Issue 8 - North Canton City Schools - sparcc

v i e w sthe vikingHoover High School u 525 Seventh St. North Canton, OH 44720 u March 4, 2005 u Vol. 55 No. 8opening the door to the future:the job market

v i e w sthe vikingCo-Editors-In Chief Amy King•Lindsy WiseManaging Editors Chelsea Crofford•KyraSchloenbach•Beth SimmermanCopy Editors Steffany Bagnolo•Kaci Lapp•KatieRojekNews Editors Jacob Brown•Kyle Roshak•KaleySmitleyNews in Brief Samantha KnappFeatures Editors Rachel Bosyj•ErikLong•Shannon PiferHealth/Trends Nikita ReisererSports Editors Tyler Drake•Danny Savage•JeffWallickEntertainment Editors Mike Cook•MikeHowes•Sandra KungCalendar Ashley KlineSpotlight Ashley FogleOpinion Editors Sean Bhagat•SarahUpperman•Adele VergisPoll Page Kt BelloIn- Depth Editors Jamie DiEugenio•ChristineStrawnBeats Editor Nathan FloomPhotographers Emily Kuhn•Cathy Samara, PhotoChiefArt Editors Aaron Miller•Logan Wern•JamesWilliams, Art ChiefFreelance Artists Katie Lawton•SamanthaSimpsonBusiness Manager Dominic ReolfiBilling/Fundraising Kristy FerruccioCirculation Ben SchilligAdvertising Design Merritt WoodsPublic Relations Emily Misanik•MellissaReynolds.Adviser Ms. Pamela A. McCarthyThe Viking ViewsHoover High School525 Seventh Street NENorth Canton, OH 44720Email vv1nc@northcanton.sparcc.orgWeb http://www.northcanton.sparcc.org/~vv1nc/Tune into HVTV every morning on channel 11The Viking Views is a student-produced newspaper distributed 12 times ayear to approximately 1,900 students and staff, as well as members of thecommunity. As student editors make content decisions independently of theschool’s staff and administration, the paper is considered a forum for studentopinion. It is therefore exempt from prior review or restraint in both principleand practice.Letters to the editor are accepted and encouraged. Letters must be signed,but, upon request, they may be published anonymously at the discretion ofthe staff. The Viking Views reserves the right to edit letters for space andcontent in order to maintain the paper’s high standards against obscenity,libelous material, and personal attacks. Letters that exhibit a blatant disregardfor such standards will not be considered for publication.Unsigned editorials reflect the opinion of a majority of the editorial board.No one individual may be held responsible for opinions expressed therein.Signed editorials and columns reflect the opinion of the writer and not theViking Views, adviser, or school. The Viking Views takes all measures possibleto make a clear distinction between fact and opinion in all news printed.In the event of an error, the Viking Views will print retractions as they arebrought to the attention of the staff.-The EditorsLWeditors’ noteTo read or not to read, that is the question! It looks like the answer is read.After last issue’s lack of letters to the editors and our plea for letters, thisissue, we have seen a drastic turnaround. The opinion section has gone so faras to add another page just so we can print everything our readers had tosay, even if it was less than flattering to us.But a journalist by any other name would still work as hard, and so weshall. It is our job to bring you the important news from the community andworld at large. Then again, it might not be our job for much longer; perhapssomeday we will get into teaching or law enforcement or some other greatprofession. As the Focus team can tell you, today’s job market is constantlychanging. Even our teachers have held jobs outside the classroom and somestill do. But if the prospect of choosing just one job, let alone changing jobs,seems daunting, perhaps you should read up on the Career/Technical programsthat provide some vital real-world experience.However, if some of you are still uninterested in all things offered by ourschool, another new club has popped up to grab your interest. Making its bigdebut is the Shakespeare Club. It sets the stage for the cultural enlightenmentof its members as they read and watch adaptations of the famous playwright’swork.Perhaps instead you would rather spend your time acting out the part ofRomeo. In that case, check out The NC and get some ideas for how to wooyour Juliet. And if you wait a few more months, you can spend a midsummer’snight scaring yourselves senseless by renting and watching Boogeyman, oryou could read the review in Scene and check it out this weekend.Alas, parting is such sweet sorrow and yet I am sure no tears will be shedas you dart from the building at the end of the school day. Until then, we hopeyou pass your free time by enjoying yet another edition of The Viking Views.AK

SHANNON PIFERc o n t e n t sCOVER: Amy King and James Williams illustrate thedoorway to your future after high school38MERRIT WOODS AMY KINGJACOB BROWNSONY/ WITH PERMISSION4101930newsRobot competition p.4Teen of the Month p.5TI camp p.6Mock Trial p.6Master the Disaster p.7BPA contest p.7Mardi Gras p.8Shakespeare Club p.8featuresThe NC p.10Poker p.12focusChanging jobs p.17Teachers’ former jobs p.18Career/Technical programs p.19Mentoring p.20sceneReality shows p.28Electronica p.32AMY KINGregular featuresunews in brief p.9ufeatures column p.14uyou’ve seen me before p.14utrends p.15uyour views p.23umy view p.23udude you’re getting adele p.24upopular views p.25uletters to the editor p.25uword up p.25umovie reviews p.30ucd reviews p.31ucalendar p.33uspotlight p.33usports captured p.36usports updates p.38udsav’s digest p.39uunusual sport p.39uon par p.40ugame faces p.40SHANNON PIFER34sportsDifficulty of multiple sports p.34Gymnastics p.37SONY/ WITH PERMISSION3630

[ news ]Robots come to lifeJacob Brown Staff WriterScience fiction movies with robotscoming to life such as“Terminator” have been out for along time, but could anyone have reallyguessed that “thinking” robots would everbecome a part of reality?Not only have robots with sensoryperception become part of the U.S.military’s future, they are also a part of thecomputer electronics and engineering classat Hoover High School.In mid-January, Mr. Michael Luther’sjunior and senior computer classes startedplanning on what would become their robotprojects. The students’ robots are set tocompete Mar.10 at Youngstown StateUniversity against 30 other teams fromdifferent schools from all over NortheastOhio.At first, the project was supposed to beoptional,but soon Luther realized thebenefits that it would have for the class.“It’s a teaching tool to give [the students]more training and hands on education withmicroprocessors, digital solid state andanalog electronic devices,” he said.The students were broken off into threeteams of seven to nine students in the juniorclass and one team in the senior class. Theyhad to work together to build everythingfrom the robot structure itself toprogramming the sensors.“It has a lot to do with teamwork,” juniorstudent Joe Hayes said. “We have to keepon task and stick to [our goals].”After the teams received the electric partsJan. 31, they had to integrate them into therobots. The teams also have to programthem to work with sensors in order for themto compete properly.“They have to go around by themselveson a 4x8 sheet of plywood and find objects,”junior and team leader Mike Malloy said.“Then, we have to make it go to certaincoordinates on a grid.”Even though they only have to programthe robots to be able to complete twodifferent tasks, it is a tiresome job to makethem do what they are supposed to do. Therobot is programmed to read lines on theboard it sits on using light and dark sensors.The robot must be able to read where it’s at4 u the viking views u 03.04.05u Computer Electronics & Engineeringstudents James Wang and Chris Bancroftwork on their robot. Students built andprogrammed their robots to complete simpletasks.u One of the robots built by student teams.The robots will be entered in a competitionon March 10 at Youngstown State, wherethey willl compete against the robots ofalmost 80 teams.based on what the shade of color the boardis.Junior student Kyle Humbert feels thatthis is the toughest part about robot building.“Programming can be a long andfrustrating task,” he said.Malloy agrees.“It becomes tedious. It takes a lot of time,and it becomes mostly trial and error,” hesaid.Hayes believes that Luther provides alot of motivation.“He helps us a lot and is always there tohelp us make [our robots] better,” he said.“It’s difficult without him. He knows whathe’s talking about.”Junior and team leader James Wang feelsthat Luther has been a guiding force as well.“He’s a great help with electronics likeresistors and current flow,” he said.At the competition, there will be scoutsfrom various colleges and companies suchas Kent State, Daimler-Chrysler and variousother automotive manufacturers.“I’m pretty excited about the possibilityof a scholarship,” Wang said. “I’m moreexcited that there will be a lot of peoplethere to notice. It’s very prestigious.”According to Wang, there has also beena lot of down time in the building process,but rivalries between the teams helps keepit lively.“Everyone wants to make the bestrobot,” he said. “We share some ideas[between teams] once in a while, but thecompetitive spirit between us is what reallykeeps us going.”Luther agrees with Wang’s philosophy.“Right now it’s not too competitive, butonce they get towards testing, I think it willbecome much more competitive,” Luthersaid.Whether they win scholarships orawards, many of the students feel that thishas been a once in a lifetime experience thathas taught them how to use abilities thatthey had never previously explored.“I learned how to solder, and I alsolearned more about electronics,” Humbertsaid.Wang agrees and also feels a sense ofaccomplishment to completing his team’srobot.“You learn a lot, and it’s great when youprogress and build it yourself and see itwork,” he said. “That’s an amazingfeeling.” nVJACOB BROWNJACOB BROWN

‘Triple A’ Student:Emily Misanik Staff WriterTo some, school is a time to socializeand have fun. To others, high schoolis a time to explore interests and passionsin hopes of one day pursuing dreams.Senior Alex Bourlas is one of those studentswhose interests are endless. Still, Bourlas successfullymanages her time while maintaining a4.0 GPA and ranking 15th in her class.For her achievements, Bourlas was chosenas Canton Repository’s Teen of the month forFebruary. She attributes her success to hard workand dedication.“I try to stay dedicated in everything I’m involvedwith. I think being so busy helps disciplineyourself,” Bourlas said.Mr. Jason Kirkland, Bourlas’ track coach,described her discipline as “one of a kind” onand off the track.“She contributes leadership, an overall positiveattitude, dedication and an amazing workethic to our team,” Kirkland said.Aside from the track, Kirkland is still in aweof her time-consuming schedule. He has beencoaching Bourlas for six years.“I truly don’t know how she does it, keepingup her class rank and grades while juggling allher activities. It amazes me,” Kirkland said.Senior Sarah McCort, Bourlas’ best friendand running teammate, thinks that her commitmentto everything has a contagious effect.“She is a very hard worker. She sets goals forherself in hopes of attaining them and by doingso she motivates everyone,” McCort said.McCort and Bourlas have been teammatessince middle school and have many fond memoriestogether.“My favorite memory of Alex is watching hergo to the state meet in cross country as a freshman.She practiced by herself and you could justsee the drive in her eyes. When she crossed thefinish line, I was so proud of her,” McCort said.Bourlas is a four-time letter winner in bothcross country and track and is a three-time statequalifier for cross country. She has been namedto the all-county and all-league teams and is hopingto continue running in college.“As a teammate, she’s been great to have bymy side. She’s very driven, and I’m very proudthat she received Teen of the Month,” McCortsaid.Off the track Bourlas excels in the classroomand is a true leader to her fellow peers. She hasbeen named to the academic all-Ohio list and hasalso been selected as a Wendy’s High SchoolHeisman nominee along with senior Danny Savage.Besides her extensive involvement in athleticsand academics, Bourlas is also active in the arts atHoover.She sings in Hoover’s a cappella choir and selectchoir, the Hoover Hi-Lo’s, as well as beingchief makeup artist for Drama club and playingthe role of Erma in the upcoming Hoover VocalMusic Association’s production of “AnythingGoes.”Mrs. Maria Bourlas describes her daughter’spersonality as “triple A” and admits that Alex hasalways been independent ever since early childhood.“I have never stopped her from getting involved.As long as she puts effort and time into her activities,we are pleased, and she has done just that.”Mrs. Bourlas said.Mrs. Bourlas has watched her daughter comeinto her own, becoming more organized and moredriven.“I am so proud of Alex for receiving Teen ofthe Month. I was so anxious for her when I knewshe was nominated, but she deserves it. She hasdone so much to get where she is,” Mrs. Bourlassaid.Although most teens receiving the award aresurprised, Bourlas was confident in her hard workand knew one day it would pay off.“I think I am qualified, but now that I have won,I am grateful for this honor,” Bourlas said.Brian Grady, another best friend of Bourlas,describes Alex as a “true leader” and was not surprisedby the news.“The thing about Alex is that she is as strongathletically as she is academically, and collegeshave contacted her for both sports and grades andalso music related stuff. That’s why she got Teenof the Month–she has all her bases covered,” hesaid. “I knew for sure she would get Teen of theMonth. It was just a matter of time.”Both Grady and Bourlas have applied to attendJohn Hopkins University and are hoping to keepin close contact in the future.“Alex is a very strong-willed individual. I’mnot surprised she received Teen of the Month becauseI know she has all the credentials needed.She wanted it,and I know she deserves it more thananyone,” Grady said. nVBourlas isTeen of MonthEMILY KUHN[ news ]03.04.05 u the viking views u 5

[ news ]Mock Trial teamqualifies for stateAshley Kline Staff WriterFor one day, Mock Trial participantstraded in books andhomework for a day in the courtroom.However, this was notyour typical day off of school.Twelve Hoover Mock Trialteams traveled to various locationsin Ohio to compete against17 different high schools in thedistrict competition held Feb. 11.This year marks the 16th yearHoover High School has participatedin the Ohio Mock TrialProgram, and the 14th straightyear it has qualified a team forstate competition.Platinum team membersKevin Roshak, Joe Mokodean,Chris Rudy, Jamie DiEugenio,Kendre DiPietro, SamanthaSimpson, Sarah Upperman andMegan Zahorec will travel toColumbus March 10-12 for statecompetition.The 12 teams argued theircases Feb. 11 in a simulated trialin courtrooms in Youngstown,Warren, Akron and Canton.“The whole experience wasinteresting, and it had a reallyprofessional feel to it when wewere in the courthouse,” firsttimeparticipant, sophomoreKevin Zeiber said. “It was funbecause I liked getting out ofschool to go argue a case that Iknew I was prepared for.”Mock Trial adviser Mr.Charles Collier said he was verypleased with the teams and theirsuccess.With the guidance of advisersCollier and Mrs. GretchenLeckie-Ewing, 10 participantsbattled their way through thecourtroom to earn “OutstandingAttorney” awards and nine studentsearned “Outstanding Witness”awards.“The competition was interesting;we were put into a situationwith real judges and peoplewho deal with law as an everydaybusiness field,” said sophomoreMadhav Chopra, who wonan Outstanding Attorney award.u Sophomore Kyle Roshak, portraying Dr. P.K. Gupta, adjusts hisglasses while being cross-examined on the witness stand. TwelveHoover Mock Trial teams argued a free-speech case Feb. 11 in frontof real judges.Three individual teams wonawards for their overall teameffort in the competition. Cooperationamong team members isa vital part of a winning MockTrial team.“Mock Trial is very team oriented.Everyone plays a role andhas to stay on track to be successful,”Chopra said.Participating in Mock Trialhas proved to be an enjoyableand informative experience,Chopra said.“It has a lot to do with currentevents that explain whythings are the way they are in theworld,” he said. nVTeen Institute heads to campEmily Misanik Staff WriterThe “medicine show” is a familiarAt the end of the possessing member Katie Nykiel is alsoterm to most members, step, the students had their own proud of the camp.Teen Institute held their but for some it was a new experience.own chosen skit in front of their pose of Teen Institute obviousopportunity to perform their “We want to make the pur-annual two-day campat Hoover High “The medicine show is a seriespeers.and show why we’re againstschool Feb. 18-19. Localof skits that focuses on typi-At the conclusion of the drugs and alcohol,” she said.schools such as Lake and Cantoncal gender biases and the effects medicine show and processing, Nykiel has been an activeSouth also participated. of drugs and alcohol. We are the students participated in the member of Teen Institute forMr. Darrell Woods, Teen Institutehoping to raise awareness about North, South, East, West Test, a four years and believes it is aadviser, looked forward this type of show,” Woods said. test that evaluated personalities. well rounded organization.to this experience.After the medicine show the This training, compared to “The most important thing“We have two main goals for students began the processing last year, challenged the students with this club, or any other one,this weekend, one is to raise step.to interact with other members. is dedication to its cause. It’s obviousawareness about the medicine “Processing is a method in “This year we are focusing onTeen Institute is againstshow, and the second one is to which we hope that understandingmore of an advance training for drugs and alcohol, but membersdevelop better relationshipswill be gained from the show a different level of expertise,” have to make an effort to bewithin the Teen Institute community,”and the students will gain some Woods said.dedicated to resisting,” NykielWoods said.knowledge,” Woods said.Senior Executive Board6 u the viking views u 03.04.05said. nVMS. PAM MCCARTHYMock Trial AwardsOutstanding AttorneysuErica Belden uMadhav Chopra uKendra DiPietro uTony Kendle uRichard Nicodemo uKevin Roshak uKyra Schloenbach u Kaley Smitleyu Katie Sponseller uAdele VergisOutstanding WitnessesuTyler Drake uKrisin Ferenc uJamie George uKrystal HenninguMarissa Morton u Gillian Pedersenu Beth Simmerman uChristineStrawn u Megan Zahorec

dsav’s digestMaster the DisasterSchoolwide effort helps raise funds for victimsRachel Bosyj Staff WriterHoover’s clubs havedecided to “masterthe disasters” of theworld.Throughout the next fewweeks, the clubs of Hoover HighSchool will be raising money inresponse to the tsunami disasterand other tragedies. The clubshave all agreed to pitch in andpresent a check to the StarkCounty Chapter of the AmericaRed Cross May 2.The French Club took a creativeroute and sold crepes, otherFrench foods and Mardi Grasbeads to students.“Every club was asked whatwe could do to help, and, withMardi Gras coming up, wethought it would be a fun wayto celebrate the holiday and todo a good thing at the sametime,” Mrs. Trisha Merchant,French Club adviser, said.Also getting in on the actionis LeadershipCouncil.SophomoreM a d h a vChopra isheading thegroup. He saidthere might bea bake sale, ahat drive orthey will justgather donationsfrom thestudents.“International aid is on adownward spiral and peopleneed long-term help. Once thedisaster happens, it is in the newsfor a while and people are reallyinterested in helping,” Choprasaid. “But then, after the initialevent, people forget and that iswhen the affected people needthe mosthelp.”G overnmentclasseswill take a traditionalplanby taking up acollection.GovernmentteacherMr. CharlesCollier feltthat, becauseof the mediapresent in the disaster, it wasmore realistic for the students.“They got to see first handwhat was going on in the world“Peopleshouldn’tforget whathappened.”HANNAH ALLCHINSOPHOMORE[ news ]because of the news, and realizedthey could help in a big way,even if it was by doing somethingsmall,” Collier said.Sophomore Hannah Allchinagrees with Collier.“People shouldn’t forgetwhat happened. The people affectedby natural disasters needhelp and we can help them, sowe should,” Allchin said.Students are happy to dowhat they can to help the cause.“One day something horriblelike that could happen to us andwe would want other people toreach out and help us. If wedon’t help them now, then theymight not help us then,” seniorCory Griffin said. “It is also theright thing to do. When peopleare in need, it’s a logical reactionto want to help them.” nVBPA students show their skillsTyler Drake Staff Writerto her in the future.“I’m really proud of our kids. No one had“It has taught me what aspects of businessto do this, but those who did fared reallyMembers of the Hoover Business ProfessionalsI like or dislike and what aspects I’m well,” Miller said. “We probably had theof America (BPA) recently competedbest at,” Yakunich said.fewest number of students competing, yetin the Regional Workplace Skills As-Students prepared individually with guid-still managed to as well, if not better thansessment Program, with some events done ance from the advisers. This preparation anyone in out region.” nVin school from Jan. 24-28. Those competingwere mostly Business Applications and and do their best in the competition. (second row) Jessica Doehling, Nataliehelped the competitors to overcome nerves u(front row) Galina Legky, Julie RobertsCooperative Business Partnership students “The competition was nerve racking, but Yakunich, Sandy Rice, (third row) Victoria Gillunder the direction of advisers Mrs. Linda I felt confident because we were so well and Michelle Maitert show off their awardsMiller and Ms. Margaret Alvarez. prepared,” Yakunich said.from the Regional Workplace SkillsFocusing on various aspects of business, In the regional competition, 17 students Assessment Program.from payroll accounting to prepared speech, in nine different events placed in the top six,the goal of BPA, according to their website, with eight of those students from six differentis to “contribute to the preparation of aevents placing either first or second, thusworld-class workforce through the advancementearning automatic bids to the state competi-of leadership, citizenship, academic tion held in March.and technological skills.” According to Those winning their events were JulieMiller, these skills will be beneficial to the Roberts in payroll accounting, Nataliestudents in almost any field.Yakunich in spreadsheet, Victoria Gill in advanced“The skills these students learn will helpword processing, Galina Legky inthem in any job, as well as the classes they desktop publishing and Jessica Doehling inare in, teach how to communicate through advanced interview.interviews and speeches, and how to organizeThough they did not have the largestand analyze data on the computer,” number of students competing in the area,Miller said.someone from Hoover placed in every categoryJunior Natalie Yakunich also feels thatthat they entered, and according toher involvement in BPA will be beneficial Miller, the group did exceptionally well.03.04.05 u the viking views u 7EMILY KUHN

[ news ]French Club enjoys “Fat Tuesday”Katie Rojek Staff WriterPeople glittering in purple, gold andgreen masks and crazy costumes dancedalong to joyous music with their friends underneaththe French sky in the Middle Ages.Today at Hoover, the members of French Clubcarry on this festive tradition of Mardi Gras.This year on Fat Tuesday, the day beforeLent, the French Club was celebratingMardi Gras here at Hoover. According tosenior French Club member JulieReifsnyder, to celebrate this holiday, theydecorated Mardi Gras masks, ate “lots offood,” and played games like a French versionof jeopardy.“I think it’s a lot of fun for all levels ofthe French classes to get together and havefun at Mardi Gras,” she said. “It was funsharing the French culture in America.”Senior Katie Nykiel also had fun at theparty.Jamie DiEugenio Staff WriterHe his works inspired writers and actorsfor ages, but he has just recently made his firstappearance on the club scene at Hoover.The club honoring William Shakespearewas founded by Adam Marshall and MeganLiber and is advised by English teacher Mrs.Wrenn Nicodemo. The idea originatedduring a British Literature class taught byNicodemo.“[Megan and I] were talking about howFall SpecialOct. 15-Nov. 18 u the viking views u 03.04.05uFrench Club members create colorful masksduring the club’s celebration of Mardi Gras.“I’ve been in French Club for a long time,and it’s my favorite event that we do allyear,” she said.Shakespeare rocks,” Marshall said. “Wedecided to start a club were we could readand talk about [Shakespeare and his works].”Shakespeare’s works are currentlycovered in other English classes. Hisfamous play “Romeo and Juliet” is studiedfreshman year and students taking BritishLiterature read “Macbeth.”According to Nicodemo, not all studentslook forward to reading his works.“Every year there are a few students whoreally enjoy Shakespeare and those whoLearn to Drivefor only $209.00!A Better ChoiceDriving SchoolCall Now: 330.244.8680 • HURRY!!!!!!CHRISTINE STRAWNShakespeare: not just for classNykiel states that her favorite part isdecorating the masks. But another event thatsticks out in her mind is the “crepe race.”“Our crepe race is a type of relay race,where a person puts a crepe in a pan, runsdown the hall, flips the crepe and runs back,”she said.The French Club celebrates Mardi Grasannually, which is true to the French tradition.According to Reifsnyder, every yearon the day before Lent the people in Francehave a day of celebration where they feastand party before the religious 40 days ofLent take place. This tradition has caughton with the rest of the world, including NewOrleans, and now, North Canton, Ohio.“It’s just an expected event to look forwardto each year. I had as much fun as Ialways do,” senior club officer ChristineStrawn said. “As a French Club, it’s good tocelebrate such an important holiday in othercountries and V it’s nice to come together.”nVfind it boring,” she said.Senior Megan Liber saw mixed reactionswhen Shakespeare was studied in herBritish Literature class.“It’s always split,” she said. “Some peoplethink it’s fun and get into, but others don’t.”Liber and Marshall enjoyed theShakespeare unit in their class and wantedto learn more than the 45 minute classperiod allowed. That’s why they started theShakespeare club.“The students can decide how they wantto experience Shakespeare,” Nicodemosaid. “I won’t grade or evaluate anything.”Despite the relaxed atmosphere,Marshall feels that studying many ofShakespeare’s works is not for “the averagehigh school student.” However, he believesthat students involved in drama and otherarts may be interested in learning moreabout Shakespeare.Nicodemo believes Shakespeare alonecould be a year long course.“You have to appreciate the language,he’s a beautiful writer. He is one of the bestwriters at understanding human nature,” shesaid. “He is a writer for all ages and canappeal to anyone.” nVJWLW

Sammi KnappEducation Dept.cited for success Head Mrs. GailPagett presentsVideo Production with a senatorial citation.The class’s documentary, “Hometown Heroes”,swept the SchoolNet competition.nHoover Video Production and broadcastjournalism classes received a senatorialcitation Feb. 23. The citation was fromOhio Senator and Education Dept. HeadMrs. Gail Pagett. The citation was presentedto the classes by Mrs. MariaCHELSEA CROFFORDin briefMastromatteo, one of the content judgesin the SchoolNet competition,at whichHoover’s documentary Hometown Heroesreceived perfect scores in every category,winning the competition.n The Speech and Debate teamcompeted in the “little’s” tournament Feb.12 in order to qualify for the statecompetition. Juniors Kavita Betkururand Amy Liu and seniors Adele Vergisand Sarah Upperman will compete inthe state competition.n Miss Jennifer Hilker wasFebruary’s Vital Viking Awardrecipient. Hilker received cake, balloonsand a card with a certificate. To nominatea staff member, pick up a nomination formin Mrs. Tina Cindea’s room.nThe Hoover Academic Booster Club(HABC) is awarding seven $500scholarships for seniors who arecontinuing their education aftergraduation. Three scholarships fromHABC, the Hoover Sideliners and onedonated in memory of Mr. Paul Weberwill be granted for seniors who haveshown superior leadership qualities. TheMassillon Plaque Norseman Scholarshipwill be awarded to a senior who previouslywon a Norseman Award for citizenship. Amost Most Improved GPA Scholarshipwill also be awarded to a senior who has“most improved” based on accumulatedgrades from freshman year through firstsemester of senior year. Applications areavailable at the high school guidanceoffice. They must be returned by Mar. 14.nMed Tech is selling rubber ducks forthe American Red Cross Duck Race. Eachduck cost $5. The race will be held inCanton’s Stadium Park June 12 and 53prizes will be awarded. To purchase aduck, see Mrs. Kris Wells in F-2 for aform.n The Making College FinancialPlanning Count seminar will be heldMar. 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the Hoover Hall ofthe Performing Arts. The program willprovide an overview of funding optionsavailable for parents of all Hooverstudents.nThe Leadership Council is makingEaster baskets for the second gradeclasses at Fairmount Elementary School.Donations are being taken in either Mrs.Ann Bradway’s room (M-4), Mrs. AnnSowd’s room (BB-6) or either of theirmailboxes. Some suggestions include:books, candy, toys and school supplies.NHS novices participate in induction ceremonyThe National Honor Society held its InductionCeremony Jan. 25 in Hoover Hall.New members included 83 juniors andtwo seniors, Abigayle Craigg and NikkiCoast. Inductees pledged themselves to thesociety and its four principles: character,scholarship, leadership and service.Keynote Speaker was Todd Blackledgefrom the Hoover class of 1979.After the speech, the new members wereinducted in the traditional candlelighting,which was followed by a reception in thelibrary.– Nathan FloomuJuniors Kristin Gibbs and Shaina Hecht lightthe traditional candles at this year’s NHSinduction Jan. 25. There were a total of 83juniors inducted at the ceremony.SHANNON PIFER03.04.05 u the viking views u 9

uuLetter from The PanelTHENC1Dear readers,It may have been awkward at first, butthe two quickly warmed up to each otherwhile painting at Glazed & Amused. JuniorAnurag Sharma and sophomore AlexVitale then headed next door to split asandwich at Jimmy John’s GourmetSandwich Shop. We thank both places,which graciously donated gift cards toallow the date to take place.This is the last story in our specialseries “The NC: Dating in North Canton.”We thank everyone involved forhelping make this experience possible.Special appreciation is extended toour readers. Whether you thought thiswas a frivolous or cliché experiment ora successful path to study teen dating,The Panel thanks you for your attention.Dating is a very important aspect ofteenage life, and this was The VikingViews’ first attempt at discovering theunderlying feelings in different datingsituations.We wish the best to all of our participantsand every student. May your datingjourney be more wonderful than youimagined.Sincerely,The PanelDATING IN NORTH CANTON1-Sophomore Alex Vitale and junior Anurag Sharma look for paint colors atGlazed and Amused. 2- Sharma looks up while painting a starfish. 3- Vitale andSharma talk while splitting a sandwich at Jimmy John’s. 4- Anurag concentrateson the details. 5- Vitale adds orange paint to the corner of her fish. 6- Sharmaand Vitale learn how to use the facility. 7- Vitale laughs while talking to Sharma.Photos by Amy King.2uu3Anurag SharmaAnurag Sharma410 u the viking views u 03.04.05

Speed dating ends in successBeth Simmerman Staff WriterOn a chilly Saturday that offered only a hint of impendingspring, the season for young love, two Hoover students were given their own shot at finding romance.Sophomore Alex Vitale and junior Anurag Sharma met at WashingtonSquare shopping plaza Feb. 19 to go on their first date sinceindicating their interest in each other at the speed dating sessionheld Jan. 15.The date began at Glazed and Amused, a pottery store that allowscustomers to pick out pottery and paint glaze on it using thestore’s art supplies for a small studio fee.Vitale chose to paint a clay fish while Sharma chose a starfish.Vitale said that the activity let her get to know more about Sharmaand continue conversations that had begun at the original speeddating event.“We talked about ‘Sponge Bob’ and other types of cartoons thathe watches like ‘The Simpsons’ and ‘Family Guy’ and stuff,” Vitalesaid. “I had remembered [from speed dating] that he liked cartoons.”Both Vitale and Sharma felt that the interesting, easy-going conversationhelped raise the quality of the date.“I think [the date] went well,” Sharma said. “We just talked alot, so I’m guessing it went well.”After the conversation wound down and the clay figures werepainted, the couple moved on to eat lunch at Jimmy John’s GourmetSandwich Shop.Before they ate, Vitale and Sharma both said that the date wasgoing very well. Sharma said that he felt “a little bit” of a connection,while Vitale said it was “too soon to tell.”At Jimmy John’s, the two split a sandwich and continued theirconversation. They remained a pair until the last crumbs of theirfood were disposed of, just talking and laughing. Eventually, Vitaleand Sharma went their separate ways.In retrospect, they both feel the date was apositive experience. Sharma said that6uuJimmy John’sOpen Mon.-Sun. 10a.m.-10p.m.2049 East Maple Street(330)499-6500“It was good for the date because we could justwalk there. The designs were cool on the inside andthe food was good.”uuuuAlex VitaleGlazed & AmusedOpen Mon.-Thur. 11a.m.-9p.m., Fri. Sat.11a.m.-10p.m., Sun. 12p.m.-6p.m.2045 Easton Street NE(330)497-6445“Glazed & Amused was fun. It was what I hoped ituwould be, when my friends and I had talked aboutgoing.”u Alex Vitalehe “wouldn’t mind” a second date.“I just enjoyed it, that’s all,” he said. “[Vitale] is a very activeperson, like in clubs and stuff… I like that.”Vitale said that she “definitely” sees herself continuing relationswith Sharma, even if it’s only as friends.“He seemed more like a friend or brother I guess,” Vitale said.“I didn’t really feel like a romantic connection, so it was easy totalk to him and stuff.”Looking back on the entire experience, from speed dating to theeventual real date, Vitale remains positive.“I think that everyone should give speed dating a try,” she said.“It was just really fun.” nV75uu Alex Vitale03.04.05 u the viking views u 11

[ features ]SEAN BHAGAT♠ ♦♣♥Hannah Mirzakhani Staff Writer12 u the viking views u 03.04.05‘I’m all in’Younger generations want dealt in;parents don’t like the oddsYour eyes dart back and forth. Thecards you have in your hand arenot the greatest, but you dare notshow it. You laugh and talk normally, makingit seem to your friends that you have thebest cards in the entire deck. You are playinga crucial game of Texas Hold’em.Whether it is youngsters playing for fun,a few friends playing for $5, or on nationaltelevision winning $1 million, poker has becomeAmerica’s new fad. The World PokerTour website claims that “over 100 millionplayers across the globe” play poker.However, this recent trend has raisedconcerns that young people might becomeaddicted to gambling.To Hoover sophomore Colin Brown,Texas Hold’em, one type of poker, is notthat big of a deal.“[It’s] a fun way to be with friends,” hesaid.Brown said that he plays once a weekwith a few friends, and has been playing forabout three months now. He pays $5 to playand can win from between $20 to $25.“[Winning] depends on the people,”Brown said.If Brown should lose, however, he wouldonly lose the $5 he paid to play. He said thisis why he doesn’t think he is at risk for agambling addiction. His parents don’t careabout him playing because of the low amountof money he uses. Brown believes that playingTexas Hold’em is more exciting than goingout.“[It’s] more crazier,” he said.Brown said he started playing becausehis friends played and he thought it mightbe fun.Daniel Queen, a sophomore at JacksonHigh School, also began playing poker becauseof friends. He plays two to three timesa week. The money he buys in with rangesfrom $5 to $30 and he’s won as much as$120. He considers poker to be his meansof income.“I didn’t want to get a job, so I playpoker,” he said.Though his parents know he plays, hefeels that they might not approve if he lostmore than he won.Like Brown, Queen does not worry aboutgambling addiction. People should be moreconcerned with other addictions, like drugsand alcohol, he said.Queen thinks that people have the wrongidea about gambling and the amount ofmoney used because they only watch thetelevision version.“Those games are what, no limits? Whereyou can bet one of your chips or all of yourchips at any given time,” Queen said.“People see that and assume that poker addictsare flushing their money away on onehand like that.” In actual casinos, there arelimits on what a person can bet, he said, and“that is what people get confused with.”Mrs. Lori Spitzer, mother of senior DaneSpitzer, doesn’t encourage playing poker,but if it is only for recreational fun, shethinks it’s OK. Her son used to play aboutonce a week, but now it’s only once a month.Spitzer usually gathers six to eight friendsover at their house to play. He was very enthusiasticin the beginning, and Mrs. Spitzerstarted to get worried.“[It has the] potential to become a problem,”she said. Because of this, she feelsthat gambling is “more negative than positive.”She believes that it can become addictiveand lead to bigger problems. Seeingit on television, Mrs. Spitzer said that itmakes poker more intriguing.“[People] see big pots won and find itmore appealing,” she said. Mrs. Spitzer actuallyknows families whose lives have beenturned upside down by gambling. People seegambling as an “easy way to make an income.”The younger generation is also becominga fan of the poker trend. Matt Zahorec,

an eighth grader at North Canton MiddleSchool, said that he plays poker with hisfriends frequently and they use around $5to $10 to bet. However, they don’t see anyproblems with using money to bet.“It’s just a way for me to hang out withmy friends and I don’t see an problems withusing money because we don’t use a lot at atime,” Zahorec said.Matt’s mother, Jean Zahorec, doesn’t seeany problem with her son gambling and likesthat she knows where her kids are and thatthey are just playing poker and staying outof trouble.However, experts say there are some potentialproblems with playing poker. NancyPetry, Director of the Gambling AddictionTreatment and Research Center, states thatthose who use poker as an easy way of makingmoney could become addicted to thegame, and she warns players to be carefulwhen betting.“Parents should think twice before encouragingtheir kids to gamble,” she saidwhen interviewed by the Boston Globe. Sheencourages parents to watch for signs ofaddiction, which include borrowing moneyfrom family and friends, mood swings aboutpoker and a surplus of unexplained money.Betty George, Chief Executive Officer ofthe North American Training Institute inDuluth, Minnesota, researches parental attitudestoward their children’s gambling.Although teens enjoy playing poker, Georgefeels that gambling is considered adult entertainment,not for younger audienceswhere it could have bad consequences.See POKER, P. 16u Top left: A poker player sneaks a peekat the hand he’s been dealt. u Below: Apoker player shuffles the deck to deal thenext hand of Texas Hold’em. u Junior RDWhittaker looks at his cards and decides ifthey are worth playing. u Junior Dan Reissgrabs some chips to place a bet.Betting blind inTV, online pokerIt’s a Friday night and your poker buddiescanceled. You have the urge to play, butno one to play with. Lucky for you that youcan just watch poker on television or playonline.Poker on television is becoming a popularform of entertainment. The recent successof the World Series of Poker in ESPNhas brought an array of poker on such stationsas The Travel Channel, Fox and Bravo,and a new show called “Tilt” on ESPN.Sophomore Steve England enjoys watchingpoker on television.“It is fun knowing what they have andwatching them bet,” he said.It is also a way to practice your pokerplaying, said sophomore Josh Hill.“ It’s fun to see how good people play,”he said.It is not just the aspiring poker studentsgetting in on the action, but also such celebritiesas Ben Affleck, Wanda Sykes and even“The Bus” Jerome Bettis. Celebrity pokercan be viewed on Bravo.The poker plays featured on the WorldSeries of Poker are becoming celebrities intheir own right. Poker stars such as Englandand Hill’s favorite Phil Ivey are becominghousehold names.Poker on television has also brought successto online poker. Websites such aswww.pacificpoker.com,www.partypoker.com are popular, as iswww.fulltiltpoker.com.Does the recent success of poker on televisionand online, however, lead to gamblingaddictions?Nancy Martin, a counselor at Quest RecoveryServices in Canton, says it does.[ features ]“I received aphone call from aparent whose sonwas playing pokeronline by himselfand gambling lotsof money from his mother’s credit card,”Martin said. The fact that online gamblingis accessible and appealing concerns Martin.“[Online poker] takes it out of the settingof it being a recreational activity withpeople and focuses more on the money aspect,”Martin said. Winning “easy money”is why she wants to warn teens about onlinepoker.“A young teenager could get lucky onegame and win a large sum of money. Winningthat money just one time can cause thatteen to get hooked and then lead to moreharmful habits,” Martin said.However, junior Mike Malloy disagrees.He believes there is no problem with watchingpoker on TV or playing it online.Students such as Hill, Malloy and Englandhave begun playing poker online becausethey find it a good way to satisfy theirpoker sweet tooth.“It’s fun to play when I am bored,” saidHill.However they agree that playing onlinedoes not equal the thrill of playing in person,because according to England, “It’sexciting knowing you can lose at any time.”Malloy also noted a difference betweenplaying poker online and in person: “Youdon’t get the reactions of the people.” nV–Zach Schwab (Viking Views Staff Writer JohnArnold contributed to this story).ERIK LONGSEAN BHAGATSEAN BHAGAT03.04.05 u the viking views u 13

Nathan FloomBack in middleschool, I never usedto get the goodgrades I do now inHigh School. It’snot for lack oftrying, of course. Istudied and triedmy best, but still Istruggled to get good grades. Then, ineighth grade something changed, and mygrades drastically improved.My friends told me about a club, calledChess Club. I decided I would go and giveit a try. I didn’t know anything about thegame of chess, but I learned and eventuallystarted to become good at it. In the clubwe started to study tactics and learnopenings. About that time, all of my gradeswent up.Since then, I have wondered why mygrades went up so much with no apparentchange in study habits. The answer cameto me in “Chess Life,” a monthly magazinesent to me by the USCF or U.S. ChessFederation. They had an article about howkids who learn and play chess regularlyimprove critical thinking skills analyzing skillsand comprehension skills. Chess actuallyhelped me become smarter.Check MateI feel that chess could help people at ourschool become better thinkers andstudents.Chess had a profound effect on my studentlife, but could that necessarily be the case forthe entire school? It may seem crazy, butsome schools actually have chess as ascheduled class because of its positive effectson the mind. Some private schools in NewYork actually hire a grandmaster (person ratedover 2000) to teach kids to become chessplayers. While it may not be common in theUnited States, for other countries it is.Russia, famous for its cold war chess matchbetween American Bobby Fisher and BorrisSpasky in the world championship, has morechess classes and clubs than the United Statesdoes. As a matter of fact, during its Sovietperiod, its bureau of sports and gamesconsidered making chess an official Sovietsport.Here in America, we put so much emphasison sports that we forget the positive effectsof other games on the mind. While athleticsports are said to help people’s health andmost of the time character, there has yet tobe any evidence of a sport making yousmarter.Chess is commonly used in less privilegedschools to help teach kids analytical skills andThe Floominatorlogical thinking. While they definitely don’thave a class for it, they do have a club ormaybe even a team as we here at Hooverhave. Their clubs help people who mightnot have money or talent for sports dosomething that keeps them off the streetsand benefits their minds.Chess is different than other clubs in thatwhile it doesn’t focus on community serviceor athletic ability, it does focus on the mindand honing its natural potential.Something that might surprise you, as itdid me, is that people who are somewhatmentally deficient or autistic can play chesspretty well. I think it is great to have peoplewho wouldn’t fit in at sports, or maybecouldn’t do other activities that normalpeople could, play something that somepeople think only geniuses can play.Another interesting tidbit about thebenefits of chess is that anybody can playregardless of age. I have played and lost toa person in a high chair that was only inkindergarten. Though that situation waspretty humiliating and humbling on my part,it is pretty amazing that two very differentpeople can come together face to face ormind to mind and wage war on each other,no matter what their differences are, andbenefit from it.You’ve seen me before: Jared WackerlyAge 15Grade 9The Viking Views: Have you heardabout the poker craze?Jared Wackerly:Yes, I have heard it’s alot of fun. I also heard that people are doingit a lot around here and making tonsof money off of it.VV: Are you a big poker man yourself?JW: No, I don’t know how to play poker.VV: Do you like high school so far?JW: Yeah, I think it’s pretty fun so far. It’sa lot different than middle school.VV: What is one piece of advice that youwould give upcoming freshmen?JW: I’d probably say just don’t get behindin things. Make sure your work isdone. Also, get involved in things withother people to get to know one another better.14 u the viking views u 03.04.05VV: Do you have a job?JW: No, not right now.VV: Do you want a job?JW: No, I don’t really have enough sparetime to have a job.VV: What do you do with your time afterschool?JW: I lift for football, and I practice for baseball.When I go home, I have to do my homeworkas well.VV: What is the key to your success in sportsand school?JW: I have to practice all the time and repeateverything more than once. I also haveto stay focused.VV: Do you have any big plans for springbreak?JW: Not really, just to hang around here withmy friends.-Kristy FerruccioDANNY SAVAGE

latté the creamiest trendschristinestylesstrawna taste of something localBurt’s Bees is taking overfeatureBut don’t worry, the sting isn’t fatalYou’ve been stung! Burt’s Bees products have settled inthe purses and pockets of all sorts of people—from myparents to hipsters. Known for their lip balm and wide range oflotions and bath products, Burt’s makes the most necessaryproducts more appealing.In rural Maine, one man started collecting bees. He started withsimple products and the company has grown into a buzzing multimilliondollar corporation with a goal—environmentally friendlyproduction and distribution.All of the ingredients in Burt’s Bees products are completely natural;even the packaging is made from recycled materials. This makes whatthey offer especially appealing to people with sensitive skin. Thecompany uses boxes made out of 30 percent Post Consumer Recycled(PCR) Paperboard and bottles made of 90 percent or more PCR plastic.Burt’s even prints its labels with vegetable-based inks.Burt’s works to conserve the resources that are available to them,striving to be friendly to the environment, animals and of course, theircustomers. And with Burt’s most popular product, Beeswax Lip Balm,you can get a little friendly, too.“he never chooses an opinion; he just wears whatever happens to be in style.” [leo tolstoy]Princess Amidala only puts red in themiddle of her lips and no one really knowswhy. Senior Darya Ives only puts Burt’sBees Beeswax Lip Balm on the middleof her lipsand shedoes it for areason—acrisp,tinglingsensation.First apply regular,non-medicated lip-gloss toyour lips. Next, apply Burt’sBees Beeswax Lip Balm to themiddle of your upper and lower lip.And finally, enjoy the tingle, which,according to Ives, “totally psyches youout.”Try it. It’s like a virgin pina colada foryour lips!Impress the world withyour trendspotting ortrendsetting. Reporttrends to The Viking ViewsPublications Lab today!thinkyou’reprettytrendy?trendee, trendoSome things never goout of style: singing inthe rain, banana splitsand classic books. Whatclassic books sell best onbarnesandnoble.com? Here’sthe top 10....1. To Kill a Mockingbird2. The Catcher in the Rye3. The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter4. 19845. Great Gatsby6. Fahrenheit 4517. Anna Karenina8. Lord of the Flies9. Animal Farm10. Of Mice and MenNow, read up!for everyoneThere is nothing coolerthan helping others,and donatingmoney to help blindpeople around theworld will also getyou a cool Brailleshirt with phraseslike, “I Love NY,”“Ireland,” or“EmotionallyUnavailable.”All proceedsfrom seenyc.orggo to helping thesightlesspopulationworldwide.** photo illustrations by christine strawn.Destined to be thenext Burt?Try making your ownlip balm…In just 6 easy stepsWhat you’ll need:1 small containerPetroleum JellyPowdered fruit juice mix1. Microwave desired amount ofpetroleum jelly for about 35 seconds2. Stir in juice mix (test occasionallyuntil ideal combination of jelly andmix has been achieved)3. Put mixture in microwave forabout 30 more seconds4. Transfer the mixture into yourdesired lip gloss container5. Let set until firm6. Enjoy!**family recipeSuperheroes come in abottle—who knew?Pomegranate juice is an“Antioxidant superpower,”containing moreantioxidants than anyother drink. Antioxidantshelp to protect the bodyagainst free radicals,molecules that areknown to causepremature aging,heart disease,Alzheimer’s andcancer. So, take aglass—and drink to yourhealth!words to keep you up-to-date*unstylish, clichéd.a small isopod crustacean that destroys submerged timber.is it still hip? naff (naff) adj.gribble (grib’-ul) n.*or at least, interesting.

Whether working in Career/Technicalprograms, participating in mentorshipsor sitting in calculus class, students todayhave one thing in common—they are the future.photos by: shannon pifer and merritt woodsby: chelsea croffordAnxiety runs high at the endof every school year, and manyseniors believe they’re finallyout of here. But how many arereally done with school? Thenumber of students who arefinished with their educationright out of high school isminimal. Those who don’tcontinue on with schoolsometimes have more troublefinding work.According to Sharon Parry,Executive Director of theEmployment Source, only 8percent of the people who gothrough the EmploymentSource are college graduates,and 5 percent are in college. Shebelieves that “each year ofeducations adds to theprobability in getting a job.”“The bulk of people we seehere do not have that highereducation, and I really thinkthat’s why they’re turning tous,” Parry said. “They do havemore difficulty finding work.”In order to help studentsavoid the difficulty of findingwork as adults, GuidanceCounselor Mr. Jack Flick setsstudents up on the traditionalcollege preparation course.However, if students choose notto attend college, he gives themother options.“It may not be a degreeprogram, but something thatshows they’ve gone above highschool,” he said.Some of the career andtechnical programs at Hooverdon’t require a four-year degree.However, Video Productions IIstudent Benn Draher iscontinuing his career training atOhio University.Even though Draher believesthat, while he could possiblyfind a job using what he haslearned from video productionsright out of high school, it wouldbe easy for him to find a bettersupporting job after college dueto the state of the job market.“Right now, in our day andage, the job market’scompetitive and they want theCONTINUED ON PAGE 19To the work force, and beyond...

Mentoring could mean moneyby: sarah uppermanProspective students for the upcoming school year each receive a course book inFebruary. The 2005-2006 course book alone contains 106 pages and offers studentsover 50 pages designated strictly for class selection.As intimidating as it is thick,some students slave over thesheets trying to pick theclasses that suit them the best,others opt to merely take the classesrequired for graduation. More opportunitiesare introduced with electives.Mentorship is one such elective class.In its sixth year of being offered atHoover, mentorship offers real worldexperience and allows students to traveloutside of the classroom and into the workforce.Even with such perks, prospectivestudents aren’t signing up for the class.The lack of enrollment for the programsurprises no one more than Mrs. KathieDeMuesy, teacher of mentorship.“This is a class really worth taking. It18 u the viking views u 03.04.05gives students practical experience. I don’tknow what else I can do to spread the wordto students,” she said.The class focuses upon allowing studentsto find a job that suits them. In order tofind a career that students would excel in,class participants take a series of careerplacement inventories.Inventories are career placement tests.“Iventories provide insight into whatstudents want to do. [Inventories] alsoexpose students to new job ideas,”DeMuesy said.Linda Poulton, a senior, is planning on aprofession involving interior design. Shesaid the inventories have helped her learnabout different job openings.“Mentorship allowed me to learn and seewhat’s out there in the job market. TheHoover High School mentorship studentsat work. Left: Senior Kelli Miller looksthrough binders and reviews the financialstatus of Aultman Hospital.Below: SeniorJason Foote learns new real estate conceptswhile being mentored by Real Estate AgentMatt Blood.inventories, helped to tell me what I’m goodat,” she said.Senior Ashley Vandergrift also learnedabout different career options that wouldbest benefit her as the result of takinginventories.“I’ve always wanted to be an attorney,but the inventories told me that I’d be betterin a finance or sales field,” Vandergrift said.“I’m reconsidering what I want my careerto be, but I’m still leaning toward law.”Megan Wallace used the inventories tohelp decide between two different aspectsin the profession of fashion design.“I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go intodesign, sales, or interior design,” Wallacesaid. “The inventories pointed me towardsdesign elements.”Reassured that her inventories mirroredher interests, Wallace looks forward to startmentoring.After five weeks in the classroom, thestudents are given a pass for early releasefrom school. They then are required tofulfill 35 hours of mentoring. This can becompleted during weekdays or weekends.Students must work without pay.The students are paired with theirmentors on the basis of career and interest.DeMuesy’s goal is to find mentors thatcould serve as contacts for students in thefuture.“Students establish contacts andinterviews. I sit down with the mentor andstudent so they know what to expect, whattheir schedules could include.”It is then up to the students to completetheir 35 hours. They can participate withinschool, or choose to work on Saturdays.Senior Kelli Miller completed thementorship program during the firstsemester. She mentored within the financeCONTINUED ON PAGE 19

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18field at Aultman Hospital.For Miller, the experience was not onlypositive, but also helped to establishcredentials.“Mentoring at Aultman allowed me to seewhat the financial field entails,” Miller said.The experience was so beneficial thatMiller hopes to work at a paid internship thissummer.This strong possibility only reinforcesMiller’s prior feelings about the program.“It was a great experience. I experiencedgreat results. There’s a strong possibilitythat this will help me in my future careerendeavors,” she said.After completing the program, students,mentors and parents are invited to the libraryto hear presentations by the students. Thepresentations focus upon what students havelearned throughout the program.DeMuesy notes that there are differentways to come across success in the class.Being successful doesn’t always mean thatthey had an enjoyable time in the career thatthey chose to mentor.She encourages interested students stepoutside their comfort zone and sign up forthe program.“Even if [students] don’t enjoy the careerthey’re mentoring, the experience is apositive one,” DeMuesy said.As the coursebooks are distributed andscheduling for next year begins; DeMuesyurges students to consider mentorship.“The 18 weeks you spend in this courseallow you to ecide if you like the career,”DeMuesy. “It’s more beneficial than goingto college for four years only to decidethe profession isn’t right for you.”CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17best of the best,” he said. “In order to fully support yourself, youneed higher education.”Another senior, Dan Kopriver, also understands the need forhigher education. He plans on pursing his education at theMotorcycle Mechanics Institute where he plans to get his degreeand work for Yamaha upon graduation.“I [need] that little piece of paper, that degree, that says I knowhow to work on bikes,” he said. “Without that paper, I can’t reallydo anything.”However, even with higher education, the job market is rapidlychanging because of the growth of technology. According to Parry,when speaker Steve Gunderson came to speak with theEmployment Source, he said that the “hot jobs” of the future haven’tbeen invented yet, so, in order to prepare for those jobs,mathematics and science classes must be taken.According to Parry, in a poll that was taken, 50 percent ofstudents said they had some gaps in science preparation, and 41percent said they wish they would have taken more math. However,only 22 percent would go back and takemore. These skills should be studied inhigher education because they are going tobe valuable in the future because of the rapidprogression of technology.“Technology, going the way it is, is key.If you don’t have skills, you probably won’tbe employed,” Parry said. “Those skills willbe your passports to different jobs.”While many adults are going back toschool to receive a better job, some, like Mr.Mike Russ, coach and substitute teacher, goback to “try something new.” For 15 years,Russ worked at Taco Bell in a managementposition, which required that he had a publicadministration degree. However, he decided to go back to schoolto receive his education degree.Russ said that he would hire students right out of high school towork at Taco Bell and, if they reached general manager, they couldmake between $30–$40 thousand per year without a degree.“For someone working in fast food right out of high school, theycan make good money, but it would be tough for them to move upbecause they don’t have a degree,” he said.So, while Russ feels they can be successful without a degree,he feels in some ways it also limits them.“By the time they’re 21 and they’re making 30–40 thousand ayear, that’s pretty successful,” he said. “[But] the older you get,it’s not as much money. You’re not as marketable without a degree.”Flick believes that by continuing on to higher education, youkeep a lot of your options open in the long run.“The bottom line is, you’re never done going to school,” Flicksaid. “If you come out of high high school and don’t do anythingelse, you’re extremely limiting yourself.”Need a sports physical?Kelly L. Casper, M.D.Joining the office ofDonna Backus, M.D.New Pediatricianis accepting new patients2920 Market Ave. NCanton, Ohio 44714330.456.968803.04.05 u the viking views u 19

Career and tech programs pay... eventuallyby: kaci lappFor seniors, the year is more than halfway through, andmany are a step closer to at least four more yearsof school in college. However, some Hoover studentsin career/technical programs find themselves leaps andbounds ahead of college-track seniors by completing certificationsthat will put them ahead in the work world.“The traditional vocational program is set up so that a studentcan take a class and become certified to do a certain job,” saidjunior Liana Piero, a med tech student. “I think it’s a wonderfulprogram for people who want a job directly out of high school.”Piero is currently working towards her certification as a nurse’said. Because of her experiences this year, she is looking forwardto taking Med Tech II next year.“The material is interesting because it’s what I want to do,” shesaid. “I’m going to college to further my education beyond a regularRN degree.”Like Piero, GlenOak cosmetology student Nikita Reiserer alsoplans to go to college.“I took cosmetology because I thought I wanted to work in asalon,” Reiserer said. “Now I plan on going to college to earn abusiness degree to open my own salon.”Mrs. Margaret Alvarez, who has taught cooperative businesspartnership (CBP) for the past 21 years, said that most of herstudents continue their education in a four or two year degree aftergraduation.At Right: RichardBurke sprinkles nuts ona piece of cheesecakeduring a culinary artsclass. Bottom Left:Senior Charles Rosssands a car during hisauto body class. BottomRight: Senior Pete Hallfilms the boys basketballgame against DetroitCountry Day for hisvideo productions class.20 u the viking views u 03.04.05“Students leaave [CBP] with a professional-looking resumeand a professional portfolio which may be updated throughoutone’s career or careers,” she said.Hoover has strong career/technical programs set up to providetraining for students who plan to enter such careers as med tech,business, computer electronics and culinary arts, along with others.Mr. Michael Luther, Computer Tech I and II teacher, has hadmany successful students pass through his classes over the years.One is working with the Ohio Department of Justice, and anotheris a project manager for Cingular Wireless. Luther tries to cultivatevaluable skills in his students for handling the work world.“The skills I try to instill in my students [are] patience, cooperation,teamwork... respect...and a strong work ethic,” he said.Even some of the classes that Hoover doesn’t provide, likeReiserer’s cosmetology class, are accessible to Hoover students.Hoover has set up a charter program with GlenOak, Jackson andLake, where students from the participating high schools may betransported to another high school to take a career/technical class.Hoover junior, Elliot Wallace decided to turn his love of musicinto a career by focusing on the key feature of sound. He iscurrently taking a light and sound class at GlenOak High School.“I know I’d like to be a sound engineer,” he said. “I’ve alwaysbeen interested in that aspect of the music industry.”Piero, Reiserer and Wallace all see the importance of highschools offering career and technical classes.“Some kids who lack the motivation to get aheadin life really find themselves and where they wantto be through a vocational class,” Wallace said.“[The classes] set you up with jobs to get a stepahead in whatever industry a student might choose.”Junior business applications student, KatiePrevitera, agrees that career and technicalprograms offer important career opportunities.“I believe that [students] can learn aboutthemselves, and the skills acquired in vocationalclasses are important for the future,” she said.Culinary arts teacher, Mrs. Connie Campos,feels that most of her students have no problemfinding jobs in the work world.“Any student who wants to find work afterthey graduate in the field can,” she said. “Thereare jobs out there.”Campos’ students have been successful,landing jobs in the Culinary School at the CIA,opening Chuck-E-Cheese’s nationwide, andcompeting in the Culinary Olympics.“Honesty, integrity, hard work, selfmanagement...I think if they possess thesequalities they will always be able to find a joband keep it,” Campos said.CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

Job jumpers:staff members change careersby: kaley smitleyIn olden times, most Americansfollowed a predictable pattern of life.They grew up, were educated inpublic high schools and perhaps went on tocollege. Then, they got a job, which theykept right up until they retired around themandatory age of 65. Many workedin the same occupation, if not underthe same employer, from the age of 18until retirement.Today, nothing could be further fromthe truth. With new jobs created by thedot.com revolution and old ones beingphased out by the advent of thecomputer, most adults of today have helda variety of positions and worked undernumerous employers. For evidence ofthis change, look no further than HooverHigh School’s very own teaching staff.Mrs. Valeta Drake currently teachesEnglish, broadcast journalism andyearbook here at Hoover.However, before becoming a teacher, sheearned a B.A. in Speech/Communicationsat Florida State University.Her first job was as a sales representativeresponsible for shipping plants, and incustomer service for computer corporationsApple and Xerox.“Computers weren’t even in homes.They were the size of a table,” Drake said.After getting married, Drake made aconscious decision to give up working infavor of being a stay-at-home mother to herthree children.“I know career-wise I could have gonemuch, much farther, but I wouldn’t havesacrificed that time at home with myCONTINUED FROM PAGE 20The numerous specialized classes have also been a help to juniorDerek Curtis, a computer electronics student.“I really enjoy being in a more relaxed classroom environmentand being able to learn about something that really interests me;something I’ll look forward to doing in the future,” he said.Some students, like Piero chose their career and technical classesbased on what they knew they wanted to pursue in the future. Buteach student has a different reason for taking a career/tech. class.“The information we learn in class is used to prepare us to taketwo of the compTIA certification tests by the end of our senioryear,” Curtis said. “I’m planning on going on to something likenetwork administration or engineering, so attaining thosecertifications is an absolute necessity.”children for anything,” she said.Drake began a slow return to the workforce in 1990, working part time doingcomputer and graphic design work forvarious churches and clients. And then:“One day I saw a notice on the OrchardHill PTO board saying that ClearmountYour passion may changeover the decades, but theworld changes too. You don’thave to keep the same job‘til 65.Mrs. Valeta DrakeElementary needed a librarian. I likedchildren’s books, so I applied,” she said.She got the job. In the end, it would be astepping-stone to teaching.“Teachers at Clearmount began tellingme ‘You should be a teacher’,” Drake said.Deciding to heed their advice, Drakereturned to school in order to earn her teachingcertificate, taking classes at Mount Union.“I was taking classes with people thesame age as my eldest son!” she said.Drake believes that students shouldalways follow their passion.“Your passion may change over thedecades, but the world changes too. Youdon’t have to keep the same job ‘til 65.Develop an aptitude for change,” she said.Another Hoover teacher who has workedin a variety of occupations is Mr. JackBunnenberg, currently an english teacher.Prior to becoming a teacher, Bunnenbergwas a volunteer firefighter.“Almost every male in my family wasor is a firefighter. My dad, uncles, cousins,everyone,” Bunnenberg said.He also worked for a constructioncompany and at a mortuary.However, “I always knew I wantedto teach. Even in high school, I alwaysfigured I would end up teaching highschool English,” he said.Following his dream of becoming ateacher, Bunnenberg entered collegefor the first time at the age of 26.“It’s just as tiring as when I performedany other job. I think it’s because of thedecision making,” he said.Bunnenberg thinks too muchemphasis is placed on choosing a major andchoosing a college.“I don’t think there’s anything wrongwith being undecided as you enter college.After all, every young person is different.You’ll end up where you’re supposed tobe,” he said.Mr. Joe Martino, Hoover Chemistry andAnatomy teacher, worked as a respiratorytherapist before becoming a teacher. It wasonly after an old friend and footballteammate asked him to coach footballduring the summer that he developed aninterest in teaching.“Sometimes I wonder where I would beif I had never taken that coaching job,”Martino said.Wallace chose to take light and sound at GlenOak becausegraphic arts was no longer an option at Hoover.“When Hoover did away with graphic arts, I decided that lightand sound was something I wanted to get into,” he said. “I wasn’tdisappointed.”Most students involved in the career/technical programs at Hooverand those offered in the charter program agree that the programsthey’re involved in were a vital part of their high school careers.“[The vocational programs] are important because they allowstudents to learn valuable skills which then allows them to enter higherpaying jobs directly from high school,” Curtis said. “The programsalso allow those students who are plan to go on to college and majoringin a related field…to get extra experience.”03.04.05 u the viking views u21

[ opinion ]the viewsBetting it all awayEvery weekend, more and moreHoover students transform from ordinaryhigh school students into surreptitiousconnivers edging for a bigger share ofthe pool. Poker is Hoover’s newest trend,often consuming the lives of students andeating their often-thin pocketbooks.Although poker can be an entertainingway to spend a night, too often, the thrillof a bet takes precedence over commonsense. Students have a right to spendtheir own money as they choose, but theyoften forget about the hard hours of labor thatwent into fueling their poker habit. Others whorely on allowances from parents, abuse the giftof trusting parents. Regardless of the sourceof income, money is easy to go through, andpoker facilitates the process.Although poker is not an inherently badhabit, the atmosphere of high school allowsabuse. Peer pressure and social etiquette maycompel even the most rational students togamble more disposable income than they haveavailable.Even with all the negatives, poker canbe a fun way to spend an evening withfriends. Unlike most activities it allowsconversation among friends. Also, it oftenmore entertaining than spending a night infron of the television on a video gamesystem.For students who enjoy the thrill ofgambling, it’s important to exercise cautionwhen the cards are flopped, because a holein the wallet is just on the other side of acard.Stop the stigmaDown where the dreaded sophomorelockers await tired armed students are thehallways offering an abundance of opportunities.The trigonometry of AA is vital, thehistory of B is necessary and the palabrasof C are essential. However vital thesesubjects are, they are not everything.M hallway contains a studio offeringYour voiceLast issue, in lieu of letters to the editor– because none were received – alighthearted note from the staff was includedin hopes of spurring students towrite letters of their own.This effort proved quite fruitful; severalletters to the editor were written anddelivered after the issue was distributed.We commend those students who tookthe time to contribute their own thoughtsand opinions to the newspaper.However positively or negatively youmay feel about something, The VikingViews values your opinions, as long asthey are expressed in an acceptable,truthful manner. It is refreshing to seethat Hoover students are passionate andwilling to be active in the community.22 u the viking views u 03.04.05instruction in video production better than mosthigh schools and even universities and a havenfor car-minded students. K hallway turnsstudents into masters of the culinary arts. Bussesawait to take students to worlds of cosmetologyand photography.Career/Technical programs are sometimesviewed as the easy way out. A world perceivedcompletely separate from the college-prep curriculumsometimes creates two differentgroups of students. Those choosing to participatein C/T programs seem to be falselylabeled.C/T courses can prepare students for a jobright out of high school or get them ready forcollege. Students should ignore the negativestigma of the C/T program and take advantageof creating their future their own way.

dsav’s digest- editorial board -Sean Bhagat u Chelsea Crofford u Amy King u Kyra Schloenbach u Beth SimmermanSarah Upperman u Adele Vergis u Lindsy Wise[ opinion ]Have you taken any careerprep or career relatedclasses at Hoover? Howhave they helped you makedecisions about a potentialcareer choice?At Hoover, I have been involved in theautobody program. First off, I love the classand Mr. Nelson. I realize now, being twoyears into the program, that I like workingon cars. It’s a great feeling being able toput a car back into its original shape....Being in a vocational program hasreally helped me become andrealize the real me.-Jason Regopoulos, 12I am in commercial photographyat GlenOak Career Center.I think that everyone should experienceeither post-secondary or vocationalclasses, because you reallylearn more than you can in a normalclassroom. In vocational classes, there ismore expected of you, but you want to bethere; you want to do the work, because youenjoy it! I never thought I would want to bea photographer; it was always a hobby. NowI can’t imagine having any other career….-Britney Green, 12As a junior, I took graphic arts. While Iwas in that class and up to my senior year, Ireally wanted to go into graphic design forcollege. If the school hadn’t closed thecourse, thenI would stillbe in it todayandgoingtocollege next year forgraphic design. Since graphicarts was closed, I had no way to continuemy learning in the graphics field. As a senior,I am taking Diversified CooperativeTraining...Hearing about so many differentyourviewscareers has helped me realize that I actuallyshouldn’t go into graphics but anothertype of technical work. Overall, DCT hashad more of an impact on how I view mylife and what I want my career to be.-Ken George, 12There are so many things to learn at notonly Hoover but at GlenOak, Jackson andLake. I go to GlenOak for horticulture.Many people don’t know what it is, but it’sthe study of plants, landscape design, floraldesign and so much more. This class hashelped me decide to go to Ohio State AgriculturalTech. Institute. There, I’m going tostudy landscape design, so I may start myown business someday....-Ashley Huthmacher, 12I am in the senior GlenOak cosmetologyprogram. It is definitely an experience.Vocational programs are a great idea ifyou’re not planning on going to college oreven if you need money to pay for college....-Jackie Kirkpatrick, 12myStaff Member Katie Rojek respondsStaff member Kaci Lapp respondsviewHere at Hoover, we’relucky to be offered diversevocational programs that provide wonderfultraining for the work world. AlthoughI, personally, have never taken the more recognizedvocational classes like auto bodyor med tech, I’ve been involved in someform of journalism for three years; a programthat I consider to be an excellent preparatorycourse for the writing world. Takingthis class has made me realize that Icould never turn journalism into a career.One major pro that results from taking avocational class is that you are offered anin-depth look at what a career in that fieldwould entail, and you can make an informeddecision about whether or not that careerwould work for you. If you don’t like gettingdirty in auto body, working as an automechanic is probably not for you. Additionally,if deadlines make you nauseous, andyou suffer from perpetual writer’s block, acareer in journalism may be a bad choice.I am fortunate to have had the opportunityto write for The Viking Views for twoyears. I’ve learned a lot about what it meansto be part of a team, because that truly ishow a newspaper staff operates. I’ve metsome wonderful people, shared a few lessthan-wonderfulstory ideas and I’ve donethe best job I could as a copy editor. However,the late nights and frustration I feelwhen I find another spelling error has mademe realize that journalism isn’t a futureoption if I wish to preserve my sanity.High school is about preparing studentsfor their futures, and just as it is helpful toknow your strengths as a student or worker,it’s invaluable to know some of your weaknessesso you can make an informed decisionabout which direction to go in the future.Taking journalism has given me thatopportunity and the chance to be part of ateam, a student forum and something largerthan myself, and for that, I am grateful.03.04.05 u the viking views u 23

Adele Vergisdude, you’re getting adeleThe Religious LeftOn a cold Februarymorning, as I flippedbetween The WeatherChannel and HVTVsearching for signs ofa snowday, I stumbledupon the politicallyaware C-Span. Expectingto see the workings of the American congressionalbody, I was rather surprised whenthe normal Congress was replaced with theCanadian Parliament.Intrigued, I watched this foreign debateand discovered something interesting. Justlike America, Canada – the presumably moreliberal nation – is worried about gay marriage.As if taking a cue from our own ConservativeChristians, Canada’s religious rightwas voicing many arguments against a newlaw about same sex marriage and the ensuingreligious ramifications in government.Suddenly, I realized something. It is oftenassumed that groups such as the ChristianCoalition support conservative stanceson issues like abortion, the death penaltyand gay marriage. Yet, as I thought moreabout religious beliefs in general, I realizedthat, if anything, the religous right shouldmove to the left.Before I delve deeper, however, we mustpresume that many of those calling for lawsagainst abortion and same sex marriage inthe name of religion believe the following:one − there is a God; two − the generalteachings and or themes of Bible are thebasis of Christian religion.Now that the stage has been set, I shallpose this preliminary question to the votingcommunity: does God really want the UnitedStates government to act as his moral policeofficer? Do any credible religious teachingsspecifically state that not only did Godgive humans free will, but he also gave thema government to tell them what to do? Ifone does feel this way, the following conceptmay be unnecessary; but consideringthe fundamentals I have learned throughoutmy Sunday school days, I’ll make myfinal assumption that they don’t.And with this idea I can now show thatthe Christian diety would prefer an anarchistto a totalitarian, a libertarian to a conservativeand someone who devotes theirlife to following God’s laws to someone whodevotes their life making a government’slaws.There are two reasons I have come tothis conclusion. The first is that in the Christianreligion, God is law, Jesus is law andabiding by a government’s law would justbe undermining their highest law. Therefore,if a Christian is opposed to death, whyis it not sufficient to allow for the commandmentsagainst harming one’s neighbor, whydo we insist on punishment through a government?This need for punishment becomes moreperplexing when the teachings of Jesus arecombined with modern circumstance. If Iam hit, my religion tells me to turn the othercheek. If someone acts against society bybreaking a law, why doesn’t society turn theother cheek as well?Beyond the concept of adhering to a lawlower than God’s, there is an even largerreason as to why the Christian should beliberal: God gave people free will. Other thanits evident importance within the value oflife, free will was created to enable God todecipher who acted well enough on his orher own free will enough to get into heavenor the opposite.In legislating immoral actions such asmurder or even abortion, how do we knowa person is not doing these things becauseGod wants him to or because the prospectof going to jail is unappealing? We muddythe waters of religious behavior and takeaway the free will that we were born with.Therefore, the only way to know if I ormy neighbor wishes to act morally is to allowfor anarchy, total freedom to act as onewants. It is for this reason that politicallyactive Christins wishing to act for God oughtnot to act like God in the way of telling othershow to live best, but, if anything theyshould act in the image of God by givingone’s neighbors the same freedoms that Godgave them.In closing, I’d like to maintain thateven after realizing all of this, I still find itunreasonable to take away laws againstmurderers or rapists, because it is not theperfect world that any one would hope itto be. I just wish to remind everyone fromthe USA to Canada that if a voter is actingin the name of Christianity, then thatvoter should enable people to make theirown choices as much as possible; that’swhat life is about.Allen and Helen PfabeArby’sNick and Shari BagnoloBoske Law OfficesBruner CoxourpatronsubscribersCanton Aultman EmergencyPhysicians, Inc.The Canton Student LoanFoundationContinental Hair Fashions- KimOberster24 u the viking views u 03.04.05Danner Dental of North CantonDavid J. Farinacci, D.D.S.Discount Drainage SuppliesDr. Gary L. Giammarco, D.D.S.Goodyear Auto Service CenterHenry A. Selinsky, Inc.Human Development andCounseling Assoc., Inc.Jerry and Kathy SmitleyJim & Peggy SavageJohn and Patty Crofford/ BelmontBusiness SystemsJulie M. Thomas, D.D.S.Kumon Math & Reading Center ofNorth CantonDr. Larry J. BrandauMerril Lynch, Michael HuthMichael L. Reolfi, Attorney at LawMK Architectural Metal, Inc.Neurocare and Sleep DisordersNutraWise LTD Nutrition andWeightloss ProfessionalsThe Okey Law FirmRichard and Debbie GibbsRodger and Nancy KnudsenThe Rojek Consulting Group, Inc.Sam O. SimmermanShirley E. HowesSpitzer ChevroletSteve Wern Sign Inc.Terr-Paul Inc./McDonald’s Boband Hortense Bobbitt, ownersTire Source North CantonWashington Square Eye CareMr. and Mrs. William H.SchloenbachWilliam J. Miller, D.D.S.nV

dsav’s digestwe’vegotletters to the editorMind your mannerswordupStriving to achieve success is a winningcomponent for everyday life. Althoughthere aren’t yellow brick roads that lead toobvious paths of success, we must pave ourown pathways to destinations so we canaccomplish our goals.Approaching new situations with confidence,will help to define our characters.Using our skills, talents and hobbies helpus to recognize the areas in which we excell.Trying your hardest in all aspects andareas of life is worth more than what eventhe harshest of critics has to say..Whether you excel in sports, set yourmailWhile taking my daily stroll through thehallways before and after school and betweenclasses, I have noticed one thing thatis missing: manners. It seems that as the yearprogresses, there is an extreme lack of manners.Now, I know that many people canuse all kinds of excuses, such as “I’m in ahurry,” and “No one uses manners, whyshould I?” I’ll tell you why.The first thing I notice is that there isalways some sort of bumping into, whethera little nudge or a huge push against a locker.I know these things are accidents and happenall the time, but say you are sorry! Orsay excuse me. Most people will appreciateit if you take those two seconds out ofyour life to apologize. If not, that is justplain rude. So many times as I am walkingthrough the halls, I will get pushed or someonewill run into me, and they will not saya single word. Just say you’re sorry! It’sreally not that hard.The second thing I have noticed is allthe making out. Okay, it’s okay to show alittle affection at school, holding hands andmaybe little pecks are just fine. But whenyour tongue is lodged down your significantother’s throat between classes, I thinkthat is disgusting. To be frank, no one wantsto see that. I’m not lying. Teachers don’teven try to stop them either. It’s pretty disturbingthat people don’t even do that inprivate anymore, they just make out for anyoneand everyone to see. Please, do us all afavor and just wait until you are alone andnot at school!Lastly, I understand that the parking lotsare crowded and full, but when someone istrying to walk across to get to their car, letthem go. Don’t make them wait for you.When a car is trying to turn in, let them turnin. You don’t need to wait for everyone toturn, but you can at least let one person in.Not only is it rude and gives that driver abad rep for not letting other people in, butit is common courtesy. Taking turns is somethingwe learned in kindergarten, so takewhat you learned there and use it now. See,people get so impatient and selfish that theyclaim they don’t care to wait for someoneto turn, or they just don’t want to let anyonein line before them. It’s not fair to theother car when they have to wait a millionyears before someone actually lets them in.I am not saying that I never do any ofthis, because that would be hypocritical(minus the making out bit…you will neversee that happening with me, I can promiseyou that.) But honestly, manners are not justabout keeping your elbows off the table atdinner or saying excuse me if you burp. Justbe aware that you are not the only one, thereare hundreds other people who go to thisschool who deserve respect in the halls too.So be courteous, and just say “sorry.”—Kelly Doyle, 11“If a man does his best, what else is there?”–General George S. Pattonsights on academic perfection, composemusic or do all three, settle for nothing lessthan your absolute best.There will always be someone better thanyou; there will always be someone who isn’tnearly as talented in their skills.Be able to live with the mentality thatyou are working your hardest at all areas oflife is far more important than being thebest.Even if there was a yellow brick roadthat led to success, you shouldn’t follow it.Pave your own.popular viewsWhat are your thoughts on the“ recent poker craze?”COREYFLEISCHMAN,11: “Itseems like a popularcraze, but as far aswasting my money,especially since I don’thave a job, it would be awaste of my time.”BETH UNFERDORFER,9: “My cousintaught me to play poker in Texas a fewyears ago, and it’s a lot of fun. We onlyplayed for Oreos, though.”MATT CROSS,10: “I’ve been addicted topoker since I was twelve. I kind of thinkit’s cool that everyone’s starting to get intoit. There’s more people to play with.”ERIK HELLGREN, 10:“I think poker partiesare a fun way to chill outand have fun with yourfriends, as long as youaren’t gambling formoney.”MICHELLE SAYLOR,10: “Poker would bebetter for me if I knewhow to play, but since Idon’t, I’d better learnsoon.”EMILY FRANK,11: “Idon’t play poker but Ihear that it’s really fun.I’ve heard about lots ofkids that get togetherand play and have agood time.”BRANDON BESOZZI,12: “It’s gone too farwhen people would rather play poker thanwatch the Super Bowl.”ANDY MULCAHEY, 12:“Starting last summer,my friends and I startedplaying poker once aweek. Now we play atevery chance we get andgamble on anything wecan.”SAMANTHA SIMPSON,12: “I think thatit’s stupid, because most of the kids aregambling their parent’s money anyway.”03.04.05 u the viking views u 25

NOW OPEN...1589 N. Main St.North Canton330.494.4100popular views“”PIZZA OVEN RESTAURANTArmstrongRelocation•Local and long distance moving6570 Promway Avenue NWNorth Canton, Ohio 44720www.armstrongrelocation.com330.497.0077800.543.4402FAX 330.499.6960VIKINGS, HAVE A GREATSCHOOL YEAR!Spirit WearSports UniformsFundraisersLetterman JacketsPersonalizationEmbroideryACADEMY UNIFORMSThe Area’s NEWEST Headquarters for Hoover Spirit Wear!!Located on the corner of Applegrove & North Main330.498.0877Robert W. FisherSenior Vice President4700 Dressler Road, NW, Ste. 200 • Canton, Ohio 4471826 u the viking views u 03.04.05Phone: (330) 492.3373 • Toll Free: (800) 589.7044Fax: (330) 492.3122 • bfisher@skyinsure.com

WITH PERMISSION HOTROMZ.COMwe’veWrong priorities?gotDear Viking Views:I’m a bad person for not telling you howI feel. I’m sorry and so is the rest of thestudent body. So since you attacked US, Idecided I should attack YOU.......To illustrate my point, I’ll go throughthe paper section by section and explainwhy I don’t care.... “Napoleon Dynamite”-quoting article – that movie was lame beforeit came out. I’m glad the fact that thequotes are getting old consumed an entirepage though.Tired of typing. Must summarize rest ofpaper. I-pods are lame. Senioritis is just thebi-product of having the best years of yourlife crammed full of people yapping at you.Dude, I’m not getting Adele, I’m gettingthat you say obvious things.Stuff about the play pertains tothose in it and those they holdclose. More I-Pod crap. Theentertainment section isfine. Good job. As for thesports section, I don’tcare.Long story short: Whyshould I care about anything you putin that paper...? ...By the time the papercomes out, I’ve already heard about it anddiscussed it; done and over with.... ...the falsepresumption you make is that we care.... ...Inthe odd event that you actually care about reportingthings to the students, you should tryreporting about things that haven’t alreadybeen discussed....—Mike Linscott, 12Reluctant responseDear Editor:As I was skimming through the last issueof The Viking Views (vol. 55 #7). I read somethingin the editorial section that not onlyshocked and confused me but also disgustedme to a certain degree. It was in the letters tothe editor section entitled “Aggravating Apathy,”and in it was what seemed to be a shot atthe readers of The Viking Views.I cannot believe that half a page in OURschool newspaper, which, in its time of circulationhas won many coveted awards, couldmail^morebe devoted to yelling at the readers of TheViking Views for not putting any input into apaper that is often trite and boring. Perhapsthe reason that the readers of The VikingViews decided not to contribute this timewas apathy, but that doesn’t matter, becausethey are the readers; the staff of The VikingViews works for them, not the otherway around....If I had my way, therewould be a complete boycottof the magazine for thisjournalistic disgrace.Maybe you should simplyuse the space for advertising.At least then youwouldn’t be able to attack theonly people that care about themagazine – the readers....Maybe a good way to attract attention tothe magazine would be to focus on thingsthat the students care about. For example, Ifound it particularly abhorrent that The VikingViews issued right after the Novemberelection had little more than three articleseven concerning the election, but themagazine instead prefers to focus on thingssuch as whether or not anyone likes “NapoleonDynamite,” or whether or not longdistance relationships can last....Stop playing to the percentage of theschool that cares about what color of lipstickBritney is wearing to the Grammys andstart paying attention to the part that caresabout what is happening in the rest of theworld.Stop patronizing us and telling us thatwe are unintelligent, vain high school kidswho only care about clothes, trends and highschool drama, and start giving us somethingthat might actually be useful.—Jeremy A. Miller, 12Editors Note: The election occured afterissue 3 went to our printer. For extensiveelection coverage, see issue 2.Dealing with disagreementDear Editor:...Everyone has their favorite news channel.Whether they choose CNN, MSNBC,FOX or one of the many others, people useDecision2004dsav’s digest[ opinion ]these sources to inform themselves. Whileall of these channels claim to be balancedand fair, I wonder, when was the last timeanyone saw a true debate on issues withoutthe interferences of cut mikes, angry words,commercial breaks, or Bill O’Reilly....The differences between a Democrat anda Republican are not so extreme that theymust disagree on every issue, but can youeven remember the last time our leaders putpartisanship aside and tried to findthe best solution for a problem?....Let’s bring this a littlecloser to home. Let’simagine you have a disagreementwith someone.It could be a classmate,teacher or family member.Do you calmly sit down andtake turns discussing your reasoning,or do you quickly becomeangry and raise your voice or even resortto violence?...Can we not solve our problems peacefully?Perhaps we can gain some wisdomfrom the old Chinese Proverb, “The manwho strikes first admits that his ideas haverun out....”Let’s try to understand this by using [arecent] situation [that happenedto me as I conversedwith Viking Views staffers.]...While I calmly stated my positionas preferring the simplewritings of Don Kotnik andother past favorites, I was metwith hostility....Instead of thinking the situationthrough, they chose to take the easyKotnikapproach and raise their voice in an attemptto prove their point... It seems to me thatthe situation could have been better solvedin a different manner.If a free exchange of ideas had takenplace, perhaps the newspaper could haveimproved.... maybe a greater good can befound from this encounter, an opportunityfor us all to change the way we treat thosewho disagree...P. S. I really love the layout of the paperthis year.—Joe Mokodean, 1203.04.05 u the viking views u 27

[ scene ]REALITYmore popular than everABC/USED WITH PERMISSIONBeforeAfteruAbove right: Bryon proposesto Mary on “The Bachelor.”Above: The results of TheExtreme Makeover team’smakeover of housewife Valerie.Below: The final twocontestsants on an episode of“The Swan.”ABC/USED WITH PERMISSION28 u the viking views u 03.04.05Rebecca Paasch Staff WriterOne of the most popular and rapidly growingtrends of today’s culture is reality television.Reality TV has become increasingly popular overthe last five years. In fact, according to an unscientificpoll of 184 Hoover students, three out of foursaid that they watch reality TV.Ever since “Candid Camera” debuted in 1947,people have been fascinated with the “real” lives ofothers, spawning an entirely new genre of entertainment,according to an article called “Candid Camera”on tvtome.com.Reality television did not begin to enjoy its hugepopularity of today until the likes of “Survivor” airedin 2000, with its 10th season due to air later this month.From “Fear Factor” to “Room Raiders,” realityshows flood the channels, causing students to havemixed reactions.“I think that reality television is a nice change fromthe soap operas of the past,” sophomore TomPapacostas said, but “after awhile they can becomemonotonous.”“You get lost. It’s just too much,” junior EricaSchnackel said.Not all teens enjoy watching the shows.“I think reality TV is really boring and pointless.It’s probably the stupidest thing I’ve ever seen,”sophomore Audrey Busby said.Junior Logan Roberts said that he “absolutely[does] not” watch reality television.However, today, reality TV shows are five of thetop ten rated shows on the air, according togoldderby.com, a non-profit organization devoted tostudying entertainment awards.Five years ago, according to the same site, not asingle show in the top ten was a reality show.Other teens make guesses as to causes behind thecraze.“People like to laugh at other people,” Schnackelsaid. “We like to make fun.”“It’s funny to watch how other people live andthen compare it to your life,” freshman CaseyNewman said.She also said that she watches some shows to seecertain celebrities.“I watch the home decorating shows just to see TyPennington,” Newman said.Regardless of why the shows are so popular, mostteens have favorites they enjoy watching.Papacostas said that his favorite reality series is“Survivor.”“I just like to see the reactions of what peoplewould do if they were put in certain situations,”Papacostas said.Others prefer the ever-popular “American Idol,”

CRIMElosing ground to realityNot so long ago, people sat down in the evening and watched“NYPD Blue,” “CSI” and “Law and Order.” These popular crimedramas consumed the attention of most nightly viewers.“CSI” has established itself atop the crime dramas, passing up“Law and Order.” It sits second in this season’s ratings and finishedfirst last season, according to goldderby.com. “CSI” also releasedits third series, “CSI: NY,” this past fall.Despite this success, crime dramas still seem to be taking a backseat to reality shows, with people leaning towards shows like“American Idol,” “Survivor” or “Fear Factor.”So what is it that attracts more people to reality TV? There arethose who think it’s all about the money, that more reality TV showswill appear if they’re attracting more viewers.Networks will continue to show more reality shows becauseadvertisers want the maximum audience for their commercials, accordingto Professor Herb Terry of Indiana University.“The business of TV is to link eyeballs and ears to advertisers,”said Terry, who teaches a class about Reality TV.Another reason crime dramas aren’t as appealing to teens couldbe their later start times. Reality shows air at 8 p.m., compared to 9or 10 p.m. for most crime dramas.Patrick Brady Staff Writer[ scene ]Sophomore Nick Varrati thinks there are just many crime dramas.“CSI” has three different series and “Law and Order” is startinga fourth series.“Those shows get repetitive, there are so many and they’re allso similar. I just don’t watch any,” Varrati said.Reality shows can vary from surviving on a deserted island toselecting a date by searching three different rooms.“People would like to accept that they’re real, but I think theyare definitely staged to build the drama and suspense,” Varrati said.Eighty-three percent of the Hoover students who filled out asurvey at lunch said that they believe that reality shows are stagedfor entertainment purposes.Some of Terry’s students also want to know how much of realityTV is “reality.”“I think professor Terry is helping us to break down everything.I never realized there were so many genres in reality shows,” saidRachel Hirsch, one of Terry’s students.Terry said he expects that the viewing habits of his students couldbe affected by the course.“Often when you know what’s going on behind the scenes inanything, your appreciation of it changes,” he said. nVtaking delight in both the talent and lack oftalent showcased.“I love, absolutely love, ‘American Idol,’Newman said.“Although it is partially funny to watchthe horrible people sing, I think “AmericanIdol” is best at the finals,” sophomore TonyVergis said.Many teens say that they discuss realitytelevision in real life with friends and family,while others don’t.Newman said that she enjoys watchingthe shows with her family because “it’s sofunny to see how your parents react.”Schnackel said that she watches abouttwo reality shows per week and likes to discussthem with her mom and friends afterwards.Papacostas watches only one show aweek, and “very rarely” talks about it withothers.For many teens reality television has becomeanother part of their lives and regularroutine.“Reality television, for me, is just a formof…entertainment when I don’t have anyother obligations,” Papacostas said. “I’m notobsessed.” nVBrazilian soapoperasReality vs. crime dramas isn’t the question everywhere. In Brazil, reality showsand crime dramas take a back seat to soap operas, said senior exchange student VinPereira from Brazil.The biggest crime drama in Brazil is the American show, “24.” However, becauseit is on at midnight, it gets fewer viewers.“Soap operas definitely have a bigger audience because it’s more entertainmentand is at an earlier time,” Pereira said. “’24’ is on late at about twelve O’clock whenpeople like to party.”Soap operas are really popular in Brazil. According to Vin the biggest channel inBrasil shows four soap operas per day Monday through Saturday.“The actors in the soap operas are famous in Brazil like movie stars in America,”Pereira said.–Pat Brady03.04.05 u the viking views u 29

[ scene ]SONY PICTURES/USED WITH PERMISSIONBoogeyman scares critics(Not in a good way)Kristy Ferruccio Staff WriterWe have all had dreams about the Boogeyman hiding in ourcloset. But fewer people have actually seen the Boogeyman sucktheir fathers into the closet. In this low budget, poorly scripted movie,Tim (Caden St. Clair) sees just this as his father is killed by theBoogeyman in his closet. The rest of the movie is an hour and ahalf of the older Tim (Barry Watson) staring at the dark closet tryingto draw out the demon and save those around him.Watson stars as the 20-something man who has been haunted byhis belief that the Boogeyman is after him. Granted, you wouldthink the same thing if, when you were eight years old, you sawyour dad get captured by some evil demon in the middle of thenight. Fifteen years later, unfortunate circumstances place him backin the house where he lost his father, but this time, he is alone tobattle the Boogeyman by himself.30 u the viking views u 2.04.05SONY PICTURES/USED WITH PERMISSIONSteffany Bagnolo Staff WriterGuys: have you always wanted to knowsomeone who seemed to have all the answerswhen it comes to girls? Someone who givesadvice and helps you get the girl of yourdreams, no matter how unreachable that mayseem? Meet Dr. Alex Hitchens, aka Dr. Love(Will Smith). He makes a living by helpingto create opportunities for New York’s nice,though often unnoticed, men.When first meeting one of Hitch’s biggerclients, Albert Brennaman (Kevin James),calling him socially inept would be an understatement.Hitch coaches Brennaman ondating etiquette, including phoning, dancingand kissing. These lessons are sure to leavethe audience laughing hysterically.After an hour of staring at the closets and running into a littlegirl who was killed by the Boogeyman years earlier, he finally figuresout how to defeat the creature, in a supernatural way, of course.The ending is reminiscent of “Jeepers Creepers” where the endingis built upon a horrible monster killing people, and when it isfinally revealed, the creature has wings. Supernatural and not real,it takes the suspense out of the movie.The music does add some suspense, more than any other element.Things jump out in perfect timing with the music. However,nothing could save the poor acting and even poorer plotline.Director Stephen Kaye does a good job creating a spooky atmospherewith danger lurking around every corner, under the bedand in the closet, but the script from writers Eric Kripke, JulietSnowden and Stiles White is short on dialogue and intelligence.The closer you get to the end, the further away reality seems. nVHitch has all the answersMeanwhile, in his own personal life, Hitch is attemptingto sweep Sarah (Eva Mendes) off of hercynical, gossip-columnist feet. Hitch comes up withoriginal and elaborate date plans, but they somehowalways seem to backfire.As Brennaman pursues his celebrity love interest,Allegra Cole (Amber Valleta), both Hitch andBrennaman eventually learn that no date is perfect.In fact, it’s the imperfections that leave a lastingimpression and ultimately win someone’s heart.Even though the plot is highly predictable, especiallythe end, the humor will keep the viewers entertainedthroughout the movie. Smith and Jamesare such a great comic team that one can’t help butlaugh at their mistakes and lessons. All in all, Hitchmakes for a great date movie or a funny flick to seewith friends. nV

dsav’s digestNoise[ scene ]Armor For Sleep-“What to DoWhen You Are Dead”/Equal VisionThere are certain things that one cannot explain, such as love,an obsession with chocolate and one’s love for music. Music givesthe mind a calmness that other things do not. Most times, musicgives a feeling that one cannot explain.“What to do When You’re Dead,” the second release from Armorfor Sleep, does just that. Armor for Sleep gives the listenereverything; songs to drive to, to sleep to and songs to wallow in.Lyrics such as “don’t believe that the weather will be perfect theday that you die,” are easy to relate to and get stuck in one’s head.Songs of betrayal after a break-up or a sense of invisibility make itseem as though Armor for Sleep is singing straight to the heart ofthe average teenager.Armor for Sleep can be explained in a few ways, but to do soundermines their music. Lyrically, Armor for Sleep reminds one ofTaking Back Sunday and Dashboard Confessional. However, soundwise,they sound like Brand New and Taking Back Sunday aftermixing the two in a blender.Armor for Sleep doesn’t sound like one distinct thing. Slow songsportray sadness and longing, while other songs sound angry andbetrayed. The sound changes with the musicians’ moods.Some may feel that the guys from Armor for Sleep are just wallowingin break-ups, and that’s what their music sounds like. However,everyone has their heart broken at least once, and they’re justwriting music that other people can relate to.No matter what mood one is in, they’ll find something in thisalbum that one can relate to in an unexplainable way. - Ashley FogleAmon AmarthKenny Chesney-“Be As YouAre”/BNA RecordsIn the midst of Ohio’s cold winter weather, Kenny Chesney’snew album titled “Be As You Are,” carries you away to an islandparadise. A place where the sun is warm on your skin and the oceanwaves provide a calming sound as they break against the shoreline.From beginning to end, Chesney’s song lyrics for his newly releasedalbum “Be as you are” are solely focused on an island paradise.The albums musical genre can only be described as pure country,which is not surprising for the famous country music starChesney.However the tempo of the songs on the album is a bit surprisingcompared to his previous records. The songs on his new albumtake on a slower more tranquil sound then past albums.Although, the CD may have a country genre, and most countrymusic lovers would agree that Chesney voice is a perfect exampleof how a country musicians voice should sound, the lyrics on thisalbum are in a musical genre all their own. Chesney himself eitherwrote or co-wrote all of the songs on this album, most of the songsbased on his love of the islands or other life experiences.Although the majority of the songs may have the slow countrylove song tempo, the lyrics never abandon the album’s island paradisetheme. Chesney sings about sailing on the sea in songs like“French Kissing Life,” “Somewhere in the Sun” and “Soul of aSailor.” In his songs “Island Boy” and “Sherry’s Living in Paradise,”he sings about people escaping to the Caribbean Island andliving in paradise.The mixture of Chesney’s voice, the unique lyrics and alluringsound of the ocean in many of the songs gives his album “Be as youare” a serene and beautiful sound. This album proves to be just asfantastic as all of his other excellent albums and definitely worthpurchasing. - KT Bello2.04.05 u the viking views u 31

KRT/USED WITH PERMISSIONelectronica:music by machinesMike Howes Staff WriterIf you ask the average high school student what their favoritetype of music is, the usual an-swers include “Rap,” “Rock”and “Pop.” But it is not very often that you hear the answers“Trance,” “Techno,” “House” or “Industrial.”For some students, this Electronica music is the music of choice.Electronica is a term used to describe any music produced withelectronic instruments and synthesizers.“Since there’s rarely words, the music is almost like a story thatyou can make mean whatever you want,” junior Eric Hockmansaid. “Plus, since the songs are usually pretty long, you can just getlost in it, forget where you are.”Electronica is broken down into seemingly endless genres andsubgenres. According to ethnotechno.com, Trance has a “hypnoticflowing effect,” House usually consists of a beat and bassline foundationwith electronically generated sounds and samples of musicand Techno is a type of high-energy dance music.Junior Josh Gory believes that another type of Electronica,Industrial music, is unpopular because of the nature of the music.“It’s pretty hardcore,” he said. “Also, Industrial is usually independent.It’s really experimental, and they try a lot of new things.”Sophomore Kevin Cook believes Electronica music in generalis also underground.“I don’t think it’s popular music because most people don’t listento it,” he said. “I find that when people listen to it, they usuallylike it.”Sophomore Brittany Viscounte agrees that Electronica is unpopular.“It’s not very popular because a lot of people think it’s lame,”she said. “How often have you heard someone talking about some-32u the viking views u 03.04.05one of this genre at the lunch table?”According to Hockman, although it is not popular in the UnitedStates, Electronica is popular in Europe.“In the U.S. it is very underground,” he said. “Personally, I don’tknow anyone else who listens to it.”There are usually few words in Electronica songs, a feature thatCook likes.“A lot of times for me the song is ruined by the lyrics, and withoutthem, the music is really good,” he said.Due to the lack of commercialization of Electronica, many peoplediscover the music through word of mouth.“My friend talked about it often,” Viscounte said. “When wewould do things at each other’s houses, that’s the kind of music shewould play. I got hooked.”Viscounte also finds out about different artists through word ofmouth.“I learn about different artists from my friends or if it’s recommendedto me by someone,” she said. “It’s kind of hard to findgood Trance in the stores.”Since Electronica is usually hard to come by, listeners may turnto Internet radio.“I listen to a lot of Internet radio, and I buy imported CDs,”Hockman said.Gory likes that Electronica can be made easily by use of synthesizersor computer programs.“One thing that I like is that almost anyone can make it,” Gorysaid.In Hockman’s opinion, Electronica is better than most otherpopular types of music.“Everyone always made fun of Techno, so I wanted to find outwhat it was like,” he said. “I found out that I just liked it better thanwhat was on the radio.” nV

March4 5“The Pacifier” and“The Jacket” comeout in theaterstodayRyan Andersonperforms atMuggswigz– 9 p.m.6 7 8 9 10 11 1220Flogging Mollyperforms at theHouse of Blues– 6 p.m.2150 Cent andDeanna Carterrelease newalbums todaySlipknot performsat the CSUConvocationCenter – 7 p.m.Styx and ReoSpeedwagonperform at theCanton Civic Center– 7:30 p.m.Total Chaos Tourfeat. The Used, MyChemical Romance,and Senses Fail atCSU ConvocationCenter – 6:30 p.m.Catch 22performs at theGrog Shop– 6 p.m.13 14 15 16 1718 19Plain White T’sStudent Film SlamMotorheadperforms at theFestival begins Happy St.performs atGrog Shoptoday at Tower Patrick’s Day!– 6 p.m.the AgoraCity Cinemasthrough March 18– 8 p.m.The Starting Lineperforms at theHouse of Blues– 6 p.m.BreakingBenjaminperforms at theHouse of Blues- 7 p.m.Although we can not promise publication, please let us know about yourcultural event! E-mail us at vv1nc@northcanton.sparcc.org.Atreyuperforms atthe House ofBlues– 6:30 p.m.“The Grapes ofWrath” – 8 p.m. atWeathervanePlayhouse - AkronCiara performs atthe House ofBlues – 7 p.m.22 23 24 25 26Trace AdkinsreleasesIssue 9 of The“Songs AboutViking ViewsMe”comes outtodayAshlee Simpsonperforms at theColumbus PalaceTheatre – 7 p.m.“Wish You WereHere” Pink FloydTribute at the Houseof Blues – 8 p.m.“A Day in His Life”(John LennonTribute show) – 8p.m. at Akron CivicTheatreSpotlight: Robbie ChristianParents often claim that their children go throughphases. The parents of senior Robbie Christianthought playing the viola was just a passing interest.Little did they know, it would become his passion.“When I first started playing, my parents thoughtit was a passing stage,” Christian said. “They didn’trealize I would continue to play for eight years.”Christian has played the viola since fourth gradewhen he saw the middle school orchestra play. Hedecided to play because it “looked fun.”Christian has played in the Hoover Orchestra andthe Canton Youth Symphony. While in the YouthSymphony, Christian had the honor of playing aconcerto with the Canton Symphony.Christian keeps his life well-balanced, participatingin various school activities and being a memberof his church youth group. Christian plays tennis,participates in the Student Science Experimental ResearchProgram and performs with the Drama Club.Even after all of his extracurricular activities,Christian’s life comes down to his music.“When I play, I just can’t explain it. The musicbecomes whatever I want it to be – anger, happiness,sadness– anything,” Christian said. “I just get so lost.”With such a connection to his music, Christianfinds it in everything.“I listen to music all the time. I’m either listeningto music, playing music or there’s a song just playingin my head,” Christian said. “Whether music’s consciousor subconscious, it’s always there.”-Ashley Fogle03.04.05 u the viking views u 33ASHLEY FOGLE

TRIPLE THREATWith the time coaches expect their athletes to devote to their sport, theage of the three-sport athlete is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Afew Hoover students, however, try their best to make this legacy live on.HER MONDAY starts off like most people’s. Wake up andgo to school. But it is after school that the similaritiesstop. She goes to basketball practice for two hours,then goes to the North Canton YMCA and works out to stay inshape for volleyball. Afterthis, she rushes up to Akron“for a 2½-hour softball practice,from which she doesn’treturn home until 10 p.m.Some people are already inbed at this hour, but she is justgetting started with her night.She jumps in the shower andthen dives into her homework,which typically takes her untilabout 11:30 p.m. Finally,she is able to go to bed, butwith the knowledge that thiscycle will repeat itself the nextday.While this schedule wouldnot seem too demanding toathletes from 20 years ago,this age’s single-sportmindedness makes a typicalday for freshman McKennaRuss a race from sports facilityto sports facility, with verylittle time left to have a regularlife.About 20 years ago, it wascommon for an athlete to be the star quarterback of the footballteam, the All-State point guard of the basketball team and the aceof the pitching staff on the baseball team. Today, however, parentsand coaches alike are placing emphasis on children at a youngerand younger age to excel at one single sport. According to SportsIllustrated, some parents have even gone so far as to hire personaltrainers for their three-year-old children.WITH THE TIME coaches demand from their athletes, theage of the three-sport athlete is quickly disappearing.But a few Hoover students, like Russ, try their best tomake this legacy live on. There are also a large number of studentswho have tried their hand at succeeding in three sports, but have34 u the viking views u 03.04.05By Danny Savagehad to sacrifice one sport to excel at another.“It’s very difficult being a three-sport athlete as well as a scholarbecause you have so much to do,” said senior Aaron Miller, whoparticipates in football, wrestling and track. Miller is the sole remainingthree-sport athlete inthe 404-member senior class.Russ, who plays volleyball,basketball and softball,added that she is “alwaysburnt out” and “never [has] awhole lot of time to domuch.”That “much” sometimestranscribes into homework,which freshman Nick”Stroemple, who runs crosscountry and track and playsbasketball, occasionally feelstoo tired to do.“You come home and youdon’t want to do your schoolwork,”he said. “You justwant to rest.”However, Stroemple likesthe fact that he is “alwayscompeting.” He said that it”has taught him how to bettermanage his time between hisschoolwork and athletics. ItJUNIORalso allows him to steer clearof bad situations.“[Playing three sports] has kept me healthy,” he said. “I’m notsitting around my house playing video games all day or eating. Ifyou’re doing another sport, you’re not at home or on the streetdoing other things. You’re staying in shape and keeping out oftrouble.”For Russ, playing three sports lets her true personality expressitself.“I used to be shy and very quiet,” she said. “I really believe thatbeing on a varsity team for volleyball really helped me step it upand not be so quiet.”However, the benefits sometimes do not outweigh the costs,according to both Miller and Russ. Each athlete has had to makesome sacrifices to be able to keep up with the weight of each of hisIt’s kept me healthy. I’m not sittingaround my house playing video gamesall day or eating. If you’re doing anothersport, you’re not at home or onthe street doing other things. You’restaying in shape and keeping out oftrouble.NICK STROEMPLEFRESHMAN“I figured I would have a better chanceof playing soccer in college than I wouldrunning track even though I love run- “ning track. I had to look to the future.MATT ANDREWS

or her sports.“I’ve had to sacrifice a lot of time with friends,” Miller said. “Idon’t have a lot of time to do hobbies and other cool things.”Russ has the same problems as Miller when it comes to the lackof free time.“I always have to bail out on my friends because I have practicesor games,” Russ said. “I almost had to miss the Winter Formalfor a softball game. I don’t like when I have to miss things,and I’m never happy about it. But I do it anyways because I lovewhat I’m doing.”LINDSY WISESENIOR STEPHANIE Elder and junior Matt Andrews each hadto make the ultimate sacrifice when it comes to participating in more than one sport: giving one up to succeed inthe other. Elder stopped playing basketball to focus on volleyballand Andrews quit running track to play on a traveling soccer team.Both had had some success at the sports they gave up, but felt thatit was necessary to give themup to better themselves at theone they love.“I figured I would have abetter chance of playing soccerin college than I wouldrunning track even though Ilove running track,” Andrewssaid. “I had to look to the future.”Elder also gave basketballup because she was lookingtoward the future.“Basketball was the moretime-consuming of the twosports,” she said. “And withall the time you put in for basketball,most girls want ascholarship and I didn’t seemyself going that route. I justdecided to play volleyball becauseit was more enjoyablefor me.”She also had many conflictsbetween the two sports.The summer was the hardestfor her because there werecamps and conditioning for both volleyball and basketball. A problemalso arose when Elder was trying to play on a traveling volleyballteam during basketball season.Stroemple also had problems over the summer.“I missed few of the open gyms for basketball because I wastraining for cross country, but nothing major,” he said.Elder’s problems were major, though, and that was one factor inhelping her make her decision. This decision was very difficult forElder, as it was for Andrews. Elder is now done with sports atHoover and is satisfied with her decision. Andrews, on the otherhand, said he would really like to continue playing soccer and runningtrack.“I’m happy,” Elder said. “But I miss basketball. For me personally,though, I think it was the best decision.”“I’d rather do both,” Andrews said. “But I can’t, so that sucksfor me.”ALTHOUGH HE FALLS into this realm, Andrews feels that parents should let their kids experiment with all kinds ofsports as they are growing up. He doesn’t like the growingtrend that kids have to be perfect at one sport from age threeand on.“I don’t think kids should be playing one sport at a young age,”he said. “But I can understand how people only play one sport inhigh school.”Head cross country and track coach Mr. Travis Ackerman disagreeswith Andrew’s statement.“[Kids] only have four years of high school,” he said. “If theywant to do other sports I definitely think they should.”Ackerman feels that one reason why athletes do not continueplaying multiple sports is becauseof the demands somecoaches put on their athletes.“A lot of the coaches putpressure on their kids to dotheir sport,” he said. “Thereare a lot of things outside of asport that coaches want theirkids to do. They want them tospecialize, which, in my opinion,is not right.”All of Russ’ coaches, on theother hand, have been verysupportive of her endeavor.“My coaches are alwayswishing me luck in everythingI do,” she said. “They understandthat I love what I’m doing.Most even come to myother sporting events to watchme and seem to have no problemwith what I’m doing.”This is helpful for Russ becauseit reinforces her decisionto keep doing what she is doing.She hopes to continueplaying all three sports[clockwise from top] u Senior Aaron throughout her high school career.Miller pins an opponent in awrestling match. Miller also “I’m really hoping I [continueplaying three sports],”participates in football and track. uFreshman Nick Stroemple runs in ashe said. “Most likely I will,cross country race. Basketball andtrack are two other sports Stroemple but we’ll just have to see.”plays at Hoover. u Senior Stephanie She is part of a special breedElder spikes the volleyball. Elder that may one day become extinct– the three-sport athlete –had to give up basketball in orderto better herself at volleyball. but she likes it that way.“I love sports,” Russ said. “Sports are practically my life. Ihave a lot more respect for all athletes now and what they gothrough.” nVSHANNON PIFERSEAN BHAGAT03.04.05 u the viking views u 35

[ sports ]SPORTS: CAPTURED[clockwise from top left] u Freshman PeterVolpe swims at the Sectional Meet at AkronUniversity. Photo: Shannon Pifer u SeniorJosh Palsa passes the puck during a hockeygame. Photo: Shannon Pifer u Senior JesseDellapina takes down his opponent at theSectional wrestling tournament, helping himqualify for the District tournament. Photo:Shannon Pifer u Senior Whitney Goulddribbles out of traffic during a basketballpractice. Photo: Merritt Woods u JuniorMolly Moldovan and senior Madison Woodswarm up during an indoor track practice.Photo: Merritt Woods u Sophomore HollyLedgerwood performs her routine on thebalance beam at a gymnastics meet. Photo:Shannon Pifer36 u the viking views u 03.04.05“We Build Strong Kids,Strong Families, Strong Communities”CARING HONESTY RESPECT RESPONSIBILITYY M C AChild Care Center200 Charlotte NWNorth Canton, OH 44720Phone: 330-305-5437North Canton YMCA200 South Main StNorth Canton, OH 44720Phone: 330-499-2587Gymnastics Center7241 Whipple Ave. NWNorth Canton, OH 44720Phone: 330-498-4082

u Junior Rhiannon White performs a floorexercise routine during a gymnastics meet.The gymnastics team has recently had somesuccess.[ sports ]STEFFANY BAGNOLOGymnastics ‘vaults’ into seasonBy Merritt Woods Staff WriterTumbling. Balance Beam. Vault. Bars.Although most of us are only familiar withthese words because of the Olympics, sevenHoover gymnasts use these words everyday.The Hoover girls gymnastic teamqualified for District at the Sectional meetFeb. 19 at Massillon High School. The teamplaced fourth overall, which was justenough to advance them to the Districtcompetition Feb. 26 at West Geauga HighSchool. Individual qualifies were juniorRhiannon White and sophomore TaraAdams.Adams has been involved in gymnasticsfor 12 years and first became interestedbecause of her parents.“My parents put me in it when I wasyounger because I was so hyper, but as Igot older I liked it and started competing,”she said.Junior Beth Little has been participatingin gymnastics for over 11 years and wasencouraged to join by friends.“Some of my neighbors and friends weretaking classes so I joined with them,” shesaid.The girls practice on their own at variousgyms throughout the week and meet as ateam at the YMCA Gymnastics Center onSundays from 1 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.Even though the team only competes intwo invitational meets and Sectional,District and State competitions if theyqualify, Adams still considers the meets thebest part of gymnastics.“The [meets] are always a lot of fun withthe team and it makes the practices worthit,” Adams said.Little enjoys gymnastics because of thefriendships she has made.“I’ve made a lot of good friends throughit and I love the feeling of learning a newtrick and especially competing for the firsttime,” she said.Both Little and Adams feel that the teamunity is exceptionally strong this year.“Definitely this year,” Little said, “weall get along pretty well and constantlyencourage each other.”Adams feels that it is important to bondwith her teammates outside of practices andmeets.“We have team dinners so we get toknow each other outside of the gym too,”she said.According to Little, the team has set theirgoals high, but showed that they weren’timpossible to achieve at the Sectional meet.“We want to make it to District and doour best even though we know it will bereally tough competition,” she said.Coach Tara Gregory, who has beeninstructing gymnastics at Hoover for overfive years, said that it was a big hope toadvance to District this year.“We were hopeful we would make it,”she said. “It was a pleasant surprise.”While Hoover’s team is composed ofseven girls, only six will be able to competefor the team in each event at District.Gregory said that it was easy to decidewho would not be competing in all of theevents at District because the two freshmenon the team were willing to split the events.This makes it possible for everyone tocompete this year.Gregory is hoping that the girls’performance at District will move them onto State.“Their chances for State are always thereif the right things happen,” she said.Gregory feels that the gymnasts are notparticularly weak in any events this year.“Truly we are a full package team,” shesaid.Neither Adams nor Little plan oncontinuing their gymnastics careers afterhigh school.Adams participates in Hoover’s trackand cheerleading programs along withgymnastics and doesn’t know which shewill stick with, if any, in college.“I used to be sure I wanted to do collegegymnastics, but now I do other sports tooand I am not really sure,” she said.Little feels that gymnastics is toophysically demanding to continueparticipating in it.“It’s hard on your body,” Little said, “Idon’t think I can take much more.” nV03.04.05 u the viking views u 37

Swimmers finish sixth in StateSean Bhagat Staff WriterFor four years, they have been bound bya common goal; a dream each was unwillingto give up in spite of countless doubtersand seemingly unbreakable records. Theypoured hours of effort, hope and pain intothe pool – all to not only fulfill their dreams,but to exceed them. Last weekend, their trekended, changing not only themselves, butalso Hoover swimming forever.The boys swim team competed in theState Swimming and Diving meet Feb. 25and 26 at the C.T. Branin Natatorium inCanton finishing in sixth place. Four Hooverseniors, Doug Gilchrist-Scott, Brian Grady,Chaz Maul and Ankur Poseria, participatedin their last Hoover race, while senior JohnLuke and junior Joey Reolfi were alternates.Three Hoover swimmers competed individually;Gilchrist-Scott swam the 100-freestyle with a time of 48.39. Maul placedfifth in the 100-breaststroke with a time of58.42 losing to four-time state champion,Chris Ash. Poseria finished in third place inthe 100-butterfly with a 50.86 losing toDavid Mosko from the eventual champions,Cincinnati St. Xavier by .67 seconds.Although the team had two swimmerscompete in the finals, some members werestill disappointed with their finish.“I honestly feel I didn’t do very well individually.As seniors, you are always tryingto do the ultimate,” Poseria said. “Thatexcitement can hurt you sometimes.”Along with competing individually, thefour swimmers also competed in the 200-medley relay finishing in third with a1:35.69, the 400-freestyle relay finishingeighth with a 3:13.56 and the 200-freestylerelay finishing second with a 1:26.85 fallingshort of Upper Arlington.“We, as a whole, swam great. Everysingle relay placed better than last year, andas a team we placed better,” Gilchrist-Scottsaid.At the beginning of the season, the teammade several goals and one was to place inthe top five at state, a feat that no StarkCounty team has done since 1988. The Vikingswere 10 points short of their goal,bettered by rival Akron Firestone.“We, as a whole, swamgreat. Every singlerelay placed betterthan last year, and as ateam, we placedbetter.”DOUG GILCHRIST-SCOTTSENIOR“We were a little disappointed. We finishedin a solid sixth place which is one betterthan last year. We still improved andswam hard,” Gilchrist-Scott said.The Vikings left their mark on the recordbooks with their second-place finish in the200-freestyle relay, breaking Hoover’s 17-year-old 1988 record by .24 seconds.For the Hoover swimmers, the last four[ sports ]years have been a learning process; theyhave learned life lessons both inside andoutside of the pool, and the state meet wasno exception.“I learned sometimes you have to enjoythe pursuit as much as the victory. After placingthird, I became very down on myself,but after stepping back I remembered that Ilove to be in the water,” Poseria said.The learning process began four yearsago for this year’s swimmers. In those fouryears, a lot has changed, but at state theswimmers finally began to savor the ride.“I didn’t think about it until my last race,but it was the last time I’m going to swimwith those guys. Next year is going to be abig change,” Gilchrist-Scott said. “We’vegotten a lot closer as teammates and friendsthrough swimming. It’s a bittersweet feeling.”While the senior swimmers will leave alegacy at Hoover, next year’s class is leftwith the difficult task of equaling this year’ssuccess.“Next year has been in the back of allour heads. We are losing a bunch of people,but we’ll have to get better. This year thefreshmen stepped up and blew me away,”junior Joey Reolfi said.After this week, the swimmers will goback to lifting and start doing dry land practice,and this years seniors feel that nextyear’s team will put in the dedication andeffort to continue Hoover’s tradition.“The same question is asked every year,”Poseria said. “There is always a group ofguys who step it up and take the challenge.”nV03.04.05 u the viking views u EXTRA

[ sports ]Collins cracks top 10 at State meetBy Lindsy Wise staff writerYou and 24 other people are standingaround in your bathing suits. Sure, it couldbe a nerve wracking situation, but then adda dead silent audience just watching all ofyou. After all of this, realize that you are atthe state diving competition with a plankof wood standing between you and yourgoal.Feb. 24, senior and four-year diverBrittany Collins stood in this very situation.Along with her 24 other competitors, shecompleted 11 different dives in front of apanel of judges. By the end of the night,Collins had claimed ninth place and reacheda personal goal with a score of 362.95.“My goal was Top 10 this year,” Collinssaid. “I made that by a good 10 points.Although eighth place was only 1.7 pointsaway, I am very happy with my finish andI’m glad I was able to improve from lastyear’s 14th place finish. My competitionwas much harder and I proved to myselfthat I am just as good as those seeded aheadof me.”Despite stiff competition and “nervousexcitement,” Collins remained confidentthanks to practice, her coach and her parents.“Jon, my coach, has been with me longenough that he knows what works with meand what doesn’t. He let me do my thingall week and just helped me keep in thezone,” she said. “My parents were onceagain extremely thrilled and helped me keepa level head so I didn’t get too nervous.”Diving coach Jon Lagrou believes thatthrough her confidence Brittany foundsuccess this year.“Some people think success is makingfirst, second or third, but success comeswhen you try hard,” Lagrou said.While some divers used the statecompetition as their last chance to show off,Collins will be continuing her diving careernext year at Bowling Green StateUniversity.“Next year I will be getting used to theways of college diving and doing well,along with doing well in my classes,” shesaid.Those near her believe that she will haveno trouble stepping up to the challengebecuase she is “a fighter.”“She doesn’t like losing and she didn’tlose all year,” Lagrou said.Britney’s fellow senior Richard Neadingagrees.“She has a very strong work ethic and isvery goal oriented,” Neading said.And although it will be an adjustment,Collins is looking forward to many aspectsof the college diving world.“The judges will actually know how toscore, and the scoring will be harder, alongwith all my competition. My diving list willalso become harder, I hope,” she said. “Ialso have to weight train.”Somewhere between reaching her yearlonggoal at state and gearing up for a brandnew college diving career, Collins hasrealized just what she will and won’t missabout life as a Hoover diver.“I will miss my coach for sure, alongwith my team,” she said. “I had such a greattime getting to love every one of them, butI will not miss 8 o’clock to 10 o’clockpractices every night.” nVMisanik snags record, league titleBy Lindsy Wise staff writerTimers clear your watches, swimmerstake your mark, go! Again.Feb. 26 was two meets in one for EmilyMisanik, who swam the 100 breaststrokenot once, but twice at the state swim meetin the C.T. Branin Natatorium in CantonOhio. After swimming a 1:07.64 during thepreliminary round, she came back just sixhours later to take 13 th with a 1:08.04. Thefirst time would earn her the school recordin the event, previously held by MelissaYoung since 2003. First place went toLindsey Graessle, a sophomore at KingsHigh School, who swam it in 1:03.79.“It felt amazing. Getting the record wasdefinitely something I’ll remember forever,just looking at the score board and lookingat coach and seeing his big smile,” Misaniksaid.Besides her impressive state ranking andrecord, Misanik was named the FederalLeague Swimmer of the Year. It was hardlysomething she expected.“I was so surprised,” she said. “I wasupstairs and coach called me and he askedfor Ms. Federal League Swimmer of theYear. After the state meet I wasn’t sure Iwould even have a chance. . . I thought Iblew it.”Misanik is not the sole title holder; sheshares it with Jackson junior Cara Froman,but she hardly minds.“To be able to share the honor with CaraFroman is awesome because we grew uptogether swimming at the YMCA,” Misaniksaid.Misanik’s sister Rachel, an eighth graderand swimmer for the YMCA Nemesis team,was at the meet cheering and taking notes.“I was really proud of her. I know howhard she works and I’m glad she got whatshe wanted even though it wasn’t her besttime,” Rachel said.Coach Matthew Johnsen has alsowitnessed a “drastic improvement” inMisanik’s swimming and was very pleasedwith her showing at state and her record.“I thought she did a great job consideringthe circumstances– being by herself and nothaving been there in a year,” he said.Even though there are 51 weeks untilMisanik has another run at state, she isalready back into dry land training with hercoach right there to push her.“Whatever she decides to use as a goaltime is her prerogative,” Johnsen said. “Iam just going to try and help her reachit.”Never to settle, her goals includedropping her time again, which would leadto the resetting of her record.“My main goal is making it to state finalsnext year,” Misanik said.Misanik’s goals are not entirely timeoriented either. After having her older sisteron the team to guide her, Misanik is aboutto return the favor as Rachel prepares to jointhe team next season.“Next year I am really looking forwardto having my sister on the team and sharingthat experience with her and being a leaderfor the underclassman on the team,” shesaid. nV2.04.05 u the viking views u EXTRA

[ sports ]sports updatesBoys BasketballThe Vikes fell to powerhouse McKinley for the second time this season witha final score of 67-57 Feb. 10. The team finished out their season with aconvincing win over Green with a final score of 63-38. A 63-55 win overDetroit Country Day pushed their overall record to 18-2. The Vikings finishedsecond in the Federal League with an 8-2 record.The Vikings began tournament play Feb. 25 against Boardman at the CantonMemorial Civic Center.Senior point guard Bret Wackerly (left) became Hoover basketball’s all-timeleading scorer on senior night with his 15 points against Detroit CountryDay.Story: Jeff Wallick u Photo: Shannon PiferGirls BasketballThe Lady Vikings rebounded from a Federal League championship gameloss to Boardman and won their first Division I tournament game. The girlsbeat Perry 74-48 and improved their overall record to 17-4. Freshman BrittanyOrban led the team in scoring with 19 points and had 14 rebounds,junior Amber Witt had 17 points and senior Sahar Nusseibeh (left) had 11points.Story: Kyle Roshak u Photo: Merritt WoodsGirls SwimmingThe Lady Vikes finished fourth as team at the Sectional tournament inWooster Feb. 11 and 12. At the District tournament held Feb. 18 and 19 atCleveland State University, the girls finished 13 th as a team, with EmilyMisanik and Brittany Collins advancing to the state competition, in the100 meter breaststroke and diving, respectively. Misanik broke the schoolrecord, as did Mary Schopper (left) in the 500 meter freestyle.Story: Tyler Drake u Photo: Shannon PiferHockeyThe Hoover Hockey team ended their season with a loss to Lake Catholic10-0 in the Kent Sectional tournament. They had notched a win in the previousgame over Kentston 9-8 in overtime. Eli Woodhall scored five goalsin the game and led the team in scoring for the season with 43 (At left issophomore Matt Ross). Woodhall was also named ‘Athlete of the Week’for The Repository.Story: Dominic Reolfi u Photo: Shannon PiferIndoor TrackIndoor track will wrap up this season with two regular season meets, endingMarch 5. Four competitors are ranked in the state: Madison Woods (left)and Ashley Muffet are ranked 1 st in State in the 400 hundred meter dash andshot put, respectively, and Molly Moldovan and Merritt Woods are ranked3 rd in the state in the 100 meter hurdles and the high jump, respectively, aswell. (Also at left are juniors Anne Dobry and Marija Condric)Story: Adele Vergis u Photo: Merritt WoodsWrestlingThe Vikes finished eighth overall at the Sectional tournament at HooverHigh School Feb. 11 and 12. Chris Douglas finished second in the 112-pound weight class, and Jesse Dellapina (left) finished third in the 152-pound weight class. Both advanced to the District Tournament at PerryHigh School Feb. 18 and 19, but failed to advance to the State Tournament.Story: Tyler Drake u Photo: Shannon Pifer38 u the viking views u 03.04.05the BESTof theBESTBret Wackerly: Is nowthe all-time leading scorerin Hoover basketball historyBrittany Orban: Had14 rebounds in a tournamentbasketball gameagainst PerryChris Douglas: Placedsecond in the 112-poundweight class at the Sectionalwrestling tournamentEmily Misanik: Brokethe school 100-meterbreaststroke record with atime of 1:07.06Eli Woodhall: Scored 5goals in an 9-8 overtimehockey victory againstKentstonMadison Woods: Isranked first in the state inthe 400-meter dashAshley Muffet: Isranked first in the state inshot put

Danny Savagedsav’s digestn The victory wasjust another notch onthe Vikings belt. Butfor head boysbasketball coach Mr.Randy Montgomery,this win had a deepermeaning. With the winover Lake Feb. 5,Montgomery earned his 400 th victory overhis career.“It just means you’ve had a lot of goodplayers and a lot of good people who havesupported what you’ve done,” he said.According to Montgomery, this milestonejust means he’s “getting old,” but he said itwas nice for him to be able to reach thisplateau at Hoover.“It’s neat to be able to do it here,” hesaid. “The other milestones were at Triway,sports briefsso it’s nice to have one here. It’s veryhumbling to have the people recognize that.”Although he has had a hand in each ofthe victories, Montgomery is quick to pointout that he has had plenty of good playerswho are actually on the court and earn thevictories for him.“I’ve had a lot of good kids,” he said. “Ihaven’t scored any of the baskets.”n As the power of HVTV continues toexpand, so does the opportunity forbroadcast journalism students to hone theirskills. The game against Detroit Country Daywas one of these opportunities, as it wasthe first game to be solely announced bybroadcast journalists. Senior Cory Griffin(below right) was the play-by-playannouncer, senior Andy Mulcahey (belowleft) was the color-man and juniors DustinWelch (above) andBrandon Wardle werecourtside reporters.“It was a lot of fun,”Griffin said. “I’ve alwayswanted to be a sportscasterso I think it was a goodactivity for me to do becauseit gave me a little bit ofexperience in the field.”SHANNON PIFERn Spring has sprung, andso has the lacrosse team,division-wise that is.Coming off last year’s StateChampionship in DivisionSHANNON PIFERIII, the team has been moved up to DivisionI B. This was done because “the breakdownof the divisions was changed because of sizeof school and skill level,” according to seniorAndy Mulcahey.Also, the State Championship for theVikings brought a lot of eyes to the programand a lot of teams felt that Hoover’s schedulewas not tough enough, Mulcahey said.The jump of divisions will also pit the teamup against a lot better competition, whichwill help the Vikings in the long run.“After moving up divisions, it will help usin the playoffs because this year’s scheduleis much tougher,” he said. “We play DivisionI teams like Hudson and Dublin Jerome whoboth have been state contenders for DivisionI the last few years.”the wide world of sportsSNOWBOARDINGWhile some Hoover students prefer to stay home on a snowySunday, others chose to spend their evenings snowboarding downthe hills of Boston Mills Ski Resort.Junior Brian Allison enjoys the sport for its high speeds and therush that he gets doing it.“I really enjoy going out and snowboarding,” Allison said. “It’sa better alternative than sitting at home on a Sunday.”Not only do the students experience an intense action sport,most feel that it is a good way to socialize and make friends.“At ski club I am able to hang out with some of my friendswhile doing a sport that I love,” Allison said.Although snowboarding isn’t as popular as sports such as basketballand football, it does appeal to a large audience.Snowboarding became an official Olympic sport in 1994, and itspopularity has skyrocketed from there, according to sbhistory.com.Many different people came up with the idea of sliding down ahill on a board, but it is believed that M.J. “Jack” Burchett was oneof the first to come up with the sport. In 1929, using a plank ofplywood and clothesline to tie down his feet, he came up withwhat is said to be one of the first snowboards.More than 75 years later, the boards have increased in technologyand the sport has flourished from there.By Ben Schillig Staff Writeru Junior Josh Fowler takes a break while on a recent snowboardingtrip. Snowboarding has been growing in popularity among Hooverstudents.COURTESY OF KATIE MOTZ03.04.05 u the viking views u 39

on parDominic ReolfiBaseball gets BIGThe summer of ’98 was one of the bestsummers ever, as far as baseball goes. Thehome run race that captivated audiencesbrought people back to the game after the1994 strike.In fact, I still vividly remember watchingMark McGwire smash his 62 home run downthe leftfield line to break Roger Maris 37-year-old record for most home runs in aseason. The home run chase betweenMcGwire and Sammy Sosa might go downas one of the most memorable moments inbaseball history.Now, things are a little different. I’mstarting to feel cheated.Jose Canseco just released hisautobiography entitled “Juiced: Wild Times,Rampant ‘Roids, Smash Hits, and HowBaseball Got Big.”The name speaks for itself. The book goeson to name McGwire, a teammate ofCanseco’s when they were on the OaklandAthletics, as a steroid user.Controversy had been around McGwireduring the race. He had been usingAndrostenedione, a supplement that waslegal at the time but is now banned. Andro,as it is commonly known, is not a steriod.Instead, the body converts it to testosterone,which builds muscle mass.I don’t think McGwire should be punishedGAME FACESJeff Wallickfor using Andro, but if Canseco’s allegationsare true and more people come forward, heshould face consequences.McGwire shouldn’t be the only one,though. Barry Bonds testified to a grand juryin the BALCO case that he had usedsubstances called “the clear” and “thecream,” given to him by his personal trainer.He claims he did not know they were steroidsat the time. Bond’s trainer, Greg Anderson,also gave “the clear” and “the cream” toJason Giambi, who testifed in that same casethat he had used them. Giambi also admittedto injecting himself with known steroids.Personally, I believe this is a bunch ofcrap. Bonds had to know. You don’t just takesteroids by accident and don’t feel or noticeany effects.Since Major League Baseball started drugtesting its players in 2002, an interestingthing has happened. After McGwire’s 70home runs, he led the league again in 1999with 65. In 2000, Sammy Sosa led with 50,followed in 2001 with Bond’s 73 home runrecord. Alex Rodriguez then led the leaguewith 57 in 2002. In 2003, after drug testinghad taken place, Rodriguez led with 47 homeruns, 10 less than his previous year. AdrianBeltre held the title this past year with 48.Anybody noticing a pattern here?What bothers me most is not that theyare tainting the game ofbaseball right now, butthey are erasing a pastof much greateraccomplishments.When Mark McGwirebroke Roger Maris’record on Sept. 8 1998, he broke one of thebiggest records in all of baseball. Maris’career doesn’t mean as much as it once did.Bonds needs 12 more home runs to passBabe Ruth in the all-time home run recordcategory. He only needs 52 home runs topass Hank Aaron for the record.For Bonds to beat these records is a slapin the face to everything that has built thisgame to what it is today. Babe Ruth isarguably the best player ever in the historyof the game. Hank Aaron set his record inthe face of racism that Bonds couldn’t evenimagine.Nothing has changed in the game. Theball is still the same as it always was. Thebat is still the same (except for Sosa, inwhose case it might be a little lighter). Thedistances to the outfield walls are stillrelatively the same.Something changed for certain players,and it is very easy to see. The only way tomake this scandal right to past players andfans alike is with an asterisk.SEAN BHAGATJacquie PaumierGirls DivingCareer Highlights: Jacquie currentlyholds the 18 th best score fora Hoover diver with a 182.50. Shecombined with Brittany Collins towin the diving competition at theMcKinley relays with their scoreof 311.99 and qualified for the Districttournament this season.Typical Week: Jacquie and thegirls diving team practice in thewater from 8-10 p.m. Mon.- Thurs.at the North Canton YMCA andfrom 3-4 p.m. when there are noFriday meets. Each diver is expectedto perform a total of sixdives in order to compete in eachcompetition.Scott SeibertBoys SwimmingCareer Highlights: Scott is areturning All Federal Leaguehonorable mention and holds the100-yard medley relay record atthe first annual Dave Clegg InvitationalOrange & Blackintrasquad meet with a time of53.04. He has qualified for thedistrict meet for the past two seasonsand holds the YMCAbreath-holding record.Typical Week: Scott and the boys swim team practice in thewater from 2:15- 4:15 p.m. on Mon. and Wed. and from 2:15- 4:30on Tues. and Thurs. The team has dry land practices Mon. – Thurs.after water practices until 5:15 p.m., where they do circuit workoutsin the weight room, consisting of running, weight lifting andwork with medicine balls. Meets are held on Fri. and Sat.COURTESY OF JOHN WISETip for Success: “Before everymeet I visualize my dives and just try to do the best that I can do.”40 u the viking views u 03.04.05Tip for Success: “I usually don’t take myself too seriously.Sports are meant to be fun, not to control your life.”