The Bruin- January 2006

Wadsworth High School

Newspaper II/III

January 2006

The

1870 - 2005 Wadsworth City Schools: “Celebrating 135 years of Excellence in Education”

Volume XXXI No. 4

BRUIN

REMEMBER Turn in class registration sheets for next year into the Guidance office by Feb. 13!!

625 Broad Street Wadsworth, Ohio 44281

Target rolls out of Rolling Acres, into Wadsworth Crossings

BY RYAN RENACCI

After years of struggling to keep its revenues up, Rolling Acres Mall has been hit with yet another major blow.

Target, one of the key stores in the hurting shopping center, announced that it will be closing on February 28 and moving into Wadsworth Crossings.

Wadsworth Crossings is a new retail development that already includes Kohl’s and will also include Lowe’s in the near future.

There will be a number of restaurants and other small stores as well.

“Wadsworth Crossings is going to be awesome! Shopping and food so close to home--what could possibly be wrong with that?!” said senior Katie Stugmyer.

The new store will be much bigger than the one in Rolling Acres, and it will include a Starbucks Café and a Pizza Hut.

Target, scheduled to open on March 1, will replace the Target currently in Rolling Acres Mall. PHOTO BY RYAN RENACCI

“I think it’s great that they are getting a Starbucks because now I can get a caramel frappuccino every day!” said junior Emily Miller.

Target first opened in Rolling Acres Mall ten years ago. All together, this store has around 100

employees, and most of these employees will be given their jobs back if they wish to travel to Wadsworth.

When visiting Rolling Acres, most people are able to notice some of the mall’s many flaws.

The floors are sometimes very

dirty. Many of the escalators are turned off, and the large fountain in the center is rarely turned on.

“When I was younger, Rolling Acres used to be the hot spot. I used to ride the train and eat pretzels. Sadly, the hip hangout spot has gone downhill slowly. Even the church in the mall went out of business!” said junior Simon Russell.

Because of these defects, the mall reached an all time low occupancy rating of 47 percent. The average occupancy rating of all malls nationwide is 98.5 percent.

Experts from the International Council of Shopping Centers believe that when the occupancy rating of a mall goes below 50 percent, it is almost impossible for the mall to recover.

For these reasons, Target has decided to move to Wadsworth Crossings in hopes to gain more shoppers. Residents will decide the success of its new location.

Speed cameras, tickets slow down drivers

BY MICHELLE MCCUNE

As recently as two months ago, the term “speed camera” held very little significance. Within weeks, these small boxes seen at intersections and around school zones have rocketed into local consciousness.

Four cameras were installed in Akron during November. After only 19 days of functioning, they reported 2,676 speeders.

This new method of catching speeders has created conflicting feelings.

“As a driver, I feel that you should not be given a ticket unless you are stopped,” said junior Roy Evans.

Others welcome the devices, hoping they will make the roads safer.

“The cameras help catch the idiots who blow through the intersections at 90 mph,” stated junior Kady Jankord.

Akron has a contract until February 10 with Nestor Traffic Systems, a company who receives

Picture Page 6

See all of the action of the dodgeball tournament.

$19 for every ticket issued. The city of Akron receives the rest, creating a profit of almost half of a million dollars so far. Many felt that the large amount of money should be used to create a scholarship fund.

The cameras take a picture of the vehicle and mark the time and the speed the car was travelling.

This information, along with a ticket, is sent to the owner of the vehicle. However, overwhelming unpopularity of the fines has prompted the city to refund all but $35 of every ticket. Akron is using the cameras as part of a 90-day trial. As of yet, there has been no action to remove the devices before the 90 days are finished.

With greater amounts of traffic flowing in and out of Wadsworth, transportation has become more of an issue locally as well.

Congestion has become evident on High Street, where Walmart has attracted shoppers from neighboring towns. Wadsworth Crossings has attempted to avoid

problems by installing more lanes and lights in high traffic areas.

Traffic lights are being situated at the intersection of Rt. 261 and Medina Line as well.

Cameras seen at these intersections in Wadsworth should not be mistaken for speed cameras.

These cameras monitor the traffic flow and control the changing of signals.

Aside from speeding, other traffic violations have plagued students.

“I got pulled over for a broken brake light but received a ticket

for not wearing my seat belt,” said senior Kyle Blake.

Driving after curfew, disfunctioning tail lights, and drivers running stop signs are some of the minor violations many students have experienced. The possibility of increased insurance rates, along with irate parents, is enough to discourage many from attempting to disobey the law.

As Wadsworth expands, traffic flow will inevitably grow as well.

Driving carefully and within the posted limits is the one sure way to avoid problems.

Increasing traffic can be seen throughout Wadsworth.

PHOTO BY MICHELLE MCCUNE

$1.00

Myspace: a place for friends

BY BRADLEY MUELLER

First it was e-mail, then instant messaging. Now, it is MySpace.

If you do not have a MySpace account, you have at least seen it, and if you have not seen it then odds are you have heard of it. For all of those sheltered students out there, MySpace is an online personal profile website where friends can talk or where friends can be made. It is truly the world’s fastest-growing social networking portal, being the fifth most viewed web domain on the internet. So what is it that makes MySpace.com so popular?

“It’s like a new pair of jeans,” said junior Jen Thomas, crediting MySpace’s popularity to the bandwagon effect, “but it doesn’t seem like this fad will easily fade.”

This two-year old giant has spread across the nation and beyond the borders, reaching people of all ages, along with loads of music bands.

In fact, MySpace.com has an entire section dedicated to bands where they can display information and where people can sample songs from. This is an extremely popular feature of the site seeing as online music has reached a very high demand.

Not only can people listen to their favorite songs, they can put those songs in their own personal profiles for enjoyment. The profile is all about the user, letting you do what you want to make your profile unique from everyone else’s.

For all of those technical people out there, HTML formatting is the primary coding used in MySpace accounts. For the computer illiterate, do not fear, because MySpace has become so popular, there are now many websites dedicated to designing a profile where one can simply specify what colors they want, what sizes they want, and any other personalizations they would desire.

Music video codes are extremely common on these helper websites, allowing people to just copy and paste all the coding Please see MySpace, Page 5

Variety Page 9

News Page 10

Sports Page 13

Find out about this month’s featured “Junk of the Month”

Learn about the Olympic torch which will be lit for the 2006 Olympics.

Read about the gymnastic team’s 4-0 start to the season.

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January 2006

The Brewin’ Debate

Does music influence the way kids act, think, and the things they say?

NO

YES

BY DREW KNIGHT

BY ZACK BUDINSCAK

The way kids act in today’s society is strongly influenced by what type of music they listen to. To some kids, music is a way to express themselves and show how they feel. When people are sad they listen to calm, mellow music and when they are excited, they listen to fast paced and upbeat music.

Everyone will argue that the music they listen to is the best. When listening to the lyrics in songs and the meaning behind them, it is hard to see how some music could be a positive influence on people. Many songs contain ideas of killing and illegal drugs. An example of this is in a Slipknot song, “whose life is it, give it, see it, feel it, eat it.”

“Slipknot and similar music groups have lyrics that talk about killing and other bad thoughts,which is not the kind of music I think people should listen to when they are not sad,” said junior Caity Todd.

Music may be a way to bring up emotions, but some types of music are not good for kids to listen to. Just like video games, there are parental advisory stickers on CD’s. These are to keep them out of kids’ hands because it is not the best music for them to listen to. It can alter their minds and make them think differently.

Music does not influence the way kids act. Music is a way for songwriters to express themselves, not a way to induce the listeners into doing wrong.

Some music is not even written by the artist who sings it. Just like kids, bands and singers write certain lyrics and act certain ways just to get attention.

It is a marketing strategy.

Lyrics are the same way. The controversial rapper Eminem is most notorious for the horrifying lyrics in “Kim.” The lyrics made Eminem an overnight celebrity because of all the publicity he received. Eminem’s lyrics gained him fame and fortune, but they did not encourage people to go out and do the things he sang about.

Even Eminem does not believe in everything he writes about. “A lot of people think that what I say on records, or what I talk about on a record, are things I actually do in real life, or that I believe in it,” stated Eminem.

If someone says that Eminem or another singer is influencing them, they need to look inside themselves to find the real problem. Everyone has a conscience, and each person can look inside himself for an answer. Music does not influence the way kids act and think.

Editorial Letters to the Editor I’d like to take the time to let you know how appalled I was to see that the price of our school lunches with fries had gone up considerably. This is very troubling to me, and I’d like an explanation for the up in the price.

Jessica Bradford, 11 We are thoroughly angry about the fries going from $.15 to $1.00.

Hopefully, this is going to a good cause like fixing the heat or our leaky ceilings.

Ashley Smith, 12 Steph Maxon, 12 I think an upstairs track with proper turf would be beneficial to the community and Wadsworth High School.

Steph Sussman, 11 The swimmers should get some recognition. Both teams are doing very well, and it is about time that a winter sport other than basketball and wrestling get recognized.

Josh Thomas , 12

Dear Staff and Student Body of Wadsworth High School: The Wadsworth VFW Post 1089 and the American Legion Post 170 wish to thank you for the Veterans Day activities. Each year, we all look forward to meeting at the high school where we meet and greet old friends and service buddies.

It may not seem like a big deal, but to us it is. Knowing someone cares about what we did for our country means a great deal. What a thrill it is to walk into the gym with the applause and the band playing around, and to see everyone on their feet. You can see, as we enter, each of us starts walking a little straighter and with a faster step. We are 20 again.

From all of us to all of you, and from the bottom of our hearts, thank you very much.

Leon T. Doutrich Post Adjutant VFW Post 1089

Editorial:

New year brings new opportunities Here we are in 2006. Placed before us is an open book full of blank pages. We call this book Opportunity. The first chapter was New Year’s Day. Furthermore, many of us began this chapter with goals for the year, commonly known as New Year’s resolutions. However, have you ever found yourself making the same resolution year after year?

We seem to look to the New Year for simply a new start on old habits.

Remember last year when we promised ourselves we would lose 10 pounds, quit smoking, spend more time with friends and family, help others, etcetera? Since we would rather not have to make these same resolutions year after year, we have accumulated a list of some common New Year’s resolutions and some ways in which you can accomplish them.

Spend more time with friends and family: Set at least one day per week to prepare and eat a meal together with your family.

With your friends, make time to

be with them at least once over the weekend. During the weekdays, get together for study sessions.

Fit in Fitness: Make time to exercise at least three times per week for at least 30 minutes at a rate that raises your heart rate by 30 percent. This should cause you to sweat and raise your breathing level.

Lose weight: Eat only when hungry. For every meal, include at least one non-starchy fruit or vegetable. When snacking, never eat out of the bag or large container. Eat smaller but more-frequent meals. Get plenty of sleep.

Enjoy life more: Never compare yourself to others. Take time to laugh. Surround yourself with positive, encouraging friends.

Make time for “play.” Work is not the only facet to your life.

Quit smoking: Set a date for quitting. Take note of when and why you smoke. Change your smoking routines, such as keeping cigarettes in a different place, smoking with your other hand, and buying cigarettes you do not

like. If you feel like you need a cigarette, chew gum or drink a glass of water instead.

Quit drinking: Think about when and why you drink. Surround yourself with others who do not drink. Offer to be the designated driver at parties. At home, get rid of all the alcoholic beverages, and fill the fridge with sparkling grape juices.

Though it is sometimes difficult to keep such New Year’s resolutions, make a pact with yourself to accomplish at least one. There are a myriad of opportunities that lie before us. Do not let them slip away, leaving you to make the same resolutions year after year.

It is time for a rewarding change.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once stated, “What lies behind us and lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us.

Believe in yourself and what you are capable of. Make the year 2006 your best year yet. You hold the power to make Opportunity a best-seller.

Bruin Staff

Editor-in-chief: Kate Hudson Associate Editor-in-chief: Emily Hoover Front Page: Page Editor: Michelle McCune Reporter: Ryan Renacci, Brad Mueller Editorial: Page Editor: Drew Knight Reporter: Zach Budinscak Opinion: Page Editor: Laura Myers Reporters: Kyle Snoke, Jesse Mooney Speakout: Page Editor: Trevor Day Reporters: Justin McInturff, Scott Siesky Features: Page Editor: Claire Davis Reporters: Aaron Mueller, Kat Little News: Page Editor: Courtney Harris Reporter: Rochelle O’Neil In The News: Cody Steigerwald Picture Page: Page Editor: Dan Grassell Reporter: Tommy Kaminski Photographer: Nick Jack Variety Page: Page Editor: Katy Wilson Dear Daisy: Kristi Havens Sports 1: Page Editor: Shelly Anderson Reporter: Zach Berger Sports 2: Page Editor: Alli Macko Reporter: Cody Valiente Sports Briefs: Josh Snyder Music/Entertainment: Page Editor: Brad Mueller Reporter: Amy Jarvis Ads/Business Manager: Laura Hlavaty Asst. Business Manager: Garrett Wienecke Copy Editor: Claire Davis Asst. Copy Editor: Rochelle O’Neil Proofreaders: Newspaper/Yearbook I classes Cartoonist: Courtney Mesick Adviser: John Gramuglia

CARTOON BY COURTNEY MESICK

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 advisor. 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.

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Opinion January 2006 Just keep eating, just keep eating, just keep eating, just keep ea .. . keep eating,

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PROUD TO BE A BRUIN SPONSOR

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The lunch room may soon look like this every day during lunch if prices do not return to normal. PHOTO BY KYLE

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tling down the hallway towards the cafeteria and jockeying for position in the lunch line. Well, maybe in the past, anyway. These days, many abrupt changes in the lunch agenda have left much to be desired.

Topping the list is the new price of a lunch with fries. Normally a lunch with fries would set a student back $2.25 but mysteriously, as soon as the new year rolled around, a lunch with fries had been changed to $3.10. No warning or reasoning ever pre-

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Lunch brings about the only part of day where you will see seniors acting like KYLE OPINION freshmen.

STAFF As soon as the lunch bell rings, you may be lucky enough to see these students hus-

ep ea t i n g,

Lunch changes bring confusion, anger

tin g st ke

sible. Winter athletes, who practice their sports for several hours a day, should be eating as much as possible.

Swimmers, basketball players, gymnasts, and even wrestlers should do anything but diet. They burn an extra 600-1200 calories a day and need to replace these calories with lots of carbohydrates and protein.

Now, dieting is a perfectly acceptable thing to do, as long as it is not taken to extremes. But for athletes, it is trickier. While most people eat less than normal, athletes need to eat more. While others start cutting carbs, athletes have team spaghetti dinners.

While everyone else barely eats lunch, athletes eat extra.

These differences sometimes give some athletes a sense of guilt because they are eating so much more than their friends and family.

Well, do not feel guilty, and do not eat less. Consider the extra food a reward for all of the hard work being done, and enjoy the last month of practice.

The day after sectionals, I am going on a diet. For now, pass the potatoes.

, ju

The last piece of Halloween candy has been recovered from under the bed and eaten.

LAURA OPINION STAFF The turkey sandwiches lasted until Christmas break. The goose has been cooked, cookies have been devoured, and the pork and sauerkraut are gone.

‘Tis the after-season. This season is marked by one tradition: the New Year’s resolution. And, as always, an overwhelming number of people have resolved to eat healthily and to lose weight.

According to a Harris poll, 45 percent of women are resolving to lose weight this year. This makes losing weight one of the most popular resolutions.

“Every year, New Year’s is my reminder to eat healthier foods and exercise more,” said junior Sarah Price.

As much fun as it is to lower your daily calorie intake, for some people it is just not plau-

School spirit decreases year to year Footb a l l season is over, Thanksgiving a n d Wi n t e r break h a v e JESSE OPINION come STAFF a n d gone, basketball and other winter sports have begun, but there has yet to be pep assemblies for students and staff to get ‘pumped up’ before the games. Students have tried to show their spirit by wearing school colors or by tailgating; however, this is where it ends.

Pep assemblies would keep this spirit going.

“I definitely want to keep the school spirit going. We have talked to student council about pep assemblies and bringing them back,” said Principal Brian Williams.

In the past few years, the school spirit has started to decrease at a rapid pace while other schools have increased their spirit. The high school used to be known for having

the best spirit around. Pep rallies The attendance by high before big games were the norm school students at games has and Spirit Week was full of fun also gone down. and creative ways to show your “It was easier to go out and school spirit. Homecoming floats play and be determined to win were made for the Homecoming when you knew your classfootball games, and the night be- mates were going to be there fore the game, a bonfire was held to cheer you on,” said junior to pump everyone up. Participat- Nathan Budney. ing and watching the activities, To create more spirit in got the teams pumped up and the school, there should be ready to go out and win. more activities. Such activities In 2003, the assembly before would get students involved. the Copley game was one-of-a By bringing back the fun Spirit kind. That was one of the last pep Week and pep rallies that acrallies that encouraged students tually make students want to to attend games. Seniors and get involved, the high school other students led a memorable would be once more known for show that displayed true school having the best spirit around. spirit and got everyone energized for game time.

This year, we have not had that experience or ability to get the teams ready to play.

The teams only receive “good luck” on the announcements, the tailgaters’ support, and each other to get themselves Football players tackle an Indian during a 2003 asready to win. sembly. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRUIN ARCHIVES

sented itself, just a small sign you receive is on a steady decline. notified students of the change. Unless you have one of the more A few students were upset, some generous lunch workers, you are confused, and many were angry left with an abysmal amount of fries and an empty wallet to go at this change.

“I am very annoyed lunches along with it. have been There could raised to $3.10 “ I will not be buying [school be many reasons from $2.25. for this change. lunches] anymore.”

That is unacThe main reason ceptable, and for this could I will not be be new dietary buying [school standards that Scott Landerholm, 12 lunches] anythe school has more,” said seto follow. Loginior Scott Landerholm. cal thinking would suggest that Moreover, not only has the the raise in price would deter stuprice of fries with a lunch in- dents from buying the fries, therecreased, but the quantity of fries fore staying within the dietary

standards. But will students really stop buying the fries because of this?

Another possible reason could be that the school lunch program was not making a big enough profit. I will admit, 15 cents extra for fries was a good deal. The problem with this idea is that raising the price so much may cause even more of a loss of profit.

This is not the first time our precious fries have been sabotaged. In early December the fries were mysteriously replaced with the large and tasteless potato wedges for almost a week.

Many students complained, and the next week the fries had returned. For now, the future is a bit hazy. Whether or not the fries will return to the normal price is not clear, but hopefully all parties involved will come to their senses and give us back our normal lunch prices.

In the mean time, seniors, make good use of the microwave in the commons. To the underclassmen, well I guess you will just have to pay the extravagent price or suffer the loss of a cheap hot lunch.

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Speakout

January 2006

What was your most exciting high school memory of 2005?

My most exciting high school memory of 2005 was backyard shredding with the Infantry Crew and hanging out with Scott Siesky on weekends!

-Josh Jett, 12 One of my most exciting high school memories of 2005 was probably hanging out with Scott Siesky on the weekend. We would snowboard or just hang out. I also enjoyed playing with Josh Jett. Do not forget to see what Josh can do on www.infantryclothing.com

Our most exciting high school memory of 2005 was finding out that we had the same 7th period class where we could share our love and joy together everyday!

-Britt Busson, 10 -Chadwick Flath, 10 My most exciting high school memory of ‘05 is, hands down, being in Senior Composition with Turff, Trevor, and Maxwell.

We learned that Max is fluent in French!

Well, I was chilling’ at Matt Kelty’s house. We were just sitting there and then BAM!! A stack of books landed on my head. I looked up and, sure enough, former WHS superstars Jason Kelty and Adam Smith were standing there. Boy, good times getting books dropped on my head.

-Simon Russell, 11 My favorite memory was when I was in Minnesota. While I was there, I met the President. I also got the chance to tell him he is such a bad president that I could take his job and be considered a savior. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON - 2008!

-Taylor Dungjen, 12

-Jamie Mosier, 9

My most exciting memory of 2005 was when Trevor and I won the regional hop sack races to qualify us to the national meet in Iowa.

-Nate, 12

There was a slumber party at Lanie’s house and all of us girls decided to go swimming at night when we got home from Cedar Point. We were swimming and singing Kanye West while making a whirl pool when we heard a sudden bang. In a panic, Pam Melton flies out the door while all the while Erin spastically tries to climb her way out of the pool.

After hearing that someone was trying to attack us, we finally figured out it was just some stupid boys setting off fire crackers.

-Tiffany Sloan, 12 -Erin Rohrer, 12 -Lanie Melton, 12

-Ryan , 12

Mrs. Day said she would go on a date with me, but unfortunately it never happened.

-Grady, 12

Enslaving the entire school to do my bidding. I enjoyed watching all of my subjects construct a pyramid for me. It was also nice when they made a sphinx in my image. WELL DONE, SLAVES! -Kyle Merrick, 12

Getting called into the office where one of Wadsworth’s finest was waiting for me.

-Frank Adley, 12

I’ll remember working in the office with Mrs. Fisher.

-Mike Firis, 11

S T U D E N T S

What is your 2006 New Year’s resolution, and how do you plan on achieving it?

T E A C H E R S

My resolution is to not get angry in church anymore, even though I don’t enjoy singing the songs.

-Mrs. McIlvaine My 2006 New Year’s resolution is to finally fill out this paper so that the Bruin Staff stops bothering me during physics!

-Mrs. Greenlees I intend to cut my Pepsi consumption down to three cases a week.

I’m not sure I can achieve this, but with the help of my PDM class, I’m sure I’ll be successful.

To stay more connected with family and friends. I plan to achieve it by e-mailing more and using my phone to send text and picture messages.

-Mrs. Haskins

-Mrs. Swanson

My resolution is to make dinner at least once a week, so my wife can have a break. I have no set plan yet, but I believe Applebee’s and other establishments will help me fine tune my plan.

My resolution is to not waste money so that when the Indians win the division in 2006, I can afford to buy World Series tickets.

-Mr. Johnson

-Mr. Hamilton

To run in my first 10K. This is all you get because my last answer was not in the paper.

-Mrs. Baxley

My resolution is to lose weight! I will exercise, drink water, eliminate pop, and pray. However, I cannot diet. Besides, life is too short to diet!

-Mrs. LaMonica

1) To have all the names memorized of my 2nd semester Intro to speech classes by the end of the 2nd week. It won’t happen so don’t worry about it!

2) To not have Dan Costello get me upset by his strange behavior.

How: Medication!

3) To put all the grades in the Get in shape, lose weight, make progress book the day they are class fun and interesting, and be graded. I must first learn how to a better parent. I plan on achievturn on the computer. ing this by: getting more jog/walk miles in per week, taking addi-Mr. Gains tional classes and checking educational web sites for fun ideas, and getting my biological chil- I always break my resolution by dren to work and listen without January 2nd. Therefore I have reyelling constantly! solved not to make any more resolutions.

-Mrs. Lance

-Mrs. Mathews

Music/Entertainment

January 2006

Just Surrender travels down road to success

BY AMY JARVIS

Most weekends for highschoolers are spent at local sporting events and other school related activities, but there are more and more students that find that they enjoy going to music venues on Fridays instead.

Local bands have become increasingly popular over the past year. Watching local bands play is intense and exciting, as listeners find that they know the members of the band and can relate to them.

“It’s always fun when you know a song was written for or about you and your friends,” said junior Sarah Fenwick.

Many find it entertaining to watch the band grow in popularity, gaining great success among fans and becoming noticed by record labels.

“It’s amazing when you can look around and see all of your friends singing along to a song

that one of your best friends has cruited Dan Simons to play guitar on Purevolume. Soon their songs reached number one on the site. written,” said senior Caitlin Da- and sing.

They managed to save a few vies.

When they managed to reAs one watches a band play cord a few songs they posted it dollars and release a small EP their way down the highway to success they find that they either have great success or slowly die out, but for bands such as Just Surrender, there is no dying out in sight.

Whoever thought that a small local band that started out on the streets of upstate New York would find themselves making their way across the country on tour promoting their debut album?

Just surrender got its start in 2003 when band members Andy Meunier, Jason Maffucci, and Steve Miller started a high school Band members Jason Maffucci, Steve Miller and Dan Simons of New York-based band Just are shown rocking out at the Grog Shop in Cleveland, Ohio. band. They soon re- Surrender PHOTO BY DANIEL RYAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Change of path for MySpace A Change of Pace

BY BRADLEY MUELLER

Most high school seniors spend a lot of their time contemplating college and career decisions. For a lucky few, there is nothing to think about.

The Arizona band ,A Change of Pace, is rocking their way out of a Phoenix suburb with the help of Immortal Records.

Band members Torry Jasper (vocals/guitar), Jonathan Kelly (drums), Johnny Abdullah (bass/vocals), and Adam Rodgers (guitarist), are graduating high school, and music is the only thing on their mind.

“It’s kind of uncanny, isn’t it?” asked the lead singer Torry Jasper about their youth.

Their music is not to be discredited because of their

age, however. Being young, their music is full of energy and emotion, which fuels their forceful lyrics and hardcore style. Being young is also beneficial because they are still living through the experiences that influence them, allowing for easy relation and the potential for substantial change.

Many of ACOP’s songs deal with hardships every high schooler goes through, mainly with relationships. Songs like “Loose Lips Sink Ships” and “A Farewell to a Friendship” deal with betrayal, something Jasper has dealt with a lot.

Although these musicians may not be the average teenagers, deep down they are the same as anyone else.

To check out A Change of Pace and some of their music, go to www. achangeofpacemusic. com, or you can pick up their freshman album An Offer You Can’t Refuse in stores.

Torry Jasper, Jonathan Kelly, Johnny Abdullah, and Adam Rodgers, band members of A Change of Pace, pose for a promotional photo for their new album An Offer You Can’t Refuse.

PHOTO COURTESY OF www. achangeofpacemusic.com

Continued from Page 1 they need to watch their favorite band play on their screen.

MySpace mostly attracts teens for many reasons, including the fact that it is today’s teenagers that have grown up with the internet.

For many people, it is hard to imagine how people can spend hours of time exploring a virtual world while sitting in a seat.

So what exactly do people do on MySpace for hours on end?

Most spend their time constantly updating their profile, writing about themselves, putting in more music or pictures, or just jumping from person to person, searching the intricate web made by the connection of friends.

Many parents are against letting their children have an account on MySpace because of the abundant amount of personal information typically displayed and the fear of meeting up with untrustworthy strangers. While this is true, the users have options available to protect themselves from these threats.

Such options include privacy settings and the restriction of messaging to and from people on your friend list only. This helps prevent internet sex crimes, which represent a mere 1% of all sex crimes against children, although the number is growing along with the web.

Also, profiles are randomly scanned to prevent any pornography displayed or hate icons. Profanity, however, is not restricted.

Anyone under the age of 14 is not allowed to join, and if MySpace discovers that someone is under 14, their profile is immediately deleted.

For further safety information, visit http://www.myspace. com/misc/safetytips.html for tips

and information about the risks of roaming the web.

Even with some of MySpace’s security, some people do not feel comfortable with it.

“I have one, but I use it for my friends only, stated senior Kristen Stallman.

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produced by John Naclerio who has worked with Brand New, Senses Fail , and My Chemical Romance.

Success with bands is slim and not many can make it big, but Just Surrender is well on its way. With their power punk sound, real-life inspired lyrics and incredible stage presence, success is knocking on their door.

They have already made appearances on MTV’s “You Hear It First” section and have a song on the Wolf Creek soundtrack.

Their debut album If These Streets Could Talk can be found in stores now.

Most local bands only dream of having the kind of success that Just Surrender has encountered so far, as they are gaining more and more fans along their tour. Hopefully their journey down the road to stardom treats them well as they headline more venues across the country.

“It’s weird to know that complete strangers can find out so much about you so quickly,” added junior Julie Shaffer.

Like everything else on the web, it is your choice to use, but use it at your own risk.

MySpace has profiles open to the general public, along with a MySpace Music section. Here is Relient K’s profile, with a music player to sample their music.

PHOTO COURTESY OF www.myspace.com

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Picture Page

January 2006

Intramural Basketball

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BY NICK JACK

It is that time of year again. The intramural basketball season has started out with a bang, as the teams played their first three games before break. In the older age group, there are still a few undefeated teams left. Team Mary Mo, the champions of the younger division just a year ago, and Team Hinote are both 3-0.

“Playing for Team Mary Mo is probably the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. There is no greater feeling than to show up on Saturday mornings and play some good old basketball with my buddies. I just hope we can win another championship like we did last year because I was probably the most proud I have ever been,” said junior Dan “Danny Boy”.

The third undefeated team is Team Silky Smooth. What might be the biggest surprise this year in the older division is the 1-2 record held

by Team Money Maker. Team Money Maker was the champion of the lower division two years ago. They missed out last year because they did not turn their roster in on time. Another surprise team this year is Team Hop Skip.

In the younger divison, Team Firis, a team full of junior guys, has taken control. They have five very decisive victories over their opponents and it does not seem that anyone will be able to stop them.

Unless, of course, they are beaten by one of the other two undefeated teams which are Teams Russell and Szabo.

There is a new referee in the league as well, and he has done a good job so far. The new referee is Mr. Yaggi, and he has taken control of what may have been problems later on. He is not afraid to call a technical every now and then. The intramural league is under great control by Mr. Madigan, Mr. Robinson, and the many other teachers who make it possible for the students to play on Saturday mornings.

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1. Senior Phil throws one down during warm ups in the new gym.

2. Intramural referee and new varsity baseball head coach Mr. Madigan poses for a quick picture before he tosses the jump ball.

3. Jimmy, a junior, shows his love for the NBA in the 70’s and probably could have landed himself a spot on the dess code picture page with this picture.

4. Team Rough Riders player Ari goes up for a lay-up as she gets the “and-one” call.

5. Freshman John shows good defense while guarding an intramural foe.

6. Team Mary Mo’s leading scorer off the bench strikes a pose while his team hands it to Team Troop.

7. Senior Tyler shows perfect form as he drains a three pointer in his early morning game.

8. Tyler, a freshman, posts up down low while he waits on the ball.

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Picture Page

D DGEBALL

January 2006 1.

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BY DAN GRASSELL

In the past year, the sport of dodgeball has become the new, popular thing. After the Ben Stiller movie Dodgeball, the sport is no longer just a game you play in gym class. Leagues at Pinnacle Sports Complex have opened, and a large amount of people of all ages have joined the dodgeball craze.

There has been so much interest in this new fad that our school has decided to host a tournament to raise money for The Salvation Army Energy Assistance Program.

Each year, the freshman and sophomore classes have a project to raise money. This year they decided to have a dodgeball tournament.

“It was a great way to give money and a lot of fun to be at and watch.” said freshman class president Sarah Fortner.

Another idea to raise money was to sell pizza. The Student Council will be selling pizza on the way out of the gym for $1.00 per slice. This has raised a great amount of money for the Salvation Army. Many teams have signed up for the price of $10.00 per team member.

Team Mean Girls player Olivia Kormushoff said, “So far this has been so fun! I love being on this team with all of my girls.”

There are only three teams left in the grueling tournament: Misfit Toys, Silent Assassins, and The Dynasty. The tournament is going to end with a championship game at the end of school in the gym on February 1. The championship game will be played, and the winner will play the team of teachers.

Not only is dodgeball fun to play at school, but the leagues at Pinnacle Sports Complex have become very popular. Many of the students who are participating in the dodgeball tournament at our school also play on a team at Pinnacle against other high school teams. One of these teams, Misfit Toys, just recently represented Wadsworth well and placed 3rd in a national dodgeball tournament in Chicago.

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1. Mr. Yaggi prepares to fire a dodgeball at the opposing team with a mean grimace on his face.

2. Teams from the Pinnacle dodgeball league race to collect the dodgeballs at the beginning of a weeknight match.

3. Yet another dodgeball team from Pinnacle prepares to start a dodgeball match while one of their players gets hit in the face with a false start by the other team.

4. Team Brass Balls and Team Mean Girls face off during winter break in the school dodgeball tournament.

5. A line of dodgeballs awaits the begining of a fierce dodgeball match at Pinnacle.

6. Team Mean Girls has a pep talk to get pumped up for their tournament match.

7. Team Misfit Toys is a school favorite among the dodgeball teams entered in the school fundraising tournament.

8. A team full of teachers takes on a team of students over winter break.

Information from Student Council Assembly- Feb. 1 Collecting loose change for Salvation Army Pizza will be sold The winning team may play a team of teachers

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Features

January 2006

Winning hand scores McPeek dream voyage

BY CLAIRE DAVIS

Sweat, toil, consistency, and luck have finally paid off for former WHS student Brian McPeek. McPeek, a member of the popular online website Pokerstars, recently won a poker tournament along with an all expenses paid trip to the five-star Atlantis resort in the Bahamas to compete in yet another tournament. While many Pokerstars users play for fun or to learn the game, McPeek considers Pokerstars a hobby and is rapidly becoming an expert. However, even his knowledge of the game and surprising luck could not prepare him for the excitement of winning this exclusive tournament.

McPeek, a sophomore at Case Western Reserve University, is a frequent poker player, spending about 30 to 50 hours a week playing. He started off playing $.25 buyin games with his friends and then advanced to the World Wide Web of poker at Pokerstars.com. When he is not studying, he is earning some extra cash and furthering his skills in poker.

“The thrill of the game makes it worth playing,” said McPeek.

When McPeek entered the

2006 Caribbean Adventure tournament in January, he had no idea that he would actually win a trip to the Bahamas. He had entered many tournaments like this before and never had the luck to win. After 10 hours and many frustrating hands, McPeek got lucky with a hand of a jack and an eight.

“When I realized that I won, I immediately called all my friends even though it was 6 in the morning,” said McPeek.

This exclusive trip includes two free plane tickets, a room accom- While many people staying at this five-star hotel will be vacationing, Brian McPeek will be modating four at the five- playing in a poker tournament here for free. PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.ATLANTIS.COM/FLASH.ASPX star Atlantis resort, all meals paid for, and $1,000 in mis- quently watches on television on Many Pokerstars players cellaneous expenses. The Atlantis The World Poker Tour. throughout our school look up to resort is known for its water slides, “I hope to meet Phil Hellmuth McPeek as he voyages across the massive indoor fishing tanks, sooth- and maybe even play at the same sea to play in such a prestigious ing spas, and sandy beaches. Rooms table as him,” said McPeek. tournament. Not many people there usually run for $370 or more While some consider playing have the chance to travel and have a night. The trip also allows him a poker dangerous, McPeek sees it Pokerstars pay for it. McPeek has $8,000 buy in to the tournament. as a fun card game where he can the chance to win a large sum of McPeek’s parents and three of his earn a little extra cash. Some be- money, and he will get free Pokfriends will be joining him on this lieve that playing poker too much erstars gear. Even if he does not once in a lifetime trip. will cause one to go bankrupt, but come out on top, the experience While trying to earn himself a the tournament buy in is free for will certainly help him in future top spot at the Bahamas tournament, McPeek. Also, he entered the on- poker tournaments. Moreover, McPeek will also have the chance to line tournament for free because he will never forget the time he meet and play against professional he accumulated enough frequent played with professional poker poker players. He is excited to actu- player points. Moreover, McPeek players in the Bahamas in an ally see these players that he so fre- is still in school. $8,000 tournament.

January Female Student of the Month

Danielle Favorite teachers: Mr. Schmeltzer, Sr. and Mr. Callaghan Favorite subject: AP Chemistry Favorite quote: “I realize what life’s all about: it’s hanging on when your heart has had enough; it’s giving more when you feel like giving up.”

January Male Student of the Month

Boring city in need of improvements

BY AARON F. MUELLER

The stretch between the holiday season and the spring is often the most boring time of the year in terms of available activities.

Not many students will disagree that Wadsworth can be a boring place to live. With the uniquely inconsistent weather patterns of Northeast Ohio, it can even be difficult to find a day where there is enough snow to go to Boston Mills. This stint of the winter leaves many people experiencing the doldrums.

In Wadsworth, there are only a few things to do outside of school. Applebee’s makes for a decent place to be, especially during happy hour, yet it is often overly crowded on the weekends.

However, it appears more restaurants will be opening in the near future.

Steiner Youth Center is way past its prime. Built in the seventies, the city is in desperate need of a new recreation center. Sure, there is a nice indoor swimming pool, but the basketball court is a

joke. Open gym for high schoolers is only from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and the single gymnasium is usually packed with people.

Last, there is a movie theater, which has reasonable prices but only two screens. The selection is very limited. Clearly, Wadsworth’s population is growing faster then the available entertainment. Sadly, some students have even resorted to roaming the aisles of Wal-Mart on the weekends.

Increases in drug and alcohol use by teenagers could also be partially blamed on the fact that there are very few other healthy and fun things to do. With just a few more available activities, many kids would be kept out of trouble.

Currently, there is a plan for an outdoor skate park to be built in town, which is a good thing for many people. However, a problem remains; there still would not be anything to do during the months of January, February, and March, notoriously the most boring time of the year.

If the city’s teen population had a larger say in what was built, things would surely be different.

Wadsworth would almost certainly welcome a quality place to go ice skating. With the area’s weather climate, it is surprising hockey is not a more popular sport. Perhaps if the city provided a place to skate, more people would get into it.

Another healthy activity would be basketball. Many believe the Wadsworth community would support a nice new athletic complex. Since the high school does not have open gym sessions for people to play ball, at least three new courts would be put to good use.

“Wadsworth is in dire need of a great book store. I would spend so much time and money there,” said senior Sarah Hutnik.

Hutnik is not alone in her belief that something similar to Barnes and Noble would also be a great addition.

Senior Z. R. Goodson put thought to the question and ended up deciding that, “Wadsworth

would be much better if there was an indoor fishing facility so I could work on my casting skills all year-round.”

Students’ ideas truly are endless, and with every expressed opinion there is hope that the city council will eventually take action.

“It is unfortunate that by the time anything happens most of us will have gone to college, but I still hope some cool new things get built. A few more places to get Polar Pops would be nice,” said senior Brooke Thomas.

While students’ dream additions to the city may or may not come true, everyone must make due with what they have. Undoubtedly, Wadsworth is home to many nice things, but there is always room for improvement.

As the city grows larger with more homes and businesses, sooner or later new means of entertainment will have to be built. Maybe, just maybe, those in charge will use some of these ideas.

Justin Favorite teacher: Mr. Schmeltzer, Sr. Favorite subject: AP Chemistry and Honors Analytical Physics Plans after graduation: Attend The Ohio State University

Random Facts ~ The first can opener was invented 48 years after the can. ~ Over 10,000 birds a year die from smashing into windows. ~ It costs about 3 cents to make a $1 bill in the United States. ~ If you unfolded your brain, it would cover an ironing board. ~ Donkeys kill more people annually than plane crashes. ~ During your lifetime, you’ll eat about 60,000 pounds of food. That’s the weight of about 6 elephants. ~ 9 out of 10 lightning struck victims survive.

Variety

January 2006

Junk of the Month

BY KATY WILSON

Senior Lydia sits on top of her Ford Ranger. Although Lydia is quiet and reserved, her truck can be heard and seen by all.

PHOTO BY KATY WILSON

School board welcomes new member Scott Brewer

BY KATY WILSON

Last November, the citizens of Wadsworth voted in Scott Brewer to replace long time member and recent retiree Robert Derhammer. Brewer took the oath of office during the board meeting on January 9.

Brewer is currently serving as the Secretary on the Board of Directors for the Wadsworth Rotary Club. He is also a member of the Medina County Bar Association, the Akron Bar Association, and the Ohio State Bar Association.

Outside of the many associations and boards he serves on, Brewer is a local practicing attorney. He received his under graduate and law degrees from

the University of Akron and currently has his office located in downtown Wadsworth.

Brewer also serves as a loyal husband and caring father. He graduated from Wadsworth, as well as his wife Connie. Together they have four daughters who are enrolled in the Wadsworth City School System. With two daughters at the high school, one at the junior high school, and one at Overlook he sees the school system in many lights, allowing him to be a part of the school board that affects each one of his children.

If you see Mr. Brewer in the hallway, make sure you give him a welcoming smile.

Wadsworth High School Marketing Education “Learn to earn and earn to learn”

While some people drive cars that reflect their personalities, Lydia and her 1990 Ford Ranger are a pair of opposites.

Although Lydia is quiet and shy, her muffler can be heard from a mile away.

“I have the loudest muffler ever!” exclaimed Lydia “If I step on the gas even a little bit you can hear it.”

Opposites do not necessarily attract; some just get stuck with what they have been given. Lydia’s first choice of cars obviously was not her noisy truck.

“I needed something cheap that ran,” stated Lydia. “I had a stick shift, but after running into the garage door and a parked car, we decided that I needed an automatic.”

And an automatic is just what she received; an automatic headache that would soon make her well known around school.

“It has so many things wrong with it,” Lydia added. “Half of my muffler is missing; the pas-

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senger’s side door does not open, and to get the radio to work, you have to slam the driver’s side door shut, and it still randomly turns off.”

When you see Lydia in the halls, she is usually well outfitted. Her car, however, is a different story. The first appearance one might get when he observes Lydia’s Ranger is quite shocking and comical.

“I dislike the fact that there is a ‘grill’ in the front; it looks so ugly!” Lydia exclaimed.

But that is not all that Lydia says makes her car a piece of junk. “ I got hit in the back area, but since my car is so junky, I told the person not to worry about it, because it just blends in with the rest of my car,” said Lydia.

Although Lydia’s Ranger is not her first choice, it sure allows her to be known by many at the high school. This Ranger has a personality that allows Lydia to show her wild side and be heard on and off the streets, without having to say a single word.

Step towards success Band continues to improve with new style of music

BY KRISTI HAVENS

Music is something that everyone has in common. Taste in music may vary from person to person. However, hearing the superior sound put out by our own band is something that can be enjoyed by everyone.

The band at Wadsworth has long been recognized for their musical excellence. Over the past few years there have been personnel changes. Mr. Hadgis and Mr. Foster, the high school and middle school band directors, have respectively teamed up to develop outstanding talent. Not only have these men won the respect of the band members, but they have also been recognized on an even bigger level.

“I have a lot of respect for the directors because they know what they’re doing and care enough about the music and our achievement to push us to excel,” said junior Kristian Doty.

Band students not only devote time out of their school day to practice with the band, but the students also have to work hard in their own private time to be as excellent as they truly are. In fact, they have to work even harder because Hadgis has been challenging them with more difficult selections of music. The band has risen to meet his demands and their hard work has been rewarded with an opportunity to play at several prestigious events.

In the past month, the band performed at the Ohio Band Directors Conference. An honorable composer flew in from North Carolina to help prepare the band

for their successful performance.

The band has been invited to play at the Ohio Music Educators Professional Conference on Thursday, January 26 at 4:45 p.m.

“Only the best performing ensembles throughout the state are selected through a blind, taped audition to perform there,” said Hadgis.

The Symphonic and Concert bands have been selected to perform at the Severance Hall at Case Western Reserve University Invitational on Sunday, January 29 at 3:00 p.m. This is one of the premier performance halls in the nation.

“It gives all of our high school band students a once-in-a-lifetime chance to play where some of the world’s most famous musicians have played,” said Hadgis.

This year the band has stepped it up a level. They are trying to recreate their performances to entertain a crowd while playing more upbeat styles of music. The change of style has motivated the students to excel. Not only does it motivate the band, but the variety of music and performance has made the crowds look forward to watching what the band’s next move will be.

Not all band members will play their instruments after high school, but the appreciation and enjoyment of music will stay with them forever. Band is a process that never stops from 5th grade on. Playing an instrument is one of the few things you can do for a long time. Almost all good things come from hard work. The hard effort from the band students and directors have made the program a success.

The Pep Band rallies the crowd during the boys basketball game.

PHOTO BY NICK JACK

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News

January 2006

From your principal

Welcome to 2006!! As usual, the school year is flying by. January is typically a time for resolutions; I wonder if our students have made any resolutions. Hopefully, all students will try to improve their grades in the New Year. I would also hope each student would embrace the Pay It Forward concept. Make a deal with yourself to compliment someone today. If we all do this we will make Wadsworth High School an even better place to learn.

Congratulations to all our students who are involved in the various activities offered at Wadsworth High School.

All of you continue to make us proud through your performance and through the positive attitude you display at all times. Remember: “It is easy to win; it is the person who loses with grace and dignity that grows as a person.”

Until next month, Go Grizzlies!!

Mr. Williams

Oddity takes new face in job market

BY COURTNEY HARRIS

Ever thought of pursuing a job that’s a little out of the ordinary? Perhaps something along the lines of a duckmaster or an earthworm farmer would suit your walk on the wild side. These are just two of the many unusual jobs in the workplace today.

Although it seems that many people take the typical route and work at a company, there are more people than you think that acquire some very unusual jobs. Reasons for taking these unusual occupations are not as uncommon as the jobs themselves. Many begin to work at these odd positions, such as a fish counter, due to college debt or dropping out of college.

Some people like Lowell Queen enjoy their different lifestyle. Queen is, in a sense, a zookeeper for the afterlife. He owns a pet cemetery outside of Abilene, Texas. Many in this small town believe he has always been a little different, which must be his reason for taking such an odd occupation. However, the real reason is for his love of animals.

Another different lifestyle is that of Jeffrey Glanzer. He performs plastic surgery on four of the world’s largest patients — the U.S. presidents featured on Mt. Rushmore. Using a silicone sealant, he repairs the wear and tear that has weathered the forefathers since 1927. Repel-

ling against the enormous rock sculpture requires not only skill for chiseling away at the nose of one of the most influential men in America, but also being able to hold a nice and steady position at 5700 feet above sea level.

Then there are those who are genetically bestowed with a skill in a more peculiar fashion. The highly-trained odor judges test cat litter, diapers, breath, feet, and even armpits Some of the subjects are the essential human components of otherwise automated factories. They test everything from eggs, beer, and potato chips to tampons and condoms.

A testosterone filled occupation involves a man and a cannon. A human cannonball, shot from a four metre, gun sends a circus stunt man flying through the air at speeds of up to 60 mph.

While these jobs are only a few of the interesting lifestyles people have chosen, there are plenty more to choose from and more in the works.

Jeffery Glanzer performs his surgery on Mt. Rushmore.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ODD JOBS

Top Odd Jobs A to Z

A - Actor for haunted house B - Bingo announcer C - Clown for rodeos D - Drawbridge tender E - Eye glass buffer F - Fingerprint analyzer G - Glass sculptor H - Hot rod builder I - Interpreter for government agency J - Jelly doughnut filler K - Karate instructor L - Lifeguard at nude beach M - Military role player N - Note taker for college students O - Ocean scuba guide P - Phone psychic Q - Quiz writer R - Rescue squad for pets S - Stand-in bridesmaid (for weddings where the bride didn’t know enough people) T - Telemarketer for a cemetery U - Urinalysis observer V - Voice-over specialist for movies W - Window washer for skyscrapers X - X-mas tree decorator Y - Youth boot camp instructor for juvenile offenders Z - Zoo artificial inseminator

Courtesy of Careerbuilder.com

Olympic Torch already on journey to games Not only does the Olympic Torch symbolize peace, allegiance, courage, fraternity, and solidarity, but according to Greek mythology, it also symbolizes the sacred fire that Prometheus stole from the gods. Soon after Prometheus brought this fire to Earth, it became the symbol of human reason, freedom, and creativity.

There is much more to the ceremonial part of the Olympics than many people believe. Starting on December 8, the torch began its journey from the Quirinale Palace

in Rome and will continue on this two month expedition to Torino, Italy, where this year’s Olympic Games will be held. During the next few weeks, the torch will pass over a distance of 11,000 kilometers through each province of Italy and will change hands of torchbearers 10,000 times.

Even though the games do not begin until February 10, the torch is already well on its way.

The design of the torch for the 2006 Torino Olympic Games is based on the traditional wooden torch.

However, because times have

changed, it has been redesigned to fit modern times.

The Torino torch is different from past Olympic torches in that the entire top portion is a burning flame instead of the flame rising only from a hole on top.

The torch itself is made of aluminum; however, the inside is composed of steel, copper, and other components.

It uses a special kind of paint to help resist the harsh, unpredictable weather that the Olympic Relay may encounter.

There are 10,000 torchbearers that carry 10,000 torches, each burning for 15 minutes. No flame can exceed ten centimeters in height and no flame can ever be relit. Each individul torch must be 770 milimeters in height, 105 milimeters in width, and weigh 1.850 kilograms.

This year, the 2006 Olympic Winter Games’ emblem is displayed on the front of the torch. Every aspect of this emblem is symbolic in some respect.

At first glance it looks like a mountain made of tiny crystals.

These blue crystals that make up the mountain symbolize that one place where the sky meets the snow.

These crystals are also made to resemble a web that is meant to symbolize the new technologies and the continued spirit of the Olympics in people all throughout the world.

The ceremonial parts of the Olympics, including the Olympic Torch Relay and the torch itself, are very important aspects that are often times overlooked. These traditions are the basis of the Olympic Games and the spirit and traditions that follow them.

BY CODY STEIGERWALD

As some seniors may say, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” However, $300,000 from Ohio, New York, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Michigan say otherwise.

Along with teenage volunteers senior citizens are being taught computer and job skills, bridging the so called digital divide. For those in Ohio, our school is one of 15 locations where this wonderful and necessary service is provided.

Dave Carter, one of many eager volunteers, says: “I had a good time helping the elderly in the computer classes.

They’re always polite and fun to talk to. Even though they aren’t the most technologically adept, the senior citizens are very conversational and great to work with.”

Wadsworth has had a growing senior citizen population.

Due to problems with medications and Social Security, many have been forced to come out of retirement just to make ends meet.

Sadly, they nearly all lack the computer skills to be competitive in any job field, except for menial labor. We as children and grandchildren owe a great debt to this great generation, a debt of gratitude.

News Briefs •

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The country celebrated the life and dream of Martin Luther King Jr. 38 years after his death.

William Henry Gates III is still the richest man in the world with a net worth of $43 billion, according to Forbes 400.

The H5N1 avian flu virus is spreading slowly but surely, with a total casualty count of 140 as of January 1.

Christopher Walken has declared that he will cast his candidacy for president in 2008. Visit his official web site to learn more: http://www. walken2008.com/index. html.

The 20 06 Torin o Olym pic Tor ch

BY ROCHELLE O’NEIL

Juniors help senior citizens

The first torchbearer, Greek athlete Costas Fillipidis, starts the Olympic Relay in Olympia, Greece. PHOTOS COURTESY OF WWW.OLYMPIC.ORG

Ads

January 2006

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Sports 1

January 2006

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Otanicar receives Academic All-American Award Star senior stunned by award, thanks those around him who helped him succeed in athletics and school

BY ZACHARY BERGER

Senior soccer standout Otanicar has recently been awarded with the Academic All-American Award. This means that Otanicar is not only an amazing soccer player but an outstanding student as well. This award is not common either, as only 33 people in the whole entire country are awarded it. He was one of 2 people in Ohio to receive it, and the only soccer player to receive the award in WHS history.

“I feel stunned that I was even considered, let alone chosen,” Otanicar said. “It is a privilege to receive such an honor.”

Otanicar gets to go to Philadelphia on January 21st. There he will receive his official award.

He is also going to receive free soccer equipment from Adidas.

Helping Otanicar apply for this great award was varsity soccer

coach and economics teacher John Johnson. He helped Otanicar by calling the coaches that decide who receives the award.

Without Johnson’s knowledge of the possible award, he would not be in the position he is today.

“Johnson has helped me realize what potential I have to win the award. He let me know all the details and how I was a perfect qualifier for it,” said Otanicar.

Otanicar has had to work very hard over the period of four years to achieve the award. Maintaining a 3.75 grade point average over the course of four years, along with exhibiting excellence in soccer are the qualifications for the award. Otanicar shined in both of these categories, and was overqualified for the honor.

“I filled out the paper work, and arranged for his parents to sign the paper work so he could be nominated. It really was no

huge effort on my part. Otanicar did all the work through what he accomplished as a student-athlete,” said Johnson.

Otanicar attributes his success not only to his coach, but also his parents and family members. With the support of these fine people, he has been able to believe in himself and do great things throughout his career.

“My family has always believed in me,” says Otanicar.

“They have always kept me motivated to excel in both athletics and in the classroom.”

“Otanicar was a captain who led by example. He led the team by the way he played and effort he demonstrated throughout the year,” said Johnson.

He is a role model to all students who want to achieve great things in life, and has proved this through his hard work and dedication to being the best.

Senior Soccer Captain Otanicar dribbles the ball down the field. Otanicar was awarded an Academic All-American Award, making him one of only 33 other recipients in the nation. PHOTO COURTESY OF OTANICAR

Marygrove.

At the final buzzer of the game, Andreasen had racked up 26 points, a college career-high for her. This junior forward also tied her career-high of nine rebounds. In the following game, she helped the team to victory with 15 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. The team beat Marygrove 92-73.

Andreasen is having a great and successful season, averaging 12 points and five rebounds per game. Her rebounding ability has her behind only one other teammate in season total rebounds.

In addition to Ohio Northern, Walsh University is benefitting from Wadsworth alumna, Abby Swope. She graduated in 2004 having lettered in soccer.

She plays midfielder for the Lady Cavaliers, and she is a sophomore on the team. She received honorable mention on the 2005 National Association of Intercol-

legiate Athletics (NAIA) Women’s Soccer All-American team.

Swope was also named First Team Region IX and First Team All-American Mideast Conference South Division.

At the end of her season, Swope was second on the team in total points and goals with 34 points and 13 goals. She led the Cavaliers in assists by having eight.

The week of September 19, 2005, Swope was named NAIA Player of the Week for the American Mideast Conference. That week she had four goals and two assists.

Swope also received honors that were personal to her team at Walsh. She was recognized as the 2005 Outstanding Player on the women’s soccer team. Moreover, based upon her athletic perfor-

Alumnae pursue collegiate athletics, skills

BY SHELLY ANDERSON

Countless graduates of Wadsworth have gone on to take part in college-level athletics.

Athletes have participated and are currently participating in sports from Division I level to Division III. Two female alumnae have continued to improve in their particular sport and have received recognition.

Danielle Andreasen graduated in 2003 with athletic letters in both basketball and volleyball.

She is currently a member of the basketball team at Ohio Northern University. She has been named the Ohio Athletic Conference women’s basketball Player of the Week for the week of December 19.

Andreasen also was picked to participate on the All-Tournament Team after playing an outstanding game and helping lead her team to victory against Berea and

Name: Chrissy Sport: Basketball Season Highlight: We all worked together as a team and closed the Copley game in overtime.

Advice to other athletes:

To be successful, you must work hard.

Practice makes permanent.

CAN’T GET ENOUGH DODGEBALL???

Then come join us for our session II of dodgeball! Think your team is ready to go toe to toe with former Wadsworth dodgeball champs like The Misfit Toys and The Dynasty? Then call today, and join one of our many exciting and fast paced leagues

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OR Inquire with juniors Aimey Reynolds, Garrett Wienecke, Nate Miska, or Tommy Kaminski

Name: Derek Sport: Wrestling (Currently 24-2) Season Highlight:

Winning the GIT for the second year in a row.

Advice to other athletes:

No matter how many obstacles you run into, still come back and train harder the next day.

mance and leadership qualities, Swope has been voted captain of the team for the 2006 season this upcoming fall.

Wadsworth had its own luck by having Andreasen and Swope participate on its volleyball, basketball, and soccer teams. Now, both have gone on to impress and improve. Ohio Northern and Walsh are benefitting from these two top athletes.

Sports 2 Sports Briefs Wrestling This year’s team is off to a strong start. With a record of 12-2, the Grizzlies look to once again capture the SLT. For the 11th time in 20 years the team captured the title at the Grizzly Invitational Tournament. More recently they took fourth in the State Duals, losing to the secondranked team in the nation, St. Edward. Derek Foore, Dru Jones, and Dave Crowley are leading the way for the Grizzlies, with each of them having at least 20 wins this season.

Boys Basketball Starting of this year’s season with a very difficult December schedule, the Grizzlies are in a slump with a 4-8 record. They are looking to improve in the next couple of weeks and put together a successful season. Leading the way for the Grizzlies are senior captains Aaron Capps and Zach Farver.

Girls Basketball This year’s girls basketball team is again dominating the Suburban League. Starting off with a league record of 7-0 and an overall record of 10-2, the girls look to make another playoff appearance. The girls team recently beat Lakota West, ranked 9th in the state. They even beat defending State Champions Dayton Chaminade-Julienne.

Cassie Schrock and Jen Uhl are leading the team and Suburban League with points.

Girls Swimming The girls swim team this year has finished up its regular season with a 6-4 record.

The girls continue to improve and are heading to the Suburban League Meet. Senior Tara Leahy, junior Jill Moskowitz, and Mary Cargill are continuing to push the team to another successful season.

Boys Swimming The boys swim team finished its regular season undefeated at 10-0. The boys are looking to capture the SLT at the Suburban League Meet.

They have recently came off with a win over defending SLT champion Copley. Logan Ware also broke the 22year-old record for the 500 yard freestyle.

January 2006

13

Team chemistry leads gymnasts to 6-0 start

BY ALLI MACKO

Watch your step, you might fall trying to do what they do. Whether it be tumbling across a 4” balance beam or twirling around two uneven bars, these girls dedicate their whole lives to the game, all because of the love for the sport.

Though gymnastics is not the most popular sport, it definitely is one of the most demanding sports.

Many gymnasts start their career when they are three and four years old. They receive the basics at this young age such as becoming flexible, gaining muscle, and learning the right eating habits and training schedules.

“Well, we all have different summer schedules, but basically they are the same. For me there has never been an off season due to club. It usually is five days a week and at least four hours a day,” said senior Chelsea Sir Louis.

The girls have a very strict schedule they have to follow.

Most of them work as a team

three days after school and then the other two days they go up to a club team. On average they have about one meet a week and the rest of the days are practice days.

Already halfway through the season, this team is still undefeated. Many of the gymnasts stated the season has started out well and hope to finish up even stronger then they started. Though struggling through many different injuries with a couple of the girls, this team still believes they have a shot at going to State.

“We just have such strong team chemistry! We’ve bonded well together, which adds a positive attitude, which in return determines altitude,” said sophomore Rachel Hudson.

“Whether it be team practices or Fazolies for dinner after meets, we all love each others company.”

Not only does this team have the talent and dedication to make it to the top, now they have the equipment also.

“This year we received a real

Girls gymnasts stand together as a team to get to the top together.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PERFECT PICTURE PHOTOGRAPHY.

spring floor for our home meets.

It is way better then the old wrestling mats that we had to use before,” said Hudson.

Flexibility and tumbling aren’t the only skills you need to be a gymnast.

“To be the best gymnast you can be, you have to develop hab-

its such as dedication, strength, ambition, and physical and mental awareness,” said Sir Louis.

So as you can see, it seems you can not wake up one day and decide you want to become a gymnast. It takes hours upon hours and years upon years to get to where these girls are today.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do Present-day athletes in modern day sports lack significant qualities to excel in sports: passion, pride, and honor OPINION BY CODY VALIANTE

I want to say something. I am going to put it out there; if you like it, you can take it, if you do not, send it right back. I think athletes need to pick it up.

Today athletes demand obscene amounts of money and special privileges to satisfy their high maintenance lifestyles. How the Romans must be looking down on us in disgust.

Many Romans were gladiators; a person, usually a professional combatant, a captive, or a slave, trained to entertain the public by engaging in mortal combat with another person or a wild animal in the ancient Roman arena.

These gladiators would frequently struggle for their lives, as they would battle amongst each others to the death.

There were no high paychecks involved, no special bonuses.

Just two men committing extraordinary effort, mental toughness, staying focused and executing, and being a little bit more relentless then your opponent.

And at the end, your sole reward was standing on the sandy grounds of the coliseum, looking up into the lights glowing down on you as thousands began to chant your name.

Nowadays you cannot even get a person to run a pass

route in the NFL for anything less than five million.

I mean, we are talking about a controlled environment here; referees are on the field for a reason. There is no danger of your life being taken. Yeah, you might come across the occasional tough guy that yells across the line of scrimmage, “I’m going to kill you!” But is he really going to kill you? The answer is no.

“Sweet Lincoln’s mullet, gladiator fighting is far more dangerous then the National Football League!” said senior Aaron Mueller.

So step in there, run your route, and catch the ball, and for everybody’s sake, shut your mouth.

Nobody wants to hear about how rough you have it, or how if you do not get your big signing bonus, you will not be able to afford that brand new Lamborghini.

They do not want to hear about the latest controversy on ESPN about why a player suddenly left camp because he did not get the money he wanted or he was not getting the ball enough.

People want to see effort; the public want to see athlete’s backs against the wall. They crave when superstars are put in no win situations and they overcome adversity and conquer their goal and put on a good show in the meanwhile.

And this is exactly what the

Romans demonstrated day in and day out. When the going got tough they got tougher. They did not quit like many modern day athletes do in today’s society.

Now, I am not here trying to persuade anybody to bring back gladiator fighting by any means. I am against murder; people died constantly; there

was only one survivor per show.

However, I am here to tell you that I certainly do respect the admiration and the courage these gladiators possessed. Many of today’s athletes should, without question, look into acquiring some of these qualities. Rome, drink it in; it always goes down smooth.

Russell Crowe depicts real-life gladiators in his blockbuster movie “Gladiator.”

Michael J. Boyer, D.P.M. Podiatrist Sports Medicine

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