Why not?

YEAR-END ISSUE

Vol. 94, No. 6 • May 2015 • Lakewood High School • 14100 Franklin Blvd. • Lakewood, OH 44107 www.lakewoodtimes.net Editorial Policy As preservers of democracy, our schools shall protect, encourage, and enhance free speech and the exchange of Staff 2014/2015 ideas as a means of protecting our American way of life. The Times and its staff are protected by, and bound to, the prin- Co- Editors : Editorial Board Members ciples of the First Amendment and other protections and Contentslimitations afforded by the Constitution and the various Matt Morgenstern court decisions implementing those principles. LaNiqua Jones Editors’ Robert Searles Mackenzie Rivera It is the mission of The Lakewood Times, the official Ryan Swingle newsmagazine of Lakewood High School, to serve as a Jacklyn Voll public forum that promotes the gathering and exchange of Assistant Editors: Ashley Hirsch Mickey Nestor ideas, and uphold high journalistic standards for the pur- Mandy Muscatello pose of enriching the lives of our readers. Veronica Gordon (Photography) Brett Brown The Times is established as an open forum for student Ryan Mitchell (Sports) Emily Suleiman Ozemenay Taylor expression and as a voice in the uninhibited, free and open Eman Naserallah discussion of issues. The Times will not be reviewed or re- Emily Suleiman (Copy) Maggie Jawhari strained prior to publication. Content of the Times, there- Samuel Ciancutti Jacob Buntyn fore, reflections only the views of the student staff or indi- Christian Bort vidual students and not school officials. Students may use Adviser: Dennis Ebner online media to educate, inform, and entertain their read- ers. Both the school and the cyber community are entitled to the same protections and subject to the same freedoms and responsibilities, as all other student media outlined in this policy. Online media are forums for self-expression and are similar to traditional media, in their freedoms, respon- sibilities, and professional obligations. As such they will not Senior reflections...... 4 be subject to prior review or restraint. Student journalists may use online media to report news and information, to communicate with other students and individuals, to ques- Staff’s views on class of ‘15.....10 tion and consult with experts, and to locate material, to meet their news gathering and research needs. The Times, and staff, will strive to avoid publishing any Staff’s views on construction...11 material determined by student editors or the student edito- rial board to be unprotected, that is, material that is libelous, obscene, materially disruptive of the school process, an un- warranted invasion of privacy, a violation of copyright laws Humanity...... 12 or electronic manipulations changing the essential truth of the photo or illustrations. Other obligations can be found in the handbook available to each student. The Times adviser Facing guns...... 13 will not act as a censor. If questions arise over specific copy as defined within this policy, student journalists will seek the advice of the Odd future...... 14 communications attorney from the Student Press Law Cen- ter. The Times editorial board as a whole will be respon- sible for determining editorial opinions, which represent the opinions of a majority of the editorial board. No single Marijuana...... 15 member of the Times can be held responsible for editorial content decisions. The Times is a tool in the learning pro- cess of journalism and operates as a learning laboratory. Seniors and college...... 16 Any student may be a member of the staff, with or without prior journalism experience or enrollment on the staff for credit. As a forum for student expression, the Times will Peru...... 18 publish all letters to the editor, provided they are 300 words or less and contain the author’s name, house, and address. On occasion, we will publish letters using the “name with- held” providing the Times editor, or a team editor, knows Barnstormers...... 20 the author’s identity. We reserve the right to withhold a letter or column and return it for more information if we determine it contains Because I said I would...... 21 items of unprotected speech as defined by this policy. Let- ters will be edited for spelling and grammar. Should a letter contain errors in fact, excessive grammatical errors or be Australia...... 22 too long, it will be returned to the author for re submis- sion. Deadlines for letters and columns will be no later than ten days before the next publication date. The Times may choose to report student, staff, faculty, and alumnus deaths Morgenstern likes sports...... 24 as he editorial board is made aware of them. We reserve the right to decide not to cover a death based on relevance, timeliness and circumstances. In cases where the editorial Indians...... 25 board decided not to cover death, letters to the editor in re- gard to that death could be printed. Spring sports photostory...... 26

2 contents The Lakewood Times ContentsEditors’

This is the year’s final issue of The Lakewood Times This is my last “Letter from the Editor.” Hardly anybody and I couldn’t be more happy. I’m not really sure if any- reads this, but I’d simply like to say it’s been a pleasure writing body reads these, but The Lakewood Times has been a lot for The Lakewood Times, and I wouldn’tletters be able to look back of work whether you believe it or not. Although it’s been a at these years fondly without having served on this paper. It lot of work, I’ve had a lot fun during these past four years. helped me realize my writing aspirations, my love for all forms I am very happy to have had these experiences with ev- of English, and how I can find passion in even the most minute eryone that I met. With that said, I would like to say it factors of production. I’m done now, so as to not waste words has been a pleasure writing and being the co-editor of on passing eyes... good reading, and good luck. The Lakewood Times. I’m excited to see what future staff members come up with. Sincerely, Matt Morgenstern Sincerely, Robert Searles

May 2015 contents 3 SENIOR REFLECTIONS MAN! LET’S LOOK BACK AT LIFE AT LHS Last year, The Lakewood Times used its final issue to look at senior insights into their high school years. We asked them to provide raw, unembellished details that could end the year on a good, and humourous, note, which may or may not have happened. Regardless, we couldn’t come up with anything better to do this year, and, thus, here are your 2015 senior reflections! Photos courtesy of Prestige Portraits (formerly Woodard Photographic)

Mackenzie Rivera I never thought the time would come when I would be writing Everyone always says high school is literally the smallest part of my senior reflection for my final issue ofThe Lakewood Times. I re- your life, but it’s where you make the most memories. Honestly, I member eighth grade year, when I went into my counselor’s office. didn’t believe it in the beginning, but when I hit my senior year, I I knew from the beginning I wanted to take Journalism. However, I started realizing that it was true. I have so much ahead of me it’s didn’t quite think I would be in journalism for all four years of high scary…there’s no going back. Then when you’re a senior, everyone school. asks you what you want to be when you’re older or what college Writing for the Times definitely made me think about what I you’re attending. wanted to be when I was older. At first I wanted to be a journalist Well, after high school, my plans are to go to college and get my and write for newspapers and be a reporter like my cousin, Elaine. Master’s in English Literature. Then the next question comes quickly But when I started learning about literature and the way literature -- “What made you want to be an English major?” It’s crazy how has developed, I started to get interested in the English program, many questions adults have for seniors in high school. to major in English Literature. In the fall I’ll be attending Cuyahoga Community College for a Another great thing about my four years in journalism were the year, and then I’ll be transferring to Ashland University or Baldwin teachers, especially, Karen Ballash before she retired and Dennis Wallace University. Going to a community college for a year is, I Ebner. I had Mrs. Ballash for Journalism 1, her final year of teach- think, the best way to go, especially if you have to pay for it yourself. ing. It was such a fun class. Then Mr. Ebner came in and taught us Growing up in a family with both parents and brother who never so much. I will miss is seeing him every day, and all his teasing. I attended college makes me look at it differently. It pushes me that will always remember to bring him Chipotle when I come to visit. no matter what happens in college, I will always be successful. It Being in this class definitely taught me so many lessons. makes me want to graduate and show my family what I can do. With this being my last article, I think I have a lot to write about So as I write about my senior reflection on a Monday morning, -- really more on my thoughts on how I actually got to my senior I think about the past four years. Honestly, I’ll miss everything. If I year. had to name off the top things I will miss about high school it would Personally my high school years have been a roller coaster. I be the teachers. If I had to choose a teacher who inspired me to have lost lots of people in my family and gained new ones. I lost become an English major, I couldn’t. It would be all of my English my grandma to COPD, lost two of my cousins (Elaine and Joyce) teachers. They have all made an impact on my decision to become to liver failure, my Uncle Rick passed away from melanoma, my a teacher. I’m glad to have been a Ranger. Uncle Dave passed away from throat cancer, and now I’m losing my grandpa to lung cancer.

4 focus The Lakewood Times SENIOR REFLECTIONS MAN! LET’S LOOK BACK AT LIFE AT LHS Sam Ciancutti The moment I stepped into the building, I knew I would be in right?” I never could have been more wrong, because this man has for an experience. I never expected high school to change me as become one of my greatest friends I ever could have made. Both much as it did though. of my coaches, Matt and Dennis, were the coolest coaches ever. Beginning as a loner who enjoyed being home and eating They acted just like us, but they were our coaches. They never for sport to becoming someone who despises that lifestyle was believed in striking fear into their players for respect, unless they something I never saw coming. I thought I would have been con- needed to. Trust me, they can lose their temper, and when both of tent with music for the rest of my life. I spent the entire summer them do, it’s a scary sight. But that kept me resilient. Whatever life of my freshman year practicing those same chords, spending 20 could throw at me, I would be able to handle, both mentally as well dollars per hour, getting taught to achieve my goals by hours and as physically. The few things that actually could keep me down hours of beating on my craft. I never did that though. Yeah, it was during this point were that I wasn’t a starter for the team. I was a something that I could do, but I was never passionate about it. At second-half sub who would clean up the mess that the previous that point in my life, I felt like I really had nothing else to hang onto players made for the team. So basically I was the “bruiser” -- the in life. Nothing was coming my way. shy bruiser, for the team. I weighed 290 pounds, freshman year, growing like an exponen- After awhile I donned the name “The Hebrew Hammer” and tial curve, hanging onto the sole societal thing I had -- being in the began weightlifting in order to match my changing fitness lifestyle. school band. God knows I didn’t have any friends to really rely on, I ran every day that summer, and went down to the Army office that it was me, going through the motions of school, being made fun of, my coach worked at in order to gain guidance in how to become for my weight, every day. Every. Single. Day. Music and band were the best possible player in my sport. After that hard work and dedi- my only solace. Everyday I’d step into that room, and I felt like I cation to what I did, I finally got down to my goal of 210 pounds, actually belonged to something. I remember going home on days my absolute lowest weight. Something I never bargained for was like that, looking at myself in the mirror, and just wondering, “Why the amount of confidence that I would gain from that weightlifting, am I still alive? There’s no purpose for me.” Yeah, I thought about -- sometimes a little too much. I made a few “rivals” because of suicide a few times -- never attempted it, but I thought about it. my cocky mouth, trying to convince people that rugby was the See, it was about that time that I knew I needed a change. I always single greatest thing to ever exist, but of course that wasn’t the have guys tell me that I was always big and strong -- not a chance. case. I regret having such a big mouth then, and thinking that I was I started at the bottom by walking to school to get some form of all that, when in reality, I didn’t have much room to talk. I was still exercise in my daily routines, even walking around the entire city a mediocre player. I eventually shut my mouth and became more of Lakewood at times. Every night was spent in the basement. 100 humble with my achievements, still failing at times. But I never pushups, 100 crunches, 100 leg presses. I picked up marching gave up. I kept my dedication and was motivated by losing sea- band as well, and that was what broke me of my shyness. It broke sons. I made a comeback last year as one of the strong points of me out of that coma that I wasn’t getting out of. I now had a family, the team, always looking to improve, and this brought me to be 200 strong. voted head captain of the squad. The “Goon Squad” is something 250 pounds, sophomore year. I remember doing a show for that became ingrained into me; it’s now not only a piece of me, but the band in which we were all decked out in nerd gear, looking I can now say that it was me. It hadn’t only become my team, but like we were from the 50’s or something. That’s when I began to it became my family. get loud; I really began to imagine I was the only one there, and I really haven’t done much in this past year. I’ve grown physi- whatever I thought, I said. That attracted the attention of one of my cally and especially spiritually. The past years really set up the rest fellow band members, Kyle Racy, who saw this loud, big kid who of my time here in this high school. I kept those same friends, and looked like he had potential. He came up to me one day and told never chose to change in order to fit in. Even with the number of me about this amazing thing called rugby. I had heard of it before friends that I have, I like being alone sometimes. I was always a since one of my friends, Steven Hokky, had always endlessly been little bit different than most kids in high school. Party life never talking about it, so I thought, “Why not?” That first practice was phased me. I like remembering what happened the previous night. miserable, at least for me. I hadn’t been the least bit athletic and Yeah, I could have done a lot more, and lived my life to the fullest. I avoided anything that had to do with running (that just scared me think I did what I loved, went to a few football games, got involved honestly) and they got me sprinting down and back across the in some of the spirit days, and was the loudest crazy in the stands field. And what do you know? Halfway through practice, this army at the girls’ rugby matches. But as far as my time at this school guy walks through the gate leading to the field, and the coach goes, I’ve changed, a lot. introduces him as the assistant coach. Immediately I’m thinking, Let’s get a break, Goon Squad, on 3 -- 1. 2. 3. “Crap, he’s gonna be a total jerk and a stone faced drill sergeant

May 2015 focus 5 Robert Searles Ryan Swingle

High school is finally coming to a close for all graduating seniors I have thoroughly enjoyed my three and one-quarter years here at and soon they’ll be going off to start college or whatever they wish Lakewood High School. I have enjoyed every second I have spent to do with their lives. Some students feel really excited about mov- frolicking through these halls since I arrived here freshman year. ing on from high school because they’re so eager to start college The memories I have made and the friendships I have forged are and finally have the responsibility and freedom that high school ones I will carry with me throughout the rest of my life. doesn’t always provide. I have especially enjoyed being a member of the football team. As a senior graduating this year, I feel excited about getting out I have met some of my best friends and experienced things that of here, but I’m also extremely nervous. The thought of having to have made me who I am today. From playing JV as a sophomore, start fresh is very frightening to me because I don’t do well with to being a captain as a junior, and then being a member of the 1st change. I understand that graduating opens up so many opportu- Team All-WSC, I have grown from a boy to a man. I will take the nities and I’m looking forward to what they will be. However, I feel lessons I have learned from my coaches to college next year as a like leaving high school is really scary, but I feel as if I’m ready for it. member of the Baldwin-Wallace football team. Growing up in Cleveland was different than growing up in Lake- I have also enjoyed my time on the track team. I started throw- wood because Cleveland couldn’t offer the same opportunities ing as a junior and am on the team this year as well. Although I am as Lakewood could. I never had actual extracurricular activities not nearly as good at throwing as I am at football, I have enjoyed or places to go after school. It wasn’t a very good time in my life, it nonetheless. and my mom and I both agreed that there needed to be a change. My time in the classroom has been a great pleasure as well. I When I first moved here, I was planning on going to St. Edward have been taught many a subjects and I have learned many a les- because I wanted to make my family and parents proud, but I soon son. My growth in knowledge has been unquantifiable. I will carry realized that that was something that I didn’t want. I decided that this knowledge into my college life and beyond. I should continue my education at a public school so that I would Most of all, I will miss the people of LHS. Everyone here is a joy feel more comfortable. I was very nervous when I first came here, to be around, and I’ll always miss that company. but like everyone else, I adjusted. For the past four years, I’ve spent my time at LHS writing for The Lakewood Times and trying to be the best writer I could for this publication. My freshmen year I came here eager to learn more about journalism and how it really works. Not to mention it was my first year living in Lakewood, so I was interested in how the school system worked. I learned a lot in these four years and not just in journalism, but also in every class I took. As time passed, I started to feel more comfortable with LHS and opened up more, like continuing to take journalism, which is something that I didn’t plan on doing. Soon I became Assistant Editor and eventually, with hard work, I became Co-Editor with Matt. The deadlines and all the editing was a lot of hard work that took a lot of time. But in the long run, it was all worth it because I can look back at all the past issues and be proud of what I contributed to this school. Overall, my experience at Lakewood High was enjoyable. There were hard times that I went through just like everyone else, but I found a way to deal with them and was able to overcome them. Lakewood gave me a great high school experience and I don’t think I would change a thing, even if I could.

6 focus The Lakewood Times Mickey Nestor Ryan Mitchell High school has been a crazy journey for me. I’ve had my ups and downs As my high school career draws nearer and nearer to a close, and I’ve grown into the person I am today because of it. I started out a child I’ve been finding myself looking back at the last four years of my going into a freshman year. Now I am about to finish my senior year as a man. life. From walking through the doors as a wide-eyed freshman to I am proud to say that I used my time well. I had a ton of fun, and I am looking recently coming down with a bad case of senioritis, my time at forward to the next step in my life. Lakewood High School has been a long journey, but one that has Going into my freshman year, I was scared to say the least. I started out at undoubtedly helped me grow as a student, teammate, and most Holy Name High School and I had no idea how to get around the building. My importantly, as a person. first day was frustrating because it took me a long time to get to my classes. For the past fours years, I’ve spent time expanding my educa- I had no idea where anything was. It took me awhile to get used to my new tion in some interesting (and some not so interesting) classes. I‘ve school, but I eventually got the hang of it. I made many friends that year and played the most successful, interesting, and enjoyable years of made some great memories along the way. I’ll never forget my freshman year my athletic career. I’ve met new people and developed friendships because I loved it and I loved the environment I was in. Unfortunately, sopho- that will never be forgotten. more year was a regression. High school is an exciting time in everyone’s life -- a time that Sophomore year was a challenge for me. I had a bunch of new classes with kicks off the search to find who it is we really are. And while it’s some kids I had not even known. The environment in which I felt comfortable coming to an end, graduation only opens even more new and ex- in had almost completely disintegrated. Another reason I was uncomfortable citing doors. It’s a bittersweet feeling to be a senior in high school. there was because of certain rule changes. I did not exactly want to comply I’ve had a great time and made memories that will last a lifetime, with some of the rules so I often found myself getting in some trouble that but there is a world after high school -- one that I am eager to should have been avoided. The year would improve and I would reject my embrace. parents’ offer to attend Lakewood High for my junior year. Instead I went back I, along with all of the other graduating seniors, will have a to Holy Name for my junior year. chance to explore new opportunities that will direct us to the rest Junior year was fun for me and I really did not want to leave at the time. of our lives. To the underclassmen, you will too. Your graduation Unfortunately the rules got even stricter and it was hard to get through. It got to will come sooner than you can even believe. Enjoy your time here a point where I found myself nearly suspended all because I came into school while you can. To my fellow seniors, it’s been one heck of a ride tardy a couple times. I still had the opportunity to leave HN and that is exactly and I wish you all the best of luck in whatever it is that you may do what I did right after the school year ended. I then began a new journey at a after high school and thank you for a great high school experience. new school that was all brand new to me. I began my senior year at Lakewood High. I was a new student who barely knew anyone. With that being said, transferring to Lakewood High was one of the best life choices I have ever made. I have made so many new friends here and I am a lot happier here than I ever was at HN. I’ve made a ton of memories and, after graduation, my friends and I will have many more. I am proud to say that I will graduate high school as a Lakewood Ranger. I will never forget this year and all the friends I made. I am ready to move on to a new chapter in my life, but I will never forget what I have learned from being in high school.

May 2015 focus 7 Maggie Jawhari Brett Brown

It’s 9:00 a.m. and my classmates and I are crowded in a dim Ah, senior year -- the last leg of our high school race, the cream storage room around Dr. Sydney Peterson. The room is full of lab of our high school crop. It has been a tremendously mundane year, equipment, boxes, and stacks of papers. We are all groggy from for the most part. Honestly, you never fully begin to understand the waking up and I wonder what my AP Chemistry teacher could pos- world that is waiting for us outside these high school walls. We all sibly be thinking. With a large eager grin, she points to a shelf think about graduation at some point during our nine-month stint loaded with labeled containers. as seniors. However, it really doesn’t seem possible to us that we She begins, “Ok guys, these are different chemical compounds! are actually graduating until the day we walk across the stage. Copper is blue, Chromium is green, Cobalt is red…” Quite honestly, I hated freshman year (who didn’t?), and with As she goes through each of the containers, her eyes seem to all my geeky awkwardness, it made the experience a whole lot light up. I begin to feel equally enthusiastic, carefully studying the worse than it should have been. Sophomore year was a major im- containers. I look around me and realize how Dr. Peterson had provement, although the year capitalized on my romantic woes, changed the atmosphere of the class. My sleepy classmates now albeit less than ninth grade. It was the year of the afro, wearing displayed expressions of curiosity and fascination. black and yellow sneakers, and wearing hats and shirts that didn’t Chemistry teacher Dr. Sydney Peterson is one of the most pas- match as much as I wanted them to. Junior year was a departure sionate teachers I have ever met. She does her best to explain from the whole “freshman” look. The bright shoes were dropped in concepts and ensures that we understand them by the end of the favor of neutral colors and dress shoes. Bright Abercrombie shirts period. She always encourages students to come in after school if were dropped for sweaters, dark jeans, and gray or blue Converse. they don’t feel comfortable with the material. She is constantly de- The maturity level was getting higher (for the most part) and the lighted to answer questions, and her energetic spirit is contagious. thought of graduation was still light years away. Twelfth grade was Dr. Peterson believes in each of her students. She taught me to a lot different. For the most part (especially for me), it didn’t feel give it my all in the face of challenge. In motivating me to believe in like “normal” school. Obviously the classes and curriculum were myself, she has strengthened my desire to succeed. different, but it didn’t seem like the normal school that I was ac- Another faculty member who has inspired me at LHS is math customed to. teacher Dale Rerko. His animated teaching style resembles that of I felt different. By the time I turned 18 back in February, the a cartoon character. His classroom is so full of life that spectators reality of my world became even more “real.” There was a lot more often stop by to observe. He keeps the class engaged by mak- responsibility, and the world was beginning to change. I finally felt ing jokes and playfully teasing students. He also experiments with like a young adult, with the added pangs of a job and paying my various accents as he works through solutions on the board. If a own bills. This entire year, my last year, has wholeheartedly taught, student catches a mistake, he accuses the person sitting closest I look forward to college and the lasting impact that will be impart- to the board of “changing it when he wasn’t looking.” Rerko is an ed upon me. As I look back on the previous four years, I appreciate exceptional teacher. His approach to teaching is phenomenal, and the struggles, trials, tribulations, and situations that I have dealt has truly impacted me. Whenever I am doing math, I often find with. No matter how bad, no matter how irritating, and no matter myself reading the equations using Rerko’s accent in my head. how boring it has been, I will always sincerely miss school, and My experience at Lakewood High School has been positive due one day, my future children will tell the same tale. to all of the unique teachers I have encountered along the way. Good look Class of 2015, and beyond. Each teacher has had special qualities and methods of teaching that have made some sort of difference in my life. They inspired me to ponder ideas, take on more challenging work, and become a successful student.

8 focus The Lakewood Times Matt Morgenstern Jacob Buntyn My time at Lakewood High School hasn’t been the greatest. I’ve I haven’t had the easiest high school career. I got poor grades had a lot of personal problems in the ways of Catcher in the Rye and transferred schools twice. It took a lot of time and the right -- problems with parents, with school, with teachers, with people. school to get my schooling on track. I found my place at Lake- And like Holden Caulfield, they’ve all been beset upon myself by wood High and I am incredibly thankful. The environment at LHS myself. So to all of those that have been a victim of these con- is truly amazing, and allowed me to get my schooling to a good flictions, I apologize. But what I enjoyed about Lakewood High point. School in the muck of these adversities was that it gave me the I know that saying anything positive about school seems strange, platform on which to not repress my inner-self, but rather let my but I have nothing but good things to say about this school and idiosyncratic oddness fly. I honestly wish I could have gotten a full four years here. Here, I Yep, I was voted my class’s “Teacher’s Pet.” Yep, I may be actually don’t dread going to school every day like I did at my other remembered for my feuding with a girl not to be mentioned. Yep, school. I have met an incredible group of friends and exemplary I’ve said and done some things that I likely should have regret but teachers. never shall (“Football or Foosball?”). But the great thing is that I’ve In this last year of my schooling, I have come across an im- learned from those unfortunate decisions and know better how to mense amount of motivation and it’s because I’m here at LHS. I brace my behind when I fall on it in the future. I romanticize a lot got my life together and got into my dream college, and am on my of this, yes, but I think it’s best to acknowledge when you live the way to an amazing career and I attribute that to getting out of an kind of life I want to, you have to compensate for some difficulties environment that made me unhappy. at times. Of all the things I’ve written over the years, I hope you can Nothing really quite describes the feeling of being wanted and gleam from all of this that caring too much is the thing that “ruined“ belonging. I feel like I understand those things at LHS, whether it high school for me. be by my friends or my teachers. Both will be equally difficult to I do hope The Lakewood Times perpetuates itself. I do hope the say goodbye to. Even though some friends I will see after high final product of the school is what we’ve wanted for about half-a- school, I know that there are a lot who I will see very rarely, and decade now. I do hope a more democratic exchange between the some not at all. This is incredibly sad. Saying goodbye is hard but student body and the administration becomes reality in the sea it is comforting to know that you are saying goodbye for a good that is Lakewood High School. reason. The people who I walk the halls with and sit in class with But in this final paragraph of writing for one of the few things I are all about to start their adult lives. And I am so happy to know really loved at LHS, I’d simply like to say I’ve been changed. This that everyone is going to be moving forward very soon. school, its teachers, and its students have made me the Matt Mor- Even though I am very happy for my friends, I am also very sad genstern I am now. This trip to Peru over Spring Break changed to say goodbye. But very happy to know that I have a core group me. Spanish teacher Matt Heslep changed me. English teacher of friends who are always going to be with me and support me. Dennis Ebner changed me. English teacher Christopher Lamphear Three of my best friends, Jack, Greg, and Denaliz have been with changed me. All those girls I went on dates with changed me. Stu- me for these two years and they are amazing and have helped me dents like Grace Therber, Ryan Mitchell, Cooper Strachan, A.J. so much. Graber, Nick Mahoney, Sam Ciancutti, Michael Huffman, Peter In addition to my friends, my teachers have also helped me Quigley, Jacob Streitel, Tony DeJesus, Nick Jackosky, and even out so much in getting me to be where I need to be, and making Cari Northrop (toilet paper and chocolate bars!) changed me. You school really enjoyable. I couldn’t have done this with without Art changed me. teachers Arline Olear and Amy Sedlak and English teachers Den- Now I’m done. nis Ebner and Kate Laino, as well as my old art teacher, Danny Carver. I think it is incredibly important to have teachers who can actually make their students enjoy going to class every day. And I extend a huge thank you to these teachers for inspiring me to start the path of becoming a teacher myself. And even though House I Principal William DiMascio and other members of the administra- tion have given me several detentions these past years, I still ap- preciate them as well. I can’t be thankful enough for my high school experience, and I will miss going to school dearly. Now I only have the future to look forward to, and it looks bright and exciting. In the fall I will be start- ing school at the Cleveland Institute of Art, my dream college. I am so excited for this and really thankful that everyone I know was incredibly supportive in helping me get here. It’s amazing to think that my schooling is almost over. I look back and can remember so many great memories. They are hard to leave, but I am looking forward to making new ones. The Class of 2015 has done it. May 2015 focus 9 Staff’s views on Class of ‘15: LHS teachers comment on the graduating class

By Ashley Hirsch “I enjoyed having them. They’re hard workers.” “The Class of 2015 is focused on their future - Math teacher Kristen Thompson plans. They are dedicated and very motivated when it comes to their work.” “The Class of 2015 is the graduating class that I - Math teacher Kaitlyn Ackerman know best. I’ve had the opportunity to teach some of the students for three years. I’ve had the op- portunity to see many of the kids’ [performances], “Every class has their strengths and their weak- and I think it’s a really well put-together group of nesses. This year’s graduating class is highly students who meaningfully participate and who academic, very well-traveled, and concerned I’ve really enjoyed working with.” with real world issues.” - Spanish teacher Matt Heslep - Math teacher Robert Sedlak

“Strong group that’s followed through and made good choices in their education to help them grow “The Class of 2015 has had an interesting high as individuals. It was interesting to watch them school career. I have enjoyed working with this turn into young adults, from the children they group of students because of their various per- started out as.” sonalities. I am excited for their future and wish - History teacher Derek Smith them the best!” - Intervention Specialist Carrie Sullivan “They’re a great class. Many of them have been strong leaders and have shown growth and matu- rity since I first met them as sophomores.” -Choir Director Peter Hampton The Lakewood Times Live! It’s still a website! www.lakewoodtimes.net 10 focus The Lakewood Times Staff perspectives on construction: There’s some good, bad, and ugly

By Mandy Muscatello

“The construction presents new day-to-day chal- lenges, but then will be well worth it in the end.” “The construction will finally unify our campus and – FCS teacher Jennifer Manning equip us with the new technology we desperately need.” “It is a necessary evil. I’m excited to see how the - Spanish teacher Stephanie Boyd new school is going to look. Yes, construction is difficult, but you have to go through it to get the results you want.” “As bad as the mods are getting, I am going to - Spanish teacher Terri Duperow miss them because of the group of teachers that are together. I am excited for my kids to see the “I can’t wait to get out of the mods. I don’t have new building.” windows in my room and it smells. I’m excited - History teacher Joe Lobozzo about the direction the school is going.” - English teacher Gray Cooper “I hate having to get here even earlier to get a parking spot!” “Many people have put a lot of effort into Lake- - Art teacher Autumn Sabin wood City Schools’ construction project. It is ex- citing that we are building a new school. Unfortu- nately the state was not able to keep up its end of “Everyone has to give up a little to secure the ben- the bargain regarding funding. State funding was efits in the end. It’s a wonderful thing forLake- put on hold due to financial difficulties. Now that wood. We have been told for a long time that this the Ohio schools facilities commission has rein- was going to happen and what to expect, and I stated funding, we should see the project move don’t think people realized how difficult it would forward.” be.” - History teacher Alisa Nazelli - Educational Assistant Gladys Favre

The decrepit “Old Building” on May 5. Photo taken by Jacob Buntyn

May 2015 focus 11 Humanity:By Emily Suleiman what’s it all about?

To many people, humanity is the well-being of a large group of people. We don’t ask ourselves all of the questions we should when it comes to living life to the fullest. Meaning, do we actually care about the feelings of our classmates, family members, and teachers? People no longer use the term “freedom” for the same reasons they did when slavery was an issue. Along with the civilians are the students that have dealt with these situations where humanity was taken from them. In my opinion, conflicts around the world aren’t being discussed often enough in today’s world, so there’s not enough help being offered. Here are some questions that were asked by myself and answered by LHS fellow students.

Do you know what humanity is? Give your best definition. Do you believe in greed? Are there a lot Should animals have the same rights? of issues with our government?

Junior Maddie Russo: “I think humanity is quite literally the human race MR: “I think animals should absolutely have rights. I mean just be- as a whole. Meaning no one is excluded or looked at as any lower than cause they can't speak doesn't automatically exclude them from anyone else. We're all a part of the human race and humanity. I definitely the world. They still serve purposes, even if we aren't aware and believe in greed, I think the idea of having superiority over others really they live with us on Earth. Testing makeup on animals, taking their fuels a lot of people's egos. Especially people in the government be- fur and poaching them is just disgusting to me. They're still alive, cause, once they're put on such a pedestal, they know they're looked up just like us, and have feelings too. It isn't right to have animals suf- to and they crave more of that. I think the government keeping secrets fer just for our benefits.” from us isn't such a bad thing. We know too much. People would obvi- SB: “I feel like what’s most important is keeping our county as a ously take it overboard and worry them to death and cause such an un- top country. Sometimes there must be sacrifices to keep it on top. necessary uproar. On the other hand, the less we know, the more oblivi- I feel like we need to focus more on people around the world.” ous we are to serious issues. We’re already so blinded by unimportant things that the media forces down our throats that we don't even take AM: “Yes animals should be treated the same considering we are time to consider real and important world issues. Not enough people technically animals too.” care about those types of things.” Senior Savanajh Black: “Yes, I believe in greed. I definitely believe there Do you know of any major events like wars around are a lot of governments issues, but I’m not sure the people know them the world, MOST IMPORTANTLY---recent events? (In all.” the Middle East, Israel, Africa, Iran, Syria, etc.). Junior Alfredo Mercedes: “Humanity is the human race. I believe every- one, at one point, had some selfish needs or greed. I also believe that the MR: “I'm pretty aware of some major events such as the ISIS issue government hides things like issues if needed.” and terror attacks/threats in France, and the equality issues (which certainly need more attention) in the U.S. and most definitely other What do you think about genocide? (Definition: parts of the world as well.” the deliberate and systematic extermination of a SB: “Yeah I know some about the war in the Middle East, national, racial, political, or cultural group.) but I really only know as much as the news tells me.” AM: “The most recent that seems to be an American issue is the MR: “Genocide is still a huge issue, especially in Africa. Mass numbers Ferguson shooting and the fight or lack of racial equality for minor- of people are being killed for such awful reasons and we don't even look ity groups.” into it as much as I think we should. We ignore these things and dismiss them, and I think this is one of those important things the media hides behind unimportant celebrity topics.” SB: “I think it happens and I think it’s tragic when no one stops it (ex. Rawanda). Very inhumane.” AM: “Genocide is a meticulous mass-murder of people.”

Logo courtesy of thoughts.com

12 opinion The Lakewood Times12 Humanity: what’s it all about? How to get a gun in the face without really trying By Jacob Buntyn

Not many people can say that they have had a gun pointed at doors and windows to make sure no one got out. We hid in a win- their faces before, and even fewer can say they’ve had the chance dowless backroom trying to think of a way to get out but could to stare down the barrel of five different guns. And an almost non- think of nothing. I took another peek out of the window and saw existent crowd can say that they’ve stared down the barrels of five no officers. I reported back to the others and, in the midst of telling guns and left the situation unscathed. Few people can claim they them what I saw, there was a huge thud from downstairs. belong to that group, but I am one of them. The officers had breached the building, presumably coming My passion is photography. I center this passion around story for us. Another final check around the building revealed there was telling. One of my favorite stories to tell is the story of buildings, no way out, so we decided to turn ourselves in. It was a better forgotten after abandonment and left to rot. I find these aban- alternative to being caught running. We packed up our cameras doned buildings and photograph them to tell their stories and pre- and put our hands up and began to walk to where we heard the serve them. On a trip to Detroit to capture photos of its decrepit sounds of the officers. After rounding the first corner, I was met by Packard Plant, a group I was working with received word about an the barrels of five guns in the hands of five angry police officers. abandoned hospital that was along our route. Never ignoring an The screamed and grabbed all of us and threw us against the wall opportunity, we got off the highway and found the hospital. and began to search us. We finally got on the grounds of the hospital in a slightly less We said we were photographers, documenting the building. It than legal way and began to search for an entrance. All of the took some convincing, but they finally led us out of the building windows and doors of the first floor were freshly boarded up. So and to their police cars. Believe it or not, the officers were very freshly, in fact, that there was still sawdust on the ground around interested in what we were doing and got all of our social media them. My friends and I are not ones to easily get discouraged by information to view the photos later. They did, however, issue us boarded up windows so we searched for a different way in. Even- all warrants for criminal trespassing and told us we had to report tually one of our members, Ryan, figured out a complicated way to to court the next morning. climb up to a second story window and found us a way in. Finally So, dressed in our Sunday best, we arrived at Toledo’s criminal we heard a call from the other side of the wing. When we get to court to clear our names. Confusing would be a compliment to the the other side, we saw Ryan in a window, ladder in hand. We all chaos that is Toledo’s court system. It took almost six hours total climbed into the building via ladder on an air conditioning unit and to get everything settled. I was a minor at the time and was unable began to explore. to be tried in any court that day, so I spent my six hours waiting for The hospital appeared as if everything had been abandoned in my friends to get cleared. At the end of the day, I was charged with a panic. There was surgical equipment, blood samples, and pa- nothing, and everyone else got away with a $99 court fee and the tient files everywhere. There was even a room with bloody surgical judge giving the advice to “pull the ladder up next time.” equipment left in it. We went through every hall way and every room in the upper floors of the building and then found an entrance into the basement. It was pitch black, dusty, and musty, but we still explored it. In the center of an in- tersection of three hallways was an active extension cord. We de- cided it might be a good idea to follow it, and it eventually lead us to a door, slightly ajar. The door was easily pushed open and we thought we had found another way up to the main building, but instead, all we found was a mo- tion alarm screaming at us. We immediately reversed and sprint- ed through the basement back to the main building and up to the second floor. Not even ten minutes later, unmarked police trucks arrived and several officers poured out Photos taken by the author of them. The officers began cir- cling the building, watching the

12 13September/OctoberMay 2015 2012 lkwd life 13 The “future” of hip-hop is an odd one, so let’s ride to it By Ozemenay Taylor The rap world is corrupted. Artists sometimes end up being the best ideas. like Earl Sweatshirt, Frank Ocean, Hodgy Odd Future? Indeed. Beats, Left Brain, Domo Genesis, Syd tha And in simplest form, 2015 is a huge Kid, Lucas Vercetti, Mike G, Taco, Jasper year for the skateboarding cult. Already Dolphin, L-Boy, Matt Martians, and Hal Wil- two albums from some of the most popular liams, Odd Future are taking the world by artists in Odd Future have the world raving storm. Which leads us to Tyler, who is in about the group. The first to get released fact, the creator. He started the 13 member was the sophomore record of Earl Sweat- group and produces his own music. In ad- shirt -- I Don’t Like Sh*t, I Don’t Go Out- dition, he directed his own video “Yonkers” side, which was met with great reviews. It in 2011, which reached over 74.5 million received an 8/10 rating on pitchfork.com. views on YouTube after being co-signed by The website gives notice to Earl’s ability to Kanye West. stay true to himself, stating, “He’s making There seems to be an element of irony music that never gets ahead of itself.” in the name Odd Future because the fu- But that wasn’t all. Tyler, the Creator, ture does seem a little odd. Let’s consider released his fourth studio album, Cherry that OFWGKTA [Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Bomb, on April 13. Theguardian.com gave Them All] are almost a record label on their the album an average 3/5 stars, but Tyler own. They write, produce, record, design, warns about rating his album too early on and film their own work. And with the inter- his Twitter account, saying, “ALBUM BEEN net at their disposal, they are a force to be OUT FOR 30 HOURS HOW THE [EXPLICIT] reckoned with. Their website and blog via CAN YOU REVIEW IT. LISTEN TO IT FOR A Tumblr is incredibly well put-together and WHILE.” run by the members themselves. And the If that’s not sure to perk your interest, connection they’ve built with their fans can Frank Ocean, Hodgy Beats, Domo Gen- be described as exceptional. Furthermore, esis, The Internet, and Mike G, all have al- their manager Chris Clancy, a former Inter- bums set to release in the same calendar scope executive, takes an unconventional year. approach to managing their careers, which It’s an Odd Future takeover. can be demonstrated by their recent deal with Sony RED Distribution. The deal allows them to have their own label and keep full creative control. Still, we can’t forget that although not unheard of, (From top) The new album of it is a bit bizarre to see the kind of shows Tyler, the Creator, Cherry Bomb, they put on. Odd Future shows are com- followed by Earl Sweatshirt’s plete with gnomes, masks, and stage-div- new album, and Frank Ocean’s ing, similar to what you’d get from a rock widely-acclaimed 2012 debut, concert. Tyler and Odd Future are so dif- Channel Orange. All covers ferent and so offensive, yet so artistic and genius at the same time. Often misunder- website courtesy of Odd Future’s official stood, there’s something refreshing about Tyler’s unique lyrics and off-the-wall perso- na. Tyler is evidence that the craziest ideas

14 opinion The Lakewood Times Marijuana’s other great hit (what a pun) By Robert Searles plant and therefore it cannot be patented, One of the most controversial topics in Another important reason why marijua- today’s society is the use, production, and na should be legal is simply because it is which means no money for the big phar- distribution of cannabis (marijuana, weed, something that really can be utilized in the maceutical companies. These companies pot, etc.). Although it’s been around forev- medical field and there are many cases to would rather have you buy their own drugs, er, the federal government and many oth- prove this (some states, such as Califor- not something anyone can plant in the ers still want it to be illegal. Why does the nia and Colorado, have indeed approved it ground and have as useful medicine. government feel this way about this sub- for such). One study at the School of Biol- However, some states have started to re- stance and what is so potentially harming ogy at Completeness University in Madrid, alize that marijuana could be useful. There about it to the public that they shouldn’t Spain, researched the use of cannabinoids are 26 states that have legalized marijua- have access to it? in treating cancer in April 2009. What they na in some way, but only four states have One reason is that there are many mis- discovered is published in the April 2009 legalized marijuana for recreational use. conceptions about marijuana and its use. issue of The Journal of Clinical Investiga- Those states include Colorado, Washing- Many people believe that marijuana is tion. The researchers found that, after a ton, Oregon, Alaska, as well as the District probably one of the safest and most thera- 30-day THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol, which of Columbia. peutic substances around. is the cannabinoid of the cannabis plant) Hopefully very soon, other states will A common stereotype is that marijuana treatment of two people diagnosed with come to learn how useful this plant can be. is addictive. This is something that has fast-moving brain cancer, the chemical had been debated, but can’t really be proven. killed the cancerous cells while preserving This is because nothing about weed is bio- the healthy ones. The THC killed the can- cer cells by helping them feed on them- logically addictive. However, many people “Weed” by Brett Brown believe that it’s an addictive substance selves -- an event known as autophagy. because it is said that heavy use leads to More illnesses that help and are treatable things like a higher probability of dropping with medical cannabis include HIV/AIDS, out of school or more relationship prob- Alzheimer’s Disease, arthritis, insomnia, lems. This may be true, but according to anxiety disorders, and muscle disorders, Psychology Today, only about nine percent among others. of regular marijuana smokers will develop Not only should marijuana be legal for a serious addiction and only about ten to the aforementioned purposes, but it should thirty percent of regular users will develop also be for its practical uses. Hemp (the dependency. Not everyone who smokes non-drug cannabis plant due to a lack of marijuana will be addicted to it. THC) can be used for many things that The government and many other peo- could really benefit the world. Hemp can be ple have this notion that marijuana is bad used to make paper and is a better alterna- for you, but it’s hard to claim that when tive to using trees. Trees take years to grow there’s proof of its value. For instance, al- completely, while hemp reaches matura- cohol alone kills about 2.5 million people tion in only four months. Even the original annually while 443,000 people die from Declaration of Independence is written on tobacco-use. Marijuana doesn’t kill you hemp. because it’s non-toxic and it is impossible Although the government may have their to overdose on. Regardless, substances “reasons” for making marijuana illegal, the proved to be more lethal are still legal. real and obvious reason why it’s illegal is simply because of money. Marijuana is a May 2015 lkwd life 15 One more story about LHS and college

By Eman Naserallah

All our years in school, teachers are constantly telling us all about our future and how school plays a key role in that. After our required years, we have some options, like staying home, join- ing the U.S. Army, or going to college. Generally, people choose to go to college and further their education. Here is a look into some of our Lakewood High School seniors, their choice for their future, and why they made their choice. Kerry Dezsi Mohammed Elkhatib “Next year, in college, I will be at Gannon Univer- “Next year for college, I will start off by going to sity in Erie, Pennsylvania. I chose Gannon because I Cuyahoga Community College, Tri-C. I’m going to be feel like it is the perfect fit for me and my twin sister, starting off there because I feel like it gives everyone Kelly. The two college decisions we had in mind were a little push start so they could actually go to the col- Cleveland State University and Gannon. We applied to lege or university they want. After attending Tri-C for many schools and got accepted to all of them, but for two years, I plan to move onto Cleveland State Univer- us to go to the same college and not split up, Gannon sity. For my future career, I would like to be a physical seemed the best for us. Since Kelly wants to go into therapist. physical therapy and I want to study nursing /physician “Going to college and setting a future goal for your- assisting, Gannon has both programs and you can get self is pretty important for you and others around you. the schooling done in less than six years. When you’re in college, you’re making your choice for “As the last few months of high school quickly ap- your future and deciding on something that will make proach us, I am very excited to be leaving, but also a up your life. Physical therapy will forever be needed, little (tiny, tiny, tiny bit) sad. LHS is where we shaped with injuries occurring all the time, whether it was a our personalities and where we grew up. It’s the place vehicular accident or a sports accident or whatever. where we met all of our friends, and where we made College is important for me, because this is when I get memories. It’s where we figured out our future. There to learn what I really want. Everyone has a chance in are so many amazing programs to get us ready for college, so that’s a pretty exciting thought.” college and, after taking West Shore Health Careers Technology Program, I know I am ready for college. GO KNIGHTS!”

“Nurse and Army man” by Maggie Jawhari Bryan Goan

“I am going into the Army because I feel it is an op- portunity for me to better myself and serve our coun- try. Also, the Army is going to help me pay for college, which I wouldn’t have been able to do without it. I be- lieve this will benefit my future because of the skills I will be learning. My M.O.S. is 25 Bravo, so basically it means I’m an I.T. specialist. I am going to be working on and fixing computers. That is a great skill in the civil- ian world. The Army is very important to me because my whole future is going to revolve around it.”

16 lkwd life The Lakewood Times One more story about LHS and college

Sara Touffahi Sarah Awadalla “I am going to Tri-C for at least my first year, if not for “I want to go to Bowling Green State University just two years, to get my pre-reqs done and I'm going in the fall for nursing, because I want to help people for nursing! I love nursing so much because I love help- who are in need and this is the best profession that can ing people and making a difference in their world. I'm do that. College is important to me because it furthers in a West Shore program called Health Careers and we your education and helps you get a start on the career earned our STNA [State Tested Nurse Aide] licenses in you want to pursue. Since I want to be a labor and de- May of 2014. We've had clinicals at the nursing home livery nurse, I need to go to college and get a degree to [O’Neill Healthcare] and currently we are at Lakewood achieve all of my goals in life.” Hospital. We've been roaming around from orthope- dics to labor/delivery to surgery. I love this program be- cause it's provided me a glimpse of nursing, so when I actually become a nurse, I already know what I'm go- ing to deal with. “After I get my pre-reqs done, I'm going to Cleve- land State University! I will also be going to nursing school there.”

May 2015 lkwd life 17 The place where “Machu Picchu” may actually be something really,

By Matt Morgenstern It’s This story will not be as expansive as it with SpanishPeru. teacher Matt Heslep or Intervention Specialist Allison Breckel. could be, for I wish to put some pictures on these pages. But, to say it bluntly, go- really different. ing to Peru over Spring Break was a truly profound experience. The Travel Club ventured to Lima, Peru, through EF (“Education First”) Tours, fly- ing on Delta Airlines. We left April 5 to At- lanta and came back April 13 from Atlanta. On the trip, we visited numerous villages, hotels in Lima and Cuzco, historical sites (like Machu Picchu, which-depending on the pronunciation has something to do with male genitals or a holy Incan fortress). We walked and drove through the cities of Lima and Cuzco (specifically Mira Flores in Lima and the historical district in Cuzco), the villages of Umbas Bamba and Ollyan- tambo, and the fun to say and see “Saq- saywaman”, an old Incan holy site that has some great views of the Sacred Valley. Now here’s the gushing. The Sacred Val- ley is nestled in between the Andes Moun- tains, which is one of the largest mountain “El Beso” is a statue in Lima’s “Park of Love,” a park on Lima’s coast. All photos courtesy of ranges on the planet. It’s a high place (in the author and Travel Club terms of elevation, relax guys 4/20 was a month ago), and at times the group was walking in clouds. The elevation did take its toll on some individuals, but most were able to help in the service projects (picking potatoes and building greenhouses), make the hikes at Machu Picchu, and experi- The group at Machu Picchu, some 8,000 feet above sea ence the area from the comfort of “Miguel’s level Bus,” where our transient tour guide Omar talked about various things like “pass- ports,” the Incans, and “drinking water” all with a Peruvian-Australian English accent. The problem with writing a story about this is the fact that the poverty of Peru needs to be mentioned. “Poverty” (by our measures, hence the quotes) is rampant in the mountain regions of Peru, and many vil- lagers are obliged to trek to Lima or Cuzco and peddle wares that, unfortunately, look exactly the same everywhere. If they see you, you’re harassed. If you walk, they ei- Senior Matt ther stop or continue to harass you while Bango (cen- wild dogs run around your feet. Neither ter) waiting Lima nor Cuzco are pretty places (except, in the town of Machu like in Mira Flores, if the residents can pay Picchu to go to keep it nice). to Machu If you have any questions about Peru Picchu itself or Travel Club (who’s going to Greece and (From left to right) sophomore Douglas Watkins, juniors Cari Northrop and Juliet Belardo, and sophomore hopefully Turkey next year), feel free to talk Jacob Forrester react to guinea pig

18 lkwd life The Lakewood Times The place where “Machu Picchu” It’s Peru.may actually be something really, really different.

The courtyard of a restaurant named “Muña” in the Sacred Valley

The group at Machu Picchu, some 8,000 feet above sea A coastal highway view in Lima level

One more shot of Machu Picchu

(From left to right) sophomore Douglas Watkins, juniors Cari Northrop and Juliet Belardo, and sophomore Jacob Forrester react to guinea pig View from a Lima hotel room of the neighborhood “Mira Flores” May 2015 lkwd life 19 BarnstormersThe life keeptheatrical: it going at LHS By LaNiqua Jones

As we all know, the LHS Barnstorm- ous or too musically oriented or dancey. It’s L: “The hardest part would be doing things ers are some of the most gifted kids in the- more of a comedy.” over and over again when you know every- ater. Although do we really know about the L: “The music itself, the storyline, and the thing. It’s hard to also keep your energy up work, time, and effort put into these fabu- friends I’m making and I love bonding with so it doesn’t become boring. The easiest lous shows? Well, I caught up with some people I work with.” part would be having fun as long you en- of these students at the rehearsal of their joy it because it’s the most important thing. newest musical, The 25th Annual Putnam There is so much that goes into a Barn- How do you prepare for an audition? County Spelling Bee. stormers’ show, and at this point, they are V: “The specific character I try and get into going over the whole show. They go over their mind set and I have to be confident How do you get into character/How long every little detail, and after observing two and give it my best and brightest shot.” does it take you? of their rehearsals, I’ve seen that when you G: “I prepare as soon as I find out about it Sophomore Veronica Kress: “I’m lucky are part of a Barnstormers cast, or any cast with whatever I’m given and rehearse every to play characters that are similar to my of any show, you are in unison. The cast morning and night.” personality. I empathize with them and that becomes not just a new set of friends, but L: “I read over the cutting and music and helps me get into their mindset.” a family in itself. During these rehearsals learn about the character and I have to look Freshman Grace Cooper : “I just think that I observed, I noticed a mistake is taken the character up and research them.” about my character and her personality note of and discussed so it can be bettered and otherwise and it takes me about two at the next rehearsal. The group as a whole minutes to get into character.” What’s the hardest part of doing a show/ isn’t just focused on their actions and Freshman Lindy Warren: “It takes about What’s the easiest? movements, although that is where most two seconds to get into character. I imag- V: “The hardest is probably singing and of their focus goes. They watch their cast ine what my character is feeling, I channel dancing at the same time. The show is members so they can be sure everyone is the lonely sad energy of my character.” great and it’s really at ease, with great man- doing their job right. It’s a group effort and agers, and the assistant director, along with when one piece of the puzzle is missing, What do you love most about this show? director Domenic Farinelli and choir direc- then the puzzle can’t be completed. It’ll be V: “I think we have a tight cast and I think tor Peter Hampton.” a great show and I recommend going to we have a ton of fun characters and the G: “The hardest part is balancing other see it. show is funny, and the characters are a lot commitments. The easiest is fitting in with of fun to play.” the cast.” G: “I like how funny it is. It’s not too seri-

Sophomore Lucy Kress performs in the Barnstormers’ production of “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Photo taken by Keith Ahearn

20 lkwd life The Lakewood Times “Because I Said I Would”: New group keeps promises By Jacklyn Voll

Photo courtesy of the organization’s website The following is a Q&A with “Be- cause I Said Would” founder Alex Sheen. “Because I Said I Would” is a non-profit organization based in Lakewood that makes sure people keep their promises. In this interview, Sheen talks about his favorite promises, his motivation behind forming the group, and how “Because I Said I Would” has impact- ed him. When did you start “Because I Said I Would”? “September 9, 2012, which was four days after my dad’s funeral, was the first time I handed out a promise card, which was the beginning of “Because I Said I Would.” We opened the store in Lakewood on January 3, 2014.”

How did you come up with the idea for “Because I Said I Would?” “I was thinking about the funeral, how people experience that one-day, then after the funeral, they move on from the event. I thought about how to save his memory so people wouldn’t just move on and forget him. He wasn’t a perfect man, but he did keep his promises, which is something I didn’t always do. The promise card is an artifact; it is tangible which makes people more likely to keep their promise. Writing the promise down brings more seriousness to it because it is harder to break the promise.”

What’s your estimation of how many promise cards you have sent out? To how many states? Countries? “2.75 million, all 50 states, 153 plus countries and they are all by request only -- no spamming. We can’t afford spam.”

If you are allowed to share, what are some of the most inspirational promises you have seen? “Matthew Cordle said “I will take full responsibility for what I’ve done” [Cordle was drunk driving and killed a man and asked Sheen for help recording his confession video and making the promise to take responsibility]. It is not the most inspirational because of how many views the confession video got, it is just a big promise to make. It would be hard to go to prison for six and a half years for a mistake; it takes a lot of reflection to take responsibility like that. It does not make him a hero, it is just a hard promise to make. A lot of promises are hard to make and even harder to keep. It inspires me because it make me think, can I make that promise? Another inspirational promise is Colonel Parker Schenecker [On January 28, 2011, Schenecker was at his desk after a quick deployment to Afghanistan when he was informed his two children, Calyx and Beau, were just shot and killed by their mother]. He promised to remember how his children lived, and wanted to live in theiir honor. He started the Calyx and Beau Memorial Fund to help send kids to school. That inspires me, when somebody loses something or someone they loved so much that they don’t let it hold them back.”

What is your favorite part of the job? “Kim je [Sheen’s dog] is my favorite part of everything. Although I am not here often, she gets to come with me everyday to work. Amanda (who is a long time friend and director of technology) watches her when I’m gone. My favorite thing about the actual job is getting to meet our supporters who have been inspired by all of these promises and actually have done something with it; that it has changed minds and actions, then you know it worth it. I’m usually tired from the time zone changes and trying to find funding. It’s not easy, but it is worth it.”

How has this organization affected your life? “I used to work at Hyland Software [in Westlake] a Fortune 100 “Best Places to Work in the U.S.”. I worked a 9-5 schedule and made a good living for myself, but I quit to start “Because I Said I Would” because the video had gone viral and people were asking for my help. I travel about 300 days out of the year. The last tour I went on, I went to 113 cities and gave about 130 speeches. I don’t make as much money as I used to, but that is okay because it’s not really that important. I have fewer friends due to the traveling and have less time to do recreational activities (like kickboxing). Fundamentally it has affected me in every single way. It has opened my mind to what is important in life and what is not -- concepts like forgiveness and dedication, what it means to actually care for friends, family, and community. I was taught to be some- body else in a good way through all the supporters and the promises they make. I feel like I have a better understanding of what life should be about than I used to.”

May 2015 lkwd life 21 “Sprang”By Ryan Swingle Break: Australia

The Sydney Opera House. All photos taken by the author Manly Beach near Sydney

Overlook point at Indian Ocean

View of Sydney Harbor

The author posing with a koala

Runway at Abrolhos Islands Airport

22 lkwd life The Lakewood Times22 “Sprang”By Ryan Swingle Break: Australia

Coral reef at Wallaby Islands Another shot of the reef at Wallaby

View of isolated Wallaby Islands

Runway at Abrolhos Islands

Rottnest Island beach Sunset at Perth 22 May 2015 lkwd life 23 Cleveland Indians: King of Social Media? By Ryan Mitchell

While the population of social media users is skewed heavily towards teen- agers and young adults, they aren’t the only ones who utilize it. With social media’s ever-increasing presence in our daily lives, more and more business- es, corporations, and especially sports franchises, have begun to use social media to broaden the reach of their brand. One extremely effective example can be found right here in our hometown in the form of the Cleveland Indians. For a baseball team whose name doesn’t carry nearly the same prestige as a franchise like the Boston Red Sox or New York Yankees, the developers behind the Indians’ public relations have created a plan ahead of their compe- tition. In recent years, the Indians have struggled to get fans involved with the team and bring in high attendance rates. In an attempt to generate interest in fans of the more often than not lackluster team, they formulated a social media campaign unlike any before. In 2010, the team launched a trial section in the stadium known as the “Tribe Social Deck” which began the Indians aggressive push to close the gap between the team and its fans. The “Social Deck” were designated seats in left field dedicated for bloggers and tweeters. The following year, the movement for enhanced fan interaction only expanded with the creation of the “Social Suite.” Billed as “the first social media-only space in professional sports,” the new suite exemplified a strong commitment to this new approach in the social media ecosystem. The Wi-Fi enabled “Social Suite” provides fans with a “plugged in” way to enjoy the game, the opportunity to both mingle offline with other attendees and also maintain an online presence during the game with their friends and followers. Indians’ President Mark Shapiro summed up the campaign by saying, “We’re cognizant of the importance of social media as a tool to engage with fans. We now have the opportunity to directly connect to our fans and engage in authentic, two-way conversations. These connections with fans strengthen our brand vision to create memories, connect gen- erations and celebrate families.” The Cleveland Indians social media campaign still extends beyond the “Social Suite.” Along with the fan media suite, the team is recognized by “ESPN the Magazine” as one of “MLB’s most Twitter-friendly teams.” They have organized and continue to maintain a solid fan-accessible Twitter approach for their franchise. Having a Twitter account with over 279,000 followers allows the team to release information in a fast and easily accessible manner. And despite having so many followers, the Indians Twitter maintains constant fan interaction with other members of Twitter by having conversations with fans and keeping up with the constant rise and fall of trends on social media. To support our hometown Cleveland Indians, make sure to venture down Indians logo and photo of the “Social Suite” to Progressive Field this summer and check the “Social Suite” yourself to dis- cover a whole new and interactive way to experience an Indians’ baseball game. Also keep up with any news and promotions by following the team on courtesy of the Indians’ official website Twitter, @Indians.

24 sports The Lakewood Times24 “IBy Matt Morgenstern actually like sports.” Cleveland Indians: I actually like sports. In eighth grade, I quit soccer after being perimentation, it’s also a geyser of conven- Many people have speculated as to vehemently disgusted by playing the sport tion. We all conform to roles, we all con- whether my bony, slender, and relatively- because of certain players and profession- form to expectations, and we all conform unmuscular frame could have run cross als (I needn’t name them). I wasn’t missed. to the extent that it envelops any original country, or played soccer, or played bas- But I still love soccer, and hope to play existence that we may have had left. King of Social Media? ketball, or baseball, or even throw a foot- some intramurals in college. As a sopho- After quitting cross country, I told myself ball. I remember once thinking, “If Mr. Lew- more, I quit cross country. I had grown I’d become the anti-establishment, retro- is judged his students on football likeability, disenchanted with the team, with the pros- seeking genius. I’d spurn society, friend- would I land in the underworld?” pects of running, with life, really. I haven’t ship, or sports, whatever. That was most of Many may look at this article and ask changed in these opinions much, but I still my junior year. I felt terrible. why I wrote it. Mainly I’d like to clear up love to run. What I love about these anec- So sports may not be the thing to bring some things after the wreckage that oc- dotes is that I can comfortably say I “quit.” this whole “personality-enlightenment” curred when I “insulted” the football team It’s hard to look at oneself as an athlete thing together for you. But, for me, it’s a sophomore as Assistant Editor of this pub- having “quit” a sport. great wake-up call to acknowledge plea- lication. The story “Football or Foosball?” I still love the Indians, the Cavs, the sure when it’s there. So, yes, I do like sports. was written in reaction to the bloated per- Browns, and any mercurial team that de- I enjoy watching them, reading about them, sonalities of the football team of that year, serves attention. I love reading ESPN: The and playing them. Whatever your version of who I saw as undeserving of such egotism Magazine because of the stories the analy- sports is good too and it’s time that we, as in the face of, well, let’s face it, not having a sis, and the great, Golden Age of sports individuals, realize that such little pleasures particularly successful season. we’ve seemingly found once again, repre- needn’t be repressed for the sake of “who Let me say that the “Mr. Lewis” I referred sented by Stephen Curry, Kyrie Irving, Mike we are.” to earlier (AP Government and Government Trout, Andrew Luck, Russell Wilson, and, teacher Ron Lewis) wrote a response ar- hopefully soon, Francisco Lindor. ticle in which he cleverly and factually The problem with this article is its weak- (an adverb not in my head while writing my nesses. It’s simply a page-filler, something (From left to right) freshman Jason Morgen- article) defended the story. No barbs re- to speed this sports section along. But stern, Mike Morgenstern, and the author main in that relationship, except for a few what I want to show people in the end is after a Lakewood Soccer Association game months back when I made a joke at the that everybody can like sports. in Fall 2004. Photo courtesy of the author expense of Bowling Green State University The problem with high school is that as (“Go Falcons!”). much as it’s a laboratory for personal ex-

24 September/OctoberMay 2015 2012 sports 25 Ranger spring season

26 lkwd life The Lakewood Times26 Pictures courtesy of Prestige Portraits (formerly Woodard Photo- graphic), Veronica Gordon, and Genna Thurman

26 September/OctoberMay 2015 2012 sports 27 28 flashback The Lakewood Times