March Issue 2011 by Sycamore High School

the

There will be blood

‘Reid’ about the new Mr. Sycamore

page 12

page 10 FRIDAY MARCH 18, 2011 | VOLUME LVIII ISSUE 8 | 7400 CORNELL RD. CINCINNATI, OHIO 45242, 513.686.1770 EXT. 3089 | GOAVES.COM

image by jimmy chau

Educational evolution:

Controversial bill limits teachers’ rights rishiCHOUBEY

staff writer

& smDIPALI

news chief

n the coming months, a controversial piece of legislation will go into effect, impacting thousands of teachers in the state of Ohio, including SHS’s. Party loyalty aside, it is undeniable that this bill will change Ohio’s education system dramatically. Ohio Senate Bill 5, which eliminates collective bargaining by state employees and limits teacher tenure, passed the Ohio Senate with a vote of 17-16 and will likely pass the house on March 14. The bill will impact not only teachers but a total of 360,000 state employees including police officers, firemen, and local government workers. Despite thousands of protestors demonstrating in Columbus in opposition, the senate pushed it through, led by Sen. Shannon Jones, R-Warren County, and supported by Gov. John Kasich, R-OH. The bill will move to the House of Representatives on March 14, where it

CALENDAR 2

will likely pass or be mandated through Kasich’s budget, which is being presented March 15. On July 31, SHS teacher’s collective bargaining agreements ends, which could in turn make SHS one of the first schools to be impacted by this bill’s passage. “As it stands, it would allow us to strike and to negotiate salary but nothing else… terms of employment, benefits, nothing,” said Mrs. Rosemary Ennis, history teacher.

Advocates

Proponents of the bill believe that workers in the public sector contribute significantly less to their health care and pension than private sector employees. In addition many advocates assert that dismantling teachers unions by limiting continuing contracts would better education by instead offering merit based pay. This would permit the Board of Education to lay off under performing staff members without the hindrance of tenure and limit all contracts to a one year duration.

NEWS 3-4

SNAPSHOTS 5

FORUM 6-9

Currently, seniority rules teachers unions, meaning that educators with more years of teaching are favored in the event of Reduction In Force (RIF) over a less-experienced co-worker. “While cutting salaries may seem unfair, some may feel that certain teachers could perform much better. Maybe instituting merit based pay wouldn’t be a bad idea,” said Artur Meller, 11. Those in favor of this bill also believe controlling benefits of employees, such as pension or healthcare, would bring about lower costs for taxpayers. “This is a major step forward in correcting the imbalance between taxpayers and the government unions that work for them. Our state, counties, cities and school districts need the flexibility to reduce their costs and better manage their workforces, and taxpayers deserve to be treated with more fairness,” said

>> See page 3 for more coverage on Ohio

Senate Bill 5

FEATURE 10-12

FUN & GAMES 13

230,000

signatures are needed to put SB5 on a statewide

referendum ballot in November.

21,000

dollars would be the estimated starting salary for teachers in Ohio. The ceiling on teacher’s salaries will be about $35,000.

1,900

pages of SB5 with amend-

ments passed the Ohio Senate in one day.

A&E 14-17

of March is the day that SB5 becomes law; either through passage in the Ohio House or via Gov. Kasich’s budget.

The margin that SB5 passed the Ohio Senate on March 2. The vote, 17-16 in favor of SB5, was the closest vote in the last five years.

SPORTS 18-19

SPOTLIGHT 20

Calendar

Friday, March 18, 2011

sunday

monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday

saturday

kelcieGREGA

Aprll

calendar chief

Famous Birthday: Eddie Murphy

Boys Varsity Green Tennis vs. St. Xaiver 4p.m. Boys Baseball vs. Fairfeild 4:30 p.m. Boys JV B Lacrosse vs. Indian Hill 5 p.m.

Girls Softball vs. Norwood 4:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Volley Ball vs. Lakota West 7 p.m.

Music History: Beatles Second Album Released 1964

Boys Varsity Green Tennis vs. Moeller 4 p.m. Girls Softball vs. Fairfeild 6 p.m.

Girls Softball vs. Colerain 4:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Fairfeild 5:30 p.m. Holiday: April Fools Day

Boys Varsity Gold Tennis vs. Lakota East 4 p.m. Boys Baseball vs. Mason 4:30 p.m.

Boys Varsity Gold Tennis vs. Princeton 4 p.m. Girls Varsity Lacrosse vs. Loveland @ SJHS 6 p.m.

SHS Event: PTO Meeting 9 a.m. Boys Varsity Gold Tennis vs. Mason 4 p.m. Boys Varsity Lacrosse vs. Elder 7:30 p.m.

Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Western Brown 4:30 p.m. Girls Varsity Softball vs. Loveland 4:30 p.m.

Boys Freshman Baseball vs. Oak Hills 4:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Volleyball vs. Loveland 7 p.m. Early Realease Day

Boys JV B Lacrosse vs. Walnut Hills 5:30 p.m. SHS Event: Blood Drive Report Cards Distributed

Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Princeton 4:30 p.m. Girls Softball vs. Lakota West 4:30 p.m.

Boys Varsity Gold Tennis vs. Walsh Jesuit 3 p.m.

Boys Baseball vs. Lakota West 4:30 p.m.

Boys Varsity Gold Tennis vs. Centerville 4 p.m. Boys JV Lacrosse vs. Fairfeild 5:30 p.m.

Religous Holiday: Good Friday Spring Vacation Day (No School)

Boys Varsity Green Tennis vs. Upper Arlington 10:30 a.m. Boys Baseball vs. Centervile 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Girls Varsity Lacrosse vs. Upper Arlington @ SJHS 11 a.m. Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Loveland 12 p.m. ACT

Religious Holiday: Palm Sunday

Girls Softball vs. Princeton 4:30 p.m. Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Lakota West 4:30 p.m.

Religious Holiday: First Day of Passover Boys Varsity Volleyball vs. Lakota East 7 p.m.

Girls Softball vs. Middletown 4:30 p.m.

Track Gold Baton Relays 3:45 p.m. Boys Varsity Gold Tennis vs. Hamilton 4 p.m.

Boys Baseball vs. Lakota East 4:30 p.m.

Boys Volleyball vs. McNicholas 5:45 p.m.

Boys Varsity Baseball vs. Lakota East 4:30 p.m.

SHS Event: Prom @ The Oasis 9 p.m.

Religious Holiday: Easter Sunday

news

friday, march 18, 2011 >> OH SB 5, continued from pg 1

Bargaining no longer collective issue Kasich in a press release after Bill 5 passed through the Senate. Many business owners agree with Kasich’s sentiment. “It is very difficult to make cuts to programs, but between choosing to raise taxes and making cuts, I’d make cuts,” said John Rickert, a Blue Ash business owner. In addition to Senate Bill 5, Kasich is proposing to allow Teach for America in Ohio to improve education in Ohio. The Teach for America practitioners receive five weeks of teacher training and sign a two year contract. Teach for America is a non-profit program that allows college graduates to teach in low-income areas in order to alleviate educational inequity.

Affecting teachers at SHS

Many public workers, including teachers at SHS, are outraged at the provisions of the bill. A few of SHS’s teachers have expressed their beliefs as well, either by attending rallies in Columbus or through emailing their representatives. Mr. Kevin Wittman, government teacher, is one of the many teachers in Ohio who will be affected. “One thing that could happen is teachers having the inability to bargain over healthcare benefits, pension pickups, and work force levels. Or, for example, right now, I pay 15% of my healthcare. The board could say you need to pay 25%,” said Wittman. Other provisions include a set salary for teachers based on merit which is undefined at this time ranging from $21,000 to $35,000 dollars a year; however, districts would be allowed to determine their own parameters. “People are going to begin to wonder how they will pay their bills. What this really does is that it puts a big question mark on a field where people never had to worry about these things. People that go into teaching want very consistent lives. They want to know where their paycheck comes from and their conditions of employment. And it’s not just teachers but policemen, firemen, and many other people in the public sector,” said Wittman. One argument made from opponents of this bill is that it will prevent people from becoming teachers. “I’ve been teaching for 35 years so it won’t hurt me. But what it could do is dissuade people from teaching in Ohio and Wisconsin” said Ennis, “If I were a young teacher, I wouldn’t apply to teach in those two states,” said Ennis. Other reasons for opposing the bill include the elimina-

tion of the right to strike for all local government workers and the loss of the right to negotiate work schedule and vacation time. One of the most poignant effects of this bill has been its impact on teachers’ psyches, as they feel they are being unjustly punished. “We are educated people, and we chose to do this. [This bill] is insulting,” said Mrs. Susan Yanow, a Junior High special needs teacher.” Teachers, such as Yanow, attained their masters and made a personal choice long ago to follow their passion, a passion which allows them to educate future leaders of America. “As professional and as a black man with an advanced degree, I underprice myself in the present market by $35,000 a year by being a teacher,” said Mr. Victor Harris, a Junior High history teacher. Furthermore, Senate Bill 5 affects teachers on a daily basis and even permeates their teaching during the day. “It is so difficult to get up in the morning when this is on my mind. This is so heavy, it’s suffocating,” said Wittman.

Meeting with state representatives

Those in opposition have been contacting their government to express their anger. A few teachers who work within the Sycamore community met with Rep. Connie Pillich, D-Hamilton County, and Sen. Eric Kearney, D-9th District, to express their concerns. At the meeting, Kearney detailed the legislative process as well as his opinion on the issue. “In my five years as a State Senator, this was the closest vote ever. I think there is a fundamental failure to recognize that teachers are middle class people, and that they contribute to the economy. They really do not earn a lot of money, and they are struggling. My mom was a teacher; I know what the household is like. There is no value placed on the professionalism that teachers bring to the classroom,” said Kearney. Other problems he described included the lack of understanding of large, highly competitive public high schools by proponents of Ohio Bill 5. “A lot of the senators come from very homogeneous very small school districts. They don’t have an understanding of a Sycamore or a Mason or a Lakota. There are a lot of charter-school home-schooled, and parochial school folks that support this bill.

photos courtesy of christen corcoran

CROWDS DESCENDED UPON the Capital building in Columbus in the last two weeks. Rallies are expected to continue and grow. The governor sends his kids to a parochial school. You need to understand where they are coming from. You aren’t thinking what they are thinking of when they hear ‘public schools,’” said Kearney. When asked about possible savings for taxpayers, Kearney detailed how in the senate hearings, a $1 billion savings for the state was not brought up. “They carted that out for one day in Columbus. The study they used said, ‘this is our reasonable estimate.’ But they stopped using it soon after. It was never, ever mentioned during the hearings. That argument was never made. In Wisconsin it was made quite forcefully but not here in Ohio,” said Kearney. Ongoing conflict The next step in the legislative process for those opposed includes referendum, a direct vote in which an entire electorate is asked to either accept or reject a particular proposal. “When the governor signs it into law, there is a 90 day period during which people can use referendum. 230,000 signatures will be needed to put it on the ballot in Nov.,” said Pillich. Even if the referendum makes the ballot in November, there will be a period during which SHS will be directly impacted by these provisions. As bills such as Ohio Senate Bill 5 become introduced nationwide, protestors continue to fill the streets – many arguing that these provisions are an attack on the middle class or an attempt to kill unions and dry up the Democratic power base. Others argue that these bills are the first step in repairing a flawed system. Whatever the case may be, SHS will be one of the first schools in OH to experience the changes that this bill will bring.

Fashion for the Cure honors Rob Stoneberger mariaMARBALLI editor-in-chief

all photos courtesy of carepages.com

LEFT TO RIGHT: Rob Stoneberger celebrates Christmas with his family. In addition to coaching men’s Varsity B tennis and teaching physical education at Blue Ash Elementary, he also coached Junior High girls cross country, and is shown here at one of their meets.

Frank Manager

In a matter of minutes a life can change forever. In a few days a family’s course can be redirected, and in a matter of weeks a community can be rallied with an ever-growing readiness to love and support. The Stoneberger family knows this all too well. About two years ago on Dec. 18, 2008, Mr. Rob Stoneberger was diagnosed with stage IV esophageal cancer. Eight months later, he passed away on Aug. 29, 2009. It was within those eight months that the family experienced a flood of steadfast care, fundraisers and hope. Loved-ones remember “Kick it and go for Rob” where hundreds gathered

for the run/walk, purchased t-shirts, and shaved their heads in honor of Rob and his family. A great source of comfort for the community during Rob’s battle with cancer were the Stoney News carepages, which Rob updated regularly and where friends and loved-ones posted words of encouragement. This year, Fashion for the Cure will be held in honor of Rob Stoneberger. All proceeds will be donated to Cancer Family Care. Rob’s son, Ryan Stoneberger, 9, will be a guest speaker along with Brent Seelmeyer, Executive Director of Cancer Family Care. Ryan runs cross country and is currently running on the spring track team as a stand-out distance runner.

I’ve got service yes I do...

Szechuan

Hunan

Cantonese Cuisine

Dine In or Carry Out

The Shops at Harper’s Point

11296 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45249 Tel.: (513) 489-2388 Fax: (513) 489-3616

John T Hopkins, Agent 9762 Kenwood Road Blue Ash, OH 45252 Bus: 513-791-8000 john@jthopkins.net

And, I am ready to prove it. CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7

Fruit and Vegetable Market 5035 Cooper Road Cincinnati Ohio, 45242 Phone: (513) 791-3175

news

ong live Libya, free and united’

friday, march 18, 2011

ibya divided as Gaddafi’s power crumbles claytonHAMRE

staff writer

hen a relatively small group of protestors demonstrated in Benghazi – Libya’s second-largest city – on February 15, just three days after Egypt’s president Hosni Mubarak resigned – they probably could not have imagined the massive changes they would bring to the country. The protests had been sparked by the arrest of Libyan human rights activist Fathi Terbil, and government security forces reacted with violence. Libya’s uprising was to take a far different path than the largely peaceful revolutions of Tunisia and Egypt. Between February 13 and 19, protestors battled with police, who retaliated with increasing brutality, resulting in hundreds of deaths, before finally securing the main military compound in and liberating Benghazi. Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi – officially Colonel Gaddafi, or ‘Brotherly Leader and Guide of the Revolution’ – adopted an uncompromising stance towards the opposition. Having ruled the country for 42 years since his 1969 overthrow of the North African country’s monarchy, on February 22, Gaddafi vowed to “die here as a martyr” rather than step down. Since the opposition forces’ capture of Benghazi, towns and cities all across Libya have witnessed violence, with government forces using aerial bombardment, truck-mounted anti-aircraft weapons, machine guns, and Chadian mercenaries against protestors. Casualty estimates range between 1000 and 6500. At the time of publication, all of eastern Libya has been liberated from Gaddafi’s rule, with various cities in the western region of Tripolitania under opposition control. Battles still rage across much of central Libya in towns such as Sirt and Misrata image by sm dipali as government forces attempt to push

back the opposition’s drive for Tripoli. Towns in eastern Libya have sent representatives to Benghazi to form a temporary government for the opposition. As bloodshed within Libya continues, the uprising has caused other problems internationally. Over 200,000 refugees have poured from Libya into neighboring Tunisia, most of them foreign workers. With Gaddafi’s government no longer able to limit illegal immigration to Italy, as per a 2008 agreement with its former colonizer, the Italian island of Lampedusa has been swamped with refugees from Tunisia and Libya. Additionally, world governments are still grappling with the issue of how to enforce their denunciations of Gaddafi and their support for the protestors. The government of the United Kingdom has proposed a no-fly zone, but no significant action has yet been taken. As each day goes by, the situation in Libya is rapidly changing. If opposition forces do manage to oust Gaddafi, they still face a daunting task – totally rebuilding the country’s political, economic, and social infrastructure after decades of tyranny.

Gaddafi on Libyan revolution “Democracy means permanent rule.” “I will stay in Libya until I die, or until the end of time God allows me to live.” “I am not such a dictator that I would shut down Facebook. I’ll merely imprison anyone who logs in to it.” “There is a big, big gap between reality and the media reports. The whole south is calm. The west is calm. The middle is calm. Even part of the east.” “My people love me. They would die for me.”

Political unrest sweeps through Middle East janeFINOCHARO

snapshots editor

Protestors in the Middle East, inspired by Egypt’s success, continue to demonstrate on the streets. Goverments have come up with their own ways to subdue the protesters. Many of the countries are stuggling with political, social and economic issues, and hope to solve some of these problems through continuous protests.

Jordan:

Though a new government was sworn in in Feb., opposition groups are now calling for the dissolution of Parliament. They have criticized the composition of the new government. Jordan is still struggling for economic and social prosperity.

Morocco:

On Feb. 20, tens of thousands of Moroccans protested demanding increased sovereignty of newly elected government and more independence of the justice system. Activists have been using Facebook to call for major demonstrations on March 20 to demand largescale reforms, including a constitutional monarchy. Protesters have also ominously warned that the “autocracy” will be gotten rid of if the government does not heed the people’s demands. King Mohammed VI promised that he would create a Social and Economic Council to carry out reforms. Morocco has been facing severe economic problems, though the King has said that fixing poverty is his main priority.

Egypt:

Egypt remains under the military rule that was established after President Hosni Mubarak’s resignation. Egyptians continue to protest in Tahrir Square to encourage the military government to bring swift reforms. Protesters raided state security offices to push their demands for change.

Libya:

In Libya, conflict is still in full roar. Much of it has fallen to rebels opposing Muammar Gaddafi’s rule. Gaddafi and his government are being investigated for crimes against humanity. Gaddafi has remained stubborn and insists that his country supports him. The uprising has led to a major exodus of people by land, air, and sea.

Bahrain:

Protests have continued in Bahrain. On Feb. 26, the King shuffled his cabinet, but did not fire the Prime Minister - one of protesters’ main demands. However, President Obama and other western leaders have welcomed the change in the cabinet. Members of main Shia political group, Wefaq, continue to call for the government to resign. They are also demanding release of political prisoners and negotiations for new constitution.

Tunisia:

In Tunisia, the country that sparked the fire of revolution throughout the Middle East, Prime Minister Mohammed Ghannouchi resigned on Feb. 27. Beji Caid Essebsi, a former foreign minister, will be temporary prime minister until elections can be held on July 24. On March 8, Essebsi revealed a temporary government system that will be in place until these elections. However, many are still calling for the complete dissolution of parliament.

all images by sm dipali

FROM TOP: PROTESTORS gather in Jordan, Moroccans demonstrate to rid the government of autocracy, the streets of Bahrain are filled with thousands of protestors.

Snapshots 5 Suave studs show school spirit Friday, March 18, 2011

Mr. Sycamore Pageant pleases crowd, benefits charity

janeFINOCHARO

snapshots editor

ON MAR. 4, SHS hosted the Mr. Sycamore Pageant to raise money for the Jose Cerda Scholarship Fund. Contestants in the pageant included freshmen John Carroll and Brian Cleary, sophomores Griffin Levy and Matt Russell, juniors Ryan Reid, Ele Contreras, and Brandon Woods, and seniors Daniel Rickert, Ravi Sheth, and Jeff Wolkoff. The event was hosted by Mallory Condron, 12. Above: Condron dances with the contestants. Left: Reid is named Mr. Sycamore and awarded the $100 prize by Student Council. Reid donated this money to the Jose Cerda Scholarship Fund. Below left: Carroll places his sandwich on his head during the Subway-eating competition. Judges and audience said that Carroll was one of the most entertaining contestants and was a close second place. Contestants also competed in a modeling competition, nterview, and more. Below: contestants form a circle around Sheth, who was later named Mr. Congeniality. Sheth also donated his prize to the Jose Cerda Scholarship Fund. This fund creates scholarships for students who are interested in pursuing graphic design in college. Before intermission, a slideshow was also shown commemorating Jose Cerdaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life.

>>See page 10 for more information on the Mr. Sycamore Pageant.

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS - DESIGNERS 5700 Cheviot Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45247 513-385-0700 www.freyelectric.com Serving all your electrical needs since 1921....

Frey Electric, Inc. Frey Electric is a full service electrical contractor providing the design build and service needs of residential, commercial & industrial customers in the Tri-State. Complete Home& Business structured wiring.

Forum

Friday, March 18, 2011

gabeENGLANDER

associate editor

W staffeditorial

hile 2,588,946 individuals follow the erratic words of Charlie Sheen on twitter and many SHS students are abuzz with “Sheenisms,” very few are aware of Senate Bill 5 which will become law on Mar. 15 (Ides of Mar.) Numerous are distracted from reality with Sheen’s surreal remarks and nonsense statements. A limited amount can tell you anything about Senate Bill 5, but they can tell you they are “winning.” There should be more focus on a bill that will cause a huge wave of long term reactions, than a man who is about to burn out. Senate Bill 5 will affect the students, Charlie Sheen will not. While everyone is caught up in these “Sheenisms” Ohio is making history. It, SB5, is not one of those laws that can be pushed over to parents, and ignored by students. Within the first seven weeks of the new governor’s tenure 425 pages and 97 amendments were written that will impact not only the 360,000 public servants in Ohio, but the millions of school children and citizens as well. Not a quick read by anyone’s notion, SB5 has generated life into politics that students normally would

the Sycamore

only read about in textbooks. Sadly, the end effects of SB5 are not written in textbooks yet. Quite like Charlie Sheen, we do not know what to expect from SB5 next. Sheen’s fame will be short lived while SB5 even if put on a ballot in November as a referendum will change the face of education in Ohio forever. This bill will affect students in one way or another. Is it worth going to college in Ohio? Is it worth raising a family here? Will young people opt to stay in Ohio after graduation? Students will be faced with many questions similar to these. Senate Bill 5 may change the comfortable learning environment that we now know; it might change a little, or cause a complete 180 degree change. This example only highlights how misguided we are in classifying what is important from what is not. We dedicate more time to following singers and actresses than we do to regular news. One law that’s going to change education in Ohio forever? No big deal. Winning? How about losing.

leaf

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.

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242

leafing through the masses

What is your opinion, if any, on Senate Bill 5?

Some components could be beneficial, but many components could destroy public schooling in the U.S.

-Mrs. Karen Bare, assisant principal My mom is a teacher at Montgomery Elementary. She thinks it is unfair, and wrote a letter to Kasich about it.

-Emily Fry, 11

I have no idea what Senate Bill 5 is, and so I have no opinion on it.

-Robert Scott, 9 Editors-in-chief: Brandon Sosna, Maria Marballi Associate Editors: Kelsey Drapkin,

The Leaf operates as an open forum for the healthy, robust exchange of ideas. Opinions expressed in the editorials are those of The Leaf staff. Letters to the editor are encouraged. All letters must be signed. The letters, not to exceed 300 words, may be edited for clarity, spelling, and grammar. Letters may be placed in Mrs. Cheralyn Jardine’s mailbox, dropped off in room 115, or e-mailed to jardinec@sycamoreschools.org. The Leaf reserves the right to decide not to cover a death based on relevance, timeliness, and circumstances decided on by the editorial board. In cases that the editorial board decides not to cover a death, letters to the editor in regard to that death will be printed. The Leaf’s complete editorial policies can be found at www.goaves.com. For comments about columns, please write to writetotheleaf@gmail.com

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. News S.M. Dipali Forum Shivani Parikh Feature Jimmy Chau Emma Oh Lina Cardenas A&E Emma Oh Gina Romeo Sports Brandon Sosna Daniel Bayliss Bennett Kaplan

Calendar Kelcie Grega Spotlight Emily Begley Snapshots Jane Finocharo Fun & Games Clayton Hamre Cartoonist Lilly Lefton Amaji Finnell Web Masters Jacob Deitloff Ross Johnstal

I began this column one year ago calling for change in the way Diversity Day operated. Specifically, I argued that we deserved more than a day focused on cultural food and ethnic dancers. Rather, I wanted the day to include a kind of open conversation among students and staff that would help us uncover our own unconscious prejudices and overcome them. When I saw that little movement toward these kinds of changes were being made, three other students and I approached Ms. Renee Hevia, the administrator most involved, to present our plan to add one hour of student discourse to Diversity Day. Hevia agreed that Diversity Day, which this April will be Diversity Month, could stand to benefit from our plan, and as of press time confirmed that the entire SHS student body will participate in these one hour discussion based exercises on Apr. 15. This experience taught me that parts of the SHS administration, which I’ve criticized as being bureaucratic and unresponsive, can actually be open to changing the way they do things if they are approached with a reasonable concern and a practical plan. More broadly, it showed that change is possible for those that work for it. Because so much of high school, academically and socially, is boring and petty, it’s tempting for students to put their heads down and coast to graduation. But I think this is the wrong approach. If you don’t like something, fix it! If a teacher won’t teach, report them. If the cafeteria continues to produce below average food at above average prices, boycott it. If The Leaf gives you an unfair review, send us an email. Imagine what SHS would be like if whenever students had a problem, they committed themselves to fixing it, improving their own lives and making SHS run more fairly and effectively. A student body with that kind of awareness and dedication could radically improve SHS. By holding themselves and their school to higher standards, these students would also build a true community. That’s what I want for SHS, and I think the new Diversity Month could be a step in that direction. I hope that it gets us really talking, about who we are and what matters to us. I hope that after I graduate, other students will step forward to further improve Diversity Month. And I hope they will work for change in every other area at this school, because SHS is worth it. For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com

Gabe Englander, Moriah Krawec Managing Editor: Jimmy Chau, Ellie Goldman Business Managers: Emma Oh Staff Writers Dilnoza Abdusamatova Irfanuddin Aijaz Madison Ashley Ana Barros Emily Begley Denae Bellilti Alec Bochner John Carroll Krittika Chatterjee Rishi Choubey Brian Cleary Rohan Dalal Gariauna Daniels Michael DeMaio Mark Eilers Gabriela Godinez-Feregrino Devon Grubba Samantha Hammer Aaron Ishida Alexandria Lazar Shea Lothrop Sarah May Frank Pan Orion Radtke Casey Rayburn

Daniel Rickert Cailin Rogers Michael Saxon Aditi Sharma Shayna Siegel Chase Spicer Ilana Vinnik Sanika Vaidya

Photographer Jeremy McDaniel Adviser Cheralyn Jardine 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

forum

friday, march 18, 2011

Dipal-Oh-tics smDIPALI

news chief

& emmaOH business manager

Wis. union bill passes through Senate A MEMBER OF the JV hockey team, Dukart celebrates with her teammates. Dukart says her brother introduced her to the sport. She and Graves are the only two females on the team.

image by shivani parikh

Monumental victory sparks controversy irfanAIJAZ

staff writer ntil this year, the state high

school championship in wrestling has never been won by a girl. On Feb. 14, the championship title was given to a woman after her opponent forfeited the match. He forfeited because it was not right in his faith to wrestle a woman. Men and women should not play in the same contact sports league. If a co-ed contact sport is mostly comprised of male players, either it should be a male sport, or the divisions should be separated. Females compete in these types of games because they feel that they should be able to. “I play hockey because my brother got me into it… it is a lot of fun. If a girl wants to wrestle she should go for it, [no one stops her] except stupid

people in society,” said Madelyn Dukart, 9. At SHS, there are female athletes on both the hockey and wrestling teams. Dukart, Alex Graves, 11, and Laura Mendez, 9 are all female athletes in contact co-ed sports. “I do get harassed [by the other team] sometimes,” said Dukart, “but it is a fun sport.” Boys who know they have to wrestle a girl sometimes get uncomfortable. If they do not, they may instead be serious in their match up. “As long as girls take it seriously, that’s fine,” said Aaron Frankel, 10, a wrestler on the SHS JV wrestling team. Mendez is the only girl on the wrestling team this year. When females and males compete

In a surprise move by Republicans from Wis. the antiunion bill that strips public sector worker of collective bargaining passed through the Senate without the Democrats present. Despite the absence of the Democrats, who left Wis. for Ill., Republicans separated the specific provision from the state’s budget proposal and were able to pass the bill with an 18-1 vote. Gov. Scott Walker applauded GOP members, calling their actions incredibly necessary.

D: By separating this bill from the fiscal proposal, the GOP has made it incredibly clear that this was never about the budget. Americans should see GOP motives for their true against each other often, they do not meaning: this was about settling old scores and lifting the see each other as different genders. They focus on winning the sport and only remaining counterweight to the corporate moneybags of America, like the Koch brothers, who fund the Republidisregard the gender of their oppocan machine. nent. However, everyone knows that Although fueled by narrow-minded and petty reasons, winning is not everything. the GOP’s central argument that allows for government Morals and other factors may show efficiency and flexibility is laudable. that there should be a different objecInstead of attacking collective bargaining, Republicans tive in sports other than winning, such as showing should be advocating greater work flexibility and merirespect for others who are tocracy. Unions are reflexively against the kernel of this argument, thus the political unrest that has swept through different. Wis. “I wrestled a girl this Public opinion is very ambivalent. Americans have a year. Once the match knee-jerk reaction to sympathize with the struggling starts, you don’t even workers, calling this bill an “attack on the middle class.” think about it,” said But as soon as taxes are raised to support their bleeding Frankel. But for others, it feels wrong to play hearts, they’re suddenly outraged. Being overly idealistic doesn’t fix anything. contact sports with the opposite sex, *Columnist Emma Oh was unable to contribute to this and it should. The boy sensed it was wrong for him month’s column due to illness to wrestle the girl because it was a gut For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@ instinct. It was there because it was gmail.com meant to be there.

I wrestled a girl this year. Once the match starts, you don’t even think about it.

Aaron Frankel, 10

The Jose Cerda Aquatic Foundation is a nonprofit fund aimed at: -Supporting water polo and swim teams, as well as the stu dents who participate in these teams. -Improving the competitiveness of water polo and swim teams in the state of Ohio in memory of Jose Cerda. -Fostering unity among water polo and swim teams.

How To Get Involved: The Foundation wants to honor Jose by carrying on his memory, his life’s work, and what he believed in: to give to others selflessly, touching as many lives as possible.

Please consider donating your talent or time to the foundation. Visit our website at www.joseito.webs.com. Show your support for the Cerda family at athletic events with temporary tattoos. Email josecerdatattoos@hotmail.com

forum

friday, march 18, 2011

What colleges really want:

Mastering current application process

mariaMARBALLI editor-in-chief

Going through the college application process teaches you a lot about what the admissions office actually wants. We already know about community service, good grades and extra-curricular clubs and sports. We know we need to prepare for standardized and AP tests. But with all the obviousness aside, what distinguishes the good from the accepted? How is the admissions board going to choose between the two students with the same grades, the same resume, and the same test scores?

Continuity PROTESTORS FROM BOTH sides have flocked to Ohio’s capital to express their opinions about Senate Bill 5. The bill is a necessary measure to balance the state budget. Governor John Kasich is prepared to sign the bill into a law in the coming weeks image by lina cardenas assuming it passes through the House of Representatives.

Disputes, tensions rise from SB5 kelseyDRAPKIN

associate editor

hose mean old Republicans are at it again. What are they thinking trying to balance budgets and decrease deficits? How dare they try to set the country on a fiscally responsible track? Across the country, union members have taken to protesting the bills popping up in many states from Republican led legislatures. The bills call for increased contributions from union members for their benefits, and some of the bills call for a restriction of collective bargaining. The pushback from union members has been astonishing. For years, members of public unions have paid union dues and received great benefits (health insurance, pensions, etc.) with little investment of their own in premiums and contributions. The rest of the monetary burden was passed onto the tax payers. But the states are in massive debt, and something must be done to resolve the issue. Currently, Ohio’s debt is getting ever closer to the $10 billion mark.

Both sides feel threatened, and understandably so. The union members fear lower paychecks and fewer benefits. The taxpayers fear insolvency. Public employees do deserve a fair salary, health benefits, and the opportunity to save for retirement just like private sector employees. However, they do not deserve more. The power that unions of the public sector have come to hold is excessive. If we do not find a fiscally sustainable path, the questions will be moot. There will be no jobs. There will be no salaries. There will be no benefits. The measures being taken by state legislatures are not meant to harm anyone or stifle public employees. The exact opposite is true; by alleviating the budgetary burden of extensive health benefits and pensions, states will be able to begin climbing out of massive debt positions and hopefully begin to stimulate their economies. The proposal in Ohio will save the state over one billion dollars. In the bill that has been signed into law by Governor Scott Walker in Wisconsin,

public employees will still have the right to unionize and collectively bargain for wages. The bill requires state workers to pay more for their pensions and health care benefits, saving an estimated $30 million. “This is ultimately about a commitment to the future, so our children don’t face even more dire consequences than what we face today,” said Walker at a news conference on Mar. 10. Ohio, Ind., Tenn., Fla., and eight other states have pending legislation that is similar to that which was passed in Wis.. There are currently 12 states that do not allow collective bargaining for any public workers including Texas, Va., S.C., and Ark.. States are in need of reworking their budgets; the choices are higher taxes, reduced governmental services, public employee layoffs, or expense reduction. The least harmful of these for everybody is reducing expenses, because that will, for the time being, reduce the tax burden for all tax-paying citizens. This is change we can believe in. We are winning the future.

Correcting Curriculum: Addressing courses, credit requirements, untaught life skills brandonSOSNA

editor-in-chief, sports chief

I am flabbergasted, in a way, when I hear people complain about how bad education is in the United States. We are falling behind in math, science, reading, etc. etc. etc. There is a picture that forms in my mind of a group of big, bad educational people sitting around a table scratching their heads wondering what went so terribly wrong. They want to blame teachers, lack of student drive, lack of parent involvement, economic situations, social situations, and whatever excuse they can draw up. At the end of the day, however, it is the structure of the United States educational organization that is pent up on a system created in the early 1900’s. High school teaches us rudimentary skills at a plethora of different things. Most of these skills will never be used again. We, as students, are taught to do well on tests and not for any other reason: so that we can pass graduation tests, AP tests, SAT tests, etc. I can tell you how to find the derivate of an equation, lengths of the sides of a triangle, and angles of incidence. I can tell you

Eye Care Optical Quality Eyeware At Affordable Prices Montgomery Square Shoping Center 9897 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45242

(513) 731-6587 LEN MICHELLE PAT

JOY

Eye Exams by Appointment

the traits of reptiles, what onomatopoeia is, and the central tenants of romanticism. But I struggle to lay a finger on my political beliefs, and I know little to nothing about taxes and lines of credit. I lack basic fundamental understanding of the economy, the stock market, and investing. I was given one semester to learn how the government operates. I had to grasp the college application process through trial and error. Meanwhile, I am being forced to take a ceramics class and a study of rock class, which, no offense to teachers of those subjects, are completely useless for anything I will do in life. I have wasted three semesters in gym classes, as if I’m being punished because Americans can’t keep their weight down. Obesity is a personal problem, not an education problem. I will be attending an Ivy League institution next year, so it is funny to speculate that if I had not signed up to take ceramics I would not have had the credits to graduate. But curse me for wanting to learn about finances, politics, and real world skills. Perhaps if I had the time in my schedule, I would take such courses. Instead, I spend 50 minutes of my day learning what chord George Harrison liked to play the most. It is even scarier to consider what other high schools may be like: schools that are not blessed with nearly unlimited resources, extensive support systems, and a reputation of superior education. This is not an assault on Sycamore High School. It is an attack on the state of Ohio and the United States of America. In a place littered with the world’s most brilliant minds and innovative strategies, how have we ruined education in a nearly irreversible manner? How misguided are we? I have often heard the expression, “If the average person is stupid, consider what those below average are like.” Well, if SHS fails in teaching life skills to their students, but instead engages us in a variety of trivial subjects in which we gain just a weak foundation for, then what most those other schools be like? How poor is the education in inner city schools? It is a perturbing thought. One I wish not to explore. The fork in the road has long since passed. We do not need an alternate route, no new directions or U-turns. We need to build an entirely new road altogether.

Be passionate about something. Find your niché and stick with it. Sticking with it is the key. Colleges want to see that you cared enough about something to stay committed and devoted to a certain field of interest or a sport. Take two students interested in English. They want to major in English, they love to read, and in their free time, they write. They have the same GPA and the same SAT score. Student A has been on the newspaper staff all four years of high school. They submit monthly poems to the school’s poetry magazine. They volunteer at the library every summer and tutor students that have difficulty in English. Let us say they even enter into writing contests. Student B was on the newspaper staff for one year, then quit and switched to marketing. They volunteer at an animal shelter and serve as a math tutor several days a month. While both have solid resumes, Student A finished what they started, and was active in volunteer opportunities and classes that fit their main subject of interest. This does not mean you have to know exactly what you want to major in, just find something that you actually enjoy and pursue it with your time and energy. Immerse yourself in your interests and let that grow into a passion that you will willingly want to stay committed to for four years. It may even turn into a desired college major. The point to remember: universities want to see that you were active in extra-curriculars that stayed true to your interests and that you finished and excelled in these activities throughout your high school career.

Universities want to see that you were active in extra-curriculars that stayed true to your interests. Schedule weight verses good grades

The classic question that all students want to know the answer to: Is it better to take accelerated/AP classes and get B’s, or get A’s in academic or honors? I asked this question at a college visit at UNC to one of the admissions officers. His response, “Get A’s in accelerated classes.” No one seemed satisfied. He went on. As important as grades are, most universities would rather see a list of challenging classes with B’s than basic classes with a string of easy-A’s. If you are working endlessly to get C’s in challenging classes, then it is okay, stick to where you can achieve an A or a B. But if it is possible to bump up the pathway for certain subjects, go for it. That is what they want to see.

Leadership

This one might be obvious, maybe even “easier-saidthan-done.” Today, we are part of so many different clubs and athletic teams, yet so few of us are leaders. What is a good compensator for average standardized test scores? Leadership roles. Do not just attend meetings when you have to or get by with as little participation as possible, actually apply yourself. Go to optional get-togethers. Volunteer to do the dirty work. Get to know the coach or advisor. More importantly, get to know the kids around you. Build trusting relationships, ones in which a role of leadership may eventually blossom. Initiative: that is what it is all about. If colleges could make a top-ten list of desirable qualities in a student, leadership would consistently be a top-placer. It shows universities that when the student gets to college, they plan on doing something with the time and resources given to them rather than going to mandatory classes and, well, that’s it. Show purpose in your extra-curricular selections, create for yourself a personally-challenging schedule and sacrifice a few A’s, and be a leader. With these qualities in mind, your college resume is going to leap off the page, landing more acceptances than those lacking continuity, determination and initiative.

forum

friday, march 18, 2011

Surrounded: Israel’s future called into question

ISRAEL

After Iraq the recent protests and the fall of Mubarak, the question of who will take over the Egyptian government is a dire issue for not only the Egyptian people, but also for Israelis. Because Israel’s relations with surrounding countries such as Leban non and Syria ista n a h and Afg even

characterized by the American Director of National Intelligence James Clapan per, who b Le called it a “largely secular” group “which has eschewed violence.” In reality, this group is a

Syria

fundamentalist Sunni movement seeking to spread Islamic law (i.e. Sharia law) throughout the world. They hope to infuse the daily lives of families and entire communities with Pakista Quranic n

with political factions within morals and values. This concept the state’s territories (the West in itself is fine; having a sense of Bank and the Gaza strip) are faith and G-dliness in a society tenuous to say the least, it is good. This group, though, like is critical for the state n other fundamentalist groups of Ira to maintain posimany religions, through Kuw tive relations an authority ait wherever position may possible. distort THERE ARE CURRENTLY 36 countries in the United Nations With what groups that Israel has no diplomatic relations with. Within these 36 scripture entities, 22 do not recognize the legitimacy of Israel as a state. such is truly 20 of the total 36 are members of the Arab League, a group of as The saying Muslim 22 countries in the Middle Eastern region. to gain Brotherhood, founded in Egypt in political clout. 1928 and whose most used slogan In regard to Israel, members of the is “Islam is the solution,” in cahoots Brotherhood have revealed a desire with some preliminary talks about the to revoke Egypt’s peace treaty with power transition in Egypt, Israel has Israel, followed by an increased supreason to fear for the future. port for Hamas, the violent political This group has been clearly misfaction in the Gaza Strip, and other in rapk

srael. The Biblical land that many travel to in hopes of connecting to their roots; the homeland of the three major monotheistic religions; the thriving land rich with lush green, arid desserts, and bustling cities. A sliver of land about the size of the state of New Jersey, Israel has long been a center of territorial dispute. Throughout the ages, many have fought for the right to call Israel their own, claiming Biblical right and promise to the land by G-d. In 1948, Israel declared its independence from the British Mandate, becoming a recognized state. The day after the declaration, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq attacked the infant state, officially beginning the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The creation of the state served as an affront to the Arab world, as they felt it contradicted pan-Arabism and Arab nationalism. This feeling only served to deepen the hatred of Jews and Zionism, feelings that already enveloped the region. This hateful sermon has carried on to the modern day Middle East. “Israel must be wiped off the map,” said Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President of Iran, in a speech to the “World Without Zionism” conference in Asia in 2005. Israel has been able to maintain its presence and thrive in multitudes of ways despite being surrounded by hostile neighbors. But as the situation changes in Egypt and other revolting countries in the Middle East, along with the United States showing less interest in its trusted ally, times will be tough for Israel.

For almost half of its existence as a modern state, one of the best Sa relationships Israel ud iA has nurtured with its ra surrounding neighbors bi was that with Egypt, especially a during the presidency of Hosni Mubarak.

lsey d

associate editor

ke e by imag

kelseyDRAPKIN

terrorist groups. There is fear that it will be quite easy for the Brotherhood to fill the governmental void because they are extremely well organized, have a well laid-out infrastructure, and are trusted by some in Egypt. The Brotherhood is now forming a political party called Freedom and Justice under the leadership of Sa`d alKatatni, head of the Muslim Brotherhood’s parliamentary bloc. This is a great political move; instead of being on the foreground of the whole revolt, the Brotherhood has stayed quiet, therefore not receiving criticism for choices of sides in the revolt or other political issues. But Egypt is just one concern of Israel’s. The state is still literally surrounded by countries that would prefer for it to not be on the map of the world. With Iran gaining nuclear power and the possibility of nefarious forces sharing nuclear capability, the threat becomes more and more imminent. Political factions within and around the state like Hezbollah and Hamas also continue to make their hatred and intentions to destroy Israel and its people quite clear. As all of this hatred broils over 6,000 miles away, I cannot understand how Americans, Jewish or not, can sit by and ignore what is occurring in this region. The sparks have been lit by uprisings in many Middle Eastern countries; it may be only a matter of time before the revolutionaries of these countries turn to Israel to “finish” their job and restore pan-Arabism. On top of this, the current administration has made it clear that America is no longer the ally it used to be for the State of Israel. The continual push for more and more concessions from the Israelis about settlements and general national security issues reveals a bias toward the Palestinians. It is a hypocritical world we live in when our President is cheerleading revolutions in countries that are both Israel and America’s enemies, yet at the same time throwing one of our most reliable allies and the only bastion of democracy in the Middle East under the bus. The Middle East remains in a volatile state. Israel is just a sliver, but it lies in the middle of a domino effect of revolutions. As Israel loses its connections and relationships with its closest allies, it is hard to say what the future will bring. While the citizens of each country have a right to determine the government that will lead them, we must hope for the sake of the region, and of Israel, that these leadership positions will be filled by those who are determined to lead their countries forward into a world of peace.

SPECIAL OFFER for Sycamore High School

Huntington Learning Center is offering a practice ACT or SAT test for Sycamore High school students for only $30 (savings of $165) at Harper’s Point Location. 513-677-1400

The ACT & SAT practice tests will be held on: Monday, June 6th at 9am Tuesday, June 7th at 9am

Both tests will include a review session to go over the results with the parents and students.

Feature

Friday, March 18, 2011

‘He looked so good in the tux’

Mr. Sycamore pageant exceeds expectations sarahMAY

O forum chief

n March 4, audience members of the Mr. Sycamore Pageant watched as contestants attempted to prove themselves the best representives of school spirit. Host Mallory Condron, 12, led the ten contenders through a Subway eating contest, a modeling competition, a Q&A section, and other crowd pleasers. The Mr. Sycamore title was awarded to Ryan Reid, 11. “I think what really gave him the edge was the questions, just the way he answered the questions,” said Mrs. Luisa Cerda, a judge of the event. “And I really wanted it to be an upperclassman. It was between him and John [Carroll, 9] after we added up the points, then [Ryan] danced really well and looked so good in the tux.” Student Council sponsored the event in honor of Luisa’s son, Jose Cerda, a senior who passed away in late October. Immediately before intermission, the audience viewed a short slideshow commemorating Jose’s life. Luisa, along with several

photos by mcdaniels photography

LEFT TO RIGHT: Reid displays his dancing skills with poise and confidence during the formal-wear round. Judges say that it was his moves as well as his appearance in his tuxedo that won him the title of Mr. Sycamore. Host Condron and contestant Eleazar Contreras, 11, share a laugh during one of the rounds of question-and-answer, a crucial part of the evening. Carroll strikes a pose during the spirit round of the competition, which was the final round. audience members, became very emotional during the presentation. “It showed the importance of the night,” said Charlotte Harris, 11, a Student Council member involved in the event. “As a teammate of Jose, I know how much he would have loved that night… I admire Mrs. Cerda’s strength and courage and I think we can all learn from her.”

During intermission, the audience members could donate money to the candidate with “the best face.” Student Council awarded the contestant with the most money Mr. Congeniality. The winner, Ravi Sheth, 12, raised over $550, which he donated to the Jose Cerda Scholarship Foundation. Inspired by Jose’s dream to design video games, the Cerda

family set up the fund after his passing. The scholarship will be awarded to a student who desires to pursue a similar dream. “I would do anything to keep Jose’s memory alive,” said Luisa. The pageant’s proceeds totaled $2017.50, all of which was donated to the Scholarship Foundation. With the donation goal reached and high energy levels from both

the audience and the contestants, almost all considered the event a success. “We began the committee back in January, and spent the past three months working on it, so to see it finished was so rewarding. I was so happy we could raise that much money in honor of such an amazing person,” said Samantha Wolkoff, 10, co-chair of the event.

Tournament sparks students’ poetic fervor STUDENTS IN MR. Breen Reardon’s Accelerated American Literature classes have recently completed a project on poets, but his students are prepared to try out writing poems for themselves. Juniors Elizabeth Martin and Adesina Oyenuga hold up an anonymously numbered bracket that was used in 2010, while Ellen Jordan, 11, glances at a poem book composed of works by Reardon’s former students. During the week of Mar. 14, the juniors’ poems will face off in a ‘March Madness’ poetry tournament. “It’s a competition; we all write one poem, and there’s a blind vote. The author of the last poem standing wins a prize,” said Oyenuga. Since the names of the poets are not revealed until the end of the contest, another element of surprise is added to the competition. “I definitely think it’ll be fun to see what people write; there are fun people in our class, so they’ll be a lot of good poems, and some funny ones too,” said Jordan.

Learn how to stay cool and collected if faced with a car wreck

page 11

Students and parents look forward to “odde” night of fun

HIGHLIGHTS: Blood drive comes to SHS, students page 11 save lives

page 12

this month in feature

photo by moriah krawec

feature

friday, march 18, 2011

Planning for accidents: managing unexpected alecBOCHNER

staff writer

ife is full of sudden twists and turns, and more often than not, one does not know how to handle these events, especially when experiencing them for the first time. Some incidents, however, can be dealt with easily, without any preparation and previous knowledge of what to do. For other occurrences, such as a being involved in a car accident, the last thing someone wants is to be uncertain of the proper procedures one must follow. “I just remember freaking out because it was the first time I had been in an accident and I had no idea whatsoever of what to do,” said Leonard Bressler, 12. Accidents are scary and overwhelming; it is plain and simple. Every vehicle should come with a pamphlet of instructions stating the correct measures to take in the event of a crash. Unfortunately, there are no “Accidents for Dummies” at Barnes and Nobles, but there are stories and advice from those who have scraped and scratched their rides in the past. For those unsure of what actions to take after colliding into another car, here is a list of tips that should ensure a smooth process in an otherwise bumpy experience.

How to handle a car wreck Breathe- People often do not think of respiration in times of stress, but in order to fully concentrate and evaluate the situation, one must breathe in through their nose and out through their mouths. Immediately call police and parents- “Literally the only thing I knew to do was to call the police and my mom. I dialed 9-1-1 and within minutes an officer was at the scene. I then called my mom, who rushed over as fast as she could. With my mom there, she knew exactly what to say and how to go about everything,” said Nicholas Gonzalez, 12. Stay until dismissed- Just because a parent is there to handle the situation, it does not mean you can leave. The officer must ask you questions involving the accident. “I wish I would have known that you should never leave the scene of an accident, even if your parents are present because there is nothing worse than spending an entire car ride on the phone with the police,” said Lainey Paul, 12. Giving thanks- After you tell the police officer you appreciated their help, you then give your parent(s) a big hug. It is likely that they will be disappointed in you, but if you show that you are sorry and that you are thankful for their assistance, they probably will not take your keys away. “It is really embarrassing, but I actually ran into a stopped cop car. My parents hurried over and I probably said I was sorry 15 times. They saw that I truly felt bad, so they handled the payments and let me continue to drive,” said Ryan Sess, ’10.

images by michael saxon

SHS gallops into “Merry Odde England” dance

SHS’S ANNUAL ODD Couples dance last year Ozz Couples, displayed here, presented students and their parents with a memorable experience. This year’s theme, “Merry Odde England,” displays decorations that revolved around “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” “The Princess Bride,” and “Robin Hood Men in Tights.” Bringing this concept to life were the many volunteers that dedicated their time to producing impressive props and backdrops.

emilyBEGLEY & markEILERS staff writer

staff writer

Those who attended the Odd Couples dance on Mar. 12 experienced a memorable dance unlike any other – parents accompanied students for a night consisting of live music, dancing, and impressive decorations. Odd Couples has consistently entertained with the unique themes it has revolved around. Past concepts include J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter”, swashbucklers, and “The Wizard of Oz.” This year’s theme, “Merry Odde England,” displayed decorations that centered around the popular movies “Monty Python and the Holy Grail, “The Princess Bride,” and “Robin Hood Men in Tights.” “The theme this year was really fun, and they play better music at Odd Couples than at regular school dances. It is always really funny to see kids and their parents having fun on the dance floor,” said Claire DeLong, 12. Willing individuals spent countless hours preparing the many impressive backdrops and intricate props that brought the dance to life. This required volunteers to put in time both at SHS and at home. The extent of their unwavering dedication resulted in detailed, creative decorations that impressed all in attendance. “It is fabulous to work with so many creative and talented people who find a way to create magic on a shoestring,” said Mrs. Mary Beth Dowlin, a parent volunteer. Dowlin is one of the many individuals who, throughout the years, continue to make Odd Couples an enjoyable experience for both parents and students. Planning for the event began in October, with the Odd Couples Committee laying out details regarding the dance. Their first meeting was held in December, and volunteers began work on decorations in Jan. Without the dedication of the parent and student volunteers who devote their time to planning out and creating the many elaborate decorations that the dance exhibits, Odd Couples would be an impossibility. “It seems like so much work for just one night, but when you stand up on the balconies and look down at the complete transformation and all those parents and their kids dancing and having a blast together – well… it’s just magic!” said Dowlin.

image by michael saxon

SYMMES TWP. SMALL BLIZZARD (12 OZ.)

$ 1.99 EXPIRES 6-10-11

GOOD ONLY AT 11420 MONTGOMERY ROAD 1 COUPON PER CUSTOMER PER VISIT NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER COUPON OR OFFER CANNOT BE DUPLICATED OR COPIED.

Suffield Orthodontics

feature

friday, march 18, 2011

Students: bleed to fill need ‘You don’t get a chance to save a life everyday.’ ellieGOLDMAN managing editor

s daunting as it can seem, the act of giving blood provides students with the rare opportunity to be the direct saving factor in another person’s life. Now a well established tradition, the senior members of Student Council organized SHS’s blood drive in tandem with the Hoxworth Blood Center of Cincinnati. High school blood drives are a unique opportunity that meet various needs on both the giving and receiving side of the deal.

Hoxworth Blood Donation Center

Hoxworth serves the blood donation needs of 31 area hospitals. Taking into account that whole blood can only be stored for about 35 days, it becomes apparent that a constant flow of blood, pun intended, is necessary. The phrase ‘start ‘em young’ is fitting. By introducing students to blood donation as teenagers, the center hopes to foster a generation of reliable, community-aware citizens. They want a student’s first donation experience to be positive, so to not scare them away. A full 13 percent of Hoxworth’s donations come from high schools. Since one donation can help three people, a lifetime donor who began donating in his or her teens could easily touch the lives of over 1,000 strangers. “Your blood can save lives,” said Aaron Natarus, 12, Student Council

Senior Class President. “Everyone knows someone that has benefited; think about others that you can help with what you have.” In fact, the most cited reason for giving blood was simply “to save lives.” There are, of course, the less stated but still legitimate responses: getting out of class, the free food, and the stylish sticker.

Myth busters

There are many rumors and myths associated with giving blood that can dispel potential donors. Here are some of the facts. ‘I’m too young.’ The new rules state that donors may be 16 years of age or older, though 16-year-olds must present a parent permission form. All donors under 19 must reach the minimum weight requirement for their height. ‘I will feel sick after giving blood.’ The majority of donors experience no symptoms after parting with a pint. The new weight requirements were put in effect to prevent negative side effects in younger donors. Staying full and hydrated also aids resilience. ‘Things found in my blood screening will be told to my parents.’ The process is strictly confidential, and the findings of the blood screening process are not shared with any outside parties. “They would not even share the blood type with me,” said Liz Gantzer, SHS’s main Hoxworth correspondent, “and that was for my own son. They really stress confidentiality.”

photos courtesy of mcdaniel’s photography

number of first-time donors out of the total who showed up. The goal is that these students had a positive first donation experience. Percent of registered students who were ultimately eligible to give blood. number of automted double red cell donations made. Since only the red blood cells were taken, more total blood is processed. percent increase in students who signed up to donate from last year.

Hooked on Hoxworth?

137

number of students who applied to donate during the Mar. 7 blood drive at the Gregory Center.

THE GREGORY CENTER was abuzz with students willing to face the needle. In the process of giving blood from top left are juniors Alexandria Steele, Kristina Lane, and Kristen Myers. Jeffrey Peters, 12, fills out an eligibility form.

scholarship opportunities

volunteer opportunities

Two college scholarships of $1,000 are available for high school seniors. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is the grade requirement, along with a 250-300 word essay. One scholarship is designated for a minority student with an undergraduate in a healthrelated field. Applications for this year’s scholarships are due by Mar. 25.

The center accepts teenaged volunteers to do everything from stuffing envelopes to greeting and assisting blood donors prior to their donation. One of the most popular teen choices continues to be donning the mascot costume of Buddy the Blood Drop (seen left).

all images by ellie goldman

Fun & Games

Friday, March 18, 2011

Wordles IR curtain

srevo srevo

flugoodence

Chapter 9: The Plan claytonHAMRE

pod pod pod

HIJKLMNO

y yy y y yyy hat

prom

talk

show

Answers: 1. Iron curtain 2. Leftovers 3. Good influence 4. Tripod 5. Water 6. Clockwise 7. Broken promise 8. Small talk 9. Top hat 10. Music to one’s ears 11. Sideshow

ise

music 11 ears

fun&games chief e are so lucky,” said Roger, upon meeting up with the other officers for the first time since their arrival on Diand. “Of all the places we could have been stranded on, we’re on the one planet with the means and the will to destroy the UAE.” “It is exceptionally convenient,” noted Carlotta. “And we arrived just as they completed their weapon,” added James. “It’s almost too good to be true.” “Let’s not ask too many questions,” said Roger. “Our ultimate goal is to take back Everest. Let’s not lose sight of that.” “Have you explained the entire situation to them yet?” asked Ralia. “I told my medical attendant, Seti, and he informed the Diandian government of our needs,” explained Roger. “Good,” said Luke. “Now we just need to find out what role we’ll play in the UAE’s defeat.”

Crossword Puzzle

answers on goaves.com

ACROSS 7. Sultanate and absolute monarchy on Borneo, part of its official name is “Abode of Peace” 8. Emirate south of Iraq on the Persian Gulf, protectorate of the UK until 1961 10. Caucasian republic that shares a name with a US state 12. In accordance with the results of a January referendum, will become the newest country in the world on July 9 13. Independent but unrecognized country in Somalia, declared sovereignty in 1991, largely free from instability of southern Somalia 14. Landlocked socialist republic in Southeast Asia, gained independence from France in 1949 DOWN 1. Strategically located peninsula in Black Sea, is an autonomous republic within Ukraine

2. Region straddling border of India and Pakistan, historically ruled by the 19th-century Sikh empire 3. Central Asian republic, borders China, capital is Bishkek 4. Historical region in southern Romania, united with Moldavia in 1859 to form modern Romanian nation 5. Semi-autonomous part of Tanzania, fought forty-minute war with the UK in 1896, the shortest war in history 6. Persian suffix meaning ‘the land of,’ found in the name of many countries and regions in western Asia 8. Region located in southeastern Turkey, northeastern Iraq, and northwestern Iran, inhabited by Indo-Iranian ethnic group 9. Balkan republic which declared independence in 2008, prior to independence administered by UN for almost a decade, claimed by Serbia 11. Small territory on southern coast of China, possession of Portugal until 1999

Comics by Lilly Lefton

A plan was, indeed, soon drawn up. The GDP would be hidden in the cargo chamber of a typical Aldebaranian luxury starcruiser, which would then dock at one of the four main landing bays. As soon as it was located within the bounds of the Tetrahedron, it could be activated, causing a massive panic within the space station. “The administrators of the Advanced Luxury Tetrahedron 2.0 will almost certainly divert all their attention from matters of security to their sudden realization that they’ve been trading away incredibly valuable goods and services for large quantities of tokens with only symbolic value,” explained Kalior, the Diandian Minister of Defense. “This weapon only affects people in the area at the time it’s activated, right? And not those who arrive later?” asked Roger uncomfortably. “That’s right - you won’t have to worry about losing interest in money if you enter the Tetrahedron during this operation,” responded Kalior. “Once the Tetrahedron’s staff and guests are caught up attempting to buy goods from each other – a futile task, since no one will want to take any money – our fleet will arrive, and will first target the central office and command center of the Tetrahedron, and after that, the main vault, in order to destroy a significant part of the UAE’s tangible financial assets.” “What are we going to do?” asked Luke. “What you’ll be doing is entering the Tetrahedron several minutes after the activation of the GDP,” Kalior explained, “and then heading over to the holding cells for prisoners. I strongly suspect you’ll be able to find your other crew members there. What you can do to get in is take advantage of the guards’ money-panicked state.” “How so? We can’t exactly bribe them,” asked Carlotta. “It’ll be like a ‘reverse bribe’ – we’ll provide you with some valuable (but small and lightweight) materials, such as rare spices and gems, that you can give the guards in return for UAE credits. But I’m going to warn you beforehand – the UAE has been known to use various forms of chemical torture on its prisoners.” Roger shuddered at the thought of what his fellow United Nations employees were being subjected to. “Your final part in this will be to deactivate the artificial gravity fields, as you described when you told us about your previous attempt to save your mountain. After that, one of our ships can evacuate you and your crew members. Once the attack is over, we can make arrangements for sending you and Everest back to your homeworld.” “What will you do to ensure that the UAE doesn’t rebuild and counter-attack?” asked Ralia, concerned. “We’re going to blow up their planets,” said Kalior. Shocked, Ralia said, “I thought the UAE had mined all of their planets out of existence?” “They colonized more. Don’t worry, there’s plenty to destroy.” Forty-seven hours later, shortly before the day was over – Diand’s days were 88.8475 hours long – the humans were discussing the plan. “I’m concerned about this whole ‘blowing up planets’ thing,” said Ralia. “Of course. We all are,” responded Roger. “What I think we should do is make sure the Diandians don’t destroy UAE planets with subject populations – ones that could be granted independence and made into allies.” “That sounds like a good plan,” said Carlotta. “But, you know, I always imagined socialist societies – or whatever the Diandians have, exactly – as being peaceful.” “Diand isn’t Sweden,” Roger replied.

A&E

Friday, March 18, 2011

SHS students compete in ‘Blue Ash Idol’ Local community embraces young talent

sheaLOTHROP

staff writer

very seriously, the competition was sparse with the younger contestants. It seemed their biggest concern was remembering the lyrics. There was an immediate change in the auditorium atmosphere as soon as the teen division began. Every single performer in this division was focused on winning. One of the contestants who currently attends Springboro High School, Parisa Samavati, made it through the first four rounds of American Idol. The only student from SHS to make it to the second round was Hamilton. She flabbergasted the audience with her swashbuckling rendition of “Jail House Rock” by Elvis Presley in the first round. Round two came exactly one week after round one. The remaining contestants gathered again for the competition. The first part of the performances were executed just like round one. As the second round came to a draw five singers from each division were chosen to move on to the finals. Unfortunately, Hamilton did not advance to the finals. All of the singers who participated in round two had to come prepared with two songs to sing. The final round came immediately after the finalists were announced. Although no one from SHS made it to the finals, a student from SJH did. Tony Popenoe, 8th grade, won the juniors division. Not surprisingly Sa-

mavati ended up winning the teen division. Aside from the individual winners from each division there was an overall winner, the “superstar”. Melissa Campbell impressed the judges when she sang “Don’t Rain on my Parade” by Barbra Streisand. From there on she dominated in the competition and was titled a superstar. The winners of Blue Ash Idol not only receive trophies and cash prizes, but they get the ultimate prize of performing at The Taste of Blue Ash on the Fourth of July. This was Blue Ash Idol’s seventh year and much like American Idol, it was a success. We can expect to see another competition

ginaROMEO a&e chief

next year.

image by gina romeo

OF THE SEVEN SHS students who auditioned for ‘Blue Ash Idol,’ Hamilton was the only SHS student to advance past the first round of the competition. She also performed at the Variety Show, shown above, in Dec. Unfortunately, Hamilton did not make it to the finals.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Drake’s rise to the top

Pokemon Black and White set to impress

page 16

page 17

Dinner, Art & Wine for Canines Saturday, March 12, 2011, 6-10 pm -$45 per person includes buffet dinner & open beer and wine bar at Receptions Loveland 10681 Loveland - Madeira Road

Schedule of Events: 6-7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 8 p.m. 8:15-8:45 p.m. 9:00 p.m.

They make their own beats. They produce their own music videos. They write their own sick, twisted lyrics. Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All, or just Odd Future, has recently taken the hip-hop scene by storm, chewing up and spitting out just about every artist on the roster. The collective rap group consists of ten or so skateboarding hood rats from the West Coast, headed by 19-year-old Tyler, the Creator. In just a few weeks, Tyler, the Creator’s video for “Yonkers,” reached millions of views and was tweeted about by Kanye West. “The video of 2011,” the tweet read. “Odd Future is the best. The fact that Tyler, the Creator manufactures nearly every aspect of the group from beats to the videos to his ridiculous verses is incredible considering he is only 19. They are on the next level,” said Andy Goldfarb, 12. It is impossible to ignore Odd Future’s “devil may care” attitude and their nihilistic lyrics. Their self-released mixtapes definitely push buttons, frequently touching on subjects like rape, violence, and anarchy. But despite the horrifying subject matter, OFWGKTA’s sound is terrifyingly amazing. They are everything our parents have been sheltering us from our entire lives, and that is exactly what makes them so incredible. Nothing they write sounds anything like Drake, or Lil’ Wayne; all of their music is completely original. When you listen to an Odd Future mix you will not hear any auto-tune or lyrics about designer clothes or money. Instead be prepared to hear the most disturbingly dope hip-hop you have ever heard. Seriously. While their recent popularity has been overwhelmingly obvious, Odd Future is not, and probably will never become, mainstream. They do their own thing, their own way, and though they have appeared on more than one lists of “Up and Coming Artists,” not the fame, nor the pay will make them change the way they do things.

Wines of the World Wine Tasting & Art Exhibit (Meet the Artists) Dinner Raffle Prize & Silent Auction Tables Close Welcome by Marlys Staley, Executive Director Keynote Speaker Raffle Prizes, Door Prizes & Silent Auction Items Awarded

Make your reservation online with PayPal at www.circletail.org, or mail check to Circle Tail, Inc., 8834 Carey Lane, Pleasant Plan, OH 45162. Proceeds benefit the programs of Circle Tail. Call 513-877-3325 or email events@ cirdetail.org with questions or to become an event sponsor.

BIEBER FEVER ‘Never Say Never’ hits theaters page 15

this month in a&e

ith American Idol in its tenth season it has proven to be a sensational show. With such success, Blue Ash started its own competition in 2005. Similar to the television show, singers audition and if they are lucky they move on to the next round until a winner is determined. There are three total rounds in Blue Ash Idol, not counting auditions. Typically, the first round is filled with singers. The number of contestants halves in the second round. Then only 5 singers advance to the finals. There are three awards for each age group. First, second, and third place. If the judges find there is a fourth person in a division worthy of an award, they institute a wildcard winner. The age groups of Blue Ash Idol are juniors (9-13), teens (14-18), and adults (19-99). Even though it has the least amount of ages in it, the teen round is typically packed with singers hopeful of a victory. Seven students from SHS auditioned for Blue Ash Idol. Freshmen Hayley Huge, Loren Hamilton, Gabe Schenker, Kal Heyn, Gil Kaplan, and sophomores Michelle Bartlett and Rachel Handkins all made it through auditions. When you audition for Blue Ash Idol you sing for one single judge. Simple. The pressure rapidly multiples by the first round, you perform in front of a house packed auditorium. At Blue Ash Idol this year, the amounts of competition varied among the age groups. Although some contenders in the junior division took their performance

Senior year is fleeting... Your memories shouldn’t be.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELSEY DRAPKIN contact: kdrapkin22@gmail.com website: https://www.facebook.com/kdrapkinphotography

a&e

friday, march 18, 2011

‘Mr. Sunshine’ rains on viewers’ parades

Bieber-Fever spreads

‘Never Say Never’ hits theaters

johnCARROLL

alexxLAZAR

, being an avid fan of the T.V. show “Friends” have experienced the masterful comedic timing and skilled delivery of Matthew Perry and can safely say that he was my favorite actor on the show. So, this being the case, watching “Mr. Sunshine” on Hulu for the first time was a bit of a shock. This shock soon turned to a dull throbbing pain, which never grew in acuity, but did not subside either, until the show ended and it gradually went away. The sad part is I am only exaggerating a little bit. This show tells the story of the day-to-day life of sports arena manager Ben Donovan (Perry), beginning with his 40th birthday and chronicling his epic voyage of self-pity, self-hatred, and self-absorption. “Mr. Sunshine” is like the student who does the absolute least amount of work that he can to pass a class, and who frequently cheats off of his fellow students. It has vast potential, but it is either unable or unwilling to access it. The storyline itself is depressing, and the show (primarily Perry’s character) carries dark and resentful overtones, making the experience not only dull, but saddening. The episodes limp along with fairly humorous plots, but with jokes scattered at random but frequent intervals, of qualities and appropriateness ranging from those of “Drake and Josh” to those of “Sex and the City.” This is both annoying and disorienting, particularly since Donovan is such a sarcastic person that it becomes difficult to tell when he is being serious and when he is telling a joke, since he almost never smiles. For a script loaded with sarcasm, though, Perry is pretty much the perfect man for the job. Perhaps I am slightly biased, being accustomed to the canned laughter of “Friends” telling me when it’s time to laugh, a feature that “Mr. Sunshine” chose to leave out. Now that I do not have a guide, perhaps it is more difficult for me to pick up on the subtle nuances of dry humor. It is not all bad, however. There are several times in each episode when someone will crack a joke and I might grin, or perhaps even chuckle to myself. On one occasion I laughed out loud. And the episodes do seem to be getting better and funnier as they go on. There have only been three episodes so far however, so it is hard to say if this trend will continue. Let’s hope it does.

Throngs of girls flocked to local theaters to see the latest dose of Bieber Fever that is sweeping the nation. Never Say Never (3D/2D) opened on Feb. 11 and had released a new director’s cut that stayed open for the week of Feb. 5 through Mar. 3. With Justin Bieber’s expedient rise to fame over the last year - taking over teen girls’ iPods, bedroom walls, and ultimately their minds - this film was just a cherry on top. The film featured a more inside look to the Bieb’s rise to fame, past, and place in the fame road he is still strong on now. Fans will be happy with ‘aw’-worthy baby photos and home videos from back when he lived in Canada that showcase a look into how he became the person he is today. Throughout the film, there is footage from his monumental concert in Madison Square Garden that sold out in just 22 minutes. Guest appearances include Usher, Miley Cyrus, Boyz II Men, LA Reid, and Jaden Smith during this show. The only question that begs to be answered is this: is a 16-year-old boy’s rise to fame, only over a one year span, enough to be put into a feature length film? There were frequent times in the film that footage seemed out of place, mostly the MSG scenes. The whole film was set up to be the journey to perform at the most famous arena in the U.S. Instead of one climactic ending of his show in New York, it was thrown throughout the movie and then the arrival of the day of the performance was anti-climactic. Girls in the theaters swooned whenever there was footage of just Justin, but the ‘ohs’ and ‘ahs’ over him coming on the screen tapered off midway through the movie. Whether they got more involved into it or the appeal wore off, who knows. Walking out of the movie, though, girls were as starstruck as if they had just met him personally, which is where this movie hits the spot. It really does give you a personal look into his real life behind all the glitz and glamour. “I have been a fan of Bieber since before he hit his huge fame this year. I think this really was a good look into his life without it being boring. I would tell anybody who doesn’t like him to see this; I think you would actually like it. I mean I love him, but I think after this you might too,” said Lydia Scott, 10.

staff writer

photo courtesy of flickr

THE NEW T.V. show “Mr. Sunshine” stars Matthew Perry. Perry is the perfect man for the job, but the show suffers from an uninteresting storyline. As the show continues, the episodes seem to be getting better.

16 frankPAN

a&e

friday, march 18, 2011

aking off

alented rapper’s rise to top

staff writer

ubrey Graham, known to most people as either Jimmy from Degrassi or just Drake, has taken the hip hop and R&B world by storm in just a couple of years. The artist’s clean-cut image, willingness to not only rap but also sing, and clever lyrics are why people (the majority of them being women) love him.

Early beginnings

Drake was born Oct. 24, 1986 in Toronto to a black father, Dennis Graham, and a white Jewish Canadian mother, Sandi Graham. When Drake was five, his parents separated and Drake lived with his mom during the school year and would visit his father in the summers. His parents’ separation strengthened the relationship he had with his mother. He is proud that he is Jewish and knows that he is one of the few Jewish rappers out there. “I didn’t know Drake was Jewish,” said Josh Goodman, 11. “I think it’s really cool though and I can definitely connect to him.” In an interview to Neonlimelight.com he said that, because his father left the family, “I had to become a man very quickly. Graham attended high school at Forest High Collegiate Institute, and began acting. In 2001, he got the part of Jimmy Brooks, an athlete who was shot and now in a wheelchair, on the T.V. show Degrassi and appeared on the show for eight years.

Music Beginnings

While MySpace was still popular in the early and middle parts of the decade, Drake took advantage of the social media site and set up a music account. In Feb. 2006, his first mix tape, “Room For Improvement,” launched on his site. His second mix tape, “Comeback Season,” released in 2007, and was the spark that caught artist Lil’ Wayne’s eye. The tape included a music video with Trey Songz and was featured on BET. After Wayne was given some of Drake’s music, he was so intrigued that he called Graham personally and flew him to Houston to talk, record songs, and even go on tour. From that fateful meeting, Drake’s life,

already successful enough under many standards, would take off like a NASA space shuttle, and he would never look back.

Stardom

After a brief music hiatus in 2008, Drake released his third mix tape “So Far Gone,” which included his first true hit, “Best I Ever Had”. Looking through the contents of “So Far Gone” it is easy to see that the 2008 hiatus was used to record numerous songs with artists such as Jay-Z, Kanye West, Eminem, Young Jeezy, and Birdman. By now, the star of Drake was too bright to be ignored. Many recording studios began a bidding war to sign him. The summer of 2009 was a battleground between Universal Motown Records and Young Money Entertainment. In the end, Drake signed with Lil’ Wayne’s recording company, Young Money Entertainment. This was a move that made sense because before signing in 2009, Drake had toured with Wayne for almost two years and Wayne essentially took Drake under his wings after the fateful phone call. After signing, Drake began work for his first ever album entitled, “Thank Me Later,” which would debut on June 15, 2010. 447,000 albums were sold during the first week and the album easily earned the platinum certification. TML would produce radio hits such as “Over,” one of Drake’s “hardest” rap songs and “Find Your Love,” a perfect summer romance song. “It’s awesome that Drake can do the whole nine yards—rap and sing…his voice is decent,” said Rebecca Tregu bov, 12. From the summer to winter of 2010-2011, Drake has been busy touring the country and increasing his fan base. His Twitter account found at twitter.com/drakkardnoir shows 1.5 million followers and a recent media leak reports that Mr. Graham earns $155,000 per show. “Drake was good, is good, and hopefully continues to improve. He is a talented artist,” said Matt Orabella, 12. Needless to say, with Drake and Young Money entertainment at the forefront of the music world, the future of the industry looks bright.

Drake was good, is good, and hopefully continues to improve. He is a talented artist. Matt Orabella, 12

Drake’s Hits 1.

‘Best I Ever Had’

‘Forever’

‘Over’

‘Find Your Love’

Drake’s first true hit instantly became a radio classic. This was the song that brought him into the spotlight and the racy music video directed by Kanye West also helped a bit.

A collaboration featuring the best of the best: Drake, Kanye West, Lil’ Wayne, and Eminem. A chorus that is sung by Graham along with lyrics that from the best rappers of our generation make ‘Forever’ one of Drake’s best.

One of the hits on Thank Me Later and the first song that was leaked from Drake’s debut album. ‘Over’ is very strong lyically and the witty puns that Drake throws in is reminiscent of Wayne.

A classic summer romance song, Drake puts his hard rap style on the line with an all vocal piece. It was judged with mixed reviews, but the 34 million YouTube hits and Billboard Top 100 ranking at number five should make it a success.

AUBREY DRAKE GRAHAM has taken the hip-hop world by storm. After he was given the chance to work with artist Lil’ Wayne, he seized the moment and has never looked back. His talents have brought him fame, fortune, and fans from all over the world. image by aditi sharma

a&e

Monochrome ‘Pokemon’ set to friday, march 18, 2011

impress in ‘Black,’ ‘White’ moriahKRAWEC associate editor

In one week, the two games sold over 2.5 million copies, and according to the Japanese video magazine Famitsu, they broke the 5 million copy mark within 17 weeks. Released in the United States on Mar. 6, ‘Pokemon Black and White Versions’, the best-selling new installments in the renowned role-playing series, are already on track to be blockbusters.

Evergreen series

Despite attracting a peak of popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Pokemon games have managed to outlive their initial ‘fad’ phase in favor of long-term appeal. The objective should be familiar to most students: the player is a youth journeying in an alternate Earth inhabited by Pokemon, animal-like creatures that are used in recreational battles. Many Pokemon have a specific elemental ‘type’ that determine what general sort of actions it can perform. For example, the series mascot, Pikachu, a yellow mouse, can store and release electrical energy in its cheek pouches. “[I was looking forward to] the new Pokemon,” said Joshua Rogoff, 12. On the player’s quest to become the best Trainer (as the human battlers are called) in his or her nation, the player will befriend and capture the creatures, and use them in battles.

Mechanics

The Pokemon series is rather free-flowing; players can use any of the monsters that they can find. To many fans, this is an appealing aspect. “I really like how you can do whatever you want,” said Shariah Brewster, 12. Also, the battles themselves are typical of Pokemon’s role-playing game (RPG) genre. If the player is instructing a Pikachu, and the opponent is using a Pidgey, a common bird creature, the Pikachu may attack first, but never at the same time as the Pidgey. During their journey, the player will also have to foil a maligned criminal organization. In the ‘Black’ and ‘White’ versions, this place is filled by Team Plasma, a gang that believes that keeping Pokemon amounts to slavery.

image couresty of altavista.com

ZEKROM (LEFT) AND RESHIRAM (right), are a pair of dragon-like Pokemon that play a significant role in each game’s plot. The ebony-colored Zekrom, as seen in “Pokemon White”, can wield electricity. On the other hand, the white-plumed Reshiram, found in “Pokemon Black”, has been said, according to the games’ promotional website, to be able to “engulf its surroundings in flames.”

Somewhat different

In ‘Black’ and ‘White,’ there are some notable changes. Among these are a heavier usage of three-dimensional graphics. “I was mostly excited for the new graphics that will take this game to a whole new level,” said Monica Werden, 9. There will also be an unprecedented amount of new creatures to capture and train. The brand new 153 Pokemon introduced in the games will be the only ones initially available. All in all, the Black and White versions are already best-sellers abroad. According to http:www.gamespot.com, the Pokemon series was the second best-selling video game series of all time as of 2008, second only to the Super Mario Bros. games. “I’ve liked them since they came out, and I’ve liked each one,” said Brewster.

infographic by moriah krawec

Sports

Friday, March 18, 2011

Active offseason has players swinging toward season Coaching changes provide players with new perspective dannyBAYLISS

sports chief

pril hath put a spirit of youth in everything.” It is not often that William Shakespeare is quoted in an article concerning sports, but there is an exception to be made for everything. It is that time of year again. The suns rays hit the ground, the trees birth new leaves, and the sounds of furry, neon balls bouncing and squeaking shoes on courts vibrate through the air. It is time for boys tennis, and many students are eager for the season to start. “It feels good to get back on the court. I am very optimistic about our performance this coming season,” said Anirudha Vaddadi, 11.

The hype for the imminent season is nothing irregular, but the offseason provided plenty of headlines to keep tennis players primed for the season. Both the Varsity B and JV teams will have new coaches. Tanya Holland and Linsey Farroh will take the reins of the Varsity B and JV teams, respectively. Holland was previously the JV coach for two seasons, but has moved up due to the departure of former Varsity B coach, Joe Hartkemeyer. "Although I've never actually had her as a coach, it is clear to everyone in the program that she instills the right values in her players and motivates them to succeed," said Chad Chessin, 12. With some of the former JV players moving up to Varsity B, the familiarity and rapport they built with Hol-

AFTER PREVIOUSLY COACHING the JV team, Coach Holland will be coaching the Varsity B team this season. One of Holland’s players could be Anirudha Vaddadi, 11, as he is expected to make the team after a strong tryout. Vaddadi played for Varsity B last season.

land should create some momentum for upcoming matches. “It would be great [to have her as a coach again]. I have had two very successful years with her winning an upwards of thirty matches compared to three losses,” said Josh Goodman, 11. Farroh, a Spanish teacher at SHS, has also coached girls tennis at the school. She also provided a spark in the weekly conditionings with her “intensity” workouts. “The workouts were intense. [Farroh] kept us moving our feet and gave us a good workout. It’s the little things like that which will keep us going when the season gets tough,” said Andrew Katz, 12. While the two aforementioned teams deal with new coaches, the Varsity A team will keep their coach, Mike Teets, and most of the returning team intact. This will all be apart of a push to win the state tournament. While a wild winter may have kept many entertained, tennis time will help the players “ace” the competition. After all... “As flies to wanton boys, are we to the gods; they kill us for their sport.”

Tryouts were not finalized as of press time. For a list of who made the team visit the SHS site, www.goaves.com.

Quiz team prepares for regional tournament

brandonsosna

editor-in-chief/sports chief

It’s not good bye, it’s see you later

IN ANTICIPATION OF the upcoming season, many players prepped in different ways. Some attended the early morning conditionings, and kids like Matt Nichol, 12, played with friends. Once the weather improved, many of the boys who tried out could be found at local parks or tennis clubs, sharpening their skills and strengthening their strokes.

“That is definitely the most important thing in my book right now” rohanDALAL

all photos courtesy of mcdaniel’s photography

staff writer

ACADEMIC QUIZ TEAM finished the season undefeated for the second time in the past four seasons. The team is currently preparing for the regional tournament on Apr. 30 and has been practicing twice a day in preparation.

The academic team achieved stellar results once again as they cruised to a regular season GMC title with an undefeated record. The team fell just short in the GMC tournament; they were severely undermanned and lost to Lakota East. The team was missing its star player, Artur Meller, 11 who has dominated the competition almost single handedly this season. Meller has been a bit more humble, however. “I have not really done much. Without my teammates I wouldn’t be as good as I am. They help me out a lot because they know a lot of the answers themselves and this makes my job easier. It is definitely a team effort,” said Meller. The team now practices twice a week in preparation for the regional tournament on Apr. 30. “We are ready to go for regionals. We keep practicing just to keep our focus and stay sharp, but otherwise we are ready to go and will definitely make a run at the state tournament if we play our best when we need to,” said Coach Ken Clark. A key reason for the success of

the team is its excellent leadership. Aaron Kaufman, 12, is the senior captain and has done a nice job coordinating practices and keeping the team focused. “It is an honor to be the team captain and I sure hope I have done a great job of leading the team. Hopefully we make a run this year. That is definitely the most important thing in my book right now,” said Kaufman. Other major contributions are made by Anirudha Vaddadi, 11 Shawn Krishnan, 11 Olivia Smith, 11 and Brendan Corcoran, 11. “They really do a great job carrying us in miscellaneous categories that some of us know nothing about. It really helps having them here and the team would not be what it is without them. They are fun people to be around also and that an added bonus,” said Erik Bao, 11. The team is poised, focused, and determined to place at the state tournament but they know that they have to play one match at a time and should not get ahead of themselves. If they keep a good attitude, great results are looming.

Winter track turns towards spring season

page 19

this month in sports

HIGHLIGHTS: March Madness never lacks magic page 19

It’s three in the morning and raining pretty hard out there. I’m currently in the city that never sleeps. So I guess it’s appropriate that I’m not either. I’ve stared at the ceiling, then the floor, then back at the ceiling again. My mental trip down memory lane is a roller coaster of emotion. Four years ago, I strolled into room 115 as a short, brace-faced boy just like the rest of them. Now, I’m still short, but beard-faced instead of metal-mouthed, finding it hard to believe that high school is all but over. I’ve developed and accomplished more than I ever thought imaginable. (I’ve even realized “Take a Hike” is a terrible, highly AP inappropriate column title; “Sostradamus” would have been a better choice.) In a matter of years I changed in ways I still can’t comprehend. Mostly for the better, I think. I like the man staring back in the glass, even if I didn’t expect him to look like this. Throughout high school, I’ve been told how great I am, that I will be a millionaire, and even had an award named after me. Most people seem to think I’m headed for a life of overwhelming successes. People tell me these things and it does just enough to give me the illusion of believing in myself. Surely I carry myself in such a way. It’s like lying to yourself – do it enough and you’ll start to believe it. The truth is I don’t know where I’m headed. I have that same “scared crapless” feeling as everyone else. We’re all headed down Unknown Boulevard where, in the real world, one wrong turn leads to nowhere. “No outlet” signs don’t exist. Deep down, in places I don’t want to think or talk about, I have doubts. Four years ago it was easy to dream with an exuberant, youthful imagination. It was a quick dream. It’s like when you fall asleep and wake up to your alarm going off wondering where your sleep went. That was high school for me. The Cornell Road experience was glorious. I loved every minute of it. I encountered so many great people who impacted me in ways my arrogant self thought only I could. I’ve met so many great people to who I attribute much of my growth. Coach David Moss, Mr. Tom Gaffigan, Mrs. Beth LeBlanc, and Mrs. Cheralyn Jardine, just to name a few. The list would go on, but I have a word count to make. The latter of who is single handedly responsible for my Ivy League acceptance, although she would never admit it. But the prevailing feeling is that I don’t know where I’m going. I can’t really predict what will happen next. I’ve never been a savor the moment type. I’m a forward thinker. The problem is forward is a fork in the road with only a million options for which to take. Maybe it doesn’t matter. Maybe the result at the end will be the same no matter how I get there. But really, I don’t know. And that’s what scares me. The feeling of not knowing whether or not you’re capable of achieving your dreams is an uncomfortable place. For the first time in my life, I’m humbled by my own thoughts. That’s probably a good thing. Thanks to all my loyal readers-- well, reader. I appreciate you. And thanks for listening.

sports

friday, march 18, 2011

Two-track mind:

Winter sporters succeed in events; sprint toward spring season

mariaMARBALLI

Tournament-ally ready

he winter track season was mainly a time for conditioning in preparation for spring, but was also a time for the team to place in three meets: one at Bowling Green, Cedarville and Ohio State. On Jan. 30, the boys and girls track teams competed at Bowling Green, leaving with high scores from stand-out runners. Notable highlights, Alix Davis, 12 came in 18th out of 59 in the 200 meter dash. The girl’s team also placed in the 400 meter dash as Bianca Rhodenbaugh, 10, came in 14th out of 46, Danielle Kerns, 12, at 21st and Syndey Larkin, 10, at 25th. It was no surprise to the team that standout distance runner Samantha Siler, 10, came in fourth in the 1600 meter run and third in the 3200 meter run. All SHS girl long-jumpers also placed, with Angela Harris, 10, placing fifth, Davis at sixth and Halley Bell, 10, at ninth. Katie Ziegler, 12, placed seventh in the high jump at 4’10”. The men’s team also succeeded in putting points up for SHS. Ben Wulker, 11, came in first place in the high jump at six feet. Nick Alston, 11, came in second in the 200 meter dash out of 60 sprinters. He also placed 14th out of 57 in the 60 meter dash. Alston has been one of the team’s highestscorers and also competed nationally during the summer of last year. Adam Kapuscinski, 12, placed seventh out of 47 in the 400 meter dash, another high-scoring runner who is also looking to break the school’s record this year. Their second meet was at Cedarville University on Feb. 12. The girl’s team placed fourth out of 92 other high school teams and the boy’s team placed fourth out of 98. Most recently, the team competed at OSU. As of Mar. 7, the spring track season officially began preceeded by conditioning week. With a new season, comes new change. The

dannyBAYLISS

editor-in-chief

sports chief

photo courtesy of jeremy mcdaniels

DURING THE WINTER track season, the team focused on conditioning working on agilities, strength and sprints. The athletes competed in three indoor meets at Bowling Green, Cedarville and Ohio State. Despite the low temperatures the athletes were often found running around the track, as shown above. team will now be lifting three times a week focusing heavily on lower-body strength. Run workouts are being led by Coach Hank Ray and Coach Liz Gonda as they prepare their athletes for spring meets through time trials and competitive drills. “I can’t wait to compete,” said Ashley Locke, 12. For more results go to www.goaves.com.

Check out the photo gallery of Winter track at

www.goaves.com/multimedia

HAIRCUT

$ 9 99

Meet the New Staff!

Under New Management!

Harpers Station

11375 Montgomery Rd. • Cincinnati, OH

eet NewMeet the New aff!

Staff!

Cincinnati, OH

3145-1

Monday thru Friday 9am-9pm Saturday 9am-6pm • Sunday 11am-4pm

513-489-4448

Adult - $12 • Kids- $10

3145-1

2011 JANUARY

M T W Th F Sa 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 31

Su 2 9 16 23 30

M T 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28

APRIL M T W Th F 1 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29

W 2 9 16 23

Th 3 10 17 24

F 4 11 18 25

Sa 5 12 19 26

Su 3 10 17 24

T W Th F

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

Good for up to 4 family members. Must be used at the same visit. Not valid with any other offers. Good only at Harpers Station location.

MARCH 513-489-4448

Valid through April 30 Good for 4 family members!

Good for up to 4 family members. Must be used at the same visit. Not valid with any other offers. Good only at Harpers Station location.

M T W 1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29

Th 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24

HAIRCUT

Good for up to 4 family members. Must be used at the same visit. Not valid with any other offers.

Sa Su 4 5 11 12 18 19 25 26

Valid June 1 Thru June 30, 2010 Good for 4 family members!

Great Clips

Relax. You’re at Great Clips.

HAIRCUT

JUNE

Sa Su 1 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29

Relax. You’re at Great Clips.

$ 9 99

thru FFriday W Th Su M T Monday Sa 9am-9pm Saturday 1 29am-6pm 3 4• Sunday 5 6 11am-4pm - $12 • Kids- $10 7 8 Adult 9 10 11 12 13 3145-1 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Su 6 13 20 27

Great Clips

HAIRCUT

11375 Montgomery Rd. • Cincinnati, OH

MAY Sa 2 9 16 23 30

Valid through April 30 Good for 4 family members!

Harpers Station

FEBRUARY

Relax. You’re at Great Clips.

$ 9 99

Meet the New Staff!

Under New Management!

Great Clips

HAIRCUT

Monday thru Friday 9am-9pm Saturday 9am-6pm Sunday 11am-4pm Adult - $13 Kids - $11

513-489-4448

nnati, OH

Good for up to 4 family members. Must be used at the same visit. Not valid with any other offers. Good only at Harpers Station location.

Adult - $12 • Kids- $10

11375 Montgomery Rd. • Cincinnati, OH

4pm

Monday thru Friday 9am-9pm Saturday 9am-6pm • Sunday 11am-4pm

Harpers Station

ti, OH

Valid through April 30 Good for 4 family members!

513-489-4448 11375 Montgomery Rd.

Meet the New Staff!

Under New Management!

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” The calender has struck March. The competition of college basketball intensifies, and almost seems to peak, causing a certain feeling of, well... Madness. See what I’m hinting at? It’s the best feeling out there. Call me the kid in the proverbial candy store. I have every reason to be excited. My favorite doctrine, the Law of Gus, takes up the prime real estate in my mind. Faint memories of “heart break city” are refortified. This is truly a time of merriment. Those that are snubbed and get stuck in the NIT say “woulda, shoulda, coulda”. For the lucky 68, fortune favors the bold. Brackets are meant to be busted. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fan of a one seed or a 15 seed. History has proven that every team is going to be taken seriously and has a chance. That’s the golden ticket, all the upsets. George Mason University will never be known as an NBA pipeline. They will not be able to compete with the likes of North Carolina, Connecticut, and Michigan State on a consistent basis. But what Jim Larranaga and his kids did in 2006 was special. They beat the Tar Heels, Huskies, and Spartans. Let us also shed a little limelight on fellow mid-major program Wichita State, who too fell at the hands of that year’s Cinderellas. There are so many quality teams. Football should take notes. And those who root for 16 seeds, well, they’re just happy to attend the Big Dance. But no matter who you are, when it’s tournament time you don’t lack spirit. Gus said it best. Time to “rise and fire”.

$ 9 99

HAIRCUT

Good for up to 4 family members. Must be used at the same visit. Not valid with any other offers. Good only at Harpers Station location.

Good for up to 4 family members. Must be used at the same visit. Not valid with any other offers.

Valid through April 30 Good for 4 family members!

Great Clips

Relax. You’re at Great Clips.

Valid May 1 Thru May 31, 2010 Good for 4 family members!

Spotlight

Friday, March 18, 2011

Breaking the ice with Madelyn Dukart emilyBEGLEY

staff writer

Madelyn Dukart, 9 What was it like being on the boys’ hockey team? Starting SHS hockey was very different for me, because I’d never played with all guys before. I am smaller than everyone else, so some people underestimate me or are extra careful when they’re playing me. When people notice my ponytail they either target or avoid me on the ice. How was the group dynamic? All the SHS guys are really nice, there aren’t cliques or anything. I really enjoyed the time before practice - there was around an hour to hang out with the team. Are boys’ teams similar to all-girl teams? The boys’ team is a lot less dramatic. On a girls’ team if you score more than one goal people will say you’re selfish, but here if you score a goal the team will congratulate you through the whole game. How else are you involved in hockey? There is a national hockey tournament that comes to Cincinnati in late July called State Wars. I was on the all-star team, and they want me to play on the women’s team this year. How is performing on the rink different than on stage? I love to sing when I’m alone, or at parties with friends, but otherwise it scares me, like presenting in class. There aren’t high stress situations in hockey because you’re the center of attention for long.

SHOWING OFF HER various interests, Dukart displays personality. From top, shown with lizabeth Rosenberg, 9; with the cross sountry team; playing SHS JV hockey; hanging with cross country friends, and dressing up for Halloween,.

What makes you happy? Friends. Other happy people. Harry Potter and Glee. Beach walks. Hearing people have conversations in different languages. Overweight celebrities. Writing. Classical music. What bothers you? Rap, unless it’s Eminem. Words used out of context to be insulting. When people wear bracelets on their wrists and they are twisted. Dull pencils. When teachers assign a 3-ring and don’t hole-punch their papers. Yellow and purple together. When TV characters get blamed for things they didn’t do. Which class did you enjoy first semester? I took Intro to Acting, partially because it is not terribly difficult or extracurriclar, which was nice with all my other classes. Even though I hate performing, it was so much fun. While I don’t think I got much better at being open on stage, it is interesting to be able to understand what other people are just enjoying. What is your ideal profession? A psychologist. My friends come to me now with their problems, small and larger ones, and I try to help them. I’m hoping to take AP Psych senior year. I know people go through phases, but I’m pretty sure I want to be a psychologist.

photos courtesy of madelyn dukart