The odd thing about the program is the way students are scheduled in classes. Students remain with the same twenty or thirty people all day, only separating when they have elective courses.

“By eighth period I get so excited to see n e w people,” s a i d Davis.

This is the o n l y thing I truly disliked about the program. It’s concentrated so much on social interaction, yet keeps students with the same group of people all year. This deprives them of the opportunity to branch out to other students.

Computers are main contributors to the learning process. Students are given assignments online and are to turn in work online as well.

“All the moodle work is inconvenient for me, and I only recommend the program to students if they have the time to spend on the computer after school,” said Davis.

“We do most of the same things as other classes, except we go on moodle and turn work in online,” said Antel.

There are a few days in the week where all 2.0 students get together in a lecture hall. They spend the day getting lectures, making up work, redoing work, asking questions and working in groups for better understanding.

The point of lecture hall sessions is to give students a chance to collaborate with each other and share and receive information.

There are students who benefit from LHS 2.0, and there are students who don’t. It’s supposed to teach kids to not do the work and get it over with, but learn how to use the material they’ve been taught in the future.

The teachers believe learning how to use technology properly prepares them for a technologically advanced future.

The 21st century is all about technology and social networking. So, if students already spend most of their time online (on Facebook or talking to each other on phones or through computers) why not teach them to use the technology in a positive and productive manner, like learning?

From watching these students and teachers, I’ve learned that 2.0 is more than just a new way of learning. It’s a new way of teaching and interpreting information that’s presented or gathered.

lkwd life 23

Picking a suitable career path

By Julia Houska

High school is the time for students to ease into adult life and become prepared for college and a career. Often times, choosing a career can be very stressful. Students have to consider what jobs are in demand, what jobs make the most money and what they are most interested in.

Kimberly Sheer, a history and psychology teacher, believes that what you want should be the first criteria.

“Don’t do it if you don’t like it… don’t go there,” Sheer said.

In 1982 Sheer graduated from high school into a world of headlines trashing teachers about qualifications and salaries. She taught swimming lessons, she liked kids and she was a good student. Sheer says she can look back saying she definitely chose the right career, but back then it wasn’t as obvious.

Sheer went to law school after graduating

and hated it. She knew in a short amount of time that she wasn’t meant to be a law student. She then became a social worker and enjoyed it. It took Sheer 15 years to realize her dream and become a teacher.

In this growing world, there are many paths to college and careers. According to Guidance Counselor Jeanne Hoopes, over 50 percent of college students change their major throughout their time spent in college.

The U.S Department of Labor states the average U.S citizen changes careers three to five years in their lifetime. For Hoopes, there are two ways to look at a career. You don’t want to get stuck in something you don’t like but you want to be responsible, take control and make a living.

Hoopes believes it is a tough decision to choose between practical career choices and following your heart. Her doors are al-

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Ten years ago it was acceptable to say, “do what you want and the money will follow.”

Today many people get their skills, make a good living, support their families and then explore other interests. For some, that might not work. You never know what the future will bring and how it will all pan out.

All information compiled from money.cnn.com, careerinfonet.org, and finance.yahoo.com

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24 lkwd life

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The Lakewood Times

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lkwd life 25

Muse proves great for eyes and ears

By Al Rodriguez

October 12th was the journey of a lifetime.

Five hours in a car, two hours standing in line, over $150 spent, and I still can’t believe it actually happened.

On October 12th, I saw my favorite band, Muse, live in Columbus. It was a concert that mesmerized the senses. It was worth every minute and every penny. In fact, I’m pretty sure part of my mind is still blown, unable to fully comprehend the level of awesome that it was catapulted into.

My journey started in April. An avid Muse fan, I’ve listened to all of their albums, and follow their website from time-to-time. The moment I found out they were coming to Ohio, I knew I had to go. Thankfully the funds were in place, and my mom helped out by buying the $60 dollar ticket, which was available for purchase early from their website.

If you’re thinking, “Oh wow, $60 dollars is outrageous for a concert ticket,” you’re right.

But, if it’s to see a band that you know will, without a doubt, deliver with their live performance, almost any price is worth it. Money and transportation should be the least of your worries. If there’s a will, there’s a way.

After months of waiting, the day came. I woke up humming “Supermassive Black Hole”, off of their 2006 album “Black Holes and Revelations.” Within hours, I would be seeing my favorite band kick out their most popular songs, and I’d be right there. It became difficult to think straight. I had the tickets, the money, my good friend Kyle behind the wheel, my favorite Muse t-shirt on, and we were ready to hit the road.

Music, good conversation, and many laughs kept us company on our way down to the Jerome Schottenstein Center, right on The Ohio State University’s campus. Once we finally found the right place to park, the time came to stand in line.

As I stood in line, I met some interesting people with the same passion for Muse as myself. I even got a little free souvenir: a neon orange wristband that showed that I was allowed to go onto the floor of the arena, the general admission area. I’m still wearing that wristband, and don’t intend to take it off anytime soon. It’s a bright reminder that brings back vivid memories of a great night.

After two hours of waiting, it was finally time. Our tickets were checked, and before I knew it, I was on the floor, an arms length away from the guard rail that separated me from my favorite band. Within a half hour, the arena was packed, and when I looked behind me I saw absolutely nothing but a sea of faces as far back as the floor stretched. It

An explosion of color and sound at the Muse concert. Photo by Al Rodriguez Muse performs under a canopy of shimmering lights. Photo by Al Rodriguez

was a group bonding experience, a unity of fans who’ve never met connected by a lyric or guitar riff.

The minutes began ticking away until Muse took the stage. Within 30 minutes, the stage was ready and the lights darkened. The voices inside the Schottenstein center grew to a loud roar, and after several minutes of intense screaming, chanting, and anxiously awaiting, the show began.

Three giant pillars on stage became illumined with images, then the huge curtains covering them fell, and Muse’s “Uprising” took the crowd by storm.

Their show was an odyssey of sight and sound.

If you are a fan of Muse’s studio sound, see them live. Their music doesn’t sound like it does on the record-- it sounds better.

More interesting solos, spontaneous, improvisational jams and a gritty, real-life quality that makes the music even better.

Fan favorites like “Hysteria,” “Stockholme Syndrome,” and “Plug in Baby” were played, as well as new hits off of their 2009 album The Resistance, such as “Uprising,” “Undisclosed Desires,” and the entire Exogenesis Symphony (an orchestral rock piece of three movements), which was an unexpected but satisfying surprise. Every song was fantastically played and performed.

I screamed at the top of my lungs until I

could scream no more. Spotlights swept the stage and giant, confetti-filled balloons were even dropped into the audience for a Muse-style volleyball game. After their set, which lasted close to an hour and a half, the stage became dark, and it was time for the encore.

When the British trio came out to play their hit song, “Knights of Cydonia” dressed in custom OSU football jerseys, the atmosphere inside the arena became even more intense, with the entire crowd cheering louder than ever for the band’s last song.

Musically, it was flawless. The light show was equally as mesmerizing, with spotlights, strobes, and lasers shooting everywhere, captivating the audience with their eyes. As much of a spectacle for the eyes as the ears, their live show did not disappoint.

If you have the opportunity to see them live, take it. You won’t be disappointed.

On the two and a half hour drive back, I had to reflect on my night. Here’s what came to mind: Ticket price: $70. T-Shirt and hat: $62. Total time spent: 13 hours. Taking an amazing road trip to hear a great band: Priceless.

The Lakewood Times

Two Dads Diner An original Lakewood gem shines brightly

By Meredith Richards

A food establishment with a lot of heart for only a little bit of money is a rarity in this day in age. When you add in great food with personable staff, the situation becomes ideal.

This is what Two Dads Diner in Lakewood is all about.

Co-owned by John Kamkutis and Frank Zingale, the diner opened in December of 2009, and has since acquired a strong following. The relaxed atmosphere as well as the delicious food has kept Two Dads Diner a popular destination for Lakewoodites, old and young.

“Frank and I were just driving by one day, and we said ‘hey that’d be a nice place to open a restaurant’ and actually it happened!”

Kamkutis said. At 14412 Detroit Avenue, Two Dads Diner is where the Hylander Restaurant used to be located. “We wanted to put a good product out at a good price,” Kamkutis said.

Zingale manages the kitchen while Kamkutis manages the front of the restaurant.

“We get here at 6:30 am, and close up by 9pm,” Kamkutis say, “It’s a long day, but the best part of the job i s social-

izing with the customers and meeting a lot of great people.”

Both Zingale and Kamkutis grew up in Lakewood, and attended Lakewood High School. “I just love the Lakewood community,” Kamkutis said, “Fabulous things are happening here and that’s what makes Lakewood so charming.”

They each have their own personal idols that they look up to. “I admire my dad,” said Kamkutis. “He is my idol.” Zingale’s idol is Chef Gordon Ramsey The ‘Two Dads’ Diner is named for Zingale and Kamkutis. Zingale is the father of six girls while Kamkutis has two girls. “That makes 10 women including our wives in our lives,” Kamkutis laughs,” Our family is very important to us.”

Two Dads Diner has many menu choices ranging from calamari to oatmeal and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Kamkutis and Zingale find pride in their menu, “Our menu is made entirely from scratch, even our kids menu,” Kamkutis said. T wo Dads is open Monday through Saturday

from 7:00 am-8:00 pm, and Sunday from 7:00-2:00pm. “The long hours away from my family is a downside of owning a restaurant,” Kamkutis said, “Times are tough right now everywhere but we take it day by day.” Kamkutis hopes that the Diner will be here for many years to come.

Other than the spending time at the diner, ZIngale and Kamkutis are involved in many other things. Zingale coaches recreational department baseball and Kamkutis is a member of the Board of Education.

However, it is clear that their heart is with the diner and the people that enjoy it.

Two Dads Diner is a perfect addition to Lakewood’s already quaint atmosphere.

The amiable feeling the owners give only adds to the charm of Two Dads. “ We are just here to serve the community and make a comfortable place to gather,” Kamkutis said. “We just hope everyone walks away happy.”

An original mural of the Kamkiutis and Zingale family.

November 2010

lkwd life 27

Lakewood’s thunderbolt kid The life and times of a cross country wonderboy

By Andrew O’Connor

Leading the boys Cross Country team this year is all-state runner, junior Nick Jackosky.

Jackosky has won four races in a row going into the OHSAA district race. At Districts Jackosky finished second, only five seconds behind the leader and 14 seconds ahead of the third place runner.

Although the Rangers failed to qualify for the Regional meet finishing 5th, 11 points behind the last qualifying team, Jackosky and senior Clay Verga finished “All-District” and went on to the Regional meet.

“I started distance running in track my 8th grade year because my football coach said I should,” said Jackosky. “I knew I was decent because I was finishing up front in almost every race. My mile time in 8th grade was right around a 5:25.”

Jackosky played football 5th through 8th grade but his fall sport of choice would change going into high school.

“I talked to Sam Debaltzo who was a pretty big cross country guy, and he told me all about it. So, I went to the summer runs and decided to join.”

Jackosky made his Cross Country debut his freshman at the Glen Oak invitational running a 20:24 finishing 27th out of 162. Two weeks later at the Walsh Jesuit Invitational, Jackosky ran an 18:38, finishing 7th out of 131. “That was the meet where I said to my self, ‘Wow, okay this is my thing.”

Jackosky futher improved through his freshman and sophomore year, to reach the point where he is now: winning races and not looking back. Jackosky won his first race at the McDonough Invitational this season with a slim margin of 16:30.68.

28 sports

Jackosky smokes the competition at Regionals. Photo by Lisa Kowalski

The second place time was a 16:30.95. “I felt tired because of the hill on that course, but I was hanging with the top guy.

I figured ‘Hey, I’m hanging with these guys’ and then won. I was really pumped about that race.”

A week later at the Second Sole Invitational in Strongsville, Jackosky set his personal record of 15:59 while finishing 3rd. “That race was definitely a boost in my confidence. It was the first time I had a sub 5 minute mile,” he said. “From there I knew I was able to start and get out faster.”

That confidence was about to go east when the Rangers traveled to Genesee Valley, New York for the McQuaid Invitational, one of the largest meets in the nation.. Jackosky dominated the competition, finishing

first with a 15:21 in the 3 mile.

Jackosky continued his winning ways at the Legends meet in Trumbull County. This led to the Northeast Ohio Conference championships. “I just got out fast and ran hard,” said Jackosky. The junior finished the race at 16:04. That was 14 seconds ahead of second place.

Riding a three-race win streak.

Jackosky and the Rangers went to the first round of the cross-country play-offs. “The race felt slow but I kept chasing (John) Sweeny (from St. Ignatius) I kept chasing and saw the clock during the kick and saw 15:50 something so I was like, wow,” said Jackosky. Jackosky finished 2nd and senior captain Clay Verga took the final spot for “all-district” finishing

16th. Keeping up with his ways Jackosky finished 10th at the regional meet and qualified for the state meet at Columbus, Ohio.

Jackosky’s performance at the regional meet took him to the legendary Scioto Downs course in Columbus. Acting as a one man army, Jackosky ran a 15:52 finishing 19th finishing all-state. A title held for the elite high school runners in Ohio.

Jackosky has led the pack all season long and will be one to keep eyes on during track and field in the spring and cross country next fall.

The Lakewood Times

Students debate what is a sport

By Gwen Stephen

Sports are a staple in today’s society, providing entertainment and recreational activity since ancient times. As centuries have passed and sports have evolved, so has its definition, becoming broader and more general as new sports are created. According to Dictionary.com, a sport is defined as “an athletic activity requiring skill or physical prowess and often of a competitive nature,” but LHS students feel this statement needs revising, or at least clarification.

“Sports are a way of life, an improved and healthy way of life that involves competition, skill, learning, endurance, team, family, will and leadership among many other characteristics,” said varsity tennis, gymnastics, and softball alumni, Suzi Cancar. “A sport is doing something you love and believing in your greatest abilities to overcome any obstacle and reach any goal. Sports are proving you can,” she said.

Junior cross-country and track runner, Nora Cromer believes that participating in sports takes great effort, “I think a sport is where you are a part of something bigger than yourself. It’s when you strive to get better at doing something challenging,” Cromer said.

While many typically defend their rightful sport, others attempt to reach a clear definition of what a sport is and isn’t by deciding what sports entail. “There has to be a competitive aspect of it, it has to be an organized competitive event,” said junior basketballplayer, Jay Andreani.

Junior cross-country and track runner, A.j Graber agreed, “competition is a key component,” he said.

Many students believe that sports should be judged or refereed in order for a winner

November 2010

to be found. Student-athletes and spectators also agree that in order to be classified as a sport, the athletic event must involve competition with one or many opponents. Junior athlete, Nicole Parke believes that “if it just needs mental skill, then it is not a sport,” thus ruling out games like cards and chess.

Andreani feels that such games can be falsely classified as sports, saying, “it takes no athletic ability,” another requirement students feel is necessary to participate in any sport.

“I think what defines a sport is the specificity of the skills it requires,” said varsity basketball and softball alumni, Coletta Gruss.

“Real sports require more than just a built up mental and physical stamina, they require an actual specific skill,” she said.

“I think it’s more about being an athlete, and to be an athlete you have to work hard and mentally pull yourself through a workout,” said junior runner, Mollie Evans. This statement shows that students feel practice and performing an actual physical exercise is needed to participate in a sport.

“You can be an athlete without playing a sport, but you can’t play a sport without being an athlete,” said senior, Dan LaCerva, arguing that just because you are portraying specific skills does not mean that every activity that involves competition could be considered a sport, however for an activity to be classified as a sport the participants must be athletes.

Dictionary.com defines an athlete as “a person trained or gifted in exercises or contests involving physical agility, stamina, strength, or a participant in a sport, exercise, or game requiring physical skill.”

Andreani also mentioned that just because

‘sports’ are shown on ESPN (Entertainment Sports Programming Network) does not mean that society must accept all the programs as sports. “I think they show any outdoorsy [activities],” said Andreani. “They’ll play anything they’ll think people will enjoy, ESPN is not just there to show us programs, ESPN is there to make money,” he said.

I feel like there is a spectrum of sports,” said Parke. “From physical skill to physical fitness,” she said. “Mostly physical skill on one end” including sports such as golf and bowling. “Then the middle would be skill and physical ability” for sports such as basketball and football. “The end would not need as much skill, but great physical fitness” for sports such as cross-country and competitive weightlifting, she said. Parke also made it clear that mental skill would be necessary for all parts of the spectrum.

With as many sports in the world as there are today and influences from society such as TV programs and advertising, it’s a challenge to conclude which sports are legitimate and which are not. “This is a hot topic issue, and one that will probably forever be debated,” said Gruss.

It is evident that the definitions provide little information as to what students feel sports require. They remain clear as can be under the circumstances, but who is to decide what is and isn’t a sport anyway? As Juan Antonio Samaranch said during the 1996 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, “sport is friendship, sport is health, sport is education, sport is life, sport brings the world together.”

Be sure to voice your opinions on www. lakewoodtimes.net and don’t forget to vote on the sports poll.

sports

29

Warming up the ice

Hockey season begins at Winterhurst

By Sabrina Suleiman

Junior Nick Kovach waits with a smirk on his face to see if he makes a goal. Photo courtesy of Nick Kovach.

Hockey season is right around the corner and the Rangers are ready for battle. The season begins November 7th, but juniors Brendan Scheel and Nick Kovach can not wait for the season to begin.

A normal season lasts about three to four months, but they play plenty of games to fulfill their dreams of getting better. “We usually play two games a week,” said Kovach, a junior who has been playing ever since he was four. Hockey is a big part of his life, and he says it means a lot to him. “I play defense, basically supporting the center,” said Kovach who is also one of the team’s captains.

On a regular team there are ten to fifteen players, but only 5 players go into the game.

If one player were to get a penalty, he’d have to sit out for two minutes in the penalty box, while the game continues without him, with only four players. Hockey is like playing soccer, only on ice. A day at practice for these boys is a day of laughter and fun. Their home games are held at Winterhurst, and they

30 sports

Nick Kovach faces off on the ice. Photo curtousy of Nick Kovach.

usually last about forty-five minutes with a fifteen-minute period. Tuesday mornings before school, and Wednesdays and Fridays after school, the boys practice at Winterhurst.

Their first game is on December 2nd at the Quicken Loans Arena.

“People think it’s a hard sport because you get cold, but really when you’re sweating a lot you don’t feel the cold. It actually starts to get hot,” said Kovach. For the hockey team, it’s fun playing when you’re doing it because you love it. And winning comes naturally, when you put your heart into it.

Scheel is also in the eleventh grade, and has played since he was eight years old. He enjoys every second of it. “I play forward. It’s when you go out as the wings and partner up with center,” said Scheel. He feels that for Lakewood to become well known, it just needs more fans and support. “Hockey is a unique sport, but to enjoy it you’ll need to be experienced. The more experienced you are, the better you get.” Sometimes a big team

can be fun, but for Scheel it’s much more relaxing with a smaller group, “I feel more relaxed with fewer teammates, because it’s just this little group that becomes your family.”

Of course, you have to be a good skater.

To play hockey, players take tough hits and games are always played at full speed. “I don’t even realize it when I fall. It’s a sport that you learn as you go,” said Kovach. Although losing is hard for everyone, this team has got it all figured out. “When we score a goal, it’s such a good feeling, we just get excited and want to go out there and play some more. There is no other feeling when you’re soaring on the ice and you feel so pumped,” said Scheel.

“Playing hockey brings you closer to the inner you, and everyone really gets to know each other better. We all become a family and everyone just has a great time laughing together,” said Kovach. They both play football, but agree that hockey has an entirely different atmosphere.

The Lakewood Times

Rebound

The Rangers prepare for redemption after a season of loss

By Toby Tobin

After a less than stellar basketball season last winter, the Lakewood Boys’ Varsity basketball team looks to rebound this year.

Despite recent struggles, optimism is in the air for all involved with Lakewood basketball. Last season was a bitter disappointment, and the team says they will do all they can to avoid a repeat performance.

After a long summer of work and an intense conditioning program, the Rangers are prepared for a successful season.

Both players and fans alike foresee a payoff for all of the hard work. Self described “avid fan,” Maksym Kostryk, believes the team will be more successful this year because “they’ll try harder, and have something to play for.”

Kostryk predicts success this season because this year marks the third for head coach Phil Argento. “The third times a charm,” said Kostryk, who also predicts “A breakout season for [senior guard] Danny Mazzeo.”

Mazzeo is brimming with optimism regarding the upcoming season. “We can only get better from last year. We work hard every day, and we’ll be pretty good,” Mazzeo said.

Is this a realistic goal?

November 2010

Mazzeo believes Lakewood will win 11 games, saying “I think we can go around .500 this year.”

The coming change of conferences in just two years for Lakewood athletics has been a popular topic of conversation lately. This change looks to be beneficial to the basketball team, as the competition is widely viewed as weaker.

Lakewood’s move to the West Shore Conference will place Lakewood against schools that have significantly smaller enrollments than that which they currently face, hopefully resulting in more success.

Mazzeo believes the conference change will “absolutely” help the basketball program.

Another player who foresees good things for the team is junior guard/forward Connor Mabry. Said Mabry, “We had a bunch of ball-hogs last year and no chemistry. Now we have a lot of young players, and we’ll be a lot better this year.” Mabry predicts “At least five” wins this season.

Lakewood’s schedule begins with four home games in the first five contests. The season opener against Parma High School

Left: The team prepares for a round of suicides. Above: Junior John Vincent makes a pass. Photos by Devin Werner.

could be a pivotal one and may be a foreshadowing of how the season will go. The beginning of the season presents Lakewood with the opportunity to build confidence and momentum for the rest of the season.

Another reason to be excited for the upcoming season is the return of the Sixth Man student section. The students at Lakewood plan on being a source of energy for the basketball team this year. They plan on dressing according to a different theme for each opponent, and plan on being restrained by caution tape, due to their rowdiness.

Said senior and Sixth Man member Grant Graves, “We’re gonna give this team a boost of confidence that was lacking last year.”

Senior and Sixth Man member Matt Piter thinks the Sixth Man will be key because it will “Get in the opponent’s head.” Added Graves, “Like a bad song stuck in somebody’s head.”

Behind their youth and newfound chemistry, the Varsity basketball team is excited about its chances. As far as success is concerned, there is nowhere to go but up.

sports

31

Final Word

By Peter Quigley

Individualism is one of the most important values in our culture. From the day we set foot into the world, we have been told to be ourselves and to follow the beat of our own drum.

People sometimes betray their own morals for the approval of others. Sometimes, they don’t have the courage to be different, and they decide to conform because it is much easier.

Tyler Wilson, an 11-year-old in Findlay, Ohio decided to join the cheerleading squad at his school. Male cheerleaders aren’t too common, especially in middle school, but Wilson had his own ambitions and interests, so he went against the status quo.

Some of Wilson’s classmates didn’t like his decision. They resorted to bullying Wilson and breaking his arm in the process.

His story has been sweeping national news in these past two months, as his mother is pressing charges.

Why did Wilson’s classmates do this? Wilson wasn’t causing them any harm at all.

Why did they have such a problem with his personal interests?

It’s because of the ruthless search for popularity in school. Wilson’s bullies must have wanted to achieve popularity and a higher social status by hazing him. They wanted to distance themselves from someone they thought was a loser. If they broke his arm, they thought they would look tough and cool.

The bullies might not have even known Wilson very well at all.

Although popularity and bullying have al-

Art by Al Rodriguez

ways existed in schools, they have become more serious problems lately because of social networking. Social networks such as Facebook have clearly changed the reasons we make friends and enemies.

For many, a small portion of their Facebook friends is made up of people whom they actually talk to in real life. Lots of people make it a goal to try and get as many Facebook friends as possible, as well as likes, comments and tagged photos. They clearly care about the quantity of their friends rather than the quality of their friends.

Friendship is not on their minds. Deep down inside, Facebook users want to have the most friends and comments because they want to look powerful and cool.

With the addition of social networks to the mix, the already tumultuous environment of student drama has been doubled. It has made the average teenager even more selfcentered and even more vain. Friends and peers are slowly turning from people into a commodity.

Wilson’s bullies must have wanted to bully Wilson because they thought that by bullying him, they would distance themselves from him, thus making them look cooler. The story of Tyler Wilson has been reflected in places like Mentor High School, which has had serious bullying problems recently.

Mentor High School, a 20-minute drive from Lakewood has had four students commit suicide in the past two years. One had a Bosnian accent, one had a learning disability, one liked to wear pink and carry around a stuffed monkey and one was a lesbian. All of these people committed suicide because

of bullying.

Places like Mentor have experienced drastic setbacks in peer relationships. In preschool, we all learned the cliché topics that we tend to roll our eyes at now. Things such as “Be yourself,” and “Treat others as you would like to be treated.” Both of these rules are so elementary that they become overlooked and irrelevant in high school.

If these things are so unimportant, why are these students dead? In the rush of exams, college preparation and drama, we as students seem to slowly be forgetting the most important rules and principles of life.

As social networks are sprouting up, young people are slowly forgetting the implications of friendship and instead following a path of narcissism and shallowness. Their thoughts are invaded by aspirations of being someone they are not just for acceptance. They also sometimes weaken their classmates to gain what they call “respect.”

Has this generation gotten to the point where a person’s character abridged into a Facebook profile? Are friends only a commodity? If they aren’t at this point now, they are quickly approaching that bleak day. It will be terrible to live in a world where everyone has to follow the same path of life, inseparable from the large cloud of conformity. In this world, thoughts and dreams are eclipsed by incredulous standards of acceptance.

People need to be treated like people.

They aren’t objects to toy with; they are to be treated with respect. Friends should be people to share life with, not blank figures to lift you up. Maybe in this rampant Internet age, all people need to do is remember the lessons taught a long time ago.