the Sycamore
leaf
FRIDAY April 30, 2010 Volume LVI Issue 9 | 7400 Cornell Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio 45242, 513.686.1770 ext. 3089 | www.goaves.com
news bites March Madness Poetry
The winner of the competition was announced on Wednesday, April 21. Rachel Hayden, 11 came in first with her poem entitled “Bare Feet” and in second place, Katie Napierski, 11 for her poem “Heart Failure.”
Science Olympiad
The team won tenth place in the state competition. They beat Mason and rose four positions higher in the competition than last year’s Science Olympiad team.
AP Testing
AP exams will commence on Monday, May 3 and continue through Friday, May 14. Students must remember to bring a photo ID and number two pencils to the testing sites and leave all electronics behind. The AP exam schedule is online at www.GoAves.com.
The final championship debate will be held in the last week of school and will be judged by several teachers and AP senior students.
Dartwars:
SHS Accessibility
gabeenglander
Sophomore Debates
Judges admit to culture of corruption
W
associate editor
The entry doors will become handicap accessible. The main office door will be redone but new handicap accessible door formats will be put in at the bus ramps, the door leading out to the junior parking lot, as well as the door next to the business class wing.
hen two SHS students created Dartwars in 1995, no one knew it would grow to its present size, with over 200 SHS students donning thongs and Nerf Guns to “kill” their opponents. As Dartwars has grown, so too has the prize money, and with it, a greater incentive to win at all costs. However, when winning at all costs involves distorting stories to get more “kills” or bribing judges in order to be redrawn back into the Dartwars, then players and judges enter into a moral gray area. Since Dartwars is a student-run competition, with no affiliation to SHS, should students be held to the same ethical standards they would with, say, a research paper? If a student paid a teacher
Mini Artstravaganza
Current art students are being encouraged to submit works of any medium to the first annual ‘Mini Artstravaganza’. The show will be considered ‘mini’ in that all of the pieces are required to have their maximum dimensions be two inches by two inches.
Unified for Unifat Concert
DECA
Students from the DECA program will travel to Louisville, KY on April 24-27 to compete at the International DECA Career Development Conference.
For more news, go to www. GoAves.com
INSIDE
CALENDAR 2
all images by jimmy chau and ellie goldman
U4U is holding a benefit concert on Friday, May 7 at the Blue Ash Square Ampitheater. Local high school bands will be providing the entertainment.
NEWS 3-6
FORUM 7-8
Lessons in piano, voice, strings, flute, guitar, bass, preschool classes
SPOTLIGHT 9
FEATURE 10-12
www.toedtmanschoolofmusic.com
A&E 13-16
to give them a better grade on a paper, most people would say that it is unethical, and probably illegal. But if a Dartwars team pays judges to redraw them into the tournament, or look favorably on their team in a dispute, then what? There is no doubt that there is some measure of corruption in Dartwars, with judges unabashedly soliciting bribes from teams after the first round, and at least one team taking them up on their offer. “My team and I paid the judges to get back into Dartwars after my team lost in the first round. Most of it was for being redrawn back in, and $30 was so we could play the team of our choice,” said Neha Tandon, 12. Matt Slovin, 12, one of this year’s judges, admitted to accepting bribes from Tandons’ team and others. “We have accepted monetary bribes to allow three or four teams to get back in. But I don’t
See Dartwars, page 4 Check next month’s issue for an expose on the history of police incidents in Dartwars
SPORTS 17-19
SNAPSHOTS 20
772-7900 3660 Hauck Road, Sharonville, Ohio 45241
Calendar
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friday, april 30, 2010
sunday
monday
tuesday
wednesday thursday
friday
May’10 2
3
Obscure Holiday: Lumpy Rug Day 4:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Hamilton @ Home
9
4
4:30 p.m. Varsity & J.V. Softball vs. Oak Hills @ Home
Obscure Holiday: National Teacher’s Day
SHS Event: Athletic Booster Meeting, 7:30 p.m
4:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Western Brown @ Home
10
11
5
4 p.m. J.V. Boys Tennis vs. St. Xavier @ Home
SHS Event: Jazz Band Concert, 7:30 p.m.
16
17
1 p.m. Girls Varsity Lacrosse vs. Lakota West @ Home
18
23 SHS Event Graduation, 1 p.m. @ Cintas Center
30
7
8
Unified For Unifat Benefit Concert Blue Ash Towne Square 7 p.m.
World Holiday: V-E Day
Obscure Holiday: International Tuba Day
12
13
w
14
15
5:45 p.m. Boys Varsity & J.V Volleyball vs. St. Henry@ Home
Obscure Holiday: Dance Like a Chicken Day
SHS Event: Interim Reports Distributed
SHS Event: Orchestra Concert, 7:30 p.m.
SHS Event: PTO Meeting, 9 a.m.
1p.m. Boys Varsity Lacrosse vs. Dublin Coffman @ Home
19
20
21
22
4 p.m. Track & Field District Meet @ Mason SHS Event: Choir Concert, 7:30 p.m.
History: The American Red Cross was formed
SHS Event: Band Concert, 7:30 p.m.
SHS Event: Spring Sports Awards, 7 p.m.
SHS Event: Underclassmen Awards Ceremony, 8 a.m.
24
25
26
31
SHS Event: “The Wedding Singer” 7:30 p.m.
Obscure Holiday: National Tourists Appreciation Day
SHS Event: Band Awards Ceremony, 6 p.m.
Holiday: Memorial Day (no school)
Holiday: May Day
Holiday: Cinco de Mayo
SHS Event: Early Release Day Obscure Holiday: National Sea Monkey Day
4:30 p.m. Green Varsity Boys Tennis vs. St. Xavier @ Home
1
SHS Event: Sycamore Band & Orchestra Booster Flower Sale Pick-Up
History: Florence Nightingale’s Birthday
Holiday: Mother’s Day
6
saturday
27
4 p.m. Track & Field District Finals @ Mason
28
29
SHS Event: Theater Awards, 7:30 p.m. 4 p.m. Track & Feild Regionals @ Dayton Welcome
SHS Event: Senior Recognition Night, 6 p.m.
Obscure Holiday: International Jazz Day
news 3
friday, april 30, 2010
Relay for Life approaches quickly: Students
r e c n raise funds to help cure ca sarahmay
forum chief
O
n
Friday, May 14, over 1000 students will gather on the soccer field and track after school, prepared to help raise money for the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery Area Relay for Life. One of 2,400 Relay for Life events nationwide, the Montgomery chapter is the largest all-youth relay in Ohio. The event will include students from Sycamore, as well as from Indian Hill, Madeira, Ursuline, Mount Notre Dame, and Moeller. In the past, this 18 hour event has raised between $110,000 and $140,000. This year, the American Cancer photos courtesy of mcdaniel’s photography
Society is hoping to raise over $120,000. The American Cancer Society is also the largest non-governmental, nonprofit donor for cancer research, in which some of the best researchers hunt for cures for this sickening disease. “We help people get well, stay well, find cures for cancer and fight back against this horrible disease,” said Alice Sowers, coordinator for The American Cancer Society. During the event, participants will experience what is arguably known as the most moving experience of the night, the Luminaria Ceremony. At sunset, illuminated bags, known as luminaria, are released into the night. Each bag contains the name of someone who has been affected by cancer. Some celebrate cancer survivors, while others remember those who have passed away. Each team must raise a total of $1000 dollars to participate in Relay for Life, and once the night begins, at least one team member must be walking around the track at all times, exemplifying the theme of the night; “cancer never sleeps.” The American Cancer Society has been working with planning committees from each participating school since September, in order to make sure everyone has fun while working for a good cause.
Conrad Weiner presents
‘Never Again’ emmarosen photo by anne brant
business manager
‘It’s thrilling to get a national award’
SHS excels in Scholastic Awards moriahkrawec
associate editor
Senior Courtney Bernard was in shock. She had just learned that one of her portfolio pieces for her AP Studio Art, entitled ‘Ping Pong,’ had won a silver medal nationally in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. “I was extremely surprised but very excited,” said Bernard. However, Bernard is not the only notable art winner at SHS. There are a total of 18 winners of various awards, ranging from honorable mentions at the local level to Bernard’s national silver medal. Out of the 18 winners, four are part of a group of Mrs. Kat Ferguson’s senior photography students. Jacqueline Rogers, Jacqueline Miranda-Klein, Ellie Caldwell, and Anne Brant all won various awards at the regional level for their portfolios. Brant’s award winning piece is displayed above. Ferguson stresses that the chances of so many students winning at SHS were rather low. According to Ferguson, over 100 portfolios were submitted. “I’m tremendously proud of them. It speaks highly of
their individual talent and vision,” said Ferguson, In addition to being pleased about her accomplishment, Bernard was even more surprised because it was never her plan to submit her award-winning ‘Ping Pong.’ “It’s funny because I never intended on submitting that piece but Mrs. Margaret Copfer [art teacher] convinced me to do so,” said Bernard. Naturally, SHS is buzzing with reactions to the 18 students’ winnings. Particularly, the Art Department is overjoyed at the success of their students. “I think it’s thrilling to get a national award,” said Copfer of Bernard’s specific award. Others, however, are less surprised. Mr. Mark Weigel, Art Department supervisor, maintains that the success of all of the winners is simply a testament to SHS’s rich art program. “The current students have lived up to the quality that SHS has always produced, and the awards are indicative of that,” said Weigel. Meanwhile, Bernard is still thrilled about receiving a highly-ranking award that she never intended to win. “I am very pleased,” said Bernard.
On Wednesday, April 7 Jewish Student Union (JSU) arranged for Holocaust survivor Conrad Weiner to come speak at SHS. Appropriately, this event occurred just a few days before Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Rememberance Day. “It was really meaningful to experience this near Yom Hashoah. It definitely made an impact,” said Carly Edelheit, 10. Weiner was born I don’t pretend to change in Romania and has since then lived hundreds of lives by through much coming and speaking turmoil. However, here. I just hope that his touching story was laced with a one or two people are unique humor, touched. including many -Conrad Weiner, witty remarks and jokes. “Seriously, he was hilarious. I would befriend him in a second,” said Amy Poliner, 11. All quips aside, Weiner merely wanted to make an impression on the students. “I don’t pretend to change hundreds of lives by coming and speaking here. I just hope that one or two people are touched,” said Weiner. The title of Weiner’s presentation was “Never Again,” in reference to the Holocaust. Afterwards, he presented a famous poem by Pastor Martin Niemoller as well as several other well-known quotes. The message he was trying to convey was extremely clear: “Don’t be afraid to stand up and face adversity,” said Weiner. This event, organized by JSU, left students feeling inspired. “He encouraged me to speak out. I’ll never forget this,” said Taylor Bowling, 9.
“
Dartwars cont’d from page 1 think it’s a big deal because teams that lose in the first round don’t go very far anyway. However, we can guarantee that the best team does win,” said Slovin. This is not the first time that judges have been bribed by players, in fact, it seems that this is a widely known and commonly used practice in Dartwars for a number of years. Adam Samuels, a Dartwars judge of 09’, disagrees that Dartwars is corrupted, but admits that he took bribes from three teams last year to be redrawn back in to mend a flawed bracket. “There was a myth last year that said the judges took a bribe.This is in fact incorrect because we took three,” said Samuels. So why not randomly redraw three teams instead of taking bribes? “It was stupid of us to take bribes, but the teams that wanted to win the most were willing to pay,” said Samuels. Samuels is adamant that besides bribery, corruption does not exist. “You do have the occasional liars that don’t admit being shot, but they always get figured out. Besides this, I don’t think there is corruption in Dartwars.” Most Dartwars players feel that although bribes are unethical, it is inevitable in such a loosely organized competition. “Everyone who plays understands that there is going to be some measure of corruption. Dartwars rewards those who go the farthest and try the hardest to win, which sometimes leads to bribes or distorted truths,” said Jordan Evans, 11. Dartwars gives players a chance to escape from the confines of school, work, and sports, for a few, or 30, hours in a fun and competitive environment each week. So, even though it seems that corruption is as much a part of Dartwars as the cherished ‘thong rule,’ Dartwars is here to stay.
Makes impact on world friday, april 30, 2010
arth wins volunteer of year
erikarodriguez
I
staff writer
t all started with Meghan Marth. Devastated by stories of desperate children, Marth founded a club at SHS that has raised more than $45,000 over the past four years to pay expenses for over 120 children at the UNIFAT School in northern Uganda. “Meghan has done so much with UNIFAT this year, and I think she is really inspiring. Most people would never even think of doing what she has done,” said Sally Evans, 10. This 18-year-old senior was named one of Ohio’s top two youth volunteers for 2010 by the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program. Marth, who was nominated by SHS, will receive $1,000 in cash, an engraved silver medallion, and an expense-paid trip to Washington for May1-4. As a freshman, Marth saw the film, ‘Invisible Children: Rough Cut’, which chronicles atrocities committed during Uganda’s civil war. Afterwards, it seemed like divine intervention that she got to meet Abitimo Odongkara, founder of the northern Uganda school in the Upper Nile Institute for Appropriate Technology (UNIFAT). “It just completely clicked [after meeting Abitimo] that this is the avenue we wanted to take to be helping these children,” said Marth.
photo courtesy of meghan marth
4 news
Origin of U4U at SHS
Marth was a freshman when she approached SHS about starting a Unified for UNIFAT chapter. After, she held a schoolwide assembly to announce her plans, more than 100 students attended the first meeting. Since then, the club now has 150 new members. Activities organized by the club include concerts, tailgate parties, bake sales, and dances to raise funds for the school and its students. U4U also solicits $300 sponsorships for individual children, which pays for a child’s tuition, school supplies, uniforms, lunch, medical care, and mentorship for one full year. Marth will travel with a group of students from other schools to Uganda again this June. She recalled the home visits from her trip two years ago.
TWO YEARS AGO, MARTH met the child her family sponsors for the first time. This summer, she plans to return to UNIFAT. One of the things the group will do again is home visits, where they go with the mentors to visit the children at their homes. “It was the most depressing time of my life, because I was seeing things I had never seen before - conditions I could have never imagined...My experience has really opened my eyes to a bigger world, and I think it has made me a much better person,” said Marth.
Future plans, aspirations
She plans to major in business in college, and is considering attending Miami University, Xavier University, or the University of Dayton. However, no matter where she goes, Marth will continue her work for the Ugandan children.
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5 news
friday, april 30, 2010
‘Row for Water’ Katie Spotz rows across Atlantic Ocean staff writer
here is a passion for challenge in this girl, and there is no doubt about that. The 23-year-old Katie Spotz, a native Ohioan, became the youngest woman ever to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean on March 14 after spending 70 days at sea, rowing a total of 2,817 miles. Spotz has tested her strength and endurance in multiple areas in the past few years by biking across the U.S., running a triathlon, completing the half iron man, running across the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, running an ultra-marathon, and more. Recently, Spotz has turned her love for physical challenges into worthy cause. In 2008, she became the first person ever to swim the length of the 325 mile long Allegheny River in order to raise money for people around the world who do not have access to safe drinking water. She called it Swim for Water and forwarded all donations to the Blue Planet Run Foundation. Shortly after, Spotz discovered a crazy idea to row across the Atlantic to raise even more money for clean water. “I was on a bus in Australia just
Picture courtesy of Alta Vista
Help is on the way Even with all the work Katie Spotz has done for those who do not have access to safe drinking water, it is still a major problem. Once water becomes “undrinkable”, it is very hard to reverse and often the costs to repair are much heavier than the action that caused the damage in the first place. Many students have been inspired and are now inspirations to take action and fight for the rights of those who may not have the opportunity to fight for themselves. Meagan Schipper, 11, recently completed a quarter project for Ms. Marilyn Ray’s Global Perspectives class. “I chose to work for basic human needs and decided to work at Matthew 25 Ministries packing food and clothing ,” said Schipper. Each student in Ray’s class was required to choose a human right and really do something to help others and make a difference in the world. “It’s not fair that we get to eat whatever we want and shower all we want when other people just can’t,” said Schipper. From SHS to the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, people are making great strides to try to make some kind of an impact on the world and make it a better place to live.
chatting with the person next to me and they mentioned that their friend rowed across the Atlantic two times... So, ever since I learned about it, it’s just been stuck in my head since yeah, it’s just been a dream of mine,” Spotz said. Her crazy idea became a reality. Spotz has raised over $ 80,000 towards efforts for clean water. “A billion people don’t even have access to this most basic human need. So I’m really passionate about being able to challenge myself and then raise awareness and funds for a good cause,” said Spotz. She began her voyage in Dakar, Senegal in order to row with the ocean currents all the way to Georgetown, Guyana. Spotz was a nutrition major in college and was able to plan out her own meals for the voyage across the Atlantic, taking appropriate precautions before her trip. For instance, she was sure to have access to electricity through a solar panel to power her laptop. She was also sure to take her GPS system and a burner to desalinize water. This will not be the last crazy adventure she takes, but as of now, Spotz will continue to spread awareness on the necessity of clean drinking water for all people and how easy it is to help those in need.
Katie Spotz practices her rowing before she leaves from Africa toward South America to raise money and awareness about clean drinking water. She trained for months on a rowing machine and spent ten to twelve hours a day practicing on Lake Erie. She completed the feat on March 14 and is now speaking and lecturing on her experiences and the people she impacted.
“ “ “ “ A billion people don’t even have access to (clean water). So I’m really passionate about being able to challenge myself and then raise awareness and funds.
-Katie Spotz, Atlantic rower
I heard about (Katie Spotz) on the radio once. I think it seems like an interesting way to raise awareness.
-Josh Toney, 11
I think it was worth her effort to raise awareness because she had a passion for what she believed in and she made a big impact.
-Bianca Rhodenbaugh, 9
Its just not fair that we get to eat whatever we want and shower all we want when other people just can’t.
-Meagan Schipper, 11
by the numbers
2750 30
The number of people who now have clean drinking water for life because of Katie Spotz (and counting).
The number of dollars it takes to give a person clean drinking water for life.
2817 325
The number of miles Spotz rowed across the ocean to raise money for clean drinking water.
The number miles Spotz swam in the Alhegany River to raise money for clean drinking water.
All photos courtesy of Katie Spotz
T
annieseiple
FROM THE LEFT Katie Spotz with her friend Sam Williams just before leaving on her rowing excursion; Spotz as she takes her first strokes accross the Atlantic; Spotz taking a quick swim in the ocean while on her tirp.
6 news
friday, april 30, 2010
‘It was one of my best travel experiences’
Students, teachers return from Ilmenau on exchange trip moriahkrawec
photos courtesy of altavista.com
associate editor
Phoebe Prince, pictured ON the bottom right, committed suicide on Jan. 14. Six of her classmates have been charged with causing her death. The Prince family’s prosecutor is saying that the students constant bullying led Prince to kill herself.
Phoebe Prince’s suicide cause for jail time Six students charged with felonies s.m.dipali
P
news chief
hoebe Prince was just that kind of girl. She was bright, warm and welcoming to everyone that she met. A transfer from Ireland, Prince dreamed of a career in journalism and read Dante in her spare time. On the outside, Prince was the quintessential teenage girl with her whole life ahead of her. But as one peeled back the layers of her life, they found a troubling secret. Prince was bullied relentlessly by her classmates in her hometown of South Hadley, MA. She was a victim of verbal abuse from her female peers, as well cyber bullying via Facebook. “Cyber bullying happens everywhere. When I get on Facebook at home, I see it all the time,” said Kyle Sess, 10. The taunting continued for months and her formerly outgoing personality
became clouded by shadows of mockery and insults. She was called numerous harsh names, such as “Irish whore.” Her parents have argued that the school simply dismissed the multiple accounts of bullying despite their supposed “anti-bullying policy.” She was spotted outside of class crying, insulted on her way home from school, and berated by her classmates through text messages. It soon became too much for Prince to endure. On Jan. 14, Prince committed suicide. Her younger sister found her hanging in her closet. Prince’s death has brought with it an unusually sharp legal response for her classmates regarding adolescent bullying. The prosecutor for the Prince family has brought charges against six teenagers involved in the bullying, arguing that their taunting led to the death of Prince. The six students were charged with multiple felony
indictments, including violation of civil rights leading to bodily injury. The six students charged were Sean Mulveyhill, 17, Kayla Narey, 17, Austin Renaud, 18, Sharon Chanon Velazquez, 16, Ashley Longe, 16, and Flannery Mullins, 16. This monumental case will be the first time a minor’s suicide is cause for possible jail time for students involved. In addition, Prince’s suicide has served as a catalyst for the MA legislature. They have increased work on the anti-bullying law now near passage. This law would require staff members to report bullying incidents to the principal for investigation. It will also require schools in MA to teach students about the dangers of bullying. 41 other states in the country have passed similar anti-bullying laws. It is the hope of the MA legislature that this new law will further prevent situations such as Prince’s.
LEAP
Classes and tutoring available prior to each ACT and SAT date.
Since 1999, LEAP has prepared Sycamore students for optimal, individual achievement. Small group and individual instruction yields results! Convenient location Affordable rates. Tel: 480-0300 Email: info@leaprogram.com Web: www.leaprogram.com Lisa Mader, President
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industries of sycamore register for biotechnology 1
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Learning Enrichment &Assistance Program, LLC
In late February, Mr. Kevin Wittman went to the German city of Ilmenau, along with Ms. Jenna Hovis, English as a second language teacher, Steven Miraglia, 11, and Michael Grannen, 12. “The stuff you see is right out of the history books,” said Wittman, referring to the century-old structures in the town. Ilmenau is also the Sister City of Blue Ash through Sister Cities International. When asked what the Sister City program does, Hovis explained the organization through its actions. “The Sister City program works with the city of Blue Ash. Our Sister City is a town called Ilmenau,” said Hovis. Additionally, the program works through ‘exchanging’ inhabitants. In the case of Blue Ash and Ilmenau, several German students attended SHS for ten days in late October. Afterwards, Wittman, Hovis, Miraglia, and Grannen traveled to Ilmenau. The students from Ilmenau stayed at Grannen and Miraglia’s homes, and Grannen and Miraglia boarded with the German student’s families. “Through this partnership, our goal is to develop business and educational relations between the two cities,” said Hovis. By far, Wittman’s favorite part of the exchange was the living arrangements. Unlike with other non-exchange program trips, the teachers and students lived with host families. “My favorite part was staying in another person’s home and getting a feel for the average citizen’s life,” said Wittman. Notably, Wittman also stresses the different structure of Ilmenau compared to Blue Ash and its surrounding areas. Though Ilmenau is smaller than downtown Cincinnati in terms of population, it is much more urban and concentrated than Blue Ash. “Ilmenau is almost like downtown Cincinnati in atmosphere, but smaller. It’s like everyone in Blue Ash living in an apartment, high-rise, or house downtown,” said Wittman. Hovis adds that for the two students that took part in the exchange that it was not just the atmosphere that drew them in. “Personally, it was one of the best travel experiences I’ve had because I got to see the people’s daily lives. I look forward to returning to Germany and to see the people we met again,” said Hovis. Since both teachers immensely enjoyed the exchange trip, Wittman and Hovis highly recommend incoming juniors and seniors to give the program a chance.
This lab science class focuses on current and new technologies used in industry and research Talk with your counselor today
Forum
7
friday, april 30, 2010
Change starts with honesty gabeenglander
associate editor
staffeditorial
N
o one wants to be stalked, right? Wrong, it seems: hundreds of us pay to be hunted every year. When spring rolls around, so does Dartwars. This is the one time that students of all grades and social groups, male and female, organize outside of school for a common purpose: to eliminate the other team and bask in the glory of victory. Conquest of success comes at a price. Teens sacrifice their time planning attacks, stalking the opposing team, buying adequate weaponry, and eluding their opponents. Meanwhile, homework and sleep usually fall by the wayside. But it is undeniable that while we may love Dartwars, most adults do not, and even the prized game has its shortcomings. In fact, Dartwars is riddled with flaws. The entire concept is to hunt and “kill” your classmates for glory and prize money. You are immune only if you shed your clothing and don only a thong. To win, you may have to set your friends up. Quite honestly, the only reason there are any rules at all is to keep players out of trouble with the law and the school. Dartwars is anything but ethical-- and the players like it that way. It is possible that Dartwars needs fixing, but, who said it
the Sycamore
leaf
was supposed to be an ethical game? Despite the well-known (but not officially proven) corruption of judges, the fact that to be immune you have to take off your clothes, and the widespread acknowledgement that Dartwars can potentially (and probably will) take over your life, hundreds of us turn out, eager to play. So, the question is not, “Should we continue to play?”, because the end is nowhere in sight for this fifteen-yearold tradition. What we need to wonder is, is it worth the trouble? Even when we know that judges are corrupt and that most adults and police do not approve, we still play, simply because it is fun. When else in our lives do we get to feel like spies? Never. The flaws of Dartwars are precisely what make it enthralling: everyone wants to know about controversies and which daring players sucked it up and dressed down. Though challenged, Dartwars is fine the way it is. There are those who disagree (and for valid reason), but until extreme situations arise, nothing needs to be changed. And really, there is no way to change them. Could it use less corruption? Possibly. Do any of us plan on doing something any time soon to ameliorate this? Nah.
Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242
Mission Statement: The 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.
leafing through the masses
Q:
““ ““
Is corruption in Dartwars a problem?
Yes, because it can be unfair to other teams .
-Saeed Piracha, 9
If it’s affecting the fairness of the game, then it could be. But I don’t think it’s really a big deal. - Sheila Palic, 10
Yes it is a problem, but an unavoidable one as long as high school students run Dartwars. -Matt Nickol, 11
I just think it’s part of the tradition.
-Molly Cramer, 12
When is the last time you had a real conservation with a person of a different race? Or told someone richer than you that you were having family problems? Or noticed that most of your friends are the same religion, race, economic class, and participate in the same extracurricular activities as you? For me, I can’t remember the last time I even talked to a black person, let alone held a deep conversation. I doubt I have ever told anyone about my family problems, or had someone confide theirs with me. I realize that most of my friends are white, upper middle class, and Jewish, their parents all college graduates. Diversity is not just about race. It’s religion, economic class, political, ideological. It separates thespians from jocks, the Chess team from Step team. Right now it serves as a source of division, but it does not have to be that way. Sycamore prides itself on its diversity, yet does nothing to teach appreciation and understanding. Instead it has jokes like Diversity Day. Yeah, it’s the rice noodles that makes me uncomfortable around Asians. Let’s stop pretending that the reason lower-income students end up in Standards classes is because they are not as smart as upper middle class white kids with college educated parents. Let’s stop pretending that none of us unconsciously discriminate based on race, or occasionally feel homophobic. This column is a call for action. To the administration, try actually teaching diversity by talking about what divides us. Instead of pretending that everyone is perfectly tolerant and politically correct, make students and faculty search for the differences that continue to segregate our school by race, religion, economic class, and extracurricular interests. For students, open up. Share your story with someone different than you. It is sad how little we understand each other. If we truly want to honor our diversity, we should have a real discussion about what makes us different. Only by addressing these issues in an honest and open manner can we ever hope to end our trivial prejudices that divide us. For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
Editors-in-chief: Brandon Sosna, Maria Marballi Associate Editors: Kelsey Drapkin,
The Leaf operates as an open forum for the healthy, robust exchange of ideas. Opinions expressed in the editorials are those of The 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. Cheralyn Jardine’s mailbox, dropped off in room 115, or e-mailed to jardinec@sycamoreschools.org. The 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 Leaf’s complete editorial policies can be found at www.goaves.com. For comments about columns, please write to writetotheleaf@gmail.com
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S
friday, april 30, 2010
tudents go batty for ball caps
Drew’s
Quote Provoke
howing expression through fashion
elliegoldman managing editor
N
“The obvious isn’t always apparent.”
-Paco Underhill
photo by drew gelwicks
o doubt everyone has heard it: the teacher spouting out a reluctant reprimand- “Take it off, no hats in school.” It is a rule that is known by all, and most accept it without a second thought. I mean, it has been a rule since kindergarten; there must be a good reason, right? So I ask you- what, exactly, is it? The jurisdiction is stated clearly in the student handbook we all received at the beginning of the year. “Students are not permitted to wear the following: 1. Head coverings, head bands, or sunglasses.” It is the first item on the list of banned apparel. Now that it is determined how important this law is, we move on to why it is so important. Surely if all the trouble has been gone through to create a school-wide rule, there must be solid justification. There are circumstances when the rule is declared null, such as a religious custom or hair loss due to medical treatment. In these situations, wearing a head covering is entirely permissible. If the rule can be circumvented, what is its significance? As a whole, SHS students are not really sure. Although 100 percent of students asked knew of the policy, responses as to its validation were muddled, to say the least. “Respectfulness indoors,” “identification,” and “potential gang signs, I guess” were some of the explanations presented. “The rule was probably a carryover from years past, when initially it was considered inappropriate for young men to wear hats. This was a societal carryover,” said Mr. Chris Davis, principal of SHS. After doing more research (taking a peek at the posted list of announcements) I discerned that another reason for the anti-hat sentiment is identification of students. This is understandable, for
DAKOTA REAMER, 10 LEARNS the hard way about the hat rule. Mr. Joe Villari, social studies teacher, takes the hat away during his class. This occurs daily in many classes throughout SHS. though not all hats can obscure identity, there is no obvious other place to draw the line. ‘Hats are permitted, but not when they interfere with proper identification’ is a bit too objective to have any effect. So the rule is not just a mysterious musing of the administration after all. After this explanation, though, not all students were convinced of the merit of the law. “I don’t find it necessary, and it is also a way for people to express themselves,” said Madeline Shaw, 9. Students have expressed that the presence or absence of a hat is a key part of their desired ‘look’, and is simply another branch of accessorizing and style, similarly to their T-
shirt design. And after all, one cannot go around banning shirts. Regardless, a rule is a rule. It is possible to get district rules changed, there is just one potential setback. To fight a policy, you would need to show very convincing reason for it to be admonished. I suppose my question is, is it really worth fighting the rule book in order to protect your funky style? Of course you could act the pacifist and leave the issue as it stands. Or perhaps one could just accept the rule as it is while agreeing with the logic behind it. However the topic is discussed, though, the rule is still in place. So you, in the back, with the green shirt—off the ball cap already.
through rumors, Healthcare myths: Sifting exaggerations to find truth gabeenglander
associate editor
Amid intense opposition and wild accusations from the right, President Barack Obama signed into law the health care bill, telling his critics and supporters that, ”This is what change looks like.” But even after a month gone by, there is still a great deal of confusion over what exactly was in the bill. In a speech in Iowa after the health care bill passed, Obama said, “If you already have insurance, this reform will make it more secure and more affordable. If you can’t afford insurance right now or if you’ve been denied coverage…you’re going to finally be able to get it.” But at the same time, Republicans called the passage of the bill, “The end of freedom as we know it.” So who is right? Obviously, pundits and politicians
on the right are exaggerating. The health care bill is not a government takeover of health insurance nor will it give health insurance to illegal immigrants. It will not even increase the federal deficit (in fact, the bill is expected to decrease the deficit by a trillion dollars over two decades). Essentially, the bill seeks to redress the worst parts of health care system. For instance, before the bill, insurance companies could deny coverage to citizens with pre-existing illnesses. But now, insurance companies are barred from discriminating against customers based on their health. The biggest benefit for SHS students is that we can stay on our parents’ health care plans until the age of 26. That means that for all of college and part of graduate school we will not have to worry about health care. While the health care bill does not
require universal coverage, it does offer tax credits to small business owners to give health care to their employees. By letting health care come from the employers, the bill uses the market to cover Americans instead of the government doing it. The health care bill is actually pretty moderate. It aims to redress the worst wrongs done by health insurance companies to their customers, make health care more affordable for the people who have it and make it possible for citizens without health insurance to purchase it through their employer. Many Presidents have tried and failed to reform health care for the century. It is a great achievement, not just for President Obama, but also for the American people that a bill was passed taking them that much closer to affordable, universal health care.
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This quote lays bare a complex truth about one of life’s mysterious dynamics. Underhill’s play with words helps explain why so much of our high school lives are masked with superficial deceptions. In the daily fog of confusion, we students must struggle to determine how to most effectively get what we want. The quality of our lives is influenced by our judgment. And our ability to size up situations is dependent on how readily we grasp what is really happening. The correct ways of navigating through life are never quite clear. There are so many different situations where Underhill’s thought come into play: taking tests, managing friendships, and making decisions about alcohol, drugs, and sex. When there are so many options in front of us, how can we know which answer is absolutely right? There is never a blinking sign directing us to the truth. Even on classroom tests, there is often more than one answer that could be correct. Luckily, on an exam, if we get the question wrong, it is just a couple points off. In the real world, the consequences can be more severe. One wrong decision can lead us to a painful, destructive downfall. Whether it is finding a romantic relationship, job, or friend, it is usually not obvious whether we are making the right choices about how to get what we want. We stubbornly filter out what we do not want to see; we see what we want to. This makes it more difficult to recognize the obvious. Tiger Woods was caught in liaisons with multiple women. To most people it is obvious he should not have been cheating on his wife, Elin Nordegren. And now he is suffering severe public disgrace. Why is it that it took the humiliation of him, his wife, and his children, to show he was destroying his life and his career? What seems so obvious to us was not for him, over the course of years. A huge problem that has been very prevalent recently among teens is ‘sexting.’ Every young adult is aware of the obvious implications that come with sending nude photographs to someone. But, only when someone’s life is upended, do those consequences become apparent. Life mocks us in making our decisions so clear – in hindsight. Each of us observes the passing scene of SHS. We frequently see the foolishness of our peers that, for some reason, they are unable to. Consider all of the behind-theback ridiculing of lovers’ extreme PDA. People realize too late, “All the while, it was right under my nose.” The obvious was there all the time, lurking. But something blocks it, creating an obstruction between one and the apparent. Thoughtful people are humbled by this phenomenon. It would be so much easier if there were a sign telling us, “This is the right choice. Do this.” The sign does not exist. So we must plunge forward. It haunts me to think that too often I am blinded to that which I later realize should have been glaringly obvious. The apparent magically and maddeningly hides in plain view. It is because of our sabotaging filters of bias, culture, friends, religion, and morals. Is there a way to navigate through these obstructions? What works? Even the high and the mighty among us fail at their peril. For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
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Spotlight
9
friday, april 30, 2010
‘Sometimes when I’m thinking something, she says it first’
Déjà Vu uV àjéD QA
shivaniparikh & ginaromeo forum chief a&e chief
with Jeanne and Martin Rixe, 11
Q. Where have you lived? A. First, we lived in Paris, then in Metz, in Eastern France, then back to Paris, then to Washington D.C. and now here.
Q. What made you move to Cincinnati? A. Our father is a doctor, but it can be hard to be a doctor in France. He does a lot of research for cancer, so he got a job at UC. We decided it would be exciting to just go.
Q. How do you feel about the move to the U.S? A. Jeanne: It’s been exciting. At first it was scary, but it’s new and different. Martin: The first day of school was scary. But it has been exciting.
Q. What do you like most about living here? A. J: The opportunities.
M: Yeah, the opportunities. And the different schools to choose from.
Q. What do you miss most about living in France? A. We miss Paris, especially the food and our friends. We liked having the Metro close by, and being near the excitement and culture of Paris, like the parties.
Q. Where would you like to go to college? A. University of Cincinnati. Our father works there and our older sister, Lea, goes there. Q. So what do you want to study? A. J: I’d like to study psychology or criminal justice. It’d be cool to be a profiler, kind of like CSI. M: I want to try and go into the DAAP program at UC to study art. Sketching is cool but I’m better with the computer.
Q. What interests do the two of you share? A. J: Music. I play the bass. I’m trying to find a band right now, but it’s difficult! M: Art and music. I play the guitar.
Q. Do you spend a lot of time together? A. We’ve always had the same friends growing up, and still do. We hang out a lot together. Q. What are your hobbies? A. M: I played rugby and tennis in France. J: Table tennis M:She’s one of the top ten players in France, she’s got tons of trophies in her room! J: Not that many!
Q. What school activities are you involved in? A. J: Not many at school. But I go to French Club.
image by gina romeo
M: Volleyball. Come see us, we’re the best! Go Aves!
Q. Anything most people don’t know about you?
A. There’s a lot people don’t know about us. You’ll just have to find out.
Walker Automotive Group Phone: (937) 433-4950
Address: 8457 Springboro Pike Miamisburg, Ohio 45342
Feature
10
Ten A.P. exam tips
this month in
for success
friday, april 30, 2010
1. Examine questions 2. Eliminate answers
3. Look for key words
Be sure to fully understand the question before answering. However, try to only spend a maximum of 30 seconds on each question. This will allow you to get through all 80 questions in the allotted time.
Because points are deducted for incorrect answers on the multiple choice section, do not guess unless you have eliminated one or two of the answers.
Sometimes the wording of a question can allude to the correct answer. Be sure to look for words such as except, not, or always. Also, carefully examine the wording of answers to avoid tricks.
4. Have confidence
5. Outline ideas
6. Skip and go back
Write your essays and responses in a strong voice. Support your ideas with evidence and be sure to maintain consistency. Stop every now and then and reread the sentences you have written.
Do not be afraid to write on your test. While reading a prompt or background information, make notes in the margins or underline key sentences.
Skip difficult questions and return to them if there is time remaining. Do not spend too long on any one question or else you may not have time to answer other questions that you might know.
7. Pace yourself
8. Use helpful guides
9. Eat, sleep enough
The College Board releases past AP tests. Be sure to look over these and get a feel for what questions are most asked and how things are phrased. Additionally, AP Exam review books can be purchased at most book stores.
Eat a healthy dinner the night before the exam, get plenty of sleep, and wake up in time to eat breakfast. Avoid drinking too much in order to prevent having to use the restroom during the exam.
Do not rush or take too much time on your test. Find a comfortable pace to work at and maintain it throughout the exam. If you finish early, go back and re-read what you have already written and add in extra information.
10. Relax, breathe Do not panic. Worrying can cause you to forget information and read questions incorrectly. If you get flustered, stop and breathe and pick up where you left off.
feature
Helping those in need Proctor and Gamble’s Live, Learn and Thrive program reaches out to millions | page 11
When is being number two better than being number one? turn the page to find out! | page 12
Need more coverage? Visit the feature page at www.goaves.com
additional helpful hints:
-Bring a couple of extra writing utensils. -Wear a jacket that is easy to take off and put on. Being too hot or too cold could break your concentration. -Use the restroom before the test.
feature 11
allphotos imagescourtesy courtesyofofp&g p&g all
friday, april 30, 2010
Live, learn and thrive Procter & Gamble touches millions mariamarballi
T
editor-in-chief
here are seven billion people in the world. Procter and Gamble has touched over four billion of them with its philanthropic efforts and multi-purpose products. The multibillion-dollar company is currently working on a series of benevolence projects effective in different parts of the world, in an effort to reach more of those in need. This effort as a whole coined the term “Live, Learn and Thrive.” This program aims to provide children with a healthy start, access to educational facilities, and access to programs that build self-esteem and skills for life. “Over time, a group of us got together under the leadership of Ms. Charlotte Otto, who lead our external relations area, and pulled our projects together under the Live, Learn, and Thrive theme,” said Mr. Robert McDonald, Chairman of the Board, President and CEO. The company used the idea of congruence by utilizing their expertise in health and hygiene to further improve the lives of children by sending their products to at-risk countries around the world.
purifying drinking water in Africa. This product has provided children with 1.8 billion liters of safe drinking water. “Our goal is to provide four billion liters of safe drinking water by 2012,” said McDonald. Mr. Michael Geyer, chemistry teacher, demonstrated how the product works for his classes by combining a PUR packet with a bucket of contaminated water to show the before and after. PUR uses a technology which cleanses the disease-causing bacteria from the water.
“
Children’s safe drinking water Thus far, P&G has saved more than 9,500 lives by applying their latest technology, PUR packets to
Here are some local volunteer opportunities associated with Live, Learn and Thrive for anyone looking to make a difference in the community or gain volunteer hours before graduation.
Boys and Girls Club of Greater Cincinnati Volunteer with at-risk children after school and provide one on one assistance with homework and reading. After school services also include dinner and summer camps. Contact Jennifer Hedger
Happen Inc. Serve at-risk children by engaging them in the creative arts to entertain, educate, and empower them. They have volunteer opportunities working directly with children and families or behind the scenes. Contact Tommy Reuff 513-751-2345 Must be 16 or older
Our goal is to provide four billion liters of safe drinking water by 2012. -Mr. Robert Mcdonald, Chairman of the Board, President and CEO
Pampers, UNICEF
Since 2006, 45.5 million women and babies have been protected against neonatal tetanus because of the donation of 200 million vaccines thanks to Pampers consumers. Pampers diapers is working together with UNICEF to eliminate tetanus in developing countries so that for every pack of Pampers that is purchased, a portion is donated to this specific cause. So far, Live, Learn, and Thrive have eliminated tetanus in four countries.
Project Connect Help serve children experiencing homelessness and keep them connected to their education by providing enrollment assistance, advocacy, uniform vouches, transportation to school, back packs with school supplies, etc. Volunteers are needed! Contact 513-831-4600
“Every two seconds, Pampers provides a protective dose of the vaccine for a woman and her baby,” said McDonald. P&G’s goal is to completely wipe out maternal and neonatal tetanus by 2012 by continuing to provide vaccines.
Always, Tampax
In many developing countries, it is against the law for young women to attend school during their period, so they end up missing a week of school each month, which inevitably results in having to drop out. Thus, Live, Learn and Thrive is providing puberty education, sanitary protection, and sanitary facilities to help vulnerable girls stay in school. Since 2006, 80,000 girls have been reached in the developing world through the combined efforts of P&G and “Protecting Futures: keeping girls in school.”
Haiti Relief
Thanks to P&G’s empolyee/retiree contributions, Haiti donations have now exceeded 1.8 million dollars. LLT has also provided six million packets of PUR Purifier along with bar soap, shampoos, diapers, feminine hygiene, batteries and lights. Through the mentioned programs and more including Hope Schools, Shiksha and Safeguard, Procter and Gamble’s Live, Learn, and Thrive continues to benefit two children every second of every day with over 100 programs taking place in over 60 countries across the globe.
Joy Outdoor Education Center Help serve youth from economicallydisadvantaged backgrounds, youth with medical conditions or special needs and local youth via summer and yearround camps. Contact Elliott Blodgett 800-300-7094
feature 12
Pencils: when #2 trumps #1 elliegoldman
managing editor
friday, april 30,2010
A
number two, yellow pencil is used for many things throughout its lifetime. It is used by students to do homework, pass notes and take the OGT’s. Pencils serve as tools of learning, tools for doodling, and tools to throw at your sibling. People put pencils in their hair to
The ferrule rule
2
The metal clip that attaches the rubber eraser to a pencil is a ferrule. It is clamped on to the pencil, then the eraser is fitted and clamped in the same way. In Britain, high-class pencils often lack an eraser and ferrule, instead utilizing a curved end dipped in paint.
look trendy, behind their ears to look smart, and everyone once tried to put a pencil in their pocket but quickly learned that was a bad idea. These items are omnipresent in the background of everyday life, usually in pencil cases or on the hallway floors. At first glance, this statement seems unremarkable. Taking a closer look, though, this is a quite notable fact. One of the tools that came about just as they were colonizing Florida, pencils are still a commonplace object. Somehow this small, wooden writing implement has managed to stick around from the age of exploration to the age of computers. A common sentiment is the belief that pencils will soon become less commonplace because of all the new technology dominating the written word. “Pencils are going out of style.
Sy c
One might argue that pencils have always been here- simply because they have always been here. They were present on everyone’s first day of kindergarten, and simply have not changed much since then. As constants go, a ‘#2’ is pretty reliable. Pencils have been fundamental in the lives of millions of students, past and present, and people form bonds with them. When asked, most respond automatically with their favorite kind. “[A Ticoneroga] lasts me forever, I prefer them to mechanical. They are the best kind of pencil,” said Brooke Banner, 9, brand-specific enthusiast. Some use good old wooden pencils for correcting purposes, while others prefer the mechanical variety for fine lines and elimination of sharpening. Either way, the pencil has accumulated a strong fan base.
am
Perhaps pencils are appealing because they want their users to make mistakes. In fact, their whole success depends on it.
o
r
Yellow pencils originate from the Koh-I-Noor brand pencil. When these pencils arrived on the market most pencils were dark colors, so Koh-I-Noor stood out by choosing yellow. Other brands imitated this color choice in hopes of seeming classy and attracting buyers.
e
The ‘#2 HB’ indicated on a pencil refers to the grade of the graphite, a scale including ‘B’ for black, or soft, ‘H’ for hard, and ‘F’ for fine point. Hard pencils produce a very light, thin stroke while black is soft and bold. Numbers are used to indicate the degree of hard- or softness (i.e. 7B, 8B, 5H). A typical #2 HB pencil corresponds to a medium.
A humdrum phenomenon
Editing appeal
Cheery disposition
#2 is #1 for students
Now people only use them to bubble in scantron tests,” said Jo Ann Calland, high school secretary. But still, these small, yellow implements dominate the classroom. What is it about a simple pencil that has the whole world smitten?
Pencils are engineered for the thought process; they create the bridge from intangible thought to concrete ideas on paper. A pencil facilitates having an idea and then making it better, which has universal appeal. Their halfgraphite-half-eraser layout is the ideal combination for fixing and rewording, plus pencils allow one doodle in the margins along the way. “I need to use a pencil with a softer eraser, that kind erases the best,” said Austin Hoard, 11.
Pencils, economy
Not only are pencils writing tools, they are widely used as advertising tools as well. Colleges, non-profits, and tourist locations will undoubtedly have pencils for sale with their logos on the way out, in hopes of creating strong name recognition. If one is looking for a collection starter, pencils are a strong choice. Whatever a passion may be, there will surely be a corresponding pencil. Sports teams, vacation destinations, everything from museums to the manatee house will supply the rods. The fact remains, they are cheap, and they are everywhere. Pencils are often sold in twelve-packs for under a dollar, a cost-effective and highly efficient choice. Regardless of where computers and technology take us, the pencil has its niche in society. It is cheap, disposable, and grandparents can operate it with ease. Besides, teachers instruct students to use pencils: they have a point.
Graphite and beyond
The standard writing pencil has a core of graphite, of varying degrees of hardness. Artists may use a charcoal pencil for a darker, easier smudge. Grease pencils, or china markers, contain wax and can write on virtually any surface, including glass and metal. An uncommon non-reproducing pencil is unique in that it will not show up in photocopies.
Step by Step: how to create a Ticonderoga
1
Begin with 7” cedar slats.
2
Grooves are cut to fit the writing cores (graphite).
3
4
Cores are glued into grooves.
Another grooved slat is glued on top.
5
Each side is shaped and cut by machine.
Each pencil is sanded, for a smooth finish.
7
Several coats of paint are applied.
8
The pencil is stamped with foil lettering.
9
The metal ferrule is added.
10
An eraser is glued into the ferrule.
2
2
2
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all images by ellie goldman
profile view
A&E
13
friday, april 30, 2010
emmarosen
a&e chief
all phtos courtesy of altavista.com
F
ashion for the Cure proves to be successful
unds raised adds up to $10,000
denaebelillti
O staff writer
n March 17, SHS hosted fashion for the cure in the commons. Many people including students, siblings, parents, relatives, survivors, and faculty members attended the show. This year, proceeds benefitted pediatric brain cancer. Five male and five female students from each grade were selected to model clothes from various local stores and boutiques. Both formal and casual attire were featured. “Some of it is from what students make, some is from casual boutiques from around here, and others are formal from Bridal and Formal – which is our main sponsor, and Folchi,” said Eryn Kipner, 11. Casual attire was mainly provided by Khaki, Mustard Seed, Obsess, Snap, and Fetish. After attending multiple fittings, the models finally walked the runway at 7:30 p.m. Each model walked twice, once in casual attire and once in formal attire. The show also featured student work. Students participating in fashion classes contrib-
a&e
uted their work to the show, which was modeled in the first scene. All outfits were modeled through a process of seven different scenes. Many important people attended the event to make it as special as possible. The show itself featured Mr. Randy Lothrop, math teacher, and his daughter, Elizabeth Lothrop, 9, at Mason. She has now returned to school, after battling leukemia since Oct. of ’08. Graeter’s Ice Cream provided blueberry pie flavored ice cream, which was made a flavor in memory of Elena Desserich. Desserich lost her battle with cancer at the age of 6, in ’07. Before passing away, Elena’s family founded The Cure Starts Now Foundation. Its mission is to educate, aid, and fund the research for a cure for pediatric brain cancer in the hopes of curing all cancers. A portion of the flavor’s sales continue to benefit the organization. The fashion for the cure show featured Elena’s parents, and a signing of their book.This year, around $10,000 was raised at the event. For those close to people who are unfortu-
Enthralling summer reads that entertain while educating forum chief
this month in
FashionBoy discusses hot spring trends | page 14
Most annoying songs on radio
Gina tells it like it is | page 14
For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
‘Any reading you do is better than no reading at all’ sarahmay
Alexander Wang takes fashion world by storm
nately diagnosed, they are well aware of the never ending medical bills, procedures, and physical and emotional strength that the disease demands. Not only is having cancer draining for the patient, but for their families as well. Multiple events take place throughout the year to benefit various types of cancers and organizations. The next event taking place in the community is Relay4Life, on May 14. The event significantly represents the idea that cancer is a disease that never sleeps. By walking throughout the night, each team member will have the opportunity to experience the exhaustion that a cancer patient would experience each day. Organizations and events such as these provide funding for research. Without money, research is not possible, and without research, finding a cure is impossible as well. Again, cancer is a disease that never sleeps, and it demands so much from those diagnosed. By getting involved in these events or organizations throughout the community, you can show your support.
Statistics show that only 49% of high school students read more than ten books a year. Factoring in the required books we read in our English classes, that brings it down to about five books a year. What has caused this tremendous draught in reading habits? One can speculate about busy schedules, technology, and intense school work for hours. However what not many people have addressed is the lack of incentives for students to pick up a book on their own time and read. If students do not have someone or something telling them what literature is top-notch, then they are much less likely to exceed their ten books per year. The purpose of this column is to recommend to the students (and teachers) of SHS books that are worth their time, money, and effort. Through my suggestions I hope that reading will once again be implemented into the lives of us young adults. To teachers I say that while I understand students are required to read certain books, perhaps it would be worth everyone’s while to extend to them the same privileges we received in middle school and elementary school: independent reading time. Sacrificing a class bell or two can be the deciding factor that drives a student to pick up that book that has been sitting on their shelf for months. If everyone were able to just experience for a little while the adventure of reading, then perhaps ten books a year would increase to 20. “There are worse crimes than burning books. One of them is not reading them,” said Ray Bradbury.
Filled with thick sunscreen, the smell of chlorine, and no school work, summer is at time for relaxation. But while you are taking it easy by the pool side or tanning in your backyard, consider cracking open a book for fascinating read. “Reading over the summer is a great idea, and I think it keeps one’s mind sharp for the kinds of work one returns to when school recommences… by all means, shoot some zombies on the x-box, but do some reading, too,” said Mr. Tom Gaffigan. As we know from the infamous summer reading assignments, there are no books that will please everyone. Reading should be enjoyable, so it is important to choose a genre you like. “Any reading you do is better than no reading at all, whether it be magazines, graphic novels, fiction, or nonfiction,” said Mrs. Judith Klefas.
Suggested reading
“The Lost Symbol” by Dan Brown
“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins
Brown’s latest thriller novel is even more unpredicatable and exciting than “The DaVinci Code.” In Robert Langdon’s latest adventure, he must race his most evil adversary villain yet to uncover a great treasure in Washinton D.C.
This #1 New York Times Bestseller will fascinate both boys and girls as it pulls you into the world of Katniss, a young girl who must fight 23 other boys and girls for her life in a cruel, nationally televised “hunger game.”
“Slaughter-house Five” by Kurt Vonnegut
“The Pact” by Jodi Picoult
In this semi-autobiographical novel, Vonnegut mixes dark humor and fantasy to write about his experience as a prisoner of war in WWII during the Allied firing bombing of the German industrial city, Dresden.
The renowned author of “My Sister’s Keeper” tells a riveting tale. Chris and Emily have lived next door to each other for 18 years, but when Emily is murdered, all evidence points to her best companion and boyfriend, Chris.
14 a&e
friday, april 30, 2010
gina’s
Fashio
Boy
ginaromeo
a&e chief
stuartlindle
staff writer to do your own spin on it, make it your own. If you aren’t a preppy girl, but you want to do a nautical look, pull an Alexa Chung and pair this season’s nautical stripes with cut offs and some ripped tights. There are no limits, just don’t force yourself into something that isn’t you and beyond everything else you should be comfortable in what you’re wearing. It doesn’t matter how much you love a shoe, if it’s two sizes too small your feet are still going to hurt.
all photos courtesy of altavista.com
F
rom “Teen Vogue” intern to the fashion phenomena he has become today, young designer Alexander Wang represents everything I love about fashion. At just 25 years old, Wang’s edgy, chic designs have earned him a fashionable following: from the infamous, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen to Wang’s muse, model Erin Wasson. “Each season is an evolution,” Wang says in an interview, “but everything is based on the idea of classics with a fresh, modern take, basics that a girl can make her own.” Last summer, it was all about the coveted coco duffle: the epitome of downtown chic, black leather and its bottom adorned with studs. Other signatures of the Wang brand include distressed denim, grungeglam, and (my personal favorite) the boyfriend blazer. On the forefront of one of spring’s biggest trends, menswear inspired looks, a boyfriend blazer especially, when paired with a flirty floral dress or romper, can look really refreshing and sophisticated. This season it is all about mixing and matching. Think Marc by Marc Jacobs or Proenza Schouler, their use of prints was daring; mixing tribal prints, stripes, and plaids. I think it is always important to face fashion fearlessly, now more than ever people are taking more risks. I believe that with any trend this spring and summer it is important
ALEXA CHUNG AND A Proenza model perfectly embodies the style of this spring (above). Alexander Wang (left) makes a splash in the world of fashion with his innovative designs.
Renu Kotwal, M.D.
Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Neuroscience Center LLC. 5240 East Galbraith Road Cincinnati, OH 45236
Ph: 513-442-0027 Fax: 513-442-0225 Dr. Renu Kotwal is a board certified adult psychiatrist. She specializes in treatment of mood disorders, eating disorders, obesity, and other psychiatric disorders. She is currently accepting new patients, and is on the insurance panel of several insurance carriers. She also provides weight management evaluations and treatment. Call the office at 513-442-0027 to schedule an appointment.
Unfortunately, there comes a time when a catchy, fun song is butchered by local radio stations. After a couple hundred plays a day, what was once your favorite song can become the most annoying thing you have ever heard. Here are four of these songs. “Blah Blah Blah” by Ke$ha ft. 3OH!3 The fact that this self-acclaimed “party princess” actually uses the phrase “Blah Blah Blah” in the chorus of the song is enough to prove Ke$ha is far from lyrical genius. Not to mention the rap/vocal “stylings” of duo 3OH!3 added nothing to this already sad attempt at a song. “According to You” by Orianthi Cheesy lyrics. A less than original sound. For as many times “According to You” comes on a day, it is a wonder that I have not once heard the whole thing. The fact of the matter is that every time I hear the guitar strumming first few notes, I change the station. How is it that “According to You” manages to come on the radio every five minutes? According to me, this song sucks. “Whataya Want from Me” by Adam Lambert It is not just the way he screeches when he sings. It is not just his over-the-top performances. It is not his black nail polish and guy-liner. Everything about American idol loser Lambert makes me cringe. The truth is I actually have a good time listening to this song. Not because it is good, but simply because I get a kick out of how terrible it is. What do I want from you Adam? To see the end of your “pop star” career. “I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas There is nothing more aggravating than a song that stays on the radio for too long. After a few months of airtime a single can go from the top of the Billboard charts to the bottom of the half price bin at Walmart. Enter: the Black Eyed Peas. This once successful song has dropped rapidly in popularity. In fact, this song has become a sort of omen to me. Whenever I hear it, I know that tonight is not going to be a good night. For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
a&e 16
friday, april 30, 2010
When ‘the romance’ goes
BAD...
Not so gaga for Gaga s.m.dipali
B
lood. Sex. Nudity. All in a days work for Lady Gaga. Ever since her debut, “Just Dance,” hit the airwaves, Gaga’s fame has risen to new heights. Born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, Gaga started her musical career with her admission to New York University’s Tisch School of Arts. Within two years, Gaga determined that she was much more creatively advanced than all of her classmates, and dropped out. She began exploring her music on the Lower East Side of New York and soon signed a contract with Streamline Records. Undoubtedly, Gaga’s success is nearly unparalleled in the pop genre. “Just Dance” and “Poker Face” both rose to reach the number one standing on the Billboard ratings. However, this success has seemingly led Gaga to perceive some pretty bullish conclusions about her own originality. She recently told one journalist that she was “defying all the preconceptions we have of pop artists.” While Gaga’s clothing and personality are certainly unconventional, her music is not. After the first few listens of her debut album, you realize there is actually very little original material in her songs. Gaga sings about cliché topics, such as fame and sex, while the ‘80s infused beat blares in the background. With the use of the typical heavy synthesizers, Gaga’s voice sounds quite masculine, or possibly just somewhere between Gwen Stefani and Madonna. Gaga professed to her audience, “I’m obsessively opposed to the typical.” Well, it seems as though there is an immense gulf between Gaga’s perception of herself and reality.
all photos courtesy of altavista.com
news chief
“ “
Lady Gaga’s lyrics don’t seem all that orginial to me. It’s the same stuff you hear about in almost every pop song.
-Dominic Miller,10
She is completely over the top. Her music videos are really disturbing. Half of the time, I don’t see any connection with the song and the video.
-Janice Choi,12
Gaga’s faux pas
Lady Gaga’s BRa COMBUSTS at the MuchMusic Award in Toronto. Gaga’s flaming metallic chest wear awed some and enraged others. Many parents believed that this outrageous performance was inappropriate for young adults who were attending her concert.
At the MTV video Music Awards, Lady Gaga performed Paparazzi to an audience of thousands of people. During her performance, Gaga faked suicide: she dangled from rope while fake blood oozed out of her chest. This disturbing display disgusted and apalled many viewers.
DUE to hit stores soon, the “Lady Gaga Barbie” is shown above. Many adults and parents are skeptical about this shocking choice for a new Barbie Doll. She is a questionable choice for a role model for young girls with her racy fashion and suggestive lyrics.
Lady Gaga: 15 a&e
all photos courtesy of altavista.com
friday, april 30, 2010
princess of pop wows crowds worldwide emmarosen
T
a&e chief
here is no use denying it: Lady Gaga has become a permanent fixture in the entertainment business. Her outrageous outfits and catchy songs have made her into a rising pop icon. If Gaga can be labeled as anything at all, it would have to be unique. Her masterfully engineered albums host nothing more than one of a kind treasures. She has had hits on each of her albums with songs such as “Paparazzi” and “Bad Romance.” However, Gaga is not just a one-trick pony: she does
not just put on a crazy ensemble and dance onstage. She is also an experienced songwriter. Not only has Gaga written her own lyrics, but lyrics for others such as Britney Spears, Fergie, and The Pussycat Dolls. Her uniqueness translates from her music to her wild attire. She can be expected to wear anything from a shiny silver jumpsuit to a dress made solely of plastic bubbles. While many find her fashion sense unnerving, it is her boldness and daringness that make her such an interesting celebrity. She is definitely not your run of the mill singer, that is for sure.
“ “ “ “ I’m not sure if I’m attracted to her or not. It’s amazing. She is the only person I’ve seen that can work a leotard.
Lady Gaga makes it okay to be yourself. She is a true artist and I honestly think she trumps other performers in every aspect.
She is a little bit crazy, but her music is really catchy and I love jamming to it in my car with friends.
Lady Gaga has extremely unique fashion sense. It’s so cool to watch her perform. Her music is very catchy and popular.
-Neil Krishnan,12
-Nick Lo,10
-Laura Birckhead,11
-Keely Buckley, 9
In awe of Gaga
Lady Gaga’s FASHION SENSE is the topic of many a tabloid article. here she shows off her cute, spunky side in an adorable white dress adorned with bows galore. Gaga’s ability to transform from outrageous garments to simpler ones like this make her a true fashion icon
GAGA SPORTS HER SIGNATURE “Minnie Mouse” hair bow. This whimsical accessory has become a fixture in stores across the country, including Claire’s and Forever 21. Only Gaga could pull of an insane idea such as this and have it turn into a country-wide phenomenom.
GAGA STRUTS HER STUFF in one of her signature leotards. This sexy, bold look has inspired trends and tributes to Gaga. This look not only showcases her long legs, but her eccentric personality.
Sports
17
Take a
friday, april 30, 2010
Hike
James the victim, not the culprit brandonsosna
editor-in-chief/sports chief
TAYLOR YOUNG, 12, ALONG with the rest of the varsity girls lacrosse team is looking to follow up last seasons state title with another run at the state tournament this year. She, along with the rest of the senior class will play a huge roll in meeting and exceeding expectations. The bar has been raised.
this month in
sports
5/1
@ Upper Arlington
5/4
fter last year’s girls lacrosse team won the state championship, the current team has been instilled with a desire to follow in their footsteps of success. “So far, we are looking good for winning state,” said Aamna Dosani, 11. The ladies are currently undefeated. They crished Loveland and Ursuline winning 22-1 and 16-3 respectively. The team celebrated over their victory, as they cancelled practices and games over prom weekend, as a reward for their success. “The Ursuline game was huge since we have lost to them in the past,” said Marisa Merk, 11. They recently played Worthington Kilborn winning 7-6, the closest game that the girls have played yet.
“It was a really intense game where both teams were really talented,” said Faith Kohne, 11. Over spring break, the team traveled to Chicago to play in a tournament. They played three games, winning two but losing to the Illinois state champions, Layola. “It was an upsetting game, but does not count towards our overall record,” said Dosani. Coming up on Saturday May 1, the girls will be battling Upper Arlington, which is the biggest game of the season every year as they too, have been athletic enemies for as long as these girls have been playing lacrosse. “Upper Arlington is always a big deal. They are a really good team with a ton of great players,” said Merk. The Upper Arlington contest will be followed by games against St. Ursula, Summit, and Mount Notre Dame.
vs. St. Ursula
5/6 5/5
A
editor-in-chief
@ Summit
5/6
mariamarballi
Upcoming Schedule:
Varsity girls lacrosse cradles toward state
@ Anderson
vs. MND
Family Dental Montgomery
Tennis team finds success The varsity team has played well all season and currently is the number one team in the GMC, riding on a 7-0 conference record
Dentistry the way it should be
Gentle & painless care Dr. Jerry P. Gao, DDS Dr. Eileen T. Liang, DDS
Page>>18
Need more coverage? Visit the sports page at www.goaves.com
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We always hear that lessons are learned from mistakes. We are taught that we must make mistakes to become better and stronger. It’s the classic fall seven times and stand up eight scenario, right out of a Dwayne Wade commercial. But what happens when you fall five stories from a balcony? There’s no standing up after that. When do we reach the point where we stop declaring we will learn from our mistakes and just not commit the error? This isn’t throwing away the game winning run or dropping a season changing touchdown pass. In sports, a mistake is forgotten. If the Sharks win the Stanley Cup, no one will remember Dan Boyle’s own goal. In life, the worst mistakes are hard to overcome. And even if repressed, they hang on to you like a leach, rendering you almost lifeless. And in the case of Matt James, dead. Then when tragedies like this happen, the media cries out like a swarm of Cicadas with the same, beating-the-dead-horse message: athletes think they are invincible and “it won’t happen to them.” All I can do is roll myself up into a ball, cover my ears with my palms, and squeeze myself into a corner. Just make it stop. Please. James was the victim of the same thing as every other highly talented high school athlete. From the moment someone realizes they can throw a ball really hard or far or put a ball in a hoop they are thrust onto a pedestal. It’s not a choice. Not hardly. How can they try and lead a normal life when their facebook pages are inundated with messages from different schools’ fans begging them to attend “their” school? How can they when there are websites dedicated to following their high school careers? And message board threads all about them? We have no problem writing about these phenoms. No one objects when there are YouTube videos chronicling the training regimen of “the next Michael Jordan.” Before these student-athletes can wrap their heads around the idea they have a supreme talent, others are after them as if they are a million dollar bill rolling across the floor. AAU coaches looking out for their own interests and third cousins twice removed hoping to cash in big become their most influential voices. The kids find themselves sinking in quicksand, with morals and ethics going down first. It’s at this time when the mistake is made - when athletes are taught the wrong lessons by the wrong people and dealt backwards priorities. And when their worlds come crashing down in unimaginable and often tragic ways, we always look for someone to blame: the kid, the parents, etc. And while everyone is asking why young athletes think they are invincible the answer has never been more lucid: it’s you and you and you and you. It’s us. It’s all of us. We throw them into elitist status. We hang them out to dry. And every time something goes terribly wrong, we say we will learn from our mistakes. Yet, like a losing program, we never execute. And until we do, the next Matt James won’t have a chance either. For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
18 sports
friday, april 30, 2010
‘...We really showed ourselves how good we were compared with the teams that are not just in Cincinnati’
Varsity tennis season in full swing frankpan
T
staff writer
NIKHIL GRANDHI, 9 HITS a forehand in a match. Grandhi was one of three SHS courts to win against Lakota East, giving them the overall victory. Grandhi won 6-1, 6-2.
image by jimmy chau
he varsity gold tennis team came out of the gates with the toughest stretch of games any team in the state of Ohio will face all season. They took on Toledo St. John’s, a state final four team from 2009, in their opening match and lost 1-4. After a tough opening day, the team traveled to Mason to take on a formidable GMC rival. The outcome led to a 4-1 victory this time with key wins by singles players Adam Reinhart, 11, Yuri Karev, 9 and Dylan Stern, 9. However, the “tough” week of matches was not over yet and on Friday, April 2, the team took on the Division II state champion Columbus Academy and fell in a heartbreaking 2-3 defeat. Then the following day, the team played Louisville St. Xavier, winners of the Kentucky State tennis championships and lost 0-5. “That was a tough week, but we really showed ourselves how good we were compared with the teams that are not just in Cincinnati,” said co-captain David Jungerwirth, 12.
Bouncing back
However, after such a challenging week, the team has certainly regrouped, to say the least, and went on a six game win streak with key wins against Turpin and GMC foe Lakota West. “Coming back to playing against teams that we are familiar with, it certainly helps and it has definitely shown in the league standings,” said co-captain Jake Maxwell, 12. That six game win streak was suddenly snapped when the team took on the defending Division I state champs and the top team in the city, St. Xavier, in the state team tournament on Saturday, April 17. “They are a deep team with seniors at virtually every position so it was tough this year,” said Jeffrey Kaplan, 11. Next up, the team played perhaps their biggest rival in Lakota East on Tuesday, April 20 and handed the Thunderhawks their first league loss in over a year.
The team played tough, grind-it-out tennis in every singles position while cruising at doubles. 1st doubles, led by Maxwell and Jungerwirth easily dismantled their opponents 6-1, 6-1. Second off the courts was the 2nd doubles tandem of Kaplan and Nikhil Grandhi, 9 who put on a clinic 6-1, 6-2. “It’s nice to look down a few courts and see the dubs [doubles] teams just doing their jobs,” said Reinhart. At first singles, Reinhart took on sophomore Zach Mueck who is nationally ranked in the top 50 in the U.S. in the boys’ 16 and under division. Reinhart fought hard but came up short 3-6, 6-7(5-7). Karev took on perhaps the top second singles player in the state of Ohio in junior Freddy Abunku and lost, 4-6, 0-6. And so, if one has noticed, it all came down to the third singles spot with Stern. Stern took on junior Akash Umakantha and pulled out a tactical three set match. Umakantha took the first set pretty convincingly 6-2 but with a change in strategy and a lot of tenacity, Stern fought his way to win the next two sets 6-4, 6-2.
Gaining momentum
And with that 3-2 team victory, the Aviators took another step towards taking back the GMC title that was so abruptly taken from them a year ago. With the season more than halfway through, the team will try and continue their winning ways at the annual Coaches Classic sanctioned by the Greater Cincinnati Tennis Coaches Association which will be held on April 22 and 24. Looking ahead, the team still has key matches against Loveland, currently the number four team in the city at press time, and perennial Columbus power, Upper Arlington. After the regular season wraps up, the team will face post season action starting with the GMC tournament on May 6, and then the sectional tournament, the first leg of qualifying for state, which starts the week of May 10.
Cincinnati Division I Tennis Rankings: Teams 1. St. Xavier 2. Lakota East 3. Sycamore 4. Loveland 5. Mason 6. Lakota West 7. Elder 8. Princeton 9. Talawanda 10. Walnut Hills
Points 90 (9) 81 72 55 48 40 29 28 17 11
friday, april 30, 2010
sports 19
S
oftball looks to upcoming games
haky start to season motivates team
emilycohen
all images by staff
staff writer
THE SHS GIRLS AND boys track team both had a successful meet in Indiana on April, 16. The boys team finished in first place, and the girls team finished in second place.
Track team sprints to victory Boys place first, girls second catherinefarist
staff writer
T
he first SHS track team competed in their first away meet, traveling two-and-a-half hours to the Park Tudor Showcase Invitational at Indianapolis, IN on Friday, April 16. The team came out with a first place win for the boys with 65 points and a second place win for the girls with 71.8 points. “I’m happy that we got to experience the out of town trip and to top it off we brought home the Champion and Runner up trophies. It was a cool aviator moment,” said Coach Hank Ray. The boys sprint medley team of Darius Hillary, 11, Nelson Wong, 12, Nick Alston, and Adam Kapunscinski, 11 placed first. “I was glad that a group who had never worked together before fought so hard for each other,” said Kapunscinski. “It was a very gratifying win.” Mark Kohmescher, 12, along with Hillay, Wong, and Alston placed first in the 4x400 relay. Ahna Reese, 11, a girl’s discus and shot put thrower placed first overall and is currently ranked second and third in the GMC district. “The bus ride was really long, but proved to be worth it in the end, because everyone did very well and both the guys and girls came home with trophies,” said Nick Fry, 12, a current Farmers Insurance Group Student Athlete of the month. Maddie Keys, 11, placed second in the district and is currently ranked 3rd in the GMC standings, even though the final jumps came next to last in the meet and less than ideal weather of rain and wind. Incoming distance runner, Samantha Siler, 9 has proved to be an invauluable asset for the team and placed second in the one mile, currently ranked number one in the GMC. “I’m really proud of the effort that the team has made so far, however I also feel they have the ability to push themselves more,” said Head Coach Elizabeth Gonda. “This team has a lot of talent and this meet proved exactly how much they are able to produce. The team has many promising athletes on both the girls and boys teams. Each squad should bring a lot of talent to the
GMC meet, startingWednesday, May 12. The team’s next meet was Thursday, April 22 at Milford. Due to the amount of events in this meet, some of the events rolled over to Friday, April 23. Results were not finalized at press time.
Showcase rankings for boys: 1. Sycamore 2. Park Tudor 3. Guerin/Edgewood 5. Park Tudor
After starting the season off strong with a 6-0 victory over Princeton, the SHS girls softball team has stalled, losing six in a row. However, five games have been decided by less than two runs, including a one run loss to division leader Lakota West. “We are doing our best to get back on track. We’ve been competitive, but haven’t finished games off,” said Carrie Tveita, 11. It does not help that the team is in a very strong conference. The Greater Miami Conference is always a competitive conference when it comes to softball, and almost every year a different team wins the division. “The GMC is a really good conference because there is at least one team that reaches state every year,” said Shelly Pohl, 12. The girls team is well aware of the strength of the GMC and is relying on veteran talent to pick the team up. Players have experience at the varsity level and are familiar with each other’s playing style. Many teammates have played with each other for a long time and know the importance of this season. “Caitlin (Hauff, 12) and I have played together since the fifth grade,” said Candice Hayes, 12.
Offensively the lineup has been inconsistent, leaving too many runners on base. In addition, the bottom half of the lineup has not produced as well as it should, allowing opposing pitchers to have success against the teams better hitters. The team has also had some good offensive games, including a game vs. Western Hills when the team scored 18 runs, and a ten-run game vs. Middletown. In these games, the whole lineup was productive. The team has the potential to be very good down the stretch if the whole team can produce, like they did in these games.
Upcoming schedule: Friday, April 23 @ Middletown Monday, April 26 vs. Hamilton Wednesday, April 28 vs. Fairfield Thursday, April 29 vs. Talawanda Friday, April 30 @ Lakota East Saturday, May 1 @ Anderson
Lifetime Events Formal Wear Ed Oneill 121 W. Benson St. Reading, Ohio 45215
$79.00 for Tuxedoes Graduation Special! Book Early! JUSTIN MURRAY, 11 POSES for a picture after the Park Tudor Showcase Invitational in Indianapolis, Indiana. Murray placed first in boys shot put. He also plays football for the school team.
513 - 761- 2034
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Snapshots friday, april 30, 2010
A GROUP OF STUDENTS is hypnotized at afterprom. Some are skeptical about the validity of this activity. “I didn’t think it was real until I was actually hypnotized myself,” said Izy Martin, 10.
PROM KING AND QUEEN Anu Kashik, 12, and Bianca Patel, 12, share the first dance. After, they entertained their classmates with Indian dancing.
A CROWD DANCES AT prom. Students danced to a variety of different songs throughout the night. “Prom was amazing,” said Matt Orabella, 11, “I had a great time.”
Images by
Daniel Michael, Inc.
Photojournalistic Photography
MICHAEL ROZZO, 12, PLAYS on a giant inflatable obstacle course at afterprom. This course, the largest in Ohio, was one of the most popular activities at afterprom.
513.759.6760 10816 Millington Ct, Suit 116 Cincinnati, OH 45242 Photo@DanielMichael.com