October 2008 issue

leaf

Ever wonder what dreams really mean? Find out what goes on while you are sleeping. Read more on page 16.

the

HIS PASSION FOR music has brought Joe Duran, 12, to the spotlight of football halftime shows. Now, the saxophone and piano player can add score composer of “Metamorphoses,” the fall musical, to his résumé.

Read more about this month’s Artist Spotlight on page 20.

FRIDAY October 31, 2008 | Volume LV Issue III |7400 Cornell Road | Cincinnati, OH 45242 | (513) 686-1770 ext. 3089 | www.goaves.org

newsbriefs Out of the Darkness walk

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention hosted a community walk on Oct. 26 for psychological research and prevention.

Seniors Julia Robertson and Elyse Flaig, juniors Kristi Durbrow, Aubrey Johnson, Christine McLaughlin, and Jenny Williamson, and Ms. Christine Minano all participated.

Administration addresses recent trauma sam CLEARY minimag editor

World Hunger Day

Catherine Tate, 10, and Williamson honored the struggle to end world hunger with their fast track classes on Thursday, Oct. 16. They invited students to go to www. freerice.com, a United Nations sponsored site that donates rice for each correct vocabulary question.

National Honor Society

NHS Induction will be held in the Little Theatre on Thursday, Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. This year, 154 students will be inducted, the largest number in SHS history. Rehearsal will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 5 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in the auditorium.

Report cards distributed

First quarter grades will be passed out in second bell classes on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

Art students enter exhibits

Students from various disciplines of art have work exhibited. Sarah Furtwengler, 12, and Maddie Skopin, 11, both have photos in the OAEA/STRS High School Exhibit. Anne Brant, 11, has a photo in the Ohio Association for Gifted Children’s Susan Faulkner Fine Arts Exhibition and Auction. Seniors Ane Elwing, A.J. Hayden, Alex Huller, Liz King, Kayla Murray, Dan Tang, Emily Wilson, and Erica Wittkugel and junior Liz Keefe will all have work in the Xavier University Juried Art Exhibition in November.

“Metamorphoses”

Aves Theatre is in the process of producing a musical directed by Mr. John Whapham. The show will run from Friday, Nov. 13 to Sunday, Nov. 15, at 7:30 p.m. The Acting Ensemble class will all play roles in the eight-part show.

Little Sibs Day

Seniors will be accompanied by younger siblings between fifth and eighth grade on Nov. 13.

Sign-up forms at the front office were due Oct. 30.

inside

2 3-9 opinion fun&games 10 11-18 feature 19-21 a&e sports 22-29 calendar 30 spotlight 32 news

District response:

TODAY MARKS THE highly anticipated annual event, Senior Halloween. Seniors get to parade their costumes with considerable freedom throughout the day. However, administrators caution students against causing distractions or displaying inappropriate costumes.

R ights of students examined ecent events prompt questions, cautions

photos by staff

will JOHNSTON

D

associate editor

uring the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 7 students experienced a random drug search of the high school. Trained dogs from across Greater Cincinnati swept both parking lots and approximately 30 randomly selected classrooms.

In four situations, a student was asked to open his or her car. In one case, disciplinary action was taken.

This situation begs to ask, just what are students’ rights on school grounds?

“In-Loco-Parentis”

The recent lockdown was required: state law stipulates that schools must have at least one random lockdown/drug search by December.

A student’s car, other possessions (like backpacks and purses), and anything else brought to school, are fair game for search by administrators.

“For an administrator to search a student’s possessions, reasonable suspicion must be established,” said Mr. Chris Davis, principal.

But Davis’ word choice is of importance. Administrators may search a student’s possessions- not teachers. “Reasonable suspicion,” school officials admit, is interpreted loosely -- a standard that has been upheld in various court cases.

However, police officers are held to a higher standard. In order to search a student’s possessions, officers must have “probable cause.” In addition, a school administrator must be present to perform such a search. One can refuse, but “Then it becomes much more complicated, and we would have to involve the police, said Davis.

“We will always take into account intentions, and research will affect the punishment.”

If something were to be found in a student’s belongings, then he or she would likely be immediately suspended with a recommendation for

expulsion, though administrators recognize that each case is different.

Other substances or objects barred from school grounds, such as weapons or pornography, could be damaging as well.

However, administrators will speak with students and conduct background research if it is appropriate.

For example, an illegal substance was discovered in a student’s car on Tuesday. But, as the student explained, the car had been stolen over the summer, and the thieves had left the incriminating material in the car.

The student’s parents and the local police confirmed the story; no disciplinary action was taken.

In general, SHS operates under the “In-LocoParentis” standard, meaning that in lieu of a student’s parents, faculty members are able to assume their responsibilities. Specific constitutional rights afforded to citizens are not necessarily conferred upon students.

Senior Halloween

Senior Halloween is a privilege, not a right. As such, a number of parameters have been established for costumes. Creativity is certainly encouraged, though administrators would advise seniors to temper their imagination with common sense.

“The costumes should be tasteful, and students should be respectful of cultures, race, religion, and sensitive current events,” said Mr. Antonio Shelton, assistant principal.

Also, seniors are advised to shy away from costumes that are excessively large, noisy, require repeated group gatherings, or that roll on wheels.

“The first half of the day, we usually spend having arguments with students over whether a costume is appropriate or not,” said Davis. “But every year, seniors come up with some very creative ideas.”

It is a sensitive topic, a sore spot in the eyes of this community. Everyone wants answers, and they want them now. People want an explanation, a reason, a diagnosis.

The only problem is, suicide is not a disease.

There is no concrete diagnosis or immediate cure. No one can snap their fingers and make it all go away.

Currently, the primary concern for both the counseling and administrative branches of SHS is managing the problem with due consideration to the sensitivity of students, staff, and parents.

When challenged with a problem so potentially destructive in nature, it becomes a necessity to maintain a level of composure within the administration.

According to Mrs. Rose Mitchell, guidance counselor, the next few weeks will be tough, but the staff ensures that certain steps are being taken to address the problem.

The overall mentality of the administration as a whole has been, and will continue to be, to approach the topic with sensitivity and positive intentions.

Debunking assumption number one: There will be no assembly. According to health studies, assemblies only enhance negative community concentration on the subject. They provoke an aura of ill-attention and single out students who would have otherwise preferred to speak to a counselor one on one.

As far as communication is concerned, the administration, including Dr. Adrienne James, has sent home a letter informing parents of the issue and stressing the fragility of the current situation.

Aside from meeting with Mitchell, “The Leaf ” staff met on Tuesday with Mrs. Brenda Fisher, student assistance counselor, to discuss the suicide issue that faces SHS. More than anything, Fisher stressed the vitality of approaching the issue with a positive intent, a positive attitude, and a positive outlook.

On Oct. 22, an informational staff-parent meeting was held concerning the causes, effects, and warning signs of suicide in teen life.

The seminar, led by Cathy Strunk, RN, of Children’s Hospital, aimed to educate the community through her program, “Surviving the Teens,” which focuses on the stress factors and problems that teens face on a day to day basis and how to cope with them.

What was initially hoped never to be a problem in this community now stands both timely and prevalent, but with current plans developing to resolve the issue, the outlook is positive.

‘The banks have made these risky investments, so they now swung completely the other way’

Dissecting how economic crisis will impact students daphne HSU

associate editor

$

What to do with...

Money in bank accounts: Although the general first reaction is to get the money out as soon as possible, keep it in.

Money in banks is FDIC insured, which means the federal government guarantees it. The $700 billion bailout plan recently increased the amount of money insured to $250,000.

It is best to leave money in the bank so it can continue to gain interest.

Stocks: Keep money in the stock markets and even consider buying the cheap stocks – it will pay off in the long run. ”In the mid-60s and late-80s, the market went down by 40 percent, just like it is right now, and a lot of people jumped out,” said Mr. Greg Cole. “The next year, it was up 60 percent, and so if you had kept your money in, you actually would have made money.”

Impact on students’...

Day-to-day life: Students are not likely to feel any changes immediately. But if businesses do not expand or close down due to lack of credit, students will find it harder to find a part-time job and may even lose their current job.

This, coupled with students’ family situations (possible layoffs – perhaps even houselosses), will lead students to decrease spending.

College: Because banks will be less willing to give out loans, students and their families may find it harder to finance a college education.

“These banks made these risky investments, so they now swung completely the other way,” said Cole. “Instead of being super risky, they’re now being super, super safe. So there are

>>FINANCIAL CRISIS: page 2

2 >>CONTINUED: FINANCIAL CRISIS people who have good credit scores aren’t being able to get the loans that they should in a normal instance.” Colleges, too, will be affected because they, like individuals, also invest their money. If a college’s investment has done poorly, there may be less scholarship money available.

Government loans and other financial aid will still be around, but money will be harder to get.

October

31

This day

in history

leah BURGIN

feature chief

1864 Nevada is admitted as the 36th state, coming right after West Virginia and before Nebraska.

1892 Arthur Conan Doyle publishes “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes,” a collection of 12 short stories that originally appeared in Strand Magazine.

The logical and brilliant mind of Sherlock Holmes has remained popular throughout the years since his debut into literature.

1926 The infamous magician Harry Houdini (Ehrich Weisz) dies of an infection of gangrene that developed after his appendix ruptured. No longer would he astound audiences with his illusions and tricks.

1941 Drilling is completed on Mount Rushmore after 14 years of strategic blasting.

The monument’s famous presidential portraits of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt were designed and overseen by Gutzon Borglum.

1967 Robert Matthew Van Winkle (Vanilla Ice), American rapper, was born today.

news FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Media shakes up election preferences:

News stations, entertainers make their mark mary ann JIANG

P

editor-in-chief

arty nomination campaigns in the fight for the Oval Office have stirred untold levels of public excitement. With the nation in fervor, the media scurries to capture and direct the intensity.

Certainly public views and the media’s coverage of candidates work cyclically: each feed into the other. However, it should be noted just how adverse or beneficial the effects are of media coverage for election campaigns are.

“The media, especially 24-hour news, does influence the election. While it fulfills ‘watchdog’ functions, the media can blow things out of proportion,” said Caroline Ibbotson, 12.

The most recent candidate experiencing the effects of media attention has found herself slipping in polls. After comedian Tina Fey mocked Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin on Saturday Night Live, or SNL, Americans began responding more indifferently and negatively to the Alaskan governor.

Although the governor was supposed to woo independents, polls have shown a decline in support for the extroverted hockey mom. Among those independents, 33 percent point to SNL as a factor of their changing opinions. Only nine percent said that the “Tina Fey effect” has enhanced Palin’s image, according to “The Washington Times.”

Bias detected

Palin’s developing saga reflects entertainment fueling coverage. TV makes its mark in less satirical ways also. Certain news stations are known to express partiality, like CNN, recently airing “Joe

S

into history–how a black man was being heralded for stepping into a ‘broken system,’ how two women vied for inauguration, how 2008 became one of the most arousing election years to date.

The media will certainly be keeping tabs.

Proof of viewership

Oba

Being that so many factors come into play in dictating anyone’s opinion, a quantitative effect of media reporting is difficult to ascertain. But evidence is undeniable: Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s experience with Rev. Jeremiah Wright affirms this.

The former pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ was defamed on national television for proclaiming: “God damn America.” The media jumped on Obama and he was forced to distance himself from his friend and guide of 20 years.

Four days from now, all this will make its way

62% 38% ma

McC

ain

image by ellean zhang

“THE LEAF” GAVE students an opportunity to cast their votes for either the Democratic or Republican Presidential candidate on Friday, Oct. 10. These results are taken from the responses of 363 students.

tep-by-step guide equencing economic breakdown, progression

rashmi BORAH

1

Biden Revealed,” to expose damaging facts about the Democratic vice presidential candidate.

“In my opinion, the media is biased, but not biased enough to warrant that big of an influence in American public opinion,” said Josh Goldman, 11.

The media’s effect is possible because citzens view news stations as an information base detached from both sides. The media commonly attacks public leaders, they cannot be loyal to either, right?

“The national media uses up story content at an alarming rate,” said Mr. Kevin Wittman, US government teacher. “It is always looking for a story, no matter how significant or insignificant.

If you just look at those concepts, media is biased to their consumers. Today, there is some talking head telling viewers how to interpret everything, instead of letting the viewers make up their own minds.”

business manager

Housing crisis: Banks started giving customers loans— mostly mortgages— to those who were not entirely capable of paying that loan back. The banks made these investments in the hopes that when they gave out more mortgages, the housing prices would go up, and therefore would make a profit.

2

Investment companies invested in these mortgages: Banks took the mortgages to investment companies, who made investments in these mortgages—again, on the assumption that housing values would go up, a trend that would not continue.

Those investments are called mortgagebacked securities.

3

Swaps: Companies were offered this type of insurance in case the values of houses went down so that they would not lose all of their money. However, they were not offered as typical insurance because the money was not required to be kept on hand. This insurance, called a swap, was common.

Recognizing National Achievement Scholars

photo by staff

THE NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT Award was given to three seniors: Alexis Hunley (no longer attending SHS and not shown), Tolu Oginni and Brian Winters. This award was given to students who scored in the top 4% of all African-American students on the PSATs in the fall of 2007. The students were called up to the office on Oct. 2 to shake hands with Principal Chris Davis and receive a certificate. Over 150,000 students enter the competition, but 4,700 are honored by the National Achievement Scholarship Program.

4

Insurance companies did not have the swap money: As housing values started to go down, companies that invested in the mortgage-backed securities started demanding their money back, but the money was not on hand since swaps did not require insurance companies to keep it on hand.

5

Banks and companies start to fail: As the housing market continued to shrink, banks started having negative values on their accounts from all of the loans they gave out that were not returned, and swaps caused investment companies to fail. Foreign investments and international markets also started to fail.

6

The bailout plan is initiated: As banks and investment companies started to fail, the government stepped in with a plan to buy back all of the mortgage-backed securities so that the banks did not end up bankrupt.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were also nationalized.

PoliticalDIS Service Tragic Voters effect greater than presidency mark RUBEO

staff writer

The Supreme Court may not be the most talked about issue of the presidential election, but it is one of the most significant. The next president will likely have to make decisions on as many as three Supreme Court seats.

These decisions have the potential to affect the county decades down the road, and should not be taken lightly.

Let me begin by saying I do not believe in strict constructionist judging. I agree with most of the Warren court’s decisions, and would like to see them upheld. That being said, there is a moderate argument against more strict constructionists.

Currently, the court is relatively even between liberals and conservatives, with a slight bend towards the right. Potential candidates for replacement in the next 8 years include two liberals and a left-leaning moderate.

It is easy to see how moving from a 5-4 court to an 8-1 court would move judicial philosophy far towards the right.

Now, even in a court of 5-4 decisions there have been some controversially conservative choices made: The first amendment apparently now protects the government’s right to fund religious organizations but does not protect a high school student’s right to free expression (Hein v. Freedom from Religion Foundation, Morse v.

Frederick).

Decisions like these may please the right, but moderates and liberals are more skeptical.

The close split of the court has successfully stopped a complete overturning of a former landmark case, but in an 8-1 court such an outcome is a very real possibility.

If liberals are replaced with conservatives, things will get much more radical. If liberals are replaced with liberals, things will stay basically the same.

Potential judicial appointees may not be the number one issue students and voters have on their minds when it comes time to vote, but it should play a significant role in any decision for the voters.

the

leaf

3

opinion FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Letter events to the spawn editor change in perspective

Sadly, I can confidently say that this week has been harder than any other in my life after discovering that two people – one a good friend of mine – had attempted suicide.

After some time at school on the following Monday, I was chauffeured to group therapy. Thank God, I was not alone – 40 to 60 kids joined in grief.

Everyone was sitting in the room thinking as they cried or stared off, “How could I have prevented this?” “What were the signs?” Essentially, “Why?” Nobody understands this but him. This attempt was completely unexpected.

He has plenty of friends (good friends at that); a good, loving family; and a bright future with lacrosse and academics. There were obvious rough patches, but everybody viewed them as blowing off steam.

Now, these so-called “rough patches” are seen in a different light. My friend’s acting out demands a new perspective of asking for help. It’s like a layer of oil has been exposed on the highway. We are all passing cars with the potential to be caught igniting a fire.

I do not appreciate the fear of waking up and wondering if all of my friends are outside of the hospital. What causes these people to reach the brink? How can someone get in so deep over their head? I can only guess.

Extreme expectations are the silent, oppressive weights which rest on too many people’s shoulders in our generation. “Go big or go home” – the phrase yelled all the time when stressing perfection – takes on an eerie connotation when uttered in this current context.

Precautions can be taken though. In the case of the depressed, pleas should be made clear - the more direct, the better. Let someone know what is wrong, someone who can help you.

People outside of depression’s grip should be more sensitive and critical of peculiar behavior. Hitting a joint, downing a shot, and popping a pill may indicate ways of masking pain. One should probe their own reasons for getting involved, or probe the decisions of their friends.

“Have you ever had thoughts of suicide?” is not such a bad inquiry. The worst that can happen is someone says ‘no’ but they then know that they count.

Friends, family, and adults can all open the door for help; after this point, the patient has to walk through on his own.

I hold my breath as I write that some good has come of this. The oil has touched the rubber of so many passing cars and consequently, has taught the drivers vital lessons. This situation’s pain is magnified, but people are, hopefully, now more conscientious of the power of words and their effect on others.

People can be more perceptive and compassionate of the emotions of their close friends. Riches should not be thought of in terms of grades, dollars, and goals; but rather the people with whom they are fortunate enough to pass the time.

After all, happiness is only real when shared. Bottling up one’s emotions is never the answer; the pressures inside can only grow so much before the bottle bursts. Being open about problems helps; I know it has helped me significantly.

Help should be yelled from the rooftops before daily life turns into a burdensome chore, because waking up in the morning should be an act of joy, not an act of dread. No matter what, fortunes will change and things will get better. A new perspective may be all that is required. I hope everybody knows that the sun will always come up. It has never failed, and this is a very reassuring notion.

-Sam Newland, 12

Retractions In last month’s issue, Will Kiley, 12, was left out of the photo of National Merit Commended Scholars.

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242

Mission Statement: The Sycamore 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 Sycamore Leaf operates as an open forum for the healthy, robust exchange of ideas. Opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the Sycamore 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. Jardine’s mailbox, dropped off in Room 115, or e-mailed to: sycamoreleaf@gmail.com The Sycamore 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 Sycamore Leaf’s complete editorial policies can be found at http://goaves.org

image by charlie manion

staffeditorial

I

magine living in a world where natural rights and liberties are unknown.

Imagine waking up at six in the morning and traveling to a location where hundreds of others gather in search of education, and to be unsure of the rights guaranteed while on the premise of this location.

This basic ineptness to understand students’ rights while in school is exactly what most students go through every day. The student body is naive in the fact that they have no clue what their basic rights are.

With schools situations like police dog searches, and school events like Senior Halloween, it is vital for students to learn their rights.

The recent lock down and search is an example of how blind and unsure students are of their rights. And, in the example of Senior Halloween, seniors could potentially face consequences for disobeying school policy. Senior Halloween is a privilege, not a right of students, and is an event that has many rules based around appropriateness.

We all know that the Constitution guarantees us the rights to speech, press, assembly and other natural rights, yet very few of us know what our rights are as students.

It is a sad fact that students neither care enough to take the time to find out what their rights are, nor to care enough to at least question them.

Until Principal Davis came to speak with the journalism class, they were unsure of the most basic rights as students. I find this aspect of society very concerning. We remain so trusting and so careless to not have enough initiative to step up and discover the most basic aspects of our identities.

Understanding rights seems one of the most fundamental aspects of our lives, yet very few even take the time to uncover them.

I am not one to say that the administration is conspiring against us, but I am just puzzled to why we have not even thought to question about our rights.

Students should take the initiative to uncover their rights as it is an important aspect of a student. But, they real solution for this problem is for the administration to print students rights in the handbook of each student. This would eliminate all question to all of the rights of students.

leafing through the masses

Q:

At times, do seniors abuse their dress up privileges on senior Halloween?

“ “

” ”

No. Senior Halloween is a time for the graduating class to express themselves in many different ways.

-Kerstin Franken, 9

Yes. I thought I was attending a school not a shenanigans convention.

Editor-in-chief: Mary Ann Jiang Associate editor: Daphne Hsu Associate editor: Will Johnston Managing editor: Libby Henning News Noa Belillti Ellean Zhang Opinion Matt Mendelsohn Jeremy Spiegel Fun & Games Brittanny Argyriou Feature Leah Burgin Rashmi Borah Libby Henning A&E Gabirose Keeton Michela Tindera Sports Ben Estes Jared Kamrass Calendar Jake Newton Kavya Reddy Spotlight Maria Marballi Webmaster J.D. Macejko

Mini-Mag Editors Ben Dhiman Sam Cleary Staff Writers Jamie Alemagno Daniel Bayliss Emily Begley Matt Boyce Jimmy Chau Chad Chessin Emily Cohen Daniella Cos S.M. Dipali Kelsey Drapkin Gabe Englander Catherine Farist Jane Finocharo Elise Gelwicks Evan Gildenblatt Alyssa Hoeper Elizabeth Hoopes Molly Johnson Bennett Kaplan Jacob Katz Ben Keefe

-Danny Seymour, 12 Managing editor: Gabirose Keeton Business Manager: Michela Tindera Business Manager: Rashmi Borah Mandi Kipner Moriah Krawec Charlie Manion Toluwalope Oginni Emma Oh Frank Pan Shivani Parikh Paul Pescovitz Daniel Rickert Evan Romansky Gina Romeo Emma Rosen Mark Rubeo Sohini Sameera Josh Samuels Matt Slovin Shelby Smith Brandon Sosna Garrett Steinbuch Meena Thatikunta Casey York

Photographer Jeremy McDaniel Adviser Cheralyn Jardine About us Professional memberships: • Columbia Scholastic Press Association • Great Lakes Interscholastic Press Association • Journalism Association of Ohio Schools • Journalism Education Association • National Scholastic High School Press Association • Ohio Professional Writers (National Federation of Women Writers) • Quill & Scroll International Journalism Honorary

4

opinion FRIDAY October 31, 2008

class of

09

Senior Corner Age issue disappoints senior evan ROMANSKY

staff writer

images by jeremy mcdaniel and matthew mendelsohn

THESE TWO SCARY characters are just two of many that numerous people find thrilling rather than just frightening. Several theories have attempted to explain this phenomenon, but have been unsuccessful. Read more below to learn more about these interesting ideas.

Creatures provide frightening delight

Fear causes exhilaration through ellean ZHANG

I

news chief

magine an intense aerobic workout. Good.

Now that your heart is pounding, place the image into a vision of you, running from the scaly clutches of the one-eyed, one-horned flying purple people eater—pretty scary, right? If that did not cut it, do not worry; modern culture has made a scare quite easy to obtain through a plethora of means.

Enterprises such as horror movies, corn mazes, and Halloween Haunt at Kings Island rake in millions each year from people who seek a first-rate fright. Others can achieve this same sense of fear, flirting with physical safety by doing extreme sports—some, just by watching them.

A good fright is certainly available to those seeking one, but why is this so popular a pastime?

Why do so many people willingly partake in it, eagerly anticipating a terrifying time? Do people simply have a twisted idea of enjoyment? Or is there more to this want for movies that are just short of dreadfully repulsive, and sports that are mortally dangerous? Is it not more reasonable to

assume that people are in pursuit of happiness and pleasure—not fear and pain?

From a more scientific standpoint, some will say that enjoying a scare is a natural occurrence in human hormones—thus, the “adrenaline rush,” Connected with this is the idea that this is the same reason for the “fight or flight” impulse that our ancestors used to survive brutal conditions in nature long ago. This impulse helped them reassert themselves with greater strength, power, and a heightened sense and intuition. Thus, this craving for a good scare, some might say, runs in our blood.

A few general theories, attempting to explain these irrational inclinations, have also been devised. One suggests that what is terrifying is not actually terrifying, but exhilarating. Another is based on the assumption that people are willing to endure terror so that once the fear has dissipated, they can bask in a euphoric sense of relief.

Yet another idea, based off a study conducted by Eduardo Andrade and Joel B. Cohen from UC

Berkeley and University of Florida, respectively, suggest that people are happy to plunge headfirst into fear. In order for this to be a reasonable conclusion, the assumption (a disputed one) that both positive and negative feelings can be experienced concurrently must be established.

I could accept all of these ideas because they are both logical, and plausible. What I do not understand, is why they all have to be separate ideas. To clarify something that is complex (though it may seem inherently simple), makes sense that there may be a complex, multi-faceted explanation.

In a case such as this one, it is not of dire importance to know exactly why. But who knows? Maybe pinpointing the reason for that daredevil side of you is something that will help you see yourself or the world through a completely different perspective.

Then again, it may be as pointless as reading a book when you cannot seem to even get past the first paragraph.

When to end trick or treating How old is too old? gina ROMEO staff writer

From a young age, we are taught that Halloween is the time of year when children dress up in extravagant costumes and go door-to-door begging for goodies. Although it is expected to trick-or-treat throughout one’s childhood, no age is ever specified as to when an individual should stop.

So that brings us to the age-old question: When it comes to trick-ortreating, how old is too old?

“You’re too old to go trick-ortreating when the candy corn factory closes down,” said Caitlin Carey, 9.

The answer is simple: You are never too old to go trick-or-treating. As long as you are willing to believe in the “Halloween spirit”, then you are certainly permitted to get free candy.

There is no age limit on having an enjoyable Halloween, even if that consists of putting on a rubber mask and gallivanting around town.

Although some students believe trick-or-treating on Halloween night should be a rite of passage, there are others who feel that some restrictions should be in order.

“If you are a 45-year old, living with your mother, don’t go!” said Mallory Condron, 10.

It is true, seeing a middle-aged man dressed up as Dorothy, from The Wizard of Oz, may be a tad bit awkward. But where in the rules of Halloween does it say that there is an age limit. Wait— there are no rules!

“You should stop trick-or-treating in junior high. If you are too old to think Halloween is scary, then you are too old to go [trick-or-treating],” said Roddy Irwin, 11.

People of all ages take part in dressing up, but not all enjoy the trick-ortreating part. Putting on costumes and coming to school on Senior Halloween is an event that most look forward to their entire high school career.

So why is it that it is socially acceptable to dress up at all ages, but it is not acceptable to trick-or-treat?

“When you’re too cool to dress up, then you’re certainly too old [to trick-or-treat],” said Mr. John Whapham, acting teacher.

Whether you should stop when you are ten years old, or you have the right to go no matter what the age, trick-or-treating on Halloween night is simply up to you. No one should be ridiculed for their choice to put on a costume and receive free candy,

regardless of their age.

“The day I stop trick-or-treating is the day I become a sad, little man,” said Stuart Lindle, 9.

So, if you are five, 15, or 55 years old, it is up to you to decide whether or not trick-or-treating is for you.

Everyone should be invited to dress up like whomever you want, receive a few of your favorite fun-sized candy bars, and act like a child again.

image by charlie manion

The 2008 presidential election has the potential to be one of the most historic elections in the history of this country. But I will not be participating in it. Why? Because I am too young to vote. I will not turn 18 until November 19, only two weeks after the election date.

It is disappointing because I had actually paid attention throughout all the primaries and caucuses. I took time to learn about each candidate and what they stood for. Now I actually have an idea about the world of politics, but unfortunately it serves no purpose to me.

To be honest I thought I was going to be eligible to vote for quite some time before realizing that I was I was just a tad too young. Stupid me. But does being 18 really make you that much more mature enough to vote?

I could point out plenty of 18 year olds walking around who do not have a clue about what they are doing. And these are the people that we are going to let vote. How about we change policy, okay?

I have a beard, well sort of, but can that count? There are men voting who cannot grow a hair to save themselves. How about this logical solution: no beard, no vote. That seems fair to me.

All kidding aside, every time I hear students talking about how they are going to be able to participate in such a historic election, it makes me sick.

Because of two lousy weeks, I will have to wait four more years until I will be able to vote in a presidential election.

Four more years until I can feel like I made a difference in our country.

Four more years until I can walk into the booth, close the curtain, and know that my vote counts.

Four years is a long time. I will be nearing graduation from college, it will be the year 2012, and I will be sharing my joy of finally being able to vote in a presidential election with some kids nearly four years younger than myself.

I really try to not sound too bitter, but truth is I am. I would have cherished to participate in this election.

Okay maybe not cherished, but it would have been pretty cool. It is one heck of an election to get your feet wet in the world of politics.

Maybe I am just sour about all this because I thought it would have been ‘cool’ to say I voted in this election.

There is a sense of pride in sharing that you are finally old enough to be a part of a presidential race. It makes you feel closer to the adults and peers around you now that you ‘fit in’.

But I guess I am not there yet. I feel like I am, I look like I am, but according to my birth certificate, I fall a few weeks short. I guess I will just have to put it behind me and try to enjoy all the hoopla that surrounds the race. But deep inside it is going to eat at me for the next four years, knowing I was that close.

opinion

5

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

‘However horrible the incidents of war may be, the soldier who is called upon to offer and to give his life for his country is the noblest development of mankind.’

-General Douglas MacArthur

Veterans Day losing meaning W daniel RICKERT staff writer

e celebrate Veterans Day on Nov. 11th to honor our men and women serving in the armed forces. In recent years, this holiday, as well as other memorials, seems to hold less meaning than they did when they were originally conceived.

President Woodrow Wilson started Armistice Day on Nov. 11, 1919, to celebrate the end of World War I. This war was generally considered the “War to end all Wars” and was at that time, described as “the Great War.” Thousands of United States soldiers lost their lives and the world saw a level of widespread destruction that could never have been previously conceived.

Sadly, just twenty years later, the world erupted into another level of mass warfare. This time, the chaos was World War II. Once again, the United States and the world saw an unprecedented level of violence, genocide and mass destruction punctuated by the atom bombs dropped on Japan.

In 1953, Congress changed Armistice Day to Veterans Day. Congress felt that this holiday should not only honor those who served in World War I, but all veterans.

President Dwight Eisenhower made this official on May 26, 1954.

Veterans Day is now a federal holiday celebrated in all of the fifty states. There are 24.9 million veterans in the United States, yet, fewer and

image by jake newton

VETERANS ARE HONORED ever year on November 11, to show respect and appreciation for those Americans who fought overseas. Officially named a federal holiday in 1954, it is celebrated in all fifty states. Though celebrations have become increasingly rare, people still gather together listen to bands and for parades. fewer people attend community Veterans Day celebrations.

Communities are finding it progressively more difficult to attract bands, floats and other participants for their parades.

“I normally don’t do much to celebrate Veterans Day,” said Emily Bell, 10.

Within our local community, in downtown Blue Ash, we have Veterans Memorial Park. Many students go there for all sorts of

reasons, but few think about what this park represents.

“I go to downtown Blue Ash all the time, but don’t spend a great deal of time in the park,” said Drew Amend, 9.

The bricks around the flag pole are inscribed with names of both living and deceased veterans.

In the front office of our own school is a glass case with pictures of SHS graduates serving in the military.

“The military is one of the toughest

professions you can have,” said Allie Martin, 10.

Last year, one of those graduates joined the ranks of honorable souls who sacraficed their life for freedom and happiness of not only the people at home, but for the entirety of America.

Next time you are in Veterans Memorial Park or walking through the main entrance of our own school, stop and give a quick thanks to those who are making enormous sacrifices for you.

”

It is easy to take liberty for granted, when you have never had it taken from you

”

- V.P. Dick Cheney

With possible recession at hand:

Gas prices steadily declining moriah KRAWEC

staff writer

1960s

.26 cents .31 cents unleaded

1980s

1970s

photo by jake newton

GAS PRICES ARE constantly changing due to the declining stability of the economy. One may wonder how prices have dropped so much in such a short amount of time. While citizens may be happy due to recent prices, america is hurting because of the economy.

Back home, the American stock market crash, percentage-wise, exceeds that of the crash that initiated the Great Depression. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted nine percent the week of Oct. 8. In comparison, in Oct. 1929, the Dow lost eight and a half percent.

In spite of recent price surges in most commodities, some types of expenses will stay stable throughout the years.

“I’ve had to raise my son’s allowance,” said Parrott.

unleaded

.53 cents

$1.19

unleaded

unleaded

1990s

Early 2008

$1.14 unleaded

Now:

$4+

unleaded

$2.45

unleaded

Gas prices

1950s

throughout history

Gas and food prices rise. Wages are flat. Home sales fall. Retail sales plummet. The stock market falls trillion dollars and reaches its lowest point since 1987. The economy is in poor shape, and is affecting countless people here and abroad. "[The amount of money available for spending is] less, a lot less," said Mrs. Cynthia Parrott, science department supervisor.

The American economy is struggling. For example, costs of cereal grains have risen 41 percent in six months. Rising fuel prices and stagnant paychecks also fuel the financial problems of the middle class and below.

“My college-aged daughter’s wages have stayed flat,” said Parrott.

Due to banks allowing loans for high-risk subprime borrowers, home foreclosure rates began to rise by the end of 2006. This accelerated into the housing crisis of today, with home prices and sales falling because of concerns about home values.

Petroleum prices still remain relatively high, despite recent drops. A barrel of oil is currently at the $85 mark, which is $62 lower than its July peak. As of Oct. 13, the average gas price in Ohio per gallon is 2.94$.

“If you think about this time last year, with gas prices being 4.00$ [a gallon], you’re now spending $20 more at the pump,” said Parrott.

As the US economy travels in the direction of recession, the world economy is in turmoil. The economies of other first-world nations are following America’s footsteps. Even nations such as Kenya are feeling the effect of the ailing US economy.

6

opinion

Talking politics with friends can...

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Tamper with friendships Enlighten discussion evan GILDENBLATT

J

chad CHESSIN

staff writer

staff writer

ames and Mary are perfectly content with their friendship, but James is a staunch Obama supporter and Mary just loves McCain. James and Mary ruin their relationship by talking about politics.

Political discourse is one of two things that can cause irreparable rifts in any relationship. The other is religion, but that is an utterly dissimilar discussion for a completely different time.

If one is surrounded by friends who share drastically different political beliefs, then they run the risk of being ostracized and feeling hesitant to voice their opinions.

During political dialogue, intelligent and charming people often morph into irrational ideologues with nothing to say that is remotely important or factually based.

Referring back to the case of James and Mary, they both realize that they are dead-set in their opinions and will not change each others’ minds. Why, then, do they run their mouths?

The main point of an argument is to convince the other side that your point is the more correct of the two. Why not keep politics out of their otherwise good-humored exchanges?

“I don’t often talk politics with my friends, because some people’s opinions are so strong that the goal of the whole conversation is just to incite an argument. My least favorite conversation in the world is a political one,” said Bridget Handkins, 12.

This is not to say that political activism should not by any means be an important part of any student’s life. It should.

What this does mean, though; is that we are better off staying away from the

heated topic of politics in general.

If one feels strongly on one cause or another, they can certainly become a campaigner for it.

Relationships, however, can be likened to a thin window: they are quite easily broken and require much care. We should be considerate not to break these delicate windows with conversation that can easily be avoided. *Playing devil’s advocate is often a necessary part of journalism. The views expressed above do not neces-

As the presidential election date of Nov. 4 rapidly approaches, neither candidate has sealed victory.

Students are abuzz around the school, talking up their respective political party.

Whether you advocate John McCain or Barack Obama, the weeks leading up to Election Day prove to be a truly exciting time, with clashing heads between parties. However, the question is posed: Does political conversation have a place among friends?

“I think discussing politics with friends is a good decision, because as citizens of this country, it is wise to understand our current leadership situation,” said Nick Schraffenberger, 9.

While many teenagers believe that having a political stance and discussing the election is essential, others believe it has no place in daily conversation, using the rationale that since we are under the legal voting age, why should we care?

This reasoning is false. Although most of us are too young to vote, we must be able to discuss this election, because the result will impact our nation in troubled times.

“Especially now, with the troubles we are experiencing economically and politically, it is very important that we understand this election and what each candidate brings to the table. This way, we can see what the future may hold,” said Rohan Dalal, 10.

Also, we must be up-todate on the United States’ political situation because in four years, our voting decisions will further shape the country.

“Discussing politics is important at our age because although we can’t vote now, the issues in this election will also be prevalent in the next, when we can vote. If we understand them now, it will help us understand them later, when they have become more complex,” said Jeffrey Silverstein, 10.

Political conversation is not just a topic teens can use to impress others.

It keeps you updated on current issues, and betters your understanding of the country. photo by noa belillti

NICKI HASSELBECK, 12, AND Shelby Gilgoff, 12, argue over political topics at lunch. All of their tablemates cleared the scene, as the argument escalated. Politics can be a touchy subject.

Obama: ‘too undeveloped’ McCain: ‘too unchanging’ brandon SOSNA

staff writer

There are few constants between the two political parties.

On occasion, the two candidates representing their respective sides agree on certain policies.

Also, they usually tend to agree on acting in the country’s best interests – usually.

In this election however, both John McCain and Barack Obama see eye to eye when it comes to change.

Change is necessary, because the United States has only infrequently been in such turmoil as it is right now, given the dropping state of the economy and the rising percent of unemployment.

Unfortunately, McCain’s stock is plummeting as fast as the “DOW.” According to various polls, Obama’s lead has widened in the presidential race.

Closer look at Obama

Speaking of stock, I would not take much stock in what Obama says. He should not be trusted.

How can we elect a man in office who lies to us on a consistent basis?

Are you honestly willing to say that, despite Obama knowing Tony Rezko for 20 years, he was unaware of his wrong-doings, and cannot even recall how much money Rezko raised for him?

Can you sincerely believe that after going to Pastor Jeremiah Wright’s church for 20 years, he had no idea that the man had said so many seditious things?

Have you seen that commercial, supported by Obama, that shows a clip of McCain shouting, “it’s over! It’s over for the special interests!”?

The commercial goes on to describe McCain’s apparent lobbyists that he has put into positions of power.

It seems as if the hypocritical Obama is palling around with some lobbyists himself.

The chair of Obama’s New Hampshire campaign, Joe Demers, lobbies for drug companies.

It is rather humorous that Obama responded by claiming this was not true, when Demers heads up a drug lobbyist firm in his own name – Demers Group.

Hypocrite-in-the-making?

Obama likes to criticize the current presidential regimes beliefs on energy, but it is a fact that he voted for Vice President Dick Cheney’s energy bill in 2005. Furthermore, he bragged about this bill on his website, where a headline read: Senate energy bill contains goodies for Illinois.

Obama sparked controversy in June of 2002, when he voted to strip millions of dollars from a child’s welfare program in Chicago. Afterwards, his explanation for why he did so was that he goofed, and pressed the wrong button.

I guess he also did not know that overturning votes in common practice in the senate. After all, he only voted close to 4,000 times during his eight years in state office.

Obama is just like all the rest of the flip-flopping, back and forth liberals, with one difference: he has less experience than all of them.

How can a man who has spent not even four years in Senate, two of which he has spent campaigning, advocate that he can truly change America?

What will happen if Obama goofs again, and presses the wrong button when it really matters – when he is in office?

In a time where the United States is in a struggle with foreign affairs and the economy, we need leadership: Leadership that can only be provided by McCain.

s.m. DIPALI staff writer

Change is the word that is heard all around when the presidential election is discussed. Change from what? Change from the failed policies of right-wing President George Bush.

In all the turmoil of the economy, healthcare, the war and national debt, the United States is in serious need of change.

Barack Obama and John McCain, preach change in their campaigns but when looking at their policies, only one shows true change. That candidate is Obama.

Major issues

This is eerily similar to today’s credit crisis, where a lack of regulation and cozy relationships between the financial industry and Congress has allowed banks to make risky loans and profit by bending the rules.

McCain’s judgment and values have placed him on the wrong side of history.

America cannot afford more of the same.

Lastly and most importantly is the war in Iraq. This topic is a particularly controversial one, but still needs to be addressed.

Consistency, character The Iraq war was a war initiated on false The economy is in desperate condition, pretenses and in turn, landed us with more with stocks falling rapidly and many Amerthan $1 trillion in debt. With American icans losing money and jobs. lives on the line we cannot afford any more McCain voted mistakes, especially in to privatize soI’m asking you to a country that is on the cial security, believe in what’s verge of civil war. which in a sense Obama’s plan is to yours. would have put bring our troops home -Sen. Barack Obama social security safely in installments contributions in while slowly giving the stock market. control back to the With the recent Iraqi government. McCain’s plan, on the decline in stock prices, if Democrats, like other hand, is to keep the troops in Iraq Obama, had not opposed this plan most until “the job is done,” even if it takes 100 Americans would be serious jeopardy. years.

Another point of discussion is the He also sees Iran as a threat and was Keating scandal. McCain was accused quoted as saying, “Bomb! Bomb! Bomb of improperly aiding Charles Keating, Iran!”

This could be considered as change, chairman of the Lincoln Savings and Loan but definitely not for the better.

Association and close personal friend who “I’m asking you to believe. Not just in my often advised McCain in his policies. ability to change Washington... I’m asking The Senate Ethics Committee investigatyou to believe in what’s yours,” said Obama. ed and formally reprimanded McCain for This is real change, change we can believe his role in the high-stakes scandal. in for the future.

””

7

opinion FRIDAY October 31, 2008

This is no joke

Which is number one? garrett STEINBUCH

T

staff writer

he Joker is undeniably the most dangerous and unpredictable foe Batman has ever encountered. While safely confined within the walls of Arkham Asylum for the Criminally Insane, the Joker has been ruminating over his troubled origins.

Unlike Batman, the Jokers’ identity is unknown to the audience. It is believed by most people that the Joker fell into a vat of toxic chemicals, which bleached his skin white, turned his hair green, and left him with a permanant red lips. This gave the Joker the appearance of a clown.

The Joker has many weapons including his own “laughing gas,” a nerve toxin that kills

within seconds and leaves his victims giggling themselves to death. He has also been imprisoned for attempting to bomb Broadway with a tactical nuclear weapon.

Well known for being the archenemy of Batman, the Joker has been portrayed by many different actors.

The Joker has been described as a sociopathic criminal who has many wacky tricks to cover the crimes he pulls for his own enjoyment.

The Joker has been played by five different actors. Cesar Romero was the Joker in the 1960s Batman television series. In the movie Batman in 1989, the Joker was played by Jack Nicholson. The Joker in the Batman animated television series was voiced by Mark Hamill. Kevin Michael Richardson was the Joker in

the movie The Batman. Most recently, Heath Ledger played the role in Batman: The Dark Knight.

Shaving the list down to which of the five Jokers are the best, it can really be narrowed down to Romero, Nicholson, Richardson, and Ledger because they were not animated.

Next, the best Joker can be narrowed down even more to Romero, Nicholson, and Ledger because they played a main part in their respective movies and television shows.

All of the actors left have had great moments as the Joker and have also had terrible moments.

Romero was the first on screen actor of the Joker, but is not very well known.

“I believe that Jack Nicholson was a much better actor than the other actors, but I think that Heath Ledger had one of the best performances of modern day cinema,” said Dan Ashton, 11.

Nicholson is still ranked the number 45 of the top 50 film villains by the American Film Institute. But, the second Batman movie was cancelled

by Warner Bros Pictures meaning that Nicholson only had one chance to be the Joker.

Ledger is thought to be the best, but because he took the Joker to heart, his life was ended before the movie was in theaters. With these three talented

actors, Romero can be eliminated because he was in multiple Batman shows and is not very well known.

This leaves Nicholson and Ledger.

Even though Nicholson is highly ranked among filmed villains, and was in one of the best fight scenes of his time, the part of the Joker needs to be played like a psycho. With this in mind, I can narrow it down to only one Joker. Heath Ledger.

Ledger played the part of Joker and was very fearsome. His tone of voice, costume, and criminal mind put together, created the best Joker of all time.

photo by garrett steinbuch

THE THREE JOKERS from the Batman movies. (Left to right) Ceasar Romero, Jack Nicholson, and Heath Ledger all acted as the Joker. Romero was from the 1960s, Nicholson was from 1989, and Ledger was from the most recent movie in 2008. Ledger has been chosen as the best Joker of all time.

numbers

$512 million

number brought in by Batman: The Dark Knight (2008)

$251 million

number brought in by Batman (1989)

120 number of episodes in the 1960’s Batman television series

Fast facts about Joker First appearance: Special abilities: Choice weapons: Batman #1 Comic Book (Spring 1940)

Though not especially strong or skilled in fighting, the Joker is nonetheStatus: Villain less a deadly enemy. He has demonstrated an Base: Gotham City expertise at chemistry by Occupation: putting together his own Anarchist, Mass murder- poisonous Joker Venom. er, Professional criminal This is a weapon of mass destruction that leaves its Height: 6 feet victims with an expression Weight: 192 lbs of extreme horror, resembling the Joker’s own evil Eyes: Green smirk.

Hair: Green

He often has deadly joke props or gags such as an acid-squirting boutonniere or BANG!- proclaiming a flag pistol that doubles as a spear gun.

He will also use conventional weapons- anything form a single-shot Derringer tucked in the brim of his hat to an operational nuclear warhead concealed within the trunk of his showy Joker mobile.

source: DC Comics Encyclopedia

8

opinion FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Obama, McCain square Students are voting for Obama because...

“

McCain appears to be focused more on Obama’s negatives than his own positives.

“

”

-Brien Badeer, 12

Obama is more commited to actually making the changes he preaches.

-Daniel Bobier, 12

”

“

Obama has a first-class intelect and temperament

“

”

-Stephen Raithel, 12

He is the best candidate to improve the economy and end the failed wars.

-Riley Able, 12

”

Students face important choice as evan ROMANSKY

T

staff writer

&

jeremy SPIEGEL opinion chief

his November, a momentous event will occur, possibly changing the existing power structure. Supporters of both sides remain convinced that their side can win, and capture the rewards. Trash-talking is flying back and forth.

No, it is not the Michigan-Ohio State game.

On November 4, Barack Obama and John McCain will square off in the presidential election, with the future of our country hanging in the balance.

Both candidates may preach change, but fundamental differences highlight the choice that voters will have to make next Tuesday.

Never before in recent memory has an election meant this much. With the economy at its lowest point since the Great Depression, voters divided over the correct response to the Iraq War and global terrorism, and thousands of Americans unable to afford health care or proper education, this election will be key in determining the direction this country takes.

Each candidate brings separate qualifications to the table. Will voters choose Senator McCain, the Vietnam War hero with a long and distinguished political career? Or will they go with the relatively unknown Senator Obama, who arrives in Washington preaching a platform of change at this desperate hour?

Although the majority of high school students are unable to vote, a minority of seniors will step into the booth on Tuesday and make a decision that will impact all our lives.

So Democrat or Republican, get in there and vote. And if you are still unsure about which candidate to support, hopefully this guide will help you make an informed decision.

L A I T N E D I S 2008 PRE

B. OBAMA IS D- ILLINO all images by evan romansky and jeremy spiegel

barack obama and John McCain are running against one another in the upcoming presidential election. Although each candidate has their own strengths

Obama brings change we need

senator barack obama speaks in front of a packed crowd in Austin, Texas. Obama has used his youth and inexperience as a positive, representing himself as an agent of change. Obama’s supporters claim that he will improve the American economy and help the lower and middle class.

As the economy continues to worsen, US troops remain bogged down in a failed war in Iraq, and hardworking Americans continue to be left behind by unemployment, few tax breaks and no health care, it has become clear that Barack Obama is the president we need to guide our country through these trying times.

John McCain has all but turned the page on the economy, instead choosing to spend the next month attacking Obama’s character. That strategy has worked before, but it will not work this election.

The American people, turned off by the partisan bickering holding back Congress, want a leader who can end the failed policies of the Bush administration.

Although McCain claims to reach across party lines, the fact remains that he has voted with George Bush 90% of the time, and favors similar economic policies as Bush. These policies have led the United States into its worst financial crisis since the Great Depression, with no end currently in sight.

Barack Obama will work to create jobs, increase tax breaks and health care for the lower and middle class, and end the failed foreign policy of the last eight years. John McCain claims to be a maverick, but it is Barack Obama who can bring about the real change this country needs.

Platform

Economy: Fundamental change needed to existing economic system. Tax cuts for 95% of American families, but opposes the Bush tax cuts towards wealthy businesses.

Health Care: National health care insurance program for all those who do not have health care provided by businesses.

Iraq: Center of the War on Terror should be Af ghanistan. Withdraw all US troops from Iraq by 2010, and station more troops in Afghanistan.

Education: Ensure that all Americans are able to send their children to top schools. More access to early education programs and col lege scholarships.

National Security: Improve the United States intelligence system by creating position to share intelligence across all levels of govern ment.

Energy: Remove all dependence on foreign oil by 2018. Strong supporter of alternative en ergy sources.

opinion

9

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

off in nearing election November approaches ELECTION BAL

LOT

Candidates key in on Ohio It would seem ridiculous to say that one state could determine the outcome of an election.

But is it just coincidence that Ohio voters have picked the winning President in the past 11 elections?

The last time Ohioans chose wrong was the 1960 election when we chose Richard Nixon over eventual winner John F. Kennedy.

In the eyes of the presidential nominees, Ohio is one of, if not the most important state in the election.

That is why it seems week after week, news broadcasts are filled with constant reports of Obama, McCain, Palin, or Biden visiting the local areas, like Lebanon and Wilmington, searching for those all so important votes.

Ohio is like a giant pendulum rocking back and forth. One day it is swinging to the left and the next day it is swinging to the right.

The candidates keep trying to give Ohio that one big push; that one statement or action where they can briefly freeze that pendulum in time and take the next step in becoming the 44th President of the United States.

Students are voting for McCain because...

“

I like his oil and energy policies and he’s an American hero.

”

-Adrian Radtke, 12

“

He supports stem cell research and that’s important to me.

-Brien Gearin, 12

”

“

I’m a moderate Republican and McCain is one too.

J. MCCAIN R- ARIZONA

“

and weaknesses, only one will be elected to office on Tuesday. Students who are able to vote will have a major choice to make, one that will effect the future of this country.

Platform

Economy: Believes in a pro-growth, pro-jobs strategy. Favors easonable economic growth, comprehensive spending controls, bi-partisan ship in budget efforts.

Health Care: Easier for individuals and families to obtain insurance. Work for guaranteed ac cess plan.

Iraq: Believes we must help government of Iraq so it does not become a failed state, a haven for terrorists, or a pawn of Iran.

Education: Schools should be most innovative, flexible and student-centered. Will pursue re forms that address underlying cultural prob lems in the education system.

National Security: The US military must remain the best and most capable in the world The military is the way to protect our homeland, our interests, and our values.

Energy: Develop advanced transportation technologies and alternative fuels to promote energy independence.

”

-Emily Eckert, 12

the 2004 map of Ohio indicates the importance of the state. Counties shaded in black voted for George Bush, while lighter counties voted for Democrat John Kerry. Bush’s 2% victory margin provided the winning votes for his reelection campaign. This year, both candidates are campaigning often in Ohio, in an attempt to receive Ohio’s 20 electoral votes.

McCain is not going to raise taxes.

If you raise taxes during a recession, like Obama plans to do, then that’s how depressions occur.

”

-Zach Sosna, 12

McCain offers experience, wisdom John McCain is a practiced Senate member and a Vietnam War hero. McCain has the wisdom and accolades to lead this country in the right direction.

This election has revolved around talks of McCain’s age. Why should age be that big of a factor?

If it is, then shouldn’t we factor in Barack Obama’s age or his 25 years of chain smoking?

Obama is only 47. He has only been in office for 4 years. McCain may be 72 years old, but that just means he has 19 years more experience in office.

But why do we talk about these things?

We should be talking about issues that matter. It has seemed as if Obama does not feel the urgency of the freefalling economy as much as McCain.

Obama says he is a pro-jobs candidate. Really? If he plans to tax those making over $200,000, many of which are business owners, then the high taxes will cause companies to hire less workers, maybe even lay off current employees.

McCain is a real pro-jobs candidate in a time where unemployment rates are as high as ever. His low taxes, flexible health insurance, and energy policy will create job opportunities that just may never come with Obama in office.

Obama may be young, vibrant, and a voice for change, but McCain provides America with the wisdom, policies, and necessary leadership to stabilize this tilted country.

senator john mccain speaks at a veteran rally in Detroit, Michigan. McCain is attempting to paint his opponent as an inexperienced, socialistic candidate. His proponents claim that McCain is the better candidate for both foreign policy and the economy.

10

fun&games

image by charlie manion

J UMB LE

brittany ARGYRIOU fun&games chief

Directions: Unscramble the letters, then write one in each box to form four common words.

How do witches keep their hair in place while flying?

DYNAC

NIPKUMP

ELEONSKT

VPEIRAM

TETAR

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Sudoku brittanny ARGYRIOU fun&games chief

TGSHO

Now, take each circled letter and rearrange to answer this question.

Fill in each box so that every row, column, and box has the numbers 1-9. Make sure that there are no repeats!

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6. all images by brittanny argyriou

Candy Pumpkin Skeleton Vampire Treat Ghost

Answer: With scare spray

11

feature FRIDAY October 31, 2008

homecoming ‘08

“...it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years” -Abraham Lincoln

all photos by jeremy mcdaniel

CLOCKWISE: KAITLYNN WHISMAN, 11 and Alec Stamper, 9, enjoy an evening of dancing. Kevin Bogenschutz, 10, and Mallory Condron, 10, walk down the field during half time of the football game for homecoming court. Steve Hull, 12, dives for a ball during the last minute of the game. As pep rally host, Marty Jones, 12, pumps up the crowd. The many singles and couples dance the night away. Hannah Kelp, 11, Daniel Foster, 12, Daniel Garfield, 12, Katelyn Hutson,12, and Will Kiley,12, break it down at the dance.

Homecoming HIGHLIGHTS this month in feature tailgate:

students enjoy games, activities daniella COS staff writer

Meet Kate Muething and her new service dog

Page 12

Haunted houses and other fall activities have arrived.

Check them out on

Page 14

image by libby henning

E

companies were generous in getting very year before the homeinvolved. VitaminWater, a product of coming game, SHS hosts Coca Cola, was kind enough to come an incredible communityand donate some of their products, gathering tailgate. Students including their new energy drinks. gathered for an evening of games, “All my friends seemed to like the food and fun, and all individuals, VitaminWater,” said Sophie Kantor, young and old, were excited to par11. “I think it was a good idea getting ticipate in this event, which proved popular drinks we all like.” once again to be enjoyable for all.

This year student council decided There were games like corn-hole to use a new food company called and volleyball to keep the kids Gordon Food Service. This company entertained and for only three dolprovided most of the food that was lars any person could enjoy dessert, handed out drinks, chips I am very proud of my during the and a hotdog or tailgate. sandwich. committee, they did “They “I played were pretty volleyball most incredible. awesome, of the time with they had the little kids everything they were hiprepared for larious, I had a us to pick up and it was no hassle,” lot of fun,” said Jaimee Johnson, 12. said Mr. Chris Kloesz, Student Not only were there games and food, but live music was played in the Council Advisor.

Like most events, cleaning up is background for everyone to enjoy. never the best part, but thanks to This, however, was not any typical volunteers, who were parents of band, but was none other than Mr. SHS students, and students assigned Kevin Mays’ band. to cleaning, it was not the hassle it “That is insane! I can’t believe your could have been. principal is playing and singing for This year’s homecoming tailgate your school,” said Nick Shea, 12, a visitor to the tailgate from Conestoga was executed with great success; hopefully, this type of out come will High School. be around for years to come.

This event, planned by the tailgate “I was so nervous, but I am very committee in Student Council, was proud of my committee,” said Danpulled together with generous donaielle Linz, 11. “They did incredible.” tions from the community.

Along with the community, many

”” -Danielle Linz, 11

November sparks students creativity

NaNoWriMo casey YORK

staff writer

Ever since a group of twenty-one co-workers in San Francisco thought up the idea of a month of frenzied writing, National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) has been going strong. Ten years and over 100,000 participants later, November is about to start.

For those who have attempted the feat of 50,000 words in 30 days before, they know that it is no joy ride. The month is full of ups and downs unpredictable in every way.

“You never know how it’s going to turn out. One day you might be writing up a storm, and the next you’ve got no clue where you’re going with it,” said Sarah York, 10.

The goal seems simple: write 50,000 (roughly seventy pages in Microsoft Word) in 30 days. To meet the goal, participants have to write at least 1,667 words a day (which is only one and a half pages a day).

Easy, right?

Not exactly.

While most can sit down and write 2,000 words without a problem, writing a cohesive (and not completely ridiculous) story at that daily rate is extremely difficult.

“There are a few tricks of the trade. One of the biggest is making sure that you write a lot in the first few days, so that you have some padding when your muse abandons you,” said Jing Xing, 11.

There are actually several techniques to help people finish the month with words to spare. Try writing with different tools (abandon the computer completely; try writing freehand). Explore the local neighborhood, and find new places to write.

“I once read something somewhere about a woman who said that wearing gaudy rings on every finger helped her creativity,” said Brianna Moody, 12.

So, whatever the particular flavor of inspiration may be, grab a pen and get to writing as soon as November comes. The clock starts ticking on November first, so do not hesitate to join the impulsive world of aspiring novelists.

12

feature FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Service dog becomes student companion, prescription

How to: Celebrate Halloween without trick-ortreating

Panic attacks require canine cure

mary ann JIANG

mong the sneakers and Ugg boots traversing the hallways, a new pair of feet is making their debut.

Kate Muething, 11, now has a dog by her side, a service dog named Leoti, to help her with an anxiety disorder.

Leoti helps Muething know when she is in danger of suffering panic attacks, so that they can be prevented.

Leoti can detect hormones released when Muething’s anxiety reaches an alarming level.

Muething has had to miss school because of her condition, and the dog is capable of warning her to take precautions before anything serious occurs so she does not have to miss as much school.

“Some people are really cool about it and some people are being very negative,” said Muething.

“They ask ‘Why is there a dog in the school? Why does she get one?’

But it’s mostly just because they’re misinformed. My mom and I are planning on printing and copying half-sheets to give out to explain my condition.”

Reasons for use

Muething’s doctor wanted her to use a service dog for reasons more than just her anxiety.

Her post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, causes panic attacks and triggers agoraphobia, a fear of leaving home. After a stress attack, Muething is forced to stay home because this agoraphobia.

On Sept. 29, 2008, Muething began living with Leoti, who accompanies her everywhere, and she gains full ownership in April.

Regardless of all formality, because Leoti is only one year old, Muething expects to spend many more years with her dog, without panic attacks.

“Forever, basically,” said Muething.

maria MARBALLI spotlight editor

Impact on students

As a part of her agreement with the administration, Muething must bathe the dog at least once a month and brush Leoti down for at least 20 minutes per day.

For those who are allergic to dogs, brushing Leoti down and bathing her will rid her of dander, the primary reason for allergic reactions.

As for the role of students, the dog should not be petted or bothered unless laying down (called “downstay”). Students must also ask Muething for permission. Leoti is trained, but still young.

“She’s as tame as you can get for a one-year-old trained dog. She knows when to settle down. She does get hyper though, mostly when she’s offduty,” said Muething.

By being with Leoti constantly, Muething can live independently, so to speak. In such a way it is hard to say who actually has who on a leash: Muething, as the caretaker, or Leoti, the key to fighting PTSD. Ultimately, Leoti being so unique is exactly why she is necessary.

Students should not be worried about Muething’s service dog disrupting the school day.

Leoti has been trained to maintain a calm disposition around others, as long as the dog is not touched unnecessarily. Students with questions should refer to the information that will be given by Muething and her mother.

Anand India ~Restaurant~

photo by mary ann jiang

THE SCHOOL NOW has a new member among the student body: a service dog named Leoti, who assists Kate Muething, 11, for an anxiety disorder. Leoti will help Muething lower absences in school that result from her disorder. The dog has been trained to detect hormones released when Muething could have an anxiety attack on account of her post-traumatic stress disorder. Leoti has been trained to maintain a calm disposition when around others, and as long as she is not touched unnecessarily, will not react to other students.

‘We’re looking forward to reconnecting once again with our sister school in Epsom’

AP Euro students host foreign participants Authentic Indian Cuisine exchange frank PAN

Lunch and dinner options Vegetarian dishes available

10890 Reading Road Cincinnati, OH 45241

513-554-4040

staff writer

“The British are coming! The British are coming!”

From Monday, Oct. 27 to today, Friday, Oct. 31, 44 girls accompanied by five teachers from the Rosebery school in Epsom, England have been visiting SHS. For the third time since 2002, SHS and the Rosebery School in Epsom have exchanged students for one week to experience life in America or England. It all began in 2002 when, Ms. Marilyn Ray, AP European History teacher, taught at Rosebery and one of the teachers from Rosebery, Mr. Brian Predergast came and taught at SHS for the entire year.

Since a special connection has been made between the schools, the exchange program was developed as it fits perfectly. AP European History students can learn about England, a major power in European history.

This week, the girls have stayed in Cincinnati and have been housed at the homes of Ray’s students. They woke up like any other student at

6:00 a.m., trudged to school, and shadowed their host student.

A lot was planned for the girls and they have surely had a hectic week.

On Monday, they arrived in Cincinnati at around 9:30 p.m., and were introduced to their host family.

“I hope I get to know the British girls well, very well,” said Kubilay Inanli, 10.

Today, the British girls get a taste of Senior Halloween and they were encouraged to dress up as famous British figures for the event.

“I wonder if they celebrate Halloween in England,” said Michael Dobler, 10.

The girls will then head off to the airport around noon and head for England.

This cultural exchange will help connect the world and it will allow students to get a taste of a country on the other side of the ocean.

“We’re looking forward to reconnecting once again with our sister school in Epsom,” said Ray.

It is finally Halloween and everyone is getting ready for a night of dressing up and going door to door for free candy. Well for some of us.

Others feel that they have grown out of the whole “trick-or-treat” concept. If you happen to be one of those that have outgrown the tradition, there are plenty of other things to do to get the most out of this Halloween.

1. Throw a party. It may be last minute, but Halloween falls perfectly on a Friday, allowing late night plans and sleeping in the following Saturday. Get some friends together, tell them to dress up in their most elaborate costumes, and come over for a huge Halloween bash!

Themed Halloween parties are also fun. Pick a theme that would be a big hit with friends, and tell everyone to dress up for that theme! For example: Safari! It is time to get out that outrageous zebra-print outfit and have fun.

2. Be a part of the fun, if the concept of dressing up is still appealing.

Dress up and give out candy to all the kids. This way you can admire all the other costumes and be a giver rather than a taker as you were in past Halloweens.

If you want to have a little more fun, get dressed up in a scary costume and scare the kids when they come to the door! After all, it is Halloween.

3. Go to a haunted house. If you are one of those people out looking for a good scare, check out the haunted houses around the neighborhood.

“Every year my friends and I go to as many haunted houses as we can find. We love them, it never gets old,” said Aamna Dosani, 10.

4. Go to Fear Fest at King’s Island.

“Fear Fest is awesome. I don’t like trick-or-treating but I never miss this,” said Brandon Buka, 10.

5. Carve pumpkins. A lot of people may have already carved their pumpkins for the season, but some have not. If there are any pumpkins around the house or neighborhood that no one wants, carve one!

Then use the insides to create delectable Halloween treats such as pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread.

Or just roast the seeds with some friends.

6. Have a bonfire. Bonfires are perfect for Halloween. Get some friends together, circle up, and tell your scariest of ghost stories. Making s’mores is always a nice addition as well.

With these suggestions, Halloween is bound to be a great one, whether trick-or-treating is on the agenda or not!

“

“

A

editor-in-chief

Every year my friends and I go to as many haunted houses as we can find. We love them, it never gets old, -Aamna Dosani, 10

feature

13

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

‘I realized it’s not that bad if you don’t procrastinate’ 0 11

91

4 23 5

Organization, is key12to1 timely completion of college applications 678

tolu OGINNI staff writer

With senior year comes great responsibilities. One of the most important responsibilities is deciding what happens next year.

For those headed to college, this means one thing: college applications.

Students have all heard horror stories about completing college applications for almost as long as they can remember: the sleepless nights, the teacher recommendations, the checking and re-checking of essays.

It is no wonder that students regard college applications with acute fear.

However, there is good news. In reality, completing college applications with ease is simply a matter of organization, awareness of deadlines, and a calm disposition.

“In the beginning, I found college applications very stressful. However, after I started my first essay, I realized it’s not that bad if you don’t procrastinate,” said Sonia Lillaney, 12.

The first thing that students should do to begin the process is to write down all of the colleges that they will be applying to in order of preference.

Next, to keep things organized, students can create a spreadsheet (Microsoft Excel is recommended) listing the schools, what the college application for each one entails, and the application due dates.

By color-coordinating the spreadsheet in terms of what has not been done, what is in progress, and what has been completed, students can simply glance at the spreadsheet in order to track their progress.

The information needed to fill out this spreadsheet is available on www.collegeboard.com or on most college websites.

It is most beneficial to finish the application data and teacher recom-

mendations for all the colleges before tackling the essays.

Then, students can concentrate solely on them.

When distributing teacher recommendations, students must be considerate of the teachers.

This includes informing the chosen teachers well in advance that they will be writing recommendations, promptly submitting the required papers neatly and well within the due date, and informing teachers on those dates.

Students should be sure to choose teachers who know them well.

“I chose Mrs. Liz Gonda [to write my teacher recommendations] because she inspired me to be a teacher.

I also chose Mr. John Whapham because he is a father figure to me,” said Alex Cole, 12.

In order to reduce the workload involved in writing numerous college essays in a limited amount of time, students should begin by choosing the essay topic for all essays first, and outlining them second, before actually writing them out.

Students should be sure to have an adult well-versed in the art of essay writing check their essays for errors.

This will most likely be a Language Arts teacher. Students must be open to corrections on their essays.

“My mother is checking my essays because she is an English major,” said Mary-Lynn Philips, 12.

The best advice that can be given is to not panic.

It may seem like an impossible task, but it is indeed possible. It has been done before, and it will be done again.

Good luck to all seniors currently elbow-deep in college applications.

Flyerette’s

Holiday Boutique

Thursday, November 20 7-10 p.m.

St. Barnabas Church 10345 Montgomery Rd.

photo by leah burgin

MRS. KAYE GAFFNEY, head of the college and career center, and Neeli Yarchi, 11, discuss different college meetings that Yarchi plans to attend. Gaffney is able to provide students with information on how to schedule campus visits and tips on the other parts of the application process. Gaffney also stresses the guidance office website as a great resource for college questions.

Make college visits count:

Talk to students, sleep over, take classes, ask questions elise GELWICKS

T

staff writer

is the season for college visits.

Every autumn, colleges are flooded with high school students hoping to attend their school.

“I have plans to visit The Ohio State University in the next few weeks and can’t wait to see the campus. I think autumn in the best time to go because it is not too hot or too cold,” said Josie McKinnon, 11.

However, it is not enough just to drive through campus and pick up a brochure. There are a few crucial things that must be completed in order to really get to know any school: Do some research. Before getting to the school, be familiar with the town and the types of people that attend.

One should know what the general requirements are for admission so that it is not so ambiguous if acceptance is feasible.

If one can not physically go to a school, the college’s Web site is a great resource. Most schools have a virtual tour of the campus online, along with statistics about getting

getting your

in. It is also possible to meet with alumni from the school who live in a nearby area.

“I looked up the colleges I was interested in online and it gave me a really good idea of what the campus looked like,” said Stephanie Post, 12.

Start talking. Meander down the endless streets or grab lunch at the small-town restaurant.

This provides an excellent opportunity to get to know a random student. They will enjoy the opportunity to gush about their experiences and one can ask them questions.

“I recommend going on a weekday with your parents so you can see the types of students that choose to attend the particular school,” said Dr. Maria Sarasua, guidance counselor.

If possible, students should make a visit on a long weekend for more time to see all aspects of the school.

This also makes it easier to see more than one college in a weekend, which is beneficial because then students can compare two schools.

Take a class. Most colleges allow

non-students to walk into a large class and listen quietly to the professor. High school students can get a good idea of what classes are like.

If at all possible, stay with a friend who goes to the school. Staying in a dorm for a night allows one to really get a feel for dorm life. It is interesting to see what the students do for fun after hours of studying.

Sarasua also mentioned that it is a good idea for one to bring a copy of their transcript.

“If you are interested in a particular field, bring a copy of your transcript to the head of the department and they will be able to offer advice,” said Sarasua.

Remember: every school is different. One should always keep an open mind so it is easier to see all of the opportunities a school has to offer.

If someone is really serious about a school, it is advisable to schedule an interview with an admissions officer.

This allows the school to “get to know you” and shows dedication and seriousness.

for

2 ¢ college

Steps to applying for financial aid

mandi KIPNER

staff writer

1. First apply for federal grant money (FAFSA) 2. Apply for local scholarships (See guidance office Web site) 3. Apply for general scholarships that can be found at places like fastweb.com 4. Apply for merit scholarships

5. Take out loans to fill in the gaps for the rest *Vendors, Raffles, Refreshments sold to benefit the Sycamore Dance Team

Remember: meet deadlines and apply for everything. The

worst thing that could happen is you do not get the scholarship. image by libby henning

14

feature

Cinci’s hotspots } d e w llo

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

{ha

alyssa HOEPER

G

staff writer

et ready to be scared witless.

Experience fear this Halloween by going to haunted houses, mazes, trails and more. It is a great opportunity to hang out with friends and family.

“Haunted houses are great for thrill seekers” said Bill Fennessy, 10.

A few helpful hints when seeking out adventures this fall: Go online.

The internet can provide times and

dates, as well as coupons that are good money savers.

There are also great package deals.

There are combined special offers that can lower the overall price. For example, The Dark Triangle includes the USS Nightmare, Junction Nightmare, and St. Rita’s School for the Deaf, for a third of the price.

“Haunted houses are fun and exciting, but sometimes your friends can kill the fun. They are good to bring

Wake unstable legs carry her to the wall, a sturdy destination to lean against, take a breath before moving on into the flashing lights just keep moving, it’s a rehearsal of the day after day after day. repetition keeps her going, i promise she’ll be fine. every breath is a gasp for air and the wavering lines within the shaking body, please, she’ll tell you to leave her be but all she really wants is someone who will sit in silence or touch her head. be gentle; oh, I beg you.

-

-Jaimee Johnson, 12

dates to, though,” said Bizzy Young, 12.

Not only do students enjoy being scared, but enjoy scaring as well.

One of the employees of Kings Island’s Halloween Haunt.

“It’s great I get paid to scare people, it can’t get better than that,” said Anthony Campbell, 10.

Have fun with not just one, but several scary places and experience numerous different terrors of the town. The possibilities are endless.

Kings Island’s Halloween Haunt Friday night ($35) Saturday night ($48)

Poetry

Corner molly JOHNSON

staff writer

If you, or anyone you know, has a poem that they would like to have published, please drop it off in either Mrs. Cherlyn Jardine’s room (Rm. 115) or into her mail box, which is located in the main office.

The Dark Triangle USS Nightmare ($16) J. Nightmare ($15) St. Rita’s ($10) Land of Illusion Haunted trail ($15) Temple of Terror ($12) Dr. Psycho’s Haunted Estate ($10)

Life Life in in the the Candlelight Candlelight Life in the candlelight Living under a blanket of night I laugh in joy and scream in fright Life’s abundant joy of candlelight Darkness screams of true unknown Strange yet simple things never shown The sweet caressing undertones Of life in candlelight Brief sweet glimpses of freedom’s light Free of sound and free of sight A world of darkness is o so bright A life in peaceful candlelight

- Benji Katz, 9

A ‘maze’ of possibilities ...or fall family fun jacob NEWTON calendar editor

CINCINNATI OFFERS A wide variety of family friendly autumn activities, such as the ones mentioned below. Several of these local favorites offer great food, including fresh produce and homemade baked goods. Along with the fantastic food, most offer a wide selection of handmade crafts allowing ones home to look and feel great for the new season.

Blooms and Berries Probst Farm

Harvest Moon Corn Maze

Hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Hours: Friday: 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Cost: $5 Location: Lebanon

Description: Activities include hayrides

to the farm’s pumpkin patch, corn stalk tunnels, and much more. The farm’s market offers hand-dipped caramel apples and fresh pressed local cider.

For more Info: (513) 697-9173

Shaw Farm Hours: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily Cost: Free Location: Milford Description: This year Shaw Farm is offering a 15 acre corn maze in the shape of a giant pumpkin; however, there is a twist, inside the maze are six destination spots and when all six are discovered, one wins a free pumpkin For more Info: (513) 575-2022

Hours: Saturday: 1 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Hours: Sunday: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Cost: $8

Location: Lebanon Description: The ultimate fall experience.

This farm includes a 22 acre corn maze along with a pumpkin patch, an hourly hayride, and a petting zoo.

For more Info: (513) 891-2424

Iron’s Fruit Farm Hours: Monday- Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Hours: Sunday: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Cost: Free Location: Lebanon Description: In addition to a 12 acre corn

maze, this farm sells and produces many delicious, homemade baked goods.

For more Info: (513) 932-2853 image by jake newton

feature

15

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Exercise takes new form

Yoga both strenuous, relaxing Top benefits of yoga

gabirose KEETON managing editor

T

he winter months are approaching already. Most fall sports seasons have ended, first quarter has come and gone, and temperatures are showing signs of falling. No longer able to take a run outside, students and athletes are left with limited options for exercise.

However, one option that satiates the desire to stay fit, but keep away from the cold, is yoga. The practice and goal of yoga dates back to the Upanishads, the texts of teaching in the Hindu religion written in 750-550 BC, but has just come to the forefront of exercise in recent years.

Yoga not only offers the option of spiritual growth and relaxation, but it is also a physical exercise that requires flexibility, strength, and balance.

New exercise, old ways Yoga is both a spiritual and a physical exercise that helps individuals reach a peak in relaxation and meditation. It pushes the individual both physically and mentally, and, with time, one is able to perfect techniques and benefit from the full body workout that yoga has to offer.

It is defined as a systematic practice of physical exercise, breath control, relaxation, diet control, and positive thinking and meditation aimed at developing harmony in the body, mind, and environment.

Yoga has four paths which address all sides of human personality. These four paths all lead to the next: Karma Yoga (Path of Action), Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion), Raja Yoga (Path of Meditation), and Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge).

The practice and study of yoga helps bring about a natural balance of body and mind in which a state of health can flourish; however, it should be understood that yoga does not create health; rather it creates an environment in which health can be achieved.

History

Although the exact location of the first development of yoga is not factually known, the first references to yoga were found in an excavation site in the Indus Valley. Yoga was, and is, about spiritual

1. Pain management

growth and does not push any single religion.

The techniques today are being used for physical exercise; however, yoga was practiced first by the Indus to initiate spiritual growth. The yogis (name given to individuals who practice yoga), encouraged the union with the finite jive (transitory self) and the infinite Brahman (eternal self).

Yoga’s initial aim was to improve the human condition and heal community members. The practitioners acted as religious mediators, and though yoga is known for focusing more on the self, it started out as community-oriented before it turned inward.

The history of yoga can be divided into four periods: the Vedic Period, Pre-Classical Period, Classical Period, and Post-Classical Period. Each of these phases helped re-evaluate the existing form of yoga to help produce the modern day yoga techniques.

Prompts secretion of natural painkillers in body. Awareness of breathing helps to achieve calmer, slower respiration and aid in relaxation and pain management.

2. Reduced anxiety and more resistant to stress

Reduction of nervousness, irritability and confusion, depression and mental fatigue are some of the benefits experienced.

3. Mental performance

Extra bits on benefits

A common technique used in yoga is controlled breathing, which has been proven through electroencephlogram tests (measures brain waves), to increase brain activity. Increased brain activity is associated with better performance. Yoga can also enhance cognitive performance.

Yoga is the most rapidly growing health movement today, despite having already existed for thousands of years. Yoga’s primary emphasis is on general well-being, and now with the end of fall sports, it is a beneficial alternative.

It has been proven that yoga has provided a plethora of health benefits, and all benefits are within reach.

Among these, stress relief and relaxation are the benefits that could most profit students and athletes. Breathing is heavily emphasized in yoga because since muscles tend to relax when exhaling, lengthening the time of exhalation can help produce relaxation and reduce tension.

Yoga is not something that only elderly people do for their arthritis, and although helping arthritis patients is one of the benefits, it is not the only one.

Yoga’s inclusion of relaxation techniques and meditation can also help reduce pain, raise self awareness, and thus allow for early, preventive action.

Instead of going to the gym for a run on the treadmill (which only stimulates the cardiovascular system) the next time an exercise is in need, consider yoga and its full-body workout as a viable option.

4. Vitality and alertness Everyone who participates in yoga over a period of time reports a positive effect on outlook and energy level. Increase in perceptions of mental and physical energy and feelings of alertness and enthusiasm.

5. Self-awareness

Tree pose tests balance, strength

Increases on both a physical and psychological level, allowing people to take early collective action, such as adjusting posture when discomfort is first noticed.

One of the more simple poses in yoga is the tree pose. The challenge of the tree pose is maintaining balance on one leg. Regular practice of this pose will focus the mind and cultivate concentration. The pose should be practiced two or three times on each leg, and after skill is successfully attained, for an extra challenge, try closing the eyes and maintaing balance.

1

Stand with the feet together and the arms by your sides.

2 Bend the right leg at

the knee, raise the right thigh and bring the sole of the right foot as high up the inside of the left thigh as possible.

3 Balancing on the left

foot, bring both hands together at the center of the chest and joining the palms together. Remain here for 2-3 breaths.

all images by gabirose keeton

4 Raise both arms over

the head, keeping the elbows unbent and palms together. Hold the posture while breathing gently through the nostrils for about 10 breaths. When finished, return to standing position, and then repeat with the other leg.

16

feature

Dream analysis: FRIDAY October 31, 2008

leah BURGIN & daphne HSU feature chief

Common dream elements

translated

Abyss: a depressing or trying time Amusement Park: you are currently happy, or will soon be happy Apple: good health Balloon: you are involved in something that will only bring fleeting pleasure Bare feet: you feel unprepared Bath: with hot water – evil is soon approaching; with cold water – good news is on the way Bees: expect professional advancement or increased income Birds: good fortune; the more colorful plumage and the prettier song, the more good fortune that can be expected Buried alive: you have made, or are about to make a huge error Candle: burning low – you will soon experience great confusion; putting out a candle – you are repressing your thoughts Cat: bad luck Cave: trapped by your reactions to life Clown: happy clown – joy; sad clown – signify defeat; evil clown – deception and trickery; you are the clown – you are mocked behind your back Dragon: a symbol of impending chaos Eclipse: beware of being overshadowed or overshadowing someone else Elephant: associated with a strong memory, wisdom Falling: safe landing – you will prevail in a struggle; injured landing – you will fail; also symbolizes insecurity Flying: ability to rise above earthly problems Friend: you are ready to integrate aspects of your personality that you have previously rejected Gypsy: you will enter into an important relationship that will be unsuccessful Home: dream may occur during real life transition, instability, or growth Key: losing a key – domestic turmoil; finding a key – lengthy period of household tranquility

Sample dream “I was at the zoo on an architecture field trip and I was watching the lions. Suddenly, one of the lions grew wings and started flying around. I was scared that the lion was going to eat me because it could escape its cage.

Then I suddenly grew wings and started to fly away. The lion started flying after me and I was having fun trying to outmaneuver the lion in the air. All the people on the ground started sketching the our battle.

We eventually flew into the elephant enclosure and we suddenly both lost our wings. We each fell on a different elephant.

My elephant started ramming the lion’s elephant and the lion fell onto the ground. My elephant stamped on the lion, and he disappeared.

Some kids from AP Photo started taking pictures of me and I didn’t know why they were there. When I woke up I was confused. I didn’t know why I was in my bed.” submitted by Devin Choudhury, 10

Dream Elements: Elephant Falling

Flying Lion Sky

Wings Zoo

(elements translated on side panels)

Analysis:

One interpretation of this dream could be that the lion represents a problem, either internal or external, that has been bothering you or will present itself in the near future.

Because you grow wings to meet the challenge, the dream could mean that you will successfully fix this problem, and because you kill the lion, the problem will not bother you again.

The symbols that are present in this dream could give more insight as to the type of problem that you are facing or will face (the fact that you are in a zoo could mean that the problem is internal), but a better indicator would be your knowledge of what is going on in your life (you mentioned that you had just been at the zoo).

Also, remember that your emotions (fright, exhilaration, confusion) are more important than symbols.

How you ultimately feel about your dream (in this case, confused) could reveal that even though you will successfully resolve a conflict, the result will still leave you confused.

associate editor

D

reams have always been a part of culture; tenants of the ancient civilizations (Egypt, Rome, Greece, etc.) believed that dreams were divine in origin and prophetic in nature.

This idea of dreams as messages from gods persisted unopposed until philosophers like Aristotle and Hippocrates suggested that dreams were not sent by the gods; instead, they posited that dreams were the result of the mind’s attempt to process events in a dreamer’s life and that dreams could be indicative of physical and mental health.

From this first great schism, other scholars and scientists have deviated from the “divine dream” principle.

The most notorious of such mavericks is Sigmund Freud, who connected dream content with unresolved problems from a dreamer’s childhood.

Freud also believed that dreams were the one place where individuals could let their desires run rampant without being rebuked, and thus, interpreted most dreams as sexual.

After Freud’s psychoanalysis theory rocked the world, his student, Carl Jung, created a new theory of a “collective unconscious” that completely refuted Freud’s controversial theory.

Jung purported that dreams were not necessarily sexual; instead, dreams were messages from the mind’s unconscious. Through interpretation, Jung believed that dreams could help facilitate the accomplishment of an individual’s aspirations and lead the dreamer to a more fulfilled life.

In more recent times, the debates among psychologists and

feature

17

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

opening windows into subconscious Common dream elements

scientists concerning the purposes of dreaming have revealed even more deviations and theories than anyone could ever hope to prove.

translated (continued)

Dream interpretation

Sample dream

So do the countless dream interpretation dictionaries and Web sites hold any merit?

“There’s no evidence that Freud’s theory and all those dream symbol dictionaries are based in science,” said Mrs. Laura Miniard, psychology teacher.

Whether Freud, Jung, the ancient peoples, or none of the above is correct concerning the purpose of dreams and their interpretation, dream analysis can be a fun way to dip into introspection.

Obviously, dreams are extremely unique and general dream elements often mean completely different things to different dreamers.

“The best person to analyze your dream is you,” said Miniard. “Pay attention to the emotional aspects of your dreams because you can get more truth from your feelings than you can from all the symbols.”

The best way to analyze dreams is to create a dream journal. Every morning, record the elements of the dream(s) from the past night and what emotions the dreams invoked.

Then, use a dream dictionary and intuition to discover what your unconscious mind might be trying to communicate.

But remember, do not base the future on dream content; just have fun.

“I had no parents, so one of my favorite teachers became my legal guardian. We lived in a mansion together, and the mansion’s butler was my best friend.

At first, I was cool with my teacher being my guardian, but then she turned evil, which surprised me. She started harassing the butler, and because he was my best friend, I became upset with my guardian.

Then I was at school, and my friends talked about how much they like that teacher. But I had to correct them because she turned evil.

Suddenly, I was in class. I was really upset because my English teacher kept trash-talking the butler.” submitted by Becca Muskat, 12

Dream Elements: Orphan: to be an orphan – you need to learn to be more independent and self-sufficient Adoption: to be adopted – you feel confused about your identity; dream may occur during real life transition Servant: you will be fortunate despite gloomy prospects

image by jake newton

Friend Home

Mother Teacher

(elements translated on side panels)

Analysis:

You may be going through a big transition in life, perhaps because you will be going to college next year.

You are also struggling with your identity and the relationships you have with others. There may be someone in your life that you used to trust who now may be turning against you.

But after seeking out advice and guidance, you will be willing to accept parts of your personality that you had a problem with before and reconcile your relationships – everything will work out in the end.

Other aspects of the dream, like defending the butler from harassment and correcting your friends, are relevant indicators of your personality.

Kiss: the person being kissed is more meaningful to you than previously realized, or you are envious of him/her Laughing: you are seeking a more eventful social life Mask: wearing a mask – ashamed Mother: caring – you feel safe and protected; negative (like an evil stepmother) – someone you thought you trust is really out to harm you Nudity: embarrassment or vulnerability Photograph: memories and comparisons should be kept in confidence Purple: royalty, positive personal growth, or injury Rainbow: a good omen Rose: blooming – unexpected joy; withered – loss of a loved one School: the school of life with lessons to be learned Sky: there are no limits Snow: you have been unnecessarily worrying about something Space: you will start living in a more liberal manner Spider: well-planned decisions will be rewarded Teacher: you are seeking advice, guidance, or knowledge Teeth: a sign of illness Tunnel: you will soon experience loss Vampire: beware of new friends Window: open – you are responsive to your surroundings and are optimistic; closed – you are restricted by old habits Wings: you are worried about someone who has recently moved Zoo: you are on display – you feel your life is abnormal or you are uncomfortable with the notoriety you have attained; others on display – you believe these people need to be contained

Symbols from “Your Dreams and What they Mean: How to Understand the Secret Language of Sleep” by Nerys Dee, “Dream Directory: The Comprehensive Guide to Analysis and Interpretation” by David. C Loff, and “Last Night I Danced with a Stranger: A Guide to Dream Analysis”

by Kirsten Hall. image by charlie manion

18

feature FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Tiny bug, big itch

Itch Mites infest Cincinnati noa BELILLTI news chief

B

ug bites: they itch, you scratch – wait, summer is over and cicadas are gone! So, where is this new itch coming from? The Health Department warns the general public of Cincinnati to stay indoors, far away from the itch mites.

Mites

Oak leaf mites, measuring about 0.2 millimeters in size, feed on the unhatched offspring of Cincinnati’s usual menace, the cicada.

This is precisely why Cincinnati is such a target.

Cicadas visit Cincinnati every 17 years, indefinitely, and variations of the species return at different intervals over the course of those 17 years.

With every visit, cicadas crawl underground, lay their eggs, and return with a new infestation. And when cicadas are not in town, mites feast on their second favorite snack, fly larvae.

Mites are so small that they can be carried by gusts of wind, spreading them around the city.

“Over Labor Day weekend the mites were terrible,” said Kyle Goldhoff, 12. “I went to both concerts at Riverbend that weekend and left with millions of bites.”

Bites

A rash or red bump will appear after about twelve hours after the bite. This irritation can last anywhere from a couple to ten days.

“My bite was so itchy, I still have a scar!” said Laura Singer, 12.

Mite bites can be treated mainly by ignoring the urge to scratch; however, if they linger for more than a week, chamomile lotion or a doctor visit may be necessary.

” ”

Mites fit through the weave of most fabrics; however, these microscopic creatures can only survive outside, around their meager food source.

They do not linger in bed sheets for days on end and they do not spread diseases, despite local rumor. Their average life span is only about seven days.

One of the best ways to prevent bites is to close all openings to the outdoors, as mites can get through window screens easily.

If hours are spent outdoors, in the woods, or other areas with heavy vegetation, throw the clothes in the laundry right away.

The mites will die out eventually - until next summer, when the next round of cicadas are due to return.

”

Prevention

photo by noa belillti

KELSEY BECK, 12, GETS treated for her mite bite in the nurse’s office. Mrs. Sharon Krause applies a cotton swab of Neosporin to her scab and offers advice on how to stop the itch. The nurses urge students to visit their office if they are experiencing any discomfort from the bites.

I hate the mites, I had a bite on my chest for almost two weeks! It itched all the time

I got a bite on my foot! You can’t even do anything about the stupid mites because they are too small to see.

-Brittany Kindberg, 12

I had multiple bites and they itched like crazy. I was pretty bad about scratching and still have some marks.

” ” ” Bits and bites: Oak Leaf Gall Mite -Jeffery Kaplan, 10

-Kelsey Beck, 12

OAK LEAF GALL mite magnified thousands of times. This insect can just barely be seen by the naked eye. It is no wonder how they can spread so quickly.

photos courtesy of Cicadayear.com

photo courtesy of “cincinnati enquirer”

UNHATCHED CICADA EGGS feed off the sap within the veins of branches. Mites feed on these virtually microscopic pellets. They lie on the leaves of trees, in the ground, and are nestled the crevasses of twigs.

CICADA NYMPH LIES limp on pavement. This creature serves as the prey of the Oak Leaf Gall mites. These young cicadas develop underground before rising to the surface.

a&e

19

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

‘The show was phenomenal’

‘Don’t Drink the Water’ quenches audiences’ thirst sohini SAMEERA

I

staff writer

am not a spy, I am but a caterer!” Walter Hollander and family travel to Europe. He is mistaken for a spy. A furious dictator is after him. It is not the best of vacations for the Hollander folks.

After rehearsing for a month, the first production opened up to an eager audience.

Spectators chortled and hooted at all the right scenes and were

thrilled to see the cast on stage.

“The show was phenomenal. The audience was fantastic and I was very excited,” said Blake Dewey, 12, photo by jeremy mccdaniel who played STRUMMING HIS GUITAR narrator, Riley Able, 12 was Walter Hollander. a favorite among audiences in “Don’t Drink the Water.”

F in a&e... this month

Opening night was the ultimate reward for the cast and crew. They had been working non-stop for the past month; the cast, trying to memorize lines and the crew, building the set.

The setting was simple, yet fascinating; it consisted of sofas, curtains, railings, doors, and desks.

“During the plays, the students are involved. From making the sets, to giving the show, we check in with everything,” said stage manager Lizzy LeBlond, 12.

The recreation of the Woody Allen comedy screened the experienced but also introduced new faces. Emma Rosen, 9, and Drew Gelwicks, 9, were delighted to be a part of the enthusiasm and anticipation of theater.

“The whole experience was marvelous and I made long lasting friends. I was overjoyed to be in the first high school show; there is no doubt that I will continue with it,” said Gelwicks.

The play was not an episode just for incoming actors, but also for the practiced ones. Seniors who have been with Mr. John Whapham

since their freshman year had the opportunity to analyze and critic the beginners.

“I have been in theater since my eighth grade year. It’s important for new people to enter drama and it’s great that they did. It is essential that they are provided with a good start,” said Tom Seiple, 12.

October 17 brought mixed emotions to all members of the comedy. It was the moment the drama students presented what they had been working towards. This spectacular night brought with it a wave of relief and feelings of elation.

“On opening night, when I know the audience is impressed, the feelings that come rushing to me are absolutely wonderful,” said Bridget Handkins, 12. Handkins played Susan Hollander, the Hollanders’ daughter.

“Don’t Drink the Water” had a winning cast and crew and furthermore had an amiable crowd.

It proved to be a successful and amusing piece.

“The show was very comical. All the actors and actresses did a really nice job,” said Neil Krishnan, 11.

ans eager to sink their teeth into ‘Twilight’ rom popular book to anticipated film

emily BEGLEY staff writer

Thought Guy Ritchie’s only job was to be Madonna’s husband? Find out about his new movie on pg 21.

? ? ? ? ? ?

Find out who the November’s artist spotlight is on pg 20.

Ready for the next James Bond installment? Check out pg 21 to get the 411 on the 007.

Get ready ‘Twilight’ fans – on November 21, the film adaptation of Stephenie Meyer’s overwhelmingly popular novel will be released in theaters, bringing that enticing story line and characters that have mesmerized readers to life.

Hoping to satisfy high expectations for the movie, Twilight will closely follow the book’s plot: after moving to Forks, Washington to live with her father, 17-year-old Bella Swan falls irrevocably in love with a vampire named Edward Cullen.

“I am officially obsessed with this amazing story,” said Alexis Rhodenbaugh, 10. “It is my life. I am literally going on the day the movie comes out.”

Ironically, 22-year-old Robert Pattinson, who is cast to play the lead of Edward, is no stranger to the Potter franchise, best known for his role as Cedric Diggory in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.”

The selection of an actor capable of capturing Edward’s character was an extremely difficult process, due in part to Meyer’s description of him as “devastatingly inhumanly beautiful” and the subsequent visions of readers.

Director, Catherine

Hardwicke, became convinced that she had found her Edward after Pattinson’s impressive audition, which consisted of a love scene with lead actress Kristen Stewart, who was chosen to play the role of Bella.

Stewart caught Hardwicke’s attention with her outstanding performance in Sean Penn’s “Into the Wild,” having what the Twilight director felt was the perfect mixture of longing and innocence.

After receiving her role as Bella, Stewart concentrated on mastering the character’s unique personality, hoping to stay consistent with readers’ perceptions. “[She’s] seemingly logical, and then all of the sudden she’s thinking of herself as a psychotic person and [she’s] just swept away by something more powerful than her,” Stewart said of Bella in an interview with Premiere.

As November 21 crawls nearer every day, ‘Twilight’ fans continue to prepare themselves for the movie that will bring the captivating story they have fallen in love with to life on the big screen.

image by michela tindera

FOR MONTHS TWILIGHT fans have anticipated the release of this movie. A point of interest for many fans was the decision by directors for who was going to play main character, Edward Cullen. The job was finally given to “Harry Potter” alum, Robert Pattinson.

m

ichela’s musings

Disney continues to cash in on High School Musical 1, 2, 3, 4...

Company loses clout from die-hard fan michela TINDERA a&e chief

While perusing my Sunday issue of USA Weekend this past week I came across—unfortunately—yet another interview (among the thousands) with “High School Musical’s” perkiest of stars, Ashley Tisdale.

Fighting back the tears of anguish that had sprung up in my eyes at the sight of her bleach blonde extensions I scanned the interview for anything that could possibly grab my less-than-HSMcrazed interest.

This is when I came across something even more frightening than Zac Efron on the cover of Rolling Stone. “...no need to freak. Disney writers have already started typing away on ‘High School Musical 4’.”

Oh of course, because I was really losing sleep over the fact that an over-the-top preteen money-maker that the Disney corporation continues to milk for all that it is worth plans to add yet another episode to this already painful trilogy.

Upon realizing this, it made me think. What happened to the good old Disney channel that I used to watch every day after school second through sixth grade?

Since the release of HSM frenzy, nothing has been the same with Disney channel. Unless you have been living in another solar system, you have probably noticed that it has taken over nearly every facet of daily life.

I ask you, did this kind of obnoxious obsession ever go on with “Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century”? Or “The Color of Friendship”? Or my personal favorite, “Rip Girls”?

Certainly, those are all movies I would rank on a much higher scale than HSM. After a great deal of deep thought it seems to me that the only possible reason for this obsessive attraction preteens have are the musical numbers. That is it.

If Disney channel would have thrown a song and dance number into “Johnny Tsunami” or “Alley Cats Strike” I can only imagine the amount of themed surf boards and bowling balls would have been sold.

In regards to that, I would like to personally thank the Disney execs for refraining from such a dangerous decision.

Of course it is incredibly unfortunate that Disney, the same corporation who created Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, the highest of caliber cartoons ever made has fallen so far as to sell themselves out with cheesy plot lines and never-ending sequels.

I can only hope that eventually, after HSM 9 perhaps, audiences will grow tired of such frivolous entertainment and Disney will “get their head in the game” and return to their old caliber of work.

20

a&e

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Senior composes ‘Metamorphoses’ score daphne HSU

associate editor

S STUDENTS FROM AP Art Studio, AP Photography, and architecture took a field trip to the Cincinnati Zoo on Oct. 7, including seniors Jaimee Johnson and Eric Hodgdon pictured above.

The many exhibits and natural settings provided a great inspiration to the students’ artwork.

Students were given free reign to explore the zoo. In their search, AP Photography students were assigned two rolls of film, AP Art students were assigned to draw the scenery, and architecture students were assigned three drawings.

“It is a curriculum based field trip. We’re going there to learn about the things that are based on our curriculum and to build a portfolio” said Mrs. Kat Ferguson, art teacher.

The field trip allowed students to experience art beyond the classroom and capture a great variety of subject matter. Students were enthused about the opportunity to explore the zoo artistically.

“I liked seeing all the animals and taking pictures of them,”

all photos by adam birken

said Kayla Murray, 12, who takes AP Photo.

“I think [the assignment] gave me a direction for what to take pictures of, so I had a better focus on what I was supposed to be doing.”

enior Joe Duran has played the saxophone since he was eight, and is now first chair alto saxophone in Sycamore Winds.

He bought his first keyboard at age 12 and taught himself how to play it. When he bought a new saxophone at 16, he was given a free guitar as a part of the deal, and he taught himself how to play that, too.

But what Duran likes more than playing music is writing it, and that is what he did for the upcoming Aves Theatre production, “Metamorphoses.”

Because the play itself was not written with a score, director Mr. John Whapham decided to commission someone to write one.

At first, Whapham approached Mr. Daniel Frank, who has been pit director for the theater productions.

Frank then contacted Duran, because he knew that Duran would be interested. Duran agreed, and has become the first student to write the music to a theater production at this school.

“I decided to do it because I thought it would be a good opportunity to do what I want to do in general,” said Duran.

After working over the summer and during first quarter, Duran has finished the score which he said sounds contemporary and ethereal. The music features a violin, two keyboards, a bass, a drum set, and an electronic wind controller, which Duran will play.

“The play is different vignettes of myths and I think the music ties together the seemingly disconnected myths,” said Duran.

Duran wrote for a smaller group because the play will be performed the same weekend as the band and orchestra’s Disney trip, which means many students who usually play in the theater pit will be absent. In lieu of auditions, Frank and Duran will find people who are interested in playing.

“I was really happy to be able to do it because I’ve never been in charge of orchestrating a large project and I don’t think most students get the opportunity to do something like that,” said Duran.

Before “Metamorphoses,” Duran has had experience in composing pieces for jazz groups, his band Static Vessels, and at the sixweek music program he attended over the summer at Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan.

Duran also dedicates his fourth bell toward independent study in music composition.

photo courtesy of joe duran

Nail biters, adrenaline addicts beware:

Jack Bauer returns to primetime gabe ENGLANDER

staff writer

Attention adrenaline addicts: the new “24” television special “Redemption” features even more heart-pounding action and sophisticated political dilemmas. Jack Bauer (Keifer Sutherland) will star in “24’s” two-hour special, airing on Nov. 23 on Fox affiliates.

This time, Jack is in the fictional African country Sangala. After the country erupts in a violent coup, he helps orphans escape from becoming child soldiers, taking them to the U.S. embassy.

“I saw one of the trailers for “Redemption” on TV and one of the leaders of the coup was talking about ‘killing the cockroaches,’” said Danny Berghoff, 10. “To me, it seemed like that was a reference to the current genocide in Sudan.”

Meanwhile in “24’s” version of America, it is Inauguration Day for the next U.S. president, Allison Taylor (Cherry Jones).

Tom Lennox (Peter MacNicol) briefs President Taylor on the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sangala.

The former President Noah Daniels (Powers Boothe,) argues with the new president. He pushes to ignore the crisis saying, “It’s not our war.”

However, Taylor favors stopping the genocide before it is too late. In “Redemption,” she is frequently portrayed as idealistic, which contrasts Daniels, who is pragmatic.

Season seven was scheduled to air last January; however, the writers’ strike delayed it until this January. Because of the 18 months break, “Redemption” is needed to bridge the gap between season six and season seven.

Television is filled with action dramas. What sets “24” apart is the unique way challenging political and ethical issues are woven into the plot.

In just two hours, “24: Redemption” pulls the audience into the center of controversial issues like whether the U.S. should intervene in an African genocide and the obstacles facing America’s first woman president.

“When I watch ‘24,’ I feel like I am the one faced with making these tough decisions,” said Kevin Bogenschutz, 10. “‘24’ creates morally impossible situations and forces you to decide which path that you would take.”

This special promises more of the unexpected conflicts and plots twists that have intoxicated “24’s” viewers in the past. “Redemption” will make old “24” fans addicts once more.

“24”

season recaps

1

Jack tries to protect his family and Sen. David Palmer from Balkan terrorists seeking personal revenge on Jack.

2

Jack works to prevent a nuclear bomb from exploding in Los Angeles.

3

Mexican drug dealers attempt to introduce a deadly virus into the U.S.

4

Jack resucues his lover, Audrey Reins, and Secretary Heller from terrorists.

5

Terrorists set off a nuclear bomb, killing 20,000, and attempt to steal toxic nerve gas.

6

Jack battles a Chinese terrorist and saves his nephew from his crazy father.

The season ends with Jack staring out a window, pondering his future.

21

a&e Filmmaker phenom Guy Ritchie: 2008, ready to rock FRIDAY October 31, 2008

sam CLEARY

H

minimag editor

e was an inexperienced high school drop-out from Hertfordshire; a dyslexic writer with a dream who never attended film school. Guy Ritchie. The prodigal son of British cinema and a revolutionary in the field of film. A man who, after seeing Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid as a youngster, knew what he wanted to do with his life.

“Guy [Ritchie]’s work is spellbinding. He doesn’t give the audience what they want. That’s what great about his work. He’ll bait you, you’ll fall for it, and then, all at once, he’ll drop you on your face,” said Roddy Irwin, 11.

Nearly five decades later, he is one of the most prominent writers/directors in the business, having made over ten films since his debut in 1998 with “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.” In 1999 he was named Best New Filmmaker at the MTV movie awards.

His work portrays blunt realism, street life, and brash violence, a technique introduced to Hollywood originally by Martin Scorcese with his 1981 film, Raging Bull.

“The movies he does all share a similar pattern.

They follow the stories of small-time crooks who get into big-time trouble. The violence is raw, the dialect is ear-splitting and there’s always a twist,” said Alan Kissinger, 10.

In the past five years, Ritchie has been on what any critic would call a cold streak. With his latest movie, Revolver (2005), starring Jason Statham, he portrayed the story of a gambler who gets in over his head. Sure, it is somewhat true to Ritchie’s

style, but it lacks the touch; that gut-wrenching sting that makes his work art.

Some say he has lost his touch. I would not be so sure.

On October 31, Ritchie will release his newest film into theaters around the world. “RocknRolla” follows the story of a group of head-banging mobsters and London’s scrappiest tough guys as they all fight to get rich quick in a multi-million dollar real-estate scam.

What ensues is the painting of a brutal, bloody, loudmouthed, and sickly humorous mosaic of the London underground and the squalid filth of criminality that makes the backstreets of England’s largest city both feared and notorious.

People ask the question...what’s a RocknRolla? And I tell ‘em - it’s not about drugs, drums, and hospital drips, oh no. There’s more there than that, my friend.

“We all like a bit of the good life,” said Mark Strong, one of the main characters and protagonist of the new film. It is quotes like these that demonstrate the method and the madness of Ritchie’s work.

Together, with an all-star cast including the likes of Jeremy Piven, Gerard IN ROCKN’ROLLA, A new film by British director Guy Ritchie, thugs and musicians fight to Butler, and Tom Wilkinson, Ritchie is get rich quick in a multi-million dollar real estate scam. Here, Gerard Butler, the star of the going to take back new-age cinema, film, poses with his cohorts for the movie poster. “Rocknrolla” will premier this October. and it’s not going to be pretty.

Indie legends: audience falls for ‘cute and quirky relationship’ emma OH

staff writer

“Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” is a comedy about the intertwining of two kids’ lives as they share a sleepless night of adventure in the busy city of New York.

Nick (Michael Cera) is an indierock lover trying to mend his broken heart after a savage breakup that leaves him constantly withdrawing to his room to create emotion filled mix CDs. Nick is also the only straight member of a queer core band that manages to find gigs even

though they are backed by a toy drum machine.

Norah (Kat Dennings) is a sarcastic, free-willed, 17 year old, who is still questioning her place and her assumptions of the world. She and her party-girl pal, Caroline, venture over to New York City where they find Nick’s band opening for Bishop Allen, another indie-rock band.

Although the two have almost nothing in common, their chance encounter reveals their mutual love

for the (fictional) indie legends, Where’s Bunny? and they set off together, searching for their favorite band’s secret, late night show.

Their humor-filled, adventurous, all-night quest ends up becoming the first date in a romance that could change both their lives.

Cera, best known for his role in “Juno,” and Dennings, best known for her role in “The 40-Year Old Virgin,” created a cute and quirky relationship that the audience can

fall in love with. “[Cera and Dennings] have that hard-to-define chemistry that makes you believe their characters are not only predestined but deserving of being together,” Sean Means, Salt Lake Tribune.

Cera is blessed with a quiet understatement, masterful wit, and a sincerity that is unfeasible not to love. Dennings also fits her role wonderfully.

“Dennings wears her oddball quirk

like she owns it. And her chemistry with Cera reminds us why movies are usually better than real life,” said Eric Myerson, filmcritics.com.

The film was given an average rating of B/C+.

“I haven’t made a list, but this has to be one of the best high school/ coming-of-age/romantic/comedy films of the past decade,” said Jeff Bayer, The Scorecard Review.

‘thrilling remake of Casino Royale’ Twenty-second Bond film in hopes of clearing number one

daniel BAYLISS staff writer

composure as he cared very deeply for Vesper.

Box offices on nationwide should be aware of the new Throughout the movie Bond also gets closer to the man who James Bond movie, “Quantam of Solace” as November 14 approaches. Bond, played by Daniel Craig, is back in this betrayed and did away with his dear Vesper.

Camille is first introduced to Bond in Haiti, where Bond is sequel to the thrilling remake of Casino Royale, which sent to find a MI6 traitor but runs into her because of a miscame out in 2006. taken identity issue.

Craig is new, but is a very popular Bond already.

He is then to escort her in finding Greene, “Daniel Craig is a new genwho is the “main man” for Quantam. Greene eration of Bond, he’s amazDaniel Craig is a new is focusing on overthrowing the current esing,” said Josh Goodman, 9. in Bolivia and makes a deal with Bond’s main nemesis generation of Bond, he’s tablishment their exiled head of state. in “Quantam of Solace” is amazing.

Bond must constantly be a step ahead named Dominic Greene, who of CIA, terrorists, and M to ruin Greene’s goes incognito as an envidastardly scheme and get Quantam out of ronmentalist to try and take the picture. over the water supply in the Alas, I cannot shed any more light on this country Bolivia. James Bond’s subject, for it would be a crime for you and “female associate” is named me to spoil this soon-to-be action packed extravaganza Camille, who along with James, intends to kill Greene. named Quantam of Solace.

“From what I’ve heard about the movie, it seems like “I expect this movie to be the most action-packed and my kinds of movie and I think I will enjoy it,” said James thrilling yet,” said Evan Cohen, 9.

Perryman, 9.

The past Bond movies have been more than worthwhile.

Taking off almost where the last movie started, Bond is As a Bond fan that has seen many of the films, I expect taking part in a car chase in Siena, Italy and later meets with this to be one of the best movies of the series for many a man named Mr. White, who reveals to Bond and his fellow reasons.

MI6 operative M, that his organization named Quantam his He in my opinion is second only to the original Bond, CIA agents in it.

As Mr. White is interrogated, he reveals the organization Sean Connery. He is phenomenal at selling the part, and the plot seems perfect for many Bond fans wanting a twist.

Quantam is the very same organization that blackmailed Bond’s past lover, Vesper Lynd. Bond tries to keep his

”” -Josh Goodman, 9

Court Sports fans duped by media jared KAMRASS sports chief

“All people are stupid in an election year!”

“No, people just get treated stupid in an election year!”

This exchange from the nowdefunct NBC television series West Wing sums up the attitudes from political candidates and network television presidents over the preceding year.

Luckily, sports is the toy department of life: immune from the incessant babble and condescending programming. Or so we thought.

Unfortunately, we’ve seen a disturbing trend emerge from the ranks of ESPN/ABC, Fox Sports, CBS, TBS, and NBC. Following the inclination displayed by 24-hour news networks, we’re now being treated like sheep in a herd that need to be talked down to.

As if this required much sleuthing, the catalyst to this pathetic slide in journalistic integrity comes from money.

CBS has been trying to pass off SEC propaganda as “analysis” in the hopes of attracting more viewers to their SEC coverage, with whom they have a lucrative TV deal.

ESPN has talking heads that downplay the Big Ten because their competitor, FOX, owns 49% of the Big Ten Network.

The big-wigs in Bristol see any mention of the Big Ten to be free advertising for their competition.

Not giving coverage to one of the Big Six conferences is just good business, right?

The caveat is, of course, when ESPN owns the rights to the games.

The Ohio State/Penn State game was broadcast on ESPN-owned ABC. This game was pumped up by the network, but there was no positive mention of any of the other nine Big Ten teams, including the other two ranked in the Top-25.

This isn’t supposed to be an indictment on CBS or ESPN, but rather the culture that we live in. People are constantly downgraded and disrespected by the power brokers.

And now, it’s seeped into the one domain previously believed to be resistant to the pains of the real world.

If sports and sports fans are susceptible then what happens next? What is the limit? Is there even a limit?

Are we going to be told who to root for because the city where that team is has a lot of TV-watching fans? I don’t know. No one knows. But we can stop it from happening.

It’s time to demand more from the people in charge. We deserve better than a World Series that was given tepid coverage because no one lives in the Tampa Bay area. Or at least not enough people to make the city matter to the big networks.

We deserve unfiltered and unadulterated coverage of what’s really going on. Not some variation on that by people who are controlled by purse strings. Just chalk it up to the cost of doing business.

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Varsity football keeps playoff hopes alive Team projected to make tournament after big wins will JOHNSTON associate editor

W

hen the varsity football team traveled to Princeton on October 10, it was not projected to make the OHSAA playoffs.

Only the top eight teams from each region in the Harbin rankings make the cut, and the team was outside looking in

at twelfth place.

However, the events of that evening would shake up the fortunes of not only varsity, but a number of other area teams.

Varsity defeated Princeton 16-14. Moeller, Princeton, Hamilton, Harrison were all ahead in the Harbin Rankings coming into that weekend; all fell, and varsity moved up to ninth place.

After the team bombarded Oak Hills 35-7 in the FSN game of the week, varsity has moved up to seventh place in the rankings.

This position would pit the team against Northmont, a team from the city of Clayton (near Dayton).

“We are doing all we can do with what we have and are just trying to win out. Hopefully some other games go our way, and we can continue to play beyond the regular season and pull off some upsets in the playoffs,” said Nick Schlie, 12.

“We would like to return to the playoffs not only for the team, but for the student body and community which have been loyal all year for us.”

Recovering from an 0-2 GMC start earlier in the season, varsity has put itself in this position after the crucial wins against Princeton and Oak Hills.

The victory at Princeton came down to the final minutes. Going into halftime, the score was 14-13 in favor of the Vikings.

In the end, a field goal by Robert Stein, 10, at 5:33 mark of the fourth quarter proved to be the game winner. The play set up by a crucial turn of events.

The Vikings faced third and long near their own 30 yard line when Princeton quarterback Spencer Ware completed a long pass to Jeff Duckworth, who ran to near midfield.

However, junior linebacker Tyler Dowdall caught up with Duckworth and forced a season-saving fumble. Steve Hull, 12, recovered the ball and returned it deep into Princeton territory, setting up the Stein field goal.

Against Oak Hills, the game ended in a decidedly less dramatic fashion. Bud Golden, 12, scored on an 11-yard run at the 6:39 mark of the first quarter, giving the team a lead upon which it would only continue to build.

Schile supplemented Casey MacLean, 12, early on and played the rest of the game as the starter. Otherwise, the most notable aspect of the game was Hull’s 95-yard interception return-for-touchdown that made “Sportscenter” as number four in the show’s daily top ten plays.

“I was excited to get another opportunity to play, and it was a great experience for several reasons; we were on TV against a good team, and we played well as a team,” said Schlie By publication, the team will have completed its regular season schedule.

If the team has beaten Mason in its final regular season game, and barring another season altering series of upsets, then varsity will likely still be in the bottom half of the top eight teams in the rankings.

Higher ranked teams host in the first round of the state playoffs. Assuming a victory against Mason, then the team will likely be on the road tonight.

S

image by will johnston

STEVE HULL, 12, REACHES to make a catch against Lakota East on Homecoming weekend. Lopsided victories, such as the varsity’s 28-7 domination of the Thunderhawks, have put the team back into position to make the OHSAA playoffs.

HS poised to capture fall All Sports Trophy uccess of football, soccer has school in position to win

matt BOYCE staff writer

With a two point advantage, Mason leads in the GMC All Sports Trophy race with 70.5; SHS stands at second with 68.5. With only a few weeks to go, SHS is in position to win the trophy for the first time in recent memory.

Points are accorded to each school with respect to how well each of their fall teams performed in the regular season. A first place finish in the GMC standings earns a school 11 points, second place 9, and so on and so forth.

Several weeks ago, varsity boys’ soccer faced Mason for the GMC

this month in sports

Full

sports

on deck

22

Interested in skydiving, rock climbing, parasailing, or any other extreme sports?

Pages 28-29

championship. After a well fought and physical game, Alex Schatz, 11, scored what would prove to be the winning goal. The team held their heads high and walked off the field with a GMC Championship.

“Next on our list is either Kings or LaSalle and were ready to take care of business,” said Garret Listo, 12, starting forward.

The team’s success contributed the maximum 11 points to the school.

However, soccer is not the only sport ballooning the school’s standing in the race.

With a second place finish in the

GMC this season, the boys’ cross country team contributed nine points. The boy’s varsity golf team earned 11 points by winning the GMC. Girls’ cross country, golf, and soccer added eight, seven and eight points, respectively. Girls’ tennis contributed eight and a half, while girls’ volleyball supplied six.

After a hard hitting and emotional game last week, the varsity football team knocked off the Princeton Vikings 16-14. Following its beat down of Oak Hills, the team is now on a four game winning streak, which

How did the boys’ soccer team wrap up its season?

Page 25

puts their record at 4-2 in the GMC and 7-2 overall, second in the GMC. “Coach loves to bring the pressure,” said Marty Jones, 12.

If the team does continue to do so and finishes in this spot, it would earn SHS nine points. Football is the only sport yet to be added to the fall standings.

With the Comets idling at ninth place in the current GMC standings with only one game (against varsity) remaining on their schedule, Mason will not be able to earn enough points to win. Look for SHS to take home the All Sports Trophy this fall.

See who Jared and Ben think deserve an NFL mid-season award, college basketball and more.

Page 27

sports

23

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Girls’ golf team concludes season Squad hopes to build off successful finish next year s.m. DIPALI staff writer

View from the Stands

Fans’ blood-lust warps college football ben ESTES sports chief

It happens all the time: a particular team starts to slip and its fans turn bloodthirsty. They magically morph into vampires, hell-bent on sucking the metaphorical blood of the head coach that they believe to be the sole reason for a team’s downfall.

It’s one of those negative aspects of sports, one that rears its ugly head when entitled, normally sensible adults put all of their rational thinking aside and start yelling, “FIRE _____.”

Being a Michigan fan, I’ve begun to experience this phenomenon head on after the dismal performances of the Wolverines in their last three games, all disappointing/embarrassing losses. A significant portion of the fan base is already calling for Coach Rich Rodriguez’s head.

Never mind the fact that he’s only been on the job since January. Never mind the fact that he inherited a team decimated by premature departures/transfers, and a squad illequipped to run his spread offense.

A few examples of these fans’ “reasons” why Rodriguez must go illustrate perfectly their complete idiocy: “The defense can’t tackle. I don’t care how new you are; that should not happen” (The defense certainly wasn’t tackling well against Appalachian State and Oregon last year).

“The discipline is eroding. [Greg] Mathews and [Carson] Butler have already thrown punches. Lloyd Carr would never have allowed this” (In fact, last season, under Carr, Mathews did the exact same thing).

“Why won’t [Rodriguez] adapt his system to the talent he has?” (The two-headed monster of Nick Sheridan and Steve Threet already have combined for nearly as many pass attempts as West Virginia QB Pat White had all of last season).

As soon as a team starts losing, farcical claims emerge that support the ousting of the coach. All this does is to weaken the program even more; the coach isn’t going to be fired, but controversy places the team in a negative light anyway.

Sometimes, the angst is not misplaced. The classic example is the recent of firing of Clemson headman Tommy Bowden. Fans were clamoring for his job, and rightfully so: his teams had underachieved for years.

But getting after a successful coach after experiencing just a wisp of failure? There are currently web sites with “www.firethiscoach.com” domain names for Les Miles, Pete Carroll, Urban Meyer, and Mack Brown—otherwise known as the coaches for the last four national championship teams (according to www.mgoblog.com) These fans are emboldened by the internet; they launch their ignorant salvos in the comfort and safety of their own homes/offices, hiding behind an anonymous screen-name on various Web site message boards.

So, then, perhaps this annoying pattern is just a side effect of our current age. If true, chalk up another reason to dislike modern society.

image by jeremy mcdaniel

JENNA KELLY, 12, watches her shot as she follows through in a match this season. Kelly helped lead the team to a 19-9 finish. Underclassmen look forward to another successful year next season.

The SHS girls’ varsity golf team has had many unforgettable achievements throughout the season.

One being the win of the Springboro tournament, the first ever win of an invitational the squad has ever had. An individual on the team also won first place as individual overall in the tournament.

It was a history making win for the team.

Next being their fourth place finish at the GMC tournament.

“Finishing fourth rather than third in the GMC was disappointing, but golf is full of frustration and disappointment,” said coach Dr. Keith Brackenridge.

Coach Brackenridge looked forward to advancing from Sectionals to Districts.

The team made Coach Brackenridge’s expectations by narrowly securing a fourth place by one stroke over Oak Hills and allowing the team to go

on to Districts for the first time in SHS history.

“I will never forget that day. The weather was beautiful and it was a great day for golf. And I was happy to hear that it was a particularly great day for us as a team, too,” said Jackie Weber, 10.

Districts for the team was a let down as whole but an experience at that. For Jenna Kelly, 12, it was a fun day despite the dreary weather.

“It was just a good experience for all of us, I’m glad I got to go my last year on the team,” said Kelly.

Next year the team looks to dominate Sectionals and advance from Districts to the State Championships.

With a 19-9 finish to the season, the 2008-2009 team has made history, and they look to do even better next year.

“I can’t wait!” said Molly Fitch, 11.

Freshmen earn best record in years bennett KAPLAN

T

staff writer

he freshman football team has had an up-and-down season this year, going 5-4.

The bigger story of its season is that this 5-4 record is better than any freshman football team at the high school in several years.

“We started out slow, losing four straight,” said Alex Kirschner, 9, “but we started to pull it together, and we finally pulled it together and we are on a three game winning streak, and are hoping to go 6-4.”

After winning their first game 36-6 against Glen Este, they dropped four straight games to Springboro, Roger Bacon, Hamilton, and Colerain.

“When we went one and four, instead of packing it in, the coaches were able to keep the team motivated and prepared along with the team perseverance to win the last three games to even our record,” said Jordan Rothchild, 9.

The team is hoping to finish off the season with a 6-4 record. They have set the stage for an optimistic finish, beating their opponents by at least 12 points in each of their victories.

“We will finish six and four because we are the hardest-working team in the GMC,” said Kyle Sess, 9.

The team’s last game is scheduled against Mason.

Freshmen Football schedule and results 8/21 Glen Este 8/29 Springboro 9/3 Roger Bacon 9/13 Hamilton 9/18 Colerain

W 36-6 L 14-35 L 12-30 L 8-16 L 30-38

9/25 10/2 10/8 10/15 10/23

Fairfield W 36-21 Lakota East W 42-26 Princeton W 20-8 Oak Hills W 34-14 Mason 5:00

image by ben estes NORMALLY A RUNNINGBACK, Dayshai Minnifield, 9, prepares to throw the ball. He and the rest of the offense have exploded in recent games, handily outscoring opponents. The team is looking to finish its season with five straight wins.

Athlete of the Month Q&A with Jon Hancher, 12.

How long have you been playing?

Fruit and Vegetable Market 5035 Cooper Road Cincinnati Ohio, 45242 Phone: (513) 791-3175 Open Mon.-Sat. 8:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

About two years now.

What was the highlight of your season this year?

I guess you could say it was beating Mason in our home pool.

What is the most important part about being a team leader?

Probably helping to bring everyone together and building the team chemistry. Everyone plays better when they play as a team.

What do you feel you did well in your final season?

Well, I tried to keep the team motivated and hopefully helped some of the younger players learn something new about the game.

Words of wisdom?

Practice hard, have a good time. It’s important.

Sport: Varsity Water Polo Number: 11 Position: Two-Meter Man Goals: 84 Assists: 25 Steals: 44

24

S

uccessful season ends at regionals

sports

enior night, tournament highlight end of year matt MENDELSOHN

D

Goals #11 Jonathan Hancher, 12

84

Steals #16 Chris Culin, 11

90

Assists #16 Chris Culin, 11

30

Blocks #1 Matt Mendelsohn, 12

181

JONATHAN HANCHER, 12, FIRES off a throw during an early round playoff match. Hancher was one of the teams leaders both in the pool and out of the pool, throughout the season.

He, along with many of his teammates, were honored during senior night ceremonies.

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Mendelsohn makes miraculous memory ben KEEFE

opinion chief

staff writer

espite a premature ending to their season, the boys’ varsity water polo team ended the year with one of their top records in the history of the program at 21-14.

For the seniors, it was especially gratifying, as they improved from a three win season their first year, to a 20 win season their last.

“We had very few wins freshman year and the success this year has been phenomenal,” said Chris Lo, 12.

The seniors were then honored at their final home game on senior night, October 7. Playing the Milford Eagles, Lo, Jon Hancher, Kam Keeling, Matt Mendelsohn, Matt Weber, and Scott Wright, were celebrated before the game, and all were in the starting lineup for their home season finale.

Unfortunately for the team, the emotion of senior night could not keep up with the top-seeded Eagles, falling 16-6.

Heading into the regional tournament, the team had lost seven of nine after a 16-5 start, but still was able to earn the number three overall seed in the south region of the regional tournament.

“Despite the slump at the end of the season, this has still been a strong season and the best season we have

had in four years,” said Wright.

Facing Canton Glen Oak for the fourth time this season, they came out firing, scoring 20 goals on the Eagles for the fourth consecutive game, and cruised to a 20-14 victory, the final tally much closer due to scoring barrage by Glen Oak. This led to a second round matchup with the number two seeded Upper Arlington Golden Bears. UA jumped out to an early lead, and varsity was unable to keep up with their strength and speed, falling 16-6.

With only one loss separating the team from an end to their season, they could afford no let down against the surprising Princeton Vikings.

And they came through. A total domination of the second helf led to a 12-6 victory, setting up a rematch with UA for the final berth into the state tournament.

Despite being blown out by UA all three times they faced off all season, the squad fought spiritedly and kept it close early. However, the Golden Bear’s strength, speed, and execution was too much for the sqad, and their season ended with a 15-9 loss.

“I wish I had the seniors for another four years, but knowing I have the underclassmen below them to step up and keep the winning tradition alive for the years to come,” said Coach Nick Hellwig.

In the final round of the Regional Water Polo Tournament on Oct. 1718, senior goalie Matt Mendelsohn, 12, was upset. In his three years of water polo he still had not yet completed his desired achievement of scoring a goal in a varsity game.

By the end of the third quarter in our final game against Upper Arlington, we were losing, and Mendelsohn still had not scored a goal.

As we were floating out to our positions preparing for the swim off to initiate the fourth quarter of play, Mendelsohn said, “Ben, I am going to score before this game is over.”

Before you know it there were 17 seconds left in the game. Mendelsohn blocked a shot by an Upper Arlington field player and held the ball for a second while everybody started swimming in the other direction.

Still in the goal, he shot the ball.

It was a line drive shot that traveled the entire 25 yard length of the pool.

The ball hit the top bar of the goal in the left corner. The Upper Arlington goalie attempted to block it but the toss was too perfect.

The ball shot straight down and into the goal. Absolute bedlam broke out in the natatorium. “The shot” will go down as one of the greatest moments in SHS’ water polo history.

It was truly Mendelsohn’s marvelous miracle.

Girls’ runners off to impressive post-season start Team chases after emily COHEN GMC Championship staff writer

Ready, Set, Go. Crack, the shot fires and the race begins.

The girls’ cross country team placed third in the Greater Miami Conference tournament (GMC) on October 11. Alanah Sonntag, 12, placed third overall, running an 18:49 while Taylor Young, 11, finished ninth running a 19:40.

“The team ran really well,” said Sonntag.

Placing third is huge accomplishment for the team. Players have been working hard and they are now seeing the results. They will run at districts on October 18, and if they place high enough, will advance to state.

Going to state will not be easy. The team will be challenging against the best competition in Ohio.

“The GMC has really good competition,” said Sonntag.

However, despite the difficulty, the team is optimistic about getting there.

“I believe we can go to state,” said Coach Scott Popoff.

Four players from the team were selected to the GMC all conference team, including: Melissa French, 11, Young, and Sonntag; Danielle Fleming, 11 was chosen to second team all Conference.

Placing third and having seven players finish in the top 50 for overall time is a tremendous feat. This is the best result that the team has had in three years. Practicing hard is the key to their success.

Players run on average three to six miles every day. Each practice has a different routine that focuses on a different aspect of running. Some days are long distance while others focus more on sprinting.

Not only does this schedule help players improve their time; but it also keeps practice interesting because they are not repeating the same drills.

“I am amazed at what my body can do,” said Dallas Burris, 11.

When players are pushed to the limit they need mental strength to keep them going. Using this strength, they can accomplish anything.With a strong mind, players can overcome their obstacles and achieve their goals.

Girls’ cross country is off to a great start, but still has a ways to go. To succeed they will have to run faster than they ever have before. Third place is quite an accomplishment, but a first place finish would be even better.

“Our expectation is to go to state,” said Fleming.

All conference First team:

Melissa French,11 Alanah Sonntag, 12 Taylor Young, 11

Second team:

Danielle Fleming,11 DANIELLE FLEMING, 11, (RIGHT) is in her first year of running. Remarkably, she was selected to the all conference team.

all images courtesy of mcdaniels photography

Boys’ cross country team races through postseason Group has lofty tournament expectations frank PAN

staff writer

NICK FRY, 11, FINISHED eighth overall at the GMC championships, with a time of 16:31.55.

The men’s cross country team competed in the Greater Miami Conference (GMC) championships Saturday, October 11 at Voice of America Park, where the some of the GMC’s best raced for the crown.

The team took advantage of their opportunities and ran hard on what was a pleasant day to run.

The men ran well as a team and finished second, falling behind Lakota West. Lakota West finished with 73 points, SHS and Mason tied with 76 points.

“I thought we did really well at GMC’s and I hope the momentum will carry on into districts and regionals,” said Hank Geer, 12.

Geer, one of the top runners at SHS, finished third and led all Sycamore runner’s with a 5k time of 16:10.41.

Finishing behind Geer came Nick Fry, 11, who finished eighth with a time of 16:31.55. Mike

McMillen, 12, John Stucker, 12, Gus Klofta, 12, and Kubilay Inanli, 10 all ran respectable times under 18 minutes, while Ryan Ebstein,11, ran just above that time.

The team then looked to the district meet which was held on Saturday, October 18 at Voice of America.

If the team manages to get past the districts round, they will then advance to the state regionals.

“If we do what we need to do and improve on our GMC meet result, we should be able to get past districts and regionals,” said Geer.

“Hopefully, state is in reach for the team,” said Rohan Dalal, 10.

If the team improves on its GMC result and peaks at the right times for state qualification, triumphant things may come again for SHS boys’ cross country.

Tourney times 5k at the GMC meet

Hank Greer, 12: 16:10.41 Nick Fry, 11: 16:31.55 Mike McMillen, 12: 17:14.55 Jon Stucker, 12: 17:31.04 Gus Klofta, 12: 17:32.53 Kubilay Inanli, 10: 17:44.75 Ryan Ebstein, 11: 18:17.02

sports

25

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

JV football struggles through final stretch of year

Disappointing season coming to an end as JV tries to look for positives brandon SOSNA

staff writer

The JV football team hit their roughest stretch in early October, as they were dominated by Lakota East and Princeton by 17 and 16 points respectively.

The squad was bid no welcome at Lakota East, where they took a tough loss on the road 13-30.

They needed to regroup, but another strong week of practice would be left unrewarded.

Serving as host to Princeton, the squad was in need of a big game, but they would get nothing, except another crushing defeat as they fell to the Vikings 16-32.

The 16 points put up by the offense did not quite light up the scoreboard, but the total was their second high-

est output of the season. However, whenever they score 20-plus points they win.

Unfortunately, they only topped 20 once this season – in the opener, which stood as their one single victory.

Although not much, this was still a promising 16-point effort. The wins were not accumulating, but there was something special in the making.

After having dropped their seventh straight game, the group’s record stood at 1-7.

“We just need to get it together and execute,” said Joey Crusham, 10, following the loss.

And that’s exactly what they did.

The defense loomed large on Oc-

tober 18, as the squad held Oak Hills to just 6 points, as they notched win number two of the season, by a count of 17-6.

After the win, the group shared in facetious excitement over the win, it was satisfying to some of the group that they were able to stop the bleeding.

But not all players shared that fulfillment.

Some frustrated greatly by the team’s lack of triumph, have declined to comment on their season.

“I really got nothing [to say],” said Matt Cianciolo, 10.

It is quite obvious from the vibe of the team that their late season success was not enough to overcome the

disappointment of a losing season.

“With the season ending, it was important that we worked to finish on a high note, and build momentum toward next year,” said Michael Streicher, 10.

And with their win over the Highlanders, they did just that.

It is vital that the team continues to grow as a unit, but also talent wise, as the next rung on the football ladder is varsity.

With that squad set to lose many of their key contributors, especially offensively, it will be up to the current JV members to step up their game for a successful run in next year’s season.

2008 JV football schedule

Date/Opponent/Result 8/23: Glen Este 8/30: Springboro 9/06: @Roger Bacon 9/13: @Hamilton 9/20: Colerain 9/27: Fairfield 10/4: @Lakota East 10/11: Princeon 10/18: @Oak Hills 10/25: @Mason

W 22-12 L 12-30 L 7-10 L 7-28 L 7-20 L 14-19 L 13-30 L 16-32 W17-6 1:00 pm

Boys’ soccer captures GMC crown ben DHIMAN

I

minimag editor

n recent months the varsity soccer team has been gaining attention. With a near immaculate defense, and an offense that is equally as talented, there have been few opponents who have been able to stand in their way.

On a crisp Tuesday evening the team flashed their skills in front of a packed stadium as they finally won a GMC Championship.

This game signified the last GMC game of the year, and was the deciding game between either Mason or SHS for the league championship, not to mention it was senior night.

This title, as GMC champs, comes after a summer of every-day workouts, and days of suffering the sweltering heat in practice after school.

“The title of GMC champions is something no one can ever take away from you. You guys earned it, and I just hope we can carry this type of play into the tournament,” said Head Coach Scott Sievering to the team after their thrilling victory.

The focus of a program coming off of last years season and a team that had a record of 8-7-2 and a heart breaking post season loss to Moler in the first round has changed completely; the current team has a record of 12-1-3 and a first round bye.

This luxury comes after staying determined to become the best.

“Looking at the tournament, I think that we could make a run to the finals. We just need to take one game at a time,” said captain Omar Refaei, 12.

Looking ahead into the tournament, the squad faced LaSalle first, and then Lakota West in the second round.

These early games have been the determining factor in the chance the team has for a shot for a state championship.

But first came LaSalle, a team that they were simply expected to beat. SHS had already beaten the Lancers 4-0 earlier in the season.

It was much of the same this time around as they breezed past the Lancers 4-0. The victory over LaSallle was an exhibition of the team to exploit their adversary’s weaknesses. It was a rough start, but four second half gaols were the difference.

The team then defeated Lakota West in the second overtime period after coming from one down in regulation. The golden goal was scored by Ben Dhiman, 11, and elevated the group through to the next round.

“Our upcoming game against Beavercreek should be a tough game for us, but we need to really work hard to prevent this from becoming an the end of a great season,” said Will Sloss, 11.

Beavercreek is SHS’s toughest opponent so far, which should make for a very tight game. The squad is going into the showdown feeling blind, as they know little about their opponent.

The long road to the state championship takes its next stop in Dayton, OH. Hopefully it will sum up to a district title and another step in the direction of the ultimate goal of a state title.

The recognition of the team throughout the school has risen significantly. This trend should continue as long as the team is able to experience success and make it closer and closer to their goal of a state championship.

image by jeremy mcdaniel

THE MEN’S SOCCER team has experienced one of its best seasons in years. Ryan Lavinge, 12, has been a major part of that success. Lavigne is tied for the GMC lead in goals with 12 and leads the team in nearly every offensive category

water polo performs, advances to state tournament G irls’ oes to South Regional Championships, defeats Milford to capture seed in tournament ben KEEFE staff writer

The girl’s water polo team arrived at Mason high school on Oct. 17 hungry for victory, and wanting more than anything to advance onto the state championship on Oct. 24-25.

Coming into the weekend, the team was the third seed. They needed to perform better than their seed as only the top two seeds from each region move on to state.

In the first round of the Ohio South Regional Championships the team faced the Princeton and flattened the Vikings 16-2.

With the victory, the team moved on to a second round head-to-head bout with Milford. The team fell to the Eagles in a tough 9-10 loss.

Though the team lost, they still held their heads up high. They still had some hope to get to state. It

would take an outstanding effort because they would need to win the remainder of their games.

With Upper Arlington winning their first three games, the UA Golden Bears had already secured the number one seed in the state tournament.

“When we lost to Milford I still had no doubt that we would not make state. I knew we were going to win out and get that second spot at state,” said Mr. Nick Hellwig, head coach.

The team would indeed play their hearts out for the duration of the tournament.

Next for the team would be Canton Glen Oak. Glen Oak tried to keep pace in an offensive slaughter, but SHS had too much firepower winning 17-10.

This victory would advance the team to the final game of the tournament, and another epic battle against Milford.

The difference being a win would result in a birth in the state tournament.

“I was excited to find out that we were to play Milford again because we have beaten them earlier this season. I was even more excited when I realized it was for a birth at state,” said Hellwig.

The two teams were evenly matched during the regular season, but Milford had previously been showed to be the superior team in their second round showdown.

But the tides were about to change, as this duel had even more on the line.

SHS ended up ousting Milford 7-3, thus winning the second seed from the South for the Oct. 24-25 state tournament.

Anna James, 10, played a tremendous game as goalie, holding Milford to only 3 goals.

“The second Milford game could have very well been James’ best game as goalie,” said Hellwig.

Jenna Tameris, 12, co-captain, scored 6 out the 7 goals for the team.

The team was overly ecstatic due to their birth in the state tournament.

“It is so sweet making state again.

I knew we had the team to do it, but it was just a matter of winning. And we won, and hopefully we will bring SHS another state championship,” said Tameris.

image by jeremy mcdaniel

THE GIRLS’ WATER polo team has experienced great success.

Jenna Tameris, 12, has been the leader of the squad. Tameris is a four-time all-state performer and is also an All-American.

26

Girls’ tennis soars to new heights Wins add up to impressive season

sports FRIDAY October 31, 2008

kavya REDDY

T

staff writer

The duo of Aamna Dosani, 10, and Kavya he team posted a successful season record Reddy, 12, placed third in the all conference team. of 10-6 (7-2 GMC). With an early lead This successful team won the back draw of the in the season, they faced their first GMC team, Lakota West. Unfortunately, the pow- GCTCA and the GMC tournament.

Maggie Cron, 10, played an outstanding season, erhouse West dominated on all five courts. rotating continuously in doubles.

Junior co-captain, Bianca Patel, 11, had a sucContinuing their dominance, the team won cessful season, traveling the furthest of any memsecond place in the GMC tournament. Though ber of the team; Patel made it to the second round they finished third during the of districts. regular season, they still tied At second singles, AlBeing a young team, Mason for second place in the lie Martin, 10, reached overall. the district tournament I think we have a lot “Mason was our biggest rival where she lost MND. going for us next year. and there was always intensity Sammi Kruger, 9, on the courts. We always put up rounds out the singles We know who our a good fight, winning some and line-up at third. Placcompetition is and with losing some,” said Dosani. ing second in the all Highlights of the season conference team, this the determination and include Lakota East and Lovenew comer has showed up many older players. hard work, we can win land, which the girls triumphantly won in clean courts.

Kruger went as far as back the GMC title.

Four years ago, the girls lost districts, yet lost a hard their 16 year streak of GMC fought battle to Lakota titles. As the youngest varsity East. team in the athletic program, they hope to improve “Making varsity as a during their offseason. freshman was an amazing experience. The up“Being a young team, I think we have a lot going perclassmen, especially the senior really helped me for us next year. We know who our competition is feel included,” said Kruger. and with the determination and hard work, we can Juniors Joyce Zhang and Sheena Patel put up a win back the GMC title,” said B. Patel. good fight, as they reached sectionals and then as The kindle of determination to win back those far as districts. The team has many successful wins lost years lies in the future of this young team. including Mason, Ursuline and Loveland.

”

”

-Bianca Patel, 11

image by matt slovin

GAINING VALUABLE VARSITY experience during her freshman year, Sammi Kruger, 9, plays in a varsity match. Kruger has three more seasons as a member of the team, all of which are likely to be filled with success.

Boys’ JV soccer ends near-perfect season chad CHESSIN staff writer

image by jeremy mcdaniel

RICKY MILLER, 9, ADVANCES the ball for the hard-working JV squad. Preseason conditioning and strong leadership enabled the team to ride a wave of success that led them to one of the top spots in the GMC.

The boys JV ‘A’ soccer team knew this season was going to be something special. The players put it all on the line during summer conditioning, laboring for a spot on the team that would finish among the elite of the Greater Miami Conference.

As the school year approached, the teams selected, and it was time for practice. Everyday, the squad gave it their all, knowing that only through hard work and determination would their season be a success.

“Our success has come from hard work, practice, and a constant desire to better our last performance,” said AJ Goldhoff, 10.

Under the leadership of coach Mr. Ben Williams, the boys looked forward to a fun, rewarding season.

The team started out on a hot streak, with wins over Elder, La Salle, and Covington Catholic. The 3-0 start contributed to momentum that would not halt all season.

“We started off the season in an unbelievable fashion. We hope we can keep up the good work and finish off the season strong,” said Jeffrey Wolkoff, 10.

From there, the boys proceeded to smash any team that was in their way, only surrendering two losses all season to Milford and Lakota East.

One of the biggest wins of the season came against Lakota West. Goals by Michael Jervis, 10, Chapman Bundy, 11, and Goldhoff, spurred the team to a 3-1 victory. Goalkeeper Michael Tufts, 10, only allowed one goal, on a penalty kick.

“The game against West, along with many of our other wins, proves that we are a legitimate force to be reckoned with,” said Robert Stein, 10.

With the record standing at 8-2-1, the biggest challenge was loomed in the future. After improving their record to 11-2-2, the date of the final game against Mason arrived. The Comets had only allowed one loss coming into the game.

“Two solid teams are about to go up against each other. It should be a fun game,” said Goldhoff.

The match up began as a defensive struggle, with the score deadlocked at 0-0 at halftime. The scoring began with a goal by Brendan Corcoran, 9. Tufts proved to be a brick-wall with eight saves, and only one goal allowed.

The defenses did not allow any further scoring, and the game ended in a 1-1 draw.

“Although the Mason game did not go exactly as we wanted, we played a pretty good game. All in all, it was a great season,” said Wolkoff.

The team’s final record of 11-2-3 placed it among the top of the GMC.

‘Our team was like a family’ JV girls’ soccer teams bravely face adversity kelsey DRAPKIN staff writer

With a record of 8-5-3, the girls finished off their season with pride and memories. The season, which began before students resumed classes, had many surprises and victories while under the coaching of Mrs. Kelly Ryan.

“I had the time of my life. Our team was like a family, and no one was ever left out. I will miss it so much,” said Katie Strickland, 11.

The girls on the team included Strickland, Allison Setser, 11, Ashley James,11, Leah Zimmer,11, Laura McLean, 11, Emma Majchrzak, 10, Michelle Herlihy, 10, Julia Turkevich, 10, Kat Pember,

10, Rachel Bauder, 9, Hayley Baas, 9, Jessica Buchberger, 9, Hailey Jardin, 9, Sara Estes, 9, Sally Evans, 9, and Lauren Hancher, 9.

Conditioning and team bonding were very important.

“The team will forever miss team bonding practices and our colorful spandex,” said Evans.

Despite an injury laden season, the team was still able to beat some very good teams, such as Fairfield, Lakota East and Colerain.

“This team showed the most dedication, drive, and team unity that I have ever seen in the years that I have been coaching here at

Sycamore. They worked hard, consistently, and they were never negative about any situation,” said Ryan.

Junior Varsity ‘B’

Under Coach Lindsey Vondrell, the squad ended the tough season with no wins, but grew as a team.

“We had fun and bonded as a team while playing soccer,” said Sara Jolley, 10.

The squad was composed of eight freshmen and seven sophomores.

The offense was made up of Trisha McLaughlin, 9, Emma Oh, 9, and Ali Shehata, 9. Defense included Carrie Tveita, 10, Jolley, Danielle

Kearns, 10, Katherine Brown, 9, and Elizabeth Moore, 9.

The midfielders consisted of Megan Wittenburg, 10, Ashley Cooper, 9, Ellen Wang, 9, Kat Pember, 10, and Emily Moore, 9. Gretchen Fischer, 10, began the season as goalie, but due to injury, Maddie Knaur, 10, stepped up to play goalie.

The team faced much adversity due to injuries to several important players.

“We had a solid defense, and good communication, on and off of the field. Our team only improved from the beginning of the season, and we had so much fun!” said Tveita.

image by jeremy mcdaniel

EVADING AN OPPONENT in pursuit, Jessica Buchberger, 9, starts the team’s attack. The team bonded well despite suffering several early losses.

sports FRIDAY October 31, 2008

27

Pardon the Interruption Jared and Ben discuss some of sports’ most controversial topics

Jared Kamrass

What is the worst sports city in the United States?

Ben Estes

Kansas City. Fans who pretty much don’t care combined with a lackluster performance from its teams, including the Royals in baseball, and the Chiefs in football, it’s pretty much a year round smorgasbord of misery and despair in this Midwestern city. At least they have some barbeque to help them eat away the pain.

Matt Mendelsohn

Jacksonville. With one pro team to speak of (save the Suns in minor league baseball) the fans have mostly shown they don’t care about the Jaguars. Owner Wayne Weaver is actively exploring where he can move the team and the fans can’t fill up Jacksonville Municipal Stadium on Sundays.

Evan Romansky

Oakland. The heart and soul of the city, the Raiders, are beginning to lose support thanks to their power-hungry owner, and despite having a good baseball team, no one ever shows up to the games. Besides, I haven’t heard any news about college athletics from that city ever.

Kavya Reddy

Seattle. The Mariners are coming off a season where they lost over 100 games.

The Seahawks are past their prime and are now in downward spiral. Oh, and they lost their NBA team to Oklahoma City. Are you serious? Oklahoma City? It is the worst city to be a sports fan in my book. Stick to the coffee, stay away from the sports.

Miami. Though recent victories include the Heat winning the NBA championships and the Marlins winning the World Series, they are still dubbed the worst sports city. It is tough when the local NFL and NBA teams combine to go for a 16-82 record. Both were the worst in the league. Moving more downhill, the Marlins and the Panthers finished with a 109-135 record. College Sports? Let’s not start with that.

2

1

3

NFL Mid-season NCAA Basketball NCAA Football

JK: Just about halfway through another NFL season. Who are your top players and teams so far?

BE: The Giants and Titans seem to be the cream of the crop thus far.

As far as players, the young QBs are surprising with their solid play.

JK: The Bills have jumped out to a hot start and are looking to take advantage of the Brady-less and Maroney-less Pats.

JK: Any list has to include UNC. The Heels are stacked this year led by returning Naismith Award winner Tyler Hansbrough. Texas is also one we shouldn’t sleep on.

BE: Yeah, although it seems to have stabilized a little bit with Texas strutting its stuff and the rest of elite teams looking strong.

JK: Keep an eye on the freshmen. F Demar Derozan, G Tyreke Evans, and C B.J. Mullens. Might not be Kevin Durant and Greg Oden, but it should be a good crop of youngsters.

JK: I think one surprise is the quick demise of the Cowboys and the Browns. Both were playoff teams last year and have struggled to even come close to their high expectations.

The rookie Univeristy of South Carolina QB, who is better known for his extensive criminal record, was able to keep his team in the game against LSU a few weeks ago.

The tipping point for Garcia was that he often went against 12 defenders, as the officials took it upon themselves to help out the Tigers.

Kudos to the refs, who were able to bring LSU a close victory on the road.

JK: This season is proving to be alot like last season, as top teams go down like flies. What are your thoughts?

BE: Yeah, the traditional powers certainly look to rule again. UConn looks poised to reemerge as a contender with C Hasheem Thabeet patrolling the middle. Also, look out for Louisville in the Big East.

BE: They sure have. The defense is playing solid and QB Trent Edwards is doing exactly what he needs to do for that team.

Stephen Garcia

BE: The new season is rapidly approaching and should be an exciting one with many top players returning. Who are your teams to watch?

JK: I’m not entirely sold that Texas is the best team in the country.

Maybe that’s attributable to my nonplussed reaction to QB Colt McCoy. BE: I think you’re foolish. They’ve beaten two top tier teams in two consecutive weeks (Oklahoma and Mizzou).

JK: I like Florida more. They seem to be more explosive and they know how to win in a tough environment.

Thumbs up, Thumbs down Darren Baker

The offspring of Reds Manager Dusty Baker, most notably known for his faux pas as the batboy when his dad coached the Giants, has made another giant gaffe.

The younger Baker allowed his father to coach his team in a Fall-ball League in their native California.

The results were disastrous.

Our only question is this: was Pete Mackanin not available?

Take a

letter If you would like to send an opinion to ‘Take a Letter’ about anything you have read or heard about at Sycamore or in the world sports community, please e-mail Jared Kamrass and Ben Estes at sycamoreathletics@gmail.com

Dale Sveum

The former interim manager of the Milwaukee Brewers had a tenure that lasted a mere 16 games... before he was fired.

Charged with getting the Brewers into the playoffs, Sveum took over with 12 games left and made it happen.

The Brewers organization then rewarded him with a playoff check and a pink slip.

Dear Sports Opinion Czars,

With their appearance in the 2008 World Series, the Tampa Bay Rays have provent to themselves and to the sporting world that it is possible to from ‘worst to first’ in a very short amount of time.

There are alot of theories as to how the Rays were able to do this, including from the more spiritually inclined citing the team dropping ‘Devil’ from their name.

What do you two personally think the reason is for the Rays to leapfrog the Red Sox and the Yankees this year in the standings and in the playoffs.

Whatever the reason, is it something that our very own Cincinnati Reds can do?

Thanks for your response, guys.

I know the entire Sycamore Community is wating to hear your insight.

Sincerely, Lily Ricci, 12.

Steve Hull A long interception return against Oak Hills on a regionally-televised game catapulted this soon-to-be member of the University of Illinois football team into the limelight with an appearance on ESPN the next minute.

On a side note, SHS alum Kevin Youkilis made an ESPN appearance just seconds after Hull’s play was aired by the Worldwide Leader.

Dearest Lily, While some among us do attribute the lack of ‘Devil’ in the team name, we like to give our credit to the excellent player development system employed by the team by the Bay. When a new leadership took over the team just a few years ago from the orginal group that helped bring baseball to West Central Florida, they brought in a new way of doing business.

Instead of bringing over-priced veterans who were past their prime (i.e. OF Greg Vaugn, IF Wade Boggs), the new group started from the ground up by developing the farm system.

Many of these projects are making their impact known even in this World Series. OFs BJ Upton and Carl Crawford, IF Evan Longoria, and Ps David Price and James Shields were all homegrown products.

A team has never been built just on draft success alone.

It requires a top-notch scouting department. The Rays are fortunate enought to benefit from having one of the best in baseball.

P Scott Kazmir and 1B Carlos Pena are prime examples of players that other teams thought were expendable. The Rays pounced on them and they are now integral parts of the World Series team.

With Love, The Sports Opinion Editors

28

sports

Adrenaline seekers: FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Extreme excitement reaches new levels catherine FARIST & elizabeth HOOPES staff writer staff writer

T

hey say we come in and out of this world in the same fashion. So, then how exactly is a life measured? Some would say by the moments that fill it; those moments of pure exhilaration and unadulterated freedom.

Humans just want to feel alive in every essence of their being. Free falling at 6,000 feet strapped to a parachute is a sure fire way to get every nerve in the body tingling and jumping like Mexican beans.

“While I was tandem free-falling my mind was blank, but once the parachute hit and you are coming down you get a chance to look around and catch your breath,” said Mr. Andrew Ostendorf, social studies teacher. “But, as you continue to float down, you begin to really soak in the experience and your mind is just continually blown away with the awe of it all.”

Psychological aspect

Stepping out of the monotonous lifestyle of school or a career gives magnitude to what life can really be.

Extreme activities such as snowboarding , wake boarding, or bungee jumping can fill that need for thrill.

Those moments of pure exhilaration and unadulterated freedom bring a real meaning to how a life can be measured in the eyes of the beholder.

“Power is better than pleasure; energy is preferable to enjoyment, while life in its vitality is superior to all of these,” states Charles Grey Shaw, in his book, “Short Talks on Psychology.”

cannot train for. It is all reaction and no time to comprehend or think.

Not knowing what may happen next is the thrill of it all, just living, and giving that ever active mind a rest for just a few moments; just feeling and experiencing the surrealism of nature and all its wonders.

“At first, you start to get slightly scared as you hear the roar of the rapids approaching in your tiny raft.” said Ryan Whitney, 11, “But once you get going and start getting bumped around that scared feeling only fuels the adrenaline coursing through your body.”

Parasailing, another activity using a parachute, replaces the plane with a boat and one can get an idea of what it would be like to sail, in the air, over water, like a pelican, only with no control over where the parachute goes.

“You don’t really perceive how high 500 feet is, until you’re actually 500 feet off the ground, looking down, dangling from just a parachute and ropes,” said Tom Seiple, 12.

Getting back on land, climbing up cliffs, mountains and gorges with a harness and ropes can be breathtakingly therapeutic and offers a good form of exercise.

“When I am rock climbing, I get a feeling of empowerment, like I’ve conquered a little bit of the earth,” said Payne Helmers, 12.

People do crazy stunts or activities every day, whether or not they are those labeled “adrenaline junkies”. Everyone feels that need for something more and something out of the ordinary.

Plain and simple, it is just a basic human need and it is best if it is fulfilled for one reason or another.

Now, here is how to get started.....

Science behind the chemical

Adrenaline is a phenomenal chemical; the body is energized yet relaxed and the abundance of adrenaline leads the body into a natural high. In this heightened state the body shuts down everything it does not need in order to focus entirely on the task at hand.

It is naturally produced in high-stress or physically exhilarating situations and it increases physical performance for short bursts of time.

Extreme Activites

Most have been swimming in a lake or the ocean or even a river, but what about plummeting over and through churning waters in a tiny raft with maybe 12 other people and paddles?

“My favorite part of the whole white water rafting experience was the rush of adrenaline,” said Megan Esper, 12.

Oh the joys of white water rafting; sure, it seems fairly easy, but it is one of those sports, one

”

While I was tandem free-falling my mind was blank, but once the parachute hit and you are coming down you get a chance to look around and catch your breath, but as you continue to float down, you begin to really soak in the experience and your mind is just continually blown away with the awe of it all.

”

-Mr. Andrew Ostendorf, social studies teacher

image by elizabeth hoopes

sports

29

FRIDAY October 31, 2008

Now, get some blood pumping Parasailing

photo courtesy of mr. andrew ostendorf

photo courtesy of tom seiple

With parasailing the rush comes from the height factor, the air whooshing beneath the feet and a large body of water glooming below with nothing but a harness, a few carabineers and the long rope attached to a motorized pulley on the boat.

“The entire ride is probably only three minutes long, but it feels like an hour,” said Tom Seiple, 12.

Best place to go within 5 hours : North Coast Parasail in Sandusky, Ohio Price range: $50-70 per person

Rock climbing Being one of those ‘closer to nature’ sports, outdoor rock climbing involves the progressive of pulling oneself’s up a cliff with a series of ropes, pulleys, caravineers and a harness.

“With rock climbing, with very step higher you take you feel a rush of accomplishment. To be close to nature gives you a sense of relation and exhilaration,” said Elana Pentelnik, 11.

Best Place to go within 5 hours: Red River Gorge in Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky Price range: Around $12 per site

photo courtesy of payne helmers

Tandem sky diving is the most enjoyable version of sky diving available that does not require certification, with a free-fall of up to 120 mph and views to canopy one during the ride, all the while strapped to a trained instructor.

“It is one of those things that provides a pretty unique life experience and you just need to take advantage of the opportunity, it really is the thrill of a lifetime,” said Mr. Andrew Ostendorf.

Best place to go within 5 hours: Start Skydiving in Lebanon, Ohio Price range: $150-200 per person

water rafting Strapped into a life jacket and helmet and gripping a paddle, propelling the raft and trying not to fall out. That’s the general concept to white water rafting.

“White water rafting is like riding a really good roller coaster, only you get wet,” said Ryan Ebstein, 11.

But for one with experience this is a fine honed technique filled sport.

Thinking on your feet is essential and you must completely immerse in it to get the full affect and stay safe.

Best place to go within 5 hours: West Virginia’s New and Gauley Rivers , such as Ace Adventure Center in Oak Hill, West Virginia.

Price range: $60-200

photo courtesy of kathryn rosenberg

30 jacob NEWTON calendar editor

& kavya REDDY

sunday

calendar FRIDAY October 31, 2008

calendar editor

monday

tuesday

n v.

U.S. History: North and South Dakota become 40th and 41th state

wednesday

W

Weird Holiday: Mother-in-Law’s Day

Weird Holiday: Homemade Bread Day

SHS Sports: Boy’s Basketball tryouts start

U.S. History: Oklahoma became the 46th state (1907)

Holiday: Veteran's Day Holiday: ForgetMe-Not Day**

Word of the Week: lout: an awkward brutish person

Athlete Birthday: Sammy Sosa, Baseball(1968) Comedy: Carlos Mencia at Taft Theater

Concert: The Eagles at U.S. Bank Arena

SHS Event: Early Release

History: Antarctica discovered (1820)

SHS Sports: Wrestling’s first practice

History: Gettysburg Address Delivered

by Abraham Lincoln (1863) Concert: Harry Connick Jr. at U.S. Bank Arena

History: Charles Darwin publishes The Origin of Species (1859)

Athlete Birthday: Joe DiMaggio, Baseball (1914)

SHS Event: NHS Induction SHS Music: Big Band Sign-ups SHS Sports: Swimming’s first practice

Theater: Wizard of Oz at Aronoff Center, through Nov. 23

Word of the Week: flack: to provide publicity

Word of the Week: glom: to take or to steal

Weird Holiday: Guy Fawkes Night*

Event: Election Day. Exercise your right to vote!

History: Sesame Street debuted in 1969

saturday Concert: Matthew Sweet at Madison Theater

www.goaves.org. This website provides up to date information on sports, clubs, news, and events, and also provides an online version of the newspaper.

SHS Sports: Fall sports awards

Word of the Week: circumlocution: the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an idea

friday

ith winter rounding the corner, use this month to catch up on your holiday specials. The calendar features many holidays and celebrations; the month of pilgrims, thanksgiving, Sadie Hawkins, and much more. The fall sports season ended with many teams gaining state achievements, and new National Honor Society members were introduced. For more updates in sports, academics, clubs, and more check out

SHS Event: Report cards distributed

Word of the Week: aggress: to commit aggression : to act aggressively

thursday

SHS Event: No school, through Nov. 28

Holiday: Sadie Hawkins Day*** Fast Fact: Flight of the first helicopter (1907) SHS Theater: “Metamorphoses,” through Nov. 15

SHS Sports: Flyerette’s Holiday Boutique Sports: Bengals vs.

Steelers (away) Concert: Reverend Horton Heat at Bogarts

Holiday: Thanksgiving Day

History: Cartoonist Thomas Nast depicts Republican party as an elephant in a cartoon in “Harper's Weekly” (1874)

Weird Holiday: National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day Fast Fact: Speed limit for horseless carriages in Britain rose to 14 mph from four mphs

Athlete Birthday: Ken Griffey Jr., Baseball (1969)

Weird Holiday: Pack Your Mom Lunch Day Comedy: Margaret Cho at Taft Theater

Comedy: Kevin Smith at Millet Hall in Oxford Athlete Birthday: Billie Jean King, tennis (1943) History: President John F. Kennedy Assassinated (1963)

Weird Holiday: Black Friday

*Referenced in “V for Vendetta,” this historical holiday marks the night a man name Guy Fawkes attempted to destroy Houses of Parliament in London using gunpowder. This odd, European holiday is often celebrated with a night of fireworks. **People use this day to get in touch with family, friends and loved ones, especially those who we haven't seen in a while. This day is intended to remember the living. But, some people have used it to memorialize a deceased love one. ***This holiday originated from a “Lil Abner Cartoon” in the 1930s. In the cartoon series, Sadie Hawkins was the daughter of one of Dogpatch’s earlier settlers. When the she reached 35, her father was desperate to marry her off. He called together many bachelors, and a foot race was decreed. The one to catch Sadie, married her, and from then on they made Sadie Hawkins day a yearly event.

advertisement 31 FRIDAY October 31, 2008

32

spotlight FRIDAY October 31, 2008

‘Live your life with no regrets’

Emily Carlson cherishes in-the-moment memories maria MARBALLI spotlight editor

Q&A with Emily Carlson, 9

What are three words you would use to describe yourself?

Athletic, caring, funny.

When did you start playing volleyball? What has been your proudest moment?

I started playing when I was in fourth grade. My proudest moments have been getting awesome kills.

What is most important in life?

Family and friends, definitely.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I think it would be really cool to go to Belgium because my friend used to live there and it seems like a cool place.

What keeps you awake at night?

When I think about school-related things, like tests.

How would you define a true friend?

Someone who is always there no matter how stupid the situation might be, and someone who is caring and fun to be around.

Where do you want to go to college and what do you want to study?

I want to go somewhere in South Carolina and I want to be a teacher.

Do you have any pet peeves?

I absolutely HATE when people chomp their food around me.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I want to be able to fly so that I can get places faster.

What is on your iPod? Tons of Lil Wayne, Paramore, Jason Mraz, New Kids on the Block, and a lot of different kinds of music.

Any last words? Live your life with no regrets.

Who are you closest with?

My sister, Sarah Carlson, 12.

all images courtesy of emily carlson

CARLSON AND HER sister, Sarah Carlson, 12, visited a beach in the Outer Banks this past summer. They went on vacation with their cousins to celebrate their last years before college. “This was our first year because our cousins were all getting older and going to college so we wanted to take a trip just to get closer,” said Emily. “We used to always see them but we don’t really anymore, so pretty much it was just to get together and spend time with each other.”

F U N

, and I 9 , e an L a in t is ir My friend K ogether last t rk Pa im a w S at swinging year.

I N

THE

Cardenas, a in L , e M , h le a S Serina c at our li Pa a il e h S , a n ik P Shannon game. freshman volleyball

S U N

a pool in t a I d n a , r e sist My cousins, my here, it t it e v lo e W ks. the Outer Ban is beautiful.