a lover and a fighter

 S PORTS …………. 4
Issue 4
Decem ber
2011
 HOLIDAY
TRADITIONS…………11
 NO B ULLYING………… 12
Cruiser
YOUR SOURCE FOR CRUI SER NEW S
A LOVER AND A FIGHTER
By Andrew Downing
Gazette
I‘ll tell you a secret--the deeds done
when no one asks are much more
admirable than the deeds performed
when asked. GMHS students and staff
raised over $10,000 to support a fellow
teachers—without being asked. From
class wars to restaurants donating
sales percentage, it truly is amazing
what the students, led by Manda
Moberly, have done to help out with Ms.
Kristine Ensign‘s battle.
why these efforts were made. All
around school people can be heard
saying how great of a person Ms. Ensign is, but I started to wonder how
many of them really know her? So, I
took it as a challenge to uncover and
reveal the true reasons why this woman
is a special person.
Angiosarcoma is a very rare type of
cancer that attacks the body‘s blood
vessels and soft tissue. Ensign was
diagnosed in February of 2010 with the
cancer starting in her abdomen and
colon. She had it removed immediately
and started chemotherapy in April of
that same year. In June of 2011, the
cancer returned to her left hip; only a
month later it would spread to her other
hip. She started another round of
chemo in August. Ensign is required to
fly to Houston for treatment every 6, 8,
or 10 weeks, depending on the type of
therapy she is receiving. She receives
her treatment at The James Cancer
Hospital on OSU campus and goes to
MD Anderson Cancer Center for test
results and the planning for her next
treatments.
A: This is my twelfth year teaching in
the district. I taught at the freshman
building. The other nine years have
been here. I have coached softball all
12 years and volleyball for eight years.
Recently, I was given the opportunity to
sit down with Ensign. Going into the
interview I wasn‘t sure how I wanted
this article to be written. Finally, the light
bulb in my head soon flickered on, and
it hit me; I wanted people to understand
A: Yes, I was a first baseman when I
played softball, a setter when I played
volleyball, and a point guard when I
played basketball.
Q: What can you tell me about your
time at Groveport?
Q: What do you think about all the comments about Groveport from the surrounding towns?
A: I don‘t like them; there is plenty of
―good‖ here. It‘s the 20% of bad things
that happen that are always heard; people form opinions when in reality people
are super here! I am beyond happy that
I landed here when I moved from Toledo.
Q: Did you play sports when you were
younger?
MISSION ENSIGN
Nearly 400 people took
part in first Mission Ensign Walk, an
inspiring event, on November 12 at
the Cruiser Stadium. Senior Manda
Moberly headed the event, which
included several activities in the
weeks prior. Thanks to the efforts of
Moberly and the GM Student
Council, raising over $10,000 for
Ensign.
Flyers held a benefit day
that netted $700. Bob Evans benefit
day raised $396 and BW’s day $176.
Dunloe Elementary Student Council
donated $436, and there are so
many other donors who helped far
exceed the goal of $2,500.
Student Council would like
to thank all of the staff and students
at GMHS who made Mission Ensign
a resounding success , and asks everyone to keep Ensign in their
thoughts as she continues to battle
this disease.
1
Q: Obviously softball is your favorite sport.
Besides the actual game, what does softball
teach students?
A: It teaches the girls teamwork, depending on
other people, and communication.
Q: What are your passions in life?
A: Ohio State anything, sports, computers, softball, and
photography.
Q: Photography, why is that one of your passions?
A: A lot of our kids don‘t ever have anyone taking pictures
of them and when I can share that it really means something to them.
Q: What did you want to be when you were younger?
A: I have always wanted to be a teacher.
Q: If you could be anywhere right now, where would that
be?
A: Somewhere warm, I have always wanted to visit Greece.
It looks really cool on TV.
Q: Where is the most wonderful place you have been?
A: Honolulu, Hawaii. I went there for a vacation; I saw Pearl
Harbor and one of the volcanoes on the island. The trees and
the colors of the ocean made it so wonderful.
Q: You are a very humble person. How do you stay like that
when you see people get emotional because of your personal
situation and battle with cancer?
A: Well, I have had medical issues--tumors—ever since I was
about 14 years old. Overtime, I have learned to be strong for
my family and not let others see that it‘s taking its toll on me.
But of course there are times where I do cry.
Q: How do you feel about war?
A: I‘m not fond of it. I support the troops, but
at the same time I think that if we can keep
the young from dying that would be really
good.
Q: How would you describe yourself in three words?
A: Focused, caring, and determined.
Q: What type of music do you like?
Q: When people look at you, how do you think they feel about
the person they are looking at?
A: I listen to the 70‘s and 80‘s: Queen, Def Leopard, Foreigner, Journey, etc.
A: I hope it‘s a nice person. They probably think I am shy at
the beginning. I think they see that I am a helping person.
Q: Any crazy high school stories?
Q: If you could meet anyone in the world who would it be?
A: I got busted by the cops for toilet papering someone‘s
house before a big basketball game. That‘s about all; I was
a good child!
A: Cal Ripken Jr. I always loved the game of baseball because it is like softball. One day I was watching TV, and it
turned out to be Cal Ripken‘s rookie debut. Ever since then I
have liked him, and I also liked the fact that he stayed with
one team his whole career.
(About halfway through the interview session, we were interrupted by a student who entered the classroom. This student was contributing to the ongoing effort by donating pop
tabs to a jar in Ensign‘s room. This small ripple in the universe shows how big of an impact Ensign has had on the
school and community. Amazingly, kids are still bringing in
pop tabs after pop tabs to raise even more money for the
Ronald McDonald House, a favorite cause of Ensign.)
Q: What is your definition of a hero? Who is your hero?
A: Someone you look up to and want to be like. My mom
and dad are my heroes. They are always there for me and
other people. They have never hesitated to take care of me.
Q: What is your definition of love?
A: Unconditional. Strong feelings where you would do anything for that one person…Yeah, I guess that‘s what love is.
Q: What do you think about the world today?
A: It‘s good, but it scares me. The violence is
out of control, and I would like to see the
economy rise. There is plenty of good in the
world but the media lets us see all the bad.
Q: What is your biggest accomplishment in life?
A: I think I would have to say beating this cancer. I mean, I
have had a lot of accomplishments throughout my life, but
yes… beating this cancer and still being here is my greatest
accomplishment.
Michael Jackson once famously said, ―I‘m a lover, not a fighter.‖ But the thing that The King of Pop never took into consideration is the fact that someone can indeed be both of these
extremes. Kristine Ensign is fighter. She has battled cancer
for nearly two years and is still here today. Kristine Ensign is
also a lover, a lover of her four dogs—-Duke, Muddy,
UCONN, and Nokona-- a lover of softball, a lover of photography, and a lover of living. Ensign is a woman of great character and an even greater heart. I am proud to know her, and
I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to interview
her. She is approaching her two year anniversary of being
diagnosed with Angiosarcoma. Explaining the statistics of the
cancer, she said, ―Only 30% of people live five years. I am
planning on being in that 30%.‖
2
Mr. Thomas’ Time
I know it is hard to believe that
our holiday break is nearly upon us,
which signifies that the first semester
is nearly over. Soon our semester
exams will take place, and the year
will be at the halfway point. It is critical that you have a strong finish to
the semester in order to bolster your GPA. Your GPA
is very important for eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities, to meet scholarship requirements, and to determine your class rank. Every student‘s cumulative GPA is only calculated eight times
during high school (at the end of each semester).
Speaking of holiday break, I know many of
you will receive gifts that might include clothing or
electronics that violate our dress code policy or wireless device policy. Make sure you keep those items
at home. Leggings (spandex), tears in jeans, phones,
mp3 players, etc. all detract from the educational process of our school. You are expected to come back
from break following the school rules, regardless of
the gifts that you receive.
I leave you with one last thought. This time of
the year is for giving. Some have more to give than
others, but it is the thought that truly has meaning. If
you do not have much money to buy a present for the
special people in your life, think of the gifts that mean
the most. Those gifts are from the heart. Tell someone that you love them and care for them because
this is the best gift a person can receive. Merry
Christmas and Happy New Year!
GREEN TEAM
The GMHS Green Team is collecting cans all
year for recycling and has located recycling
cartons in the school hallways. Throw your
aluminum cans in the bin instead of the trash!
―If you‘re one of the many Americans who tossed your
beverage cans into the recycling bin last year, give
yourself a pat on the back. You helped save millions of
barrels of oil.‖ –Earth 911
According to Earth 911, the U.S. recycling rate for aluminum beverage cans has reached its highest level in
more than a decade with 58.1% of all cans recycled in
2010
Recycling aluminum cans takes 95 percent less energy
than creating new ones. Americans recycled nearly 56
billion aluminum cans last year, saving 17 million barrels of crude oil
A recycled can is back on the grocery shelf as a new
can in as little as 60 days. Recycling one aluminum
can saves enough energy to keep a 100-watt bulb
burning for almost 4 hours
What can YOU do?
Place an empty carton
or large trash bag at the
corner of the kitchen.
Throw in your cans and
when it‘s full, drop it off
at the school large bin.
You recycle and Green
Team gets money for it!
If you can‘t bring your
cans to the school, then
recycle at home. Ask
your trash collector for a
blue recycling bin that
will be collected on your
normal trash collection days.
International Club:
Students of all ethnicities are welcome! Get a taste of the international culture right here at GMHS! Each meeting includes a
presentation on a member’s country and traditional food. Challenge your knowledge of current issues in the world news quiz and
try something different!
Next meeting is THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, room 126
See Mrs. Villanueva for more info
GMHS BOOK CLUB
Enjoy reading a contemporary young
adult novel in a relaxed atmosphere of students.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 19 in Rm. 218
We will introduce ourselves, vote on a book and talk
about snacks to bring to the next meeting.
3
LADY CRUISERS
BASKETBALL
SPORTS
Coach T and the
Lady Cruisers are off to a
1-4 start to the season,
recording a win against
Columbus Briggs and loses to Chillicothe, Gahanna, Grove City and Pickerington North.
Playing tough
against Grove City last
Friday, the team lost by
two in the remaining seconds of the game after a
flagrant foul call. Coach T
said, ―Our record does not
reflect how good we really
are as a team. Every player on our roster has contributed in some way and
is improving on a daily basis. We are learning and
growing together and getting closer to where we
want to be as a team.‖
Leading all scorers
for the Lady Cruisers is
senior Teryn Conner, who
is averaging 15points.
Junior Latyiea Richard is
averaging 8 rebounds and
4 steals per game while
starting senior Alexis
Smoot, the point guard, is
contributing 4 assists per
game. Senior Brianna Ferrel is also averaging 4 assists per game. Senior
Kyanna Clarno comes off
the bench to connect with
Conner on the pick and
roll.
The Lady Cruisers
play their next home game
on Friday, December 16
against Newark. The Lady Cruisers invite
to come
out.
VARSITY BOWLING
Anchored by senior Chris Lane, the boys and girls
varsity bowling teams traveled to Zanesville for their first
tournament of the season. Thanks to Lane, the boys team
finished third in the tournament. Lane was awarded the
High Individual Series honor for shooting games of 256,
247, and a perfect game of 300. Lane is averaging 275 for
his last five games.
The girls team placed fourth in the tournament led
by sophomore Betzie Clements. Clements shot a series
514 to lead the team. Pitching in was
freshman Liz Quinn who shot her first
game over 200 with a 205.
The boys an girls teams travel
to HP Lanes on Monday to take on
East High School. Home matches are
held at Eastland Lanes.
Fans are welcome to watch
the Cruiser Bowlers as they take on
Teays Valley on December 14 at 5
p.m.at Eastland Lanes.
VARSITY WRESTLING
Facing a busy week, the Cruisers wrestle at
Whitehall on Wednesday and at Pickerington North on
Saturday. At Whitehall the Cruisers will wrestle dual
matches against the host team and Licking Heights. Saturday the wrestling team will see their toughest competition of the season at the Panther Invitational at Pickerington North. It is a very competitive tournament with some
of the best teams and wrestlers in the state, said coach
Pat Neiman.
The Cruisers opened up at Dublin Coffman last
Saturday and placed eighth in the team standings. The
grappplers went into the tournament very young with one
senior, two freshmen, and seven sophomores in the
starting line-up. Leading the way was Jeff Mullins who
went 4-1 on the day and placed third. Throughout the
day, the Cruisers wrestled very tough and showed improvement from match to match.
The Cruisers will travel to Marion Harding over
the holiday break. One goal over the next couple weeks
is to get some guys down to their proper weight classes.
This should help fill out the line-up and make the team
more competitive.
CRUISERS
BASKETBALL
Coach Holliman and the
Cruisers are
off to a tough
start this season with an 05 record. The
boys survived four games
in four days this past week.
The team recorded tough
loses to Columbus South,
Columbus Briggs and
Grove City. All of those loses were by 10 points of
less.
Leading the way for
the Cruisers so far this season is senior Jonathon Van
Gundy, who is averaging
11 points and 10 rebounds
per game. Sophomore
point guard CJ Crowder
brings a lot of energy and
good vision of the floor to
the game. Senior guards
Gaven Tatum and Andrew
Downing contribute on both
ends of the floor. Senior
forward JayQuan Luckett is
a physical presence in the
paint, and senior James
Fields is still finding his
rhythm this season. Sophomore Zavon Rivers is contributing from the bench
after playing nearly four
quarters per game for JV.
The Cruisers spent
the weekend recharging
and will begin to prepare for
games against Newark and
Marion Franklin this weekend. See the Cruisers on
the hardwood at home on
Tuesday, December 20
against Pickerington Central.
4
Attention seniors and juniors: The NHS is posting scholarship,
internship, and volunteer opportunities on the bulletin board outside the
main office. Take advantage of these resources by applying for any scholarships t hat relate to you. The information will be updated frequently, so
please make sure you stop and take a look every few days! See Ruth Sleshi or
Miss Bisesi with questions or for further information.
TALK WITH TREVOR
Question of the month:
Sometimes I feel the
pressure to be perfect.
What do you think
about this, is it normal?
What should I do to help relieve my anxiety?
To start let me say thank you to
the individual who submitted this question.
I understand how difficult it is to ask questions about ones circumstances – anonymous or not. Students in high school are
under immense pressure to achieve in
every area. In high school, we, as students, are required to go to school for seven hours a day, come home and do home
work, be associated with different clubs
and organizations, have a high GPA, and
then volunteer. All of this is completely
normal for a high school student to do if
they are interested in gaining acceptance
into a decent college. So do not feel as if
you are the only teenager experiencing
the pressure to be perfect.
I, too, am a perfectionist, and I
have learned to accept this. If I earn any
grade lower than an ―A,‖ I literally feel
overwhelmed and enraged. You may be
similar to me. I personally believe my
grades, volunteering, and being active in
school organizations is everything because it will allow me the opportunity to
HEALTH MINUTE
attend a college that I feel is right for
me.
Sitting here typing this allowed
me time to reflect; I made a connection
between personal insecurities and perfection. Every individual in one way or
another has some sort of insecurity that
causes him or her to feel the need to be
critical of himself or herself. So, being a
perfectionist is normal. Don‘t allow this
trait of your personality to make you feel
awkward or different. When I get
freaked out about receiving an A-, I
have learned to deal with it. Instead of
getting irritated at myself, I walk through
the mistakes I have made and correct
them.
Humor and a light-hearted reaction always helps. I have learned over
the years that grades are important, but
truly learning and evolving as a person
is so much more important. Everyone
has flaws, but continuing to evolve as a
human being will keep the frustration of
wanting to be perfect in check. To finish,
I would like to use a quote that I live by:
―Aim at perfection in everything, though
in most things it is unattainable. However, they who aim at it, and persevere,
will come much nearer to it than those
whose laziness and despondency make
them give it up as unattainable,‖ Lord
Chesterfield.
COFFEE
HOUSE
Thirsty for some
java? Don‘t worry
because Coffee
House is right
around the corner! Friday, December 16
from 6:30-9 p.m. for only $2
in the auditorium. Those who
don‘t audition can still perform during open mic. The
ever popular Coffee House
has been a huge success for
troupe 3323, becoming. popular among audiences of all
ages. From poetry readings
to singing the latest hit to performing a hilarious skit, this
fun-filled activity has become
another way for students to
express their individual talents. ―The theater board at
GMHS has worked extremely
hard this year, and I would
love to give them incredible
thanks for all their hard work.
We do this because so many
students do not have time to
participate in play productions. This is another way for
students to show GMHS
what they can do,‖ said Danny Price, board president.
The board is seeking food
and monetary donations for
the Coffee House. Arrangements for donations may be
made by contacting Price.
by Ruth Sleshi
Experiencing that mid-morning hunger pang when the satiation of
breakfast is waning but it‘s too soon for lunch? The impulse is usually to
find the closest vending machine and grab a candy bar. As much as they
claim to do so, candy bars do not satisfy, at least not for long..
What are the facts? One Snickers bar contains 14 grams of fat, 280
calories, 30g sugar and 140 mg sodium. It contains 0% vitamin A, 0% vitamin C, 4% calcium, 1g fiber, and 4g protein. For anyone unfamiliar with the
daily nutrition requirements, this may not mean much. Simply saying, those
four bites are about 20% of what should be eaten in a day.
So, what is a healthy alternative to subside hunger until lunch time?
Granola bars are the best on-the-go snacks. These bars are more satisfying and just as tasty. A Kashi or Nature
Valley bar has half the fats, three times the protein, and costs less than a candy bar.
5
JANUARY MOVIE RELEASES
By Isaac England
Name
Contraband
Joyful Noise
Haywire
Red Tails
The Grey
Man On a
Ledge
One For the
Money
Type of
Movie
Thriller
Music
Drama
Action
Action/
Adventure
Action/
Drama
Release
Date
1/13/2012
1/13/2012
1/20/2012
1/20/2012
1/27/2012
Rating
Synopsis
Stars
After a man leaves behind his
old life of smuggling, he has to
protect his family from being
dragged back into it.
Mark Wahlberg, Kate
Beckinsale, Ben Foster, Giovanni Ribisi, Lukas Haas, Diego Luna
A church decides to elect a new
choir director in to win a competition. They just have to find
that special something in order
to complete the perfect sound.
Queen Latifah
and Dolly Parton
A highly trained female operative that works for the government is put on a mission to free
a Chinese journalist.
Gina Carano , Michael Douglas , and Michael Fassbender
Three American pilots go
through dangerous conflicts
and are not appreciated for the
fighting that they do in WWII
because they are AfricanAmericans.
Terrence Howard, Cuba Gooding,
Jr., and Bryan Cranston
R
PG-13
R
PG-13
Not Yet
Rated
A group of oil
rig workers have
to survive the
Alaskan wilderness after
their plane crashes in the
mountains.
A fugitive that was an ex-cop
stands on the ledge of a highrise building located in New
York while a negotiator tries to
bring him down.
Thriller
Action/
Comedy
1/27/2012
1/27/2012
Liam Neeson,
Dermot Mulroney, James
Badge Dale
Sam Worthington, Elizabeth
Banks, Jamie Bell, Ed Harris
PG-13
PG-13
A regular city girl has been out
of a job for six months. She is
so desperate that she begs her
cousin for a bail bonds job.
Katherine Heigel
6
Calendar of Events
NOVEMBER
TEACHER OF THE
MONTH:
Mrs. DelGuzzo
12/12-12/16 Gingerbread House Making Contest
by Cyndi Woods
1/17-1/20 Celebrate Diversity Week
2/9
Talent Show Auditions (2:30-5:30 auditorium)
2/13-2/17 Winter Spirit Week (Talent Show rehearsal 2/13 2:30-4:30)
2/14
Talent Show (1 show during school, 1 show at 6:30pm)
2/18
Winter Formal, GMHS Gymnasium, $20 per person, includes dinner
2/17, 2/20-2/21
No School
3/12-3/16
OGT Week
3/26-3/30
March Madness (Staff vs. Students)
NOVEMBER
STUDENT OF THE MONTH
SENIOR MANDA MOBERLY
HOBBIES: Reading Nicholas Sparks books, hanging out with friends and bowling
FAVORITE SUBJECT: AP P.O.D.
FAVORITE QUOTE: “I may not have gone where
I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where
I needed to go.” -Douglas Adams
JUNIOR KATIE FELLURE
HOBBIES: Playing softball, photography, horseback riding
and four-wheeling
FAVORITE SUBJECT: English
FAVORITE QUOTE: “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile be-
cause it happened.” -Dr. Seuss
SOPHOMORE
MICHAEL
EDWARDS
HOBBIES: Running
track and reading
FAVORITE SUBJECT:
Social Studies
FAVORITE QUOTE: “An eye for an
eye makes the whole world go blind.” Gandhi
FRESHMAN
GLORYA
ALBERTINI
HOBBIES: Singing,
hanging out with
friends, running and theater
FAVORITE SUBJECT: Social
Studies and English
FAVORITE QUOTE: ―You can’t fail
until you try.” -unknown
With the vast
amount of experience in
the field of criminal justice
that GMHS social studies
teacher Kelli DelGuzzo has, it would
seem likely that she would be all about
discipline and classroom management.
But to the contrary, DelGuzzo brings a
level of compassion and care to her interaction with students that instead inspires
them, which is just one of many reasons
why she is teacher of the month.
―Why I cherish student council so
much is because of Mrs. DelGuzzo, my
advisor, who is such a heartfelt person
who shares so many of the beliefs and
ideals I uphold myself. She is always
looking to lend a helping hand. She is
always willing to let students have a voice
where we can express our opinions on
how to make the school and community
better,‖ explained senior Danny Price, copresident/head boy of Student Council,
which DelGuzzo co-advises.
Her concern for her students can
be traced back to her own high school
experience. ―I didn‘t have a positive high
school experience.‖ Although she was
voted most athletic her senior year, she
felt like she ―didn‘t fit in. I was an athlete
who didn‘t care about being homecoming
queen.‖ As a result, sometimes other girls
were mean to her. But thanks to her love
of sports and the support of her two favorite teachers, Coach DiCarlo and Coach
Coleman, she persevered. She ―found her
stride‖ as a political science and history
major at Muskingham College where she
played basketball, ran track, and was a
member of Chi Alpha Nu as well as many
other organizations.
DelGuzzo stays mindful of her
own high school days, which is reflected
in her student-driven approach to all her
many endeavors as a teacher, coach, and
advisor. Her advice to current high school
students is to ―look to the future.‖ She
knows that teenagers sometimes need a
trusted adult to confide in, and she is happy to lend an ear and a perspective. ―The
social stressors of high school dissipate
when you graduate. Most of the people
who cause you the most grief will cease
to be a part of your life. Focus on your
own goals and what you hope to do in the
future.‖
Realizing that studying abstract
educational philosophy would not best
7
Team Reach at the Autism Speaks Walk
serve her in teaching students in the real classroom,
DelGuzzo opted instead to get her Master of Arts in
Teaching in 2007, which allowed her to focus more on
student-friendly methods and a hands-on approach.
Her daily instruction in psychology, Principals of Democracy, and Principles of Criminal Justice reflects
her personal teaching philosophy. ―My philosophy is all
about the student. I really feel strongly that students
‗learn by doing.‘ I try to include interactive activities
that tie real life to the content. I also know that it‘s the
life lessons that the students take with them into their
adult lives‖ she said.
Social studies teacher Kristin Cline, who co-advises student council with DelGuzzo, says that she is the most
―student-driven teacher I know. She is an example of leadership.‖ The leadership skills DelGuzzo herself possesses is
something she works to pass on to her students and is reflected in the goals she sets for her students: ―1.)Learn to love
learning 2.)Never give up 3.)Respect themselves and others 4.)Believe in something 5.)Stand up for what they believe in
6.)Be charitable 7.)Be self-confident 8.) Give 110% effort always 9.)Be honest and ethical and 10.) To never say never.‖
Although she contends that she herself ―was a mediocre student,‖ she went on to earn three college degrees, two of
which are masters. She wants her students to remember : ―You can achieve anything if you focus on it and work for it. High
school does not define you. It is a blip on the greater radar of life.‖ DelGuzzo has proven this not only as a teacher but also
as the head girls track coach for the third year as well many other coaching positions dating back to 1994 to the present. ―I
expect my athletes to be disciplined in the classroom and on the track. I expect them to put forth all of their effort, every day.
I expect them to be trustworthy, dedicated and committed. I hold them to the highest standard and I lead by example.‖
Another way that DelGuzzo leads by example is through her many charitable acts, which she says she learned
about first-hand. ―As a young person I was taught about being charitable because my family was actually on the receiving
end. When my parents divorced, my mom was unemployed and had to accept any and all help available to my brother and
me. We lived in extreme poverty until I was in high school when we would have been considered ‗working poor.‘ Along with
the charitable help, my grandparents chipped in to make sure we stayed in our house and received the extras we needed. I
was very lucky. Because of my personal experience, I realized that I needed to pass it on. Being charitable is very rewarding. Knowing that I can make a difference in someone‘s life is very fulfilling. I also believe that we shouldn‘t take what we
have for granted. We should appreciate what we have and share what we can,‖ she explained.
This ―love for being charitable‖ has really rubbed off on this year‘s student body from the highly successful Mission Ensign activities to other events
like the Autism Speaks Walk to the Suicide Prevention Walk to the current collection for Adopt-a-Family. ―I am very proud that the students have given back
so much to the community and the school,‖ said Price, who credits DelGuzzo
with giving the students the sense of responsibility necessary to be contributing
members of society.
DelGuzzo‘s concern for bettering the world
was also part of her life before teaching. She was a
program coordinator for the Franklin County Community-Based Correctional Facility, a social worker for the sheriff‘s office, an investigator for the Ohio
State Board of Psychology. and coached basketball and track from 1997 to the present.
Amazingly, DelGuzzo has time for a family life with husband Erik and sons Coleman and
Dominic, 7 and 3 years of age respectively. Although it is not surprising she can juggle so many
balls, considering her quote for life, which is ―hold yourself to a higher standard than anyone else
would ever expect of you.‖
PRINCE SIGNS WITH ASHLAND
Senior Shelbie Prince committed to play softball for Ashland University next fall. Ashland has a storied history as a division II softball
powerhouse under the leadership of Sheila Gulas who recorded win
700 in March 2011. Prince, who was recruited to play shortstop for
the Eagles, said about the recruiting process, ―it was a relief to know
that my college search was over and that my education would be
paid for by playing my favorite sport. Having all of my friends and
family there for my signing made it even more special.‖
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SENIOR DIRECTED PLAY
By Danny Price
―After my first play as a freshman, I had said being a senior director in the Cruiser Theatre Company would be something I would love to do. Looking back on that now, I can‘t believe it happened! I
have had many inspirations throughout my four years in the company, taking bits and pieces from
―the greats‖ to perfect a style of performance,‖ explained senior Kala Szuk, who will carry on the
Cruiser Theatre Company tradition of directing the winter show.
The title of the winter production is Romeo and Juliet or the Old “You-Know-I-Really-Love-You-But
-My-Father-Really-Hates-You” Blues. When asked why she chose this particular play, Szuk said, ―I
love parodies, and I believe everyone of all ages will enjoy this age-old classic shown in a new
light.‖ The play premieres Thursday, January 19, 2012 and will run through January 21. Admission prices are $7 for students and senior citizens and $8 for adults.
Being senior director means that she is in full control of the production with little supervision by Ms. Mulgrew. ―I love the fact
that Mr. Benoit and the school‘s administration allow a student to get their feet wet in the world of directing. This allows them
to have an experience that may alter what they wish to do after high school in terms of a career. This also places a positive
hue on the school‘s environment for letting more students become involved in leadership roles. The play looks amazing already, and I encourage everyone to come see it,‖ said Ms. Mulgrew.
The cast includes Ben Morris, Lisa Lam, Maggie Hutson, Shantelle Rogers, Danny Price, Alex Goodwin, Elise Goodwin,
Kaylee Amos, Clay Engle, Stacey Miracle, Bobby Joe Dunn, Will Eldridge, Isaiah Stepney, Colton Laney, Tom Lindic, Caleb
Marsée. Anthony Curry, Kendra Compton, Kayla Kirk, Hayden Housten, Morgan Clark, Manda Moberly, Kennedy Moody,
Lacey Gray, Nick Zwayer, Andrew Downing, Eddie Sithiboun, Dylan Torok, Janel Lisath, Jesse Codling, Mackenzie Coburn,
Carley Larkin, Amanda Lively, and Sammie Hawkins.
―Reflecting on the support the company has received over the years only makes me want to put together the best production
I can to show my appreciation to our supporters!‖, said Szuk. ―I hope everyone comes see it!‖
IN OTHER
LANGUAGES
Merry Christmas
-USA, English
መልካም ገና
-Ethiopia, Amharic
‫أعياد ميالد سعيد‬
-Saudi Arabia, Arabic
Favorite Seasonal Songs
First Noel- Danny Price,
12
Go tell it on the MountainRuth Sleshi, 12
Hark the Harold, Angels sing Lauren Engle, 12
Christmas Shoes -Cameron Jones,
Ciid
12
wanaagsan iyo
sanad cusub
Jingle Bell Rock- Anne Dillman, 12
oo fiican
Araya Gay, 12
Oh, Santa- Diamond Joseph, 12
From the Grinch ―Where are you
Christmas?‖ -Michaela Williams,
12
This Christmas- Alexis Taylor, 12
-Spain, Spanish
Z Rizdvom
Khrystovym
-Russia, Russian
I‘ll Be Home For Christmas– Mrs.
Cline
Happy Christmas– Mrs. DelGuzzo
Fröhliche
Weihnachten!
Baby, It‘s Cold Outside- Lisa Lam,
12
A Charlie Brown Christmas– Ms.
Woods
Jingle Bells- Aezaz Zia, 12
Rudolph the Rednosed ReindeerCoach Holliman
All I want for Christmas is you-
Feliz Navidad
Christmas in Jamaica– Elum JohnС Рождеством!
son, 12
Silent Night- Andrew Downing,12
Joyeux Noël
-France, French
-China, Chinese
-Ukrainian, Ukraine
-Somalia, Somali
-Germany, German
耶誕快樂
God Jul
-Sweden, Swedish
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FAVORITE HOLIDAY MEMORIES AND TRADITIONS
By Ruth Sleshi
Waking up to all the smells and having hot cocoa.–Harley
Garvin, 10
Going sledding at my Grandma‘s with my friends, Gaven,
Mackenzie and Kasey. – Andrew Downing, 12
I have a Christmas party with my Great Grandma Joe‘s
side of the family where we play a passing game that
gets very rowdy. The best part is that I get to be with people I only see once a year; we are still close and have fun
making Christmas merry. -Kendra Compton, 11
Putting up the tree with the family. - Lisa Lam, 12
Getting a real tree when I was sixteen. -Alecia Hughes, 12
Spending Christmas Eve at my grandparent‘s house every
year. –Lauren Engle, 12
My favorite Christmas memory was last year when our jazz
band went to the soup kitchen and played Christmas songs
for the people there. We took boxes of canned food with us.
– Michaela Williams, 12
I went to my aunt‘s house and everyone was together singing songs and dancing. –Alexis Taylor, 12
One present on Christmas Eve. – Robbie Lively, 11
Unfortunately, I don‘t celebrate Christmas, but I love how
beautiful and jolly it is. -Nina Tang, 11
When my brother was born on Christmas! -Shannon B., 9
When my grandpa was alive and visited for Christmas. Vivianna Griffin, 9
When I got my footie PJs! Brittany Kern, 9
Shopping with my dad and grandpa in Indiana.-Kisha
Lane, 9
I was outside building a snowman, and my dad came at
me with a giant snowball then we had a huge snowball
fight.-Tian K., 9
Making the Christmas Star.- Xzavier Dixon, 11
Putting up the Christmas tree with my family. –Sequoia
Dobbins, 10
Swinging my toy sword at the Christmas tree. –Gabriel
Washington, 12
Getting to hang the Christmas lights. –David Thompson, 10
.
My family and I will go door to door shoveling snow for free
then go home and have a cup of hot chocolate –Joshua
Willis, 12
Seeing family traditions passed down from each of our
families to our children and now our grandchildren. –Mrs.
Melick
My daughter‘s first Christmas.– Mrs. Furniss
My three kids playing in the snow with new sleds on
Christmas Day.- Ms. Thompson
Our family rents a cabin the weekend before Christmas
with all the uncles, cousins, grandparents and wives (26
in all!).–Mr. Ewart
My mom bought me a remote-controlled airplane when I
was 6. –Kindishi Abebe, 12
My favorite Christmas memory is skiing with my family. –
Ms. Wright
When my mom bought me my first puppy for Christmas
named Rocky. -Vanessa Craig, 11
When I was younger, I played the trumpet. My parents
would ―hire‖ me to play Christmas carols on the front
porch while the guests arrived for their yearly Christmas
Party.- Mr. Mielcarek
My dad bought me my first phone!
-Kyarra Butler, 9
On New Years Eve, my family gives out gifts to each other.
We call it ―Prosperity Night.‖ -Bridale Moore, 11
Every Christmas Eve, my dad and I go downstairs, and we
always watch The Little Drummer Boy and A Charlie Brown
Christmas. -Abby Dotson, 11
On Christmas day, the kids take over the stage at church
with plays, songs and scriptures. And I just love how everyone is friendly and smiles and greets ―Merry Christmas‖ to
total strangers. -Ruth Sleshi, 12
Breaking piñatas on New Year‘s Eve. -Yazmin Gonzalez, 12
The smell of cookies.
-Caitlyn Blanton, 12
My family and I go to Fort Rapids –Mr. Culver
My grandparents are from Denmark where citrus fruit
were scarce. So, we always get oranges in our Christmas
stocking to provide good luck for the coming year. I still
do it with my kids. –Dr. Smith
My sister and I would sneak downstairs on the creaky old
staircase without getting caught and sit or sleep under
the Christmas tree until morning. -Mr. Stack
As a child, when my Pap would ring the sleigh bells on
Christmas Eve to signify it was time to run upstairs to
open gifts. –Mrs. DelGuzzo
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GAGA CALLS FOR AN END TO BULLYING
by Trevor Seibel
Is it a bad romance, a love game gone wrong, or is the poker face
behind bullying finally being confronted? Lady Gaga herself took a
trip on December 6 to the White House to discuss the launch of her
non-profit organization, called the ―Born This Way Foundation.‖
President Obama was not present at this meeting due to his prior
engagement in Kansas, so Gaga met with senior advisor Valerie
Jarrett, who wrote on the White House blog, ―Lady Gaga is a source
of strength for many young people who feel isolated and scared at
their schools.‖
Schools across the country are dealing with bullying. GMHS is a
school which is populated by an extremely diverse population. With
any student body as colorful as this, bullying arises. Many teenagers are unable to find their role in a school environment when they
feel different. Through organizations such as the ―Born This Way‖ bullying is finally being exposed for its severity, and with
the support of a public figure who is adored by millions, more people will listen.
One example of the situation is what happened on September 21 when a fourteen-year-old boy, Jamey Rodemeyer,
from Buffalo, New York committed suicide. A year previous to this event he sent his biggest inspiration, Lady Gaga, a letter
explaining the troubles he faced as a homosexual. His and thousands of other letters caused Gaga to start her foundation.
Like Jamey, thousands of LGBT teens are taunted and bullied due to their homosexuality. ―Born This Way‖ believes human
beings should not be targeted based upon their sexuality, and a life should not be taken through suicide because of this.
Other foundations, such as the ―Trevor Project‖ and the ―It Gets Better‖ campaigns, are in place to help LGBT teens who are
helpless to such horrible situations. Both organizations target suicide prevention, counseling, and a positive message that
life gets better.
GMHS principal Aric Thomas was asked what are the violent trends from last school year to the present school year.
Thomas answered, ―We have seen an increase in students wanting to fight at the lower grade levels, who want to just throw
down. The number [of occurrences] is not as huge of a difference [from last year] due to upperclassmen. When we look at
who is fighting, we want to [alter] the curriculum as a first step to change behavior.‖
Considering what both Jarrett and Thomas had to say about bullying, it is not occurring due to foreign circumstances
but instead it is happening due to insecurities and misunderstanding of one another. Authorities contend that when students
first enter high school they are still finding themselves. They feel as if they are different and in order to compensate for these
feelings some bully or fight others.
While Gaga was at the White House, she discussed with Jarrett ways in which they could work together to make
sure that no child comes under attack, regardless of his or her race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other factor.
This is a goal of Gaga‘s as well as GMHS whose student body, administrators and teachers have been working together to
form organizations such as a Gay-Straight Alliance to help break down stereotypes and unify the diversity of the school.
Lady Gaga is an individual who has accomplished so many amazing things with the help of co-founder mother Cynthia Germanotta, her mother. Gaga is sending her message of acceptance for all through the ―Born This Way Foundation‖
all over the world. Similarly to GMHS whose Gay-Straight Alliance hopes to reduce bullying and violence by creating acceptance of others. United GMHS will be able to Just Dance by causing greater acceptance through activities because everyone is Born This Way.
GAY-STRAIGHT ALLIANCE
GMHS is reviving the Gay-Straight Alliance club started last
school year. Anyone who wants to be part of the solution,
please attend the inaugural meeting on Thursday, December
15 in room 113 from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Questions can be directed to club advisor, Ms. Wright, in the guidance office.
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‘Tis ThE SEASON TO BE GIVING
By Ruth Sleshi
In the rush and excitement of the Christmas season, do
not forget to spread the spirit of giving. It may seem routine for many to have a decorated tree, presents and a
delicious family dinner, but it is important not to forget to
care for those who have no home to decorate or money
for a meal, much less a gift. What better way to spread
the cheer than sharing and giving? This does not always
mean money. Giving time with kindness and affection
can be just as meaningful. The soup kitchens are in
need of volunteers, the neighbors‘ sidewalk could use
shoveling, and the caroling voice of teenagers is nice to
hear. So, this Christmas put aside the stressful shopping list and step outside to give the
gift that really counts.
Canned Food:
Gather the left over cans and donate
them to the local pantry by bringing
them to school this week or take
them to the pantry at 4575 Madison
Lane
Caroling:
Get friends together, borrow
Grandma‘s Christmas sweater,
and delight the neighborhood with
melodious caroling; they may even
offer some treats!
Operation Christmas Child:
Pack a shoe box with school supplies, necessities and toys for a
child in need.
driveway, why not shovel the neighbor‘s as well?
Baked Goods for Neighbors:
Bake cookies with mom or grandma
and deliver them to the
neighbors. Also, leave a
package for the mailman.
Holiday Mail for Heroes:
This program allows the public to send holiday greetings
and thanks to soldier and veterans who may not have
their families nearby to celebrate.
(http://www.redcross.org/holidaymail)
IOU:
Print an IOU for family members, pledging to do laundry,
wash the car or mow the lawn. They also make a nice
last minute gift!
Youth at the Retirement homes:
Nursing homes, hospitals and senior centers always welcomer teens to spend
some time
with the elderly who
may not
have visitors around
the holidays. Serving dinner,
playing
cards or just chatting
can raise
the spirit of an elderly
person.
(Emeritus Senior Living,
Wexner Heritage Village)
Take the challenge this winter and lend a helping hand.
Bring a smile to a stranger‘s face by giving your time and
kindness this Christmas!
Shovel the Snow:
When you are out shoveling the
GREASE IS THE WORD
Do you know every word to the songs from Grease?
Love singing? Want to be on stage? You should audition for the spring musical, Grease.
Auditions will be held after school on Wednesday,
December 14 for males and Thursday December 15
for females. Theater Director Ms. Mulgrew will have
callbacks on Friday if necessary. Those with questions, please see Ms. Mulgrew or Theatre Board
president Danny Price.
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