April 2007 Issue

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LOVE CONCERTS, BANDS, and rocking out?

Check out the mini-mag included in this issue if you want to know all about the concerts that are coming this summer.

FRIDAY April 27, 2007 Volume LIII Issue IV 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45242 513 686. 1770 ext. 3089

NEWSBYTES

Read more about these stories on GoAves.org

Prom and AfterProm Tomorrow, Paul Brown Stadium will host “A Walk to Remember.” Afterward, the high school will transform into “Hollywood Nights” for the annual AfterProm. Read up on timing and parking hints, or find out about new games to be featured at AfterProm.

Also, note that breathalyzers will be used at both events, so visit the website to decipher myth from fact.

Taking action:

Senior Anna Hulett testifies to state board of legislators JENNIFER LEE

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editor-in-chief

Diversity Day Pictures A photo gallery of Diversity Day “Take Time to Think” is up on the website.

Both the message and the excitement of April 12 will not be soon forgotten.

Spring Sports Spring weather may be less than stellar, but the spring sports are excelling beyond belief. Visit GoAves.org for schedules, rosters, and pictures. Check out to find out what is going on with all the teams.

Powder Puff When is Powder Puff? Where will it be played? What is the real story behind this tradition? Get the scoop about both the junior and senior teams on the website.

The Leaf’s Senior Issue Only 25 days until the Senior Issue of The Leaf goes on sale. This 48 page keepsake will be available on Tuesday, May 22 for only $1.00. There are only a limited number of copies, so seniors get top preference. Be sure to pick this up for a record of the past four years and to check out wills, Senior Superlatives, and much more.

Comments?

The next issue of The Leaf will be distributed Friday, May 18 during second bell. Want to see something special covered? Send an e-mail to jardinec@sycamoreschools.org with comments or suggestions.

TWO WEEKS AGO, Hulett visited the capital to present her stance on sexual education. She hoped to influence the state legislature against ending funding of abstinence-only teaching.

Though a minor, Hulett exercised her full rights as a citizen. photo courtesy of anna hulett

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diversity

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13-23 a&e 24-29 sports 30-34 spotlight 36

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SENIORS KYLE BATTLE and Sarah McGrath were nominated for the 2007 Anthony Munoz Foundation Straight “A” Student of the Year Award.

Find out more information on page 30.

nna Hulett, 12, knows a thing or two about government. In her A.P. U.S. Government class, she and her classmates memorize vocabulary words worthy of C-SPAN and read about the intricate workings of legislatures and courts in their textbooks.

So when it comes to her basic rights, she knows exactly what they are. And apparently, she understands one right particularly well: the freedom of speech.

On April 12, when most other students were attending Diversity Day at the high school, Hulett traveled to the Ohio legislature to exercise this right.

“I went to testify to the state board of finance because the new Governor Strickland wants to get rid of abstinence education funding,” said Hulett.

Last month, Governor Ted Strickland proposed a new $53 million budget that would eliminate state funding of abstinence-only education programs.

Strickland’s administration also expressed its decision not to reapply for federal funding of abstinence education when it expires in September.

“I don’t believe abstinence-only education programs work in the long run,” said Strickland to Medical News Today. “There is some evidence that they may delay the onset of sexual activity, but over the long term, there’s not data there that show they prevent, in a statistical sense, sexual activity outside of marriage.”

The state has been receiving federal money for health education under the Title V grant program, which requires participating states to teach that abstinence until marriage is the expected standard and prohibits any discussion of contraception.

Governor Strickland hopes to phase out abstinence-only education and replace it with health education that teaches not only abstinence, but also safer sex and contraceptives.

New driving law

Hulett, a strong advocate of abstinence-only education, prepared a four-minute speech against Strickland’s decision.

“Abstinence-only education is the only 100% effective prevention against the emotional and physical consequences of premarital sex, which includes unwanted pregnancy and the transmission of deadly STDs like AIDS,” said Hulett.

While she did not get to speak (speakers were selected at random), her written testimony was presented and reviewed by legislators.

“Hopefully, it will influence the legislators to continue Title V funds for abstinence education,” said Hulett.

Her journey toward the state legislature began last year, when she was selected to attend an abstinence leadership conference. A coordinator from this conference asked Hulett to testify to the state board.

Hulett claims that being raised to believe in an abstinent lifestyle formed her initial beliefs, which were further strengthened as she grew active in her church and community.

“I wanted to take action because my choice of an abstinent lifestyle has allowed me to become as successful as I am today. I want every person younger than me to be able to make good choices and have the same potential for success,” said Hulett.

Taking action has made her more aware of the power she holds as an American citizen—albeit a 17-yearold one.

“I feel much more efficacious [after doing this], which is a fancy A.P. Government word that means I feel like I can make a difference in the government,” said Hulett.

One voice can make a difference.

Hulett encourages other students to embrace their rights of free speech and voice their opinions like she did.

“Speak out to those who can do something,” said Hulett. “Don’t be afraid of what others think; you shouldn’t let the opinions of others hold you back from standing up for what you believe in.”

Intends to slash teen fatalities, raises questions for community Restrictions

JANE CHERNYAK staff writer

On April 6, Ohio teens had their driving privileges restricted by a new law. State legislators feel that these new regulations, including curfews and limits on passengers, will decrease teen accidents and fatalities.

“The new driving law is coming into effect right before summer. It’s going to be a lot harder to get around places now,” said Aeliya Mohsin, 10.

State representative Gary Cates helped to write this law, due to numerous statistics that prove car crashes are more likely when a young driver has multiple passengers.

States that have enacted similar laws have seen a 20% drop in the rates of death and injury for teens.

“The driving law is good because it will keep more kids from driving when they shouldn’t be,” said Sonya Lipkina, 11.

This law raises several issues. First, no carpooling means that students will not be able to share parking spaces, causing a problem for schools with limited parking.

In addition, some parents are concerned that they might become chauffeurs for their kids. They also

feel that their rights to set rules for their children have been taken away.

Some lawmakers argue that decreasing the number of teens allowed in one car will in turn increase the number of teens on the road.

The level of enforcement concerning this law has yet to be known.

“I’m already seventeen so the law doesn’t affect me as much, but it is still going to be an inconvenience,” said Kalyaan Rao, 11.

Hopefully, this new law will effectively keep the roads safe for teens and adults alike.

Curfew

16 yrs.: 12-6 a.m.

17 yrs.: 1-5 a.m.

Exceptions: emergency situation, school activity, work (needs proper documentation)

Passengers 16 yrs.: One non-relative, unless guardian is present

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KAVYA REDDY spotlight chief

Sunday

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

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7:30 PM - Jazz Band Concert

7 PM - Powder Puff Game

4:30 PM Varsity Men’s Baseball Game

4:30 PM Varsity Softball vs. Princeton

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7:30 PM - Band Concert

7:30 PM Underclass Awards

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04.27.07 Friday

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6:00 PM Girl’s Varsity Lacrosse Game at Columbus Academy

10 7:30 PM Senior Spotlight Orchestra Concert

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Saturday

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3:00 PM Varsity Men’s Lacrosse Game at Hilliard Darby 4:00 PM - Men’s Track Roosevelt Invitational

4:00 PM Women’s Track Mason Invitiational

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7 PM - Senior Art Show and Leaf Silent Auction

AP Exams

7:00 PM Varsity Volleyball vs.

Fairborn

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14 7 PM - Jazz Band Concert

15 7 PM - Spring Sports Awards

Varsity A Men’s Tennis Match vs. St. Xavier

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OGT TESTING EARLY RELEASE

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AP Exams

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7 PM - Senior Picnic and Picture

3 PM - Preview Vocal Concert

7 PM - Vocal Concert

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28 Memorial Day - No School

29 6 PM - Choral Banquet

30 Graduation Rehearsal

31 6 PM - Senior Recognition Night

Sycamore @ Senior Last Day Hamilton 9 PMJV-6PM - Senior Girls Sports Awards Girls V-7:30PM

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04.27.07

Many workshops invited students to experience the artistic aspects of foreign cultures. In Culture of India, participants learned native dances and had henna art designed on their hands. Other workshops, such as Over-the-Rhine and the Evian Conference, sparked in-depth discussions.

Virginia Tech massacre shocks nation

Students upset, surprised, angry RASHMI BORAH diversity editor

On the morning of April 16, the town of Blacksburg, Virginia was calm and quiet. Just two and a half hours later, students and staff at Virginia Polytechnic Institute were shaken as they learned that their campus had been the site of a massacre.

Soon the entire nation learned that a shooting had left 33 students dead, 15 wounded, and many others stricken with fear.

“I knew this wasn’t another bomb threat when I saw a policeman running past me, pulling out a gun, looking for a target,” said Jamal Albarghouti [as quoted by CNN News].

Albarghouti had been approaching the campus during the scene of the second shooting, and was able to record the sounds of the shots and people running on his cell phone camera.

“I was just in a state of shock…I literally stood there for about ten seconds, not knowing what to do,” said Andrew Huang, [as quoted by CNN News] a student at Virginia Tech.

Huang had been walking past Norris Hall at the time of the shooting, which was the site of the second shooting at 9:15 a.m.; the first had taken place on campus earlier in the morning at the West Ambler Johnston dormitory, at roughly 7:15 a.m.

“The Virginia Tech campus was probably one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I have ever been,” said Emile Hunter, 10.

Hunter, along with Becca McLouth, 11, Brett Yenger, 11 and Jackie Pittman, 11, were on the campus of Virginia Tech less than 24 hours before the shooting.

“We were there to participate in a clinic that that the [Virginia Tech] girl’s lacrosse team was holding,” said Hunter.

“When I heard there had been a shooting, I had the worst feeling ever. My stomach hurt and I couldn’t stop thinking about it…I had been in that area less than 24 hours ago,” said Hunter. “It really could happen anywhere.”

Still, no one ever imagined that such a horrific event could have happened in a town like this.

Very little is known about the shooter, except that he was an English major at Virginia Tech and was reported to be “a loner” at school. His actions left his native country of South Korea “in shock.”

All throughout the evening, everyone was concerned with the same question. Could this have been prevented at all?

“I [am surprised] that Virginia Tech didn’t lock down after the first shooting because they thought that the shooter had left campus. If they had, it could have saved many lives,” said Jenni Williamson, 9.

According to one of the students interviewed on CNN on the evening of the occurrence, the first e-mails about the shooting did not reach Norris Hall until 9:26 a.m.—at almost the exact same time as the Norris Hall shooting.

The shooting at Virginia Tech will not be forgotten. As CNN described the event, it was “the worst college massacre in American history.”

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ai Chi, Hawaiian hula, Chinese cuisine aking time to think on Diversity Day

photo by jeremy mcdaniel

KATE MOORE

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managing editor

fter the square dancing and the henna, the Irish music and Celtic art, Tai Chi and Italian cooking, students have been able to “Take Time to Think” and reflect about their experiences on Diversity Day. The event got off to a great start with keynote speaker Jeff Yalden, of MTV’s MADE. His presentation was a hit with the majority of students; his candid and humorous delivery successfully brought home an influential message to his audience.

Although there were minor glitches with some of the workshops, the activities were exciting and influential. Some of the more popular events included square dancing, Irish music, African music, and Tai Chi. “All the comments that I received were very good. I would like to thank the Diversity Committee, Arjan Hura, and Harini

Venkitrama for helping to make the day successful,” said Mr. Jim Skoog, Associate Principal.

The posters created as part of the fifth bell project, “The Pillars of Sycamore”, now make up a colorful display in the commons.

Classes focused on their assigned state or country and decorated their banners in accordance with their new knowledge of the region.

Former New York City fireman Joe Torillo gave a speech at the closing ceremony about his experiences on September 11, 2001.

Students were impressed by his survival story and found Torillo’s account to be a thrilling end to an enlightening day.

Ultimately, the student body enjoyed the multiple activities planned and took full advantage of the opportunity presented to them. At the end of the day, students and staff were able to develop a greater understanding of their peers and coworkers by immersing themselves in the rich cultural diversity this school has to offer.

Beloved teacher returns to class

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Ecstatic students clean shelves, share art MICHELA TINDERA staff writer

Dolphins named Flipper, art projects, and ecstatic students. What could these three things possibly have in common, one might ask? Mr. Bart Inwood of course. After being ill and therefore, unable to teach for nearly three months, Inwood has returned to room 148, improving the spirits of students and staff alike.

“I really missed the school and all the students,” said Inwood. “And I am so happy and blessed that I’m back.”

And the students certainly missed Inwood as well.

“I was so happy when I found out he came back because he’s the best art teacher here!” said Taylor Young, 9.

Many other students of Inwood, who teaches Art I, Art II, Drawing, and Painting, had similar views about his return.

“Mr. Inwood is a superb teacher. He is very kind, and a great listener. We all missed him very much,” said Alex Hayden, 10.

“Mr. Inwood is such a fun teacher! I like him because he’s so laid back and I love the projects we do in his class,” said Laina Keim, 9. “My friends and I were counting down the days until he would come back.”

During the time that Inwood was out, Mrs. Trish Duebber, student teacher for Mrs. Margaret Copfer, acted as a long-term substitute teacher for him.

“Mrs. Duebber was fine, but Mr. Inwood cannot be replaced by anyone, no matter how good they are at art,” said Erica Wittkugel, 10.

Inwood was welcomed back into his class by a huge banner that was created by his first bell Drawing class.

In addition, his classes helped to clean up the room by wiping sinks, cleaning out cubbies, and organizing cabinets.

“I really appreciated everything the students did for me while I was out,” said Inwood. “I got all kinds of calls from students, letters, and get well cards while I was gone.”

Overall the students are simply very glad that Inwood has returned and they can finish off their fourth quarter with such an excellent teacher.

I really missed the school and all the students. And I am so happy and blessed that I’m back.

- Mr. Bart Inwood

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04.27.07

Ugandans continue to suffer Displace Me event calls for action, teaches empathy, hopes to raise awareness LEAH BURGIN & JACY CAGLE

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staff writer

staff writer

or 21 years the country of Uganda has been involved in a war against the Lord’s Resistance Army, in which thousands of children have been abducted and subjected to torture and sexual abuse.

With the hope of eventually providing protection from the LRA, ten years ago, the Ugandan government forcibly ejected its inhabitants from their homes, giving them only 48 hours to relocate themselves into displacement camps.

“The conditions that the people in Uganda have to live with are so horrible,” said Sam Newland, 10. “Countries should help them until the war is over, not just support them for a month.”

Today, there are more than 1.5 million Ugandans who are still suffering in the horrendous conditions of displacement camps. Nearly 1,000 citizens die weekly as a result of scarce sanitation, lack of education, alcoholism, sexual abuse, or HIV/AIDS. The Ugandan people are now relying on food to be transported by foreign aid; however, what happens when the food is not delivered? The people starve.

Furthermore, due to a lack of funding, the rations that are received from the World Food Program will be cut in half this month, which will unquestionably lead to an increase in deaths of those whom are already suffering.

Because of the atrocious conditions found in Northern Uganda, a nationwide event was created in order to demand the United States government to take action in ending the war in Uganda and to help send their people back to their homes.

This event is called Displace Me. On April 28, a group of students are planning to drive to Chicago to simulate a displacement camp in order to raise awareness. Chicago is only one of the 15 locations selected for this event; the others are Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Denver, Kansas City, Austin, New Orleans, Orlando, Atlanta, Nashville, Pittsburgh, and Washington D.C.

Dip into something different

The

image by leah burgin

THE BANNER FOR Displace Me reveals the hope of the participants - that every war has an end. By being a part of Displace Me, students hope to bring an end to the war in Uganda as soon as possible. Peace is the ultimate goal.

“I’m participating in Displace Me because it will be a great experience and have a significant impact on myself and other participants,” said Caitlin Camfield, 10.

The displacement camp enactment will take place at Soldier Field’s parking lot in downtown Chicago. Each participant in the event is asked to bring cardboard, a sleeping bag, a two-liter sealed bottle of water, an

unopened box of saltine crackers, and a current photo of himself wearing a white T-shirt with a red X. “I think that Displace Me is a great event because it shows that people all over the U.S. really do care about ending the war in Uganda,” said Matt An, 12. “We’re letting the government know by gathering together to show that we aren’t going to stop caring, so the government should start to care too.”

The payment of $50 for the charter bus ride was due on April 9; however, the bus still has room for participants.

There is also an option to carpool to Chicago. It costs only ten dollars for parking. If interested, make sure to contact Mrs. Connie Ring and meet in the Moeller parking lot on April 28 at 5:30 a.m.

There are also a few chaperones currently signed up to venture to Chicago. No more are needed, however if more parents want to participate, they should be sure to contact Ring. These parents would not have to pay the bus fee, though they could choose to drive up to Chicago for a parking fee of ten dollars.

Participants will spend the night in Chicago and return the next day after sleeping in a self-made shelter and engaging in other activities.

“I’m going to Chicago for Displace Me because I think that it is such an important event for our country to experience; we are looking past everything we have been through in order to unify and make a statement together,” said Megan Taylor, 11.

Displace Me’s objective is to create enough impact to persuade government officials to recognize this issue as a serious problem in current world affairs. By participating, students are making a statement: change is necessary, especially a change in attitudes towards displaced peoples.

It is far past time for American teens to start caring about the world we live in. Get involved, and, as Gandhi said, “be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Melting Pot Come in for

Prom!

MonThurs: 5 pm-10 pm Fri & Sat: 5 pm-11 pm Sun: 4 pm-10 pm

news 04.27.07

Perfect score: Junior Lizzy Wei leaves no room for mistakes on ACT

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SANYA DOSANI

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spotlight editor

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o some, ACT stands for American College Testing. To others, Atrociously Cruel Torture is more appropriate. To Lizzy Wei, 11, the ACT is just another annoying standardized test—hard to believe, as she got a perfect score.

Wei is one of five students in Ohio who received a perfect 36 on the ACT in February, a feat accomplished by only a handful of students in the country. Due to her success, some may call her a genius, but Wei attributes her high score to her test-taking abilities.

“It didn’t mean anything; it was just multiple choice,” said Wei. “It didn’t actually require original thought.”

Wei is no stranger to high test scores. After performing splendidly on the PSAT and SAT, one would expect Wei to approve of the heavy weight which college admissions attribute to standardized test scores.

“I can’t say I’m not glad that standardized tests count for a lot, but I don’t really like the idea of them,” said Wei. “When I got my scores back, I was just relieved.”

Because scores do contribute a considerable amount to college acceptance, many students prepare for the ACT very intensely-- as though it alone will determine the course of their lives. However, Wei decided to take it easy by simply looking over a practice test that she obtained from the College and Career Center.

“I don’t get what the big deal is-- it’s just a test,” said Wei. Whether her amazing score is the result of natural ability or good test-taking sense, Wei makes one less student who is dreading the “Atrociously Cruel Torture.”

When I got my scores back, I was just relieved.

- Lizzy Wei, 11

all images by jill cohen

Lizzy Wei, 11 excels in other areas besides test taking. She plays the cello in two orchestras, competes in the Science Bowl, and is an active member in the math club, among other activities. Her classmates take great pride in the fact that one of their peers has achieved such excellence.

‘We should forgive’ Fashion For The Cure UNIFAT offers safe haven for Ugandan refugees KAVYA REDDY staff writer

While war raged in Northern Uganda, one woman had a heart big enough to help the forgotten children. In 1985, Abitimo Rebecca Odongara started a school that now serves Pre-K through seventh grade.

“I didn’t want them to suffer, so I go back there and start a school,” said Odongara.

Upper Nile Institute for Appropriate Technology (UNIFAT) started out with less than ten students, but it has grown to more than 1,500. The first students were taught outside, and often they had to write in the dirt.

UNIFAT currently has two temporary buildings, which do not have windows, doors, or electricity. Classrooms are in desperate need of supplies - there is usually only one textbook for every four kids.

“Recently I attended the Moeller lock-in and experienced how the children of Uganda lived. We were put through conditions such as walking around school with our bags and eating like the lower class. It really helped to see the poor conditions that the children go through. I am glad that the [institute] is there as an escape from the refuge life,” said Kaitlin O’Toole, 10.

Many programs are held after school to help Ugandan students escape from the war and gain a more positive outlook on life. Programs include music sessions, Boy and Girl Scouts, and prayer groups.

The school often experiences difficulties because of rebel activities, hunger, and outbreaks of ebola, forcing it to close for months. Despite these difficulties it has maintained very high standards of learning, and many parents are seeking slots to enroll their children.

The majority of students are victims of the LRA, or Lord’s Resistance Army. They had been kidnapped and trained to kill like soldiers.

The school’s motto: increase learning for love and understanding in northern Uganda.

People nationwide have come together to improve these living conditions. Recently Meghan Marth, 10 started the Invisible Children club, which meets on a monthly basis. Mrs. Lisa Vangas, Spanish teacher is the sponsor but Mr. Split helps because of his active involvement with Invisible Children. In the future the club hopes to help sponsor UNIFAT. “They believe in forgiving. That’s why even the children who’ve been abducted... they say, ‘Well Kohn should be forgiven, everybody should forgive each other… We should forgive,’” said Odongara.

The chairs of Fashion For The Cure event knew just what to offer for a huge turnout: a view of the latest fashions in the interest of a good cause.

Indeed, they raised almost $10,000 for the American Leukemia and Lymphona Society. Organized by juniors Melissa Mandell-Brown, Avra Joffe, Lissa Amin, Alison Templeman, Camille Lesar, Kelsey Fairhust and Hannah Gross, the event intended to support research for leukemia, after Joffe’s sister was diagnosed with the disease.

Much of the community helped it fall into place, including teachers Mrs. Laura Miniard and Mrs. Melissa Sullivan, local boutiques, Walk This Way Salon, and various restaurants. To the right, Mrs. Kate Korchok, Spanish teacher, and Assistant Principal Antonio Shelton model clothes from Bridal and Formal and Folchi’s Formal Wear.

Much gratitude is deserved to all those who made Fashion For The Cure possible – after all, it was an enormous success. “A lot of work went into Fashion For The Cure, but in the end it was definitely worth it. We raised so much money and had a good time in the process,” said Jenny Margolis, 11.

Tough love

Winter guard’s season proves challenging ELIZABETH HOOPES staff writer

Imagine working for hours, even giving up weekends, only to receive low scores and near last place in competition. This is what the Scholastic A winter guard went through this season.

It was decided that winter guard would be split; the Scholastic A guard would be more advanced and have a limited number of members. Though many people auditioned, only nine made it.

“Winter guard was a good experience because I got closer to nine of the best spinners in our school,” said Patti Fioratti, 12.

From the beginning, they faced many challenges. They had to start later than many other guards because they were getting a new coach. Also, they had moved up a class.

Perhaps the biggest disadvantage was the scrutiny under which the guard’s show was put due to their song choice. Many thought “Hurt” by Johnny Cash was not

appropriate for high school students.

The guard’s show was about the hardships of life and the discouraging things people experience. Although some disliked the show, one witness at the guard’s last competition recalled that the audience was getting chills and goose bumps.

As the season was ending, people finally started understanding what the show was about, and the guard even moved up in their ranking. The guard’s final ranking was 12 out of 14.

“The song choice did not match our talent, but our hard work paid off,” said Brynn Sharp, 9.

Despite disadvantages, the guard did a great job. Even though their rankings were not as high as originally anticipated, they are proud that they gave the show their all even though it was not their first choice.

“Guard was fun this year and I definitely will do it next year,” said Josef Kisor, 11.

opinion

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04.27.07

staff editorial

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leaf

What do you think about

leafing through the masses

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o not rollerblade. It is a dangerous activity, and doing so could have many disastrous consequences. Though we acknowledge that rollerblading may be fun, and that some might be tempted to do it anyway, we will not show you how to properly wear a helmet or elbow or knee pads of any sort. This is the only way to prevent injuries. Do not rollerblade. And if you do…well, just do not.

Is this argument valid? Ohio, as well as many other states across the country, has chosen to only fund a type of class that educates in this way. Our state has chosen the path of abstinence-only sex education, telling the generation of tomorrow to just not do it, and if they do…well, just do not.

But does this approach work? If we instruct teenagers to just abstain from sex, yet do not provide them with any information on ways to protect themselves from unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, is it enough?

This month, a $7.7 million Congressional study was released that concluded that abstinence-only education does not prevent or even delay teen sex. “[Abstinence-only education] had no impact on the age of first sex,” said Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA), in a statement following the release of the congressional report. “[It] had no impact on the number of partners. And it had no impact on reported rates of pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease.”

With Ohio’s new governor Ted Strickland now in office, our state is ending funding for abstinence-only education in favor of providing funding for safe-sex education. With this proposed switch, a debate has been sparked in the Ohio senate.

Supporters of keeping funding for strictly abstinence-only education are arguing that by teaching teens how to practice safe sex, they will be encouraged to engage in the practice.

Those in favor of replacing abstinence-only sex education with a safe-sex version argue that providing teens with information on protection will prevent unwanted pregnancy and the spread of STDs. And with this recent federal study, it has been proven that teens are no more likely to abstain from sex when exposed to abstinence-only education than when exposed to safe-sex education.

As with any other controversial topic that addresses something with moral ties, the debate on the matter will most likely never be fully resolved. Yet in the end, we must be able to consider not only our own moralistic view on the matter, but what is best for the next generation.

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242

Mission Statement: The Sycamore Leaf, the official newspaper of Sycamore High School, serves as an educational tool in the training of student journalists to provide information and editorial leadership concerning school, national, and world issues, to provide a public forum for the exchange of ideas and viewpoints, and to give coverage to newsworthy events directly related to the diverse school population.

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 cannot 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 Sycamore Leaf operates as an open forum for the healthy, robust exchange of ideas. Opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the Sycamore Leaf staff. Letters to the editor are encouraged.

All letters must be signed. The letters, not to exceed 300 words, may be edited for clarity, spelling, and grammar. Letters may be placed in Mrs. Jardine’s mailbox, dropped off in Room 115, or e-mailed to: sycamoreleaf@ gmail.com The Sycamore Leaf reserves the right to decide not to cover a death based on relevance, timeliness, and circumstances decided on by the editorial board. In cases that the editorial board decides not to cover a death, letters to the editor in regard to that death will be printed.

The Sycamore Leaf’s complete editorial policies can be found at http://goaves. sycamoreschools.org

News Wenjun Zhang Opinion David Dannenberg Melodie Jeng Humor Rob Friedman Ben Dhiman Feature Libby Henning Sharon Wagner Diversity Bobby Jungerwirth Nancy Kidnocker Rashmi Borah A&E Casey Manning Jill Cohen Athletics Nadia Khan Will Johnston Spotlight Sanya Dosani Kavya Reddy

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sex education?

In this day and age, I think it’s more practical to teach about safe sex than just abstinence.

- Bryce Lindsay, 11

I like safe-sex education better, because it teaches about the risks involved and the ways to protect yourself.

- Nina Duerson, 10

I think abstinence only sex education should be taught because it helps us make wiser choices.

Mary Ann Jiang Staff Writers Rashmi Borah Leah Burgin Jacy Cagle Jane Chernyak Electra Chronis Sam Cleary David Dannenberg Matt Davenport Ben Dhiman Ben Estes Anastasia Flowers Saul Geller Alex Gennett Nathan Gruebmeyer Kevin Hall Elizabeth Henning Elizabeth Hoopes Daphne Hsu Kye Isaac Molly Johnson Will Johnston

- Laura Barbe, 11

Editor-in-chief: Jennifer Lee Associate editor: Alexa Fogler Managing editor: Kate Moore Business managers: Mary Ann Jiang & Gabirose Keeton Jared Kamrass Mandi Kipner Matthew Mendelsohn Dan Montague Kate Moore Hannah Myers Jake Newton Matthew Scheer Matthew Slovin Lauren Sokol Jeremy Spiegel Austin Stone Heather Storck Michela Tindera Jack Wang Jing Xing Chen Yin Casey York Mini-Mag Marissa Gunnarsson Jack Liu

Photographer Jeremy McDaniel Adviser Cheralyn Jardine About us Professional memberships: •Columbia Scholastic Press Association.

•Great Lakes Interscholastic Press Association.

•Journalism Association of Ohio Schools.

• Journalism Education Association.

•National Scholastic High School Press Association.

•Ohio Professional Writers (National Federation of Women Writers).

•Quill & Scroll International Journalism Honorary.

opinion

7

04.27.07

politically

The governor of Virginia, Tim Kaine, his wife Anne Holton, President George Bush, and first lady Laura Bush gather around a memorial at Virginia Tech. They read notes that were placed at the site, and honored the memories of the victims. The massacre of 32 students plus the killer, Cho Seunghui, took place on Monday, April 16 in Blacksburg, Virginia.

“

incorrect

Imus controversy Exposes others’ hypocrisy DAVID DANNENBERG opinion chief

“ “

photo courtesy of msnbc.com

Students react to Virginia Tech tragedy I find it amazing that humans can have such an astounding capactiy for evil. ...At the same time however, we are presented with the heroism of Professor Liviu Librescu and we are reminded of the goodness that also rests in the heart of every person.

- Sam Pollack, 12

Fourth quarter:

Going to college is already frightening enough, [without] having something like this occur.

- Lizzie Lohse, 12 It’s sad so many people died because others ignored the warning signs.

- Hannah Desando, 10

Crucial academic period or time to relax?

SANYA DOSANI

S

spotlight chief

pring break has just ended and winter break is long gone. We have survived the dreaded third quarter and put semester exams behind us. Summer is no longer a tiny ray of light in the far-off future.

It is no secret that after spending months confined to a single room doing long hours of homework, the school year seems like it is (or should be) over. It feels natural to slack off fourth quarter and finally find the courage to say, “No. I will not do the 834 pages of reading that is due tomorrow.”

“I’ve somehow kept myself motivated enough to do as much homework as I needed to the whole year, but now it feels like school is just over and this quarter doesn’t count,” said Alex Bidwell, 11.

The reality is, of course, that fourth quarter (however unfair it may seem) is given the same weight as every other quarter and can determine one’s grade in a class. Still, many disregard these last eight weeks,

waving them aside as the most insignificant time of the year.

To an extent, this may be true.

Those who have worked hard all year and have secured themselves A’s in all their classes, which will not be affected too much by this quarter: I commend you. For the rest of us, however, fourth quarter grades do matter, at least a little.

“I always just assume that I’ll do fine fourth quarter because it’s easier,” said Kalyaan Rao, 11.

Most assume that this final stretch will be trouble-free, and will only require minimal effort. Is this really the case? Does school actually get better in the final few weeks, when the material should technically be the most difficult and advanced?

The answer is a resounding yes.

Despite final exams, AP exams, and days that seem to last weeks, the final few weeks of school are not that dreadful. Some teachers show sympathy and make the executive decision to take it easy.

Luckily, if lack of homework does

“

not brighten these days, the sun will. One day, the warmth of spring shall bestow itself on Cincinnati, and it cannot come quickly enough.

Everything becomes instantly better when the temperature is an acceptable grade on a math quiz.

“It’s hard to get through fourth quarter because the year is almost over, but everything is so exciting, which makes it less painful,” said Farheen Kaleem, 9.

Perhaps the work does not actually become easier as the year ends, but with the summer anticipation, spring weather, and end-of-year excitement, school can become more tolerable.

It’s hard to get through fourth quarter because the year is almost over, but everything is so exciting, which makes it less painful -Farheen Kaleem, 9

Dong Ying

Asian Market 3207 Jefferson Avenue

861-6007

By now, it is old news that Don Imus called the Rutgers women’s basketball team “nappy headed hos.”

With the apoplectic outrage expressed by Imus’ critics, Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson, it is no wonder that the news is so widespread.

But does Imus deserve such harsh criticism from charlatans like Jackson and Sharpton?

In an interview with Milton Coleman of the Washington Post in 1984, Jackson referred to Jews as “hymies” and to New York City as “Hymietown.” After the media feeding frenzy, not only did Jackson not apologize, but he denied that the remarks were ever made, and accused Jews of conspiring to defeat him.

Then, Jackson decides to seek solace on the radio show of his friend, Louis Farrakhan, an aggressive anti-Semite. Farrakhan, with Jackson on the show, added fuel to the fire by threatening Coleman in a radio broadcast and issuing a public warning to Jews.

To equate Jackson’s situation with Imus’ would be to have Imus deny the allegations, accuse blacks of conspiring against him, and have neo-Nazi David Duke make a radio broadcast threatening black people for him. Basically, Jackson turned the racism dial up to 11.

But if Jackson turned the dial to 11, Sharpton broke it.

In 1994, as part of a speech at Keen College, Sharpton honored classical literature by saying “White folks was [sic] in caves while we was building empires... We taught philosophy and astrology and mathematics before Socrates and them [sic] Greek homos ever got around to it.”

Then, in 1995, Freddie’s Fashion Mart, a Jewish-owned clothing store in Harlem, threatened to evict their subtenant, a popular black-owned record store, under directions from the landlord, a black Pentecostal church.

A group of (black) protesters formed outside, with Sharpton leading.

“We will not stand by and allow them to move this brother so that some white interloper can expand his business,” said Sharpton.

With these poetic words as inspiration, an armed protester broke into Freddie’s Fashion Mart, shot four people, and set fire to the store. The armed protester and seven others were dead. Four were wounded.

And Sharpton called for Imus’ resignation? If anything, Sharpton should have resigned from his own radio show a long time ago. In fact, Sharpton should have resigned from so many positions over the years that by now, he should have a real job.

One would think that after years of obstreperous ranting (with few apologies given along the way), these leaders would learn from their mistakes and put their charisma to good use, or otherwise accept the consequences with dignity. Imus did, which is commendable.

But instead, Jackson and Sharpton hide behind the race barrier, thickening it with every word they speak, and attributing all dissent to racism.

It is because of this refractory nature that I say that even Don Imus affects race-relations in a more positive manner than do Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton.

opinion

8

04.27.07

It’s all

Irrelative How changing cell phones, college admission, and actor’s salaries would make an...

Students fill planbooks such as this one with countless assignments, tests, and quizzes every week. Some homework is useful, but there is a limit to how much work one person can handle in one day.

When planbooks do not provide sufficient space to write down every assignment, one can be certain that the workload is too large.

Almost perfect world ALEXA FOGLER associate editor

April’s edition of Glamour magazine was all about fantasies. One of the highlights of the issue was a piece where 13 celebrities wrote blurbs about what their secret dreams are.

This got me thinking about all kinds of impossible changes to the world that could be ridiculously amazing.

Okay—so playing the “what if” game is kind of useless, but it is fun.

Here are three “what if” scenarios.

What if cell phones did not exist?

I hold my cell phone near and dear to my heart as I am sure most teenagers do. And yes, they are useful in emergencies, but, imagine if they were gone. Oh what a peaceful and quiet world this would be.

The idea came to me when I was standing in line at the Barnes and Noble Café the other day. This girl in front of me was on her cell phone talking about something I assume had to be of the utmost importance because of the way she was shrieking into her RAZR. “May I take your order ma’am?” “(With a disgusted look on her face) Hold on,” she said to innocent barista. “Like ohmygosh he did not say that to you…”

After she and I both got our drinks, the girl was still on her phone yelling away without a care in the world, let alone a care about anyone else who was trying to concentrate in the café.

If cell phones were gone, there would be no more obnoxious cell phone talkers. And gossip would not travel at the speed of light through text messaging. Which would lead to fewer car crashes due to those whotext while driving. Beneficial, huh?

What if college entry was blind?

College acceptance letters have been mailed, and though most people got in to one of their top choices, there is always that person who seems like he or she is perfect, but just did not get in.

When I question this, someone always says to me, “maybe the University of XYZ just did not need another male from the Midwest.”

Yes, that has to be it. Because what other reason would a college reject Mr. 4.0, president of the Spanish Club, captain of the varsity tennis team, volunteer at the hospital, builder of an orphanage in South America…etc.?

So what if college admissions were completely void of all these personal facts? Colleges would only see grades, test scores, activities, and essays—the only information which should affect decisions anyway.

No one would have a leg up because of legacy, and though the college may end up without an acceptable ratio of boys to girls, the most qualified applicants would get in.

What if actors were paid less?

I really do not understand why actors and actresses are paid millions of dollars to do movies. Acting does not deeply affect many people. Teaching?

Sure. Teachers mold and shape the future of our country.

Instead, actors could be paid minimum wage. And they could get tips I guess, if people thought they deserved them.

And yes, I understand that the reason they get paid so much is because their work generates income for companies, but this is true for many more people.

So take that Tom Cruise.

H

photo by sanya dosani

image by sanya dosani

omework aving too much may prove detrimental to students’ achievement

W

DAVID DANNENBERG perspective chief

hen I was in fourth grade, my parents, my math teacher, and I had A study by a meeting to distwo Harvard cuss my progress in school. ApparUniversity ently, I had not been keeping up with scientists my homework regularly, and my concluded teacher let me know that it was important to do so, or else I would not that the learn how to write the extended form amount of homework of 624,869, a very important concept in mathematics, having a profound done in impact on the lives of fourth graders. high school After the meeting ended, I asked does not the forbidden question: contribute “Why is homework assigned?” to sucess in “Well,” said my teacher with a college. quizzical look, “we don’t have time to practice what we learn in class, so we reinforce with homework.”

Not anymore.

This year, one of my teachers assigned a large amount of homework and attributed it to the fact that there was little time left in the quarter, adding “You guys are just going to have to learn this material at home,” which I erroneously thought was the purpose of the classroom.

The fact is, no matter what level classes a person is taking, homework usually takes a substantial amount of time to complete, all in the name of performing better on tests.

However, there have been studies, including one by professors from Penn State, that show homework may actually have a negative effect on students’ math test scores.

There are, of course, dozens of studies contrary to those, which show that some homework is beneficial. I do not advocate the complete aboli-

tion of homework; I simply believe that more learning should take place in the classroom.

All statistics aside, students generally loathe homework. They learn to associate the topics that homework covers with the drudgery and monotony that almost always accompany homework. As a result, students grow to despise these topics, which may normally be intellectually stimulating to them. In short, homework replaces that excitement of learning with resentment.

Assigning larger amounts seems to indicate that the education system is failing to provide students with an education. Schools rely on larger amounts of homework to mask their own inefficiency, and teachers use words like “independence” and “responsibility” to make it sound noble.

Practice makes perfect?

Freshmen withstand OGT week BEN DHIMAN staff writer

The freshmen successfully endured the tedious Ohio Graduation Tests (OGT). The outcome determines whether a student can graduate from high school. While the sophomores take the test, the freshmen are forced to take it as practice.

Some students embrace this opportunity to get a feel for what they will have to do as a tenth grader; however, most do not share this point of view.

“The practice OGT’s were a complete waste of time and paper. They stunk,” said Chapman Bundy, 9.

Most freshmen visualized this year’s practice OGT as a miserable, boring memory, already dreading next March when this week must experienced again.

As if taking the test was not painful enough, the whole ordeal was made worse by the new electronic rules.

The very thought of not being allowed to kick back and listen to some tunes after taking a two hour test dismayed the freshman class, and the rules of no iPods, videogames, or cell phones devastated them.

“The only positive side of the practice OGT’s was that we never have to take them again. I mean, practice ones at least,” said Daniel Castillo, 9.

Taking the practice OGT became more of a mental endurance test rather than one that would gauge the intellectual capability of an individual.

The thought of these tests simply being practice examinations added to the pessimistic mind set as freshmen pondered the point of trying their best.

Some teachers took care of the “loophole” of students randomly filling in A, B, or C in their answer documents, by deciding to take the tests for an actual grade.

This technique added to the desolate bog surrounding the freshmen class during OGT week.

The overall experience of taking a practice graduation test seemed to be a failure to the students, but may prove beneficial since they have been exposed to the test once before sophomore year.

Ronald M Alexander, LUTCF 513-469-1402 10760 Montgomery Rd Cincinnati alexander2@allstate.com

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opinion

or SAT ACT? 9

04.27.07

ALEXA FOGLER

yes

associate editor

Which test is better for you?

You are good at writing persuasive essays by using evidence.

yes

yes You lose attention easily during tests.

yes Your advanced math skills are shaky, but your reasoning is top notch.

Your vocabulary is your paramount quality.

yes

no

no

no

You want to go to an east coast school.

no

You are bad at memorizing information, especially vocabulary.

yes Your scores are inconsistent.

You might benefiit from more than one try.

no

no

no

no no

You did well on the PSAT this past fall.

Your writing, reading, and math skills are basically equal.

yes

yes

Grammar is a weak point.

no

yes

Reading and understanding any material is a piece of cake.

yes

Advanced math, like conic sections, is easy for you.

no

yes yes no

You should take the SAT.

With a strong vocabulary and ability to write essays which use outside sources, the reading and writing will be simple for you. Also, with a separate score for each section, you can show your strengths. Remember: the College Board sends all your SAT scores, not just your best ones.

You should take both.

You should take the ACT.

With a strong background in harder level math classes, and strong reading skills, the ACT is the test for you. The essay is optional, and does not require the use of outside sources. Bonus: If you do badly the first time, the ACT company will only send your best scores out to colleges.

Like most students, you should take both and see which one turns out better.

information adapted from npr.com

Last chance to make right

Fourth quarter cleansing period MOLLY JOHNSON staff writer

A

new quarter-- not just any other quarter though, fourth quarter. The final stretch of the year. One last chance to make or break a year, grade-wise and perhaps socially.

The last quarter is a time for many students and teachers to try to relax and gear up for the up and coming summer vacation. However, some of this excitement may be a cause of the fourth quarter grade slump.

“It’s the final quarter of my second lap in my high school mile!

Woohoo!” said Kayla Murray, 10.

Fourth quarter is a great time to improve academic achievement as well as personally developing more motivation. Without this renewed vigor, a repeat of third quarter’s so-so grades is inevitable.

This is why some have made a promise to themselves to work harder, try to pay more attention, attempt to procrastinate less and, of course, getting through it with a higher grade average.

One can almost guarantee after looking at report cards that many are ready to make a fresh start with

fourth quarter’s grades. Especially if they allowed their grades to slip a little bit.

Grades slip for a number of reasons.

They can be personal, a problem with a teacher, trouble understanding certain material, overstressing, or just a lack of interest in school anymore.

Anyway, this quarter will be better, hopefully.

With enough determination, which many students have, they will be able to turn their procrastinator ways full circle and become a better student in the last chunk of the school year.

“I’m glad that school’s almost over, I mean it is my senior year, but, at the same time, I’m nervous about going to off to college,” said Megan Johnson, 12. “I mean, I still have to pick which one I’m going to go to.”

Though it could be argued that there is no point in mending grades in fourth quarter because it is the end of the year, there is nothing wrong with learning better work and study techniques.

“I’m so happy that it’s fourth quarter. I can’t wait until the year is over, to relax and kick back and hang out with friends. I can’t wait until summer!” said Negin Fallahi, 10.

opinion

10

04.27.07

Searching for that

perfect future With more job opportunities than ever, student faces dilemma of choosing profession WENJUN ZHANG

R

news chief

emember the days of yore when all we had to worry about were scabby knees, icky vegetables, and getting picked first for kickball?

Well, say goodbye to those innocent, blithe times; nowadays, my mantra consists of three words: grades, college, job.

As a junior, one begins to see things differently. College is no longer a remote dot on the horizon; instead, it is a foreboding giant, looming closer and closer with each passing minute. Job occupations now need serious consideration since that dream of being a pretty princess just might never happen.

It is hard to imagine where I will be in ten years, and even if I ventured a guess, it would probably be wrong. However, planning is more important than ever now. Determining which college I go to and picking a major will cement my path in life - talk about the stress.

My parents have my life all mapped out. My mother wants me go into either law or business, graduate, join a firm or company, marry a doctor, and live a jolly good life. My father just agrees with my mother.

Although both law and business are interesting professions with good payoffs, I detest politics and underhanded dealings. I then turned to medicine.

Being a doctor seemed to fit the bill; curing and saving people are something I would want to do.

However, the more I considered healthcare, the more hesitant I became.

This would be my life: at the age of 18, I would promptly enter a prestigious college, study 40 hours a week, and graduate only to go back to medical school to study 60 hours a week.

Once I escape medical school as an old, burned-out hag, I will then be shelved into a seven year residency. Only then (I will be approximately 32 years old) will I be able to finally start my own practice.

Perhaps I had idealized medicine a bit. Because quite frankly, medicine is not the Hollywood ideal; the primary purpose of shows like Grey’s Anatomy, House M.D., and Scrubs is to generate viewers and high Neilson ratings, not to paint an accurate picture.

In the words of Dr. Rosemary Kalenderian, mother of Bobby Jungerwirth, 11, “[In medicine] no one’s that beautiful, and there are no where near that much relationships.”

Was I ready to sacrifice so much of my time so I could get a good job, clean conscience, and fat paycheck? After all, a plumber working a seven hour day five days a week can earn $120,000 a year. The average air traffic controller earns $106,000 a year.

Physicians can earn up to $500,000+ after bonuses and businessmen have enormous paychecks that range from six to seven digit numbers. The president earns $400,000 a year.

After perusing numerous articles and sources about careers and best fits and future plans, I realized one simple thing: in terms of paychecks and money, most jobs pay well to those that work hard. Sticking to a game plan is the best choice.

Bottom line is to do what you love. Ambition in any area of work will equate to success. I like helping people; now, I have the option of both helping people and earning more than the president. Who could ask for more?

photo by wenjun zhang

HIGH SCHOOL IS a stressful time, and most students do not have the time to think about the future.

However, planning and pondering about careers is

especially critical now that college is approaching.

Here, Kevin Steiner, 11, takes time off of studying to think what he wants to do with his life.

Imagine what life will be like ten years from now

There are tremendous amounts of job opportunities. Because of the many professions and job opportunities that exist today, it is difficult to pick the best profession. To help, here is a brief listing of choices and the average salary compiled for each taken from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (note: these numbers do not include bonuses).

Require college education Physician/Surgeon $300,000/yr

Lawyer/legal profession

$150,000/yr Buisnessmen

Engineer

$140,000/yr

$95,000/yr

Professors

Artists

$75,000/yr

$40,000/yr

Marketing managers $85,000/yr Computer system managers

$90,000/yr

Does not require college education Air Traffic Controller $106,000/yr

Real Estate Broker

$75,000/yr Transportation managers $75,000/yr

Plumber $45,000/yr

Sales Supervisor $74,000/yr

Nuclear Reactor Operator $67,000/yr

Power Distributor $60,000/yr Police Officers

$45,000/yr

04.27.07

fun&games

11

Fill in each box so that every row, column, and box has the numbers 1-9. Make sure that there are no repeats!

ROB FRIEDMAN

Fun

in

grid form

Sudoku

fun&games chief

Mother Nature’s April Fools

J UMBLE Celebrity look-a-likes

JILL COHEN a&e chief

SANYA DOSANI & ALEXA FOGLER

Unscramble the letters, then write one in each box to form four common words.

spotlight chief

associate editor

Have you ever been walking down the hallway and thought to yourself, “Hey, that kid looks like a celebrity?” Because here at The Leaf, we have.

We have made it our mission to find every single student that sort of resembles a celebrity. It is hard work; no one can look exactly like Brad Pitt for

NIDGES SMUALY OCLIG

instance, but we try to find people who could at least pass as stunt doubles.

If you or a friend look like a celebrity and you would like to be featured, drop us an e-mail at sycamoreleaf@gmail.com or come by room 115 and leave us a note.

SLUERT Now, take each circled letter and rearrange to answer this question:

What did one pastry say to the other? “

all images by alexa fogler

” Taylor Jensen, 12

Tom Cruise

(around Risky Business)

Lauren Hughes, 12 Minnie Driver

(Good Will Hunting)

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diversity

12

04.27.07

Breaking through

ice and misconceptions of brute sport

NANCY KIDNOCKER

I

diversity editor

t is said that figure skating requires the elegance of a royal court, poise of a ballerina, balance of a tightrope walker, speed of a sprinter, endurance of a marathon runner, coordination of a juggler, rhythm of a dancer, strength of a high jumper, and the teamwork of soccer players. Add these combinations together and the result is an all-in-one, perfect sport called synchronized skating.

Rachel Barr, 10 and Angela Messina, 9 skate for the Oxford Ice Crystals Synchronized Skating Team. The team skates out of Gogin Ice Center on the Miami University campus, home of this year’s World Silver Medalist Miami Redhawks Synchronized Skating Team. Brynn Shuller,10 and Jennifer Miller,10 skate for Cincinnati Style, who practice at Cincinnati Gardens.

Synchronized skating teams skate in formation and the higher the level of skaters, the more intricate the footwork becomes. This sport requires hours of practice, so Barr and Messina go everyday to the rink for three or four hours. Shuller and Miller also spend hours with their teammates, working to perfect the unison of footwork, head, and arm movements.

all photos courtesy of staff

The Cincinnati Style team (who skate eight girls) and the Oxford Ice Crystals (who skate 24) are in different divisions. While they may be at the same competitions they do not compete against one another. Both teams travel to competitions throughout the Midwest region.

The training to become a synchronized skater is not as smooth as it sounds. Training includes extensive on ice power classes, pilates, and areobics.

Not all practice time is on the ice. Last season the girls from the Oxford Ice Crystals skated to Latin ballroom music, so the coach had them take ballroom dancing classes.

The hard work and dedication has paid off this season for the Ice Crystals; they placed within the top ten teams nationally for their division.

Such dedication can get in the way of school work.

They miss about a week of school for skating each season, but all four girls are high achieving students who manage to stay on top of their schoolwork. On the way to competitions they find time to study or do homework.

One of the most challenging aspects of skating is spatial awareness. They must constantly be aware of their distances from one another. “You have to make sure you don’t hit anybody,” said Messina.

Synchronized skating requires excellent skating skills, dedication, and most of all love of the sport.

“I love synchronized skating, and I love being part of a team,” said Barr.

In reality, skating is not the fun and games it is made out to be. Injuries are too common, from sprained wrists, broken bones and ripped muscles, to cuts from skating blades. Careless skating can be as dangerous as football or ice hockey. One slip could cause multiple skaters to fall and get hurt. Control, strength, and skating skills are essential.

Synchro is a very expensive sport; skates alone can cost upwards of $1,000. Dresses for competitions, ice shows, and practices can be hundreds. Skaters must also pay for ice time, coaching and travel fees.

With all the hard work and money that this sport calls for, why would anyone willingly sign up for two-a-days?

“I do it because of the relationships I’ve made with the coaches and girls. We’re like family,” said Messina.

Q&A with Angela Messina & Rachel Barr Season Stats Cincinnati Style Q. How did you get started skating for the Oxford Ice Q. What do you enjoy most about skating?

Crystals?

Dr. Richard Porter Classic Messina: I love being on a team. We feel like a big group of 5th Place A. Barr: When I was younger I took lessons in Oxford and A. sisters. We sometimes have our problems, but we are all good friends.

07 Mid-American Championship saw some girls my age skating on a team. I remember looking over at my mom and saying “I want to do that.”

Q. What advice do you have for aspiring skaters?

A. Barr and Messina: Practice, practice, practice…and

remember, “beneath the mesh and spandex, there are bruises, pulled muscles, sore knees: everything that would put you on an NFL injury list. This all gets covered up with a smile, because, lets face it, they can’t play four minutes of music with the ice empty.”

Q. What was your biggest mistake on ice?

A. Messina: I was tripped and when I fell my leg was run over by another team mate.

We work together as one unit, win as a team, loose as a team; that is what the sport is about.

Q. What was your most glamorous moment on the ice?

A. Barr and Messina: The end of our program at the Mid-America

competition…we skated amazingly well and we were all so excited.

When we got off the ice we were all crying and hugging; we went on to place third.

Q. Is there a lot of competition among girls?

A. Barr and Messina: Yes, there are test levels that we have to pass

in moves (footwork), freestyle (jumps and spins), and dance. If other skaters on our team get to a level that we haven’t reached yet we both work harder to try and pass the level.

6th Place

07 Midwest Synch Championship 10th Place

Get Involved Tryouts for both teams are coming up the third week in April. For pictures or more information about synchro skating, check out the teams’ websites: www. oxfordskateclub.com and www.cincinnatistyle.org

feature

04.27.07

Proving who knows whom Testing junior couple Matt Teegarden, Valerie Rozzo’s relationship

13 HIGHLIGHTS {this month in feature}

ELIZABETH HOOPES staff writer

When is his birthday? June 28

real answer: June 28

When is her birthday? June 12

real answer: June 12

What is his middle name? Daniel

real answer: Daniel

What is her middle name? Marie

real answer: Marie

What is his favorite food? Ding dongs

real answer: Ding dongs

What is her favorite food? Ding dongs

real answer: Ding dongs

How many siblings does he have? 3 (if you count the 2 cats) but one sister

real answer: 1

How many siblings does she have? 2

real answer: 2 brothers What lunch does she have? Two

real answer: Two

What lunch does he have? 3rd

real answer: 3rd

What is her favorite restaurant? Olive Garden

real answer: Olive Garden

What is his favorite restaurant? El Rancho Grande

real answer: Wendy’s

x

What does she want to be? Photographer or wedding planner

real answer: Either a photographer

or a wedding planner

What does he want to be when he grows up? He’s unsure, but wants to major in music

real answer: Music major Who is his best friend?Brett Yenger, 11

real answer: Brett Yenger

Who is her best friend? Anna Connelly, 11 and Anna Hochgesang, 11

real answer: Anna Loraine Connelly

and Anna Hochgesang

When is your anniversary? September 29 real answer: September 29

When is your anniversary? September 29

real answer: September 29

What color eyes does he have?Blue

real answer: Blue

What color eyes does she have? Green

real answer: Greenish

What activities are he involved in? BandClarinet and Winter Drumline- Snare drum

real answer: Band and Drumline What is his greatest fear? Being murdered in the middle of the night

real answer: Being murdered

Think that board games are a thing of the past? Think again.

Flip to page 18 to discover “the lost art of board games.”

What activities are she involved in? Guard

real answer: Guard

x Resisting temptation

both scored: 92%

Trip leaves lasting effect

What is her greatest fear? Being trapped in a barrel and going over Niagara falls. real answer: Ha... my mom

Check out page 21 to see the latest technology of cell phones. The RAZR, Chocolate, and iphone are featured.

Spring break Money influencing teens to spend

changes students LIBBY HENNING

LAUREN SOKOL staff writer

A

ccording to most people, spring break is a time to leave the books behind and just simply relax by the pool in one’s favorite vacation spot. While many were in places such as Cancun, Florida, or California; Hebrew class students spent their break across the world in Israel.

“Israel to me is the most beautiful place on the face of this earth. It has both the remnants of ancient civilization and the thriving modern culture and technology that we are so used to in the US,” said Evan Gildenblatt, 10 By spending a week in Israel, Hebrew class students, taught by Mrs. Judy Miller, began to learn more about Jewish heritage, while enjoying the relaxing culture of Israelis. Along with practicing their Hebrew, students said the feeling of the environment was incredible and that it changed them deeply.

“After 10 days in Israel, my dedication to Judaism has been enhanced. I personally felt such a special connection to Israel and am excited to return this summer for four and half weeks,” said Sam Kahn, 10.

During the time in Israel, the students traveled through Tel-Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Netanya, and even climbed Masada, while learning and enjoying themselves. They also had the chance to learn about Bedouin and the Dru’s culture, by experiencing it first-hand.

“I had already been to Israel before [it was my third time], but this was definitely my favorite. Every time you go the experience changes. I can’t wait to go back next year for a semester,” said Alli Kahn, 10.

Many people are unaware of all Israel has to offer. Tourism in Israel includes archaelogical digs, heritage tourism, ecotourism, modern beaches, shopping, and clubs. There are a plethora of historical sites for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. The Dead Sea is also a very cool hot spot where one can float in the ocean without a flotation device.

“I would urge anyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, beliefs, etc. to travel to Israel,” said Gildenblatt.

a&e chief

Dress to the high school prom: $180.00, shoes to match: $50.00, hair to go with the dress and shoes: $40.00, inheriting dads credit card-priceless.

Sound familiar? Nowadays teens tend to purchase more clothes and items with their parents’ money.

Granted there are several teenagers who have their own jobs and own spending money, but it seems that more and more, teens ask their parents for spending money.

In a sense, they should spend money on food and other necessities such as new school clothes, but teens should not be spending their parents’ money on CDs or other fun things.

Fewer and fewer people, especially today’s teens, have learned the value of a dollar.

“I wish I had more money,” said Aliza Weinberger, 10.

Many teens who feel this way usually go get a job or ask their parents for a raise in their allowance.

Some of the teens that do have jobs tend to take their paychecks and go on a shopping spree, save their money for something large, perhaps even a nice used car.

“If a child is very involved in after school activities then I don’t think that they should get a job and that their parents should pay for some of the things that their child wants...,” said Lydia Griffith, 10.

If they earned the money then par-

ents should not be telling them how to spend it. With more responsibility there comes more privileges.

With the first paycheck that one gets comes the feeling of importance and self-worth. It makes teens feel like adults in the working world, which is good practice for after high school and college.

Not to mention it makes a great impression on colleges to which teenagers are applying. It shows them that the student has a sense of responsibility and a work ethic.

Yet, being involved with multiple school activities also looks good when applying to college.

Having a job helps to secure the idea of what money is and how to spend it.

Mistakes are part of life and teens must be able to make those mistakes themselves, say when they spend all of their money on a CD or a pair of jeans and then find something better that they want.

They cannot get the money back that they spent on the other item, but they will learn to be more choosy and careful with their money.

It feels better to buy something with personal money, when it came from hard work; it is much more rewarding than whipping out mom or dad’s money.

Those who do not feel that they should earn the things that they have probably will not get very far in life.

Over spring break, Spanish students took the ultimate trip to Spain. See what they experienced on page 22.

Students traveled to London, Paris, and Rome over spring break for AP European History. Look at pictures of the adventure on page 23.

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04.27.07

At night, at school, at home

Students of ten fal lin g asleep

NEAR THE END of the school year, many students feel the increased desire to take naps in and out of school. Some students cannot get out of this habit. However, exams are coming up and life is busy. There are many ways to help one feel fresh and awake.

P

opinion chief

WISE WORDS

MELODIE JENG

all photos by melodie jeng

re-school naptime was the best. It was probably the last time most people got the suggested hours of sleep. Now, in high school, it seems as if sleep is a luxury and occurs more during the day than at night.

Perhaps lack of sleep is due to the workload of multiple APs, beyond-busy schedules, extreme procrastination, or simply the interest of becoming an owl.

Going to sleep at nine p.m.? Most agree that is an impossible task. However, that would be the bed time required for us grumpy, growing teenagers to get the suggested eight-and-a-half to nine hours of sleep.

While surveying a random class,the majority of the students reported that they receive an average of six to eight hours of sleep each school night. Maybe school should start later.

“It’s funny how little sleep you get in high school. A lot of times I will find myself falling asleep in class, especially on movie days,” said Abbey Reedy, 11. “One time in seventh bell, I fell asleep during note taking and my teacher Mr. Ignatz sprayed me with water, soaking my entire paper!”

For some, physics is more about the acceleration into a nap than the acceleration of gravity. Or, when the quadratic formula is so long to recite, it becomes a monotone.

There is no doubt students are often falling asleep in class. If not, they may be sleeping in and arriving at school late. Teachers certainly are not fond of these acts.

“I’m kind of torn. On one hand, they [students] are not learning anything while they’re sleeping and it’s kind of disturbing. On the other hand, everyone can relate to a time when you just needed sleep,” said Mr. Mike Gutekunst, physics teacher.

Many students enroll in the after school nap (which may actually turn into a long snooze and panicked seven p.m. awakening in which one cannot tell if it is morning or night, followed by the groggy scramble to begin homework).

An alternative is sleeping at the normal time.

These habits may start freshman year, or earlier, and grow by senior year in conjunction with workload increases and a disease that begins with “Senior” and ends with “itis.”

“I have to sleep during study hall and after tennis practice because I can’t get sleep in at other times,” said Ian Wilson, 9.

That is not to say all students lack sleep or succumb to the post-lunch drought of drowsiness. There are always two psychology classes for students who are interested in learning about sleep, cycles, and dreams.

Tips to get along with sleep-prone friends: 1. Do not call in the afternoon (overtired people tend to answer with a confused, or possibly angry voice, or sometimes they will actually screen the call and refuse to answer).

2. Be sure to wake up the friend when the bell rings (waking up in a classroom of completely different people is basically like a bad dream).

3. Remove all objects of odd shapes, colors, and patterns if they appear to be falling asleep (the red streak on the face is never really in style).

4. Do not bother asking if they are sick if they are rubbing their eyes (they most likely just woke up).

With over 12 years of education, seniors have experienced it all, from oversleeping tardies to multiple all-nighters.

They give some advice and personal experiences with sleeping.

(More reliable, researched, and medically based ideas to help people get more sleep include: setting a regular bedtime, regular exercise, freeing of the mind, and finding the right sleeping environment.)

“ “ “ “ I love sleep.

- Mei Hsieh, 12

I’m busy with softball and work so I’ve mastered the violasleep.

- Molly McCarthy, 12

My extremely heavy workload haunts me at night and prevents me from getting any sleep.

- David Linz, 12

Sometimes I wake up laughing, sometimes I wake up gasping, sometimes I wake up crying.

- Myles Lewis, 12

Tips for the sleeping friends:

1. To wake up, set the cell phone alarm to the most obnoxious song or ringtone one can find. (One will be compelled to wake up and turn it off.)

2. Find the remaining Coca-Cola machines in the school (ask upperclassmen and athletes). Nothing does the job better than some caffeine.

3. Move to Italy, Spain, or China (basically, to a country where they have siestas or reposos: afternoon naps).

4. Take short naps, but only often enough to be energized throughout the day (and to enjoy greater ease in falling sleeping at night).

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04.27.07

AP exams around corner

What are you thinking Students opt to take examinations for college credits about this month?

CHENYIN staff writer

T

“

staff writer

he high school has many advance placement classes.

Many students in Sycamore High School have chosen to take one of them.

AP exams are one of the serious exams that students may choose to take along with SAT and ACT. “I am nervous about AP exams, because I think they are hard,” said Irina Skorobogat, 11.

The AP classes may count for a college grade by some colleges. However, if a student wants to earn college credit through AP classes, the safest action is to take the AP test.

AP tests rank students’ grades in five levels, from five the highest to one the lowest. Normally college will only accept the class and take it as a college credit when the AP exam’s level

is three or above.

“I am not nervous. I don’t care, it’s AP. I think it will be easy to get a 4,” said Stephen Ho, 10.

Since the AP tests will be held in May. From May 7th to May 18th, students will be taking AP tests based on the schedule for the AP tests of 2007.

“I am not nervous, but it’s gonna hurt to study that much,” said Fernando Chappell, 12.

Most of the students who are taking AP tests need to review ahead of the exam. However the intense beat of forth quarter has made it hard for students to keep up with classes and review for AP test.

The clock is ticking, and with AP test approaching, students’ lives will be busier than ever.

I am not nervous. I don’t care, it’s AP.

- Stephen Lo, 10

2007 AP Exam Week Schedule: Monday, May 7

8 a.m.

Government and Politics: United States

12 p.m.

Government and Politics: Comparative** French Language**

Tuesday, May 8

Computer Science A** Computer Science AB** Spanish Language**

Wednesday, May 9

Calculus AB** Calculus BC**

Chinese Language and Culture

Thursday, May 10

English Literature** German Language**

Japanese Language and Culture** French Literature**

Friday, May 11

United States History

European History Studio Art (portfolios due)

Monday, May 14 Tuesday, May 15 Wednesday, May 16

8 a.m.

Biology** Music Theory** Environmental Science** Chemistry** Italian Language and Culture** English Language**

“ “

LAUREN SOKOL

Statistics

12 p.m.

Physics B** Physics C: Mechanics** Psychology Art History

2 p.m.

Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism***

As one parades through the grades, different ideas tend to be on students’ minds. Take a look at what is taking over fellow classmates minds this month.

My summer vacation plans, where I’m going to college, and the SATS. - Sami Sprague, 11

I’m thinking about baseball and school. I can’t wait for summer.

- Jon Hancher, 10

feature ‘The World Map of Happiness’

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04.27.07

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Top 10 Happiest Countries Denmark

Switzerland

Austria Iceland The Bahamas

Finland Sweden Bhutan Brunei Costa Rica

Notables

23 26 41 62 82 Happy

Average

image courtesy of bbc.co.uk

Unhappy

U.S.A. Australia U.K.

France China based on a study

by University of Leicester

Can happiness be evaluated, ranked by nation?

Examining recent study by University of Leicester JENNIFER LEE

H

editor-in-chief

appiness is subjective. Nothing can guarantee it, and its formula is yet to be discovered.

But can it be measured? According to the University of Leicester in London, the answer is yes.

“I think happiness is hard to quantify. I don’t know how that would be possible,” said Kevin Lin, 12.

Adrian White, a social psychologist at Leicester, apparently thought otherwise. In 2006, White developed the very first “World Map of Happiness.” Based on statistics and personal responses from around the world, White rated countries on their subjective well-being.

White claimed that the most significant factors were health, level of poverty, and access to basic education.

The personal questionnaires that were used with these statistics asked people to rate their happiness and satisfaction with life; these surveys were circulated to 80,000 people globally.

Happiest, least happiest countries

According to White’s study, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria, Iceland, and The Bahamas are the five happiest nations in the world (in that order). The lowest-ranking nations are Congo, Zimbabwe, and Burundi, which came in last at 178th.

Surprised that the U.S. did not make the top cut?

Apparently, Americans have a lot of smiling to do to go to catch up to the Danes. The United States did not even slide into the top 20, ranking 23rd.

“If you look at the whole picture, you can see why the U.S. ranks relatively lower than expected,” said Dan Tang, 10. “Sycamore is very well-off, so it can be hard to see here, but a lot of schools in America have problems and are very poor and that’s where the problem exists.

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There is a very large disparity in wealth and education, which are two factors in the study.”

While some may agree that White’s happiness map accurately depicts countries’ objective qualities (wealth, basic education, health), many believe that these factors are not accurate measures of happiness.

Debating its accuracy

“I don’t think this study is representative of peoples’ complete happiness,” said Jessa Ramsey, 11. “There are a lot more personal factors than simply those that pertain to education, economics, and health. Also, people aren’t very likely to be fully forthcoming about their lifestyles on something as anonymous as a survey.”

Because happiness is a state of mind and thus an intangible entity, its evaluation is the cause of much debate.

“I think that for the most part this could be a very valid calculation of happiness among the population of various countries,” said Samantha Sekar, 11.

Whether or not it is valid, the study definitely did not consider some possibly important factors, such as weather conditions, suicide rates, and peoples’ living expectations (instead of wealth).

For example, if sunlight is the key to happiness, this research definitely does not prove so. Denmark, ranked first, is certainly not a place to bask in the sunshine.

In addition, many of the European nations that ranked highly are also the nations with the highest suicide rates—hardly evidence of happiness.

An important question posed by the study is whether money can buy happiness. The study seems to say it can; 11 of the top 12 nations have a GDP per capita of over $20,000, including Luxembourg, which has the highest

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GDP per capita in the world.

The research used wealth as an important factor in its calculations, but ignored people’s actual expectations of living. But are expectations not an even more important piece of happiness than wealth itself?

Can money really buy happiness?

“I think that happiness reflects individual cultures; in the U.S., there’s an emphasis on wealth and excess, leaving more room for ‘unsatisfaction,’ whereas that is probably not as true in [happier] countries,” said Lin. In America, and other affluent capitalist nations, wealth is glorified. This, however, creates a tidal effect: people constantly want more, and thus find themselves less happy with their lives.

On the other hand, in countries with substantially less wealth (like in Latin America or Africa), people always seem to be smiling. Interestingly enough, these people are most often the people with nothing—the people who lead simple lives in perfect contentment because they do not feel that they need 52-inch plasma TVs and BMW X5s.

“This study can’t be very accurate because there are some people who are healthy, who come from financially stable families, and have good college prospects, but are on medication for depression. Likewise, there are people who have very little in the world and yet still find reasons to be incredibly joyful and positive,” said Ramsey.

Indeed, while the World Map of Happiness may be a semi-truthful judge on relative living conditions, it might not be an accurate estimate of human happiness.

So are people really happier in Denmark than in America? Perhaps. But do not get on the plane just yet— because Denmark just might not be the happiest place on earth.

Sycamore Foundation gives grants to district

Purchase plaques on legacy tree to support foundation ALEXA FOGLER

associate editor

The Sycamore Schools Foundation is a worthy cause that helps better programs that help students in the district. By collecting money through bi-annual dinners and selling leaves which are displayed proudly in the high school, the Foundation is able to enrich lives.

Ten years ago, the Foundation started creating grants for projects that the district’s budget could not afford.

Today, over one million dollars have been awarded to teachers who have asked for money to attend additional training, need technology for their classrooms, and for other projects.

“We prefer to support programs that impact a lot of students…like the new art tables we purchased last year for the middle school,” said Jeff Seibert, a coordinator of the foundation.

As mentioned, the Foundation gets some of its grant money by selling plaques that are placed in the main office of the high school on the Legacy Tree.

The prices of the plaques range from $100-$500. For more information, see the ad in this issue on page 21.

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04.27.07

Domestic Violence

Words leave marks too CASEY YORK

I image by libby henning

KIM APPEARED ON the Oprah Winfrey Show to discuss her husband, Eddie, and his abusive nature. Eddie would call Kim degrading names and insult her. It got so bad that she actually wished that he would physically abuse her so she would have a reason to get out of her marriage. Domestic violence causes the victims to feel horrible about themselves. Kim said, “I feel like the ugliest, most stupid person, I feel like the worst mother in the world. I feel like I don’t deserve my children. I don’t feel like I’m worthy of love by anybody.”

staff writer

f someone was asked what it meant to refer to something as “the rule of thumb”, most would understand what it meant. A “rule of thumb” is a principle that can be applied to nearly every circumstance.

The origin of this phrase is not so easy to pinpoint as the concept itself.

It is often claimed that it is derived from an Old English Law, stating that it was permissible for a man to beat his wife as long as he used a stick no wider than the width of his thumb.

“I’ve heard of that law before, but I never really believed it,” said Ayesha Alam, 10.

While this claim may not be completely true, it is the principle behind it that is under consideration.

In mankind’s history, it has, with the exception of the last century or so in America, been socially acceptable for a man to “discipline” his wife. But love is not synonymous with violence.

Domestic violence is controlling or abusive behavior between two people who share an intimate relationship.

This sort of violence could be a range of different methods of operation. The most well-known is physical violence.

Physical violence can be unwanted direct physical contact, which can be expressed in the form of anything from rape to murder. Indirect physical violence, while not as conspicuous, is just as illegal as direct contact.

Indirect violence consists of striking the victim of the

violence with an inanimate object or throwing the object at them.

“Physical violence always seems like the worst kind, but being hurt in other ways can be just as bad,” said Michelle Grosser, 9.

Mental or emotional violence are just as prevalent as physical violence but not as easy to diagnose. This can be verbal threats of violence. These can be threats to the victim, or broadening out to include children or the attacker themselves.

Other than threats, these verbal attacks can include insults and put-downs, potentially wounding the emotional health and self-image of the victim forever.

While emotional violence does not produce visible cuts and nicks, the figurative scars can take much longer to heal.

Economic and social abuse involves the controlling of the abused partner’s funds or preventing them from seeing friends and family.

“I don’t know how someone could do those things to someone they love,” Aaron York, 12.

In fact, abuse is not love. Though the offending partner may apologize and promise that the abuse will never happen again, guilt cannot change who a person is. Once someone expresses violence, those feelings and lack of self-control will be a part of them for a very long time.

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04.27.07

Rediscovering, reintroducing childhood pleasure CASEY MANNING

R

A&E editor

emember the days in elementary school when rain-soaked pavement meant replacing the typical recess outdoors with what they referred to as “indoor recess?” (Apparently, the grade-school administrations did not feel the need to waste any creative juices when naming this weather-induced playtime alternative.)

Though students were always disappointed that they would not be able to take part in the daily tetherball tournaments or jungle gym escapades, this disappointment would disappear as soon as the beloved game cabinet was unlocked.

Trouble, Chutes and Ladders, Candyland, and Pretty Pretty Princess (a personal favorite) were always big hits. It was getting to be your favorite color, donning the plastic jewelry, traveling through the treacherous Candy Cane Forest. Oh yeah, and winning.

Reaching the finish line, landing on the hundredth square, reaching Candy Castle, and gathering the entire collection of jewels provided an unmatchable thrill.

But as we grew older, out of recess and into out to lunch

guest list

the of

board game night

The perfect mix of people is vital for a successful board game night.

According to a 1999 “Psychology Today,” one can learn more about someone by playing just one board game with him than by going on ten dates with that person. Choose wisely who you want to get to know that well.

passes, our desire to play board games slowly faded away.

Within our generation of channel surfers and iPod shuffle-ers, a 5second attention span is the norm. Such a disposition is not exactly conducive to Scrabble-play.

As with riding a bike, once board game skills are learned, they are never really forgotten. All one needs to do is to reach into their own game cabinet and dust off those classics. What better a way to get to know someone than over a nice, competitive game of Monopoly?

And for those willing to try something a little more adventurous, newer options such as Apples to Apples and Cranium are always fun.

The key to reintroducing board games into your life is perfecting the situation. Why were the board games of yore so much fun? Recess, with a bunch of other overstimulated, hyper grade-schoolers, created the perfect atmosphere, the perfect situation. To fully enjoy a board game, all of the correct variables have to be in play. When the guest list, the scene, and the games are right, that final “Yahtzee!” squeal will be that much more sweet.

scene

The right ambiance is critical. Too many other things that will distract the players from the board game is almost guaranteeing failure.

Create a comfortable area so that everyone can easily fit around the game and see the board, and do not forget the snacks. No game night can be successful without adequate food.

games

Board games are often divided into two categories: modern board games and classics. It might be easier to start off the first game night with one that everyone knows such as Monopoly. For the more adventurous board game afficionados, newer, more complex games such as Cranium are really fun in groups.

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Kimono:

feature

04.27.07

Unwrapping mystery of Japanese art CHENYIN

K staff writer

There are many types of kimonos worn my women and men in Japan. This style of dress is most often seen at formal events like weddings. Though expensive, kimonos are essential to Japanese culture.

all images by chen yin

imono is the favorite traditional clothing of Japan. The original kimono was greatly influenced by the Chinese Hanfu in the 5th century. However, the modern kimono took shape during the Heian period (794-1922C.E.). Since then, the patterns of kimono have not changed much. “[For] weddings and New Year’s--[those] are the only times I wear a Kimono,” said Ayaka Kageyama, 12.

Nowadays, kimonos are usually worn only on special occasions, mostly by women. A few elders and even fewer men still wear kimonos on a daily basis.

Men only wear kimonos at weddings and for the tea ceremony.

Traditionally, kimonos are made from a single bolt of kimono fabric and are sewn by hand. The bolts are in standard dimensions, and all of the fabric is used up for the kimono. The fabrics from which they are created are frequently hand made and hand decorated.

Because of the hand-made tradition, a woman’s kimono may easily exceed $10,000. If one buys a complete kimono which includes kimono, undergarments, obi, ties, socks, sandals and accessories, the price can exceed $20,000.

Kimonos are expensive for most of the Japanese, and that is why most kimonos owned by typical kimono hobbyists or by practitioners of traditional arts are far less expensive. Cheaper, machine-made fabrics instead of traditional hand-dyed silk have made the cost of casual kimonos much cheaper. A thriving business selling second-hand kimonos in Japan, makes the second-hand kimono’s price as little as 500 yen (around $4.22).

“It is really hard to put it on because there are so many rules which normal people don’t even know,” said Kaho Skamoto, 11.

There are many factors that decide what type of kimono a woman will wear.

A women’s marital status is one factor. Their statures, for instance, if they are the visitor or the host, and the gathering they are going to.

Kurotomesode (黒留袖): a black kimono patterned only below the waistline, kurotomesode are the most formal kimonos for married women. They are often worn by the mothers of the bride and groom at a wedding. Kurotomesode usually have five kamon printed on the sleeves, chest and back of the kimono.

Furisode (振袖): furisode literally translates as swinging sleeves—the sleeves of furisode average between 39 and 42 inches in length. Furisode are the most formal kimono for unmarried women. They have patterns that cover the entire garment.

“The furisode normally is worn by a single woman who is single for the coming-of-age(Seijin Shiki) ceremony that is held on the second Monday of January each year. At the age of 20, both boys and girls are invited to celebrate their adulthood,” said Mrs. Chikako Pierson, the Japanese teacher.

Irotomesode (色留袖): a single-color kimono, patterned only below the waistline. Irotomesode are slightly less formal than kurotomesode, and are worn by married women, usually close relatives of the bride and groom at a wedding.

Hōmongi (訪問着): literally translates as “visiting wear” and is characterized by patterns that flow over the shoulders, seams and sleeves. Hōmongi may be worn by both married and unmarried women. Friends of the bride often will wear hōmongi at weddings and receptions. They may also be worn to formal parties.

Tsukesage (付け下げ): a tsukesage has more modest patterns that cover less area—mainly below the waist—than the more formal hōmongi. They may also be worn by married and unmarried women.

Iromuji (色無地): single-colored kimono that may be worn by married and unmarried women. They are mainly worn to tea ceremonies. The dyed silk may be figured, but has no different-colored patterns.

Komon (小紋): Kimono with a small, repeated pattern throughout the garment. Somewhat casual: may be worn around town, or dressed up with a nice

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21

04.27.07

RAZR

iPhone

all images by jack wang

FROM THE CLAMSHELL Razr that dominated the market in 2005 to the revolutionary multimedia and fully equiped iPhone of the future boundaries of style and communication were reconsidered when these cell phones came out near the dawn of the century. The LG Chocolate, Apple’s iPhone, and Motorola Razr all became the symbol of technology breakthrough in cellular phones.

Cell phones redefine meaning of communication From Razr to Chocolate to iPhone JACK WANG

O

staff writer ver the past century, cell phones have become a necessary commodity and are no longer an item of luxury. And with advancing technologies, the hand held gadget evolves and improves daily.

However, three of them stand out in particular.

Embodies sweetness - LG Chocolate

Like the name suggests, LG Chocolate is addictive and charming. Its intricate design and sharp style appeals to millions of cell phone users. And with its array of functionalities, it will surely please any customer.

Ever since its creation in South Korea and subsequent release

by Verizon Wireless during July of 2006, it has become an instant hit, with one million units sold within two months.

“It seems like it’s really well designed; pretty slick to me,” said Joe Lee, 10.

The Chocolate is indisputably gorgeous. It is perfect for consumers who want their phones to be not only a communication tool, but an accessory as well. Good things come with a high prices, and this phone’s capabilities definitely match expectations.

It features a 1.3-megapixel camera, VCAST video, music player, EV-DO and Bluetooth, and Flash-based UI. A slick design with brawny functionbility makes it almost flawless.

However, nothing is perfect. Surprisingly, some common features are missing, such as a camera flash, making it difficult to take pictures in the dark.

In spite of the drawbacks, the LG Chocolate is still a work of art. With an intricate design and pleasing functionalities, the device lives up to its luscious alias.

“The LG Chocolate is a very nice phone. It comes in different colors. I just want to eat it,” said Andrew Stubblebine, 12.

The chocolate phone is my very first phone; it’s my baby. I always wanted a white phone since they’re pretty, and when Verizon came out with the White Chocolate, I just had to get it.

- Sooyoung Yoon, 11

The cell of tomorrow - iPhone

The future is here. The iPhone packs a mobile phone, a widescreen iPod with touch controls, and an internet communication device with Email, web browsing, searching, and maps, all into a small handheld. It marks the next revolutionary step of technology.

“I think it’s going to be the next big hit, just like Apple’s iPod,” said Eric DeMuth, 12. iPhone input is accomplished via touchscreen with virtual keyboard and buttons on a 3.5 inch LCD screen. And it is specifically created for use with a finger, or multiple fingers, for multi-touch sensing. No stylus is needed.

When inputting text, it has automatic spell checking, predictive word capabilities, and a dynamic dictionary that learns new words. The photo album and web page magnifications are examples of multi-touch sensing that uses the motion of “pinching” and “unpinching”.

The iPhone integrates normal cellular functions such as call waitng and caller ID with its other features. For instance, a playing song fades out when the user receives a call, and fades back in once the call is completed.

Able to play videos, it allows users to watch favorite shows, films, or music videos. Both photos and videos can be viewed in landscape orientation when the phone is turned sideways.

The iPhone has built-in WiFi, with which it can access the internet just about anywhere. Unlike other phones, it displays the full web page instead of a simplified version.

Additionally, Google Map is featured, enabling users to find a nearby café or restaurant and place calls with a single touch. The iPhone is virtually impenetrable.

It will be released in the United States in June 2007 and will be available at the Apple Store and from Cingular Wireless at a starting price of $499 for the 4GB model.

• Dimensions: 115 x 61 x 112 mm • Weight: 135 g • Navigation: Multi-Touch/QWERTY Keypad • Talk Time: 5 hr • Standby Time: 16hrs • Memory: 4GB or 8GB • Camera: 2.0 MP/Video Recorder • MP3 Player: iTunes/Cover Flow • Bluetooth: 2.0 • Games: √ • Speakerphone: √ • E-mail: √

Irresistible with cutting edge design - Razr

The phone that drastically captured the market for flip phones was the legendary Razr. Verizon released it a year after its competitors, and when the Razr came out, it dominated.

It features internal and external LCDs, a built-in camera, MP3playing capabilities, and broadband access. Due to its aesthetic style and design, the Razr-line became one of the most desired cell phone.

In July 2006, Motorola announced that it had shipped the 50 millionth Razr, making it the most popular cell phone of any kind. The smooth exterior design simply makes it irresistible.

“The phone is becoming too cliché, they are everywhere,” said Cathryn Chuey, 10.

However, the phone does include multiple drawbacks, such as the crippled Bluetooth feature. And when compared to recent phones, the Razr has much less memory. The lack of an expansion card slot is a weakness as well.

The major disadvantage of the phone is its inability to transfer files directly between computer and phone. This prevents the multimedia feature to be fully utilized, and users are forced to purchase ringtones and wallpapers instead of transferring them for free.

Even with the shortcomings, this device is still well-balanced in all fields. Imaging, audio, and entertainment features are complete covered in the phone. Plus, with its unique and elaborate design, it continues to lure in millions of consumers.

“The Motorola Razr is a lot cooler than my current cell phone,” said Joe Duran, 10.

Being one of the best looking devices on the Verizon Wireless’ line up, the Razr will be a strong competitor in the market for a long time to come.

Cell phones are becoming a necessity now a days, it makes communication faster, easier, and more convenient than ever.

- Zach Reuscher, 11

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22

04.27.07

‘La Tierra Del Sol’

(‘The Land of the Sun’)

Spain travelers return with stories to share GABIROSE KEETON

J

business manager

STUDENTS ARE WALKING by Sevilla’s bull-fighing ring.

Contrary to most belief, bull fights occur just about once a year.

Students take a moment to admire the traditional clothing of the Spanish bull-fighters.

ust imagine…

Awakening in an unknown country, where English is not the primary language. Eating foreign food and walking through new streets.

This new land will be “home” for the next eight days and in this time it will offer unforgettable experiences.

This is exactly what happened to 39 students and six chaperones that traveled to Spain over the 2007 spring break. The trip had been spoken about and anticipated since May of last year. Since then, nothing had been able to even surmount the excitement the students felt for the upcoming voyage they were about to embark on.

“It really was a great experience, and it helped my Spanish a lot. I would definitely do it again,” said Alex Wissing, 10.

The six chaperones – Mrs. Kate Korchok, Ms. Renee Hevia, Mrs. Maggy Cobb-Wessling, Mrs. Kat Ferguson, and Mr. and Mrs. Mike Veraldo – highly anticipated the turn-out of the trip as well, for they would be put in charge of 39 lives for the nine days for which they would be in a different country, let alone a different continent.

“

SPAIN TRAVELERS ARE touring the magnificent Alhambra in Granada. The Alhambra is a palace and fortress structure of the Moorish monarchs of Granada. It is one of the most representative landmarks of Spain’s Arab past and exhibits exquisite Muslim architecture.

It really was a great experience, and it helped my Spanish a lot. I would definitely do it again.

THE GROUP IS leaving the famous Plaza Mayor. It is said to be “the most elegant square in the continent”. Students explored the 16 and 17th century narrow streets around the Plaza Mayor.

SPAIN TRAVELERS ARE visiting the Royal Palace in Madrid. It is an immense 18th century palace and said to be one of the most beautiful in Europe. Students toured 16 out of the 2750 rooms in the Palace.

-Alex Wissing, 10

The group met various times before departure day; each meeting revealed a little more about the trip, and escalated excitement levels. The glorious departure day finally arrived on Friday, March 23. The group arrived at Barajas Airport in Madrid on that Saturday and began touring immediately.

The group’s adventure began in Madrid where they spent two days. Then they left for Toledo for an afternoon, Sevilla for two days, Granada for one day, Cordoba for a long morning, and then back to Madrid for the final two days.

In this time, they saw places such as the famous Prado Museum, where most of Spain’s artistic treasures are hidden; the Royal Palace, an immense 18th century palace twice the size of Buckingham Palace; and the Mezquita, an 8th century Mosque, and at one time was the second largest mosque in the world.

“My favorite city was definitely Madrid,” said Katie Post, 10. “And my favorite memory would have to be the water wars we had outside the Royal Palace.”

Not only did the students and chaperones get to see beautiful artwork wherever they turned, but they also got to immerse themselves in the culturally rich environment.

Students enjoyed tapas dinners several nights, a flamenco dinner show, and the artistic influence on the streets of Spain. Nearly every house, flower, and garden was beautiful.

“Tasting different foods and experiencing the Spanish culture was really fun,” said Joanna Lin, 11.

Travelers returned home, longing to return to the country which had provided so much in the eight days in which they were there. Although now the adventures of Spain seem so far away, students brought home enough memories to last them a lifetime.

STUDENTS ON THE Spain trip are visiting the Mezquita. The Mezquita is an 8th century Mosque, and one of the most beautiful examples of Spanish-Muslim art. The mosque was built over a period of two centuries and students had the opportunity to tour it when they were in Cordoba.

STUDENTS ARE AWAITING the subway below the city of Madrid. The subway is the primary mode of transportation, besides walking. Travelers rode the subway to the Prado Museum.

Cincinnati

Atlanta

Madrid

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23

04.27.07

Recounting European vacation in pictures School trip to London, Paris, Rome brings new experiences, priceless memories ALEX GENNETT & DAPHNE HSU

W front huddle together in E and junior students ng with six Alo . ces THE 36 SOPHOMOR can Va & rre risian home, Pie r of their temporary Pa l Ferguson, the tou erons as well as Danie ap ch er nt ch ere tea d diff an o adult d insight int trip, students gaine pond. guide for the entire countries across the the in y tor his ed iew rev d an res ltu cu

staff writers

hile some students slept in at home or relaxed on the beach during spring break, 42 students, teachers, and parent chaperones traversed across Europe, visiting famous stops in three of the largest cities in the world: London, Paris, and Rome.

“Going to Europe was a great break to have during the school year,” said Anupreet Lekhi, 10. “Although I didn’t get to sleep in over spring break, the experiences were worth it.”

Traveling around via subway, tour bus, and foot, Ms. Marilyn Ray’s AP European History students got firsthand experience with local natives, cuisine, and history, sharing these priceless memories with familiar classmates and new friends in the group.

“It was the most amazing experience in my high school career thus far,” said Esther Wu, 10. “It was the best, it will probably be the best.”

THE VIEW FROM the steps of St. Paul’s Cathedral illustrates the diverse architecture in London, England, where participants on the trip stayed for two days after an eight-hour overnight plane flight from CVG Airport. Guided by Ferguson and Liz, the group also visited Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, Buckingham Palace, and tried Europe’s famous fish and chip meal. On day two in London, the group split into smaller groups according to where students wanted to go: Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, the National Gallery, or Camden Market. Later the same day, the group got to see Blue Man Group perform in one of London’s many theatres.

THIS MAP OF Europe illustrates the path the students and teachers on the trip took when traveling around Europe. In addition to the capital cities of England, France, and Italy, they also visited Florence and Assisi, Italy and spent two to three days in each country.

BRUCE WEN, KENNY Charriez, Danny Seymour, all 10, and Eugene Yoon, 11, stand under Paris’s most recognizable monument, the Eiffel Tower, before walking up more than 1,665 steps to the second level and riding a lift to the top. Arriving in Paris after two days in London via the Eurostar train, students visited the Montmartre district, Notre Dame Cathedral, Napoleon’s Arc de Triomphe, and the Lourve art museum. The group also got to sample crêpes, a thin cooked pancake with various toppings, and take a Paris-by-night tour on the River Seine.

LEFT, KING LOUIS XIV’s the Palace of Versailles is now open to the public as a historic building and museum. Located ten miles from the center of Paris, Versailles covers 250 acres of land and 300 years of rich history. Students paid a visit to the palace on their second day in Paris with an entertaining and knowledgeable Frenchman as their guide.

The group had the chance to see the Hall of Mirrors (pictured here), with its painted, chandeliered ceiling and wall covered in mirrors, as well as France’s former monarchs’ living quarters, including Marie Antoinette’s room, and the garden of Versailles.

RIGHT, MANY STATUES and fountains characterize Florence, Italy’s historical position as the center of Renaissance art. Here, a pigeon takes advantage of a statue’s head as a perching station. After three days in Paris, the group rode a night train to Florence for a one day stay. Students and teachers visited the beautiful Duomo cathedral of Florence and the Basilica di Santa Croce which holds the crypts of Galileo Galilee and Michelangelo. They also toured a leather workshop, saw Michelangelo’s masterpiece David, and got their first taste of Italian gelato.

all images by daphne

AFTER FLORENCE, participants rode a tour bus down to Assisi, a small town located on the top of a hill in the Italian countryside. This scene of a lawn with “peace” spelled out in shrubbery in front of the Basilica of St. Francis is a clear manifestation of Italy’s endearing and peaceful countryside. Spending an afternoon in Assisi, students and teachers visited a ceramics factory to purchase food and other trinkets and had the whole time free to relax and explore. “I really felt a sense of peace and serenity in Assisi,” said Seymour. “It was like nothing I have ever seen anywhere.”

hsu

STUDENTS AND CHAP ERONES pose in the stre et leading to St. Peter’s From Assisi, the group Basilica. took a tour bus south to Rome. Participants visited Vatican in the morning the during Pope Benedict XVI ’s Palm Sunday mass. Aft Ugo, a tour guide, took erwards, the group to the Coloss eum and Roman Forum. Acr from Julius Caesar’s cre oss mation site, Dan Tang, 10, Caroline Ibbotson, Becca Tsevat, 11, perform 10, and ed Marcus Brutus’ and Ma rc Antony’s monologues William Shakespeare’s The from Tragedy of Julius Caesar . In the evening, the gro a bus tour to Trevi Founta up took in and an empty St. Pet er’s Basilica at night.

24

Craving Persian?

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04.27.07

arts and entertainment

Cutlet recipe divulged Sadat-Hossienys share cultural version of common cuisine MARY ANN JIANG business manager

Cutlet is food both native and distinctive to many different countries. It is generally a slice of meat which has been breaded and fried. In the Iranian, or Persian, preparation the meat is not necessary if there is just a sauce-mixture (spices, eggs, curry) and potatoes.

“I used to hate it, [but] now I love it,” said Sabira Sadat-Hossieny, 11.

Among the many ways that cutlet is prepared, it is eaten with pita bread or plain; some people even like using ketchup to accompany the snack. Prepared in any manner, Iranian cutlet is a dish that is derived from various cultures but can be made for anyone to enjoy.

Ingredients 5 Potatoes cooked and mashed 1 tablespoon of salt 1 teaspoon of pepper 1 teaspoon of curry powder 1 tablespoon of cumin powder 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder 2 eggs

Directions Mix all the ingredients and fry

look ahead:

Artist spotlight

image by sharon wagner

SHARON WAGNER feature chief

Q&A with Mitch Allen, 12 Q. How did you get into art?

A. My first memory of art in my life was when I was

in 2nd grade. I asked my mom to help me draw a deer for a homework assignment. What she drew looked like a giant stick with legs. I said, “Mom that’s not a deer!” and I took the pencil and drew the deer myself.

Q. What is your favorite medium to work with?

A. Mrs. Copfer, my AP Studio Art teacher, forces us The Host, a South Korean movie, is invading movie theatres around the world and getting compared to movies like King Kong and Godzilla. Find out more on page 26.

What is Dart Wars all about? Find out about the controversial game and its history, rules, and complications on page 27.

Freefest, the name of this year’s Ozzfest, will draw huge crowds with its free admission.

Check out pages 28 and 29 for more details about the world’s biggest rock concert.

to work with all different mediums for our art. Some you grow to love and some you grow to hate, but it’s a wonderful experience to expand your skills. My favorite medium is a good old sharpened pencil.

Q. What inspires your work?

A. I’m not so sure that there is any one thing that

inspires my artwork. I just find art as a release from everything else that goes on in my life. I lock myself in my room and listen to Bob Marley while I work; it’s relaxing.

Q. Describe your style.

A. My style is bold. I find myself doing many deep

shadows and contrasting values. I develop a different style in every piece I do.

Q. Does your work reflect other artists?

A. I really don’t know that much about different artists or art in general, I just enjoy doing it.

Q. Any favorite pieces?

A. I try to like every piece that I do, but that’s just

not possible. Usually the more I like a piece, the more time I will spend on it. My huge painting of my big face is probably my favorite piece.

Q. What art classes have you taken/are you taking?

A. In high school, I’ve taken Art I and II, Drawing, and AP Studio Art. I wish I would have taken painting and photo.

Q. Have you won awards for your art?

A. I won two honorable mentions at the Scholastic

Art and Writing Awards for a watercolor and a colored pencil piece.

Q. Do you plan on turning art into a career?

A. In college I plan on studying physics, but

hopefully I will get the chance to take a couple of art classes and keep art as a part of my life. I don’t think Mrs. Copfer would ever let me give art up.

Q. Tell us about your other passions.

A. Art takes away from my other passion, sleeping.

Q. Last words?

A. I’d just like to thank all of my art teachers, Mrs.

Copfer, Mrs. Duebber, and Mr. Inwood for helping me find and expand upon my skills with art, and for making my experience at the high school a great one.

Neon Lites 9361

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04.27.07

Entering the world of art...

The Mad Pianist

Evoking passion Artists blaze with intensity, love in new season WENJUN ZHANG news chief

image by jennifer lee

RIVALING GODZILLA AND King Kong, this hideous creature terrorizes South Korea in The Host. This cinematic sensation has impressed movie-goers around the world, but has yet to reach theaters in the midwest. The film has received both harsh and favorable reviews from critics.

Killer thriller receives mixed reviews The Host invades cinemas around world SAM CLEARY

W staff writer

hat do movie-goers want? Is it horror?

Is it comedy? Action? Drama? To remember a film that has all of these would be nearly impossible.

Despite the common misconception, there is such a film, and according to South Korean producer Bong Joon-Ho, that film involves the likes of a monster living in the sewers and lakes of urban Korea.

The Host, an independent film that has already been surprising audiences across the country, is coming our way. Set in modern-day South Korea, the film begins when a sewage-contaminated creature emerges from the depths of the Han River.

When a young girl is taken by the monster, there is no one her family can turn to. So they take the only course of action left to save their distressed daughter: they arm themselves and go out for a stroll.

The film bursts with small touches that make it unlike any other “ordinary” monster flick. Tiny differences give this movie new spice that sets it apart from its predecessors.

For example, in one scene, a civilian is locked out of a shelter as the monster approaches. What begins as a cliché setup quickly changes course when the beast ignores the

straggler, and instead barges through the shelter in search of a bigger, more appealing meal.

However, critics and producers alike are critiquing the movie in many ways. Some are even calling it a “harsh, but biting critique of America’s war in Iraq.” For such a small film, Joon-Ho’s production is certainly getting its share of hype.

“The most dynamic and vital ‘creature feature’ to invade American screens in years, the South Korean hit movie The Host is neither a parody, subversion or revision of the often campy horror movie genre,” said Sean Axmaker of the Seattle Post.

The Host has hit the major cities of Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York, but it has not yet aired in Ohio or the rest of the midwest.

“It surprises me that this movie hasn’t really gotten the excitement that 300 got. It’s like no one knows a good movie when they see one!” said Roddy Irwin, 9.

All things considered, Godzilla, King Kong, and Jaws can all take a hike, because Magnolia Pictures’ newest cult hit has taken “the monsters” to new heights.

“

The greatest monster movie ever made.

- Total Film

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Highfield Discovery Garden 10405 Springfield Pike 513-728-3551 ext.245

Wizard’s Garden Vegetable Garden Trolley Garden Butterfly Garden and more

April and May: the months when love and art flourish. From the romantic scenery of The Secret Garden and the tempestuous music of the Senior Spotlight concert to the gorgeous talents of the Senior Art Show, our artists will overwhelm with passion and intensity.

The Secret Garden was our school’s spring musical. A reenactment of the book, this musical told the story of a little girl named Mary whose parents were killed by cholera in India. She goes to live with her uncle Craven Archibald; there, she uncovers many mysteries and develops into a healthy, whole person.

The school’s cast was very well prepared and the musical was beautiful. The songs themselves complimented the story and the thespians put much feeling into the songs. The orchestra was also phenomenal. Bravo to our talented thespians.

In addition, the orchestra will be performing their Senior Spotlight concert on May 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium. This concert features the talented and dedicated seniors that grace the orchestra.

Senior Mei Hsieh will be performing Havanaise by Camille Saint-Saens on the violin. Hsieh is the concertmistress of the orchestra and is one of the finest musicians our school has to offer. She is also a member of the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra.

Senior Sarah Hansen will be performing Edgar Elgar’s cello Concerto. Hansen is the section leader of the cellos and a phenomenal artist. She plans on being a cello performance major. She is also a member of the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra.

Anna Kwa, 12 will be performing the Andante and Hungarian Rondo by Carl von Weber. Kwa is the section leader of the violas and is in the CSYO. She is one of the best violists the school has seen.

Pezzo Capriccioso by Peter Tchaikovsky will be performed by Audry Kang, 12 on the cello. She is the 2nd chair of the school cello section and is an artist of great skill and musicality. She is also in the Cincinnat Symphony Youth Orchestra.

In addition to these talented soloists, the orchestra will feature a student conductor who will lead the orchestra in a piece. This year, that piece will be Tango por Una Cabeza, a challenging piece. This passionate song is a joy to listen to.

In addition, on May 11, the Senior Art Show will take place. This much anticipated display will show our artists’ work they have accumulated over the years.

Thus, be sure to mark calendars with the dates of the Senior Spotlight Concert and the Senior Art Show.

Also, be sure to praise the thespians of our school for the phenomenal job they did in their spring musical, The Secret Garden. The spring season of art is sizzling with intensity as it blooms into full force.

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26 LCD Soundsystem: New album, Sound of Silver, set to have successful year

D

KEVIN HALL

04.27.07

LCD SOUNDSYSTEM PERFORMS one of their up-beat tracks for an intrigued audience. They recently released a new album called Sound of Silver. The new album is previewed to do well this year.

staff writer

ance music should always be simple, catchy and most of all fun to groove to. LCD Soundsystem’s latest release Sound of Silver delivers with its sonic It is not just limited to dance aficionados, but it provides enjoyment.

And no, this record does not sound anything like the annoying backing tracks in Dance Dance Revolution.

Sound of Silver owes much of its catchy and hook laden nature to the beats present on the album. They are up-tempo and rock based. The average listener can differentiate each instrument, even without a trained ear.

The use of Analogue equipment and real drums make the music sound more organic. The raw, pulsating, and brash music combined with the beat, creates what some critics have labeled as dance-punk.

Often the basic formula of the songs on Sound of Silver is that of a danceable beat, a throbbing bass line, and James Murphy’s sneer.

Occasionally a synth line and some other textures will be added, but overall there is very little layering and the drums and vocals are at the “front” of the mix.

Sound of Silver will appeal to lovers of independent music, no question. However, LCD Soundsystem’s latest release will appeal to anyone who enjoys up-beat, catchy, rhythm based music.

Sound of Silver is one of the best releases of the year, and will undoubtedly end up on countless of best-of compilations and lists for 2007 as a highlight of this year.

image by nadia khan

Eye-opening novel Nickel and Dimed explores life of poverty-stricken individuals

LIBBY HENNING feature chief

How little we know about poverty. We live in a nice community surrounded by pleasant and friendly people.

Nickel and Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich takes a real journalist, Barbara, and places her in a pickling situation.

With no transportation and no credentials, she has to find a minimum wage job and a place to live.

From $6.50 working at a diner to $7.00 at Wal-Mart, she travels from Florida to Maine, staying in motels for weeks

while attempting to find an apartment.

In this book she exposes many biases that people have towards poverty-stricken people. In the novel, many people pass the pan-handlers and think that they are bad people.

Many do not understand what it is like to have poverty thrust upon them or to have lived in poverty their entire lives. People think that they need to just get a job. What

they do not know is that many of those people have a job, maybe even two.

This revealing book is a great way to open eyes to the reality that there are people suffering.

Diana Henriques of The New York “Times” is quoted on the front cover as saying, “Captivating…Just promise that you will read this explosive little book cover to cover and pass it on to all your friends and relatives.”

SYCAMORE

HAS MADE A MARK ON YOU.

Now it’s your turn to leave a mark on Sycamore.

Small Brick- $300 5 ½” x 3 ½ ” Large Brick- $500 7 ½” x 5”

Brass Leaf- $100 4” x 1 ½”

To place your order, pick up an order form from the front desk. You may also request an order form by contacting

Linda at the Sycamore Foundation

(513) 791-3861

SycamoreFoundation@gmail.com

SYCAMORE SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

LEGACY TREE

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ROBERT WHALEY, 11 and Andy Wenning, 11 prepare for a dart wars shootout. The shootouts occur at the end of the week if teams are tied. The shootouts take a lot of preparation and strategy.

Dart Wars 2007 DANNY MONTAGUE

A

staff writer

s the snow melts and the flowers start to bloom, students are engaging in one of the most intense but exciting experiences of high school: Dart Wars.

The Dart Wars tournament begins every year the week after spring break. This classic hide-and-seek game consists of five-person teams that compete with nerf guns and try to eliminate their opposing teams.

Dart Wars are said to have originated here at this high school. It started out as an invitation-only event, but its popularity grew over time and soon expanded to a large co-ed activity which anyone could join.

However, there were no rules for the game until 1998, when a senior named Chad Dewald began the current style of Dart Wars. He added limitations on the guns or darts used and he started disqualification if these rules were broken.

Many other rules were later added, such as the infamous “thong rule” and the banning of dart guns on school grounds.

This game has grown quite popular in the Cincinnati area and many other schools have imitated it, but it is not

Q&A with Tom Irwin, 12

Students prepare for classic game of survival

quite the same anywhere else.

The people in charge of Dart Wars are four to five judges who are selected by the judges from the year before. They must be seniors and usually have a good deal of experience in dart wars.

“My team got pretty far last year, but we didn’t win it.

I’m a judge now and I’m trying to make sure nobody gets us in trouble this year,” said Thomas Irwin, 12.

Anyone in the school is allowed to join, but many underclassmen are at a disadvantage because they either cannot drive or do not have a parking space. Driving is a crucial component of Dart Wars because many eliminations occur on the way to or from school.

“Last year I couldn’t drive, so I had to have my teammates come every day to pick me up at my house,” said Trent Linhardt, 11. “It was really annoying and I think it is better to just wait until you can drive to play Dart Wars.”

Although Dart Wars is a great deal of fun, it is also very controversial and frowned upon by the local police and the high school. It was accepted by the district until 1999, when a student hit a car trying to shoot a player on the

(dart wars judge)

Q. How would you describe dart wars to someone out of the A.

all images by danny montague

district?

I would describe it as an intense adrenaline rush that cannot be imitated.

Q. What suggestions would you make for first timers?

A. Don’t do anything stupid and don’t take it too seriously; it’s a game.

Q. How do you sign up for dart wars?

A. You print off waivers from the website, get them signed by

your parents and then turn them into the judges along with fifty dollars.

Q. What do you think is the key to success in dart wars?

A. Patience and commitment to your team.

opposing team.

All Dart Wars paraphernalia is now banned on school grounds. If a student is caught, the weapons will be confiscated and he or she will be punished and disqualified.

There have been many complaints from the community about car accidents, public disturbances, and students running around in nothing but a small piece of cloth.

Police despise it and wish it would come to an end. In past competitions, police have pulled guns on students staking out houses.

Residents often see students wearing camouflage and holding what look like weapons, so they call the police.

“I think if the residents knew about the game, they would not freak out when they see someone outside a house,” said Nate Dicken, 11. “We are not trying to hurt anyone; we just want to have some fun.”

Despite many people’s strong opposition to it, Dart Wars continues and is being played again this year. As long as everyone plays to have fun, and does not take it too seriously, it will continue to be a good time for high school students.

Basic Dart Wars Weapons Revolver- this gun is meant for close range attacks and it shoots multiple shots.

Darts- these are the ammunition for all of the dart guns.

Single Shot- this gun is used for an emergency situation and shoots only one shot.

Blowgun- this gun is effective over long ranges but only shoots one shot at a time.

Rapid fire- this gun shoots many shots at once and is used for close range eliminations.

Secret Shot- this is an emergency weapon that is convenient for surprising an enemy.

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‘We also want the kids to be able to afford to

Ozzfest XII: biggest rock concert

all images by matt davenport and matt scheer

“FREEFEST,” AS THIS year’s Ozzfest is so aptly named, will be the first of its kind, Offering free entrance to the event, metal-heads everywhere can experience all this concert has to offer. Headlining the show this year is none other than Ozzy Osbourne, followed by Lamb of God, Lordi,

and an as of yet unannounced fourth band. With a star-studded main stage and a solid second stage line-up, “Freefest ‘07” is screaming to please all of its attendees this year.

MATT DAVENPORT

O

staff writer

zzfest is arguably the most popular rock concert of any year. Now, it is completely free. Now being called “Freefest 2007,” the prospect of having a free Ozzfest certainly has sparked an excitement among metalheads everywhere.

Ozzfest tickets are now free due to the extensive sponsorship that the concert has received. On Ozzfest.com, Sharon Osbourne stated that “For the last few years ticket prices have steadily climbed as artists demand more and more money for summer tours. We certainly want everybody to make money, however we also want the kids to be able to afford to come out and have an incredible experience. If we continued with the traditional touring festival model, we would have no choice but to raise ticket prices again this year.”

To secure a ticket to the groundbreaking event, one must go to one of the following sites: livenation.com, ozzfest.com, jagermusic.com, monsterenergy.com, or fye. com.

From these websites, ticket codes will begin being distributed on May 12. In turn, these codes can be redeemed for tickets beginning June 12 – exactly one month before

the first Ozzfest ‘07 show in Seattle. Fans will return to the site where they registered, enter their code, and download two tickets to the show of their choice.

Currently there are 25 dates that the tour is scheduled for, including Columbus, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Albuquerque, Phoenix, Dallas, San Antonio, Kansas City, St Louis, Chicago, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Hartford, Charlotte, Atlanta, West Palm Beach, and Nashville.

On an even more exciting note, this year’s main-stage headliner is none other than the Ozzy Osbourne himself.

While the “Ozz-man” performed at a few locations in 2006, he was incapacitated for most of the tour. Concert goers can expect to hear Ozzy’s new material, which is his first new material since 2001.

“This year’s Ozzfest is going be spectacular. Last year tickets were around $80, and now that they’re free it’s going to be sold out in about 2 minutes,” said Zach Sebastian, 11.

Ozzfest came into being in 1996. Ozzy gathered with Slayer, Danzig, Biohazard, Sepultura, and Fear Factory to hold his own concert that would rock the world.

Since then, Ozzfest has drawn millions of fans, who

come to rock out to a different assortment of rock bands.

Performing alongside Ozzy this year is the phenomenal metal quintet Lamb of God. With their 2006 release of Sacrament, paired with relentless touring with Slayer on 2006’s Unholy Alliance tour, Lamb of God has rocketed to the top of metal’s charts. All of these events have culminated in no less than a Grammy nomination for “Best Metal Performance.”

In an interview on Ozzfest.com, drummer Chris Adler said “I don’t want to say it was a shock, but it was certainly unexpected.”

Also on main stage this year is the European phenomenon Lordi. Latex-masked and costumed from head to toe, Lordi promises to give audiences a spectacular show.

Headlining the second stage this year is the heavy hitter Hatebreed. After releasing Supremacy, the band’s fifth album to date, as well as performing on the main stage of last year’s Ozzfest, Hatebreed is ready to electrify audiences everywhere.

Also performing on second stage at this year’s Ozzfest are Behemoth, Nick Oliveri and the Mondo Generator, Nile, Ankla, Circus Diablo, The Showdown, 3 Inches of Blood, Daath, In This Moment, and CHTNONIC.

a&e

29

04.27.07

come out and have an incredible experience’

of 2007 is now completely free

OZZFEST HAS A history of heavy hitters, as seen above, clockwise from the top left: Avenged Sevenfold, Korn, Marilyn Manson, System of a Down, Slayer, Slipknot, and Disturbed. Many more

bands have performed, each giving metal-heads everywhere another reason to come to Ozzfest each year. Other Ozzfest alumni include Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Lamb of God, Atreyu, and Black Label

Ozzfest comes into existence, gains popularity MATT SCHEER

T

staff writer

he music festival Lollapalooza in 1996 refused to let Ozzy join the tour. Upset and destined to tour, Ozzy and wife, Sharon Obourne, started their own tour named Ozzfest.

In 1998, Ozzfest traveled out of the US for the first time. They went to the United Kingdom. After four shows, main stage band Korn dropped off, when one of the band member’s wife had given birth. Ozzfest would continue to travel to the United Kingdom in 2001, 2002. 2005 marked Ozzfest’s last venture into the UK, as the Download Festival, a similar tour featuring many of the same bands, took over throughout Europe.

In 2002, Ozzfest extended its borders to central Europe. This tour marked the death of Drowning Pool’s frontman Dave Williams from an undiagnosed heart condition.

Sharon was having trouble finding bands to take the second stage in the following years, so in 2004 she did something about it. In 2004, MTV hosted a show called Battle for Ozzfest. On the show, hundreds of bands competed for a spot on the stage in 2005, and only four would advance. Ozzy picked one member of the four remaining bands and asked them to tag along on the tour with him doing various tasks to anger the contestants into dropping out. The last band member standing got a spot on the second stage for his band. The winner was Mac Serrano of A Dozen Furies.

Due to Ozzy’s physical condition, he was only on a handful of dates in 2006 on the second stage. This year, he will be returning to every tour date on the main stage.

Camden Incident of 2004

On the August 26, 2004 show in Camden, New Jersey, Black Sabbath was headlining the tour with many other bands as well as Judas Priest.

Ozzy Osbourne, frontman of the infamous metal legend Black Sabbath, came down with bronchitis at the show prior to Camden. All day he was resting and hoping he would be able to sing later that night.

The fans had not been notified yet of Ozzy’s condition and were intending on seeing the “Prince of Darkness” perform. Literally minutes before Black Sabbath was set to take the stage, DJ Tommy Conwell took the stage and notified to the already rowdy crowd of Ozzy’s bronchitis. Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife and manager, had decided to have someone fill-in for Ozzy so the crowd was not completely deprived of seeing this legendary band.

She approached Rob Halford, frontman of Judas Priest, yet another legendary metal band, and asked him to fill in for Ozzy. Judas Priest and Black Sabbath were climbing the charts around the same time so of course Rob knew most every lyric Black Sabbath had written. When this was announced, many of the concert-goers began to boo.

Iron Maiden Incident of 2005

Due to Ozzy’s physical conditions, Black Sabbath also had to cancel several shows on the 2005 tour. Which were filled by extending secondary headliner Iron Maiden’s set. Bruce Dickinson, frontman of Iron Maiden made some vulgar comments on the stage that Sharon Osbourne took personally, and thought they were about her family.

Destined for revenge against what she thought was an act of hate, she took vengeance. During Iron Maiden’s set on the San Bernardino date, Sharon arranged for road crews and her daughter, Kelly Osbourne, to throw eggs and various objects at Iron Maiden during their performance. Second stage performer Bury Your Dead was also reported to have thrown objects at the band.

Sharon was not done. Later on in the set she managed to cut off their PA. She then walked on stage and told Bruce Dickinson just what she thought of him. At this point, many Iron Maiden fans had walked out before Black Sabbath was supposed to take the stage, and Iron Maiden’s main stage slot was handed down to Velvet Revolver, featuring Guns n’ Roses’ Slash.

MANY BIG-NAME bands have graced the main stage at Ozzfest with their unholy presence. Dangling above from the hands of The Prince of Darkness himself are seasoned veterans Black Label Society, Hatebreed, Pantera, Slayer, Slipknot, and Korn. Black Label Society has been on 6 of the 11 Ozzfests having caught an easy break, as their frontman and lead guitarist, Zakk Wylde, has been one of Ozzy’s second-hand guitarists in the past. Hatebreed has made their way to 5 of the 11 Ozzfests, and are racking up their sixth this summer.

sports

30 Troy Smith not factor in pre-draft predictions NADIA KHAN sports chief

Tomorrow begins the process that could change the lives of many hard-working young men. It is the beginning of the NFL draft, and with all of the hype of who will go where and in what round, I could not help but notice one important name missing from all the talk, the biggest name of the 2006-2007 college football season: Troy Smith.

It is understandable that after such a poor showing in his final NCAA game as a Buckeye in the National Championships that Smith be forgotten, or maybe even left out, in all the excitement. After the dreadful night in Glendale Arizona on January 8, many people were saying that this could be the downfall of Smith.

However, Smith did lead the Buckeyes to the National Championship, and helped them hold on to the number one spot for the entire duration of the season— until losing it to Florida in the postseason. Also, in case everyone has forgotten, Smith is the Heisman Trophy winner of the 06-07 season.

Now, I do understand that Troy Smith is not a very tall person, which is never a positive in the NFL. He is only 6-foot, while the other quarterback contenders in the draft, JaMarcus Russel of LSU and Brady Quinn of Notre Dame, are 6’6 and 6’4 respectively.

In my opinion, height is not really that big of a factor, seeing as there are successful NFL quarterbacks who are as short, if not shorter, than Smith. Just look at New Orleans Saints’ quarterback Drew Brees and Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback Michael Vick, who are 5’11 and 6’0 respectively.

What angers me even more is that Ted Ginn Jr. will probably be an early first-round draft pick—just because of his speed. I realize that he scored one of the measly two touchdowns for Ohio State in the National Championship, but his ball-handling skills are extremely limited, if not nonexistent.

We all saw tremendous talent, passion, and effort in Smith, and it is a shame that because of one faulty performance, which I still blame on the Buckeyes offensive line, and a slight height disadvantage, he will likely be overlooked in the draft.

Nonetheless, the draft predictions do not always work out as planned. It all depends on what the choosing team is looking for. Take last year for example. Not many people would have predicted that defensive end Mario Williams of the Houston Texans would be the number one overall pick—over Reggie Bush, but that is exactly how the draft played out.

So maybe Troy Smith will not be a first-round pick; he may not even be a second-round pick. Who can really know for sure?

But then again, Tom Brady was a sixth-round draft pick out of Michigan, and with three Super Bowl rings on his fingers, I would dare to say things turned out all right for him.

If what I believe is true, and Smith really is as passionate about football and furthering his career as he has proved to be in the past, then the round in which he is drafted will not matter to his success.

Success Stories: NADIA KHAN sports chief

Seniors Kyle Battle and Sarah McGrath were nominated for the 2007 Anthony Munoz Foundation Straight “A” Student of the Year Award. This prestigious award looks at students’ grades and their achievements in sports and in the community.

Q&A with Sarah McGrath, 12

does it feel to be nominated for such a Q. How prestigious award?

So weird. I don’t understand to be honest.

A. Dude.

No matter the outcome, this has been such a big

Q. A.

honor and a definite bright spot in my life.

Where did you come up with the idea for Pack the Stands with Pink?

Two of my family friends were diagnosed with breast cancer when my mom and I threw out the idea. Many times we think of these big ideas but never follow through. To be honest, I didn’t think we would actually do it! But my mom definitely gets the credit for really getting the ball rolling on it. After we started the initial plans for the game, so many people came up with so many great ideas that ended up making the night so incredible.

does it feel to know that your idea will be Q. How carried on state-wide next year? so amazing; I really can’t believe it. Our school A. It’s raised over $4,000. Next year, there will be 800

Q. A.

high schools participating in the event, so it will be incredible.

Why did you decide to stop playing volleyball?

I think I’m ready to move on. I love volleyball, but I feel like my time with it is done. I’m ready to do new things. The only thing that really kept me playing this year are the people. They are my family.

Q. Any advice for aspiring young athletes? take it too seriously. In the end, you won’t A. Don’t remember the games you won or lost, but the

people you were with and the times you shared.

all images by nadia khan

Q&A with Kyle Battle, 12

does it feel to be nominated for such a Q. How prestigious award?

It really is pretty rewarding. I mean I’m not one to A. flaunt my achievements, but being recognized is always a good feeling.

How were you able to be so active in sports, Student Council, the community, and school?

Q. was lucky enough to be born with a time A. Imanagement gene. I allotted so much time to each Q. A.

event, and then I moved to the next thing.

How did you get to the point where you are now?

How long have you been playing sports?

I’ve gotten to where I am now by enduring the hard times and being realistically optimistic. I’ve been playing basketball for nine, almost ten years, and I played football for nine years, too.

Q. Do you plan to play sports for the NCAA next year? will be playing basketball at Dartmouth College A. Inext year.

Q. Any advice for aspiring young athletes?

A. What you put in is what you get out.

Q. Any last words?

Lewis once said, “Success is not defined by A. Marvin how well you perform the tasks you enjoy but by how conscientiously you do the ones you don’t.”

a look at what is coming up

NFL draft draws attention

on deck

nadia’s sports news

04.27.07

Check out page 31 to find out how the varsity and JV baseball teams have started out their seasons.

>>31

Know any girls on varsity lacrosse this year? Move on ahead to page 32 to see how their season has been going.

>>32

JaMarcus Russell is predicted to be a first-round draft pick for the NFL. Go to page 34 to learn more about the draft.

>>34

sports 04.27.07

31 Varsity baseball swings into action Added experience provides excitement for upcoming season MATTHEW MENDELSOHN

W

staff writer

Full

Court Trend in Cincinnati: Minor league sports ignored JARED KAMRASS staff writer

Jungle Kats and Cyclones. Believe it or not, these are more than fictitious animals and natural disasters. These are minor league sports teams that reside in the Cincinnati metropolitan area.

Do not feel bad. You are not less of a sports fan just because you never have heard of any of these teams. In fact, the vast majority of the fans of Cincinnati, one of the greatest sports cities in the country, have not either.

Even the most casual sports fan has been to a Reds game and seen the Bengals on TV. Professional sports are a way of life in this city, the nation’s 24th largest. This is evidenced by the Bengals; they are in the middle of a long consecutive sell-out streak and the Reds have some of the most loyal fans in baseball.

Why, then, cannot organizations like the Jungle Kats of the up-and-coming Arena Football League 2 attract thousands of fans on a weekend night in this sports hungry town?

The answer is simple. People simply do not care and they never have. Why go to a Florence Freedom baseball game when you can see the Chicago Cubs take on the Reds on the same night?

People all feel the same way: why see low-grade sports when you can travel ten minutes and see the cream of the crop? Why order jello when crème brulee is on the menu?

Minor league hockey used to dominate this city. The Cincinnati Cyclones and Cincinnati Mighty Ducks of the IHL and AHL respectively could draw close to 9,000 a night, a rarity in minor league sports. The Ducks moved away in the early part of the century and the ‘Clones took a temporary hiatus, unable to find an NHL affiliate.

Hockey tried making a comeback last year with the Cincinnati RailRaiders. Not surprisingly, the RailRaiders did not sell enough tickets to warrant even playing one game at the creaky Cincinnati Gardens. The Cyclones came back though, but sold embarrassingly low numbers of tickets.

The Cyclones now play in the ECHL, the equivalent of AA in baseball, and are last in the league in average attendance despite being located in the largest city that hosts an ECHL team.

While cities such as Kansas City and Oklahoma City are building world class arenas and attracting teams from the NBA and the NHL, Cincinnati desperately tries to pay for its riverfront stadiums. How can fans expect to see more than minor league sports in second class arenas like the ones in Cincinnati?

Part of the problem is that Cincinnati is a sports town enigma. It is neither big enough for a large enough fan base to give a minor league team a niche, nor small enough to only focus its support on one minor league or semi-pro team.

Take Chicago and Philadelphia for examples. These cities rank third and fifth in population in the country and are home to teams in all four premier leagues (MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA). They also have the Wolves and Phantoms respectively, minor league hockey teams that are supported wonderfully.

Chicago and Philadelphia are big enough that they have large enough fan bases to support these minor league teams and allow these teams to find their niche in each metropolis. And cities like Hershey, PA are small enough

MICHA GOLDFARB (12) fields a ground ball for the Varsity baseball team. The team has had an up and down start thus far, but the team has shown considerable skill.

As the season has begun, the Aves have several hitters who have already hit their stride, including Micah Goldfarb, 12, who leads the team with a .533 batting average, and Conner, who is hitting .500 along with tying for the lead in the GMC with two home runs (including a clutch, 3-run home run that gave Sycamore a victory). With three other hitters hitting above .300, the offense seems to be in shape.

With the exception of one game, the pitching staff has been stellar, with a respectable ERA of 4.70 in the GMCs. Connors leads the team in ERA; while Valenti leads the team in innings pitched, strikeouts.

They have a packed-schedule, with games scheduled for nearly every weekday, plus weekend double headers. With over 15 games left to play, anything can happen in the GMC, as Varsity looks to try and improve upon last season’s 9-18 (5-13 GMC) record. photo by jeremy mcdaniel

JV baseball team off to fast-paced season WILL JOHNSTON sports chief

Only a short way into the spring season, the JV baseball team has already established a pattern of success. The team has started off the season with a solid 10-3 record (9-2 GMC).

JV started off the season on March 26th at home versus Princeton, winning this game 13-4. In the second part of the teams’ back to back games, JV once again prevailed 12-10 on March 28th.

The JV team followed up these victories by beating Lakota West 12-3 on March 30th, starting off the season 3-0. However, the team also lost its

first game to the Firebirds, falling 8-5 in the teams’ second meeting.

JV won its first non-conference victory on April 2nd, beating Loveland 9-6. But, the boys also lost to the Tigers 11-7 on April 3rd.

Following this, the JV squad defeated Colerain 3-0 on April 5th.

After poor weather cancelled several games, the Aves retook the field on Monday, April 9th. The team played Lakota East, winning this game 12-4.

The team played again on Tuesday, April 11th, playing Colerain in another game that was rescheduled because of the bad weather. Colerain

prevailed 10-2 in a rather sloppy performance by the JV baseball team, who quickly recovered, as they blasted the Middletown Middies 27-4 in their next game.

The team again defeated Middletown by a more respectable margin of 8-1 on April 16th completing their sweep of the Middies.

Most recently, the team defeated Lakota East 6-5 and also beat Hamilton 11-4. These games together brought JV’s record to 10-3, 9-2 GMC. The rest of the team schedule can be viewed online at goaves.org, though it is tentative and subject to change.

Track team races forward Girls, boys teams both succeed in beginning season meets JEREMY SPIEGEL staff writer

The track teams took a huge jump out of the block towards their goal of a GMC championship with the Coaches Classic 2007 on April 2 at Fairfield High School.

Three boy participants and seven girls qualified for the finals.

“This weekend showed that we have the talent necessary to compete for the GMC title,” said John Stucker, 10.

For the boys, Taylor Williams, 12, Ben Foley, 10, Luke Tawney, 12, and the 4x800 relay team qualified for the finals. Meanwhile, Ahna Reese, 9, Ali Shewman, 11, Alanah Sonntag, 10, Denna Schwen, 11, the 4x100 relay team, the 4x800 relay team, and Ellen Farr, 11, qualified

for the second day.

“The large number of qualifiers in our first meet of the year will hopefully set the tone for the remainder of the season,” said Stucker, a member of the boys 4X800 relay team, along with Foley, Mike McMillan, 10, and Jimmy Morgan, 10.

Williams finished highest of any Sycamore participant, placing second in the boys’ one mile run, with a time of 4:33.53. The rest of the qualifiers also performed admirably, each one placing in the top fifteen.

In all, the girls earned 26 points, placing 11th out of 27.

The boys placed 16th out of 29, receiving 15 points.

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where minor league sports are the only gig in town.

Cincinnati is squarely in between, a black hole of minor league sports. Cincinnati cannot substantially support a minor league team without a loyal fan base and the temptation of seeing major league sports in almost every month at the same time.

So next time you drive by US Bank Arena or Cincinnati Gardens on your way to a Reds or Bengals game and see the Jungle Kats or Cyclones are playing, do not feel guilty.

You are merely doing what every typical Cincy sports fan does: ignoring the little guy.

ith nine seniors coming back for this season, this year’s varsity baseball team seems to now have all the experience, along with the talent, to make a run at this season’s GMC championship.

They have started the season with a 6-7 record, showing wild inconsistency between pitching and hitting, winning some games by wide margins, other games losing by 10.

The Aves have a powerful offense, led by Trevor Lothrop, 11, who was among the GMC leading hitters last season, and Brian Shrimpton, 12, who has signed with Georgetown College to play baseball next season.

The Aves lost their top three starters from last season, but the senior trio of Brian Conner, 12, Ian Swoboda, 12, David Valenti, 12, hopes to fill their shoes.

The team has several juniors and underclassmen, providing solid players for the future.

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sports

32

04.27.07

Varsity softball suffers rough start

SENIOR LIZZIE LOHSE cradels the ball for the Lady Aves. Half way through the season, varsity stands undefeated at 8-0 and is considered by many to be the top team in the area. Building on teamwork and a high powered attack squad, the Lady Aves are gunning for their first state title.

HANNAH MYERS

staff writer

photo by jeremy mcdaniel

Girls lacrosse looks forward to each game

Mid-season and still playing strong GRACE NAUGLE

P

staff writer

robably one of the most unique aspects of the girls lacrosse team is the fact that there is always something to look forward to.

“This lacrosse season has been awesome so far. The team is playing great, the pasta parties are amazing, looking forward to senior night, and most of all, state!” said Lizzie Lohse, 12.

The girls are already mid-season and as of 4/19, have eight wins down in the book, and still undefeated. There is still a long road ahead en route towards a State Championship, the team’s ultimate goal, but the girls look forward to each week even with anticipation. This year, the team is taking one game at a time and this strategy can only lead them to success.

“It’s my senior year, I want to make the most out of everything. I’m planning on this season to last as long as it can. All the way to the State finals,” said Karen Nesbitt, 12, who will be attending Stanford University next year on a lacrosse scholarship.

The team also had an overall great experience on the Spring Break Trip that made stops in Pennsylvania; Ocean City, Maryland and Annapolis, Maryland over a course of four nights and five days.

The trip began with a game against Peters Township and the girls took care of business with a 13-8 finish. Bennet High School of Maryland hosted the girls for a joint practice, and a scrimmage was played against Stephen Decatur. The score of the Stephen Decatur game was 6-4.

“Spring break was really fun and the competition there really helped us see what we were doing well and what we needed to improve on,” said Allison Bell, 12, who will be attending the University of Cincinnati next year on a lacrosse scholarship.

Free time was spent practicing (tanning) on the Ocean City beach, shopping in outlet malls, riding on a charter bus, touring Salisbury University, walking on the Ocean City Boardwalk, swimming in hotel pools, touring the Navy (including watching a noon formation), also touring

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downtown Annapolis and sleeping.

Recapping on the past few games, the girls have shown strength in all aspects of the game. The girls went out and completely dominated leaving Illinois team Lake Forest helpless at the annual Hannigan-Galapault tournament in Columbus, Ohio at Thomas Worthington High School.

The final score of the game was 11-4. Sophomore Emile Hunter was consistent in rolling the crease and defeating the low defenders time after time. She led the team with a total of four goals. Nesbitt followed with three goals along with Becca McLouth, 11, and Lily Ricci, 10, with one. Brett Yenger, 11, was tested in goal and passed with three outstanding saves.

The girls lacrosse team beat Indian Hill 19-4. Bell led the team with five goals; Hunter had four goals and one assist; Ricci had three goals; Nesbitt, had two goals and two assists; McLouth, had two goals and one assist; Lohse had two goals and two assists; Grace Naugle, 12 had one assist and Rachel Pittman, 10 had one goal.

“The Indian Hill game was a fun win. It’s great to be playing at our home field with all of our fans there to support,” said Emile Hunter, 10.

The girls also defeated St. Ursula 16-2.

Recently, the April issue of RISE, a Sportschool publication magazine, featured the team in an article. Entitled “Recognize Teams in Greater Cincy that Demand Attention: Girls Lacrosse/ Sycamore”, the piece highlighted key players and season outlook. It stated, “It’s safe to say the aviators are the best girls’ lacrosse team in Greater Cincy. They have lost just one game to an area team in the last seven years en route to four district championships and four state semifinal appearances.”

The team is ranked first in the Coaches Poll ‘Between the Pipes’ at sticksup.com and according to the website, “Aves look like the team to beat!”. The team is also ranked number one on in Ohio at laxpower.com based on winning percentages and margins as of 4/19. All Records and statistics as of 4/19

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The rough start for the varsity softball team has not hindered their chances at the GMC title. After losing their first two games to Colerain and Middletown, they fought for their first win in a double-header at Seton.

“Our first win was pretty exciting even though we lost our second game in the double-header,” said Molly Richards, 10.

Their next opponent was Hamilton, and the Lady Aves were again defeated. Their spirits were down, and they suffered two more losses against Fairfield and Lakota East.

“The season wasn’t looking very bright for us, and we were getting worried that we might not be able to clinch our GMC title,” said Emily Petrocy, 12.

After major losses, and an uneasy start to the season, the team began to pick their hopes back up. After what seemed like the shortest game in the history of softball, the girls had defeated Oak Hills, with a final score of 3-0.

“I think this win was needed because it showed us that anything is possible, and that our goal as a team can still be accomplished,” said Kelly Cassidy, 11.

Powderpuff showdown:

Set for May 2 Seniors, juniors battle for class pride NADIA KHAN sports chief

The battle is getting closer. The senior and junior girls will fight it out on the football field on May 2 at 7 p.m. as they are set to play each other in the annual powderpuff game after preparing for the past three weeks.

“I know people always say that the seniors always win, but anything can happen,” said Aarti Vala, 11.

Powderpuff gives girls who probably would not make the boys football team a chance to play the male-dominated sport in a fun manner. While the competition and energy are still high, the long-term expectations and consequences are minimal.

This is due in part to the fact that powderpuff is not technically a real sport with real coaches; it is just a way for girls to show what they have to offer and to present a little class pride.

“We have a ton of people signed up to play, nearly 60 people, so it should be a good fun-filled season,” said Jackie Pittman, 11.

The date of the showdown was switched to a day after prom so that none of the girls’ proms would be ruined by any injuries resulting from the game.

Leading the senior girls is Emily Beech, 12, and leading the junior girls are Mel McLaughlin, 11, and Pittman.

Football players from the boys team coach the girls for each grade. Coaching the seniors is Mitch Allen, 12, while coaching the juniors are Joey Alemagno, 11 and Andrew Hare, 11.

The game is likely to live up to all the excitement, as both teams have been practicing to play together using teamwork to win.

sports

33

04.27.07

NBA draft nears as players decide future Xavier-Ohio State game proves Florida, Ohio State among top teams to lose star power

W WILL JOHNSTON sports chief

image by nadia khan

GOING UP FOR a dunk in the first round of the NCAA tournament is Buckeye Greg Oden. Oden decided to enter the NBA draft along with teammates Mike Conley Jr., and Daequan Cook. Florida will also be losing their star-four of Corey

Brewer, Taurean Green, Al Horford and Joakim Noah.

ith the NBA Draft drawing closer, underclassmen are faced with a tough decision.

Stay in school and play more colligiate basketball or ditch campus early for NBA fame? While some are still pondering, others have made their decision.

Already there are many high-profile players who have declared their intent to enter the draft. Florida’s big four of Corey Brewer, Taurean Green, Al Horford and Joakim Noah have all entered the draft, as well as Texas’ Kevin Durant, already giving the draft several can’t miss starts.

Duke forward Josh McRoberts has also declared his intent to forego another season with the Blue Devils.

Kansas’ star forward Julian Wright initially announced he would be returning to Kansas but later declared he will enter the draft. Arron Afflalo of UCLA also decided to submit his name.

Of course, the man everyone is asking about is Ohio State’s Greg Oden.

Fresh off of personally dominating Florida’s touted front line, Oden is easily projected as the clear cut number one pick as he and fellow Buckeyes Mike Conley Jr., and Daequan Cook.

With time running out, players will be pressed to make their choice quickly. The NBA draft takes place June 28 at Madison Square Garden, New York City. Fans can watch the whole process live on ESPN.

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to be most memorable of March Lively game exceeded expectations, buildup MATT SLOVIN

staff writer

Somebody forgot to tell the University of Florida’s plethora of junior roundballer stars that U of F is considered a football school.

However, that reputation may be changing after the Florida Gators took a chomp out of the Ohio State Buckeyes by a score of 84-75, to cap off a stellar NCAA tournament performance. The Gators’ championship made them the first school to repeat since Duke did it in 1991-92 and the first to do so with the same starting five players. And while Florida is not be changing into just a basketball school, seeing as they also won the BCS National Championship, the Gator faithful is ecstatic to have two teams of top quality.

Corey Brewer, Al Horford, Taurean Green, and Joakim Noah all have declared eligible for the NBA Draft. Those four names are also four reasons that another championship has arrived in Gainesville.

Those four Gators along with the rest of the squad played so well this season that it seems as if everybody has been praising Florida as college basketball’s best team this season by far (except maybe bitter Buckeye fans).

Now let us take a look at what was possibly the greatest game of this year’s tournament. #9 Xavier vs. #1 Ohio State, 2nd Round. This game that generated an incredible amount of local interest exceeded the hype. The first half and most of the second half was back and forth between the Musketeers and the Buckeyes.

Finally, about midway through the second half, Xavier turned on the jets and started to look like they would be the first team to knock off a number one seed in the tournament. OSU was in need of serious help as they trailed 61-52 with just 2:54 to play in the game.

When Ohio State big man Greg Oden fouled out with just 9.3 seconds remaining in the game, Indianapolis product Justin Cage had the chance to make two free throws to likely put the game out of reach. He missed the second shot from the line, leaving Xavier with a 3-point lead.

Buckeye senior Ron Lewis calmly knocked in the game-tying 3-point shot despite two Musketeers in his face and the time narrowing down. In overtime, Mike Conley Jr. stole the show to boost the Buckeyes to the regional semifinals 78-71.

This local matchup generated much fanfare from Ohioans everywhere, and the game certainly did not disappoint the fans. Although OSU lost in the championship game, this game was the turning point of their tournament journey.

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04.27.07

NFL Draft measures success

College stars graduate, enter pros BEN ESTES staff writer

Y

ou are the General Manager of an NFL franchise. The clock is running out on your first-round choice, and you have to make your pick. Choose correctly, and your team will have a new star player to help you reach the Super Bowl.

Choose incorrectly, and doom your franchise to years of inepti-

tude.

This is the dilemma that NFL teams face annually at the draft during the last weekend of April.

The event involves all 32 professional teams selecting college football players to play for their teams.

Each squad is entitled to seven picks. The number is flexible, however, as teams can trade away picks or, if a player is lost as a free agent, receive compensatory selections. A total of 255 players will be chosen over seven rounds.

This year’s edition runs from April 28-29, beginning on Saturday at 12:00.

The first day contains the more elite prospects, lasting only three rounds; Sunday holds the last four rounds and the less prestigious players.

The Oakland Raiders hold the dubious honor of the number one draft choice, as the selection order is determined by teams’ records from the previous season. The consensus among draft experts is that the team will choose LSU QB JaMarcus Russell.

Russell is a physical specimen, checking in 6’ 6,’’ 270, with a rocket arm. It is the norm for a quarterback to be chosen first overall, as it is such an important position. He will have to compete with Notre Dame product Brady Quinn for the top spot.

However, rumors are growing that the team will instead choose dynamite wide receiver Calvin Johnson from Georgia Tech, trade away disgruntled star wideout Randy Moss, and select a different quarterback later.

Johnson is, by most accounts, the best available player. He possesses a tremendous size-speed combination, standing at 6’5’’ and 239 lbs, yet running the 40-yard dash in 4.35 seconds, tying for the third-best among all receivers.

The next four picks go to the Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Arizona Cardinals.

Those teams will likely choose a combination of running back Adrian Peterson from Oklahoma, offensive tackle Joe Thomas from Wisconsin, defensive end Gaines Adams from Clemson, Quinn, and Johnson/Russell.

As far as local universities go, Ohio State leads the way.

The school is only projected to have one first-round player chosen (WR Ted Ginn Jr.); however, Heisman-winning QB Troy Smith, RB Antonio Pittman, WR Anthony Gonzalez, and center Doug Datish could all hear their name called on the first day.

The best hope for the University of Cincinnati is tight end Brent Celek, who attended high school locally at LaSalle. For Miami University, skitter bug WR Ryne Robinson could be looked at because of his talents as a kick returner.

Also, Florida RB DeShawn Wynn, who will be chosen on the second day, has local ties, as he went to high school at Reading.

The Cincinnati Bengals will be looking to improve their struggling defense through the draft. One key are the team will be focusing on will be a prospect’s character.

Management is tired of the bad publicity surrounding the arrests of nine players over the past year, so only players with spotless records will be considered seriously.

The choice will most likely come down to linebacker Jon Beason from the University of Miami, Darelle Revis, a cornerback from Pittsburgh, Penn State LB Paul Posluzny, or Florida DE Jarvis Moss.

The NFL draft can make a team or break a team. Tomorrow, fans of all franchises will be nervously watching, hoping for the former.

photo by jamie howell

TOP DRAFT PROSPECT Calvin Johnson goes up for a touchdown catch earlier this year while still playing for Georgia Tech. He recorded over 70 catches, 1,200 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns during his final season.

Johnson is considered by most to be the top player available in the entire draft.

Who will be chosen to play where?

One man’s opinion on how this year’s NFL Draft will play out

1. Oakland Raiders- JaMarcus Russell QB LSU

This pick will come down to Calvin Johnson and Russell. The team will not be able to pass up the chance for a franchise quarterback.

2. Detroit Lions- Gaines Adams DE Clemson This pick could be traded, as it is too high to take Brady Quinn. Whoever picks this slot will take the best defensive player available, Adams.

3. Cleveland Browns- Adrian Peterson RB Oklahoma The Browns could also use a QB, but RB is an equally pressing need, and Peterson can be a special player. photo courtesy si.com

NFL DRAFT FANS line up in front of Radio City Music Hall, the site of the event, before last year’s draft. The affait is extremely popular. Fans of all teams come to cheer (or boo).

4. Tampa Bay Bucs- Calvin Johnson WR Georgia Tech The Bucs land a coup as the best player available slides this far. The team is enthralled with his skills.

5. Arizona Cardinals- Joe Thomas OT Wisconsin If Thomas is available, it is almost guaranteed he will come off the board here. Offenisive Line is Arizona’s most pressing need, and Thomas helps complete one of the best offenses in the league.

6. Washington Redskins- Amobi Okoye DT Louisville

The Redskins need to improe their defensive line, and while previously Michigan DT Alan Branch was thought to be the pick, the 19-yearold Nigerian has seen his stock catch on fire in recent weeks.

7. Minnesota Vikings- Brady Quinn QB Notre Dame

The media’s love interest goes off to Minnesota, who does not have a real solid QB option. Wide Receiver is also a glaring need.

8. Atlanta Falcons- Jamaal Anderson DE Arkansas

Atlanta lost top-flight DE Patrick Kerney and now gets the opportunity to replace him with an excellent defensive prospect in Anderson.

9. Miami Dolphins- LaRon Landry S LSU

The Dolphins would love to get a QB, but there is a steep drop off after the top two prospects. Miami will hope for Quinn and take Landry if the former is not there.

10. Houston Texans- Leon Hall CB Michigan

Houston has a need for an offensive lineman as their line has been a sieve for nearly all of their five years. However, no player fits this high a selection, so they will attempt to upgrade their pass defense by adding Hall.

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spotlight

04.27.07

HABIB DESCRIBES HERSELF as laid back, fun, and caring. (Clockwise) She spends lots of time with her friends, including juniors Deena Schwen, Aarti Vala, Danielle Culin, Jennifer Lee, and Michelle Tom. Habib also enjoys playing tennis on the school team and at Harper’s Club.

ANNA HABIB

‘I would probably be Superman just because... he can do anything’ MARY ANN JIANG business manager

Q&A with Anna Habib, 11 Q. What has been your best experience at SHS? Q. What object in your room describes you best?

A. I love being on the tennis team.

A. I have these pictures that my brother took on the wall and I took like two years of photo and I can be Q. What’s the most embarrassing thing that has ever really creative. It kind of shows that. One’s of this happened to you?

A. When I was really little I would climb into the

grocery cart and I accidentally climbed into the wrong person’s. It was pretty embarrassing. She just looked at me weird and I quickly realized what I did wrong.

Q. If you could be a superhero, movie/TV/book or cartoon character who would you be and why?

A. I would probably be Superman just because he’s Superman and he can do anything.

Q. If you were in The Lion King and Pumba and Simone were trying to persuade you to be “Hakuna Matata” (worry-free), what would you do?

A. Being me I’d probably refuse to say it a lot until

they stopped. I’d be hesitant, like are you kidding me?

Q. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?

A. I would go to Paris because I’m in my fourth year

of French and it would be nice to actually put that to use sometime.

Q. What’s your dream job?

A. I would like to be a professional tennis player because then you get paid to play tennis and what’s better than that?

pier in Naples, Florida where my grandma lives and I like the beach a lot so it’s a nice reminder of the beach.

Q. What are some things that you would put in a time capsule if you had the chance?

A. A cell phone because I think its amazing how fast

technology changes so I think it would be cool for someone to see a cell phone from a long time ago.

Q. What’s your strangest nickname/inside joke?

A. I haven’t had any strange nicknames. I’ve been

called “Anna banana” because it just happens to rhyme; and some people feel like they’re really clever when they come up with that and call me that even though I’ve heard it before, but it’s funny.

Q. What’s the most bizarre thing that you’ve had the urge to buy?

A. I really can’t think of anything.

Q. Finally, what are three words you would use to describe yourself?

A. Laid-back, fun, and caring.

Q. What are three words you think that your friends/ parents/ siblings would use?

A. Easy-going, unusual, and quirky.

Q. Any last words?

A. Don’t take life too seriously.

FAVORITES:

Quote: “When you set out to take Vienna,

take Vienna.” -Napoleon Bonaparte Song: “Hey There Delilah” by Plain White

Tees Book: Tuesdays with Morrie by

Mitch Albom Movie: Mean Girls Food/Restaurant: Chicken Parmesan Class: English and French

all images by jennifer lee