THE WOOSTER BLADE
WOOSTER HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NEWSPAPER • 515 OLDMAN ROAD, WOOSTER, OH • JAN. 25, 2019 • VOLUME XIX, ISSUE 8
How the power of habits shape our daily lives Illustrations courtesy of Emma Yoder
INDEX
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 2
3 On Campus • 4-5 Focus • 6-7 Feature • 8-9 Cover 10-11 A&E • 12-13 Sports • 14 Trends • 15-16 Views Pep Band pg. 10
United Way pg. 5
Athlete Features pg. 13
MLK Essay Contest pg. 6
Animal Habits pg. 9
9th Period Podcast pg. 3
Photos by Alexis Florence, Rachael Schmidt, Maddy McCully, Reece Mitchell and courtesy of Dan Adams.
THE WOOSTER BLADE
Editors-in-Chief John Gorman, Alexa Mitchell • Webmaster Jacob Gooch • Graphics Managers Jacob Gooch, Catherine Strong • Business Manager Anna Nacci • On Campus Editors Clara Lee, Gina Van Lieu • Investigative Feature Editor Alexis Florence • Focus Editors Henry Gamble, Rheanna Velasquez, Emily Jewell • Sports Editors Reece Mitchell, Griffin Murphy • A & E Editors Skyy Khounborin, Melina Mera, Catherine Strong • Trends Editors Molly Schneider, Corinne Wiles • Cover Editors Maddy McCully, Holly Miller, Rachael Schmidt • Views Editors David Cheng, Alec Pauley • Feature Editor Anna Nacci • Staff Writers Keifer Dilyard, Maeve Florence-Smith, 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, Corinne Wiles • 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
ON CAMPUS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 3
Students host and produce Ninth Period Podcast to entertain audience REECE MITCHELL sports editor
The Ninth Period Podcast, hosted by seniors Adam Frank, Luke Frantz and Kole Emplit, is a school sponsored podcast recorded in the recording studio located in the media center at WHS. Throughout the podcast, the students say they try to discuss everything relevant at the time, ranging from sports to movies and anything in between. Emplit says Mount Rushmores, which is how they classify each person’s top four topics, are how they get new subjects for discussion, and then each person gives their most important topics or big
ideas into which they dive deeper. These topics usually consist of sports or other school activities. The Ninth Period Podcast hosts said they like to have a different guest each time they record a new episode. “We just try and find people with opinions eighth periods that would like to talk and share opinions on different topics,“ Frantz says. The Ninth Period Podcast does not come out on a regular schedule, as the students create a new episode whenever they are all free in order to represent a variety of perspectives. ”We like to get other people’s opinions and topics, and it’s nice to hear other people’s standpoints. Also, we like
giving people a chance to be a part of something we created,” Frank says. The podcast hosts said they were inspired to do their own production by “Pardon My Take,” which is a podcast by Barstool Sports. Frank also notes that in producing their podcast, “they have come a long way from where they started.” In beginning their program, the students said they started production of their podcast by recording their show on cellphones. When the school administration encouraged students to use the STEM Studio/Audio Lab located in the media center, they jumped right on it in order to create their podcast.
CORPORATE SPONSORS Corporate $250
Bogner Construction Company Critchfield, Critchfield, and Johnston LTD. Dyer, Roche and Company
REECE MITCHELL
Luke Frantz (12), Adam Frank (12) and Kole Emplit (12) settle in the studio. The three have recorded six episodes, covering mostly sports based topics. Their Instagram which can be found on (9thperiodpodcast) notifies soundcloud.com at WHS 9th their audience of new releases, Period Podcast.
A barrel of laughs:
Students explore stand-up comedy GRIFFIN MURPHY sports editor
On Dec. 20, 25 students from Kristin Broda’s first semester Improv Comedy class unveiled the Improv Comedy Showcase. The Improv Comedy class was offered for the first time this year, and Broda said she enjoyed everything the students did in this class. “My heart’s in all of the things. I love the spontaneity of Improv. The director in me loves those scripted scenes as well though. It’s hard to just choose one thing,” Broda said. Broda lead her class to 15 different performances including: improv games, stand-up comedy, comedic sketches and one video sketch. Lucas Lindenmuth (12), participant in the improv performances, could not decide on his favorite part explaining that, “from storyboard to the final product it’s been a heck of a blast.” Lindenmuth performed in a comedic
sketch and an improv comedy game. Bryce Nelson (12) participated in many of the different types of the performances and said his favorite part was, “probably the stand-up because it was live, and I’ve always thought it would be fun to do.” Nelson performed stand-up comedy, along with participating in two improv comedy games, the video sketch, as well as a live comedic sketch performance. “The stand-up was the most difficult because the structure behind it is a lot more than people think instead of it being just improvised,” Nelson said. Holden Jackson (12) performed in stand-up comedy and a comedic sketch, as well as an improv comedy game. Jackson agreed with Nelson stating his favorite part was, “The stand up. It was a very personal take that I enjoyed a lot.” The showcase was new this year but according to the students, has a bright future in years to come.
FOCUS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 4
2019 local Women’s March continues progress ANNA NACCI feature editor On Jan. 21, 2017, 5 million people marched on all seven continents in the name of equality for all genders. On Jan. 19, they marched again around the United States. Another wave of the Women’s March took place across the country. As of Jan. 7, 237 marches were scheduled across 46 states, according to Jennifer Mandelblatt, Youth Coordinator for Women’s March, Inc.
One of the 237 marches was set to take place in the Wooster Downtown Square from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., but was cancelled because of the inclement weather. The goals of the 2017 march were to create an intersectional movement, as well as instill hope, Mandelblatt said. While the 2017 march was certainly a success, the purpose of the 2019 walk is to continue the progress made. “The overarching goal of the march is to continue the unfinished work, while
challenging ourselves, and all in the community with us, to continue harnessing their power, learning from each other, and holding those in power accountable to progress,” Mandelblatt said. The march in downtown Wooster planned to showcase many speakers, including Laura Burch, co-leader for the Wooster-Orrville local group of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. Burch, who also participated in the 2017 march, sees much validity in the Jan. 19 rally, as well as other of its kind. “I feel it is important to show, in public, that people of all genders, colors, faith traditions, abilities, and ages are opposed to the abhorrent policies, statements, and actions of the current administration, which include its stance on gun violence. We are for a world that embraces
diversity, sustainability, and nonviolence,” she said. Mandelblatt agrees that the Women’s March is about intersectionality, citing reproductive rights, racial justice, worker’s rights,
“THE OVERARCHING GOAL OF THE MARCH IS TO CONTINUE THE UNFINISHED WORK,” MANDELBLATT SAID. disability rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and environmental justice as part of the agenda. Another speaker at the march,
Shila Garg, agrees that these marches are not only important, but are also urgent. “We believe women representatives can help restore the balance we lack... The Women’s Marches have called attention to the urgency with which we need to act,” she said. While marching is a way for young activists to get involved, it is not the only way. Linda Houston, the organizer of the march, says young activists can also call their representatives, write letters and speak up about issues at local political meetings. Mandelblatt said it is important for younger activists to get involved in the ways suggested by Houston, as well as marching. “The work we are doing together continues long after we head home from the march and we need young people at the forefront,” she said.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | FOCUS | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 5
Fundraising for a cause: United Way Serves local community RHEANNA VELASQUEZ focus editor For over 60 years, United Way of Wayne and West Holmes County has worked to mobilize resources and serve the local community. “Since 1957, people, processes, names and societal issues have changed, but the mission has remained steadfast. We still gather resources and distribute them to area agencies,” executive director Katie Koglman said. United Way’s efforts to gather and distribute resources manifest in an annual fundraising campaign, an intensive months-long process,
the most recent of which set the fundraising goal at $1.3 million. Koglman expressed great optimism, revealing United Way has met, as of Jan. 17, 98 percent of the 2018-19 fundraising goal. “We were offered a challenge by a few local business people to help us reach 100 percent. If we raise the first $15,000.00 before Jan. 29, they will kick in the last $10,000 to push us to 100 percent. The last time we hit goal was in 2011, so this is very exciting. We are confident that come Jan. 31, we will be able to claim victory at 100 percent,” Koglman said. Funds are designated to health and safety net services, among others. According to Koglman, youth
development received the highest amount of designated funds during the 2018-19 campaign, second to greatest need. “We live in a wonderful community and are blessed to have so many people supporting the needs of the less fortunate. Without our amazing donors, we wouldn’t be able to give kids free dental check ups, feed thousands hot meals, or offer treatment for drug addiction. When you give to United Way, it really does make a difference in someone’s life,” Koglman said. Dr. Michael Tefs, Superintendent of WCSD, expressed deep appreciation for the long-standing partnership between WCS and United Way.
“We believe that our partnership, like many partners we have around town, is the most efficient and effective way to positively impact our students and their families. These partnerships aid greatly in service coordination and the delivery of family supports,” Tefs said. According to Director of Elementary Education Karen Arbogast, WCS received $28,250 from United Way in 2018 for the Generals Club before/after school program at Cornerstone. With United Way’s most recent campaign, Arbogast said WCS once again submitted a funding application to allocate funds to the Generals Club program, explaining,
“The Generals Club provides a safe environment for our students before and after school. Reading with an adult, homework help, intervention, enrichment, health/fitness, parent involvement, breakfast/ dinner, are all important parts of the program, as well building relationships with adults and peers. Children who qualify for free or reduced lunches at Cornerstone Elementary School may attend the program free of charge, removing the burden of childcare costs for our families.” One hundred percent of the dollars fundraised through United Way’s annual campaign remain invested in Wayne and Holmes Counties, according to Koglman.
Global Health Issues All events at 7:30 p.m., Gault Recital Hall, Schiede Music Center, 525 E. University St., Wooster | Free and open to the public
The Unseen Enemy Documentary Film Screening Tuesday, Feb. 5
A documentary directed by award winning director Janet Tobias, that explores the global, political, economic, and public health conditions that may contribute to the next global pandemic.
Great Decisions 2019
Before they Strike: Viral Forecasting for Pandemic Prevention Thursday, Feb. 7
Author of The Viral Storm: The Dawn of a New Pandemic Age (2011); Founder and CEO of Metabiota; Founder and Chairman of non-profit Global Viral
The Opioid Crisis: Economic, Legal, and Clinical Perspectives Tuesday, Feb. 19
Sanho Tree Fellow, and Director of Drug Policy Project, of the Institute for Policy Studies Judge Thomas Teodosio Court of Appeals of Ohio, Ninth Circuit District Dr. Nicole T. Labor Associate Medical Director of Addiction Medicine, Summa Physicians; Medical Director of One Eighty
The Complexities of Conducting International Clinical Research Tuesday, Feb. 26
Dr. Diane Jorkasky Executive Vice President, Chief Medical Officer and Head of Development, COMPLEXA, Inc.; Adjunct Professor of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California at San Francisco; COW class of 1973
MADDY MCCULLY
Raising the heat: In downtown Wooster, United Way posted a thermometer to track rising fundraising levels, while also reminding the public of the ongoing campaign and its local impact. With the campaign conducted through the months of August and December, January provides additional weeks for United Way to work toward fulfilling its fundraising goal, according to director Katie Koglman.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2018 | PAGE 6 LEO RILEY & SOPHIE GAMBLE staff writers
NAACP honors MLK with annual essay contest
The annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest had a record number of 1,018 essays submitted, according to Mady Noble, WoosterOrrville NAACP Treasurer and the member of the MLK Day committee in charge of the essay contest. The contest is organized by the Wooster-Orrville NAACP as a way to commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr., according to the NAACP’s website. The prompt for the first age
group, grades first through fourth, was to write about Ruby Bridges and how the writer would feel if they were the first to participate in school integration in New Orleans. The first place for that first category is Nick Altland, who is a fourth grader at Kean Elementary. The first place winner for the fifth through eighth grade division is Allison Snyder, a seventh grader from Edgewood Middle School. This age group was tasked to write about Linda Brown and the Brown v. School Board Supreme Court case.
FEATURE The final category winner was Maeve Florence-Smith (11) writing for the ninth through twelfth grade division. She wrote about Dr. King and the Memphis Sanitation Strike. Second place winners were Andrew James, a third grader at Melrose Elementary, Jacob Hannan, an eighth grader at WHS, and Briana Busic (11) at Rittman High School. Third place winners were Lane Nettle, second grader at Orrville Elementary, Bethany Gingerich, fifth grader at Orrville Middle School, and Jayne Wallace (9) at Orrville High School.
ALEXIS FLORENCE
Segments of student essays highlight influence of King’s teaching On Jan. 21, First Presbyterian Church in downtown Wooster hosted the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration, in which keynote speaker Terri B. Jamison delivered a speech about confronting the injustices that still linger within present day society.
ALEXIS FLORENCE
(Left to Right) Grades 9-12 winners: Maeve Florence-Smith (1st), Briana Busic (2nd), and Jayne Wallace (3rd). Grades 5-8 winners: Allison Snyder (1st), Jacob Hannan (2nd), and Bethany Gingerich (3rd). Grades 1-4 winners: Nick Altland (1st), Andrew James (2nd), and Lane Nettle (3rd).
“...Ruby was escorted into the school by U.S. Federal Marshals, and despite the racial slurs and angry crowds, Ruby didn’t miss a day of school.” -Nick Altland, Kean Elementary “Although the treatment was awful, there was still hope for these kids. Thirteen parents, through the NAACP, agreed to participate in the suit against the Board of Education of Topeka Public Schools (Brown Foundation).” -Allison Snyder, Edgewood Middle School “King’s passion for economic equal rights led him to go to Memphis to show support for the sanitation workers who were on strike there. It was a noble action, but it took him to the place where he was assassinated.” -Maeve Florence-Smith, Wooster High School
THE WOOSTER BLADE | FEATURE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 7
Skilled trade careers overlooked for traditional education RACHAEL SCHMIDT cover editor
Although college is commonly presented as the next step of education after high school, there is a high occupational demand for workers that does not require a four year degree, both nationally and locally within Wayne County. Mike Rowe, founder of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, is an advocate for the skilled trades whose foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students pursuing the skilled trades. According to mikeroweworks.org, the foundation’s mission is, “to help close the skills gap by challenging the stigmas and stereotypes that discourage people from pursuing the millions of available jobs. We’re redefining the definition of a good education and a good job, because we don’t think a four-year degree is the best path for
the most people.” Paul Flechler is a local independent contractor based in Wooster, specializing in heating and cooling along with electrical work, plumbing, and working with realtors, who finds there is a high demand for services like his own. Flechler said today, students believe their only option is to go to college and notes it is sad how much the job opportunities within the field of skilled workers are overlooked. Lynn Moomaw, Director of Operations and Adult Education at the Wayne County Career Center, emphasizes that the growing industries within Wooster and Wayne County are positive additions to the area, but also increase the need for skilled workers. “We’ve had a lot of growth in industry in other areas, you know [including] health care, and that growth has included new skill sets. The way industries operate, the way health care operates, often requires
higher skilled sets. I think we’re trying to catch up with that right now. Especially in our area; there’s been a lot of growth. We’ve added Daisy, GOJO, the hospital [Wooster Community], Cleveland Clinic; all are expanding in some way. Our population in Wooster and the Wayne County area grows a little, but not at that same rate,” Moomaw said. Flechler emphasizes the demand of skilled workers’ effect on his business, saying, “I don’t have to advertise. It’s all word of mouth.” According to Wayne Girbach, Director of Workforce Innovations Network in Wayne County, about four to five years ago, concerns were noted locally on the shrinking labor force. “Both locally and nationally, employers are experiencing difficulties finding and hiring skilled workers. There is some misalignment between labor supply and demand in multiple industry sectors,” Girbach said. Girbach explains a lack of skilled laborers constrains business growth and development, so in Wayne County, the goal is to steer youth toward in-demand companies, attract those with skilled talent and promote talent based practices. Moomaw stated within the WCCC, students are able to plan their career paths. “I think it [studying skilled trades] helps high school students think about what their careers are going to be. Some students think about paying for college. A technical career, like precision machining, engineering, or the LPN program, can lead them into an occupation where they can work and pay for their college or their place of employment can pay for their college,” Moomaw said. Moomaw said local high school students are thinking of more ways to work their way to their career path through attending Wayne College, getting a job, working through college and finding scholarship opportunities. “We all start some place, whether you’re a teacher or an attorney, you start at entry level. It’s the skill sets and the things that you learn as you go on in life that help you move up that career path,” Moomaw said. Flechler said people should pursue careers within the skilled trades because the home owners trust the workers, and it is rewarding how thankful homeowners are.
Projected employment growth 2016-2026 Plumbers, pipefitters, steamfitters 16% (Much faster than average) Construction laborers 12% (Faster than average) Electrical powerline installers/repairers 14% (Faster than average) Electricians 9% (As fast as average) Truck drivers 6% (As fast as average) Sheet metal works 9% (As fast as average) Carpenters 8% (As fast as average) Collected from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
COVER
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 8
Habits should center on goals GINA VAN LIEU on campus editor With the new year started, some people begin working on New Year’s resolutions, but those people may quickly lose their motivation to complete those resolutions. One way to help complete a resolution may be to form it into a habit. A habit is an, “acquired behavior pattern regularly followed,” according to dictionary.com According to Michael Sullivan, Social Studies Dept. member
teaching psychology, there are two ways to form a habit: conscious or unconscious routine formation and chemical substance use. “Neural pathways are formed as new things are learned or if chemicals are introduced to the body,” Sullivan said. Repetition of a behavior leads to a habit because it leads to a routine, which then reinforces the neural pathways that continue the action, according to Sullivan. Robert Taibbi, a licensed clinical social worker for Psychology Today in the article “How to Break Bad Habits,” writes that people need to
DAVID CHENG views editor
Good habits promote healthy lifestyles
Entering into the New Year, many people create resolutions to become healthier, more active, or to take up a new activity. In order to follow the resolutions, it is recommended by the Center for Disease Control, that for a healthy lifestyle, you need to follow healthy habits. The development of these habits can prove to be beneficial for dealing with future complications such as heart disease. According to the CDC, in an informational page about heart disease prevention titled, “Preventing Heart Disease: Healthy Living Habits,” “By living a healthy lifestyle, you can help keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar normal and lower your risk for heart disease and heart attack.”
define the concrete behavior they want to change, identify the triggers, deal with the triggers, develop a substitute plan, change the larger pattern, use prompts, use supports, support and reward yourself, be persistent and be patient. Sullivan says breaking habits requires a conscious decision, and a person must be aware of the pitfalls in order to set goals so that the habit is easier to break. Taibbi also says identifying and dealing with the triggers of the bad habit is a good way to stop the bad habit, noting if the bad habit is eating junk food, then having
Some important components of a good habit in relation to a healthy lifestyle would be maintaining a healthy diet, weight, as well as getting e n o u g h physical activity. Good h a b i t s also help with time management a n d being more responsible, but again, it needs to be learned. According to New York Times reporter Charles Duhigg in his book, “The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business,” around 40 percent of our daily actions are
junk food on the counter is going to trigger the person to want some. One way to avoid this urge, Taibbi says, is to put the junk food somewhere where it is not seen as much or at all. “Breaking habits isn’t about stopping, but substituting,” Taibbi says. Instead of not eating junk food, set out easy-to-eat fruits so that the fruit seems more tempting to eat than the junk food. The thing to keep in mind when trying to break a bad habit is to be persistent and have patience, according to Taibbi.
not actual decisions, but are habits we have trained ourselves to do. When these habits become a routine, it is completely neurological and is ingrained into muscle memory, much like the saying “practice m a k e s perfect,” the same is with habits. The human being is trained into this routine either with rewards or some cue that triggers it. The development of habits are human nature, but what determines the effect of this habit, is dependent on what is learned and how it impacts one’s daily life.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | COVER | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 9
Good study habits promote success
SKYY KHOUNBORIN
Studying with a group One tactic to study better for a test or quiz in any class is to study in a group. According to a SpeedyPrep article titled “7 Benefits of a Study Group,” study groups help when trying to develop a new perspective on a subject. Studying with a group also helps prevent procrastination, and helps students study and have a good time while doing it.
Read over the notes again
Reviewing notes in a subject can be beneficial to someone who likes to study independently. However, instead of just reading over notes, students can make flashcards out of the notes taken in class, which will make it easier to memorize and understand the content, according to the article, “Rereading is inefficient, Here are 8 Tips for Studying Smarter,” written by Joseph Stromberg.
Blurbs by Molly Schneider and book graphic by Cate Strong
Go out to study
Another way to encourage good studying and concentration habits is to change up the scenery. Changing the environment where students study forces the brain to retrieve the same information in a different area, which will make the information more useful to hold onto, according to “10 Smart Study Tactics That Support How The Brain Actually Works,” an article by Saga Briggs.
Animal habits show unique traits in species
Take a nap
According to Briggs, there are studies shown that taking a nap while studying helps memorizing the information for the test. According to an MRI that tested students, those who napped showed a greater activity in the hippocampus, an area in the brain that is critical for developing new memories, compared to those who did not.
a&e editor According to an article written by Weather and Climate titled, “Climate Change - effects on animals, birdlife and plants,” there is evidence that animals are being affected by climate change and global warming in their behavior. Moreover, domestic pets, such as cats and dogs, have many behaviors and habits that are caused by many different factors and help distinguish them from other species. For dogs, many of these unique habits include walking in circles before lying down or defecating and digging. For cats, many habits common to the species include using a scratching post, using a litter box and sleeping the majority of the day. Stephanie Long, Animal Care Specialist at the Wayne County Humane Society, explains the reasoning behind some of the habits in domestic pets. One of the habits most known in cats is their use of a scratching post. “Cats use scratching posts because they have to shed sheeting from their nails. Scratching on a post also helps protect them from nail overgrowth and helps cats stretch out their entire body. Also, cats have scent glands on the bottom of their paws and they use that to mark their territory,” Long said. Whether a dog is laying down or ready to defecate, it can be seen walking in a circle prior to the action.
Long explains, “when dogs walk in a circle, they are checking their surroundings because laying down or going to the bathroom is a very vulnerable position for them to be in. It is natural for most species of animals.” In addition to these habits, an increase and/or decrease in stress or changes in energy level, and temperament issues are some behaviors that are prominent in both species. Jennifer Freeman, Animal Nutrition Specialist for Natural Balance, analyzes the most prominent behaviors in domestic pets and looks at what causes them. “There are several factors that can cause behavioral problems in cats and dogs; environment factors probably being at the top of the list. This could include any sudden changes in their living conditions, weather, loss of human companion, etc. Any type of traumatic event or sound could also cause anxiety/stress. For some animals, however, it can, in general, have a nervous nature, and outside environment factors can make it worse,” Freeman said. Freeman also explains diet can play a major role in the overall behavior of a cat or dog. “Like in humans, a wellbalanced diet will support overall health, and in turn, help with overall behavior,” Freeman said. Cats and dogs, along with other domestic pets, have uncommon habits and behaviors that categorize them into their own species.
A&E
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 10
WHS pep band tradition continues EMILY JEWELL focus editor
WCA offers different classes for everyone LENA WIEBE staff writer
The tradition of the WHS marching band playing at football games is carried on after the fall season and into the winter season with the WHS pep band, which plays at various boys and girls basketball games. Dan Fleischaker has directed the pep band for five years, and according to Fleischaker, the purpose of the band is to play at home basketball games and, “to have a live band as entertainment rather than playing music over the PA system.” Clarinet player Zella Papp (11) describes the pep band experience from the point of view of one of the band’s members. “I personally enjoy it because it brings back Photo Courtesy of Dan Adams memories from marching band and the music is fun to play. Plus, I get to be with my friends,” Kyle Kirby (12) plays the trombone for the pep band before a home basketball game for Papp said. Fleischaker, as well as Papp, describe that pep the Wooster Generals during a pep rally. band is a volunteer option for the band members, however, it is recommended members attend at least one game during the season. Ben Haven (11), baritone player, describes his favorite part about being in pep band. “I like pep band because I get to play my favorite marching band songs, as loud as possible, while supporting my friends play basketball,” Haven said. Varsity basketball point guard, Dylan Dagley (12), said he enjoys the pep band playing at the team’s basketball games. “I like that it is our own students making noise and playing music and contributing to the game,” Dagley said. Catch the pep band in action at the next home basketball game Feb. 5 against West Holmes at 7:30 p.m.
Thank you to East of Chicago for donating a work night meal to our Jan. 22 work night.
THE WOOSTER BLADE Staff
The Wayne Center for the Arts now offers community jazz and hip hop classes at its Community School of Dance. These classes, according to Kimberly Payne, a dance instructor and choreographer at the Wayne Center for the Arts, are, “typically filled with students who are not in other forms of dance.” Payne says jazz and hip hop are well suited, even for students with no dance experience because the class is fun and fast. According to Payne, the class, which usually consists of some sort of warm up, stretches and conditioning and a choreography lesson, is especially well suited to building friendships and a foundation for other physical activity. Payne explains that “students have a lot of fun together. They learn dance movements or choreography they can perform together at school functions, in hallways when they pass each other or on their YouTube channels.” Classes will begin from Jan. 22 and run through April 13 at the Wayne Center for the Arts. Interested students can register at the Wayne Center for the Arts’ website for between $90 to $95.
Dear reader,
The Wooster Blade is trying something new: “The Micropolitan Journal.” “The Micropolitan Journal” is a place for people of Wooster to share their stories of the odd, fleeting moments that make Wooster special. Whether you are gameside at Follis Field or Kinney Fields or street side on Main or Liberty, tell us your talk of the town. We want to hear the punch lines delivered by teachers, bus drivers, bosses, and coworkers; the funny phone conversations; the silly arguments you’ve had with your friends, parents, or kids; and, if you caught any funny or odd moments on your camera that you feel particularly represent Wooster or would only happen in Wooster, share those pictures. The Wooster Blade would love to hear and publish your stories and pictures that capture the ways of Wooster. Thank you, Maeve Florence-Smith The Wooster Blade
Guidelines to submit your writing and photos can be found on thewoosterblade.com.
THE WOOSTER BLADE | A&E | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 11
PAULINA SALAZAR
Spider Man: Into the Spider-Verse
staff writer
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse was released Dec. 14 and proves to live up to its hype. The animated film blends different animation styles, while still keeping a cool comic book pop style feel within itself. Starring Shameik Moore, as Miles Morales, and Jake Johnson, as Peter B. Parker, the film follows Miles as he struggles to adapt to his new superpowers, all while attempting to help Spider-People from alternate universes save the world while balancing his life as a regular teenager. Also starring actors Brian Tyree Henry, Kimiko Glenn, Mahershala Ali, Nicolas Cage, and comedian John Mulaney, Spider-Man: Into the SpiderVerse contains a wide range of humor and reaches a wide audience, despite its PG rating. The film follows the main plot closely and does not divert from its focus on the alternate universes and the villain, Kingpin, but still manages to give thorough screen time to other conflicts such as Miles’s complicated family relationships. An amazing, posthumous Stan Lee cameo is also inserted into the plot, subtle as always, but also commemorative. Already a winner of a Golden Globe, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse serves all fans and non-fans of Spider-Man, making it a great movie that everyone can enjoy.
Winter film releases elicit a diverse range of reactions
On the Basis of Sex MYA VANDEGRIFT staff writer If there is a definition of what it means to be an advocate for women’s rights, Ruth Bader Ginsburg exceeds it. After getting her BA at Cornell, she went on to Harvard Law School and Columbia, graduating at the top of her class. She went on to be the second female Associate Justice of the United States. Her life’s work has been to prove discrimination on the basis of sex unconstitutional. On the Basis of Sex illustrates her story, focusing on one of Ginsburg’s earliest cases, Weinberger v. Wiesenfeld. It used the example of a widower that was denied his wife’s survivor benefits under Social Security to illustrate gender disparities under the law. Throughout the film, we follow Ginsberg deal with the sexism that came with being a woman in her time and profession. This movie not only captures a timeless relevance about what equality means, but empowers the audience to never back down about what they’re passionate about. Everyone can learn from watching this film, because it speaks truth about the fight for social and economic gender equality that is still relevant today.
Vice JOHN GORMAN co-editor-in-chief Going into Vice, I was not entirely sure what I was getting myself into. Was it a drama? A satire? Something in between? As I left, I got the feeling that the movie itself does not know the answer to this question either. First, let me be clear; Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Steve Carell and Sam Rockwell are incredible in their performances as Dick Cheney, Lynne Cheney, Donald Rumsfeld and George W. Bush respectively. However, the excellent performances can not compensate for an extremely flat movie. Directed by former Saturday Night Live head writer Adam McKay, Vice seems as if it were written twice - once as a comedy, once as a drama - and had one page of the comedic script mixed in with the more serious version every 20 pages. This disjointedness can be seen in the midst of Cheney’s intense deliberation of whether to accept Bush’s selection as VP, he and his wife break into roughly two minutes of completely out of place Shakespearean dialogue, completely ruining the weighty intensity of the scene. Furthermore, Vice consists of a confusing series of clips from various points in Cheney’s life and political career separated by seemingly stock footage of fishing. Instead of serving as an artful way of telling the story of Cheney’s life, I was left feeling lost and wondering if there was a deeper meaning behind the fish. I concluded there was not. Now, perhaps Vice is more enjoyable to those who have stronger memories of the Bush Presidency and Cheney’s political exploits. But to me, who has little memory of politics before Obama who was elected when I was in second grade, Vice is an underwhelming and disjointed biopic that is only redeemed by the strength of its cast.
SPORTS Area youth participate in Wooster Y Ball League
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 12
KORBIN REED staff writer
REECE MITCHELL
Christopher Bell (12), Cameron Fast (12) high-fiving Andrew Martinez (12) after sinking a free throw in their second Y Ball contest this year.
Y Ball is a high school basketball league for students grades nine through twelve on Saturdays at the YMCA. Y Ball participants are people who like to play basketball and want to be competitive with it, as well people who just want to have fun. Most students enjoy Y Ball because it is a good way to be competitive and to spend time with friends. Adam Frank (12), team member of Cut From JV, explains they were not really cut from JV, it is just a way they use to throw their opponent off. “I like [playing Y Ball] because
I still get all the competitiveness of basketball without the commitment of a high school sport,” Frank said. There are also athletes in Y Ball who do not have basketball experience, but still enjoy it. Nate Lewis (12), member of The Dragons, is one such person, and said he enjoys the low pressure feeling of Y Ball. “It’s fun to be able to play a sport and not worry about winning. Messing around and having fun with my friends is probably the best way I could spend my free time,” Lewis said. There are students who also love the organization of Y Ball, including Keenan Wolf (12),
Wooster Y Ball Standings: West Salem Drip: 1-1
who plays for The Hoggers. “I play because it’s fun to make your own team and play against people you know,” Wolf said. Ben Otto (12), member of The Dragons, echoes Wolf, explaining, “I love Y Ball because it’s a great semicompetitive basketball league I can play in with my friends. I think it is a relaxed atmosphere with a low stakes competition between my team and other teams with people I know from school.” Whether students are playing for fun or competitively, these Y Ball athletes enjoy spending their Saturdays at the YMCA with their friends.
Slashers: 0-3
The Dragons: 1-1 The Real Smithville Varsity: 1-1 Cut From JV: 2-0 Gladiators: 1-1 Young Bloods: 1-1 The Hoggers: 3-0
Supreme: 0-2
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THE WOOSTER BLADE | SPORTS | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 13
Kicking to Success:
Stoll achieves greatness on and off the field
ALEXA MITCHELL co-editor-in-chief Two sports at once, 29 games total. Joe Stoll (12) was able to do what he loved, even though both sports took place during the same season. Stoll was both a soccer player and football kicker for the Wooster Generals, while also taking classes in the International Baccalaureate program. Nick Rubino (12), who has
been in the IB program and has been a football teammate with Joe, explains Stoll’s secret to achieving success. “Joe was able to handle all of his responsibility very maturely as I’ve seen him put in hard work consistently in the classroom and on the field, which overall allowed him to be successful in both,” Rubino said. In looking at how Stoll balanced all three demanding programs, he said he focuses on the positive aspects of these experiences. “Handling IB, football and
Heller strives for another state championship MASON GARCIA staff writer Evan Heller (11) is a member of the WHS wheelchair basketball team, a team that has not lost a game since the 2015 season. Heller also competes on the WHS track and field team in wheelchair events. Heller is a three year veteran in track and field and has been competing in basketball for four years. One week for Heller consists of working out daily, in addition to basketball practices for his high school team twice a
week, and three hour practices on Sundays for his travel team, on which he plays for the junior Cavaliers. However, this hard work yields results in both of his sports. In track and field, he placed second in the 100 meter and 400 meter races and third place in the 800 meter race at the state meet last year. In basketball, he was a state champion last year for WHS and is currently averaging 20 points per game throughout his last 15 games for the junior Cavaliers. He and his team also won the first tournament for the junior
soccer has definitely been a challenge. However, it has taught me how to manage my time better and given me skills such as discipline that I can use in the future. My classmates and teachers in IB all know how difficult it is and we support each other,” Stoll said. One of Stoll’s many teachers, Deana Worth, said she appreciates the way Stoll balances everything in his life. “Never have I had a student more willing to accept responsibility for his actions. I have actively followed him in his pursuit to become an elite place kicker on the football team, and know that he embraces the same philosophy on the field as he does in the classroom. His maturity, responsibility and humility are an integral part of his character,” Worth said. Doug Haas, head football coach, said Stoll has a bright future ahead of him.
Cavaliers in franchise history. Heller does not just affect scoreboards and stopwatches, he also affects the people around him. Doug Bennett, the boys track and field coach recognizes this influence. “He is a terribly hard worker and very focused; his willingness to work hard at something is inspirational to others,” Bennett said. Overall, Bennett says Heller is fairly soft spoken and credits him with a positive presence on the team. The accolades are not the only significance these sports hold for Heller. “These sports have affected me greatly; I have received multiple scholarship offers from colleges for basketball, so it has definitely motivated me to be better as a student and an athlete,” Heller said. Motivated as he is, this year, Heller said he is working toward winning an event at
THERESA WENDELL
Joe Stoll (12) kicks field goal against the Madison Rams. Stoll would finish the year 9/12 on field goal attempts and 51/52 on extra points. “He is one of the best kickers I have ever seem at the high school level. I think with his natural ability and his work ethic he has a very bright future,” Haas said. Stoll is planning on continuing his kicking career at a Division
One level. Stoll said he was being scouted by Wisconsin, Ohio University, Dayton and Miami. He notes that special teams are the last to be considered for scholarships, therefore, he is still waiting on offers.
RACHAEL SCHMIDT
Evan Heller (11) dribbles the ball up the court against Tallmadge. Heller looks to continue the team’s undefeated run dating back to 2015. the state track meet and a backto-back state championship in basketball. Long-term, he said he is pursuing his main goals of playing collegiate wheelchair
basketball, and eventually playing on the USA paralympic wheelchair basketball team. Heller competes next at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 30 in the WHS main gym.
TRENDS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 14
Gen Z builds skills to better prepare for future success HOLLY MILLER cover editor According to an analysis conducted by Pew Research Center, pewsocialtrends.org, the post-millennial generation is on track to be the most diverse and educated generation so far. The post-millennial generation, also known as Generation Z, includes six to 21-year-olds in 2018. This analysis looks into how the difference of the post-millennials will affect the demographic of the United States. According to a pewsocialtrends. org article by Richard Fry and Kim Parker, almost half of postmillennial population are racial or ethnic minorities. Forty-eight percent of this population are non-Hispanic whites, compared to the millennial population that was thirty-eight percent racial or ethnic minorities. The post-millennial generation is also on track to be the most Photo by Jacob Gooch
well educated generation, according to the Pew Research Center’s study. Being the most educated generation could be attributed to the fact that 43 percent of postmillennials are living with at least one parent who has at least a college bachelor’s degree, as stated by pewsocialtrends.org. Social media is a huge aspect apparent in the post-millennial generation and has given people the opportunity to see what is happening in the world around them. According to a Washington Post article titled “America: get ready for the post-millennial generation,” by Valerie Strauss, Gary Lundgren, associate director of the National Scholastic Press Association, says, “This young generation realizes voice matters.” Generation Z has been exposed to things current events in real time that other generations before have not been.
Generation Z The
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1980-1994
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This Generation encompasses the years of 1995- 2015 (ages 3-23), according to Kasasa.com.
Generation X
generation
Baby Boo Generation X The 1965-1979
VIEWS
THE WOOSTER BLADE | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 15
Local businesses deserve support over larger chain monopolies
ALEC PAULEY views editor Recently, I have become concerned about the negative impact of larger companies on our small town, local businesses. Earlier in the school year, I wrote a review about WOOSH, a local food delivery service that I found to be really
helpful and beneficial to our community. Soon after I wrote my review, I learned that Grubhub, a similar service that operates on a national scale, is now available in Wooster. I have nothing against Grubhub specifically, but, after sampling and using WOOSH, I fear that the introduction of this national service will take away from this local business which just is not quite fair for our local character. In Wooster, we have larger chain stores, like Walmart and Starbucks, but there are also local alternatives to these stores that we must support. One of the obvious reasons we should shop locally is that smaller more local companies are more likely to put money
This Week’s News: Top Headlines
back into the local economy. The money we put into smaller, local businesses, makes its way around and can help many other, possibly unseen, sources around us. On the Commonwealth of Massachusetts website, staff writers, in 2013, wrote an article titled “Think Local,” which states the U.S. Small Business Association and the U.S. Department of Labor supplies various reasons as to why people should support small business, specifically focusing on the fact that it supports the local economy. A report by the U.S. Small Business Association and the U.S. Department of Labor found that “Local businesses are more likely to utilize other
-Los Angeles Times, Jan. 22 2019
JACOB GOOCH
-The Washington Post, Jan. 23 2019
“Shutdown likely to delay fatal plane crash investigation” -The Daily Record, Jan. 22 2019
Headlines compiled by Jacob Gooch. Headlines were selected randomly from two random national publications and one local publication.
they explain the produce they sell is “grown or made in Ohio,” and, additionally, people are able to, “learn about the farm it came from, the growing practices used and the people who worked to bring it to you,” which is a service not provided by larger companies like Walmart. Moving past statistics and numbers, the final reason I believe we should try to support local business is because their owners often live locally as well. The owners of local businesses know our area, and will most likely use their local knowledge of both the city and people to run their business to suit the needs of the Wooster community.
attention and resources have been devoted to ensuring this behavior is dealt with.” This statement raises a significant question: if an investigation into a member of the Ohio House of Representatives occurred, why is there no public record or final report of innocence or guilt? In Ohio Revised Code 102, Section 13, the processes for an investigation of General Assembly members and employees are laid out. Investigations are conducted by the Office of the Legislative Inspector General under the direction of the General Assembly’s Joint Legislative Ethics Committee. All proceedings are made confidential throughout the investigation, and at the end of the investigation, all information part of the investigation is seal, unless action is taken in the House or Senate to censure, expel, suspend or take other action that requires a vote. Looking specifically at
the investigative process, complaints must be heard in a hearing within 90 days or they are dismissed, must be settled within six-months or be dismissed as well. Also, the Joint Legislative Ethics Committee or their subcommittee are the only ones able to issue subpoenas. As most can tell, there are some looming issues associated with the current investigation procedures. The two major concerns include politicians on a committee controlling how much information investigators can obtain and also having the ability to stall an investigation into conclusion. Thus, as a reader and constituent of Ohio, I ask each of you to write a letter, write an email or simply pick up the phone. Let your representative know that you believe in transparent, effective and equal investigative procedures, because justice should apply in the Ohio General Assembly as much as it applies in our communities.
Transparency allows justice for citizens
“L.A. Teacher’s strike is over”
“A growing number of world leaders echo Trump’s strongman style - and point to him as alibi”
local businesses such as banks, service providers, and farms.” The report also found that on average, of every $100 a person spends on a local business, $68 goes back into the local economy. Utilizing these local sources sends the dollars you spend somewhere else locally and helps those around you. In addition to helping the economy, local companies provide services and products that large chains may not have. Local Roots Market & Cafe is a good example of one of Wooster’s small businesses that utilizes local resources and also provides exclusive services, national competitors do not. On Local Root’s website, www.localrootswooster.com,
webmaster In the midst of government dysfunction in Washington, many discussions on the state and local level seem to have gone to the wayside. One such discussion involves a letter written by Marissa Reyes to Representative Kristin Boggs of the Ohio House of Representatives, bringing forward allegations of racial and gender based insults, ranging to harassment. At the end of the letter, Reyes says, “Representative Boggs, I want to let you know that I have reported some of my experiences to individuals in the House and the appropriate
THE WOOSTER BLADE | VIEWS | JAN. 25, 2019 | PAGE 16
OUR VIEW
Standoff over southern border hurts the American populace and must be kept separate from shutdown negotiations
ALEXIS FLORENCE On Dec. 22, the federal government entered the longest shutdown in American history as a result of a political battle for funding a wall along the U.S. and Mexico border. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board is appalled that the American people are being used as leverage for political motives. Moreover, the visible failure to work toward a compromise is even more deplorable. The toll facing government workers is immense. According to an article published by The New York Times Jan. 15 and updated on Jan. 16 entitled, “The Government Shutdown: Where Things Stand,” authored by Niraj Chokshi, of the 800,000 workers not being paid, the average worker is missing $5,000 in pay due to the shutdown. Chokshi also states in the article that most workers
are still coming in to work, due to a government ban on their workers striking or missing work. Although The Wooster Blade Editorial Board salutes our government workers still working without pay and hopes for a rapid solution for those completely out of work, it is ultimately unjust for those workers to be held hostage by the people who are supposed to protect their interests. The Editorial Board wishes to highlight that regardless of political position, it takes two people, groups, or in this case, parties, avoiding compromise to fight. This fight between branches and parties is hurting more than image and much more than political agendas, as it is detrimental to the people who believe in our nation enough to work for it directly. It is a failure by all those involved, Democrat
and Republican alike, to allow political gridlock to harm the American people. Due to the multitude of government workers employed in Wayne County, The Wooster Blade Editorial Board also feels the greater community should be made aware of the current effects of the shutdown on not only the national community, but the immediate community as well. An article published by The Daily Record on Jan. 15 entitled, “49 workers at OARDC without pay for 4 weeks,” by Tami Mosser and Emily Morgan, underscores the local impact of the shutdown on the Department of Agriculture, outlining the USDA’s plan for researchers and support staff at the OARDC. Under this plan, OARDC workers are furloughed under the Agricultural Research Service shutdown plan, stating,
“[Agricultural Research Service] research and operational activities will be suspended during a shutdown,” with the exceptions such as to, “Respond to urgent furloughrelated issues throughout the agency and with stakeholders and partners.” Or, simply put, tending experiments needing to be maintained and notifying contractors of changes. Not only does the shutdown threaten environmental and agricultural research being conducted within the local community, but it also threatens environmental safety around the country, as outlined in a National Geographic article titled “5 key environmental impacts of the government shutdown,” written by Sarah Gibbens on Jan.14. Gibbens explains that national parks have remained open throughout the shutdown, a decision made by Dept. of
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke shortly before leaving office. However, due to reduced staff and a stunted maintenance budget, the parks are falling victim to significant vandalism and trespassing in restricted areas, leading to irreparable damage as exemplified by California’s Joshua Tree National Park, where visitors cut down endangered Joshua Trees. Other concerns include the halting of monitoring of toxic chemicals in air and water by the EPA, interruption of monitoring of food safety by the FDA, disruption of long term forest and climate studies and animal rescue conducted by NOAA. The Wooster Blade Editorial Board implores readers to contact their representatives and urge them to find a way to compromise in order to end this shutdown before further damage is done.