The Bruin - April 2021

WADSWORTH HIGH SCHOOL

VOLUME XLVI, ISSUE 5 APRIL 2021

THROUGH OUR EYES A YEAR IN A PANDEMIC

THE BRUIN EDITORIAL

Editorial: Mental health matters

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he motto for the past year has been “just keep moving forward”. Though this is seemingly a positive mindset to have, it is also important to take time to self evaluate your own mental health and feelings.

It has been over a year since the initial COVID-19 lockdown. In the time since, the United States has faced many challenges. In this time of great division and uncertainty, WHS students have taken the time to express how they have felt about

COVID-19, as seen on pages 10 and 11.

These students used creative means to convey their feelings, using their art or writing as an outlet. But outlets can come in many forms, and they depend on personal interests.

My own personal outlet has always been reading. Picking up a book has always provided an escape for me, as I am no longer bogged down by my own life but instead enveloped into a world that is not mine.

Other outlets can include athletics,

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meditation, theater, music and many more. Everyone needs a way to release their built up stress and tension, especially during these tumultuous times.

It is important to remember that you do not need to “just keep moving forward”. Taking the time to decompress is absolutely necessary.

@Wadswor thBruin

I SCREWED UP SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO

ADVICE FROM GRACE SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANT

Dear Grace, How can my friends and I go out and have fun without spending too much money? - Broke Besties First off, if you and your friends are spending absurd amounts

BRUIN STAFF

of money to hang out, you are doing it wrong. What in the world are you doing that is taking so much money? That was really hypocritical of me. Me and my friends have been searching for Squishmallows for months and eating out almost every weekend. But what if you and your friends had a game night or do that one TikTok trend where you make presentations and present them to the group.

Use your imagination and not your wallet, because honestly we are all BROKE.

NEWS EDITOR Natalie Maher

Brianna Becerra Brian Coote

Students of the Month

Emma Codding, 12

Isaac Machar, 12

C A R E E R

T E C H Hollie Graves, 12

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER & VIDEOGRAPHER

Need some advice?

Contact Grace Pantalone 22gpantalone@ wadsworthschools.org

@graciepantalone

STAFF WRITERS

Ashley Allwood Julia Blake Laney Corell Micah Beck Elisabeth Gromofsky Dylan Heppert SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANT Michael Jira Janae Joachim Haylee Joy Alex Miller Grace Pantalone Ari Kaser Jackson Kerley Kade Miros FEATURES & IN DEPTH Chloe Porter Kayla Ross Hailey Smith ADVISOR EDITOR Eric Heffinger Julia Swain Emily Brandyberry

625 Broad Street Wadsworth, OH 44281 ART & LAYOUT EDITOR

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

Dear Grace, How do I deal with receiving my ACT scores? - Loving to Learn Either way, I am sure you did very well and it is not as bad as it seems. But the ACT can be taken as many times as you want. If you want to improve your score, you can always do some ACT prep courses. I took my first ACT in March and I thought I did pretty well…until I saw my friend’s 35, but for me I did good. Do not set your expectations too high because you probably will not get a 30 on your first try, and if you do, then congratulations.

happy Spr a e v a H

ing Break from the Bruin

Staff

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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 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. We reserve the right to edit or omit any portion of any letter because the staff accepts the responsibility for the contents of the paper. All letters must be signed, but the name will be withheld upon request.

2 APRIL 2021

ENTERTAINMENT THE BRUIN BRUIN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

M A RY J O YO U N G

FROM TIKTOK TO TELEVISION: CLEVELAND SINGER ADVANCES ON

BY ALEX MILLER

ART & LAYOUT EDITOR

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ABC/ JOHN FLEENOR

t takes a lot to be a star. From vocal ability to stage presence and mounting pressure, American Idol contestants must rise to the occasion. Mary Jo Young, a Cleveland native, has done just that.

Young graduated from Willoughby South High School in 2019. At the age of 19, she is competing on American Idol to pursue her dream of becoming a singer.

“I always wanted to do Idol when I was younger, but I was just too terrified,” said Young. “I knew it wasn’t going to happen.”

Much to Young’s surprise, this dream would happen, and in her American Idol audition, judge Luke Bryan even called her top ten material.

“That was surprising,” said Young. “I was thrown off guard. I was so scared throughout the audition.

I didn’t think it went great, so when he said that I was excited.”

Young grew up in a musical family but always kept her own music to herself. Her grandfather was an orchestra director, and her mother often sang in church.

Young did not.

“I was always into it [music] but I was just very hidden about it,” said Young. “I didn’t really tell anyone, but I would always play.”

Social media has been the main outlet for Young’s music.

She has posted singing videos on Twitter since middle school and more recently has grown in popularity on TikTok. Her song covers have amassed over 5 million likes collectively and attracted the attention of several competition shows.

“Idol reached

out and a couple other shows did too,” said Young. “I decided, you know, I’m gonna go the Idol route. It’s based on singing, and no matter how far I’ll get, maybe I can meet new people and try to get more comfortable with singing in front of people, not just on the Internet.”

Young shared that three preliminary auditions take place before contestants sing for the judges: Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan and Katy Perry. Contestants first sing for casting agents, executive producers and producers. This year, these auditions rounds were held virtually, and the recorded auditions were held in person.

“I’d never sang in front of anyone, let alone like, you know, three of the most famous people,” said Young.

“So I was pretty terrified. I still get terrified when I think about it.”

Before her audition, Young had never performed in front of anyone, not even her mother. The judges brought her mother into the audition for a special first-time performance: a cover of Lewis Capaldi’s “Bruises.”

“When my mom came in, I think my nerves eased a little bit, especially because I had gotten done with one song already,” said Young.

All three judges gave Young an overwhelming “yes” and with her golden ticket, she went on her way to prepare for Hollywood week. The first Hollywood week episode aired on March 21. This episode challenged contestants to choose a genre and perform a solo for the judges. Young chose the pop genre and performed a cover of “Falling” by Harry Styles, advancing to the next round.

The second Hollywood week episode, which aired on March 28, challenged contestants to duet performances, with partners selected by the judges. Young’s duet was not televised, but after the episode aired she took to Instagram to share the news that she made it through Hollywood week and will be advancing to the next round. As for what is in store, Young says it’s a surprise.

“It’s interesting,” said Young. “You definitely have to stay tuned. I don’t know how much more I can say, but I can say it’s entertaining.”

In addition to being on American Idol, Young has been bouncing

between Cleveland and Los Angeles to record original music. Her single “Carpet” was released independently on March 19 on all music streaming platforms.

To students and everyone out there who wants to go after American Idol, Young has a word of advice: “It’s a fun experience no matter what. Whether you get far or you don’t get far, you meet new people that will help push you along the way – whether it’s the coaches or the judges or other contestants. I think they should just go for it. Because I was terrified. And I went for it.”

Young is a prime example of someone from the area chasing their dreams. As she advances on American Idol, the Bruin will be here to cheer her on. Tune in to American Idol on Sundays and Mondays at 8pm on ABC to see what happens next for Mary Jo Young.

TO LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW AND WATCH CLIPS FROM AMERICAN IDOL, SCAN THE QR CODE OR GO TO WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM

USE THE SPOTIFY APP TO SCAN AND STREAM THE NEW SINGLE “CARPET” BY MARY JO YOUNG

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 3

THE BRUIN NEWS

BY JACKSON KERLEY AND JANAE JOACHIM STAFF WRITERS

OHIO STATEHOUSE INSTALLS STATUE OF JOHN GLENN

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The current fire station stands on N. Lyman St. The building has been in use for almost 80 years. PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT HISCOCK

WADSWORTH SPENDS $500,000 ON LAND FOR NEW FIRE STATION

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adsworth City purchased about three acres of land on College Street for $500,000 to build a new fire station. The current fire station was built in 1963.

The upcoming fire station levy on May 4 is the key factor to this plan for the new station remaining on schedule.

“It’s important to remember that this levy is not just about a new fire station project. Annually the department has between $80,000 - $100,000 of capital expenses for things like replacement firefighter turnout gear,” said Matt Hiscock, the Public Safety Director in Wadsworth.

The current fire station is not suited to support the full crews and the equipment of

he Ohio Statehouse Museum Gallery installed a statue of late astronaut John Glenn that opened for viewing on March 3.

John Glenn was born in Ohio and was the first American to orbit the Earth, completing three full orbits. After leaving NASA, Glenn became a U.S. Senator for Ohio, where he served for 25 years.

The statue was installed to honor the sixtieth anniversary of his orbit around the earth in addition to what would have been his one hundredth birthday. It will continue to be displayed at the Ohio Statehouse near the Great Ohioans exhibit until March 2022.

both departments. “Not all the equipment is able to be stored in the building and just as the community continues to grow the department has long outgrown this facility,” said Hiscock.

They plan to break ground later this year on the property. The goal is to have the building completed and in complete use by 2022/2023. The current fire station will not be demolished and will be kept as an asset of the city, with no plans on what to use the building for.

You can read an extended version of the story at wadsworthbruin. com with the QR code to the right.

WADSWORTH PLANS ONE MILLION IN PARK UPGRADES

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he City of Wadsworth has around a million dollars in park upgrades for Durling and memorial parks planned for the next few years.

The upgrades fix damages and issues that come with normal wear and tear of public parks.

The upgrades also include new tennis courts, bathrooms, baseball and softball fields as well as new walking paths and pavilions. $550,000 of the one million total comes from a 4.7 million dollar pool Kaleidoscope playground is one of the spots expected to receive given to Medina County for fixes and upgrades. PHOTO BY JACKSON KERLEY restoration and public aid.

4 APRIL 2021

PHOTO COURTESY OF FOX NEWS

SENIOR STUDENT COUNCIL MEMBERS DISCUSS OPTIONS FOR PROM

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enior student council members met with Mr. Moore on March 17 and March 25 to express their preferences for how prom will be run.

“We are going to talk with our students to see what’s important and what’s not,” said Moore.

The council members and Mr. Moore concluded that prom will be held from 8-10 PM at the stadium although this has not been finalized.

Masks will have to be worn at the dance and some amount of social distancing will have to take place.

Moore proposed the idea of only dancing with one’s respective date or group to the senior council members and they agreed with his proposal. There will be four to eight people per group, and students will have to sign up for their respective groups beforehand.

The students are in favor of each group getting their own decorated tent to keep them distanced from other groups, but the logistics are yet to be worked out since the dance will be held on the turf.

“It is going to be a process here,” said Moore.

This year, prom might not be as formal as usual.

“The meal here would be a lot simpler,” said Moore.

Moore suggested the idea of separate groups going out to eat together-homecoming style-- to the seniors as well.

They concluded that this is what they want since it will keep the cost of tickets down.

Going out to eat will take place before Promenade, which is planned to start at 7

Mr. Moore meets with senior student council to discuss prom preferences. Moore hopes that plans will be finalized and announced to students after Spring Break. PHOTO BY JANAE JOACHIM

PM. Promenade will be held in the parking lot area, and Moore proposed that the seniors could walk down the sidewalk so parents could see.

Post-Prom was another item for discussion. Moore suggested a drive-in movie and left the council members to come up with any other ideas that they may have. They liked this idea and decided that, with Blue Sky’s cooperation, the drive-in theater would open at 10:30 PM with the movie starting at 11. The event would be over around 1 AM. Moore remains unsure of whether students outside of Wadsworth will be allowed at prom this year, and all of these decisions still have to be confirmed by Dr. Hill and the Health Department before they can be finalized. Moore plans on announcing the finalized plans via email after Spring Break.

Prom is scheduled for May 15, a firm date with specific times subject to change.

NEWS THE BRUIN

striped=dropped mask mandate light=masks required statewide dark=no masks required statewide

STATES REMOVE MASK MANDATES

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tates including Texas, Mississippi, Montana, Iowa and North Dakota have lifted their mask mandates despite the CDC guidelines. COVID-19 cases have begun to level off and hospitalizations have lowered in these states, in addition to the vaccine becoming more available.

Along with this, other restrictions are being eased, and some businesses are reopening at full capacity. Citizens are still

being advised to wear masks and social distance while in public, but there is no longer a mandate on these actions.

This decision to ease COVID-19 restrictions has come with backlash.

Members of the CDC advise wearing masks until everyone is vaccinated so cases do not go back up before that can happen. President Joe Biden also disapproved of these decisions, saying that America is too close to stop now.

RANDALL REINKE RETIRES

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adsworth Police Chief Randall Reinke plans to retire on April 30. Reinke became chief in February 2010, and held the position for over 10 years.

“It’s just time [to retire],” said Reinke.”I’ve been here for twenty eight and a half years. I’m ready to go and start the next chapter of my life.”

In this next chapter, he plans on traveling and enjoying life with his wife, who is also going to be retiring soon.

Reinke started as a patrol officer with Wadsworth Police Department in 1992.

He became a sergeant in 2000 and got

Police Chief Randall Reinke poses for a photo in his uniform. Reinke has served the community of Wadsworth for 28 years, and he was Chief Police for 10 of those. PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDALL REINKE

promoted to the position of chief on February 3, 2010.

Along the way, he has established a good working relationship with Superintendent Andrew Hill and the school administration.

“We were able to get the school resource program started, so I was really happy about getting to work with the schools and do that. I am really proud of that, and now we have two SROs [school resource officers], and I think it has been a big success,” said Reinke.

He has also sworn in many new officers, including Officer Ben Smith, Wadsworth’s SRO. Reinke has won Wadsworth Police Chief Randall Reinke stands with Officer Smith after Smith officer of the year twice and was sworn in as a Wadsworth Police Officer in 2018. Officer Smith is the current SRO (school resource officer) at Wadsworth will be remembered for his High School. PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDALL REINKE contributions to the community.

STUDENT COUNCIL BEGINS PLANNING JUNIOR BANQUET

The groups of students would work the same as prom: four to eight students per group with some type of division to keep the groups six feet apart.

The senior commons will be open for the duration of the dance, and there will Mr. Moore speaks with the junior student be bottled waters and hand council members about Junior Banquet sanitizer available for students there. plans. Moore hopes that these plans will be Council members also had to decide if finalized and announced by April 2. PHOTO they would rather have the students get

BY JANAE JOACHIM their own meals before the dance, like tudent council members of homecoming, instead of having a big meal the junior class attended all together. Moore likes how this idea meetings with Mr. Moore on would support local businesses.

March 17 and March 25 to discuss After conferring with their peers, student their preferences for how the Junior council members concluded that eating Banquet will be run this year. in their separate groups is preferred. This “I want to work with our students,” would ensure that the cost of tickets would said Moore. stay around $10.

However, some restrictions are The last decision that was left up to the non-negotiable. junior class was if there should be another “We know we are going to have to event than a dance including but not wear our mask at a dance,” said Moore. We limited to a game or movie night.

The students expressed to their council are not sure how much social distancing is representatives that a dance is most going to have to happen at the dance.”

Additionally, the event will have to take desired, and Moore has a good feeling that place at the high school this year contrary it will be able to happen.

“I’m confident that you’ll get the tone to previous years when it was held at The that it has to be done appropriately,” said Galaxy.

“I am very confident that students will Moore.

However, these ideas of Moore’s have wear their mask[s] and do it appropriately, and we can have an event here,” said to be run by Superintendent Hill, who will then check with the Medina County Health Moore.

Moore has suggested students dancing Department and its guidelines before only with their small group, and the different meeting back up with Moore to finalize groups would stay socially distanced from plans.

Junior Banquet will be held on April 16 each other throughout the dance. Possibly, only a certain number of students would be from 8-10 PM, which is a firm date but times are subject to change. allowed in the gym at a time.

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MRS. SMITH STARTS A DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION BOOK CLUB

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he Diversity and Inclusion book club, started and led by English teacher Mrs. Smith, will meet on two-hour delay days to discuss the book that they read for the month. The first meeting will be held on Thursday, May 6 at 8:30 AM. The books will have authors who belong to diverse people groups, hence the name of the club.

Examples of these authors include Ben Phillippe, Jenny Torres Sanchez and Leah Johnson, who all belong to diverse ethnic groups.

Students can attend this book club in Room 1405 or join remotely via Google Meet.

Fill out the Google Form on the QR code on the hallway posters to sign-up and vote for a book. See Mrs. Smith in Room 1405 or email her at lsmith@wadsworthschools. org for more information.

PHOTO BY JANAE JOACHIM

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 5

THE BRUIN OPINION

WHAT’S THE BEST COFFEE IN WADSWORTH? OPINION BY KADE MIROS LAYOUT BY MICAH BECK

STARBUCKS

With billions of customers served per year, the self-proclaimed most popular coffee chain in the world has a loyal fan base that has a lot to say about their products.

Starbucks Coffee is great, and they have a very creative menu when it comes to making new beverages.

The cake pops are also very tasty, and the Wadsworth employees’ attitudes make it so much better. However, I do not really like how most items cost at least $5.

10 10 6 MARCH 2021

DUNKIN’

As another great and popular choice for coffee, Dunkin’ has many options.

Their coffee is just right and is also a good price -- I can get a large coffee under three dollars! I even tried the avocado toast and it was okay.

The avocado had too much lime juice for me. Besides that, there are many food options that will make both your stomach and your wallet happy.

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RISE AND GRIND

SONNETS

The café in the square, Sonnets, has both take out and dine-in options.

Their coffee was only alright, but the low price made up for it. The blueberry muffin had a weird blue glittery frosting on top, which wasn’t my favorite, but I liked the idea of it and the display. My order even came with a complimentary sticker.

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Having opened last summer, Rise and Grind has amazing coffee. I feel that they have a good blend of the right amount of ingredients like coffee beans, creamer, etc. The donuts are also delicious. Rise and Grind also has a drive-thru, which is always a win for me.

9 10

PANERA

The restaurant has decent food, but their coffee could be better.

However, they do have an option for unlimited coffee for $8 dollars a month, which makes up for the lack of flavor.

Their cookies are also phenomenal, but we already knew that.

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OPINION THE BRUIN

BY MICHAEL JIRA STAFF WRITER

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HEAD TO HEAD

BY KAYLA ROSS STAFF WRITER

Who is more powerful: Captain Marvel or Wonder Woman?

f you have seen any of the recent Marvel movies, then you know who Captain Marvel is. Alongside Scarlet Witch, Thor and Dr. Strange, Captain Marvel is considered one of the strongest Avengers.

Wonder Woman is another very strong character in the superhero universe, but she is not someone who can get in a fight with Captain Marvel and win.

Captain Marvel did not always have super powers, she started as a pilot for the United States Air Force. Her secret identity, Carol Danvers, got into an accident and came into contact with an infinity stone.

This accident gave her all the powers she has now.

In the beginning, Captain Marvel was not able to control her powers that well, but throughout the movie she learns how to handle her powers. Captain Marvel not only has super powers, but she is very skilled in hand to hand combat. She also can fly almost any aircraft because of her experience in the air force.

Captain Marvel’s strongest power is her photon blast. She is seen multiple times in the movie using this to destroy walls, buildings, or eliminate her enemies. In

Avengers: Endgame, Captain Marvel demonstrates her strength. She is able to hold back Thanos and destroy his ship.

Captain Marvel can also fly. With the ability to fly, she will be able to move faster and be more agile. This will allow her to be able to get out a reach of Wonder Woman.

It is obvious that Wonder Woman is very strong and a very skilled fighter.

Wonder Woman is also iconic, and she is one of the most popular female superheroes. However, if Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel were to get in a fight and they were allowed to use whatever powers they have, the fight would be very one-sided. Captain Marvel could just fly in the sky and use her powers to fight Wonder Woman.

With all of this said, Wonder Woman would put up a good fight against Captain Marvel. The fight will be long and hard fought, but in the end Captain Marvel would win. Captain Marvel is one of, if not the strongest, superhero in the MCU and Wonder Woman would lose. However, if this were an iconic and popularity battle, Wonder Woman would win uncontested.

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he two most recent Wonder Woman movies have only proven the sheer formidable power of Wonder Woman. From Linda Carter to Gal Gadot, Wonder Woman is a force to be reckoned with.

In Wonder Woman 84 (2020), Wonder Woman proves her pure resilience by beating Maxwell Lord, a depressed businessman who acquires absolute power by stealing a stone that enables him to grant wishes. In this movie, she is continually battered by her Smithsonian colleague, Barbara (Kristen Wiig), after Barbara has teamed up with Maxwell Lord in an effort to defeat Wonder Woman. Of course, Wonder Woman defeats the duo. The strength of Wonder Woman is evident in the ease with which she fights her opponents. She is tactful and smart because she makes a plan for defeat, instead of just fighting the opponent with her body.

To defeat Barbara, Wonder Woman had to physically display her power by striking Barbara several times. However, Wonder Woman does not defeat Maxwell Lord with her hands. At the end of the movie,

SHOULD COLLEGES DO AWAY WITH ACT/SAT?

BY LANEY CORELL STAFF WRITER

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pplying to college is a typical ritual and stressor for those in their final years of high school. Most students begin preparing their applications at the start of their senior year before they attend college.

In October of 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 66.2 percent of 2019 high school graduates ages 16 to 24 were enrolled in colleges or universities. A critical component to entering college is collecting and evaluating standardized test scores from tests such as the ACT and SAT. However, including these in the application process creates the argument that standardized tests leave some students at advantages over others. Standardized tests fail to reflect some students’ abilities accurately, and they are strongly biased towards those who have access to specific resources to enhance their performance.

Tests such as the ACT and SAT are high pressure and require students to manage their time on top of performing to their best ability. This high pressure makes the room for error very large. When taking these tests, I was focused more on making sure

I finished rather than the accuracy of my answers. This does not allow students to perform to their best ability, and

scores. ACT and SAT tutors can range anywhere from 30 dollars to 100 dollars per session. Students who are able to afford tutoring have a larger advantage over students who do not have access to it.

Requiring students to submit standardized test scores as a part of their college application is not fair because it leaves many students at a disadvantage over others.

Students from different backgrounds, financial situations and schools should not be compared PHOTO BY LANEY CORELL leaves at one baseline. It students who can creates room for biased decisions at perform under time pressure at the admissions level. It is simply an an advantage over the others. unethical way to determine students’ “I honestly don’t think that these academic performance and acceptance tests should be a part of the admissions into the school. It holds those students process. Instead, they should focus on who cannot get the resources they need students’ volunteer work, essays, and to perform successfully on these tests grades. It makes the process more fair,” from getting into the schools they have said Sarah Flaker, senior. dreamed of and worked towards all In contrast, there are some students of their educational careers. Colleges who do not have access to tutoring should do away with standardized tests and other resources that can enhance in the admissions process.

she convinces him to restore the world to what it was before he acquired his powers.

This is after she has already defeated Aries, god of war, in an apocalyptic World War I setting during the 2017 rendition of Wonder Woman.

Although Captain Marvel proved her strength in the movies Captain Marvel and Avengers: Endgame, Wonder Woman is set apart from Captain Marvel because of her confidence and experience in fighting.

Wonder Woman, also known as Diana, was born an Amazonian goddess. She is the child of Zeus, god of lightning, and Hippolyta, queen of the Amazons of Themyscira. Wonder Woman’s power did not happen by chance or accident, she was born to be an icon of strength.

In both of the recent adaptations of Wonder Woman’s story (2017 and 2020), the audience sees the training and transformation of Diana as a child. She has been trained to be a warrior for good since she was a small child.

Wonder Woman is the epitome of a power female heroine. Her story is iconic in how it shows her natural, altruistic strength.

STUDENT RESPONSES I agree. I think there is a lot more to a student than their test scores. I wish colleges would focus more on extracurriculars and grades.

Sarah Flaker Senior

I personally do not think colleges should require standardized test scores.

Even though there are many high stress jobs, the ACT and SAT often put too much pressure on students.

Rachel Murphy Junior

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 7

THE BRUIN AD

8 APRIL 2021

FEATURES THE BRUIN

AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

BY NATALIE MAHER NEWS EDITOR

April 2 is Autism Awareness Day, with April being World Autism Awareness month. April 2 was set as Autism Awareness Day that was United Nationssanctioned. The month of April is specifically set aside to raise awareness and share stories of those who have autism, along with providing autism-friendly activities. Spreading awareness and educating others is an equally important part of this month.

What is autism?

According to the CDC, “Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.”

The CDC says that 1 in 54 children are diagnosed with autism.

In the past, autism was represented by a line, ranging from low to high functioning. Now, researchers are choosing to look at it as a color wheel. Each case of autism is unique to the person who has it. No matter where someone points on a color wheel, the color is going to be slightly different. Each color has a different skill set. For example, the color orange on the wheel represents social skills, green represents motor skills, and pink represents sensory sensitivity. The color wheel shows that people with autism have varying strengths and weaknesses and that no case is the same. Using the color wheel enables people to have a better understanding of individual cases.

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People with autism often do not have any physical indicators. If you wave or smile at someone while walking down the street, and they do not acknowledge it, it is often seen as rude. If this person has autism they are not being rude. It is harder for them to pick up on some social cues.

It is raining cats and dogs!

In most cases, people with autism are extremely literal. When idiomatic and sarcastic language is used, it can be confusing for them. For example, when the phrase “raining cats and dogs” is used, people without autism know it is not actually raining cats and dogs, but those who have it will take it literally in some cases.

In some cases, people with autism are hyper aware of their surroundings. They notice things that others do not. An example would be hearing almost every sound around them and each amplified.

What You Can Do • Use person first language.

They are not an “autistic person,” rather, “a person with autism.” Having autism is one part of who they are. It does not define them.

• Educate yourself. Take the time to learn more about it. Do not be afraid to ask questions.

• Be mindful and respectful of other’s situations. If they ask for more space, ask you to be quiet, or ignore you, be patient.

• Walk a mile in their shoes.

Be Inclusive. Embrace and celebrate the things that make all of us different and unique.

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 9

THE BRUIN IN-DEPTH

WHS ON THE YEAR THAT B

COURTNEY FRENO

SOPHOMORE It was the first time we have really thought about how the holidays are going to be this year. I got quarantined the week of Thanksgiving, so my family could not have family over. This Thanksgiving was like no other Thanksgiving, but in a bad way.

BY LIZ GROMOFSKY, ARI KASER & CHLOE PORTER STAFF WRITERS

eing a teenager living through the pandemic has been tough; from having things constantly canceled to not being able to see the outside world, the pandemic has forever changed the lives of today’s teenagers. Wadsworth High School students submitted poetry, writing responses, photographs and artwork that all portray how they felt at the beginning of it all as well as their feelings as the pandemic progressed. This is a collective visual of how teenage art styles, perspectives and emotions have all been affected by the COVID-19. The Bruin based this idea off of the New York Times article that asked similar questions to teenagers across the United States. These responses, abstract and realistic, document what it has been like to live through this historic year.

I CAN’T HANDLE THIS REPETITION, REPETITION, REPETITION. THE WORLD JUST FEELS LIKE ONE BIG BLURRY PICTURE. YESTERDAY WAS TODAY, AND TODAY IS TOMORROW. IT’S NEVER-ENDING AND IT SEEMS TO BLEND TOGETHER AFTER A SHORT WHILE. SOMETIMES WE LAUGHED WITH FRIENDS, WE CRIED, WE WERE AFRAID, WE LIVED. SOMETIMES WE FELT ALONE, SHIELDED FROM THE WORLD. BUT, IN THE END, ALL THE DAYS STAYED THE SAME. THE BLUR OF THE WORLD FELT SO UNREAL, BUT TIME CONTINUED TO PASS. WE LIVED THE SAME DAY OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN; EVERYTHING SEEMED OUT OF FOCUS. IT ALL SLOWLY FADED AWAY INTO ANOTHER DAY OF REPETITION.

KARYSSA STEDMAN SOPHOMORE This is a picture of a note one of my friends dropped off at my house while we were locked down. We weren’t allowed to see each other, but she still made the effort to make sure all of her friends knew how much she cared about them.

LEIA GONZALES-BANAAG SOPHOMORE

EMILEE PATTERSON

SOPHOMORE

This year I feel ruined my life. Just from sitting in my house think of all the bad things that could happen in this world. All the chaos. This is based off of the song “Drivers License” by Olivia Rodrigo.

I THINK PEOPLE ARE STUCK INSIDE, SO THEY FEEL THE NEED TO ATTACK AND HARASS OTHERS,

SIMPLY FOR BEING THEMSELVES

THIS PANDEMIC SHOWED ME AND THE REST OF THE WORLD THAT

LIFE HAS ALWAYS BEEN THIS WAY. NOW IT’S JUST OUT IN THE OPEN.

THE SAME ROUTINE OF WAKING UP, GOING TO SCHOOL, AND HAVING ABSOLUTELY NO MOTIVATION TO DO ANYTHING WILL REPEAT ITSELF EVEN AFTER THE MASK MANDATE IS LIFTED. CARLEY SORRENT 10 APRIL 2021

SOPHOMORE

MALLORY TAYLOR SOPHOMORE

2020 was quite full of events, LUNA thought I didn’t have much issue with the virus because I was WILLIAMS in Columbia, but a lot of things SOPHOMORE ended. 2020 has truly been a wild year with many learning from the events that took place.

ANNA MAAG

SOPHOMORE I made this piece at the beginning of quarantine about a week after I found out we would no longer be returning to school. They have severe dark circles. I added that as I found my sleep schedule failing during that time with me staying up until the early hours of the morning yet getting up at 8 to do school.

I FEEL LIKE I’VE LOST MY MIND NOT BEING ABLE TO GO OUT AND DO THINGS THE WAY THEY WOULD NORMALLY HAPPEN ALYX SNYDER SOPHOMORE

LAYOUT BY ARI KASER

IN-DEPTH THE BRUIN

GOVERNOR DEWINE ALSO SAID WE WOULD BE GOING INTO A LOCKDOWN.

FOR THE NEXT COUPLE OF SENIOR MONTHS, Some of the thoughts behind IT WAS SIMPLY; the drawing was definitely the WAKE UP, GO loneliness and the lack of freedom I had TO GOOGLE during quarantine.

I believe that the lack of ability to do CLASSROOM, DO the things we used to be able do made HOMEWORK, TURN us appreciate the normal, boring things.

The pandemic didn’t IT IN, AND THEN change my art style, but I have definitely had YOU’RE DONE. more time to practice.

JOSEFINE SUNSEN

I WAS TERRIFIED. I HAD NO IDEA WHAT THAT EVEN KARYSSA MEANT. STEDMAN

SOPHOMORE

SOLOMAN EVERYONE SAYING CALLAGHAN WAS

KAYLEE KEENUM SOPHOMORE

SOPHOMORE

“OH THE PANDEMIC WILL BE OVER BY SUMMER.” “ONCE The pandemic SCHOOL STARTS THINGS WILL BE BACK TO definitely gave me ore time to NORMAL” OR “BY NEXT SPRING THIS WILL be more creative, ALL BE OVER.” I WAS SILLY TO BELIEVE THIS and was also a EVERY TIME. I CONSTANTLY THOUGHT WE bridge to new ideas, like sketching out a WERE ABOUT TO BE OUT OF THIS MESS. person with a mask on.

IT ALWAYS KEPT GOING. NOW, A YEAR LATER, HERE WE STILL This piece symbolizes the way the past year has affected ARE, WAITING FOR THINGS TO me. The pandemic has been stressful at times, but it has GET BETTER. KATIE given me lots of opportunities

DEAR DIARY, I WISH LIFE WOULD GO BACK TO HOW IT WAS. THE SUNSHINE, THE HAPPINESS, AND THE JOY.

WE NEVER WERE,

GRIFFIN

SKYLAR BARNETT JUNIOR

NOWADAYS LIFE IS SADDENED AND LONELY. DILLON MARCHINKO

FRESHMAN

as an artist.

The pandemic has forced me to spend so much time with myself, and CRISTINA since I’ve basically CHEN had nothing but SOPHOMORE time to dive I centered the whole into my piece around my brain. house, obviously because

we were in lockdown but all the other added pieces kind of showed what I occupied my time with.

However, the days and nights began to feel meshed later in lockdown and I wanted to get out.

SOPHOMORE

ANNE WEST

SOPHOMORE

CARYS HAUGHN

A YEAR OF FEELING LIKE A HAMSTER ON A WHEEL, JUST DOING THE

SOPHOMORE This [the pandemic] was something I wasn’t as used to, and it caused a lot of stress and put a toll on my mental health. The hands represent all of the obstacles I have faced this year but the bright colors seeping from the top of the paper symbolize change and growth.

SKYLAR BARNETT

JUNIOR I wanted to convey how our interactions have been affected by COVID-19. My goal was to show the barrier that has developed between people and physical relationships in general.

KAELEN MESKO While I know physical relationships SOPHOMORE have been obviously limited this past year, I think there was already a strain in physicality developing before COVID-19.

SAME THING OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN.

LAYOUT BY ARI KASER

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 11

THE BRUIN IN-DEPTH

THROUGH OUR EYES WAS NOW JULIA FORTNER SOPHOMORE

MELODY JOHNSON

SOPHOMORE In March 2020, the Winter Guard season was cut short and I didn’t know if we would get a summer season. I can remember the day that I found out there was a 2020 season and how much joy I felt as I ran to my mother to tell her the news. Even though we had to be distanced and wear masks that were incredibly hot, we were able to get together and have a wonderful and fun fall season. So many memories, such as the one here, were created last season that I SEAN wouldn’t trade for HIBBARD anything.

SOPHOMORE In this cartoon it shows the famous Iwo Jima flag raise. Instead of soldiers they have healthcare workers who are the soldiers of this pandemic. Iwo Jima was the turning point of the war just like the vaccine is the turning point of this pandemic.

ELAIN MILLER

SOPHOMORE

It’s been a year Since all the desire It all started with a forest fire Everybody thought they had a plan And then came tensions with Iran It’s been a year We thought everything would flow And then were claims of a UFO Then came the death of Kobe Bryant And the world became silent It’s been a year Since terror and fear People all out and about To now screaming a loud shout Stuff needing to clean Talks about a vaccine Sitting in a bedroom all quiet Then people started to riot It’s been a year Since toilet paper, hand sanitizer we began to store it And then came a murder hornet This year will end in fame To top it off somehow the Browns won a playoff game

ALEX RISHER JUNIOR

We can’t go anywhere without them, so I feel like it explains a lot about what quarantine and COVID-19 has done to everyone because it shows how these things we thought we would never need is the new normal.

SOPHIA ANDERSON

SENIOR The gray scale represents the blurred excitement of a teenagers life and now emphasizing the negative “clouds” of problems that are following us as students.

THIS PAST YEAR HAS BEEN A REALLY

THE RIOTS, THE DAMAGE, THE THOUGHTS OF THE WORLD ENDING.

WELL, THE WORLD WE DID KNOW ENDED AND A NEW ONE BEGAN. GABRIELLA DEEM

SOPHOMORE

SOPHOMORE

LUKE HOUSER

SOPHOMORE

ARIK PACKER

Life was boring; everyday was monotonous.

As we sat there waiting for the food to be delivered, my sister and I decided to play a SOPHOMORE game of who could take a better photo. This I tried to show photo captures what a lot of quarantine in my artwork was for me. A lot of quarantine was how everybody is spent sitting in cars or sitting in my trying to experience house while waiting for food or playing things they enjoy, video games. This photo is gray for even with the new rules a reason. It’s not because I thought put in place because of the black & white filter looked cool, COVID-19. I have things but because the gray-ness of it I enjoy in front, with a perfectly describes the one word COVID-19 related theme in I feel about that part of 2020: the background. bland.

12 APRIL 2021

JENNA RITTER

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WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 13

THE BRUIN SPORTS

WADSWORTH WRESTLING PLACES THIRD AT STATE STORY BY HAYLEE JOY

Jaxon Joy looks to his corner to receive some guidance from his coaches..

PHOTO BY HAYLEE JOY

LAYOUT BY ASHLEY ALLWOOD

STAFF WRITERS

The Wadsworth High School wrestling team sent nine boys to Columbus to wrestle in the Division I High School State Tournament. Seven of them ended up placing. Knowing that this is a difficult year, all of them faced adversity and were determined to have some success. The team worked hard and came out with a third place finish overall.

Jaxon Joy 106

Jaxon Joy, Wadsworth’s 106-pounder, made it to the state finals as a freshman. Being a state runner-up, he is instantly back to work and training to bring home the title next year.

“I did not accomplish my goal but I still accomplished something to be proud of,” said Joy. “I don’t ever want to feel that again, so I won’t let myself feel it again next year.” As he is only a freshman who is already accomplishing outstanding achievements, Joy still has plenty of time to reach his goals.

Joy’s coaches and teammates are a big factor to his success. His coaches helped his confidence grow throughout the season, and his drill partners helped push him in the room every single day.

Looking forward to his sophomore year, Joy is excited for what the team will have to offer. “No matter what the team looks like next year, I know we can compete with the best in the state,” said Joy.

Mason Brugh 113

Brugh racks up near fall points on his way to victory. He won four straight matches which led him to place third in the tournament.

PHOTO BY HAYLEE JOY

Mikey Lewarchick puts his opponent on his back on his way to placing fourth at the state tournament. He finished his high school career with over 100 wins.

PHOTO BY HAYLEE JOY

Wadsworth’s 113-pounder, junior Mason Brugh, placed third at the state tournament. Brugh is now a three time state qualifier and two time placer at the Division I State Championship Tournament. He took fourth his freshman year, and qualified his sophomore year but couldn’t wrestle due to COVID-19. Because of that setback, Brugh was looking forward to this event even more.

“The missed opportunities were always in the back of my mind this season and I wanted to achieve my goal of being a state champ that much more,” said Brugh.

Falling short of his goal is only going to push him to work even harder and trust his coaches’ process to achieve a state title his senior year.

“Taking third isn’t what I wanted and I felt pretty down on myself after my loss but winning four matches in a row and coming back to take third definitely helps to keep the momentum rolling into next season,” said Brugh

Mikey Lewarchick 126 Senior Mikey Lewarchick placed fourth in the state in the 126-pound weight class. While times are hard because of the pandemic, he and his team pushed through the difficult moments, and were prepared going into the state tournament.

“My coaches were very supportive and encouraging when times were up and down throughout the season, they taught us to trust in them and ourselves,”said Lewarchick. “I think those characteristics made us better in the sport and life.”

He is now a three time state qualifier. He made it to the tournament his freshman, junior, and senior year. After high school, Lewarchick will be wrestling in college at Kent State University.

Christopher Earnest 132

Christopher Earnest, a sophomore 132-pounder, brought home a fourth-place medal. Earnest shared that he fell short of his personal goal, but that it only pushes him to work even harder in the future.

“I feel that I had a really good tournament even though I didn’t place as high as I was hoping for,” said Earnest. “I set my standards very high for a sophomore and I’m only planning on doing better my junior and senior year.”

Earnest said that his family and coaches have constantly been motivating and encouraging him throughout the years. His teammates are also part of his support system.

“Being in the room with so many good wrestlers only makes you better,” said Earnest.

Landon Hacker 145

Landon Hacker returns a kid to the mat during his placement match. He finished his high school career as a four time state qualifier and three time state placer.

PHOTO BY HAYLEE JOY

Senior Landon Hacker got to stand on the podium wearing a 7th place medal. His teammates and coaches were a great support system that helped encourage him to fight past injuries that he suffered throughout the season. “My injury prevented me from training and competing as much as I had liked, so I had little to no mat time going into the sectional tournament,” said Hacker.

Between that and the state tournament getting canceled last season, he learned to appreciate his mat time even more. “Not having the state tournament last year made this year just that much more special because I was just grateful that we were given the opportunity to compete.”

After high school, he will continue his wrestling career at the University of Virginia, so this is not the end for him. He is looking forward to getting his feet on the mat again.

“I personally am disappointed in my finish this year as I had high hopes for my season, but as a team I am very proud of everybody,” said Hacker.

Logan Messer 170 Logan Messer, senior, brought a state title back to Wadsworth with him. Being the team’s 170-pound senior, Messer pushed himself and worked as hard as he could to win the championship. He shared that a lot of extra effort has to be put in to get what you want.

“You have to put in a lot of effort, one of the things that helped me the most is asking a lot of questions after practice to just make sure you understand what you are doing,” said Messer.

After suffering an injury his sophomore season and having his junior season cut short because of Covid, Messer wanted to make the best out of his senior season. This season meant a lot to him and he did not take any mat time for granted.

“Coming back this year really meant that I had to prove who I was and really who the team was because we all compete together as a family,” said Messer.

As he will be leaving the high school wrestling program, his advice to the underclassmen is to keep the sport fun and not get burnt out on the sport that they love. After graduation, Messer will go to George Mason to continue his wrestling career.

Jon List 195

Jon List gets his hand raised after he won a match in the early rounds of the tournament.

PHOTO BY HAYLEE JOY

14 APRIL 2021

Jon List, senior, had a very successful weekend as well. Placing 4th in the state tournament, List ends his high school wrestling career as a four time state qualifier and a two time state placer. List’s teammates played a big role in keeping everyone motivated towards the end of the season.

“I feel disappointed I didn’t meet my goal, but at the same time I’m proud of my accomplishments throughout high school,” said List.

Although his high school career is over, List will continue wrestling at George Mason after graduation. “My advice to underclassmen would be to always keep it fun and to make sure you have a good dodge ball partner,” said List.

Although they did not place, Jazz Jackson and David Shue both qualified for the state tournament. They are included in the full story which is online at www. wadsworthbruin.com

Logan M e state ch sser celebrate s ampion ship. Th after his victory has had e la b in PHOTO efore him was st state cham the Division I pion Wa

BY HAY in 2018 LEE JOY . dsworth

Christopher Earnest takes control of his opponent in the first round of the tournament. The sophomore went 3-2 overall.

PHOTO BY HAYLEE JOY

NFL DRAFT COMES TO CLEVELAND

T

his time last year, COVID-19 was just gaining traction and now it has become a full-fledged threat that has canceled or postponed virtually all major events, or at least has made those events either virtual or without fans. The NFL Draft is no exception as it was held virtually last year for the first time from Las Vegas, Nevada and players were forced to anxiously wait for that life-changing phone call from their living rooms.

In an official press release on March 22, 2021, the NFL announced their plans for the NFL Draft, which is being held in Cleveland this year for the first time. While the draft is now officially going to be held in-person, attendance will be limited and one has to be both eighteen years old and fully vaccinated.

Dee and Jimmy Haslam, owners of the Cleveland Browns, expressed their excitement for the event in a statement.

“We are thrilled for Cleveland to host this year’s NFL Draft and celebrate the hard-working and inspiring new Draft prospects, football’s great history, and our fans,” said Haslam. “It is even more special as we commemorate our 75

anniversary and have the opportunity to showcase the wonderful city of Cleveland to an international audience and to a responsible number of fans and visitors during the weekend.”

The 2021 NFL Draft will be broadcast on ABC, ESPN, and NFL Network April 29 through May 1.

Jacksonville Jaguars

BY JULIA SWAIN STAFF WRITER

Smith, WR (Alabama) 3. DeVonta Miami Dolphins

Zach Wilson, QB (BYU) 2. New York Jets

1. Trevor Lawrence, QB (Clemson)

SPORTS THE BRUIN

While it hurts my heart to not have Justin Fields of Ohio State going in this spot, Zach Wilson has proven to be the better candidate this season, coming out of nowhere with 3,692 yards, 33 touchdowns and just three interceptions.

Trevor Lawrence is the lone lock of the 2021 NFL Draft. Lawrence finished his Clemson career with impressive stats that make him the clear number one choice.

DeVonta Smith became the first non-quarterback to win the Heisman since Derrick Henry in 2015, finishing with 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns. He did a lot of the heavy lifting for the Alabama offense, proving to be the most proready wide receiver in the draft, and leading them to their fourth title since 2015.

Picks 4-10: Penei Sewell (Atlanta Falcons), Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals), Jaylen Waddle (Philadelphia Eagles), Trey Lance (Detroit Lions), Justin Fields (Carolina Panthers), Micah Parsons (Denver Broncos), Patrick Surtain III (Dallas Cowboys)

MLB SCHEDULES EVERY TEAM TO PLAY ON OPENING DAY

M

BY ASHLEY ALLWOOD STAFF WRITER

LB plans on having opening day on April 1, 2021. They plan on scheduling 15 games on opening day. MLB has not scheduled every team to play on opening day since 1968. Another new change for next year for the season, MLB plans on changing players contracts so that they start to play for free.

Back in 1968, Dr. King was shot and killed on a Thursday afternoon, April 4.

Due to this tragic event, President Lyndon Johnson declared that next Sunday as a national mourning day. MLB then had to

push all the games back to Wednesday, April 10, causing all the MLB teams to play on the same day, which so happened to be opening day.

This year, due to COVID-19, teams could not host spectators which led to a declining income. This season, the teams are allowed to host spectators. Almost every stadium jumped on the opportunity to host a game. Now, all teams will be playing, consisting of 15 home openers with the Cleveland Indians in Detroit against the tigers.

Also due to COVID-19, there has been lower income due to having

no spectators, so the MLB has been talking about changing the 2022 player contracts. They have proposed to start playing for free instead of getting paid to play. There are already a number of players that play for free, but MLB plans on adding more names to the list and reducing the income of the players to save money.

After this upcoming season, teams hope to have more spectators than the 2020 season. With more spectators, programs hope to make more money to pay their athletes and afford their stadiums.

LOCAL SPRING SPORTS TRACK

“I anticipate being competitive in every meet and improving throughout the season, maybe more than in most seasons, as we learn about our team and chip the rust off from the missed 2020 season,” said boy’s track Coach Chris Beery. “Our strengths will be in the throws, sprints and middle distance. We are looking forward to the challenge of the Suburban League National Division and continuing the Wadsworth track program’s incredible tradition.”

BASEBALL

“The players have worked extremely hard this off-season and are ready to go,” said Varsity Coach Gregory Pickard. “We have a very deep roster at the varsity level and are really strong up the middle. I feel like we will be really strong defensively and I think we will swing the bats pretty well also.”

SOFTBALL

“This will be a challenging season with only two returning players with varsity experience Erin Morrison and Cam Racin,” said softball Coach William Schmeltzer.

This year’s roster consists of Val Stupak, Kennedy Skidmore, Lynzee Fisher, Janet Hoover, Madi Bidinger, Jason, Mackenzie Doyle, Lily Cingle, Abby Habegger, Jordan and Taylor Pastorchek and Jessie Crookston.”

VS The Cleveland Indians will open their season April 1 against the Detroit Tigers.

The MLB season will open with 15 opening day games.

BY DYLAN HEPPERT STAFF WRITER

LACROSSE

“I am really excited[for varsity and JV] to have a season,” said girl’s varsity coach Karl Yurchiak. “I’m also excited for them to be able to actually play and come together, and that the work that they have put in has come into fruition.”

PHOTO BY DYLAN HEPPERT

PHOTO BY DYLAN HEPPERT PHOTO BY GATLIN MILLER

PHOTOS BY WILLIAM SCHMELTZER

“Lacrosse is an evolving sport, so with the first game coming up it will be a learning experience,” said Coach Yurchiak.

We will take that game and learn from it, and then apply it to the next game.”

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 15

THE BRUIN FEATURES

MR. PIEHL CYCLES FOR CANCER RESEARCH

S

BY KAYLA ROSS STAFF WRITER

am Piehl is the band director at Wadsworth Middle School and the assistant band director at Wadsworth High School. He directs the seventh grade band, the eighth grade band, the high school’s Symphonic Band and Jazz Band. When he is not directing or playing an instrument, he enjoys being physically active outdoors.

Piehl is also committed to fighting against cancer. He will be participating in a Pelotonia fundraising event that will raise money for cancer research. He joined in efforts for his friend, Mariah Strickland.

Sam Piehl poses for a picture with his bike.

He only recently started biking, after injuring his foot while running. He enjoys both running and biking. PHOTO BY SAM PIEHL

Marlin and Mariah Strickland have been married for almost five years. Piehl is very close to the couple. He has known them since he met them while he attended The Ohio State University in 2009.

“My best friend, Marlin, Marlin Strickland, who we were college roommates and I was best man in his wedding, called me and asked me to join his team for Pelotonia,” said Piehl.

Marlin and Mariah found out recently that Mariah has a rare form of uterine cancer. This is her second time being diagnosed with cancer. Pelotonia is an organization that hosts bike racing events to help raise funds for cancer research organizations. They host several events each year in Columbus.

“Pelotonia is a bike ride,” said Piehl. “You can choose different distances, I picked the 100 mile distance. It’s from Columbus to Gambier. It is a one-way, you start in Columbus and end up 100 miles away.

What it really is, it’s a fundraising event for the James Cancer Research Hospital, which is associated with the [Ohio State University] Wexner Medical Center down in Columbus, and they raise money for innovative cancer research.”

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is one of the biggest and highest ranking hospitals in the country.

They have one of the largest centers for cancer research, called the James. Cancer research is important to Piehl for more reasons than one.

“It’s for my friend Mariah, but my brother

From left to right: Mariah Strickland, Marlin Strickland, and Sam Piehl. Mariah and Marlin were married in the summer of 2016. PHOTO BY SAM PIEHL

also received treatment for testicular cancer,” said Piehl. “He is now cancer free.

This means a lot to me because this is actually Mariah’s second battle with cancer, so the James got her through it the first time, they’re going to get her through it a second time, and they got my brother through it.”

Piehl has to raise a set dollar amount to participate in the race. All of the money raised goes to research at the Ohio State Medical Centers.

“It is $2,000 I would like to fundraise,” said Piehl. “I have never done a cycling race before, I’ve never done any kind of race where you raise funds specifically just to be involved. And, I’ve never tried to take on anything this significant in terms of money fundraising.”

If you would like to make a donation towards Piehl’s endeavors for cancer

research, scan the QR code to view Piehl’s Pelatonia profile. Donations can be made at any amount and can be done anonymously. The race will take place on August 7 in Columbus.

The last video that Piepho posted to his channel was seven months ago. He shares that his next big plan for a video is to create a finale for the channel.

“We’ve got to make a season finale at some point,” said Piepho. “The plot arc is not finished, so at some point before I graduate we’re going to make a finale. I have no idea when it’s coming.”

He decided that he wants to make a finale in order to wrap up his channel, as he does not see himself continuing to post on it after graduating. This was a project that he created with his high school friends, so he believes that ending it will be the best choice.

Piepho encourages his friends and

fellow WHS students to watch his channel for comedic content.

“You should go watch it, it’s a lot of fun,” said Piepho.

Though his channel may not be very large, Piepho allows his personality to shine through in his videos. It is a creative outlet for himself and his closest friends, and he hopes to make his viewers laugh with the comedic content that he produces.

Scan this QR code if you would like to make a donation to Sam Piehl’s Pelotonia fundraising efforts. He would like to raise at least $2,000.

ANDREW PIEPHO CREATES PIEPHO’S PASTIMES

BY BRIANNA BECERRA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

I

n their free time, students at WHS choose to participate in various extracurriculars, or even dedicate their energy to something unique.

In the case of junior Andrew Piepho, he uses some of his spare time to run a YouTube Channel titled “Piepho’s Pastimes”.

His channel currently has 61 subscribers and 13 posted videos.

Piepho states that he began his YouTube channel during the spring of his freshman year. His goal with the channel was to create comedic content for his friends and peers to enjoy. He was also able to explore his interest in film.

“I’ve always been a little bit interested in film but never really thought about it in depth or anything until a friend and I decided to sit down and make a YouTube channel,” said Piepho.

He shares that when he created his channel, his goal was not to create a career out of it. He holds firmly to this statement, as he only wishes to create funny skits with the assistance of his closest friends.

“I don’t really care about blowing up

16 APRIL 2021

the size of the channel,” said Piepho.

“Really, it’s just for fun within my friend group.”

When it comes to creating the videos themselves, Piepho enlists the help of a few of his peers. He credits Ben Kissinger, Alex Kinch and Colin Moore for helping him with the videos for his channel.

Since the creation of Piepho’s Pastimes, Piepho has produced several different seasons of episodes for the channel.

“The first season is just a bunch of independent videos, nothing is continuous throughout them,” said Piepho. “And then the second season starts off with a big inciting incident where we create this evil character, and then the third season we come in [with] some villain. We’ve got to beat him somehow, and so we start this whole arc of how we get to the end goal of beating him by collecting these stones throughout time. So we’ve got three or four in the third season.”

Out of all of the episodes he has produced, Piepho shares that his favorite is “Andrew Romes Ancient Rome”. This is the second episode of his third season.

“That one was a lot of fun,” said Piepho. “It was one of the first ones that really carries on a plot arc, so that was something new instead of just random skits and stuff.”

FIND PIEPHO’S PASTIMES ON YOUTUBE

Andrew Piepho uses different effects, such as green screen effects, to make his videos more comedic. His friends assist him in the editing, filming and writing process of his videos.

SCREENSHOT FROM PIEPHO’S PASTIMES ON YOUTUBE

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www.ip-sk.com

(800) 229-5266

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 17

THE BRUIN ENTERTAINMENT

BEST TEACHER SQUAD

BEST DRESSED Mrs. Rosenberger

“Mom Squad” Mrs. Broadhurst, Mrs. Trausch, Mrs. Rohrer and Mrs. Parsons

MOST SCHOOL SPIRIT

Mr. Berg

BEST WORK HUSBAND/ WIFE

Mr. Austin and Mrs. MacDowell

SUPERLATIVES

PAGE BY ASHLEY ALLWOOD AND ALEX MILLER PHOTOS BY JANAE JOACHIM Typically, seniors are sent a survey at the end of each year to vote on other seniors for fun categories all printed in the senior issue of The Bruin. This year, alongside senior superlatives, teachers were given the chance to vote on their coworkers for a number of different titles and categories.

TEACHERS VOTING ON TEACHERS

MOST CAFFEINATED

Mr. Knapp

MOST LIKELY TO BE MISTAKEN FOR A STUDENT Miss Simmons

MOST LIKELY TO BE IN HIS CLASSROOM ON A DAY OFF Mr. Callaghan

MOST LIKELY TO WIN THE HUNGER GAMES Mr. Jurey

BEST BEARD BEST TASTE IN MUSIC Mr. Recupero

18 APRIL 2021

Mr. Shipley

What’s New On...

Cole Young is unaware of his hidden lineage or why he is being hunted down by a mysterious foe named Sub-Zero of the Lin-Kuei clan of assassins. Concerned for the safety of his family, he seeks out a clique of fighters that were chosen to defend Earthrealm in a high-stakes battle against the forces of Outworld.

The movie is based on the famous video game series Mortal Kombat. Mortal Kombat 2021 will be a reboot of the film franchises that originally released in the 90s. The movie will be released on April 16, 2021, in theaters and on HBO Max.

Michael B Jordan plays an elite Naval SEAL, John Kelly, who uncovers an international conspiracy while seeking justice for the murder of his pregnant wife.

Joining forces with a fellow SEAL and a shadowy CIA agent, the mission unwittingly exposes a covert plot that threatens to engulf the U.S. and Russia in an all-out war.

Torn between personal honor and loyalty to his country, Kelly must fight his enemies without remorse if he hopes to avert disaster and reveal the powerful figures behind the conspiracy.

Tom Clancy’s Without Remorse will be

ENTERTAINMENT THE BRUIN

INTO THE REVIEW WOODS: THE REVIEW

BY GRACE PANTALONE SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANT

Into The Woods was a good, enjoyable show with stellar acting performances and eyecatching special effects. The costumes were very high quality and fitting for each of the characters, and the musical numbers were catchy and well-performed.

Into The Woods is a musical about the other side of fairy tales. It answers the question of “What happens after the happily ever after?” by intertwining different stories together through song and dance.

Isaac Machar played the big bad wolf from Red Riding Hood, having numerous humorous moments throughout the first act of the play and an amazing solo toward the beginning of the show. He did a great job of getting into his role with his realistic howls and fur coat costume.

Lauren Claxton and Mason Currens also had enjoyable performances, starring as the witch and the prince respectively, having both done an amazing job with their solos and character portrayals.

The lighting effects throughout Into The Woods also really helped to sell the show’s storyline.

With Owen Chokreff and Kylie Ohlson being in charge of stage lighting and Abigail Kissinger and Savannah Tucker on spotlight, all worked together well to pull the stage effects together and express their creative visions onstage.

Overall, the show was enjoyable with some funny moments and the characters were well put together by their actors. The entire cast and crew did an amazing job and should be proud of the show they worked tirelessly on, especially during a time when quarantines and illness can threaten a show. The performance and tenacity of all involved only further adds to the list of reasons to see a WHS Off Broad Street Players show.

Below: Isaac Machar dances on stage dressed as the Big Bad Wolf from “Little Red Riding Hood.” PHOTO

released on April 30 on Amazon Prime.

Above: Kara Moore, Cinderella & Madi Bidinger, the baker’s wife sit on stage together in Act I after Cinderella goes to the festival. PHOTO COURTESY OF PAM CSAKY

Six months after the events of Avengers Endgame the world is recovering and is looking for a new Captain America. When a new organization, L.A.F., enters the picture, the United States government, to our hero’s surprise, announces their own new Captain America, John Walker. Sam Wilson/ Falcon (Anthoney Mackie) and Bucky Barnes/ Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan) eventually team up to fill the shoes of their departed friend Steve and rise to

the challenges of the new world. While battling their own past a familiar villain, Baron Zemo, last seen in Captain America Civil War, returns.

Falcon and the Winter Soldier is exclusively streaming on Disney Plus and episodes will be released every Friday.

IN

After seemingly nobody intervenes to help a woman being harassed by a group of men, he becomes the target of a vengeful drug lord. When two thieves break into his suburban home one night, Hutch Mansell declines to defend himself or his family, hoping to

THEATERS

prevent serious violence. His family is disappointed in him, causing him to go on a vengeful path to finish what was brought to his home. Bob Dunkirk plays Hutch Mansell, the quiet family man who seems like he has never won a fight in his life. Nobody is the family man version of John Wick and will be released in theaters starting March 29 depending on location.

BY BRIAN COOTE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Left: Madi Bidinger, Alex Miller and Lauren Claxton stand on stage together during a musical number. PHOTO COURTESY OF PAM CSAKY

UP NEXT: MUTUALLY ASSURED DESTRUCTION Don Zolidis’ Mutually Assured Destruction, a comedy of ten short skits or vignettes about the relationships between siblings, is coming to Wadsworth High School on March 30 and April 1. The show can be viewed in person by family and some staff members, but there will be tickets that can be purchased to stream the show.

“Throughout the cast, there are so many hard workers and amazing thespians pushing themselves to make this a great show for themselves and their cast mates,” said Lily Smith, actor in Mutually Assured Destruction.

Each of the vignettes has two actors, which allows the actors to follow COVID-19 guidelines and still allow the comedy to have a full cast.

“Comedy is really difficult in terms of acting,” said Lindsay Patterson, a director of the comedy. “It requires a level of skill and dedication and I am just blown away. I am excited for people to be able to watch what these cast members A few cast members pose for a photo outside of the theater room before practice. PHOTO BY BRIANNA BECERRA have put together.”

WADSWORTHBRUIN.COM 19

THE BRUIN SPEAK OUT PAGE BY MICAH BECK AND HAILEY SMITH

What Are Your Spring Break Plans?

“I am going to Florida” - Matt Jariga (10)

“I’m going to Destin, Florida with two of my friends” - Ashley Weingart (10)

“Baseball practice” - Nate Petit (9)

“Florida all the way” - Tyler Probst (9)

“Spending time with friends” - Cara Willson (10)

“I’m unpacking and moving into my new house”- Liv Hill (9)

“Practicing lacrosse”- Mary Dean (9)

20 APRIL 2021

“Going to Florida and practicing lacrosse.”- Aiden Gray (10)

“Hanging out with my friends and family.” - Alayna Howell (9)