The Bruin- December 2014

Wadsworth High School

Newspaper II/III

DECEMBER 2014

The

BRUIN

1870 - 2014 Wadsworth City Schools: “Celebrating 143 years of Excellence in Education”

Volume XL No. 3

Winter Break Dec.22- Jan.2

625 Broad Street Wadsworth, Ohio 44281

$1.00

2014 boasts memorable moments

BY HAYLEE KUPIEC AND CHASE PEGRIM

This year has turned out to be a truly unforgettable one. With many big events, notable deaths and memorable moments, this has been a year to remember.

As 2014 comes to a close, many big events stand out.

Ebola Scare Possibly the most attentiongrabbing event was the Ebola scare that swept the country not too long ago. It conjured memories of the swine flu epidemic back in 2009.

The Ebola scare filled the nation, as well as Wadsworth residents, with paranoia when Dallas nurse Amber Vinson visited a bridal shop in Akron.

“The Ebola scare was pretty crazy at the time, but it seems to have settled down,” said Hannah Jett, 11.

ISIS ISIS caused a huge stir with threats to Homeland Security worrying many officials.

On Sept. 23, President Obama announced that air strikes had been carried out within Syria as part of the U.S. Strategy on ISIS. Ferguson Riots erupted in Ferguson, Missouri after a grand jury decided not to indict Darren Wilson, the officer responsible for shooting and killing black teenager Michael Brown after he robbed a convenience store. The

PHOTOS BY MTC CAMPUS

(Top left) An American Ebola patient is cautiously wheeled into a hospital. (Top right) Wadsworth celebrated its 200th birthday this year. (Bottom left) A protester in Ferguson does the “hands up” motion in front of riot police. (Bottom right) Pro football players Adrian Peterson (left) and Ray Rice (right) have both been accused of domestic violence in the past year.

incident sparked racially charged protests across the nation.

Bicentennial Wadsworth celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2014. The city was founded in 1814 and named after General Elijah Wadsworth.

Politics In the 2014 midterm elections, the Republicans regained control of the Senate and increased

their majority in the House. The President had little to say.

Ohio governor John Kasich was re-elected, defeating opponent Ed FitzGerald.

NFL Scandals Domestic violence related scandals plagued the NFL this year.

Two football players, specifically, gained media attention for accusations against them.

Ray Rice, a former Baltimore Ravens running back, was in the spotlight when a video of him knocking his then-fiancé unconscious surfaced. He was subsequently released by the team, but he is now up for reinstatement.

Adrian Peterson, a running back for the Minnesota Vikings, was also in the news for

NHS inducts new members

In Memoriam

BY HAYLEE KUPIEC

Robin Williams 1951-2014

Inside

Joan Rivers 1933-2014

the

Casey Kasem 1932-2014

Bruin:

Michael brown shooting sparks protests –page 3 Top ten Christmas songs of the 2000’s

–page 5

The dynasties of college football –page 12 INDEX PAGE

Editorial.........................................................2 News.............................................................3 Opinion......................................................4,5 Ads .......................................................6,7,11 Picture Pages .............................................8,9 Features......................................................10 Sports.....................................................12,13 Health..........................................................14 Of the Month...............................................15 Speakout.....................................................16

accusations of child abuse. “It is sad that these players are role models for little kids, and then they go and destroy their image,” said Ryan Gaither, 11. Peterson remains a member of the Vikings but is currently suspended for the rest of the season.

Pop Culture Pop culture news has ruled the headlines as well. Multiple movies topped the box office during their respective showings.

The Fault in Our Stars caused quite a storm of tears at the theaters. It grossed over $300 million worldwide.

Recently, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 scored the year’s biggest opening with $123 million.

There were also surprising celebrity break-ups. Jordin Sparks and Jason Derulo called it quits even after his song “Marry Me” was released.

“Jason Derulo does not hear trumpets anymore when he looks at Jordin Sparks,” said Ryan Presson, 10, in response.

The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge also swept the country, with many people contributing to the cause.

“I thought it [ALS Challenge] was really cool (no pun intended) how all the hash tags and videos raised money for awareness,” said Emily Arellano, 9.

After a very eventful 2014, there is much to look forward to in the coming year.

find a Cut-Out snowflake in your bruin and win a prize!

Shirley Temple 1928-2014

Eligible students had the chance to apply to an illustrious group - National Honor Society.

Since the founding of NHS in the 1920s, it has been the longest running leadership organization in the nation.

A total of 11 seniors and 24 juniors were inducted. The group currently includes 52 members.

An eligible student must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, complete an application and write an essay. A faculty council of five teachers judge students on characteristics of scholarship, service, leadership and character.

The NHS induction was held on Nov. 25 at WHS in the PAC. It featured multiple speeches, including one by Mrs. Farr, the Teacher of the Year, as well as the actual inductions.

“It is a pleasure working with

the students of NHS; I love their ambition and hunger to improve our school and the community at large. I am proud to work with this group of individuals,” said Mr. Singleton, who is an NHS advisor, along with Mrs. Layton.

Congratulations to the following new members: Tyler Aberle, Charlotte Bates, Quinn Burgner, Elizabeth Edurese, Michael Hillegass, Jordan Perrin, Evan Ramer, Cody Ray, Corey Riggenbach, Tom Rospert, Leo Steinkerchner, Molly Adams, Bret Baker, Haley Banfield, Joseph Cheff, Reilly Dearth, Hannah Ekers, Sarah Elfers, Maddie Gunselman, Jessica Jarolim, Erin Kilbride, Brittany Kittle, Selena Laikos, Aley Lind, Emily McPherson, Zachary Porter, Lauren Reed, David Selzer, Heather Sommer, Regan Szalay, Peri Turk and Haley Witschey.

Visit the Bruin Online at http://www.bruinonline.org

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December 2014

Send Out: The Final Hour

Editorial

In the editorial of last year’s December Bruin issue, our former Editor-in-Chief, Carly Cundiff, discussed what all goes into creating this wonderful newspaper.

If you have not read it yet, I highly suggest you do, because it is a very informative piece of everything we do, from perfecting specs to deadline days.

One thing Carly briefly mentioned but did not describe entirely is what we staffers know as send out day. Send out day is the last day we spend editing the whole newspaper, from top to bottom, before we send it to the printing company in New Jersey. As she said, send out is a high-stress environment- sometimes we are trapped here in room 1403 until 9:30 or 10:00 at night.

Occasionally, tempers will flare, which is completely understandable.

While we have never actually had a physical scuffle, we do get into verbal disagreements every now and then. But it is always in good

spirit. We all love each other here.

Pages are edited dozens of times, checking grammar, specs and various other flaws. Imperfection is not an option here. It honestly feels like you could teach an English class or become a grammar Nazi after spending a few hours at send out day.

One thing that is vital to oiling the editing machine is nourishment.

Food, believe it or not, is the most important item on the agenda when it comes to send out. The reason is simple: people are not themselves when they are hungry. Chinese takeout or a quick stop at Wendy’s or Casa Del Rio always provides enough energy to get the editing pistons churning in all of us.

One perk of send out day is the feeling of accomplishment when we finish. While it is certainly a strain while we are there, the sense of pride when we see the finished product is like no other. The bottom line is that when the pressure is on, we as a Bruin staff make it happen.

The clock is ticking, but we do not crack. It truly is the final hour.

E ditorial

The Bruin

Ham & Corn Mailbag

By Ben Bingham and Trent Cornacchione

Welcome to the first ever Bruin Mailbag!

It is certainly an exciting time for all of us here at The Bruin, and we look forward to spending these next five months answering your questions.

Q: How was The Bruin created?

-Gracie Thompson, 9 A: This is an interesting question Gracie.

The Bruin was thought to be created by a gentleman by the name of John Gramuglia in 1873. However, over the years, many grew skeptical as to if this was actually the case. In 1947, in a one-on-one interview with Wadsworth’s own Jerry Parsons, Gramuglia confessed to stealing the idea from the UCLA graduate and 1951 Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Glenn T. Seaborg.

Q: Are there any opportunities for a future career by working with The Bruin?

-Adam Sullivan,10 A: Excellent question Adam. The Bruin opens many doors to future career opportunities. As much as we like to poke fun at G, his class can be very rewarding. Put it this way Adam, there are valuable lessons you will learn in this class that can help you in the

future. I am not sure if you can say the same thing about your average mathematics course.

Q:What is the Bruin?

-Brittany Watts, 10 A: How dare you, Brittany.

Q: What celebrities most resemble Ham & Corn and why?

-Haley Witschey, 11 A: Ham reminds me of a far less talented Jimmer Fredette. If Jimmer ever contracted a disease in which he lost his ability to shoot, you are looking at Ham. They are both great people, though. As for Corn, he reminds me of Gary Busey after a three week caffeine binge. They are both very funny guys.

Q: Was G even good at wrestling?

-Alec Watkins, 12 A: Come see Alec “The Outlaw” Watkins battle Coach John “G” Gramuglia at the Schottenstein Center, December 17 on payper-view channel 15, Wadsworth cable.

Thanks for all of your questions. Ham and Corn were more than happy to answer them for you. See you next month, Wadsworth!

Reactions to Ferguson fallout In my opinion, I would say that the protesters have taken the case way too far. I understand that they are angry, but it was unnecessary to go on burning stuff down and destroying the property of others. I believe they did not take the time to actually sit down and picture themselves in the man’s shoes. It is okay to be angry, but it is not okay to act the way they chose to.

Mason Hicks, 12 I believe the Ferguson case of not charging Officer Darren Wilson with the unjust murder of unarmed teenager Mike Brown was poorly handled and needs retrial. Mike Brown is innocent, and even if he did commit a petty theft, he did not deserve to be killed.

Ellie Casenheiser, 10 Instead

of

rioting,

the

people of Ferguson should focus more on the families involved and be there for them in this time of sorrow. The people of Ferguson should stop destroying their town. Destroying innocent peoples businesses does not help anyone. I think the people of Ferguson should put the situation and trial behind them and learn from it all.

Miranda Watts, 10 The right decision was made, and the people that violently rioted are idiots. I hope Santa does not bring them anything.

Darrin Gilkerson, 11 I still honestly cannot believe that the policeman shot that boy. His hands were up, but the cop still shot him. With the holidays rolling around, I feel really bad for the boy’s family.

If one of my family members

died so close to many important days and memories to be, that would add onto the pain. I have not read much about this case, but I know it was not right for the policeman to shoot the boy. Police, in my opinion, are starting to think that they have more power than they do, which is not okay. I just hope that the boy’s family is doing okay, and I hope that they have a good holiday!

Olivia Addis, 10

that really puzzled me was the burning of the American flags. No matter how mad you are with the government, our flag should never be burned.

Everyone should be proud to be an American, and if I could speak to one of the people participating in the burning of our flags, I would tell them to remember everyone who died for our freedom.

Michael Callow, 10

What is happening in Ferguson is quite sad. I support the protesters in the position that the court decision that was made was not the right one, but the way they are going about it is all wrong. I do not support their acts of violence and crime. Looting their own stores of the people they know and do business with is just unacceptable. The thing

A lot of people think that Ferguson is a big overreaction to several deaths, but I personally believe that it has been something piling up as we continue to live in a country where racism is a big issue. It still exists, and the protests are bringing attention to a cause that a lot of people want to ignore.

Morgan Fryer, 11

Bruin Staff Editor-in-chief: Mason Egleston Associate Editor: Maddie Capron Assistant Editor: Rachel Haas Managing Editors: Ben Bingham, Trent Cornacchione, Moira Priest, Maria Sansonetti Marketing Managers: Olivia Fortner, Moira Priest, Maria Sansonetti Front Page: Page Editor: Chase Pegrim Reporter: Haylee Kupiec Editorial: Page Editor: Trent Cornacchione Reporter: Ben Bingham Speakout: Page Editor: Alex Lenc Opinion 1: Page Editor: Charlotte Boland Reporter: Connor Gray Opinion 2: Page Editor: Cameron Mendel Reporter: Maggie Presson Features: Page Editor: Regan Szalay Reporter: Olivia Fortner Health: Page Editior: Robert Hahn Reporter: John Merhar News: Page Editor: Jordin Vidmar Reporter: Elizabeth Heckler Picture Pages: Editor: Madison Quinn Reporter: Brooke Leonard Sports 1: Page Editor: Jamie Oplinger Reporter: Noah Baughman Sports 2: Page Editor: Hannah Studenic Reporter: Tim Knipl Of The Month: Page Editor: Gary Noe Ads/Business Manager: Alex Laikos Assistant: Adam Dennison Adviser: John Gramuglia

I feel like the whole Ferguson thing that is going on is pretty upsetting to many people, especially to the families that are connected to the people that were hurt or injured. I believe that Christmas time is not a time that people should have to be worrying about things like this or going through it. It is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus and a time to spend with your family.

Aubrey Bejcek, 10 It is a very unfortunate death, but protesting is not the answer! Destroying stuff and causing damage will solve nothing. With the holiday season drawing near, all the violence that is taking place is just not right. Violence is not the answer!

Austin Ruddock, 10

Editorial Policy The Bruin is a monthly publication produced by the Newspaper II and Newspaper III students at Wadsworth High School. The Newspaper I class produces the April/May issue. The staff will do its best to inform the student body and the community of intra-school, community or national events that affect the student body.

This paper provides on-the-job training for the staff members. All decisions are made by the staff members with the advice and suggestions of the adviser.

The school administration works closely with the staff to ensure accuracy. We, as the students of journalism, hold the same rights and the same responsibilities as professional journalists as we strive for professional standards. These rights include the right to print any material that is not libelous, obscene or excessively disruptive to the school process.

The Bruin will not discriminate against anyone on the basis of religion, color, creed or sex. The staff members accept full responsibility for everything appearing in this publication. The staff strongly encourages students to express their opinions through the letters to the editor column, which is printed every month. The staff also encourages the members of the community to express their opinion as well. Space permitting, all letters will be printed. Because the staff accepts the responsibility for the contents of the paper, we must reserve the right to edit or omit any portion of any letter. All letters must be signed, but the name will be withheld upon request.

N ews

The Bruin

December 2014

Michael Brown shooting sparks protests in Ferguson

BY JORDIN VIDMAR

St. Louis County officials announced on Nov. 24 that a grand jury did not find enough evidence to indict Ferguson Missouri Police Officer Darren Wilson with the shooting of 18-year-old African American Michael Brown.

Immediately, violent protests and riots erupted in the streets.

Some witnesses said that Brown had his hands in the air when Officer Wilson told him to surrender for stealing from a local store. Several others said that Brown did not raise his hands; he just turned toward the officer.

Police say the teenager assaulted the officer, and he tried to grab Wilson’s gun. Other witnesses say Wilson was the aggressor because Brown was unarmed. All accounts agree that Brown ran and then turned back, but there is questioning over whether Brown was trying to surrender or attack.

Wilson fired 12 rounds, including two from his police car and 10 more down the street where Brown sustained at least six bullet wounds.

In an interview with Lesley McSpadden, Brown’s mother, she stated what she thought her son’s intentions were.

“My son was running for his life. His father had a conversation with him about how to deal with the authorities. He said that if you

are approached by the police, you need to obey. If they ask you to do something, you have to do it. I believe that Wilson asked my son to stop, and I believe that is what my son did.”

Brown’s father said the grand jury’s decision changed his view of America.

“This just let me know that where we live is not what we thought, or what I thought. It is what people have been saying all the time, that this is that Missouri is a racist state.”

Many others in the community feel as if they are being discriminated against because of their race, African American. The shooting of Brown was the last straw in the years of abuse that they feel they have been subjected to.

An ongoing series of protests and civil disorder began the day after the fatal shooting of Michael Brown. As the details of the original shooting event emerged from investigators, police established curfews, deployed riot squads and police dogs to maintain order.

Along with peaceful protests, there was violent unrest in the vicinity of the original shooting.

Local buildings and a church were burnt to the ground, police cars were set on fire and stores were being looted.

“I was shocked when I heard the news about what the Ferguson community was doing to their city.

I think that they are making things worse,” said Alyssa Laikos, 9.

As the news spread, protesters across the country walked out of jobs and schools to honor Michael Brown. Many of the walkouts happened at 12:01 p.m., the exact time Brown was shot on Aug. 9.

The movement gained steam on social media, and hundreds of organized protests happened in dozens of cities across the nation.

Protests are still continuing around the nation as the Wilson and Brown case sparks more controversial talk.

Photo Courtesy of mct campus

Hundreds of angry protesters stormed the streets of Ferguson as police were being dispatched with police dogs and riot gear to control the crowds.

Photo Courtesy of mct campus

Michael Brown’s mother, Lesley McSpadden, mourns by her son’s casket during his funeral service.

NEWS BRIEFS LOCAL

NATIONAL

WORLD

2014 Clappers Awarded

Orion Spacecraft Hits a ‘Bull’s Eye’ Landing

Super Typhoon Hagupit Approaches the Philippines

The WCTV Clapper Awards were announced in late November. WHS’s production of The Sound of Music received a first place award in the Philo T. Farnsworth Video Awards, a category which included 200 entries from six states. Other WCS productions also received awards and honorable mentions, including Veterans Day assemblies and Survey Says, a program by Speech II.

Students Get Head Start in Culinary Careers A group of WHS juniors and seniors travel to Copley in order to take the Chef Prep & Hospitality Management Program offered by the Four Cities Compact. They learn culinary techniques, taught by culinary teacher Joe Schmeltzer and Hospitality Management and Marketing teacher Diane Dann such as knife skills and different cooking methods in order to become masters.

NASA had a successful second attempt at launching their Orion spacecraft from Cape Canaveral on Dec. 5. The capsule was designed to carry astronauts to an asteroid and, eventually, to Mars in the 2030s. After taking two laps around Earth, Orion plunged through the atmosphere and successfully landed in the ocean West of Baja, California.

A super typhoon with winds of 150 mph struck the Philippines on Sunday, Dec. 7. Up to 30,000 people were affected by the storm, and three were reported dead. About 260,000 families were staying in evacuation centers on Monday, Dec. 8. The storm caused power outages throughout the island nation, but it did not cause as much damage as residents feared it would.

After the search was suspended earlier this month, a desperate mayday call on Dec. 9 lead a guided-missile destroyer, the USS Paul Hamilton, to the 67-yearold boater that was missing at sea for 12 days. Ron Ingrahm was fishing from his sailboat when he drifted far away from shore. The man was found about 64 miles south of Honolulu, Hawaii. The Coast Guard says Ingrahm was found extremely weak, hungry and dehydrated when the Navy ship reached him.

Peru’s University of Technology and Engineering has designed billboards which can clean polluted air. The billboard pulls air into a water tank which traps particles and releases clean air into the atmosphere. Similar billboards which were built in 2012 condensed the high water vapor content of Peru’s air into clean drinking water, which was important for the chronically drought-stricken nation.

67-Year-Old Man Rescued After Being Lost at Sea for 12 Days

Peruvian Billboards Provide Clean Air

Natural gas pipeline to run through city

BY ELIZABETH HECKLER

Residents of Medina County have begun protesting a natural gas pipeline which will pass through multiple cities in the county, including Wadsworth.

The NEXUS natural gas transmission line, which is being built by Spectra Energy, will carry natural gas across Ohio from eastern refineries, through Michigan and into Windsor, Ontario.

A group of Medina County residents, having dubbed themselves Freedom of Choice, have assembled in order to protest the pipeline. Their spokesman, Mario Pascolini of Guilford Township, says the members of the

group believe that they should be able to use their land as they wish.

Members of Freedom of Choice have declined property access requests from surveyors of Spectra Energy in an attempt to delay work on the project and encourage the company to devise an alternate route. Many have also posted signs that read “No Trespassing” or “No Pipeline” on their property in order to deter surveyors.

While the pipeline will run underground, the landowners that will be affected do not want the hassle of having the construction of the line on their property.

Spectra Energy has been very successful in reaching agreements with property owners in the past,

but it can also exercise eminent domain if necessary.

“I’m interested to see how they are going to compensate the landowners,” Mr. Kaufman said.

Concerns have also been raised about the safety of the pipeline. The line will be 36 inches in diameter, and it will be highly pressurized.

An explosion of such a line can

cause serious damage to property, and it poses a hazard to those that live around it.

Spectra hopes to have the pipeline completed and operational by 2016 or 2017. In the meantime, Freedom of Choice and other citizens of Medina County will continue working on their attempts to reroute the pipeline.

A word from our

Principal

Students, Christmas time is upon us, and we are about to put a close to the year of 2014. I hope that each of you take the time over the holiday season to visit with your families and friends.

Your lives, especially as high school students, can be very hectic and time consuming. Over the two week holiday break, please reflect on all the people that have put you in the positive position that you are in today.

Enjoy the holiday season for the wonderful thing that it is to you (plus have a cookie or two as well).

Also, students, as it turns to January you need to remember that your first semester grades are coming to a close. Please continue to do your school work and do not fall behind.

It is not too late if you are struggling, but ask for help if you need it.

Your teachers are more than willing to assist if you ask. We also have peer tutoring programs available; inquire at the guidance office.

Friendly reminder that January and February tend to be our snowiest months; if we have a snow day it will be broadcast on local media as well as an Alert Now call from our Superintendent, Dr. Hill. We also have the ability to call a two hour delay. If that was the case, then our school would simply start two hours later (9:35 a.m.). Visit your handbook for the exact schedule for a two hour delay.

Enjoy the holidays, and Merry Christmas to all.

Mr. Moore

Photo Courtesy of mct campus

The pipeline will enter the southeast corner of Wadsworth Township.

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4

Christmas makes early appearance OPINION BY CONNOR GRAY AND CHARLOTTE BOLAND

Christmas seems to be coming to Ohio early this year.

Trees, music and decorations were appearing all over the state while people were still preparing for Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Every year, Christmas decorations appear earlier and earlier. Instead of being put up after Thanksgiving, they are popping up as early as right after Halloween.

While it is the individual person’s decision as to when to put decorations up, it is a little ridiculous to be putting up Christmas decorations in October.

Adorning your house with Christmas decorations early in the year is detrimental to other holidays that people wish to celebrate. How do you expect to celebrate Halloween or Thanksgiving when stores and houses are inundated with Christmas lights and wreaths?

The answer is simple.

People simply cannot celebrate the appropriate holidays to their fullest when there are annoying decorations standing in the way.

Many people argue that putting up Christmas lights in October or November is more convenient than trying to hang ones on an icy and snow laden roof. This is one of those times when you

O PINION 1

THE BRUIN

December 2014

Top Ten Gifts to Receive for Christmas

iPhone 6

Gift cards

Beats by Dre

Nike Roshes

The Fault in Our Stars DVD

Laptop

Nerf Demolisher

Playstation 4

Nike Clothing

Socks and underwear

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

People seem to be decorating their houses as early as Halloween.

should sacrifice convenience and even safety for the sake of tradition. Tradition is more important than taking the easy way out, even if it may involve potential hospital bills.

Christmas music is another problem. We do not need to be listening to “Frosty the Snowman” while there are still leaves on the ground. Why radio stations cannot wait until Christmas is actually in sight is the real question. It is very annoying to walk into a store to buy your Halloween costume and hear “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” playing.

Nobody wants to listen to the sounds of Christmas before it is even December.

Why are people putting up Christmas trees before there is even snow on the ground?

Christmas trees are meant to be bought during December.

Christmas tree farms are open to the public even before December begins.

Buy your tree in November, and it will be dead before you make it to the 25th.

And who wants to spend Christmas with a dead tree?

Is it ever too early to bake Christmas cookies?

The answer to this question is yes.

Baking cookies in the shape of reindeers and snowmen is clearly inappropriate when it is only November, and we have not even celebrated Thanksgiving yet. Baking cookies is an activity meant for a cold December day when you have nothing else left to do.

There is no reason to be making Christmas cookies in October.

The bottom line is that Christmas is celebrated in December, not November or even October. It is ruining the rest of the fall and winter holidays for everyone to be celebrating Christmas too early.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

When should holiday decorations be put up?

I think Christmas decorations should be put up after Thanksgiving at least. People tend to look over that holiday because Christmas decorations are out so early. I have seen them out in October this year. It’s getting ridiculous, and they should not be out that early.

I think that you should put up decorations on December 1st because it is the start of December. The reasoning behind this is because it is too early to put them up in November, and everyone is still celebrating Thanksgiving. It stinks that everyone overlooks Thanksgiving.

Christmas decorations should go up the day after Thanksgiving. It would be cool to go Black Friday shopping and see the Christmas decorations for the first time. Also, I think people should not put up their trees until December 1. It makes more sense to have them up after the other holidays.

Rory Finegan, 12

Drew Doepker, 9

Macie Carmel, 10

O PINION 2

THE BRUIN

December 2014

5

Top 10 Christmas songs of the 2000’s OPINION BY CAMERON

It is that time of the year where Christmas music breaks through the car speakers on every radio station.

Here are my top 10 Christmas songs of the new millennium.

10. Linkin Park - My December (2000) Written in 2000, Linkin Park displays parallelism with “This is my” repeating over and over again.

It is a slow, heart wrenching song that might bring a tear to your eye.

9. Britney Spears - My Only Wish (2001) Britney Spears has only one

wish for Christmas, and it is for someone to hold her and be with her for the rest of her life. She wants to make sure that Santa is listening to her and knows that her only gift she wants to receive is a man.

8. Justin Bieber - Mistletoe (2011) Written for a special lady, Justin Bieber sings about how he should be playing out in the snow and acting as a kid, but instead, he is thinking all about her and how he wants to be under a mistletoe with her.

7. Barenaked Ladies feat.

Michael Buble - Elf’s Lament (2004) The creativity of this song is brilliant with the way they rhyme jolly, folly, and volley in the beginning of the song, making it melodious to the listener. The song is telling a story of an elf during

Christmas time and the jobs he has to do, including creating toys and checking the naughty or nice list.

6. Destiny’s Child - 8 Days of Christmas (2000) A spin off to the song 12 days of Christmas, this song depicts what was given to her for Christmas.

She shows her appreciation and gratitude to her man.

5. Ariana Grande - Santa Tell Me (2014) Coming in at fifth is Ariana Grande’s song. It is all about asking Santa if her guy is going to be there for her. She talks about a past experience that ends with her being alone and not happy. Grande’s point is that she does not want to be unhappy and alone.

4. Brenda Lee’s - Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree (2000) This song is a family favorite

that can get the whole family involved and singing. If you want to have fun this holiday season, this is the song to sing.

3. Kelly Clarkson- Underneath the Tree (2013) This third place song creates good moods to those listening. The song is all about the gifts that are received on Christmas morning.

2. Mariah Carey - Oh Santa (2010) Although it does not make number one on the list, this song is still good. It is a catchy Christmas song that can be played at any kind of occasion.

1. Michael Buble - All I Want For Christmas Is You (2011) Topping off the charts at number one is Michael Buble’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” It is a remake to Mariah Carey’s version created in 1994. Truthfully,

Buble’s version is better. He has created a Christmas album that is mostly full of remakes of former hit songs from the 1900’s.

PHOTO BY MCT CAMPUS

Pictured above is Michael Buble’s cover for his popular Christmas album. His hit song, “All I Want For Christmas is You” is one for the books.

What is your favorite part about Christmas?

PHOTO BY CAMERON MENDEL

PHOTO BY CAMERON MENDEL

“I enjoy waking my parents “The lights and spending up because it is time to get time with family.”

Christmas started.”

-Emily, 9 -Nate, 10

PHOTO BY CAMERON MENDEL

“Christmas lights.”

-Ryan, 12

PHOTO BY CAMERON MENDEL

“Seeing my family that I do not usually see.”

-Erica, 10

PHOTO BY CAMERON MENDEL

“The presents.”

-David, 9

Do children know the true meaning of Christmas?

OPINION BY MAGGIE

When Christmas comes to mind, what do people think of?

The presents? The decorations?

The idea of coming together with family? The problem today is that children do not know the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas time is a time to get together with loved ones and celebrate what Christmas is all about.

Most children do not think of Christmas as anything but receiving gifts from Santa Claus. They make a list of everything they want from him. Parents go Black Friday shopping to buy everything the kids want. But are they explaining why we even started celebrating Christmas in the first place?

Kids grow up believing Santa Claus is the king of Christmas.

Parents are not taking the time to reflect on who really is.

“Jesus is the reason for the season” is a banner I see around Christmas time on a house I always pass. There is not a better way to put it. He is the

reason for this magical holiday.

Public schools and private schools are complete opposites when it comes to Christmas.

Private schools are able to talk about Jesus and him being the reason we celebrate it more than public schools are able to.

Another thing kids are doing is not believing in Santa Claus as long as they used to. Now, it is becoming more likely to just want presents than to believe in the spirit of Santa.

The problem is really how greedy children are nowadays and parents spoiling their kids.

If a kid is spoiled, then you can imagine how much more they will expect for Christmas.

If all they are worried about is getting their new skateboard or Barbie house, then how could they focus on the birth of Jesus Christ?

When I was little, my parents sent me to PSR, where we would act out the birth of Jesus every Christmas.

It would really get the kids involved playing each character, helping them fully understand the holiday.

I believe the problem has really revolved around Black Friday. Stores are opening on Thanksgiving Day now, and parents are taking their kids shopping with them to pick out their presents. This will make them more focused on what they are going to see

Christmas morning.

Some good advice to parents is to start helping their kids early. Put on plays or be animated on the birth of Jesus.

Kids learn more by visuals, so if they see the act being done, they will remember it longer.

Read books about it before putting the kids to bed. The Night Before Christmas is a classic my parents used to read to me. This would help kids get more excited about Santa coming and celebrating rather than being excited only for the presents.

Explain who Santa is and what else he does besides deliver gifts all over the world.

Try to incorporate Jesus being a part of him. Kids will learn to love him and Jesus.

Try to watch Christmas movies together as a family.

Your children will appreciate these times and not be so greedy.

Kenzie Grice, 9, said, “I think a lot of people still know about the true meaning of Christmas, but they get wrapped up in the hype of it all. I know and cherish it because of my friends and family.”

Children will look back at the great memories they made at Christmas time and share it with their future families. This generation is our only hope for the true meaning of Christmas to stay alive in our hearts.

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Picture Page

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December 2014

Holiday Throwbacks 1.

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1. Amanda, 10, pouts as a picture is being taken of her in her Christmas hat.

2. Sisters Claric, 11, and Jordan, 9, open up their Christmas gifts.

3. Siblings Ryan, 11, and Karen, 9, hug during a picture under their tree.

4. Tara, 11, has her picture taken while sitting on Santa’s lap.

5. Libby, 12, and her younger brother match for pictures.

6. Sisters Hannah, 12, and Haley, 10, show love by hugging for a picture together.

7. Brothers Tyler, 12, and Justin, 10, show off their matching Christmas pajamas.

8. Siblings Anne, 12 and Dean, 10, open up their Christmas presents.

9. Siblings Kyle, 10, and Katie, 9, smile for the camera while in the snow.

10. Friends Madi, 12, and Rachel, 12, spend the afternoon at the Medina Ice Sculpture Festival.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STACY WITSCHEY

PHOTO COURTESY OF HALEY SMITH

11. Jahala, 11, hides behind her tree while opening presents.

12. Michael, 12, dresses as Santa Claus for his fourth Christmas.

13. The Witschey sisters pose for a picture in their matching Christmas outfits.

14. Sisters Carolyn, 12, and Julia, 9, smile while playing in the snow with their dog.

15. Siblings Zach 11, and Bry, 10, pose for a picture with their cousins Matt, 10, and his younger brother.

16. Haley, 12, and her older brother sit in front of their tree.

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December 2014

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Letters to Santa

Dear Santa, For this Christmas holiday, I am thanking you for all of the love and care that you have given me, and all of the presents I have received these past fourteen years. The best gift I have ever received was the Twilight Saga, but this year, I am asking for an Xbox One. -Brianna Arthur, 9 Dear Santa, Thank you for delivering all of the well-behaved children good gifts and for caring for them. For Christmas, I am asking for a brand new Yamaha Y-2 dirt bike, hopefully with a custom work job. I would prefer if it is all blue chrome. In addition, I also want a CM12 II airsoft gun with a full metal and a FPS of 450.

I know you will not disappoint.

-Jason Anderson, 11 Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas this year is to be done with physical therapy.

I have been going to physical therapy for four different injuries for the past two years, and I am so fed up with it. Please make me 100% better, so I can continue to play soccer again.

-Lexi Knapp, 10

Dear Santa, When I was little, all I wanted for Christmas was some magic wishing dust so that I could wish for a little dog, good health, the ability to fly and anything else my young heart hoped to gain. Remember when I used to talk to you on Christmas Eve, begging you to bring it? I know that you heard me...probably through your magic snow globe.

Right? Well...it still has not come yet, and that is kind of upsetting to me. I think this year, more than ever, I am deserving of it.

I will use the magic dust to make the world a better place, and, of course, to fly. Santa, thank you for all the hard work you do throughout the year and on Christmas Eve to make the holiday special. I really, really hope that you bring me my magic wishing dust this year, and I promise that I will put it to good use.

-Sonia Potter, 12

Dear Santa, I want knitting needles to make a new scarf, and I want a puppy to cuddle with this year.

-Keragan Corpening, 12 Dear Santa, I have been a very nice girl this year, and I would love to wake up on Christmas morning and see that you have visited my house. I am not asking for much this year, and I will be sure to leave you a plate of cookies. Please be careful of the reindeer and watch out for my dogs because they may bark at you.

-Abbie Case, 10 Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is to see, spend time with and have fun with my family. I also want to spend time with my girlfriend and her family. It also would be nice to get a lot of gifts to play with.

-Cody Smith, 11 Dear Santa, This Christmas, I would like to give Mrs. Hammel a yellow Jeep Wrangler because she is the most caring person in the world.

She never fails to make my day. I also want Mrs. Clemm to get tickets to visit her daughter in New Zealand.

-Alec Watkins, 12 P.S. Put some 22� on the Jeep.

Dear Santa, I hope to get many things from you this year. I have been a very good boy. I hope for lots of games and to have fun with my family. I really hope that you can bring a special pencil that gives me all of the right answers to everything in life. I also hope that you can bring all of Mr. Jurey’s presents, too.

Thanks, Santa.

-Clayton Christian, 10

Dear Santa, I am thankful for all of the hard work that you do to give me the presents that I want.

Even though I tell you what I want every year for Christmas, it always is a surprise!

-Lucus Mills, 9 Dear Santa, Hey, Santa, how is it going? I would like a Lamborghini for Christmas. Thank you for being the best!

-Joe Roberts, 12

Dear Santa, I would like to thank you for all of the hard work you and your helpers do to give a great holiday for little kids. The amount of belief and admiration they have for you is just amazing.

This year for Christmas, I would like a few vinyl records from my favorite band, some awesome black combat boots and sweaters because who could not want more sweaters?

-Erica Herman, 10 Dear Santa, Thank you for all of the hard work, but I think you are doing too much for the world. Take a break. All I want for Christmas is for you to stop.

-A.J. Arch, 10

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Mrs. Mathews’ Christmas Sweater Closet

PHOTOS EDITED BY ABIGAIL CIPAR

Features

THE BRUIN

December 2014

PHOTOS BY REGAN SZALAY

Mathews leads Christmas sweater attire WHS halls fill with festive dress during December

BY REGAN SZALAY

A wise elf named Buddy once said, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”

At Wadsworth High, holiday spirit is not passed on by singing, but spread as the students and staff sport their best holiday season sweaters throughout the month of December.

As one walks through the halls during this festive month, one will see sweaters of all colors, designs, styles and trends in support of the upcoming holiday season.

When stuck on what to wear during the cold, last month of the year, a Christmas sweater is the best fit. They can be found by digging through parents’ old winter clothing box from the 90’s or at Goodwill.

Goodwill always has an extensive selection of holiday sweaters. But, as the year creeps into December, the selection runs out quickly due to the high demand of winter sweaters. This is because the amount of Christmas sweater parties, contests and, even, themed sporting events that require sweaters.

One of the biggest supporters of the Christmas sweater festivity at WHS is Spanish teacher, Mrs. Mathews. Each and every day of December, Mathews shows off a different Christmas sweater or shirt to school. She has a total of 27 different holiday themed tops that she has acquired over years of collecting.

Mathews’ tradition started from just a few sweaters. Each year, she would go out and see more and more sweaters that

she wanted, making the pile slowly grow to the 27 that she has to this day. Throughout the school, she is known for having the best and most spirited sweaters.

Mrs. Mathews states, “I love to wear sweaters throughout the whole month because it is an annual thing---you only get to wear Christmas attire once a year, so why not?”

“My kids think I am crazy for having and wearing all of my Christmas sweaters all month, but it is just something I do,” said Mrs. Mathews in response when asked what people think of her tradition.

The holiday season is seen as one of the best times of the year due to the holiday spirit shown by people of all religions. No matter what holiday, never be afraid to have holiday spirit and sport a sweater to show it.

Cast captures Our Town perfectly

EDITED BY ABIGAIL CIPAR

BY MADDIE CAPRON

Written by Thornton Wilder in the 1930s, the Wadsworth High School Drama Department brought Our Town to life, better than ever before, in the Performing Arts Center on Dec. 4-6.

The play, set in the 1900s, transports the audience to a scene of the fictional American Town, Grover’s Corners, New Hampshire.

The Stage Manager, played

by Elaine Gossard, 12, delivered to the audience an inside look into the town. She introduced many characters and places inside the town.

Lauren Muir, 12, who played the part of Mrs. Gibbs, said, “Our Town brought the cast together to make the play

Fully capturing Wilder ’s theme includes understanding that the play is trying to tell the audience that they should appreciate life while they still have it.

“I thought “After directing Our Town two the actors did job, previous times at WHS, I believe ap rlovely oviding that this cast fully captured a n o v e r a l l dramatic and and understood Wilder’s w e l l true message better than the p e r f o r m e d p l a y. I t w a s previous two times.” clear that the

-Mrs. Pam Csaky cast worked hard,” said Madi Salem, 12, who saw the “After directing Our Town two previous times at WHS, I believe play on Dec. 5.

The overall reaction of the that this cast fully captured and understood Wilder’s true message performance was that it was better than the previous two truly one for the books. Once times,” said Mrs.Pam Csaky, again, the Drama department director of the drama club. struck gold. the best it could possibly be.”

Many people who saw the play would agree that this rendition of Our Town, was the best Wadsworth High School has seen.

Photo courtesy of Elaine Gossard

Photo courtesy of bret baker

Featured left are Elaine 12, and Kyle, 10, posing before the backdrop for the play. The cast groups for a picture in their drama shirts after a hard day at practice, pictured right.

photo courtesy of Lauren Muir

The cast gets a snapshot during the final scene of their excellent performance.

Techniques for a Snow Day

BY OLIVIA FORTNER

Ohio is the birthplace of aviation, home of Lebron James and often referred to as the home of unpredictable, bad weather.

Ohio has some of the most bipolar weather in the country.

One day, it could be 63 degrees and partly cloudy, and the next day a full-blown snow blizzard. The hopefulness of snow days fill heads as the first snowfall of the school year is seen.

Living in Ohio can have its perks. On really snowy days, the roads become icy and the plows can barely keep up with the persistent snowfall. Something amazing for students can happen and a parents’ nightmare can come true-we all know this dream as a snow day. A snow day in the future months is

within reach, but how do students achieve this if a snow day is on the line? It is simple, and there are plenty of techniques that one can use to have a day off.

1. Flush Ice Cubes down the toilet This one is a must. This technique is very helpful to get one’s longawaited day off. To do this task, one must flush ice cubes down the toilet. It is said that after many ice cubes travel through the pipes, it should freeze the ground the ice travels under. Once the ground gets cold, the snow should stick to the ground, building up snow piles, making it harder to plow the snow.

2. Wear PJ’s inside out PJ’s inside out is a classic technique to achieve a snow day.

This method is used because it is to represent the clouds turning inside out, dumping all the snow out onto the ground. Now, to really get this right, clouds are usually wet when

they hold snow, so soaking pj’s in water would make this work even better. It is so effective that all of Wadsworth could possibly be snowed in for two days.

3. Do the Snow Dance The Rain Dance has been known to make the sky open up for the Indians’ crops many years ago. It can also make a snow day possible for students who need a relaxing day off from nonstop education. A snow dance must include the following: 1. A chant which is repeated over and over again.

2. Incorporation of some type of movement, such as skipping, prancing, twirling, squatwalking, etc.

3. Many downward random arm motions representing the snow falling down.

4. Something that makes one

feel like Elsa.

5. A friend or family so that all can experience Elsa’s great powers, making the dance more powerful.

4. Place a Spoon under pillows While it is unknown exactly how this tradition started, no one would want to risk losing a snow day by forgetting this simple yet effective technique. Every task counts, so do not forget this one!

5. Be patient with the superintendent The superintendent is under a lot of pressure. Bugging and nudging Dr. Hill can add even more pressure to his load. It could even cause his decision to be unclear. Remember, he still has to work on the snow days, so maybe sending a nice little hot chocolate could be the perfect gesture of how much one appreciates his decision.

Photo COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

Elsa, from Frozen, displays her magical powers to produce winter storms.

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December 2014

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Classic Christmas characters form athletes

OPINION BY NOAH

Have you ever wondered what Christmas time characters do outside of their classic roles? These favorites all fit the role of an athlete in some extraordinary way.

Rudolph the Red Nosed

Reindeer makes the perfect center to lead Santa as quarterback in the game of football. Rudolph and Santa would lead a team to victory through the air.

The Grinch has the ability to make an excellent defensive back with his effective take aways. He would cause all types of problems while stealing the ball from Santa and the offense.

I am going to give Charlie Brown a second chance and say he would make a great kicker.

Cindy Lou Who, being so spirited and supportive,

would make a fabulous cheerleader in my eyes.

Jack Frost makes for one of the sneakiest three point specialists in the game of basketball.

Coming off the bench, Frost finds ways to get open in the corners and make buckets.

Frosty the Snowman starts on my hockey team as goalie. His size and width would make it impossible for a puck to pass the plane.

Kevin, star of the Home Alone series, would be the best catcher to play baseball.

The kid flat out knows

Which Christmas character would make the best athlete?

Photo COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

Charlie Brown, a classic Christmas time character, lines up for the kick.

how to protect the plate.

An elf would make a perfect point guard in the NBA. His production and assist game would make the most important position in basketball look like a breeze.

Finally, a nutcracker would make the greatest manager of

all time in the MLB. He would sit on the bench all game as he cracks peanuts and seeds while coaching his team to victory.

As your favorite Christmas movies air on TV throughout the holiday, think about which of these classic characters would make the best athletes.

“The Grinch has the makings of a point guard who can steal the ball just like he tried to steal Christmas.”

- Emily

“I think that Rudolph would make for a great soccer forward because he has four legs.”

- Brennan ,11

“Buddy the Elf would be an awesome pitcher in baseball because he is really good at throwing snowballs.”

- Nick ,11

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Established dynasties of college football

Opinion by Jamie

The goals for a college football coach every year are a national championship and a number one recruiting class. For some coaches this happens far more than it does for other teams, creating a dynasty.

Alabama is one of those teams right now. They have won three championships in the last five years, have had the number one recruiting class three years in a row and are in line for another one. Sitting number one in the polls right now, they are two wins away from claiming another national championship. They have been an absolute nightmare in college football for the last 6 years. Since 2009, they have had the most first round picks in the NFL draft with 11.

Miami, also known as “The U”, was almost able to call themselves a dynasty but fell short to Ohio State in 2002 going to their second consecutive National Championship game.

Miami won the championship the year before and was riding a 34 game winning streak, spanning from 2000-2003, before losing.

From 1999 to 2003, they had 15

first round draft picks, and the most first round draft picks since 2000 with 26.

From 2002-2008 the USC Trojans won seven straight Pac10 conference championships, and they won two national championships. They had three Heisman trophy winners during this time and from 2003-2005 they were on a 34 game winning streak, which ended in a national championship game against Vince Young and Texas. They had one of the best players to ever play college football in Reggie Bush, who was later stripped of his Heisman trophy.

The greatest dynasty of all time belongs to the Oklahoma Sooners from 1948-1958.

During this time, Oklahoma had four undefeated season and three national championships.

They won all their conference championships during this time and had one Heisman trophy winner. From 1953-1957, they had a record 47 straight wins, and from 1948-1950 they had 31 straight wins. During this span, they went 107-8 possessing the greatest dynasty of all time.

A dynasty is the goal for every college coach when they sign their contract. Every team is chasing the great Oklahoma dynasty, and Alabama is not far behind. If they can claim their fourth championship in six years this year, our generation would be witnessing the greatest dynasty in college football history.

Team wins and championships Teams

National Championships

Most consecutive team wins

Alabama

19

28

Oklahoma

17

47

USC

17

34

Miami

9

34

Texas

9

30

Washington

4

39

Heisman trophy winner Mark Ingram led the Tide to a Championship in 2010.

Linebacker and vocal leader Jonathan Vilma almost led the Hurricanes to back-to-back championships in 2001-

Reggie Bush led the Trojans to a championship in 2004 but fell short in 2005.

Photos COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

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Grizzly wrestlers look to continue dominance

BY TIM KNIPL

Wadsworth wrestling has a long history of success and pride.

Just five years ago, they were the OHSAA Division I state champions. The following year, the team finished a solid 3rd place.

Since then, they have fallen short of finishing in the top 10 in the state.

This year, they look to make a strong push to win another state title as well as to win their 23rd straight Suburban League title.

This year’s team is a solid mix of young, talented, underclassman, and they are led by a group of strong, veteran juniors and seniors.

There are two returning state qualifiers: Darrin Gilkerson, 11, and Shane Mast, 12. Also returning are state-placer Tim Knipl, 12, and state champion Noah Baughman, 11. In addition, Brandon Randolph, 10, was a state alternate last year, and the team had several district qualifiers just shy of making it to the state tournament.

According to the Intermat Preseason Rankings by Josh Lowe, the team is ranked 4th overall. They have earned this rank with six wrestlers ranked in the top 16 in the state, five of whom are projected to place in top 8.

The Grizzly grapplers started the season off with a Preview at Padua High School. While there, they matched up with Edison High School, Ravenna High School, and Padua High School.

The Grizzlies had much success, losing very few matches in each

dual. In conclusion, the Grizzlies dominated the competition and looked like a state championship caliber team.

The wrestlers opened up their first regular season match at Lexington High School. They went head to head with Olentangy Liberty High School, winning 48-26, Oak Harbor High School, winning by a score of 41-30 and Bellbrook High School, coming out on top 59-21. This was a good early test of the true heart and skill of this year’s team. It is very clear that they stepped up to the challenge.

The next event on the Grizzly’s schedule is the Ironman tournament at Walsh High School. This tournament is commonly referred to as one of the toughest high school wrestling tournament in the country. The tournament itself consist of 77 different teams from 17 states, but the tough schedule of the Grizzlies will pay off in March.

The girls basketball team has been one of the most successful programs in our school history. With high expectations every year, failure is not an option. Thus, being predicted to be fourth in Suburban League is shocking to many. Returning only two starters, the team will need to rely heavily on underclassmen to fill gaps.

“We have three freshman, which is rare, but the kids who can get the job done will play,” said Coach Booth.

The team not only has many new faces but looked different in new uniforms.

“I got the idea from Mercer, who beat Duke last year in the NCAA tournament. I wanted them to be unique and different,” said Booth.

The team started the season debut at a charity event held in the high school gym. Hoops 4 Hope was an event held to raise money to support the Medina County Battered Women’s Shelter. Set up by Kirt Virgin, schools that participated included: Wadsworth, Cloverleaf, West Holmes and Norton. Both varsity and junior varsity teams played in this charity event.

The girls played West Holmes in a full game scrimmage. West Holmes had lost three key starters.

Still, returning as Division II State Champions, they proved to be a

Sports Briefs Boys Basketball After coming off of a strong preseason, the boys basketball team is searching for its first victory. Opening with two tough nonconference games, the boys fell to Firestone 57-51. The second game of the season ended in a loss in overtime to Stow 67-64.

.at the state tournament.

Girls Swimming Photo COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

Coach G is in the heat of the moment while he coaches one of his wrestlers to a victory. Coach G is chasing after his 24th Suburban League title, 23rd in a row, and his second Division I State title.

In the first home meet of the season, the girls fell to Firestone 172112. They then fell to Medina 202-106.

Boys Swimming The boys opened up the season with a win over Firestone 165-103. They then dropped a tough loss to Medina 173.5132.5.

Gymnastics

Photo COURTESY OF MCT CAMPUS

New faces plan to roll with tradition

BY HANNAH STUDENIC

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challenge for the Grizzlies.

The team came out very jittery, seeing as how this was essentially the first game together for this season. Nerves definitely played a huge factor in the scrimmage.

Defeating West Holmes was a great accomplishment for the entire team.

Not long after debuting at the scrimmage, this year’s season was started against Avon. Avon was returning four starters, so the game was not going to be an easy win.

The Grizzlies came out very strong in all aspects of the game. Not only were they stellar on defense, but they were also excellent at the free throw line. All players came out with good enthusiasm, and the intensity never dropped. With all their jitters out, the team played exceptionally well. The game resulted in a victory of 52-26.

With doubt as to whether or not the girls team could keep an exceptional tradition going, this game helped to confirm they are still as good as ever, maybe even better.

“This game helped to get the butterflies out; it really helped against Avon,” said Booth.

The team was once again tested in their first Suburban league game against Revere. Revere is projected to win Suburban League this year.

The rivalry between the two teams only intensified the fact it was a must-win game for both.

The game started with an 11-0 lead with the Minutemen dominating

early in the first quarter. The game looked as if Revere was going to easily defeat us. By the end of the first quarter, the Minutemen led the Grizzlies 14-5. As the second quarter began, the girls seemed to pick up intensity and started to lessen the lead. With two shots made by Kaile Pappas, 12, late in the second quarter, the game was lead by the Grizzlies 25-21 going into halftime.

With the score consistently going back and forth, the game kept fans on the edge of their seats. With two late three-pointers made by Aubrey Virgin, 12, the Grizzlies extended their lead to 45-36. With these shots, the girls solidified the lead. The game resulted in a 56-45 win for the Grizzlies. In winning this game, the girls were able to prove that they are still one of the toughest teams in the league. Jodi Johnson, 11, led the Grizzlies with 17 points, with Sophia Fortner, 9, trailing her with 16 points.

The girls basketball team is surely keeping the tradition alive. With the motivation now to prove everyone who doubted them wrong, they are playing with more intensity than ever. Although they have not returned many, both returning and new players are playing as if they have been together for years.

“We are still a really good team.

We are determined now more than ever to win Suburban League. I think we will live up to the tradition,” said Jenna Johnson, 11.

The team opened the season with wins over Massillon (116.35) and McKinely (102.95) to Wadsworth’s 132.55.

PHOTO COUTESY OF DALE FORTNER

Jodi , 11, is one of two returning starters for the girls basketball team. In the win against Revere, she led the team with 17 points. In this picture, she jumps up for tipoff in their first game against the Avon Eagles.

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December 2014

Burritos, hamburgers and omelettes, oh my

OPINION BY ROBERT AND JOHN

Does your stomach constantly growl like you have 5C lunch and missed breakfast? Do you hanker for a quality dining experience without leaving Wadsworth?

Then this guide is for you!

Casa Del Rio Since 2001, this tasty Mexican paradise located at 839 High Street has served everything from tacos to “super burros.”

The super burro is a unique burrito filled with your choice of meats (or for you vegetarians, vegetables) along with cheese, rice, refried beans, tomatoes, onions, lettuce and sour cream.

The restaurant’s owner, known as Dave, leaves the restaurant in the hands of trusted employees.

The restaurant boasts not only great food, but a family-

friendly atmosphere. As if that was not enough, their prices are to die for. A combination meal of two beef tacos, rice and beans only costs $8.25.

Haley Banfield, 11, says, “Every time I go to work, the workers make my day with their jokes and glowing personalities.”

Our overall impression of this fine establishment is one of awe.

The service is good, the food is better and the atmosphere is great. If you are looking for a quality dine-in experience with family and friends, then head on over to Casa Del Rio.

The Galaxy Robert and Phyllis Leatherman have been well known in the local hospitality industry since they opened their first restaurant, a Manner’s Big Boy Restaurant, in the 1950’s.

They dreamed of building a unique restaurant in their hometown of Wadsworth, Ohio.

On Jan. 10, 2000, the Galaxy opened its doors to the public.

Since then, the Galaxy has expanded to include a patio, wine room and Circle L Steakhouse.

If guests want to watch their favorite teams and have a drink with friends, then the Sports Bar & Patio is for them. The menu features burgers and steaks from a distinct blend of beef called Lim-Flex, a combination of Limousin (which is naturally leaner) and Angus beef.

The Galaxy Burger certainly takes the cake for extraordinary taste. The burger consists of twin quarter pound beef patties, American Cheese, iceberg lettuce, pickles and Galaxy Secret Sauce.

The sauce is creamy, cheesy and compliments the burger nicely.

Nathan Gannon, 11, says, “I like to order their fish dinner.”

Our overall impression of this homegrown restaurant is one of satisfaction. We were impressed by how knowledgeable our server was. He was also extremely considerate of allergies in the group. If you want a sophisticated and unique atmosphere, then go enjoy a quality, delicious meal at The Galaxy.

Alexandri’s Alexandri’s Restaurant is one of Wadsworth’s old stalwarts,

Photo COURTESY OF robert hahn

The Super Burro is one of Casa Del Rio’s best sellers, filled with meat, cheese, rice, beans, tomatoes, onions and lettuce.

Photo COURTESY OF john merhar

Photo COURTESY OF john merhar

(Left) Marie’s pizza is always fresh and made from scratch.

(Right) The combo meal of bacon, eggs and hash browns is an Alexandri’s favorite breakfast.

located at 146 Main Street.

They are best known for their phenomenal breakfast omelettes, such as the farmer’s omelette, the feta omelette, and the Spanish omelette.

Another crowd favorite is the breakfast combo dubbed “Crazy 8,” which consists of two pieces of ham and sausage, two eggs and your choice of two pancakes or french toast.

Patrick Merhar, 10, says, “Regardless, if it’s early in the morning or later on in the day, their pancakes always hit the spot.”

As if the great food was not enough, the prices are as low as can be. An omelette with ham, cheese, and a side of hash browns is only $8.95.

If you are looking to buy a breakfast that is fast, cheap, and delicious, then go to Alexandri’s for their homemade breakfast dishes.

Marie’s Restaurant Are you ever sitting at home on a Saturday night with your friends, wondering what the “move” is? Well, if you are ravenous for some genuine, and I

mean genuine, pizza, then you and your friends should head on over to Marie’s, a Wadsworth staple that residents salivate over when discussing where to go for dinner.

Located on 130 Smokerise Drive, this restaurant looms over route 94, making it hard to miss.

One signature item on the menu is their “Chicken Parmigiana”, which is a breaded chicken breast, doused in their homemade sauce with sprinkles of cheese, served on a homemade bun. This dish is surely one of the best on the menu, and we recommend that you indulge in that.

Our overall impression of this restaurant was the best of the four establishments we visited. From the time we walked in the front door to the moment we paid our bills, the meal and experience was great. The waitress we had was very kind and had a lot of input on the enticing signature dishes.

The food was well prepared and brought out in a timely manner, which is something we greatly appreciated. Nothing can beat quick service and good eats, and Marie’s offers both.

Some people go to Paris, France for renowned food; others head to Italy. We learned that the best food often comes from places close to home.

So, the next time you are looking for a great meal with family and friends, stay in town, save cash and have a whale of a time. Bon Appétit!

O F THE MONTH

THE BRUIN

Christmas laughs

Brian Favorite subject: Honors Physics Future plans: Go to the University of Akron to study Chemical Engineering.

Favorite holiday movie: I do not have a favorite Christmas movie.

Q: What is the difference between the Christmas alphabet and the ordinary alphabet?

A: The Christmas alphabet has Noel!

The Interview

15

Students of the Month

Q: What do you call an elf who sings?

A: A wrapper!

Q: What do you call an obnoxious reindeer?

A: RUDEolph!

M o v i e

December 2014

Amanda

Favorite subject: AP Chemistry Future plans: Major in Biology; attend dental and orthodontal school at Ohio State.

Favorite holiday movie: Elf PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRUIN

Happy Holidays from the Bruin Staff!

Twitter Names of the Month

Song of the Month

Daniel-11

Dylan-12 Ben-11

@D3VA5TAT10N_34

All I Want For Christmas Is You -Mariah Carey

@Dubsaveli

@TheKempasaurus

PHOTO COURTESY OF mct campus PHOTOS COURTESY OF TWITTER

Career Tech Students of the Month Alexis Medical Assisting

Chris

Engineering Design & technology PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRUIN

Quote of the Month “He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.”

-Roy L. Smith

16

December 2014

THE BRUIN

S peakout

What is the one Christmas gift you wanted but never received?

“A flying sandbox...

Thanks a lot ‘Santa’.”

-Sarah Trausch

“I have always wanted a puppy with a big red bow waiting under the Christmas tree for me.

Still waiting.”

-Allison Pallija

“A prancing pony or unicorn!”

-Kip Shipley

“A 1973 Mach 1 Mustang.”

-Charles Berg “I wanted an official Red Ryder, carbine action, two-hundred shot range model air rifle! But my mom said I would shoot my eye out.”

-Eric Heffinger

“In the 80’s, I was quite the tomboy, and I really wanted a new Transformer Autobot for Christmas, but there were only girl toys under the tree.”

-Amy Lamonica