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The Villager

Volume 7, Issue 8 | Date: March 1, 2024

What Activities are the School Clubs Doing this Week? By: McKenzie Orlandi

French Club

The McDonald French Club typically meets every month. Their goal is to promote Francophone culture outside the classroom in a more social and lively setting. Mrs. Evans teaches about the rich history and religious significance of celebrations such as Mardi Gras each year.
Students also learn how to make specific holiday foods, such as the

IN THIS ISSUE

School Club Activities - Page 1

School Club Activities, MHS Sports - Page 2

MHS Sports, Finding Balance - Page 3

McDonald Briefly, Editorial - Page 4

Outstanding Staff, Music Review - Page 5

People on the Street! - Page 6

Top 10 List, Book Review - Page 7

Back Page Pics - Page 8

King Cake.

Math Club members posing for a group photo for the yearbook
Photo Credit: Mrs. Fabian

The carnival season begins on Epiphany (January 6th) and culminates in class on Mardi Gras, where students will also partake in feasting on King Cakes and crepes.
Throughout the last six years, our French classes have also been collectively participating in a global music tournament called "Manie Musicale." This is an international music competition for French students in classrooms around the world that mimics the NCAA basketball tournament, but instead incorporates French music from a variety of francophone countries.
During the competition, students create brackets, learn about international artists, study French lyrics, and even have opportunities to interact with these famous musicians. The contest culminates in early April, with an exciting "reveal," along with a luncheon and prizes for the top
brackets.

STAFF LIST

EDITOR STAFF: ANNABELLE SMITH

STAFF WRITERS: AIDEN BOOTH, SOPHIE JOHNSON, MCKENZIE ORLANDI

EDITOR IN CHIEF: MR. BACKUR

March 1, 2024

Math Club

Mathfest is a competition held at YSU and has ten of our students attending this year. They participate in a Mixed Team Competition or Challenge of Champions test in the morning. Then students attend 2 breakout sessions where YSU students and professors present different mathematical topics.
Additionally, Math Club is getting ready for Pi Day. Teachers will be receiving milk or water containers to place in their classrooms and the two teachers who raise the most money will get pied after school.

Ending Seasons and New Opportunities By: Aiden Booth

The boys’ bowling team has had an amazing season. After winning the Mahoning Valley Athletic Conference, they continued in the tournament and got 2nd place at sectionals. They ended the season with just two losses, LaBrae and Champion. They are now headed to state with a 3rd place finish at Districts! Best of luck to them as they compete this upcoming weekend.
The girls’ bowling team has continued a great season, also. They ended their season with a win against Crestview on January 31st. A great season without a doubt, and congratulations on an amazing season girls. The future is bright for this team, especially since they will not be losing any seniors!
The boys' basketball team has had a great season so far. They are 7-6 in the conference and 11-10 overall. Friday, February 9, they faced off against Springfield and lost with a close score of 46-43. However, they bounced back on Tuesday, February 13, as they faced Maplewood and won 65-58. This win gave them a winning record in the conference . They played their first playoff game on Tuesday, February 27 versus
Central Christian where they won with a
score of 50-37. It was a battle at the	Sophomore Joey Cappuzzello takes the fast break steal beginning, but after half-time our boys came     and shoots a mid-range jump shot to give McDonald an out and took the lead.                                                early 12-9 lead versus Springfield on February 18th
When asked about final goals for the season, senior point guard Wyatt Wolford responded, “I would like

our team to go further in the tournament than we did last year. I feel confident and I think we have a good chance to make the district semifinals and from there, anything can happen.”
The girls’ basketball team has had a good season so far and they are continuing to win games. On Thursday, February 15, they took on Matthews High School and won 71-55. Then, two days later they faced Bristol and won 47-41. With a 9-12 overall record and a 4-8 in the conference, they have done very well this season and look to do well in the upcoming playoff games.
The cheer team was recently informed they will compete in the State cheer competition. Junior cheerleader Zoey Schneiter said, “I am looking forward to making a lot of fun memories with my team. I love our routine and spending time with all the girls and I am just excited to have a fun weekend with everyone.”
When asked about goals and preparation for the competition, she continued, “I think we have a really strong team with the potential to do very well, so winning is a big goal I feel we can achieve with hard work. As a team, we are going to make time for extra practices, and specifically take advantage of this upcoming long weekend which will include two additional morning practices. We had a late start getting prepared for the season this year so we have to work hard now to perform well at State.”

March 1, 2024

Continued... Freshman swimmer Selene Massaro made Districts for Northeast Ohio Division 2 High School Swimming where she competed in the 200-meter Individual Medley and the 100-meter Breaststroke. Districts took place on February 16th at Cleveland State University. She placed first in the 100-meter Breaststroke and fifth in the 200-meter individual Medley. A great performance overall, and a huge congratulations on a great season!
Baseball tryouts took place on Monday, February 19, and Tuesday, February 20 at DAK Baseball Facility. With tryouts complete, this team looks forward to practices and training before their season begins.
There was a brief informational meeting on Tuesday, February 13, in the library after school hosted by Mr. Vukovic for all students in grades 8-11 who were interested in playing golf this upcoming season.
Finally, there was also an informational meeting that took place on Wednesday, February 14, hosted by track coach Mr. Domitrovich in the auditorium for all athletes in grades 9-12 interested in participating in track this spring. Off-season training will be ending soon and mandatory practices will begin.

The signs outside of the school to support

the boy’s bowling team

The boys’ bowling team posing

with their coach for a team picture

Photo Credit: Mrs. Averell	Photo Credit: Mrs. Averell Finding a Balance By: Sophie Johnson
Students have a lot on their plates after school. Some students have jobs, some have extracurriculars,

and many have both. Tackling these responsibilities while finding time for family and homework can be challenging. Many students struggle to find balance in all of this.
Student athletes struggle to find a balance between academics and their sports. When asked about challenges faced, Junior Anabela Merola said, “Yes it is challenging to tackle school with sports. I have 2-hour practices and with some classes, it's hard to put 100% of my attention into my assignments because I'm tired.” She shared that one of the ways she's learned to overcome this is to try and utilize time given in school like study halls so that there is less to do once school and practice is over.
Some students may not take part in extracurricular activities outside of school, however, they may have a job they have to go to after school. Senior Mariah Bregar said that one way she has discovered to overcome this challenge is by utilizing time given to her at school and using the free time she gets at home to get her assignments completed.
Junior Olivia Colarich is a student-athlete with a job. However, the compromise she believes helps her be successful is to focus on school and sports during the school year and during summer get a job so it's not as stressful during the school year.
Finding balance in a busy schedule can be challenging, especially when school is not the only responsibility students may have. When asked for additional strategies, math teacher Mrs. Ifft suggested, “Don't procrastinate. When you have any time, could be minutes or could be hours, do an assignment you may have as soon as possible.”
Another way to find a balance between school life and home life is to plan accordingly and use time wisely. If something is due in a day and something else is due in a week, finish what's due in a day first. Prioritize and utilize your time, use your planner to keep track of assignments, and seek guidance from teachers if needed and communicate with them if you're unable to finish an assignment on time.

March 1, 2024

McDonald, Briefly By: Annabelle Smith

On Sunday, February 4th, our very own MHS Competition Cheer Team competed at the regional qualifier at Lake Middle School in Uniontown. The nine girls qualified for the state competition! The competition will take place on Sunday, March 3rd in Columbus, Ohio at Big Walnut High School. Congratulations girls and good luck!

Editorial: Are Longer School Field Trips Good? By: Annabelle Smith
Recently, the New York City and Washington DC field trips have been the talk of students and staff alike, for very different reasons. Last year, the 8th grade students had a blast while on the DC field trip. Sadly, the New York City field trip last year was canceled as not enough students were going. Hopefully, with the price lowered and a longer time to save up for the trip more students will sign up.
As a junior, I am very excited about the New York City trip. I signed up for it last year but never got to go. I think that going on big field trips like the DC trip and the New York City trip are great ways for students to bond with their peers and experience new things. It also can be very educational, as students get to see what life is like in places outside of McDonald. And, of course, they are an enjoyable way to take a break from school. Parents and teachers, however, may have very different perspectives on big field trips.
For many parents, the issue they have can be the price. This is very evident as last year many students did not sign up since parents were not willing to pay that much money for the New York City trip. Parents who have children with medical problems also worry for their child’s safety. Even if a student does not have medical problems, it is still scary for parents to send their child away for such a long period. Parents of freshmen, sophomores, and juniors were able to go to a meeting on Thursday, February 15th to get
some more information on the New York City trip and hopefully put some minds at ease.
Teachers, on the other hand, have some different concerns. Teachers

usually have to plan their teaching schedule around the field trips, which can be hard to do. Students are usually tired after such a long bus ride back, which can also be hard for teachers to deal with.
Even so, many teachers have a very positive view of long field trips. When asked for her opinion on the two trips, Mrs. Evans said, “These trips promote becoming more open-minded and well-rounded citizens. They allow students to delve into different cultures, foods, and urban atmospheres.”
Many people have their own opinions and concerns about these trips, but all groups agree that the DC and New York City trips will be a great experience for students. Hopefully, both the DC trip and the New
The 8th grade students last year York City trip will be very successful! having fun while on the DC trip
Photo Credit: Mrs. Fabian	March 1, 2024

Outstanding Staff: Mr. Domitrovich By: Sophie Johnson Mr. Domitrovich teaches 9th, 11th, and 12th-grade English classes as well as 7th grade study skills. Mr.
Domitrovich has been teaching for 26 years and has been a coach for 31 years. He taught at John F. Kennedy his first year until McDonald kept asking him to work for them since he already coached for McDonald.
Mr. Domitrovich said his favorite part about working at McDonald is the kids and athletes, “It's always humbling to see students set goals for themselves academically and athletically, it is very satisfying
knowing you have a part in helping them achieve those goals.”
Before deciding to be a teacher, Mr. Domitrovich considered a career in business and finance. When

asked what made him want to become a teacher, Mr. Domitrovich said, “Some former teachers influenced me, there's a lot more happiness in teaching as opposed to business and finance. I wasn't planning to

choose teaching, however this is everything I could have hoped for.” Mr. Domitrovich strives to see students succeed and reach their
goals. When asked for strategies and tips he has learned to help students who are struggling he said, “Patience is very important. I feel things need time. Nothing happens overnight and sometimes change is slow, but we need to meet the kids where they’re at and accept hard work takes time”. He shared he learned this very early on in his teaching career and it has helped him tremendously.
Outside of school, Mr. Domitrovich has several hobbies including spending time with his family, playing guitar, listening to music, cooking, and playing golf.
When asked what his favorite thing about Mr. Domitrovich was, Senior Jaret Sypert said, “He’s very passionate about what he's teaching; he's very relaxed and funny.”
Music Review: Ain’t My Last Rodeo

Mr. Domitrovich with his son

By: Aiden Booth

Riley Green is an emerging country music star who has gained much of his popularity because of his recently released album Ain’t My Last Rodeo. He released this album on October 13, 2023. The album consists of twelve songs and is almost forty minutes long. Some of the more popular songs include, “Different ’Round Here,” “My Last Rodeo,” and “Raised Up Right.” Riley Green does enjoy collaborating with other popular country music singers such as “Different ’Round Here” where he sings with Luke Combs.
I like this album a lot and I play it often on car rides and when I am doing homework. The songs contained on this album are great and I love Riley Green’s voice. It is that country voice that is a great combination of rusty old country and new pop-country style. I also really like the fact that Green in a way isn’t selfish and likes to feature other stars such as Luke Combs, who he actually toured with and sang “Different ’Round Here” with on
stage.

The album is great, an overall success, however, one thing I do not like is some of the song titles

because the language can be inappropriate for younger listeners. However, I guess that is what you get when you hear country music these days. Besides that, though, it is a well put together album and an enjoyable one without a doubt if you are into the country music genre.
Overall, I would rate this album an 8/10 and I recommend you give it a listen if you get the chance. Riley Green has the whole package- he sings some upbeat songs that make you wanna dance as well as some
slow songs that make you think back on life and relax. It is a great album and anyone could listen to it. March 1, 2024

People on the Street By: Sophie Johnson

What is your favorite outfit or piece of clothing in your closet and why?

Senior Zach Shobel: “McDonald football hoodie because
football is life.”

8th Grader Bailey Bosheff: “Sweat pants because they are
easy and comfortable.”

Junior James Hipple:

“A pair of work jeans that are very

worn in and comfortable.”

8th Grader Carter Koma:

“Black Nike hoodie and grey shorts because it’s a basic and easy outfit that matches.”

March 1, 2024

Top 10 List: Activities to do in School

By: McKenzie Orlandi

1.If you enjoy learning about different cultures, consider joining Spanish Club

2.If you love drawing and being creative in the community, Art Club is the place to be
3.If math, STEM, and engineering are of interest, Math Club is an awesome opportunity
4.French Club is another way to learn about other cultures and compliment your time in class
5.If you like acting, being on stage, and performing for others, Drama Club is for you 6.Band is a great way to learn a new instrument and enjoy music
7.If taking pictures is one of your favorite hobbies, maybe Yearbook would be fun 8.Student Council is a great way to get involved with your classmates and help plan
exciting events

9.National Honor Society is a great organization for students with a strong GPA and who like to serve their community
10.For students looking for some new friends and who have a competitive,

or cooperative, spirit, Dice Devils Game Club might be exactly what you’re

looking for	Book Review: Lightlark By: Aiden Booth

There are many fun and interesting fictional books in the world, however, the book Lightlark by Alex Aster, is one of the best. It is first of a two-book series. Isla Crown is the ruler of Wildling, a realm of cursed women who can’t fall in love without killing their lover. This realm is greatly feared by the other realms which are the Sunlings, Skylings, Moonlings, and Starlings. Isla has to find a way to break their curse and to do this she must cheat, lie, hurt, and destroy people and things.
One of my favorite things about this book is that Alex Aster does an amazing job of keeping the suspense alive. You cannot read just one, two, or three chapters while reading this book. It is almost as if she designed it so that when you picked the book up, you didn’t put it down until you were done reading. The characters are described in great detail, and the plot is carried out very well. The setting is well
depicted and is a crucial part of this book.

I enjoyed every bit of this book, however, I could see how some

people may not like the fact that the book has to do with people being cursed and some of the fight scenes being a little on the vulgar side. Other than that, though, there is nothing I can think of that discredits this book or makes it anything short of amazing.
I would rate this book a 10/10 because the author, Alex Aster, does an amazing job of not only keeping the suspense throughout the whole book, and developing the plot, but she does an amazing job of allowing the reader to visualize exactly what is going on in each part by describing things in great detail. This book is definitely in my top five, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good book to read that has fantasy, adventure, and action, all packed inside.

March 1, 2024

Backpage Pics! By: McKenzie Orlandi

Photo Credit: Mrs. Evans