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Focus The Berea High School Focus Berea High School 165 East Bagley Rd. Berea, OH 44017 The Focus Staff Staff: Val Arko, Eric Babbits, Kira Byers, Christian Cervantes, Ian Editor In Chief: Walt King Dalton, Mollie Davis, Billy Davis, Nate Grandt, Chris Horner, Callie Adviser: Mrs. Marcia Roach Kho, Gabe Lopez, Wes Meadows, Kylie Mooney, McKenzie Powell, Adviser: Ms. Amy Garritano Caleb Rodgers, Breanna Ryon, Elena Santora, Kayla Scheimer, Chad Squires, Bree Svigelj, Dan White, Jordan Woods, Brian Yusko Cover by Kylie Mooney

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The purpose of the Berea Focus is to protect and promote tion of these refer to the Student Press free speech by creating a forum for student expression Law Center website at www.splc.org. and a positive educational environment for students. Con- Students are able to publish and tent of The Focus reflects only the views of the student staff report any topic within the bounds of and individual students and not school officials. Therefore, protected speech (so long as the re- The Focus will not be reviewed or restrained prior to pub- porters do it in a way that accurately, lication. thoroughly and completely covers the An editorial board made up of students on the staff of story.) The Focus will make all decisions of content for each issue. In case of conflict between adminis- The role of the adviser is to educate the students about tration, adviser and students, students journalism, including laws, ethics, and practices, as well as may use the Student Press Law Center to guide students toward publication. The adviser is not a (SPLC) for legal help. decision maker. Any photo manipulation that could The students will not publish any material that falls under not feasibly be done in a dark room the category of unprotected speech, and the adviser will must be marked as a photo illustration. help the students to recognize unprotected speech. These Students on The Focus staff reserve areas include libel, unwarranted invasion of privacy, ob- the right to accept or reject any ad- scenity, copyright violations, and a material or substantial vertising. disruption of the school day. To find a complete explana- January #2 Berea High Focus Will the thrill

Writing this article is particularly baseball, basketball, football, and ran track hard for me. Paying tribute to a man who has for Lincoln High School. had such a positive impact on so many lives, “I can barely wake up in the morning including my own, is not an easy task when to drive to school, and he’s playing four sports you have a word limit. So, I’ll begin with a in high school! How ridiculous!” joked Tommy week after his birth, in Alabama. Hans, senior at Berea High. “I can’t remember when I didn’t play But what sparked my interest as a baseball. My uncle played in the early stages young baseball player was seeing a Baldwin of the Negro Leagues, and my dad had a Wallace graduate who had been drafted into chance to play but he was too young. My the MLB, played for two years in the minor grandma, my dad’s mother, loved baseball so leagues, and then called it quits. He tallied up much that six days after I was born, she had 13 hits, in 37 plate appearances, in the Gulf a full baseball uniform, with little baseball Coast league spike booties, for me. So, I’ve always been “It wasn’t my choice. I was drafted into around baseball,” laughed Will Avery (also the military, and I had a low draft number in known as Will the Thrill). the summer of ’69 when I graduated. I was He grew up living by the motto: “Don’t due for the physical in April, and you needed be denied,” which is really reflected in the to be a full time student to be exempt; either early stages of his life. During his childhood, that, or go to Canada,” laughed Avery. “So, it his family moved around a lot, which forced was between CSU and Baldwin Wallace, since Avery to attend eleven different schools they were the only schools at the time that before 7th grade. His family finally settled in had processed my application. I chose BW so I the Valley View projects in the Tremont area. could play baseball and football in a campus From 7th grade until he graduated, he played setting,” said Avery. He played Connie Mack baseball with all the “high school stars,” if you will, at a very competitive level. Avery then continued on into college, and eventually the pros. In college he met “the best thing that ever happened to him”, Mrs. Avery, his wife of 37 years. “He’s a good example, and is probably the best athlete I’ve ever met. He’s missed maybe three shots in basketball in his career. He just makes it look easy,” chuckled Chris Harrell, Berea High student. However, Mr. Avery wasn’t born into an (Will Avery eats lunch at his desk 4th mod everyday) easy life. January #3 Feature Avery’s young parents had five children; Will form, or moving his lower body at all. was the oldest. His father worked a lot to sup- As senior year gets closer and closer port his wife and children, so Avery learned to the last summer before college, and a lot on his own. He was the first one, on both as I look back over the few years that sides of his family, to graduate college, and to I’ve know Mr. Avery, the one thing that earn a master’s degree. surprises me is that I cannot remem- “I wanted to initially help African American kids ber a time that I talked to him that he who lived in the projects; particularly boys. I didn’t give me a better, more positive realized that, I’m not that smart, and if I can perspective on life and it’s struggles. get it done, why aren’t so many other people? Whether it be his always positive atti- I figured out that it’s not having the right male/ tude, his infectious laugh, or his words of father figure in ones life, so I strived to be a wisdom, I always left his presence smil- mentor for these kids. When I left business, I ing or laughing. So seniors, this being got my degree in education because I wanted my last article of high school before we to do that,” said Avery. all leave for college and head out into “It’s like I tell the kids: have a purpose, focus on the real world, I want to leave off with that purpose, and stay consistent. I try to live this: in the words of Mr. Avery, “Have a by that”. purpose, focus, and stay consistent”. Being such an incredible motivator and example for kids, Avery says that the things that make an honorable man are to be kind and good to your children and wife. He also believes that his best influence was his father because of all the positive life lessons that he taught him. “Mr. Avery is an all around great guy; he’s a great influence. I think we should have Will Av- ery day, and call off school,” said Eric Kne- zevich. Along with volunteering to mentor inmates at Ohio prisons, staying involved with church, and being an active member of anti-drug and (You can find Mr. Avery teaching his alcohol organizations, Mr. Avery still stays in classes here) close contact with his two daughters. For many students, Mr. Avery has exhibited his, as senior Chris Horner calls it, “un-human” core strength, by doing the “Will-the-Thrill” pull up where he exhibits the perfect form of a pull-up, while keeping his legs at a less than 90 degree angle. Many students struggle with regular pull-ups, while he can do 29 without breaking

Gabe Lopez Staff Writer January #4 Feature ‘,

Seniors give the ‘lows and highs’ on Marijuana It looks like the ‘normal’ senior student in high school is starting to change throughout the United States. Studies are showing an increase in smoking marijuana, and a decrease in not only cigarettes, but also alcohol. Studies show that the increase in marijuana use has been about 3% from last year. On the other hand, alcohol and cigarette use has gone down 3% from last year. These studies, refl ected at monitoringthefuture.org, have been conducted since 1975. Some students think that kids smoke marijuana to be rebellious, or that they just like to do it in groups because it is fun to do. These students think that it is something to do with your friends to just chill out, and not go out and get in trouble. “Students smoke marijuana for the thrill of doing it, and to rebel against their parents. I believe if legalized, the use would go down because there to end in high school, but also goes through college. College would not be as much of that thrill,” said senior Brad students have also had an increase of 3% over the last year. Church. A study done by The Harvard School of Public Health suggests Legalizing the drug has been up for that “frequent marijuana use may be physically and emotionally debate for many years. California, which already harmful.” The study goes on to say that “9 out of 10 students allows marijuana for medicinal purposes, tried within (91 percent) who use marijuana participate in other high-risk the last two years to make it completely legal, but activities such as heavy drinking or cigarette smoking,” and that the issue, “Prop 19”, failed by only 4%. In regard often times, marijuana use leads to other behavioral and social to legalizing marijuana, student Kayla Burney Ham problems. said enthusiastically, “Yes! Because it does less harm “We just debated this issue in College Comp. My advice than cigs, and a lot of people smoke it. Why wouldn’t is: whether you are on the ‘pro’ or ‘con’ side of the argument, the government want to make money off of it and remember to “be smart”, stay educated, and make decisions for tax it?” yourself, rather than giving in to the pressures from your peers Students also believe that marijuana would or the media,” suggests Ms. Garritano. lose a little bit of its edge if legalized. There would not be as much of a rebellion for students if it was legal to do. “Yes, in most cases kids smoke marijuana to rebel against parents and the law,” said Gabe Lopez. Seniors also believe that even though they are not trying to listen to the media, it still infl uences them. Movies and music portray smoking marijuana as the cool, hip thing that everyone is doing. “It seems like rap music is becoming a lot more popular, and most of it highly glorifi es smoking pot,” Thomas Sopko said. This does not end with just music and movies; it also has to do with sports. “It really doesn’t make the point of not to smoke any better when you have a man who can win 14 gold medals in the Olympics, and be caught smoking a bong,” suggests student Sean Corriea, as he speaks about Olympic gold Caleb Rodgers medalist Michael Phelps. Staff Writer The fad of smoking marijuana seems not January #5 Health Val Ar ko & Kayla Schleimer Staff Writers Then&Now What Will You Tell Your Children?

As seniors, many, if not all of us, were born in the Other popular shows mentioned include The Big Comfy Couc h, Hey 90’s. The 90’s were known as the decade of free spirit. In the Arnold!, Gumby, Doug, Arthur, Ca tDog and Tha t 70’s Show. entertainment industry, Beanie Babies and Furbys were very “Tha t 70’s Show was my favorite show in the 90’s. It was popular. Harry Potter was released and became a huge hit so hilarious,” Alison Kopea exclaimed. throughout the entire world. As for sports, Mark McGwire Tha t 70’s Show debuted on the FOX Network in 1998. and Sammie Sosa brought excitement back into baseball as The show is a sitcom about the lives of a group of teenage friends they raced for the “Home Run King.” Also, the women’s U.S. from Wisconsin. The series ran for eight seasons and ended with Soccer team beat China, winning the World Cup. Tragedies the 200th episode, in May 2006. that took place were the Oklahoma City bombing, and the ever so memorable Columbine High School shooting. “I think television is more “raw” now. TV was definitely more original in the 90’s, but it is highly entertaining now,” Brianna Lipfird said. As for entertainment preferences throughout the student body at Berea High School, all seemed to have different television favorites, but most were cartoons that used to be aired on Nickelodeon. “Rugrats , they knew what was up,” Sarah James said. Rugrats is one of the cartoons aired in the 90’s that first came onto Nickelodeon in 1991, and aired its last episode in June of 2004.Rugrats is one of the most memorable cartoons Nickelodeon had in the 90’s. There was also a spin off show titled “All Grown Up”. The show consisted of the same characters, just in their teenage years, rather than as babies (cybertelecom.org). free clip ar t cour tesy of creativecommons.org

“That 70’s Show was my favorit e show in the 90’s, it was so hilarious” Alison Kopea exclaimed. #6 Feature January “I was obsessed with Dreamstreet when I was younger,”

Meghan Krzys Sa id., The music of the 1990’s was ﬁlled with a variety of pop, rap, and alternative music artists, as well as some one hit wonders. Many popular acts that emerged in the 1990’s were bands and artists that enjoyed being on the mainstream music scene after their popularity had dwindled down. Other artists and bands were just starting out, and were making a huge impact on the music scene. At ﬁrst, the most popular genres of music were techno and hip hop. Many important hits came from artists such as MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice. Music in the 90’s includes a few various artists and bands such as Nsync, Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Aaliyah, Nirvana, and Shania Twain (thepeoplehistory.com). “I was obsessed with Dream Street when I was younger,” Meghan Krzys said. The 90’s was a decade for traditional boy bands. The Backstreet Boys, 98 Degrees, Dreamstreet, and Nsync enjoyed the same amount of popularity, if not more popularity, than older boy bands, such as New Kids On The Block, from the 1980’s. “I loved the Backstreet Boys,” Alicia Carnes said, “and I still love them today,” Carnes continued. As for the mainstream pop, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera dominated the charts. They were labeled as “bubblegum pop” artists. “Britney Spears was my favorite singer then, and still is now,” Heather Kovach exclaimed. “I still always listen to her in my car.”

As for pop culture now, the television shows and musicians are still mainstream and popular. Popular artists of today include Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, and Drake. The popular television shows of today include Jersey Shore, iCarly, and The Hills. “My favorite tv show is Glee because it’s raw,” Lindsey Clark said. The music in the 1990’s went through a series of changes in regard to mainstream radio airwaves. It was nearly a full circle of styles and tastes that resulted in creating mainstream sound. After the 1990’s, many of these bands kept their powerful effect on their fans, and still remain popular today. “The 1990’s were the greatest thing ever,” Billy Davis shyly said. January #7 Feature Workin’ The School

Night Away Elena Santora Staff Writer Although these students have not Balancing school and a job is worked past eleven, three out of one of the many tasks that most ﬁve students said that they felt that high school student experience. work from the previous night had It teaches a great amount of affected their performance the next responsibility, and gives teens day at school. a little bit of spending money. Although, being in school for “It’s all about how much effort you seven hours a day, and then put into work and school,” Jake going to work after the school Kehl, a senior at Berea, said. day, can be exhausting. Knowing that you put in a hard, “I work about eight to ﬁfteen working effort is not the only thing hours a week; it kind of varies,” that’s a perk about having a job; Gabriela Perry, a junior at Berea the money that comes out of it gives High, explained. teens an incentive to handle work Gabriela Perry on the job at and school. Ohio Minor laws give teens Berea’s local Cafe Ah-Roma. absolutely no restrictions on how “I work so I have money for many hours a week a minor can expenses,” Jenny Moses, a senior at work, but it does say that no Berea High, reported. persons under 18 are allowed to work past eleven on a school As teens get older, they pay for night. their own expenses such as going out to eat with friends, or maybe “I am yet to work past eleven going bowling on the weekend. It’s on a school night,” Alex Paul, a a good idea for parents to insist on senior at Berea, declared. saving.

Along with Alex, ﬁve out of ﬁve “I try to save my whole pay check, students surveyed have also other than money for gas and reported that they have not insurance,” Kehl said. worked past eleven. Jake Kehl the sandwich artist. January #8 Informative , Beginning New Year’s With a bang!!!

Ah, yes. It is the time for New Year’s Resolutions. It’s a tradition that invokes everything from delight, to recognition; has a success rate similar to winning the lottery; and has the power to launch feelings of guilt, failure, and pessimistic behavior in a ﬂash. And yet every year, millions of people are drawn to the ritualistic hope of achieving some magical outcome. As if, perhaps, FINALLY, they will triumph over a stubborn habit or fear that has clobbered their most sincere “I always forget about my resolutions until the next year, when I realize I efforts in years past. never did them,” said Moses Cox. This is shown to be the typical thought But, alas, the annoying reality is that the process, and the research results reﬂect that less than 5% of people payback for this year’s toil will probably be actually complete their resolutions. no different than last; or the one before that. Researchers over the years have concluded that about 80% of all New Year’s Resolutions

are broken by January 31. If those resolutions Callie Kho had something to do with health and ﬁtness Staff Writer (working out, losing weight, quitting smoking, etc), 90% of them would be history by January 15th!!! According to proactivechange.com, by the end of the year, less than 5% of us will have persevered with our resolutions intact. It’s easy to see why so many people don’t take this annual

ritual seriously to begin with. January #9 Feature Beginning New Year’s With a bang!!!

Despite their diabolical reputation, New Year’s Resolutions can be a very positive resource. They can provide an opportunity for us to evaluate our progress in life, which is not such a horrible idea. They can rejuvenate our lives with inspiring challenges and wonderful experiences to look forward to. Who says they have to be a drag? Just because things haven’t worked out well in the past with respect to your resolutions, is no reason to assume they never will. And, just because you may have never considered New Year’s Resolutions as a wonderful “I never keep my resolutions”, said Miranda Petrak, “every mechanism for creating new and exciting outcomes, doesn’t year I want to lose weight, get better grades, and be more mean it’s too late to start. organized.” I asked her a question in response: “I made a resolution to listen to my parents more,” said Eric “Do you really make an effort to change your habits in order to Babbits. He said that because of this resolve, he had more help do those things?” when it came to getting his car. If anyone makes a great effort to reach their goals, they are much more likely to reach them. “No,” she said. Between the two of us, we decided that this was probably the reason that most people do not complete their “I never really think about goals just for the new year,” said resolutions. Billy Holcomb. “If I have a goal, I don’t make it on a speciﬁc day.”

Some people choose to approach this annual ritual with a degree of triviality and playfulness. There is nothing at all wrong with that. In fact, it may be the perfect approach for many. But for those who prefer to make this year’s resolution a more serious one, try to really analyze your own behavior, and set a standard for yourself at a level that you can reach.

January #10 Feature Breanna Ryon Staff Writer The “How To” on Raising Grades...

Don’t you just love the snow outside on the ground? The feeling of Christmas is still in the air, and you’re still babbling on about that amazing gift you have just received. “I’m so stressed because of the holidays,” Todd Wagaman cries. Throughout all of those merry, jolly, holiday feelings, I bet some of you have been slacking in your studies. Have no fear; we only have less than two weeks left to bring them up! Some people tend to get all wrapped up in the holidays, and their classes tend to be put second on their list of priorities. Don’t fret, because we can fix this; the semester isn’t over yet. There are three things for sure that will bring up that just passing grade. First, you have to prioritize. You cannot get anywhere with these grades without figuring out first which classes are most important to you. Maybe you have art classes that you’re exceeding in, but also have a physics class that you’re barely passing. You are going to want to focus more on that physics class. “I’m a sophomore, and I am trying to get an engineering degree. I have to stay focused,” Xavier Augustine sternly states. “I’m doing pretty well in all of my classes, except Journalism,” says Wes Meadows in hush tones. When people are failing, it tends to be because they that is your chance to show them that you are don’t turn in work. Homework is an easy grade. When you go home, spend at really serious about your future. least one hour on homework; you should get studying out of the way as well. Another thing you could do, if the teacher is “I hate talking to teachers,” Christian Augustine states. The next step to raising really generous, is to ask to turn in all of those that grade is to talk to the teacher! It may be scary because you have that missing assignments. That is a real grade booster, thought in the back of your mind that they are going to judge you for slacking. but some teachers are super swamped with last The truth is, that bad grades reflect on the teacher as much as they do on you. minute grading, and to add in that assignment So, if you go up and talk to your teachers, they might attempt to help you set from the beginning of the semester will be too out a plan in order for you to succeed. much work. Besides, you should have just done it The final step is to simply ask the teacher for any kind of extra credit. It may have little effect on your grade, but every little bit counts to your final grade. to begin with; we are in high school, people. Always put your best effort into the work that the teacher assigns you because On a final note, I need to scorn you for procrastinating this long. It was a long semester and you didn’t think it was necessary to do all of this work because it was the beginning of the year. But for all of you juniors and seniors: you should know by now that you have too much to stress about to be getting into these habits before college. And for you freshmen and sophomores: you don’t want to slack because it follows you into college. So follow this advice throughout the year, and it will make the near future a lot easier for you, and your teachers.

All steps courtesy of wikihow.com �

free-graphics.com January #11 Feature A Love Story

Every year, the upperclassmen of Senior Anthony Hall doesn’t believe test Berea High School crawl out of bed early on preparation really helped him. “I did some a Saturday morning, and go to school. It’s preparation, but I realized it wasn’t really for ACT testing day, and the halls are filled with me,” Hall said. “The thing that really helped sleepy students moaning and groaning. There me was taking the test a second time. I felt are some familiar faces, others foreign, kids in much more comfortable after seeing what was pajamas, and one in a tie. on it the first time.” “It’s a very stressful environment. It can Practice certainly can’t hurt a student’s be very intimidating,” senior Marissa Pompa scores, but the amount of help it lends depends said. on the student. Berea senior Billy Davis was Testing begins at 8 in the morning, and very enthusiastic about the test prep classes there is a strict policy against communication given at Berea High. “It was the greatest thing or electronic devices during the test. “I myself ever,” Davis said. nearly got caught when my cell phone vibrated Although I don’t recommend it, there are in the middle of a test,” senior Brian Yusko said. students who walked into testing day without There are four main sections: English, any preparation whatsoever. Whatever Mathematics, Reading, and Science, with an amount of preparation you decide to invest optional essay. A subject score is given for in, it is important to remember that there is each section, and a composite is found by no penalty for wrong answers; so fill in every averaging the scores. Time allotted for each bubble, no matter what. section can be seen below:

Section Number of questions Time (minutes) College Readiness Benchmark English 75 45 18 Mathematics 60 60 22 Reading 40 35 21 Science 40 35 24 Writing 1 essay prompt 30 n/a

(ACTStudent.org)

The national average composite score Walt King is a 21, but only 24% of 2010 high school Editor-in-Chief graduates met all four ACT college readiness benchmarks. So how can students improve their scores? January #11 Romantic Comedy- Over The Mountain and Thrhroughough the WWoodsoods Ian Dalton Staff Writer

“Sled riding is probably my favorite thing to do in the winter,” said Cory Brightharp.

Sled riding is one of the most popular choices of things to do during the winter because it is fun, and a great way to spend time with family and friends. When you go sled riding, you have to dress warm or you will regret it.

“I wear shorts and a tank top when I go,” said Derek Thorpe.

Usually people wear a jacket and multiple sets of clothes. But the one thing you cannot forget to do when you leave the house is to bring a sled, inner tube, skies, or a snowboard. There are other things that people can take, suchsuch as ggarbagearbage can lids,lids, or basically anythinganything that youyou can go dodownwn a hill on. As foundfound thrthroughough recent sursurveys,veys, people usually taktakee sleds because,because, according to Tommy Davis, “They are cheaper than the other stuff!”

NowNow that yyouou havhavee all of yyourour materials to go sleddingsledding,, and yyouou are dressed appropriately,appropriately, yyouou can ﬁ nally leaveleave the house and head on downdown to wherever you are going. When people go sled riding, they almost always go to hills. One of the most common places here in Berea is Devils Hill. thanks for the picture from Brent Veverka clipartheaven.com

Devils Hill is in the metro parks, right off of Nobottom Drive. It is a very steep and large hill that a lot of kids go to with their parents. They even have stairs that you can walk up to get back to the top of the hill.

“Devils Hill is my favorite hill to go down,” said Matt Wise.

When you go sled riding, you don’t go by yourself of course, you bring friends, or family, or whoever you can get to go with you to have a great time! Most people said that they go with their friends, and usually just hang out with them before and after, to make the trip easier on them.

They also do not care if it is too cold for them to go. Sled riding is so much fun that they dress up for the weather so that they can stay there longer, and make their experience even better. I asked people when they tend to go sled riding the most, and I received mixed responses: some people like to go during the day, so that they could see what they were doing; but the other half said that they liked to go at night, so that there were not that many people there to bother them, and theythey can havhavee the hill to themselvthemselves.es. I likelike to go sled riding anytime!anytime! As a matter of fact, I am on mymy wayway right nonow;w; so stastayy warm,warm, havehave fun, and ggetet out there and enjoenjoyy this winter season!

JanuaryJanuary

#13 Feature Kylie Mooney Senior Basketball Staff Writer Cheerleaders Sophomore Year

The senior basketball cheerleaders have been so focused on cheerleading because they have been doing it their whole high school career; and now, this is their last. With a squad of ten girls for the basketball season, these eight seniors are dread- ing the fact that this is their last year. “I used to hate cheerleading. I thought it was the stupidest thing in the world until I tried out sophomore year and made all three squads! I have been doing it ever since,” captain Kayla Schleimer says. Kayla has been a cheerleader for three years now. She enjoys the squad, and loves that she made new friends. She will be graduating and going to the Art Institute of Tampa, Florida for Graphic Design. Berea would have more school spirit, and loves cheering during the super- “I’m definitely going to miss all of this fun,” long season of basketball. She might be trying out for cheerleading after Kayla finished. high school as she hopes to attend either Notre Dame, or the University of Arianna Antos is captain and leader of the squad. Tennessee. She has been cheering for seven years, and has With eight years of experience, and four years at Berea, Lindsey Clark is cheered for Berea all four years of highschool. going to miss this last year. She loves being a part of basketball without “I love all the inside jokes we have, there playing it; that’s why she is a cheerleader. “I never was the sporty type, so I decided to be a cheerleader when I was are so many,” she says. She loves the new uni- 10 years old,” she enthusiastically said. She wishes the school administra- forms; especially the spankies. Ana knows for sure tion would respect the cheerleaders, because she thinks they don’t at all. she is not cheering for college, but she is going to Graduating from school in the spring, Lindsey plans to attend Bowling make this her best season yet, and work her hardest. Green University, for nursing. “I like how we all work together. It shows we really “I wish we had more run-through signs for the players!” Val Arko says. She are a team,” she finished. has been cheering for Berea for two years now, and just started attending “I love going out on the court and just BHS her junior year. She has been cheering since she was in the second screaming for the teams! It is so much fun!” grade, and has loved it ever since. With experience from competition Sarah James said. She has been cheering for five cheerleading at Ultimate Athletics, she plans on using her skills to cheer years, and all four years of high school. She wishes after high school.

January #14 Sports Senior Basketball Cheerleaders

Senior Year

Cheering since 3rd grade, Kylie Mooney has im- proved a lot throughout the years. Cheering all four years with these girls has taught Kylie a lot. “I LOVE cheerleading! This is the only thing I’m actually good at,” she said. Kylie came to Berea not knowing anyone, but still tried out for cheer. Ever since, she has loved it. She is attending the Art Academy of Cincinnati in the fall and is pursuing her dreams of being a photographer. “No more cheerleading for me, so I’m going to make this the best season ever,” she said sadly. As all of these girls are leaving their last season of cheering, they are very sad about saying good- bye. Since this is the end, they are trying to make the times worth it by making jokes and having fun! So now that they are trying to have fun, they have scheduled another kid camp! This kid camp includes children from elementary schools that sign up to cheer with the varsity cheerleaders at halftime of a basketball game. The cheerleaders teach the kids a cheer, a chant, and a dance to perform with them. Kid camp starts on January 26, according to the cheer schedule. For more informa- tion, visit the Berea High School web page. With this being the last season for these senior girls, their coach, Mrs. Susan Boone, will miss them. “I hope the best for them after high school, and I will miss them all very much,” she said sadly. “You will be missed!” -Coach Boone

January #15 Sports THE BHS DODGEBALL

Christian Cervantes TOURNAMENT & Billy Davis Staff Writers

join and play against other teams. Unfortunately, the tournament was not held last year, but this year that may change. “There was not enough time last year to plan one, and there was no open spot in SIP (student involvement period) to have one,” Marissa Pompa, a senior at BHS and student council member, said. Many students were disappointed that we did not have a tournament last year. “There should have been one,” said Zach Mog, junior at BHS. The tournament also brings a lot of benefits beside those it has on the students. It raises money for various causes. Physical activitiy in school, often in the “We either pick a charity for the money to go to, or it goes toward other fundraising form of gym class, is a requirement in many high activities for the school,” Pompa said. schools. Most students see it as just a fun, or free, The tournament is always a fun way for class where they can have fun and hang out with students to get their energy out during school, and their friends. But few see the benefits that physical get involved in something that benefits the school. activities in school have on students. In an article Many students participated in the last tournament. from rodale.com, it was found that there is a strong correlation between students’ grades and the amount of gym, or physical activities, they do in school. The study found that students who did gym classes and physical activities in school performed twice as well in class than students who did not. The study also concluded that not only do students perform better in class, but also that their behavior and concentration are much better when they do physical activities in school. Will Avery, a P.E. teacher at BHS, believes that dodge ball teaches skills like, “Hand eye control, catching, throwing, and lateral movement.” With all of these benefits that come from doing physical activities in school, it’s hard to pass up the chance to join any activity you can, let alone the annual dodge ball tournament held here at BHS. With the exception of last year, the BHS student council holds a dodge ball tournament that is open to all the students at BHS. The students make their own teams with their friends, and pay a small fee to January #16 Feature Sin

“It was a fun atmosphere,” Chris Pintner, a senior at BHS, said. “It was awesome!,” said Nelson Laracuente, another senior at BHS. Students who do not wish to participate in the tournament can get in on the action as well. The student council sells tickets for students who just wish to watch the tournament, rather than participate. “I like dodge ball, but I would much rather watch than play. I like to cheer the teams on,” Shelby Zelek, a junior at BHS, said. The competition between the teams was great. The last tournament was full of energy and hype from the players and the crowd. “It was enjoyable,” Avery said. There is a lot of planning that still needs to go into the tournament. It seems that there are many ideas out there as to how it can be planned. “I think they should have SIP every week for a month, and have games during that time,” Graham Hlavin, a senior at BHS and past participant in the tournament, said.

When referencing the key to winning the tournament, everyone knows about the 5 D’s. In fact, most people, like Jordan Woods, Zach Mog, and Graham Hlavin, mentioned them when being interviewed. The 5 D’s are: Dodge, Duck, Dip, Dive, and Dodge. They are a reference to the movie Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story. Since the movie was released in 2004, it has really helped to broadcast the sport of dodge ball, and has given many great ideas to participants on how to win the tournament. As the tournament begins to take shape, the interest in it seems to be strong. Many people plan on either participating in it, or at least, going to watch and support the teams. “I’m excited!” Zelek said, “I can’t wait to cheer on my friends!”

Pictures from Mr. Avery’s weight training class

January #17 Feature Berea Band’s Holiday Concert December 6, 2010 Mollie Davis 7:00 PM Staff Writer you wouldn’t think you’d notice, The parking lot was but it sure sounded great! filled; the auditorium was packed; This song also had the Berea High School Holiday many solos including the oboe, Band Concert was a complete bassoon, and french horn. success. Symphonic Winds The Symphonic Band, finished off with a contest piece directed by Mr. Dan Barth, titled Of Sailors and Whales. started the show off with a dark This piece included three songs, and eerie song filled with deep each representing a character drum beats and nerve-racking from the classic story of Moby notes. A trumpet solo stood Dick, through music. out, loud and proud, by trumpet During the second part, player Brian Williams. Mr. Dan Barth directing his band, Symphonic Band. senior Josh Fadenholz set down “I love playing in the his trombone and walked over to band,” Williams said. “Mr. Barth moving faster than you could play the piano. makes it a great, fun class!” say “Merry Christmas”. The “I don’t get nervous Bringing on the holiday flutes, clarinets, and oboes were playing anymore,” Fadenholz cheer, the band played a tune playing a lot of high notes with said. “I’ve done it so many times called Christmas Favorites which many runs, and hardly any time now, it is easy for me. You just included a medley of Rockin’ for a breath. The low notes, have to keep looking forward in Around the Christmas Tree, coming from the basses and your music, and if you mess up, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, A drums, made a great blend for just keep on going.” Holly Jolly Christmas, and I Heard this song. The house lights in the the Bells on Christmas Day. The second song they auditorium had to remain on due “It is a holiday concert, played was called Greensleeves. to some technical difficulty, but and we know parents like to hear This song remained fairly slow that wasn’t necessarily a bad Christmas music in the program,” and extremely beautiful. thing. Because the lights were Barth said, “but we are also One thing that really on, you could look around and trying to think ahead about stood out in this number was the see everyone in the room. Every Districts, and hopefully, the State bassoon part. It was something single person in that auditorium Band Contest.” had their eyes fixated on the The band ended their magical music the students performance with Polar Express. were playing. The band held With a real train whistle and the everyone’s attention and interest. deep trombone, the effect of Last, but certainly a train was right on stage. The not least, was the Jazz Band. blend of the band was right on Directed by Dave Kay, the Jazz target, and they portrayed the Band put on an entertaining Polar Express very well. performance. Solos were made Next up on stage was by Amber Rosado, Luciano Symphonic Winds, directed by Bassani, and Mike Outrich. Mr. Jeff Fudale. They started “This year is a new their performance with an intense crop,” Kay said. “There are a lot song called Festive Overture. This Mr. Jeff Fudale directing his band, of new faces and I can’t wait to song had every finger on stage Symphonic Winds. see how the year transpires. It should be a lot of fun!” January #18 Review It’s beginning to look a lot like ... A Snow Day! roads. Truck plowing routes are based on local needs with key transportation areas, emergency Getting up extra early, watching the TV screen, routes, and traffic volumes being factors in the and hoping to see Berea City schools on “the list” is a big selection process (www.dot.state.oh.us). deal for many students. “The best part is knowing that I get to have a day off from school. One that does not require Another possible solution to the concern is me to do any homework,” said Anthony Hall. A snow day incorporating the two hour delay that some school gives students a much wanted break from school, but causes districts use. By delaying all levels of school by major concerns for higher officials. Snow days have become two hours, you not only allow more time to clear such a big deal that the government has reconsidered many the roads, but it also doesn’t count as a snow day. policies that effect school districts, as well as their staff Berea City School’s have not used this method in and students. Last year, Governor Ted Strickland proposed recent years. a plan to add twenty days to the school year. Instead of following this idea, it was decided that calamity days “I think having a two hour delay in the morning would be reduced instead. School districts now have only would guarantee the safety on the roads for three calamity days before the school days must be made students and staff, while also not taking away the up. The following years will have two days, and then one educational factor,” said Tyler Reynolds. Other day, respectively. The goal is to allow students to receive students don’t believe this is the answer. the maximum learning they can, in a given school year (daytondailynews.com). “What good does it do for school to be delayed for two hours? There are two things that The three snow day cap is a state wide policy and can happen: we either have school, or we don’t. It’s is required for schools to follow. “No, there should be more that simple,” angrily said Graham Hlavin. When than three snow days allowed. I mean, we get a lot of snow the topic of snow days arises, everyone seems to around here,” said Brandon Asher. A main concern for many have different viewpoints. Deciding what is best for is not the kids taking the bus or driving to school, but the everyone can’t always be done. students who have to walk to school. “Of course I always enjoy having a snow “It seems that school is in session as long as the day, and I think everyone does; however, if the roads are cleared, but what about the kids who have to conditions are horrible then there should not be walk through the snow on the sidewalks?” said Nelson Joshua school,” said Courtney Diamond. Laracuente. The many factors to consider make the decision that much harder for our superintendent, Mr. Wimer.

The education of the students is really important, but so is the safety of kids and their parents.

“If it were up to me, but it’s not, I would never cancel school without a legitimate reason. However, if the safety of the students is in danger, then something has to be done,” said Principal Ruggiero.

The Ohio Department of Transportation’s snow and ice program is designed to keep the roads safe, as quickly and efﬁciently as possible. There are many factors which are well thought out including equipment readiness, truck routing, call A car getting smothered by the out procedures, supplemental drivers, emergency equipment wintery blast rental, training, and material inventory control. ODOT is responsible for 43,000 lane miles of highway statewide, which are prioritized for snow and ice control. Interstates are the highest priority, followed by four lane non- interstates, two lane primary roads, and two lane secondary January #19 Feature The Running of the Braves

runners, we still have a lot of young talent joining the After coming off a very successful season team, as well as upperclassmen training harder,” said last year, coming in second in the conference by only sophomore runner and thrower, Danny Medvetz. three points and sending five runners to state, the The school is excited for the upcoming season BHS track and field team hopes to continue where that starts during the spring, and everyone is hoping they left off. Even though the team lost a strong Donovan can make another run for yet another state senior class, they still look strong with stud, junior championship, and hopefully other members of the team runners Donovan Robertson (State Champion), and can make it there with him. Connor McKnight (State Qualifier). Also, the team is returning a solid senior class. “The main goals of the BHS Track and Field team are to improve oneself, to gain new friends and a sense of teamwork, and to improve physically,” said junior state champion runner, Donovan Robertson. The track and field team has always been solid at Berea, consistently sending runners or throwers to states, and always known as one of the top teams in the conference. “Out of all of the sports at Berea, the track and field team by far has been given the most college scholarships to run or throw at the next level,” said Coach Nigro. The team seems pretty confident that they will be able to compete with some of the other conference greats such as Avon Lake and Brecksville. “If we get hard work and commitment from team members, we have a really good chance to take it all,” said senior runner Jordan Woods. “Even though we lost a lot of good senior

Chad Squires Staff Writer January #20 Sports The Good ol’ Days Nathaniel J. Grandt Staff Writer Welcome back readers! The story on the athletic football teachers from Berea High School continues here. he next top dog is none other than the frightening, and strikingly handsome, Mr. T Hanchuk. Hanchuk played for Valley Forge, in Parma, and played varsity all four years.

He was a dedicated football player, and could always be found in the weight room. He played center on offense, and defensive end on defense. His junior and senior years, he became a 2-time All-League player, and his senior year, he earned the honors of Team Captain, All-Conference, All-State and Team MVP. During his sophomore year, the Patriots went 8-2, but did not make the playoffs due to the ranking system that only accepted four teams from every division, rather than eight teams from each division, as it does today.

His junior year, the team went 5-5. The team went 5-5 again his senior year, but ended up losing in the Conference Championship game to Shaw High School after four overtimes.

After his high school career, Mr. Hanchuk continued to play football for Baldwin Wallace College, where he earned his respect in the game. He played offensive line, and started all four years.

As team captain and MVP his senior year, Hanchuk earned the All-Conference title as well as “The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame Post Graduation Scholarship.”

The scholarship, known in many circles as the “Academic Heisman” or “the Daddy Trophy”, continues to be one of college football’s most sought after and competitive awards. This award recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the country for his combined academic success, football performance, and exemplary community leadership (footballfoundation.org).

After graduation from Parma, Hanchuk moved on to Baldwin Wallace College where he continued to play football. His junior year, the Yellow Jackets went 8-2, missing the playoffs due to selection of four teams from each division.

His senior year, the team went 6-2, only playing eights games that year, but again, could not make the playoffs due to computer points, which are based on the opponent’s ﬁ nal records and strength of schedule.

Mr. Hanchuk was clearly a threatening and devastating force for every team he played for.

January #21 Feature The next jaw-dropping hulk is both surprising and remarkable. An everyday physical educational teacher from the halls of Roehm Middle School, it is none other than Mr. Medvetz. A natural in his high school days, he soon became remembered as one of the best linebackers throughout high school and college history.

Mr. Medvetz attended Columbia High School where he played basketball, baseball, track, and football. For football he played running back on offense, and linebacker on defense. Standing at 5 feet, 11 inches, and packing 185 lbs his senior year, he earned the titles All-Lorain County, All-Conference Offense and Defense, Conference MVP, and 3rd Team All-State.

His senior year, the Raiders went 7-3, losing their conference championship game, and not making the playoffs.

After graduation, Mr. Medvetz entered into Baldwin Wallace College and continued to play football all four years as an outside linebacker. His senior year, Mr. Medvetz was a shocking 240 lbs and was able to bench press 375 lbs. The titles he earned in his glory days as a junior were All- Conference Linebacker of the Year, and All-American Linebacker. During his senior year, Medvetz also become a 2-Time All-American Linebacker.

His junior year, the Yellow Jackets went 8-2, but lost the conference championship game by three points because of a blocked ﬁeld goal kick by Wittenberg. Mr. Medvetz’s senior year team went 5-4, after losing their starting quarterback with a season ending injury in the second game of the year.

Coach Medvetz is now a part of the Braves family as a defensive back and linebacker coach for the Berea High School football team.

These football playing teachers gave it all they had when they played. Mr. Rice can still throw that perfect spiral; Mr. Hanchuk can still pancake anyone to the ground; and Mr. Medvetz still has perfect form tackling. Their glory days will continue on.

January #22 Feature The Glory Days.

There have been many famous people to walk through the halls of Berea High that you may not have heard of. Some well-known icons, like John- Michael Tebelak, writer of “Godspell”, and Jim Tressel, head coach

of the Ohio State football team, have walked through these halls. One you have probably over looked, because of his kindness and love for kids, is Honester “Ho” Davidson, more commonly known as just, Mr. Davidson.

Davidson attended Roehm Middle School, and moved on to Berea High School in 1963. As a winner of nine letters during his high school career, he was known for being a part of everything he had time for. He was an ofﬁcer for his class, and was a part of the track, football, and basketball teams.

Mr. Davidson was an All-Conference athlete in each of the sports he played. Davidson played quarterback in football, and ran the high jump and hurdles in track. He also held the school high jump record for over six years.

On the ﬁrst play of his ﬁrst game as the varsity quarterback, Davidson threw a touchdown pass that went for over 60 yards; propelling the season to a great start.

While starting basketball his sophomore year, the team won the conference championship game and was ranked 3rd overall in the greater Cleveland area. Honester Davidson # 33 Junior Year 1965

Even though Mr. Davidson was believed to be better at basketball than any other sport, via the scholarships he earned, he decided to play football because he had the dream of playing the in NFL.

After several colleges, such as Ohio State and Miami of Ohio, offered him full rides for basketball, he decided to attend Bowling Green State University for football.

He joined the BG family in 1966, and majored in Physical and Health Education. As a football player he switched positions to running back, and played for three years. January #23 Feature His senior year, he was switched again, to defensive back, and thus started his career in the NFL. During his senior year, which was the ﬁrst year playing the position, he lead the nation in interceptions for over half the year, and was the leading kickoff returner in yards for BG; the record held for 15 years.

Although Davidson was a football sensation in college, he was bet by one of his friends that even a big shot football player could not make it through a season of college track. He joined track that year and ran the hurdles. He surprised his friend when, only running hurdles for one year, Davidson came back with an All-Conference title for hurdle jumping, and held records throughout his college conference for ﬁve years. Honester Daivdon and his Brother, Hue Daivdson

Once Davidson was done with his so called “glory days,” he stepped into the real realm of glory.... the NFL.

Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1970, as the 203rd drafted and a 9th round pick, he was on his way to making the big bucks while playing with the Browns.

Davidson’s time with the Browns fell short Daivdson running the ball past the meteors in seasson climax game when, after he played the ﬁrst seasonal game Junior Year 1965

with the Browns, he was traded to the Miami Dolphins. There, he became the starting kickoff return man for the Dolphins, and played in the NFL for just one year.

After leaving the NFL, for what he believed was a better life in Berea, Ohio, he made appearances in Canada, for their football league, and played a couple of games for a few teams.

Davidson loved kids, and he couldn’t stand living the life he was living anymore because the kids he loved were not in it. He wanted to help kids learn that life was too short to make silly decisions, and so he moved back to Berea to coach the football team and basketball team. He started teaching at the school as a physical education teacher in 1995.

“Leaving the NFL was probably the stupidest decision I’ve ever made. I would have kept playing if I could take it back,” Davidson said.

Although he feels indifferent about leaving the NFL, if he would have stayed he would have never met his wife, and would have never met all of the wonderful kids that mean so much to him now. He enjoys every second he gets to teach kids; it’s his life passion. January #24 Feature BEREA BRAVES: CONFERENCE CHAMPS?

the Berea Braves baseball team is looking to “I believe in our pitchers, but they just need improve after last season’s disappointing finish (6-14). to step up,” said senior catcher Tom Hans. Hans has The Braves, who lost in the first round of the playoffs, the right attitude toward the players. All of the players remain optimistic and confident as they approach the need to work together as a team to try and win the upcoming season. The Braves are looking to pull out conference. They are all confident, and believe in one a conference title, and to make a deep and valiant run another. The players are constantly pushing to become into the playoffs (Cleveland.com). better as individuals, and as a team.

“With the talent that we have on the “Every practice and workout I am consistently team, there is no reason why we shouldn’t win the being pushed by all of my fellow players,” said senior conference,” said senior Sean Correia. The team to beat Southpaw Brandon Asher. Asher is enthusiastic about this year is the defending champion, Brecksville Bees, the season and cannot wait for it to start. “I’m really and all of our players believe that we can beat them. excited about taking the bump, especially because it’s The Braves will also have tough competition from my senior year and [because of] how much talent we Westlake, Avon Lake, Amherst, and Olmsted Falls. To have,” said Asher. Asher, who won pitcher of the year defeat these premier teams, the Braves’ batting and his freshman and sophomore years, looks to be a key pitching has to be above par. The question remains as asset to the team. Other players to watch this season to whether or not the pitching will be able to pull it are senior Gabe Lopez, senior Tom Hans, junior Kirk together. Olesick, junior Joe Vasquez, and senior Anthony Hall. The Braves are led by second year head coach Chuck “With me and Hans at the helm of this Salata. Many of the players believe that Salata can lineup, we are expecting nothing less than a state guide them to many wins. championship. The real question is if the bullpen will pull things together,” speculated senior inﬁelder Gabe “Salata is a good coach, and I believe that he Lopez. Lopez seemed a little nervous about the Braves’ can help us pull out some W’s,” said Asher. All of the pitching. The Braves have a three-man starting rotation. Braves are conﬁdent, and are looking forward to a good The players in the rotation are: senior Anthony Hall, and healthy season. senior Brandon Asher, and junior Joe Vasquez. Many, however, are optimistic about the pitching. “We are expecting nothing less than a state championship.”

www.creativecommons.org Brian Yusko Staff Writer January #25 Sports Gabriele G. Svigelj Attitude Staff Writer Adjustment

“It goes back to the Golden Rule; treat others the way you want to be treated,” Mrs. Scriven said. removal from the course. Sometimes they demand Adults and kids have disagreed on ideas since harsher punishments such as suspension, or even the beginning of time. Like most issues in life, there expulsion. The student can argue her case and fight are at least two strong sides that disagree with one for a lesser punishment, or no punishment at all, but another, and sometimes a few smaller, outside opinions. usually, whatever is initially ruled, is final. These issues can start at home or in a child’s social “Who is the principal going to believe, the circle, but as kids step out of their adolescent stage, teacher or me?” Jake Keres asked rhetorically. and toward young adulthood, the disagreements can Knowing that the teacher has the upper start in the school environment. hand in any disagreement leads kids to wonder who When the idea of schooling began, the “YOU’RE they can go to if they feel they have been verbally teachers were in full control, and it was relatively TRAPPED” or physically disrespected. Most kids started by unheard of for a student to stand up to a teacher or saying they would go to a guidance counselor, talk back to them. The kids were basically lacking CHRISTOPHER principal, or parent, but then decided they were not the right to free speech and to stand up for what they LEE sure if they would properly receive help from these believe in without being disrespectful. Times have people. They feel these people are empowered, changed since the beginning, and even as recent as the HORNER and that the teacher would always be believed last thirty years. Kids have more room to fight for their before them. In addition, reporting an issue with a rights and beliefs, although this has led to some radical teacher, which was shut down by a higher authority events that are not condoned by most. figure, can cause a natural bias back in the There is no reason to ever be uncivil or classroom. disrespectful, and that has become more of an issue in Students have their responsibilities school with kids becoming overly aggressive toward and rights clearly written on pages 23 and 24 teachers. The idea that it has become acceptable of the Student-Parent Handbook. These can be to try to over rule your teacher, and be ignorant, is openly interpreted in many ways. All of the rules preposterous because teachers have been through that students are expected to follow are in the school, and they have earned the respect that they handbook. It keeps students in line, but leaves them deserve. open for any accusation a teacher may file against “There have always been students that did not them. Although going to school is a privilege, not want to learn,” John Mockler remarked. a right, students have the right to a meaningful The innovators of this behavior were those education which should not include any type of kids that first decided that they would take any disrespect. punishment that came along with trying to prove their “Honestly, it’s like being locked in a cage point. These kids would take the corporal punishment and being thrown in the ocean,” Christopher Lee that those teachers were allowed to deliver if they Horner explained, “you’re trapped.” felt a student stepped out of line. The belief was that the punishment a person received in school was minor compared to what was awaiting them at home. “It is a lack of family values and morals,” Celia A. Torres commented. Teachers have the freedom to take anything they deem disrespectful, and turn it into a number of punishments including warnings, detentions, referrals, or January #26 Feature Kira Byers Staff Writer Mista Steal ya Girl! Clip art courtesy of GoFree.com

Trey Songz performing at East Tech High School courtesy of lollipopnews.com

The ladies love Trey Songz, from his beautiful face, to his singing voice, to his personality.

Trey is the “it man” right now in the R&B all ages love him. No matter where he goes, he is going to get noticed by world. He has sold out concerts all over the somebody. world, and has been on many tours. Trey Songz has received a lot of major awards, including the Best Male “Dinner, movies, vacation, my house,” Amber Artist and Best Collaboration Award, among others. He is also in the Burdzinski said. That is the date she would go remake of We Are the World. According to mtv.com, Trey has so many on with Trey. Many of the girls interviewed accomplishments so far, and ladies will always love “Mista Steal Your said that they wouldn’t make it through the date Girl” because his smooth talk catches females attention. He is the ladies because they would be in shock because Trey is man of the year. so fine, and because he is so famous. “Trey Songz will always be my man, and I don’t care what anybody says “Neighbors Know My Name is my favorite song about it,” Vicki Tsuper said. She is a true, die hard fan. Tsuper has been to because it is the first song I heard from him,” all of the concerts that he has had in Cleveland and Akron, and she said Brittany Porter said. The top three songs were: she will never stop listening to him or supporting him...ever. Can’t be Friends, Bottoms Up, and Neighbors No matter what, he has a legacy, and it will never die. People from this Know My Name. Most students said that they generation will always remember him when they grow old. He is so fine were all good songs, and that they couldn’t that he has grandmas yelling and crying out his name at concerts. choose just one. Trey Songz is the best, and nobody can compare to him at all. All of the “Because he is fine, and has a nice voice,” wannabees sit down, because he is the man. Chelsea Maldonado said about why she loves Trey Songz. Trey is so popular that people from January #27 Opinion BHS Boys Varsity Basketball Team’s Stimulating Season, Finally Coming to a Start The BHS boys’ varsity basketball team would have to be one of the school’s most anticipated groups of the season. Only six games in, the boys’ games have been crammed with supportive students cheering on their fellow classmates, despite some of the extreme distances. The first two games were tremendously intense and relatively disappointing, with Elyria ending in a final score of 53-46, and Avon Lake 60-57. However, after traveling to Amherst, the team pulled together and came out with a win, totaling 74 points against Amherst’s 56. Westlake’s game was intense and nail-biting, and held everybody on the edge of their seats. Sadly though, the night ended with a loss and an incredibly close score of 56-55. Hyping up the crowds, two more wins were taken from both North Royalton and Highland, with the scores being 58-53, and 54-45. Hopefully, these triumphs will be the jumpstart to a productive season full of wins and accomplishments, and maybe even a group of conference champions! Meet the Team

- Javon Cook 18 year old Javon Cook is one of varsity’s main point guards. He is six foot tall, and when it comes to games, Javon particularly likes winning. “Just the feeling you get being on the court,” Cook says when asked his preferred element of game time. Avon Lake is his choice school to play due to the fact that you “always have to bring it.” Cook treasures the memories of his freshman year basketball team, and can’t wait to become the state champs this year. “One team, one goal, lets get it,” Cook says.

- Stangelo Gettys Stan Gettys, a senior, is a small forward who is 18 years old. Gettys is six foot two, and has been playing basketball for nine years. His favorite part about playing the sport is game nights, as he can’t wait to win them. “Keylan playing in the JV game,” Gettys replies, as his most memorable moment of his high school basketball career. By the end of the season, Gettys hopes to win the SWC, and then attend Cleveland State or Bowling Green.

- Ronald Bates Another 18 year old senior on the team, Ron Bates, is a five foot nine point guard who has played since he was five years old. Making people fall is what Bates enjoys most about the sport, with the crowd being his preferred attribute of games. He finds Midpark to be the most gratifying team to play due to the 110% effort always given by his team during these particular games. Bates’ top recollection was when Javon Cook made Coach Collins fall, and by the end of the season he hopes to accomplish the SWC championship banner. By next year, Bates hopes to play basketball while attending Kent State, Toledo, or Notre Dame College

- Tom Hans Tom Hans is 18 years old and a senior. Tom is a shooting guard who stands at ﬁve foot eleven. He has been playing for four years, and enjoys game days the most. He enjoys the crowd and fans who attend the games, and likes contending against Olmsted Falls. The Midpark home game last year is Hans’ most unforgettable moment from his high school basketball career, and he hopes to become the district champs by the end of this season. Hans plans on attending Hamilton, Kenyon or Ohio Western for college.

January #28 Sports - Josh Malone Josh Malone is 17 years old and has played basketball since he was in the second grade. He is six foot two, a small forward, and has been on the varsity team since his freshman year. Malone’s favorite thing about playing basketball is that he gets to do it with his friends, and his preferred team to play is Midpark. By the end of the current season, Malone hopes to win the title of conference champions. Malone’s future plans are to attend Penn State for basketball.

- T.J. Wade T.J. Wade is an additional senior, who is 17 years old, and a six foot four forward. He has been playing basketball since the first grade and enjoys the competitive nature of the sport. Wade finds the most contest when playing Elyria High School, and, as many others, wishes to become the conference champions. “Winning five games in a row on five buzzer beaters,” Wade said about his finest memory from his high school basketball career.

- Jarad Paster Jarad Paster is another senior who is also 17 years old, and stands at six foot four. He is a small forward, and has been playing basketball for nine years. He enjoys winning and competing, along with the fans support during games. Gaining honorable mention during his junior year is Paster’s favorite memory, and he hopes that in the season ahead his team will win the conference title and head to district ﬁnals. “Support our team and go to all of our games,” Paster says to all of the BHS students and fans.

- Brian Yusko Having played basketball for two years, Brian Yusko is a 17 year old, six foot three forward. Yusko is most fond of the high scoring and the excitement that comes from playing basketball, and he enjoys playing BHS’s rival, Midpark. His chosen recollection is viewing Malone’s dunk during a game against Wooster, and he too hopes to win the conference championship. By next year, Yusko plans on attending Ohio University.

- Cody Swinnerton Another junior, Cody Swinnerton, performs as a six foot three power forward. He started playing basketball when he was seven years young, and also agrees that Midpark games have the outcome of the largest amount of rivalry. Swinnerton considers basketball to be a competitive and fun sport, one that he enjoys playing with his team and friends. The crowd and fans cheering the team on are his preferential aspects of the game, and he hopes to see a season full of wins. January #29 Sports - Ryan Hayes 16 year old Ryan Hayes is the shortest player on the team, with a height of only five feet and five inches. He is a point guard who enjoys shooting, and has been playing basketball since he was four years old. His favorite part about the game is crossing people, and he finds the most competition when he is playing Revere. “Starting the playoff game for varsity as a freshman,” is Hayes response after being asked what his greatest memory has been. In the end, Hayes hopes to see his team playing at Cleveland State by the finish of their current season.

Berea Varsity Boys’ Basketball Schedule

Date Time Opponent Saturday 11/13 11:00AM @ BRUSH HIGH SCHOOL(scrimmage) Wednesday Independence High School(scrimmage) 5:00PM @ 11/17 (at 5 & 7PM) Wednesday 7:00PM @ Independence High School(scrimmage) 11/17 Thursday 11/18 4:00PM Elyria Catholic 4 & 6PM Saturday 11/20 11:00AM @ Wickliffe High School(scrimmage) Wednesday @ Midview High School(scrimmage) 11/24 Tuesday 12/7 7:30PM @ Elyria High School Friday 12/10 7:30PM @ Avon Lake High School Tuesday 12/14 7:30PM @ Amherst Steele Friday 12/17 7:30PM Westlake High School Tuesday 12/21 7:30PM @ North Royalton H. S. Tuesday 12/28 7:30PM @ Highland High School Friday 1/7 7:30PM Brecksville-Broadview Hts. Tuesday 1/11 7:30PM Revere High School Friday 1/14 7:30PM @ North Olmsted High School Saturday 1/15 2:15PM @ Hoover High School Tuesday 1/18 7:30PM Parma High School Friday 1/21 7:30PM Olmsted Falls High School Tuesday 1/25 7:30PM Midpark High School Friday 1/28 7:30PM Avon Lake High School Tuesday 2/1 7:30PM Amherst Steele Friday 2/4 7:30PM @ Westlake High School Tuesday 2/8 7:30PM @ Brecksville-Broadview Hts. Friday 2/11 7:30PM North Olmsted High School Friday 2/18 7:30PM @ Olmsted Falls High School Friday 2/25 7:30PM @ Midpark High School January #30 Sports