March 2015 Leaf[

The

Leaf

Sycamore High School Student News Magazine Volume 2 | Issue 7 | March 25, 2015

Seeing through the smoke Image by Elizabeth Rickert

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

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[ inside this issue ] The Leaf

1 in 20

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242 Adviser Cheralyn Jardine Photographer McDaniel’s Photography About us Professional memberships: • Columbia Scholastic Press Association • Journalism Education Association • National Scholastic High School Press Association • Ohio Scholastic Media Association • Ohio Professional Writers (National Federation of Women Writers) • Quill & Scroll International Journalism Honorary

Staff Writers Jordan Baker Jenna Bao Natalie Brinkman Caroline Bruns Ben BrynjulfsonReardon Emily Chien Adhiti Chundur Hannah Clark Taylor Close Benjamin Cohen William Coleman Meghan DiGiovanna Jake Englander Sydney Evans Max Fritzhand Zachary Fritzhand Meredith Gottliebson Charles Harte Sarah Horne Claire King Riley Kurtz Claire Lefton Beverly Liu Jack Loon Melinda Looney Harsimran Makkad Ellen Martinson Ethan May Zachary Milliken Joshua Patterson Esther Pittinger Anthony Popenoe Madeline Schramm Lauren Shassere Luke Tenbarge Max Torem Emily Tyler Kamaria Walton Leah Wallihan Neil Yejjey Ben Young Nathan Zhang

(ages 12 and up)

Image by Lauren Glynn

[ news ]

admit to non-medical use of prescription painkillers in the past year [ a&e ]

2 | relay for life quickly approaches

7 | aves theatre produces Shrek

2 | employee of the week

8 | turning trash into treasure: thrifting increases in popularity

3 | showing knowledge at the science fair

[ cover story ] 9-12 | the controversies that surround drugs in this age

[ opinion ] 5 | students lack humility regarding college acceptances

[ feature ]

6 | standardized testing overwhelms students

editors’ note

Print Editors-in-Chief Atiya Dosani Lauren Saxon Web Editor-in-Chief Kathryn Tenbarge Leaflet Editor-in-Chief Lauren Glynn ASSIGNMENT EDITORS Lila Englander Brenda Shen Associate Editors Joseph Ahn Taylor Evans Madeline Marsh Anna Zhou Managing Editors Abbey Baker Isaac Goldstein Creative Projects Joseph Ahn Hannah Frey Elizabeth Rickert Orion Schlosser Zoe Schlosser Business Manager Caroline Gao Web Master Eli Seidman-Deutsch Broadcast Editor-in-Chief Victoria Swart news Hannah May Sports Alex Wittenbaum Eli Zawatsky FEATURE Hannah Frey Lauren Kurtzer A&E Amy Deng Ben Ruskin Opinion David Wertheim Spotlight Brooke Landrum Fun & Games Rujula Kapoor

people in the U.S.

Over the past few generations, we have seen a significant increase in the use of nonprescription drugs.

Even in our very own school district, students are admitting to seeing this usage increase

14-15 | moving toward a cure for type 1 diabetes 16 | bunbury music festival lineup

in their peer groups and society as a whole.

In this issue, we designated our cover story to drugs. Our staff writers highlighted a variety of topics including the current heroin

[ fun&games ] 17 | sudoku, puzzle, tic tac toe, wordles

[ sports ] 18 | boys lacrosse ready to avenge losses from last season 19 | states results from winter season 20 | fencing at SHS

[ spotlight ] 21 | Jordyn Bryant, 12

epidemic in Cincinnati and the legalization of marijuana. We hope to further expose and educate our readers on both sides of the drug issue.

-Atiya Dosani & Lauren Saxon

[ news ]

R

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

aised money aids cancer research

elay for Life comes around for another lap

Taylor Close staff writer

MEGHAN DIGIOVANNA

F

staff writer

or one night every year, high school and college students around the country get together to raise money and awareness to help the American Cancer Society with research.

Relay for Life is an event that is hosted for one night, in which teams of 10 get together and walk around a track in order to raise awareness for cancer, and have fun while doing so.

Teams from all grade levels come together on April 24 and 25 to participate in the overnight fundraising walk. Students who participate come from families who

are involved in the cause or just come out to support their friends and family by competing.

“I love that the event is fun but still for a good cause. One of my favorite things about Relay is that it gives back whatever you put in to it,” senior Elizabeth Sheetz said, Relay for Life began in May 1985, when Dr. Gordy Klatt walked for 24 hours around a track raising $27,000 to help the American Cancer Society. A year later, 340 supporters joined the event.

Since then, the movement has grown into a phenomenon and has raised nearly $5 billion for the American Cancer Society to help fight, cure, and put an end to cancer.

“I think it is really amazing that Relay for Life has become such

Employee of the Week Sam Meyers was the Employee of the Week last week. Sam works at Midwest Sports assembling boxes for shipments, categorizing shoes, and working on the sales floor. Sam demonstrates a strong work ethic and the ability to work as a team.

a big deal and so many people get involved. I’m so excited for it coming up this April,” freshman Kaitlyn Jiang said.

Each team member has to raise $100, so with the groups of 10 people, teams raise at least $1,000.

“I know a lot of people who have done Relay For Life before and I thought the idea was really cool and the event sounded like a lot of fun. I decided to make a team with my friends this year and join,” freshman Lily Martinson said.

To donate to Relay for Life, visit their website to find out how you can contribute to dedicate a luminaria or give money to the American Cancer Society. You can also donate to any participant, team, or to any specific fundraiser event.

Quick Scan

Terror organizations unite: Nigerian terrorist group joins ISIS

SCAN for the article on shsleaf.org

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

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Science fair projects enrich education

melinda looney staff writer

M

onths of research culminate on a board and in a written report showcasing a student’s scientific exploration. The effort is well worth it.

“I did the science fair because I love science, and it is an amazing experience that I gained knowledge throughout,” freshman Kate Willis said.

Additionally, the science fair has given many students an advantage for college and job applications.

According to Kid’s Science Challenge, working on a science project and competing in a science

fair can give students a unique opportunity to take a closer look at the natural world and to make discoveries.

There is a vast selection of categories to participate in such as behavioral science, biology, chemistry, and engineering.

“I picked my topic on the science of food coloring because I have an allergy to artificial food coloring.

I wanted to experiment with why food colorant is added, and if there are any replacements for artificial food colors,” Willis said.

Science fair contestants spend months experimenting and collecting data.

A key thing students learn is how

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to use the scientific method.

“Science fair projects normally have to have an abstract or overview, a hypothesis, question, independent variable, dependent variable, data, background information, and a conclusion among other things,” freshman Jasmine Male said.

Students start first at the district level. If they are awarded superior, they move to the regional and then state competitions. The University of Cincinnati and The Ohio State University are big supporters of the fair and give out scholarship to selected projects. Companies such as General Electric also give out monetary incentives.

In addition, state representatives send out congratulatory letters to students who win superior mentions at the state level.

“Failure is not a word used in scientific circles. If students have worked on something that ‘doesn’t work’, their projects can still be successful if they can show why it didn’t work. An excellent science fair project uses careful methods, creative planning and sound reasoning. Working is just icing on the science cake,” said Kid’s Science Challenge website.

[ opinion ] THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Staff Editorial Cartoon by Esther Pittinger

Leafing through the masses: What do you think about the legalization of marijuana?

T

imes change.’ The ubiquitous saying can be applied to a lot of issues this generation faces, from marriage to environmental protection, but especially to drug culture. Gone are the days of cracking down on marijuana possession, here is the era of rampant heroin usage with steadily younger participants.

State governments are beginning to see marijuana as a source of revenue so they’re structuring laws around that concept.

Mr. Thomas Bonenfant, history teacher

And perhaps most importantly, gone is the attitude that recreational drugs are inherently bad. Cigarette smoking may be on the steady decline, especially among high schoolers and young adults, but marijuana has presented itself as a force that can’t be stopped.

Rather than shove D.A.R.E. pamphlets in the faces of students and build more prisons, the general outcry has been for legalization.

Because after all, the laws exist to protect the interests of the citizens.

Heroin, on the other hand, drastically changes the lives of its users in a way that, while it isn’t endorsed by the general public, has skyrocketed in popularity.

Particularly here in Hamilton County, highly addictive drugs have presented themselves as a problem without an easy solution.

Drug culture consistently envelopes us in a haze of conflicting choices. As the playing field changes, our values shape the way we confront drugs, both in person and as a big picture. It’s vital to establish where we stand now, because where we stand as a society later depends on it.

I think legalization is bad because then more people will have access to it and start using it.

Lisa Zhou, 10 I feel like legalization will make things more steady and fewer crimes will be committed.

Kendall Price, 9

I honestly don’t have any opinion either way; I’m very neutral on the subject.

Cassidy Harris, 11

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

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[Insert college here] Office of Admissions March 23, 2015

Full Name Address line 1 Address line 2 Dear high school senior,

Congratulations! You have survived the college application process. You’ve made it through the late night essays, gathered recommendations, and filled out every part of the common app- even your sibling’s middle initial.

The freedom that comes with choosing a college is overwhelming. At age 18, we are asked to make life decisions, even though we still need permission from teachers to use the bathroom during the school day. This jump can be stressful, but you did it.

Now, however, the waiting game is over. One email/letter from a university can determine the next four years of your life. After watching some peers around me open their letters, I have been disappointed. The disappointment comes not from watching those who were denied, but from watching those who were accepted.

My disappointment stems from a lack of humility.

Today with the expansion of social media, college acceptances have become more than just future plans. College acceptances have become likes on Facebook, favorites on Twitter. It’s become a competition- who got into the best college. Some peers even had the audacity to post negative comments about other universities. The question I ask myself while scrolling through these posts is, why?

I understand the desire to celebrate your success. I understand that you’ve worked hard for this moment. But is posting every college acceptance really necessary?

There is a fine line between celebrating and gloating. Some of you have crossed it.

Although many of you may view your actions as harmless, I encourage you to think of those who were denied from the school into which you were accepted.

While you may have cried tears of joy from that letter, a fellow student cried tears of sadness. Now, they can’t get on social media without seeing an acceptance post. Now, they can’t sit in class without seeing you in that college’s t-shirt, reminding them of their failure. They feel beneath you, when that’s not the case.

To those accepted to their college, I advise you to stay humble. Tell your closest friends and family. Celebrate your accomplishment. If you post at all, post well after decision day. Post only your final decision. To those denied from their college, I advise you to stay positive. It’s okay to be sad, but not broken. The university that denied you is missing out on unique qualities which you could have brought to their campus. That’s their loss. Make them regret it.

Finally, this letter is not to reprimand those who have posted their acceptances. It is simply a reminder of how your actions may impact, or hurt others.

I wish you all the best of luck with your future endeavors.

Sincerely,

Lauren Saxon Lauren Saxon Print Editor-In-Chief

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

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Standardized complaints arise EMILY TYLER

R

staff writer

ead the question, work the problem, circle the answer.

Read the question, work the problem, circle the answer. Repeat forty more times.

This monotonous feeling is familiar to all students; it is the feeling of taking a standardized test.

Freshmen took the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC), which will be the standardized assessment starting next year.

This will be the last year that sophomores will take the Ohio Graduation Test (OGT).

But are these hours and hours of tests a good use of our time?

The only purpose of standardized testing is to determine who does and does not graduate, but that is also determined by a student’s grade point average (GPA).

Essentially, it is possible for a student to graduate only with good test scores, even if he or she does nothing in class, which is not preparing anyone for college.

We already have end-of-year exams, so why should we have to take even more tests that we won’t even study for?

Standardized testing is not even proved to help students. After No Child Left Behind (NCLB) passed the standardized testing laws, the

According to a recent survey taken in Ohio:

96% of respondents believed that standardized tests are not the best assessment of student success

feel that teachers’ assessments are better than standardized tests

91% 2002

A

B

A

B

C

D

D

70%

1.1 billion

Money spent on testing in 2008

Year standardized tests became required

B

C

students pass the OGT

Statistics from standardizedtests.procon.org

DESIGNED BY ELI ZAWATSKY

United States’ international rank on the PISA test went from 18 to 31.

For native English speakers, the test is not hard to understand. But what about the people who don’t speak English, or those who have learning disorders, like dyslexia?

They are at a huge disadvantage when it comes to these tests.

There are pros and cons to standardized testing, as there are to everything, but a majority of teachers and students think the cons outweigh the pros.

However, the majority of superintendents and state senators do not appear to be adding to the laundry list of things wrong with standardized testing, and maybe they never will.

This does not give us an excuse to blow off the tests and fail on purpose to make a point. However, one can sign one of several petitions online.

Superintendent Adrienne James has written to the state of Ohio regarding PARCC testing in particular. Any student can write such a letter, and it might have more impact than you think, especially if hundreds come in regularly.

The experts have made it clear: standardized testing is pointless, and there are things that we as high school students can do about it. So why haven’t we done anything?

[ a&e ] THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Going Green

Students prepare for Shrek musical MEREDITH GOTTLIEBSON

parts such as leads and supporting roles, for instance, all of the quirky fairytale creatures that live in giant green ogre, a the mythical kingdom and other sassy donkey, and an memorable and unique characters antagonistic cat are all to come in the spring musical, from the movie.

“I’ve made new friends and met Shrek. The theatre program has a ton of awesome freshmen that been rehearsing tirelessly, and are going to be awesome in theater performances are scheduled for in the next few years,” junior April 17, 18, 19, 24, and 25. and principal dancer Sophia “The GPS on my phone thinks Wiedmann said. that school is my home now The week prior to opening night, because I’ve spent so much time at the show has tech week or ‘Hell rehearsal,” freshman Week’ as it is commonly Rae Nourie said. referred to. Cast and The musical is an crew members stay adaptation of the 2001 at school until about Dreamworks movie, 10 p.m. each day and originally debuted rehearsing until the on Broadway in 2008. show is perfected.

The storyline basically For many freshmen, follows the film, with this is their first ‘Hell more plot twists and Week’ and for some turns and with musical their first high school numbers telling parts of the love show.

Alternatively, this will be all story. seniors’ last show at SHS as they Leading the show are seniors move on, in some cases, to pursue Andrew Leonard as Shrek, acting or music careers.

Samantha Ciricillo as Fiona, and “My favorite part about the show Anthony Popenoe as Donkey, is the people. It’s really fun when and junior Max Poff as Pinocchio. we do stuff together and do big Many underclassmen make up the numbers,” Nourie said.

Duloc ensemble, playing several Tickets will be on sale the week roles in scenes at Lord Farquaad’s leading up to the show (April 13-17) castle. and at the door on show nights.

Many upperclassmen take larger staff writer

A

“The GPS on my phone thinks that school is my home now because I’ve spent so much time at rehearsal”

[ column ] Best binges for break

BEN COHEN

staff writer

It is that time of year again when the snow begins to thaw, the flowers begin to bloom, and warmth fills the air.

In other words, it is the perfect time to stay inside and catch up on some awesome TV shows.

So over spring break, here are three shows to binge before their season premiers: “Orphan Black”: Not to be confused with the “Annie” remake that came out in 2014, “Orphan Black” easily displays some of the best talent on television.

Tatiana Maslany plays five different characters in the span of one episode.

Yes, the show is about clones. It is a perfectly addictive show for a spring binge and is available on Netflix, so catch up on the first two seasons before the season 3 premier on April 18.

“Penny Dreadful”: Are you tired of romanticized horror and want some dark and dreary horror? Well then this is the show for you. Taking classic tales such as “Frankenstein” and “Dorian Grey,” the show mashes them up to create a perfectly dark and gothic tale. While the show is on Showtime, meaning you need a Showtime subscription to watch episodes on the website, there are other, albeit less ethical, ways to watch. Catch up on the first season, only 10 episodes, before the show’s season 2 premier on May 3 on Showtime.

“Hannibal”: Now I am sure that you have heard of this show before, or at least the character, but you cannot grasp how good the show truly is until you watch it. A perfect blend of horror and very dark humor, the show is not for the weak hearted, but is a perfect prequel to the infamous cannibal who terrorized audiences in “The Silence of the Lambs.” Not to mention that the food looks delicious… Even though it is technically made of people. Catch up on the first two seasons on NBC’s website or Hulu by the show’s season 3 premier on June 4 on NBC. As you can see, there are plenty of options here of things you can do over spring break besides spending time in the sun or with friends and family, because who in their right mind would want to do that?

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THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

urning trash into treasure

hrift stores make a comeback in popular culture

Emily Chien staff writer

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or the shopaholics out there, thrift stores can be a gold mine full of used clothes and other garments.

As one of the fastest growing segments of retail with a seven percent increase in the past two years, these thrift stores resell donated or new items for low prices.

With significant discounts, thrifting can be an adventure for those looking for something unlike anyone else’s.

“They have a lot of cute, random stuff that is cheap and still really fashionable,” freshman Bailey Truitt said.

Along with some junk items, stores often sell vintage, highend, or even brand-new clothing.

“It is a good way to not waste all of your money on expensive mall clothes and actually get quality stuff for really cheap,” freshman Keren IdelmanSidenko said.

There are many popular chain thrift stores, such as Goodwill, Salvation Army, and the Valley Thrift Store.

Goodwill, for example, receives donations, resells the donations at low prices, and gives profits

back to local communities. Now maintaining over 2,500 nonprofit stores in the United States, the chain is flourishing.

“I go to Goodwill and Valley Thrift all the time with friends.

It is kind of like an adventure to us,” Idelman-Sidenko said.

Customers also value shopping secondhand, because it reduces the amount of clothing in landfills and puts spending money back into the public.

“I like the fact that I am not supporting big corporations, but rather local non-profits. It is all for the greater good,” IdelmanSidenko said.

Because of their inexpensive, eco-friendly nature, anyone can easily give back to the community by donating as well as shopping.

1.

3.

GOODWILL

9840 Reading Rd Cincinnati, OH 45241

9820 Montgomery Rd Cincinnati, OH 45242

1.

All images by Emily Chien

2.

4.

PLATOS CLOSET 10212 Colerain Ave Cincinnati, OH 45251

CASABLANCA VINTAGE 3944 Spring Grove Ave Cincinnati, OH 45223

Shop on sale days.

It is important to know which days of the week a thrift store has their best deals. Some have storewide sales every week.

2. Have an open mind.

Sometimes you can find the best items in places far out of your comfort zone.

Be open-minded as you browse the aisles.

3.

SECONDHAND STORES NEARBY: VALLEY THRIFT STORE

THRIFTING TIPS:

Wash before wear.

Make sure you wash the clothes you buy before wearing them. They should not be filthy, but it is best to make sure.

P SOA

4.

Look for steals.

The best items could be hidden right in front of you.

Use your best investigative skills for the high-end steals.

A drug is, in the broadest of terms, a chemical [ cover that story substance has ] known biological effects on humans or other animals. Foods are generally excluded from this definition, in spite of their physiological effects on animal species.

In pharmacology, a drug is "a chemical substance used in the treatment, cure, prevention, or diagnosis of disease or used to otherwise enhance physical or mental wellbeing." Pharmaceutical drugs may be used for a limited duration, or on a regular basis for chronic disorders.

Psychoactive drugs are chemical substances that affect the function of the nervous system, altering perception, mood or consciousness.

Alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine are the most widely consumed psychoactive drugs worldwide.

Recreational drugs are drugs that are not used for medicinal purposes, but are instead used for pleasure. Common recreational drugs include alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, as well as other substances such as opiates and amphetamines.

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Drugs:

Our nation's addiction affliction

S M T W T F S Tob

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ijuan

acc o

Mar

Adderall

Alcohol

Advil

Shrooms

Heroin

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THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Fight to legalize reaches Ohio

JORDAN BAKER staff writer

JOsh Patterson staff writer

W

ithin the past three years 23 states have legalized recreational or medical marijuana.

On Feb. 26, recreational marijuana was legalized in Washington D.C. In seven states there are pending bills that could legalize medical or recreational marijuana or both.

“As a police officer I see the negative impact that marijuana can have on a person or their families.

I could not see the positive side of legalization,” said Officer Paul Payne.

Ohio voted against a bill that would legalize marijuana. There have been two petitions submitted to the state government, but they did not achieve the number of names necessary for another vote.

Legalization eliminates the

criminal aspect of possession and distribution of marijuana.

In Colorado, there are over 200 marijuana dispensaries. The revenue made in February alone from these was $1 billion and $134 million in taxes were collected.

Representative Robert F. Hagan, a democrat from Youngstown, has introduced House Bill 153 that would protect patients who engage in the use of marijuana for medical purposes.

House Bill 153 would allow patients with a physician’s recommendation to possess up to 200 grams of marijuana and grow up to 12 marijuana plants. It would also allow someone to take care of those plants in the absence of the primary owner of the plants.

Current Ohio law dictates possession of marijuana as a minor misdemeanor punishable by a maximum fine of $150. It is not a jail-able offense, but a person’s driver’s license can be suspended

Marijuana legalization around the country

for a period ranging from six months to five years.

In Cleveland, Theresa Daniello, a longtime medical marijuana advocate, is a founder of Ohio Families CANN, which formed last summer with 50 families of sick children seeking to use medical marijuana to treat a variety of severe ailments including epilepsy.

Daniello had cancer when she was a child and her parents gave her marijuana to help her deal with the affects of her chemotherapy.

After four months of chemo and smoking marijuana, her doctors discovered that her cancer cells were diminishing.

On Feb. 13, the petition to have the legalization of marijuana on the ballot in Ohio was accepted with all requirements being met.

The most recent action taken by the federal government to end the ban on marijuana comes in the form of two separate house bills that were submitted on Feb 20.

40+ 15% 31-39 12% 21-30 12%

= Have not legalized any type = Have legalized some type

0 10%

1-10 30% 11-20 20%

How many people do you know who smoke marijuana?

Survey taken at SHS

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

11

Heroin hits home hard 'I know of several alumni that have overdosed' Jacob englander

staff writer

Nathan Zhang

staff writer

F

irst it was marijuana. Then it was crack-cocaine. Now it is heroin. In Butler County, the number one cause of death is heroin-related overdose.

“Heroin is definitely a problem in Cincinnati. And I’m worried about it in Sycamore. I know of several alumni that have overdosed on heroin,” Officer Paul Payne said.

Heroin, an opiate derived from the poppy seed, comes in several common forms. Black-tar heroin is the main type found in the Midwest.

Its production is simple and efficient and does not involve complex chemical processes.

Black-tar heroin is made overseas in

Latin American and South American countries such as Haiti and Columbia.

In the past decade, addictions to prescription painkillers swept the nation. However in recent years, heroin usage has risen while painkillers have declined.

“In the Hamilton region, crackcocaine has been mostly replaced by heroin. It’s still a large problem, but less severe than heroin,” Payne said.

There are several reasons for heroin’s rapid rise. While the price of crack cocaine can range from $10 to $25 a hit, black-tar heroin costs $5-10.

Heroin is also one of the most addictive drugs.

“Around 85 percent of people who try heroin for the first time get addicted. That’s why heroin is such a big problem right now,” Payne said.

Recognizable side effects of heroin usage include dilated pupils, shortness of breath, vomiting,

nausea, and exhaustion.

Long term effects of heroin use can include weight loss, dental erosion, and paranoia.

Once addicted, the body constantly craves heroin. Addicts often must shoot up multiple times a day in order to function.

Many arrests of addicts occur because people steal in order to purchase more and more heroin.

“We have access to a nasal spray that can prevent people from dying from withdrawal. It is very expensive, but it saves lives,” Payne said.

Less than one tenth of people with substance abuse problems receive any form of withdrawal treatment.

Withdrawal symptoms can include rashes, hypothermia, fever, seizures, and death.

“The best thing to do is not start,” Payne said.

Quick Scan

Q&A with

Officer paul payne

Q: What outreach is available to addicts?

A: There is a nasal-spray that mimics the high heroin causes, which can help addicts through withdrawal. Also, Drug Court exists and if you go through that process, you won’t be arrested.

1000

Heroin-related deaths in Ohio

900

800

700

Number of Deaths

Q: Do you think heroin is a problem in Ohio?

A: Oh yes, it’s an epidemic. One that has replaced crack cocaine. It’s a poor man’s drug.

Q: Has there been a crackdown by the police in our city to contain this problem?

A: In Montgomery, our real issue is that many people are transporting heroin by car to larger urban areas. I personally have arrested three people shooting up in an ER restroom.

Q: Are you worried about heroin becoming a problem at SHS? A: Yes, I’m very worried about heroin. The first time you shoot up, you’re addicted. It’s that bad. I know of several alumni that have overdosed on heroin.

Scan here for more information about heroin.

600

500

400

300

200

100

0

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

Year

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Source: Ohio Department of Health

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THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Prescription pills problem persists

P

assignment editor

ain medication abuse rarely receives attention equal to that of heroin or cocaine addiction. Yet, according to the Center for Disease Control, in 2011 pain medication overdoses caused more deaths than heroin and cocaine combined.

Currently, the responsibility to distinguish a user with a legitimate claim to prescription drugs from an addict falls on the shoulders of doctors. With more patients faking symptoms to obtain pills, doctors will need to spend more time assessing patients and determining appropriate quantities of distribution.

However, even if some doctors begin distributing sparingly, an addict can easily look for another doctor or clinic. Few states have developed shared databases for tracking patients’ drug history and even where such systems exist, there are many loopholes.

Ohio, a forerunner in solving the tracking issue, now allows

physicians to view patients’ prescription histories in Ohio as well as in Illinois and Indiana. This program makes it more difficult for addicts to fool multiple doctors into prescribing excessive amounts of medication.

Others suggest creating a drug take-back day, when patients can return left-over medication to safe, government-sponsored sites.

Amongst college students prescription drug abuse, particularly of stimulants, has become increasingly popular.

Commonly known stimulants, such as Adderall or Ritalin, increase focus and attention span.

“Before big tests or projects you hear people joke about buying pills off kids with attention disorders and stuff, but that really happens, especially in college,” junior Chris Seger said.

In a survey conducted by the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids, one in five college students reported abusing prescription stimulants at least once in their lifetime, while one in seven non-students said they

had abused the medication at least once.

Ironically, non-medical use of stimulants often worsens academic performance. Such students are statistically more likely to skip class and experience mental illness.

In an attempt to decrease prescription drug abuse, Miami University now requires students to participate in two educational workshops prior to receiving medication. Once students complete the workshops and choose to request medication, they are given a limited quantity and undergo urine tests for abuse.

“For people who really need the medication, it’s sort of a nuisance, but I guess we’ve gotten to a point where it’s necessary,” Seger said.

Photo courtesy of MCT Direct

lila englander

War on weed:

Why marijuana criminalization is bad for America

tony popenoe staff writer

In an effort to eliminate “public enemy number one,” America started a war over 40 years ago that it is still fighting today. This elusive enemy isn’t a terrorist or foreign dictator. It’s drugs.

Unfortunately, if there’s one thing the “War on Drugs” hasn’t done, it’s end the drug trade. Instead, drug policy in America has worked to hurt American citizens—especially those of color.

Today, America is home to the world’s largest prison population with approximately 2.2 million incarcerated. Half of these people are incarcerated on drug related-charges,

the majority of which are due to minor offenses such as possession.

The disparity in our prison population is greatly due to an uneven regulation of drugs. Under the Controlled Substances Act, marijuana is classified under the same regulatory guidelines as “hard drugs” such as heroin and crack cocaine.

Even though it has proven medical benefits and a low potential for addiction, almost 50 percent of drug arrests are marijuana related. This disproportionately affects black people as they are almost four times more likely to be arrested than whites.

When one has prior convictions on their record, it becomes more

difficult to find a job or housing.

Without an income or a home, individuals are more inclined to resort to drugs or crime.

Furthermore, studies show that higher levels of drug arrests (especially those pertaining to marijuana) lead to increased levels of crime in communities.

After considering all that’s been mentioned above I ask, who exactly is this “war” on drugs designed to serve? In lieu, I suggest a more appropriate name such as the “War On Poor Minorities.”

Marijuana criminalization has done more to hurt our communities than help stop the sale and use of the drug. I think it’s time for a change.

[ feature ]

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

The Real Cost of Prom* Hair Average cost: $65.00

Makeup Average cost: $43.87 Manicure Average cost:

$43.75

Jewelry Average cost: $45.00

Corsage Average cost: $34.79

Accessories Average cost: $63.87 Boutonniere Average cost: $34.33

Dress Average cost: $339.92 Shoes Average cost: $59.29

Tuxedo Average cost: $183.62

Additional Costs ADM IT ONE

Transportation

Dinner $57.66

Tickets $60.00

After-Prom

Average cost for rented car: Average cost for two: Cost of two tickets: Ticket cost for two:

$91.55

$40.00

*All costs can be adjusted or eliminated by renting, reusing or eliminating extravagances.

Source: Legacy Press Graphic by: Brooke Landrum

14

One goal:

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG make enough or the body cannot about or why someone’s pancreas use it. Unlike Type One, Type Two does not produce insulin. diabetes is preventable.

A cure for diabetes has yet to If you are over 45 years old, be found. However, there are overweight, do n0t exercise, have precautions people with diabetes family members with Type Two can take. This includes taking diabetes, have prediabetes, or insulin everyday, eating a healthy, have high blood pressure, you are balanced diet, checking blood sugar more likely to develop Type Two levels several times a day, and Diabetes. The chances are also getting regular physical activity. higher if you are of Latino, Native If not taken care of, there American, can be dangerous African consequences, even American, I was confused as death in some cases.

Pacific Juvenile Diabetes to how I got Type One Islander, Research Foundation or of Asian Diabetes and was very (JDRF) is an American unsure of how I would organization dedicated descent. to researching cures. care for myself.

People Mr. Sycamore, a with Type Megan McMullen, 9 charity event that One diabetes are more raises money through rare. Only five percent a male pageant, chose of people with diabetes have Type the JDRF as the charity for this One or juvenile diabetes. Type One years pageant. The event is April 10 Diabetes is usually diagnosed in in the Little Theatre at 7:30 p.m. children and young adults. There In 2012 JDRF provided $110 is no one person who is more likely million to 17 different research than others to get this disease. projects.

Doctors are not sure how this comes

Cure Type 1 Diabetes

“

Madeline Marsh associate editor

Elizabeth Rickert creative projects manager

T

here are two types of diabetes. Both are chronic and involve high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood.

Type One Diabetes occurs when the pancreas stops producing insulin.

However, Type Two Diabetes is the more common of the two.

People with Type Two Diabetes still produce insulin, but they do not

1

How to test blood sugar levels

2

This is done 7-10 times a day and before every meal.

3

4

5

Photos courtesy of Elizabeth Rickert

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Q&A with Megan mcmullen, 9 How did you feel when you were first diagnosed?

When I was first diagnosed I was very sick. I was confused as to how I got Type One Diabetes and was very unsure of how I would care for myself. I was overwhelmed with having to work daily to manage my diabetes. I had to grow up very quickly.

How has it affected your daily life?

My daily routine is now very different from most people’s. I test my blood sugar 7-10 times a day so that I can keep my glucose levels in a safe range. If my glucose level is high I have to give myself a shot of insulin and if it is low I need to eat something with sugar. Anytime I am going to eat I count all the carbs in the food, test my blood sugar, and then give myself an insulin shot so that I will get the energy from the food that I need. The process is a bit complicated and time consuming, but it’s manageable. Daily, I have five shots and 7-10 finger pricks.

Has it affected your participation?

Each person that has Type One Diabetes reacts differently to different activities. I used to love running cross country and being a competitive swimmer. I did them the first year I had diabetes, but then I found that my numbers were very difficult to keep in a safe range. so I chose to do other sports that were easier to manage.

I have been able to do everything else I have wanted to do.

Have you learned anything about health after being diagnosed?

I learned that Type One Diabetes is an autoimmune disease where your pancreas stops producing insulin. It is not something you get by eating poorly or not taking care of yourself. No one knows why people get Type One Diabetes and currently there is no cure. The biggest misunderstanding is that Type One and Type Two Diabetes are the same. I have now learned about the disease and am able to educate others.

I recently served on a panel of teens at Children’s Hospital and

15

I saw kids that were positive and super successful with managing their diabetes and kids who had bad attitudes and were not taking care of themselves. It is true that attitude is a huge part of success no matter what you have been dealt.

What type of things do you do to support research?

Last June I rallied 80 family, friends and teachers to walk with me at Kings Island in support of Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. I was able to raise about $5,000 for research. We will be doing this walk annually until there is a cure.

Also, my family and I started a fundraiser called Megan’s Mittens.

We are making wool mittens from recycled sweaters and have already made over $800. I attended a Type One Teen dance at the Cincinnati Zoo that raised funds. I have also applied to be a delegate for the Children’s Congress where I would meet with Congress in D.C. to tell them what living with Type One Diabetes is like and why they should continue to support diabetes research.

Mr. Sycamore giving to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation “I am honored to be part of such a great cause and am just looking forward to a great day raising both funds and awareness for this pressing issue. I think juvenile diabetes is something that needs to be addressed a lot more than it is,”

Rishav Dasgupta, 9

“I am really excited to be a part of this event. I like the charity they chose because although I personally have not volunteered for it, I am friends with people who have and I’ve heard great things about it,”

Martin Gonzalez, 11

“I think it is great that Mr. Sycamore is supporting such a worthy cause and I am glad that I get to be a part of it.

Matthew Green, 12 “I am excited to help raise money for JDRF. I’m sure the event will be a lot of fun,”

Josh Feld, 10

16

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Bunbury Music

Festival Ticket

who’s performing...

The Black Keys

prices

the avett brothers

one day ticket

twenty one pilots

$69

three day ticket

$154

snoop doGg

tame impala

the decemberists

walk the moon

atmosphere

matt & KIM and more!

june 5 june 6 june 7 sawyer point located at

& yeatman’s cove

[ fun&games ]

RUJULA KAPOOR fun & games chief

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Wordle DU

Extreme Tic Tac Toe MPS

Tornado Gone Breeze

Jig

IN

Play each small game of tic tac toe until a person wins three small games in a row.

Answers: down in the dumps, gone with the wind, the jig is up, and in the red

Puzzle

Sudoku 5

7 6 2 1 5

3 9 1 8

3

8 4 4 7

7

Clue:

1 9 6 9

8

Clue :

8 2

-2=

+

= 10

Directions: The goal of the puzzle is to find the value of each of the shapes using the clues. Every time the line splits in half it has the same value as the other half. Each type shape has the same value Example: 2

1

1

Answers: circle=3, triangle = 4 rectangle =5

4

[ sports ]

[ column ]

Keeping Up with Kurtzer

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

‘Our loss in last years state tournament shouldn’t affect this season at all’

Righting wrongs of last season

zach fritzhand staff writer

T

he Varsity boys lacrosse team ended the 2014 on a loss to Archbishop Moeller and is looking for revenge.

“In Varsity sports, results are measured by wins and losses and a lot of that stuff you can control. [The teams is] mentally prepared and do their best each game and take care of one another,” Coach Greg Cole said.

The upperclassmen have been vital in leading offseason workouts.

“We had eight guys who stepped up to lead workouts and not only did they get the guys present and working hard but they also built a strong relationship with each other,” Cole said.

The guys Cole noted were seniors Tyler Hegyesi, Phillip Silverman, Stephen Mills and junior Thomas Barnhorst. He believes that the players that made an impact off the field will do the same on the field.

“We started in early November for four days a week, we would do one hour of lifting and one hour is stick work. Our goals are to win state which is the end goal. That is what we train for,” freshman Jared Sandow said.

Along with workouts, the team also had a mulch sale to raise money for equipment, helmets and uniforms.

Last year the team finished at 10-8 (5-6 in the conference) and they were ranked sixth in the OH 1 SoWest Conference.

“Our biggest strength is the fact that the players truly brought into a family atmosphere and love playing with one another,” Cole said.

With last season behind them, they are ready for the season to start on Mar. 23 at Springboro “I believe we have the opportunity to surprise the city of Cincinnati and make a run at a Sweet 16 game.

If we stay health and have a couple of things go our way, the sky is the limit,” Cole said.

The three principles of lacrosse

1

Be prepared

“

Our goal is to beat strong competitors like Loveland and compete at the state level by June...

3 2

Do your best

...I’m looking forward to implementing a new offense and watching our great defense get even better. - Kevin

Love each other

Fitzgerald, 11

Infographic by Eli Zawatsky and Lauren Kurtzer

LAUREN KURTZER

feature chief

Opening Day in Cincinnati, OH—the first city with professional baseball—is a marvelous day and should be a city or national holiday.

Ask any baseball fan, Cincinnati native or resident about the day baseball begins for six glorious months and they will tell you it is a fresh start for them and their team, to. Sports can do wonderful things.

It is now a new beginning for Major League Baseball with a new commissioner.

For the Reds, it is the start of the season that will take a break and come to Great American Ball Park to see the best of the best compete for home field advantage in the World Series for their league.

It symbolizes the warm and sunny spring and summer weather to come after a gloomy Midwest winter.

It is a time of hope and to believe; everyone’s team has a shot with 0-0 record, even the Chicago Cubs start atop the National League Central since the standings start in alphabetical order.

In this city with ever changing weather, a quarterback who is as consistent as the weather, Skyline, Graeter’s and Kroger, Opening Day is holiday here. It is a coveted day loved by millions no matter the declining fan base of America’s game.

Many take off from work and clear that afternoon’s schedule to enjoy my and many other natives of this well interesting city favorite day.

It is such a special day to this city with our history that we deserve a day off to enjoy peanuts and crackerjacks.

April 6 will once again unite a city and fan base as we celebrate the start of 162 National Anthems, Seventh Inning Stretches, runs, strikes and bats.

Official or not it is a holiday to me and one of my favorite days.

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

19

Athletes succeed at highest level ELI ZAWATSKY

“

sports chief

It’s a huge privilege and a lot of fun. It was incredible to see how the team has improved over the season.

- Priscilla Wu, 11

Junior Gary Traub and sophomores Kyle Green and Cole Sutton all placed in the district tournament. Traub competed at the State tournament on Mar. 14-16 and placed fourth. In addition, Traub won the JJHuddle.com high school wrestler of the week on Mar. 16.

The state swim meet took place on Feb. 25-28.

Among the notable finishers were senior Mark Hancher, who placed third in the 100 meter fly and eighth in the 100 meter free, junior Priscilla Wu, who placed tenth in the 50 meter free, and senior Cara Norris, who placed seventh in the 100 meter fly. The girls 200 and 400 meter free relay teams and 200 meter medley team all placed top 11. The boys 200 and 400 free relay teams placed top 14 as well.

“

The atmosphere was incredible, seeing some of the best athletes in Ohio and in the nation...

All photos courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

15 athletes from the winter track team traveled to Akron University on Mar 7 for the Indoor Track and Field State Championships. Results are listed below.

Events

Athletes

Results

800 meter relay

10th place, 1:32.80 Trey Gentry, Jeremiah Hunter, Brenden Archer, Clarence Dawson 3200 meter relay Ray Berling, Martin 3rd place, 8:02.23 Gonzalez, Adam Lucken, Miles Menyhert 1600 meter relay Andrew Schrantz, 17th, 3:37.90 Jonathan Hendrick, Joshua Glauser, Adam Lucken 60 meter dash Jeremiah Hunter 15th(prelims), 7.28s 400 meter dash Joshua Glauser 13th, 51.60s 3200 meter run Rose Menyhert 6th, 11:09.95 Pole Vault Benjamin Pendergast 12th, 13’6” Pole Vault Victoria Swart 15th, 10’0” High Jump Lisa Ruffin 15th, 5’0”

“

...it truly was one of the most amazing track and field experiences I’ve had.

- Jonathan Hendrick, 11

20

THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

More than just a sport: [ column ]

Fencers fight for status

Seventh Inning Stretch DAVID WERTHEIM

opinion chief

DAVID WERTHEIM

opinion chief

W

hile fencing is not an official SHS sport, many athletes, just like football or basketball players, consider it a lifestyle. Most athletes practice multiple days per week for hours on end.

There are two teams: Foil and Saber. Senior Shoyo Hakozaki is the captain of the Saber team, and senior Emma Abrahamson is the captain of the Foil team. While most fencers do not participate in many tournaments, the team is still tied for first in the GMC in the Saber competition with St. Xavier, and Foil is third out of 15 teams.

The team has many high school athletes, and because it is a club team, it even includes some sixth graders. Sophomore Jesse Li leads the team with a 44-21 record, and Hakozaki follows with a 43-28 mark. These athletes believe that it is time for SHS to make a change in how fencing is perceived in terms of official athletics.

“It is way more than just a club to us,” Li said. “I think it’s time for the school to recognize fencing as an official sport.”

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Yes, baseball is back.

Another season is underway for America’s pastime which began in 1869.

As always, the season starts with preseason exhibition games, commonly known as “Spring Training”. This year, like years past, there were many quirky events that you can’t find during the regular season.

As much as I hate Michigan football, it was funny to see Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh coaching first base for the Oakland Athletics.

Harbaugh only did it for a couple of innings, but it is always good to see other sports stars interacting with fans.

What I thought was the best moment so far was how actor Will Ferrell, for cancer awareness, played for 10 teams in one day. He flew by helicopter to each game, and struck out in most of his plate appearances.

This would never happen in a real game, which makes me think what can baseball do to liven up regular season MLB games?

While some people are traditionalists (including myself), others feel a need to change the game. Some say we should speed it up, others want to keep it as it is. In my opinion, baseball should have more giveaways and promotional days, especially for the kids, but not alter the game itself.

This way, more people will want to bring their kids to the ballpark and create a familyfriendly atmosphere just like the ones in Arizona and Florida.

[ spotlight ]

Pageants help senior discover dreams THE LEAF | WEDNESDAY, MAR. 25 | SHSLEAF.ORG

oise, passion, fashion

BROOKE LANDRUM

T

spotlight chief he ideal 21st century woman can be described as a strong individual who is graceful, elegant and well-spoken.

The question then becomes how one can learn these skills. For senior Jordyn Bryant, beauty pageants opened up a new world of self-confidence.

“It’s not toddlers and tiaras, I always tell people that. It’s definitely to help you build confidence and present yourself in a different manner. Being confident is really what they’re about,” Bryant said.

Bryant competed in three categories: evening gown, personal introduction, and interview. Most

of the competition was based on personality and ability to appropriately answer questions.

“That part [interview] was always really nerve wracking. My first year I was so nervous for that; the next three years it was a breeze. The judges were always really nice and easy to talk to,” Bryant said.

Bryant especially enjoyed the evening gown competition. She enjoyed seeing all the different evening gowns and this greatly furthered her interest in fashion.

“For a long time after that I thought about being a director for that program, but then I decided, no, I think I really want to design evening gowns instead,” Bryant said.

Bryant’s love for fashion has progressed and morphed over the course of her life. She has worked

in retail for many years and is a chairperson for Fashion for the Cure.

“I was six years old when I first started liking fashion. I’ve always wanted to be involved in the industry. At first I wanted to be a designer; I think junior year was when I strayed away from that, and I wanted to be more into the merchandising aspect and be a buyer or a stylist,” said Bryant.

Bryant’s passion for fashion stems from a strong desire to be herself and from a confidence about who she is and what she stands for.

“I think that everyone has their own passion. I don’t really like math or the sciences; I think my passion is more on the creative side. So when people say that’s shallow, I think that’s just the way I like to express myself,” Bryant said.

In the future Bryant hopes to help those who do not have as much confidence in themselves and help them to make good first impressions, starting with the way they are dressed.

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