April, 2012 The Shield News From Federal Hocking Honoring Mrs. Noel Federal Hocking Shows Off By Colleen Byron, Shield Staff By Grace McFann, Shield Staff In August of 2012 when Federal Hocking staff are For some, the Governor’s Art Show is something cleaning and decorating their rooms, math teacher Mrs. Noel anticipated from one spring to the next. To others, procras- will not be found. After 16 years of teaching at FH she is tinating until the day of show is a tradition. Despite the retiring at the age of 60. When asked about her reasoning, different habits, students from all over Ohio enter their work she said, “It was time.” Mrs. Noel recently lost her father, into this competition. Pieces from photographs to sculptures and wishes to spend more time with her mother. She also grace the show room. has two daughters and a grandchild in Brooklyn, New York, This year, FH collectively had 22 entries from the where she is expecting her second grandchild any day now. high school. Out of those 22, ten entries made it to state. She wishes to see all of them more Out of those ten that made it to often. state, one made it into the top 300. Before Mrs. Noel was a Some students include Amber teacher, she was a graphic designer VanDyke, Grace McFann, Kayla for about 16 years. She loved her Summers, Krista Cominsky and job, but decided to change careers Sarah Kierns. Sarah’s photograph and become a teacher. of a nose placed in the top 300. “I felt that God led me to The Governor’s Youth Art do that,” she said. Mrs. Noel got Exhibition has been in existence her teaching license from Glenville since 1998. The winning medias State College in Glenville, Ohio, have ranged from paintings and but she did most of her course photographs to pottery and furni- work at Marietta College and ture. Most students entering work WVUP. Mrs. Noel was a substi- Teachers get pied in the face at the recent assem- wonder at the idea of their work tute teacher in Wood County, WV bly that was held for the end of the annual food being a part of a state-wide show; before coming to Federal Hocking. drive. others are competing for schola- After retirement, Mrs. Noel plans to spend time rships. If a student’s work makes it to state, and they’ve with her mom and daughters. Also, she plans to continue applied to certain colleges, they’re automatically eligible visiting every major league ball park in the country. She for scholarships to those universities. So on top of having and her husband have been to 26 major league ball parks in their work professionally judged, they gain the opportunity their 38 years of marriage, but they still have about a dozen to scholarships up to $64,000. The Governor’s Show holds major league cities to visit. a lot of excitement for students all across the state and will “They keep building new parks, so we have to see continue to inspire and showcase the beauty of students those too,” said Noel. She also has no plans of moving away years into the future. from her home. Random Facts: She said that she is going to miss FH. One of her - Mel Blanc (the voice of Bugs Bunny) was allergic to fondest memories was the Bible Drop. Along with a group carrots. that she sponsored called Youth Alive, they gave a Bible to every student in the school. - The very first bomb dropped by the Allies on Berlin, “It was cool to have kids sitting around reading the during World War II killed the only elephant in the Bible,” said Noel. Cont. Page 11 Berlin Zoo.

$0.75 Page 1 Opinion R-E-S-P-E-C-T Find Out What it Revenge of the Nerds By Colleen Byron, Shield Staff Means to Me! Nerd, geek, poin- By Tess Kamody, Shield Staff dexter, egg-head; these are We’ve all heard the “respect your elders” talk. Treat all words commonly used people as you would want to be treated, don’t be disrespect- to describe academically- ful to your parents and teachers, all that good stuff. Does that advanced students. Why really stop the screaming and the curse words though? Of is it that smart kids are put course it doesn’t. Anyone could see that in any school around down for being the way the world. Is it really worth the detention or the demerits or they are? the days spent in alternative school just to think people will Wikipedia defines a find you cool? When you’re trying to get into a nice college nerd as a derogatory slang in a couple years, or even months, you’re not going to think term for a person typically you were so cool. described as intellectual, socially-impaired, and obsessive I know what you’re thinking at this point, ‘Oh gosh, who spends inordinate amounts of time on unpopular, ob- just another goody two-shoes trying to change the world.’ scure, or highly technical pursuits…” Whether you believe Like that’s ever going to work. But I am a student just as you this to be true or not there are two sides to every story. Not are, and I am here to say that I am quite embarrassed that so every nerd wears suspenders and has pocket protectors. The many of my classmates have the nerve to cuss out a teacher. typical “nerd” is just an average person who strives for aca- When someone acts out it reflects badly on everyone around demic success. They are motivated to be the best they can them. Teachers are here for our benefit, and I know that be. “I think about the future and think about how I wanna you’ve heard that before, and it’s true. I know that teachers give my children nice lives and it makes me wanna do well can push buttons sometimes, but it’s about respecting some- and go to college and plan for my future,” said freshman one and their opinions and the rules even when you don’t Tess Kamody. agree with them. When asked why smart kids were put down, 7th grade “I think it’s about expectations outside of school,” teacher Mr. Beherns replied “I really don’t know. Jealousy says Middle School Humanities teacher Mr. Behrens. “If may be involved. I always wanted to hangout with the smart you’ve been taught to respect adults whether you agree with kids, hoping that their smart would rub off on me.” Mr. them or not, then you will. If not, then you’ll disrespect Beherns was put in advanced placement classes from 3rd to them.” So where will you be in a couple of years once you’re 12th grade. graduated and trying to start your life? Think of it this way, Many others have an opinion on this subject includ- don’t just respect a teacher for them, do it for you. How you ing English teacher Mrs. Ripple. “I feel like if they focused act now will affect the rest of your life. So study a little more more on their own skill it would be better for everyone.” and curse a lot less. You’d be surprised where it’ll get you. Later stating that ,“I feel that students diss other students

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Page 2 Opinion because of their own insecurities.” pain.” That’s your business. If you come into class every Without nerds, there wouldn’t be videogames, NASA, morning eyes hazy, and still get good grades, cool for you. Internet, cell phones, or Ipods. It’s extremely smart and I’m not even saying that it will lower your grades and hinder talented people who created these things; if nerds didn’t ex- your future. (But mimicking your life off of the movie “Half ist there wouldn’t be any of these things. Imagine how the Baked” isn’t gonna’ get you very far, nor does it bode well world would be without people like Albert Einstein, Steve for your character in the real world.) Jobs, Stephen hawking, Galileo Galilei, and of course the The reason why I’m so passionate about it is I grew guys at the Apple genius bar. It wouldn’t be very pleasant, up around some people spending their last ten bucks on weed and things would be pretty different. People of above aver- instead of bills. People do what they want. That will never age intelligence are our world leaders. That “geek” you just change. I know you can’t OD on pot, and it’s better than tripped could be the doctor who finds a cure for cancer, or what people could be doing. But there’s no need to put all even the next president of the United States. that on blast, folks. Keep it under wraps. Or better yet, better So next time you decide to put down a geek, think about yourself. all of the things that they could contribute to society. Nerds will get their revenge one day. Nerds are the kids who are Graduation going to be the world leaders, the great minds, the disease r e s p o n s i b i l i t y v curing doctors; these are the people who you should be z a o w e p y p e p k u u a a worshipping. These kids are the future billionaires, so start i n c v h a c t r r w u v v l being nice. d k d s j o b i r y u n g x e My Two Cents w c v m l j w f a a v t j e d Grace McFann, Shield Staff e l p l k p a x y d p k u v i This is going to be blunt. No pun intended. Weed. Pot. Smoke. Green. Bud. Cannabis. Marijua- y w e c a p c k p f h h s f c na. We’ve all heard at least one of those words before. It’s p g i t u d n f p o a o k t t the center for many movies and sitcoms today. It’s mixed e y p b x b l a r h t p u q o with alcohol and given the ‘cool’ party image. Yeah, okay. f r e e d o m o o g s q x c r I’m not preaching. I’m not making a “stop smoking weed” campaign. It’s not like it would change anything, I u m g s i z n q l k o h k h i know that. I’m also not making a “goody two shoes” argu- s z r s a r h y e x s w p x a ment. With Facebook and Twitter being big parts of our b x j y y d i p l o m a n v n lives today (too big of parts, if you ask me), we learn a little u o m k o j o q n z r z u h j too much about each other. e q j v a r x w n l d y h t q For instance, of course I won’t mention names, but other certain scholars of mine prefer to market themselves CAP as “constantly danked.” (Danked – to be high.) Oddly, COLLEGE more girls put out their self-made reputations of being pot DIPLOMA smokers than some of the guys I know. Ladies, aren’t we FREEDOM supposed to set examples? Now don’t get me wrong, I FUTURE love having a good time. Just the other day, my friends and GOWN I made spectacles of ourselves, running around in jam- JOB packed cars, music up and adrenaline high. Guess what? PARTY We were all sober. RESPONSIBILITY I don’t need to “pack a bowl” or “hit a bong” to have “a good time, dude.” Of course, there are medicinal VALEDICTORIAN marijuana uses, yeah, yeah. That’s not what irks me. If a doctor says, “Yes, you may use marijuana to relieve your

Page 3 Student Affairs School Lunches: Appetizing / Next Stop, Washington, D.C.! By T’Lo Tabler, Shield Staff Healthy? Capitol Building, Holocaust Museum, Smithsonian, Megan Barnhart, Shield Staff Georgetown University….so much to see in so little time! The From chili, chips and potato wedges to the salad annual 8th grade Washington D.C. trip is a rite of passage for bar, Federal Hocking students have some choice in the many students. FH 8th graders are eagerly preparing for this lunch line. Lately, this topic has gained some publicity journey. They will depart at the crack of dawn May 7th and as First Lady Michelle Obama has urged Congress to in- return May 10th with what they have learned. crease the amount of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains There are 65 students going with ten chaperones. Mrs. in school lunches. Russell is the FH faculty advisor and she is looking forward to According to the New York Times, the law “four days of seeing kids outside of a school environment.” “would also have required schools to put more than a Mrs. Russell is not the only one looking forward to it. quarter-cup of tomato paste on a slice of pizza for it to Matt Hammer, an 8th grader, said, “I’m really excited about it count as a vegetable serving, an idea food service com- and ready for the trip. It’ll be fun.” panies opposed as unappetizing. And the rules would Other students also have high expectations. Eighth have halved the amount of sodium in school meals grader Brielle Hart expects “big buildings and seeing the gradually over 10 years.” White House”. “I think they’re a lot better since students have The agenda is action-packed. The tour includes the a choice with the two lines and the salad bar,” said FH Vietnam and WWII Memorials, the Capitol Building, Smith- Superintendent Dr. Wood. sonian, Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials, The Holocaust School lunches have been scrutinized and stu- Museum, a cruise on the Potomac River for lunch, and a ghost dents voice that they would rather see healthier lunches. tour in Alexandria Old Town. They will also visit the Arling- Sophomore Macy Pack said she would prefer real taco ton National Cemetery, the National Zoo, the Peterson House shells to Doritos for the taco salad lunch. Other students and go shopping at the Old Post Office Pavilion. All of this have preferences too. costs $550 per student and they have fundraised a great deal “I would like to see softer French toast and some to lower this price by selling candles, pasta, cookies, flowers, new ideas to switch it up. It seems like we have the same having dances and a film festival. One student is now going at thing every week,” said 8th grader Ryan Harvey. no cost, and a few others only need to pay $4. They also had a The FH cooks have attempted to get local foods, soup dinner and bake sales. Since this is a tradition for FH 8th instead of having the ingredients travel from other states. graders, many have fond memories of the trip. Proponents of the “locovore” food movement argue that Taylor Martin, a 9th grader, recollects her experience. food loses its flavor when it is shipped. Also, it can be “I remember seeing the Lincoln Memorial and was in awe of costly to pay for gas to transport food on trucks. The its size. It was impressive.” Eighth graders wish 7th graders maple-puffed spelt cereal comes from Starline Organ- the best of luck next year’s trip. ics, a farm on River Road. Dr. Wood has also entertained the idea of getting some vegetables from the Chesterhill Produce Auction. Students’ input is welcome for new and differ- ent menu ideas. As for the latest addition of the Chinese chicken, broccoli, and fortune cookies, Sophomore Alli Sasser thinks, “it’s tasty.” Congratulations to Junior Grace McFann for becoming a contributing writer for The Post, Ohio University’s student newspaper.

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Mr. Behrens always tries and makes it better for Just a Trick! students. He explains, “It’s going to be easier to do it the first By Katie Swanson, Shield Staff than the next year taking the class again.” Do you ever wonder why teachers play mischie- So next time a student complains about a teacher vous tricks on you in class? Well, it is to make students pay playing a trick on them in class, there’s always a positive attention. They come up with tricky ways for you to learn side to it no matter how bad the trick is. So take some time the lesson better or to wonder more about content and ask and thank a teacher for pushing students to succeed. questions about it. Now putting down the math book to answer some How Much Sleep do High School of those questions you’ve been wondering about is Ms. Students Get? Collins. She has been teaching for forty years and has By Anthony Brunty, Shield Staff played many tricks on students and can keep rolling with According to the National Sleep Foundation teens them. “I try to give students a reason to listen and not goof need 8.5-9.25 hours of sleep daily. How many actually get off,” she says. Collins wants students to have a “variety of this much sleep? Of course, the amount varies from per- ways to learn the lesson.” Now one may wonder how teach- son to person. However, short sleep duration is linked with ers put up with the “bad” or “failing” students in the class. increased risk of motor vehicle accidents. Whether one is Ms. Collins said “I really pay attention to them by concerned with wrecking a car or staying awake in class, it is individually calling their parents and asking the student important to develop healthy sleep habits. what is wrong, and try to make students realize they can do Six hours of sleep is what freshman Brittany Buck it.” She is there for students if they ever need to talk about gets nightly sometimes not even that. She said, “It’s weird, anything, even though she plays some tricks on students in but the less sleep I get, the more energetic I am. I’m noc- class. turnal though, so I guess that explains why I can go without Seventh grade math teacher Ms. White also has tac- sleep.” tics for engaging students. She said, “I do whatever it takes When freshman T’lo Tabler was asked how many hours of to get students to pay attention in my class room.” sleep he gets a night, he said, “I get about five hours of sleep Ms. White also stated that, “the students know that a night.” He does not like to go to bed early, instead he likes when they step into the classroom, they have to get ready to play on his iPhone. to learn but also have fun.” She has a tactic for dealing with According to the National Sleep Foundation’s 2006 challenging students. Sleep in America poll, more than one quarter of high school “I change seats. I have them come in during lunch students fall asleep in class, and experts say the less sleep and that helps because then they know if they don’t do you get will affect your grades. Without sleep it damages bad in my class, they have time for their friends instead of teens’ ability to do their best in athletics. A study conducted working on class work during lunch.” by The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration She added, “I motivate students by the oddest showed over 15% of students tenth through twelfth grades things! I give them glittery pencils and stickers. I never have driven tired, and 1,500 accidents a year are caused by knew those two things could make a seventh or eighth lack of sleep. Clearly a lack of sleep can have repercussions. grader so happy and motivated.” Across the hall from Ms. Teachers and administrators like to think students come to White is another teacher who has different ways of “trick- school well rested. ing” or motivating students. Sophomore Daisha Casey said, “I get around seven “I don’t try and trick students,” said Mr. Behrens. and a half hours of sleep on weekdays and 6 hours of sleep He has been through a lot in his teaching experience but on the weekends.” For elementary kids, parents set a bed- always keeps his head up and pays attention to his students’ time. However, once students get to middle and high school, learning. “I try and find the important side to the topic and it is ultimately up to them to impose healthy sleep habits. try to let students get interested,” he said. Katlyn Young, an eighth grader, said she gets seven and a “Even though I push students to succeed they al- half to eight hours of sleep each school night. Hopefully by most always thank me for pushing them. Ask any senior!” the time Katlyn and other students go to college, they will appreciate the importance of a good night’s sleep.

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Teen Issues The 411 of Driving School By Alli Sasser, Shield Staff Turning 16 is an important milestone for many teens these days. Most every kid looks forward to turning 16 in order to finally legally drive. The only dilemma to this is that the process of getting a license takes a lot of time. The first step to the process is getting a driving permit. A new driver must have a permit for at least six months before taking the driving test. A driving permit allows one to drive with a parent/guardian or a licensed in- structor. To get a permit, one must go to a local BMV with a parent/legal guardian, along with a birth certificate and $25. After showing a birth certificate, a parent or guardian students, loves her job, and tries her best.” fills out paperwork, and one must take a computerized test. After passing the driving hours with the instructor, After passing all of this, there is an eye test. One of the final one can then make an appointment with their local Bureau of questions to this process is whether you would like to be an Motor Vehicles to take the final driving test. When going to organ donor; it is not required and there will be no ques- take the final test you will need: $24.25, a birth certificate, a tions asked for the reasoning of your answer. social security card, glasses or contacts (if applicable), and Freshman Anthony Brunty who just got his permit proof of driver’s education classes. From that point, there is a said, “I was really happy that I passed the test because I driving test with someone at the BMV. This is all a great deal finally get to legally drive with my mommy.” of work, but driving is a privilege with immense responsibili- The second step to this process is driver’s ed, and ties. as part of this one must have 24 hours worth of class. At Good luck to all underclassmen who will be going Pioneer Driving School, there are seven, four hour classes through the driving process soon. To the drivers on the road, which are currently $255 but the price has been getting stay safe and aware. higher over the months. In driver’s education, one will Making a Transition learn many basics of driving: where to place their hands By Daisha Casey Shield Staff on a steering wheel, how to control a car when hydroplan- For some students moving to high school can be ing, what to do in a collision/wreck, and much more. After very intimidating. Some freshmen at Federal Hocking high finishing the driver’s education book and each chapter school say that they looked on the bright side and thought quiz, there is a final test. After passing a test, one signs up that high school was going to be fun. to drive with the instructor. There are eight hours worth of “I thought the change was going to be hard because driving with the instructor. Many students say that driving I’m just a freshman and everybody is older and has more with the instructor is usually the most interesting part of experience,” Freshman Brittany Buck said. driver’s education. She soon realized that it wasn’t as bad as it seems. Junior Kate Blyth, who had driving school with “High school is way easier than I thought, easier AAA, said, “My instructor fell asleep a lot… and he told than middle school. It’s also fun, too,” she said. me he spent time cross dressing and heels are hard to walk The freshmen were excited about having more free- in.” dom when they moved up to high school. They just didn’t Sophomore Tiffany Wells, who attended Pioneer realize that with more freedom came more responsibilities. Driving School, was told some very eccentric stories and According to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, high school said her instructor “still made conversation while I was is completely different from middle school. The teachers driving to make sure that I felt comfortable.” Another FH have a higher academic expectation for you because they’re student also had an interesting experience. preparing you to get ready for college. They expect you Sophomore Lauren Abrams, who went to Pioneer to improve your working skills. Included in all this school Driving School, said her instructor “said ‘pooter nuts’ and work, you have to avoid peer pressure from alcohol and break checked a lot. But she is nice, understands her

Page 6 Special Events drug substances. There is also the peer pressure of sexual Gowns, Tuxes and Light Sabers? activity. By, Brittany Buck, Shield Staff Eighth grader Ryan Harvey said, “I’m excited to go Prom was an exciting time for the juniors and to high school because of sports.” seniors at Federal Hocking High School. On April 21st at On livestrong.com the article explains that sports the Athens Rec Center, all the students gathered together to teach kids discipline and hard work. Sports also give students dance and have fun. a focus on something outside themselves. Having a group of According to deborarachelle.com, couples spend teammates and a trustworthy coach can give kids a relaxed anywhere from $800 to $1000 on dress, tux, dinner, trans- and comfortable feeling. It also says that it makes students portation and pictures. Also, it’s been surveyed that 56% of have a higher self-esteem. Playing sports helps kids stand teens will ask their parents for money to pay for prom and a better ground and stand up to peer pressure. Sports keep 67% will rent a limo. students active in their school work, too. They guide the kids “My favorite part of prom was getting all dressed to do better in school so they can continue to play sports. up and looking gorgeous!” said Junior Nikki Cremeans. No matter what the pressure is, you can always have When asked how she got ready for prom she said, “To be control over your own actions. High school isn’t anything prepared for prom you get the dress you want, getting your you can’t handle. Even if high school does get to you, you wonderful date, a tux, nails, hair, makeup, jewelry, and always have people there to help you. Your friends, par- shoes.” ents, teachers, counselors, and doctors are there to help you Although she may not be fond of the prom theme, through the transition. Star Wars, she said, “I am most definitely looking forward Special Olympics to prom this year, because I have an amazing boyfriend By: Justin Fayette, Josh McCune, and Arza Linscott, Con- (Adam Gillian) to go with that has been by my side for the tributing Writers last 10 months, and looking forward to more.” “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in Both FH students from Tri-County and the high the attempt.” school submitted ideas and voted on this year’s theme. This is the oath that each competitor will take during Although many voted for Masquerade and Charlie Sheen’s the Special Olympics. To students in Mrs. Parrotti’s class, “Winning”, Star Wars came out on top. this oath means that if you are cannot win, you are still brave “I was looking forward to prom because, as a for trying, and not giving up. This year, Federal Hocking is senior, this was my last prom I’ll attend. I want to be able sending five students to compete in the Special Olympics at to look back on my high school years and know that they Alexander High School, on Friday April 27th, 2012. The were some of the best times of my life,” said Senior Riley Special Olympics is a sports competition for people with dis- McKibben. “The prom theme doesn’t bother me. The only abilities. The goal of the Special Olympics is to have people thing that the prom theme affects is the decorations and the work together in order to have fun and to focus on the many picture backdrop. It is a pretty stupid theme, but there’s no abilities of people with disabilities. Arza Linscott and Josh reason to grouch about it. Just go with it,” she said. McCune will be competing in the running long jump. Brian When Riley was asked how she prepared for prom, White and Arza will be running the 50 meter dash while Ryan she replied, “Because I’m a girl, it took me all day to get Ellis is walking the 100m and Tiffany Kern is competing in ready for prom. Last minute tanning, getting my hair and the 25 meter wheelchair race makeup done, and getting dressed takes about six hours total.” From primping and shopping, there were many Besides the Olympians, Federal Hocking is sending expectations for this year’s prom. other students to help support the team: Romie Casey, a junior at Federal Hocking was Random Facts: asked what he was looking forward to this year at prom - Bill Gates’ house was designed using a Macintosh and he said, “Being with all my friends, taking a really nice computer. girl, and just having fun.” - The King of Hearts is the only king without a mus- Rest of story and pictures on following pages. tache.

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Prom Pictures Prom Pictures

Nicki Cremeans and Corey Rex were the princess and prince. All had a good time as DJ A-Rock spun his tunes and projected a light show on the back wall. The ceiling transfixed with a starry sky and cardboard cutouts of Yoda and R2D2 who witnessed the dancing. Many students brought glowing light sabers as props. Mr. Kuhlman, a chaperone, wore a Star Wars tie. The junior advisor, Ms. Ripple, was glad that all went well and the officers worked hard to pull it off.

Page 8 Page 9 Prom Pictures

Page 10 Gaming

Mrs. Noel Cont. Page 1 Playstation vs. Xbox 360 By Caleb Bailey, Shield Staff Being a teenager means you’re most likely going to spend all of your free time playing video games. Even though there are many platforms to play on, be it PC, or handheld systems like the Nintendo DS, the biggest conflict is the choice between the Playstation 3 and the Xbox 360. Many argue that one is better than the other, but you should do your own research to make a knowledgeable decision. The Xbox 360 seems to be the more popular choice with 64.4 million units sold as of March 27, 2012 compared to the PS3 with 62.6 with the same date (total sales are world wide). “It was the most amazing thing.” When asked what platform he chose and why senior To future struggling students, Mrs. Noel advised Josh Coen said “Playstation 3. Mostly for the online play, it’s “Come to school everyday, stay focused in class, and do free. The controllers don’t use batteries; you plug them into your work. Check and correct your work daily. Be ready the USB port and charge them. It’s mostly a personal prefer- to ask questions the next day. Help is so available in this ence, I just like Playstation better, and the blu-ray player. It school. If you realize you’re stuck, go get help right away.” looks amazing.” To any student, she recommended reading ‘Do The PS3 was released in the United States on No- hard Things’ by Alex and Brett Harris, a book about defy- vember 17, 2006, and the Xbox 360 almost a year earlier on ing the low expectations that are put on teenagers. FH stu- November 22, 2005, giving both Sony and Microsoft plenty dents will remember her, and she left a legacy of demand- of time to work out all bugs and malfunctions. Fans and of ing excellence. each system have their own personal pros and cons for each “She does her best to give you the kind of help system but some of each platforms are: the Xbox and PS3 that you need,” said sophomore Ali Sasser. Mrs. Noel is al- both have built in Wi-Fi, for online gaming, (Xbox Live, and ways offering help and trying her best to help her students Playstation Network) and browsing the internet. However, succeed. there is a fee for Xbox Live online gaming. The PS3 has a There is no doubt that Mrs. Noel is going to be built in High Def. Blu-Ray player, where as the Xbox does missed by her colleagues and students. Sophomore Daisha not. Plus the Xbox is Kinect ready and PS3 has Playstation Casey said, “She cares a lot about her students.” Move, basically Wii for the Playstation. And both have a one year limited warranty. Finally, the PS3 has two, the original Special Olympics Cont. Page 11 has four, USB ports where as the Xbox have five. the team: Junior Quentin Stone will be acting as the assis- Each platform also has its own excusive games. Most tant coach. Justin Fayette, Hailee Smith, Jennifer Tread- games released are multiplatform but there are some platform way, and Janie Ross will all be assisting Coach Parrotti, exclusives. The PS3 has Killzone 3, God of War 3, Little Big and junior Katelyn Baker is also giving great support to the Planet, etc. The Xbox 360 has all the Halo games, all the team. Everyone is excited for the Special Olympics and games that can only be played on Kinect, and Gears of War 2 hope to bring home many medals, but if not, to be brave and 3. Both come with the system, controller, and all cords to and proud for trying. set up the system. If you can’t decide on what platform to get just go with what you like better or which one has more pros Random Facts: than cons. Another thing to consider is the games; if there - Fortune cookies were actually invented in are exclusives that you want you get the system that supports America in 1918 by Charles Jung. those games. But in the end just buy what you want to, and - Contrary to popular belief, opossums, squirrels, when you do I’ll see you online. chipmunks, and mice do not carry rabies.

Page 11 Sports Small Town Team, Gone Big Ladies And Gentlemen, Start By Anthony Brunty and Megan Barnhart, Shield Staff Your Engines! Teams around the state of Ohio, including the AS1 By Kayla Barnhart, Shield Staff Warrior Elite Travel Team, all gather to play baseball. One The loud humming of cars, cheering crowds, dirt of these teams includes some devoted FH middle school stu- and dust surrounding fans as they consume hot dogs, na- dents. Although the age limit this year is 7th and 8th grade, chos, pizza, french fries, popcorn, soda, and coffee. It may next year it will be 16+. From Pittsburg, PA to Wheeling, not be the most interesting to some people, but for many, WV, they travel everywhere. When asked what his goals racing is a way of life. were, Coach Phil Hoffman said the goal is “to bring more Some people bet on who will win the race. Bets kids to Federal Hocking and to play the first state tourna- cost anywhere between $1 and $20. It all depends on the ment in Federal Hocking history.” people and how many people you have betting. According The Warriors have had a lot of success even when to Delbert Crum, racing is “the best thing ever.” playing some tough teams. In their age level they won the Usually general admission is $15 for those who state championship and are one of the best ranked teams in want to watch. Entrance to the pits is $30. The pits are Ohio. The players from Federal Hocking are Phillip Hoff- where the racecars go. Whether you are a spectator or a man, Trae Hood, Luke Horner, and Kaileb Sheets. Coach racer, you have to sign a release form so if anything hap- Hoffman recruits new players for his traveling team by pens to you, the track is not responsible. The cost of the cars depends on the parts, some are different then others. FH students go to the races for many reasons. Freshman Anthony Brunty goes to see his friends and family and hang out with friends. Katie Swanson, another freshman who also frequents the racetrack, says she goes because her step-dad races and she wants to see friends. Sometimes, there are special events at the tracks. Eighth grader Breanna Bowers said her favorite night is signature night. “It’s where everybody is allowed in the pits to have talking them into transferring to FH. Hoffman has already re- the drivers autograph shirts, flags, or pictures.” cruited new players for next year as freshman. These alleged ******************************************* new players are slated to be Devin Maxey from Eastern, According to Wikipedia, Dirt track racing is a type of auto Dantee Bramer from Trimble, and Coach Hoffman’s nephew racing performed on oval tracks. It began in the United Brett Fetty from St. Mary’s. States before World War I and became widespread during Trae Hood expressed that he enjoys being a part the 1920s and 30s. Two different types of racecars pre- of the team. “We win a lot and I have fun being with my dominated—open wheel racers in the Northeast and West friends.” and stock cars in the South. While open wheel racecars are Some of Trae Hood’s goals are to get better at hitting purpose-built racing vehicles, stock cars (also known as and being a team. Kaileb Sheets’ goals are to win every tour- fendered cars) can be either purpose-built racecars or street nament and get on base every time, and Phillip Hoffman’s vehicles that have been modified to varying degrees. goals are to get better at base running and to be a better ******************************************* pitcher. Even though these players have goals, they also can celebrate their success. They all agree that they had success with winning games and they all give it their all. Random Facts: Last year, the Warrior Elite’s placed 5th in the state - In an average lifetime, a person will walk the of Ohio. Their impressive record was 62-10. Hopefully, they equivalent of three times around the world. can keep that success rolling. - Cats can hear ultrasound.

Page 12 From Sports To Superstars

Change In Sessions Who are Today’s Heroes? By Ian Harris, Shield Staff By Katie Simpson, Shield Staff Have your he- roes changed from when you were little and loved Superman and Wonder Woman? When taking a closer look, one can find some true heroes of the world. Those heroes are our military veterans, parents, and cancer survivors. A hero can be anyone you look up to, so who’s your hero? The 2011/2012 have had some “My hero is my dad because he has raised me and ups and downs so far. This season is the first full season my brothers alone for 11 years. He’s all I could ever ask without Phil Jackson coaching the Lakers since 1999. The for in a dad,” said Megan Thompson, a freshman at Federal Laker’s new coach, Mike Brown, is still getting in the Hocking. groove of things with LA coming from the Cleveland Cava- Another student also looks up to his parents. “My liers, though many fans feel that he’s a good fit. The Lakers parents are my heroes because they raised me and are got off to a rough start, being in need of a new point guard. always there; they’re great parents,” said Matt Hammer, an Derek Fisher, a legend, was still starting, but he was begin- eighth grader at Federal Hocking. Heroes help people to ning to slow down at the age of 37. The Lakers shopped learn respect and appreciate what they have. for a new point guard for a while. They actually had a trade Not all people look up to parents as heroes, some lined up in mid December to get New Orleans Hornets people look up to men and women in the military. There are point guard, Chris Paul, but the NBA declined it, saying, “It so many people who could be considered heroes, and many wouldn’t be good for the league.” There were also rumors of them are military vets. of trading for Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo to LA, but “My cousin Kyle is my hero because I’ve always nothing ever came of it. looked up to him and a lot now because he went to the Na- Finally on March 15, 2012, The Los Angeles Lakers tional Guard,” said freshman Sami Tom. People always say traded Jason Kopono, , and a 2012 NBA draft they’re just heroes because they fight for our country but, it pick for point guard and small forward goes even deeper than that. They are also heroes at home; Christian Eyenga from the Cavaliers. The Lakers then the they’re brave, caring, courageous, and tough. same day traded Derek Fisher to the Houston Rockets for Even celebrities can be heroes. Everyone knows power forward . This surprised many Lakers Katie Couric, a famous news reporter. She has cancer and fans, saying LA should have kept Fisher and played him off supports many foundations for it. She just made a campaign the bench. Since Sessions joined the Lakers the team has to raise awareness for colon cancer. been playing better. Many people think he could be molded The best of our heroes are just out there living their into a star player, being only 25 years old, he is already con- lives like we are. You can see one everyday; they could be sidered to be very good. After four games with the Lakers, right next to you. Next time you’re watching a superhero he started and has been playing very well since his arrival. He plays great with the whole team, especially star shoot- movie, think about the real heroes. ing guard, Kobe Bryant, which will make the Lakers a real competitor during playoffs. Random Facts: Random Facts: - In just about every species of mammal, the female -Clans of long ago that wanted to get rid of lives longer than the male. unwanted people without killing them used to burn - Billy goats urinateon their own heads to smell more their houses. (Hence the expression, “to get fired”) attractive to females.

Page 13 Community Piercings On the Rise Among Piercings have been around for a very long time, and people keep getting them everyday. People get them Teens because they are in style and they are cool. Others may get By Kelsie Tabler, Shield Staff them just to fit in, but they do it most likely because they are It seems like more and more teenagers are getting cool and in style. piercings, but they are not a new trend. In fact, according to Cows, Pastures & Injection Wells? the history.net the earliest known mummified remains of a By Grace McFann, Shield Staff human that was pierced is over 5,000 years old. This gentle- Country people. The majority of the Federal Hock- man had his ears pierced with larger-gauge plugs in his ears. ing student body and faculty would classify themselves this Plugs may be one of the oldest forms of body modification way. Yet, many families throughout the district are leasing there is. away their land for cash. This is called hydraulic fracturing, The common cost of piercings are $25 to $50 and or more commonly known as “fracking.” could be more. The best thing to do when the piercing gets The official definition, according to investopedia. infected is to go back to the piercing specialist and ask for com, describes fracking as “the procedure of creating assistance. It needs to be treated as fast as possible. You do fractures in rocks and rock formations by injecting fluid not ever want to wait because it can lead to serious danger. into cracks to force them further open.” Basically, fracking For the best care you should get professional medical atten- means they drill into the earth, through layers of rock, to tion they have the best advice and cures. extract oil and gas. Eighth grader Heather Abrams said that it didn’t hurt Many fracking companies will pay anywhere from to get her lip pierced and only took about two minutes. She $200 to $5000 an acre to lease your land for drilling. They also said that you have to keep it in for about three weeks put a “drilling pad” in place that could be right in your back after then change it. yard, and the drilling begins. The drilling is loud and dis- When asked if she had trouble eating, Abrams re- turbing, and holds many dangerous possibilities, including sponded, “It was not really hard to eat, I just could not stop air and water pollution in the area surrounding the drilling, playing with it. It swelled up just a tiny bit, but they gave the migrating of the gas and oil to the surface, and the health you longer rings just in case it did.” concerns that follow. Water quality has been reported to In the case of Heather’s piercing, she had to take her mom to rapidly decrease after the fracking begins, along with such sign a legal form. Anyone under the age of 18 has to have a heavy contamination that may cause the water in your fau- legal guardian’s permission to get a piercing. She got her lip cet to become flammable. Yes, the water in your faucet may pierced at Fantasy to Flesh in Parkersburg . Other teens may literally produce flames. If you agree to lease your land for choose to go to Athens and one of the places to get a pierc- fracking, sooner or later, you may have the luxury of hold- ing is Decorative Injections on Court Street. James Kisor is ing a match under your running water and have fire. an employee at Decorative Injections and offered advice on keeping piercings free from infections. “Always clean them and look around the area.” Kisor noted that more and more teens are coming in to get pierced every year. Heather Abrams said that, “I love piercings and I’m looking forward to getting more.” It does not take long to get piercings because the needle that they use goes through skin like butter. The pro- cess includes getting setup and cleaning the area on the body with a alcohol swab. Gauging takes longer because there is more work to do. Gauging is when an object is placed in the ear and stretches the skin around it. Usually this object is a metal ring, and it stays in the ear.

Page 14 Internet Censorship Supporters of SOPA and PIPA say that the acts will But let’s be fair, and show both sides of hydraulic guard against copyright infringement on the internet, thus fracturing. Fracking can also lead to great possibilities, the protecting various content-related industries and jobs. These biggest being an economic boost, and a financial boost in acts being passed would allow the Justice Department the your pocket after leasing your land. The cash can be a life- power to go after the foreign websites willfully committing saver. or facilitating intellectual property theft. The Government The biggest issue affecting the district of Federal would be able to force U.S.–based companies, like internet Hocking is an injection well on River Road, which is less service providers, credit card companies and online adver- than a mile from our school. Injection wells are a way to dis- tisers, to cut off ties with those sites. pose of the brine, a by-product from fracking, which poses Those opposing the act are around a total of 7,000 an even higher risk of contamination. A couple that lives websites, along with a large portion of the United States near to the well site, Carolyn and Bob Hawk, offered their population. When legislators were voting on the acts there experience about living next to the well. were thousands of protesters in the streets of New York. “There for a while, it was night and day,” Carolyn Feeling the pressure from the city, the court put a hold on said, referring to the ruckus. the acts so as to not cause an ugly situation. Arguments She and her husband mentioned that there were against SOPA and PIPA include but aren’t limited to – say- trucks in and out, coming full and leaving empty, and that it ing that it would create liabilities for U.S.–based internet kept their gravel roads in a bad condition. startups and entrepreneurs, stifle the growth of the internet Carolyn also mentioned that, “there were a lot of big industry. lights [at first].” One of our very own here at Federal Hocking was The Hawks are a part of the group that is mostly a person of interest on this subject. If SOPA/PIPA were indifferent to the idea of fracking and an injection well near passed, FH Humanities teacher Mr. Warmke said “It would their home. change the way I open classes, and it would change my les- They believe that the chemicals “stay under, soak in, sons. I would hate to see material that’s useful go away.” and never come to the surface,” says Bob. There are internet service providers and entertain- Their hopes are high that all safety precautions are ment companies that could take advantage of these acts. For being taken, as are the willing leasers of land to fracking all example, if Time Warner Cable wanted to enter in an exclu- over Athens County. sive deal with Apple, that would make it to where people who carry that internet service provider could only be able Worldwide Web Vs. SOPA and to purchase material that the carrier would want them to, such as through Apple’s iTunes music store. This would PIPA make the internet a monopoly and customers victims to the By Josh Coen, Shield Staff companies that provide them television or internet, or both. There are thousands upon thousands of websites that Such a situation would be very different, well, completely host illegal downloads or links to other web sites that feature different from what the American public is accustomed to the free although copyrighted material. Entire video games, and there would surely be public backlash. movies, and songs are just a few things that can be down- loaded for free on an array of websites. Instead of targeting WHAT: Open Stage for Students! the individual material, SOPA and PIPA are going after the platform where downloads are available. These online filter- WHEN: 1st Thursday of each month at ing policies would positively benefit and negatively affect 7:00pm certain companies. Some companies that would benefit will WHERE: The Old Middle School in Stewart be paid royalties for the material that would have to be paid for and legally downloaded. Other sites that would deal with HOSTED BY: Mrs. Therese Lackey negative side effects are The Pirate Bay, Wikipedia, and Come and perform, or support your Google because of having to cut ties with certain sites. classmates!

Page 15 The Shield’s Question Of The Month: What Are Your Plans For This Summer?

“I plan to work on my goats for the fair, go on vacation “I’m gonna wear shorts, flip flops and tank tops and climb with my family in May, and go to 4-H camp at Tar Hol- Mount Rushmore with Tess and Colleen, eat watermelons low.” Emily Schall, 7th Grader at the top...Just kidding.” Taylor Martin, Freshman

“Go on vacation to Cancun, Mexico and go scubba div- “Go on a week trip with my senior friends to celebrate ing.” James Coen, Freshman graduation, go to see my mom in Oregon, and work for Kids On Campus.” Sierra Cell, Senior The Shield staff would like to wish If You Have.... everyone a safe and happy summer! An Accomplishment A Hobby A Part-Time Job A Major Ambition A Big Disappointment A Great Gripe An Appreciation A Class Experiment A Letter To The Editor Federal Hocking High School A Human Interest Story P.O. Box 117 A Bit Of News Stewart, OH 45778 Tell Us About It, We’ll Print It. Phone: (740) 662-6691 Fax: (740) 662-5065 $0.75 Page 16