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Copley High School

Friday, April 1, Drumbeat2011 Vol. 5 Issue 4 Fact check: Senate Bill 5 By Abigail Grable A plethora of adversity and confusion surrounds the recent proposal of Senate Bill Five, as was demonstrated by Copley stu- dents’ plan to protest the bill on “Walk-out Wednesday.” The Ohio Senate has passed the bill with a 17-16 vote, and it has moved to the House for further consideration. Since the measure is likely to receive strong sup- port in the House, where the Republicans hold a 59-40 majority, it is important that Ohioans are knowledgeable about the pos- sible ramifications of the bill. That way, all citizens, including students, can understand how it could affect those whom the bill con- cerns. If passed and subsequently converted to a law, Senate Bill Five will: Above: Seniors at Copley High School take part in the signing of Rachel’s Challenge. Right: Words of encouragement were posted on students’ lockers •Ban strikes by public workers and pe- the day prior to the assembly. nalize those who participate in walkouts •Cease automatic pay wages and base Photos by Amanda Wanner and Alaina Bartel future wage increases on merit •Give elected officials the final say in contract disagreements •Eliminate binding arbitration, which Students react to police officers and firefighters use to resolve contract disputes •Require workers to contribute at least 15 percent of their medical premiums •Prohibit governments from paying part Rachel’s Challenge of public employees’ share of pension costs •Only permit union workers to bargain Rachel Joy Scott was a young girl with enormous dreams. The unfairly downplays the significance of the other victims of the Col- for wages, hours, and working conditions first person to die in the infamous Columbine shooting of1999, umbine shooting. •Eliminate seniority as the sole deter- Scott dedicated her short life to touching the lives of everyone around Yet, most students extracted their own meaning from Rachel’s mining factor in order of layoffs or dismiss- her. She had an unchecked passion for reaching out to others with Challenge: that life is a fragile and mysterious entity, with an un- als kindness, and in the wake of her death, she has challenged all people known end and uncertainty as to when one will see someone else •Prevent union contracts from setting to do the same. On Tuesday, March 22, her message called out to the for the last time. Seniors such as Erika Tribuzi took this aspect of the ratios, such as the number of students per students of Copley High School. presentation to heart. teacher Rachel’s Challenge is a foundation created by Scott’s father, Dar- “After you graduate, there will be some people that you’re never •Allow governments to terminate, mod- rell Scott, which encourages people everywhere, particularly teenag- going to see or talk to ever again. That’s just scary to think about,” ify, or reopen a contract if the state auditor ers, to create chain reactions of kindness and compassion in their Tribuzi confessed. Accordingly, the speaker encouraged students to or governor determines that the government communities. Through entries in her diary and an essay entitled tell their friends, loved ones, and even acquaintances how much they is in fiscal watch or emergency “My Ethics, My Code,” Scott revealed her basic beliefs about life mean to them. •Limit union employees’ vacation time and mankind; that one should stay true to oneself, keep a positive Furthermore, Scott’s story highlights the importance of making to no more than six weeks before 20 years character, and resist peer pressure. Consequently, after Scott’s death, every day count, and of using each day of one’s life to leave a small, of service these words inspired her father to establish Rachel’s Challenge and positive impact upon the life of another. By doing so, one can rest as- •Limit union employees to a maximum its five basic principles: sured that he or she has, no matter how seemingly insignificantly, left of 12 paid holidays and three paid personal 1. Look for the best in others and eliminate prejudices in one’s a legacy behind. Sophomore Mackenzie Barker believes that Scott’s days heart story has “helped a lot of people realize that tomorrow is not prom- •Prohibit privately run, publicly funded 2. Dare to dream, write goals, and keep a journal ised.” The motivation to cherish each day is reverberating around a charter schools from collectively bargaining 3. Choose positive influences growing number of communities as Rachel’s Challenge is presented Governor John Kasich praises the bill as 4. Kind words and little acts of kindness produce huge results to students and citizens around the world. “a major step forward in correcting the imbal- 5. Start a chain reaction In response to Rachel’s Challenge, Principal Ryba collected a ance between taxpayers and the government The assembly regarding Rachel’s Challenge evoked various re- group of 35 CHS students that visited the middle school in order to unions that work for them.” Democrats and sponses from the students at CHS. Many shed tears as they watched deliver leadership training to the students there. During this meet- labor leaders, however, called the bill an at- the footage of the Columbine shooting and Rachel’s funeral. Senior ing, both CHS and CFMS students stood up in a line and explained tempt to “bust unions” and disagree with its Erin Cawthorne was impressed by the amount of perspective that she the impact that Rachel’s Challenge had on them. Sophomore Emily necessity, claiming that workers are willing was able to gain from the presentation. Ahern said that most students claimed they would treat siblings and to accept concessions. They are also unhappy “It was moving and really inspirational, like nothing I’ve ever friends better, and that overall, students understood Scott’s message. about the amount of negotiating power the seen before,” Cawthorne shared. “It opened my eyes about how much things matter to people. bill will give to public employers. Others were shocked as they were told that Scott had inadver- What surprised me is my realization that my actions could have such Students had the chance to voice their tently predicted the timing of her own death. However, some CHS a large impact--both negative and positive--on others,” Ahern admit- opinions and concerns regarding Senate Bill students were left unaffected by the presentation. Many, such as ted. Five on March 29. Attorney John Britton sophomore Cory Schepp, failed to see the depth of Scott’s message. This group will meet periodically throughout the next school discussed the bill with students, and after- Although Schepp was moved by the assembly, he feels that display- year to discuss and plan potential projects that will apply to Rachel’s ward, students had the opportunity to record ing kindness and helping others “are things people should be doing Challenge. Furthermore, clubs and sports teams will undertake a their thoughts onto a DVD that will be sent everyday. Just because a girl dies shouldn’t be a reason to start doing project related to Rachel’s Challenge during the 2011-2012 school to Ohio representatives. them.” year. Thus begins the chain reaction of kindness and compassion Similarly, sophomore Tevin Griffin feels that Rachel’s Challenge throughout the Copley community. April 1, 2011 Copley High School Drumbeat 2 Opinion Super Walmart: Taking over Copley? Libya: SOS By Adam Brown that way, Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club shoppers regular Wal-Mart and the Sam’s Club that By Abigail Grable The Middle East cannot cut through the development. While already exist in our area? The people of and North Africa are It’s huge, it’s vast, and it’s abettermontrose.com in turmoil and need coming to a town near you: The argue that the parking lot help. Revolutions, Rothrock Road Retail Center, of the current Wal-Mart both violent and non- which will include a Super is large enough to expand violent, have sparked in Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club, and a the store. Thus, this entire Africa and will be put 24/7 gas station, is tentatively construction process is into books as historical scheduled to be constructed in largely unnecessary, and landmarks, but how history will record the Copley Township. Considering the inevitable feud between Libyan revolution remains unknown. What that a regular Wal-Mart and Copley and Fairlawn could is clear is that the people of Libya need a Sam’s Club exist less than easily be avoided. serious aid to achieve freedom. two miles from the proposed Moreover, is a Super Colonel Gaddafi, Libya’s dictator since building site, and since the Wal-Mart really necessary? 1969, is massacring his citizens by means new establishments will take Sure, it offers produce of airstrikes, artillery barrages, and firing revenue away from Fairlawn while a regular Wal-Mart squads. Unfortunately, the leaders of the free and into Copley, those who does not, but Acme and world were indecisive in what action to take. live in the Montrose area are Giant Eagle are right down But finally, the United States, along with less than excited. As a former the street. How much other nations of the free world, are doing the inhabitant of Rosemont Ridge, cheaper can a Super Wal- following: supporting the people’s efforts, but I can understand why. Mart offer those goods not taking over their revolution for them. The precise location of Cartoon drawn by senior Megan Zimmer anyway? The United Nations decision during the the new shopping center is an Rosemont Ridge middle of this month to establish a no-fly isolated corner of Copley Township that lies inhabitants have the right zone over Libya should give the Libyans the between an interstate highway, the city of some may say that this is a seemingly drastic to preserve the safety of their development, edge they need to achieve freedom. A no-fly Fairlawn, and a state highway. People who live measure, but I understand why it is necessary. and the city of Fairlawn has the right to zone means exactly what its name implies: in that area will undoubtedly fight increased I used to ride my bike to Rosemont Country keep the revenue that it already receives. no aircraft may be used in the no-fly zone traffic in addition to enduring the eyesore Club almost every day in the summer, and A Super Wal-Mart is superfluous and will area. Gaddafi won’t be permitted to use his that the center will create. In regards to the increased traffic flow could be a potential create a hulking eyesore for all who live in its air force, and since Gaddafi broke the no-fly traffic situation, the Rosemont entrance that hazard to other children who do the same. vicinity. The Rothrock Road Retail Center is zone almost immediately, the UN justifiably leads straight to Montrose will be sealed off; Secondly. what’s wrong with the an unnecessary and poor investment. provided air support to the people of the country, increasing their capabilities for the Fads: the bold, bizarre, and downright crazy successful achievement of freedom. The no-fly-zone should please most people. Those that want more dramatic By Jen Smaltz fake tans can come to a long awaited halt for man’s comb-over. Even Justin Bieber fixed support for Libya will get it; the United the season. Those who have been religiously his comb-over bangs, which means everyone High school: As much as it is the most Nations is providing military aid to bring sprayed down with a Super Soaker full of should (according to the twelve-year-old girls down a dictator. And providing only air common place to receive an education, it is Tropicana all winter can shortly get as many of America). Secondly, if you’re not going to also the place where most teenage fads seek support prevents another long, drawn out natural rays as they want. do your hair in the morning, at least don’t ground war for the US. origin. Fads are obviously something that Pajama days are awesome; everyone throw it up into an awful messy bun that have existed for centuries. You would think Most importantly, the Libyans will has to have them occasionally. But wearing looks like a dead hamster. A nice ponytail be more likely to achieve freedom and that after some of the ridiculous trends, like pajamas to school puts a question in all of our never goes out of style. Last but not least, those venetian-blind sunglasses, things could democracy for themselves. The notion that minds: Did you wear the pajamas you slept guys, please wash your hair. If your hair is the U.S. can spread democracy with little only get better—but that is obviously not in, or did you seriously wake up and put on longer than an inch this means you actually the case. personal cost should be appealing to all. entirely new pj’s? Whichever the answer may have to scrub. I will personally go out and But President Obama and other world It’s March already, so the obsession with be, it gets a little ridiculous. And if you are buy you some Head and Shoulders; just the Uggs and Ugg-like boots needs to end leaders fear ground war still. They feel that going to wear your sweats to school, what is wash it. once this “act of war” is used, there may be no soon. Everybody has been wearing the same the point of applying a full face of makeup As silly as the trends we may follow boots since the first week in October and other choice but to provide ground support. and having your hair perfectly in place? In may be, our parents jumped on the exact This fear is reasonable, and I think that the by now, you can smell a pair of Uggs from my opinion, some of these new fads make same bandwagon twenty or thirty years ago. halfway across the school. The snow has world leaders need to set firm boundaries for absolutely no sense at all—or is that the Some of the fads our parents had have even themselves. If the leaders do cross the line pretty much ceased for the season, and so point? resurfaced in this day and age; however, there should the Eskimo gear. To supplement the into ground conflict, potential exists for Hair. We all have beef about other is no one I sympathize for more than the thousands of non-Libyan lives to be lost, absence of snow and slush, the sun should be people’s hair, and this is mine: First of all brave-hearted educators and administrators fully-fledged in its radiant glow by sometime and I agree with President Obama that that ladies, your bangs are supposed frame your who so boldly stand by and watch as the would be disastrous. next week. Hopefully this means that the face; it is not supposed to look like an old trends change from year to year.

Copley High School ...... It’s our turn now...... Drumbeat Copley High School Drumbeat 3807 Ridgewood Rd. Copley, Ohio 44321 Phone: 330.664.4999 x527068 Ritzy Revere, country corn-fed Clover- Speech and Debate. notice, just like we claim every teenager at Fax: 330.664.4951 leaf, Barbertucky, Firestoned, and the list However, we can’t ignore the recent ste- Revere has truckloads of money and thinks [email protected] goes on. Copley students heedlessly use these reotypes that exist due to local and national he or she is better than everyone else. Editors nicknames, stereotyping every school we headlines: “Police investigate high school While most would like to think Copley Editor-in-Chief: Abigail Grable come across. While it’s not unusual for local fight,” “Copley-Fairlawn students voice con- and Revere have nothing in common and are News Editor: Adam Brown high schools to throw figurative sticks and cerns,” and “Sparks fly in debate on ‘Dr. Phil simply just competitors, it seems that we are Feature Editor: Amanda Wanner stones at neighboring districts, have any of Show.’” getting a synonymous stereotype. Entertainment Editor: Paula Ramsey us stopped and wondered what other schools Unfortunately, one instance can create Morgan McHargh, a sophomore at Fire- Sports Editor: Kelly Fields think of our Alma Mater? a stereotype that is hard to dismiss in the stone, explained, “People at my school think Layout Editor: Iman AbdoulKarim Copley sophomore Chris Haskins minds of outsiders. Copley is stuck-up, but other than that, I Photography Editor: Alaina Bartel feels that he can speak for his peers, saying, Revere junior Kara Gerheart confessed, know a lot wish they were in your place as “Copley is a good, normal school with a di- “A lot of our students dislike Copley because far as sports and stuff like that.” Staff Writers verse student body, great academics, and a they’re our number one rivals, and most peo- Unfair stereotypes and perceptions exist Jen Smaltz Emma Webb lot of good underrated sports.” ple say it is a scary, bad school with all of the for every school. However, the Copley dis- It’s true. Copley’s diverse student pop- fights that go on.” trict does not have to live up to them--in fact, Adviser ulation is unmatched by the majority of Copley, scary? Although we voice our we should do just the opposite. As a whole, Sarah Petry Ohio public school systems. Furthermore, opinion only as a newspaper staff, we believe our student body can positively change our the high school has been rated “Excellent” that the majority of CHS students do not feel image by showcasing our true character and Note: The Drumbeat, Copley High School’s student newspaper, is a limited public fo- eight years in a row by the state of Ohio; that they’re threatened, scared, or in danger’s talent at each opportunity to do so. Then, rum. Any opinions expressed are those of Sam Wheeler just captured a state title in way when entering the building each morn- students from other school districts can un- the author or speaker, and not necessarily wrestling; and Lear Jiang is putting Copley’s ing. Yet, our rivals have generalized that each derstand what Copley is really about. those of this newspaper, its staff, Copley name on the map at the national level for of us is ready to “throw down” at a moment’s High School, or the administration. April 1, 2011 Copley High School Drumbeat 3 Feature Jiang Copley’s own “If You Really argues Knew Me” his way to the top Jiang collects his thoughts in the midst of a challenging debate. Photo provided by Lear Jiang By Adam Brown can’t simply read a Wikipedia article summary on the topic. Someone also can’t understand multiple viewpoints entirely by Lear Jiang, a national qualifier in Lincoln-Douglas debate working alone, thus, the debaters need a dedicated coach, which and second-runner up at the state debate tournament, is well- is where Marie Rote comes into the equation. versed in philosophical thinking and conversation. Rote coaches Jiang, as well as all debaters on the Copley Yet he didn’t join debate to argue foreign policy or discuss Speech and Debate Team. With degrees in both economics and his political views. philosophy, she is more than qualified for her job. By Iman AbdoulKarim “It was something to solidify my college application,” Jiang During practices, Rote has students brainstorm, discuss admitted. what they think the main arguments for both sides of a topic will As a child, she hoped to dazzle millions under Then why stick with debate for four years? be, and take part in “start and stop debates.” bright stage lights while singing the lyrics of her “I liked it a lot because it made me think about the gray area To Rote, the results of her methods, in addition to a good greatest idol, Britney. Flash forward several years that exists within a lot of issues. I was forced to see both sides, work ethic from her debaters, ultimately pays off. later and her overall dreams haven’t changed...other not the narrow-minded approach I had before, and I liked that,” “The comprehensive skills that debate teaches these kids are than the short-lived aspiration of catching frogs for Jiang explained. amazing; I’m surprised sometimes at the developmental jumps a living. The previous statement summarizes the purpose of debate: these kids make,” she said. Many of us at Copley High School have to understand and comprehend multiple viewpoints while de- However, her motivation isn’t limited to the “developmental watched her perform on stage. Even though she isn’t fending your own. However, the capability to see both sides of jumps” or trophies her debaters win. Rote believes that she posi- exactly singing like her childhood pop star icon, she an issue, intelligently, while articulating your viewpoints is by no tively affects the future of her debaters. has dazzled the audiences of various school musicals means easy. “In general, inspiring or motivating kids to do the things and productions. She has participated in numer- “I’ve got to do a lot of work and read a lot to know the issue, that aren’t as fun, will ultimately make the biggest impacts on ous summer vocal camps and scholarship competi- usually 8 to 10 hours a week,” Jiang said. their success,” Rote said. tions, but her favorite performances have been with The work sounds strenuous, but when one must answer a Lear’s advancement to the national tournament in Texas, an Copley High School’s Chamber Choir, and she says question concerning the voting rights of felons or if the United all-expense-paid trip, is obviously a form of success Rote men- that she loves volunteer work because it can instantly States is justified in its use of private military contractors, one tioned. brighten someone’s day. Along with other family members, her parents, de Cali, a town in Colombia, came to America for the first time both being musically inclined and participants in the only a few weeks ago when her father was offered a job at Good- Praise and Worship team at their church, helped to Coming to year. ignite her interest in singing. In the seventh grade Tascon, through translation of foreign language teacher Mr. while taking classical music lessons, her aunt told Hendrickson, shared some of the adjustments she has made dur- her that if she became classically trained, she could America ing the past few weeks. perform any style. With the help of her aunt’s men- “The most frustrating change is definitely the language bar- toring and inspiration, she found her true musical rier, but besides that I can’t stand most of the food. I hate the passion: opera. cheese here, but I do like fries,” she said. Her “whimsical and musical” family has been Tascon still eats traditional Colombian food at dinner. Her her strongest support system. mother makes goulash, a beef and vegetable stew with paprika “So many people in my family have helped me and other seasonings. through the difficulties of my chosen career, and Tascon noted her unfavorable first impression of America. they are my strongest spiritual leaders. My parents “It was very dark and rainy. We couldn’t find our house, and take me everywhere. They would do anything to see it was very frustrating,” she explained. that I achieve and it is so easy for me to forget their This year was the first year Tascon experienced snow, which dedication because they never complain. I would be she admits she “could do without.” lost without them,” she said. Hang is considered a freshman at Copley High School. He Although she is not certain what school she will has been in America for three months and is originally from Fu- go to, she knows she will study vocal performance. jian, a large city located in southern China. Hang noted how the When she graduates, she hopes to travel with an op- first two months were a struggle because of language and cultural era, whether it is in Chicago, New York, Germany, adjustments. Although, in the past month Hang has opened up or Italy. Even though singing plays a major role in her Diana and Tony, new to Copley, reveal the ups and and has begun making friends. With the help of foreign language downs of acclimating to American culture. teacher Ms. Sung, Hang, through translation, expressed some of life, it is not her only passion. She has a huge love for Photo by Amanda Wanner his views on life in America. art and considered studying it as a minor in college, “I feel better now. The people here are very friendly, but the but she finds that singing consumes too much of her By Amanda Wanner language difference is still frustrating. When I am home or go time. Besides her love for the arts, she takes great joy Imagine starting over with unfamiliar faces, a different out, I am with my family who I can fully understand which is a in learning theology, cooking, reading, playing bad- school, and even a change of language. New students Wen Hang, little easier,” he said. minton, and doing many other interesting things. who goes by Tony, and Dayhana Tascon, who Americanized her Hang has adjusted well to life in America. At home, Hang “I’m double jointed, I play Pokemon, I go to name by changing it to Diana, are two students who recently still enjoys casual Chinese cuisine, although he does not mind Renaissance fairs, and I have arachnophobia,” she enrolled at Copley High School. With the help of the staff and the school’s cafeteria food. confessed. students, they are slowly but surely growing accustomed to their When discussing how schooling in China differs from the Even though she feels she is naturally very shy, new environments. U.S. educational system, Hang shared, “When you are finished she still finds joy in typical teenage activities. Tascon, a sophomore who recently moved from Santiago with a class, the students stay stationary in their rooms, and it In her spare time she loves bonding with her is the teachers that are exchanging rooms. It was really friends and says that she finds herself “constantly gig- convenient because the halls were never crowded and gling” while she is with them. During the week, she you didn’t have to worry about being late to class.” holds a bible study group here at the high school. Tascon and Hang both are not sure if they will This senior has hit all of the right notes through- stay in America after graduation, but when asked what out her life. With this in mind, we can only imagine Copley students can do to ease the already difficult that we will someday see her name in bright lights, transition, according to Tascon students can, “talk at a and if that doesn’t work out, there are plenty of frogs slower pace, or at least speak more formally.” in the area to occupy her time. Hang seems to be satisfied with the help that has So if you really know her, who is she? been offered to him. “I love America!” he said with a smile. Answer on page 5 April 1, 2011 Copley High School Drumbeat 4 Feature By Amanda Wanner With spring in full swing, flowers aren’t the only things in bloom. Newly formed couples are making their debuts, and seasoned veterans are looking forward to the sunshine in the months ahead. Science has proven that hormones, such as melatonin, are extremely high in the winter and consequently give off feelings of sluggishness and tiredness. As spring approaches and the days grow longer, the amount of melatonin produced is significantly lower, thus giving people more confidence and the initiative to be more productive. Dr. Julie Albright from the Department of Sociology at USC noted how “a lot of that new energy is put towards looking for love, and this makes sense: people seem to be happier in the spring. This happiness can lead to an open attitude towards meeting people, which can lead to love.” In the winter, even one’s motivation to look good may completely fall to the wayside. Even though people still go out, they do so less often. When people do venture outside of their homes, most bundle up so much they they begin to resemble the marshmallows in their cocoa. Fortunately, the recently-official couple of senior Scott Nixon and freshman Maria Fragale have pulled through the winter and are heading toward the spring months together. “Maria’s my best friend. She makes me laugh, and I can be my goofy self around her,” Nixon said. Even though Fragale and Nixon have only been together for two months, they have already built many memories. Nixon’s favorite so far took place this spring. “When the weather first cleared up, we took her dog Chloe on a walk, and we really had a great time,” Nixon confessed. Long-time senior couple Ethan Blashford and Erika Gill have been going together for over a year. They feel that their relationship, which started in November of 2009, can with- stand any test. During the winter months, Blashford admits, “It is more difficult to find activities to entertain us.” However, they both believe that the flame they have sparked will not extinguish. Blash- ford and Gill have attended every high school dance together since sophomore year. When asked how different seasons affect their attitudes towards each other, Gill noted, “No matter the season, we never really fight, but I think the hardest part is putting the other person before yourself. In the spring, we seem to have more free time for each other, which probably does help our relationship,” Gill said. So whether you’re in a long term relationship or are looking for a fresh start, spring really Senior couple Ethan Blashford and Erika Gill reunite to show their love. is the season for lovers. Photo by Alaina Bartel

By Emma Webb In the spirit of Alan from The Hangover: They’re the two best friends that anybody could B have... and they will never ever ever ever leave each other. Every school has them: those two boys who can be seen together 24/7, who can basically read each other’s minds from being so close. Copley seniors Bobby Redd and Joe Connolly, and seniors Tim Fries and Jon Garrison, R epitomize the word “ bromance.” Coined in the 1990s by the editor of Skateboard Magazine, Dave Carnie, bromance combines the word “brother” with “romance.” While the word is nearly impossible to pin- point an exact definition for, it has multiple interpretations. O “A bromance is simply when two guys’ friendship blossoms into something extraordi- nary,” Redd says. Connolly defines bromance as “when two guys talk and hang out on a daily basis without M ever running out of something to do or talk about, and who show genuine concern and care for each other.” Redd and Connolly’s friendship began when the boys were two years old. They lived in the same neighborhood until fifth grade when Redd moved. They “still hung out and stuff” A until Connolly moved to Redd’s new neighborhood again in the seventh grade. Being voted “Most Inseparable Friends,” Redd and Connolly can be noted as bromance experts. The boys are “often referred to as an old married couple” by other friends. N Redd jokes, “I tend to be the one to wear the pants in our relationship.” On the other hand, Connolly claims, “Our other friends often refer to him [Redd] as the wife because of my obvious dominance over him.” To keep the spark alive, bromancers need to make an extra effort to see each other. That C extra effort has been formed into what Redd and Connolly call “man night.” Seniors Joe Connolly and Bobby Redd, lifelong friends, joke Connolly explains that “mandatory man night is where the men in our group chill every about their “bromance.” Saturday night with limited exceptions.” E Photo by Alaina Bartel Communication is the key to a successful relationship, whether the relationship is one of romance or a bromance. “We often ask each other for advice for things both big and small,” states Connolly. With their friendship being “pretty solid,” there’s no question that this bromance’s spark will remain lit for quite a while. Fellow bromancers Garrison and Fries met back in ninth grade when Fries moved to Copley. Due to living in the same neighborhood, their friendship began on none other than the school bus. Garrison describes a bromance as being, “two guys who are as close to brothers without being biologically related.” Agreeing with Garrison, Fries adds, “and doing everything together no matter what.” Running cross country and track together, these boys don’t get sick of each other’s com- pany. However, Fries says, “I try not to talk to him [Garrison] during wrestling season because he’s cranky, but during track season he’s okay because he can eat.” Sometimes being involved in a bromance means going through traumatic experiences together. After one of Copley’s home football games, Fries’ brakes went out in his car. “My foot went all the way down to the floor,” Fries states, “and we weren’t stopping.” “We were literally as close as we possibly could be without hitting the car in front of us,” Garrison said. Other memories between the boys include sneaking into the Hilton’s pool, and having annual snowball fights. The relationship between two boys involved in a bromance forms a bond that can never be broken. Just like the saying goes, “Seasons come and go, but a bromance is forever.” April 1, 2011 Copley High School Drumbeat 5 Feature Staff recalls legendary senior pranks By Jen Smaltz The Copley High School class of 1984 will forever and blockading the stairs that lead up to the freshmen live in infamy due to the extraordinarily creative hallway. On top of the dam was a sign that quoted seniors who dreamed up such an outrageous idea. “Dam! We’re outta here!” During the announcements on a day known by Several other senior pranks have occurred many as “senior prank day,” a few students dressed in throughout the years, including a time when seniors fatigues with ski masks and war paint proceeded to all parked their cars in a circle, surrounding about commandeer the P.A. room and its two occupants. one hundred students and trapping them inside the The two students who were conducting the morning ring of cars. The seniors then proceeded to pelt the announcements were held hostage by their fellow group of students with roughly “a few thousand water classmates. Over the loudspeaker, the so-called balloons,” according to Borchik. abductors claimed to be “from a third world country Some classes, however, turned to more and that if their demands were not met…” as described unconventional pranks, like placing a boat in the by art teacher, Laura Addis. student parking lot and lighting a few grills atop the In 1984, the threat of a terror attack in Copley, boat to tailgate. Ohio would not have been taken as seriously as it Most of the pranks described were entertaining would be today considering the circumstances of In 2006, seniors constructed a beaver dam in the hallway as and not harmful to the school or its students. Of 9/11. But even in 1984, this prank was still alarming. their final prank. course, the realtors of Copley-Fairlawn may have a During this part of the day, the principal and assistant Photo taken from CHS yearbook of 2006. score to settle with the seniors after a year when all of principal were both out of the building. This left the the “for sale” signs in Copley were placed on the front head of the math department, Mr. Ruhling, to deal lawn of the school. with the three pranksters. Ruhling called the police and the three boys were arrested. For any seniors cooking up how they can end the school year “with a bang,” Principal Several other senior pranks live on as legends to upcoming seniors throughout the years, Ryba asks you to not cause destruction to the school or disrespect your peers. As long as the but as assistant principal Mr. Borchik plainly stated, “They all just fade together.” pranks are harmless and not disrespectful, they will be tolerated. To keep the tradition alive, In 2006, seniors conducted a prank known to many as “the beaver dam.” Seniors built please abide by these guidelines and make sure that the pranking this year is all in good fun. a dam made of fallen logs and twigs spanning across the entry way to the vocational wing Cause for concern: legal drug substitutes By Alaina Bartel Spice, an herbal incense, is a dangerous substitute for marijuana that is packaged various In a December 2010 viral video, Disney actress and pop singer Miley Cyrus shocked her ways such as being in small vials, packets, and bottles that warn the buyer in small print that fans, including father Billy Ray Cyrus, who used Twitter to express his disappointment in says spice is “not for human consumption.” his daughter saying, “Sorry guys. I had no idea. Just The effects of marijuana and spice are saw this stuff for the first time myself. I’m so sad. very similar, except spice contains no THC There is much beyond my control right now.” (tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient in The teen star was videotaped smoking salvia, marijuana). a strong psychoactive plant that produces visions Spice has an artificially produced chemical in and many other hallucinatory experiences, from a it, called JWH 018, which affects the same part th bong days after her 18 birthday. of the brain that THC does to produce the same Salvia is legal in California, where Miley was “high.” taped, but many states including Alaska, Florida, However, since the chemical structure of JWH Iowa, and Ohio have proposed legislation against 018 is not directly related to THC, spice remains it. legal. Salvinorian A, the psychoactive constituent “Spice is already illegal in many other in salvia, is the most potent naturally occurring countries. Other states have or are in the process of hallucinogen; a high dosage of salvinorian A can adopting laws to make it illegal. I assume that Ohio lead to an altered state of consciousness. will follow soon,” Coon said. “In today’s world, According to Scientific American Magazine, chemists will always be able to create new forms of the Drug Enforcement Agency is “looking into the illegal drugs that skirt the law. This doesn’t make drug” to settle on whether or not salvia should be them safe to use.” “on par” with LSD and heroin. So why is there an increase of spice users among Copley High School’s health teacher, Janet teens? Well, it is easier to get, being available online Coon, explained that the effects of salvia “appear and at gas stations; it is currently legal to do so in quickly and wear off quickly.” She also included Spice, also known as K2, is packaged and sold at gas stations and Ohio; and spice does not show up on drug tests. that many users of salvia “do not like the effects online; however, several states, including Ohio have proposed leg- After asking students at Copley High School of the drug,” and that an out of body experience is islation to ban it. about their knowledge of spice, their answers were “often described with many users, not wanting to all the same: “the legal marijuana.” use it again.” Even if spice and salvia are legal, Coon cautions Howard C. Samuels, the executive director of an L.A. drug treatment center stated his students to be aware of the long term damage of drugs, legal or illegal. concern with salvia, saying the fact “that this drug is legal is shocking.” “Your brain is not fully developed until you are in your early to mid twenties,” she said. Surprisingly, salvia is not the only legal substitute for drugs that is being marketed “This means that when you are using any drug, you can actually permanently change the way towards teens. your brain functions for life. These changes make addiction a serious problem for teens.”

Answer to Copley’s “If You Really Knew Me” (page 3):

Heidi Middendorf CHS Senior April 1, 2011 Copley High School Drumbeat 6 Sports Wheeler, Garrison represent Copley at State

motivated his teammates by “speaking with performance.” By Kelly Fields Wheeler finished the season with a final record of 48-4, and on the road to states, he became the Suburban League, Sectional, District, and A season full of blood, sweat, and strict diets all became finally the State champion in the 189 lb. division. worth it Saturday, March 5 in Columbus. Senior Sam Wheeler “Nothing has ever felt so amazing. I accomplished my goal,” Wheeler defeated Kevin Hyland, a senior from Cincinnati Elder on said. the mat to became the third wrestler in Copley High School’s Senior Jon Garrison also had an outstanding season finishing in sixth history to win a state title. place and beating the number one ranked athlete in the state. After not After placing second in the state tournament last year, placing at State last year, sixth place was certainly an accomplishment. Wheeler began this season looking for redemption. “Garrison may not get the press Sam receives, but he’s always leading “A state title was all the motivation I needed,” he stated. the team by example. He works hard year round, stays after practice, and Coach Dies knew Wheeler had what it took to become a works hard during practice,” explained Dies. state champion. Garrison knows what the meaning of hard work is. After not even “Sam’s a combination of naturally being an athletic freak, lettering as a freshman, many would not believe Garrison would be but also he is constantly pushing himself to improve. Some standing where he is today. kids are naturally gifted, but they don’t take advantage of their “Everyone has potential; just because you don’t start or letter in your potential like Sam,” Dies stated. first year does not mean you aren’t ever able to accomplish anything. Copley certainly had high expectations for Wheeler this I didn’t letter my freshman year, but I worked hard and unlocked my year, and he made certain he lived up to them. After signing potential over the last three years,” Garrison said. with Oklahoma University on a full scholarship, anything less Coach Dies claims that Garrison works hard to improve his than first would have been a disappointment to Wheeler. teammates’ potential as well. “My friends already looked at me as a state champ, which “Jon’s not afraid to yell at his teammates when they need to pick it kind of made me nervous because they expected me to win, Coach Dies proudly shows off his two up. He is always making sure they’re doing their best,” said Dies. but at the same time it just gave me even more motivation,” State wrestlers. Garrison credits his overall mentality as being the source of his Wheeler said. Photo by Alaina Bartel success. Wheeler’s advice for any aspiring athlete is the following: “You need to have the determination to do something today that “Work hard, and remember that the extra stuff matters. To be you couldn’t do yesterday,” he explained. a state champ, you have to train in the summer, stay after practice, and push yourself harder After winning the sectional tournament for the 145 lb. division, Garrison has set his everyday.” sights on the collegiate level. Next year, he hopes to wrestle at Baldwin Wallace, Muskingum, According to Coach Dies, Wheeler was never the loudest one in the gym. Instead he or Tiffin, where he will continue to improve and surpass expectations. Female pole vaulters reach new heights

By Kelly Fields and instantly attain success. “Pole vaulting is a very technical event For the majority of track athletes, the in track that takes about two to three years to thrill of the sport takes place on the ground as progress to a more advanced level. Time and their spikes pound the pavement; but for pole patience are extremely important,” stated Goo- vaulters, the adrenaline rush takes place as they drich. soar through the air. Unfortunately, this feeling Pole vaulters must have confidence. They of excitement and risk is only a couple decades have to believe they will be alright, and they old for high school females. cannot be too anxious, or the risk of injury in- Until the mid ‘90s, pole vaulting was as- creases. They have to put their full effort into sumed to be too dangerous for women, and every vault. people believed that females did not have the “You need to trust yourself and dedicate physical capability to produce the speed and yourself to working on your form,” states power for good vaults. College women only Casie. “You also need to have confidence in began vaulting in 1996 and females were not yourself to jump.” allowed to vault in the Olympics until 2000. Pole vaulting is a large risk, and according Junior Casie Aitken, who has only been to Goodrich, the athletes need to be “fearless vaulting for two years was not aware of this. and confident.” In the end, although a pole “Girls can do anything guys can do, so the vaulter isn’t necessarily a “daredevil” they cer- idea that girls didn’t even pole vault until the tainly risk more than a strained muscle; but ‘90s is surprising,” she said. both Casie and Kayla believe the pursuit of Casie’s identical twin sister, Kayla, who Junior Kayla Aitken vaults to victory. Photo courtesy of Sarah Aitken has been pole vaulting for three years, has nev- success is worth the work and risk. er felt as if she was in danger's way more than any other sport. “As long as I do what I’m supposed to do when I vault, there is a slim chance of harming myself,” Kayla stated. Kayla’s record speaks for itself, as last year she won the district meet with a height of 9’6”, which led her straight to the regional meet. Before a new pole vaulter is able to step on the runway, the vaulter must first learn the basics of how to plant the pole, run with the pole, and safely land onto the mat. According to the American Journal of Sports Medicine, in- juries are most common among young vaulters due to improper technique. Copley’s coach, Glen Goodrich, always makes sure that safety comes first. “We teach a progressive program from be- ginners to the more experienced at the pace of each individual vaulter,” Goodrich explained. Casie is very aware of the patience she needs to maintain. “It’s very difficult to nail down the process, but eventually you get the hang of it. Although I still have trouble on my form, I work every day to improve it,” Casie said. Even though last year was Casie’s first year, she still managed to place fifth at districts with a height of 8’6”. Coach Goodrich agrees that pole vaulting is not a sport in which athletes can just start April 1, 2011 Copley High School Drumbeat 7 Entertainment L.ove A.lways S.hines E.verytime, R.emember 2 S.mile

By Alaina Bartel

Weaving my way through the school parking lot traffic trend. gladly give a loan today, so if you ever miss payment, they after school, my ears become clogged with music, specifically Rap music. All of it, the same. No originality. We can take your home away,” and “Your child’s future was the rap, blasting from other cars, and I can’t help but notice a understand that rap artists live a lavish lifestyle consisting of first to go with budget cuts” is the sad truth. money, cars, girls, and clothes; but how many times do we The sixth song on LASERS, “The Show Goes On,” have to hear it? not only has a beat that makes you want to dance, but it is I gotta fresh white T, money to blow, and lollipops. inspiring. Who really cares? “So no matter what you been through, no matter what I’m not saying that they don’t have talent, but most rap you into, no matter what you see when you look outside music nowadays has no emotional connection to any of its your window, brown grass or green grass, picket fence or listeners. barbed wire, never ever put them down, you just lift your The beat of the music and the chorus may be catchy, and arms higher.” it might have good bass, but do you really care what they’re Fiasco uses his music to encourage people to never give talking about? Probably not. up, not only in “The Show Goes On,” but also in “Break the If this is how you feel, pick up Lupe Fiasco’s new album, Chain,” the tenth song on the album. LASERS (which stands for Love Always Shines Everytime, “It’s like a criminal is the only thing you can become, Remember 2 Smile). Fiasco goes against the grain of present- look at what I became,” and “Wanna see the real change? day rap music by incorporating politics, racial problems and Look in your mind,” are some motivating words that speak education into something that is also pleasing to the ears. to Fiasco’s audience to find confidence in themselves. The second song on the album, “Words I Never Said” So whether you’re going through some hard times in explains the problems in the media and the government; your life and need some inspiration, or you’re just craving these lyrics are representative of our society, and some may some good music to dance to, Lupe Fiasco is sure to satisfy. not want to accept the truth of his lyrics. For example, “crooked banks around the world would Gaga’s message enhances concert MTV:Music Television? By Abigail Grable that, through this tour, she hopes to create a place of refuge By Paula Ramsey for people who have not always fit into mainstream society. When channel surfing, you just can’t seem to get “Don’t be a drag, just be a queen,” states Lady Gaga in Gaga wishes to give her fans a place where they can truly ex- away from the inescapable guidos and guidettes of the Jersey her new hit “Born This Way.” As the queen of quirkiness press themselves and find their inner peace, and for me, this Shore. Or at least herself, she puts on a show that is far from boring: With her message was very important. It warmed my heart to witness I can’t. Although crazy outfits and stage props, pyrotechnics, mind-boggling that one of my favorite artists is not only musically talented, it’s one of the most video clips, and inspirational speeches, she has successfully but is a budding humanitarian as well. popular shows on topped my list of best performers. Even though Lady Gaga is notorious for gaudiness, she television, I just On March 15, I attended Lady Gaga’s concert in Dallas, is, to my pleasant surprise, extremely humble. During the don’t understand Texas. Gaga showcased her concert, she gave her fans why. love of fashion throughout a tremendous amount of S u r e , the night with numerous out- credit for her success and watching the fit changes, and she tailored explained to them that, stupidity of others her clothing and set design to regardless of one’s income, can be entertaining complement the song she was race, social status, or sex- for a while, but it singing. At one point during ual orientation, one can gets old incredibly the concert, while she was be anything that he or she quickly. During singing “Paparazzi,” a giant desires. She never failed the commercial angler fish (the kind with the to include the crowd in break, there’s a light on its head) appeared the performance, and she preview of The on stage and pretended to even called an audience Real World: Las attack Gaga. The visual ap- member during the show Lady Gaga performs at the American Airlines Center Vegas, yet another peal increased further when, and talked to him on her in Dallas, Texas mindless show of in-between songs, gory video cell phone, which prob- Photo by Abigail Grable random people clips portrayed Gaga eating a ably will be one of the getting extremely intoxicated and hooking up with whoever heart, emphasizing the mes- highlights of his life. just happens to be around. Just before changing the channel, sage behind her song “Monster.” To bring it home, Gaga In my opinion, Lady Gaga puts on an all-around ground I glimpse at the bottom right hand corner of the T.V. screen played “Born This Way” on a burning piano and doused her- breaking concert. Her voice sounds even more powerful in and cringe. MTV. Music Television. Seriously? self with fake blood for the song “Teeth.” person, and her show is an ongoing, never-ending bonanza MTV premiered on August 1, 1981, with the famous Beyond the ridiculous visual display that Gaga and her of visual entertainment. But beyond the concert in itself, the opening statement by cofounder John Lack: “Ladies and crew provided, she touched the heart of each and every audi- messages that Gaga imparted to all of her fans were arguably gentlemen, rock and roll,” followed by the premiere of the ence member with her rebellious outcries and inspirational the best part of the experience. She told us early on in the “Video Killed The Radio Star” music video by The Buggles. speeches. Throughout the show, Gaga insisted that “we were performance that her mission was for each fan to love him- For years following, MTV was a pop culture phenomenon, born this way!”—an anthem that, as Gaga explained, has or herself a little bit more than when he or she arrived— skyrocketing the careers of artists such as Def Leppard, Bon given new meaning to the “Monster Ball.” She made it clear needless to say, she achieved that goal. Jovi, Prince, and even “Weird Al” Yankovic. On average, the network played somewhere between eight to ten hours worth of music videos daily. What, then, caused such a drastic change in the format? In 1992, The Real World: New York premiered on MTV, making it not only the first reality show on the network, but also one of the very first reality shows ever. This invasive and somewhat scripted concept has grown continuously on MTV, eventually reaching such a gigantic amount of high ratings that hundreds of new shows have been added to the lineup over the years. These shows have taken the place of their usual music video blocks, only showing about three hours of videos a day, and sometimes even less. Although some of these shows may be entertaining, they shouldn’t be viewed on a station theoretically dedicated to the musical talent of artists. MTV will most likely never be like it was back in the ‘80s and early ‘90s, and it’s a shame to see what was once such a brilliant idea now gone to waste by attention-seeking socialites who have nothing better to do than party 24/7. Unless something changes drastically, I definitely don’t want my MTV. April 1, 2011 Copley High School Drumbeat 8