THE WOOSTER BLADE
WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NEWSPAPER • 515 OLDMAN ROAD, WOOSTER, OH • OCT. 12, 2018 • VOLUME XIX, ISSUE 3
Plastic: weighing the pros and cons
Examining the benefits and downfalls of using plastic; along with how plastic is handled by WHS students. Illustration by Haley Balas
Index: On Campus 2-3 Focus 4-5 Feature 6 Trends 7 Cover 8-10 A&E 11-12
Sports 13-14 Views 15-16
ON CAMPUS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 2
Power of the Pen club reconfigures teams to include WHS students CLARA LEE
on campus editor
PHOTO COURTESY OF LAUREN CRUM
WHS varsity cheerleaders lead the student section in a cheer at the second football game of the season. The Generals fell to the Wadsworth Grizzlies on Aug. 31 by a score of 37-31. Despite the loss, the student section, led by Frontline members Luke Frantz and Adam Frank, continues to push for more spirit at WHS.
School spirit increases in the school LEO RILEY staff writer
WHS has endowed its hallways with posters and amped up its pep rallies as efforts are made, by student body and staff alike, to increase school spirit. “I think it’s gotten a lot better because there are more people participating school spirit events, [Student Council’s] making sure that every sport, club, and activity has the
chance to be represented. It’s not just about football,” WHS senior and Homecoming queen, Dominique Nguyen said. This year’s Student Council, headed by Lexi Noletti (12), has worked to improve spirit around the school, organizing events and putting up posters. Anna Birk (12) explains that something seems different this year in school spirit. The change is due to, “Our Frontline leaders, doing a great
job at being incredibly inclusive toward everyone in the school, which makes students want to participate in spirit,” Birk said. Captain of the WHS girls soccer team, Savannah Ebin (12), was happy with this leadership and said, “Next year depends on if people keep up what they’ve been doing.” In the eyes of multiple students, school spirit has greatly grown since previous years and they hope it continues.
WHS will offer Power of the Pen teams for ninth and tenth graders and eleventh and twelfth graders beginning Oct. 9, with English Dept. member Chelsey Porter serving as the adviser for the high school teams. According to Porter, the teams will meet Tuesdays from after school until 3:50 p.m., and students do not need past experience with Power of the Pen in middle school to join. Porter encourages students to come, even if they do not plan on competing. “Even if you’re not interested in competing, but you’re interested in developing your creative writing, I read the stories every week and give feedback on it,” Porter said. Porter says her goal for the year is to have a full set of competitors on every team, and she would love to see at least one member from every grade level go to states.
Anna Shultz (9) is a former POP member who plans on joining again, as she had fun writing last year. “Writing short stories in a certain span of time makes me a better writer, because it’s not something I usually do,” Shultz said. Shultz says she likes the idea of a high school Power of the Pen team because she did not get the chance to join in seventh grade. “Only being in a club you enjoy for a year is not nearly long enough, in my opinion,” Shultz said. Sylvie Shaya (9), another returning member, concurs. “I really like the idea of a high school writing team because I feel like it gives people more chance to develop over time into better writers and to be able to be a part of POP for a longer time,” Shaya said. Both Shultz and Shaya are looking forward to writing again and seeing how their writing stacks up against their pieces from last year.
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THE WOOSTER BLADE | ON CAMPUS | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 3
OHuddle gives elementary students a once in a lifetime opportunity PAULINA SALAZAR & HOLLY MILLER staff writer & cover editor OHuddle is a mentoring program available for students, including Wooster City School District students. Sara Reith, co-founder and Executive Director of OHuddle, described the group’s purpose. “Our goal is for nominated students to foster their leadership potential through one-to-one mentorship,” Reith said. Reith also explained that
OHuddle activities and mentoring are personalized. “Activities are student-led, meaning that the student chooses how the mentor and mentee spend their time. Sometimes this is walking the track, playing a game, sitting and talking or playing basketball. Each mentor is trained to bring the best out of students by plugging into their strengths and talents,” Reith said. The program also includes many ongoing projects, such as the Fairy Godmother event, an event in which girls are
PHOTO COURTSEY OF OHUDDLE
New 2018 site coordinator Mariah Cluss and her mentee are all smiles as they play with a toy cash register during their time together.
nominated by school staff based on their outstanding qualities, such as integrity and honesty. According to the website, the nominees are given a full makeover by their assigned fairy godmother, then given a sponsored lunch. They are also given a free makeup and hair appointment, along with a dress and two tickets for Prom. There are opportunities for students who are not part of OHuddle to help out. “Each OHuddle student is encouraged to be of ‘Service to Others.’ We have volunteer opportunities and projects to engage the talents of each student. OHuddle hosts a community wide Youth Group Ministry dinner at 6 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month at Cornerstone Elementary school. These dinners are open to anyone who wishes to participate, and we would welcome support of teens to assist with the elementary aged students,” Reith said. Karrie Foster, site coordinator at WHS, noted that attendance rate and grades of the program’s students improve. Sara Reith said OHuddle is important to students as it provides a service that differs from others because of its emphasis on each, individual student. “OHuddle is a strengths-based program that underscores the unique value of each student nominated. Every great leader has had a mentor in his or her life. OHuddle is key to activating the potential in our community youth,” Reith said. OHuddle is a year-round program available for all students.
PHOTO BY MADDY MCCULLY
Mark White helps a student, a member of the Boys and Girls Club, with her homework after school in the General’s Academy area.
Boys and Girls Club Arrives at WHS MYA VANDEGRIFT staff writer The Boys and Girls Club of Wooster was first set into place in 2014, and since the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year, the club has started to also cater to the needs of Wooster High School students. “We set up a club at the high school for two reasons. One, to help with the transition from middle school to high school, and two; to really be helping students with guidance, tips for after graduation, and possible jobs,” Christine Lindeman, executive director of the club, said. The club’s high school edition strives to focus more on the guidance that high schoolers need. “We really try to be a good place to hang out and meet those needs,” Lindeman added. Mark White, the club’s teen program director, has been with the club since 2017, and directs the program at the high school. White says the club has many things planned for this school
year, including programs like Keystone Club, which would promote volunteer work within the club and give back to the community. Other programs would offer discussions to teens about their futures and how to be active in their academic goals. “It’s been really great to have the support system from the high school, that support goes a really long way... shout out to the General Academy, because they let us use their space,” White added. There are many things about the Boys and Girls Club that WHS has instilled, including a No Bullying Policy, explained WHS student Dustin Ring. “We also get wings if we get our homework done,” added Jayden Narr, a club member. Club members Iziah Harper and Jordan Goobel simply said that the club is fun, and noted more people should come to it. For ways to get involved, information about the club can be found at both of its locations in Wooster and online at www. bgcwooster.org.
FOCUS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 4
Field Day welcomes students RHEANNA VELASQUEZ focus editor A warm welcome from WHS cheerleaders only marked the beginning of high spirits at the Third Annual Wayne County Field Day. First held at Norwayne as Bobcat Buddy Day, then at Smithville as Smithie Spirit Day, and now at Wooster as Generals’ Game Day, the event has allowed students with special needs from all over the county to come together for a day filled with fanfare and fun. Describing Wayne County Field Day as an event many look forward to year round, head baseball coach Steve Young said participants are able to, “showcase some of their skills in various activities, enjoy the social interaction with students from the other schools in Wayne County, and hopefully make lifelong connections and friendships.” The experience opens the door to new opportunities, according to Work Study Coordinator Lisa Lang. “This event could be a catalyst for students to get involved in Special Olympics or even high school sports,” Lang said. One hundred thirty-six
students from nine schools convened on Sept. 25 for Generals’ Game Day, a number no less matched by the 54 staff members and 74 students who coordinated and contributed to the event, according to Lang. Drew Mills (11) noted the baseball team helped run some of the games, which included wheelchair basketball, frisbee darts and volleyball. “It’s important for students to get involved in events like this so we can support all of our classmates,” Mills said. In addition to baseball team members, work study students and Newspaper Production, students of English Dept. member Kristi Hiner helped run the stations and emcee the event. Engineering students of Science Dept. member Jacob Melrose also provided wooden medallions for field day participants. Intervention specialist Holly Pope said that ultimately, she hopes to see events like the field day occur more frequently and with greater involvement from the student body. “Seeing this idea grow and expand into a club or group where students of various backgrounds, abilities, interests, etc. get together and socialize and learn to understand, accept and appreciate one another would be an absolute dream for many students and their families,” Pope said. Field day participants will have the opportunity to convene next spring for the Smithie Bowl-a-thon on April 25, 2019.
THERESA WENDELL
Wayne County Field Day participants line up for a turn at cornhole. While at another station, students take a shot at lacrosse, as intervention specialist and varsity girls lacrosse coach, Holly Pope, watches them. WHS student Amanda Yates enjoys a moment with Dylan Greenburg (10) and Caitlin Scott (10).
The Village Network: WCSD staff parts ways with organization JOHN GORMAN co-editor-in-chief On Sept. 27, the Wooster City School District announced members of the district will no longer staff The Village Network’s residential campus, known as Boys’ Village, beginning in the 2019-2020 academic year, according to a
Sept. 29 WCSD press release. Susan Koosh, VP of Business Development for The Village Network, explains that this 20 year partnership between the WCSD and Boys’ Village will not be entirely discontinued. While The Village Network is currently exploring different staffing options, the WCSD will continue to offer the services
of three school psychologists and certified therapists to Boys’ Village. A WCSD press release, from August, emphasized that the WCSD will work with The Village Network towards increased mental health services for students, with the continuation of an after school program for at risk individuals.
Anita Jorney-Gifford, current Boys’ Village principal and former WHS principal, explains, “The news hit the staff hard and was a total surprise. They are working through the news and preparing their selves [sic] for the changes coming next year as they leave the family of BVS and move to the different
buildings in the district.” Moreover, Superintendent Dr. Michael Tefs guaranteed, in the Sept. 29 press release, that the district would see no reduction in force; rather all Wooster City personnel formerly at Boys’ Village would be absorbed into the school district. Dr. Tefs was unavailable for further comments.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | FOCUS | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 5
Candidates Night enlightens voters ALEXIS FLORENCE investigative feature editor “Just to say ‘go vote’ does not mean anything unless you have educated yourself.” Pat Miles, co-chair of the League of Women Voters Candidates Night, in the above quote, comments on the sentiment of Candidates Night, hosted this year at Fisher Auditorium Oct. 9: inform voters before they go to the polls. The League of Women Voters, according to Miles, is a non-partisan group of men and women who encourage voting and participation in our democracy. Miles said the group hosted Candidates Night to give the public a chance to ask candidates questions about important
issues ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. The structure of the forum allows audience members to submit questions to a trio of screeners who will then check to make sure the question is fair. Then, once the moderator poses the question, candidates have one minute to answer and will be able to offer a brief rebuttal to their opponents’ responses at the discretion of the moderator. “It’s important to hear what candidates actually have to say about issues the audience cares about. Other than hearing from campaign slogans or signs, you actually hear what they have to say,” Miles said. On Oct. 9, candidates for County Commissioner discussed the proposed new Wayne County jail, concealed carry, privatiza-
tion of the Wayne County Care Center and how to best fight the opioid crisis in Wayne County. Those seeking a spot on the Ohio court of appeals were asked questions about their judicial philosophy and making non-partition decisions. Candidates for the state Senate District 27 and House of Representatives District One gave their opinions on issues, including charter schools, carbon emissions, the opioid epidemic and school safety. Jennifer L. Hensal, a candidate for the Ohio Court of Appeals, said it is important to attend events like Candidates Night. “Especially as a judicial candidate, forums like this are so even-handed and so guided… allowing voters to ask questions that are important to them,”
ALEXIS FLORENCE
Candidates for the Ohio Senate District 27 Republican Kristina Roegner and Democrat Adam VanHo answer questions at Candidates Night. Hensal said. Lynessa Casto was an audience member who attended the event with her teenage daughter and said it is important, especially for young people, to attend events like Candidates Night, “to start getting into the educational process of what people stand and to start getting in-
volved in the political process.” Miles would like to encourage voting and remind the public that early voting started Oct. 10 and will continue until election day Nov. 6. The event was recorded by MCTV and will be broadcast on channel 22 at noon and 3 p.m. on Oct. 13, Oct. 14 and Oct. 15.
FEATURE
THE WOOSTER BLADE | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 6
Annual Woosterfest wiener dog race delights participants ANNA NACCI feature editor
A hush fell over the crowd as the participants jumped in anticipation. Once the announcer said “Go,” they were off, their little legs carrying them as fast as they could. On Sept. 29, Woosterfest’s wiener dog race took place. Along with racing, the participants were also judged on their costumes. Oscar, a dog in the Bratwurst category (ages three through five) won the costume contest, according to his owner Jenny Schaffter. This year’s event was sponsored by Cleveland Road Animal Hospital. Along with being the event’s
sponsor, Cleveland Road Animal Hospital collaborates with other community businesses to provide the prize baskets, according to veterinarian Chad Bailey from Cleveland Road Animal Hospital. Bailey said that he and Stephanie Bailey also sat in as guest judges on both the race and the costume contest. Melissa Chesanko, owner of Greta, a 14 year-old member of the Knockwurst division, described the event as amazing, saying, “I can’t believe that Wooster has this... I’ve always wanted to race her in one, and then they started having one here.” This year’s event was the second of its kind.
How to adopt at Wayne County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center 1. Fill out the application, either online or in person. 2. Spend time with your desired dog. 3. Provide proof of residence. 4. Sign contract and other forms pertaining to the dog being adopted. Information courtesy of the Wayne County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center
RACHAEL SCHMIDT
Top left: The officiator of one of the races holds a winner. Bottom left: Melissa Chesanko holds her 14-year-old dachshund, Greta, after the races concluded. Right: A dachshund dressed as Tyrannosaurus Rex prepares to race after the costume contest took place and races were about to begin.
Pet adoption proves important to community members BRYN SAVIDGE staff writer
They say that a dog is person’s best friend. This common saying actually holds truth; although caring for an animal is a big commitment, adopting a dog has numerous benefits. Audrey Van Lieu (11), WHS student and dog owner, adopted her furry friend, Rascal, eight years ago. Van Lieu has noticed a significant impact her dog has had on her overall well-being and states, “He [her dog] makes me happier and less stressed.” Katelyn Lehman, director at Wayne County Dog a
Shelter, adds that anyone can experience the psychological benefits of dog adoption, “as long as you provide the love, care, and attention that each dog deserves.” Christine Nielsen, local resident who breeds Goldendoodle puppies, is also aware of the impact. With dogs and a family of her own, Nielsen acknowledges additional benefits. “Having a dog in a family brings a sense of union to the family. To a family, a dog is something to bond over and care about as a singular unit,” Nielsen said. Nielsen also mentions that owning a dog requires structure and a sense of purpose.
However, these benefits are not easily acquired. Nielsen recognizes the great deal of responsibility that comes with adoption, stating adopting is, “a lot of work in the beginning-- much like caring for an infant--so, having patience is also important. One must be willing to give time to a dog-- physical activity and affection are necessary for healthy growth of a dog.” Nielsen and Van Lieu concur that the psychological benefits of adopting a dog are worth the hardships. In addition, Nielsen added that regardless of the situation, “a dog that feels loved will love in return.”
TRENDS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | OCT. 10, 2018 | PAGE 7
H&M
Designers focus on clothing sustainability
H&M has incorporated sustainable fashion into their company. Their Conscious Collection offers sustainable clothing using organic fabrics in order to be environmentally conscious. Fabrics such as recycled cashmere, wool, polyester and velvet are introduced in this line of clothing.
MOLLY SCHNEIDER trends editor
CONSCIOUS EXCLUSIVE Silk-blend Dress $119
Paper-bag Pants $39.99
Photos courtesy of H&M
Lori Smith
CONSCIOUS EXCLUSIVE Velvet Skirt $59.99
Local Roots Artist is one business local who utilizes recycled mittens made out of old sweaters so they do not end up in a landfill and sells it through Local Roots.
An upcoming trend that is happening throughout the 2018 fashion industry is reusing different parts of clothing so the item is not wasted. So, what is the importance of this action? According to Marlene Boyer, a Family and Consumer Science Dept. member at WHS, her students study how fabric used in clothing impacts the environment and how much of it is thrown away after use. Boyer said it is important to recycle these clothes by purchasing, if one’s budget can afford it, more expensive clothes that can last longer and giving it to a repurpose shop to reuse that item. This term of recycling clothing because it affects the environment is called sustainable clothing, according
Lovinski said. Palomo-Lovinski and Boyer encourage their students to use recycled materials in their classes to make their clothing. Palomo-Lovinski also explains that the difference between the two confused terms when talking about recycled clothing, sustainable and ethical, is that sustainable is socially and environmentally sensitive and ethical refers to it not being made in a sweatshop. There are businesses at Local Roots who use recycled materials such as Mittens by Lori. Lori Smith is the owner of this business, in which she makes handmade wool mittens out of wool sweater, according to Smith. Smith said she reuses these sweaters to prevent them from being put in landfills and the mittens are warm for hands, just like other mittens are.
Patagonia The popular clothing company, Patagonia is among the companies which are very environmentally friendly who strive to recycle garments. One of their kinds of clothing, Worn Wear, utilizes used Patagonia clothing to construct new items in order to cutback on fabric waste.
W’s Pelage Coat Raw Linen - Used $90
Photos by Maddy McCully
to Boyer. Also, associate professor in fashion at Kent State University, Noel Palomo-Lovinski, said recycling clothing is important because these clothing materials contain many dyes in them and that it is not beneficial for the environment. “Americans discard literally tons of fabric in landfills each year. Fabric has tons of chemicals from dyes, finishes, flame-retardants etc. which never goes away and leeches into soil and the water supply. Fabric is predominantly made from cotton and polyester. Polyester comes from fossil fuels which is bad for the environment. Cotton requires a huge amount of water, contributes to soil degradation and requires a massive amount of pesticides that are carcinogens and mutagens. It is a vicious cycle that needs to be slowed down,” Palomo-
M’s Cotton Minimalist Wavefarer® Board Shorts - 17” Basin Green - Used $35
W’s Morning Glory Dress Amaranth - Used $35 - $40
Photos courtesy of Patagonia
COVER
THE WOOSTER BLADE | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 8
The convenience of plastics causes environmental strain RACHAEL SCHMIDT cover editor According to Dr. Carri Gerber, associate professor and program coordinator of biochemical sciences, environment, and natural resources at ATI, the United States produces over 300 million tons of plastic each year but only 10 percent of plastic is recycled. Matt Mariola, assistant professor of environmental studies at the COW, said plastic continues to be used because it is convenient. “If you are a manufacturer, from the point of view of both the cost of your raw materials and the convenience factor, it just makes more sense to use plastic to put in your product. Glass is heavier and more breakable. Plastic is light and resists breaking. Wood and metal are heavy and cost a lot more money,” Mariola said.
“WE ARE A ONE USE, THROWAWAY SOCIETY, WHERE SELF-INTEREST OVERRIDES THE COLLECTIVE INTEREST,” GERBER SAID. According to Gerber, the six most common types of plastics used are polyethylene terephthalate (PETE), highdensity polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polystyrene (PS), with PETE
and HDPE being the most commonly recycled. According to Shelly Silvaggi, Science Dept. member, all plastic ends up thrown away, and spends a majority of time in landfills or as pollutants. “About 79 percent of plastics, which could be recycled, end up in a landfill or as pollution. Regulated waste management is employed throughout the United States. As a result, the primary issues are resource waste and landfill space. In other countries, where proper waste management is not given, open dumps still exist, which gives way to plastics ending up as litter and plastic pollution in waterways,” Silvaggi said. Mariola said when plastic does not make its way to the proper facilities, it ends up in the environment. “Once it is out in the environment it breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces, we call these microplastics; these microplastics can then be consumed by animals or make their way to streams and then rivers and, ultimately, all the way to the ocean,” Mariola said. Mariola also included that there is estimated to be 4.5 trillion microplastic pieces in the ocean. Gerber emphasized that burning plastic releases toxic fumes and ash that can end up in waterways, and discarded plastic that ends up in the environment can lead to cancers, birth defects and developmental disorders. “We are a one use, throwaway society, where self-interest overrides the collective interest,” Gerber said. Ultimately, while plastic is cheap and affordable, it can have poor long term effects on the environment.
&cons of plastic
Sorting out the pros Pros:
“Using plastic to exploit the power of the wind can reduce a ship’s fuel consumption considerably, which means lower oil consumption and less carbon dioxide emissions.” “When properly installed, plastic insulation can cut heat or cold loss at home or school by up to 70 percent, making it so much warmer or cooler, cosier and energyefficient.” “Plastic is an ideal material for use in car manufacturing. A modern mid-range car contains about 11 percent plastic material components. That means less weight, less fuel consumption and therefore less carbon dioxide emissions.” “Wind power is free, but did you know that capturing the power of the wind would be impossible without plastics? Special plastics are used in the wind turbine covers and huge blades to tap into this environmentally friendly energy source.”
Cons: “Crustaceans tested at the ocean’s deepest point, Mariana Trench, had ingested plastic.” “Well known coffee company Starbucks produces 4 billion coffee cups, made of just 10% post-consumer recycled fiber, each year.” “Tens of billions of bags of chips are sold each year by companies like Pepsi Co.” “Annually, approximately 500 billion plastic bags are used worldwide. More than one million bags are used every minute.” “Since the 1950s, around 8.3 billion tons of plastic have been produced worldwide.” “A million plastic bottles are bought around the world every minute” “90 percent of plastic polluting our oceans is carried by just 10 rivers.” “Plastic is killing more than 1.1 million seabirds and animals every year.” “‘Microplastics’ are pieces of plastic that are less than 5mm long. Microplastics can come from larger pieces of plastic that have broken down over and over again. Or, microplastics can be manufactured. For example, pre-production industrial plastic pellets or plastic ‘micro-scrubbers’ in face wash are considered microplastics.” “The average person eats 70,000 microplastics each year.” Facts collected by Emily Jewell from futurenergia.org, globalcitizen.org, and marinedebris.noaa.gov
THE WOOSTER BLADE | COVER | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 9
How important is it to you to recycle on a scale from one to three (three being most important)?
2
1
3
WCSD commits to recycling throughout schools DAVID CHENG views editor
11%
52%
37%
WHS students discuss their recycling habits Do you believe the Yes 36% school encourages No 64% you to recycle? Does your household recycle? Yes 86%
No 14%
What items does your household recycle? 71% Paper 64% Glass 91% Cardboard 85% Cans 91% Plastics
Polls conducted by Sophie Gamble and Leo Riley Oct. 2 through Oct. 5 in academic assists and study halls. Graphics by Alexis Florence.
At WHS, students have access to recycling bins in classrooms and hallways to throw away trash properly. Although it may seem harmless at first, throwing something that should not be in recycling, like a dirty soda can, ruins the whole bag. Vanessa Pidgeon, WHS custodian, said that “Once the bag gets ruined with food, it’s done.” To increase recycling in the school, students should understand what the school recycles and what it does not. According to a handout used by the custodians, which was provided by Pidgeon, clean aluminum cans, foil, pie tins, steel cans, plastic types one through seven, newspaper, corrugated cardboard, paper board, office paper, brown paper bags, junk mail, phone books, magazines, clean glass bottles and jars can all be recycled at WHS, while anything else cannot be recycled. Even if it is a plastic or another item that is normally able to recycled, the school might not be able to recycle it. On that same handout, milk
cartons, although typically recyclable, cannot be recycled at WHS. The reason the school recycles what it does, according to Manager of Building and Grounds Michael Foore, is that “We [WCSD] have different programs and locations for different items. In the typical classroom containers, we want plastics, aluminum cans, paper and cardboard. We have an area in the district warehouse for electronics, textbooks/ old library books and heavier scrap metals. The electronics and book recycle programs also help to supply underprivileged areas in our county and local communities.” Just this past year, the entire school district saved more than 100 tons during the 2017-2018 school year. Dr. Tefs stated in a WCSD press release that “This is the first time we have decided to track how much we are recycling and are proud we have kept 107 tons from the landfill. We will continue our efforts and hope to increase our tonnage each and every year.” Recycling is important, because as Foore stated, we owe it to our communities and to the future generations to put an emphasis on recycling.
Recyclable items at WHS: -aluminum cans -steel cans -plastic #1-#7 & beverage containers - bundled newspaper
-corrugated cardboard -office paper & brown paper bags -magazines -glass bottles and jars
THE WOOSTER BLADE | COVER | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 10
Local businesses make an effort to recycle JACOB GOOCH, JACOB NURSE & MASON GARCIA webmaster & staff writers Wooster businesses and the greater community are making efforts to recycle. Jordan Smith, owner of Spoon Market and Deli, said their business recycles all plastics within their store and utilizes reusable cups, plates and utensils, thus saving tons from the landfill themselves. Looking at another business, Buehler’s Food Markets, a supermarket chain in Northeast Ohio, is making efforts to recycle cardboard. Kathy, from the company, said. In addition, the Milltown location hosts a community recycling center behind the main building, allowing local community members to recycle as well. According to Waste Management’s
HOLLY MILLER
Buehler’s Fresh Foods is one of a myriad of local businesses that encourage recycling. website for Wooster residents, the company contracted with the City of Wooster for waste disposal, every Wooster resident is given a 64-gallon recycling container to put out for curbside pickup.
A day in the life of plastic products about how many classrooms and students are in the school, about 75 classrooms and 1,377 students according to the WCSD website, and now, think about all of the schools in the district, six total, that are adding just as much plastic and trash, as the high school, to the landfill. Even at big events, like sporting events, there is a considerable amount of trash. It is sad to see so much trash on the ground and think GINA VAN LIEU about how much plastic and other feature editor materials are being wasted. With the recent movement of Most of the plastic objects in removing plastic from restaurants, classrooms are reusable, but what zoos and everyday life, I wanted to about plastic objects that can not see how much plastic students use at be reused like plastic baggies for school in a day. lunches or the soft plastic water As I went through the day, I wrote bottles, that are normally thrown down how many plastic objects I away? saw around the school. Think about how much people At the beginning of the day, I could limit their use of plastics by realized how much plastic there washing water bottles and bags and really is. reusing binders and folders from I saw 20 binders, 15 folders, 3 hard past years or giving them to other plastic water bottles, and about 25 people who could use them. chairs, in just one classroom. We need to be aware of how much This might not seem like a lot plastic we are using; if we can reuse of plastic at first, but that was in something we should, and if we can just one classroom. Now, think not reuse it, we should not buy it. Graphics by Corinne Wiles
A&E
THE WOOSTER BLADE | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 11
Art exhibit features international work MAEVE FLORENCE-SMITH staff writer
On Sept. 11, The Ocean After Nature traveling exhibit came to The College of Wooster Art Museum. The exhibit is comprised of different works from 19 traveling artists and art groups from around the world, with the addition of an installation by local Northeast Ohio artist, Julia Christensen.
3 3 0
ALEC PAULEY views editor Founded by Chad Tennent, WOOSH is a food delivery service, similar to Ubereats and GrubHub, which is located in Wooster. After directly messaging the WOOSH Facebook page, I ordered my food via Applebee’s online ordering service, paid online, and messaged back, letting them know that my order was placed. They responded, asking for
All the pieces explore the relationship between the ocean and humans through themes of tourism, trade, migration, resource exploitation and global warming. Mackenzie Clark, a gallery assistant at the College of Wooster Art Museum explains, “This exhibit really hones in on the interactions between humans and the ocean... We can’t really separate humans and nature because we’re so tied to the ocean economically, socially, and politically.” The exhibit conveys these interactions through several mediums: postcards, photographs, songs, movies, maps and several hours of silent videos. Compared to other recent exhibits such as Saints, Relics and Images (2018) and After the Thrill is Gone (2017), this is an unusual exhibit because of all the
different elements. Christensen’s work was an 80-minute time lapse silent video, entitled Cold Snap. The video records the water and ice off Peach Point on South Bass Island on Lake Erie. According to College of Wooster’s Museum curator, Kitty Zurko, the video, “Is a starkly beautiful surveillance film of a winter environment few experience.” Previously, all the galleries that The Ocean After Nature visited, including international galleries, were near oceans. Each time the exhibit traveled there was a local artist featured who did some work about that region and its interactions with the ocean. This is the last stop in The Ocean After Nature’s tour. It will stay at the College of Wooster Art Museum until Nov. 18.
New releases coming in October
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First Man
Movie about NASA’s mission to land a man on the moon, focusing on Neil Armstrong and his perspective. Artwork provided by The College of Wooster Art Museum
Artwork titled “Kim Julja, Dodu Jeju,” is a digital photograph on canvas. This is one of the many pieces being displayed at “The Ocean After Nature” exhibit.
brings rapid food delivery to Wooster my address, and we were all done. Shorter than 15 minutes after our food was ready, it showed up at our door, and I paid the fee (which varies depending on your distance to the restaurant) of $6 and a $2 tip to the driver. Though not an Applebee’s review, the food was great. The food quality was no different than what I would expect if I were sitting at the restaurant. I would definitely recommend ordering from WOOSH for any of your delivery requests. Using Facebook Messenger, I asked a set of questions about WOOSH (along with ordering some shakes) to its owner and founder, Tennent. Tennent explains that WOOSH began on Aug. 11, and that he started and still operates it by himself. WOOSH does not have
any employees; Tennent independently contracts his drivers and only employs one full time driver. Tennent says that originally the idea for a delivery service was an app, but cost and other factors ended that idea. Tennent later revisited the idea, simply using Facebook messenger and made WOOSH into what it is today. Currently, Tennent and any of his drivers drive whatever car they want, but in the future he hopes to have a “fleet” of electric cars to save money on gas for deliveries. Tennent mentions that he has completed a WOOSH delivery that was 20 plus miles away from the restaurant. “We want to expand to Orrville and Ashland before long. We’ll go as far as the customer wants as long as they are fine with the delivery fee,”
In film...
Tennent said. I also asked what was the most amount of food or how many people they would/could deliver for. Tennent responded with, “We have delivered to 15 people with ease, so I am sure we can cater to almost any crowd.” Tennent said for the future of WOOSH, he wants to expand. “We are currently working on an app and website. We are looking into four different cities for expansion, and also adding to the list of things we can deliver. We currently deliver food from restaurants and groceries, but are looking for roughly four more features to add to that list in the next five years.” Tennent, inspired to bring more of a convenience to Wooster, hopes to expand into other smaller cities as well. Graphic by Jacob Gooch
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Halloween
Michael Myers, crazed killer, escapes the institution and returns Halloween night for another series of killing.
The Hate U Give
Starr Carter attempts to balance the two worlds she lives in. But, her world shatters after the death of her childhood best friend.
In music...
Lil Yachty Nuthin’ 2 Prove
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Lukas Graham 3 (The Purple Album) The 1975 A Brief Inquiry of Online Relationships All information courtesy of Rolling Stone and Movie Insider
THE WOOSTER BLADE | A&E | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 12
Fall movie and music releases entertain and highlight talent Tha Carter V pushes musical boundaries
LENA WIEBE staff writer Lil Wayne does not succeed in reviving his old self in Tha Carter V. He does not need to. Instead, the album, which has been overshadowed by lawsuits and a seven year wait, reflects a necessary growth and maturity
as a musician. While Lil Wayne is famous for being one of the greatest hiphop wordsmiths in decades, his songs have ultimately lacked a personal element for most of his career. Tha Carter V changes that. From the first track on the album, “I love you Dwayne,” Wayne’s mother appears in spoken word interludes and offers us some insight into who he is and his past. Though the album becomes a bit of a slog toward the middle, Lil Wayne manages to sustain his clever lyrics layered over original beats and he really gets a chance to shine in tracks like “Famous,” where his daughter, Reginae Carter, contributes
almost mournful vocals layered over what at first glance seems to be Wayne’s usual braggadocio. Wayne also uses his starstudded collaborations list to its full advantage, as seen in “Mona Lisa,” where he and Kendrick Lamar weave an otherworldly narrative about a deceptive girlfriend who sets up all of her lovers to be robbed, or in “Dark Side of the Moon,” where Nicki Minaj adds a soulful element with her surprisingly vulnerable singing, reminiscent of swing or jazz. Ultimately, I highly recommend that anyone who is interested in a journey - in musical style and character listens to it.
Venom thrills comic fan
GRIFFIN MURPHY sports editor Venom, starring Tom Hardy, is an interesting take on the backstory of the well-known Spiderman villain known as Venom. The movie takes a different take on the character than the traditional comic book back story originally had. The directors do a good job of making the character feel like the same one from the comics, while not being able to use the character Spider-man, who is a main component in the original Venom story.
Iridescence breaks barriers
Family friendly film sets fall mood
JULIA HOOTMAN staff writer The House With a Clock in its Walls is a thrilling movie and is perfect for the whole family during the coming Halloween season. After the death of his parents,
Lewis Barnavelt (Owen Vaccaro) goes to live with his odd, warlock Uncle Jonathan (Jack Black) in a creepy clock infested house. There, he must aid his uncle in finding a mysterious clock with the power to end the world. The House With a Clock in its Walls portrays Lewis as a geeky, lovable child desperate to fit in with his peers. Lewis spends his time learning new words from his dictionary and idolizing his favorite comic book characters. His adventures and witty banter with his uncle are funny and entertaining. The movie is not too scary, making it a family friendly film.
The dialogue is sometimes cheesy and the plot seems rushed at times. There could have been a more intense build up to the climax. Teenagers may not enjoy this movie as much as tweens or older children would because of some immature subjects. “Indomitable” is an adjective Lewis Barnavelt uses throughout the movie. According to the MerriamWebster Dictionary, it means incapable of being subdued. After seeing The House With a Clock in its Walls, I believe this movie is a truly indomitable film that is appropriate for the entire family.
The character of Eddie Brock could have been built upon more than it was because it felt like we were thrown into this character’s life where venom is introduced without really knowing a lot of his backstory the character before the opening scenes in the movie apart from his journalism. The relationship flourished between Venom and Eddie Brock and it was impressive to see the bond the movie was able to exemplify between those two characters and show the almost bromance that was able to form. I enjoyed the comedic elements of the story that I was not expecting that allowed for nice breaks between the action sequences or serious moments in the movie. Overall, I would say this movie was amazing and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys superheroes or action movies and I would give it five stars if I had to rank it.
MADISON HELMS staff writer On Sept. 21, boyband Brockhampton dropped their fourth album Iridescence, which brought so much heat, the album cover had to be taken by a thermal camera. Brockhampton is a selfproclaimed “All American boyband” that consists of vocalists Kevin Abstract, Matt Champion, Merlyn Wood, and
Dom Manwa, along with Joba and Bearface as both vocalists and producers. Iridescence is a beautifully thought out alternative hiphop/ rap album with 15 songs, each of which showcases all of the vocalists’ talents and covering a wide range of emotions. Ranging from mellow songs such as “TONYA” and “SAN MARCOS”, to songs you just can not help but dance to, like “HONEY”, even to songs you can cry to such as “WEIGHT,” Iridescence has a song for every mood. Iridescence is an eye opening album that breaks barriers and touches on issues which are often ignored in the rap community, such as mental illnesses and being part of the LGBTQ+ community.
SPORTS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 13
WHS girls golf team caps off their first season in competitive play EMILY JEWELL focus editor
This year marks the inaugural season of the WHS girls golf team, who finished their season on Oct. 3. Mark Snowbarger, who previously coached the boys golf team for 13 years and assisted for four, is now in his first year of coaching the girls. In looking at this season, Snowbarger said his biggest advice for the girls after their season is to get out on the course and practice “We have a lot of potential,
and it all depends on how they use that potential, and whether they go out and play,” Snowbarger said. The team consisted of three freshmen, Mackenzi Ahrens, Sammy Amier and Ashley Ragusa as well as two sophomores, Arielle Mettler and Madison Schroer. One of the sophomores, Madison Schroer, said she improved her game from the beginning of season to the end. She also notes the team, as a whole, worked together to form supportive friendships. “We did well forming a very
tight team bond that I think goes beyond being teammates; we formed a very close friendship,” Schroer said. Ashley Ragusa (9) said the team lacked experience, as this was their first year as a program. “We lacked experience because, for the most part, we were all pretty new to the sport,” Ragusa said. The teams’ biggest in conference competition was Ashland and Lexington, as well as Jackson in sectionals, according to Schroer. On a final note, Schroer
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARTY’S STUDIO
Mackenzi Ahrens, Ashley Ragusa, Madison Schroer, Arielle Mettler and Sammy Amier are members of the Wooster High School girls golf team. wished to send a message to other girls at WHS: “If girls are thinking about playing golf they absolutely should. We have so much fun and get along so well. Golf is an amazing
sport and people should definitely come out next year.” The girls concluded their first season on Oct. 3 and finished in 14 place at sectionals, with a 2-6 overall season record.
Football and Cheer
teach youth girls and boys to have fun and to compete KORBIN REED
staff writer Youth football whether it is flag football, tackle or cheerleading draws in young athletes in the Wooster area. The two leagues that run the football programs in Wooster are the YMCA and Wooster Youth Instructional Football league. Both have the same goal, which is giving kids lots of experience and teaching them good lessons, according to director of the WYIF program Mike Baus. Baus said they are currently in their 24 year of running the program. “We have 25 coaches for football and eight advisers for cheerleading. They teach life lessons all the time, hard work,
how to win and lose, work through adversity, teamwork, dedication and respect,” Baus said. His favorite thing about the program is the enjoyment and excitement that the football players and cheerleaders demonstrate. In the YMCA flag football program, there are 60 to 70 youth who range in ages 8 to 12 and about 50 in the lower league from ages 4 to 7, according to the Packers flag football coach and English Dept. member Brett Hiner. Hiner, who has been coaching flag football for six years, said the YMCA league helps youth learn all the basics and fundamentals. “They learn positions, teamwork, and hand-eye
GRACE BROWNSON
Both of the Wooster youth football leagues, consisting of upward of 70 youth athletes in the upper league and upward of 50 in the lower league, rush onto Follis Field before Wooster High School’s football program takes the field to conquer the West Holmes Knights during the Homecoming game on Sept. 28. coordination skills and in the upper league, they learn routes and positions,” Hiner said. Hiner said these things help the kids get better and prepare them for the future. The tackle part of the WYIF program consists of grades
four through six. The coaches teach them tackling techniques and how to play as a team, according to Frank Meese. Meese said the youth are very competitive and have lots of fun. “The program teaches them
how to play as a team and compete and that’s the goal,” Meese said. According to the two coaches they teach the young athletes fundamentals and good life lessons. The leagues comes to an end in October.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | SPORTS | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 14 Volleyball record: 14-5 and currently third in the OCC.
Mason Frazier swings on to state Two years after his first appearance, earning a tie for 55 place as a freshman, boys golf captain Mason Frazier (11) returns to represent the Generals at the state golf tournament.
Girls tennis: 8-6 record and finished second in the OCC.
REECE MITCHELL sports editor
Football record: 5-2 and currently first in the OCC.
Boys’ soccer record: 7-5-1 and finished in a first place tie in the OCC. Girls soccer record: 8-5 and third in the OCC currently.
Boys and girls cross country finished first at the Orrville meet and will compete at OCC’s on Oct. 13.
Mason Frazier (11), captain of the WHS golf team, has qualified for the state tournament and is mentally preparing for postseason play. This season, the Wooster Generals, led by Frazier, ended the season with a 4-2 record, and Frazier said they thrived in the league’s competition. When looking at what has helped Frazier this season, he said that his hard work and dedication has helped him throughout the season. “I attribute my success to all the hard work I put in every day on the golf course,” Frazier said. John Karamas, golf head coach and WHS Math Dept. member, says Frazier was on the golf course every day this summer working on his game. Frazier has been on varsity golf team for the past three years, so he said he has plenty of experience playing in the spotlight. Frazier adds that his dad has been his biggest mentor all of his life and also attributes his success to, “a great group of guys who support each other, but still aren’t afraid to tell each other when something is wrong.” Mcguire Corbin (11), who has been playing golf with Frazier since his freshman year, said Frazier adds much to the team dynamic. “He pushes us to be better every day and is a great leader, while we help him laugh and worry less, so he can focus not
just on the sport, but having a good time,” Corbin said. Frazier strove to return to state this year and hopes to get better while making his teammates better. Corbin greatly appreciates being Frazier’s teammate because he is such a positive influence on his teammates. “Playing with Mason is fun because he plays to not only win, but he knows how to have fun for himself and make everyone around him happy too while making us all better,” Corbin said. Karamas said Frazier works hard to achieve the success he
has experienced and notes that his hard work shows results. “He expects great things to come because of all the hard work he has put in and with all the experience Mason has had...to be part of these last few years has only given him that advantage,” Karamas said. Frazier looks to use that advantage at states after playing in the district tournament on Oct. 8. He scored a 74 at districts, qualifying him for state competition. Frazier looks to represent his team, coach, and school as he continues competing.
Mason Frazier admires his shot out of the fairway to open OCC competition. Wooster would go on to defeat the Knights by five strokes. Volleyball, tennis, football, and soccer photos by Theresa Wendell. Cross country photo by Alexis Florence. Graphics by David Cheng. Mason Frazier photo courtesy of Dan Starcher. Records and OCC standings gathered by Griffin Murphy.
VIEWS
Recounting the past year of #MeToo and its empowerment of survivors
RACHAEL SCHMIDT & ANNA NACCI cover editor & feature editor Last October, #MeToo exploded on social media, specifically Twitter, after American actress Alyssa Milano tweeted, “If you’ve been sexually harassed or assaulted
write ‘me too’ as a reply to this tweet.” In response to Milano’s tweet, many celebrities and Twitter users shared their stories with #MeToo and Hollywood
Testimony of Ford and Kavanaugh provides reminder of Hill injustice
HENRY GAMBLE focus editor
The recent testimony of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford to the Senate Judiciary Committee, accusing President Trump’s
Supreme Court nominee, Judge Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault in high school, draws parallels to the Clarence Thomas-Anita Hill allegations 27 years ago. The circus-like attitude throughout the hearings and President Trump’s comments on Ford have created an atmosphere of disrespect and sexism on Capitol Hill. Kavanaugh’s own testimony did nothing but show the American people the partisan attitude and uncontrolled temperament of the nominee.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 15 backed the #MeToo movement by wearing all black attire at the 2018 Golden Globes and pins at the 2018 Oscars in support of sexual assault survivors. However, the Me Too movement started long before it was brought to light in 2017. According to metoomvmt. org, the Me Too movement was started in 2006 by Tarana Burke, an activist for civil rights, in an effort to help survivors of sexual assault. Burke’s movement advocated to help women of color and young women in low income communities with no other outlet to talk about the trauma of sexual assault. The true history of the Me Too movement is not discussed nearly enough. While the activism induced by popular Hollywood stars on social media brings much needed attention to the issue of sexual assault, we should not lose sight of how the Me Too movement really started, with Tarana Burke.
#MeToo is a positive movement, meant to encourage victims to speak up and seek help. With one year having gone by since the hashtag erupted on social media, we hope victims continue to feel support from the movement.
Recently, #WhyIDidn’tReport has sprung to life due to backlash against #MeToo, especially regarding the doubts some raised about those making allegations against Judge Brett Kavanaugh. It is terrible that women are afraid to report what happened
to them because they are worried they will be blamed or no one will believe them. #WhyIDidn’tReport gives women the opportunity to describe why they felt like they could not report the assault. Victims of sexual assault should not be alone in their healing process. Movements similar to Me Too are necessary, as many victims of assault are petrified to tell their stories. People in our country have a terrible habit of either blaming or immediately discrediting a victim, especially if the alleged assaulter is in a position of power. Many Americans believe that flirting, alcohol consumption or even certain articles of clothing are an invitation to be assaulted. While #MeToo and #WhyIDidn’tReport are certainly steps in the right direction, however, our country is still miles away from a solution.
If one of Kavanaugh’s responses could represent the entire testimony, it would be his aggressive and unprofessional reply to Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar when she asked if he had ever gotten to the point of blacking out while drinking. In response, Kavanaugh fired back, asking her the same question without providing an answer. In a testimony where the word “beer” was mentioned 53 times, according to an article written for Vox titled “Blackout Drinking, explained for Brett Kavanaugh;” Kavanaugh painted a picture of himself to the American people. He spoke of his fondness of beer and weightlifting as he described his passion for sport and academics. His uncomposed character and unruly attitude dominated the testimony showing a
temperament which prompted the American Bar Association to reconsider his rating, according to an article written for Fox News titled “American Bar Association reconsiders supporting Kavanaugh due to temperament.” Kavanaugh’s testimony and Ford’s testimonies contradict each other in many ways and in both stories, there is some essential information missing. However, Ford’s claims that Kavanaugh attempted to rape her in the summer of 1983 have been supported by several descriptions of Kavanaugh’s character while in high school and college. Anita Hill’s testimony 27 years ago is extremely similar to the Kavanaugh/Ford testimonies; both have been grilled for their credibility and have been mocked by senators and presidents alike. A former drinking partner
of Kavanaugh from his time spent at Yale, Chad Ludington, has come forth to explain Kavanaugh’s frequent drinking tendencies at Yale, putting in question several statements he made during his testimony. The only trace of bipartisanship within the nomination process was Republican Senator Jeff Flake who voted to approve Kavanaugh only under the conditions of an FBI investigation. In a time of increased political tensions, the Kavanaugh/ Ford testimonies have created an even larger political divide between Republicans and Democrats. The recent polarization of American politics brings back memories of a darker time for women and a time before the #MeToo movement; a time of Anita Hill and her inhumane treatment by politicians.
“#METOO IS A POSITIVE MOVEMENT, MEANT TO ENCOURAGE VICTIMS TO SPEAK UP AND SEEK HELP.”
THE WOOSTER BLADE | VIEWS | OCT. 12, 2018 | PAGE 16
WOOSTER
BLADE
Editors-in-Chief John Gorman, Alexa Mitchell Webmaster Jacob Gooch Graphics Manager Jacob Gooch, Catherine Strong Business Manager Anna Nacci On Campus Editor Clara Lee Investigative Feature Editor Alexis Florence Focus Editor Henry Gamble, Rheanna Velasquez, Emily Jewell Sports Editor Reece Mitchell, Griffin Murphy A & E Editors Skyy Khounborin, Melina Mera, Catherine Strong Trends Editor Molly Schneider, Corinne Wiles Cover Editors Maddy McCully, Holly Miller, Rachael Schmidt Views Editors David Cheng, Alec Pauley Feature Editors Anna Nacci, Gina Van Lieu Staff Writers Keifer Dilyard, Maeve FlorenceSmith, Sophie Gamble, Mason Garcia, Madison Helms, Julia Hootman, Jacob Nurse, Korbin Reed, Leo Riley, Paulina Salazar, Bryn Savidge, Mya Vandegrift, Theresa Wendell, Lena Wiebe Head Photographer Maddy McCully Photographers Grace Brownson, Alexis Florence, Jacob Gooch, Maddy McCully, Reece Mitchell, Rachael Schmidt, Theresa Wendell Artists Haley Balas, Catherine Strong Adviser Kristi Hiner The Wooster Blade is a biweekly student publication printed every other Friday by the Newspaper Production classes at Wooster High School. The paper is designated as an open forum and follows publishing guidelines as established in a district-wide publications policy protecting students’ freedom of expression. All copy, art and photography are property of The Wooster Blade and cannot be reproduced without permission. Letters to the editor are limited to 300 words and The Wooster Blade reserves the right to print and edit as per length and content. The Wooster Blade is a member of Quill and Scroll, National Scholastic Press Association and Columbia Scholastic Press Association. The Wooster Blade is printed in cooperation with Wooster’s The Daily Record. Letters and inquiries should be addressed to The Wooster Blade, 515 Oldman Road Wooster, Ohio 44691. The Wooster Blade can be contacted at 330-345-4000 ext. 3210. The newspaper can also be found at thewoosterblade.com
THE VOICE OF WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL
THE
Student hangs consent posters in WHS restrooms JACOB GOOCH webmaster
Beginning in the last week of September, WHS students began to see posters addressing consent and sexual assault within WHS restrooms. These posters were placed by a junior at WHS, who wishes to remain anonymous because the student said, “...by attaching an individual name to the movement makes it seem a lot more closed off.” This student worked on this project with the assistance of a guidance counselor and a WHS administrator.
“We needed not only a definition of consent to be defined, but resources for what to do if you are a victim of violated consent,” the student said. This student said she was inspired by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network because she saw many misconceptions about what consent means and sexual assault is common. The information on the posters originated from RAINN’s website as the “National Sexual Assault Hotline” poster is a RAINN publication, and the “Consent.” poster combines information from RAINN in regard to what consent is, the fact it is never the
victim’s fault and within the Wooster City School District actions to be taken after sexual assault takes place. The poster project was supported by Tyler Egli, WHS guidance counselor, because, “The posters came from a student initiative to raise awareness… and I supported the student.” Moving forward the student responsible for the posters said she intends to work with the WHS administration on informing the student body of the importance of consent education, work to stop the defacing of the posters and work to keep the issue of sexual assault at the forefront of WHS discussions.
OUR VIEW
Issues of assault and consent demand attention Two out of three. According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network’s website, every two out of three sexual assaults go unreported to the police. Sexual assault, harassment and abuse, especially among minors, may be a topic that is uncomfortable to discuss, but it is because of the lack of discussion that victims feel isolated and that topics of consent are misunderstood. Recently, a junior student collaborated with administration and guidance to hang up posters addressing sexual assault and consent in WHS bathrooms. “It’s important that this conversation begins as young as possible, so that people grow up with the correct definition of consent and sexual assault in mind. When we educate the youth on these topics, we start an important discussion that can create a culture where assault is taken seriously, victims are not blamed, and consent is understood as it should be,” the student said. To further reiterate this point, Kenneth Rogers Jr., Rape Abuse and Incest National Network speakers’ bureau member, author of Heroes, Villains, and Healing: A Guide for Male Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse Using D.C. Comic Superheroes and
Villains and WHS English Dept. member, explained the need to discuss consent and sexual assault in high school. Rogers acknowledges that some people may believe a discussion around sexual assault in high school may be too mature for students, but he also explains that “Boys and girls should be having this conversation, so that everyone understands what consent means, and so no one gets hurts.” The consent posters were met with mixed reactions from the student body. Editorial board members and other students noticed the posters being defaced in the men’s restrooms with phallic symbols, while one also displayed, “She was asking for it,” at the bottom of the poster. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board thinks a more responsible discussion should have happened around the message of the posters by giving students an introduction to the topic before they were displayed; however, the board still denounces the actions of those individuals who would vandalize posters containing vital information for students. The dismissal of the topic of sexual assault and consent by vandalism further proves the necessity of the topic to be discussed.
“I am outraged that people have the disrespect to deface the posters that represent so many issues within our society. The thing is, that they don’t understand that they’re only proving my point further,” the student who put up the posters said. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board would like the WHS administration to begin the discussion about sexual assault by more clearly communicating with students about how to report such crimes by mentioning it in an assembly, placing information on the school website and providing more materials and opportunities to further explain the concept of consent. Tyler Egli, WHS guidance counselor, explained that students often do not know where to turn when confronted with sexual assault, harassment or abuse. “... We know a lot of our students, sadly, experience sexual harassment or assault… a lot of the time it [sexual assault] will happen and a student doesn’t know where to go,” Egli said. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board commends the initiative of the student who hung up the posters and advocates for more discussion and action from the administration on the subject of sexual assault, harassment and abuse.