May 2011

GRADUATION

BACON STRIPS

What you know about Epic Meal Time, hater?

Teacher makes statement to seniors: take it seriously

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Friday May 27, 2011 | Volume LVIII Issue 10 | 7400 Cornell Rd. Cincinnati, Ohio 45242, 513.686.1770 ext. 3089 | www.GoAves.com

newsbriefs ESL

English as a Second Language students will have a large, end of the year party at Sharonville Park with food and games from all cultures. It will be a good chance to say goodbye to Mrs. Janene Chavis, who will not be returning as ESL teacher in the fall.

Exams

Exams will begin on Tues., May 31 as there is no school on May 30 due to Memorial Day. Finals will conclude on Fri., June 3, the official last day of classes. Students exempt from exams do not need to come in during that scheduled exam period, but students who do come in must remain in the classroom the entire time. For the full exam schedule, turn to page 2.

Grease

The theater program’s summer production is “Grease,” and is set to be performed July 22-24 in the big theater. Tickets are $8 pre-ordered and $10 at the door. To purchase, call the ticket office or talk to Mr. John Whapham, theatre director.

Locker Cleanout

Locker clean out is May 27. Lockers will need to be emptied completely.

Trash bags and donation tables will be provided, but students should bring their own bags if they wish to take their materials home.

Parking Passes

Juniors and seniors should turn in their completed parking pass applications to Mrs. Carly Ghantous or Ms. Renee Hevia.

Parking tags will be assigned by a random drawing, beginning with the seniors, and can be picked up beginning Aug. 8 from 9-2 pm.

Sophomore parking is limited and subject to a lottery drawing; those who turn 16 by the end of first semester should turn in their applications by Sept. 8. Cost is $75.

Summer School

Class lists will be posted at the SHS entrance June 7 for all students enrolled for original credit. Credit recovery class lists will be posted June 10. Registration for credit recovery is still available online until June 14. For more information, click on the “summer school” link at http://www.my.sycamoreschools. org or talk to Mr. Mark Weigel.

NEWS 2-4

PWN TO [GM]C7 Most victorious team in SHS history returns from nationals after seventh straight GMC title

from 1997 to 2001. In my 14 years as the coach, our record is 234-9,” said Brackenridge.

Sport?

In accordance with the GMC league rules, chess is considered a sport. Without a chess team, schools would not be permitted to compete within the typical chess match is 90 minutes of intense concentration and quietness, “the conference.

“We do get coverage, but people are not that only sound being the occasional walking interested. Not all chess players want attenaround to check teammates’ games,” said tion. Also, it has been stigmatized as not popular.

Andrew Wick, 12, the First Board Chess player for People come occasionally to watch us, some seniors SHS. or a couple dozen other people. There aren’t usually A few weeks ago the chess team returned from that many spectators. It’s probably safest if people nationals, right after posting a 51-game winning were not in the room,” said Brackenridge. streak with one tie. However, this feat is just one Students on the team understand why they may of the many accomplishments in the history of not be as well known as other teams.

SHS’s chess dominance.

“It’s a fact we have to live with that we’re rarely At one point in-between 1991 to 1997, noticed. It’s probably because chess really is not the team had a winning streak of over 80 a spectator sport unless you’re really into it. Even and another streak of over 70 in the early I get bored watching chess for too long,” said 2000’s.

Miraglia. “[This season] went well. We won the GMC and To some, chess is not a sport, and therefore ungot 12th at nationals. At nationals, I tied for 7th in worthy of being placed in the same category as some our section and Steven Miraglia, 12, tied for 38th. of the other generic games that “real athletes play.”

Steven and I were first team all-GMC and Mike “Some people might not think it’s a sport because Walling, 12, and Mitch Mazzei, 10, were 2nd it requires mental ability, not athletic capabilities. In team,” said Wick. my opinion, it is to our benefit that it is a sport. Our Team members chess team racks up points in the GMC. Our team SHS’s top five competitors include: Wick, is legendary,” said Artur Meller, 11.

First Board; Miraglia, Second Board; The team does earn points for SHS on a Mazzei, Third Board; Walling, Fourth number of boards that consistent basis. For the All Sports Trophy, head to head during Board; and Victor Hu, 11, Fifth Board. go each match, board one a first place finish earns 11 points. A tie “Andrew Wick was our best player. being the best. Players go against the opponents for first gets 10 and second gets nine. Our He was 15-2-1, even though he went with their same rank chess team earns 11 most years. up against the best players from every “Technically, chess is a sport. It’s recother team,” said Dr. Keith Brackognized by the International Olympic enridge, chess coach. schools Committee as a sport. If it can spur such a that Brackenridge has orchestrated five large following, and can create competition compete straight GMC titles. Over the years he against SHS between two teams, why shouldn’t it be in the GMC has accumulated numerous Coach of considered a sport?” said Chad Chessin, the Year awards. Just recently, his 12. son Kyle Brackenridge won the kindergarten state placement at the US Seniors Chess Federation Three of SHS’s top five championship in chess. National High School chess players will not “Personally, I’m 12 Championship Tournament be returning to the out of 14 for team next year: GMC titles.

Wick, MiraThough, I wasn’t a number of wins to nine losses over the >> See page 14 years that Dr. Keith Brackenridge has coach for been coaching the chess team, making it 2 for more on four seasons the winningest program in SHS Rishi Choubey opinion chief

A

5

9

12

234 history

SNAPSHOTS 5

OPINION 6-8

FEATURE 9-11

chess team

A&E 12-16

SPORTS 17-19

All images by Jimmy Chau

SPOTLIGHT 20

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5.27.2011

glia, and Walling.

“It was a lot of fun spending time with the team on a relaxed base, and singing ‘All We Do is Win’ after every victory. They were always eventful and memorable,” said Walling.

The seniors are hopeful that other players on the team will step up their game and new people will join.

“You do not need to know how to play chess to join. If you just want to learn and have a good time this is the best place for it,” said Miraglia.

All three of the seniors say that they will remember the friends they have made over the years, traveling as a team to different events, and all the fun they have had.

“There are two things I will remember. The first was senior night versus Mason where we beat our biggest rival 5-0. The other was when we played Lakota East for the second time to decide the GMC champion.

It was a tough game where we won 3-2 after Steven Miraglia won the final match,” said Walling.

Wick will remember his four teammates, and all the other people that are involved in chess at SHS. “I’ll remember nationals and Mike Walling’s game face. I’ll remember that our Eighth Board, Vibhor Kumar, is absolutely awful at euchre and that our theme song was ‘All We Do is Win’ by DJ Khaled,” said Wick.

Pawnage

Dynasties are often described in terms of back to back championships or a three-peat accomplished on a last second fade away. SHS’s chess team is by far the most dominant team in the school and has been for the past two decades.

Despite the fact that they are not as heavily recognized as some of the other sports, they have continued to outperform other schools year in and year out.

“The Sycamore chess team dominates any and all competition. We once again went undefeated and won the GMC Championship. In the past seven seasons, the team has lost a grand total of two matches,” said Mazzei.

Brackenridge is unsure of whether or not SHS has the best chess team in the state; there is no state tournament for high school chess teams.

“We are the most dominant chess program in Cincinnati.

There are some in Cleveland and in Columbus, so there is no way to say if we are the best in the state,” said Brackenridge.

All images by Sarah May

> Chess team, cont. from pg 1

‘Cancer never sleeps’ Sarah May news chief

R

elay for Life got off to a rather rough start on May 13.

Students from SHS, MND, Ursuline, and Moeller, and Madeira were ushered into the Gregory Center after severe thunderstorm warnings were issued, and they were not permitted to leave.

Over two hours after the event was supposed to begin, chaperones finally began allowing students on the track. Though it first appeared Relay had been ruined, experiences immediately began to improve for most participants.

Participants stayed awake for hours, walking around the track in efforts to raise money for the American Cancer Society by illustrating its theme: “Cancer never sleeps.” A total of $188,000 was donated by the end of the night.

“It allows people to come together and experience a day in the life of a cancer patient while raising money towards cancer research,” said Sara Lindsay, 12, chair of the event.

Free food was available for all partakers, as well as several musical performances from SHS students and others. Some artists highlighted included Samantha Furtwengler, 10, Bright Eyed Youth, and Zak Morse.

During the Luminaria ceremony, Magic, an SHS a cappella group, also performed.

They sang several hymns, while the audience listened in silence.

“Performing during the Luminaria ceremony was good, but also bittersweet... In that moment, I think it truly hit us all what we were singing for, and each of us had our own personal connection to what the songs and the event were about,” said Taylor Bowling, 10. “It was an emotional, but amazing, experience.”

After Magic’s performance, relayers were directed to a large projection screen set up next to the bleachers. A video then played, featuring the life of Lydia Wu, former Sycamore student who passed away from cancer at age 10, and who remains a major inspiration for the Montgomery area Relay.

“My younger sister died of cancer when she was 10, and it's helped me realize the impact of this disease. Every day 3,400 people are diagnosed with cancer in the US and every day another 1,500 people die. And every one of those people has family, friends, loved ones,” said Deborah Wu, 11.

The relay attracted more participants than ever, with 59 more teams than last year.

This accounts for the increase of $62,000 in money raised; $62,000 that will directly assist cancer research.

“It gives hope for a brighter future, where there is a cure,” said Wu.

All photos courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

FROM TOP: Following the downpour early during Relay, students re-pitch tents. Participants walk along the track after being released from the Gregory Center. Survivors invited to Relay are celebrated with a dinner.

Exam Schedule may 30

Memorial Day/No School

monday

may 31

7:20 - 9: 10: 1st Bell Exam 9:15 - 9: 58: 2nd Bell 10:03 - 10:41: 3rd Bell 10:46 - 12:11: 5th Bell Lunch A: 10:46 - 11:11 Lunch B: 11:11 - 11:41 Lunch C: 11:41 - 12:11 12:16 - 12:54: 4th Bell 12:59 - 1:40: 6th Bell 1:45 - 2:20: 7th Bell

tuesday

june 1 7:20 - 9:10: 2nd Bell Exam

9:15 - 11:05: 3rd Bell Exam 12:30 - 2:00: Exam Makeup

wednesday

june 2 7:20 - 9:10: 4th Bell Exam

9:15 - 11:05: 5th Bell Exam 12:30 - 2:00: Exam Makeup

thursday

june 3 7:20 - 9:10: 6th Bell Exam

9:15 - 11:05: 7th Bell Exam 12:30 - 2:00: Exam Makeup

friday Image by Aditi Sharma

Face of terror falls

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5.27.2011

SM Dipali editor-in-chief

W

&

Jane Finocharo associate editor

hile America was obsessing over the royal wedding and nagging President Barack Obama about his origins, an elite team of Navy SEALS descended upon a compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. 40 minutes later, Osama bin Laden was dead.

In the weeks before the attack, Obama and the National Security Council gathered together to finalize mission plans in Abbottabad. Obama gave the final order on the morning of Apr. 29. Team Six, the Navy SEALS, deployed on the covert mission.

Despite technical complications after the SEALS’ helicopter crashed, Team Six attacked the compound and shot bin Laden in the head after killing four others, including two women and one of his sons.

Although government statements are unclear, reports say that bin Laden resisted capture, and thus the SEALS were ordered to kill him.

In a triumphant address to the American people, Obama confirmed bin Laden’s death.

Due to the helicopter crash, SEALS were forced to carry his body to an additional emergency helicopter. In order to prevent the development of a shrine for terrorist groups, he was quickly buried at sea – within 24 hours, in accordance with Islamic religious beliefs.

Traditional procedures for Islamic burial were followed. Bin Laden’s body was washed and placed in a white sheet, prepared religious marks were read and translated into Arabic, and afterwards the deceased’s body was eased into the North Arabian Sea. “Respect was shown to bin

Controversial photos spark national debate One of the most controversial aspects of bin Laden’s death is the issue of what to do with the photos of his dead body.

The White House has announced that they will not release these photographs, which have been described as extremely graphic. Many have argued that doing so would be unnecessary and in poor taste. It would essentially be rubbing bin Laden’s death in the face of his supporters, and would only serve to ignite retaliations.

“We don’t trot this stuff out as trophies,” said President Barack Obama said in an interview on “60 Minutes.”

However, many believe that the American public has the right to see these images. Bin Laden was responsible for the most devastating attack on American soil in U.S. history, and some people – whether inspired by bloodlust or patriotism – are eager to have tangible proof that this elusive villain has finally been defeated.

Many conspiracy theorists also believe that bin Laden was not actually killed. The same people who insisted that the moon landing was a farce now argue that the U.S. government could have simply invented bin Laden’s death in their thirst for glory and reelection.

But numerous officials have viewed the photos and confirmed bin Laden’s identity, and even Al-Qaeda has acknowledged that he is dead. The fact that Osama bin Laden is dead is virtually irrefutable, and so the release of these gruesome photographs has been deemed unnecessary.

Photoshopped images claiming to be leaked photos of bin Laden’s body have gone viral on the internet thanks to the bloodthirstiness and gullibility of the American public. The real photographs will remain confidential.

Laden [during his burial.] His body was given far greater than the respect he gave to victims of 9/11,” said Jay Carney, White House Press Secretary. in a press conference following bin Laden’s death.

Carney has also stated in press conferences that the death of bin Laden will not alter the general approach to the war in Afghanistan.

Despite Carney’s claim, some experts are saying that the war on terror has concluded with bin Laden’s death because Al-Qaeda lacks a successor with similar influence.

Although the future of the war on terror remains uncertain, American sentiment rings clear in exultation of this villain’s death.

“Justice has been done,” said Obama.

All images by SM Dipali

‘The 9/11 generation’

Osama’s impact on American youth

Image by SM Dipali

Some were silent reading in their second grade class as their teacher ran out crying, others were ushered into a room and distracted with a movie while the adults whispered frantically outside.

They grew up with color coded terror alerts and long lines at airport security. This generation watched two wars drag on and the economy falter. And somehow, the bad guys always got away with it.

The 9/11 generation, now high school and college students, were elementary school children when they watched the towers fall.

Later, they were shown a picture of Osama bin Laden, the culprit behind the terror attacks. He embodied all evil and, for around ten years, the military could not find him.

So when Obama officially announced that bin Laden had finally been killed in a firefight, scores of American youth celebrated on the streets of D.C. “They were celebrating a symbol,” said Dr. Patricia Somers, an education professor who was interviewed by the press.

Somers also believes that the vast majority of current high school students who witnessed the 9/11 terror attacks are unable to remember an America not fighting a war on terror.

“The America that I’ve lived in has always been extremely patriotic but it has also been very anxious for a new decade and the freedom to act without fear,” said Natasha Warikoo, 11.

Studies have found a general rise in patriotism and political activeness among the 9/11 generation. Experts also say that members of the generation are more socially conscious and globally aware.

For many, Osama’s death was not the end to the war on terror, rather it serves as a step toward a brighter future – maybe even one of optimism.

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5.27.2011

Science fair success: students take top six Victorious Goaves.com, Leaf ‘leaves Sanika Vaidya staff writer

A

&

Rishi Choubey staff writer

chieving a superior rating at the State Science Fair is no simple feat.

But of the four projects entered from SHS, each one was rated superior, winning SHS the Harold C. Shaw Memorial Award and a trophy.

Each of these projects first had to achieve superior ratings at the SHS science fair and then the University of Cincinnati Science and Engineering Expo. The students then had the chance to fix and perfect the projects.

Afterwards, they proceeded to State Science Day. At a science fair, students are rated on a scale of 1 to 40 if they worked individually and 1 to 50 if they worked on a team. The categories are: knowledge attained, creativity, use of the scientific method, the presentation of the information, and if required, teamwork.

Each category is worth ten points. A score over 36 is considered superior.

“The whole experience was a fun introduction to the scientific process,” said Brendan Corcoran, 11.

The four projects which made it to the state level were “The effect of fetal leptin treatment on lung maturation in preterm newborn lambs” by Eric Bao, 11, “Common pain killers: The induction of toxicity in prostate cancer cells” by Rishi Choubey, 11, “Delineating air pollution danger zones: A project to improve the health of America’s students” by Maulik Desai, 11, Artur Meller, 11, and Corcoran, and “Swimming Soybeans: The effect of chlorine on the germination of soybeans” by Sanika Vaidya, 9, and Lauren Thompson, 9.

On top of the superior ratings, three of the four projects also won sponsored awards, which consisted of cash awards and scholarships. Bao received two awards and one scholarship, Desai,

Corcoran, and Meller won awards, and Vaidya and Thompson won scholarships.

“Instead of being told what to do, you get to design and control all aspects of your own experiment,” said Corcoran.

The projects were done completely by the students’ own choice. Some of them earned no extra-credit.

From the 22 projects originally entered into the school fair, and the nine that proceeded to the district level, four projects were recognized as superior and were recognized at the 2011 Underclass Awards Ceremony.

Corcoran enjoyed the entire process of the science fair. He encourages other students to participate.

“The science fair was a valuable complement to the traditional science course,” said Corcoran.

Additional articles on the Science Fair http://www.goaves.com/search/?scope=all&search=science+fair

Science Fair Awards

(District and State) Erik Bao

College of Medicine Award in Medicine or Health Science State Qualifier National Association of Biology Teachers Award Future Physician-Scientist Award $15,000 Scholarship to Wesleyan University in Ohio

Artur Meller, Maulik Desai, & Brendan Corcoran

Public Health Service Commissioned Officers Association-Cincinnati Branch Award for Excellence in Public Health Sigma Xi-Cincinnati Federal Chapter & SETACAward in Environmental Science Sigma Xi – University of Cincinnati Chapter Award College of Allied Health Sciences Award in Medicine or Health Sciences State Qualifier Excellence Award for Civil Engineering Projects

Sanika Vaidya & Lauren Thompson

Ohio Soybean Biosceince Award Sigma Xi – University of Cincinnati Chapter Award Sigma Xi- Biology State Qualifier $15,000 Scholarship to Wesleyan University in Ohio

Rishi Choubey

College of Allied Health Sciences Award in Medicine or Health Sciences State Qualifier

Carolyn Raithel & Karmela Dalisay Iota Sigma Pi Award

Rajat Bhageria Photos courtesy of Beth Quinones

Artur Meller, 11, Brendan Corcoran, 11, Maulik Desai, 11, present their project at UC. SHS students were presented with the Harold C. Shaw Memorial award at state. Only six schools in the state earned this honor.

Image by SM Dipali

Sigma Xi-Cincinnati Federal Chapter & SETAC Award in Environmental Science

Cindy Parrot

2011 UC Sigma XiSouthwestern Ohio Science or Mathematics Teacher of the Year Awardfor Excellence in STEM Teaching and Mentoring

little to be desired’ Ana Barros business manager

One year ago, Ross Johnstal, 11, and Jacob Deitloff, 12, the masterminds of goaves.com, worked into the late hours of the summer to create the future website voice of SHS. While the first version seemed promising, these dedicated technological gurus created yet another version.

Now, goaves.com is a “prototype of what a website should be,” said the Ohio High School Media Association (OHSMA).

According to them, goaves.com also “leaves little to be desired.”

On top of being recognized as an “outstanding example of American High School Press,” The Leaf has been recognized as one the top student run newspapers in the state.

In total, 17 underclass staff won awards from the first of seven entered contests for page layout, cartoons, writing, and broadcast.

But behind all these awards are hardworking, responsible, and innovative journalists who work every day to promote the voice of SHS.

Whether it is through a newspaper, website, or video, it is clear that the staff behind The Leaf has worked tirelessly the whole year to achieve this award-winning level.

“One can only imagine the tremendous effort that has been expended to converge both of these journalistic platforms and to do it successively, creatively, and with such a powerful voice,” said OHSMA.

Have a great summer! See you at the

Back to School

Beach Bash Saturday, Aug. 27; 9-11pm at

Grand Sands

free Open to all high school age kids in the Jewish community.

Questions: Danny Meisterman, 513.722.7244 or dmeisterman@mayersonjcc.org

JointheJ.org

5

PROM 2011

5.27.2011

All images by Aditi Sharma.

Aditi Sharma managing editor

PROM, THE LAST DANCE of the year, proved to be everything the students were looking forward to. The dance took place on April 30 at the Oasis and was followed by After Prom at SHS. ABOVE: Jeff Wolkoff, 12, and Megan Friday, 12 were voted as prom king and queen. TOP MIDDLE: Lily Henry, 11, and Ryan Whitney, Class of 2009, enjoy dancing together. TOP RIGHT: Nia Campinha-Bacote, 12, and Danny Berghoff, 12 were on prom court. BOTTOM RIGHT: The crowd is excited to enjoy the last dance of the year with their closest friends.

Photo gallery of Prom and After Prom

www.goaves.com/multimedia

‘God, Syria, Freedom!’

Syrian uprising gains momentum Clayton Hamre staff writer

T

he people demand the downfall of the regime!”

This slogan echoed across the Middle East in the first part of 2011 as citizens took to the streets in order to end the tyranny of dictators.

However, Syria, ruled by authoritarian leader Bashar al-Assad since 2000, remained largely unaffected by the words, with protests remaining relatively small, and overshadowed by events in Egypt and Libya.

The movement to free Syria gained momentum after the March 6 arrest of a group of boys who wrote the revolutionary motto on a school wall. Spontaneous demonstrations took place in cities across the country six days later.

On March 18, calls for a “Friday of Dignity” led to citizens taking to the streets nationwide, demanding an end to government corruption. Government security forces, dressed in civilian clothing, violently retaliated against the protestors.

During late March and April, protests continued to spread across the country, with dissidents demanding the release of all political prisoners, an end to the republic’s decades-old emergency law, and trials for all security personnel who killed civilians.

While Assad offered some conciliatory gestures, his government attempted to crack down on dissent, shutting down mobile phone networks and firing into growing crowds of peaceful demonstrators with live ammunition.

Throughout April, pro-reform dissidents continued to organize, declaring special protests for Fridays, such as

the “Friday of Martyrs,” “Friday of Resistance,” “Friday of Determination,” and “the Great Friday.”

Assad offered minor concessions, such as release of some political prisoners, the closing of the country’s only casino, and granting teachers the right to wear the niqab.

As of mid-May, the Syrian protests have continued to gain strength, but have been targeted by large amounts of violent retaliation by the government, such as the shelling of buildings and raids on private residences.

Students have played a large role in the Syrian uprising, with the campus of Damascus University a major site for protests.

A 21-year-old American college student, Pathik Root, who was spending the semester in Damascus, was arrested by Syrian security forces after being accused of taking part in protests. He was eventually released and returned to the US by April 3.

Circle Tail

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We also provide dogs for adoption, as well as offer dog obedience training, behavior management and boarding services. Circle Tail is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located Phone: 513-877-3325 www.CircleTail.org

8834 Carey Lane Pleasant Plain, OH 45162

6

the Sycamore

5.27.2011

leaf

Dipal-Oh-tics ‘Birther myth’

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road | Cincinnati, OH 45242 Mission Statement: The Leaf, the official newspaper of Sycamore High School, serves as an educational tool in the training of student journalists to provide information and editorial leadership concerning school, national, and world issues, to provide a public forum for the exchange of ideas and viewpoints, and to give coverage to newsworthy events directly related to the diverse school population.

Editorial Policy: Although students work under the guidance of a professional faculty member, the content is ultimately determined by the student staff and should reflect all areas of student interest, including topics about which there may be dissent and controversy.

Students cannot publish material that is obscene, libelous, or will cause “a substantial disruption of the educational process.” Content that may stimulate heated debate or discussion is not included in this definition.

The Leaf operates as an open forum for the healthy, robust exchange of ideas. Opinions expressed in the editorials are those of The Leaf staff. Letters to the editor are encouraged.

All letters must be signed. The letters, not to exceed 300 words, may be edited for clarity, spelling, and grammar. Letters may be placed in Mrs. Cheralyn Jardine’s mailbox, dropped off in room 115, or e-mailed to jardinec@ sycamoreschools.org.

The Leaf reserves the right to decide not to cover a death based on relevance, timeliness, and circumstances decided on by the editorial board. In cases that the editorial board decides not to cover a death, letters to the editor in regard to that death will be printed.

The Leaf’s complete editorial policies can be found at www.goaves.com.

For comments about columns, please write to writetotheleaf@gmail.com Editors-in-chief: Emma Oh, SM Dipali Associate Editors: Jane Finocharo, Moriah Krawec, Kelcie Grega Managing Editors: Jimmy Chau, Aditi Sharma Business Managers: Ana Barros, Ellie Goldman

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 Sarah May Forum Kelcie Grega Rishi Choubey Feature Aditi Sharma Shea Lothrop Clubs Krittika Chatterjee

Ellie Goldman

A&E Michael DeMaio Shayna Siegel Sports Bennett Kaplan Danny Bayliss Michael Saxon Spotlight Alexx Lazar Madi Ashley Cartoonist Lilly Lefton Web Masters Jacob Deitloff Ross Johnstal Photographer Jeremy McDaniel Adviser Cheralyn Jardine About us Professional memberships: • Columbia Scholastic Press Association • Journalism Education Association

Staff Writers Dilia Abdusamatova Denae Bellilti Michael Saxon John Carroll Alec Bochner Gariauna Daniels Mark Eilers Gabriela GodinezFeregrino Devon Grubba Aaron Ishida Shea Lothrop Orion Radtke Casey Rayburn Cailin Rogers Ilana Vinnik Sanika Vaidya

• National Scholastic High School Press Association • Ohio Scholastic Media Association • Ohio Professional Writers (National Federation of Women Writers) • Quill & Scroll International Journalism Honorary

SM Dipali editor-in-chief

Emma Oh editor-in-chief

D: The “birther” movement, now

STAFF EDITORIAL

There are few things in life that are comparable to the ecstatic and emotional level that is reached during an intense sports game.

Sweat. Grueling effort. Running.

Heavy breathing. Shot clocks running.

Crowds cheering. All of these contribute to the image our society has created of what a “true” sport is.

Therefore, it is hard to consider a game in which the players spend their whole time sitting, and where the only physical movement involved is when an arm is extended to move a piece across an eightby-eight board, as being a true sport.

However, contrary to popular belief, the commonly brushed-aside game of chess is, in fact, a sport.

Though it may not involve the tremendous physical effort of a game of football, chess requires a level of mental fitness that is not found in any other sport.

Being the champions of the Greater Miami Conference (GMC) is no simple

feat, especially for an activity that involves such extreme ‘mental exercise’; the effort of trying to anticipate four or five plays ahead takes a super-human amount of logic, critical thinking, concentration and patience.

While chess players may never experience the adrenaline rush of trying to swish a three before the shot clock runs out, or scoring a touchdown, or of being carried off the field to the cries of a cheering crowd, it is important to recognize that there are other memorable moments in sports.

Like, for example, playing an intense round of lightning chess, or watching the timer reach its limit while trying to come up with a play, or finally being able to check-mate the other player after a seemingly endless game.

These kinds of achievements should be celebrated just as much as we celebrate a touchdown or a three-pointer.

leafing through the masses

Do people think less of chess in comparison to other sports?

I am very happy to know that chess team is holding such a strong title for our school. Even though it is more intellectual than physical, it should receive just as much praise as other sports.

Nayan Mandan, 10 An achievement is an achievement. We should celebrate their accomplishment no matter what.

Mr. Steve Przywara, Social Studies teacher Even though chess is not physically challenging, it is mentally very hard. The chess team practices just as hard as other sports teams and deserves to be treated as one.

Shira Spiegel, 12

apparently championed by Donald Trump, does little but expose the flaws within current American ideology.

It seems as though this movement celebrates the idiotic rhetoric often spewed from the right wing. Suddenly, it is acceptable for irrational thinking and the persecution of liberals to trump logic and reason. More importantly, this controversy plays to the racial undertones that have plagued President Barack Obama’s presidency since the 2008 election.

Marilyn Davenport, a Tea Party activist, recently released a graphic portraying Obama’s family as a family of apes. Underneath, it said “Now you know why no birth certificate.”

Unfortunately, there seems to be a rising trend in this type of racially inflamed behavior. The Tea Party, which now has considerable control over the GOP, has been the central base for the birther movement.

“Take Back Our Country!” they shout – and while seemingly harmless, this slogan has serious racial implications. It decries America’s celebrated multiculturalism and uncovers the longing of birthers to return to a time when things were right – when we had a white president without Hussein for a middle name and a black man for a father.

For them, this is just another outlet to delegitimize our first African American President.

E: While I agree it’s important

to follow the traditions that have defined our country and our President, I have no problem admitting the birther myth was taken too far.

No matter how much they protest, the birthers will never know whether or not Barack Obama is a natural born citizen of the U.S. If he can fake newspaper clippings, like the birthers claim he did, then couldn’t he fake a birth certificate, too?

In fact, the only people that will ever really know that Obama was born in the U.S. are the ones that were in the room when it did, or did not, happen.

In my opinion, the birther myth is less about lack of tolerance and more about lack of logic. And this stupidity cannot be attributed to the entire Republican Party. A CNN poll in March showed that a majority of the GOP believes that Obama was born in the U.S. Just because Davenport and Trump have bad taste doesn’t mean the entire GOP support their opinions any more than the Democratic Party would support the Communist Manifesto.

That being said, I think there are many other issues in America for politicians to focus their attention on. If they can spend this much time on Obama’s birth certificate, imagine what they could do if they set their sights on the economy.

For more DipalOhtics columns, visit www.goaves.com

5.27.2011

Commencement clowning creates confrontation

7

I will be very blunt: I both love and despise the Sycamore High School graduation ceremony.

I am finishing my 10th year as a teacher at Sycamore High School. In those ten years, I have witnessed the grace, strength, intelligence, and dignity of a wonderful community. I have been awed by this community’s giving spirit while watching you raise thousands of dollars annually through events like Fashion for the Cure, Unified for Unifat, and Layups for Liz. I have never been as proud to be part of a community as I was on Saturday, February 14th, 2009 when over 1000 people took part in “Kick It and Go for Rob” on a cold wet Saturday afternoon. I can say without hesitation that I love the 120 or so students that I work with each year in the physics classes I teach; I am proud of each of these students.

[In my ten years at Sycamore, my life has changed drastically; I got engaged, married, we purchased our home, and my wife and I are now the proud parents of two beautiful daughters. My students at Sycamore and my friends within the community have gone through all of these events with me; Sycamore is a piece of who I am, and the relationships formed with the students I get to meet will always be part of my life story. You, the students of Sycamore High School, and the Sycamore community at large, are important to me.]

This is why, for me, the Sycamore graduation ceremony is an event of personal importance. The commencement ceremony is a chance to celebrate you, the graduates of Sycamore High School, and the Sycamore community at large. Graduating from Sycamore High School is more than an accomplishment; it is a milestone, a transition point, a first step into adulthood.

My favorite moment in the whole graduation event is hidden from public view. The Sycamore staff exits the ceremony before the graduates and lines the hallway where students will exit on their way to meet family and friends. The staff cheers and claps, gives hugs and handshakes goodbye, and has the opportunity to enjoy one final, very personal moment with a group of young people who mean so much to each of us. I love this moment. It is a tradition unique to Sycamore, and one of the strongest reasons behind my choice to attend the Sycamore High School graduation my first eight years at Sycamore.

I missed this tradition last year. I chose not to attend

last year’s graduation. It hurt me to do so.

Sycamore has another long standing tradition – we are the most hated group, as judged by the Cintas Center staff, among the dozen or so high schools that hold their graduation services annually at the Cintas Center. To paraphrase the words of several Cintas Center staff members over the years, “Sycamore is obnoxious. With the balloons and beach balls being batted around while kids are walking across the stage, with the disrespect they show each other during the ceremony, they look like fools.”

The behavior of the graduates, family members, and friends during the presentation of diplomas is what has driven me away from a day I otherwise truly enjoy and an opportunity to say goodbye and thank you to a group of young people I cherish.

Let me make it clear that I have no qualms whatsoever with excited shouts or applause, even the sound of blow horns, that arise from the audience as some graduates walk across the stage. I view these as expressions of joy and pride and excitement that simply cannot be contained; this is a great day and a great achievement in the graduates’ lives – celebrate it!

My issue is primarily with beach balls being batted around (even a blow up doll one year), crumpled up programs being thrown, and the oohs and aaahs that rise from the crowd when a ball finally lands in the lap of a staff member and is taken away. From my end, those behaviors are inexcusable. If they happen again this year, they will transgress to the level of unforgiveable.

To me, those actions make the statements, “This event is not important to me. This is a game. I am bored. I don’t care to be here. I am so bored that I need to find some way to entertain myself just so I can endure this event.”

My feeling is that if this event is not important enough to you, the graduates, family members, and friends of a Sycamore High School graduating class, to cause you to behave with respect and dignity, what am I doing wasting my time there?

For any staff member, attending a graduation ceremony is a large commitment. There are typically 450+ graduates; with travel time, the event lasts about four hours.

The decision to attend or not attend graduation is not just about me; attending means that my family is without “Dad” for four hours during time we love spending together. Staff members are willing to ask their families to share that time because each graduating class is important to us, because this is an important event in your lives, and because we enjoy having the chance to show that we support you, we care about you, and we want to get to

say that we are proud of you on the day you begin the next phase of your lives.

The actions – the beach balls, the general blatant disrespect for the event – that each group of graduates, parents, family members, and friends have taken at every Sycamore High School graduation ceremony I have attended state that staff members are wrong. Apparently, this is not a big deal in your lives. This is not something to celebrate with respect. Apparently, this is not worth our time.

I implore you, class of 2011 graduates, parents, family members and friends, to prove that past impressions are wrong.

Demonstrate through your actions that this IS an important event for you. I love this event; I love having the chance to celebrate you one more time. Don’t make it a circus.

I will not attend another Sycamore High School graduation in this decade if 2011 turns into another fiasco.

image by jane fin

To the students, parents, relatives, and friends of the Sycamore High School class of 2011,

ocharo

‘Don’t make it a circus’

Sincerely, Mike Gutekunst, physics teacher

Retraction: Mr. Mike Gutekunst requested that a phrase be omitted from his letter. Unfortunately, the phrase was not omitted in the Senior Leaf.

Sleeping, small talk, yet no studying Coexisting with Calvin Commons study halls stifle, sidetrack students Moriah Krawec associate editor

S

mall talk fills the air of the commons during lunch time. Students jovially converse with peers and friends that they otherwise may never see on an average day.

However, there are similar scenes in play throughout the day. Since the beginning of the 2010-11 school year, study halls have been held in the commons.

This change was made for several reasons. According to Mr. Kevin Mays, assistant principal, the former system of placing students in teacher classrooms had limitations.

For example, Mays pointed out that confining 25 or 26 students in one classroom could be challenging in a smaller room. Also, Mays deemed some classrooms to be “poor fits” for a study hall; these include music classrooms, which lack desks.

But regardless of these good intentions, the status quo has

resulted in numerous problems.

One of these problems involves how students tend to manage their time poorly during these periods.

Mays claims that one advantage of holding study halls in the commons is that students can collaborate more easily. For example if two students in two different study halls had to work on a project together, they would be restricted from meeting up with the old system.

I took a break from class one bell to observe a commons study hall. The group was clustered into quietly chattering small groups. However, there were just about as many students dozing off, or toying with cell phones, compared to the students who talked.

Yet, I cannot feel as if the students in these study halls are being encouraged to be distracted.

Although I would rather have a student text their friends in their

third bell study hall than in their Algebra class, neither situation is ideal.

Likewise, the choice between placing students with study halls in either the commons or an ill-fit classroom is a poor set of choices.

While the Commons is the better setting for a study hall than a cramped art classroom, I propose that at the beginning of each semester, that teachers advise their study halls to use their time wisely, and to observe their pupils’ behavior.

Nonetheless, the SHS administration had a decent idea with the commons study hall system.

Mays plans to open up an a la carte stand during study hall hours, allowing students to get a snack at their will.

As with many other programs, either outside of SHS or otherwise, the commons study halls need a bit of polishing.

Diversity Day speaker promotes tolerance, awes students Jane Finocharo associate editor

The idea of Diversity Day has always made me roll my eyes a bit. It seemed a bit empty to me, almost gilded, a day to flash our political correctness while not actually achieving anything.

And for the most part, these expectations have always been met. But there is one notable exception – the speeches given

by Calvin Terrell Jr., founder of Social Centric.

I still remember the first time I heard him speak my freshman year. At first, I was alarmed by his bluntness. He seemingly nonchalantly rattled off a list of racial slurs and spoke without reservations about his experiences with gangs.

He told us to stand up if we had ever been racist before. I did not stand. Of course I had never been racist. I watched in shock as my friend rose from her seat.

“Well, think about it,” she said,

looking down at me. “I’m not going to lie. I’ve been racist before.”

And when I thought about it, I had too. It was something none of us had ever admitted before, not even to ourselves. Even the most tolerant of us were tainted by hatred. Terrell, who described himself as a “spiritual warrior,” was not the “inspirational speaker” who gave us a meaningless speech about achieving our dreams. He forced us to realize things that made us ashamed.

Never before had I heard a full auditorium fall so silent.

Terrell was a refreshing change from the hollow and superficial attempts at diversity that have been made in the past. He had a real, irrevocable impact.

Diversity day should be much more focused on permanently changing attitudes that promote prejudice and intolerance. Listening to Terrell’s presentation was like ripping off the band-aid of ignorance and intolerance and will have a lasting impression far beyond the dance performances and free Chinese food.

Hyped up

8

5.27.2011

Royal Wedding receives too much coverage SM Dipali editor-in-chief

A

WILLIAM MOUNTBATTEN-WINDSOR AND MIDDELTON LEAVE after their wedding ceremony at Westminster Abbey. Media all across Britain and the United states embraced this event. Coverage of the wedding in America started as early as 4 am on April 28.

Photo courtesy of Flickr

s I flipped through television channels on Apr. 28, I found myself staring at show after show discussing something about the eagerly awaited Royal Wedding (I kid you not, even the Military Channel aired a special feature on the guns to be used during the Royal Procession).

MSNBC’s Joe Scarborough hosted Morning Joe from London for an entire week.

Anderson Cooper of CNN hypothesized how Kate Middleton would wear her hair.

It seemed that the ever-annoying American enthusiasm for the Royal Wedding permeated even the most respected journalists.

Television networks embraced the Royal Wedding with such zeal, it almost overshadowed the nonstop coverage of Charlie Sheen. Major news affiliates like NBC and ABC aired numerous segments on the history of Princess Di and Middleton’s rise to royalty.

Now, I understand why Britain was so fixated on the royal wedding – thousands of

years of history establish this tradition (even if the Royal family has now disintegrated to ribbon clipping figureheads). Not to mention the fact that British citizens, as subjects of the crown, were paying for the wedding through an increase in taxes.

But when coverage of the wedding kicked off at 4 a.m. and American broadcast networks sent teams of experts to report on the event in London, it was as if they were the loyal subjects of the British crown.

However, as Americans watched feel-good broadcasts of two wealthy socialites and their dream wedding, 300 of their fellow citizens were dying due to the tornadoes ravaging the South.

Where was the heavy news coverage on that?

It was minimal and spotted, to say the least.

A recent Pew Research Center poll found that 64 percent of Americans believe that the Royal Wedding received too much media attention. I sincerely hope that the media will take that into consideration in the future – so we can move on to more serious issues; issues that actually matter.

Gap or trap? Year off offers learning experience Kelcie Grega associate editor

After twelve years of school, the thought of going to college can make SHS seniors mentally drained, and they may crave a much more refreshing option: a gap year.

Gap years were first developed in European countries in the 1960s where students would take a year off to volunteer, study abroad, or find themselves before attending college.

Most Americans cringe at the thought of taking a year off in favor of some free time for they fear that not immediately attending college after high school would discourage young adults from ever going back to school.

“I personally would not do it. I want to get college over

with and party afterwards,” said Nelson Pang, 11.

Despite its negative feedback, gap years have risen in popularity in the United States. Harvard and Princeton, arguably the most competitive schools in the nation, actually encourage taking a year off after high school.

“Depending on the student, taking a gap year can be an outstanding choice,” said Mr. Randall Lothrop, math teacher.

Harvard believes so much in a gap year that they encourage every student they admit to consider a year off before entry. Princeton also has a program called “bridge year”. This program allows students to take part in study abroad programs before college.

The reason for this encouragement could be because gap years can help better prepare students for college who may not be ready for such an immense transition.

According to the College Board, three out of five students who enter four-year colleges immediately after high school do not return their sophomore year.

“The key thing for a gap year to be effective is that the student taking it is growing during the process,” said Lothrop Taking a gap year is not for everyone, but it should be taken into consideration. To be beneficial, it has to be more than rest and relaxation, and must be a way for one to grow as a better individual.

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 and tee shirts.

Email josecerdatattoos@hotmail.com

Additional articles on Jose Cerda on

http://www.goaves.com

9

5.27.2012 Right brained, left handed - page 10 U4U rocks for worthy cause - page 11 Need a club covered? Get in touch with

this

month in

feature

Infographic by Moriah Krawec

‘I always thought that I would never have a chance’

Freshman scores role in big-screen flick Shea Lothrop staff writer

W

hen we are little we often are asked about our futures, what we want our occupations to be and where we want to live. Unfortunately, as we grow older, our optimism of flying to the moon or becoming president of the United States goes down. We are struck with reality and reevaluate our dreams to be more realistic.

Emily Callaway, 9, never even thought about giving up on her dreams of becoming an actress.

Consequently, that is most likely the reason why Callaway was cast in a major Hollywood film.

Dreams cast aside, for now

Callaway has had a passion for acting since she was a child.

As time progressed, so did her aspiration to become an actress.

Living in Cincinnati her whole life, Callaway pursued an acting career more towards theater than acting in front of cameras.

“Since I live in Ohio, I always thought that I would never have a chance to be in a movie or

television show. That’s exactly why I have been in theater. I love to act on stage for people but my dream has always been to go farther than theater, I’ve always wanted to be in a movie,” said Callaway.

Throughout elementary school, Callaway made appearances in plays and musicals. It was not until junior high that her talent was noticed to a serious degree.

As a seventh grader, Callaway was cast in “Treasure Island” and “Beauty and the Beast,” but did not have a major role. Her patience earned her the leading role in “And a Child Shall Lead,” the first production put on by SJHS her eighth grade year.

There was no leading role offered he spring play of her eighth grade year. Each character had around the same amount of lines. This comical play was titled “Competition Piece.”

The summer between eighth and ninth grade, Callaway signed with Heyman Talent, hoping to take her career farther than just acting for schools and local theaters.

Later, Callaway introduced herself to the high school theater

program. Callaway got a role in “Everything I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten.”

Surprising everyone, Callaway was not on stage in the recent SHS musical, ‘Phantom of the Opera.’ Callaway reversed her role in theater and worked with the crew.

Expectations exceeded

Little did people know that while she was working crew for the musical, Callaway was auditioning for a major film. Her peers remained oblivious to what soon would turn into a pivotal event in her life.

The book, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower,” is an epistolary novel written by Stephen Chbosky. Charlie is the main character who writes letters to an anonymous person. He writes about his tragic life containing the controversial topics of suicide, homosexuality, and abuse.

Summit Entertainment, who produced movies such as The Twilight Saga films and “Letters to Juliet,” decided to turn this book into a movie.

When Callaway’s audition

for this movie approached, her hopes of being cast were reluctant.

This audition would be the third opportunity offered to Callaway by her agency, the first being a voice-over tryout. Unfortunately, there was no call back.

The next audition Callaway took notice to was a commercial for Cincinnati Bell. After auditioning in the commercial for a role with Nick Lachey, who is a Cincinnati native, the results turned out the same as the first audition.

Callaway went into the audition for “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” thinking it would be more experience for the auditioning process. Nothing was expected.

Two days later, she got a callback.

“I was shocked. I didn’t think that they would take any notice in me. All I thought about the audition was it was an amazing opportunity for my career but for sure they wouldn’t cast me. I just thought it would be experience for future roles offered to me,” said Callaway.

She went in for her call back

on April 21. They asked her to audition for the character of Susan. Susan was Charlie’s good friend in junior high.

Over the summer Susan physically transformed, and by the time that Charlie’s freshman year started, Susan forgot about him.

Unfortunately, like many high school students, Callaway has braces. The braces would take away from her character’s metamorphosis.

The casting crew did not want to lose Callaway. On April 26, Callaway received a call congratulating her because she landed a different role in the film.

Callaway will be appearing in this movie beside Emma Watson, Logan Lerman, and Paul Rudd. The movie will be released in 2012 and will appear in theaters throughout the country.

This movie is a start to what Callaway hopes to be a major acting career.

Additional articles on theater at SHS

http://www.goaves.com/ special/2011-spring-theater-

10

5.27.2011

Being eft in a right world: Kelcie Grega associate editor

&

Aaron Ishida staff writer

iving life in left lane Disadvantages Lefty Lefty

I

t is always easy to tell who the left handed people in class are. They tend to be the ones with ink smudges all over their hands after long essays or the ones who cannot seem to find a comfortable position in those desks with the chair attached.

Lefties make up only 10 percent of the world population and are known by others as “southpaws”, “gallock-handers”, “chickie paws,” and “scrammies.” They are a razor thin example of a minority group that still face challenges to this day.

Challenged minority

What is the first thing that comes to mind when the word ‘minority’ is brought up? Most people probably think of certain ethnic groups, races, or religions, but what about the left-handed ‘race?’

Throughout history, left-handed people have been persecuted solely for having a dominant left hand and were forced to learn to use their right hand in order to assimilate with the rest of society.

“My father made me learn to write with my right hand because in China, it was more socially acceptable to be right handed. I now write with my right hand but I do everything else with my left,” said Zicheng Zhao,11.

In many cultures, the left side has always been considered to be an undesirable side and people who used the left hand were considered to do work for the devil.

The hostility toward lefties can be seen in several languages; in Latin, the word for ‘left’ is sinister or evil. In French it is ‘gauche’ which means awkward or tactless. w “It is really annoying to be left-handed in a dominating right-handed world at times because so many things are made for right handed people, so I have to often adjust,”said Justas Jodele, 10.

Researchers also link the gene that is connected to mental disabilities such as schizophrenia, alcoholism, and dyslexia to being left handed. Lefties have also been known to be risk takers and are more likely to die young.

Benefits of being left-handed

Though the inconveniences of being left-handed are inevitable, there are still several benefits to being ‘south pawed.’ For example, lefties can excel in sports because so many people are right handed and are not used to their left-handed opponents.

“I always have the advantage in sports because nobody ever expects me to use my left hand,” said Zhao.

Another advantage of being left-handed is that it forces the brain to think more quickly so lefties tend to have the benefit of being able to multitask and can process large streams of unorganized information. Researchers have found that the more dominant the left hand is, the greater these abilities are.

“When I write in Hebrew, it is really nice not smearing ink on my hand, because you write right to left instead of in English where you write left to right, and I always smear ink or pencil on my hand after finishing an essay or assignment,” said Daniel Gushin, 10.

Left side is right?

The human brain is composed of two halves that control different parts of thinking. This is called brain lateralization, referring to how each side is not entirely alike.

The left and right sides of the brain process information differently and individuals tend to think more on either the right or left side of the brain.

For right-handed people, thought process is primarily kept on the left side of the brain; though left-handed also have left brained characteristics, a significant number think mainly on the right side of the brain.

The left side of the brain tends to be more linear and uses logic to process information while the right side of the brain is much more creative and has more holistic thinking.

An individual’s handedness can also be related to the side of the brain they think on. Left-handed people tend to think on the right while right-handed people will think on the left. Of course, these rules are not always strict but it is likely to be the case a lot of times.

So in reality, it is truly the lefties who think in the ‘right’ state of mind.

of being a

In a world where 90 percent of the population is righthanded, left-handed people often face the challenges of using right handed tools.

Scissors

Using right handed scissors in the left hand is difficult because the closing action of the hand forces the blades apart making it difficult to cut. Fortunately, there are left-handed scissors available to purchase and many scissors these days can be used with both hands.

Instruments

Very few string instruments are made for left-handed people. The few that are made for the left hand are generally custom made and a lot more expensive forcing lefties to play instruments the righthanded way

Dining

The arrangements of eating utensils are usually set up for right-handed people. This causes many left handed people to bump into their right-handed peers when reaching for their utensils.

Writing

The English language is written from left to right so when a left-handed person writes, their hand trails over what they had previously written causing them to spread very messy smudges all over the paper.

Designed by Kelcie Grega

Source:http://www.theworldofstuff.com/lefty/

What side of the brain do you use the most?

Left Hemisphere

Right Hemisphere Uses logic

Factual thinking Cautious, safe

Uses feelings Imaginative thinking Risk taking

Words and language

Symbols and images

Present and past

Present and future

Looks at parts

Looks at the whole

Math and science

Philosophy and religion

Follows western thought

Follows eastern thought

Hard to hypnotize

Easy to hypnotize

Prefers classical music

Right hand control

Prefers pop and rock music

Left hand control

Source: http://www.angelfire.com/wi/2brains/left.html

Famous Lefties

Photo Courtesy by Flickr

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA and Senator John McCain share the similarity of being left handed. Though the characterisitic of being left handed is rare, it remains common among many presidents in US history. Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Ronald Reagan were all left handed.

Designed by Aaron Ishida

SIR PAUL MCCARTNEY and Ringo Starr of The Beatles are the only two Beatles who are still alive. Both Mccartney and Starr were both born left-handed. However, Starr’s grandmother made him switch as a young child causing him to become ambidextrious. He claims that this quality gives him his unique drumming ability.

11

CLUBS 5.27.2011

Benefit bash sees success Alec Bochner staff writer

A Unified for Unifat

lmost 8,000 miles separate SHS and the Unifat School in Uganda, but it does not stop Unified for Unifat from enhancing the lives of African children on a daily basis. It only takes a few bake sales to raise sufficient donations, but Unified for Unifat at SHS is not content with only a few dollars here and a few dollars there.

The evening of May 6 marked yet another extravagant event hosted by U4U, SHS’ largest club. From 7:00-11:00 pm at the Blue Ash Town Square Amphitheater, The

Unified for Unifat Benefit Concert rocked the city of Blue Ash. The highlights of the night included performances from the bands Innocent Commotion, Bright Eyed Youth, See1, and The Adriatic of Moeller High School.

There were additional acoustic acts from SWEET, Tess Plona, 11, Emily Fry, 11, and Alan Kissinger, 12.

“The Benefit Concert seemed to surpass anyone’s expectations, especially mine. I can’t wait to see the impact we have made on the children from just this event. There is more to come from U4U, however. We want it to be a surprise, but we are planning many new exciting events, including another concert for the fall,” said Sally Evans, 11, club president.

Image by McDaniels Photography

Mexican pastry, during all lunches. All the proceeds were donated to “Su Casa.” We were able to raise over $700 for the center.

“Next, year we want to take it one step further and make monthly visits to ‘Su Casa’ as a club,” said Carla Ibarra, 11, upcoming President. “as well as elementary schools where we can teach young students about the Hispanic culture.

Our goal is to teach students about the importance and the influence of Hispanics on the United States and to help people embrace it, as well as other cultures, as opposed to fighting it.

We hope to take this club from a typical global language club which meets once a month to an enriching and volunteer oriented organization.”

Students support ‘Su Casa’ Ellie Goldman business manager

Spanish Club has plans to expand. Next year, the club intends to strengthen a bond that was newly formed.

The club established contact with “Su Casa” a center that helps Hispanic immigrants with education, job placement and housing.

One Guatemalan woman who received help from the center visited SHS to tell her story. She touched the hearts of 30 students who attended the meeting.

Following this initial contact, students began to volunteer at the center.

The Spanish Club decided to sell churros, a typical

Activities forge connection Social club takes the stage Moriah Krawec associate editor

Stepping Out Club

Stepping Out Club meets every month, but everything else varies. The group may host a party one month, but go on an outing to the Newport Aquarium the next.

For many members of Stepping Out Club, these events are invaluable. The organization aims to help SHS students with special needs interact with their typical peers, which is a difficult task.

“Many students with special needs are not involved in the school community, so Stepping Out is one of their few opportunities to be a member of a club,” said Mrs.

Spanish Club Image by Aaron Ishida

Jennifer Buelsing, speech-language pathologist.

Another aspect of Stepping Out Club’s outreach lies in its executive board. Founded in 2009, the club fittingly has two sets of officers: one group with Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs), and one set of typical appointees.

Lauren Guy, 12, co-vice president of Stepping Out claims that her involvement in planning the club’s meetings has improved her social skills. Guy also felt that being on the executive board gave her the feeling that her actions mattered.

“Being on board helps you know that you’re helping other people with your work,” said Lauren Guy, 12, co-vice presidents of Stepping Out. Being on board gave her the feeling that her actions mattered.

Image by Maria Marballi

‘I think that it is important that NHS members choose their next officers wisely’

Preparing for next year of programs Mark Eilers staff writer

National Honor Society, or NHS, recognizes students for their academic achievement, after school activities, and leadership skills.

Throughout the school year, members of the National Honor Society dedicate their time to providing assistance, conducting fundraisers, and helping others.

In order to join the group, all prosepective members are required to log a total of 15 service hours. It is also mandatory that at least two of the events participated in

were sponsored by NHS. A form providing proof of all volunteer activities is eventually due to club advisors Mrs. Valerie Nimeskern and Mr. Charles Ogdan.

Another requirement is to maintain a grade point average of 3.6 or better and take part in at least one class above the academic level.

“This year’s NHS was a fun and memorable experience, and I hope that with choices for next year, NHS will maintain its high excellence,” said Emma Burgin, 12.

Students vying for leadership positions presented speeches to club members on May 16, and a full list of elected officials is available at http://www.goaves.com.

exclusive coverage on GoAves.com:

National Honor Society Image by McDaniels Photography

Film Club

French Club

Creative Writing Club

Need some press?

Does your club or organization need to get the word out about an upcoming event? Return this form to room 115 or email us the same information at WriteToTheLeaf@gmail.com. Our writers will choose a few to investigate, extend and spotlight for each month’s issue.

Contact Name, Grade Club Details:

Environmental Club, and more...

Name of Organization Phone

Email

12

5.27.2011

Jill Streck perfects pottery- page 13 SCSS prepares for Europe - page 14

Bright Eyed Youth emerges - page 16

this

month in

a&e

Band marches toward new season Summer practice instrumental to success Emily Begley staff writer

W

hile students are eagerly looking forward to the end of the school year, members of the marching band are conversely anticipating a new beginning – the approach of their upcoming season.

Although a significant amount of summer practice is in store for members, the many hours of hard work and dedication necessary to make their future show a success has already begun.

Members of the color guard began holding clinics on May 4. Anyone was welcome to attend regardless of prior experience.

These meetings were conducted in order to teach new members basic techniques they will utilize to provide visual appeal to the band’s performance.

Dog Days of Summer

For members of the marching band and color guard, summer means a great amount of practice in order to get ready for the approaching season.

Any student new to the band is required to attend Rookie Camp, which will be held at SHS from June 6 – 9. Members will be taught how to perform basic techniques, such as how to march properly.

Beginning on June 9, all members of the band will attend practices at the high school every Thurs. from 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The group will begin learning how to play the music that their future show will feature.

The color guard will also hold practices

throughout the course of the summer. The guard will begin learning flag work for their show as well as strive to master basic maneuvers.

All color guard and percussion members will also attend camp Aug. 1-5.

Band Camp

August holds in store two weeks of intensive practice and training known as Band Camp. Throughout the course of these weeks, the group will begin working on and improving major portions of their show.

One of the main aspects the group will focus on is sets – specific coordinates on the football field unique to each member.

They will be expected to position themselves in these spots at given times during their performance.

The band will also be split into subgroups, allowing instrumentalists to practice music within their specified sections. During these times, members of the color guard will learn the flag work that will accompany the band during the show.

In the midst of excitement regarding the end of the school year, the marching band is looking forward to discovering what their upcoming show will entail. The summer will initiate a season characterized by an immense amount of hard work and dedication.

Additional articles on band and color guard

KATIE DUFF, 11, PLAYS the trumpet during one of the football half-time shows. For Duff and the other members of the marching band, summer will be full of long practices and camps.

http://www.goaves.com/news/clubs

Want straight teeth but don’t want metal braces?

Jazzed: Aaron Ishida staff writer

Study of Rock students and rock lovers traveled to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland this year on Apr. 21. Leaving SHS promptly at 6:15 a.m., students spent the entire day out of school to experience the history of rock.

Overall, the students were more than pleased with the field trip.

“The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was one of the coolest places I have ever been to.

This is probably the coolest school field trip I have gone to, and there are so many iconic rock and roll things in there, that I highly recommend it to anyone,” said Konnor Montchai, 10.

Throughout the museum, unique rock memorabilia is displayed for all to view. From The Beatles to the Sex Pistols, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum has something to offer to any music enthusiast. The museum has multiple mediums for attracting and informing visitors of any and all aspects of the rock and roll experience.

“I went last year on the trip, again this year, and I’m 100 percent sure I want to go next year. I loved every part of the trip there and back. Ms. Stone is a wonderful and unique woman and teacher,” said Maddie Pope, 11.

During the field trip, students had the

Image by Emma Oh

Study of Rock History students jam to Cleveland opportunity to play the role of a band financial and executive manager. This included tasks such as selecting venues, marketing merchandise, recording and producing music management, band and travel accommodations, and overall management of the income and expenses.

Students were able to explore the museum for several hours on their own and enjoy all the available features the museum has to offer. Unfortunately, many of the exhibits were closed and under construction, so visitors were unable to see the whole museum.

The chance to go on this one of a kind field trip is available to students who wish to take the unique Study of Rock class, which is taught by Ms. Dawn Stone, music teacher. The class is one semester long and goes through the entire history of rock from classic blues and country roots to modern day rock bands heard on the radio daily.

“People should take Study of Rock because they learn about the music that influenced the artists we listen to today. Also, we learn about how politics affect music which is surprisingly pretty interesting. It’s just a really easy-going, laid back great class. Ms. Stone is an awesome teacher, too. Any and all students will love her, and all students who take her class absolutely love it,” said Montchai.

12.17.2012

‘I just look at different styles and designs of things... that will get me started.’

13

Per‘Streck’tive Shayna Siegel staff writer

D

esign, throw, glaze. Senior Jill Streck has spent the past three years mastering pottery. She has dedicated a majority of her time to making beautiful creations in the Ceramics room.

“This year I have devoted two bells a day to my work, occasionally I’ll work through my lunch or after school,” said Streck.

Inspired by shapes she sees in everyday life, Streck creates a variety of pieces.

“I can’t say that a specific artist inspires my work, I get most of ideas from seeing shapes. I just look at different styles and designs of things and that will get me started,” said Streck.

Using the basic techniques Mr. Paul Melnick, Ceramics teacher, taught in her first Pottery class, Streck has the skills to create impressive pieces of art. At the beginning of her senior year Streck submitted her work to the Xavier Art Competition.

500 pieces were sent into this competition. 120 were selected, three of which were Streck’s. Her work was put on display at the H.S. Juried Art Show in the Cohen Center of Xavier University in Nov. 2010.

Her work has come a long way over the past three years. She has developed a great amount of skill and passion for her work, “I just love the surprise of how the glaze is going to turn out in the kiln. You never really know until it’s fired,” said Streck.

With pottery Streck has found a craft she loves and hopes to continue with in her future. She plans on minoring in Fine Arts while in college and hopefully opening up a shop or gallery to sell her work.

All images by Jill Streck

THE PIECE FEATURED above was Jill’ Strecks first tea pot.

“It took me about a week to make, the handle had to be the hardest part, of it,” said Streck, 12. The piece below has a painting of a Japanese cherry blossom. Streck chose these colors to represent a sunset.

THE POTTERY ABOVE, are pieces from Jill Streck’s AP portfolio. “My concentration was carving, making art on top of art. I’ve always found it extremely interesting,” said Streck, 12.

Southward bound toward success Aaron Ishida staff writer

Alex Southward, 10, on photography How long have you been taking photography?

I took Fundamentals of Photography my freshman year, that’s when I first started to “practice” photography, and this year I took Creative Tech first semester, and now I am currently in Advanced Explorations in Photography.

Photo by Alex Southward

SOUTHWARD, WHO IS an avid climber, takes many photos when he goes on climbing outings. Through his work, Southward hopes to show his passionate love for climbing, among other topics such as his longtime friends and scenery, landscape, and many other themes. He hopes to continue photo throughout his high school and college career, and continue it as a hobby for the rest of his life.

Extended Q&A with Alex Southward

www.goaves.com/multimedia

What inspired you to start taking photography?

Many of my friends did photo, so I thought why not give it a try?

What is your main focus when you are taking photos?

My main focus is to improve my photographic ability and expand my subject matter.

What inspired you to start taking photography?

Many of my friends did photo, so I thought why not give it a try?

What is your main focus when you are taking photos?

My main focus is to improve my photographic ability and expand my subject matter.

Do you try to send a message through your work?

Usually I try to depict something that is an interest of mine, or something or someone I often come into contact with.

14

5.27.2011

Photo by Kelsey Drapkin

Europe 2011 SCSS prepares for performances Ellie Goldman business manager

It is never a good day when a singer forgets choir music on the kitchen table- especially when the table is 4,500 miles away.

Luckily, the Sycamore Community Summer Singers (SCSS) will have all their songs memorized long before they leave for Photo courtesy of McDaniels Photgraphy Europe in June.

SCSS is a choral group for PHANTOM OF THE OPERA SERVED AS THIS YEAR’S CAPPIES SHOW. Nominations for this show include awards for best lighting, sound, costume, stage crew, props and effects, vocalist, and actress. SHS was nominated for a total of 12 Cappies. St. Xavier High School, a rival theatre program, was nomihigh school musicians, led by nated for 19 awards.

SJH choir director Linda Gartner, which takes an international choir trip. Anyone can audition, though the groups tend to have a heavy SHS population.

Every other year since 2003, Gartner has held auditions in August. She and student travel have a long history.

“In 1979, my choral direcKelsey Drapkin performers in each category are tor at BGSU, Dr. Ivan Trusler, staff writer the nominees. took the Collegiate Chorale he much-awaited results On May 21, all performers, to European Concert Tour,” of the Cappies Awards parents, directors, critics, and said Gartner. “I was one of the Program have been anyone who wanted to attend Alexandra “A.J.” Bierschwal, 11- sound fortunate singers that part of that revealed. convened at the Aronoff Center Mason Levy, 12sound group. I vowed one day to do the “Being nominated feels really for the big Cappies Gala where same thing for young people! I cool. It means people like your Jennifer Rissover, 11lighting the winners were announced made sure that Dr. Trusler knew work and really took notice of it,” and participating schools were David Bahler, 10- lighting what he created.” said Jennifer Rissover, 11, who given the opportunity to perform Stephanie Adamec, 10- costumes Accepted students have been got a nomination for lighting. snippets from their shows. rehearsing their 18 songs all The Cappies Awards Program Samantha Misali, 11costumes Aves Theatre was eligible to year. The pieces are grouped into is a high school theater program Nicole Streicher, 10- costumes perform a song because of their sacred and secular selections, that recognizes talent, trains ‘Best Musical’ and ‘Best Song’ Matt Adams, 12- props and effects some appropriate for cathedral student writers, and gives nominations. They presented the performances and others better critical feedback to high school Ross Johnstal, 11-props and effects musical number “Notes”. for impromptu singing in streets theater programs. High schools Andy Coddington, 12- stage crew SHS was nominated for 12 of London. perform a show that is attended Cappies. Though SHS did not James Perryman, 11- stage crew “Being around such a talented

by Cappies critics from other get the most nominations of all Rebecca Pollak, 12stage crew group of singers pushes me to local high schools. The critics the schools, 12 nominations is improve myself every day we write reviews of the performance, Mike Walling, 12- stage crew a very respectable amount for rehearse,” said Gabrielle Peck, 9, which can then be published in which to be considered.

Kelsey Drapkin, 12- featured actress in a SCSS member. local newspapers.

“I think we put on a great musical The 61 students and their After each show, the critics show and I’m interested to see parent chaperones fly to Paris make a list of “Critic’s Choices,” Emily Kissela, 10female vocalist what the critics thought,” said on June 9 and will arrive back outlining which actors can be Austin Hoard, 12- male vocalist Laura Birckhead, 12, who got a on June 19. Other stops include voted for in which categories. nomination for best critic team.

Cady Aulicino, 11- comic actress in a musical England and Belgium, with After all the shows have been enough time for singing, sightperformed, the critics gather for Aves Theatre Orchestra seeing, and boosting of foreign two days of voting, choosing Additional Critic Team articles on economies. whom they think best represents Best Musical Cappies results The group is as much about the categories. the social aspect as the music. http://www.goaves.com The top five most voted Participants are encouraged to choose roommates they do not already know.

“The bond [between singers] is more than just singing together,” said Kelsey King, 10. “This is something people choose to do John Carroll Emily Wyant, 10 at Cincinnati familiar with this score. more excitement.Conveniently, outside of school and that makes staff writer Hills Christian Academy, leading “It’s kind of a relief already rehearsals are almost entirely it very real.”

Following the close of the cast as Danny and Sandy knowing a lot of the songs,” said scheduled from 6:30 p.m.-9:30 If any Cincinnatians wish to “Phantom” last month, the world respectively, Aves Theatre will Cady Aulicino, 11. p.m. to accomodate the actors’ hear the group perform, deof Aves Theatre has transformed put on the iconic musical on July While the students know most busy summer schedules. tails on the post-trip ‘Welcome into something of a vacuum that 21-23. of the songs from the movie, Despite the students’ Home’ concert will be released.

SHS actors are all desperate to “I cannot wait to start ‘Grease’ many do not know all of them enthusiasm, they will have to Each person involved has differfill. rehearsals. It’s going to be since there are several songs in cool their engines until June 1 to ent goals coming into this expeThankfully, Mr. John so much fun,” said Caroline the original musical that are not begin rehearsals. On the bright rience. Gartner herself expresses Whapham, theater director, Bresnahan, 11. featured in the movie, such as side, their enthusiasm will be put one of her main goals. has the perfect cork to plug the In contrast to the poorly “Mooning” and “It’s Raining on to good use, as they will have less “My greatest hope for the aching hole left by the musical’s received and slightly ridiculous Prom Night.” than half of the time that they students of SCSS is that they absence. This cork comes in “Phantom” movie, “Grease” is the “The movie is pretty much my had to prepare for ‘Phantom.’ continue singing.” the form of the iconic musical highest selling movie musical of only point of reference, having Until then, they will have no “Grease.” all time, featuring the talents of never seen the show on stage,” choice but to watch it countless Extended Q&A with With Kyle Basile (who Linda Gartner, other Olivia Newton-John and John said Griffin Levy, 10. times on ABC Family to satisfy SCSS participants performed at Relay For Life Travolta. That being said, most The actors recently received their excitement. alongside Emily Kissela, 10) and of the students are a bit more their schedules as well, sparking www.goaves.com/news

Cappies Awards released Aves Theatre cast receives commendation

T

‘GREASE’

Nominees

Aves Theatre ready to hand jive Iconic musical to debut at SHS in June

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5.27.2011

deep fries competition, wraps it in bacon strips ntil 2010, Canadian native Harley Morenstein was nothing more than a substitute school teacher.

On a cold October night, however, everything would change.

Morenstein and his friends gathered together fast food items like Taco Bell and McDonalds from around the area and put them on a pizza.

That is right. Burgers and burritos on a pizza.

While creating the caloriepacked colossus, Morenstein and his crew filmed it, and uploaded the video to YouTube.

The video, bluntly titled “Fast Food Pizza”, went on to receive over 100,000 hits in its first 15 days, and has since received over two million views worldwide.

After the unexpected popularity of their first video, Morenstein and his friends dove deeper into intense cooking creations. In each video, the group conjures up an edible abomination, making use of three main cooking conveniences: a deep fryer, bacon, and liquor.

“We were eating like madmen anyways, so it was a no-brainer when we decided to start filming and take it up a level,” said Morenstein.

On their YouTube Channel, titled EpicMealTime (EMT), over 28 videos displaying sophomoric language and meatfilled magic have been uploaded.

EMT has become an internet sensation, receiving almost 100 million views on their videos.

After the almost overnight fame of EMT, Morenstein and Co. have received national attention, have been featured on “The Jay Leno Show” and are even piloting their own TV show.

“I wouldn’t say it was instant fame. It takes hours of hard work to get discovered overnight,” said Morenstein. “I was teaching and

filming music videos for local artists before EMT. It’s been wild.”

The most popular meal, viewwise, that they have made to date is called the TurbaconEpic (pictured behind infographic). In a baconinfused twist off the turducken, the meal consisted of a Cornish game hen, stuffed inside of a quail, stuffed inside of a chicken, stuffed inside of a turkey, all stuffed inside of a pig, covered in bacon, and cooked to perfection.

At almost 80,000 calories, the “TurbaconEpic” is one of the most caloric meals EMT has made to date. The Sloppy Roethlisberger”, a huge burger with EMT’s logo branded on the bun, takes the cake as the meal with the most calories, surpassing the 100,000 mark.

Each video posted by EMT is different, but they all mostly follow the same pattern.

Morenstein comically introduces the video, and pals around with Muscles Glasses and other fellow cast members. Short clips of the meal being made are shown with Morenstein’s humorous commentary until the meal is complete.

Then, all members of EMT are shown eating the bacon-blessed wonder that has been cooked.

“I like the fast food episodes because I get to go out and [expletive] with the people at the drive-thru, and there’s less time spent cooking the meal,” said Morenstein.

In an era dominated by healthy eating, EMT is a reminder of the better things in life. People who would never touch a strip of crispy, brown bacon eat vicariously through EMT’s disgustingly delicious videos.

Many question why Morenstein and his friends use bacon as the main ingredient for all of their recipes, but in Morenstein’s own words, the answer is very simple.

“Bacon is (expletive) delicious.”

Harley Morenstein, EMT co-founder, on EMT’s success Where did your inspiration come from to start making these insane meals?

We were eating like madmen anyways, so it was a no-brainer when we decided to start filming and take it up a level.

Which meal has been your favorite to make and why?

I like the fast food episodes because I get to go out and (expletive) with the people at the drive-thru and there’s less time spent cooking the meal.

What did you do before EMT, and what has it been like to rise to instant fame?

I wouldn’t say it was instant fame. It takes hours of hard work to get discovered overnight. I was teaching and filming music videos for local artists before EMT. It’s been wild because now I get into the club VIP easy.

What are your plans for the show, and where do you plan to take it in the future?

EMT IMAX 3D and EMT restaurant on the Vegas strip with Mike Tyson out front shaking peoples’ hands. We also have plans for a TV show which is in the process of being made a reality.

What is your group’s cooking background?

None of us have any cooking background at all.

Photo courtesy of Tim Shey

BASED IN CANADA, HARLEY Morenstein and the rest of EpicMealTime’s crew have been posting videos of their popular piles of food since Oct. 2010. As their fame spread, they began posting videos weekly, usually on Tuesdays.

For diehard EMT fans, their website, epicmealtime.com, offers a gift shop, where they sell t-shirts with some of there notable sayings. Below is co-star Alex Perrault, aka “Muscles Glasses,” with “The Greatest Sandwich Ever”.

150 120 90

Photo courtesy of epicmealtime.com

Calories in various EMT meals (in thousands) *

60 30 0

Epic Breakfast

*picture behind

Sloppy RoethlisBurger

Bennett Kaplan sports chief

Slaughterhouse

U

&

TurbaconEpic

Danny Bayliss sports chief

Image by Bennett Kaplan and Danny Bayliss

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5.27.2011

Bright future for bright eyes

Talented freshmen play their way into the hearts of SHS Krittika Chatterjee staff writer

The band did not feel their self-proclaimed style of “alternative indie with a blues-rock influence”, was fitt all started with a drummer’s basement and a pinting for pop-loving audiences. Starting their freshman ball machine. In 2009, five eighth graders converged year, the band started grabbing gigs at larger venues to form Flash Gordon, inspired by the name of the than school auditoriums, like Christian rock venue, The arcade game in the drummer’s basement.

Underground.

Freshmen Jackson Hughes, lead singer; Alex MasThe band now regularly secures set, guitarist; Justin VanWagenen, dates at The Underground, and drummer; Ben Hammer, keyboardhas also had the opportunity to ist; and Gil Kaplan, bassist; make [Bright Eyed Youth] play larger shows at The Mad up Bright Eyed Youth. symbolizes that we Hatter, and other events like Up until that point, their major Relay for Life and the Unified for performances included a variety want to carry that Unifat benefit concert. show and the eighth grade dance. beauty of youth as far “We’re only freshmen among To be taken seriously by venue these bands with much older as we go with our band. managers, it was critical that the players. When we play bigger band take their name into serigigs, first it’s kind of awkward ous consideration. After a series of Jackson Hughes, 9 when we’re unloading equipment cringe-worthy names (including The and stuff, but once we play and Emblem and Blastoid), all members we show that we are worth their finally settled on Bright Eyed Youth. time, it’s more relaxed,” said Hughes.

“It’s not meant to be metaphorical; It’s very straightThe band spends copious amounts of time togetherforward. It symbolizes that we want to carry that beauty practicing, recording, and playing. of youth as far as we go with our band, which could be “We burn incense at our practices and put Christmas the rest of our lives,” said Hughes.

I

‘Action Jackson’ sings for satisfaction Mike DeMaio staff writer

Jackson Hughes, 9, on music

lights on my drums. Jackson goes barefoot at our gigs.

We like to keep it relaxed instead of having a highpressure atmosphere,” said VanWagenen.

Bright Eyed Youth refused to take live gigs as a cover band. From the very beginning, Hughes and Hammer have teamed up to write original material.

“When we write, someone shows up to practice with an idea, then we play with it. Jackson will usually add some lyrics that fit from his journal. We all put in our suggestions, then put it together with bridges and such.

Then we jam on it until it’s good,” said Hammer The band’s original songs are being conglomerated in Bright Eyed Youth’s first EP, “Colours of an Innocent King” – a tentative name, unsurprisingly.

“We could be playing gigs or making albums or advertising on Myspace,” said Kaplan. “But just making music in a basement makes us happy. We like music. That is all that matters.”

Bright Eyed Youth played at the Unified for Unifat benefit concert last week. The band took this opportunity to premiere new material. Performances were also made by SHS band Seriously Guys? and Moeller band The Adriatic.

Influences

Jackson Hughes is the creative and talented lead singer and works together with the synth player (Ben Hammer, 9) to write their orginal songs.

What are your favorite things in life?

Music, laughing, and jelly beans.

What has been playing in your i-pod lately?

LCD Soundsystem, The Doors, Of Montreal, and T.V. On the Radio.

When are you planning on recording your band’s demo?

Early June, probably at OSO Studios. It will be for sale at all of our shows.

Looking for Bright Eyed Youth?

Mike DeMaio staff writer

If you want more information on these talented freshmen; visit their Facebook page or talk to any of the five members of the band: Jackson Hughes, Ben Hammer, Alex Masset, Justin Van Wagenen, or Gil Kaplan. They would love to answer any questions.

They are also, according to Hughes, about to release Bright Eyed Youth headbands and T-shirts to the public for “as cheap a price as possible”. They are working on a demo and “are currently working on our 9th song and we rarely play covers,” said Hammer. With the mix of creativity and talent within Bright Eyed Youth, and the creation of their own original songs, their potential is endless. As SHS students we can only wait, watch, and listen to these talented freshmen as they rise to what should be a very successful high school music career.

Jimi Hendrix

Neon Indian

T.V. On the Radio

Arcade Fire

MGMT

Muse All images by Mike DeMaio

17

5.27.2011 Varsity baseball collides with competition, rain - page 18

JV girls lacrosse works toward successsful season - page 19

Freshmen baseball team stuggles, improves - page 19

this

month in

sports

One last spike for seniors

Kissinger, Korn rank among top in GMC Bennett Kaplan sports chief

O

ften going unnoticed, the SHS boys’ volleyball team has been one of most successful sports teams over the past few years. Prior to 2011, the team had attained six straight winning seasons, finishing among the top two teams in the GMC in all but two.

2011 however, would mark Coach Lynne Morris’s first year coaching the team, and many were unsure of how the team would fare.

Although the team placed fifth overall in the GMC, SHS was still able to attain a winning record of 10-8.

Image by Bennett Kaplan

FROM LEFT: KYLE KORN, 12, MARTIN RIXE, 12, and Alan Kissinger, 12, have all played significant roles for the volleyball team. Kissinger and Korn both rank among the top ten players in the GMC in kills.

“The success of the team has been its ability read the other team’s defense. This allows and willingness to adjust and adapt to a new him to put his hitters in the best possible coaching staff and to learn and adjust on the situation to be successful.” court to game situations,” said Morris.

On May 16, SHS played Oak Hills in Morris the first round of attributes a lot of the playoffs, and was the team’s success defeated 3 games to 1.

The success of the team to the senior Although the has been its ability and players. Alan volleyball program Kissinger, 12, has seen a significant willingness to adjust and led SHS in kill amount of success, the adapt to a new coaching hits, with 275, team has not had many which puts him people try out for the staff. in second place team, and Coach Morris in the GMC. encourages anybody who “Alan has been is interested to try out a strong and for next season. knowledgeable “It doesn’t matter player for if you have played Sycamore. Alan’s volleyball or not,” said all-around game play makes him a very tough Morris. “We can work with you and your competitor,” said Morris schedule. If you play another sport, if you Kyle Korn, 12, has also been successful, would like to stay in shape, if you want to try finishing 10th in the GMC in kills, with 157. something different boys volleyball is for you.

“Kyle’s blocking and quick hitting out of Think about joining us next year. Listen for the middle has been consistent and strong,” announcements for an informational meeting said Morris. in December and open gyms in the winter.

In volleyball, the setter is one Practices start in early March and the season of the most important players runs through mid-May. We would love for on the court. Responsible for you to join us on the court.” setting the ball for the other players to hit, a good setter is invaluable to a A photo gallery of volleyball team. In his first season volleyball players, as the setter, Mike Richter, 11, moves is available has excelled due to hard work and at: dedication. www.goaves.com/multimedia “Mike has worked very hard to not only improve his setting but also learning how to

Lynne Morris, coach

Weigel sees success despite season’s struggles Danny Bayliss sports chief

For any team, a losing record proves to be quite a large obstacle. How does a team with a sub-.500 record keep chugging along?

Just ask Mark Weigel, Varsity girls’ softball coach.

His team has lost the great majority of their games, yet he is sanguine about his squad.

Constantly focusing on the positives, Weigel has been pleased with his team’s effort, especially from certain players.

One of those players is Carrie Tveita, 12 who accepted a scholarship to play at Butler University for the next four years.

Despite Tveita and the other seniors’ imminent departure from the team after the season, Weigel has expressed his confidence in his returning players.

Softball coach, Mark Weigel, on star players; success What is your record this season so far?

[Our] current record is 3-13, with remaining games vs. Turpin, East, Northwest, Middletown and Oak Hills.

Who have your stars been for the season?

Carrie Tveita, 12, Kat Pember, 12, Michele McDonald, 12, Megan Stoy, 11 and Becca Melvin, 10 have all had strong seasons.

What stats of any of your players stand out?

Tveita has been the offensive leader in most statistical categories. She is hitting over .400 and she has been strong defensively. Stoy has had a very strong second half of the year, and her play at first base has been stellar.

Who has been improving the most as the season progresses?

Improvements by both Stoy and Melvin have been continuing as the season goes along.

Melvin has pitched better than her record indicates.

Quick Hits:

For more sports’ news and analysis, visit:

Williams commits to Michigan

Kohmescher breaks pole vault record

Football player A.J Williams, 11 has committed to play football at the University of Michigan.

Williams received letters and calls from top athletic programs around the country, but has decided to “take his talents” to the University of Michigan.

Williams, who plays tight end for SHS, is the first SHS junior football player to commit to play in college.

A.J’s decision makes him the third SHS junior to commit to a D-I school, along with lacrosse player Derrick Kihembo, 11 ( Johns Hopkins), and basketball player Chloe Pavlech, 11 (Maryland).

Murray breaks 22-year record

SHS field athelete Justin Murray, 12, broke the 22 year old GMC shot-put record, with a put of 59’6.50”.

According to gmcsports.com, “Murray’s throw is the seventh longest throw in the history of the Cincinnati metro area and the longest throw ever made by an athlete from a GMC member school irrespective of the meet.”

[In the April issue of The Leaf, it was incorrectly reported that Murray’s put of 55’6.5” on Apr. 8 broke the school record of 55’7.75”. Murray did however, break the school record on May 6, with a put of 57’6”]

Lisa Kohmescher, 11, broke a school pole vault record with a vault of 9’6”. Not only was her vault the school record, but it places Kohmescher fourth in the GMC, behind two Mason vaulters, and one from Lakota East.

Varsity tennis team falls to St.X

SHS endured a tough defeat May 17 against the St. Xavier Bombers. After beating the team once earlier in the year, SHS failed to repeat the performance and was eliminated from state team title contention.

B-ting competition and classifications Danny Bayliss sports chief

Just like in the real world, high school has its own hierarchy.

This systematic approach to ranking groups extends outside of the cafeteria, and on to the athletic grounds.

It is a given that the Varsity B, or Varsity Green boys’ tennis team will live in big brother Gold’s shadow. Naturally, that’s supposed to happen. You will never see the Green team more talented than the Gold team.

Tryouts for the semipermeable top squad quickly and thoroughly decipher whether or not your Varsity status is paired with an “A, B, or Junior” ranking.

To be a Varsity Green tennis player is nothing short of success.

You earn the title, receive a letter, and your match results usually are in the local scores’ section of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Just like the Top Dogs.

Every year the bulk of the battles involve quality Varsity teams. There are a few of the larger-scale schools producing Varsity B teams included, but usually the opponent has one team with top tier talent.

The depth that is provided in a B team can only do so much. A couple years ago, the first of my three years so far on the B team, we struggled mightily. The only two wins we managed came from fellow B brigade of Centerville.

But with time, the team improved. Each of the past two years, the win total has increased, despite the rainouts that occur more than the actual matches.

More history was made, as the B team won the Sycamore Cup for the first time, blowing away the competition.

Prodigal-esque talent from SJHS has been flowing in rapidly the past few years and should continue to do so. This will only increase the caliber of each team.

The B team will never win numerous GMC titles or win the state tournament. They will never host college-bound tennis phenoms.

And that’s OK. The success that each team measured differs, but it is certainly huge when the B team is beating powerful Varsity A after powerful Varsity A. Just like the Top Dogs.

And finally, on a personal note, I want to wish Brandon Sosna, who is my colleague, my Twitter buddy, my movie-quoter, my food guru, and mostly my friend all the best in his journey to Penn and beyond. I hope you become the success that you have always dreamt of.

Just don’t be a stranger, skip.

For comments on this column, please write to WritetoTheLeaf@gmail.com

R 18

5.27.2011

ainouts ruin baseball schedule uns circles around opponents

Middletown was rained out for a second time, Head Coach Chris hen it rains, it pours, Shrimpton decided to cancel it all together. and it certainly has They faced problems even at poured on SHS the beginning of the year, as over sports this year. five seniors that played last year Of all the sports hit hard by the decided to not play this year. torrential downpours, the boys’ Shrimpton moved Junior Varsity baseball team may have Varsity players such as Cameron been most affected.

Harris, 10 and Jake Lampe, 10, The month of April proved up to Varsity.

These sophomores to be quite complicated for the soon filled the seniors’ shoes and squad, as their schedule was played extremely well during the rapidly changing. season.

As May and the Greater When the rain did not affect Miami Conference (GMC) their schedule, the team took full tournament crept closer, the advantage of their opportunities. squad scrambled to fit so many Varsity has been an extreme missed GMC games into their success this year, as they started schedule. The tough weather of the season with a 4-1 record. affected One of the team’s these games schedule in This is one of the best was a many ways. resounding teams that I’ve coached Having to play regular in my 26 years coaching 14-3 victory season against rival Varsity baseball at SHS. games Mason, during the The team tournament Chris Shrimpton, was still and Varsity baseball coach forced to rescheduling practice games inside many multiple days, yet they kept a winning times proved to be very annoying record as the GMC tournament and quite problematic. approached.

One of the main games With stars such as Kyle Hart, the players look forward to 12, leading the rotation, pitching is Senior Night. After the was quite the strong suit for the scheduled Senior Night against Danny Bayliss sports chief

team, and key to their success.

Hart will be going to Indiana University on an athletic scholarship for pitching. Hart has had a great season as the number one starter in the rotation. According to Shrimpton, Jason DeFevers, 11 and seniors Kevin Clark, Jake Michalack, and Thomas Meier are a few other players who have shined this season.

Despite all the off-field and damp-field drama, the team still managed to finish the regular season with a record well over .500.

“The Varsity team played great this year. We’ll end up either second or third in the GMC and we’ll have a winning record,” said Shrimpton.

They out-scored their opponents 104-87 as their hitting improved immensely from last year. They headed into the tournament ranked third in the GMC. SHS played LaSalle for their first tournament game on Thursday, May 12. The game quickly got out of hand, as SHS had an offensive downpour. They defeated the Lancers with a score of 5-1.

The team is will play

Brian Cleary staff writer

&

W

STARING DOWN THE CATCHER, Ricky Miller, 11 unloads a pitch in his notable submarine style. Miller, along with Kyle Hart, 12 and Kevin Clark, 12 form a formidable pitching rotation.

The success of SHS will depend greatly on how the rotation fares.

Image by Danny Bayliss

Lakota East for the Sectional Championship. Results were not available at press time.

As the season progresses, the rain will hopefully decline.

Despite the rain, Shrimpton has seen enough of this squad to formulate a bold statement.

“This is one of the best teams that I’ve coached in my 26 years coaching Varsity baseball at SHS. This team has a chance to do a lot in the state tournament.”

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As the 2011 school year comes to a close, so do the athletic careers of every senior athlete. Those who spent four years leaving it all on the field have played their last games on the hallowed grounds. Those who once led their respective teams on the field will move on to college, where they will represent SHS all over the country.

The leadership skills learned while playing a sport are invaluable, and will help them succeed in whatever they chose to pursue in life.

To those who will be continuing their athletic careers in college, congratulations. An athletic scholarship exemplifies what it means to be an athlete, and we are lucky to have so many talented athletes who will play at the next level. Whether they plan to go pro or not, their hard work over their four years has paid off, literally.

Regardless of how they fare on and off the field, they will always have a cheering section here.

Sports, in the end, are just games.

To all senior athletes, remember not what your record was, or your personal statistics, but the fun you had, the experiences you shared with your teammates, and the friendships made while playing sports at SHS. You will be missed not only on the field, but in the classroom as well. In the words of Brandon Sosna, It’s not goodbye, it’s see ya later.

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5.27.2011

Junior varsity lax nothing Casey Rayburn staff writer

S

HS girls lacrosse. What does it mean to the students at school? At the varsity level, state championships are the first thing that pops into the minds of students. Are the expectations the same for the J.V. level?

The answer is yes. Even though they might be a J.V. team, head coaches Sara Strong and Katie Farr run the team and expect the same performance level as if they were a varsity team.

Preseason work

The season started off with the first day of tryouts (no cuts made) in the gym. Then, the coaches brought the girls outside to finish the last two days of tryouts.

Once the coaches figured out how to place the teams, they started practice right away. The first game was not for a month, but they knew that it would be a hard four weeks of preparation.

The girls would be out on the practice fields working to prepare for the first game, either in the cold and mud, or even warm dry conditions. Sometimes the girls would have to play in the rain.

“It was tough to battle through all the different weather conditions in the season, because all your preparation for games starts there,” said Sara Evans, 10.

Any of these conditions could pop up when it comes to a game. The coaches make sure to be prepared for anything.

Game Time

Right after the girls came back from spring break, it was time for their first game against Loveland High School. The girls went into the game ready to start the season off with a win.

A win is what the team got. All of them knew that it might have not been the hardest game, but every one of them still came out and played their best.

“Getting off to a strong start is always a great way to start off the season,” said Carly Driskell, 10.

With an easy win under the belt, the girls had one of their toughest opponents to face this season: Upper

Arlington.

In the first half, the team was a little shaky, going into halftime down 2-5.

During halftime, the coaches did not give up on the girls and made sure that all of them had the confidence to come back in the second half and try to win. The girls did what the coaches told them.

They made it a team effort by taking on defense and making smart passes on offense. The game ended with a 6-6 tie.

After a tough battle with Upper Arlington, the girls’ next game was against Lakota West. The girls exploded with an offensive win, winning 15-4, with freshmen Sara Constand and Elise Reardon scoring eight goals combined.

The girls used this momentum to win the next four games against Mariemont, New Albany, and Mount Notre Dame.

They were not done playing tough opponents; the girls still had a game against GMC rival Mason High School.

Due to weather delays, the game got cut short with 11 minutes left in the second half The girls fought tough for the win, but it was not enough and the game ended with another tie, 3-3.

“I would have to say that the Mason game would be one of the best games we had played all season,” said Lucy Schutty, 10.

Their next game was held against CHCA. The girls were ready to play early and won the game 15-1. Then the girls had an hour break to get ready for their next game against MND. The team also emerged victorious.

When it came to the week of May 2, the girls had a total of zero practices before the game against St. Ursula due to the field conditions. The girls got there with about 20 minutes to warm up for the game. Because of this, they came into the game shaky and everyone could tell.

As the game progressed they were not on their game.

The game was tied at 7-7 with two minutes left. SHS had the ball but soon turned it over and watched their opponents run down the field and score the winning goal.

SHS JV LACROSSE player Sara Constand, 9, moves the attack. The JV lacrosse team had a great season and only lost one game.

The future looks very bright for SHS lacrosse.

Image by Michael Saxon

This was the first loss of the season for the girls. The next day the girls shook it off at practice and worked hard to improve on what went wrong during the loss.

With this behind them, they came out against Anderson High School with another explosive offense, winning 15-1.

Revenge is what the girls wanted against Ursuline Academy. Last year, the girls that were part of the freshman team lost 8-1 on the brink of an undefeated season.

This year was different. The girls came in ready to play.

They started off scoring right away with a shot sneaking in behind the Ursuline goalie. The team ended up winning 11-5. It was the perfect way to finish the season.

Additional articles on girls lacrosse http://www.goaves.com/group/womens-lacrosse/

Weather rains down on freshmen baseball season Shea Lothrop staff writer

Out of the gate, this season for the freshmen baseball team has been an overall disappointment. Disappointing record wise, that is.

Following in the footsteps of the freshmen football and basketball teams, wins for baseball are scarce. But although their record may not display it, the team has worked extremely hard.

No longer at the Junior High, the team faced problems that were not an issue last year. The SJHS team did exceptionally well. The problem for the team this year could be the fact that the freshmen baseball players were spilt into different teams.

Several of the freshmen were moved up to JV. The difference in the JV and freshmen teams has nothing to do with wins and losses, but with leadership.

The mix of upper- and lower classmen on JV blends better. Most of the upperclassmen have been through a year of baseball at the high school level and their words of encouragement come from past experience.

“I’m on JV and the biggest difference in freshmen on JV and the ones on the freshmen team is that we definitely have more leadership from the upperclassmen,” said Matt Groene, 9.

The struggle started at the beginning of the season for the freshmen team. Their loss column had been added to several times before their first win came.

Each opposing team is played twice; games against them are usually played on back to back days. For some teams that is an advantage. They have the ability to figure out the opposing

team’s strength and be prepared for it in the next game.

For other teams, such as the freshmen, playing the same team twice can lead to being defeated both times.

Another major issue, for not only the freshmen team but several other spring sports, was the rain. As Cincinnati was battling through the second highest rainfall it has ever seen in history, the baseball team was battling through their games being cancelled.

As the season is coming to a draw, they have a record of 3-12. The real record of the team, however, is unknown.

The outcome of their season could be opposite of what it is now if they had played the amount of games they were scheduled to play.

At one point, seven games in a row were rained out.

Unlike the varsity team, the freshmen’s cancelled games do not get rescheduled.

“This year was a bit of a letdown, we only did okay. We are definitely going to have to step it up next year,” said Andrew Hanus, 9.

Overall this season, the freshmen team is filled with talent in hitting and pitching but lost many of their opportunities to show it. After a season of playing together in high school, the team hopes to return next year and prove that their freshman season was simply a warm up.

SYMMES TWP. SMALL BLIZZARD (12 OZ.)

All images by Michael Saxon

TOP: GRANT PRICE, 9, TAGS A RUNNER OUT AT FIRST base. Bottom: Andrew Hanus, 9, connects solidly with the baseball. One of the team’s strongest talents was hitting.

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20 5.27.2011

Matthew Fischer: Madison Ashley staff writer

&

freedom fighter, aspiring actor Any favorite classes?

Alexx Lazar staff writer

I really love acting ensemble, it is pretty cool.

What interests you?

Theater, acting, and singing.

Have you been in any shows this year for SHS? Yeah, I was in Phantom [of the Opera].

Is acting something you want to continue in college?

Sure, I’d like to do that. My brother was actually the person who inspired me to go into acting.

After college, do you have any aspirations?

Well, I really want to be a Navy SEAL. I just feel like it is a really interesting lifestyle to be able to live.

Name three things that make you happy.

Swimming, watching TV, and showing dogs.

So besides acting, what else do you like to do?

Is there any advice you would like to give high schoolers?

Well, I like to show dogs. You know, like dog shows? Yeah, I’ve been in those.

Just to do what you want to do and don’t let anyone tell you different.

Did your dogs take any special place in the competition?

So, are there any things that you think make you stand out from average high schoolers - experiences you have been through?

They are the top two setters in the country.

You obviously love dogs. How many do you have?

I have 5.

Well, I went to New Mexico, and I hiked 80 miles. It was a life-changing event.

Fast facts about Fischer 1. Presents his Irish setters in dog shows.

2. His setters are top two in the whole country.

3. Loves acting 4. Aspires to become Navy SEAL

All photos courtesy of Matthew Fischer

MATTHEW (OR MATT, AS he prefers to be called) likes to participate in theater and dog shows. He also enjoys spending time with his younger siblings. “High school has been a great experience so far, and I cannot wait to finish it off and go to West Point, [the college of my choice].” His journey of hiking 80 miles has also changed his life and opened his eyes to the world outside SHS and Cincinnati. “Doing the hike in New Mexico really showed me the diversity and beauty of the world around me,” said Fischer.