the Sycamore
leaf
Can chocolate benefit your health? Find out more about this “miracle food” on pages 10 and 11.
FRIDAY January 29, 2010 Volume LVI Issue 6 | 7400 Cornell Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio 45242, 513.686.1770 ext. 3089 | www.goaves.com
news bites Mr. Sycamore Pageant
Student Council is holding a pageant to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) on tonight at 7:30 p.m. Seniors Neil Krishnan, Ben Keefe, Tim Andrews; juniors Max Riehemann, Michael Streicher, Andrew Adler; sophomores Zim Zimmer, Jimmy Chau; and freshmen Ryan Gamber and Xavier Jiminez will be competing for the title of Mr. Sycamore. Tickets can be purchased for $5. Turn to page 4 for a full profile on all the contestants.
‘A White Night’
Come spend an evening at the “A White Night” Winter Formal dance tomorrow from 9 p.m.-12 a.m. Tickets can still be purchased today at lunch. It is $15 for a single ticket and $25 for a couple ticket.
Anon(ymous)
AVES Theatre will have its Cappies performance on Jan. 28 and 29 and Feb. 4 and 5 at 7:30 p.m. The play is an adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey.” Tickets can be purchased for $8 in advance at lunch and $10 at the door.
2010-2011 Scheduling
Students were able to begin selecting courses on Tuesday, Jan. 26. Due dates to complete online scheduling are: Class of 2011- Jan. 30; class of 2012- Feb. 10, class of 2013- Feb. 23, and class of 2014March 9.
SEE1 Concert
The annual SEE1 concert, featuring classical and modern music on electric instruments, will take place on Friday, Feb. 26 in the main auditorium. Ticket prices will be announced as soon as they are determined. For more information, contact SEE1 director Mr. David Smarelli.
Fine Arts Weekend
Dating violence
Health classes to include date violence in curriculum paulpescovitz
sports chief
A
nti-drug programs, sexual education, and healthy life style promotion: all staples of health instruction at SHS, and across the state of Ohio. However, in years to come, how to maintain healthy relationships and spot the signs of dating violence will be added to the mix. House Bill 19, known as the Tina Croucher Act, which requires each school district board of education to not only prevent and address incidents of dating violence in school, but also incorporate prevention education courses into upper level health class curriculums, passed under a bill signed Dec. 28 by Gov. Ted Strickland. The bill is named after Tina Croucher, who was slain by her ex-high school boyfriend at the age of 18 in Dec. of 1992. The young woman was a student at Miami University Middletown at the time of the murder. Jim and Elsa Croucher have since founded an organization, Citizens Against Domestic Violence, to spread awareness of dating violence and to help encourage healthy relationships.
They have testified in support of legislation and spoken at local high schools, but now the intensity of the awareness program will increase. The bill calls for the subject matter (dating violence) to be taught for a period of time spanning between one and three weeks, specifically as a part of Ohio high school health courses. The legislation was sponsored by Rep. Sandra Hardwood (D) and Sen. Gary Cates (R). Other states across the nation have passed similar policies. The Lindsay Anne Burke Act, passed in 2007, requires the Rhode Island Department of Education to assist schools in developing policies for dating violence reporting and response. SHS must now reexamine its syllabus for the health course, which is already a jam-packed semester featuring diverse units covering topics ranging from abstinence awareness to suicide prevention. Cramming between seven and 21 days into the schedule may prove to be easier said than done. “The class covered a lot of material. To be honest, I can’t really imagine where they would fit in an extra unit,” said Michael Bemmes, 10. Aside from procedural and scheduling issues, another dilemma lies in the
controversy of whether or not school is the proper environment for students to partake in lessons on how to develop healthy and violence-free relationships. Some feel that this is destined to be learned at home, or at least outside of the classroom. “I understand the concern surrounding domestic violence and that the issue does need to be addressed, I’m just not sure if school, or health class, is the appropriate place to do that. It may be in the home, at a place of worship, or wherever,” said Mr. Kevin Wittman, social studies teacher. Regardless, dating education as a part of the Ohio high school curriculum is soon to be a reality, as the bill becomes law in early March, following a ceremonial signing. February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
Yearbook Sales
Yearbook prices have been raised to $65 as of Jan. 1. Yearbooks can still be bought for that price until the deadline of March 16.
INSIDE
image by jake newton
The annual district art show and Pancake Day is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday, March 6. The bands and orchestras from E.H. Greene, the junior high and high school will be playing throughout the morning.
CALENDAR 2 NEWS 3-4 FORUM 5-6 SPOTLIGHT 7 FEATURE 8-12 A&E 13-15 SPORTS 16-18 ADVERTISEMENT 19 SNAPSHOTS 20
Calendar
2
friday, january 29, 2010
elizabethhoopes
calendar chief
sunday
monday
tuesday
wednesday thursday
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2
3
4
7
8
7:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Mason (at home)
9
5
saturday
6
7 p.m. Varsity Hockey vs. Lakota West @ Sports Plus (Senior Night)
Holiday: Groundhog Day History: First meeting of the U.S. Supreme Court, 1790
friday
History: Vietnam War ended, 1973
SHS Event: 7:30 p.m. “Anon(ymous)” Winter Play
SHS Event: 7:30 p.m. “Anon(ymous)” Winter Play
7:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Loveland (at home)
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11
12
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Weird Holiday: Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day
Famous Birthday: Abraham Lincoln 16th President (1809)
7:30 p.m. Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Lakota East (at home)
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19
20
7:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Basketball vs. Lakota East (at home)
History: Toothpick Patented, 1872
26
27
SHS Event: 7:30 p.m. SEE1 Concert
Weird Holiday: International Polar Bear Day
SHS Event: Orientation for the 8th graders SHS Event: Orientation for the 8th graders
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15
Holiday: Valentine’s Day
Holiday: President’s Day (no school)
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7:30 p.m. Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Anderson (at home)
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Holiday: Mardi Gras
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SHS Event: 7 p.m. Winter Sports Awards
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SHS Event: Early Release Day
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FEBRUARY
news 3
‘It is an experience I will look back to for a very long time’
Winter dance anticipated jamiealemagno & kelciegrega
I
forum chief
staff writer
t has been two years since SHS has held a Winter Formal, and the question everyone is asking is: “Is it going to be worth the wait?” The planned theme for winter is “A White Night” and will be decorated in a classy, simple, winter fashion. Winter will be held on Jan. 30 from 9-12 p.m. at SHS. Tickets will be sold for $15 per single ticket, or $25 per pair. Last year’s Winter Formal was intended to be a Circus theme, but due to inclement weather, the dance ended up being canceled. “They were supposed to reschedule the dance, but all the Saturdays afterward were already booked and when they finally found an open day, [Student Council] decided it was too close to Odd Couples Ball, so they decided to just not have it,” said Dallas Burris, 12 Due to the snow, this will be the first winter formal for freshmen and sophomores.
Blood drive:
“I was really disappointed that winter wasn’t able to be rescheduled last year. We will try our hardest to not let that happen again,” said Courtney Bernard, 12. Bernard, senior class president of Student Council, along with all the other members, is working very hard to get Winter running. This year, the Student Athletic Leadership Team (SALT) is assisting Student Council by organizing the winter pep rally. The emcees SALT picked for the pep rally are DaeHyuc Yim, 12, and Cody Pendleton, 12. The announcers are the key spirit of the pep rally. They keep everyone up beat and keep everything on schedule. Although the emcees are normally given a script, they must be on their toes (while saying appropriate). But although the pep rally is a great event held during spirit week, it all leads up to Winter Formal. “I am very excited to go to Winter Formal. It is an experience that I will look back to for a very long time,” said Lydia McWilliams, 9.
Students have opportunity to save lives in March
rashmiborah & catherinefarist editor-in-chief
photo courtesy of jeremy mcdaniels
friday, january 29, 2010
staff writer
It is estimated that 85 percent of individuals will need a blood transfusion at some point during their lives, but only three out of every 100 Americans donate blood. Fortunately, students at SHS have a chance to help save lives on March 25 during the annual Blood Drive. “Normally, we have one of the highest number of donors in the area,” said Mrs. Kathryn Korchok, senior class coordinator. “The Hoxworth Center depends on our donations a lot.” As soon as sign-up dates are announced, students over the age of 17, or 16 with a parental consent form, can donate between one and two pints of blood, depending on their height and weight. Students can sign up during lunch, and will receive a reminder card with their time of donation. Due to new FDA regulations, females between the ages of 16 through 22 are now required to weight more than the allotted 110 lbs, depending on their height. A detailed eligibility chart is available at the Hoxworth Blood Center Web site. Females who do not meet these
requirements are still able to donate plasma or platelets instead of whole blood. In addition, there are a number of other requirements concerning medications and exposure to disease that donors must meet in order to donate to ensure that blood given is free of harmful agents. More details about donation eligibility are available for donors who are on certain medications . There are 13 million units of blood transfused in the US every year and the average patient will receive four pints of blood; during donations, individuals give one or two pints per person. In the Cincinnati area, SHS donates a significant amount of blood, and usually has one of the highest turnout rates for donations in the area. Last year, a total of 146 units of blood were collected from 158 students. “If they can, students should donate blood because [they] can save lives…and it could be someone [they] know,” said Korchok.
For more information concerning donation eligibility, visit www.hoxworth.org
ROYAL BARBERS 984-4388
Fruit and Vegetable Market 5035 Cooper Road Cincinnati Ohio, 45242 Phone: (513) 791-3175
En g a g e
arthquake devestates Haiti, how to help relieve millions’ suffering michelatindera
editor-in-chief
Turning in homework on time, passing a fourth bell math quiz, remembering to pick up the corsage for tomorrow’s dance—with the myriad of responsibilities going on in our own lives, it can be difficult to imagine the suffering that is taking place over 1500 miles away. After the magnitude 7.0 earthquake literally shattered the small country of Haiti, death tolls have been rising above 70,000 and injuries even further above that, it is clear that aid is needed, and many students are asking how they can help when they are so far away. “It was so horrible when I first heard about the earthquake because it happened to a country that was already struggling,” said Neil Krishnan, 12. “But I think the amount of support given by so many countries across the world has been awesome and I wanted to help in anyway that I could. SHS is also getting involved with the efforts to help Haiti. While details are still in the works, Interact Club plans to hold a school-wide fundraiser for Haiti relief efforts in the coming weeks. “Because we are a volunteer-based organization, it just seemed right to start up some kind of fundraising opportunity for students at school,” said Tiffany Quan, 12, club president.
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED Due to Haiti’s distance from the area, the best way to help out is through monetary donations. These are simple and easy ways to make an impact, and they are not scams. Remember, do not donate money if a text is sent to you asking for bank account numbers etc. Donations will appear on your monthly bill. Standard messaging rates apply.
Text “HAITI” to 9099 to donate $10 to the Red Cross Text “YELE” to 501501 to donate $5 to musician and native Haitian, Wyclef Jean’s Yelé Haiti Earthquake Fund Donate to National Honor Society’s (NHS) Measles Initiative fundraiser during the week of Feb. 1-5. Measles vaccines will be sent to several less fortunate countries across the world, including Haiti. Contact Matthew 25: Ministries located on Kenwood Road in Blue Ash to volunteer. Call (513) 793-6256 for more information.
Proud to Support Sycamore Schools
Deb LaFrance & Sandra Lettie (513)652-9256
OPEN DAILY 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. SAT 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 7340 KENWOOD RD.
(513)310-6922
www.CincyListings.com
GO AVES! Each office independently owed and operated.
Walker Automotive Group Phone: (937) 433-4950
Address: 8457 Springboro Pike Miamisburg, Ohio 45342
4 news
friday, january 29, 2010
Mr. Syc a
m or e 2010
image by jimmy chau
Competing for one cure: 10 students vie for title stuartlindle & mariamarballi jimmychau claytonhamre & mihirkulkarni staff writer assocciate editor staff writer staff writer & staff writer & feature chief &
linacardenas
“I’m the most good looking compared to the competition.”
The winner will earn the prestigious title of Mr. Sycamore, demonstrating his shining personality, school spirit, and good sense of humor as well as being awarded a monetary prize and special privileges.
Xavier Jimenez, 9
“I just know I’m going against a lot of talented people and hope I’m not last.”
Max Riehemann, 11
Andrew Adler, 11
“It’s not about winning. It’s about raising money for diabetes.”
“I have the most spirit out of anyone in the school, and I’m cute.”
Neil Krishnan, 12
Tim Andrews, 12
“Brown power. Nuff’ said.”
“I exemplify school spirit.”
No one leaves empty-handed though, as runners-up and everyone competing will also receive prizes. Tickets are $5 and will be sold during 11 a.m. to 1 p.m Jan. 25-29 but donations to JDRF are also greatly appreciated.
Jimmy Chau, 10
“I’m sweet, funny, sexy, but most of all, modest.”
Michael Streicher, 11
“I feel like I am well liked by SHS students and faculty, and I love the Aves.”
THE TEN CONTESTANTS POSE for a picture that will be used as an image for the event to represent the participants. Afterwards, headshots were taken as well as shots of eyes, smiles, and arms which students will be able to vote on at lunch as preliminary scores.
Emory Zimmer, 10
“Because the chicks dig my body.”
Ben Keefe, 12
“I know everything there is to know about SHS. I’m the right man for this title.”
Mr.Sycamore
contestants
Why would you make the best Mr. Sycamore?
Ryan Gamber, 9
all by photos lina cardenas, stuart lindle and maria marballi
F
rom 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the night of Friday Jan. 29, 2010, ten of the finest young men SHS has to offer will take to the stage to square off in an all-out, full-blown, fierce… beauty pageant. Student Council has organized the pageant as a “fun-draiser” as an effort to aid the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). The event will be organized in a fashion similar to that of a Miss America or Miss Universe pageant with a few modifications and additions, such as an eating contest. As far as pageantry and flair, the event will include many of the events seen in regular beauty pageants, such as a formal wear competition and a Q&A portion where the contestants must quickly respond to a series of free-response questions. Student Council chose the contestants by having each of the class representatives vote on students based on personality, spirit, and humor. Contestants will be judged on performance and presence in the aforementioned categories as well as others by a panel of judges composed to staff members including Ms. Meredith Blackmore, SHS Spanish teacher; Ms. Renee Hevia, Assistant Principal, Dr. Adrienne C. James, superintendent, and a representative from JDRF.
Forum
Kelsey’s Conservative Corner kelseydrapkin
cartoon by lilly lefton
friday, january 29, 2010
I
staffeditorial
f it happened to Rihanna it can happen to you. Dating abuse is no longer a ‘hush hush’ thing, and frankly, it never should have been. One reason dating abuse has continued is because the person being abused does not know that what they are going through is abuse, or cannot get out of their situation. Students think they know that fine line between playful teasing and abuse. The new law of teaching about dating abuse in health class is a great way to spread awareness, because frankly, we do not know has much as we think we do. The Tina Croucher Act (House Bill 19), named after Tina Croucher, who was murdered by her boyfriend, proves that dating can get out of hand. If there would have been a law to provide staff training on dating violence prevention when Croucher was in school, would she be still be alive today? Some students might think it is stupid, but it has obviously happened before and that means it can happen again. There is more to learn in health other than diagrams of the male and female body. Maybe it is time for another topic. Since there are so many people dating as SHS, the topic of dating
the Sycamore
leaf
violence many be just as important as learning about STDs. Although it is hard to say if more students are in an abusive relationship than getting STDs, students need to be informed on dating abuse, because just like other topics, there is much we did not know. High school relationships are probably the first real relationships students have had, and just like any other firsts, there is a lot to learn. Girls may think that they have to do anything their boyfriends ask. Guys may think that if a girl does not say no, that means her answer to “that” question is yes, right? Wrong. Is your girlfriend being sweet and just wants you to spend all your time with her, or is she being controlling? Is he just playfully pushing you or is that turning into a forceful hit? Once students are in what they think of as a good relationship, they stop asking themselves these questions because they think they know everything and are sometimes biased to give their partner the benefit of the doubt. Being taught dating abuse in health class will help open students eyes to their own relationships and their friends.
Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242
Mission Statement: The Leaf, the official newspaper of Sycamore High School, serves as an educational tool in the training of student journalists to provide information and editorial leadership concerning school, national, and world issues, to provide a public forum for the exchange of ideas and viewpoints, and to give coverage to newsworthy events directly related to the diverse school population. Editorial Policy: Although students work under the guidance of a professional faculty member, the content is ultimately determined by the student staff and should reflect all areas of student interest, including topics about which there may be dissent and controversy. Students cannot publish material that is obscene, libelous, or will cause “a substantial disruption of the educational process.” Content that may stimulate heated debate or discussion is not included in this definition.
leafing through the masses
Q:
““ ““
Do you think it is right for the school to teach about dating violence in health class?
What does that have to do with health class?
-Kealy Buckley, 9
I believe it is a good idea for the school to teach about dating violence because if is something that happens regularly and goes without notice.
-Brandon Velazquez, 10
I think it’s common sense and it’s kind of obvious that if you’re in a bad relationship, you should get out
-Steven Froh, 11
Yes because I think students need to learn about it before they go to college and make other decisions.
-Kathryn Rosenberg,12
The Leaf operates as an open forum for the healthy, robust exchange of ideas. Opinions expressed in the editorials are those of The Leaf staff. Letters to the editor are encouraged. All letters must be signed. The letters, not to exceed 300 words, may be edited for clarity, spelling, and grammar. Letters may be placed in Mrs. Cheralyn Jardine’s mailbox, dropped off in room 115, or e-mailed to jardinec@sycamoreschools.org. The Leaf reserves the right to decide not to cover a death based on relevance, timeliness, and circumstances decided on by the editorial board. In cases that the editorial board decides not to cover a death, letters to the editor in regard to that death will be printed. The Leaf’s complete editorial policies can be found at www.goaves.com. For comments about columns, please write to writetotheleaf@gmail.com
Editors-in-chief: Rashmi Borah, Michela Tindera Associate Editor: Maria Marballi News Ellean Zhang Forum Jamie Alemagno Kelsey Drapkin Gabe Englander Feature Emma Oh Jimmy Chau A&E S.M. Dipali Emma Rosen Sports Brandon Sosna Paul Pescovitz Calendar Elizabeth Hoopes Spotlight Shivani Parikh Gina Romeo Snapshots Rashmi Borah Michela Tindera Webmasters Jacob Katz Mark Rubeo
Cartoonist Lilly Lefton Staff Writers Daniel Bayliss Denae Bellilti Alexander Berger Lina Cardenas Chad Chessin Rishi Choubey Sam Cleary Emily Cohen Ben Dhiman Catherine Farist Jane Finocharo Drew Gelwicks Elise Gelwicks Ellie Goldman Hannalee Goldman Kelcie Grega Samantha Hammer Clayton Hamre Elizabeth Hoopes Nanki Hura Sarah Janning Kevin Jin Bennett Kaplan
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forum chief Do you feel safe? When you drive around or board an airplane, are you confident that you will reach your destination free of harm? Maybe it is just me, but this past month or two, my warm, fuzzy feeling of security for myself and our nation has been drastically declining. The Fort Hood attack reminded many Americans that we are no longer as safe as we once thought. The fact that an American pulled the trigger on citizens of his own country, but was then not called a terrorist, rather a “psychologically disturbed individual”, is astounding. While I agree, one must be rather disturbed to kill 13 and injure 30, this was an act of terrorism, complete with the perpetrator having links to and extensive communications with Al Quaeda. While we were enjoying Winter Break, Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, 24, dubbed the “Christmas Day Bomber”, attempted to set a bomb off in his underwear on Northwest Airlines flight 253. Should these men, who killed or attempted to kill Americans, not be considered terrorists and face military tribunals instead of being treated like the common citizen who committed a crime and get a trial with a jury? It is foolish for us to think that this action can send a message to terrorists globally of our serious attitude on national defense. On top of these occurrences, there have been a plethora of other threats and mishaps at airports, including the man who walked the wrong way through an exit or the man who got on a Northwest Airlines flight in Miami, Florida and began threatening to “kill all the Jews”. After all of Obama’s promises of reaching out our hands to unclench our enemies’ fists and all of his apologies for our supposed previous failures of attitude and deeds, you would think there would not still be a desire to kill the American people. Yet, there are obviously still many who want to kill us and will die to do so. It was apparent during the 2008 campaign that terrorists and nations that are enemies of America did not see Obama’s inauguration as an opportunity to mend disagreements and work through our differences. They saw it as an opportunity to take advantage of our weakened system and our now pathetic excuse for homeland security. New scanners at airports are not the answer. We need to increase the amount of face-to-face time with people who might do us harm. Forget political correctness. If your background or actions look suspicious, you should be questioned. That goes for Americans, foreigners, black, white, whatever. Israel has mastered the art of airline security, questioning every passenger and pulling aside for more intensive questioning anyone who raises the slightest degree of suspicion. We must bring back a reign of attention to safety and homeland security. We need to send a clear message that America refuses to allow terrorists to control our lives and that we will act decisively if their actions do not stop. If we do not execute efficiently and quickly, we could witness the next 9/11 sooner than we ever thought possible. “Distrust and caution are the parents of security,” said Benjamin Franklin. For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
Managing Editor: Jake Newton Business Managers: Emily Begley S. M. Dipali, Kelsey Drapkin Ben Keefe Moriah Krawec Mihir Kulkarni Stuart Lindle Ali Lopez Sarah May Frank Pan Orion Radtke Casey Rayburn Daniel Rickert Jason Robke Erika Rodriguez Annie Seiple Aditi Sharma Matt Slovin Chase Spicer Daniella Star Garrett Steinbuch Spencer Wurzelbacher
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6 forum
friday, january 29, 2010 Students forced to raise academic bar
Where will it stop? jamiealemagno
Egyptian government hinders rights
Young Sudanese girl flogged in Egypt for wearing a skirt annieseiple
I
staff writer
t is a fact; many are pressured on what to wear and how to dress. Women, in particular, are constantly being told they are too provocative or too modest; they should show skin here but not there. But there must be a point at which the pressure becomes abusive and harmful. How much can a girl handle before her spirit is truly scarred? For some girls, like Silva Kashif, a breaking point has already been reached. On Nov. 20, sixteen-year-old Kashif found herself in an very uncomfortable situation being followed by two police officers on her way to the market in Cairo, Egypt. The native Sudanese girl felt the need to confront the two men, and when she did so, the they told her that she was under arrest for wearing a skirt they found to be indecent. The skirt’s edge was below her knees. Kashif was immediately put on trial, found guilty, and an hour and a half after her arrest, she was whipped 50 times for appearing morally indecent in public. "I was treated like a criminal. I am confused what to wear… My skirt was beneath the knee,” Kashif said in a separate interview via telephone. After the incident, she went home and slept for the rest of the day. She told her family what had happened and they wept together. Her family plans to sue the Egyptian police. “What more can I do? I am Christian. My tribe and my customs permit me to dress like this," she said. Many pieces of Kashif were hurt that day: both physically and emotionally. “I feel the situation wasn't handled well at all. We have the freedom to dress however we would like to dress, and I believe a lot of us do not realize that not everybody has the same privileges... but nobody in my opinion should be treated that way,” said Alexandra Engelhart, 11. However foreign some may find Kashif’s story, many girls have experienced and continue to experience similar circumstances. On Sept. 9, Lubna Ahmed Hussein, a Sudanese journalist, was arrested and spent a day in jail in Egypt for wearing a pair of trousers that were deemed indecent.
Hussein could have received 40 lashes, for the “crime”, but instead, was given a fine equivalent of 200 American dollars. Shortly after the incident, Hussein began writing a book about her arrest to raise awareness on similar issues that happen too often to keep track of. How is this possible? Girls in other societies experience physical abuse from their dress codes while students at SHS feel that girls dress too loosely. “I do think the girls at our school dress too provocatively. I believe (the dress code) is too lenient, mostly for girls though. I don't see much enforcement of the dress code,” said Andrew Prell, 10. If the same Egyptian policemen who arrested Kashif and Hussein walked through the halls of SHS, one can only imagine the kind of punishments they would want to bestow on some girls. “Most girls (at SHS) do not dress scandalously, but there is still a pretty good number of them that make up for the other girls… Considering it is very distracting for guys when girls dress with very little clothing in school, I think that the (dress) code is lenient,” said Adam Kapucinski, 11. Some outsiders may look at the incident as unacceptable and feel the need to take control of the situation to teach the Egyptian government a lesson. Perhaps though, there is a point to be made upon those who come to hear their stories; although the two women went through a tragedy, both are taking their own routes in acting on their experiences. It may sound horrifying that girls go through such experiences, but the fact that Hussein feels comfortable to write a book about her arrest and Kashif’s family plans to sue the Egyptian police. “Leave it their government to decide what’s next. America can't keep impeding on other countries' values and traditions,” said Kapucinski. Both women have been given the confidence and continue to accumulate support. Thus, it may be most important for Americans to give them support as opposed to force their involvement upon government which could be just as belittling to the rights and power of the women.
an i r to e club president c i dito ed l a r-in v -chi soloist ef team captai lead actor n all AP classes ion p m a h c l a n o i nat finalist
image by rashmi borah
image by rashmi borah
forum chief
“Standard” is defined as the average or normal requirement of something. In today’s day and age, “standard” is no longer the average requirement in the school’s grading system; in fact, to many, it is not nearly good enough. At SHS, there are many “ levels” of academics: standard, academic, honors, accelerated, and advanced placement (AP). Due to the definition of standard, one would believe that if taking standard classes, that they are reaching normal requirements, right? Wrong. It seems that where academic levels are at today, not only are standard-level courses not good enough, but neither are academic and honors courses. When students are signing up for classes and applying to colleges they are almost expected to have AP classes on their transcript. “My dad went to Emory, but my brother didn’t get in because he didn’t take enough AP classes,” said Shira Spiegel, 11. Although AP classes would seem to be the highest level one could achieve, there is more. Not only can students receive college credit for their AP classes, students can also enroll in college-level classes. Thomas Biddle, 12, only takes one class at SHS; the rest of his classes are taken at Raymond Walters College. “More AP classes are being offered along with the push for higher SAT and ACT scores and applications for scholarships. Students are constantly being challenged to push themselves to their limits in order to achieve more in their careers,” said Biddle. The pressure of high school is now becoming the pressure of college. SHS is now considering additional online classes so that students can have more credit hours for high school and college, and this is not to mention the pressure to strive for perfection outside of the classroom. So where does the rising bar stop? Is it going to get so out of hand that middle school students are required to take AP Statistics because that is what is required for them to get into a good school?
Five classes to take before graduation emmarosen
a&e chief
There are a multitude of classes offered at SHS. The hard part is picking and choosing which ones are really worth your while. While there are plenty of classes that are both enjoyable and useful, here is a list of top-notch classes to make your decision a little easier. 1. Study of Rock Music Who would not want to listen to the Beatles for homework? This class is a nice break from the monotony of algebra and biology. So trade in your textbooks for iPods and get ready to delve into the world of rock and roll.
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2. Journalism (Newspaper) This is a class where you get to write about what you are interested in. Whether it be a review of the recent soccer game or an in-depth analysis of MTV’s latest reality show, it is all about what you want to write. “Being new to Journalism, I didn’t know what to expect. But I love the freedom and the ability to bring news to the school in such a cool way,” said Daniella Star, 9. 3. Yearbook Ever find yourself wishing you could control what goes in the yearbook? With this class, that exact wish comes true. You get the ability to control what goes in the yearbook, which will definitely enhance your high school
memories when you look back on the yearbook in years to come. 4. Psychology One of the most unique classes offered at SHS is Psychology. Both AP and intro courses are offered. The students get to probe the human mind and discover what it is like to be a professional psychologist. 5. Acting Class Taking an acting class is the perfect way to come out of your shell and give you the confidence to expand your social circle. It is also a great way to get involved in more after school activities, such as Improv Aves and the plays and musicals.
e uniqu nces ie r e p x e Study of Rock
Journalism
Yearbook
Psychology
Acting Class
Spotlight
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friday, january 29, 2010
JAPAN’s RISING chasespicer
I
staff writer
f you are trying to find a fun, interesting person in this boring, bland, dump of a school to talk to or just have a good time with, you need to talk to my main man from Japan, Ryoto Endo,11. Endo was born in Sytama, Japan, a region located about an hour and a half from Tokyo. As a young lad, he was a ball of energy, giving his parents and brother a lot of trouble. He enjoyed slapping the birdie around in a few matches of badminton outside his home with his older brother. He also enjoys pulling out the old balls and paddle and playing ping-pong with his parents and remembers playing basketball on a Little Tikes hoop with friends. Endo moved to the U.S. three years ago. Since moving to the U.S., he has been taking classes each week to improve his English. He is very bright and has picked up things very quickly. There is never a boring day when you are around Endo, whether you are talking about his love of Jimi Hendrix or about how smooth he is on the keyboard; some would say he makes Mozart look like complete garbage. “I witnessed him playing the piano. He is so magical on the keys,” said Jeff Spitz, 12. Do not let his small size fool you; people have compared him to a young Kobayashi. The only difference is Endo would rather eat a few Krispy Kremes instead of hot dogs. “Watching him eat is an amazing experience,” said Joe Cleary, 11. Endo is a cool guy, and his manners will impress any parental units out there. Not only does he always say his “pleases” and “thank you’s” he also never leaves your
home without a small token of appreciation for letting him be a guest. Whether it is a box of delicious jelly donuts or a small bundt cake that he prepared himself earlier that day, Endo always leaves you with a delicious treat of thanks. “After he left my house after band practice, he gave each of the band members a Hershey’s Chocolate bar, with nuts,” said Mike Knodle, 11. Just when you think Endo cannot get any better of a fellow, he surprises you once again. He is also quite a romantic fellow. His usual date consists of an evening of an elegant canoe ride under the moon light with a picnic dinner following on the shore. He is currently single, but please ladies, do not flock to him all at once. If you see this guy around the school, do not be afraid to say a quick hello. Who knows, maybe he will even play a quick song or two for you on the keyboard.
GET TO KNOW RYOTO FAVORITE FOOD: SPAGHETTI FAVORITE COLOR: RED FAMILY FUN FACT: HAS A BROTHER THAT STILL LIVES IN JAPAN FAVORITE MUSICIAN: JIMI HENDRIX ORIGINALLY FROM: SYTAMA, JAPAN FAVORITE SONG: FIRE BY JIMI HENDRIX
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photos courtesy of carla ibarra
friday, january 29, 2010
Test your relationship knowledge Couple Kyle Sess, 10 and Carla Ibarra, 10 find out how well they know each other Kyle on Carla Carla on Kyle When is Kyle’s birthday? August 3, 1993 Real answer: August 3, 1993 Who is Kyle’s favorite musical group/artist? He doesn’t have one. Real answer: The Dream.
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What is Kyle’s favorite movie? Varsity Blues. Real answer: Varsity Blues. What is Kyle’s favorite animal? Lion. Real answer: Lion.
What is Carla’s favorite movie? The Notebook. Real answer: The Notebook.
Who is Carla’s favorite musical group/artist? Kings of Leon. Real answer: Kings of Leon.
What is Carla’s favorite animal? I think she likes giraffes. Real answer: Dog.
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When was Carla’s first real kiss? 7th grade. Real answer: 7th grade.
70% 90%
What is Kyle’s favorite color? Green. Real answer: Green. What is Kyle’s least favorite food? I don’t think he has one. Real answer: Sushi.
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What is Kyle’s middle name? Robert. Real answer: Robert.
When was Kyle’s first real kiss? Knowing him, probably preschool. Real answer: Preschool. What is Kyle’s biggest pet peeve? Lies. Real answer: Repeating myself.
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What are the names and ages of Kyle’s siblings? Ryan, 18 and Sara, 13 Real answer: Ryan, 18 and Sara, 13
feature
this month in
When is Carla’s birthday? February 14, 1993 Real answer: February 14, 1993
‘Found’ Magazine returns missing belongings Look for your lost love letters, birthday cards and more | page 9 How would early graduation benefit you? Find out what seniors are saying | page 12 Need more coverage? Visit the feature page at www.goaves.com
What is Carla’s favorite color? Orange. Real answer: Orange. What is Carla’s least favorite food? Rice. Real answer: Rice.
What is Carla’s middle name? She doesn’t have one. Real answer: I don’t have one.
What is Carla’s biggest pet peeve? The t word and burps. Real answer: When people burp around her. What are the names and ages of Carla’s siblings? Renato, 15 Real answer: Renato, 15 Real answer:
Looking for a fun summer job that will look great on your college applications? Consider the Hamilton County Park District! Learn more at our
Employment Open House Saturday, February 6 from 9 am to 2 pm Sharon Woods • Sharon Centre Complete an application and talk with department supervisors. There are more than 100 positions available for the 2010 season at the boathouses, campground, snack bars, banquet centers, golf courses, outdoor education, park maintenance and admissions.
Visit GreatParks.org for details and to apply online.
feature 9
friday, january 29, 2010 image by jimmy chau
How to keep NEW YEAR’S resolutions
sarahmay
staff writer
Rothbart creates new lost-and-‘Found’
Celebrities collaborate to help compose book ginaromeo
H
spotlight editor
uman beings have the tendency to lose many things. They lose their minds, their innocence, car keys, knick knacks, letters, and even themselves. Davy Rothbart took this idea and created “Found” magazine, a literal lost-and-found in paperback form. People from across the country are invited to send in their love letters,
birthday cards, kids’ homework, to-do lists, ticket stubs, poetry, doodles – anything that gives a glimpse into someone else’s life. “’Found’ is a fascinating look into other’s lives. You don’t realize how much you can learn about a person through their lost stuff until you read these books,” said Jessica Gordon, 11. Along with the magazines, Rothbart has also compiled several “Found” books, which include some of the most classic finds in the vault. A collection of
short stories entitled “The Lone Surfer of Montana, Kansas,” is just another work under Rothbart’s belt. The newest edition to the “Found” series, “Requiem for a Paper Bag,” is a compilation of short essays, written by musicians, actors, writers and entertainers, detailing the most memorable and interesting things that they have found. The book’s reserve of 67 literary contributors makes the book appealing to all audiences. Personal accounts from actor Seth Rogen, to writer Chuck Klosterman, to musician Kimya Dawson and everyone in between make this book impossible to put down. “I loved Devendra Banhart’s story [in ‘Requiem for a Paper Bag’]. Not only is he one of my favorite musical artists, but his essay was really interesting,” said Caitlin Carey, 10. “Requiem for a Paper Bag” is not just an anthology of celebrities’ first-hand accounts of finding other people’s junk. Each author possesses their own personal style, and boasts an assortment of genres. You can purchase any or all of the seven editions of “Found” magazine on http://www.foundmagazine. com for $5 per issue. Daily “finds” can also be seen on the site’s homepage, and make for a fun way to waste time. Check out Rothbart’s books for a unique and interesting read.
It is that time of year again. The excitement of New Year’s and the inspiration that came with it prompted many to make resolutions to improve themselves in at least one aspect of their lives during the coming year. Now, with the excitement and inspiration harshly replaced with the realization that keeping resolutions is harder than it seems, the once eager resolution-makers will slowly give up on their goals, only to try, and then fail, again next year. According to a Marist poll taken in December, 35 percent of people who made a resolution last year did not even keep it through January. So, how does one break the cycle and see real change over the course of a year? Here are some tips on keeping New Year’s resolutions.
be realistic, take it one step at a time Instead of a list of five or six resolutions, settle for changing just one aspect of life. With all the attention focused on this one resolution, it will not be as easy to give up. Make sure the goal is realistic, however.
stick with the plan, schedule rewards
Understand that cheating hurts and is very disappointing to everyone. Keep a calendar, and put a sticker on each day that passes without breaking the resolution. Every five stickers, have a treat.
be persistent, no matter how difficult it is Realize that if the resolution is broken, it is disappointing, but it is not the end of the world. However, do not give up. It is okay to waver as long the plan is still followed through.
spread the word, inspire others
Tell people. Friends and family can be the biggest motivators, but only if they know the plan and the goals. Plus, all the enthusiasm will motivate others to make positive changes in their lives as well.
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10 feature
S kelseydrapkin
business manager
friday, january 29, 2010
weets for your sweet: atisfy health, secure happiness &
elleanzhang
D
news chief
uring the month of Valentine’s Day, chocolate is a popular gift for both friends and family. Why? Well, people just happen to have a passion for the sensation created by this savory sweetness. But chocolate does not have to limit its rare cameo appearances to holidays, as if it were a clandestine love affair for special occasions only. Instead, this delightful guest should be welcome every day of the 365 and a quarter days of the year—in moderation of course.
General Benefits
The benefits of chocolate are still under investigation by health scientists and dieticians everywhere, but studies have consistently supported a few of chocolate’s general benefits. Many people know that dark chocolate is particularly beneficial for the abundance
of antioxidants found in its not-so-secret MVP ingredient: cocoa powder. The general rule to follow is: the darker the chocolate, the more cocoa powder and, consequently, the more antioxidants it contains. In order to be classified as “dark,” the chocolate should have a minimum of 70 percent cocoa content. The cocoa powder in dark chocolate has been found to contain eight times the amount of polyphenol antioxidants than those found in strawberries. This cocoa is also abundant in flavinoid antioxidants which are key players in helping decrease low-density lipoproteins—also known as “bad” cholesterol—and increasing high-density lipoproteins—“good” cholesterol.
SHS Students
Stress levels at SHS are high—in students and teachers alike. The long “To do” lists of homework, extracurriculars, and overall packed schedules
are common causes of sleep deprivation and premature gray hairs. Dark chocolate, however, has been found to contain some remedy that will help alleviate all the stresses of school and life. When given daily doses of average-sized dark chocolate candy bars over a two-week period, researchers found subjects’ urine to contain lower levels of the two most common stress hormones: catecholamines—also related to humans’ innate “fight or flight” response—and cortisol. It is no wonder females find the need to make their way to their dark chocolate stashes every month.
Athletes
In regard to athletes, low-fat chocolate milk has been found to do wonders. While the same carbohydrates found in chocolate milk are also found in sports drinks like Gatorade, chocolate milk adds a fiesta of powerful dairy protein to the mix. This protein, in particular, is what helps speed the recovery process, replenishing and building onto tired muscles after working out. Other sports drinks have tried to emulate this effect by adding proteins to their carbohydrate and electrolyte mix, but the results still cannot compete with those of chocolate milk: a study involving groups of competitive bikers who drank chocolate milk after one workout session, were found to be able to continue biking 50 percent longer than those wh o drank the protein-buffed carbohydrate sports drink creation. Chocolate milk just seems to have the optimal carbohydrate to protein ratio. It is also believed to have sugars that are more welcoming and easily absorbed in the gut, and thus, more effective than even sports drinks with the same carbohydrate to protein ratio.
Cherish it
While the benefits of cocoa are wide and varied, consuming it in the form of chocolate for these benefits does not negate the amount of calories it carries along with it. Thus, it would not be in your interest to OD on this miracle food that has the power to provide rich antioxidants, serve as a destresser, rebuild muscle proteins, and act as an overall happy pill.
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JANICE CHOI, 12, MAKES cocoa-rich goodies. She is aware of the high levels of antioxidants in cocoa and the benefits of using it in baking. Chocolate has changed her perspective on being healthy for life.
feature 11
friday, january 29, 2010
Ways into your special someone’s heart Quick bites:
Angelina’s Hot Chocolate Ingredients:
• 6 oz. semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped cups • ¼ cup water, room temperature
difficulty level: easy • 3 tbsp. hot water • 3 cups hot milk • sugar to taste • whipped cream, if desired
Instructions:
In a double boiler over low heat, combine chocolate and ¼ cup water until chocolate is melted, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in 3 tablespoons hot water. Pour into pitcher or divide among individual 4 mugs. Either stir 3/4 cup hot milk into each mug or serve milk in a separate pitcher. Have sugar and whipped cream in separate bowls; add to taste. For more about Angelina and her famous café, google “Café Angelina in Paris.”
Chocolate Cheesecake Supreme Ingredients: Crust
Ingredients: Filling
• 1 pkg. chocolate graham crackers • 1½ cups walnuts • ¼ cup sugar • ½ cup butter, melted
Instructions: Crust
difficulty level: medium
• 4 8-oz. pkgs. cream cheese, softened • 1cup sugar • 3 tbsp. flour • 4 eggs (room temperature) • 1 cup sour cream • 6 oz. semi-sweet baking chocolate, melted • 1 tbsp. vanilla extract
Preheat oven 325° F Process graham crackers into fine crumbs. Process walmuts into bits separately. Combine graham crackers, walnuts and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix. Add melted butter and mix some more. Press into bottom only of a tall 9” springform pan. Bake 8 min. Set aside.
Instructions: Filling
Preheat oven 350° F Combine cream cheese, sugar & flour. Mix at medium speed with electric mixer until well blended. Reduce speed to low. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in sour cream, vanilla and melted chocolate; pour over crust. IMPORTANT: Place springform pan on baking sheet. Bake 1 hour or until cake is almost completely set in center (use a toothpick to test this: if it is mostly nonstick, it is good). Loosen cake from rim of pan by running knife around edge. Do not release springform pan at this time. Cool. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Israeli Chocolate Balls
difficulty level: easy
Instructions:
Ingredients:
• 6 cups (2 ½standard pkgs) graham crackers • 1 cup margarine (softened) • 1 cup sugar • ¾ cup cocoa • ½ milk or water • 2 tsp. vanilla extract • coconut or sprinkles
Crush graham crackers into a bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients, except the coconut and sprinkles . Mix together and shape into bite-sized balls. Coat with coconut or sprinkles and…YUM.
for chocolatiers
Chocolate’s loaded flavanoid content helps maintain skin collagen and protect against sun damage. Cocoa beverages, for example, hot cocoa, have higher antioxidant counts than both red wine and green tea. Research shows that chocolate helps boost memory and attention span by increasing blood flow. Studies show that seven oz. hot chocolate daily resulted in a roughly 25 percent decrease in wrinkles— sweeter than botox. Chocolate contains stimulants that create a sense of euphoria [similar effect as marijuana but less]. *disclaimer: information not obtained by personal experience.
12 feature
friday, january 29, 2010
michelatindera
editor-in-chief
any of you reading this were warmly welcomed last Thursday night—Dave and Buster’s tickets in tow—into a new chapter of your life known as “secondsemester-senior-year.” This time is unlike any other that has occurred in the previous 12 years of the educational process. There is a lot to look forward to—spring break, a final dart wars season, and senior prom to name a few, along with a noticeable decrease in the amount of work and effort expected academically. However, there are 19 seniors, a number significantly larger than that of years past, who have chosen not to partake in these events. “I feel like high school ends for different people at different times,” said Katie Reed, 12. “I just feel like my time to move on is now.”
Five seniors
discuss plans for second semester Katie Reed
The decision to graduate early comes with a lot of strings attached and must be done well in advance to make sure all credits will be able to be earned in this shorter amount of time. School counselor Mr. Vince Rahnfeld, recommends that juniors discuss it with their counselors and parents by the time they begin their senior year scheduling process. This year that began on Jan. 26 and final decisions must be made by May.
Logan Waterman Q. What are your plans for the semester off? A. I plan on starting at UC [University of Cincinnati] for the spring quarter and continuing during the summer quarter as well. I have never had strong bonds with other students at Sycamore and only needed an English credit and government credit in order to graduate.
Sara Rabin “I was encouraged by someone I met at Seventeen Magazine from my internship over the summer to work on a line of stationary that will be for sale, so I’ll be doing that.”
Q. What are your plans for the semester off? A. I am doing this program called the LEGACY school of discipleship...It is a Christian program where for three months starting in January I will live on a farm and do different service work, as well as learn about Jesus. Then the follow-
More students taking advantage of alternative graduation options
ing month I will go with the 20 people in my program to Israel to...walk where Jesus walked. After that I will come home for a little part of May to graduate.
Q. When and why did you decide to graduate early? A. I feel like my time to move on is now, and since I was presented with this awesome opportunity I just could not pass it up.
Chad Miller Q. What are your plans for the semester off? A. I’m going to college for a semester at Ben Gurion University in Be’er Sheva, Israel and then I think I’m joining the Israeli Defense Forces. Q. When and why did you decide to graduate early? A. I decided to graduate early my sophomore year, because I started to feel the need to get out of Cincinnati and wanted to find something else. Israel is my favorite place in the world, and that’s where I want to be.
graphic by michela tindera
There is often a misconceived notion that students only choose to graduate early if they hated high school and that it would look bad to colleges to see a student leaving early. Both of these are not the case. “Graduating early has honestly really helped me with applying. It hasn’t changed anywhere that I’m applying, just simply made it go quicker. [And] I got accepted into my two top schools,” said Reed. While previously only a few students chose to graduate early, each year more and more students have chosen to pursue this route as a way to begin college early, travel, and participate in internships. “With more and more students pursuing programs like Seniors to Sophomores and the like, I think we will continue to see an increase in students who choose to graduate early,” said Mr. Chris Davis, principal. Here are the stories of five students who will be embarking on their own very unique journeys over the next few months.
Jordan Edelheit Q. What are your plans for the semester off? A. I’ll be going to South America for three months through a program called Carpe Diem with around ten other college and high school students. Throughout the three months I’ll be focusing on improving my Spanish, volunteering within the community,
environmental work... and acquiring roughly a semester worth of college credit. I’m extremely excited and I think this experience will open up many opportunities in the future.
Q. When and why did you decide to graduate early? A. I decided in the final weeks of last year... [I] really thought about how my work ethic had already changed-- and it was only the end of junior year. In the end it made more sense to take advantage of each day, and I started searching for the ultimate study abroad program that would do that. Q. Are you upset that you’ll be missing out on some “senior moments”? A. Dart Wars! But overall I was involved enough junior year that I don’t think I’ll be missing out on too much. I think what I can gain from the program will outweigh what I would have gained from those senior moments.
all photos by michela tindera
best friends. musicals. senior treats. practices. laughter. concerts. senior halloween. snow days. field trips. class of 2010. snow days.
Graduating early M
final grades. football games. practices. homework. friday nights. gossip. homecoming. late arrival. dart wars. final exams.
senior year. acceptance letters. early dismissal. exams. senior skip days. prom.
prom. out to lunch. relationships. pep rallies. winter formal. fun. graduation.
A&E
friday, january 29, 2010
m
13
ichela’s musings
Top 10 songs of decade: What will be next? michelatindera
editor-in-chief
With the start of a new year, there are always loads of “top” lists. Top ten TV shows, top five breakout stars, top 100 music releases, top five pieces of pizza you have eaten that year…well, you get the idea. And when a new decade begins, the number of lists created can be multiplied over several times. So, in honor of Winter Formal tomorrow night, these are the top 20 songs perfect for school dances. Whether it was at a junior high dance or prom, we have all been bumpin’ and grindin’ to these for the last decade. (Favorite lines from each song included.) 1. “Get Low”- Lil’ John and the Eastside Boyz (2003) “To the window (to the window)…to the wall (to the wall)...” I am sorry, but if you do not know what this song is and you are between the ages of 14-25, you clearly must have just been beamed down from another planet…or at least you have never SENIORS ANDREW JENSEN AND Chris Lerner display their improv skills at the SHS improv show “Mission: Improvable.” Many students showed up to see been to a high school dance. their friends act goofy and think on the spot. This song is the champion. students randomly drew the papers out of a 2. “Yeah!” - Usher ft. Lil’ John and with Martha drewgelwicks tin can and acted them out. staff writer Carroll, director Ludacris (2004) A few scenes they acted out were “Wizard “I want a lady in the street but cting in a regular play or musical of Oz” and “Jurastic Park.” a freak in the bed.” Some of the games played at their shows Q. What occured at the show? can be difficult enough; but 3. “1, 2 Step”- Ciara ft. Missy Elliot were “Employment,” “World’s Best,” “Slide performing live in front of A. The audience saw an interactive comedy ex- (2005) Show,” and “Emo Box.” hundreds without a prepared perience, appropriate for the whole family. Short, “I shake it like jello, make the “In order to prepare for the show, students script or blocking…that can be game-format, scenes will incorporate variables boys say hello.” It is a song. With participated in workshops to learn and terrifying. given by audience members and performers will a dance attached to it. Thus, the practice the skills of improv. We started The students of the SHS Improv Club did improvise each scene on the spot. The format is perfect track for a school dance. with simple warm-up games that focus on just that on January 15 and 16 at their show. similar to the Drew Carey television show, “Whose 4. “Low”- Flo Rida (2008) sharpening reaction time and foster group “I’ve had such a great time in my first year Line Is It Anyway”. “Shawty had them apple botunity. Workshops were spent learning and of Improv. I’ve learned so much, but it’s also tom jeans, boots with the fur” Q. In your opinion, is improv harder, practicing improv game formats with the just fun to let go and be silly with everyone,” 5. “Hot in Herre”- Nelly (2002) easier, or about the same as acting in a help of returning students,” said Martha said Taylor Bowling, 9. “Checking your reflection and regular play/musical? Carroll, director. In the shows, the audience was allowed to telling your best friend, like ‘girl Both shows were completely different from interact with the actors on stage by giving A. Learning the skill of improvisation and I think my butt getting big’” one another, so for those in the audience that them prompts to act out in the scene. This is performing a live improv show is a different Just remember kids, no matter went both nights, did not see the exact same very similar to the popular television show, beast than rehearsing for and performing in a how hot it gets on the dance thing. “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” scripted play. I wouldn’t say one is more difficult floor clothes need to be kept on, “I loved the show! Having been in the other When the audience arrived at the show, than the other, they each have their own unique schools rules still apply at school plays, I know how nerve-racking it can be, so they were asked to fill out “variables,” or challenges. Improv challenges performers to be dances. I was excited to see all my friends act on-thescenes for the actors to act out. Then the comfortable without a script and confident in 6. “My Humps”- BlackEyed Peas spot,” said Tess Plona, 10. their skills at successfully navigating a scene with (2005) very little preparation and foresight. “My humps, my lovely lady lumps.” 7. “Promiscuous”- Nelly Furtado ft. Timbaland “I want you on my team—so does everybody else.” emilybegley 8. “In da Club”- 50 Cent (2003) business manager “Go shawty, it’s your birthday…” From the first five words of this song it was a hit. 9. “Hey Ya!”- Outkast (2004) “What’s cooler than being cool? Ice cold!” Though slightly annoying after hearing it the trillionth time, it still seems to inspire girls to shake it like a Polaroid picture every time it comes on. 10. “Drop It Like its Hot”- Snoop Dogg (2004) “When the pimp’s in the crib ma.” While a slower and more relaxed beat compared to others in this list, the combination of Snoop and Pharell William’s voices put this song off the hizzle. Please note that these choices are not based on any scientific or researched evidence, merely the expertise of pop culture connoisseur, yours truly. See you at the dance!
Unscripted:
SHS students keep crowd laughing at annual improv show
QA
A
a&e
Songs we cannot stop singing
this month in
Top8:
“Hey, “TiK ToK” Soul Sister”
Pandora awes viewers
‘Avatar’s’ dazzling digital planet excites audiences | pg 14
Numerous books adapted to silver screen
Were they hits or misses? | pg 15
“Whatcha “Replay” “Fireflies” Say”
“You Belong “Party in “Bad with Me” the USA” Romance”
For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
14 a&e
friday, january 29, 2010
‘Avatar’
gina’s ginaromeo
photos courtesy of altavista.com
spotlight editor
Taking on Hollywood emmarosen
s.m.dipali
ames Cameron’s “Avatar” seized my previous interpretation of a surreal movie and molded it until I was left with an overwhelming sense of awe. Most critics attack the storyline and say that it is nothing more than a “Dances with Wolves” knockoff executed with brilliant technological strides. However, it is this familiar, emotionally tangible storyline that allowed my mind to rationally grasp the possibility of a world like Pandora ever existing. And while the storyline was proverbial, it was executed in a way not seen in any other movie. Has anyone ever seen a movie with creatures that appear to be overgrown smurfs inhabiting a feral land ripe with fantastic beasts where the trees are all connected by a nature god named Eywa? No, I did not think so. In the effects category, Cameron is the clear champion of the world right now. The flawlessly created world of Pandora looked as touchable and bona fide as anything I could find outside my front door. There was not a single cartoonish aspect to this movie. Being the emotional mess that I am, I found myself deeply connected to Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), and all of the other Na’vi. The intense final battle scene had me in tears, mourning the loss of the strange blue people I had just met two hours ago. But that, ladies and gentlemen, is what makes great cinema. Forget the kick-butt special effects and the 3-D glasses that never seem to find their way into the recycling bins set out for them. In the end, it is all about the emotional connection forged within a three hour period of time.
Going into “Avatar,” I had very high expectations. My friends praised this film as one that could not be missed. So, I dished out that extra $5.50 to see “Avatar” in 3D, hoping that my friends were correct in their reviews. The story takes place in 2154, with a corporation earning billions of dollars off of the rich resources of a colony called Pandora. The natives that inhabit Pandora are considered “savages” so the corporation creates “avatars,” alien bodies controlled by human minds. The main avatar of the story is Jake Sully, a crippled Marine, who is taken in by the natives and learns their ways. While watching this movie, I could not help but see the similarities between “Avatar” and “Pocahontas.” Great stories build on the past, but when it is all said and done “Avatar’s” plot was not at all earthshattering. It was immensely unoriginal, with only the action scenes keeping my attention. The very talented director, James Cameron, had been thinking of this story for 20 years. Frankly, it seemed as if it was atonement for the travesties perpetrated on the Native Americans by white settlers. In my opinion, Cameron used “Avatar” to repent for the mistakes our forefathers made. Cameron’s talent in this movie was unparalleled regarding his spectacular film making, but I would have rather watched “Terminator.”
J
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2009 was a year of firsts in music. A young country star sang about a Romeo and Juliet-esque love (with a happier ending). One of the stars of “Degrassi” recorded a hit rap song. The phrase “You’re a jerk,” took on a whole new meaning. As a new year and a new decade is upon us, I reminisce on the music of 2009 fondly. Beyonce made me proud to be a single lady, though I still cannot seem to get those dance moves down. Miley Cyrus had me nodding my head like yeah. And I will never forget how Jay-Z and Alicia Keys made me wish I was from New York. Whether it was yet another phenomenal tune from a group that will never die, like the Black Eyed Peas, or a surprise hit from a new-comer, like Jay Sean’s “Down,” the hits just kept on coming. “Poker Face.” “Bad Romance.” “Just Dance.” If these song titles do not ring a bell, you must have been hiding under a rock all year. In a whirlwind of blonde hair, glitter and nylon, Lady Gaga truly took the charts by storm. From her outrageous outfits to her political activism, it is hard to ignore Gaga. At the MTV Video Music Awards, she transformed her performance of her hit “Paparazzi” into a bold, yet entertaining, statement about fame and martyrdom by “bleeding to death” on stage. Though the pop music world had some great hits, I dare say that some of the more noteworthy tunes strayed from the Top 25 Billboard Chart. The first time I heard the band Miike Snow was during an episode of my favorite television show, “Gossip Girl.” The band’s song “Animal” has since become one of my favorites. Their self-titled debut album has made quite an impact on the UK charts, and has been praised by Rolling Stone magazine. Although R&B artist Kid Cudi has surely made a name for himself with songs like “Make Her Say,” and “Day ‘N’ Night,” it comes as a surprise to me that some of his bests were not quite as popular. “Pursuit of Happiness,” featuring the musical stylings of Ratatat and MGMT, is by far the best song on his album “Man on the Moon.” There is nothing more exciting to me than when one of my favorite bands releases a new, long-awaited album. So, after seeing alternative rock band Say Anything live at the Mad Hatter in October, I could not wait another minute for their fourth album, titled “Say Anything,” to be released. Luckily, the album hit the shelves about a week later. And believe me, the wait was worth it. Vocalist Max Bemis’ lyrical genius did not disappoint in songs like “Less Cute,” “Property,” and “Crush’d.” From Kanye West to Matt & Kim, the music of 2009 was an improvement in not only overall quality, but in originality as well. Better lyrics and hotter beats made songs like Drake’s “Successful” especially poignant. If you are yearning for a way to hear 25 of the year’s greatest hits, check out DJ Earworm’s “United States of Pop 2009 (Blame It On the Pop).” For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
a&e 15
friday, january 29, 2010
S
EE1 concert sure to thrill
SHERLOCK HOLMES
editor-in-chief
Popular books made into movies Adadptive films appear to be on downward slope
samcleary
F
minimag editor
rom “Alice in Wonderland” to “Watership Down,” Hollywood has been spitting out cinematic adaptations of the written word since the earliest years of the video camera. Call it laziness, call it genius; the fact is that the strategy has done well for itselfand for producers, directors, actors and authors alike. Some of the greatest films of all time have been constructed from the weavings of novels, picture books, even comics. The literary brainchildren of Ken Kesey, Chuck Palahniuk, and J.R.R. Tolkein have all spawned impressive creations. But as stories have become a rare commodity and directors continue to search for new ways to make money while mesmerizing the masses, books especially have become an increasingly popular foundation for video productions.
Declining quality
Undoubtedly, the adaptive tendency of the film industry as a whole has produced some lucrative and incredibly entertaining results; however, the relationship between quantity and quality has always been, quite
notably, inversely proportional. With the recent influx in the number of literary adaptations has come the film enthusiast’s idea of live-action leprosy, a pitiful and crippling plague seemed to begin with “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” and end, well...who knows where. As our ability to produce decent works of literature decreases, so too, does our ability to mold such material into quality film. In theory, one finds it much more difficult to construct a quality product with second-rate parts. As with any downward sloping graph, there are outliers. While the adaptive quality of film continues to decrease, small ‘blips’ of positive material spikes at random moments.
Recent adaptations
Take, for instance, the past year. We saw “Inkheart,” “Coraline,” “Watchmen,” “The Time Traveler’s Wife.” But we also saw “The Reader” and “The Road.” If anyone would care to tally, they would find that the ratio of quality adaptations to less-than-stellar adaptations has widened by a consistent margin from a year to year basis. We embarrassed ourselves as human beings by thinking for a moment
that our fond memories of “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” would some how be reflected in the quality of the film. However, we also saw our seemingly periodic outlier, in the form of none other than the dubiously charming “Sherlock Holmes.” The protagonist, played by Robert Downey Jr. impressed critics, captured imaginations of young boys, and caught the eyes of the mothers that took them to see it. Director, the infamous Guy Ritchie, threw a thuggish brutality into the mix, spinning a classic tale of sleuthery into a loud-mouthed tease of provocative wit and flamboyant tom-foolery. The gist of it all is that the goodness, the trueness, the beauty of adaptive film is slowly diminishing; it is going to keep ‘blip-blip-blipping’ away like a coma patient on life support, until with a sputtering splurge of life, the entire notion of such a historically sound means of story-telling will fade out with a flat-lining ble-e-e-eep. All we can do now is strap on our seat belts for “Harry Potter: The Deathly Hallows,” and hope that Peter Jackson does not screw up “The Hobbit.”
Many would consider it unusual to hear electric string instruments playing rock music, but the Sycamore Electric Ensemble, known as SEE1, is known for doing just that. Deborah Wu, 9, Olivia Smith, 11, Natasha Warikoo, 10, Konner Montchai, 9, Victor Hu, 10, Ben Fryxell, 9, Jack Henning, 10, Nick Triantos, 12, Rashmi Borah, 12 and Daniel Seibert, 9, make up this year’s group. Every Wednesday evening, the ten members of SEE1 have been rehearsing an extensive repertoire list, all in preparation for their much-anticipated Feb. 26 concert. They have already had two public performances. SEE1 opened up the Variety Show in November with their rendition of Ozzy Osbourne’s song “Crazy Train,” and performed the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s piece “Wizards in Winter” with the string orchestras in December. They will also perform the SHS Fight Song during the winter pep rally. However, this year’s concert will be a little different, because for the first time in a number of years, SEE1 will be performing without a guest performer. For the last three years, SEE1 performed with violinst Mark Wood and drummer Jeff Plate from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra; their performance was often the highlight of the show. But due to budget shortcomings, SEE1 will be performing alone for the first time in the group’s history. Regardless, SEE1 still hopes to put up an impressive show. Their repertoire so far includes renditions of Yes’ “Roundabout,” The Who’s “Who Are You,” Aaron Copland’s “Hoedown,” The Beach Boys’ “California Girls,” Osbourne’s “Crazy Train,” and Aerosmith’s “Last Child,” among other pieces.
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Sports
16
Take a
friday, january 29, 2010
Hike
Coach speak: liar, liar, pants on fire brandonsosna
Q&A
image courtesy of jeremy mcdaniel
sports chief
QUIZ TEAM MEMBERS LOOK on during a contest earlier in the season. Kathryn Tolley, 12, Neil Krishnan, 12, Ben Lee, 12, and Anu Kaushik, 12, are among several seniors that have led the team to a near perfect start. On Jan. 20, they suffered their first defeat, going away at Mason.
frankpan
T
staff writer
here are few sports at SHS that are consistently dominant year in and year out with continued dominance in both league play and post season. Academic Quiz Team fits the mentioned group and seems to garner quiet success that goes almost unnoticed by students. Quiz Team: a sport at SHS that continues to steam roll over opponents week by week, month by month, and year by year. The team currently stands at what many would consider to be a phenomenal 10-1 record, yet the team is still hungry for more. “I expect to be 18-0 as we have 10 matches left against GMC foes,” said Ashvin Srivatsa, 12, before the team’s first loss. “That would satiate my desire to win in my senior season.”
this month in
sports
Celebrating the life of Chris Henry Remembering, honoring, and mourning a life lost too soon | page 18
Need more coverage? Visit the sports page at www.goaves.com
Academic quiz team in pursuit of GMC crown
Srivatsa is one of the key players on the varsity squad that boasts senior depth that coaches in any sport would be envious of. In a recent interview with Mr. Ken Clark¸ head coach, Clark mentioned that seniors Ross Fletcher, Jacob Katz, Anu Kaushik, Neil Krishnan, Sukhada Kulkarni, Ben Lee, Ruchika Porwal, Kathryn Tolley, and Jing Xing are the leaders of a strong team. “Our senior leadership is what makes the team go and I credit them for our team being so dominant,” said Rohan Dalal, 11. Clark mentioned that because of such leadership, he expects the team to achieve its high goals and go undefeated in the GMC’s. “Because our Varsity team contains mostly seniors, we expect them to be at the top of the GMC standing at the end of the year…Mason has been
our strongest competitor so we are looking forward to the Jan. 20 match at their school,” said Clark, before the contest. Mason may have been the only formidable foe on the team’s remaining schedule but anything can happen in a quiz team match and focus has to be maintained in every head to head matchup for the team’s success. “Quiz team is good but I think they can be even better,” said Ian Wilson¸12, an avid supporter of the team. With such a scholarly roster filled with senior depth, the Quiz Team can only continue its quiet success and represent SHS in a way that makes other schools fear the tradition and excellence. “We want to go through and take care of our business and hopefully our fellow peers will start to notice,” said Kaushik. Clark gives his thoughts on
such a well built and structured athletic program at SHS with the following statement: “It is great to see them [the Quiz Team] represent our school so well. I am proud of the academic excellence of our school.”
by the numbers
101 14 2
The number of games the Academic Quiz team had won without suffering a single defeat. The team has endured just one loss this season, albeit to rival Mason. The average margin of victory for the quiz team this season through press time. The number of games remaining in the Quiz team season. Be sure to catch their final two contests on Feb. 3 and 10.
Varsity hockey team brings home hardware paulpescovitz
sports chief
Over the course of a grueling season, injuries are inevitable. But when medical problems begin to pile up, a team truly finds out what they are made of. This theory holds true for the SHS varsity hockey team, which has battled through a slew of physical setbacks in garnering an impressive 21-2-3 record. “The season is going really well so far. Everyone has stepped up well in the wake of several injuries,” said senior captain Dan Ashton. Even without seniors Sam Wocks (back), Anders Miller (thigh), and Ashton (shoulder) at full strength, the squad managed to sandwich a 1-1 tie with archrival Moeller High School between two winning streaks of three and four games respectively,
which included victories over St. Xavier, Toledo Catholic, Freemont Ross, and Springboro (twice). As well as recording a respectable performance in league and regular season play; SHS was able to revenge a runner up performance of 2009 by winning the Springboro Shootout, an invitational tournament, over the weekend of Jan. 9-10. On top of the team championship, Brandon Nazek, 12, took home most valuable player (MVP) honors from the weekend. “Winning MVP is always a great feeling because you know other people have recognized your efforts to help your team win. On the other hand, it’s just an individual honor, and winning back to back tournaments
was also great,” said Nazek. Just days later, varsity captured a second tournament title, this time the Martin Luther King, Jr. Tournament, which was held in Columbus over the holiday weekend. Winning their first two games in shootouts, the team capped off their championship run with a 6-3 win over Jerome. Just as they did in the Springboro Shootout, the squad was able to capture a title they failed to win last season. Although regular season and invitational tournament success is certainly sweet, the team still has one ultimate goal on its mind: advancing deep into the postseason tournament, and hopefully being able to skate for a state title.
Every year, hundreds of high school kids sign a Letter of Intent binding them to play for a particular university as a scholarship student-athlete. What comes before the signings is two years of older gentleman sucking up to 16-18-year old boys. They tell the kids’ mothers that their child will succeed in the classroom and on the field, mature into men they will be proud of, and worse, that they will take care of them for five years of their life. Then, the coaches pack up and leave after their freshman year. Coaches like Brian Kelly and Lane Kiffin who demand respect, loyalty, and commitment from their players, but don’t bat an eye at their “dream job.” Both coaches said they wouldn’t have accepted any other job. They call it a rationale. I call it a lie. People always say commit to a school not a coach. But the bottom line is that kids go to a place not because they have X-number of championships, but because, they like the coach. Proponents of the pick a school theory might point out that a coach can bail whenever he likes and coach the next year. If a player decides he wants to switch allegiances, he has to sit for a year. Where’s the justice in that? The hypocrisy of it all is disgusting. It’s supposed to be about the students. They take the field on Saturdays. They give up their lives to play football. They live on zero tolerance policies. They can’t celebrate New Year’s Eve. They might get to see their family on Christmas, but they might not. But every coach finds a way to make it about them. Whether it be disclosing a personal health issue in the week before a team’s BCS game, locking players in closets, or blasting reporters on a podium – it’s never been about the student-athlete. To quote Mike Gundy: “who’s the kid here? Are you kidding me?” Take Pete Carroll, who departs USC for the NFL at a most surprising time. Word across the internet was he had been approached every year by the NFL, but only now he takes the job. What changed? Despite his denial, it’s because his program is about to be penalized by the NCAA for wrongdoings during Carroll’s era. But that’s Kiffin’s problem now – that is, if he stays around to the start of the season. But who does it hurt the most? The players. Why should they be penalized for violations made by a coach who didn’t have the guts to stick it out for them? Where is the commitment that Carroll demanded from them? It does not exist. Because when those coaches walk into a living room at a recruit’s house, they put on a smile and it becomes all about who is the best liar. For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com
sports 17
friday, january 29, 2010
Hoops
Band Wagon
Jumpers paulpescovitz
sports chief
Girls basketball off to winning streak
emilycohen
D
staff writer
photo courtesy of jeremy mcdaniel
espite losing three seniors last year, varsity girls basketball remains a force in the Greater Miami Conference. The team is showing progress, on a six game winning streak as of press time. They have been tested early, winning close games over Lakota West and Colerain. The team’s chemistry is a big reason why the squad is in first place. Out of all team sports, basketball is one in particular where chemistry plays a huge role. Players need to be able to depend on each other to set up plays and execute them. “Our team bond and chemistry is the best it has ever been,” said Amy Isaacs, 12. Chloe Pavlech, 10, leads the team in scoring, averaging 12 points a game. She also leads the team in rebounds, assists, and steals. SHS is one of the best defensive teams in the league holding opponents to an average of 34 points a game. They create turnovers and
make the opposition work for every basket. “SHS is known for defense,” said Isaacs. The coaching staff has provided drills to improve the specific weaknesses of players. Some girls are undersized and have a disadvantage when it comes to rebounding. The team runs drills such as boxing out, which teaches players how to get in better position to rebound the ball. The squad feels that they are in great position to capture the GMC championship, but it will not be easy. They still have tough games ahead against Princeton, Colerain, Lakota West, and Oak Hills. If they can deliver it will be SHS’s first girl’s basketball GMC Championship in 16 years. “We have always had the skill, but now we are playing well together too,” said Isaacs. In the coaches poll the team is ranked fourth, but players are not satisfied. They are aiming for the top and look to continue their success down the stretch. It is a start, but it only gets more difficult from here.
ASHLEY SCHAEFER, 11, SPARKS A fast break for the SHS girls varsity basketball team. Schaefer, along with other standout player Chloe Pavlech, 10, and a strong senior class, have led the squad to a winning start. Relying on defense and rebounding, SHS hopes to win the GMC title.
It’s no secret that for the past decade, amateur athletics have been anything but innocent, pure, and well…amateur. That’s why it should have been no surprise when a few weeks ago, the Southern California athletic department placed sanctions on its men’s basketball program, stemming from the recruitment of O.J. Mayo. Throughout Mayo’s lengthy recruitment while he was playing for North College Hill High School as well as in Huntington, West Virginia, he and handler Rodney Guillory received over $30,000 in improper benefits. Shocker. The only factor more threatening to the integrity of college athletics than the rampant recruiting violations, may just be how the situations are handled. While Mayo continues to play out his contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, the current Southern Cal team suffers, as they will not be able to compete in any postseason tournament this year. Legends of the game have made light of the issue, most notably Bobby Knight, who controversially singled out Kentucky head man John Calipari, who has (coincidentally?) gotten out of dodge just as his last two programs have undergone major investigations, resulting in some penalties. How is it fair for the face of the program that is undergoing turmoil to pursue greener pastures, while the house they built burns to the ground? Simple answer: it’s not. Jump off the bandwagon of programs that may seem to be corrupt, but the disheartening truth is that no player, coach, or university is completely guiltless, and that college athletics have become a business, a lucrative one at that. So go ahead, look for a team, sport, or even one individual to support that seems to be playing 100% by the rules, but the chances of finding that person are lower than Derrick Rose’s SAT score, that is if he even took it.
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sports 18
january 29, 2010
Chris Henry brandonsosna
sports chief
T
&
(1983-2009)
paulpescovitz
sports chief
hroughout his time with the Cincinnati Bengals, wide receiver Chris Henry always seemed to be somewhat of a safety valve. When the Bengal offense was struggling, more often than not it was number 15 that would find a seam and make a big catch over the middle of the field. For this reason, there was only one adjective to describe the feeling many felt when news of Henry’s premature death spread: shock. Sure, not all was positive. Henry’s arrest record was anything but clean, and even avid fans questioned team owner Mike Brown’s decision to resign the troubled wide out after several league suspensions. However, Henry also embodied a microcosm of the 2009-2010 Bengals, turning his life in the positive direction just as the team adopted a new attitude and a winning swagger. Henry will be missed, both on the football field, and more importantly off of it, where he is survived by a fiancée and three young children.
Chris Henry highlight reel
photos by google images
CHRIS HENRY POINTS TOWARD the sky after catching one of his 22 career touchdown passes. In his number 15, he and his fiancee, Loleini Tonga, pose for a family portrait. Henry, who battled many off the field problems, found inspiration in the love and togetherness of family.
November 22, 2003: Playing as a freshman for West Virginia University, Henry exploded for six catches, over 200 yards, and two touchdowns in a 34-23 win at Syracuse. The scoring plays both occurred in the fourth quarter. Henry went on to win Big East Conference rookie of the year.
January 8, 2006: On the Bengals’ first postseason drive since 1990, Henry hauled in a 66 yard bomb from QB Carson Palmer, sparking waves of excitement throughout the crowd. Unfortunately, on the same play, Palmer was sacked and suffered a severe knee injury, ending his season.
September 24, 2006: In what was thought to be a huge victory as the Bengals jumped out to a 3-0 start, Henry scored twice on the road against the archrival Pittsburgh Steelers. 2006 turned out to be the best statistical season of Henry’s career, as he caught nine touchdowns.
September 20, 2009: Late in the first half of a must-win game with the Green Bay Packers, Henry was the recipient of a 5 yard strike for a score, knotting the game at 21. Cincinnati went on to win the game, sparking a four game winning streak, and setting the tone for a 10 win season and a rare playoff berth.
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19
Snapshots
20
(clockwise from left) allie Engelhart, 11, J.J. Peter, 11, and Kaley Bridgewater, 12, bowl at Crossgate Lanes at one of their matches this season.
Match point: Keaton Pangallo, 10, wrestles an opponent to the mat at a recent duel. “This season is probably better than any seasons we’ve had in the last four years,” said Ryan Whitney, 12. “I would say it’s probably because we’ve had such great seniors this year.” The most recent event the team participated in, as of press date, was the 36th Annual Sycamore Invitational on Jan. 15-16. Some of the highest placing wrestlers included Pangallo who got third
LEAP
Wrestling, bowling work it out in January
in the 112 weight class, DeCarlos Smith, 12, got first in the 140 weight class, Caleb WhitcombDixon, 10, got second in the 135 weight class, and Whitney got second in the 130 weight class. “We’re doing pretty good this year so far. Coach Pletz and the coaching staff are doing a great job building up the program,” said Jonathon Coddington, 12, “We’re all excited to see how the GMC tournament, sectionals and beyond [go].”
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