October Issue of The Sycamore Leaf by Sycamore High School

the

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2010 | VOLUME LVIII ISSUE 3 | 7400 CORNELL RD. CINCINNATI, OHIO 45242, 513.686.1770 EXT. 3089

facing the issue of

BULLYING smDIPALI

news chief

emmaOH

business manager, feature chief

49 nations, one high school

image by s.m. dipali and emma oh

bullying

thursday, october 28, 2010

...because I’m not wealthy.

...because I was overweight. I used to be a little heavier. I didn’t think about it all that much until the kids in my class started making fun of me. One girl would tell me that I needed to buy a training bra to cover up my “man boobs.” Every time she said it, all of the other kids would laugh. Even though I played it off by being funny, it was still embarrassing. I’ve lost the weight since then, but I’ll always make a point to stick up for other overweight kids.

In middle school, I was a new student and was having trouble making friends. So when a group of wealthy, popular girls began to include me in their group, I was ecstatic; I had finally found my niche. I soon discovered, though, that my new BFF’s were nothing more than obsessive mall rats that dropped hundreds of dollars every weekend on expensive clothes, manicures, and high end cuisine. And when they discovered that I wasn’t fortunate enough to do the same, they weren’t too pleased. What began as being excluded from sleepovers and birthday parties soon turned to harsh whispers and hateful comments. Rumors began to spread around school, rumors that involved not only myself, but my family. “Trailer trash,” “sewer rat,” and comments about being “poor,” were some of the nicer things that they said. My ex-friends attacked me on AIM, calling me practically every name in the book and making me feel worthless. I ended up having to sit by myself at lunch, being laughed at in the halls, and feeling completely alone. They made my life a living hell.

image by sm dipali

Stories from SHS ‘I was bullied’ ...because I turned him down. Freshman year this guy from another school started messaging me and saying things like, “hey you look really pretty in your profile picture.” At first it was kind of flattering, but after a while I started to get creeped out. I asked him how he knew me and he told me he was my friend’s cousin. I didn’t really believe him so I asked my friend and he confirmed. We continued to casually message back and forth until he started telling me that he thought he was in love with me. I told him that I wasn’t looking for a relationship and that I thought we’d be better off as friends for the

moment. I didn’t think it was a big deal until I got on MySpace the next day and realized that he had taken embarrassing pictures of me from my photobucket and made an entire album of them on his profile. Along with the album, he sent out a message to all of his friends saying “Look at this ugly girl on my profile. She’s such a b....!” I was humiliated. I begged him to take the pictures and the message off, but he wouldn’t. Finally, after days of pleading, he took the pictures off and apologized. The thought of it still embarrasses me to this day.

...because I’m smart. I have always been a little bit smarter than my friends. I’m used to being called ‘geek’ or ‘nerd’ but I never thought chastisement for my intellect would extend past that. One day at my old school, our class had a substitute teacher and all of the students were being more unruly than usual. I had a lot of homework due the next day so I decided to work on my math instead of shoot paper wads into the trash basket. One of the other boys noticed and yelled, “What a nerd!” He took a

roll of packing tape from the teacher’s desk and started to tape me to my chair. Before I knew it, all of the other kids were joining in and laughing. I tried to laugh along, but I was actually scared I wouldn’t be able to get out of the chair. I asked them to stop but they kept wrapping the tape around me until it was all gone. The sub did nothing. After they were finished I had to ask the girl sitting next to me to help me get out. I’ve never felt so alone.

...because I defended my friend. At the end of the school year, I started talking to a guy one grade older than me. At first, I thought he was really nice and funny. We texted all the time and even made plans to hang out over the summer. Unfortunately my assumptions about his personality were completely wrong. One day I noticed that he had written something really rude on my best friend’s Facebook status, so I commented in her defense. Almost immediately, he wrote back calling me a “stupid b....” and other awful names. At first, I thought he was joking, but then I saw that he and his friend had been writing more things about me on their wall-to-wall for everyone to see. They kept calling me a “b....” and a “dumb whore” and making fun of me. Even though they didn’t use my name, everyone knew who they were talking about -- I felt attacked. I was so embarrassed that I deleted my Facebook for a couple weeks. Honestly, it was probably one of the most humiliating moments of my life.

bullying

thursday, october 28, 2010

‘its consequences can extend way beyond a couple of shed teardrops’

Effects of bullying on teens

ullying has been a prevalent issue ever since history’s first day of school. Before Generation Y, dealing with bullies was considered just another part of growing up. However, after researching the effects of bullying on both oppressor and victim, the American Medical Association warned that its consequences can extend way beyond a couple shed teardrops. These results led to the widespread surfacing of anti-bullying campaigns in almost every high school. Some high school students consider these campaigns overdone, saying that they preach the same message year after year. But are students actually aware of the effects of bullying? While administrators have proven effective in reminding students that bullying is wrong, they often forget to tell them about its potential magnitude, which studies from UCLA and UIC show is much more harmful than anyone knew. Victims of bullying can suffer from long term emotional and behavioral problems, potentially causing depression, anxiety and increased susceptibility to illness. Prolonged feelings of depression and anxiety can lead to violent behavior and even suicide. Take, for example, the recent incident at Rutgers University. Freshman Tyler Clementi committed suicide by jumping off of the Washington Bridge only hours after his roommate posted videos of him having sexual relations with a man on the internet. While Clementi’s death was a tragedy, suicide is not as closely linking to bullying as the media makes it out to be. On top of all that, bullying has negative effects for the aggressor, as well. Bullies usually choose to pick on others in order to relieve the stress they are feeling about their own problems. If they continue to use bullying as an outlet, it is likely these problems will never be resolved. Additionally, a bully who is never taught appropriate ways to deal with this stress will most likely continue being aggressive in their adult lives. Bullying is present in every high school, including SHS. While we take pride in our diversity, all students are the same in the fact that we personally know a bully or someone who is a victim of bullying. Why bullying exists is not entirely clear, but through the efforts of every student, it can be prevented. By participating in anti-bullying campaigns and standing up for the victims are bullying, we are gradually eliminating an issue that has plagued every generation in history.

Put an end to bullying Speak up. If you or someone you

know is dealing with a bully you can seek guidance from the student assistance counselors and the administration. The earlier you address the problem, the sooner it can be handled. If you are uncomfortable speaking with an adult at SHS, tell someone in your community. Never feel like you have to handle bullying alone. Remember, suicide is not an effective way to deal with a bully.

all images by emma oh and sm dipali

Why do teens bully?

Insecurity, dynamics of high school cause aggression shivaniPARIKH

forum chief

Words can hurt. The recent tragedies in the news have not only resurrected controversy over the ever-present issue of bullying, but also raise the question that has been asked many times before: why are teens so cruel? What makes this particular age group so prone to harsh ridicule of others? Bullies come in a variety; not all of them are individuals with deeply seeded issues, some of them are welladjusted and may bully in order to look better in front of an audience of their peers. Unfortunately, they feel that it is “cool” to ridicule those who no one will defend. Someone can become a bully for a number of reasons: they could be deeply troubled, could crave attention and popularity, or could desire to maintain the social pecking order. If anywhere there exists a rigid social stratification, then it is high school. Turn on any teen-movie and the general set-up of high

school cliques is quickly discernible: the popular crowd, the nerds, the rejects-- they are all separated out into groups that resent each other and rarely interact. Although the movies may exaggerate these social divisions, there is usually a hierarchy, one that some students may feel they have to protect. Adolescence is a time of personal growth, inevitably accompanied by insecurity. Those who find comfort in the social order may feel threatened by those who are different: maybe they are socially awkward or dress differently or speak differently. Regardless, bullying among teenagers is so common because of the insecurity and dynamics that come with high school. That being said, bullying can be prevented or at least scaled down: anti-bullying campaigns in schools have been proven to work, and raising awareness through tragedies such as suicides contributes to efforts to end this harmful, horrific practice.

Phoebe Prince, Megan Meier, and most recently Tyler Clementi are just some of the countless victims of bullying. Clementi’s death has brought to light the recent rash of homosexual abuse in the country.

Studies present new perspective Results show correlation between bullying, brain activity According to a new brain scanning study, bullies may be wired to experience intense glee while watching others suffer pain. Co-authors of the study, Benjamin Lahey and Jean Decety of the University of Chicago, used an fRMI technique to research the neural activity of the brains of adolescent bullies. A study conducted in 2007 showed that bullies score low on tests of empathetic activity and have a greater degree of antisocial tendencies. After examining the previous study, the researchers expected to find bullies showing no sympathetic response to seeing people in pain. Essentially, they believed that bullies were merely indifferent, perhaps cold at times, to others in pain. Their findings, however, were drastically different from what they had predicted. In the study, Lahey and Decety observed the brain activity of 16 to 18

year old boys and girls with histories of lying, stealing, and bullying in contrast to adolescents with no such histories. The bullying group was shown a series of brief videos that depict painful situations- some accidental, others intentional. The new research shows that activity in the amygdala and ventral striatum, regions of the brain sometimes associated with reward or pleasure, is particularly high when bullies witness a defenseless person hurting. In addition, the brain scans also reveal that a portion of the brain that helps regulate emotion is inactive in bullies. The study suggests that bullies simply lack the mechanism to control their anger and frustration, which may result in gross overreaction to small provocations. “We will have to develop therapies to either treat or compensate for this lack of self-regulation that we think is there and the fact that it may be positively reinforcing every time they hurt somebody,” Lahey said to reporters.

bullying

Speaking out:

thursday, october 28, 2010

Confessions, apologies from SHS I’m sorry to anyone that I’ve ever offended.

Sometimes I don’t realize that you’re not laughing along with me. Sometimes, the pressure I’m under makes me feel insecure about my own intelligence. I’m sorry to anyone I’ve belittled over the past few years of high school as a result of that feeling.

Sticks and stones may break their bones, but my words crush them.

I’m sorry that I made you feel like you weren’t good enough. I hope you never let my words define you.

We all made fun of you. I was nice to you once so that I would look good in front of everyone else. Then I went back to ignoring you.

Because everyone approved of my jokes, I never considered how they affected you. I’m sorry.

The guilt I feel for bullying others hurts much more than the pain I felt as the victim.

We were friends, but the popular kids told me you weren’t cool, so I stopped talking to you. I’m sorry.

Bullying makes me feel powerful. I’m scared that if I don’t, I’ll start to feel small.

I let my jealousy ruin our friendship. I never meant the horrible things I said to you. I’m so sorry.

I thought you were just being sensitive. I didn’t realize that you were actually hurting.

I’m sorry that I don’t defend you. I guess I just think that if people are making fun of you, they’ll forget that they used to do the exact same thing to me. No matter how many times I say it, you’re really not fat.

I’m sorry to the teacher that everyone makes fun of when their back is turned, and I’m sorry that

I didn’t break the trend.

I never meant for the situation to spiral. Now, everyone thinks you’re a slut, and it’s all my fault.

I used to think it was cool to bully people. I am sorry to all the people who felt the brunt of my anger.

Do you believe in miracles? Learn more about the rescue effort

the

Girls volleyball wins on and off the court with Volley for the Cure

page 10

page 15

THURSDAY OCTOBER 28, 2010 | VOLUME LVIII ISSUE 3 | 7400 CORNELL RD. CINCINNATI, OHIO 45242, 513.686.1770 EXT. 3089

moriahKRAWEC associate editor

At one point in his high school experience, Scott Morrison, ‘05, had a plan. He had decided to drive a girl to a park, alongside his friend Brian Lipps, who was dressed as a chauffeur. Some time later, Morrison learned of devastating news. Branden Haunert, ‘05, had fallen in Iraq. Morrison debated on whether to enlist in the Army or not. Regardless, Haunert’s death led Morrison to enlist. Unfortunately, Morrison fell as well on Sept. 26. Not all hold sympathy for fallen military personnel. Members of the Topeka, Ks.based Westboro Baptist Church believe that American military personnel are fighting for gay rights, a sin in Westboro’s eyes. Westboro’s roughly 70 members, including founder Fred Phelps, are infamous for traveling the United States to picket the funerals of fallen servicemen and servicewomen. Currently, Westboro is embroiled in a lawsuit, as Veterans Day quickly approaches on Nov. 11.

A ‘funeral into a media circus’

The lawsuit was filed on March 10, 2006, by Albert Snyder, whose son, Matthew Snyder, died in Iraq. Albert was incensed over the protesters at his son’s funeral, and sued Phelps. At one point, Albert claimed that Matthew’s service was “turned into a media circus,” and that Westboro “wanted to hurt my [his] family.” Some claim that Westboro was protected by both freedom of speech and assembly measures, as well as freedom of religion. “It’s embedded in an American value system that we can criticize our government and its actions,” said Mr. Drew Ostendorf, government teacher. Others think that the group’s picketing was an example of hate speech. “They think it’s hate speech since funerals are very emotional situations for families of the fallen soldiers,” said Ostendorf.

Weighing in:

State mandates schools to record students’ body mass index

smDIPALI

news chief

tatistics show that one in three children in Ohio is overweight by the third grade, putting them at risk for heart disease, diabetes, and elevated blood pressure later in life. To combat this growing trend, Governor Ted Strickland has signed the Healthy Choices for Healthier Children Act on Sept. 17, part of which stipulated screening the body mass index of all children in public schools. The law requires public schools to conduct a BMI test on every student entering kindergarten, third grade, fifth grade, seventh grade, and ninth grade. The results for each child will be kept on file, and letters will be sent to the parents notifying them of the results. BMI, body mass index, is the relationship between weight and height that is often associated with body fat and weight. To calculate BMI, schools will take the student’s weight in pounds and divide that by their height in inches, squared. “I think that the manner in which schools are testing BMI is just one of many ways. It only takes into account the height and weight of a student, and not their body type or muscle mass. So, it’s not really the most accurate way to test BMI,” said Mrs. Susan Murphy, school nurse. The bill will require the district to hire an outside firm to conduct BMI screenings during school hours. However, the testing will be voluntary and require parent permission. The cost of both hiring a firm to test students

and mailing out letters to every child’s home every other year has made many Ohio public school districts wary, including Sycamore, about this unfunded state mandate. “This new law, at its core, is actually a very good idea. But the government is basically giving all the responsibility to the schools. They haven’t given the schools any money for this new program nor have they decided on a plan for the kids that they deem unhealthy,” said Murphy. As a result of these concerns, many school districts have decided to forego the testing for one year, after signing a waiver. In addition, members of the school district are skeptical about what the information will be used for. “If they’re going to use it positively it’s good. But, I’m not sure sending letters home is the best option. The data needs to be used to improve physical education and nutrition programs,” said Mr. Dan Buchanan, physical education and health teacher. After the results are reviewed, the Ohio State Legislature will decide if new programs need to be implemented, possibly including more mandatory physical education classes as well as a required nutrition and health class. In addition, a common concern among parents regarding BMI testing through the school is one of privacy. “I think this is a subject that should remain between the child’s physician and the family,” said Mona Saggar, mother of two children in the fifth grade. The school board has not yet implemented any plans for BMI testing at SHS, but it is only a matter of time.

NHS alters participation rules

Emotions

Still, SHS faces the loss of a community member, as well as a reminder of all veterans. In addition to being omnipresent at SHS sporting events, Morrison was an employee of the Blue Ash Recreation Center. “Scott was a good kid. All the kids loved him, hung around with him,” said Officer Paul Payne, school resource officer, according to WLWT.com As Veterans Day approaches, this sentiment is even more likely to hold even more meaning. “I’m very appreciative of veterans. I have many veteran family members and I try to thank them,” said Ostendorf.

image by jimmy chau

SHS copes with student loss, Westboro lawsuit rages on

mariaMARBALLI editor-in-chief

photo courtesy of mcdaniel’s photography

17 seniors from SHS were named Commended Scholars, meaning they recieved superior scores on the 2009 PSAT. They are as follows: row one: Jeffrey Niu, Alan Kissinger and Alexander Brutvan; row two: Greg Austrow, Brielle Reiff and Aaron Englander; row three: Catherine Tate, Jacob Deitloff, Ashley Locke and Jon Eric San Miguel; row four: Corinne Hirotsu, Kelsey Peterson, Haruka Maeno, Casey Dressler-Wright and Kubilay Inanli. Not pictured: Rachel Hayden and Ryan Kast.

As of last year, the requirements to be inducted and remain in the National Honor Society were to maintain a 3.6 GPA and obtain 30 volunteer hours prior to induction, as well as 15 more by the end of the school year. According to senior Nia Campinha-Bacote, NHS president, SHS has the lowest standards for their NHS members compared to

other schools in the area. Because of this, and the fact that many students do not attend meetings or participate in NHS functions, the requirements to stay in the organization have been raised. Members must now participate in at least two NHS activities and attend two out of three meetings in an effort to alleviate the lack-luster mindset of many of its members.

A-D SLIPCOVER NEWS 1 CALENDAR 2 SNAPSHOTS 3 FORUM 4-6 FEATURE 7-12 FUN & GAMES 13 A&E 14-15 SPORTS 16-18 ADVERTISEMENT 19 SPOTLIGHT 20

Law Offices of Thomas Gelwicks Blue Ash | Cincinnati 513-421-6688

Injury and Accident Law Serious injuries Serious representation www.cincinnati-accident-lawyer.com

Calendar

Thursday, October 28, 2010

sunday kelcieGREGA

calendar chief

monday

tuesday wednesday thursday friday

Holiday: All Saints Day OGT Make Ups

Weird Holiday: Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day

Election Day OGT Make ups

OGT Make Ups

Holiday: Diwali OGT Make Ups

Girls and Boys cross-country Ohio State Championships SAT

SHS Event: National Honor Society Induction 7:00 p.m. OGT Make Ups

Weird Holiday: Dunce Day

History: Alber Einstein is awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics

First Quarter Report Cards Distributed

Holiday: Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

SHS Event: PTO meeting 9:00 a.m.

SHS Event: Fall Play 7:30 p.m. SHS Event: Fall Sports Awards 7:00 p.m.

SHS Event: SBOB Craft Show Early Release Day

Famous Birthday: Mickey Mouse

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 released

No School

Famous Birthday: Jimi Hendrix

Holiday: Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

Famous Birthday: Claude Monet

saturday

Holiday: Thanksgiving No School

No School

November

Snapshots

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Clowns, carnivals, circuses, carousels Students crowd commons for Homecoming dance

all photos courtesy of jeremy mcdaniel

janeFINOCHARO

snapshots chief

ON SAT., OCT. 2, 930 students attended the circus-themed Homecoming Dance, Cirque du Sycamore. Despite many studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; protests over the new dancing policy, many still attended and had a great time. The Homecoming Queen and King, seniors Lauren Barrett and Brian Boyle, take their first picture together after the winners were announced at the Homecoming football game. Phil Cordes, 9, Hadis Palic, 9, Cameron Bryce, 9, Austin Morrow, 9 (Moeller), Charlie Pavloff, 9, Griffin Brown, 9, and Victor Kurz, 9, clown around in front of the camera. Gabe Schenker, 9, twirls around Elizabeth Rosenberg, 9. The crowd dances in the commons, which had been transformed into a circus tent.

Forum

Thursday, October 28, 2010

gabeENGLANDER

associate editor

staffeditorial

ver since elementary school, the subject of bullying has been a prevalent issue. Whether it was a circumstance of kicking, hitting, or verbal abuse, students have always been faced with this matter. And now that cyberspace has been integrated into the average person’s daily life, cyber bullying is becoming a massive problem. According to a recent study done by a Yale University professor, victims of bullying are 5.6 times more likely to attempt or think about attempting suicide. This study is illustrated through the highly publicized tragedies of the Rutgers University suicide and Phoebe Prince’s suicide. The question the population of the school needs to ask the administration is this: what is being done to prevent something like this from happening at our school? If the administration thinks one meager assembly a year preaching at us to “play nice or else” is going to bring the rate of bullying down, they are sadly mistaken. Two things that can be done quite easily are to better utilize current amenities and implement new programs. The current amenities that need to be better utilized are mainly the Student Assistance Center and the support groups offered here at SHS. Most students do not know of either’s existence, let alone make use of them. The Student Assistance Center is

the Sycamore

leaf

open to students all seven bells of the day, and is there for a reason. If victims of bullying do not feel safe going to a teacher, administrator, or a counselor, they should at least be able to talk to people who are there for the sole reason of listening to student’s problems. The support groups offered meet and discuss tough subjects that plague students during everyday life. They are very much like group therapy: facilitated by an adult, but driven by the conversation of the students. They meet once a week on alternating bells, giving students passes to miss whatever class the group might be interrupting. Are these groups excuses to get out of class? No. But they are a meaningful way to connect with students who may be going through the exact same problems that you are. These two resources, if publicized better, could be a useful starting place for victims of bullying to gain the tools they need to rise above their situation. One thing is for sure; a new program needs to be applied that will reach out to both the bullies and the bullied. What SHS needs is a sort of Challenge Day that will send out a message to the students: we are all in this together. As cheesy and “High School Musical” as it sounds, it is simply the truth.

Mission Statement: The Leaf, the official newspaper of Sycamore High School, serves as an educational tool in the training of student journalists to provide information and editorial leadership concerning school, national, and world issues, to provide a public forum for the exchange of ideas and viewpoints, and to give coverage to newsworthy events directly related to the diverse school population. Editorial Policy: Although students work under the guidance of a professional faculty member, the content is ultimately determined by the student staff and should reflect all areas of student interest, including topics about which there may be dissent and controversy. Students cannot publish material that is obscene, libelous, or will cause “a substantial disruption of the educational process.” Content that may stimulate heated debate or discussion is not included in this definition.

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242

leafing through the masses

What steps need to be taken to prevent bullying?

I feel like bullying isn’t a major issue, but we all should listen to people when they are having problems.

Michael LeNeveu, 12 I think that we could all be more understanding of people’s problems.

Daryl Williams, 11 Respect is key. There aren’t very many bullies, but it only takes a few to make a problem.

Lindsay Grzegorzewski, 9 Editors-in-chief: Brandon Sosna, Maria Marballi Associate Editors: Kelsey Drapkin,

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

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

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

SHS National Honor Society has one of the lowest standards of any schools in our area. We only require a 3.6 GPA and many of our members do the bare minimum just to get the name NHS on their diploma,” said Nia Campinha-Bacote, President of NHS. I am one of those members. Having joined NHS for my mom and college applications, I did not attend another NHS meeting or participate in an NHS activity for the rest of the year. But this year is supposed to be different. Embarrassed by their relative inferior standards, NHS now requires its members to participate in two NHS activities, attend two out of three meetings, and maintain a 3.6 GPA or face probation from the club. These increased requirements are a good start, but they are not enough to make membership in NHS meaningful. With an induction class of 154 and current senior membership at 78, NHS can afford to raise its requirements without fear of losing too many members. If NHS shifted their focus from inducting 150 above average students, to recruiting 30 or so dedicated students, they could revolutionize NHS’s capabilities and student life in general. Imagine if those 30 students, one-tenth of current membership, showed up each week to tutor kids for Operation Give Back. They could work to bring in more canned food and clothing. They could help motivate struggling SHS students to graduate. A small but active NHS membership could work with other groups like Student Council and SALT to maximize the effectiveness of everyone’s events and student body life as a whole. It could partner with advocacy groups like Gay-Straight Alliance, Black Student Union, or Environmental Club to raise awareness for these issues and raise funds to make a difference. It is important that NHS make these changes today, before induction in November. I call on my peers on the NHS student board, Mrs. Valerie Nimeskern, and Mr. Charles Ogdan to obligate members to increase their involvement in NHS functions beyond donating cookies to a bake sale. Only a departure from past policies of benign neglect will be adequate to ensure that this year’s inductees have a more meaningful experience than previous ones. If NHS membership is to indicate nothing more than a certain grade point average, it need not change a thing. But if it wants to confer a true honor on its members, it must stand for and ask for much more.

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

Daniel Rickert Vaidya Sannika Michael Saxon Aditi Sharma Shayna Siegel Chase Spicer Ilana Vinnik Vaidya Sannika

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

forum

thursday, october 28, 2010

Salivating over slice selection: Tips for choosing proper pizza restaurant alexxLAZAR

staff writer

izza is an American favorite, but choosing a good place to chow down is sometimes a difficult decision. These are the four ‘mmm’-worthy slices in the Cincinnati area. Overall, when looking for a good slice or the whole pie, try Chi-natti’s. They vary in styles and flavors, the energy of the place is buzzing, and you can get a taste of a different city on your palette. Different crusts, sauces, and A brand new shop opened atmospheres of restaurants last year, and it has definitely went into the evaluation of It is the most popular spot to get improved over time. Montgomery each pizzeria. Each eatpizza in Cincinnati, yet some wonder has loads of pizza spots to choose, ery was judged out of a why. The old family restaurant barely but this one holds its own; their pizza is four star rating. The shines a light against spots such a Pizza varied and well-seasoned with the perfect top two contenders Hut and Dominos. amount of toppings. were Chi-natti’s The cheese is bland and the crust is dry, it The pizza that stands out is the Chicken Parand Dewey’s, was disappointing. The sauce was something migiana which has breaded chicken, loads of Chi-natti’s fine, although a bit too sweet. cheese, and a little sauce. It is the closest to edging out New York style in Cincy. Dewey’s only because of the more unique A Cincinnati style. Where Cincinnati and Chifavorite which cago meet in pizza form. Located reigns supreme in thin crust, it is a by Kenwood Mall, it is a fairly new merging of American style pizza. Each establishment. Their goal was to merge pizza is loaded with enough condiments to a very distinct pizza style, Chicago style, and make a salad. The crust is thin and doughy in bring it to a city where thin crust reigns. the center with a nice crunch on the ends. The outcome is a deep dish pie with garlic, tangy The sauce is smooth and has heat to keep your taste sauce and a crunchy cornbread coated crust. While it buds alive. The place is always packed so if eating at the does not compare to the Chi-Town classic, it is almost there. location, arrive early. If ordering ahead and picking up, expect a bit of a long wait.

RATING:

New housing system begins More welcoming atmosphere ensues linaCARDENAS

feature chief

In a school with thousands of students enrolled, it is very easy for individuals to get overlooked. Schools all around the country are experimenting with a housing system, which groups students into sects which are often named after saints, famous historical alumni, or notable regional landmarks. This system is used to focus particular attention on each student, and ensure that their voice is noticed and heard. In 2005, Moeller High School became one of the many schools in Cincinnati that has established this arrangement. The Crusaders founded six houses: Zaragoza, Zehler, Eveslage, Quiroga, Pilar, and Trinity. Each is named after a particular Marianist order. Then, to add even more individuality, each house is divided into mentor groups which consist of 20 students, five from each grade. Students in these houses compete against each other in fundraisers, grades, amount of detentions recieved, service, and competitions such as the Crusader Games. In these contests, every single student has an opportunity to participate and be acknowledged. This adds the particular personal touch, raises confidence and value, and ultimately, lets students realize that they are in fact, important. “I like the housing system. It really gets rid of cliques and the gap between upperclassmen and underclassmen. It helped me

a lot when I was a freshman; the older guys in my mentor group introduced me to their friends and I made a lot of connections,” said Kevin Blum, 11, a Moeller student. This form of integration allows students to refine skills that are tough to learn in the classroom. Freshmen and new students feel more welcome and less lost in a large school setting, and upper classmen are encouraged to develop leadership skills. Bill and Melinda Gates were drawn to this idea when the trend of high school drop outs skyrocketed in the past few years. They have donated over $250 million to break up big schools, and have been large contributors and enforcers of this new educational system. These grants have been given to Washington State Schools, 10 districts and a Catholic diocese in Washington State, two districts in Rhode Island and six districts in Alaska, networks of high achieving, small schools, and urban high schools in Cincinnati, St. Paul, Oakland, New York, and Denver. Other schools in Cincinnati that have implemented this system include Glen Este High School, Oak Hills High School, Anderson High School, and West Clairmont School District, who has been divided in to two smaller schools: Glen Este and Amelia, which have 10 smaller schools within them. That is something to think about.

It really gets rid of cliques and the gap between upperclassmen and underclassmen. It helped me a lot when I was a freshman.

Kevin Blum, 11, Moeller

“Mastering others is strength. Mastering yourself is true power.”

-Lao-Tzu, founder of Taoism

drewGELWICKS

spotlight editor

Through relationships, we learn many different sides of people. That is the purpose of getting to know people. With this, we begin to understand the other’s weaknesses and strengths. In most cases, it is not very difficult to ‘master’ another person. It just takes time, thought, and conversation. The relationship that is extremely tricky, and sometimes never achieved by some people, is a good relationship with oneself. I find irony in the fact that we spend every minute with ourselves, yet it is so hard to figure ourselves out. We may feel we have a better understanding of our best friend than we do of ourselves. Why is it that we have such a struggle with mastering ourselves? Are we naturally our own worst enemy, and the struggle is becoming one’s own friend? That would seem a realistic way of overcoming oneself. It can be a constant battle of tug-ofwar with one’s own mind. Especially in adolescence, we are constantly trying to figure out who we are. There are so many questions that need to be answered: “What kind of friend do I want to be?” “What do I want my reputation to be like?” “Where do

all images by kelsey drapkin

I want to go to school?” “What career will I choose?” I can only attest for myself, but even with 16 years behind me, I am still not close to figuring myself out. Yes, I am a lot further along in knowing who I am than I was when I was in elementary school, but there is still so much more to find out. It sometimes seems like a very long tunnel. There is a faint light at the end, and we must put one foot in front of the other to move forward. As we keep taking strides through our lives, the light does become brighter. Even with this, I sometimes wonder: can a person have a complete, true understanding of oneself? Isn’t ‘mastering’ ourselves the whole purpose of life? Experiencing many different opportunities, which will shape who we are as a person? If this is the case, then we will constantly be changing until our death. I am hopeful that towards the end of our lives, we will have ‘mastered’ ourselves. People will know oneself through and through. And the lucky ones will not have to wait that long. Is it possible to master ourselves in high school? Would it even be wise to think we have? If we are so certain of who we are as a person, we could close ourselves off to many opportunities that may actually shape us into a whole different person, for the better. I am optimistic in this case. We have so many years to figure ourselves out. Yes, it takes time, patience, and a lot of work, but once we are finally there, the rewards will be substantial. Thankfully, there are many resources at all of our disposal to help us through this ‘education’ period. All we must do is utilize them and hope for the best. When we look towards the end of the tunnel, the light can begin to get a little bit brighter with time and optimism.

forum

thursday, october 28, 2010

Single bedbug found in SHS classroom gabeENGLANDER

associate editor

ast year, one bedbug was found scurrying across a desk in an SHS classroom. Exterminators were called in to spray the room with rubbing alcohol, all students present in the classroom were notified, and the matter was closed. “This was not an infestation,” said Nurse Susan Murphy. “No eggs were found, no students were bit, and we never saw any other bedbugs.” Though SHS got lucky this time, there could be an infestation in the near future. And in the city where 20% of residents reported having bedbugs in the last year, it is getting more likely every day. “There is very little you can do to prevent an outbreak, but the one thing you can do is educate people,” said Murphy.

Why it matters

Simply put, bedbugs are a menace to the body, mind, and pocketbook. Though their bites thankfully do not transmit diseases, in most cases they do itch like crazy, are unpleasant to look at, and take weeks to go away. Only 2/3 of people react to bedbug bites, so for some it may take time to even realize they have bedbugs. Complicating matters, there are several other afflictions that look similar to bedbugs bites, like mosquito bites, chiggers, and even acne. “First everyone thought I had chicken pox, but when

they kept itching and showing up I went to a doctor, who told me I had bedbugs,” said Kelsey Malof, 12. Though their bite is relatively mild on the body, the effect of bedbugs on mental well-being is much more profound. Knowing that there are insects in bed that will bite makes it difficult to sleep and is not beneficial for overall sanity. Even if there are no bedbugs, some may imagine them. Also, those with bedbugs may feel isolated and lonely, because some people may avoid them out of fear of also catching bedbugs. Finally, bedbugs are expensive to kill due to their size and resistance to most poisons. Adults are small-about the size of a sesame seed, but possible to see with the naked eye. They hide in tiny cracks in walls, headboards and mattresses, can live for over a year without food, and are resistant to many insecticides. Even after spending thousands of dollars, there is no guarantee that these hardy creatures will be wiped out for good. However in most cases, pest control companies are able to get rid of bedbugs. Because of the damage bedbugs wreak on their hosts, it is much easier to avoid getting bedbugs than to get rid of them. By learning preventative measures and how to recognize bedbugs and their signs, it is possible to remain bedbug free.

How they got here

Though there were reports of bedbugs in America as early as the 1700s, humanity thought they had exterminated them in the 1940s and 50s with the help of massive amounts of DDT and other insecticides. But as recent statistics have shown, this assumption is far from the truth. The spread of bedbugs has been mainly facilitated by travel. Over the course of a trip, individuals are likely to sleep in a number of different beds, increasing their chances of catching bedbugs and spreading bedbugs to new locations. So when traveling, it is important to practice constant vigilance. Even before the trip one can check websites like http://bedbugregistry. com, that allow users to check and report which hotels have had reported cases of bedbugs. Bedbugs are bad-but they could be much worse. Their bite has more cosmetic problems than real health problems, they do not transmit diseases and are possible to get rid of. But if bedbugs are only a mild nuisance, why is there so much fear regarding their spread? Because they attack us when we are at our most vulnerable, when we are in the one place we would like to think is secure. So while it is important to avoid bedbugs, do not let fear of this insect control your life. Keep on traveling, going to movies, and buying furniture. After all, if we let fear dominate our lives, then the bedbugs have already won.

all images by gabe englander

Keep ‘em off while traveling Research area for bedbugs prior to trip Before entering room, search mattress seams and headboard Carry suitcase in a plastic bag Wash all clothes in hot water upon return

You might have bedbugs if... You have bites on places typically slept on, like the face, back, or legs. Those bites are clustered in a few locations and itchy There are more bites each morning Red or black streaks are on your mattress

A COMMON BEDBUG crawls on a voluntary host’s arm. Though usually a reddish brown color and a quarter of an inch long, bedbugs can grow three times larger and turn blood red after feeding. Just one bite is enough to sustain an adult bedbug for over a year, making a bedbug a formidable foe.

1. Which of these items is a bedbug NOT likely to hide in? A. Furniture

B. Bed

C. Hair

D. Clothing

2. What object is a bedbug closest to in size? A. Penny

B. Sesame seed

C. Hamburger

D. Grain of sand

4. How do bedbugs move? A. Flying

B. Jumping

8. Where are people most likely to catch bedbugs?

C. Swimming

D. Crawling

A. Hotels

B. Parks

C. Coal mines

D. Rivers

5. What do bedbugs eat? A. Blood

B. Hair

C. Fingernails

D. Chicken

9. How much does it cost to kill bedbugs (with an exterminator)?

6. Which is NOT a likely place A. $100,000 to find a bedbug in the C. $1,000 home? A. Mattress seams

B. Headboard

C. Carpet

D. Crack in wall

3. About how long can bedbugs live without food?

7. What is the bedbug’s ‘achilles heel?’

A. One week

B.One month

A. Heat

B. Water

C. One year

D. Five years

C. Noise

D. Poison

B. $10,000 D. $100

10. What is worse than a bedbug? A. Herpes

B. Cobras

C. Giant spiders

D. All of the above Answers: 1. C 2. B 3. C 4. D 5. A 6. C 7. A 8. A 9. C 10. D

Do YOU know bedbugs?

Before calling an exterminator... Wash everything Find proof of bedbugs by searching mattress or placing double sided tape around mattress Do not try to kill bedbugs yourself, often they cause bedbugs to spread

Feature

Thursday October 28, 2010

Airport scanners provoke controversy janeFINOCHARO

staff writer

MATT HILL, 12 AND Charlotte Harris, 11 take advantage of the Buffet Club’s trip to China City Buffet on Thursday, Oct. 14. The Buffet Club has attracted an average of 70 students per event, an increase from last year’s turn-out. “The environment is nice, and it is fun to watch people eat,” said Zach Reynolds, 11.

Good eats: SHS students invade local buffets alecBOCHNER

staff writer

ne cannot help but to watch the spectacle that is competitive eating. The combatants shovel food down their mouths in the final face-off while being surrounded by adoring fans. Buffet Club is one of the most popular clubs at SHS, averaging about 70 students per event. There is unlimited tasty food for a reasonable price, but socializing with students from various grades is the essential aspect that makes it a successful club. "The environment is nice, and it is fun to watch people eat," said Zach Reynolds, 11. Every club at SHS has a mission. When one initially hears of Buffet Club, one might wonder what Buffet Club presidents Aaron Goldhoff, 12, and Michael Streicher, 12, want each student to experience when they arrive at the door of the restaurant.

"Our goal is simple: we want everyone to enjoy eating at each buffet, while socializing and meeting new people between bites," said Streicher. Two Thursdays a month, they gather at various restaurants, including CiCi’s Pizza, China City Buffet, Golden Corral, Twin Dragon, Homers, and Frisch’s Breakfast Buffet, hoping to eat everything in their path. Hunger strikes most SHS students at around 6 pm., so Buffet Club clearly appeals to such starving students. “My favorite part is the social aspect, but the most important part is the delicious food,” said Jay Burgin, 10. Buffet Club is known for its MVE (Most Valuable Eater) award, a prestigious honor given to the person who eats the most at the restaurant.

If there happens to be a tie, there is a sudden death face-off to see who can eat something the fastest. For example, at CiCi’s Pizza, the tie breaker was decided by a cinnamon pizza. Although Buffet Club specializes in taking eating, this year, they are giving back to the community as well. “Just like Volley for the Cure, we are having Eat for the Cure,” said Goldhoff. One evening this year, the Buffet Club will assemble at a buffet, hoping to raise an enormous amount of money that will go to AIDS research. They are also holding a canned food drive, where SHS students must have a can of food in order to enter the buffet. All cans will be donated to those in need in Cincinnati. Let the eating begin.

‘To ban without thinking first is, I believe, not the correct things to do’

Controversial books challenged due to explicit material sanikaVAIDYA

staff writer

Why? The top reasons that books were challenged in recent years

27%

Offensive language

33% Sexually explicit material

19%

Material unsuited to age group

12% Violence

Homosexuality

In addition, 233 books were challenged for their “Religious viewpoints,” and 103 were challenged for being “Anti-Family.” According to the American Library Association image by hannalee goldman

Since elementary school, students have been told again and again that they should read, read, and read some more. But books have been banned since they have been written for a variety of reasons. One of the top reasons that books are banned is that the material may be considered inappropriate for school. If this is the case, students may do the opposite of what the school is telling them to do. “If a book is banned from the school to read, this will make the students want to read it even more on their own time,” said Sabrina Eddine, 9. When someone is told they should not read a book, they may want to read it even if ordinarily they would not have even known the book existed. Banned Books Month promotes awareness of banned materials and celebrates the freedom of speech, which is also the freedom to read what has been written by others. Books are banned after they are challenged by a person or group. Challenging a book is trying to have it removed from public access. Banning is when the book has actually been taken away from the public in a

Tomas Jodelle, 12, shares creative hobby

Discover Noah Flege, the fifth grade entrepreneur

page 8

particular curriculum or library. Most challenges do not lead to bans, because of teachers and librarians promoting the rights given by the first amendment to the Constitution. “To ban without thinking first is, I believe, not the correct thing to do,” said Mrs. Judy Klefas, English teacher. This opinion is shared by many. But as parents and teachers, adults may want to regulate what their children and students are reading. In the past nine years, there have been a total of 4,312 challenges to books in America. All of these seem to deal with the maturity of the reader. The reasons for challenges include sexually explicit material, material with offensive language, material unsuited to age group, anti-family material, and material with violence or homosexuality. Some books have also been challenged because of their religious viewpoints. “If the student is mature enough to read the book, then it should be their choice whether they read it or not,” said Eddine. It is an ongoing debate: whether adults have the right to ban books, and whether this just encourages students to read the banned books themselves.

HIGHLIGHTS: page 11

Pink goes global at Susan G. Komen’s Walk for the Cure

page 12

this month in feature

image by maria marballi

New security measures that have been proposed in many airports worldwide have aroused mixed feelings among passengers. After the attempted “Christmas bombing” on Dec. 25, 2009 – during which Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, a 24-year-old passenger, managed to sneak explosive powder onto an aircraft – transportation officials scrambled to tighten airport security. Their solution was a comprehensive full body scanner that had initiallybeen installed in only a few airports worldwide. The scanners, 142 of which are now in use in 41 airports, produce an extremely detailed full-body depiction of those who pass through. Security officials examine the scans of every single passenger and are able to see not only all objects being carried on one’s body but also such details as beads of sweat and individual hairs. Such detail gives transportation officials a much greater ability to detect dangerous objects that are usually hard to see in traditional scans. They make it nearly impossible for a passenger to bring a concealed object onto an airplane. However, such detail also leaves very little to the imagination, and many argue that these scanners violate the right to personal privacy. Though the security officials examining the images would be in a separate area and would never see those who pass through the machines, many expressed discomfort at the idea of forcing passengers to reveal their bodies in such graphic detail. “As I looked at those detailed images... I resolved that no one should be forced to expose their body to total strangers to secure an airplane,” said Congressman Jason Chaffetz in an article for Newsweek in January 2010. Some also argue that such scanners may not even be able to protect against attacks like Abdulmutallab’s. Abdulmutallab sewed the explosive powder into the seams of his clothing, and it is unclear whether the scanners would have been able to detect the trace amounts that were hidden on his body. Others, however, believe that the potential pitfalls of the scanners are outweighed by their benefits. “The scanners may not be able to prevent all attacks, but they can definitely prevent some,” said Kathryn Duff, 11. “Plus, the people looking at the scans will never see the person they are examining, and they will see thousands of these scans a day. You wouldn’t mind having your body examined for health reasons, so why is it a violation of privacy to have your body examined for security reasons?” Despite the outcry against these machines, more and more airports continue to implement them while protesters search for an alternative.

feature

Licensed to save: usa

ellieGOLDMAN

DRIVER LICENSE

managing editor

GET THE FACTS: organ donation Sex: Ht. Wt. Eyes: Hair:

Most physical qualitites of the donor do not affect their potential donation. A certain part of the eye, the cornea, may be donated.

Restrictions:

To be eligible for donation, one’s cause of death must be brain injuryless than one percent of listed donors are ever considered for transplant.

This symbol appears on the bottom corner of driver licenses belonging to potential organ donors.

ORGAN OHIO

DONOR image by ellie goldman

hen a teen is applying for their driver license for the first time, they are most likely dreaming of being able to finally drive themselves to Chipotleand not of saving a life. Yet the little symbol in the bottom corner of the card speaks of that precisely. The presence or absence of this symbol indicates whether the driver has agreed to be an organ or tissue donor. Prior to his premature death in August, incoming Princeton High School junior Jovante Woods was among the portion of teens that checked “yes.” His choice saved the lives of four strangers. In the United States, there is a significantly higher list of patients in need of an organ transplant than people listed as donors. In the greater Cincinnati area alone, nearly 550 people are on the waiting list. On the national level, a new name

Noah Flege, 5, on running snowcone business kelcieGREGA

calendar chief

When did you start your business? About two years ago. Of all things to sell, why did you choose snow-cones? Well at first I wanted to start a lemonade business, but I noticed that snow-cones make a much larger profit so I chose to sell them. Where is business most successful? Probably for the football games and Weller Park because it is extremely packed on Saturdays with soccer games.

What sorts of flavors do you have? Tiger blood, blue raspberry, lemon lime, grape, and everyone’s favorite, super sour lemon sauce. I am thinking about dropping one of my current flavors for a new one. What do your friends think of you having your own business? They love it! Especially because I give them snowcones for free.

Do you think you will have a career in business when you become an adult? What do you do with all your profits? Yes, when I go to college, I would like to major in I save it all at the bank; I have made about $1000 so business. far. Do you have any advice for any other What do you charge for snow-cones? young entrepreneurs out there? Always copyright your business. You do not want One dollar for cones and two dollars at football anyone taking your name or idea. games.

thursday, october 28, 2010

Option for symbol on license Gives teens choice to donate is added to the waiting list every 14 minutes. While the choice to be a donor may seem black-and-white, much myth and speculation has been spread regarding this issue. Firstly, every person who signs up to hold a driver license is asked whether they would like to be listed as a donor. There are many different possible organs or tissues to donate, and one can decide individual preference on each. There is no such thing as “too young” or “too old” to be a donor; the only influential factor is the condition of the tissue desired for donation. A concern harbored by some potential donors is that, if they list themselves as such, hospital staff will not work as hard to save their lives, in favor of harvesting their organs. This is entirely false- the number one priority of a hospital is to protect the lives of its patients. In fact, surgeons and doctors are not aware as to which of their patients are on the books as a donor. Another major point of concern

is that organ donation goes against religious beliefs. Conversely, most major religions support the practice as a final gesture of generosity. It is often thought of as a last act of compassion. This being said, donation does not have to be a last act. Though TV medical dramas often depict family members giving a kidney to a loved one in need, live kidney transplants can also be performed for a random person. Being an organ donor can have significant effects- one person can save or improve the quality of life of up to 50 people. Only by individual effort can the disparity between waiting lists and donor lists be reduced. Organ donation is not a choice with which everybody is comfortable. But when going to apply for or renew a driver license, one might consider giving some serious thought to a very important- actually, lifesaving- check box.

‘It helps me make a positive impact’

SHS students find themselves hooked on helping sarahMAY

forum chief

As holiday season approaches, many students at SHS will take part in volunteer activities. Some students, however, go above the norm, reaching out to make a difference year round. Annie Blood, 11, and Christine Touvelle, 11, for example, work to improve the lives of children in the community every day. “I usually work with little kids, and my favorite is to work with underprivileged little kids. They cannot help the situation they are in, and… are defenseless,” said Blood. One organization Blood takes part in is Operation Give Back, a tutoring program for underprivileged children. She is also president of Interact Club, which encourages students to volunteer by documenting their service hours. “I volunteer at various events with Interact Club. It helps me reach out to the community and make a positive impact,” said Samantha Wolkoff, 10. Touvelle is President of Stepping Out Club and Vice President of Interact Club. Stepping Out Club is an organization where students at SHS with and without special needs can have a good time together. “For Stepping Out club, I help plan activities with special needs kids,

such as the annual Halloween party. The motivation is to see how excited they get when people who do not have special needs come hang out with them. They get huge smiles,” said Touvelle. Blood, who also frequently volunteers with children and teens with special needs, agrees that it is a gratifying experience. “They are not given a lot of opportunities to have a social life. It is so rewarding to give [the kids] those opportunities… [and] to hear them talking about the events for even weeks afterwards.” For students who want to get involved and make a difference, Blood and Touvelle agree that they should find something they really care about. “Find something you really love, and then find an organization that accommodates that. Do not wait to get involved. Most of the time, you will wish you had begun earlier,” said Touvelle. Blood adds that you do not need an organization to get involved. “Joining clubs like Interact Club and Operation Give Back opens up doors. [But] try to get involved outside of school, through other organizations or by making your own volunteer opportunities. Just little things work, like raking your neighbor’s yard or tutoring the kid across the street.”

Azad India Restaurant

We think that your visit will provide you with a delightful taste of Indian Cuisine

A BUDDING ENTRPRENEUR, fifth grader Noah Flege peddles his frosty treats at school and communtiy events. He has encoutnered many satisfied customers since the beginning of his company in 2008. Flege is not ordinary lemonade-stand salesman- he has legitimized his business to the point of copyrighting his material. photo courtesy of kelcie grega

4762 Cornell Rd. Blue Ash, Ohio 45241 phone: 513-530-9999 fax: 513-530-9400

Lunch Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m.-3 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m.-3 p.m Dinner Mon.-Fri. 3 p.m.-10 p.m. Saturday 12 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m.-9 p.m.

SHS students take advantage of volunteer opportunities

feature thursday, october 28, 2010

Ghastly ghouls of Halloween revealed aditiSHARMA

staff writer

guarianaDANIELS

staff writer

alloween is a tradition so ingrained in American culture that many Americans do not know where this culture came from.

Although many people have different theories as to where the idea of Halloween originated from, the truth is that Halloween has migrated and evolved for many years to finally become what we know it as today. “I believe that Halloween came from distant pirates off the Fallopian Islands northwest of France,” said Tom Dearinger, 11. Halloween first appeared in the Celtic culture under the name of “All Hallows Eve” on October 31st, the last day on the Celtic Calendar. Originally a pagan festival, it was created to honor the dead. Traced back to Druids of Ireland, another Celtic culture, customs evolved from the practice of Samhain, a feast to signify the official end of summer With time these beliefs began to spread to other parts of Europe and eventually made their way to the Americas. Some Celtic legends tell tales that October 31st is the Day of the Dead, where souls of the year’s deceased return to possess those of the living. This was believed to be the only way to enter the afterlife. Villagers would dress up as unsavory monsters and darken

their homes to avoid possession, which later evolved into the traditional dressing up we participate in today. Other legends state that the souls only retuned to visit before going on to the afterlife, so to appease the bad spirits, they would leave sweets out to gain favor. This is said to be how trick-or-treating evolved. There are many different myths as to where the Jack O’ lantern originated. They too have evolved into many new looks over the ages. “I think that people used to think of spirits, bad ones, and they would use jack o’ lanterns to scare them off,” said Sarah Grout, 9. Brought to America by the Irish, the Jack O’ lanterns were hollowed out turnips or other vegetables. Soon, people began to create intricately carved pumpkins to decorate their hosues. Today, along with the all famous trick-or-treating tradition, many familys have their own unique ways to celebrate Halloween. “We like to dress up as dinosaurs and go swimming in our costumes so we look like lizards,” said Corey Boothe, 11. Some people like to travel and spend some quality time with their families. “My family goes to a state park every year. We like to decorate our camper for a competition and then dress up and go trick-or-treating,” said Cade Kerry, 10.

Common Halloween Myths all images by aditi sharma

A person born on Halloween can both see and talk to spirits and ghosts.

If a candle suddenly goes out by itself on Halloween, as though by breath or wind, it is believed that a ghost has come to call.

Walk backwards while wearing inside-out clothes on Halloween night to meet a witch.

If a spider is seen on Halloween, it could be the spirit of a dead loved one who is watching from above.

If footsteps are heard trailing close behind on Halloween night, do not turn around to see who it is, for it may be Death himself! To look Death in the eye is a sure way to hasten your own demise.

feature thursday, october 28, 2010

Chilean miners see light global rescue ef forts yield success, longest human entrapment ended shivaniPARIKH

forum chief

itizens across the world sat riveted as it unfolded on their television screens, the city of Santiago’s Plaza Italia was packed with celebrators waving Chilean flags and chanting victory slogans, and Camp Hope was teeming with those eager to be a part of this historic moment: miners who had been trapped underground were finally being rescued, and each and every one of them had survived. After a lengthy ordeal of 69 harrowing days (17 of which passed with no contact with the surface), the 33 Chilean miners were brought up from a depth of 2,300 feet into the earth, triumphant as they concluded their ascension. The longest underground human entrapment (with no deaths) in history had finally ended “Welcome to life,” said Sebastián Piñera, President of Chile, to the first miners who emerged. Confined to an area of about 165 square feet, the miners tried to remain hopeful, and concluded that they must function together, as a family. Exemplifying cool-headedness, they made every decision democratically, knowing that this would be the only way to maintain order. As horrifying as it may be to know that 33 men were trapped under the ground for over two months, their rescue is a story with a happy ending. The rescue capsule (dubbed the Phoenix) was finished ahead of schedule, retrieval carried on smoothly and swiftly, and the men were greeted with cheers that could be heard from around the world. Beginning at midnight on Oct. 12, the Phoenix was lowered down to individually lift each miner out of the tomb that had been created by 700,000 tons of rock collapsing on them just 69 days earlier. A quick 22 1/2 hours later, each of the men had resurfaced, and each had been greeted with exuberant applause and celebration. There was no shortage of tearful reunions at this jovial event. Ariel Ticona was able to meet his daughter, Esperanza, who was born during his time underground. Miners such as Yonni Barrios were reunited with significant others who had fought to retain hope during the ordeal. Lives were resumed. Eyes transfixed to the screen, people around the world witnessed television coverage periodically of the situation as well as the coverage of the rescue. News stations around the globe carried live coverage of the heart-warming event that few wanted to miss. During the long weeks of entrapment, the miners exhibited tremendous courage, managing to stay fairly sane as they awaited rescue. Their endurance and strength has proven to be an international inspiration. It is not often that purely positive news can be reported, and this is one of those cases. Perhaps this is why the international community sees the flawless rescue as so vital, perhaps this is why the world is so united in support of Chile. This unity is pleasant, albeit fleeting. The idea of joining in support of human tenacity and hope is one that could do well by sticking around and being applied even in the absence of tragedy.

ONE BY ONE, the miners were retrieved as the world watched on. They were reunited with loved ones who they probably had not expected to see again. As the rescue streamed live on news stations worldwide, the festivities were exuberant. A feeling of camraderie was tangible as nations united for the cause.

photos courtesy of altavista

feature

11 ‘It is absolutely amazing what he can do’ thursday, october 28, 2010

Senior Tomas Jodelle shares long-time hobby of origami mariaMARBALLI editor-in-chief

ou know what they say when you make 1000 paper cranes…when you’re finished you get to make a wish,” said Tomas Jodelle, 12, as he began to craft yet another perfectly defined paper crane out of a post-it note. Jodelle began making origami pieces in the seventh grade in his Japanese I class. He started off with a swan, excelled to a paper cube, and began making flapping-winged paper cranes, his “simplest” creations. He enjoyed this hobby so much that he was soon folding paper into eagles, frogs, and praying mantises. Yet his favorite origami piece is the highly complex dragon, one in which he can now complete in under two minutes. While the paper crane may seem complicated to most, Jodelle has mastered the bird and now challenges himself by making a vast array of sizes, ranging from merely centimeters long to a few feet. “I got a little bored making regularsized cranes, so I experimented with the paper and kept making them smaller and smaller,” said Jodelle. As he rips off a piece of scratch paper from his notebook and bends his head, he holds out a perfectly identifiable paper crane the size of a penny in less than five minutes.

On the other hand, Jodelle has made a paper crane out of poster board with a length of about three feet. He can also be spotted making paper hats in class or handing out his creations to fellow classmates. “It’s amazing what he can do,” said Matt Cianciolo, 12, as he watches Jodelle’s crafty hands fold together a lively dragon. When asked how many origami pieces he has made, he said, “I’ve lost count. I make more than I know what to do with and I usually just give them away. The most I have ever had at one time is 22.” His technique is simple, practice. He uses two different bases: the bird base and the frog base. “Most of the stuff that I know is made from a bird base, like the eagle, which is the most complex,” said Jodelle. “Flowers and frogs are made from the frog base.” One would assume that this master of sorts would indulge on fine paper, yet he uses post-it notes, which are smaller and stickier than a typical sheet. “I use them because they are already perfect squares. The glue doesn’t bother me,” said Jodelle. Will this crafter end up wishing upon 1000 paper cranes? “It would be nice, but it’s a stretch and time consuming, so I mainly just do it for fun,” said Jodelle.

photos by maria marballi

SINCE THE SEVENTH grade, Tomas Jodelle, 12, has excelled at creating creatures out of paper. He started off small with the simplest of projects, but soon began to experiment with different sizes and shapes until he was able to make a paper crane the size of a penny (above: compared to a post-it note) in less than five minutes. He mainly uses post-it notes, as he is thankful for their cheap price and already-perfect-square.

Eight months later, two percent of rubble cleared in Haiti anaBARROS

staff writer

It was the day that 230,000 defenseless people were silenced forever. The massive earthquake that hit Haiti on that peaceful morning has scarred millions of Haitians and involved various countries around the world, who have made an international vow to help Haiti rise from the rubble. By some estimates, the earthquake left about 33 million cubic yards of debris in Port-au-Prince, and only two percent of that has been cleared out.

What has not been done

It has been eight months, and the streets are still blocked so that it is nearly impossible to transport supplies to the communities. It has been eight months, and Haiti is still just a mountain of rubble. It has been eight months, and people are still living in stranded tent cities with no hope of ever seeing their country rebuilt.

The Matthew 25: Ministries and other aid groups say that removing the rubble is essential to rebuilding Haiti. The equipment needed for this job has to be shipped in by sea, and the dump trucks have difficulty maneuvering in the narrow dirt roads. Once they do get to Port-au-Prince, however, there are very few locations to dump the rubble, and these often contain human remains. Another major blockage is the lack of property records needed for tearing down buildings, which were either damaged in the quake or never existed. Most importantly, no single person in the Haitian government has been declared in charge of the rubble, forcing nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to take on the task. This involves struggling to stay within a tight budget and juggling with contracts – which means that the job is done slowly, with little success. Projects funded by USAID and the U.S. Department of Defense have spent more than $98.5 million to remove 1.2 million cubic yards of rubble.

Furthermore, the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission has also granted $17 million to clear rubble from six neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince. However, the neighborhoods have not been chosen, and it is unclear when rubble will be removed from other areas.

What needs to be done

Up to this point, there has been a lot of money involved, but very little has been done to help those people landlocked in a valley of debris. While most Haitians have learned to put up with the rubble and do their best to stay alive, others have gotten tired of waiting and have put matters into their own hands; using shovels and wheelbarrows, they spend hours under the sun, in 100 degree weather, attempting clear out as much as they can. Though it is obvious that this will not make that much of a difference in the big picture, this last act of determination conveys the level of their despair.

feature

Celebrating life, love, hope

thursday, october 28, 2010

Pink reaches worldwide status

Finding hope

cha u

Thanks to shops and stands near the finish line promoted by 40 different sponsors, the foundation raised $182,829 in donations only. Though the foundation is primarily about collecting money for research, it was more than just the funds being raised that made people wake up that morning; it was all about celebrating life, generating love, and giving hope.

tarting at the Reds stadium and looping around downtown Cincinnati was a crowd that totaled more than 18,000 people who were either running or walking in support for the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation. This organization was founded on an oath between two sisters. Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything she could to find a cure for of ana barros Cause for photo courtesy breast cancer. In 1982, that promise became applause, celebration Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and As survivors crossed the finish line, it launched the global breast cancer they were awarded a medal, not only movement. for finishing the race, but for being so Today, Komen for the Cure is the brave. world’s largest association of breast Some of them were mothers of cancer survivors and activists fighting young children who will never see to save lives. them healthy. Others were wives and Race for the Cure daughters who need all the support On Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010, thouthey can get from their family. sands of people joined to promote However, the survivors were not faith for those who were suffering the only ones who deserved a medal from the impacts of breast cancer. that day; the 18,000 people who With everyone – even the men – were at the race, ready to support the sporting pink, the streets were floodsurvivors, deserve to be recognized ed with people running or walking to as well.

Some people walked celebrating their loved ones’ fight for survival, others for their own survival, and others in memory of those who passed away. But no matter the reason, the fact that 18,000 were there on that cold Saturday morning made it much more special.

jim

help the 1.3 million women around the world to fight their cancer. It was a very emotional event, with many people who had sad stories to tell, and many others who were nearing the end of their adventures. Throughout the race, some people broke down as memories came flooding back and it was too overwhelming to bear. But as soon as they took a look around and saw the thousands of people there, supporting them, they stood back up, knowing someone out there cared about them.

staff writer

ima ge

anaBARROS

photo by ana barros

by the numbers

new cases of breast cancer in American women in 2010 deaths caused by breast cancer in American men in 2010

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Lady Aves volley for cure

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How long have you been diagnosed with Fishe a d ce ren breast cancer? rs. B t Assistan M I was diagnosed in March of 2010. I was doing my regular n Stude mammogram, and my doctor found a very small tumor. After a series of tests, he concluded that it was indeed breast cancer. What was your reaction? When I got the call, I was apprehensive at first. But when I finally accepted the fact that I had cancer, I decided to keep a good attitude and it will all be okay. What have you learned from this experience? You may be perfectly healthy one day and have to go through chemotherapy the next. You cannot deny what your body is telling you, or else you Mrs will get worse. You either move forward or . Ela ignore it. I chose to move forward. EMIS ine An What helps you get Secr ello etar through the day? y Faith and prayer, definitely. All the support I recieve has been essential throughout this experience as well. lain e an

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How long have you been diagnosed with blood cancer? Since May of 2008. I was having a surgery and the doctors found something unusual. When they did a biopsy, they found out that I had blood cancer. What was your reaction? At first, it was disbelief; I was shocked. I was just amazed that it had happened to me. What have you learned from this experience? I learned that every day is a gift. We cannot take life for granted, and I am very lucky to have such great doctors that will help me get better. I also learned that it is important to take care of ourselves, and it is okay to ask for help from others. What helps you get through the day? There will always be good and bad days. This helps me get through all my treatments because I know that tomorrow will always be better. I need to keep one foot in front of the other and just live life.

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Mrs. Elaine Anello, EMIS Secretary, on her experience with breast cancer

Blind disease

It hits with no warning and no mercy. Regardless of age, status or gender, it knows no limits. It is aggressive and will always win unless its opponent learns to work together to fight it. ‘It’ is breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. This year, an estimated 207,090 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.

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Mrs. Brenda Fischer, Student Assistence Counselor, on her experience with blood cancer

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Q&A

breast cancer is the number one most common form of cancer in women percent of all women who will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime deaths caused by breast cancer in American women in 2010

In 2007, Sarah McGrath (SHS) and Carolyn Gagliardi (Loveland HS) decided that they would not sit around and let their friends, families and teachers be affected by the disease. From this decision came Volley for the Cure, a state-wide tradition to raise awareness for a cause that is a threat for women of all ages. The event is more than just a volleyball game; pink volleyballs, uniforms and referee whistles were used. Fans are also encouraged to wear the pink tshirts that are sold ahead of time. SHS freshmen, JV and varsity girls teams held Volley for the Cure against the Lakota East Thunderhawks. At the end of the event, SHS emerged victorious, with scores of 25-20 Freshmen, 25-23 JV, and 25-23 Varsity. The 2010 Volley for the Cure event raised a total of $12,000 that is donated to breast cancer research foundations. Volley for the Cure stands as a reminder of thousands of women’s suffering, but also of hope for a better future.

Fun&Games Thursday, October 28, 2010

Wordles

H.M. permission

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town

claytonHAMRE

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Chapter 4:TheWay to Sirius

ground track

soapsoapsoapsoapsoap soapsoapsoapsoapsoap soapsoapsoapsoapsoap soapsoapsoapsoapsoap

death life

man board

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Answers: 1. Love at first sight 2. Royal assent 3. Sand dollar 4. Waterfall 5. Town square 6. Binary star 7. Underground railroad 8. Bar of soap 9. Paradise 10. Life after death 11. Man overboard

sightlove sight sight sight

Caption contest Crosswordpuzzle

ACROSS 4. Another name for fall. 7. To dispose of leaves with fire. 10. Leaf collector. image from AltaVista

To submit a caption for this picture, send your submission to WriteToTheLeaf@gmail.com. The winning captions will be displayed with the picture on goaves.com.

DOWN 1. The original jack o’ lantern. 2. Pumpkins’ odd-shaped cousin. 3. Orange, grow in ptaches. 5. Leaves have less of this in the fall. 6. Delaware senate candidate denies practicing this. 8. To let leaves decompose. 9. Reddish-brown.

Comics by Lilly Lefton

fun&games editor oger glanced at Carlotta. “I wasn’t expecting them to bring up the fact that they stole Mount Everest,” he whispered. Carlotta ignored him, and spoke to the alien: “Before we start, what is your species’ usual form of address?” “Just call me Mr. Toliman,” the azure alien informed her, grinning. “…Mr. Toliman, your assumption is correct. We, the crew of the UNSS Starship, have come to your star system to find out what happened to a highly-esteemed mountain that vanished from our planet about a month ago.” Mr. Toliman, his fingers like sticks of blue bubble gum, folded his hands together and sighed. “I am aware of the role I played in the disappearance,” he said. “Let me explain: the Toliman family once ruled a sizeable domain in this region of the galaxy. Unfortunately, my grandparents became caught up in a pyramid scheme and sold most of our land for worthless shares in a gerbil sharecropping scheme.” He paused and looked own sadly. “And, of course, you know how those go,” he finished, looking expectantly at Carlotta. “Oh!” Carlotta exclaimed after a moment or two. “Yes, yes – we all – it happens all the time here. You just can’t trust rodents as farmers.” Mr. Toliman folded his hands around each other even more tightly, making it appear as if his fingers could snap off at any moment. “So, now, the most proud and ancient line of Toliman has been reduced to a garbage disposal company, and we take any business we can get, even if that means disposing of mountains that obviously aren’t trash.” “Who asked you to ‘dispose’ of it?” Roger questioned. Mr. Toliman unclasped his fingers and pressed a button on the table, turning it into a star chart. “We were given a message. It said to take the mountain and drop it off on the surface of a certain asteroid orbiting Barnard’s Star. We would then receive a payment of fourteen quadrillion dollars (it costs a lost to move a mountain), half of which would be paid immediately, and half of which would be paid by the inhabitants of the planet. From the bank paperwork, I can tell that they were from Sirius, the capital of the United Allied Earldoms.” Roger began to ask wh – “I’m sure you’re wondering what that is,” Mr. Toliman interrupted. “The United Allied Earldoms is a very, very wealthy state whose Earls made their fortunes selling sirite, which is what their home planet is made of, or would be made of, if they hadn’t mined it out of existence. They now mainly concentrate on creating as many real estate bubbles as economically possible.” Mr. Toliman slid a piece of paper across the table. On it was written the coordinates of the UAE’s base near Sirius. “Since it seems the recipients of the mountain never intended to pay the second half of the bill, I’ll give you my blessing for finding them and getting it back.” “Thank you, Mr. Toliman,” said Roger. “To show our gratitude for your assistance, we would like to present you with a gift from the people of Earth, represented by the United Nations.” Ralia walked forward, lugging a platinum arch inscribed with greetings in hundreds of languages. She placed the foot-and-a-half tall sculpture on the table before Mr. Toliman. The alien’s eyes lit up. “Thank you very much!” he exclaimed, causing the humans to smile. Mr. Toliman leaned forward, and with an awful screeching noise, took a bite out of the arch. “Platinum! My favorite!” He continued to chew, the humans looking on in horror. “Though it could use a bit more cupric oxide.” “I hope not everyone in the galaxy is this weird,” said Roger worriedly, back in the pod with the other officers, heading back to the Starship. “Don’t get your hopes up,” replied Luke. “We’re dealing with beings who sold their entire planet for profit.” The Starship was shortly on its way.

‫ یش‬Выс ‫ و ر‬ла н ‫ وخ‬ны ‫ شر‬е н

ску вой ‫نی‬ ‫اس‬ ‫پس‬

‫ם‬. ‫כה תדמעמ‬ ‫ארה חו‬

‫ל היו‬ ‫ה‬

ч ре ст ‫او‬ ав ‫ت‬ ‌ ‫یم‬

‫دی‬

A&E

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Cinema: shivaniPARIKH

‘Easy A,’ ‘Devil’ recieve rave reviews Fantastic flicks sure to leave their mark

forum chief

a&e chief

E all images by emma rosen

ginaROMEO

asily the best teen movie since 2004’s “Mean Girls,” “Easy A” is clever and seems to tap into the mindsets of high school students while managing to remain funny throughout. A refreshing “chick-flick” enjoyable for any viewer, this movie is carried by a relatable and witty Olive Pendergast, played perfectly by Emma Stone. There is no doubt that Stone carries the movie with her impeccable comedic timing and priceless facial expressions. Even though she is wonderful on her own, it does not hurt that she has a strong cast of supporting characters, such as her slightly wild best friend, played by the once-Disney star Alyson Michalka. Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson play lenient, progressive, hilarious parents that do not seem to be fazed by Olive's behavior, no matter how ridiculous. Also featured are Amanda Bynes, “Friends” star Lisa Kudrow and Penn Badgely, all adding to the variety of the cast. Apparently once invisible to the male population of her California high school, Olive goes from anonymous to being deemed the school's biggest slut, all because of a white lie told to a friend. The situation escalates as she agrees to accept payment in exchange for letting many of her male peers claim relations with her. Now, it should be fairly easy to see this character as immoral, but we come to see that although what she does is wrong, she does it for valiant reasons. She feels that she is improving the social situation of boys who apparently need it and is losing nothing, since she is not actually doing anything. Unfortunately for her, it turns out that gossip is vicious and the rumor mill can tear even the most confident person down. While the subject matter- promiscuity, rumors, ostracizing- provokes a message that can apply to all high school students, one of tolerance, the movie does not take itself too seriously. This is what makes it so fun to watch. It interestingly weaves in technology that is so prevalent in teenagers' lives these days without trying to be hip. It taps into the Facebook-Twitter-Skype culture that is defining our generation and relates it to reputation and how lies tend to be juicier than the truth. “Easy A” has the ability to become one of those movies that will define the decade. It is a feel-good teen movie that we will want to rent in years to come.

As Halloween approaches, we find ourselves looking for more and more ways to frighten ourselves. Whether it be by going to haunted houses, or staying up till two in the morning watching scary movies, it is a well known fact that the adrenaline rush one gets through scaring themselves is a feeling unlike any other. Of all the previously released films, one stands above the rest. “Devil” is the story of an “ordinary” day gone wrong. And seriously, what could be more frightening than the idea of being trapped in an elevator with four strangers, one of which could potentially be Satan himself? The storyline was written by M. Night Shymalan, who also produced the film. Though Shymalan has the occasional hit (i.e. “The Sixth Sense,” “Unbreakable”) it is not often that his movies impress me. While attempting to carry on the tradition of his everpresent plot twists, Shymalan usually achieves nothing more than a prolonged storyline, building up to an anticlimactic and cheesy twist. So it was to my surprise that this story was none of the above. The film plays out an eerie tale that the narrator, Ramirez (played by Jacob Vargas), explains his mother once told him as a child. According to the story, the first thing that will happen when the Devil roams the Earth is a suicide. Ironically enough, this movie’s first shot is a man plummeting from the top of a building onto a truck on the street below. We then learn of the rest of this nightmarish bedtime story: that five innocent people will die. And of course, staying true to this tale, five people become trapped in the building’s elevator, unable to escape, and begin being attacked and killed off by the Devil, who could potentially be disguised as one of these “innocents.” “Devil” hosts a cast of almost completely unknown actors, but this does not take away from its credibility or its surplus of talent. In fact, one actor in specific, Logan Marshall-Green, did an outstandingly convincing job as a tough, yet caring blue collar worker stuck in the elevator with the rest of the cast. I was thoroughly impressed with this film. Not only does it present a pretty creepy storyline that will no doubt scare the heebie jeebies out of any conscious viewer, but it also has a moral theme of forgiveness and honesty. I highly suggest putting any pre-judgments about Shymalan behind you and checking out this movie for a good scare.

‘This is bigger than ‘Joseph,’ ‘Wedding Singer,’ and ‘Rent’’

Angel of Music will pay its first visit to SHS in April In November, 2009, SHS put on a stunning performance of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” This year, the SHS theater department is bringing out another Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, “The Phantom of the Opera.” “Phantom” is considered a quintessential Lloyd Webber musical, but it has never been performed by SHS or by any other high schools and colleges. Previously, only professional theater was allowed by Lloyd Webber to perform “Phantom.” Now that Lloyd Webber has made about as much money as he can from “Phantom” and created a sequel (“Love Never Dies”), high schools and colleges are now allowed to perform it. And surprisingly enough, the SHS performance in April, directed by Mr. John Whapham will be one of the first high school productions of “Phantom.” “It feels really cool and I’m really excited,” said Jeffrey Silverstein, 12, playing the Phantom. “I think it’s great that Mr. Whapham is taking advan-

tage of the opportunity to do such a great show,” said Bradley Kirkendall, 10, playing Andre. The songs for “Phantom” are complex, but the cast has already started preparing for the performance in April. Rehearsals take place every Monday, directed by Mr. Ken Holdt, to work on group numbers like “Masquerade.” “My favorite song is ‘Masquerade’,” said Matthew Fischer, 10, ensemble member. This play has been selected to be the Cappies Awards performance for SHS this year, meaning it will be evaluated by high school critics from around Greater Cincinnati. It will be performed on April 8, 9, 14, 15, and 16. In this musical, a disfigured musical genius lives beneath a Paris opera house and terrorizes its inhabitants so that they will give his young student Christine (played by Emily Kissela, 10) the lead roles in the operas. As the story develops, Christine becomes entangled in a twisted love triangle between the Phantom and Raoul, (played by Austin Hoard, 12) her childhood sweetheart. Raoul and the Phantom act as opposing forces of light and darkness in her life.

New Voices makes an impact page 15

“Phantom” has won seven Tony Awards including best musical, is the highest grossing show in the history of Broadway, is the longest running show on Broadway (24 years), and has had over 65,000 performances in 25 countries and 124 cities. The cast is fired up to perform this operatic musical and make SHS history. “After I saw the musicals that were performed last year when I was an 8th grader, I thought there was no way that there could be anything that we could do in my freshman year that would compete. But this is bigger than ‘Joseph,’ ‘Wedding Singer,’ and ‘Rent,’” said Gabe Schenker, 9, ensemble member.

“The Phantom of the Opera”

Performance dates April 8, 9, 14, 15,16 *this is not a ticket for admission

HIGHLIGHTS: Aglamesis Bros. and Graeters face off page15

this month in a&e

staff writer

Row Seat AA 22

johnCARROLL

a&e

thursday, october 28, 2010

‘...this experience is really opening my eyes to a struggle that I have never noticed before’

‘New Voices’ brings communities together stuartLINDLE

a&e chief

& shaynaSIEGEL staff writer

s high school students living in the primarily affluent area that is Sycamore, we become entangled in our own personal lives and tend to lose sight of major issues. The New Voices program is a way of bridging the gap between Over-the-Rhine and the Sycamore community through photography and creative writing. A group of 17 photography students were selected from SHS to work with photographer David Rosenthal of Prairie Art Gallery. Once a week on Thursdays, members take the journey downtown to Over-the-Rhine. They try to understand the issue of homelessness in hopes to raise awareness. “I was really excited being accepted to do this photography program, I think this experience is really opening my eyes to a struggle that I have never noticed before,” said Noah Velleca, 11. It is easy to turn a blind eye and focus on other things, but it takes a great amount of strength to realize that Cincinnati is not perfect. Homelessness is reality to some and it should not be put on the back burner. While downtown, students are informed of the reality of homelessness. It is an issue that is local, and relevant and something that the New Voices members feel passionate about. “It’s been a really interesting experience. The people down there are really open with their past, even though we are strangers. It’s awesome,” said Hailey Hess, 12. Physically being downtown has proven to be very influential in shaping the creative process of the young photographers. The students involved with this program have been greatly impacted by seeing the difference in life styles. “It’s a great program and it opens up a completely different community I wouldn’t have seen otherwise,” said Megan Wells, 12.

PHOTO STUDENTS TRAVEL to Over-the-Rhine once a week on Thursdays to take part in the ‘New Voices’ program, which involves interaction with the members of the homeless community. The students have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. “This program is completely different from anything else I’ve done in high school. It’s a really cool experience, and I love being a part of it,” said John Kazior, 12.

image by gina romeo

photos courtesy of peiter griga

Aglamesis Bros. vs. Graeter’s Local creameries battle for title of ‘Ice Cream Champion’ krittikaCHATTERJEE

Michael Symon, Iron Chef

im ag

gin a

staff writer

On Sept 10, Graeter’s Ice Cream and preference or were not ice cream fans. Aglamesis Bros. threw it all on the Aglamesis Bros. small number table in Ault Park for the grand finale could be a result of their few locaof their episode for the new Food Net- tions. Aglamesis Bros. only has two work show, “Food Feuds”. Both were stores, as opposed to Graeter’s, who judged based on three parameters: recently opened their 45th location. tradition, technique, and taste. “It was an honor to even be recogThese ice cream masters are nized on such a large scale, since the certainly not lacking in tradition. Aglamesis family is obviously a smallGraeter’s has been open since 1870, er brand than Graeter’s. It makes us and Aglamesis Bros. since 1903. employees feel like we’re all part of Technique the family,” is a strong Cincinnati creates two of the said Sandra difference – Jones, manGraeter’s uses best ice creams on the planet. ager of the the French Montgomery How does that happen? Pot method in Square Aglamplants, creating esis Bros. locaice cream in tion. large quantiAglamesis ties, whereas Bros. are not Aglamesis Bros. ice cream is created the only ones honored to be recogin small quantities in each store. nized on a national scale. Cincinnati Taste is a subject of debate at SHS. should be proud to be such great ice “I’m definitely an Aglamesis girl,” cream representatives. said Maddy Haines, 10. “Cincinnati creates two of the “I prefer Graeter’s. At the bottom of best ice creams on the planet. How my ice cream cup, I love finding hudoes that happen?” said Iron Chef mongous chunks of chocolate,” said Michael Symon at the ice cream Alexis Corcoran, 9. showdown. It seems that most SHS students So who was the final champion? would agree with her. 62% of stu“Well, you’ll just have to wait and see, dents surveyed were Graeter’s fans, won’t you?” said Jones. and only 19% were in favor of Aglam“Food Feuds” will air on the Food esis Bros. The remaining 19% had no Network channel on Dec 2.

SYMMES TWP. SMALL BLIZZARD (12 OZ.)

$ 1.99 EXPIRES 6-10-11

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

Sports

Thursday, October 28, 2010

‘Championships do not come free’ There is more to athletics than the players on the field; behind the scenes, the cost of athletics continues to soar

michaelSAXON

staff writer

hat would you do with $292,000? Put it in your college fund? Start a business? Buy a Lamborghini? Well, $292,000 is just enough to cover the cost of SHS and SJHS athletics for one school year. As it turns out, this enormous amount of money is actually less than what is spent by both Lakota High School and Mason High School on sports. Lakota spends about $400,000 per year while Mason spends about $350,000 per year. This money is spent on a variety of expenses including uniforms, equipment, officials, and security at games. “A lot of people fail to see the

big picture. Paying for high school sports goes beyond the fancy uniforms the players wear. The budget covers all things, even the ones people do not pay attention to, such as lighting or security,” explained Mr. Gerry Weisgerber, Athletic Director of Lakota High School. To help offset some of these costs, SHS, Mason, and Lakota each have a fund raising group. SHS’ fund raising group is the Sycamore Athletic Boosters “The Sycamore Boosters probably give us total of about $80,000 per year. We couldn’t run our program without them. They are a key part,” said Mr. Jim Stoll, Athletic Director of SHS. Sometimes, the Boosters do fund raisers such as annual golf outings or silent auctions.

photo courtesy of cincinnati.com

THOUGH FUNDING DID not come through the athletic program nor taxpayer dollars, the renovation of what is now called Bud Acus Alumni Field at the SJHS was a hefty investment. The installation of the turf alone is estimated to have cost $600,000. Fortunately, it was privately funded and did not impact the SHS athletic department.

SHS SHS Lakota Mason Athletic ~$350,000 ~$400,000 ~$350,000 ~$292,000 ~$400,000 Athleticbudget budget ~$292,000 Athletic Athleticteams teams

74 74

44 44

editor-in-chief/sports chief

Boosters Boosters

Pay Payto toplay playfee fee

$50 $50

$300 $300

$0 $0

image by brandon sosna

GIVEN THE DATA shown above, SHS does an excellent job in providing for all athletic teams at a relatively low price. The new scoreboard at Bud Acus Alumni Field was privately donated, with a total cost approximated at $200,000. Private donors are a major contributor each year to SHS athletics.

play fee is $50 sport. In comparison, Lakota’s pay to play fee reaches a whopping $300. The only schools in the Greater Miami Conference that don’t require a pay to play fee are Mason and Princeton. “The reason we don’t have a pay to play fee is because our community and school board funds us so that we don’t really need one. If we did have one, then we would have a whole lot more money available for athletics,” said Mr. Scott Stemple, Athletic Director for Mason High School. In order to balance the cost of high school sports, athletic departments have fundraising groups and pay to play fees. Sports are something that many SHS students play and enjoy, but most don’t realize how much money it takes to suit up. Championships do not come free.

‘We will return more than half the team and I’m looking for even bigger improvements’

Varsity girls tennis reflects on season past, ahead staff writer

The varsity girls’ gold tennis team wrapped up its regular season on Oct. 11 against one of the top teams in the state, Ursuline Academy, losing 0-5. The team finished with an (11-7) record and (7-2) in the Greater Miami Conference (GMC). As the regular season ended, the postseason came quickly upon the team and the doubles tandems of Allie Martin, 12 and Sophia Southard, 10 and Sammi Kruger, 11 and Daniela Fonseca, 12 qualified for the district tournament. Maggie Cron, 12, Aamna Dosani, 12, and Nanki Hura, 10, played singles in the postseason and all won rounds in the

Varsity girls golf team scores best season in program history

page 17

sectional tournament but failed to qualify. “Our doubles teams work well with each other and they certainly got it done in the sectional tournament,” said Coach Mike Teets. The 2010 district tournament was held at the ATP Center in Mason, Ohio on Oct. 14 under perfect weather conditions— sunny and a seasonably warm 67 degrees. As the four seed from the Mason sectional, Martin and Southard took down the number one seed from Harrison, 6-1, 6-4 in their opening match. In the state qualifying round, the duo lost a heartbreaker after taking the first set 6-1, to St. Ursula eventually dropping the

page 17

next two sets 1-6, 2-6. Kruger and Fonseca, the three seed from the Mason sectional were upended by an Ursuline team they faced at the end of the season. The doubles tandem lost 2-6, 2-6. This year has been special for Kruger as she missed the entire 2009 season with a back injury. Returning to full form this season, she went 11-11 at the first singles position, playing some of the toughest opponents across the state. Southard also had a good year as a sophomore playing second singles achieving a 12-11 personal record. “My second season was just as good, if not better than my freshman year,” said Southard. “I was

a lot more experienced and I’m looking forward to next year.” Even though the 2010 season ended on a disappointing and sour note, it was definitely a successful campaign that the team can build on for next season. Though the team loses a handful of seniors, there was still a lot of youth on the team. Kruger, Southard, Hura, and Riley Miller, 11, will look to continue to improve and prepare for next season. “We will return more than half the team and I’m looking for even bigger improvements from the teams below varsity gold,” said Teets. “This was a great season, and the seniors played hard and well.”

HIGHLIGHTS: SHS wins annual Volley for the Cure event, raising breast cancer awareness in the process

Boys cross country team has sights set on districts

page 18

this month in sports

frankPAN

E-MLB Part three brandonsosna

58 58

Support Supportsource source

Some of these in the past have been to equip the Gregory Center and replace the grass field with artificial turf at the SJH. “We try to fill the gaps where the school district budget and the athletic budget don’t allow for some of the cost,” said Mrs. Liz Cleary, Membership Chair of the Sycamore Athletic Boosters. All three booster groups give money to every sports team and provide them with special equipment the athletic office doesn’t label as a necessity. The Sycamore Athletic Boosters also help fund lower level teams, also know as the “green teams” at SHS and SJH. Without the $40,000 the Boosters contribute, approximately 300 SHS and SJH athletes would not have a team to play for. Another offset to the cost of high school athletics are “pay to play” fees. SHS and SJH’s pay to

Official scorer:

Outside the Lines recently released a report stating that Major League Baseball umpires miss 20% of close calls. MLB, however, refuses to expand instant replay beyond determining whether home runs are fair or foul or if a fan interferes with the ball. Most arguments cite that it would delay an already long, slow affair. However, if we mandated a clock between pitches and that batters had to stay in the box, games would be shorter. MLB could shorten the time between half innings by putting a cap on how many warm up pitches the pitcher is permitted. Why should it matter how long it takes? We should sacrifice the correct call for time? Most calls, like at first base or to see if the ball hit the ground before it was caught, would take mere seconds to conclude. Let’s ask Armando Gallaraga what he really thinks. Or Joe Maddon after Derek Jeter was incorrectly awarded first base, albeit in a fair display of gamesmanship. Or those on the wrong end of missed calls in the 2010 postseason, ranging from hit batsman going unnoticed, to fan interference not being reviewed. One day, maybe not this postseason, but perhaps the next one, a game, series, or champion will be incorrectly decided in a case of human blunder. Maybe then baseball will hear the message. Airing on the side of shortening games as opposed to getting the call correct is an error on behalf of MLB. Finally, in perhaps one of the more idiosyncratic moves, MLB ruled years ago that the winner of the All-Star Game would decide home advantage. I still don’t get it. On the bright side, it prevents a tie from occurring, like in 2002. I like giving the players incentive to win the game, but when Omar Infante (who?) makes the team over one of the league’s best young players, Carlos Gonzalez, I cannot take the game seriously. We are literally putting the fate of home field advantage in the hands of the public vote. I’ve always pondered why none of my friends really love baseball. It’s a struggle every night to find buddies to go down to the ball park with. I always just assumed it’s because the average person finds baseball to be a boring sport. That is certainly true. But as this trend continues and attendance numbers drop as the decades pass, the baseball powers of be will be asking themselves the same question: why has the interest in baseball waned? I doubt they will blame the beautiful game that they have made ugly.

sports

thursday, october 28, 2010

G iving hope

Girls golf team captures best season yet

irls volleyball supports cause in victory

bennettKAPLAN

sports chief

or the past seven seasons, the SHS girls’ golf team has ended their season ranked in the top four in the Greater Miami Conference (GMC). Leading the team to this spot for the second straight season was golfer S.M. Dipali, 11, who for the past three seasons has been one of the highest ranked golfers in the GMC and in the city. Dipali was the fourth best golfer in the GMC, averaging 39.10 strokes per nine holes. This is a significant improvement over last season, when Dipali finished eighth in the GMC, with an average of 40.67. Dipali has been a top performer for the girls golf team over the past three years, and her scores have improved by almost four strokes since her freshman year. Dipali, along with Marybeth Reinhold, 10, was named to the GMC All Conference first team, and was the only representative from the SHS team to qualify for the state tournament. The team played in eleven 18 hole tournaments, significantly less than last year, in order to keep focus on the match at hand. This, in turn, helped generate better scores for the golfers. In the GMC tournament, the team finished third place overall, 17 strokes behind Lakota West, and 59 strokes behind Mason. The team finished seventh place overall in the district meet, therefore failing to reach the state tournament as a team. “Our season went really well and

Volley for Under the cure is an event that started at SHSMeet in the New New 2006, when the SHS and Loveland High School volleyball Management! Staff! programs came together to dedicate one game during their season to the research and fight against breast cancer. Since then, the event has expanded to high schools 11375 Montgomery Rd. • Cincinnati, OH around the state, raising thousands of dollars yearly to aid the fight of breast cancer. On October 13, SHS and Harrison faced off, wearing Monday thru Friday 9am-9pm special colored uniforms in honor of the event. SHS won Saturday 9am-6pm the match, 25-20, 25-23, 25-23. • Sunday 11am-4pm Adult $12 • Kids“Volley for the cure is an -amazing effort$10 that brings our team and 3145-1 school together to fight breast cancer. This year Meetin Under it was a huge team win, but it also was a huge success Meet the New New thetaking New another step towards beating breast cancer,”Staff! said Management! Staff! Kristina Bartlett, 11.

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3145-1 THE SHS GIRLS golf team had their best statistical season ever. S.M Dipali, 11, along Under with Marybeth Reinhold, 10, were both named to the GMC All Conference first team, New and Maggie Smith, 11, was named to the second team. For the second straight seaManagement! son, the team finished third place in the GMC, behind Lakota West and Mason.

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we didn’t finish our strongest and aging about 41.8 strokes per nine 11375 Montgomery Rd. • Cincinnati, hopefully we can go all the way to holes. state as a team next year,” said CasThomas, a first year varsity player, sidy Thomas, 11. finished 29th in the GMC, with an Monday thru Friday 9am-9pm Reinhold was the only sophomore average of 45.84 strokes per nine Saturday 9am-6pm • Sunday 11am-4pm on the team, and had an exemplary holes. Adult - $12this • Kids$10 season, finishing 12th in the GMC, “I had a great time season and 3145-1 shooting a 78 at sectionals, her all we did awesome. I cant wait for next time low. year when we can hopefully make it The team’s success can be partly to state,” said Smith attributed to the outstanding play of Dipali participated in the state the junior class. Along with Dipali, tournament October 22, and 23. golfers Erin Soller and Maggie Her results can be found at www. Smith,11, finished 14th and 15th in ohsaa.org/sports/go/girls/. the GMC respectively, both aver-

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Making moves:

Chess team takes initial steps toward season claytonHAMRE

staff writer

arly next month, the chess players of SHS will be competing for positions on the chess team, renowned for its record, and untarnished by defeat for the past five years. The try-out process began with an informational meeting on Oct. 14, and the qualifying matches will commence on Nov. 9. Chess team has never had to cut players, and members are ranked with a Swiss system tournament. “A Swiss system tournament pairs players with the same record against one another. It’s kind of a system where you ‘bubble’ up to the top if you do well. We play as many matches as needed to sort out the players,” said Dr. Keith Brackenridge, chess team coach. As with most typical sports, chess players must practice in order to maintain their skill. This can include reading about chess theory as well as playing regularly.

Players pitch practice plans

It is second bell, and Vibhor Kumar, 11 and Michael Dobler, 12 are seated in front of a laptop, closely examining each click the other makes. On the screen is a chessboard, and the two players’ positions are roughly matched. Kumar was on chess team last year, and will try out for the team again. “I fully intend – and expect – to secure a position in the top seven boards,” said Kumar. Kumar often plays chess online, participating in tournaments and reviewing old games with friends. “I try to develop intuition in order to improve my abilities,” said Kumar, “although sometimes you can’t just rely on intuition.” Dobler, however, has never been on the team before, so he will have to contend against better-established and more experienced members in the tryouts.

sports

thursday, october 28, 2010

LeGrand comeback: Let optimism, not odds dictate football player’s outcome dannyBAYLISS

sports chief

image by clayton hamre

MICHAEL DOBLER, 12, MOVES a bishop across a virtual chessboard. Vibhor Kumar, 11, plays with black, and Dobler plays with white. Chess players can play matches on- and offline on computers as well as with actual pieces. “I thought I’d join [the] chess team because chess is fun and provides mental Date Opponent Site Time stimulation,” said Dobler. Thursday 11/4 MIDDLETOWN Home 4:00 Dobler also explained that his favorite piece was the pawn. Thursday 11/11 LAKOTA WEST Home 4:00 He then turns back to the laptop, and moves his knight to counter Kumar’s Tuesday 11/16 Fairfield Away 4:00 previous move. “Another thing I like about chess is Thursday 11/18 Lakota East Away 4:00 that when you say your opening is ‘Mpq 5sd’ and no one understands you, it makes you sound smart,” Dobler said. Tuesday11/23 PRINCETON Home 4:00

Chess team schedule

Team looks toward season

Every year, the chess team loses some of its best members when seniors graduate. However, there has never been any trouble recovering. Brackenridge is confident that returning players as well as new members from both the freshman class and other grades will maintain the team’s strength, thus allowing them to keep its winning streak in place for another season.

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‘I want people to know that we are far better than them at the end of the year’

Running rampant rohanDALAL

staff writer

TALLIN FORSHEY, 10, SPRINTS down the trail at the Kings Invitational on September 28. Forshey was one of the top four varsity runners to finish for SHS during the event. The team has been picking up steam as the playoffs approach. image by jeremy mcdaniels

The boys’ cross country team has had several significant performances leading up to the playoff season; qualifying for the regional meet the past two years. Runners are led by Kubilay Inanli, 12, Paul Salach, 10, Tallin Forshey, 10, and Chas Fiorenza, 12 who make up the top four runners. Adam Kapuscinski, 12, who quickly made his way up to the varsity team running a personal best time of 17:15, is excited for the rest of the season. “I love cross country, it is my home outside of home,” said Kapuscinski. On Sep. 25, at the Harrison Invitational, Inanli placed third, his best finish of the season. The varsity team placed second overall, and the JV team dominated the competition finishing first by a long shot. The JV runners were led by Jimmy Chisholm, 12, who finished first overall with a time of 17:46. Head coach Mike Gutekunst is even more confident about the team’s chances to qualify for the regional meet and has noticed his team’s overall improvement. “There is a very different competitive fire from this team, it is like an inferno;

nobody wants to lose. I love the way they fight for every position at the end of races,” said Gutekunst. Fiorenza is determined to be running in the “16’s” by the end of the season. “I have to run in the 16s. It would not be considered a successful season if I don’t. That is all I think about when I sleep at night, and it keeps me awake also,” said Fiorenza. The team enjoyed even more success at Kings on Sep. 28, the varsity finished first and the JV team achieved the first perfect score in the history of SHS cross country and easily won their race. Jacob Belcher, 9 won the JV race with a time of 17:49. “This is my first ever victory at the high school level and I feel great right now,” said Belcher. SHS, ranked ninth in the city, is within striking distance of Kings, Anderson, and Lakota West. Overall SHS is surging toward the finish and will look to run great during the district meet. “Our goal is to destroy these three teams in every race from this point on. I want people to know that we are far better than them at the end of the year,” said Gutekunst.

In the past I have reserved this column for the overall tendency to praise and cheerlead. Everyone loves a good, heartwarming story. Obviously, you’re not on Cloud Nine unless you’re living the good life. But the somber story of one Eric LeGrand puts not just the sport of football, but especially life, in perspective. The rare privilege to compete in collegiate athletics at Rutgers, over 20 years of youth and mobility, and the blessing to live a normal life which we often take for granted. All of this is in grave jeopardy. Because of one tackle on October 16. LeGrand would ask you to pinch him to see if he’s dreaming, but that would do no good. He wouldn’t be able feel it. LeGrand is most likely paralyzed from the neck down. Studies have shown that a player suffering this type of injury usually has a 72-hour timeframe that will forecast any hope of recovery from the impact of the affliction. Three days, no known feeling below the neck. Gone are the football statistics that make his parents so proud. Now they’re seeing C-3 and C-4, the vertebrae LeGrand broke. They’re seeing their son’s chances of walking reach slim to none status, and slim is halfway out the proverbial building. This was not one of the many malicious hits now rendering NFL suspensions and costing paychecks. No one is at fault; LeGrand just did what he was taught. Stay in your lane, do not hesitate, lower the shoulder, and finish the play. Maybe LeGrand did too much. Who knows if he was trying to make the highlight reel with that tackle. Who could blame him if that’s true? Every kid playing football wants that. I’ve watched the tackle over and over. I don’t want to and never hope to hear the sound of a broken neck or spine. I don’t want to experience the whiplash of my neck being snapped back with such tenacious force. No one does, but that’s what you risk when you play football. You know what you agreed to. Your not naive to the fact that your body is flying around with the sole purpose to create rib-crunching hits. Time to wrap it up and give up hope, right? Not for Greg Schiano. He’s doing what you would expect a head coach in this quagmire to do right now. Nothing but positive prognosis from him. LeGrand is likely wheelchair bound, yet Schiano rules that out. He even contacted Joe Paterno, who dealt with the same situation back in 2000. Just like Schiano prays for LeGrand, Paterno prayed for Adam Taliaferro. Same injury, same odds, same expectations. Eight months later, those odds were defied, and Taliaferro walks to support LeGrand. So pertaining to LeGrand’s rough road ahead, crazier things have happened, both on and off the gridiron. Got to be glass half-full. Why? It doesn’t hurt, so that must means it helps. Maybe by the time you read this LeGrand’s recovery will have made some headway. So here’s to LeGrand proving science wrong. Let’s hope sitting can be a leisurely choice for him, and not just a way of life.

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Spotlight

‘I’m single’

Thursday, October 28, 2010

drewGELWICKS

Nimit Desai, 9, ready to mingle

spotlight editor

Nimit Desai, 9, on life as a freshman, competitive Indian dancing How is your freshman year so far? Challenging! I like the personal freedoms of the high school, but the homework load is intense, and I am finally accepting my lack of sleep. Any favorite teachers? I enjoy Mrs. Valerie Nimskern’s, Mrs. Judy Klefas, and Mr. Jeremy Pletz’s classes. No offense to my other teachers... (I hope this doesn’t affect my grade). What was the biggest change you’ve noticed from the Junior High to SHS? The homework, no doubt. Who are you closest with? Nick Hershey, 9, Shyam Parikh, 9, Bryan Waterhouse, 9, and the rest of my entire friend circle. What’s it like being in school with your older brother, Maulik Desai, 11? There’s been some joking harasssment from him

and his friends, but nothing out of the ordinary. Do you two get along most of the time? Eh... What do you like to do for fun? Soccer and hang with friends. Can you tell us about the Indian dance group you’re in? We have won our National Championship two times and won Regional Championship three times.

Shyam Parikh, 9, and Avni Bapat, 11. How often do you all practice? The three months leading up to July. Are the other teams really competitive? Sometimes at Nationals. Do you think you will continue doing this dance throughout high school or even college? This is probably my last year. Any last words? I’m single.

When did that start? Around the second grade. Do you make up all of your own dances? They’re choreographed, but we have input. Who else from SHS is in the group?

Favorites ‘

Color: Orange Artist: Drake TV Show: ‘Community’ Movie: ‘Inception’ Animal: Tiger Soda: Root Beer Subject: Math Book: ‘Harry Potter’ series Celebrity: Britney Spears Quote: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

photos by drew gelwicks

NIMIT DESAI, 9, EXPRESSES his versatile personailty in class. While he is a focused student, he is able to put forth his energy in the form of competitive Indian dance. “We have won our National

Championship two times and won the Regional Championship three times,” said Desai. Not only does he enjoy dancing, but he also loves playing soccer with his friends in his free time.

DESAI, 9 CLEARLY enjoys spending time with friends. Whether it is hanging at a friend’s house, or participating in an Indian dance competition, he is extremely social. This freshman is out and about, as well as an exceptional student.