Feb 15

The

Leaf

Sycamore High School Student News Magazine Volume 2 | Issue 6 | February 27, 2015

My strange addiction: SHS Edition

Photos courtesy of Haley Rayburn, Lauren Kurtzer, Emily Fishman and Meghan DiGiovanna

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

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[ inside this issue ] The Leaf

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 Nathan Zhang

[ news ]

[ a&e ]

2 | Supreme Court faces gay marriage

7 | fine arts weekend approaches

3 | March becomes month full of testing

8 | selfie sticks banned around the world

3 | employees of the week

[ cover story ] 9-12 | the strange obsessions of SHS students

[ opinion ] 5 | the real cause of obesity

[ feature ]

6 | are lockers still necessary?

13 | fashion for the cure raises money all year 14-15 | superheroes

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

After some of our more serious issues, the Leaf staff thought it would be a nice change to cover a more humorous and somewhat uplifting topic.

Although we faced some minor

setbacks due to the unexpected, yet refreshing, week off of school, there are many quality pieces in this issue.

Our staff covered everything from the new selfie stick craze to the swim team’s

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

[ sports ] 18 | wrestlers persevere through challenges 19 | success in winter sports 20 | swimmers qualify for State

[ spotlight ] 21 | Animesh Bapat, 11

success to the great debate over Marvel versus DC comics.

With only a few weeks until Spring Break, we hope this issue makes the time fly.

-Atiya Dosani & Lauren Saxon

[ news ] THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

So far, 35 states and Washington D.C. permit samesex marriages. The last time the court took on the issue of marriage in states was 2013, regarding California’s Proposition 8. However, the case was never ruled on due to a technicality.

Photo by MCT Photography

Supreme Court takes on Ohio marriage ban TONY POPENOE staff writer

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he fate of same-sex marriage will be decided once and for all by the Supreme Court this June. Last January, the court announced it will review four cases regarding same-sex marriage bans—one of which is from Cincinnati.

Over-the-Rhine residents James Obergefell and John Arthur flew to Maryland to marry in 2013.

Arthur was terminally ill as he suffered from ALS, which he was diagnosed with two years prior.

Due to Ohio’s constitutional samesex marriage ban, Obergefell would not be recognized as “surviving spouse” on Arthur’s death certificate. Thus, the couple decided to sue the state.

In 2004, Ohio voters approved an amendment to the state constitution banning any unions that didn’t occur between a man and a woman. It also prevents the

state from recognizing same-sex unions performed in states where it is legal.

On Jul. 22, 2013, the District Court granted a temporary restraining order that would grant the couple’s wish. When Arthur died in October of that year, Obergefell’s name was listed on his death certificate.

“When a state effectively terminates the marriage of a samesex couple married in another jurisdiction, it intrudes into the realm of private marital, family, and intimate relations specifically protected by the Supreme Court,” District Judge Timothy S. Black said to The Washington Post.

However, Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine appealed Black’s ruling to the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals. There it was consolidated with another Cincinnati case— Henry v. Hodges—which concerned same-sex couples having their names listed on their children’s birth certificates.

“The plaintiffs cannot create a specific right to same-sex marriage merely by alleging that they seek to participate in the general right to marry,” DeWine said to Cleveland. com.

Last November, the Court of Appeals ruled to uphold Ohio’s ban.

The plaintiffs of the two cases—now known as Obergefell v. Hodges— subsequently filed a petition to have their arguments heard by the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court is scheduled grant their ruling in late June, thus deciding if states must license samesex marriages within their own borders as well as approve those performed legally out-of-state.

Due to their recent refusal to stop same-sex marriages in Alabama as well as Barack Obama’s promise to “urge the Supreme Court to make marriage equality a reality for all Americans” marriage equality is predicted to soon become a nationwide reality.

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

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State streamlines new testing Lila Englander

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assignment editor

ne core belief of the “No Child Left Behind Act” is that standardized testing will improve education by holding schools accountable to specific goals. This idea is responsible for 71 percent of state-developed tests, which meet a variety of federal education demands.

In Ohio, there have been recent significant legislative changes to teacher evaluations, diagnostic tests, and student graduation requirement tests.

SHS teachers are learning to adjust to the new pre-test, posttest system which functions as a key element of the new teacher accountability measures.

“I think the pre and post tests as a measurement of teachers’ performance is challenging this year. This is our first time going through this. We don’t have some of the baseline data we need to determine what level of growth students should achieve in a particular class,” Assistant Principal Karen Bare said.

Meanwhile, the infamously defective Measurement of Academic Performance (MAP) test intends to fulfill the diagnostic test requirement. Furthermore, for the last 10 years the Ohio Graduation Test (OGT) served as the graduation requirement test. However, the OGT be phased out after the class of 2017.

In its place, on March 6, primarily freshmen and sophomores will begin two weeks of standardized testing under the guise of PARCC and AIR tests, which are two organizations responsible for different components of the new Performance Based Assessment (PBA).

Current sophomores became the prime collateral damage in this transition year.

“Because of conflicting legislation…sophomores will be tested twice in American History, which personally I have a fundamental problem with.

It doesn’t count for them for graduation. Similarly with the government test, students currently in government have to take an end of year exam,” Bare said.

Bare began working on a block schedule in November that would maximize learning time despite the challenges of the new tests.

“It’s a more rigorous test in terms of what students are expected to do. I don’t think that’s a bad thing in principal, however, the amount of time that is required for students out of class is a lot,” Bare said.

According to the National Education Association, 45 percent of teachers have considered leaving the profession due to standardized testing.

“It’s contradictory to what we’re trying to do. We need to improve our instructional practice and help students with those problem solving skills, but we’re taking these hours

to administer the test,” Bare said.

Bare also maintains positive opinions regarding the new system.

“The new tests are going to require a higher level of skill than the OGTs. On one hand I think that is a good thing because the OGTs were not that difficult, so when governments are comparing American students to foreign students, they were comparing apples and oranges,” Bare said.

Juniors and seniors will not be affected by the new system, maintaining their beloved OGT week late arrival.

“It’s going to be crazy for two weeks. We just need everyone to be flexible and roll with it,” Bare said.

Employees of the Week

Natalia Garcia was our Employee of the Week Jan. 26th. She was selected for her outstanding work at P&G completing office tasks and also working as a hostess at Original Pancake House. Natalia is an intern in our Transition Internship Program.

Max Paul was our Employee of the Week for the week of February 2nd. He was selected because of of his outstanding work ethic at Matthew 25 Ministries & also drastically increased his work completion rate.

[ opinion ] THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

‘I got nothin’

Teacher reviews staff vs. student AQT match Mr. Robert Seipele guest writer

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recently responded to a request for faculty to come spar with the academic quiz bowl team as they prepare for competition. I and about 15 other teachers and administrators went head-tohead with students in answering questions posed by Coach Mrs. Newton for about 45 minutes on Thursday in what became one of the highlights of the week for me.

First, let me say how much I respect the members of the quiz bowl team. It was a bit intimidating going up against some of the best and brightest students in our flock of Sycamore High School. I must admit some anxiety I and the other staff and administration had – a certain amount of public pressure of “how well do you know your stuff?” I was taken aback by the wide swath of topics that the quiz bowl team has to master, including math, science, history, literature, art, linguistics, and the list goes on. So many times I had to admit to myself and fellow faculty, “I got nothin’” to the question posed. Even when the topic swung to my expertise of science, I was often late to the buzzer, losing the point to our equally quick and bright opponents on the student side. It made me think - it is good for us adults to put ourselves on the other side of the teacher desk and be not only the asker of questions, but be the “ask-ee”. Sometimes we adults forget how uncomfortable that can be.

Perhaps the most important takeaway was the moment when I was outmatched by the topic question posed. To be honest, there were many such moments. I could hide behind, “well, it has been a long time since I learned about that…” Truth is some questions had me convinced I had never learned such content – ever! “I got nothin’”

was a common refrain from my seat. But here was the beautiful realization. The quiz bowl is a TEAM competition. Time and time again when I was over my head, another faculty member had my back. It was OK that I couldn’t do the math…Dr. Brackenridge would carry us at the moment. A pivotal moment in American History? (I must have been absent that day) It was OK because Mr. Whitman saved our hide. Who wrote that poem? Beats me, but Mr. Gaffigan would come to our rescue. And when it came to the periodic table, I got to contribute my piece. It was a great reminder of what I tell students in week one – we know more collectively than we know individually. The question is do we have the humility to admit it?

In the daunting challenge of upholding the outstanding tradition of Sycamore High School, we can rest in the knowledge that we don’t have to be flawless experts at everything. But everybody - staff as well as student, has a part to play in helping someone grow as we strive to make the High School become a place of excellence. Let’s admit it – we need one another. I am grateful for my team members at Sycamore Schools.

Together, we compose a nearly unstoppable team.

Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

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The criminal behind obesity: sugar, not fat Madeline Schramm staff writer

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any people think that obesity is genetic, or that people are obese because of the fat in the foods they eat. But the truth is, obesity is not genetic, and fat is only half of the story. The real reason people are obese is because of the amount of sugar they take on a daily basis.

According to researchers, whether or not our bodies produce fat is based on the amount of sugar in our food.

For example, if we eat something healthy, our liver takes a while to digest it. Those foods do not produce as many sugars, which means that not only do our bodies not produce fat, it helps us realize when we are full sooner.

However, if someone were to consume something full of sugar, such as a soda, the liver will try to digest it rapidly, producing a large amount of sugars. This will cause the liver to go into overdrive. The omentum, an organ near the liver, comes to the assistance of the liver, producing high amounts of fat that later get stored up in our bodies.

Also, because the liver digests the food so fast, the brain thinks you are still hungry when you actually are not, causing you to eat more.

How to fight it

Many of us believe that exercise is the best way to counter all the junk we eat. While this is true, exercise only helps in large quantities, and most people don’t have enough time to exercise.

“Being a health teacher, I think everyone should be making better choices. By now the kids know what is good and bad, so they just have to make healthier

choices. Here at Sycamore, the cafeteria does give us some good options and healthy choices,” health teacher Mr. Derek Christerson said.

Effects

Obesity is one of the biggest problems modern day America has ever had to face. 93 million Americans are obese because of all of the sugar they consume. Obesity can cause diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, cancers such as endometrial, breast, and colon. liver and gallbladder disease. reproduction health complications such as infertility, and mental health conditions.

However, major companies such as Coca-Cola and Kraft are continuing to trick us into buying their products by adding labels such as ‘fat free’ and ‘no high fructose corn syrup’. These are just clever ways of hiding the sugar inside. Unfortunately, sugar can have many different names. If you see something in the ingredients list you don’t recognize, avoid it.

Unless citizens do something about this, and people change their ways, our nation’s obesity rate is only going to get worse.

So instead of drinking a Powerade, try a bottle of water.

Instead of chips and cookies as snacks, eat fruits and vegetables.

This can be especially important for athletes, so they can stay in the game, and be ready for matches.

“In general, I try to avoid drinking soda because of the high sugar. It makes me run out of energy quicker,” senior Matthew Green said.

So as you can see, the key to a thin waist isn’t exercise, it’s what you eat. To learn more, go to www.fedupmovie.com or watch the documentary Fed Up.

Drinks such as soda, energy drinks, and most fruit juices are filled with unnecessary sugars.

This one of the main problems of obesity.

Unless we change this, it’s going to get worse.

Photo courtesy of MCT Photo

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THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Lockdown: Need for lockers decreases Natalie brinkman staff writer

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ockers, an iconic piece to the American education system, line the halls. Students cram in their backpacks, books, jackets, and other personal belongings while rushing to get to class. Sounds like fun, right?

Lockers are just not needed at schools; they are the cause of so many problems such as tardiness, damage to possessions, stealing, forgetting important papers, concealed dangers, and the scent of last week’s lunch.

Tardiness is a major problem, stemming from the first lockers at the Greene school. The lockers here are often very far away from classes, resulting in only three chances to drop binders and notebooks off (morning, lunch, and the final bell).

“I only use my locker in the morning and at the end of the day, it is pointless because it is out of the way to my classes,” freshman Andrea Vaughn said.

The art of shoving stuff into a teeny rectangular box is truly a puzzle to be admired, sometimes it can be impossible. By carrying everything people can eliminate organization problems, because it is all in their backpacks to see.

“It takes too long to get to your locker and back to class on time,” freshman Lalitha Konda said.

Forgetting books, binders, and notebooks in students’ lockers would also be eliminated. There would be no excuses, because it is either in your backpack or not.

Forget to shut your locker, come back and everything is missing.

Damage and theft of personal belongings can happen with or without lockers, but items left unattended in a locker are more likely to go missing than the former.

Lockers also allow students to hide things that should not be at school. They can be searched, but when it is the proper time to look inside, it could be too late.

Backpacks being carried all day are more likely and easier to be searched and noticed. Students and teachers would see the bag all day, and have more time to attract suspicion.

Sure, backpacks would weigh a little more, but an important part of school is learning how to keep up on organization and staying tidy. Students would be learning life skills while preventing all of the problems associated with lockers.

Overall, lockers present so many problems that have resulted over many years. Yes, maybe they were useful at one time, but as schools continue to increase in going digital are lockers for archaic books going to be necessary?

[ column ]

[ a&e ] THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Best post-break up movies

Ben Cohen staff writer

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All photos courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

ood, art, music: ine arts frenzy comes to district

ESTHER PITTINGER staff writer

he Fine Arts Weekend has always been an event full of a variety of appeals to the senses. Students’ creations populate the high school from March 7-8 in a celebration of Sycamore’s fine arts program.

The weekend includes multiple events, the most well-known consisting of a common breakfast staple and music courtesy of the students of the district.

The aptly named Pancake Day, which showcases multiple musical groups who play from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., is on March 7 this year.

The groups include bands and orchestras from across the district, from grades five through 12.

Tickets for pancakes cost $6 a piece, and can be bought at the door or from students in the music groups beforehand. Tickets are good for two servings. Each helping includes pancakes, sausage, and milk or orange juice.

The profit of pancakes goes to the fine arts program, known as Sycamore Band and Orchestra

Boosters (SBOB), which finances the musical groups in the district.

This goes towards instruments and other musical necessities.

While the groups play; visual art, including photography, fashion, paintings, drawings, sculpture, and more are displayed in the gym throughout the day. This art comes from across the district, highlighting students of various grades and talents.

Students’ artwork from various classes offered throughout the year is displayed here.

Some of the main attractions of this exhibit include garments from design classes, architectural models, photography, sculpture, and more traditional drawings and paintings.

Each student enrolled in AP Art at the high school also gets a display of their work, distinguished by a self-portrait and sign of their name. They also leave a notebook for onlookers to leave constructive criticism or compliments.

So, see some art, eat some pancakes, listen to some music, and enjoy the end result of our district’s fine arts program.

It has been two weeks since Valentine’s Day, so it is likely that you and your significant other have broken up. I mean, pre-Valentine’s Day is a bit fishy, on Valentine’s Day is a bit cruel, but post-Valentine’s Day is just right.

Studies have proven that movies are the best way to get over a break up, but not the cheesy Nicholas Sparks sob-fest. The best movies to watch post-break up are those that show the brutality of relationships and why it is best to not be in one.

So here are three movies to watch that prove you are better off single.

“Fatal Attraction”: Married man and single woman hook up. Man ends affair. Woman becomes obsessed with man, stalks him, and kills his son’s pet bunny. Do you want your pet bunny murdered? Then be happy you are not in a relationship, because for all you know your significant other could be a psychotic bunny killer.

“Titantic”: Yes, this movie is your typical romantic sob-fest, but it is a sob-fest with a purpose. It lets you know that the people you love can die.

By distancing yourself from them now, it will save you from the heartbreak later when they freeze to death in the ocean, because you could not just scoot over a bit and let them onto the floating piece of furniture to keep you both warm... Not that I am bitter or anything.

“Gone Girl”: I cannot explain all the reasons as to why this movie would be perfect for your post-break up needs so as not to spoil the movie. I will say though, that it will remind you of the fact that if your significant other goes missing then you will be the first to blame. By not being in a relationship anymore, it eliminates these risks.

That being said, if your relationship ended badly then you will still be a suspect. Basically what I am saying is plan ahead.

Hopefully these movies will fix your post-break up blues and if the break up has not occurred yet, remember that these movies will be here.

As they say, relationships are temporary, but movies are forever.

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THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Selfie sticks cause commotion break the ‘Wireless Telegraphy Act.’ CAROLINE BRUNS Anyone found selling selfie sticks staff writer there will be jailed and fined. he selfie stick: notorious for Museums in New York have also helping people wide and far banned selfie sticks. The Museum take better pictures. Selfie of Modern Art (MoMA) is one of the sticks are very common and first to officially ban it. booming in the market right now.

The reason for restricting these “It makes me happy to see devices is not only because cameras everyone so happy when they gather and photography are not permitted, in for a group selfie,” sophomore but also because of the fact that Hannah Loftspring said. accidents do happen. The metal These sticks are popular, but have rods may hit something or cause a received negative feedback. There disturbance. are pro’s and con’s to selfie sticks, Museums are not the only places but the fad has angered some. to have banned the selfie stick. In Many places have begun to ban the the sports world, selfie sticks are use of selfie sticks due to the fact that being banned at all Premier League people are more likely to “selfie” with football (soccer) games. They have them and that they are distracting been banned from all stadiums due and inconvenient to others. to the fact that they can be used as They are banned in South Korea a weapon and are also dangerous to because some selfie sticks are made use among crowds of fans. However. with wireless Bluetooth that could they can be used in stadium towers.

Photo courtesy of Grace Hertlein

Photo courtesy of Joseph Ahn

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Photo courtesy of Lauren Saxon

[ column ] Screening with Ben

Ben Ruskin

a&e chief

It has been an interesting month for cinema, with a wide variety of new movies being released. Having seen most of the movies, one that clearly surpasses all of the others is “Project Almanac.”

Although many members of the cast were unknown at first, the acting, as well as the plot was phenomenal in “Project Almanac.”

You may think, “Oh, it’s just another time travel movie.” Well contraire my friend.

The movie was well thought out, and very few paradoxes can be found. A paradox is a common loop that is found in most time travel movies, but the writers creatively thought around the paradox in “Project Almanac.”

If time travel, action, or thrillers interest you, I would definitely recommend “Project Almanac.”

I do not have much to say about the new “Sponge Out of Water” movie. I enjoyed parts of it, but it does not even compare to “Project Almanac.” If you are trying to decide between the two, choose “Project Almanac.”

I really cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed “Project Almanac.”

Many of the interesting aspects that can be found in Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar” can also be found in “Project Almanac.”

After watching the first two episodes of “Better Call Saul,” on AMC, I would definitely call myself a fan. Even though the show may revolve around the law, writer Vince Gilligan does a fantastic job of incorporating action into the show.

If you were a “Breaking Bad” fan I strongly recommend you watch “Better Caul Saul” because there are several ties between the two shows that can be found in just two episodes.

Enjoy watching. See “Project Almanac.”

[ cover story ] THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Our strange addictions

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THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Childhood love remains strong:

Mr. Lothrop continues to enjoy chocolate milk Lauren Kurtzer feature chief

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ath teacher Mr. Randy Lothrop is known for his language consisting of “Schnickes” and “Giddy up,” his refrigerator outside his classroom, his wall and for his favorite drink: chocolate milk.

“When I was a child my mom would not let me drink my chocolate milk until my dinner was gone because she knew if she said that I would in fact eat my dinner to get to my chocolate milk,” Lothrop said.

Any student of Lothrop will see

chocolate milk in his classroom almost daily. His students know his obsession so greatly that they will bring it to him. He says that sophomore Ra’Von Bonner brings milk to him nearly every morning during first bell.

“I save it as my dessert after lunch and dinner,” Lothrop said. He saves his milk in the fridge sometimes or "freezer outside of his classroom"— depending on the weather—to store milk and other foods.

“Everything in moderation is good to have but I have heard that chocolate milk is the best thing you can drink after you work out,”

Lothrop said about the healthiness of his favorite drink.

Studies have shown that chocolate milk helps with muscle recovery after a workout, better than regular milk, water, or any sports drink.

“Sometimes I don’t drink my milk to continue to look forward to my chocolate milk. Also, when I was a kid I used to put it in my cereal,” Lothrop said.

Lothrop acknowledges that this is a healthy obsession that has stretched throughout most of his life.

“And here I am 52 years old and I am still passionate about my chocolate milk,” Lothrop said.

Photo courtesy of Meghan DiGiovanna

Have you been to any concerts?

Yeah I’ve been to two [and] I’m going to a third one this summer. They were kaitlyn jiang, 9 really entertaining even though One Direction isn't a band that dances or any of that "boy band" stuff. I was Why do you like One Direction? pretty close to the stage both times Well, I feel like it’s not something and they tried to interact with the you can choose. It just happens. I fans as much as they could. They were don’t know, I started liking them in really good live, like insanely good. the sixth grade and they were just really funny and nice and I loved their How long have you been a fan for?

I actually know the exact date I started songs.

Who is your favorite band member? being a fan um March 13, 2012. So thats almost three years. That's a lot of It changes like I’m pretty sure its time, oh my god.

Harry. I think it's either Harry [Styles] What made you become a fan? or Zayn [Malik]. Honestly, it's gotten to the point where I just love them all I think, I don’t know at first, I didn't really like them just because everyone for such different things. on YouTube was being annoying

Q&A with

about them. Then I listened to "What Makes You Beautiful" and I fell in love.

Who has the best hair out of all the band members?

I think now my favorite hair is Zayn’s ever since he cut it. It’s just gorgeous.

Do you have any friends who like one direction as much as you do?

Yeah, I have a couple friends. One of them is a sophomore and we’ve all been to concerts and we all really like them.

Tell me about your wall.

Well, I made that wall when I was in the sixth grade so all the pictures are pretty old, but I don't know, they make me happy. It took a really long time to cut out all those pictures from magazines and tape them.

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

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Seeing Red: Swift fans stay strong riley kurtz staff writer

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veryone has his or her own weird obsessions. Freshman Sarah Gilmore’s love happens to be Taylor Swift.

Gilmore has obsessed over Swift since the age of eight. She has devoted a blog on the popular social media site ‘Tumblr’ to Swift, on which Swift has ended up following her.

“Honestly, the best day of my life was at her concert in Nashville. I saved up money for a year to be able to go see her from the pit section, so she was a foot in front of me. I was sobbing so much, people around me were greatly concerned,” said Gilmore.

Swift believes there is no line between her and her fans. She proves this by following fans on social media sites, sending them random gifts and messages, and

inviting fans to her apartment.

“Now that she follows me on Tumblr, I always send her messages in hopes that one day she'll see them and respond like she has to others. Honestly, I feel like her, her fans, and I are just one big family and I couldn't ask for a better relationship,” said Gilmore.

Gilmore defends and loves Swift like a best friend. Swift’s very emotions can impact Gilmore’s day. According to Gilmore, “When she’s sad, I’m sad.

When she’s happy, I’m happy.”

“If someone talks bad about Taylor in front of me there is no telling how long I will rant on about how amazing she is, so I would advise you to think twice before getting yourself into that,” Gilmore said.

Gilmore’s love for Swift is absolutely unconditional and unwavering. Since the very first time she heard ‘Love Song’ playing from her older sister’s room, Gilmore has not stopped obsessing over Swift and never will.

Photo courtesy of Riley Kurtz

One-Liners become everyday language jordan baker staff writer

When people come out of a movie theater after seeing a film, they always talk about the scene they liked the best, which actor was the greatest, or how they were left with a cliffhanger. While movie goers do talk about those things, they also talk about the memorable one liners or the best quotes.

Great movies, no matter what the genre, contain memorable dialogue.

Case in point: terror, sci-fi and comedy films like “Star Wars”, any James Bond movie, plus “A Few Good Men” all have memorable one liners.

Whenever “May the force be with you” is uttered, film fans’ minds instantly go to “Star Wars” without any questions asked. It is the staple of the franchise and something that will always be connected to the movies.

“You want the truth. You can’t handle the truth” is the most

recognizable piece of dialogue in one of the greatest Marine movies.

The whole basis of “A Few Good Men” is dialogue presenting the court martial scene within the movie. Jack Nicklaus vehemently belts out one of the most recognizable movie quotes.

Three words from the most recognizable secret agent in cinema also put a recurring staple on the franchise. “Bond, James Bond” are the three words that sets up a spy thriller and how the main character always gets introduced.

From fantasy, comedies, dramas, and action thrillers to even a Disney movie, great movie quotes emerge that need no set up because they are instantly recognizable and addictive to movie fans.

In “Lion King,” one the final lines from the movie put the addictive and indelible mark on the movie as a whole. “I killed Mufasah,” said Scar in the final minutes wraps the movie up and tells Simba what happened to his father.

No matter what movie is playing there are always going to be great one liners that make it addictive to insert in everyday conversation.

These instantly recognizable lines are why movie fans, as well as non-movie aficionados, obsess over these pieces of dialogue for months and years after the movie is out, whether they are the tag line of the movie or just said in the script by a character.

These have come to be laced through ordinary conversations, even between those who have never seen the particular movie. This is why people will obsess over the one liners to the point of overuse and why script writers are paid to wordsmith dialogue.

“Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn” uttered in “Gone With the Wind” has proven, that at least within the American public, we do not only care to mesmerize the flick but memorize it to the extent of obsessive repetition.

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Q&A with emily fishman, 9 What is KPOP? KPOP is a popular South Korean music genre sometimes referred to as the Hallyu Wave. It consists of mainly boy bands and girl groups.

When did you start getting interested in KPOP? I accidentally stumbled on a KPOP video in 2011, my freshman year.

Then I learned more and more bands, starting with Super Junior.

How has your obsession progressed throughout the years?

In 2011 I started learning about a lot of bands all at once, but I didn’t know which one was my favorite.

But around 2012 I found my favorite, Infinite, and I all focused all my attention on admiring and supporting them.

How do you support them?

I have a Tumblr blog devoted to our fandom which contains fan cams (pictures of them at events and videos of them on the street or that fans took at concerts), translated interviews, music videos to get them more views and little inside jokes within the fandom. A big way to support them is to buy their albums, which are incredibly overpriced, because you have to ship them from Korea. I own every single one including two signed albums.

Q&A with haley rayburn, 11 What’s your obsession?

I love Florida [University of Florida], they are life. If I go a week without wearing something Florida, there’s something wrong. I even have a Tim Tebow wall in my room and basement.

Why do you like University of Florida [UF]? Is it Tim Tebow?

I started liking them when I was seven. It’s not all Tim Tebow, and I’m not from Florida either. Urban Meyer was the coach when I started to like

How much time do you devote to your blog and other activities?

Every single spare moment I have in my life. It consumes you.

What is your best KPOP experience?

In November 2013 I got a concert ticket to see my favorite band in New York. I went to the concert and saw them in real life for the first time. It was the most incredible experience because all of my hard work and support paid off.

What are your plans for the future regarding KPOP? My dream is to go to South Korea and see them in concert again, and attend

a real fan meetup where you stand in a line and you get to go up to them and have them sign your stuff and talk to them for a little bit, a.k.a the true KPOP fan experience.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I think KPOP fans get a bad rap and get grouped together with people who are obsessed with anime, but KPOP is more than just “I like their songs.” You’re in it for the bands.

They’re actors, they sing and do commercials, they do it for their fans.

There’s a lot to be involved in when you’re a KPOP fan.

Photo courtesy of Emily FIshman

them. There’s no specific reason, I just fell in love with them.

How much UF gear have you accumulated over the years?

I honestly couldn’t even count. I definitely have enough to wear one Florida thing every day for two months straight.

How did you get exposed to UF? My Dad’s boss actually exposed me to them. After that my dad took me to a Florida vs. Kentucky football game, and then another [game] two years later. The rest of my family is actually Ohio State fans.

Do you feel empty without UF gear on?

No I don’t. But a lot of my friends will

comment things like ‘Haley you aren’t wearing Florida today!’ which I think is funny.

Photo courtesy of Haley Rayburn

12

[ feature ] THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Fashion raises over $11,000 Lauren Glynn

leaflet editor-in-chief

O

ne of our biggest fundraisers of the year, Fashion for the Cure has brought joy to the community for years, giving cancer patients the opportunity to share their experiences.

FFTC is an annual fund-raising effort to benefit area non-profits.

This year, the committee has decided to have the event on a Friday, which is a change from past years when it has been on a Wednesday.

There are five co-chairs including seniors Jordyn Bryant, Paige Henry, Julia Mattis, Kristy Russell and Allie Levine.

Bryant is in charge of publicity and decorations, Russell will be taking care of raffle baskets, Henry has been staying up-to-date with the models and is also the treasurer, and Mattis is in charge of clothing.

Finally, Levine is responsible for tickets and fundraising.

“We wanted to make it easier for people to come, and we are hoping for an increase in the amount of people that come,” Bryant said.

Usually, the committee chooses a different organization to fund each year, but since SHS had such a positive experience last year, this is the first time an organization will be used two years consecutively.

As of right now, the committee has raised over $11,000, but the majority of its funds usually come from tickets sold and raffles at the event.

The actual fashion show will take place on March 20, 2015. Doors open at 6:30 and the show starts at 7:30.

Bryant will not only attend the event as a co-chair but also a fellow designer. This is unique because she

has never designed a dress before.

She does not care to share too many details because she wants it to be a surprise, but Bryant is interested in majoring in something involving fashion, so she is excited to use this experience as a stepping stone.

Other than Bryant, some of the actual Dragonflies will be making an appearance in the show.

They fundraise each month at various places. The most successful fundraiser was Mio’s Pizza where they got 15 percent of every purchase.

“If people want to volunteer, they should contact me and they will get volunteer hours,” Bryant said.

It is essential to emphasize that the organization is not about curing cancer, but about helping children feel like kids.

If you want to donate things other than money, the organization also takes unused tickets to Cincinnati Reds games or concerts.

It is a simple way to help others that makes a lasting impact on many.

All photos courtesy of Jordyn Bryant

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THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

With great comes great responsibility...

-Spider-Man’s uncle

JACOB ENGLANDER

staff writer

cheap knockoffs? Why is it ok for relatability. He uses skills that him to run around dressed as an anyone could learn and looks staff writer animal, but for others, dangerous? awesome while doing it.

CHARLES HARTE For those that don’t know, Bruce The main lesson that Batman staff writer Wayne (A.K.A. Batman) was a shows is that a superhero doesn’t child when he necessarily need superpowers, LEAH WALLIHAN staff writer watched his but instead “It’s not about determination and parents get n the Batman movie titled powers or costumes. willingness to go out shot down The Dark Knight, there is a It’s pushing further and do what is by a petty scene where Batman stops a street thief. and digging deeper necessary. group of people dressed like “What does it mean That moment than you ever him, attempting to fight crime. be a hero? It’s defined the thought you could.” to One says, “What gives you the not about powers or rest of his right? What’s the difference costumes. It’s about life, which he -Stan Lee between you and me?” being scared and devoted to Batman simply responds with, standing tall anyway. It’s pushing fighting crime.

“I’m not wearing hockey pads.”

Batman has no superpowers, further and digging deeper than All humor aside, this scene but uses martial arts and you ever thought you could,” Stan asks an interesting question; advanced gadgetry to bring Lee said. what is it that makes Batman criminals to justice. The reason a superhero and these others he is so popular is because of his

SYDNEY EVANS

I

What makes a superhero?

Superman Ironman Batman Flash Captain America Spiderman Key Colored squares means the superhero has this characteristic.

Wolverine Hawkeye Thor Wonder Woman

From Genius High Another Level Tech Planet Intellect Gear

Dead Kinda Wealthy Parents/ Martial Nutty Family Arts

MARVEL vs. DC COMICS 44 percent of Sycamore prefers DC

VENGERS Members Iron Man Captain America Hulk Thor Hawkeye Black Widow

Justice League

56 percent of Sycamore prefers Marvel

Members

Leader Captain America

The Avengers base, the Hydrobase, is a research ship disguised to look like an island.

Batman

Bases

Aquaman Green Lantern Wonderwoman Superman Batman Flash Cyborg

Their eye in the sky, the Watchtower is the JL space station and main base.

Enemies Loki Thor’s evil brother.

Secretly a frost giant, he vowed to use his magic for revenge against Asgard.

Scan Here Scan for more information on the new Avenger’s movie.

The Joker The clown prince of crime. He’s a sociopath and a member of the Injustice League.

Scan Here For information about Batman vs. Superman, scan here.

[ opinion ] THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Staff Editorial

Leafing through the masses: What is your strange addiction?

T

Cartoon by Esther Pittinger

he word addiction is usually defined in a negative connotation, and used to make people feels as if they have committed a crime.

Instead of treating these compulsions as wrongdoings, we think it is important to point out

I love to dance, I have one for everything: periodic table dance, electron dance, and nitrogen dance.

Mrs. Palmer, biology teacher

I’m addicted to chocolate. I don’t want to say how much I’ve eaten, but once I ate an entire pint of black raspberry chip in 30 minutes.

Marie Fort, 12

that not all fascinations are bad.

Having an addiction doesn’t always have to be considered something illegal or a gross habit. We all have that one thing that we can’t live without.

It could be used to distract us from reality or maybe just to give us a little happiness when it has been a rough day.

These cravings can range from Twitter obsessions to being One Direction’s number one fan.

Individuals who have addictions do not have control over the severity of their obsessions or what they are doing.

As long as people are not harming themselves or others, there is no reason why we should not be celebrating with each other and sharing our passions.

We forget that everyone has quirky aspects and no one should be judged for that. We challenge everyone to improve the world by sharing addictions, and to be open minded to what others might share with you.

I check my bank account four times a day. It doesn’t change, I just worry someone will steal my identity.

Jacqueline Lazar, 11 I love skateboarding and I’ve been doing it every single day for the last two years unless it snows.

Alex Long, 9

[ fun&games ]

RUJULA KAPOOR fun & games chief

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Riddle

Extreme Tic Tac Toe

John tells Sally, “This is not the $10 bill you left on the table because I found it between page 8 and 9 of a Harry Potter book.”

Sally says “You’re lying and I can prove it.”

How can she prove it?

Answer: Odd numbered pages are on the right in all books so that means the pages are back to back. Nothing can be found between them.

Wordle

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

History<n Answer: history lesson

Sudoku 4 8 5 9 4 8 1 2 3 2 8 1 9 3

6 9 1 4 2 1 5 Answer: 13

8 1 4 7 6 3 3 2 4 9 9 4 9 5 6

How many triangles are here?

[ sports ]

[ column ]

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

‘I will be the one standing atop the podium’ Perseverance promises peak performance ELI ZAWATSKY sports chief

S

killed wrestlers compete with a plethora of attributes: stamina, skill, technique, strength, courage-the list goes on. However, any seasoned wrestler knows that the most prized skill a wrestler can possess is one that transcends the mat, and directly affects not only his or her wrestling career, but his or her life as a whole. This skill, of course, is perseverance.

After a bit of thought, it becomes obvious why this is so. The technique, strength, and stamina valued by wrestlers is not gained over night, but through hours upon hours of grueling training regiments. Perseverance is the basic skill needed to push one’s self through this torturous routine.

This is apparent to none more than junior wrestler Gary Traub, who is thus far 35-0 this season.

He is the only undefeated GMC wrestler in any weight class, and is also tied for the most pins of

any GMC wrestler, with 24.

“To be able to get through

the tough, strenuous workouts

that we do you have to be willing to push yourself past what you think you can do and work to better yourself every day,” Traub said.

This season did not come without its fair share of challenges: along with jumping from the 182 pound weight class to the 195 pound weight class between last year. This year, Traub faced his most difficult opponent in a tough match in the GMC finals.

“My toughest match this season was in the GMC finals against a kid from Lakota West who beat me last year. It was a state qualifier so I knew it was going to be a good match. I ended up beating him 4-2 and winning my first GMC championship,” Traub said.

The GMC tournament was full of accomplishments for the team as a whole, who finished sixth overall.

“We had a lot of placers, including juniors Cole Sutton, who placed second, and Salmon Isakolv, who placed third, and sophomore Kyle Green, who placed fourth.

For a team with so many freshmen in the starting lineup to finish 6th in the GMCs is a pretty big accomplishment,” Traub said.

For Traub and the rest of the team, the largest challenges may still lie ahead as they progress to the sectional tournament, the first rounds of which take place on Feb. 27.

“I’m hoping my season will end March 14th, the last day of the state tournament,” said Traub.

Junior Gary Traub holds this year’s GMC title for most pins (24). He is the only GMC wrestler to finish in first place with a perfect record since Sycamore grad Donnie Herrington did in 2008. He will participate in the state tournament which starts March 12 and ends March 14. “If I can better myself a little each day, I will be the one standing atop the podium at the end of the year,” Traub said. Photo courtesy of Gary traub

Keeping Up with Kurtzer LAUREN KURTZER

feature chief

In sports, cheaters seem to be everywhere. Baseball and steroids, the NFL and Deflate-gate and now Little League Baseball had to strip Jackie Robinson West of their United States 2014 title because multiple players were not from the designated area.

With this situation, the team did cheat as the coaches and parents knew they were not from the area assigned to by the Little League.

These adults who are supposed to set an example did not.

The sad thing is that the manager, Darold Butler, coaches, and parents thought the only way they could win was to break the rules. The coaches did not believe in their own kids enough and the parents were not sold on their local coaches.

Also, the team wanted to steal top players from other areas for the the team. Did the manager not want to work with his own ballplayers, and were the parents too cocky about their sons and care solely about winning?

Should the 11 and 12 year olds be to blame? Did they acknowledge they were breaking a rule but cared less about rules and more about winning?

These boys most likely just wanted to play the great game of baseball. As preteens, they need guidance, and they did not recieve any instruction from the people that should have been there for them, ruining the game they love.

The fact that it took three times to find and convict the team of their wrongdoings is a disgrace toward the Little League.

They were punished by getting their wins and title taken away, showing that cheaters never win.

What is unfortunate is that, no matter the sport or level, there will always be a cheater around the corner.

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Success:

19

Student athletes compete with passion in a wide variety of sports

ELI ZAWATSKY sports chief

The Varsity Hockey team avenged their senior night tie against Alter with a 3-0 win in the SWOHSHL Gold League Championship

The Varsity Bowling team is advancing on to the sectional tournament, taking place Feb 23-28.

Photos courtesy of McDanielâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Photography

The Varsity Chess team finished the season second in the GMCs, with a 16-2 record.

Junior Divyesh Balamurali and freshman Victor Lim both made the all conference team

The Academic Quiz Team finished with a 12-6 record, tying for second in the GMCs. They also competed against a team of staff members. See page 4.

20

THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

[ column ] Seventh Inning Stretch DAVID WERTHEIM

opinion chief

GMC swimming scores silvers Amy DENG

T

a&e chief he SHS swim team competed at the Greater Miami Conference Championships on Saturday, Feb 7 at Mason High School.

“It was a really exciting meet.

A lot of people were successful in their races and finished strong,” junior swimming state qualifier Jory Gould said.

SHS girls finished with a team score of 421, and SHS boys finished with a team score of 386, both only second to Mason.

SHS Lady Aves placed second in the 200 freestyle relay, the 400 freestyle relay, and the 200 medley relay.

The 200 freestyle relay and 200 medley relay included juniors Jory Gould, Mary Fry, Priscilla Wu, and sophomore Hannah May. The 400 freestyle relay consisted of freshman Jiin Woo, sophomores Isabelle Jimenez and Lily Retford, and junior Paige Parr.

The boys finished third in the

200 freestyle relay and 200 medley relay behind Lakota West and Mason.

The 200 freestyle relay included junior Eammon Bell, and seniors John Heldman, Rick Niu, and Ben Thiss.

The 200 medley relay consisted of sophomore Matt Schuetz, Rick Niu, Mark Hancher, and senior Isaac Goldstein.

Wu placed second in the 50 freestyle and the 100 breaststroke with times of 24.77 and 1:10.58 respectively.

“It was a really fun meet. There was a lot of high competition and energy which really contributed to our team spirit,” Wu said.

Hancher, Heldman, Bell, and Thiss all placed in the top eight in the 100 freestyle. Hancher also placed first in the 100 butterfly with a time of 51.70.

SHS hopes to bring similar success to the sectional swim meet taking place at Mason, with the boys competing on Friday, Feb 13 and the girls competing on Saturday, Feb 14.

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As the great announcer Vin Scully once said, “Once again it’s that time; It’s time for baseball!” This year will mark a year of change, as the MLB has instituted widespread change to liven up the pace of the game for the first time in the over 170 year history of professional baseball.

New commissioner Rob Manfred, in an effort to make the game shorter, has instated new reforms for the game starting at the minor league level. The reforms include a new 20-second pitch clock, and a new rule that requires batters to keep one foot in the box at all times.

While players such as Detroit Tigers pitcher David Price are opposed to the measure, fans all across the country have expressed pleasure in the new rules. I agree with them. The game needs these new efforts, because it is losing popularity.

What was once heralded as “America’s Pastime” is quickly losing popularity to sports such as football, basketball, and even lacrosse. The sport needed a new commissioner, and luckily, Bud Selig was on his last leg. The game needs a boost in popularity, and it is coming.

Overall, while I believe the game should be kept ‘pure’, the benefits of these changes outweigh the fact that they change some of th efundamentals of the sport.

Just as a company changes products in order to increase interest in the ever evolving consumer market, the MLB must make changes in order to hold interest in an ever evolving market of sports fans.

[ spotlight ] THE LEAF | FRIDAY, FEB. 27 | SHSLEAF.ORG

Bhangra blends culture and sick beats ‘It’s the one place where being hairy makes you look better’ BROOKE LANDRUM

spotlight chief

A

ll over the world, dance is a way to celebrate heritage, tell stories and express oneself. In India especially, both men and women use dance as a way to embrace their culture and show pride in where they come from.

“Dancing is a very important part of Indian culture, especially in America. It’s a way for kids who grew up here to connect a bit more to our culture. Not only that, dancing is hella fun and Indian music is always good for dancing. Before, dancing was more of an opportunity to hang out with friends, but now it’s that and more. I love to compete and Bhangra is such a rush to perform,” junior Animesh Bapat said.

Once he entered high school, Bapat began to dance with a singular group of high school students called Gadji Jawani. These students perform all over the city in competitions and have been very successful.

“I’ve been dancing literally as long I can remember. It was usually my parents that would put me into dances. Up until about a few years ago, it was my parents that got me into groups. Since then, I’ve just been doing it for fun and I’ve also been doing less Bollywood and more traditional type stuff,” Bapat said.

The main types of dances that Bapat has performed are: Bollywood, Ghaana and Bhangra. Different styles of dance and traditional styles of dress create an intricate display of color and movement.

“I’ve done a lot of traditional Indian dances and some Bollywood, but

right now, I exclusively do Bhangra, which is a traditional dance from the north Indian state of Punjab. It’s centered around being strong and powerful while also being graceful.

There are portions that are fast and loud and others that are slowed down,” Bapat said.

Despite the cultural significance or emotional power that dancing holds, there is a faction of people who believe that boys should not dance. Bapat has yet to experience this type of negativity but disagrees wholeheartedly.

“Luckily, I’ve been around an extremely supportive community and I’ve never really been told that, but if I was, I’d tell them, you know, it’s your opinion, but if you can get up on a stage, listen to a dope drop and you can resist dancing, then you got to be some type of freak. Bhangra itself is an inherently manly dance, it’s all about being low, big and powerful,” Bapat said.

For Bapat, his heritage is a large part of his life. He spends many hours a week dancing and wearing traditional Indian dress while he performs. Indian culture has become a large and important part of his life.

“For me, it gives me a sense of community to fellow Indians not only here, or in India, but anyone who dances bhangra. I think feeling that kind community is important for everyone, however they may get that feeling, whether it’s dance or an underground Pokémon trading card league,” Bapat said.

Bapat has found a family within his dancing community. Whether it is due to the amount of time they spend together or the nature of their dances, the Bhangra community formed a bond that cannot be broken.

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