Vol.Vol. 89, 89, No.5 No.6 • February • March/April 2010 • 2010 Lakewood • Lakewood High SchoolHigh School • 14100 • 141Franklin00 Franklin Blvd. Blvd.• Lakewood, • Lakewood, OH • 44107OH • 44107 Staff

Junior Greg O’Connor makes edits to a story. Photo by Deven Middleton.

Staff members work dilligently during press night. Photo by Deven Middleton.

Juniors Lisa Kowalski and Deven Middleton show off their ‘Times’ pride. Photo by Haley McGinty. The Lakewood Times 2009-2010 Editorial Board

Fiza Shah Editor in Chief Deven Middleton Design & Focus Editor Al Rodriguez News Editor Julia Houska Opinion Editor Sam Cross Co-Lakewood Life Editor Greg O’Connor Co-Lakewood Life Editor Lisa Kowalski Co-Sports Editor Andrew O’Connor Co-Sports Editor Grant Graves Co-Sports Editor Jessica Paoli Graphic Designer Katy Eberl Advertising & Business Manager Lindsay Allamon Editorial Board Member Hallah Amawi Editorial Board Member Haley McGinty Editorial Board Member Matt Snyder Editorial Board Member Karen Ballash Adviser Sports Editor Grant Graves practices Lakewood Life editor Sam Cross cheesin.’ his swing at baseball Practice. Photo Photo by Deven McGinty. ---- by Fiza Shah 2 The Lakewood Times Contents Focus 4 – Pills prove popular 6 – Survey leaves school in a ‘Daze’ 7 – Canceled counseling 8 – Recognizing a problem 29 9 – Do the crime, do the time Starting pitcher Evan Roder hopes to see many Ws in the Rangers 10 – A professional perspective record before the season ends. Hotline help News 11 – News Briefs 12 – Levy explains it all 14 – Teachers move on to the next chapter 15 – Poetry is a slam dunk at competiton Saving a life one relay at a time Opinion 28 16 – Staff Editorial Letter to the Editor Ruggers Princess Bednarski and Justinia Puskas show off their competitive spirit by entering the Physics Boat Regatta 17 – The luck of 2013 just for fun. 18 – Privacy takes a beating Cheers & Jeers 19 – Artist: what makes one? Lakewood Life 20 – Food is art 22 – Hallways or runways? 24 – Chillin’ in the English department 26 – Music Recommendations 28 – Cardboard sails at boat regatta 15 Soft-Pack Review Bayan Hammad, a senior, participates in the Poetry Slam Sports competition at Westlake High School. 29 – Baseball swinging into the season 30 – Ranger Report Cover design and photo illustration 31 – Keep on Trackin’ by Jessica Paoli. Cover Photos by Lisa Kowalski.

April 2010 3 Focus Focus Pull Towards Pills: By Haley McGinty, Editorial Board Member

High school teenagers all over America admit to start- ing marijuana in middle school. So what is the pull towards pills, and why is it moving so swiftly through high schools? “I believe I was in the 6th grade when I had first [tried] weed,” explains a male LHS user. “An older friend had suggested it. So I tried it.” Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in America. Many teens claim it is easier to get weed than it is to buy beer or cigarettes (2005 CASA National Sur- vey). However, for most high school teenagers, it’s easy to see why “popping pills” has become so popular. “There is no smell, or really any evidence at all,” says a current user. “You can conceal them anywhere you go. All you have to do is put them in your mouth, or snort them. After that, you can continue on with your day.” Since taking a pill to get high requires no visible smoke, students of various high schools use pills almost every day. “I started pills my freshman year. They were easier to conceal, and they were fun to do,” he said. Pills such as Vicodin and Percocet are the most common among high school students. Vicodin and Percocet are gener- ally prescribed by a doctor for moderate, to severe, acute pain. Since these drugs are classified as opiates, they have the ability to produce euphoria, or a state of great sense of wellbeing and elation. They may make your head feel light, as well as vision and mood changes. This sensation is what most users are after. Vicodin, Percocet, and Oxycontin are all opiates that contain acetaminophen or codeine, which are the ingredients that cause the effects of drowsiness, dizziness, etc. (medicinenet.com). Another commonly misused drug among teens is Adder- all. In 2004, it was estimated by the 17th annual National Study of Teen Drug Abuse, that 2.3 million young adults have used Adderall without a doctor’s prescription. Ad- derall is prescribed to kids with ADD and ADHD to help them keep focus and feel energized. A recent article on drugfree.org entitled “Adderall Abuse on Campus,” shows that many young Americans take Adderall in school be- cause they believe it will help them ace a big test, or com- plete a project they waited till the last minute to complete. Selling the drugs in school, however, can be a far more dangerous action. “I have never really been into pills,” ex-

Photo and silhouette by Haley McGinty 4 The Lakewood Times Focus Focus What’s The Deal?

plains a former LHS student and has stalled, while the use of prescrip- drug dealer. “Don’t get me tion medication has risen signifi- wrong, I have taken them, cantly. This survey states that “Seven but I’m not a fiend.” of the top 10 drugs abused by 12th For most dealers, graders in the year prior to the survey selling is a way to make were prescribed or, purchased quick cash. “I learned over the counter” about selling drugs from (NIDA). Although kids at school. When I these rates may figured out [that] I had con- be alarming due nections with older [adults] to our countries who would sell them to me for war on drugs, cheap, I began selling them for the number of more.” For an illicit drug deal- people using er, schools and activities in- methamphetamine, volving students is their big- cocaine, and even gest market. “With pills, I cigarettes have de- c a n c a r r y creased significantly. them “Many kids think

in my pock- ets and book bag without any suspicions,” he says. “When I sell I am usually careful about who it is exactly is buying them. If I have okay to do these never known this person I’m not going pills because they to sell to them. But with people that I are FDA approved, know really [well], it’s not a problem.” which makes them Selling pills in school could not sound less dan- only result in a huge mark on a stu- gerous,” says an dent’s permanent record, but also in LHS male user. expulsion. “It’s not that they’re moving “But there is also swiftly in school, there are just a lot of a large amount that kids who are down with pills. Some knows the effects kids even sell to random people af- and consequences, ter they have just bought them… but uses them any- That’s why a lot of kids get caught. way because they like They don’t pay attention,” he says. them. The kids who Although over 10.6 million teen- get caught, how- agers say there are many drug ever, at least [in] our dealers and users in their school school, are some of (2005 CASA National Survey), a the only people who survey conducted in December actually do pills on a 2009 by the National Institute regular basis.” on Drug Abuse (NIDA) suggests marijuana use

April 2010 5 Focus Focus Prescription drugs are the latest Buzz

By Matt Snyder, Fiza Shah, and Hallah Amawi ers are the most abused of prescription drugs, increased by more than 300 percent in 2006. Lakewood has a good image, especially after closely followed by tranquilizers, stimulants, Emergency rooms have been overwhelmed being announced Ohio’s “Number one place and sedatives. with visits due to abuse of prescription or to raise your kids.” Our school attendance and According to the Times survey, 43% of stu- over-the-counter drugs with an increase of 21 grades are up, with excellent rating. Dr. Wagner dents admitted to using marijuana, while 36% percent from 2004-2005. has been giving quarter assemblies to each class admitted to using Percoset. Others mentioned Reasons why students use such drugs range to show what areas need improvement. drugs from alcohol to exctasy, all lower than from, “I need to concentrate and I think other Parents and staff see these ratings, and as- 5% in popularity. kids use because they’re too stressed out” to “I sume that everything is perfect. That nothing When asked why they use the pills, one LHS use for social purposes and it makes you feel could go wrong. That they know everything student wrote, “It relaxes me, and helps to re- good.” they need to know about the school. Staff. Stu- mind me of a simpler, carefree time.” Prescription drugs are becoming more dents. According to the Case Western Reserve sur- popular, yet so many teens are unaware of the The latest drug bust seems to be a wake up vey, 29.9% of LHS students are going to be eventual health risks. call for everyone, especially the administration lifetime prescription drug abusers, which is According to the CDC, from 1999-2004, and parents. higher than the CFHS (child and Family Health drugs caused nearly all poison deaths, while The Lakewood Times, in an effort to accu- Service) average. most drug poisonings were caused by the abuse rately assess the extent of the problem, con- Many of the students surveyed wrote in of prescription drugs. the written response questions that pills help Even though the use of pills is on the rise, them concentrate. One student says he does 84% of students believe health teachers are pills because, “It provides enjoyable feelings, doing a good job at explaining the facts about and enhances things like music and creativity,” drugs. while another said some students “use to pay However, 70% of the 165 students who attention.” responded said that in-school interventions Among the nationally surveyed teens, 47% would not help addicted students. said they can get prescription drugs easily and One student explained that, “It would make for free, often from friends and relatives. Ten it worst because people who do it for attention percent said they bought them off a friend would use more in school. Kids don’t think or relative and another ten said they took the they have a problem and they already know the drugs without asking. Of the students surveyed effects.” by the Times, 57% said they “could obtain Another student said, “[Interventions drugs at anytime of the school day.” However, wouldn’t help because,] the opinion of the 75% of students said that they have never seen staff is not valued.” According to a lakewood Times survey drugs used at LHS. However, these surveys did not answer per- Most students say that it is not simply the haps the most important question: how can high that makes pills so attractive, but rather you stop a tiny, odorless tab that can, as one ducted a survey of randomly chosen 7th period the convenience. One student said, “With pot, student stated, “fit perfectly in an empty de- classes. 400 surveys were distributed, and 241 anyone can know that you have it. [With] pills, odorant bottle?” were returned. To ensure credibility, we then there’s no suspicion.” Another adds, “Pills are compared our results to a 2007 survey con- on the rise, cheap, and are easy to access.” duced by the Office of National drug Control The National survey concluded that “teens Policy from the Executive Office of the Presi- are abusing prescription drugs because they be- dent and one from Case Western University lieve the myth that these drugs provide a Center for Health Promotion. medically safe high.” It also stated that 3 All three surveys concluded that illegal pre- in every 10 teens think prescription pills scription drug abuse is unquestionably catching aren’t addictive. up to illegal marijuana use among teenagers. One misinformed student, respond- The National survey stated that “other than ing to the Times survey, said that pills are getting high, teens use prescription medicine to “cheap [and] non habit forming.” relieve pain, get better sleep, experiment or to The National survey stated that abus- increase their concentration.” 1/3 of the teens ing prescription drugs for the first time (7.3 million) from the national survey thought before age 16 leads to a greater risk of de- there is “nothing wrong” with taking medicine pendence later in life. In the last 10 years, without a prescription every once in a while. the number of teens going into treatment According to a Lakewood Times The same survey concluded that pain reliev- for addiction to prescription pain relievers has 6 The Lakewood Times Focus Focus Drug counseling discontinued six years ago

By Deven Middleton, Focus & Design Editor

You know her as Mrs. Jeanne Hoopes, guid- dents. said Hoopes. “Locally and nationally, it ap- ance counselor at Lakewood High, but only six “Teachers could refer any student who they peared drug use had declined which meant this years ago many knew her as a drug and preven- thought was using drugs to me and I would be- program wasn’t as needed.” tion counselor. gin help,” said Hoopes. “I followed up on stu- Despite Hoopes change from drug to guid- As the Coordinator of the Chemical Aware- dents who were in recovery, and I also ran a re- ance counselor she still advises any student ness Program at Lakewood High, Hoopes got covery group for students at Lakewood High.” who needs help to seek it. hired in 1984 for prevention programming. The funding for this program came from “My main concern is that a student who is “I was hired to help any student with drug a federal grant, which gave money from 1984 facing a problem or knows someone facing a related issues and also teach the younger grades until 2004, but that wasn’t the only reason the problem doesn’t know who to talk to,” said prevention awareness.” program ended. Hoopes. “This school is filled with people who Though the program no longer exists, the “Though our grant ended we felt that the care and we do the best we can to help kids school once had a swift system for helping stu- system wasn’t as important as it once was, “ make good choices.”

Popping pills proves popular among teens

Percocet is both physically and emotionally addictive. It blocks pain receptors in the brain, which results in a feeling of euphoria or a high. Those who become addicted are constantly searching to reproduce their initial high, which is rarely recreated. If the person stops taking this drug, they will expeirence unpleasant to dangerous symtoms.

The dangers of Adderall are Psychosis (A worsening of pre-existing illnesses), possible decreased growth, weight loss, and cardiovascular side effects. Adderall may increase the risk of heart attack, high blood pressure, and stroke in patients using this ADHD medication.

Vicodin is actually a combination of two pain relievers; acetaminophen, and hydrocodone, a synthetic codeine. Vicodin is one of the most widely prescribed pain relievers and has become one of the most frequently abused.

Percocet Adderall Vicodin April 2010 7 Focus Focus Stepping away

How to help a friend from addiction

Understanding the addiction: 1. By Julia Houska, Opinion Editor Addicts cant just stop taking drugs n 2006 38,396 people died programs for teens. The key thing to because they want to. They are of drug related deaths. Ce- look for in a rehab facility is their fo- chemically attached to drugs and lebrities such as DJ AM, cus on teens. There are also twelve- feel they always need them. Heath Ledger, Anna Nicole step programs that encourage addicts Smith,I and Bruce Lee have all died to quit and help change habits con- of drug overdoses. These celebrities nected with their addiction. There is have died from drugs like oxycodone, the teen health center that is always hydrocodone, and other prescription willing to help. Contact the West Side 2. Getting help: drugs. Office Recovery Resources, at 14805 This step goes hand in hand with the Drugs can kill, and the first step to Detroit Ave, if you are trying to help first. You must educate yourself in ad- a drug related death is abuse. signs of a friend or get help yourself. There diction so you know the best ways to an addict are negligence toward re- is also a drug rehab facility in Lake- help. You need to assess the addiction to sponsibility, taking risks they usually wood. . determine how you can help the addict. wouldn’t take, and getting into legal trouble. This abuse can and will turn into an addiction. An addiction is a condition in which a person is physically, mentally or Establish boundaries and limits emotionally dependent on a sub- 3. stance. They need a higher amount of Would an in-school Tell the addict you don’t want them hanging drugs to give them the same feelings intervention help? around you when they’re high. This will also that smaller amounts used to, and will help keep you safe, but will also let the addict have withdrawal symptoms if they know that you don’t approve of their behav- don’t get the drug. ior. You must confront the addict. Let them There are four main attitudes ad- know they can get help; have a consistent dicts have towards their addictions. message without pestering them, and always Complete denial, in most cases means have faith. that there is little help left. The addict completely denies having a problem and the only thing you can do is set Organize an intervention: limits for them. Addicts may also ad- 4. mit they have a problem but never Interventions don’t always have a positive change. There is a difference between affect but still are worth trying. The biggest admitting and accepting. An addict thing a friend can do is practice detachment. can also accept that they have a prob- Detachment is separating your feelings from lem but only change on their own the addict and helping them no matter what terms. Fear is holding these addicts it does to your friendship. Ways you can prac- back and what you as a friend need tice detachment are letting them do the things to do is be helpful and supportive. they need to do alone, allowing them to face Finally, there are addicts that accept natural consequences, having them own up to they have a problem and are open to their mistakes, and letting go of guilt. anything that can help them. There are many things people can do to help a friend that is a drug ad- dict and there are over fifty drug re- hab centers in Ohio. There are special

8 The Lakewood Times Focus Focus from addiction Facing the consequences

By Sam Cross, Lakewood Life Editor

Joining the military, opening a medical use or bought them from Not going to a juvenile court intention to deal or supply drugs checking account, or being able a friend or relative. That’s more can result in a series of more se- to others, it is considered a more to vote are just three of the op- than half of entire senior classes rious consequences. The person serious offence based on the cir- portunities that come along with nationwide abusing drugs. attending court can be sent to jail cumstances in which that person turning the “big one-eight.” Be- The question is, what’s the dif- where they will serve their required was caught. In this case, the person time. The judge however is more likely to be charged, which has the final say of what leads to court and means the pen- those consequences will alties are likely to be heavier. “Never in a million years would I have seen be. Caught again after turning 18, any of this happening ....“I definitely would have “I was scared at first, the same student said, “[I’m] not but juvenile court wasn’t sure [what it will be like] but i’ll see done things differently ... My future is in jeop- so bad,” a former LHS stu- adult court in the future.” ardy at a time I had everything going right for dent that was caught when Acklin explained, the charge of he was under 18 said. intent to supply is wide-ranging. me.” For someone who is un- “If it’s one [pill] or ten, you’re still der 18, community service going to get charged the same,” may take the place a youth The anonymous student believes ing 18 means adulthood has been ference between a tenth grader detention center, otherwise known “they can keep you anywhere be- reached; so has the responsibility. getting caught opposed to an 18 as “Juvy.” “I’ve done 24 hours of tween six months to eight years...I When most people turn 18, they year old? “You’re still going to get community service before,” the knew i was going to get something are still in high school and a part arrested and charged with the same same student said. “I was mad be- [in court], so I just accepted the of the senior class. Yet whether it thing,” Student resource officer cause working for free didn’t settle year of probation and community affects school life, home life, or Dave Acklin said. “Anything that with me,” the student said. service social life, many teens choose to happens or occurs [when you’re If drugs are found on some- I got,” the student added. use, misuse, and or abuse drugs. under the age of 18] means your one, they can be charged with As for suspension and expul- According to the National In- parents are involved.” Acklin adds. one of two offences. Charge one sion, the police have no input stitute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), Being under the age of 18 means is known as Possession. In this whatsoever. There is a solid line “from 2008 to 2009, lifetime, past- that person is still a juvenile and case, the police can give a formal between the law and the school. month, and daily use of smoke- will go to a completely different warning, which is put onto a per- “Police and school are two to- less tobacco increased significant- tally different things,” said Acklin, ly among 10th-graders.” Recently who is also a DARE officer. He however, the drug world among advises students not to take other teens seems to have taken a spin. people’s prescribed medications. The use of drugs in pill form may court than a sonal file, or “You don’t know what effect it’s be the new alternative to tobacco person who charge with going to have on your body.” he and alcohol. After surveying stu- has reached an offense added. dents nationwide, NIDA reports adulthood. l e a d i n g “Never in a million years would nonmedical use of Vicodin and Also, “if to youth I have seen any of this happen- OxyContin increased during the y o u ’ r e court. ing,” the anonymous 18 year last 5 years among 10th-grad- 18, [the old student said. “I definitely ers but remained unchanged police] would have done things differ- among 8th and 12th graders. are not ently ... My future is in jeopardy at On the other hand, 52 percent of obliged to Charge two is a time I had everything going right 12th-graders said they were given call your parents,” Acklin Possession with Intent to Sup- for me.” prescription narcotics for non- said. ply. If the police suspect the

Art by Hannah Kiraly. April 2010 9 Focus Focus

Nurse Purdy discusses dangers of drugs By Fiza Shah, Editor in Chief

Recently, the drug problem at LHS has taken prescribed amount or sell the pills at the high a whole new spin. school. According to Nurse Kristina Purdy, the new “Prevention is the really important part be- face to the LHS drug scene has many causing cause once you’re addicted, and you can be ad- 24 Hour Security Hotline factors. dicted after using a drug once depending on “Because of our culture and we are sur- your genetic makeup, it’s really hard to get that By: Juan Amador, staff writer rounded by pills that help us, I think we are fixed. Therapy takes a long time. So prevention very cavalier about prescription drugs.” is really important. And, you can start by con- “Our goal is to not expel kids, it’s to Purdy says that we don’t take prescription necting kids to life. Getting them out of their get them the help they need” said Mr. and over-the-counter drugs seriously enough. [cell phones] and other technology,” she said. Crane, the Security Supervisor for the dis- Because our society has become accustomed While Purdy says that the administration is trict. You have seen, the posters through- to treat everything with a drug, the vast major- doing what it can to help control and prevent out the school about a 24-hour security ity of people don’t know how to handle these this sudden outbreak, it is also the parents re- hotline. The number is there for anyone drugs. sponsibility to keep an eye on their children. who hears or sees something they feel “Some people abuse them without realizing “We need to observe and refer. It’s really the they should report. The hotline is not a it. If you take the wrong dose, or if you take it parents’ job to take care of their child’s medical new thing. It is printed in the handbook in the wrong manner. If you are not following and psychological needs,” said Purdy. “While every year, and there is a banner with the the directions on the bottle, you are abusing. the kids are here, it is our job to be the eyes number in the gym. We have people who do that everyday.” of the parents. So, if a teacher sees behavioral Here’s how the hotline works. You Along with the lack of knowledge, Nurse change, it is imperative that they contact the call in and you will hear a recording and Purdy says it is too easy to get highly potent parents. We need to be the eyes of the par- it will instruct you what to do. It can be prescription painkillers from the emergency ents.” anonymous if you want it to be. After rooms. The severity of this problem is being taken you leave your message, it is forwarded to “I am so upset with the emergency room seriously, but the consequences would be dire Crane’s cell phone. If he misses the call, going to vicoden. It’s just amazing. It’s trust- if something is not done. it will keep calling back until he receives ing that you are only going to use for the pre- “We will have a dead student. The worst case the message. When he goes out of town, scribed amount, but they are giving them [more scenario is that a student dies, because they the phone is left with someone who will than they need].” have abused a drug, and they have used it with respond and act upon the messages. While the ER doctors give a prescribed something else,” said Purdy. If you call and want to remain anony- amount, some students use more than the mous, they give you a three-digit number and call back later and present the three- digit number and you will get a follow-up on what you reported. Crane said the majority of callers are parents calling to inform the school what their child told them, but some students do call. The number to call is 216-227-5311.

10 The Lakewood Times News

Alumni Etch-a-sketch Alumni at film festival George VIosich III is a graduate from 1997 were both Honorable Mentions. Regional win- Lakewood Alumni are known for success. .Viosich is also etch a sketch artist who was ners’ works will be hung in the gallery at the Mike Norman graduated from LHS in 1985 featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show Febru- Cleveland Institute of Art. As for the Gold and will now be honored at the Cleveland ary 22nd. He also was on Live! with Regis and Key winners from Regionals, they advance to Film Festival.Norman co directed the film Kelly, American Journal, and In the Zone. Each the National competition; winners of which “Pinned”.The film is about the cculture of detailed piece can take Viosich up to 8 hours will be announced April 7th. high school wrestling.It was shot though the to complete. His work has been published in eyes of St.Edwards Lance Palmer and Lake- magazines such as Sports Illustrated, People, Action Team at it again wood’s Matt Curley.The Films debut was at the and Sports Illustrated for Kids.. Starting the week of April 12th, every Tuesday Big Sky film festival in Montana.”Pinned” was th and Thursday the Action Team will be collect- show March 19,20 and 25 .The Cleveland film th th ing donations for personal care packages. The festival took place March 18 though the 28 . LHS artists honored personal care packages will be given to home- st Senior Max Listkowski won 1 place in less people throughout Lakewood. Every Tues- Orchestra’s get high ratings the in the 2010 Ohio Governor’s Youth Art day and Thursday during the lunch periods, in Exhibition. His work “Stare Down” was the east café, an Action Team member will be The Ohio Music Education Associated chosen out of 12,000 entries from Ohio. Also collecting white socks (new), small packs of tis- State Orchestra Adjudicated Contest was Danielle Curran, Kimberly Farkas, and Julie sue, band-aids, and tooth brushes. By donating held by LHS. The Chamber, Symphony, Herman were honored on the Regional level. these items, you not only help others you will and Philharmonis orchestra al l won the With 1,108 pieces from 30 schools, 332 were also be eligible for prizes. Every Friday starting highest atings. Chamber and Symphony judged at a state level including four of our April 16th until April 30th there will be a raffle. won received straight superior ratings fellow LHS students. The prizes are a monsters t-shirt, Indians items, from three judges and the sight reading Max Listkowski, Madison Olszewski, and and a Chipotle gift card. judge. Chelsea Stenger were all accepted to the Scho- lastics competition. Olszewski and Stenger

April 2010 11 news news

The Board of Education reaches out, By Al Rodriguez, News Editor hit us, and we realized we were in (secretaries and clerks) agreed to a trouble.” pay freeze. The goal was to mini- But, why the two-year gap be- mize impact on student learning in tween any impacts on the schools? the classroom by staff agreeing to Madak sees a pattern. give up the right to raises for a pe- “In this nation, when we have riod of time. Field trips are now an economic downturn, it af- discouraged as well, and teachers fects the market and pri- are being asked to save money by vate sector first,” said paying for their own substitutes. Madak. “About two Other cuts have been made up years later, it hits until this point, with 1.3 million the schools, being cut back last spring, 1.6 last local busi- falls, and even more this past Janu- nesses, and ary. public sector “Our cuts so far have been pri- hard. And when marily outside of the classroom. it comes time to re- Students haven’t had to really feel cover, the busi- it yet because we’ve had extras of May 4th, a nesses recover supplies and things we need to op- decision will be made, first. Then, two erate. When we run out of those and not quickly forgotten, by the peo- years later, the things, students will start seeing Lakewood City School District. A p l e ’s schools and public the effect,” said Madak. 6.9 million dollar operating levy pockets finally start to recover.” Jacob Shelt, a sophomore, will be placed in front of taxpay- as long as To students, the Board’s doesn’t see any major impact on ing voters to decide the future of possible.” financial trouble may not his classroom environment. “I the district. The vote will result in One Lake- seem important to their lives. haven’t really noticed a difference gratefulness toward the communi- wood High School That’s the goal. In 2009, teachers, besides the whole paper shortage ty’s support, or a grim realization student supports the Board’s custodial staff, and clerical staff issue, although I’m sure the staff and a heavyhearted preparation decision to stretch the school dol- for what will come. lars. “I feel that the schools have It’s been eight years since the gone above and beyond to meet district has asked the commu- their requirements, and [Getting nity for an operating levy. This the levy passed] is due to them.” levy will support the operation said junior Brian Brink. of the district: teachers, salaries, Why is the Board in this situa- textbooks, technology, as well as tion now? other expenses needed to oper- “There are a few factors that ate the district. This is different put us here,” said Madak, “school from a bond issue, which provides dollars have been stretched, we’re money to only improve and fur- getting less from the state of Ohio, nish buildings. In 2002, the com- and property values have dropped, munity passed an operating levy, so we’re getting little state funding with a promise from the Board of based off of property values.” Education that they wouldn’t ask The 2007 economic downturn again for three years. They haven’t and the recession to follow had a asked for eight. big impact on the school’s finan- “Our philosophy has always cial situation. been not to ask before we need “We were on track until the it,” said Lakewood City Schools’ 2007 economic issue blindsided superintendent Dr. Joseph Madak, us,” said Madak. “We didn’t see Issue 6 Campaign committee member and Lakewood PTA Council Presi- “We want to keep the money in the any problems. In 2009 it finally dent Karen Lee counts out mailing pieces to be sent to Lakewood homes. Photo by Chris Gordillo 12 The Lakewood Times news news asks community for needed levy feels it a lot more than the stu- involved should urge their parents To Brink, the levy’s success on dents.” to vote for the levy issue because May 4th is a matter of respect, not The district may run out of they might find themselves losing just money. these resources – and money – if what they love.” Short, a student “The students deserve proper the levy is not passed. actively involved in the music pro- funding, and the voters owe it to “We are in a dire situation,” said gram, fears that it will fall prey to them.” Madak. “Without the levy and the cuts. “Well [if] we don’t have the cuts that still have to be made, we funds, ‘unnecessary’ programs are will run out of money at the end the first to go, right? I really like of next school year.” being in music, and I don’t want Even if the levy passes, major to see [the high school] losing cool changes are still to come. 62.84 programs just because we can’t af- jobs will be cut next school year, ford them,” said Short. including eight teachers within As grim and uncertain as the the district, and 10 staff mem- situation seems if the levy fails, bers. Another $4 million in cuts Madak and Wagner are confident will have to be made, but will be about the levy’s success on voting mostly out-of-classroom. day. “$4 million in cuts terrifies me, “The response we’ve seen has and the school running out of been positive,” said Madak, “from money is pretty bad, too,” said what we see, the majority of the junior Anna Marburger. “Not ev- community is for it. We believe the eryone learns the same way, and people understand the importance their future shouldn’t have to pay of a good school district that pre- the price.” pares students What if the community refus- es to pass the operating levy? “If the levy fails,” said principal Dr. Bill Wag- ner, “it will be painful, and we will see sig- nificant changes.” The levy fail- ing brings about problems that will hit the classroom directly. “If it fails, we will have to have six million dollars in cuts, instead of the four million if the levy does pass. We will have no way to purchase and maintain new textbooks. Electives may be for life cut. We will see an increase in class after high sizes, and a decrease in overall ed- school. If they ucation,” said Madak. follow through, we will Other programs could also be be okay.” on the chopping block once the “Times are tough for everyone. May 4th decision comes in. We want the community to help “Most parents enjoy when their us stay excellent and accountable, child gets involved in school pro- and from the surveys we’ve done grams,” said sophomore Jacob and what people have told us, they Short, “And the students who are want to as well.” April 2010 13 news news Teachers take ‘T.R.I.P.’ to retirement

By Deven Middleton, Focus & Design Editor running a multi-million dollar business and ev- at the end of the year. “They decided to leave, During a typical day at Lakewood High, stu- ery penny we save counts.” even though they didn’t think about retiring be- dents cross paths with many people. But what To some the incentive may seem new, but it’s forehand.” if some of the familiar faces they know are a common financial practice. For some students this is coming as a shock. gone? This will be a reality next year. “The incentive isn’t new; major companies They will no longer see their favorite teachers On Wednesday, March 3rd, 26 teachers final- use it in their businesses. They offer incentives on a daily basis. ized their decision to retire after the 2009-2010 to save money and respect the people who are “Kids will see that though some teachers are school year. leaving,” said Kathy Baylog, the Gifted Pro- leaving, they are saving the jobs of some of A financial incentive, called a T.R.I.P. (Timely gram Coordinator. “In Lakewood the incentive the teachers who could be riffed,” said Meinke. Retirement Incentive Program), was offered to is a way for the school to save money and also “The teachers aren’t just doing this for them- any eligible teacher who retired this year. recognize teachers for longevity of service.” selves. They’re doing it knowing their actions “The incentive was offered for strictly finan- Due to excessive budget cuts and disappear- will help the future of the school.” cial reasons,” said Principal Dr. Bill Wagner. ing funds, the district decided that approxi- Some teachers would have retired this year, “The district was planning on saving about mately 50 teachers would have the possibility with or without the incentive. one million dollars, but because of the large of being “riffed,” or a part of “reduction in “In the short term you will feel the absenc- number of teachers r e t i r i n g , forces,” from their current position. es, but in the long term it will be okay,” said we ended up sav- ing two “We will be losing some of our well known Meinke. million, and I’d s a y and highly respected teachers, but, we must Baylog had some final thoughts on Lake- that’s pret- t y thank them, because they will save the jobs wood’s future. significant. of the remaining teachers,” said Wagner. “The “This is good for the district,” said Baylog. R u n n i n g school will look different next year, but we “The more we save, the more we keep, whether the district have the resources to offer the same great pro- that be through programs or teachers from be- is like grams.” ing riffed. The district is now better prepared “For the situation Lakewood is in now, the to go forward, which we will do, because it is incentive means, ‘the more staff that retires al- inevitable.” low fewer teachers to be riffed,’” said Baylog. Though all of the staff members retiring will Offering the incentive pushed many staff be missed, Lakewood has the tools to recover. members to retire. For some, the incentive “It’s healthy to embrace change, to accept was a bonus, for others, it was the deciding change and realize change isn’t necessarily bad, factor. it’s good,” said Meinke. “Lakewood will change, “A portion of the 26 people realized but we will continue, we’ll do alright.” that the incentive is advantageous for the school and themselves,” said English teacher Gail Meinke, who will be retiring Gail Meinke teaches class. Photo by Fiza Shah.

14 The Lakewood Times news news Poetry Slam pulls in a crowd By Hallah Amawi, Ediotrial Board Member

Roses are red, violets are blue, if you can pletely nerve-wrack- write poetry better than this, then this club’s for ing.” Ritter said. “It you: Lakewood High’s poetry slam. was different than The club gives students the opportunity to what I am used to. share poems they’ve written. Senior Seth Baker I am usually a char- put the club together with the help of English acter in a play, and I teacher Jane Blackie and this is the club’s first get to be someone year. else. When reading R.A.D., Race and Diversity, held a “Spoken my poems, I am ex- Word Night” last year where kids could share pressing myself and Junior Kevin Ritter preforms his second place winning poem. Photo their writing. This is when junior Kevin Ritter my feelings toward by Jane Balckie. became interested and involved in the club. something. I take my Since joining, Ritter ended up in the top five in work personally, and get nervous.” ing first place. Each participant was given two Westlake’s Poetry Slam competition on Friday Winner of Westlake’s Poetry Slam, Erik minutes to write a poem and Ritter was picked March 5. Slimak was the only other performer who re- to go first. “It was very stressful. The two min- About 75 teachers, parents and students ceived straight tens in the first round. utes felt like three hours.” said Ritter. from LHS and Westlake High filled the seats In the end, three of the top five contestants He already had a third poem in mind when of Westlake’s Performing Arts Center, to watch were LHS students. Representing LHS was se- walking to the stage, but came up second to the first annual Poetry Slam competition. After nior Bayan Hammad, and juniors Danielle Cur- Slimak. “Lakewood had a strong showing, and each participant performed, judges from both ran and Kevin Ritter. Ritter received another I hope to do this again,” said Ritter. “It was fun schools figured an appropriate score (ten being set of straight tens from the judges for his sec- to perform my work in front of others.” the best). Decimals were encouraged to break ond poem and had the crowd on their feet. So Lakewood’s Poetry Slam performs at the ties in the end. did Slimak. Root Café on Fridays each month and they After Ritter’s performance, he was called to At the last minute, it was decided to have a hope to gain new members willing to share the stage, receiving straight tens. “It was com- sudden death round to break the tie, determin- their passion for poetry. Cancer survivors celebrate, remember, and fight back By Katy Eberl, Business Manager

Relay for Life is a program that gether and unite them as one. They During this time, candles are lit though cancer is not one hundred offers the opportunity to celebrate represent hope for those who are and personal stories are shared. In percent preventable, people can cancer survivors and remember currently facing cancer, and a re- all of its serenity and importance, still put forth the effort to stop it those who lost their fight for life minder that many p e o p l e a lap of silence is run in honor in its tracks. By becoming active in against this debilitating disease. support them. For of loved ones who have fundraisers such as Relay for Life, Rocky River High School hosted a those that have been lost. volunteers might find themselves Relay for Life event on Saturday, lost loved ones After that, the motivated to expand and help out May 29 and Sunday, May 30. Cur- to this horrible dis- Fight Back Cer- in other fundraisers such as, Race rently there are 280 participants ease, these themes emony is held. for the Cure, Stride for Hope, Run registered. However, that doesn’t reassure them that This is when Wild for a Cure, Susan G. Ko- mean there isn’t room for more. no one will ever be many people men’s Breast Cancer 3-Day, etc. Founded by Dr. Gordy Klatt in forgotten.” make a commit- Reaching out and helping others is 1985, Relay for Life, an American During the Celebra- ment to them- a great way to prevent these dis- Cancer Society fundraiser, is also tion Ceremony, the partici- selves to save eases. Cancer never sleeps. That’s a global effort. This fundraiser pating survivors get to walk/run lives. According to the message that is being sent includes three inner ceremonies, their own lap. This is a supportive the Relay for Life website, “getting out to the community during this known as Celebrate, Remember, lap that encourages and comforts a screening test, getting educated twenty-four hour event. and Fight Back. the strong survivors who have won about the disease, quitting smok- Locations where these events According to the Relay for Life in the battle over cancer. Within ing, or quitting any other cancer- will take place and timings are website, “These themes are the the Remembrance Ceremony, causing habits” are some examples listed on the website. The website ceremonies that link the relays to- there is a Luminaria ceremony. of what people commit to. Even also explains how to register.

April 2010 15 Opinion Times Staff Editorial: We can’t take “No” for an answer As a teenage student at Lakewood High the best they can with what they have. They ogy, and because of the Board of Education’s School, there’s a good chance the levy issue were only supposed to stretch that money for wise spending of money. isn’t on your mind. three years. That’s five years of extra budget- The students in this district are so used to There are more important things, right? It’s a ing, penny pinching, and saving in order to pre- high quality teaching environments, that any- money issue that’s over your heads, and all you vent asking for money they really didn’t need thing less, moving into anything less than “ex- know is that if it doesn’t pass, something bad any earlier. cellent” will make us feel inadequate. What might happen. In fact, there’s a good chance Could they have asked the people of Lake- student, parent, or citizen of Lakewood would you don’t care at all, because you know little to wood for money earlier? Yes. Did they throw want to see their award winning school system nothing about it. themselves in this situation because of that? suffer because of inadequate funding? This can But, this “money problem” affects our fu- No. The school couldn’t predict the economic happen if the levy fails. ture. As LHS students, this levy should matter trouble that the state and nation were to face, We’re teens. We can’t vote, so no matter how to you, and as citizens of Lakewood, this levy and it hit us hard. As home values fell, so did much we support this, we can’t do anything should matter to your parents even more. school income. The Board quickly found its about it, right? Wrong. We have a voice. Not The schools are in trouble. Dr. Madak, our on-track budget falling apart, and now, in 2010, all of us can vote, but that doesn’t mean our superintendent of schools has said that we we are on the brink of having nothing by next opinion can’t be heard. Our parents and other will be broke next year without this levy pass- year. adults in Lakewood decide whether or not this ing. What does “broke” mean to us? “Broke” The Board spent its money wisely for eight happens. These people can help us prevent our means the possibility of your favorite electives years in order to build the trust of the commu- favorite class from being cut. They can help being gone. “Broke” means sitting in study nity and prevent having to go back and ask for us get a better education, a better future, and hall instead of taking electives that may be cut. money sooner than they needed to. Now, the better jobs. We, as students, have a responsi- “Broke” means a more crowded classroom and 6.9 million is needed desperately. bility to tell our elders to research the facts. less individual attention. And most important- We, the student body, receive education that We have a responsibility to tell them they are ly, “broke” means losing a pivotal part of our some of us take for granted. Day to day our committing to our future and the future of the lives: education. teachers provide us with excellent education community by investing in our learning. We The Board of Education is asking for 6.9 that would be difficult to obtain elsewhere. have a responsibility to the Board, the teachers, million dollars. 6.9 Million dollars may seem This goes beyond the “good teacher, bad administration, and community, but most im- like a lot initially, but to be honest, it doesn’t teacher” arguments. The teachers and adminis- portantly ourselves, to ask these adults to vote even scratch the surface of the school’s prob- tration do a lot for us, the students. We are an “yes” on Issue 6 May 4th. lems. The school board has stretched the com- “excellent” school district because of the hard Our futures definitely count on it. munity’s money for eight years in order to do work, the community’s investment in technol-

Dear Editor of the Lakewood Times, strict,” as stated by Dr. Wagner. I am in fact, it corrupts students education and administra- I’m in complete agreement with Greg like most students, in disagreement with this tion thinks it’s our fault that we’re late all the O’Connor’s article in the February issue called hall sweep policy. And I think that it’s ridicu- time. And the word doesn’t need people with “Student says Security Sweeps are Silly.” Be- lous that students get blamed for being late suspensions on their record, because the Lake- cause I agree with the fact that students get a and caught at the light because the Lakewood wood Board of Education made the decision Wednesday School for being caught at the light, Board of Education waits one hundred yeas to for the renovation, not us. So, technically we then in result being late to the next class, it’s tear down and rebuild the East Wing, and it should blame the administration and Board of totalitarian and ridiculous of these administra- just had to be at this time when our country is Education for this injustice among this student tors to think that students are only late because in need of knowledgeable, self disciplined, and body. So I think for once the administration all they do is socialize and goof around in the well rounded people to bring this country back should be punished for this, not us. hallways and while crossing the street. And I to it’s feet when the economy is in reparation Sincerely, am bothered by the fact that “if students get but is still in shambles. Christopher McKearney-Sophmore. to class on time then we will have to be less Because with all this transitioning going on 16 The Lakewood Times Opinion Opinion For freshman, 13 isn’t so unlucky

belong to upperclassman. to or should do but for those of us who do, Two years As a junior in September I marveled at the it was a waste of a period. This year, the LHS ago I came fact that Snowball was going to be my first requirement was stopped and is now “strongly to Lakewood dance without underclassman. That was quickly recommended.” When are we going to stop high as an taken away from me. It was decided that Snow- treating the freshmen like upperclassman. I’m a w k w a r d ball would become a school wide dance. To me not the only one who’s noticed ”It seems like f r e s h m a n . it seemed like another homecoming but with all the underclassman are being treated like up- My backpack snow in the parking lot. Yes, I did get to dance perclassman and that’s not fair” said Freshman was big, my with all of my freshman friends, but I still felt Connor Burke. voice was still upset that this policy was changed. I have my freshman friends. They are nice changing and OGT week has always been a time for the kids and are very mature for their age but I’m Greg I would trip upperclassman to get the extra sleep they need only jealous of the luck the received. I get that O’Connor about three and freshman to take Terra Nova test. We still life isn’t fair, but isn’t there a point where fresh- times a day. get to sleep in, but so do the freshman. This man can actually understand that being the Being a means that they get to come in at 11 just like youngest isn’t always great ? I want to know freshman can be really annoying. You used to the juniors and seniors I had to work my tail why we even bother having this hierarchy, if never have the same respect as everybody else. off for two years to get this, and now the class it means nothing. It’s called upper and under- “Being more equal to upperclassman has made of ’13 gets it without doing anything. It would classman for a reason. Before any freshman get me feel more welcome to the school” said seem more fair if the freshman just came and angry ask yourself how would you feel if you freshman Kyle Racy .I know that when I was had a study hall instead of reaping the rewards were a junior or a senior in my situation ? I can a freshman I thought we should all be treated of the juniors and seniors. tell you this. It’s not quite as fulfilling to get it equal. As a junior my perspective has changed. Career Connections had to be my least favor- all at once. The luck of ’13 has caused this year’s freshman ite class of my entire freshman year. It’s great to be given most of the privileges that used to for those who don’t have a clue what they want

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April 2010 17 Opinion Opinion

Student’s privacy rights are being violated

With the This event occurred after the school pun- pathetic. They claim to have had the feature in- advent of ished a student for misconduct, using pho- stalled in order to track lost or stolen cameras. new tech- tographic evidence taken by the laptop. The However, what would be the chance that if a nology, the district acknowledged that the school can re- student lost a laptop, they would leave it open? presence of motely activate a laptop’s webcam at any time, And if it were by some chance left open, how Big Brother but assured families that it would only be used often could someone identify where it was? is becoming to track missing laptops. However, the evidence Couldn’t the school use a simple tracking de- more evi- points to another explanation. vice, such as GPS, more adequate in finding a dent among This case is nothing short of an outrage. missing laptop? the citizens. The school district, besides breaking federal This case deals with more than simply viola- With these wiretap laws, broke a basic rule of personal pri- tion of privacy. This story is most disturbing Brian Brink new advanc- vacy. How could a school district think they are because of the message the school district con- es, many entitled to invade the privacy of its students? veys: that students have no individual rights. believe the They have no right, just as no one has the right This message is apparent throughout vari- government is using technology to spy on citi- to invade the personal privacy of another. ous schools across the United States, taking zens. People believe the government does spy, Any doubt that the school district is lying is the form of dress codes and censorship. Some but if someone were asked whether schools erased completely when the origin of the case people even believe that minors do not have spy on students, most would say, “No way.” is examined. It came about after the school dis- rights given by law until they are 18. We need How could a school spy on its students, and trict used illegal evidence against a student to to stop thinking this way. This case is evidence why would they? Surely, they can’t. Well, think punish him, gathering this evidence by remote- that violations of students’ rights are growing. again. ly activating the laptop camera and taking pic- School districts need to curtail these practices, A Philadelphia area school district, the Low- tures. Records show that the district activated and recognize that students deserve basic indi- er Merion School District, was sued in a class the cameras more than 40 times during the last vidual rights, too. action lawsuit representing more than 1,800 year. Students report a green light would turn students. The students were given laptops by on, worrying the students that the district was the district in an attempt to progress into the filming them, and they were. technological age. The excuse put out by the school district is

• To the Health Care bill • To the Health Care bill passing passing • To the choir and German • To April, yet it’s still 40 trips degrees at press time • To Lady GaGa coming to • To spring allergies Cleveland • To signing up for AP • To beginning spring exams sports

18 The Lakewood Times Opinion Opinion

What makes an artist? By Lindsay Allamon, Editorial Board Member

Art is the physical evi- can. Both Beethoven, a composer, and DaV- Ranger Café. While he wouldn’t call himself an dence of creativity in an inci, a painter, sculptor and inventor, are con- artist, he does tell of his artistic side through artist. Art comes through sidered two of the most talented artists that “sugar pulling;” the practice of creating sugar music, food, paint- have ever lived. sculptures. ings, sculptures Meredith Richards, a junior AP Art History “Art is found in nature and food,” said and much more. student, defines art as “a unique way to express McGorray, In the culinary industry, “there’s an Many people yourself.” Richards also finds that music and art at a certain level…the art is highlighting in- a r e artists. Some physical art are interrelated. “Good music is gredients in a way that makes the dish’s presen- d o n’t even know it, based off art and they both use expression as tation really stand out,” McGorray said. w h i l e others are something to thrive off of.” Art surrounds everyone. It is what creates just too afraid to A painted canvas presents itself in visual happiness. It is happiness. Beauty alone, the e x p r e s s it. They fear form, which then affects the viewer. A musi- beauty of anything is art. In actuality, art is the failure, ridi- cule, or just cian uses sound to leave an impact on the audi- thought process of the person expressing their plain em- barrassment. ence. emotion. Whoever appreciates what has been When a person can express An aspect that makes art interesting is that in created will then consider that art work. the way they are feeling, or some way, each piece is unique. Maggie Latham, It is important for a person to take pride in create a near rep- lica of what a student in Art 3 who is also taking a “portfo- their talents. Along with that, they must experi- they imagine, that’s when they’ve lio building” class at the Cleveland Institute of ment with art to see what they are capable of proven they are an art- ist. Art re- Art simply states that art is “anything new.” An producing. Above all, that person must rec- ally is in the eye of the beholder. artist is “describing a new idea that no one has ognize their place and position in the artistic While art is a verb and an thought of before,” Latham said. world. antonym for the word “skill”, The psychology of emotion is the it is generally referred to a s root of all inspiration in works of a noun. Many things can b e art. Latham explains further that labeled as works of art, “you always criticize yourself but those who view them, when wanting to portray a cer- may not perceive them to tain thought. Sometimes the be. One person may look at idea doesn’t match up with a sculpture and think it is the what you’re trying to do.” work of a genius, and another Art can apply to all of person can view the same object and the five senses: feel, think it’s nothing more than a hunk of clay. taste, sound, smell, Painters and musicians (among other artists) and sight. Culinary have both been considered tortured souls. This artwork applies is an instance where the interpretation of art to each, especially depends on the interpreter. It may be that the smell and taste. only person who can appreciate an artist’s work Chef Rob McGor- is the artist themself. ray isn’t technically There are musicians who create pieces of an art teacher; he is work that dramatically move and touch a per- the senior culinary son in similar ways as a monumental painting instructor of the

Art by Lis Demmitt

April 2010 19 Lkwd Life

An award winning cake sits on display at Create-A-Cake. Photo by Deven Middleton. The Art of Food Exploring Lakewood’s creative, edible wonders

By Gwen Steven, Staff Writer Lakewood holds a large variety of bakeries Sweet Designs, located on Detroit Avenue, “everything is handmade and we pay specific and specialty shops whose rich and authentic was established 15 years ago and has already attention to detail.” treats never leave a sweet tooth unsatisfied. made it’s name known by chocoholics through- Malley’s Chocolates isn’t the only place that With concoctions that illuminate all of the out the greater Cleveland area. should look out for competition, but also the senses, these stores have a knack for produc- “We make all of our chocolate [in the store], assorted bakeries that line Lakewood’s store- ing works of art. Though there are numerous and our chocolate is made fresh daily,” says fronts. shops through-out the city that sell a multitude Natalia of Sweet Designs, whose aunt began Create-A-Cake has been in business for products, Lakewood has yet to be recognized the business over a decade ago. more than 25 years. From the mouth-watering for the art of food. “We also have some unusual things you cookies and “Dainty Delites” (miniature tiered Though some loyal costumers may consid- wouldn’t see at other places,” she says, like their cakes) to the creative, all occasion cakes, this er a Five Guys burger just as exquisite as the truffles made from scratch and almond pecan store commits to taking the customer’s vision “Mona Lisa,” a piece of seasoned beef can- popcorn. and turning it into reality. not compare to the delectable delicacies found According to Natalia, Sweet Designs’ deca- “[We have a] unique service, we do more along the streets of Lakewood. dent creations are considered art. She says that customized cakes, while other bakeries only 20 The Lakewood Times Lkwd Life Lkwd Life

Various fruit is covered in Edible Arrangement topping. Photo by Dylan Lewis.

A colorful array of candies sits at Sweet Designs. Photo by Deven Middleton.

An array of fruit displays the art of Edible Arrangements. Sweet designs worker Lauren Glover prepares a sweet treat. Photo by Dylan Lewis. Photo by Deven Middleton. do certain things,” explains Create-A-Cake em- branches overseas, Edible Arrangements is customers would feel that way. She also men- ployee, Diane. sure to be a juicy choice. tions that she believes the 10-year-old franchise Pleasing the customer is key to any business, “[We are] probably the first franchise in this is very “creative, and innovative.” and this company believes that they create the type of [arrangement], besides cookies. We do Without having to create a new hole in your cream of the crop, it even says so in their order have a very good product, and a lot of people belt, you can enjoy the succulent bouquets. No policy. enjoy it,” says Brianne, an employee at Edible calories to count, no low-fat options necessary, “At Create-A-Cake our cakes aren’t just cakes, Arrangements. just the pleasure of freshly, and fashionably cut they are works of art. Like any great artist, we If you prefer squiggly-cut melon to stacked fruit. need time to create our masterpieces.” grapes, sliced oranges to flower-shaped pine- Though some people may still feel that While many bakeries, chocolate, and candy apple, or chocolate covered strawberries to art belongs on walls, the stage, or showcased stores pull drooling customers in with their ex- chocolate covered apples, they’ve got the fix through-out museums, art is everywhere. With otic flavorings and luscious desserts, one place for you. With fresh fruit always creatively pre- just one trip to Lakewood, eventually art can is taking a walk on the healthy side, while bring- sented is various designs, it almost looks too find it’s way into your stomachs too. ing the rest of the country along with them one good to eat. state at a time. Brianne admitted that she, “has never looked As a rapidly expanding company, now with at [the bouquets] as art,” but can see why most April 2010 21 Lkwd Life Lkwd Life Runway By Grace Coy, Staff Writer Photos by Grace Coy

Tribal Prints Bring out your wild side with hip, tribal prints! Diane Von Furstenberg ‘s state- ment dress and jacket illustrates this look perfectly. Meredith Richard’s print dress is flirty and strong with her military influ- enced jacket and skinny belt. Photo cour- tesy of dianevonfurstenberg.com.

Cute and Casual Turn your winter into spring! This spring on the runway Alexander Wang showed an initiative take on gym sweats. Kelly Zandy models the off-the-shoulder look in her gray sweatshirt. Warm up your flannels by rolling the sleeves or turning it into a light jacket over a dress. Photo courtesy of alexander- wang.com 22 The Lakewood Times Lkwd Life Lkwd Life to hallway By Grace Coy, Staff Writer Photos by Grace Coy

Tiny Floral The most obvious trend for spring is flo- ral but there are ways to update this classic trend. Betsey Johnson included miniature flowers in her spring collection and you can too! Look for tiny floral prints in dresses and accessories. Mikela Tardivo wears a super cute belt with tiny flowers. Photo courtesy of betseyjohnson.com

Blindingly Bright Adds some pop to your spring wardrobe with bright, colorful prints. Marc Jacobs showed awesome prints in various shades of neon. Maeve Dif- fenbacher shows off this look with her fun printed skirt. Photo courtesy of marcjacobs.com

April 2010 23 Lkwd Life Lkwd Life

English teachers begin a new

By Fiza Shah, Editor-in-Chief

When Gail Meinke was in the 7th grade, she afraid to walk in here. I think it’s important to says she is looking forward to not waking up at knew she wanted to teach. Though she de- be fair. Not generous. Not ruthless. Just fair,” five in the morning. scribes herself as wild, and other professions said Meinke. Meinke realizes that she is leaving during a th attracted her attention, her love for literature She was inspired by her 7 grade teacher, time of difficulty. However, she has seen times triumphed. By her senior year, she knew exactly who “put life lessons above English lessons.” like this befall Lakewood high several times what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. This is now the philosophy Meinke tries to in the past. Every time the district talks about Then, in 1975, she began to teach. teach by. “I teach the people first, and then I cuts, people say that the school will never be as Now, 35 years later, she is planning to start teach the subject matter.” good as before. However, Meinke has seen that a new phase in her life. At the end of this year, Before teaching at LHS, she attended a large things have been just as good, and even better. Meinke plans on retiring after what she de- school with a limited amount of diversity. “I think there is amazing potential. I think scribes as “a satisfying career.” However, she truly experienced diversity after the facilities offer amazing potential and I know Meinke knew she would want to teach at the moving to Lakewood. In the beginning diver- the [staff does]. I am proud of what we’ve ac- high school level because it was the perfect age sity in Lakewood didn’t simply mean black and complished.” “to talk about literature and real life, without white. Lakewood was a hub of nationalities, Having taught a lot of student teachers over talking over the kids’ heads while many other suburbs were trying to go the years, she realizes a lot of them don’t have She was young when she first began teach- from predominantly white to some blacks. This jobs right now. “I would like to give them a ing, and the age difference between herself and diversity was a result of large numbers of im- shot. And, I don’t know if my leaving is going her students was nearly indistinguishable. She migrants moving to Lakewood from war torn to create the position, but I know my staying was 21, and the kids she was teaching were 18. or impoverished regions of the world. won’t.” Though she came out of college thinking she Lakewood’s diversity is one of the reasons Meinke feels like this is the perfect time to knew everything, looking back she realizes why Meinke has enjoyed working in the school retire. how wrong her as- sump- district for so many years. “I have thoroughly “I am not at the point where I am saying tion was. enjoyed the experience.” ‘wow, I can’t wait to get out of here,’ and I “I don’t want to One of the best parts of teaching for Meinke am not at the point where I am saying, ‘I can’t be so easy that I is the interaction with the students. leave. There’s too much for me to still do.’ I can am a push over, “The kids here are amazing,” said Meinke. “I look back and say that there are more things I and not so strict have stayed here for 35 years. Isn’t that state- can do, but I have done enough to walk away that peo- ment enough. There are some I would like to and be really proud and not have regrets. And, ple are take home with me, and there are some I keep that’s a good time to leave.” at an arm’s distance.” Meinke says many people have com- mented that she doesn’t look 56, and ask how she maintains her youth. “It’s be- cause I work here,” she said. “The kids here keep me young. I already count gray hairs that I have named after the kids here,” she joked. Looking back, she feels like she has had a worthwhile career. Now, Meinke is looking forward to retirement. “It’s the end of this experience. It’s a new phase in my life and it’s a good phase.” After her retirement, Meinke plans to travel and jokingly

Gail Meinke watches her students. Photo by Fiza Shah.

24 The Lakewood Times Lkwd Life Lkwd Life

chapter in their own stories

By Grant Graves, Co-Sports Editor

Imagine yourself trapped in a world of déjà ing skills along with assignments they had for vu. Reading To Kill A Mockingbird the same other classes.” time of year, every year, for 30 years. Acting Cure stepped into the role of English teach- out Romeo and Juliet so many times you could er after her predecessor retired leaving the door beat out Leonardo Dicaprio for the role of open for her to seize the opportunity. Romeo. “Once I took the job as English teacher, it This has been Jamie Cure’s life for more totally changed the way I approached the sub- than 30 years. Now, as the school year dwindles ject and the way I taught” said Cure. “When away, it will be the last time through for her. I was the reading specialist no two assign- An illustrious career is coming to a close. ments were alike. Every day was new and Her philosophy has given life to the same old the best part was no homework or the lessons taught year over year and has brought tests to grade. That changed dramatically excitement to the class room. when I changed titles.” “I always knew I was going to be a The pieces of literature that Cure en- teacher,” Cure said. “I didn’t even give another joys teaching are famed works such as the profession a second glance.” Cure went to the Greek Philosophers, Ralph Waldo Emer- Ohio University in Athens Ohio where the son and “To Kill A Mockingbird.” “ I love beautiful landscape and friends helped shape teaching these works. Every year I still get how she views the educational system. “I have chocked up or giddy at the same parts six very good friends that I still keep in contact in “To Kill A Mockingbird. “It never with that I graduated with. They are all teach- ceases to get me and that is the mark of ers in a wide variety of subjects from math to a truly great piece of literature.” science,” said Cure. She has taught everyone from ad- Another institution that played a huge role vanced placement students to fellow in shaping Cure into the teacher she is today is faculty members, and they have many a writing workshop she attended at the Univer- memories to recall upon. sity of New Hampshire. William Tobin was one student who “One summer up there stands out in my had her for advanced English 10. “ mind. It was one hundred and three degrees on The class was very difficult. But the campus and I was there writing nonstop during lessons I learned had a great impact the Fourth of July. I think it was times like on me as a student and have helped that instance that shaped how my work ethic is shaped me to be the student I am to- today.” The more Cure wrote, the more moti- day.” Tobin said. vated she became to becoming the best reader Mathew Majewski also had Cure and writer she could. in English 9. “ She probably the best Cure has not always been the ad- English teacher I have had. She made vanced English teacher that many in the stu- the lessons come to life. Her style really dent body view her as today. “I first started at helped bring a spontaneous nature to the oth- Lakewood as the reading specialist and I loved erwise bland world of English 9.” it,” said Cure. “Everyday was a new day. It was not the same lesson time and time again. Kids from all realms of the school would come in and I would help them to enhance their read-

Gail Meinke watches her students. Photo by Fiza Shah. Jamie Cure talks to her students. Photo by Grant Graves,

April 2010 25 Lkwd Life Lkwd Life Expand your music library By Lindsay Allamon

a catch-all term for the newest rock music, which has not been around long enough to Alternative: acquire a specific name Animal Collective (alternative/indie)

Eva Malonis, a junior at LHS, you’ll find that the lyrics hit you describes Animal Collective and on a personal level that you can explains in detail why they are put into perspective with other her favorite band: “The alterna- aspects of your life. They are able tive sound of Animal Collective to discuss complex feelings in is guaranteed to lift spirits. Their simple phrases such as “I should synthesizer beats are appropriate be floating but I’m weighted by for blasting in the car, dancing, thinking,” a lyric that can be found or serving as meditative back- on “What Would I Want, Sky?” ground music. Animal Collec- on their newest EP Fall Be Kind. tive has a wide range of sounds, Although Animal Collective is my from the psychedelic noises found favorite band to listen to because in the album Danse Manatee, to of the memories I have tied with the more sing-along friendly al- it, it’s not the kind of sound that bum Merriweather Post Pavillion, anyone will appreciate. But if you which contains feel-good songs give them a listen, you might just such as “My Girls” and “Summer- find your new favorite group.” time Clothes”. Listen closely and

If you like Animal Collective, try listening to: • Avey Tare • Grizzly Bear • Panda Bear • Beach House Animal Collective’s 2005 album, “Feels”. Photo cour- • Department of Eagles tesy of the official Animal Collective website.

a musical genre, combining elements Folk Rock: of folk music and rock music. The Avett Brothers

Folk Rock is somewhat of a well, and the lyrics make up for popular genre, but the good bands any flaws that the voice may have. seem to go unnoticed. Upon re- The Avett Brothers are very similar cently discovering them, Matt Ma- to Band of Horses, so if you like jewski, a junior, was excited to tell one of the two you are almost sure his description of the folk rock to like the other. The album I and band. “The Avett Brothers have Love and You starts with a slow excellent use of the instruments in piano ballad entitled ‘I and Love their music, such as piano, drums, and You‘, but later the albumb acoustic guitar, and the occasional goes into more up-tempo rock banjo. Their lyrics are extraordi- songs such as ‘Kick Drum Heart.’ The acoustics of the Avett Brothers echo in the streets. Photo courtesy of the official Avett Brothers website. nary and everyone can relate to The Avett Brothers just make you them. Their latest album I and feel good with their use of opti- If you like The Avett Brothers, try listening to: Love and You combines elements mistic lyrics and instrumentation.” • The Shins of folk, rock, and a slight country • Beirut feel. Their vocals are a bit graualy, • Elliot Smith but are harmonized extremely • Bright Eyes • Devendra Banhart 26 The Lakewood Times Lkwd Life Lkwd Life a term used to describe independence from major indie: commercial record Rap/Hip-hop: a musical genre which developed alongside Of Montreal hip-hop culture, defined by stylistic elements such as rapping, DJing, sampling, scratching Of Montreal is a little cra- and beatboxing zier than most other indie bands. To the naked ear they might just A Tribe Called Quest sound like loosey goosey bub- bly musicians without any depth. The band “A Tribe Called Quest” However if you read the lyrics you would probably be considered hip- see that they don’t retract them- hop more than it is rap. They have selves from saying anything too created their own unique style of strange or ridiculous. They have Of Montreal as they eat cake and enjoying life. hip-hop, where they are mellow but Photo courtesy of the official Of Montreal website. a way of expressing themselves forceful simultaneously. Their style in lyrics that would sound cliché If you like Of Montreal, try listening to: of writing easy misconstrued lyr- ics makes the stories in their songs if anyone else were to ever use • Neutral Milk Hotel even more interesting. A Tribe Called them. While listening to the album • TV on the Radio Quest enjoys singing about real life, it “Hissing Fauna, Are You The De- • Nada Surf stroyer”, you’ll find many instances is beyond the typical radio rap. This • Dear and the Headlights funky feel will makes their rapping where you have to replay the song • Menomena because of the shock and humor relaxing, you can dance along with- of their lyrics. They can get emo- out breaking too much of a sweat. A tional and dark too, especially in good song that represents their style the song “The Past is a Grotesque is “1nce Again.” Animal.” If you like A Tribe Called Quest, try listening to: • Kid Sister Techno/Freestyle: • Dilated Peoples • Kid Cudi a form of electronic raps and rhythmic music • Nas that depends greatly on the use of synthesizers to • Lupe Fiasco create a wide scale of beats to lay the background for the lyrics to come. Bassnectar

What started off as an electroni- cally beat experiment grew into what it is called today, “Bassnectar”. It is actually a one-man group originated from Lorin Ashton. Bassnectar was created as almost a scientific experi- ment. Ashton explores the several regions of the music spectra to col- lect only the most intensive beats and gather them into one, mind blow- ing composition. He calls the end product “Omni tempo mazimalism” which translates to mean no rules, limitations, or hesitation in the fusing Lorin Ashton of Bassnecar seeks new sounds. Photo courtesy of the ordination with the foreign, or of the official Bassnectar website. the classic with the strange. Helpful websites: If you like Bassnectar, try listening to: tuneglue.com- build your own music library off of computerized recommendations • Dub FX last.fm.com- get the entire biography, discography, pictures, and videos of a band • Pretty Light along with similar band recommendations • The Pumma Trio

April 2010 27 Lkwd Life Lkwd Life Students surf and sink at Physics Boat Regatta Photos by Dylan Lewis

1: Alex Rerko chases another class- mate. 2: seniors Carley Amalong and Sarah Kelly. 3: Dave Hille and his family partici- pate in the race. 4: Senior Mary Leach prepares for the race.

1 2

3 4 The Soft Pack- The Soft Pack

By Peter Quigley, Staff Writer

It’s 2010 and we are in a time that is full of cuit. The Soft Pack is a new band from San they really mean it. Take the song “C’mon”. faceless indie rock bands trying to make a name Diego that plays very straight forward rock and The chorus has so much emotion and person- for themselves. roll. In fact, the songs they play aren’t really ality. It truly makes you want to pick up a guitar Some are talented, some aren’t. The Soft anything we haven’t heard before. You can and sing along. Some other stand out songs Pack is one of those bands that you can really compare a lot of their stuff to The Kinks, Oa- are the frantic “Flammable” and the incredibly get excited about. Just listen to their song “An- sis, The Strokes, and maybe even The Beatles. catchy “Down on Loving”. swer to Yourself ” and you will know what I Not to mention that there are a few throw- The Soft Pack sound like they want to be the mean. The four gritty power chords that make away songs on The Soft Pack that are pretty biggest band in the world, and it’s refreshing up the verse seem to ooze out of your speak- forgettable. But the Soft Pack’s approach to to hear an indie band with so much ambition. ers as the drums bounce along to the pulsating the songs they play is so darn earnest that you They played on David Letterman’s show on rhythm. The melody is unbelievable and the really can’t help but fall in love with this album. February 2nd, and they played ten shows in one lyrics tell a tale of angst and mistrust towards This is only their second album, released in ear- day to endorse their album’s release. They also role models and authority. “You gotta answer ly February, but it sounds more like their third released two music videos in two weeks. Yes, to yourself/ You can’t depend on anyone else” or fourth. Sure, they sound like a band you the Soft Pack is on a mission, and they won’t declares the silky, yet defiant voice of singer might hear at a bar or someone’s garage, but stop until they hit the top. If they get there, I’ll Matt Lamkin. The song rounds out with an they do have that special something that puts be with them, blasting “Answer to Yourself ” aggressive chorus and a climatic guitar solo be- them head and shoulders above all of the other as loud as I can on my iPod. With a few little fore suddenly burning out, leaving you wanting garage bands in the country. tweaks, this band has the potential for great- more. I love the swagger and confidence this band ness. Definitely check this band out. This is easily one of the best new songs that has. Even on the throw-away songs, the Soft I’ve heard coming out of the bustling indie cir- Pack plays with an attitude, and they play like 28 The Lakewood Times Sports

Baseball Team, "Buffalo Bill" Look For Hot Start By Lisa Kowalski, Sports Editor Above: Senior Bill “Bro” Michaels is Lakewood’s ace going into the 09-10 season. With teams like Brunswick and “they’re never apart.” McKee is Strongsville in their conference, in the outfield and Wick is at first the baseball team’s upcoming sea- base. Both are “prime to have a Lamphear catches son will most likely prove to be a pretty good season.” challenge. Especially after losing a In ten years when this team number of top players and going looks back and reminisces about baseball fever 3 and 7 last year. The boys will re- their baseball experience at LHS, By Lisa Kowalski, Sports Editor ally need to pull together and be- Lamphear hopes that they see it come more of a team to have the as a positive experience that they Some would call Head baseball to analyze the game and being successful season they have been learned from, and can be proud coach Chris Lamphear a ‘baseball able to apply that as a coach, are working towards. of. “Hopefully they look back and fanatic’. Like most fans, Lamp- where I thought my skills were Coach Chris Lamphear picked a they feel like they left everything hear began his baseball career as best used. It just made sense,” few out of the group that he be- on the field, they feel satisfied with a child, and his love for the game Lamphear said. lieves will be major contributors to their efforts, no matter what,” said has grown over time. Another aspect of the game the team this year, such as seniors Lamphear “I was a catcher my entire that Lamphear is drawn to is that Bill Michaels, who is going to pitch life and I really thought the it reveals character. “I think it’s a at Buffalo University, was injured game through. The intricacies game that reveals so much more the whole season last year but of the game, all parts of it re- about a person and who you are. “[looks] very sharp.” Third Base- ally appealed to me,” Lamphear It gives you an opportunity to men, senior Danny Hartsel, who indicated that he wasn’t “given improve yourself. I talk to my kids has impressed Lamphear with his the physical gifts to be a great all the time about how the things work ethic and improvement on player, but [he] liked the mental you exhibit in the classroom are the field, is “looking very prom- set of the game.” Lamphear the same things you exhibit on ising.“ Also senior Mike Shestina, notes one aspect of his character the baseball field, the idea of pa- a center fielder who played on that led him to be both a coach, tience, hard work, and persever- varsity last year, stands to have and a teacher, is that he is a very ance,” Lamphear said. “a pretty solid season,” and Con- analytical person. “Being able nor McKee and Brian Wick, who Lamphear puts together because Photos by Tyler Wick April 2010 29 Sports Sports RANGERREPORT

Former Ranger Kelsey Moran, Nick Ramsey had an experience who graduated in ’09, is having a he will never forget. Far from the stellar freshman year on the Ohio ring of Wrestlemania, a trip to State University swim team. At the Columbus is the pinnacle of high Big ten Championships on Febru- school wrestling. Ramsey was in a ary 20th, Kelsey broke the OSU whirlwind of emotions. “The Ohio record in the 100 yard backstroke State wrestling complex was huge. with a time of 54.10. Moran also The atmosphere was electric. I was swam on the 200 yard medley relay kind of nervous but I had a job team that has broken the school to do.” Ramsey went on to say it record twice this season. was a memory that will never leave Another former Ranger, Ma- his mind and he is very eager to korobondo “Dee” Salukombo get back. “ I didn’t wrestle to po- a sophomore at Denison, who tential but I am eager to get back played soccer and ran Cross Coun- next year. I have a fire to get back try and Track, placed seventh out now.” For now Ramsey will train of ten runners in the 2010 NCAA even harder to achieve his goal, to Division III Indoor Track & Field win states his senior year. Championship with a time of 4:21.03. As a result Salukombo Kelsey Moran takes her mark on the was named to the All-America 100 backstroke at the 2009 District team, his second All-America swim meet. Photo by Evan Graves award.

Favorite sport Spiderman or # 1 comfort food? Superpower of that you don’t Batman? choice ? play?

To fly, so Skiing, Cookie I wouldn’t if we had a Batman Dough have to run skiing team Brad Zapalla, 11 I would be on it

Honey Nut Invisibility Power Spiderman Cheerios Walking

Emily Bango, 9

Mark my Donuts territory on Jai- Alai ...duh! command Batman

Bob Zimmermann, 11

30 The Lakewood Times Sports Sports Mystery of meets solved By Andrew O’Connor, Sports Editor

When the gun goes off so does the race, but not in every track and field event. That’s where the running begins, but not ev- ery part of track and field is about running. In track there are 4 different categories of events. There is sprinting and distance running. Along with throwers and jumpers. Each category has its own unique events, which bring their own challenges. There are 5 distance events, an 800-meter race, a 1600-meter race and a 3200-meter race. Both the 800-meter race and 1600- meter race have a relay team of four. “Distance is great because if you make a mistake you have time to make up for your error,” says Junior Clay Verga. “The down side is that a distance race is Eli gets ready for a quick sprint draining over a long span of time.” An 800 meter race is a half mile. A 1600-meter race is a mile and a 3200-meter race is two miles. Ac- cording to Verga, “We have a lot of good, solid guys this year and we are in a different divisions that are more on the teams level.” Sprints have 8 events but all are much shorter in length. There is the 100- meter, 200-meter, 400-meter and 300-meter hurdle, 110-meter hurdle with the 100 meter, 200 meter and 400 meter race. “The best part of a sprint is pushing your body to its limits in terms of speed,” said senior Eli Carr. Sprinting shows many opposites. “Its tough to get over just the start of the race” said Carr. “But once you get moving its all about going as fast as you can.” Kyle soars to the sky in a high jump Throwers only have two events but they might be the most unique in all of track and field. There is shot put, which is the throwing of a baseball sized, eight-pound ball. Then there is discus. A Frisbee like object. “We goof off a lot but when it’s time to get serious we can do that too,” said Senior Kailey Kind- er. “Throwing is hard though because there is a lot of skill and form. I’ve been doing it six years and I don’t even have it down yet.” Some mistake throwing events just to be about strength. “I’m hoping we have a good year.” Kinder said. “We have a lot more boys this year and just more people who are eager to get started.” Jumping, like throwing, only has two events. The high jump and the long jump. Sophomore Kyle Hoefke is a high jumper for the track team. “My favorite part of high jumping is the experience of flying high. The feeling of being weightless, says Hoefke. “It’s really exciting because there is a lot of build up to a jump and it’s also the first event so all eyes are on you.” Jumping isn’t as easy as it may sound. “Its tough because there is a lot of form. It’s tough to learn to arch your back and jump at the right time to get over the bar.” Hoefke is looking forward to the season. “Hopefully the jumpers have a good year. That’s the plan. Everyone just needs to do their best”. Batman Clay gets set for a long run Kaliey prepares for a round of discus Photos by Andrew O’Connor.

April 2010 31 Focus Focus Final Word Was it ever a secret? By Fiza Shah, Editor in Chief

Most students weren’t surprised by the re- on some things, especially when that comment For us, it is difficult to see the amazing po- cent drug bust. Most students either laughed it won’t do anyone any good. tential of LHS students, and see it all wasted off, or carried a look of worried guilt on their However, when it has the possibility of with one pill. That’s all it takes. Just one tablet faces throughout the day. They didn’t, however, changing someone’s outlook, why wouldn’t you can cause a lifelong addiction. truly think about the futures of those who were jump at the opportunity? Along with being able to get pills from oth- caught or their own. Perhaps we are choosing to ignore this prob- er’s prescriptions, the ER is handing out pills The drug problem at LHS is like the ele- lem because we don’t know how to deal with like candy. A student can easily get high dos- phant in the room, becoming louder and more it. However, I know from personal experience es of prescription pain killers. While they are noticeable with the passage of each year. And, that no matter how many times you sweep your directed to only use them if they have severe we continue to look the other way. But, for how problems under the rug, they don’t disappear. pain, teens abuse or sell them. long? How long can we last before the problem Rather, they multiply, until it is too late to sim- LHS has been honored with numerous becomes too big for us to handle? ply sweep them away. We can’t afford to wait. awards, all of which represent the dedication With this concern in mind, the Times decided While health teachers are doing an excellent the administration, staff, and students have to- to tackle this issue. However, it was not without job of trying to spread wards the school. much disagreement. Though all of drug awareness, and I know of one student though, the students agreed the administra- who during her freshman year, that the issue was tion is taking used to brag about her dream to an important one, steps towards go to Yale University. She was some thought it a d d r e s s i n g an honors student, taking AP might generate a this problem, classes, and looking at a bright negative response, students aren’t future. That is, until she began us- not only on the part g e t t i n g ing drugs as an escape from the pressures of the administration, the of reality. She became sober and relapsed sev- but also the students. At first, we were tentative, mes- eral times. Until, finally, her luck ran out. She not wanting to step on anyone’s toes. It wasn’t sage. was caught, and she faced the consequences. until we began investigating that we truly real- Is reality so ter- This is why it is sad to see such destructive ized the extent of the problem at LHS. ri- ble that we must rely on actions, and such ignorance. To see such poten- For me, however, it was not the extent of the substance abuse to numb our “pain?” Or are tial along with such belligerence. problem that was surprising. Rather, it was the we so bored that ingesting dangerous chemi- Nonetheless, the choice to do drugs is not resistance we met along the way. While I un- cals is the only way to have “fun?” This is what mine to make. We are all capable of making our derstood why the administration might worry, I confuses me. I know that life isn’t always great. own choices and dealing with the effects. didn’t understand why the teaching staff was so That people can sometimes be irritating and But it is the responsibility of the staff and tentative. Several teachers refused to comment school can be stressful. However, I also know administration to set an example for the stu- because they were afraid of the repercussions that playing Russian roulette with my life isn’t dents. Don’t advise us to tell the truth, and they might face. the answer. spend your time dodging our questions. Don’t How can we battle this oncoming threat if The Times Staff ’s goal was not to preach shut down classroom discussions before they we are too afraid to address the problem? to the student body, nor was it to damage the start. And, most of all, don’t think that your As a society, have we become overly cau- reputation of the school. It was simply to try silence helps anyone. tious, pencil-pushers, incapable of alluding to to assess the problem, not only terms of sta- anything that might bring about some sort of tistics but also the motivations behind taking risk? I understand that it is difficult to comment that first pill.

32 The Lakewood Times