May 2016 Leaf

THE

LEAF

Sycamore High School News Magazine Volume 3 | Issue 9 | May 20,2016

O VT HE R E RHINE

Address: 9919 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH, 45242 Phone: (513) 985 - 9919

When you were young, your parents spoke for you to your doctors and your financial institutions. However, when you turn 18 years of age, under the eyes of the law you are an adult and your parents cannot act for you. Therefore, it is important to have the appropriate legal documents so somebody can speak for if you are unable to speak for yourself. The documents include: Medical Power of Attorney which directs who can make medical decisions for you if you cannot make them yourself and a Financial Power of Attorney which allows somebody to make financial decisions for you. The Financial Power of Attorney is also used when a student is away at college or in an overseas program and needs someone at home to help with their finances.

You should see a competent attorney to draft these important documents.

J. Louis Kurtzer, Attorney at Law (513)-232-2600 ACT - SAT Prep

Stand Out from the Crowd ACT gains of 2-6 composite points

*Small group classes & individual tutoring *Affordable *Convenient

THE LEAF|May 20, 2015|SHSLEAF.ORG

IN THIS ISSUE TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg.2 NEWS

pg.6

pg.7

2|T[r]ekking across the school 3| New face of American dollar 4| Ads

OPINION 5|Staff Editorial 6|No place like Shriners 7| Hillary struggles with youth vote

pg.10 FEATURE

pg.13

pg.16

8| Tips for first year of college 9| Two students receive Eagle Scout honor 10|Birkenstocks in business

pg.18 pg.19 ENTERTAINMENT 16|Hamilton the musical 17|Tidal music streaming

SPORTS

11-14| Revamping OTR

18| Lacrosse leads GMC 19|Tennis seeks three-peat 20|When pigs fly, people run

FUN &GAMES

SPOTLIGHT

15| Find the 5 differences

21| New season, new coaches

COVER

pg.21

Editorial Policy: Although students work under the guidance of a professional faculty member, the content is ultimately determined by the student staff and should reflect all areas of student interest, including topics about which there may be dissent and controversy. Students can not publish material that is obscene, libelous, or will cause “a substantial disruption of the educational process.” Content that may stimulate heated debate or discussion is not included in this definition. The views represented in our publications do not represent the views of the Sycamore Community School District or the Sycamore High School administration. Our publications are public forums.

THE LEAF

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242

ADVISER

EXECUTIVE CO-EDITORSIN-CHIEF Hannah May PHOTOGRAPHER Benjamin Ruskin McDaniel’s Photography MANAGING EDITOR ABOUT US Amy Deng Professional memberships: ASSOCIATE EDITOR • Columbia Scholastic Press Association Jenna Bao • Journalism Education Association CREATIVE PROJECT • National Scholastic High School DIRECTORS Press Association Jenna Bao • Ohio Scholastic Media Association Taylor Close • Ohio Professional Writers Sarah Horne (National Federation of Women Lauren Kurtzer Writers) BUSINESS • Quill & Scroll International MANAGEMENT TEAM Journalism Honorary Jacob Englander Cheralyn Jardine

Eshika Kohli David Wertherim PRINT EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Natalie Brinkman Adhiti Chundur Sydney Evans SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Sydney Weiss WEBMASTER Caroline Bruns WEB EDITOR -IN-CHIEF Harsimran Makkad LEAFLET EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hannah Frey LEAFLET MANAGING EDITOR Emily Chien

LEAFLET DESIGNERS/ WRITERS Eshika Kohli Rujula Kapoor Sydney Weiss COPY EDITOR Anne Marsh NEWS Yasmine Guedira Max Torem SPORTS William Coleman Caroline Veraldo FEATURE Allyson Bonhaus ENTERTAINMENT Taylor Close

OPINION Alexander Karev Joshua Patterson FUN & GAMES Samuel Ruskin STAFF WRITERS Meghan DiGiovanna Stephanie Kidd Eshika Kohli Hannah Loftspring Christine Macke Hajime Minoguchi Calliope Osborn Madeline Schramm Abhilash Yarlagadda

THE LEAF May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|1

NEWS

Ruckus in restrooms: Should transgenders be allowed into restroom of choice?

MADELINE MARSH staff writer 166039@sycamoreschools.org

G

avin Grimm, a transgender student in Gloucester County, Va., was denied use of the boys restroom at school. Grimm was born a girl but now identifies as a boy and has undergone hormone therapy. This became a source of hot debate when taken to the courts.

The essential question is whether transgenders should have access to the restrooms of the gender that they identify with.

North Carolina’s General Assembly voted on a bill that would block counties and cities from passing anti-LGBT discrimination laws.

Conservatives claim that allowing transgenders to access the bathrooms of their choice would introduce the risk of women being harassed in the restrooms.

According to The Huffington Post,“HB 2, which passed in a special session, would set a statewide anti-discrimination policy, banning employers and businesses from discriminating against employees or customers based on their race, color, country of origin, religion, age or ‘biological sex.’

“The bill offers no protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and prevents local governments from passing any nondiscrimination policy that goes beyond the statewide standard.”

Governor Patrick McCrory (R) tweeted, “I signed the bipartisan legislation to stop the breach of basic privacy and etiquette [and] ensure privacy in bathrooms and locker rooms.

Ordinance defied common sense, allowing men to use women’s locker

rooms, for instance. That’s why I signed the bipartisan bill to stop it.”

However, a federal appeals court’s decision to side with a transgender student could give legal clarity on the divisive issue of transgenders using the restroom of the gender they identify with. This decision was called “a major turning point” by the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network.

With victories and struggles on both sides of the debate, the courts will have to clarify a legal position on transgender people having access to the bathroom and locker rooms of the gender with which they identify.

One-to-one t[r]ekking across SHS JENNA BAO

creative projects director 181003@sycamoreschools.org

another resource in the classroom.

Mader said, “We will see more digital curriculum and teachers doing different things in class overtime… but it won’t happen overnight.”

Teachers will undergo professional development to make sure the devices can truly integrate into teaching.

Logistics

All students will be given laptops to use in class and take home with the expectation that they will responsibly bring it to school charged and intact.

There will be loaners available in case a device is forgotten or out of battery but there will be consequences for multiple discrepancies.

Three-year warranties come with each device for a free replacement in case of 2 |THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

manufacturing defects. One accidental breakage will also be covered.

Mader said, “If you get into an argument with your boyfriend and throw your laptop at him, it will be covered. Once.”

Computer labs and computers at the Hub will be maintained. Since Chromebooks are cloud based, there will still be some computers around that can hold software.

Mader said, “In today’s technological world with instant access to information, the district and most educational units know we have to leverage technology to work smarter and give students the tools for advantages over peers in any other school.”

NEWS

:

BY THE New face of NUMBERS A m e r i c a n D o l l a r

HANNAH FREY

STEPHANIE KIDD

leaflet editor-in-chief

staff writer

173024@sycamoreschools.org

194163@sycamoreschools.org

NEW MONEY EXPECTED TO BE RELEASED IN

2020

*

5

IN TIME FOR THE OF THE

19

100

th Anniversary

th Amendment

5

GIVING WOMEN THE RIGHT TO VOTE

5

The Lincoln Memorial will stay on the five dollar bill, but in the background will be African American singer Marian Anderson, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

10

10

The new ten dollar bill will feature members of the women’s suffrage movement on the back like Lucretia Mott, Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Alice Paul.

f em al e

How a was chosen

10 picked from 15 nominees

With 34% of the vote,

Source: http://www.businessinsider.com, https://modernmoney.treasury.gov

20

Andrew Jackson will be replaced on the front of the twenty dollar bill by Harriet Tubman. This is a groundbreaking achievement for women and equality.

the final round

The final ballot held 4 candidates

10

20

350,000+ votes were in Harriet Tubman won above Eleanor Roosevelt

5

20

20

While the final designs will be released in 2020, the bills will not go into wide circulation until later in the decade. The plan is for all new bills to be in wallets by 2030. *

Information by Hannah Frey and Stephanie Kidd Design by Stephanie Kidd

THE LEAF May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG |3

NEWS

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ONLINE AT WWW.SHSLEAF.ORG 4 |THE LEAF|May 20, 2015|SHSLEAF.ORG

Recycling Alliance supports The Leaf Making recycling easy

Staff Editorial

Leafing through the masses: Will One2One help the classroom?

“

“I think it will be a good change because it will provide more opportunities to learn.”

Mr. Jeremy Pletz, math teacher

Sycamore is constantly growing to adapt to the changing world around us. As colleges and future employers stress the importance of technological fluency, Sycamore has decided to institute a One2One technology program to acclimate its students to the changing landscape.

With the introduction of this program education will be revolutionized to fit the modern spirit. Students will have the ability to work collaboratively with their peers to for creative projects, taking learning into their own hands.

The whole point of one to one is to eventually get to a state of blended learning where technology is ‘blended’ into the classroom experience and foster 21st century learning skills.

Studies have shown a switch in teacher-student roles with students being able to take active roles in their own education and having teachers act as facilitators. Certainly teachers would not be replaced by computers, they would just be encouraged to use new resources.

While having all of these devices can be distracting, it is up to teachers to keep students focused just like they must fight against smartphones today.

Another benefit is increased organization. If teachers commit to using Blackboard and placing assignments on Blackboard’s calendar students will be able to have all of their information in one place and have one device, as opposed to binders, folders, and textbooks for every class.

Of course there will probably be varying degrees of resistance, as there most often is with change, but professional development and help from the tech experts, as well as time, will likely end up making student learning easier and more interesting.

There is still a lot of uncertainty involved, what exactly the Chromebook use will lead to, how students and teachers will react, and what issues could arrive due to it.

However, reviews from the Junior High and Greene School have been generally positive and hopefully, with time and experimentation, one to one will be a positive step into modern learning.

“I don’t think that the change is necessary considering we already have laptop carts that we use regularly.”

Nonso Okonji, 11 “It definitely will help with efficiency in the way the curriculum is taught.”

Matthew Swartz, 10

“

All photos courtesy of Josh Patterson

“The program could be really useful, once everyone adjusts to using computers for all school work.”

Kyra Fales, 9

THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|5

OPINION

No place like Shriners ESHIKA KOHLI business manager 195054@sycamoreschools.org

T

hrough the eyes of 17-year-old Prerna Gandhi from Rohtak, India, the Shriners Hospital was her dream come true.

Gandhi said, “My Mama (Uncle) is a software engineer, so he went to a lot of countries through his projects. He searched many places for a better burn specialist hospital but every hospital was out of budget. But then, he went to California! From there, he found out about Shriners hospital, and how it is free from ages 16-21 years old. So that was perfect news!” problems and spinal-cord injuries The way that this program made without a cost for patients.

Gandhi feel is absolutely heart-warming The service organization, Shriners after the way she was treated, when International, has raised nearly $1 billion boys simply just threw acid on her and per year to run each hospital. changed her life forever.

Although, according to the “New She was able to find a family who York Times,” even before the 2008 treated her as a sister, daughter, and recession, hospitals across the US most of all, best friend. were experiencing Gandhi said, financial difficulties “When I came threatened some “There is a passion that here, I thought facilities with closure.

I would have to In 2012, the here among the live differently, as system’s board of staff that is unique trustees voted to a paying guest.

But I was wrong, break with tradition and special” my host family and allow insurance doesn’t treat from patients who me as a guest. have it to help with They treated me the cost of care. No as family. We eat dinner and do stuff matter what occured, even financially, together. I now love them to death!” the hospital was able to find a way to I feel it is extremely impeccable that pull through the hardships and follow this hospital can do so much to affect a through with its promises. person’s life internationally. It feels like It is remarkable that the hospital such an amazing program should be has been curing and saving many lives more advertised and shown throughout mentally and physically. the world for the amazing things it does Administrator from Shriners Hospital for.

Mark Shugarman said, “There is a According to Cincinnati.com, the passion here among the staff that is 22-unit Shriners hospital, beginning in unique and special that is part of the 1922, built an international reputation bloodline of the Shriners. We believe in for its medical treatment for people being openly embracing. We want to take with burns, cleft palates, orthopedic care of you.” | THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG 6

Gandhi moved to the United States when she was 17 years old. She lived at a foster home.

However, now she is studying explorartory studies at the University. Photo by of Cincinnati.

Photo by Prerna Gandhi.

9708 KENWOOD RD. bLUE ASH, OH 45242

OPINION

Column: Debates not worthy of title MAX TOREM co news chief 176003@sycamoreschools.org

Hillary struggles with youth vote

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2,026

Photo courtesy: MCT Campus

Each year, sophomores have to participate in what are known as sophomore debates. Students spend most of their English class time in second semester preparing for the debate. But what exactly is the impact of debates on students?

If you ask me, it is probably not what the staff are aiming for. Last year I noticed that although debates did help me in preparing an argument and finding credible sources to back it up, the benefit was really just not there. what Clinton is selling, seeing as Bernie MEGHAN DIGIOVANNA Debates are just big long essays that Sanders is winning their votes by staff writer students have to prepare. All students 185032@sycamoreschools.org consistently absurd margins as high as 80 do after they prepare the essay is just to 85 percent in many states, according veryone has that one older read it in front of their classes. to CNN. relative who just does not Another flaw that I noticed is that It may seem ironic that 74-year-old understand youth culture. You students who write sub-par essays are candidate, Sanders, is beating a younger, going to receive sub-par grades on their communicate as if you are on different 68-year-old Clinton among youth voters. debate. A debate should not be based on wavelengths and you do not However growing up around how well you can formulate an essay, but dare to even attempt to teach

BY THE the financial crisis of 2008, them how to open Facebook. on how well you can make an argument.

NUMBERS many young Americans have In the 2016 presidential A nice touch, however, to reward become skeptics of corporate the students who outperformed their election, presidential power. Thus, finding Sander’s classmates are the All-Star teams. Five candidate Hillary Clinton percent of idea to bar corporate money is students from each class are voted on youth voters is that relative. Since she very appealing. announced her candidacy back voted for by their fellow classmates and placed on Clinton in Furthermore, Clinton in 2015, Clinton has been their class’ team. behaves often as if she does failing to win over millennials. primaries These teams then go on to further not know what the truth is, In an attempt to reach out rounds and battle other teams until specifically involving her email someone is crowned a champion. to youth voters, Clinton has crisis, and instead merely launched a SnapChat account, Unfortunately with every good thing number of reaches for what is the best primaries targeted websites popular comes a bad thing. I am not saying this answer in that moment. left with young adults such as happens, only saying it could happen, She then comes off as a BuzzFeed, made college but friends can fix the vote and put sporadic panderer to not just affordability a top issue and themselves on the team just for extra millennials, but Americans in number of even hired President Barack credit. Obviously this will have a delegates general.

Obama’s former youth negative effect on the “better” students. needed for It seems in the eyes of vote coordinator, Rachel What I am saying is that debates are nomination young Americans, Clinton is Schneider. not beneficial in the sense that the trying to pull off a character Despite her attempts to negatives outweigh the positives. that just is not believable, portray herself as the cool, tech-savvy Students can improve their skills at all while promoting ideas that do not candidate, it seems Clinton’s out of finding reliable sources, but at the cost resonate with 30-under voters. touch, stoic self remains apparent to of really just writing an extended essay Sorry, Hillary it seems you are not Generation Xers. and the amount of stress it puts on worthy of a retweet.

Under-30 voters are just not buying students, debates are simply not worth the time and effort.

Source: fivethirtyeight.com and nytimes.com THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|7

F E AT U R E

Seniors becoming freshmen: Tips for first year of college ORION SCHLOSSER staff writer 164194@sycamoreschools.org

Become familiar with your college campus. Understand what it is that you need to get done over the summer, whether it is finding a roommate or purchasing text books. Almost every college has an official website. Consider browsing your college’s website for necessary and helpful information about upcoming dates and events.

Branch out and become close with different types of individuals. Expand your horizon and socialize with people that you enjoy being around and that make you a better person. You never know who could help you in the future when it comes to business or job opportunities.

Avoid putting yourself in a position where you are cramming the night before a test in a noisy location with people chatting and socializing. Find a spot, whether it is the library or a quiet dorm room, that you can focus and study in for future tests and exams.

Academics are important. However it is also important to find a balance when it comes to school and social life. Meet new people and find new interests. College is the place to find yourself and figure out who you are as a person. That being said, college is also the place to learn and succeed, so find a balance that suits you.

There are always people willing to help you. The key is to reach out and make it known that you need a little assistance. It never hurts to ask for a little bit of support, whether that is academically or personally.

Design by: Adhiti Chundur and Sydney Evans

8 |THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Photo courtesy: Caroline Burns

FEATURE

Two students earn Eagle Scout honor CAROLINE BRUNS

in attendance, including many other Sycamore Scouts and their families.

175060@sycamoreschools.org Radakovich said, “It was really cool t all starts in Cub Scouts. Many young getting to see so many of my friends students choose to join this club of boys to create bonds, make memories, as well as adults who have done so much for me at the ceremony. It was and learn how to tie some knots along great having my grandparents in town the way.

Recently, two Sycamore students from and really appreciated all the support Troop 674 earned the Eagle Scout title. that they gave to me throughout the process.”

Junior Maxwell Hill said, “I joined Scouts because my dad is an Eagle Scout. In order to receive this title, each boy went through seven different ranks. In I also joined because I really wanted to go camping with my friends and explore each rank, they had to complete multiple tasks that pertained to leadership, the outdoors.”

Hill is one of two to have crossed over outdoor skills, or community service.

In addition to these, you are required from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts. Junior to earn 21 merit badges.

Mitch Radakovich is the other. Both The last project they have is similar to have been in Scouts since their early a capstone. Each boy must plan, develop, elementary years. and lead others in a service project that The Eagle Scout ceremony was held at the Marge Schott Scout Achievement will help the community.

Both Scouts used this opportunity to Center. There were around 100 guests webmaster

I

Tips for sucess

HANNAH LOFTSPRING Your social media staff writer will still be there 172032@sycamoreschools.org when you are done with homework and studying. Do not let your phone be a time waster or a distraction.

Try new clubs and sports.

They will keep you active in fun ways and help you form strong relationships with teammates and coaches.

Get ahead on school work. Do not wait for the night before an assessment to cram in last-minute studying.

Find friends that you share things in common with and can have a good time with.

Look for ones who will support you in all that you do.

Manage your time wisely so you can get enough sleep and not be tired for class or extracurriculars.

give back to their educational roots at Symmes Elementary School.

Radakovich created a fossil park behind the elementary school for students to compare findings from the nearby creek and display fossils.

He also created a table and benches for an outdoor classroom setting which will be used by every second and fourth grade classroom in the district.

Hill created an outdoor amphitheatre and brick walkway on the far right side of the school. This can be used by any student or faculty member seeking a peaceful outdoor learning environment.

Hill said, “I felt honored to have been able to help the school and community that I grew up in, and I’m excited to see the effect it has on the children as they get the opportunity to have class outside.”

Z

ZZ

Communicate with your teachers and do not be afraid to ask questions or get extra help.

THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|9

FEATURE

Birk in business:

Birkenstocks boomerang back

Why Birks are back:

SYDNEY WEISS

social media director 192046@sycamoreschools.org

N

What is the appeal to Birkenstocks? aturally, each season at SHS Birkenstocks are unique in that they comes with a fresh batch are actually made to be comfortable. of trends. This spring is They have cork footbeds that mold to no exception. All over the school, the foot with wear. As Bonenfant said, Birkenstocks are popping up. they last for a long time so buying a Birkenstocks are no new invention. pair can really pay off.

In fact, the company has been making Birkenstocks are advertised as being shoes for more than 230 years. The great for both warm and cold months. suede clogs used to be very popular and The sandals work well in the now the sandals summer but can be worn in are a major craze.

“My wife bought the winter with socks.

History teacher Mr. Thomas me my first pair Some loyal wearers of the shoe have expressed Bonenfant said, in 2008 and I complaints. Birkenstock “When I think of say they have Birkenstocks I still have them. I enthusiasts been wearing the shoes think of rugged love them.” for years and now they are comfort. I think of becoming “trendy.” people that like to Freshman Jennifer be in the woods Goodman said, “I think Birkenstocks but enjoy comfort at the same time. used to be different before everyone My wife bought me my first pair in started wearing them. I like 2008 and I still have them. I love them.

Birkenstocks but I do think it is “I think they are definitely worth the annoying that everyone has them now.” money, and you can always send them Like all trends, Birkenstocks have back to be repaired. When I got my loyal fans and pejorative critics. first pair I said I need to stop knocking Regardless, they are a unique shoe that these because they are so comfortable.” comes from interesting provenance.

The cork footbed ensures that weight is evenly distributed so the fit and feel of the shoe is perfect.

Once broken in, Birkenstocks can be worn for years.

They are made from select, natural materials.

The company has been making shoes for more than 230 years.

They come in a variety of colors, patterns, and styles to suit pretty much everyone.

Source: Birkenstock.com

10|THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Design by: Sydney Weiss

COVER

REVAMPING OTR

THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG 11

Photo courtesy: Hannah May

COVER

Best places to eat Over The Rhine LAUREN KURTZER creative projects director 174029@sycamoreschools.org

SENATE The Senate is famous for its specialty chicken and hot dogs along with burgers and sandwiches.

1212 Vine St. (513) 421-2020

Gentrification grows

The Eagle

OTR improves through artwork HANNAH MAY

which has produced over 100 murals in the downtown Cincinnati 173130@sycamoreschools.org area. A significant number of their entrification can be simply murals have been painted in Over defined as the process of the Rhine. improving the conditions of Francis said, “Artworks is a nona specified urban area. profit organization that employs Generally, this phenomenon Cincinnati youths who are ages 14 leads to rebuilding and the to 21. I enjoyed working on the migration of affluent people into murals. It is hard work for low pay, the area that is in the process of but just meeting your team and enhancement. bonding with them makes it worth Over the Rhine is a historic it.” neighborhood in downtown This program is just one example Cincinnati which is considered of how gentrification is taking place to be one of the most historic in Over the Rhine. districts in the country.

Francis said, “I felt like I was That being said, within the helping to revamp downtown and last 20 years, Over the Rhine make it a nicer place. I also felt like has been subjected to multiple I was a part of the development of reconstruction projects which the culture in downtown.” translated into the process of Along with the murals, Over gentrification. the Rhine has experienced many Student experience rebeautification projects and is Senior Caleb Francis worked quickly becoming one of the most with Artworks, a local organization hip neighborhoods in Cincinnati. executive co-editor-in-chief

Southern food with chicken, burgers and sandwiches

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12|THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

1342 Vine St. (513) 802-5007

bakersfield

Enjoy Mexican food here in the Midwest with tacos, enchiladas, chips and tostadas.

1213 Vine St. (513) 579-0446

Photo courtesy: MCT Photo

Taste of Belgium

They are best known for their chicken and waffles. They have many different flavors of crepes, waffles, and pastries.

1135 Vine St. (513) 381-4607

New non-profit dominate

BEN RUSKIN

executive co-editor-in-chief

families, friends, and communities through play,” said Fischer. he city of Cincinnati has fostered Fischer prides herself on having the many successful non-profit “real-deal” toys. The toys that can be organizations. Matthew 25 rented from her business can be Ministries and New Life played with over and over and Furniture are some of the continue to stay in functioning top-rated charities and condition. nonprofits in Cincinnati.

The grand opening for Fischer’s Among these, a new new business will take place on player has entered the June 25, 2016. nonprofit realm: The Play She is currently looking for Library. Julia Fischer is new volunteers to help her work For more the mastermind behind the the store, prepare the store for information entire library operation. customers, and spread the word scan here Fischer said, “The Play about her new creation.

Library is just like a regular library but instead of books, we lend The Play Library is scheduled toys and games.”

Fischer obtained the People’s Liberty to open on June 24, 2016.

Fischer is opening the store on 2015 Globe Grant to help her idea 1805 Elm St. in historic OTR. come to life.

“The Play Library’s goal is to connect 175057@sycamoreschools.org

T

Photo courtesy: The Play Library

Play Library:

COVER

Findlay Market facts Findlay Market is Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market April through November, the market features outdoor merchants and street performers

Merchants sell meat, fish, poultry, produce, flowers, cheese, deli, and ethnic foods Market owners hope the revitalization of the market will create a ripple effect in OTR Source: findlaymarket.org

Design by: Natalie Brinkman

THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|13

COVER

Music hall approaches next movement JENNA BAO

creative projects director 181003@sycamoreschools.org

O

ver the Rhine has received a massive facelift of sorts in the past few years and now Music Hall will be joining the pack.

Music Hall hosts the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, world-famous Pops Orchestra, and Cincinnati Opera. After the renovations the Cincinnati Ballet will also perform there.

The hall will be closed from June until the fall of 2017 to accommodate the $129 million project. Until the reopening CSO and Pops performances will be held at the newly-renovated Taft Theatre while the Opera and Ballet perform at the Aronoff Center.

Construction plans

Work on the north and south ends of hall started back in January 2016

Cincinnati

including backstage and box office changes.

Other changes will include: larger and more comfortable seating (and thus a smaller audience capacity), safer balcony and gallery seating, and greater wheelchair accessibility.

The last renovations of the hall took place in the 1960s, but the center was originally opened in 1878.

The building’s structure is slowly deteriorating and, while currently not a danger, could eventually present a problem. The old plumbing, heating and cooling, and electrical systems are all expensive to maintain.

Business concerns

Some businesses in Over-the-Rhine are concerned about the temporary closure of Music Hall considering the hundreds of thousands of customers

Gentrification

HANNAH MAY

P RO S CO N S

executive co editor-in-chief 173130@sycamoreschools.org

What is Gentrification?

It is the arrival of wealthier people into an urban community, resulting in increased property values and improvements in physical appearance.

There are both positive and negative impacts of the process of gentrification.

Over the Rhine is an area that is currently in the midst of gentrification and is experiencing both sides of the effects.

attracted to the area every year, according to Stephen Leeper, CEO of 3CDC, the group that led the redevelopment of Over the Rhine and Washington Park.

The project aims to bring Music Hall up-to-date structurally while maintaining its historic quality.

The two architectural teams hired for the renovation have, between the two, worked on the Boston Opera House and the 21C Museum Hotel here in Cincinnati.

Since acoustics are of great importance to a music hall, the firm Akustics will enhance the acoustics in the auditorium.

Orchestra donors contributed over $3 million to Taft Theatre to get it ready for hosting the CSO’s star-studded season featuring classical stars like Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, and Lang Lang.

Cultural development

Displacement of former residents

Job creation

Competition for small, local businesses

Safety improvements

Does not solve problems, just moves them

Business opportunities Physical enhancements

14|THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Overestimating the safety of the area

FUN & GAMES SAMUEL RUSKIN

The first three people from each ACE to find all FIVE differences will each receive an out-to-lunch pass.

Stop by room 115 to give us the answer.

Sudoku Difficulty: Hard *Solution verified by hand and by computer

1

4

9 2

8 6

6 4 9 1 3 5

3 8

1 4

The theme is Sports

1

1 6 3 9 4 3

2

3 1

6 9

RM

The Honeycomb

Start at the colored hexagon. Spell solutions to the hints below by winding your way through the hexagons. You can backtrack to use letters more than one time. Each new word starts with the last letter of the previous word.

2

iddle of the onth

4 9 5

T B

O A C

Double Fault Poles Fore!

Punt Cradling

O L L R

G F

T O

N N E S

I I S

S K

I am the beginning of the end, the end of every place, the beginning of eternity and the end of time and space. What am I? Answer: The letter E

193157@sycamoreschools.org

Answers: Tennis, Skiing, Golf, Football, Lacrosse

fun and games chief

THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|15

A&E

Hamilton’s hip-hop meets history column: CHRISTINE MACKE staff writer 187101@sycamoreschools.org

T

he story of Alexander Hamilton, the creator of the national debt plan and the first secretary of the Treasury, is not commonly known and is often mistold because although he is a founding father, he was never president of the United States.

However, the founding father is gaining more popularity thanks to the Broadway musical “Hamilton.”The musical is written and composed by Lin- Manuel Miranda, who plays Hamilton himself. The story aims to shed light on Hamilton while giving the story a modern twist.

The play has recently made news by winning the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for drama.

It is only the ninth musical in the Pulitzer’s 100 year history to receive the award after “Next to Normal” in 2010 and “Rent” in 1996.

Miranda said, “It is a tremendous honor to even be considered for this award.

To win today for Hamilton is beyond my wildest dreams.”

The musical has been gathering up other awards as well, including the Grammy for Best Musical

Theater album. It has broken the record for most number of Tony nominations, racking up 16 including Best Actor and Best Actress in a musical.

When one thinks of the founding fathers, an image of old white men in powdered wigs generally comes to mind. Miranda’s musical is changing this by having a mixed race cast to tell the story of Alexander Hamilton.

Hamilton came to the United States as a poor orphan immigrant from the Caribbean, and grew to become one of the most influential founding fathers of our country, due to his extremely ambitious work drive and hunger to leave his mark on the nation.

The goal of the show is to tell the story of America in late 1700s and early 1800s using the people of America today. This allows the show to appeal to a younger and more diverse demographic.

The show also has few of the typical components of a typical Broadway musical.

There is no tap dancing. Instead of classic show tunes, Hamilton is a mix of R&B, rap, and jazz.

The cast album has 44 songs that range from heartfelt ballads such as Burn, when Hamilton’s wife, Eliza Schuyler, laments after learning he had an affair, to in your face rap battles in which Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson argue over the national debt plan.

The musical has received rave reviews and drawn in many celebrities as audience members, including Beyonce, Jay Z, Jimmy Fallon, and even President Barack Obama. The show hit on Aug. 6, 2015. Since its opening it has been completely sold out.

Photo courtesy: MCT Campus

16|THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

A night on the Prowl with Sam SAMUEL RUSKIN fun and games chief 193157@sycamoreschools.org

Cincinnati: home to some of the greatest eateries in America.

We have world-renowned chili to famous ice cream to ribs that would blow your mind. There are so many local delicacies unknown to people everywhere.

One restaurant that will have your taste buds going insane is Asian Paradise. With a delicious fusion and fantastic sushi bar, you get a combination of Japanese, Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese cuisine. Serving lunch and dinner around $10$20 at 9521 Fields Ertel Rd., Loveland, Ohio.

A second restaurant that makes Italian into Itali-yum is Piada. It incorporates a unique style of ordering and has delicious food. Serving lunch and dinner around at 9317 Montgomery Rd, Mason, Ohio.

One final restaurant that will truly blow your mind is Eli’s BBQ. With an old-timey, rustic environment and food that makes your mouth water. Elis BBQ has some of the best barbecue you can get in Cincy. Seving lunch and dinner at around $10 and below for a normal meal at 3313 Riverside Dr., Cincinnati Ohio.

Is it lunch time yet?

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

TIDAL:

HIGH FIDELITY

MUSIC STREAMING

A music subscription service for audio and video files. The focus is on sound quality. It also promises exclusive songs and videos from various artists.

PURPOSE:

ALICIA KEYS ARCADE FIRE BEYONCE CALVIN HARRIS CHRIS MARTIN DEADMAU5 DAFT PUNK JACK WHITE

STAKEHOLDERS:

JASON ALDEAN J. COLE JAY Z KANYE WEST MADONNA NICKI MINAJ RIHANNA USHER

The challenge is to get everyone to respect music again and recognize its value. Ultimately, these artists want to alter the mindset of consumers. They intend to shift the streaming landscape to benefit artists at a time when artists are urging streaming services and record labels to fairly compensate them.

COST: Unlike Spotify, Tidal does not offer a free version beyond a 30-day free trial. The platform instead ofers two payment plans:

$9.99 per month

for standard quality sound

$19.99 per month

for high-definition audio, HD videos and curated content

WHERE IT IS AVAILABLE: Tidal is currently accessible on the desktop as well as IOS and Android apps in these countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, United States, and many more.

Design and Information by Zoe Schlosser

THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|17

SPORTS

column:

JOSHUA PATTERS N

Photo courtesy: McDaniel’s Photography

co-opinion chief

171042@sycamoreschools.org

At the beginning of the season, the odds were 5000-1 to win the league, while the chances that Elvis Presley would be found alive were 2000-1.

None of that ever mattered to Leicester City, who clinched the Premier League title and the greatest upset in the history of sports on April 2.

The reason why this victory is so fun to the average fan is the way Leicester plays the game. They are a team of CAROLINE VERALDO intense work ethic, strong team dynamic, rejects, players that were playing the co-sports chief and excellent coaching. equivalent of division two or three, that 173000@sycamoreschools.org Clark has also helped many of his joined together to win a championship ed by coaches Edward Clark, players explore opportunities to play in over teams that spend over $200 Meredith Post, Allison Bell, college. million on buying players. and senior captains Evelyn Both Pattison and Rayburn are going Leicester is the classic example of Goodyear, Elizabeth Fitzgerald, to play college level lacrosse at Butler why teamwork is essential to any group Eva Thorn, Allyson Marth, Sydney University and Thorn will play at Mercer that wants to be successful.

Pattison, and Haley Rayburn, the University.

These players do not have a SHS girls lacrosse team currently has Rayburn said, “As Coach Clark pushes consensus top player and none of an undefeated record of 14-0-0. us every day, we progress and get where them make anywhere close to the With this record, the team is ranked we need to be. We consider our team to salary of players like Lionel Messi second in the state under Upper be a family.” or Cristiano Ronaldo do; however, Arlington, who has a record of 15-0-0.

With many skilled and experienced they beat players of that skill level Although the chances of the team players, the team will most likely compete consistently. appearing in the state finals are likely, in the state championships on June 3 and In addition, this upset was not the team remains focused on in-season 4 at Worthington Kilbourne High School. based on a single game like football or play.

Goodyear said, “This season has been basketball can be. This championship Rayburn said, “We are not focused going well so far. We are focusing on was a 38-week upset where the team on state right now. We are taking the getting better every day and not being consistently proved fans and pundits season one game at a time and we will satisfied with where we are now! We are wrong. see where that takes us.” very excited for state and are focused on a Week after week they had to continue The team’s success stems from its successful end to the season.” to perform at a high level without letdown or disappointment.

The members of Leicester City exemplify the way sports are supposed to be played. They have given the • 300 WINS sports fans a break from big money • ­17 SEASONS WITH SYCAMORE teams attempting to buy wins and instead given us a “Moneyball” story • 300-58-10 OVERALL RECORD with a winning ending.

• 82% WINNING PERCENTAGE Leicester won the championship • 28 ALL AMERICANS after having .0002 percent chance to • THREE STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS win the title, and in the process, they taught every sports fan what sports Photo courtesy: Jennifer Clarke should really be like.

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Lacrosse leads GMC

L

COACH CLARK

SPORTS

Tennis seeks three-peat column: LAUREN KURTZER

Boys defend state title

creative projects co-director 174029@sycamoreschools.org

ALEXANDER KAREV opinion chief

194160@sycamoreschools.org

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he boys Varsity Gold tennis season has opened up, and the team currently has 15 wins and three losses, undefeated in the Greater Miami Conference (GMC).

The boys upheld their roles as state champions by winning the GMC tournament on Thurs. May 5.

As the season is beginning to wind down the team will play tournaments and matches to determine how the post-season is going to look.

Junior Noah Stern said, “We will be playing against a lot of different teams, however the toughest team will probably be Mason. Getting through them will be difficult, but we can definitely do it.”

The Varsity Gold team has won both of the last two Ohio Tennis Coaches’ Association (OTCA) State Championships and hopes to make it a third year in a row.

Senior Alex Taylor said, “Last year, we were seen as favorites to everyone; we had four seniors on our team. This

year, however, it will be tougher, but I do believe we have a very viable shot at taking the title.”

The team lost recent graduates Deepak Indrakanti, Nakul Narendran, Alex Wittenbaum, and Aditya Venkitarama but are filling in those positions with seniors Rohan D’Souza and Ajay Qi. Taylor said, “Hoisting that state title trophy at the end of the season would be such an amazing feeling, knowing all of the adversity that we had to overcome.”

After surging to a singles championship in the Coaches Classic on April 30, Taylor was named Enquirer Preps Athlete of the Week.

SHS will be playing St. Xavier in the state regional semi-final on Wed. May 11 with the winner moving on to the state regional final. The winner of that match will be going on to the state final four.

State final four matches will be played on Sun. May 29.

PLAYER PROFILE: Fast Facts:

Alex Taylor

-Graduating Class: 2016 -Position: Singles -Time on Varsity: Four seasons

2016 Seasons Statistics: -Record: 14 wins, five losses -Ohio Tennis Zone Ranking: 5th

Accolades and Accomplishments: - 2013: State Singles Qualifier -2014: State Team Championship member -2015: State Team Championship member; State Doubles Champion Photo courtesy: McDaniel’s Photography

Although many sports fans rejoiced when ESPN’s “First Take” debater Skip Bayless announced that he was leaving the show to go to Fox Sports, I was absolutely devastated.

The “First Take” podcast has become part of my daily routine; while I worked on my homework I would turn to ESPN Radio to fill my room with talk of the “accident waiting to happen” Dallas Cowboys or how Bayless thought Lebron James was overrated.

Throughout five years of listening to Bayless and Stephen A. Smith debate, I feel that I have come to know them, and goodbyes are hard to say to someone you have known for that long.

Although sports fans think that Bayless’ points were sometimes over the top by his extreme bias for his favorite teams and players, that is what made the show great; you looked for the impossible.

Nevertheless, when topics got serious, Bayless knew what to do. Since his parents were both alcoholics, he was able to share his views on and experiences of the tribulations of addiction.

What hit me the hardest with Bayless’ departure is that all things must end. He worked at ESPN for 12 years, the same amount of time I have been in school.

With one more year left for me, it is time to move on to bigger and better things: college, just as Bayless is moving on to Fox Sports.

It is always hard to leave anything significant, but that is a big part of the sports industry as well as a big part of my life.

I will probably never meet Bayless but I wish him all the best in his new position. I am extremely glad I stumbled upon his show five years ago.

THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

|19

SPORTS

When pigs fly,people run SAMUEL RUSKIN

Since 1995, people of all ages and origins have competed in the race. The 193157@sycamoreschools.org race always takes place on the first Sunday in May. he Flying Pig Marathon is a This year, runner Amy Robillard classic Cincinnati tradition. won the half marathon. She ran in The beloved series of races honor of Elizabeth Lothrop, daughter attracts people from all over the of beloved SHS math teacher, Randall nation, as well as the world, to Lothrop. participate.

Liz was diagnosed with brain cancer The Flying Pig features three races in addition to the marathon: and passed away Tues. May 3 after her 5K run, 10K run, and half-marathon. courageous battle.

The Robillard and Lothrop families The date of the Flying Pig met each other when they were both appears on over 20,000 calendars this year and the race has expanded at Children’s Hospital to receive treatments. Robillard’s son, Jameson to include several sponsors and food vendors who participate in the Robillard was an infant when he was in need of a bone marrow transplant. marathon experience. fun and games chief

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Five years later, Jameson is well and Robillard has funneled her love of running into her sympathy for Liz. Robillard said, “I thought, ‘Why not run for Liz in a big Cincinnati race [and] just try to do what I can?’”

Robillard has inspired us all to fight the battle against cancer and never let Liz’s name go in vain. She will be dearly missed by the Sycamore family.

Ultimate frisbee flies through season WILLIAM COLEMAN co sports chief 171098@sycamoreschools.org

Already battling through two months of game-play against a handful of local high schools, the ultimate frisbee team is shredding through the playing field.

Although they do not win every game, they compete at a high level against schools like St. Xavier and Moeller High School.

The team plays pick-up games throughout the year but its spring schedule is much more structured.

They have games on Sunday afternoons starting in March until the end of May, and they practice for 90 minutes after school every Monday and Wednesday.

Team captain senior Joseph Fischer said, “We manage our schedule like any other team.

Games are always on Sundays but they are at different times and locations, and we help further

this with a Facebook group to communicate any changes.”

Although there are quite a few juniors and seniors that have stayed within the program for multiple years, the club has found difficulty in recruiting new freshman and sophomores.

However, they have been able to compile a diverse group of students to make up the current spring team.

Junior Jacob Grabowski said, “Each person on the team is different in their own unique way and we try to utilize that to maximize our chances for success.”

This year, the team was able to recruit a scattering of new players, some that can manage as long-term, four-year members of the club.

Grabowski said, “Despite our record in the past, I always like our chances to win because of the variety of players on the team and the chemistry between us.”

As the season wraps up, the team will prepare to recruit new members for the upcoming season.

20|THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Junior Kevin Skiba surveys the field. The Ultimate frisbee team is not a Varsity sport, they play as a club sport against other club teams in the Cincinnati area, including Princeton High School. The team is led by captain and senior Joseph Fischer. Photo courtesy: William Coleman.

For more information on the ultimate frisbee team, Scan HERE!

SPORTS

Softball slides into off-season CAROLINE VERALDO co sports chief 173000@sycamoreschools.org

Returning players look ahead to next year

T

Runners look back on four years of track

he SHS ladies’ softball team looks back on their season as they finish the tournament.

Junior, catcher, and third baseman Hannah Young said, “Even though we did not necessarily have an awesome tournament seed, the season still has been so much fun. The team is so close and we get along very well. We continue to get better each game.”

Aside from just practices and games,

the team does a lot of additional bonding. They go out to eat together at Buffalo Wild Wings or Skyline at least once a week.

Although the team has had a season filled with ups and downs, they are enjoying the time together as a team and hope to finish strong.

Junior and pitcher Elizabeth Izworski said, “The team has gone through a lot and I think we have improved

immensely because of that.”

As far as next season is concerned, the team is looking to recruit.

Izworski said, “We really need girls to come out next year so we are trying to get anyone and everyone who wants to learn and is going to put in the work to come out. Hopefully we will have as tight-knit of a team as we did this year.”

LAUREN SHASSERE staff writer 166004@sycamoreschools.org

After a season filled with meet cancellations, the track team finds themselves in the midst of GMC preliminaries and finals after only participating in five meets.

Senior Eugene Fryer said, “ It’s so sad how everything is coming to an end after four years with this amazing team and program. I have made so many friends and have made many improvements since my start on the team. The other day it hit me that I have only a handful of races left in my running career. This actually made me cry not going to lie.”

This time of year has proven very emotional for many athletes such as Fryer. Many share the desire ti end on a high note to show one

last time where their training has gotten them.

Sophomore Uliana Metalitskaya said, “ I can’t wait to see what our seniors have to show in these last few meets. I am lucky to have the opportunity to form close relationships with many of them. At graduation I can already see myself up in the stands with a tub of ice cream crying every time they read off one of my friends.”

With a season full of victories and personal records behind them, the team simply works to iron out technical things such as starts and hand offs and techniques through the approaching off large meets. At this point the team is in great shape to make a big showing at these meets.

THE LEAF|May 20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|21

All photos courtesy: McDaniel’s Photography

SPOTLIGHT

New season new Coaches

Assistant coach slides into head coaching position Sarah Horne creative projects director 174214@sycamoreschools.org

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n November girls and boys water polo coach Nicholas Hellwig announced to the girls team that he would be resigning as their coach and a new head coach would be chosen for the 2016 season.

After athletic director Phil Poggi went through the applications, former assistant coach Jessen Link was chosen to be the head coach for the 2016 season. He has been the girls assistant coach for two years and has experience as a coach for Moose water polo, a local club team.

Link said, “I felt that moving into the head coach position was a very natural progression.

Much like an athlete, coaches are constantly growing and developing. I felt that I had moved to a point where I was of best service to the players and program as a Head Coach.”

After becoming the Head Coach, he was given the responsibility of looking for someone to fill his old position of assistant coach. Currently he is looking at a few applications, and expects to fill the position by June.

Link played water polo for Princeton while in high school, and began coaching two years ago. He decided to become a coach based off of the strong, positive influence his high school coaches had on him. This made him want to give back to the water polo community and continue to be a part of it.

|THE LEAF|May20, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG | 22

9730 Montgomery Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45242 (513) 791-7833 Sun – Thu: 11AM – 12 AM Fri – Sat: 11AM – 2 AM

C H I L I 1949

Address: 5005 Cornell Rd, Blue Ash, OH 45242 Phone: (513) 489-8488 Hours: Monday-Friday10:30 a.m.–9 p.m.

Saturday 11a.m.-8 p.m.

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