February Leaf 2016

THE

LEAF Sycamore High School News Magazine Volume 3|Issue 7| February 26, 2016

We Proudly Support the Teachers, Administrators and Students at Sycamore Schools We Proudly Support the Teachers, Administrators and Students at Sycamore Schools John Rickert Joe Gilligan Principal Managing Director www.svn-ricore.com John Rickert Joe Gilligan Principal Managing Director www.svn-ricore.com

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IN THIS ISSUE TABLE OF CONTENTS

pg.2

pg.3

pg.7

NEWS 2| Zika virus threatens Brazil 3| Mr. Mader addresses rumors 4| Snow day procedures unleashed

OPINION

6|Staff Editorial 7|Citizens debate necessity of political correctness 8| Students unsatisfied with smoothies

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pg.28

pg.31

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FEATURE

ENTERTAINMENT

10| Green Initiative, recycling flourishes at SHS 16-19| Spring Break 2016 20| Sleep deprivation strikes teens

28-29| Women in comedy 30| 2015 Academy Awards

SPORTS

24-27| Candidates battle for presidency

31| Basketball blunders through season 32| Cheerleading season comes to close 33| Divers splash into success

28| Where’s Anna, Sudoku, Contest

35| London Brinkman, 9

COVER

FUN &GAMES

SPOTLIGHT

THE LEAF

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242

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.

ADVISER Cheralyn Jardine PHOTOGRAPHER McDaniel’s Photography ABOUT US Professional memberships: • Columbia Scholastic Press Association • Journalism Education Association • National Scholastic High School Press Association • Ohio Scholastic Media Association • Ohio Professional Writers (National Federation of Women Writers) • Quill & Scroll International Journalism Honorary

EXECUTIVE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Caroline Gao EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Anna Zhou PRINT EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Brooke Landrum Elizabeth Rickert Elijah Zawatsky WEB EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Caroline Bruns Harsimran Makkad LEAFLET EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Orion Schlosser Zoe Schlosser BROADCAST EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sarah Horne BUSINESS MANAGER David Wertheim

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Ben Ruskin ASSOCIATE EDITORS Jenna Bao Lauren Kurtzer MANAGING EDITOR Sydney Evans BEATS EDITORS Adhiti Chundur Kamaria Walton LEAFLET DESIGNERS/WRITERS Emily Chien Hannah Frey INFOGRAPHICS Max Fritzhand Rujula Kapoor NEWS Jacob Englander

SPORTS Hannah May FEATURE Amy Deng Maddie Marsh ENTERTAINMENT Claire Lefton OPINION Natalie Brinkman Nathan Zhang SPOTLIGHT Lauren Shassere STAFF WRITERS Sarah Abraham Jordan Baker Allyson Bonhaus Taylor Close William Coleman

Meghan DiGiovanna Yasmine Guedira Alexander Karev Stephanie Kidd Eshika Kohli Hannah Loftspring Christine Macke Anne Marsh Hajime Minoguchi Calliope Osborn Joshua Patterson Sam Ruskin Madeline Schramm Max Torem Caroline Veraldo Sydney Weiss Abhilash Yarlagadda

[ news ]

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2016 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Zika virus carries threat

used. As a result, the games proceeded flawlessly.

However, this detection system relies on observing symptoms of illness in people. Those affected by the Zika virus display no symptoms in about 80 he biggest international sporting percent of the cases. event, the Olympics, is happening Brazilian authorities are attempting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in early to fumigate Rio to kill as many fall of this year. Over 600,000 fans will mosquitoes as possible, but the species cheer on the 16,000 athletes who will carrying the virus is extremely hardy be competing in the games this year. and can even reproduce in the water in In Brazil with them is the Zika virus, a bottle cap. which has become a recently spreading Multiple people believe that the epidemic in South America. The threat games should be canceled and that it is of the virus may have a big impact on irresponsible to try “to run an Olympics whether the athletes will participate. and battle an epidemic at the same In the 2012 London Olympics, a time,” as stated by CNN. sophisticated system to detect and But so far, Rio stands defiant against prevent large-scale outbreaks was those opposed and the mosquitoes. The

ABHILASH YARLAGADDA staff writer MAX FRITZHAND infographics chief

ESHIKA KOHLI staff writer

Streetcars cruising

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The new design of transportation in the Cincinnati Downtown area is here to enhance the efficiency of travel across the Cincinnati area. Business investors who have invested in the streetcar believe they will improve numbers in the of jobs, development and people.

The transportation includes 18 stops on a 3.6 mile route. The streetcar will work 18 hours a day and 365 days a year.

The constructors of the streetcar chose this route with 18 stops to allow the 70,000 people in the area to have the opportunity of easy access to work and to increase the city’s tax revenue.

Although the official launch date is Sept. 15, CAF USA’s manufacturing problems could cause a delay in the start date and force consultants to remain on the payroll longer.

The $147.81 million investment is going to be funded through federal and local sources. The

games’ spokesman told Conde Nast Traveler last week that cancellation “has never been mentioned. No way.”

Some experts in public health and infectious disease are supporting Brazil’s decision. Dr. Mary Wilson of the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, currently working with the University of California, San Francisco, said the fact that the games are held in one city, and during the colder months, means officials should be able to reduce the risk of Zika to an acceptable level.

Dr. Daniel Lucey of Georgetown’s O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law said “the world has an opportunity to respond better, stronger, faster to this epidemic” than officials did with Ebola.

tentative price for a two-hour pass will cost $1.75.

Project leader John Deatrick said, “Everyone should be proud of the work the [construction] contractor has done.”

The streetcar is operated along with normal traffic and is electrical which runs on rails in the streets.

Deatrick said, “They shouldn’t affect traffic dramatically. They carry more passengers than a bus, and they accelerate faster.”

Materials set to construct the stations are easy to maintain and repair because of their modular construction. Each station will have a route map with information about the Streetcar system and an electronic device displaying the arrival time for the next car as well as important messages for the riders.

The City of Cincinnati has chosen CAF US to provided five streetcar vehicles to the Cincinnati Streetcar. Each Streetcar will hold approximately 150 people.

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG N

No room for rumors JORDAN BAKER staff writer

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llegations against principal Mr. Doug Mader have emerged around the school in connection with an open records request published by the Cincinnati Enquirer. This was taken in tangent with a letter to the editor from 2013 stating that Mader was accused of changing students’ grades, being financially irresponsible, and failing to follow procedure with regard to AP testing.

Mader said, “I wear my heart on my sleeve.

I was hurt. I pour my heart and soul into Sycamore. However, when you take a step back, not everyone jumped all over these pieces.

“Students who do not like the rules and expectations we have set forth were the ones who jumped on these articles.

We talked to journalism classes, I had some side conversations, I had students and adults who stopped by my office and said that it was silly that the ‘letter to the editor’ was going around.”

Initially, these allegations erupted when Mader was the principal at Kings High School in 2013. The charges

ranged from changing students’ grades, to spending the school’s money to fund cook outs, to not following AP testing procedures when a student requested to take a test at a different venue.

An investigation was carried out by the state once the open records request was finalized. Mader has since been cleared of all charges.

Mader said, “I have been cleared of all allegations and all charges were unfounded.

Whenever you are a leader and you make significant changes people are going to throw rocks at you.”

A public records request was then done to see if these allegations were valid in Aug. 2014. The Cincinnati Enquirer chose not to follow up in print with the outcome of the open records request.

Furthermore, a “letter to the editor” is an open stream of conscious thought writing wherein the writer gets to voice his or her opinion however they please. Often times they lack facts and research.

Mader said, “In school specifically, any communication, any file is open to public record and people do what is called a public records request. Within

“I wear my heart on my sleeve. I was hurt. I pour my heart and soul into Sycamore.”

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those requests no files can contain students’ names. Anyone has access to public records. The Cincinnati Enquirer does public records requests all the time on public schools.”

The “letter to the editor” first began circling around on Twitter where students shared and commented with varying degrees of reaction. Some students disregarded the letter while others demanded an explanation from the administration.

Mr. Mader was hurt that all this was being brought up again. He met with all the journalism classes to talk to them about the importance of fact checking sources before articles were put into print or being put up onto the website.

Mader said, “It [fact checking] is absolutely imperative in today’s technological world of instant access to information and social media. You can post anything you want to and if you do not fact check it, it can ruin you, it can ruin me, it can ruin anyone in the school, and anyone outside. It is important to look at what we are reading and say: ‘what am I reading?’, ‘where did it come from?’, and ‘is there a bias?’

Also, Mader emphasized his intent to be approachable in regard to fact checking rumors. Students may stop him in the hall or set up an appointment with Mrs. Carol Wolkoff, his administrative assistant.

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG N

Sycamore Snow Patrol makes decisions ELIZABETH RICKERT co editor-in-chief

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ne of the best part of a school children’s existence are snow days. The call declaring that school has been canceled due to poor weather leaves all students feeling euphoric. But, how does this call get made? What are the factors involved.

The process begins the night before.

The district office communicates the night before about when to start evaluating the roads. This decision is affected by the weather forecast. The forecast is checked at least one day in advance for any possible chance of snow.

The group of evaluators; Mr. Frank Forsthoefel, Mr. Chad Lewis, Mr. Michael Miller, and Mr. David Foster; typically meet at the district office at three in the morning.

Superintendent Foresthoefel said, “We work as hard as we can to travel across as many roads as possible throughout the entire district. These days are long days for us. This is especially true when you drive two days in a row. We work hard to communicate with one another the entire time,” This can last from three to five hours depending on the snow fall. If at all possible, the district likes to make only one call. Changing from a delay to a snow day can be difficult for many parents. This being said, the district does not want to make the call too early.

Foresthoefel said, “It’s a hard balance of not making a call too early and not making too many calls. We want it to

be as easy and convenient for parents as possible but there’s always the risk of the snow not happening. This is why we rarely call off the night before,” The infamous cold days are also a consideration. This decision is affected by how easy it is for the buses to turn on. The buses are Diesel engines meaning they do not work great in the cold.

Cold days are not decided by one specific temperature. It is decided by the wind chill and how ‘bitterly’ cold it is.

“We really begin to take a look at cold temperatures due to the subzero temperatures. Cold is much more difficult to judge because if it’s negative nine one day and negative ten the next it’s hard to distinguish between the two.

You have to take into consideration all the kids at bus stops and how they can handle the cold.”

Sycamore schools has an intense set up to ensure that sidewalks and parking lots are cleared and salted. Maintenance stays late and comes to work early salting the entire district. This includes the weekends due to trips and sport practices.

Director of business operations, Lewis said, “The district salts and plows all of the lots. That includes the transportation lot, district office lot, there are more than just the school buildings to clear. They spend several hours before school and on the weekends to ensure the safety of our students...

“If we think there’s any indication beyond safety we won’t send them we just won’t,”

Simple must do: Avoid flu SAM RUSKIN staff writer

There are three must-dos during the fall to early winter season. You must buy a coat. You must prepare for upcoming holidays. And you must get a flu shot. But what if one of those todos isn't such a smart idea.

Getting the flu shot can has many benefits… is what the media tells you.

There are some benefits to the shot, but no one ever hears about the downsides to it. Not only can it prevent the flu, but it can also aid it in its conquest for your body.

One of the first reasons that the flu shot is not worth getting is that the myth that Mercury has been taken out of the flu shots is… well a myth.

Certain vaccines contain as much as 25mg of mercury and that goes straight into your blood with the vaccine.

If that didn't convince you, then this definitely will. Research on pregnant women who have taken the flu shot shows that there is a 4,250% increase in fetal death. The chances rise 116 fold. Stillbirths and miscarriages are no substitute for the chance of getting the flu.

Now although there are many reasons not to get the flu shot, there are a few good reasons why you should. The flu shot does help to prevent the flu with the right vaccine and the right amount.

Many people react differently to the different vaccines, so it's impossible to rule out all of the vaccines as bad.

No one can force you to vaccinate yourself. No one can predict whether or not it will work or if you will come out with more liabilities than assets. But you can be aware of what you are doing to your body when you get the flu shot.

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Staff Editorial

Leafing through the masses: What do you think about the 2016 election?

“I think it is madness,” Max Weiss, 12

“It definitely catches your attention more.

This is one of the first elections I’ve paid attention to. It’s something big for our country now,” Emily Kremchek, 9

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Photo courtesy of MCT Photo

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campaign strategy both Republicans and Democrats have been using is mobilizing young voters to do their civic duty and vote.

It may be the only thing both sides agree on.

It is something we agree about here at The Leaf as well. No matter what party, no matter what candidate, getting out to vote in both the primary and presidential election is critical.

Starting last year, millennials made up at least one third of the voting population, but only one half of those eligible cast a vote.

Young people are far more likely to vote if living in swing states like Ohio, because their vote is more likely to make a difference.

“The youth vote can make – and has made –the difference in close elections. Their sheer size, combined with growing rates of voter turnout, makes them a politically powerful voting bloc,” said voting organization, Rock the Vote.

One important thing to remember is if you will be 18 by November 4th, 2016, you are eligible to vote in the primary elections as well as the presidential election.

If you need to register, talk to your government teacher, head to the Library or stop by the DMV for more information. The registration is very simple and it is not necessary for you to declare a party when you register.

In addition to voting, educating yourself on the stances, character, and ideologies of the candidates is of the utmost importance. There is no shortage of information available on the internet and in publications like this one.

Given the simplicity and influence of the action, there is no reason, except your age, that you should not go out and vote in this election.

Your vote counts, your vote makes a difference. Vote.

“

“I really wish all candidates would focus more on issues that would matter for all Americans,” Mr. Chad Husting, Chemistry teacher

“I think that there is such a diverse set of politicians which makes it more interesting,” Lexi Grannen, 10

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[ opinion ]

column:

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26 | SHSLEAF.ORG

JOSHUA PATTERSON staff writer

Is the extreme good for America?

Political correctness Trumps

HANNAH MAY sports chief

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n an era run by the social media empire, it is easier than ever to assert your political beliefs on a public forum. While this prompts thoughtful discussion about controversial topics, it also lends way to potential insensitive banter amongst internet users.

So, the question arises, should political correctness be a thing?

Political correctness (PC) can be defined as practicing language and behavior in such a way as to avoid offending political sensibilities or certain groups of people.

Recently, Republican political candidate Donald Trump seems to have completely disregarded the commonly accepted practice of political correctness in the presidential debates; Trump has blatantly accused Mexican immigrants of being racists, offered foreign policy ideas that include banning all Muslim immigrants and made sexist comments towards women.

Surprisingly enough, the American public is responding well to his blunt brigade. He won the primary in New Hampshire and has been first in the polls for consecutive weeks.

Evidently, the general population would rather hear offensive and inappropriate comments than the patriotic speeches that politicians seem to have memorized; as shown by

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Senator Marco Rubio’s less than stellar performance in the recent republican debate, when he nervously repeated the same two minute rhetoric about American ideals four times.

So, the American people want truth.

So do I. However, I would rather refrain from offending individuals in the process of telling the truth, which is why political correctness is absolutely necessary.

Politicians act with the responsibility of being expected to tell the truth. If they do not deliver on their promises, it is on them for misleading the public.

Politicians should not have to be crude and insulting in order for people to trust their honesty.

It is also the duty of a citizen to be informed on the candidates and their particular policies. It is the task of a voter to discern whether or not they can trust a potential government administrator based upon their past performances and credentials.

There is no excuse for the degrading comments that have become a thing of praise in the political realm. There is a distinct difference between being honest and being offensive.

America is a nation of immigrants, in which we bring in people of multiple cultures and ethnicities. We should be praising our diversity and appreciating our differences rather than tearing them down for the sake of an election.

As we advance further into election season, some of the candidates are trending toward the top of the pack.

Two candidates are Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders, both of whom won in the New Hampshire Primary.

Another thing both candidates have in common is their extreme viewpoints both left and right. Sanders has a stated radical plan that aligns left of center, along with naming himself a socialist.

Trump has aligned far right of center, stating radical plans for immigration reform, planning to build a wall along our southern border with Mexico.

Both are candidates so far off center that they have galvanized their campaign and made them formidable opponents in their respective parties with potential to advance. But is that a good thing?

This is a very important time for America with lots of change hanging in the balance. There is a risk that any radical policy, left or right, could drastically change our country for the worst.

Can the U.S. sustain a radical change in policy?

Fundamental changes are not the ones that need to be made. The things that need to be fixed are small fixes to the current system, to improve systems that are already in place, and to fix the way we solve problems in this country.

Trump and Sanders are polarizing and are figureheads for the bigger problem in American politics. The problem is, we, as a country, are so concerned with playing the blame game. Most of the campaign has been blaming the other party for what is wrong instead of trying to fix the country.

This election could be the one that shapes our generation. We need to make sure that whoever is in office, will not change America fundamentally, but right the ship that has been a super power since its foundation.

THE LEAF| Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

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Smoothie bar: not so smooth[ie]

Anticipated drinks disappoint students ALEX KAREV

staff writer

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BEN RUSKIN social media chief

‘Jew wish you were president’*

h yes. It is finally here. The one thing students have been waiting for since the beginning of the school year: the smoothie bar. And it has not lived up to expectations.

The smoothie bar was promised as another addition to the newly renovated Hub. Originally, it was supposed to be a coffee bar, but it did not pass food and drink regulations set by the state of Ohio, so the school board changed it to a smoothie bar instead.

The smoothie bar is situated in the back corner of the Hub, almost hidden from view.

Freshman Jordan Pescovitz said,

“I went down to the smoothie bar just to try it out, and I was severely disappointed with the smoothies they were serving. The sizes were far too small.”

The smoothie bar offers two different sizes, with a new flavor every day.

Additionally, they offer an iced coffee for those looking to get a jump start to their morning.

The most expensive smoothie costs $5 as it is made fresh. An iced coffee costs $3, and a juice freeze costs $2. A juice freeze is a smoothie that was frozen overnight and not fresh.

Freshman Kevin Jaffe said, “I think the smoothies are overpriced. I would rather go to a vending machine and get a drink there. It would be cheaper.”

With Bernie Sanders’ rise in the polls and the possibility of Michael Bloomberg’s entrance into the election via third party, a new theme arises among presidential candidates. Judaism. In the history of the United States of America, there has never been a Jewish president, but that may all change.

Being Jewish, I find it exciting that the future leader of this country might share my religious beliefs. I have taken it upon myself to list some of the possible changes we may see if our future president is Jewish.

Number one: music that plays in malls across America. During the holiday season (all of winter) malls all over the country are notorious for playing Christmas music. If Sanders or Bloomberg enter office, will the Christmas music make a transition to Hanukkah music? These are the big questions we should be asking the candidates.

Number two: the white house kitchen. Because the president has never been Jewish, the White

It is absolutely absurd that you would have to pay $3 extra just to get a fresh smoothie. Moreover, the hours of operation that the smoothie bar is open is somewhat awkward.

It is open only during the morning and lunch, and with everyone wanting to enjoy their lunch period and not wanting to wait in line for a smoothie, it makes it difficult to stop by.

Pescovitz said, “Stopping by was very difficult for me because I had to sacrifice some of my lunch time for the smoothie bar.”

Yes, Principal Doug Mader did keep his promise about the smoothie bar, but it is very disappointing. It will need improvements to meet the expectations of the students.

House has never had to provide kosher food on a regular basis. If the president is kosher, will the kitchen be completely changed to accommodate the eating habits of the new Commander in Chief ?

Once again, these are the burning questions of the American public.

Lastly, number three: will the massive Christmas tree in Times Square be replaced by a menorah for Hanukkah? The Christmas tree is an icon for the holiday season, and the decorated mass of leaves and branches has become a tradition for Times Square in New York City. If elected, will Sanders or Bloomberg construct a massive Hanukkah themed menorah?

These are just some of the possible changes that Americans should be thinking about, among other things. Blocking immigrants out of the country using a wall should not be a debate. Everyone should have access into this great country of America. Do not vote for Trump. *Disclaimer: sarcasm

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Is the extreme good for America?

O THE LEAF| Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

JOSH PATTERSON staff writer

Obama’s plan:

Efforts in gun control saves lives

EMILY CHIEN staff writer

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mprovements in technology, growing populations, and highlighted social issues define a new generation of intelligent, liberal minds. And yet, the slow-moving American government cannot keep up with these fast-paced individuals in a race towards action.

The issue of gun control has been discussed and debated to the point of no return. And, considering 30,000 Americans must die every year until we resolve it, this is the biggest issue our generation has faced so far.

President Barack Obama said, “The United States of America is not the only country on earth with violent or dangerous people; we are not inherently more prone to violence.

“But, we are the only advanced country on earth that sees this kind of mass violence erupt with this kind of frequency.”

The seemingly never-ending debate about citizens’ 2nd Amendment rights must come to an end, and soon.

Obama said, “We all believe in the 1st Amendment, the guarantee of free speech. But we accept that we can not yell ‘fire’ in a theater.

“We understand that there are some constraints to our freedoms in order to protect innocent people. We cherish our right to privacy, but we accept that we have to go through metal detectors before being allowed to board a plane.”

It would not be outrageous to have to perform a background check before purchasing a gun. In fact, this is technically already a part of United States law, but a multitude of gun shops 9 believe they are above the law.

As a result, one in every 30 people who purchase guns online have criminal records. They use this loophole in our system to exploit our citizens’ basic rights at the expense of the people.

Purchasing a gun is a privilege for the buyer as well as a risk for everyday American citizens.

Sometimes, we forget how much damage a gun can really do. If it ends up in the wrong hands, innocent lives are lost. And, the ridiculous thing is, it can be easily prevented.

What harm can reducing the amount of illegal weapons in circulation do?

This does not affect law-abiding gunowners’ right to hunt or protect their families at all. It simply reduces the likelihood that criminals and terrorists are able to obtain weapons.

Obama said, “The evidence tells us that in states requiring background checks, law-abiding Americans do not find it any harder to purchase guns whatsoever. Their rights have not been infringed.”

Gun-owners across America are mistaken in thinking that this is the beginning of a mass-confiscation of all guns in America. There is no motive other than saving lives. The unchanging 2nd amendment makes that clear.

Mandatory, efficient and effective background checks will help. Education in gun safety will help. Raised awareness and better treatment for mental illness will help.

Many Americans believe that no government action can help reduce gun violence, or even that it is a crime to try.

In reality, the real crime is in not trying.

As we advance further into election season, some of the candidates are trending towards the top of the pack.

Two of these are Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders, both of whom got wins in the New Hampshire Primary.

Another thing both candidates have in common is their extreme viewpoints both left and right. Sanders has stated a radical plan that aligns left of center, along with naming himself a socialist. This includes numerous medicare and health care programs, and the idea of making college funded by the government.

Trump has aligned far right of center, stating radical plans for immigration reform, planning to build a wall along our southern border with Mexico. He also believes in tax cuts towards the middle class.

Both are candidates so far off center that they have galvanized their campaign and made them formidable opponents in their respective parties with potential to advance . But is that a good thing?

This is a very important time for America with lots of change hanging in the balance. Debt has threatened to drown the U.S. and terrorism is at an all time high. There is a risk that any radical policy, left or right, could drastically change our country for the worst.

Can the U.S. sustain a radical change in policy which would shape our country, in a time that America is vulnerable?

These are not fundamental changes that need to be made. The things that need to be fixed in America are small fixes to the current system, to improve systems that are already in place, and to fix the way we solve problems in this country, instead of blaming the other party.

This election could be the one that shapes our generation. We need to make sure that whoever is in office, will not change America fundamentally, but right the ship that has been a super power since its foundation.

[ feature ]

CAROLINE GAO executive editor-in-chief

RECYCLING FL URISHES

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26| SHSLEAF.ORG

The Green Initiative has turned into a flourishing program within the Sycamore community. Mr. Chad Lewis, director of business operations, teamed up with the Green Team to evolve the district into an environmentally conscious saving machine.

After receiving a grant of $34,201, lunchroom trash stations were able to be separated into compost, recycling, landfill, and leftover fluids.

SHS has also transitioned from styrofoam to reusable plastic trays.

The initiative took the high school from 125 trash bags to 25, diverting 100 bags from the local landfill weekly.

Lewis said, “The composting has really taken off. I would love to see students get excited about it and take interest in not only making sure it continues at the high school, but also be able to go to other schools and demonstrate how to make it successful to younger students. Our older students do a great job of leading this great district and being role models.”

Initial training on sorting stations has been the biggest challenge. Parent and staff volunteers take

time each year to train those new to the district, including incoming kindergartners. Teachers also include Green Team initiatives in their lesson plans, helping students understand the “why” early on.

Lewis said, “We always believe that the best initiatives are carried out and led by students.

Students are needed daily to make sure the compost does not get contaminated. The organics hauler will dump the entire load if there is too much contamination. It is critical for the students and staff to monitor the compost to make sure it stays as clean as possible.”

The Green Team has implemented other costsaving measures as well. Lewis points to “the little things” everyone can do to reduce costs, including educating staff, students, and administration about turning off computers and lights at the end of the day, and printing less, which has made a huge difference.

Students can get involved by contacting Mr. Ashwin Corattiyil, Dean of Students. Lewis said he continues to search for new ways to improve the system and be more environmentally conscious.

Americans throw away 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour.

Food scraps make up almost 12% of municipal solid waste generated in the U.S.

Recycling a stack of newspaper just Almost half of the food in the U.S. goes to waste - approximately 3,000 3 feet high saves one tree.

10 Source: http://recycleacrossamerica.org/

pounds per second.

RECYCLING FACTS i n A m e ri c a

Currently less than 35% of households Recycling 1 ton of cardboard and less than 10% of businesses in the saves 46 gallons of oil.

U.S. recycle.

If the US recycling levels can reach 75%, it will be the environmental benefit of removing 50 million cars from the road each year.

F THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Teens are taking the road

ALLYSON BONHAUS staff writer

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t 15 ½ years of age students can take their written test. If they pass, getting over a 75% they earn their temporary permit.

Then, teens must have 50 hours of driving, with ten at night, and driving school. The driving school includes 24 hours in the classroom. Plus eight hours in the car with a driving instructor. All to get that glossy ticket to freedom.

Freshman Joy Duke, “I plan to get my temporary license the day of. That way, I can drive myself to after school activities.”

Teens anxiously await their sixteenth birthday to get their license. When can drive alone, without their parent in the passenger seat. Finally, at 17 years of age, students can fill their car with as many people as they have seatbelts.

Now in the world of responsibility, teens must know the facts. Automobile accidents are the leading cause of death in people 15 to 20 years old.

Nationwide, 32.8% of high school students have either emailed or texted

while driving.

Duke said, “It is ridiculous for teens to text and drive.”

It is, teens need to know that when they get behind that wheel that they can properly pay attention to the road.

A split second can change everything.

One second you may be looking down at your phone, the next you are speeding into another car. Is that text or looking at a post on social media really worth the risk?

Talking on a cell phone can multiply the risk of having an accident by as much as four times. Being on a call while driving can slow your reflexes to that of a 70 year old. Can you stop yourself from crashing with those reflexes?

About 56% of teens admit to talking on a cell phone while driving. There are 13% of teen that admit to texting.

Drivers that are under the age of 20 make up the largest percentage of distracted drivers.

Duke said, “Driving is a large responsibility for teens. They must be mature and make good decisions.”

One fourth of fatal teen driving

accidents involve underage drinking and driving. It is illegal for all drivers under the age of 21 to have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of over .08.

Out of seniors in high school, 13.5% admitted to drinking before driving.

From the 33% of people 15-20 years old that were killed in car crashes, 28% had a BAC level of .08 or higher.

It is imperative that teens know the hazards of driving. This is no longer about just yourself. Take the person in the passenger seat, or back seat as a reason to be responsible. Do you want their life on your hands?

There are recorded cases of teen drivers that have gotten into crashes that killed their friend sitting right next to them. Know what risks you are willing to take with your safety and the safety of those around you.

There are many risks to teen driving and it is all of their jobs’ to know the rules and regulations. All drivers need to ask themselves this question, is that text worth the risk of getting into a crash?

JUMPER CABLES

NON-PERISHABLE FOOD ICE SCRAPER CELLPHONE CHARGER 11

BLANKET OR SWEATSHIRT

FLASHLIGHT

F THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Companion killers SPCA reports animal abuse on the rise MADELINE SCHRAMM staff writer

W

ould you cut the ears and a leg off your dog without anesthesia? How about kicking your cat into a fire?

Unfortunately, these are only some examples of what humans have done to common household pets.

According to PAWS, animal cruelty is defined as when a person hurts an animal, or does not care for it responsibly.

Although it is illegal in many states, individuals continue to mistreat their pets, most commonly cats and dogs.

But until we find a way to end the abuse of pets, we need to do more to help animals that have been victimized by scathing owners.

No animal deserves to be tortured, starved, beaten, or forced to fight for any reason.

To counter this epidemic, we need to do more to educate the public about this issue, volunteer at and donate to shelters, and adopt rescue cats and dogs instead of pet store animals.

According to The Humane Society, around one million pets are abused or murdered in episodes of domestic violence.

Domestic abuse and animal cruelty are often linked, because abusive people often torture pets to get people to do what they want rather than threats.

Also, animal abuse laws need to be made stronger and harsher, both on federal and state levels.

If anti-cruelty laws are stricter, then it will be less likely for people to mistreat their pets if they know they will be severely punished.

However, not everyone agrees with tougher animal rights laws.

A comment left on Debate.org claimed that we needed laid-back rules

12

for animal rights because “a person is a much more important member of the world than an animal.”

The statement also read, “Animals are just there for us to do whatever we want to do with them”.

Pets are living animals, and all of life are capable of having emotions, thinking, and feeling pain as well as humans, and we should treat them as well as we treat ourselves.

Would you abuse someone close to your heart?

Animal Abuse Fast Facts

• Nearly 7.6 million pets enter animal shelters nationwide every year.

About 3.9 million are dogs, and 3.4 million are cats.

• Approximately 1 million animals per year are abused because of domestic violence in their household.

• On average, 1,920 animal abuse or cruelty cases are reported in the media every year.

Sources: www.statisticbrain.com, www.brandongaille.com, www.aspca.org

This dog, named Roadrunner, is a victim of abuse. He has had surgeries to remove his ruined eyes and repair his broken pelvis. Many dogs have had similarly abusive cases, as have cats. Photo courtesy of MCT Photo.

Leafing through the masses: What do you think should be done to end the abuse of domestic animals?

“

“One would be to educate people how to properly care for animals.”

Mr. Kevin Wittman, Government teacher “The best way to protect animals is to prosecute the animal abusers.”

Grace Whaley, 12

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

The worst cases in Ohio May 22, 2015: A cat is found burned and abused on Main Street in Middletown the same week as a dog is attacked and kicked by a group of children. Source: www.wlwt.com Jan. 21, 2015: Critters Pet Shop is charged animal cruelty for putting small animals-mostly mice, guinea pigs, and rats-in cages where they had to live in their droppings and with other dead animals. More than 1,000 pets are taken into custody. Source: www.the-daily-record.com

F

Jan. 22, 2015: A man in Lorain faces trial for slitting the throat of an eight-year-old German Shepard/Golden retriever mix, and then threatening to do the same to a relative.

Source: www.fox8.com

Aug. 1, 2014: A resident of Springfield is put on trial for starving his two-year -old pit bull and then letting it freeze to death. Source: www.springfieldnewssun.com

Sept. 27, 2013: A man is arrested in Middletown, Butler-Warren County for leaving a starving German Shepard chained to a tree for four years. Source: www.nydailynews.com

May 26, 2010: A dairy farm worker is arrested for posting an video of him beating cows and calves with a crowbar, stomping on a calf’s head, and jabbing a cow with a pitch fork. Source: www. dispatch.com

Aug. 23, 2007: A woman in Hamilton County is found guilty of abusing her dog, leading to the pit bull’s death in June by strangulation.

Source: www.cincinnati.com

Designed by: Madeline Schramm

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F THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Spring Break 2

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Top Destinations: Austin, Texas Fort Lauderdale, Florida Los Angeles, California Miami, Florida West Palm Beach, Florida Phoenix, Arizona Los Cabos, Mexico San Juan, Puerto Rico Tampa, Florida Fort Myers, Florida

1.5

million students go on spring break every year and collectively spend over one billion dollars.

When teens go abroad for spring break, it is easy to forget that foreign laws are extremely serious.

2,600

Americans are arrested on spring break overseas each year.

14 Information and design by Zoe Schlosser

http://us.reachout.com/facts/factsheet/spring-break

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Top 25 roadtrip songs: My Girl - Otis Redding Strings - Young the Giant Australia -The Shins Talking Dreams - Echosmith Show Me Love - Sam Feldt Take it Or Leave it - Cage the Elephant Dog Days Are Over - Florence in the Machine Easy Way - For the Foxes Electric Feel - MGMT End of Time - Beyonce Everlasting Light -Black Keys The First Single - The Format Always Like This - Bombay Bicycle Club Fixin’ - Walk the Moon That’s What You Get - Paramore Good Vibrations - The Beach Boys The Great Divide - The Mowgli’s I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) - The Proclaimers Someday - The Strokes Rock With You - Michael Jackson Santeria - Sublime Search Party - Sam Bruno Settle Down - The 1975 Step - Vampire Weekend Life Is A Highway - Tom Cochrane

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To stay or

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG F

Taking a Staycation

80% of people spend their staycation at the pool or spa

Unique towns to visit in Ohio Waterville

Cambridge Yellow Springs

Popular Activities

The staycation trend has skyrocketed over the past 2 years. There has been a 10% increase in the number of Google searches of the word.

1.Bowling

2.Watching movies

3.Visit an art gallery

Staycation Savings 4,ooo 3,ooo 2,ooo 1,ooo 0

Traveling Staycation

Type of Vacation

1.

2.

3.

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Average Cost for a family

RUJULA KAPOOR infographic chief

Things to do in Cincinnati Queen City Underground Tour Cost: $20 American Sign Museum Cost : $15 Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame Cost : $8 9

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

not to stay

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THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Traveling for spring break

Safety Tips for

Travel

1. Use sunscreen while self tanning 2.Carry Cash and Phone numbers 3.Don’t reveal too much about your location on social media

Spring break Spending

Millions of Americans plan to 1. travel over spring break. Miami is recognized as the most searched 2. spring break THE LEAF|Feb. 23, 2015|SHSLEAF.ORG des3. tinations.

The average cost for a flight to South Florida is $364

Top Travel Locations Las Vegas Fort Meyers Palm Beach

72% of Americans prefer to vacation close to home

Travel costs rise on average 9% during spring break

International Travel Tips

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To kill or not to kill: Pros, cons of capital punishment JENNA BAO associate editor

NATALIE BRINKMAN opinion chief

CON(VICT)S:

W

hile death was once the punishment of choice all over the world, people have been making cases against capital punishment since the 1700s for a multitude of reasons ranging from personal values to economics.

There is still a debate as to whether the death penalty is cruel and unusual punishment.

Particularly since states have been experimenting with new lethal injection “formulas” after sodium thiopental, the anesthetic in the injections, was made unavailable, there have been a number of executions gone wrong (like in the case of Joseph Wood, whose execution took two hours).

Furthermore, 140 out of 196 (or 195) countries have abolished the punishment, including all the countries in the European Union.

One prominent argument against the death penalty is the risk of killing someone who was actually innocent.

After all, if someone serving prison for life turned out to be innocent, they could be released. There is no such option if they have already been killed.

Therefore, this is argued to be a violation of the due process of law, since the criminals would not be able to benefit from new evidence or laws if they were already dead.

There have been 156 death row exonerations (instances in which death row inmates had their convictions overturned) since 1953. This means that for every ten executions there is one exoneration.

These wrongful convictions are most often due to inaccurate eyewitness testimonies, faulty forensic science, or incompetent lawyers.

In fact, the quality of legal aid that a suspect has can have a great impact on whether they receive the death

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sentence. The system ends up being discriminatory against the poor.

In fact, as of 2009 there were double the number of inmates sentenced to death with no high school education at all than those who had any college.

A study by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts found that those whose representation costs were in the lower third were more than two times as likely to receive the death penalty as those in the upper two-thirds who can afford better lawyers and more time.

Also, perhaps as opposed to popular belief, it is actually often far more expensive to give someone the death sentence than it is to give them life in prison without parole.

Due to constitutional safeguards placed to ensure someone given the death sentence is guilty, death sentence trials are far more expensive that others.

In 2014, the “Dayton Daily News” found that Ohio spent over $16.8 million per year on the death penalty system, spending three times as much on the average death row inmate as one sentenced to life in prison.

This is due to the fact that death row inmates are held in single cells with enhanced security. Plus, these inmates have been held for up to 36 years before execution.

Studies have also shown that it is not an effective deterrent for crime. A 2008 study from the University of Colorado found that 88 percent of America’s leading criminologists did not think the death penalty prevents crime.

Other arguments include: it is not the government’s place to kill anyone regardless of what they have done, we no longer live in an archaic eye-for-an-eye society, and that people who commit heinous crimes should suffer in prison for their crimes rather than receiving an easy death.

Sycamore’s stance on the death penalty Do you support the use of the death penalty?

Chemical concoction

What is the lethal injection comprised of?

pancuronium bromide paralytic agent

potassium chloride causes death

pentobarbital anesthetic

If against, what is your main reason for that?

9

Famous last meals Teresa Laws

fried chicken, peas, apple pie, Dr. Pepper

Note: This piece is not intended to persuade readers to be for or against capital punishment. Rather, its aim is to provide facts to allow individuals to make educated decisions for themselves.

Capital punishment in the world 140 out of 196 countries in the world have abolished the death penalty 88 percent of the world’s known executions are carried out in five countries: USA, China, the, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Iran China keeps exact numbers state secrets but is estimated to have the most executions per year; capital crimes include economic ones like embezzlement

Death penalty across the nation

Allowed Abolished Governor-imposed moratorium (temporary prohibition)

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Victor Feguer single olive

F

Velma Barfield

Bag of cheese of cheese doodles, Coca Cola

PRO(TECT)S: The death penalty has been around since the beginning of the United States, the 8th Amendment being its restricting bounds to constitutionality.

The US Supreme Court deems the death penalty as completely constitutional according the current definitions of “cruel and unusual” punishment.

The main objective of the death penalty’s existence is to serve as a deterrent.

Another main reason the death penalty is still in continuation and has support is to help grieving and suffering family members and friends who lost loved ones due to a capital crime.

This is not an eye for an eye mentality, but instead gives immediate family and friends closure, knowing that a particular criminal will not have the chance to ever leave jail.

Furthermore, jails in the modern world are very crowded. The US containing the largest population of criminals in cells, the death penalty helps to reduce those numbers. Although there are not that many criminals put to death in a year.

Instead they are put on death row for an average of twenty five years.

However, without the sentence existing, serious criminals will only be able to be sentenced to life without parole.

Therefore there would be no substitute to having overpopulated jails in America’s justice system today.

Economics is another factor

when deciding whether capital punishment should exist. The statement that criminals on death row cost more than those who are not is only true to a certain extent.

Immediately, putting capital punishment into action can cost more tax dollars than life without parole; however the overall cost of life without parole will succeed that of the death penalty.

The JFA ( Justice for All) discovered that people sentenced with life without parole will end up costing taxpayers an estimated $1.2-3.6 million more than those on death row.

There are 41 federal capital offenses, but only the most heinous of those crimes are sentenced with execution. From 1976-2016, only 1,427 prisoners have been put to death (which does not include current death row inmates).

A common fear with capital punishment is that innocent people could suffer for a crime they did not commit, however today’s technology and DNA testing is enough to conclude someone’s guilt or innocence.

The lethal injection is the method used most for execution, and similar to the firing squad, some states require multiple executioners to put the drugs into the IV bag to avoid knowing who put the actual dose in.

In all instances the executioners are separate from the witnesses and the criminal, often times wearing a hood on top of that to conceal their identities. All of those involved in the process are state-trained.

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Nigh

F THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG

Sle e p shorta ge sorrows students Tips for tbly new etter s: sleep Lack of sleep leads to health issues SYDNEY WEISS staff writer

T

he National Sleep Foundation determined that teenagers ages 14 to 17 should be receiving precisely eight to ten hours of sleep.

However, to students at SHS, that can often times seem unrealistic.

According to a survey conducted by the staff of The Leaf, 60 percent of students believe they do not get enough sleep.

Sophomore Rae Nourie said, “I go to bed at midnight on a good night and I wake up at six or five thirty.”

Sleep is vital to our daily lives. It supports growth and development, improves emotional well being, and allows the immune system to function, among numerous other benefits. What happens when the daily life functions supported by sleep are taken away?

Kelly Kay from Forbes said that when fatigue takes over, “you might as well be drunk.”

As crazy as it may seem, there is logic behind the claim. When hours of sleep are abated, reactions and overall performance is decreased to a similar-and sometimes worse-rate as being highly intoxicated.

Nourie said, “One Friday that I received very little sleep, I was sitting

in class and everything was blurry. I could not think. There was a significant pause in my reaction time.”

Across the country, schools are feeling pressure to either alter start times or rearrange the order that various grade levels start. Since elementary school students find it easier to receive all of the necessary sleep, sending them off to school earlier than other grades is trending.

The main conundrum that schools run into when they attempt to implement a new schedule is the fact that parents need their teens at home to get younger siblings off the bus.

Parents who work may rely on older children to babysit the younger ones. For working parents, altering the schedule can cause major issues.

High schoolers would have less available time for homework and after school activities at night with an altered schedule as well.

Minimizing homework, shortening after school activities, and changing school schedules all come with numerous ramifications. Getting up early can be tough; however, finding a solution to the problem can be even tougher.

Suggested sleep times:

When fatigue takes over, “you might as well be drunk.”

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Young adults 7-9 hours Newborns 14-17 hours Adults 7-9 hours Infants 12-15 hours Older adults 7-8 hours Toddlers 11-14 hours Preschoolers 10-13 hours School age children 9-11 hours Teenagers 8-10 hours Source:sleepfoundation.org

Keep the room dark and quiet

Avoid eating right before bed

Pick a bedtime and stick to it

Participate in regular exercise

Turn off electronics

Design by Sydney Weiss

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG F

Q&A with Mrs. Copfer shares Beloved teacher retires: memories and advice to students ANNIE MARSH staff writer

Q: How long have you been teaching?

A: I have been teaching art for 38 years. I started in my early 20s teaching at Van Cleve Middle School in Troy Ohio...I was hired over the phone... sight unseen...and accepted a job teaching 8th grade art with only a Bachelor's Degree in Art and a temporary license! It was enough of a start to make me fall in love with teaching. I then stayed home for eight years to raise my children and later got a full teaching license and a job at McAuley High School where I taught for seven more years. Those were fabulous memories and a great experience as an art teacher...I was hooked!

Q: How long have you been at Sycamore?

A: My career at Sycamore High School began in 1986. I was hired in July after only two interviews and I could have never known that summer what rich professional opportunities were ahead for me. I must admit when I first came to Sycamore I felt challenged by discipline issues that I did not encounter at McAuley. It took me three years to really feel confident in my classroom management and invested in the Art Department. I grew to love

every challenge and all the diversity at Sycamore and I felt lucky that I was given so much freedom to develop a strong art program. The administrative support here was over the top. I was encouraged to develop an AP Studio Art Program and initiate several art shows.

Q: What are your plans for retirement?

A: As for my retirement...I have no plans really. I will travel to Michigan to see my granddaughter Julia play basketball at Hope College in Holland, Michigan. I will spend more time with my other six grandchildren and of course devote more time to my own art work.

I predict that I will still stay close to teenagers through a bit of subbing.

Q: What will you miss the most about teaching/about Sycamore?

A: I will miss the students and my colleagues most. I have many great memories from this time at Sycamore... hard to choose just one. I have taken thousands of pictures of my students and when I see them I remember the great field trips, shows, awards and fun that I have had with them. I also cherish all the teachers I have worked with over the years, especially Mrs. Ferguson, Mr. Hahn, Mr. Melnick, Mr. Griga, Mrs. Williams and Mr. Williams. I am especially proud of

Mrs. Elise Williams, who was my student here at Sycamore and at Xavier University and now is an inspiring art educator!

Q: What is one of your favorite moments of teaching at SHS? A: One of my most worthwhile experiences was the completion of the Windows of Hope project for Children’s Hospital this year. The satisfaction of seeing so many students, teachers and parents rally behind this meaningful Service Learning Program was a memory that will stand out in my mind forever.

Q: What do you hope your students past and present have taken away from your time teaching them?

A: I hope my students take from me that I was dedicated to their success and that I want for them to have the love for their jobs in the future that I have had. I hope they know how important it is to find work that they are passionate about and pursue it. I am humbled by the high caliber of students, colleagues and administrators that I have been privileged to work with. I want my students to know what a gift it has been to share their high school years with them. Every day has been a surprise for me and most days I leave school tired but happy, grateful and proud to be a teacher here.

Love for Lent: what to know MADELEINE MARSH staff writer Lent this year begins on Feb. 10.

Lent is an annual season of fasting in preparation for Easter. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts 40 weekdays until Easter Sunday March 27. It is observed by Roman Catholics, Anglican, and certain other Christian denominations.

Those observing Lent fast on Ash Wednesday and fast from meat every

Friday, giving rise to the well-known Fish Fry Fridays held at numerous churches. Many decide to fast, or give up, something for the total 40 days.

Lent is technically 46 days, but the six Sundays are supposed to break the fast and celebrate Christ.

“During Lent we repent of our sins and fast for Easter. It is about giving yourself to others,” said senior Katelyn Young.

Others may choose to do something for lent, most often choosing to extend

kindness or volunteer more.

Pope Francis said this about Lent, “As Lent is the time for greater love, listen to Jesus.”

Those over the age of 18 and at or under the age of 59 are encouraged to fast several times throughout lent.

Fasting means one full meal can be eaten a day, followed by two snacks to keep up strength if needed, but they should not add up to another meal.

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[ cover story ]

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26 | SHSLEAF.ORG

PRESIDENT

frontrunners

THE

C THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016 |SHSLEAF.ORG

donald trump

Donald Trump says he will “make America great again.� As a businessman best known for saying "You're fired!" and in a country still recovering from a recession, he faces challenges establishing his credibility, But he has never had difficulty making himself heard.

republican business leader

bernie sanders United States senator from vermont democrat

Considered a Democratic socialist, bernie Sanders has served in Congress as an independent for over two decades. siding to the left in his politics, sanders is asking voters to join him in what he has framed as a political revolution, appealing to progressives frustrated with big challenges like income inequality.

United States senator from TEXAS

ted cruz

republican

A first-term senator, Ted Cruz immediately established himself as a favorite of far-right and evangelical Republicans. Since his election to the Senate in 2012, he has had an immediate impact, leading the efforts behind the government shutdown in 2013.

hillary clinton democrat former United States secretary of state

Over the years, hillary clinton has evolved in the public eye. she has served as a political spouse, a scorned wife of an embattled president, a senator, and a losing presidential candidate in 2008 who served as secretary of state under barack obama.

At age 44, Marco Rubio is the youngest candidate running for the presidency. despite this, he has a political resume as qualified as most of his rivals. Beginning as city commissioner in West Miami rising to become speaker of the Florida House. In 2010, he harnessed the discontent of the Tea Party movement to become Florida’s junior senator.

marco rubio

Photos courtesy of MCT Photo

23 Source: New York Times

republican

United States senator from florida

THE LEAF| Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG C

Presidential Presentations When is it all going down?

March 1: Super Tuesday: Primaries/caucuses for both parties in several states March 5- June 14: Remaining states hold caucuses July 18–21: Republican National Convention

July 25–28: Democratic National Convention

CAROLINE VERALDO staff writer BROOKE LANDRUM co editor-in-chief

Hot-Button Issues: Ed ucat ion

Democrat stances College Tuition:

Tuition fees for all public colleges and universities should be reduced or eliminated entirely.

Common Core: Keep Common Core to ensure equal opportunity for every

student.

K-12 Education: No Child Left Behind ignores several important factors in a student’s academic performance, specifically the impact of poverty, access to adequate health care, mental health and nutrition.

Financial Aid: Everyone will be able to enroll in a simplified, income-based repayment program so that borrowers never have to pay more than 10 percent of what they make. Student loan interest rates should be heavily reduced by cutting interest rates in half.

DREAMers: Children brought into America undocumented at a young age need to be given a fair and attainable opportunity to remain in the U.S., get an education, and contribute to the economy.

September 26: First general presidential election debate held at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio October 9: Second general presidential election debate held at Washington University in St. Louis in St. Louis, MO. October 19: Third and final general presidential election debate held at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas November 8: Election Day

December 19: Electoral votes are cast

Republican stances College Tuition:

College tuition is expensive, however, the federal government should no longer issue student loans.

Common Core: Stop Common Core and send education decisions back to

the local level.

K-12 Education: Support No Child Left Behind, setting measurable goals and higher standards for schools to help improve educational outcomes for individual students.

Financial Aid: Financial Aid from the government causes too much reliance on federal funds. The federal government should no longer issue student loans.

DREAMers: Do not allow children equal opportunity of education unless they are citizens or naturalized citizens.

January 5: Announcement of the electoral result by the vice president of the United States January 20: Inauguration of the new president and vice president

Sources: http://feelthebern.org/, https://www.hillaryclinton.com/, www.donaldjtrump.com, http://marcorubio.com/isues/, tedcruz.org 24

top ten: things to know before hitting the polls C

THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016 |SHSLEAF.ORG

I 5 1 6 D E 2 OT 7 V AY ELIZABETH RICKERT co editor-in-chief

3

Leave political items at home: Dressing in a shirt or other garment that supports a specific candidate or issue can result in you being asked to leave without voting. If you feel the need to show your support for a candidate cover it up while you are inside the voting location. A vote matters more than a shirt.

Get in line before the polls close: Voters in line before the polls close are still eligible to vote. The polling staff is required to allow anyone in line to vote.

D 8 TO

How to cast a ballot: Learn the do’s and do not’s of casting a ballot. If you mess up the ballot, it does not count. Feel free to ask the staff working the polls. You can send in an absentee ballot if that is more convenient.

Look ahead. Those ballots must be requested and sent in by a specific date. Mailing your ballot takes time.

What identification is required: The list of acceptable identification is very specific.

The easiest is a registered license. Other acceptable forms are military IDs, a photo ID issued by the government or state of Ohio, a government check with the voter’s name and address, or a copy of a government document.

get involved

4

Who and what is on the ballot: Most people will be familiar with the presidential candidates but that is not often the only thing on the November ballot. Be familiar with the other issues. Knowing a name or the general issue is not enough to vote on.

When and where the polling locations are: You should know when the polling locations are open. They typically open before 7 a.m. and close around 8 p.m. Ohio’s primary is on March 15. Some students will be able to vote before school.

Registration: You are able to register in advance. This can be done by visiting an Ohio BMV or a DMV location.

Visit dmv.org to find a location near you.

25

BROOKE LANDRUM co editor-in-chief

T

Primary protocol: Voters may only vote for candidates of one party during a primary. You must be decisive and cast an official vote.

9 10

Closed primary: Ohio is a closed primary this means you may only vote for the party you are registered with. In order to vote you must register with a specific party.

eens are often under the misconception that they cannot make a difference when it comes to politics. Thus, a vicious cycle begins where teens do not get involved, causing groups not to campaign to teens, causing them not to get involved.

There are plenty of ways teens, even those who are not of voting age, can make a difference.

1. Register to vote This is very simple and can be done at the public library downtown or at any DMV. It is free and is the most direct way for students to get involved.

2. Go to committee meetings Another free way to get involved is going to meetings. Party and committee meetings are held regularly and have no age restrictions. Odds are you will be one of the only teens there, so your voice will definitely be heard.

Previous primaries and caucus: Ohio is the 40th state to hold its primary. Look into what other states have decided and why. This is a national election so what other states say matters.

3. Sign up to work “Youth at the Booth” Once a student is 17-years-old, they can register to work the polling stations on election days. Students will work 12 hours as well as attend a training session in the weeks before. The total pay has increased for the upcoming election.

4. Voice your opinion Write to people currently in office or the candidates themselves to let them know what you care about.

Someone within the campaign will read your letter and may even write back to you.

5. Campaign for a candidate This is the most taxing way to get involved, but if the student has a real interest, it can give real world experience and may even be fun. Contact local campaigners and find out what sort of help they may need. Students can do anything from designing direct mailers to running polling stations.

[ fun&games ]

BROOKE LANDRUM co editor-in-chief

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Where’s Anna?

Tell us where in the building Anna is hiding, and the first three people from each ACE to do so will each receive an outto-lunch pass. Stop by room 115 to give us the answer. *Students coming from 5th bell WILL NOT be qualified to win*

Sudoku 8

5

3 4

6 1

Contest!

2 3 3 7 6 2 5

@shsleaf

1 9

5 3 4

7 7 2 6 8 3 2 1 6

8 1

6 8

Follow us on Twitter and tweet us your silly selfie with our issue. A winner will be chosen by the staff, will recieve a gift card and will be annouced on Twitter.

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[ entertainment ] THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26 | SHSLEAF.ORG

column:

‘Death of a Bachelor’ tops charts CHRISTINE MACKE staff writer

On Jan. 15, 2016, “Panic! At the Disco” released their fifth studio album entitled “Death of a Bachelor”. The band is led by lead singer Brendon Urie, the only remaining original member, after the departure of the other members over the years.

Urie said to alterock.com, “This is just a signal of a new era where I’m finding myself as a producer and as a songwriter.”

Inspiration was drawn from multiple artists and genres of music as well as real life experiences for the new album. Urie’s marriage to his wife of two years, Sarah Urie, inspired the album’s title, and the corresponding single of the same name.

Other influences include Frank Sinatra, Beyoncé, Queen, and musical genres of 1930s swing, rock, pop, and electronic I also found it cool how I could dance. The variety of inspirations creates a track the way my music taste different feel for each individual song on the evolved throughout the years, from album, allowing the album to appeal to fans listening to the top 40 on the radio of multiple types of music. to actually looking bands/artists up Within the first week of its release, the and looking at their other songs. album sold nearly 190,000 copies and One thing that I found surprising topped the Billboard 200 chart, ranking was the amount of songs that I had higher than artists such as Adele and David completely forgotten that I liked, Bowie. and how even after all this time I As the only remaining member of the still liked them. Although maybe band, Urie was able to make the album not as much as I used to. entirely his with each song being very I think that everyone should go personal and related to his life, in some back and listen to music that they cases based off of his experiences with love used to like at least once before they and maturing. forget about it all completely, and Urie said, “Writing with four people as hopefully experience a connection opposed to just me alone — I like it better like mine. now. I like getting my succinct ideas into a two and a half minute thing and if I need to, it feels like there’s less pressure.”

Not all of the songs are based off of serious situations; however, others are reminiscent of the wild parties and events in Los Angeles he’s been to, inspired by memories that he still can’t quite piece together.

The album is available to be downloaded on iTunes and Spotify, as well as available for purchase in stores.

‘Good ol’ days’ make comeback Old hits, new you TAYLOR CLOSE columnist

O

ver the years your taste in music tends to change and the songs that you used to have on repeat 24/7 become old memories. I have seen this happen to myself countless times throughout my obsession with music.

But recently I have been looking back through my old music on Spotify and iTunes and listening to some of the songs I couldn’t get enough of back in the pre-high school days.

This made me dig deep into places I am not so sure I wanted to go, such as my old IPod. But it was worth it to find those songs that once had meaning to me.

I would come across a certain song and it would remind me of a memory I had forgotten, or a feeling that I had when I would listen to that song. It was like a photo album of songs.

There was the occasional song that I would be embarrassed I ever listened to, but who doesn’t have that one song that they don’t want anyone else to know that they like?

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THE LEAF|Feb. 26, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG FE

Women in comedy: breaking through the glass ceiling Carol Burnett was the star of the sketch comedy show The Carol Burnett Show.

This show was on the air from 1967 - 1978.

It won 25 primetime Emmy awards and established a path for other women to follow in her footsteps.

Amy Schumer got her comedy start on the show Last Comic Standing. Even though she did not win the competition, it did not stop her from getting ahead in the comedy business. She was able to become a very successful stand up comedian, so much so that Comedy Central gave her a show, Inside Amy Schumer. On this skit show Schumer addresses controversial issues in a comedic way but still addresses issues in society. Schumer's latest success was writing and starring in her movie Train Wreck.

GIRLS

Lena Dunham’s first show Girls came onto HBO in 2012 and featured women living in New York. Dunham directed and stars in the series. She also wrote an autobiographical book called Not That Kind of Girl.

Carrie Brownstein is the co star next to Fred Armisen on the sketch show Portlandia. This show follows a collection of characters who are played by the two of them.

PORTLANDIA

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Tina Fey got her start on SNL where she co anchored the weekend update desk with Jimmy Fallon and then Amy Poehler. After SNL she was on the show 30 Rock Tina Fey starred and wrote for the show. She became part of one of the strongest comedy duos with Poehler.

Their first movie together was Baby Mama and they just came out with their long awaited movie Sisters.

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