January 2019 Leaf

THE LEAF Sycamore High School News Magazine Volume 6 | Issue 5 | January 31, 2019

SUPER BOWL LIII p.13 the game, the food, the experience

VALENTINE’S DAY LOOKS p.19 FLYERETTES p.25

CONTENTS

EDITOR IN CHIEF VIDEO Allyson Bonhaus Lydia Masset ART & PHOTO MANAGING ASSOCIATE VIDEO EDITOR EDITOR Alex Jowanovitz Sydney Weiss COPY EDITORS MANAGING EDITOR Hannah Lee Kirsten Thomas Bhaavya Jha WEB EDITORS Chloe Mensch Kirsten Thomas Megan Soellner Sydney Weiss Grace Zhang SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR SECRETARY Jessica Lu Delaney Ciotola ART & PHOTO EDITORS FACT CHECKER Linya Guo Josh Moore Harsitha Kalaiarasan CARTOONIST Anisa Khatana Isabella Magato Sara Margolis CREATIVE WRITING EDITOR BUSINESS STAFF Nehalem Chudnoff Lindsey Brinkman SLUG PATROL Hannah Lee Alex Bullock Charlotte Weiss STAFF WRITERS Jack Wolfe Ephraim Carlson PR TEAM ADVISER Gabby Khodadad Alexandra Frost Henry Loeb PHOTOGRAPHER Allison McElroy McDaniel’s Photography Deeya Prakash Professional Memberships: Jack Wolfe Columbia Scholastic Press NEWS Association Anisa Khatana Journalism Education SPORTS Association Madeleine Suh National Scholastic High FEATURE School Press Association Harsitha Kalaiarasan Ohio Scholastic Media ENTERTAINMENT Association Lindsey Brinkman Ohio Professional Writers OPINION (National Federation of Abigail Lefton ASSOCIATE OPINION EDITOR Women Writers) Quill & Scroll International Deeya Prakash Journalism Honorary FUN & GAMES Charlotte Weiss

NEWS

2 School lunches 3 Mental health 4 Tampon tax

OPINION

5 Staff editorial 6 The wall 7 T. M. Landry Prep School 8 Abuse in rap

FEATURE

9 ‘Radium Girls’ 10 Changing the environment 11 Hydroflasks 12 Motivation low

COVER

THE LEAF

18 Football fever word jumble

ENTERTAINMENT

19 Valentine’s Day looks 20 Living coral 21 Spring Festival

FOCUS

22 Ryan Hertlein

SPORTS

13 Super Bowl 14 Super Bowl 15 Super Bowl 16 Super Bowl 17 Super Bowl

EDITORIAL POLICY Although students work under the Sycamore High School guidance of a professional faculty member, the content is ultimately 7400 Cornell Road determined by the student staff Cincinnati, OH 45242 and should reflect all areas of student interest, including topics Covers by Sydney Weiss on which there may be dissent and controversy. Students can not publish material that is obscene, libelous, or is likely to cause “a substantial disruption of the educational process.”

Content that may stimulate heated debate or discussion is not included in this definition. The views represented in our publications do not represent the views of the Sycamore Community School District or the Sycamore High School administration. Our publications are public forums.

FUN & GAMES

23 Esports 24 Wittenbaum brothers 25 Flyerettes

Read more with our website

shsleaf.org

If you would like to submit a story idea, we are ready and willing to write it! Please send these ideas to shsstudentvoice@gmail.com.

@SHSLEAF

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS You’re back! We can’t thank you enough for your time and dedication to The Leaf.

You might have noticed that this issue is not coming out in only January, but also being sold in February. This year, The Leaf has been all about change. We appreciate your patience during this year of rebranding, and we know it will pay off in the long run for our readers and the program as a whole.

Speaking of our program, the seniors are in the process of creating The Senior Leaf. This year we are being intentional with considering what students are interested in, rather than tradition. Seniors, keep an eye out for related Google forms, and the sales of the issue in May. In this issue you are holding in your hands, you can expect to see a lot about the Super Bowl and its festivities, including the Puppy Bowl, commercials, and recipes for your own Super Bowl party.

Furthermore, check out our coverage of the newest school play, “Radium Girls,” our feature of two basketball players, and our coverage of student opinions on the government shutdown and “The Border Wall.”

Also, feel free to participate in the contests on our back cover, with chances to win an out-to-lunch pass or City Barbeque certificate.

As always, we are still posting updated content on www.shsleaf.org, and you can always contact us at shsstudentvoice@gmail.com with comments, questions, concerns, or to share your story with us.

On another note, as the Lead Editors prepare our staff for next year without us, we would like you to know that this is the last issue of The Leaf being led and the last Letter from the Editors being written by the senior editors.

From the seniors to our readers, we would like to thank you for the past four years. You have allowed our staff to continue to run a magazine and website that will leave a forever lasting impact on us, the school and community, which we could not have done without you.

Juniors, best of luck to you. We know you will continue to build and represent a program SHS will be proud of for years to come. This is your time to shine.

So, SHS, thank you for all that you have done, continue to do, and more importantly for being you.

NEWS

January 31, 2019

MAKING SCHOOL LUNCHES ‘great again’

Trump Administration seeks to relax restrictions in school cafeterias Photo courtesy of Harsitha Kalaiarasan

HARSITHA KALAIARASAN feature chief

SCHOOL LUNCHES are the next

GOOD EATS. On average, 500 lunches are sold daily at SHS, with numerous options available.

Overall, the cafeteria is only selling to 30 percent of the student body, a number that Kelsey Gash would like to see go up, possibly through small, yet impactful, changes. “I plan to implement a flavor station to pick different sauces along with salt-free seasonings,” Gash said.

While the number of whole grain items could change, it is highly unlikely to happen in the near future at SHS. All the meals provided at SHS are bid on through “food buying co-ops” that have been specifically making meals to meet the previous regulations. Simply put, there are no current non-whole grain products available at a good price.

Right now at SHS, the most popular meals include the noodle and mashed potato bowl.

Gash observes the most popular lunches as the “build your own” type that students are used to Sources: cnbc.com, nytimes.com, fortune.com

item on the to-do list of President Donald Trump’s administration. In early December, the administration’s Agriculture Department announced its plans to roll back on regulations formerly set by President Barack Obama’s administration in 2010, also known as the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act. The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act required all grains to be whole and all flavored milk to be nonfat. The new proposed changes will only require 50 percent of grains to be whole and allow for low-fat versions of flavored milk.

Lastly, sodium levels will be maintained instead of lowered, as was done in previous years.

The changes are to go into effect by July of this year and have provoked various responses.

Some districts favor the changes, believing they will help minimize food waste and appeal to more students, while other schools worry about nutritional regression and its impact on student performance.

But what will change in the commons of SHS? Kelsey Gash, the Child Nutrition and Wellness Director for Sycamore Schools, shares her insight.

Although Gash was not present at Sycamore in 2010 for the implementation of the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act, she is aware of the difficulties it caused.

“Before, [school cafeterias] could sell whatever they wanted; there weren’t any stipulations on what constituted...a meal. I know it was especially hard for school districts because cafeterias lost a lot of business,” Gash said.

As touched upon in her statement, it is critical that cafeterias make a profit. According to Gash, the Child Nutrition program is self-sustaining— essentially a “little business within a business,” operating without any help from the general funds.

The biggest change that could occur on daily menus across the nation would be the inclusion of fewer whole-grain products, and personally, Gash believes there will not be a huge difference.

“We still have the same nutritional regulations with these new rules. We still have to meet all the calories, all the fat, and all the sodium. With the lax of whole grains, the main thing is less fiber and fewer micronutrients, but kids are eating a lot of stuff outside of here and packing too,” Gash said.

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from places like Currito and Chipotle.

With the new rules aside, Gash aims to enhance the meal options at SHS. She hopes to find healthier alternatives as well as more vegetarian options.

Ultimately, Gash would like to sell to a larger population of the school and consequently, appeal to the student body.

“I want to involve students going forward as I make mini changes. I haven’t gotten there yet, but I just want to make sure that something I see and I think is appealing, the students are going to want too,” Gash said.

f

: Downtown Girl : @downtowngirlmontgomery

NEWS

January 31, 2019

‘IT’S NOT SOMETHING YOU CAN SEE’ Students fight for mental health awareness JESSICA LU social media director SPEAK LOVE. It was the latest attempt by the school to talk about mental health. Students attended an assembly with motivational speakers, covering topics like depression and suicide.

Yet according to some students, the assembly missed the mark.

“They can’t relate to what we’re going through because they’re adults,” said Grace Creek, 12. “Even if they have struggled with mental health in the past, our society is so different nowadays, that I feel like they just don’t connect with students.”

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), suicide is the third leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 19 years.

The WHO additionally reports that “half of all mental health conditions start by 14 years of age, but most cases are undetected and untreated.”

In hopes of effectively spreading mental health awareness, senior Katie Good decided

to take matters into her own hands. founder of 1N5, a local nonprofit whose mission With her counselor Ms. Ann Delehantyis to help provide schools with mental health Koenig, Good created a group whose main programming. objective is to break the stigma surrounding “By starting the conversation... hopefully mental health.

Sycamore can show THEY CAN’T RELATE students that they are not “Recently, I’ve noticed many different students confiding in alone in their struggle TO WHAT WE’RE other students about their issues with mental health and GOING THROUGH with mental health. Often they that there are resources were afraid to speak to others available for them to get BECAUSE THEY’RE about what they’ve faced, and help,” Good said. were unsure of where to go to for As for the students who ADULTS. help,” Good said. attended, many left with GRACE CREEK, 12 The group hosted a mental positive impressions, health forum on Jan. 17 in Room including senior Ellie 233. Good along with Creek and seniors Armstrong.

Sammy Risma, Ally Landrum, Grant “All of the panel [members] were brave and Laneve, Jessica Lu, and Helen Sotropa made the issues very relevant to the student shared their own personal stories. body. Talking about these issues could really They were also joined by Dr. Rich Gilman, help someone we care about or someone we sit a psychologist at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital next to in class,” Armstrong said.

Medical Center, and Ms. Nancy Eigel-Miller,

Sources: studybreaks.com, centerfordiscovery.com, who.int

FASHION FOR THE CURE: behind the scenes ISABELLA MAGATO cartoonist

Anticipation fills the air after hours at SHS. A full audience waits eagerly in the crowd for the show to begin. The models are dressed up and ready to go on.

For all of this to take place, Fashion for the Cure has to spend months meticulously preparing for the event.

This year, on Feb. 15, SHS will hold its 13th annual Fashion for the Cure event. SHS has partnered up with the Dragonfly Foundation in order to raise money for the organization.

The Dragonfly Foundation is an organization that helps to support families and fund children receiving treatment for cancer.

The students from the committee have been working all year in order to create original clothing pieces for the event. They also work to acquire pieces of clothing from local boutiques.

The preparation is time-consuming; thus, the students are given a large amount of time to create their pieces.

“It is a a lot of time management to create the mock up in muslin, size it correctly, and make the final product,” said Kai Blunt, 9.

HARD AT WORK. Freshmen Kai Blunt and Vivian Qian work on their projects for the fashion show. Both are designing, planning, fitting, and constructing a garment themselves. “The design process is fairly simple. Come up with a couple designs, discard the ones that would be way too hard to create, and narrow it down [to] the one you like best that is the most feasible to make,” Blunt said. Photo courtesy of Isabella Magato.

In total, after last year’s Fashion for the Cure event, $25,000 was raised. The student committee’s goal for this year, however, is much

higher. They hope to raise their donations to $30,000 for a non-profit organization called Beads of Hope.

Tickets are on sale the week of the show as well as sold at the door. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and the show will start at 7:30 p.m.

As well as the fashion show, the program has a silent auction and raffle baskets.

“So right now, we are soliciting, which means we go to different business and get donations and getting sponsors, which are straight money donations. During the show, we pick up baskets and decorate,” said Sammi Miller, 12, chairman of the event.

The committee makes around 25 or 30 baskets for the raffle. This raffle, as well as the silent auction, are ways that the committee hopes to incite change.

After the event is over, the students are left with a feeling of pride after helping to make change in the lives of many children and families that are struggling. They are happy to make change in the world and better the lives of others.

03

NEWS

January 31, 2019

TAMPON TAX TAKEDOWN

Ohio House passes bill eliminating tax on menstrual products ANISA KHATANA news chief

“This news is significant because it could affect so many lives: homeless women life, they will spend $1,773.33 on tampons struggling to fashion makeshift hygiene items, alone. Panty liners add an extra $433.33 to the young college students struggling to afford mix. For menstruators struggling to feed their basic hygiene on top of food and textbooks, et families, this can be a heavy financial burden. cetera,” Skwara said.

While most states tax all tangible personal Rep. Kelly’s bill, which would exempt property, the majority make exemptions for products deemed necessities, such as groceries, tampons, pads, pantiliners, menstrual cups, and the like from sales tax, was medical purchases, and some rolled into a larger, RepublicanWE BELIEVE THAT clothing. tax bill.

The nationwide war on what THE SALES TAX ON sponsored The Legislative Service is often referred to as the Commission estimates that this “tampon tax” addresses the fact THESE PRODUCTS bill, if passed into law, could have that menstrual products do not IS UNDOUBTEDLY cost the state up to four million fall under these exemptions. dollars in sales tax revenue each While tampon tax opponents UNJUST. year. argue for the necessity of CAROLINE SKWARA, 11 As the legislation waits in period products, supporters limbo, supporters and opponents often point out that they are not subject to any specific, additive tax, and that the of the tax are speaking out.

“PAAD Club believes that the tax on lack of tax exemptions was never intended to menstrual products should be eliminated target periods or those who have them. because our goal is to fight for the rights of In February 2017, State Representative menstruators—to fight sociopolitical issues (Rep.) Brigid Kelly, a Democrat revolving around products that are medically representing Cincinnati in the Ohio House of necessary for half of the world’s population,” Representatives, introduced legislation to “ax Skwara said. the tampon tax,” as menstrual activists say.

“We believe that the sales tax on these Kelly’s bill received a second hearing in products is undoubtedly unjust, especially when autumn of 2017, and in a significant victory Viagra is exempt from sales tax.” for tampon tax opponents, was passed by the While some supporters of House in what the Statehouse News Bureau the tax argue that Viagra called a “nearly unanimous” vote in early is exempt because December 2018. it is a medicine, With the end of 2018, however, came the end Skwara is among of a session of Ohio Congress, meaning all bills the many that were not passed into law by the end of the tampon tax year are now considered dead. As a result, the tax bill will have to start from square one in the legislative process.

As of late-January, the Ohio Congress has yet to make an announcement as to how they will proceed with the bill.

Junior Caroline Skwara, copresident of Period Awareness, Access, and Dignity (PAAD) Club, considers the House’s willingness to pass this measure a major win for menstruators everywhere.

Sources: washingtonpost. com, statenews.org, wvxu.org, cincinnati.com, huffpost.com

04

opponents that group it with the more peculiar tax exemptions some states make.

Menstrual activist Jennifer Weiss-Wolf’s 2017 book “Periods Gone Public” turned up a list of strange items called out for exemptions by states that were taxing tampons at the time this list was compiled.

Highlights include Missouri’s exemptions on bingo supplies, Vermont’s exemptions on garter belts, and Idaho’s exemptions on chainsaws.

On another front, some believe that the tampon tax should not be abolished because menstrual products are some of the many everyday items that are not necessarily a luxury, but are still taxed as ordinary goods.

In this sense, proponents of the tax emphasize that the tampon tax does not, in truth, mean that legislators see menstrual products as a luxury.

To get involved on either side, Skwara says, students can call and write to their state legislators, sign petitions, and support organizations taking action on the tax, including PAAD Club.

All things considered, how Ohio proceeds with the “tampon tax” will make a statement about the legislature’s general stance on issues that primarily impact women and low-income families.

Photo courtesy of Anisa Khatana

OVER THE COURSE of one menstruator’s

LEAFING THROUGH THE MASSES:

chaos around them. For some die-hard NFL fans, the Super Bowl serves as a respite from the turmoil and unrest of today’s world. Nothing could come between them and the game. Image courtesy of Anisa Khatana.

Source: cnn.org

“My favorite aspect... is being able to hang out with my family and have fun watching the commercials and half time show,” said Audrey Simons, 11.

“I love when the trophies are awarded at the end because, having watched the Super Bowl for over 40 years, its refreshing to see old faces give the awards,” said Mr. Darius Powell, finance teacher.

Photo courtesy of Deeya Prakash

Football can seem like a bundle of contradictions. Being a fan of a sport creates a natural camaraderie amongst other fans. There are few things more unifying than the colors on a jersey.

Super Bowl parties bring fans—of both teams—together to enjoy a Sunday evening. Although guests may be supporting opposing teams, parties usually remain peaceful.

Still, when teams play each other, rivalry ensues. Sometimes, football creates a contentious or adversarial culture. In workplaces, homes, and the halls of SHS, bickering may occur amongst fans wearing opposing colors.

This culture of conflict is further perpetrated by the choice by some players, first by Colin Kaepernick, to kneel during the national anthem in order to protest police brutality.

Kaepernick first knelt in September of 2016, and his actions have created a ripple of both support and anger throughout the nation. Even this year, musical artists have turned down a Super Bowl performance, presumably because of Kaepernick.

Another controversy affecting pro football is the prevalence of injuries, especially head injuries.

Football-related injuries have been proven to cause memory and cognitive issues, most prominently chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

Football players look like they are at the peak of health, but can oftentimes be suffering from head injuries that can be disastrous if untreated.

Super Bowl LIII is not just about the game. It is about the musical performances, the guacamole, the commercials, the cute little puppies that run around the miniature field.

It is about players risking their physical health in the hopes of bringing home the Vince Lombardi trophy and a ring to wear on their finger. It is about football becoming a unifying force in a world that seems to encourage conflict.

Most of all, the Super Bowl is about a tradition that formally began in 1967.

The world is an ever-changing place, but year after year, on a Sunday in February, people unite around a bowl of chicken wings to watch the game.

Thus, a contradiction arises: football is rich in conflict, yet it also brings people together. It is fitting that one of America’s greatest pastimes challenges us to coexist. Whether we choose to admit it or not, at the end of the day, it is just a game.

Photo courtesy of Deeya Prakash

Staff Editorial

“My favorite part of the Super Bowl is watching the game with my family and friends, even if we’re rooting for different teams,” said Shashank Obulasetti, 9.

“I like the halftime show because I find football extremely boring but the half time show is pretty fun and entertaining,” said Ryan Carmody, 10.

Photo courtesy of Audrey Simmons

TUNNEL VISION. Three fans keep their eyes glued to the Super Bowl game being aired on the television before them, oblivious as the world explodes into

Photo courtesy of Ryan Carmody

What is your favorite aspect of the Super Bowl?

OPINION January 31, 2019

THE WALL

How do the students of SHS feel about Trump’s US-Mexico Border wall proposal ABIGAIL LEFTON opinion chief

‘BUILD THAT WALL, BUILD THAT WALL!’ is all we seem to hear about on social media and in the news these days. President Donald Trump announced during his campaign that he would build a wall on the US-Mexico border to keep drugs and illegal immigrants out. During his presidency, he has made immigration and border security a main focus. Originally, his plans to get money from the wall would be from Mexico. Recently, Trump announced he needs 5.7 billion out of the federal budget to create the wall. However, when the budget plan for the new year came

to his desk without the 5.7 billion in it, he refused to sign it. This caused the recordbreaking shutdown that leaves over 800,000 federal workers without pay. Trump also hinted at declaring a national state of emergency at the southern border in order to get the funds needed for the wall. Within this issue, there are mixed feelings on whether the wall is worth the shutdown and 5.7 billion, or if there truly is an issue that needs to be addressed. I took to the halls of SHS to see what several students had to say. These do not describe the feelings of the Leaf or SHS as a whole, these are peoples individual opinions.

“No matter what side of the political spectrum you are, Trump is threatening the American people with the wall and holding the government workers captive. That’s not something the President should do, that’s what a dictator does,” said Jakob Elliott, 11.

“In places where smaller walls have been built, they are largely successful, why not use a working strategy on a larger scale,” said Jonah Tessel, 12.

“The wall is a huge waste of money and Trump should put his effort and time into something that will actually “make American great,”’ said Colby Evans, 11.

“I think the wall is a good idea because it creates a needed barrier between our countries. Mexico is by all means allowed in the U.S. They should just have to do it legally,” said Josh Miles, 12.

Design by: Abby Lefton. Photo courtesy of Flickr

column: DEEYA PRAKASH staff writer

Feb. 14, used to be filled with love. It is known as a holiday where faces light up with each amiable wish or box of chocolates, affection, and joy palpable in the air.

But for many students, this celebration is no longer what it used to be. In fact, it may be the most traumatic day of the year.

Though Feb. 14, may be nationally recognized as Valentine’s day, it now marks the anniversary of a tragic event: the mass shooting in Parkland Florida. A shooting that massacred 17 people at Stoneman Douglas High School.

All of this was done by one weapon: the AR-15, one of the most heavily used assault rifles in the United States. My only response to this is that the AR-15 and other such rifles should be banned from the US, once and for all.

The AR-15 is a descendant from Nazi machine guns, used against the Soviets in World War II, and is currently used in the US Military.

Let us take a step back. What is a weapon of mass destruction doing in the hands of ordinary civilians?

Answer? Killing. The light, efficient, and brainless rifle is easy to use, and therefore dangerous in the hands of civilians. It’s 30 round magazine allows for rapid bullet release. With this rifle, even those with poor aim can fire bullets in one general direction, most likely hitting their target and several others as well.

These weapons of war are also easier to purchase than a typical, less harmful handgun. Just walk in, pass a basic background check, and hand over the bills.

No waiting period necessary.

Though some avid hunters may express their need for guns, do they need a semiautomatic killing machine to do so?

I think not.

Our country could do without the AR-15.

Better yet, our country could do without the murder of its children by a weapon that should have been outlawed long before now.

So for the sake of every child who will be spending this Valentine’s day with a rain cloud over their head, I ask you to dismiss your thoughts and prayers and instead, take action. The AR-15 needs to go before the blood of our children stains the nation yet again.

Sources: nytimes.com, washingtonpost.com

OPINION

January 31, 2019

Pressure sweeps across schools CHLOE MENSCH copy editor A LARGE ENVELOPE arrives at the door, acceptance to your top choice. But what did it take to get there?

It feels like everything students achieve in high school is just another tool to get into college. They work extremely hard for four years, and for some, that pays off. However, this can result in a culture of fierce competition, which can be taken way too far.

T. M. Landry College Preparatory School is under investigation after reports of administrators abusing students surfaced, just months after receiving praise for getting a high number of African American students into Ivy league colleges, according to The New York Times.

It allegedly operated with few teachers, optional attendance, staged scenes of academic achievement, and designed backgrounds for their students to appeal to admissions officers at Ivy League schools.

Additionally, the Louisianian school is accused

of emotionally and physically abusing students, some calling it torture, and students there are kept quiet in return for a golden ticket into the best colleges in the country.

Although pressure at SHS is a different story than at T. M. Landry Prep, a question still came into mind: are we impacted daily by the immense task of mapping out our lives and getting into an esteemed college?

Kelley Kossanyi, a junior at SHS, said the pressure of getting into a reputable college can often feel “toxic and suffocating” and that it is all just to boost school ranking.

Here at Sycamore, taking four years of language, four years of an art, sports, extracurriculars, and Advanced Placement (AP) classes are

heavily stressed to create diverse and skilled students. However, constantly overloading ourselves to try and secure a future may not be worth it.

“There’s a lot of pressure because all of us are really ambitious and striving towards a successful future...there's an atmosphere of wanting to do better than other people instead of motivating them to do their best,” said Caroline Skwara, 11, a Yale hopeful.

So what can students do to avoid succumbing to pressure and just enjoy being kids?

“I think if we try to encourage students to spend more time on extracurriculars and stuff that they’re passionate about then they’ll have a more enjoyable time in high school,” Skwara said.

Which dog are you?

Matching personality characteristics to breeds of dogs CHARLOTTE WEISS fun & games chief

Beagle

Retriever

curious

intelligent

friendly

devoted

Husky outgoing loyal

Designed by: Charlotte Weiss

OPINION

January 31, 2019

Abuse in rap NEHALEM CHUDNOFF creative writing editor

RAP MUSIC IS no stranger to controversy.

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In fact, its introduction into the mainstream was characterized by it, with artists like Public Enemy, N.W.A., and Mobb Deep, all of which wrote bars and rhymes about their struggles in a world of oppression and hard-knocks.

With this music, we got a glimpse into the thoughts and feelings of people that we had never seen before. People were (and still are) deeply troubled and emotional with the environment that had been cultivated for them, and hip-hop was a way to express those feelings.

While not all rap recording artists focus on violence, many wrote about their criminal and violent activities, exposing the world to what our culture has confined them to. And with this has come even more controversy.

A number of well-known rappers, such as XXXTentacion, 6ix9ine, Nas, Jay Z, Dr.

Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Eminem have all been either accused or charged with different forms of abuse, ranging from physical abuse to sexual assault to murder.

XXXTentacion was accused of domestic violence against his pregnant girlfriend, as well as many counts of aggravated battery and assault.

6ix9ine has been accused and arrested for multiple counts of abuse, as well as pleading guilty to sexual activity involving a minor.

Nas has been accused by his ex-wife Kelis of physically abusing her on multiple occasions.

Jay Z has admitted to shooting his brother (who survived) at the age of twelve.

Dr. Dre has admitted to physically abusing multiple women in the past.

Snoop Dogg was criminally charged and later acquitted for murder.

Eminem has been accused and admitted on multiple occasions of beating his exwife.

For many, news like this hits home. In the last few decades, rap music has become a huge part of mainstream culture, and as a result, these artists are a large part of many people’s lives, and the emotional toll is prevalent.

“It’s hard when someone you looked up to is not the same person that you thought they were,” said Cameron Kennedy, 11.

Most people’s strategy (mine included) is to separate the art from the artist and enjoy the work, but not the person behind it. However, this method has a huge problem.

When doing this, the

artist continues to prosper and gain fame and because we disregard the artist’s actions in order to enjoy their work, they see little to no repercussions.

Of the seven listen artists above, only one has been sentenced to prison time for their actions.

All of them, however, continue to top charts.

Now, do these accusations mean that the artists involved should never work again? No. While they may do bad things, it is not fair for us as a society to write them off as bad people based on a few wrong-doings.

So what should we do? Instead of demanding the downfall of the artist or ignoring the issue altogether, I think it is important to hear from both the artist and the accusers alike and have a neutral discussion about the incident.

Both views are important and it may give us insight into the situation that we simply can not get from news headlines and social media posts.

To conclude, I do not condone or support any of the actions stated by these artists, but all of them have something to offer in terms of music.

So instead of treating them as gods who can do no wrong, only to slam them when they do, let us treat them for what they are: humans.

Everybody is flawed, let’s not assume they aren’t as well.

FEATURE

January 31, 2019

‘Radium Girls’ offers unique experience

Aves Theatre’s latest production places audience closer to the action ALEX JOWANOVITZ associate video editor

AFTER THE MASSIVE SUCCESS

that was the fun-filled musical “Grease” in October, Aves Theatre and director Mr. John Whapham are now gearing for something completely different: a dramatic play based on true events.

“Radium Girls,” a play about the historical cases of radium poisoning in young workers and the legal troubles that ensue, is the next production in the Aves Theatre 2018-19 season, set to open at the start of February.

This show is the first dramatic play put on by Aves Theatre since 2017’s “Irena’s Vow,” which was another true story about a young woman hiding Jews in Nazi-occupied Germany.

While that show was a traditional theatre experience where the audience sat in the auditorium, “Radium Girls” is taking a more intimate approach to presenting the material: seating the audience on stage.

“We are actually seating the audience on three sides on the stage, with the performers, so they will be very close to action and see it in a unique way,” Whapham said.

In theatre terms, a space where the audience is seated on three sides of the performance area is called a blackbox, versus the traditional theatre seating arrangement, know as the proscenium.

“I think it’s great to be able to see and experience theatre in different formats,” Whapham said. “The black box is much more interesting for a small piece like this, especially for the actors.”

This unique setting allows for a great learning component for the students, who are all part of Whapham’s seventh bell Acting Ensemble class, since many of them have never performed theatre this way before.

Students need to be more mindful of spacing and projection in the black box. They must play out to all sides of the audience, and they cannot be too close to other performers, as that may block an audience member’s view.

Because of this, a sense of intimacy is created when a show is performed. The audience gets to feel like they are a part of the action, especially during scenes where characters are presenting to large crowds.

“There is definitely more of an interaction with the audience [when performing in a black box],” said Olive Bringle, 11, who plays the mother of one of the titular Radium Girls.

The show itself takes over the course of the 1920’s and 1930’s, telling the story of Grace Fryer, played by senior Sydney Weiss, a

SIMPLE BUT EFFECTIVE. Aves Theatre director and acting teacher Mr. John Whapman works with senior Sydney Weiss, along with juniors Andre Harte and Olive Bringle on a scene in “Radium Girls.” The set for the show is incredibly minimalistic, due to the space given. “ With the audience on stage with the performers, there isn’t a whole lot of room for elaborate set pieces or scene changes,” Whapham said. watch dial painter who gets sick due to the large amount of radium in the paint, which at the time was not seen as dangerous.

When other girls at the factory start dying because of the radiation, Grace attempts to take legal action against the U.S. Radium Corporation, and the company president, Arthur Roeder, played by senior Adam Pelberg.

With this true tale of faulty science and legal battles, Whapham hopes that the black box setting can help bring the audience closer to the many themes of the show.

“There is a lot that the audience can connect with,” Whapham said. “Environmental concerns in the workplace, business practices concerning the environment; these were all important aspects when the play takes place, but are also important today.”

Bringing the audience closer to the actors can allow for a deeper connection with the characters and a deeper appreciation for the messages, so it seems as if “Radium Girls” was meant to be performed as Aves Theatre is doing it.

“To be able to relate to the characters, especially if there is a time difference, is important,” Bringle said. “I think in this case, the black box is definitely to the show’s benefit.”

“Radium Girls” is set to run Jan. 31 and Feb. 1-2 at the SHS theater.

Megha’s Sweeterie Sweets that make you smile

Desserts by twelve-year-old entrepreneur, Megha! meghas.sweeterie@gmail.com

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FEATURE

CHANGING THE ENVIRONMENT One step at a time SYDNEY WEISS art & photo managing editor

EVER SINCE THE release of a climate

report on Black Friday, concern about the environment has heightened.

The report confirmed that climate change has already begun to take effect in the United States. It also predicted more wildfires and hurricanes as a result of climate change.

After reading the report and articles about it, it is natural to feel helpless. Many people think that the issue is so catastrophic that there is no way to remedy it.

“Having one person care about the environment can make a really big impact on others because it can influence them to take care of our environment as well and to improve what’s around us,” said Annette Lee, 12, lover of the environment.

There are many ways to reduce one’s carbon footprint and improve the environment.

THE THREE R’s With the size of the problem, it may feel like the three R’s are a bit outdated; however, they can still be a great start.

Recycling is simple. Most paper, cardboard, glass, and aluminum can all be recycled. For more details, visit cincinnatioh.gov.

“Individually, recycling helps a lot.

Especially aluminum. Aluminum costs a lot to produce so those cans, definitely recycle those,” said Sarah Guedira, 12.

Using items as much as possible, only purchasing necessities, and finding innovative ways to use things that would otherwise be thrown away are all great places to start. To take things even further, buy thrifted items or items that are made with an emphasis on being produced with little waste.

WHAT ABOUT WATER? Taking shorter showers, turning the water off while brushing teeth, and overall making an effort to use less water is helpful. It is also a good idea to wait to do the dishes or wash laundry until there is a full load.

Also, avoid pouring things into streams or littering.

“We need to protect our oceans. We can’t have random oil out in the oceans,” Guedira said.

ALL ABOUT ENERGY To start, walking or riding bikes is much better than driving. But, this is easier said than done living in the suburbs. It is important to turn off lights or appliances when not in use.

Guedira said that during the day, when no one is home in her house, her family turns off their heating. This big change is barely noticed since no one is home at this time anyway.

DIET CHANGES Recently there has been a lot of attention on veganism in the media. There are many reasons people go vegan, but a big one is because animals (especially cows) produce a lot of the methane that ends up in the atmosphere.

While it is a lot to ask of people to go vegan, it is a good start to cut back on meat consumption in order to try and slow climate change. Some people have Meatless Mondays or just simply aim to pick vegetarian options when convenient.

THE BIG TAKEAWAY The climate is changing, but it can be slowed.

Lee said that protecting the environment helps to teach younger generations the importance of caring about the environment.

There are many little things one can do on a daily basis that can add up to produce change.

“Just appreciate nature. It’s an important part of life. It’s not just a backdrop,” Guedira said.

Sources: epa.ohio.gov, washingtonpost.com

FEATURE

January 31, 2019

Hydroflask:

the epidemic

“I hate hydroflasks. First and foremost I have a personal vendetta against metal water bottles because they make everything taste like a battery. In addition, if one more person knocks over their hydroflask in class, thus producing the noise of 143 gongs and giving me a heart attack, I am going to lose my mind,” said Ally Landrum, 12.

“I have had my hydro flask for three years and I really like it. They last forever and keep beverages really cold and really hot. They are actually the best, I recommend to everyone that drinks water,” said Peyton Gilhart, 12.

Designed by: Abigail Lefton

Support:

All photos courtesy of: Libby Van Den Brink, Peyton Gilhart and Colin Walker

Opposition:

FEATURE

January 31, 2019

MAYBE LATER

Motivation reaches low second semester ALLYSON BONHAUS editor in chief

THERE ARE ABOUT 100 school days until May 23, the last official day of school. Whether or not students are suffering from senioritis, you may be lacking motivation at the start of the new semester.

Gallup, an organization known for its opinion polls, polled students from grades five through 11. The poll exposed a sharp “engagement cliff” between the fifth and eleventh graders.

Calculus teacher Mrs. Susan Helgeson observes her senior students dropping off in motivation and engagement after being accepted into college. Even her students in other grades get “burnt out” by the end of the school year.

While 71 percent of fifth-graders said they were excited about school, only 44 percent of eleventh graders were in the Gallup poll.

“I find myself dedicating myself to my extracurriculars more because school just seems so monotonous sometimes,” said Christine Zou, 12. “Rather than checking out of all my classes, I try to at least stay engaged

in those that I enjoy the most, but sometimes I lack motivation... (or energy).”

Just 28 percent of eleventh graders believed schoolwork to be important, while 66 percent of fifth-graders found the work important.

Maintaining motivation mid-way through the school year can be difficult, with students “checking out” of their classes due to a decline in effort as the length of the school year hits.

“I can see it in their [seniors] faces they aren’t trying as hard. Maybe their effort on their homework starts to fall away. It’s like they don’t really care that much about the quality of their work I guess,” Helgeson said.

Maintaining motivation in the face of the winter months and college acceptances can be challenging, yet students whose grades drop significantly may encounter problems with their college.

To get students motivated again, Helgeson tries to reach out to the checked-out students by telling her students about some of her previous students that have almost had their

college revoke admission because their secondsemester grades dropped.

For many, the end of high school is in sight yet they still feel stagnant in high school with many months looming ahead.

“I consider this a time during which I can make up for the utter lack of leisure time I’ve had over the past two years,” said Carolyn Zhang, 12. “I’m watching dramas, reading, and eating.”

Seniors like Nandita Kulkarni and Teddy Weng attest to more time napping and spending time on their phones; even optional activities become draining.

Yet, dropping a letter grade (A student to B, B to C) seems to be a compromise many students make in the second semester as college applications and mid-year reports are submitted.

The final transcripts before leaving the high school take the back burner as students mentally check out of high school.

SHS’s take on Valentine’s Day 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged, making Valentine’s Day the second largest holiday for cards.

Americans spend an average of $143.56 per person for this sweet holiday.

“My favorite Valentine’s Day memory is in eighth grade, my friends and I had a Valentine’s Day party but it wasn’t very festive. We just wanted an excuse for all of us to hang out together. That year, my mom also surprised my siblings and me with small, cute gifts like boxes of chocolates or a little heart patterned stuffed animal,” said Bayley Goodman, 12.

“The perfect Valentine’s Day to me is hanging out with your loved ones.

And appreciating everything they do for you,” said Maddison SiegleParke, 11.

Designed by: Megan Soellner

S

“When we were in junior high some of my friends and I had a pizza party for Valentine’s Day and just had a lot of fun eating cookies, chocolate, and pizza,” said Mallory Hall, 12.

Sources: nrf.com, corporate.hallmark.com

SUPERBOWL LIII: The tradition continues ABIGAIL LEFTON opinion chief WITH THE SINGLE most watched event

they have won five.

Ten is about to turn into 11 because once again, the Patriots will be playing at the Super Bowl. This time, against the Los Angeles Rams during Super Bowl LIII. During the AFC championship game, the Patriots beat the Chiefs 37-31. On the flip side, during the NFC championship game, the Rams beat the Saints 26-23. Both teams won in overtime.

Today, the Super Bowl has become so much more than a football game. People tune in from all around the country with their friends and family to relax, eat, and enjoy the production that is the Super Bowl.

Source: pro-football-reference.com

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Both conferences include teams from Florida, Texas, New York, California, and Pennsylvania.

On odd-numbered years, the NFC is the designated home team; on even years, the AFC is the home team. Although the team technically is home, the game is never actually in the stadium that belongs to them. It is held in a neutral field which is the stadium of another team who is not competing.

Why does this matter? The home team gets the home locker room which is more glamorous than the visitor one. The home team also gets to pick whether they wear the light or dark jerseys.

The winner of the Super Bowl gets awarded the Lombardi trophy. It is named after Vince Lombardi, who was the legendary coach of the Green Bay Packers when they won the first Super Bowl.

The team that has won the most Super Bowls is the Pittsburgh Steelers who have taken home a trophy six out of the eight times they have competed at the Super Bowl. The New England Patriots have been in it the most, coming out to a total of ten times. Of those ten,

Photo courtesy of Julian Edelman

on TV and America’s second largest food consumption day, you could say the Super Bowl is kind of a big deal for Americans.

However, for the less avid sports fans who only know the Super Bowl for its fun halftime show and eating too many pigs in a blanket, it is time to understand the Super Bowl and all its history, excluding Lady Gaga flying from the ceiling.

Starting from the top, the first Super Bowl was in 1967, making this the 53rd Super Bowl.

Something to note: each year, the Super Bowl is numbered using Roman numerals. This year, it would be referred to as ‘Super Bowl LIII.’ In the beginning, American football was split into two leagues known as the American Football League (AFL) and the National Football League (NFL). These two leagues were rivals, so in Super Bowl I, the champion of the NFL played the champion of the AFL. The winner of that game was the NFL’s Green Bay Packers.

Tickets for the first game were around $13 and the game was called the “AFL-NFL World Championship Game.” This was the only Super Bowl game not to sell out. Today, tickets average over $3,000 each and views reach over 111 million.

Soon after, the owners of the AFL and NFL decided to join together. They decided to split the NFL into two conferences: the National Football Conference (NFC) and the American Football Conference (AFC). Today, the Super Bowl is played by the champions of the NFC vs. the champion of the AFC. Teams like the Bengals, Browns, Rams, Patriots, and Chiefs are in the AFC. In the NFC, there are teams such as the Rams and Saints.

HALFTIME SHOW SPARKS CONTROVERSY ALLISON MCELROY PR team GOOD NEWS FOR Maroon 5 fans—the band will be headlining the halftime show at Super Bowl Llll on Feb. 3. For some, the halftime show is more important than the football game itself, so the choice of performer must be a good one.

However, there has been controversy surrounding the choice of headliner. Super Bowl Llll will be held in Atlanta, Georgia: a city known for producing major artists including Migos, Usher, Outkast, T.I, Ludacris, Future, and more.

After the rumor that Maroon 5 would be headlining the event surfaced in September, many people were angry over the decision to have L.A.-based Maroon 5 headline the event instead of an Atlanta based artist.

“I think [the headliner] should just be who ever [the NFL wants] to pick and whichever band is popular and most people like at the time,” said Kyra McHugh, 10.

Atlanta will now be represented by Big Boi, an Atlanta-based artist of the hip hop duo

Outkast, who has since been announced to be performing with the band. Rapper Travis Scott will also be joining Maroon 5 onstage.

There has been additional debate over the halftime show relating to Colin Kaepernick, the former quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, who created controversy when he began kneeling during the national anthem to protest “a country that oppresses black people and people of color.”

Many artists, including Rihanna, are also rumored to have declined performing at the Super Bowl in order to support Kaepernick.

A change.org petition asked Maroon 5 not to perform at the show to support Kaepernick and to protest the NFL, who some believe did not handle the situation well, has received thousands of signatures.

Scott agreed to perform at the halftime show on the condition that the NFL would make a joint donation with him to Dream Corps, a non-profit organization that advocates social justice.

Cardi B, a known supporter of Kaepernick, is also performing for the NFL’s pre-game events, along with Bruno Mars.

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons

Maroon 5 has produced 22 Top 40 and 14 Top 10 hits, while their songs “Makes Me Wonder,” “Moves Like Jagger,” and “One

More Night” went to number one. Their newest single, “Girls Like You” featuring Cardi B, also reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

Maroon 5 includes lead singer Adam Levine, Jesse Carmichael, Mickey Madden, James Valentine, Matt Flynn, PJ Morton, and Sam Farrar.

PUPPY BOWL STEALS THE SHOW Every year, Animal Planet hosts the “Puppy Bowl.”

The show mimics what goes on during the real Super Bowl but instead of “ruff” and tough football players being the star of the show, the field is filled with adorable little puppies.

39 puppies 53

It takes about hours to get enough film for the Sunday special.

Designed by: Lindsey Brinkman

were a part of this year’s Puppy Bowl, but only ten were allowed on the field at one time.

13

This year will mark the th year of the Puppy Bowl.

15

FANS TUNE IN FOR COMMERCIALS Top commercials in recent years EPHRAIM CARLSON staff writer

e d i T

JESSICA LU social media director

SUPER BOWL:

BY THE NUMBERS

Everything is a Tide ad

Just when you think it Is your typical beer, car, insurance, prescription drug, or any other type of commercial, “Stranger Things” David Harbour pops up, declaring it to be a Tide ad. No matter the premise, each scene has clean clothes, making it a Tide ad.

1.33 billion

chicken wings are consumed

Doritos Time Machine

This hilarious commercial involves a young boy trying to snag his older neighbor’s snack by claiming he made a cardboard time machine that runs on Doritos. Once the kid gets the Doritos, he uses a megaphone and kicks the cardboard box to emulate time travel. An old man yells at the boy to leave, so when the neighbor emerges from the box, he thinks the man is the kid in the future.

Have a Snickers (Marilyn Monroe) The ad opens with actor Willem Dafoe (known for his eccentric roles including the Green Goblin in 2002’s Spiderman) in the iconic Marilyn Monroe skirt-flying scene by the subway. Dafoe is noticeably irritable but changes back to being Monroe after having a Snickers.

pounds of avocados are eaten

101.3 million

viewers on average watch each year

Romance the Rainbow

71,000

Bleep Don’t Stink (Febreze)

350%

This Skittles commercial starts with a boy throwing Skittles at his crush’s window, trying to capture her attention. The window turns out to be open, so the audience sees his crush, her mom, her dad, her grandma, a burglar, a policeman, and a beaver who try to eat the thrown Skittles.

This Febreze commercial is a series of interviews from the friends and family members of Dave, a man whose “bleep don’t stink.” The commercial aims at inspiring people to use Febreze in the bathroom so that, like Dave, their “bleep” will not stink.

Designed by: Sydney Weiss

16

200

Sources: time.com forbes.com All photos courtesy of Creative Commons

seats are in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium

more pizza orders are made than on a typical Sunday

Designed b;y Madeleine Suh Sources: abcnews.go forbes.com

E: HUMMUS P I C E R Y A D E M GA

INGREDIENTS - 1 15-ounce can of chickpeas drained and rinsed well - 2 cloves of garlic, blanched - 1 jalapeĂąo pepper, seeded - 1 tablespoon of chili powder - 1 teaspoon of cumin poweder - 1 teaspoon of finely ground sea salt - 1/4 cup of seeded and chopped tomato - 1/2 cup of water

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Boil two cups of water in a small sauce pan and add the garlic cloves.

Turn off the heat and let the garlic sit for two minutes. Remove the garlic and put in the food processor.

2. Add the chickpeas, jalapeĂąo, chili powder, cumin powder, salt, and tomato and begin processing. Slowly add the water. When the hummus is thick and creamy, stop adding the water.

3. Serve with chips, vegetables, or pita and enjoy!

Designed by: Harsitha Kalaiarasan All photos courtesy of Harsitha Kalaiarasan

17

FUN & GAMES January 31, 2019

Football fever word jumble CHARLOTTE WEISS fun & games chief

eabkqtraurc pitintnecreo sglotapo eudhld karlenibec

Sudoku

Riddles

Difficulty Level: Medium

1. What has a mouth but never eats, has a bed but never sleeps, and has banks but no money?

2. This five letter word becomes shorter when you add two letters to it. What is the word?

3. David’s father has three sons: Snap, Crakle, and ___.

4. What was the largest island before Australia was discovered?

?

18

?

?

?

?

For answers please go to shsleaf.org Answers: 1.A river 2.Short 3. David 4. Australia

?

?

9 3 7 2 1 5 2 8 3 7 6 4 9 5

6 5

1 8 4 9 5 7 3 3 1

1 8 9 7 2 6

ENTERTAINMENT January 31, 2019

Valentine’s Day looks on a budget

HENRY LOEB PR team

Look 1 : For Joe, we paired a gray suit with a

1

white shirt and black pants for a simple yet classy look for a night out for Valentine’s Day. Spice the look up with a pink pocket square to add an extra dimension.

Consists of: Suit - Target - $100 Button Up Shirt - Target - $30 Shoes - Target - $35

Look 2 : A simple black dress for Alex was

2

paired with a green and blue shawl to stay warm on a cool February night while still looking cute for the day of love.

Consists of:

Look 3 : Casual yet put together, we

Shawl - Target - $15 Dress - Target - $28 Heels - Target - $30

paired simple blue jeans with a white tank top and boujee red jacket with the cutest red and blue slip-ons.

Consists of:

Jacket - Target - $25 Tank Top - Target - $18 Jeans - Target - $20 Slip Ons - Target - $13

4

Look 4 : For a more casual look, pair a

sweater with some blue jeans and a pair of black boots. We used a pink-ish red sweater to be festive for the day.

Consists of: *All items were purchased at Target. Some items were purchased on clearance.

Designed by: Henry Loeb All photos courtesy of Henry Loeb

Sweater - Target - $18 Jeans - Target - $25 Boots - Target - $50

3

Models: Alex Reardon, Joe Kissele

19

ENTERTAINMENT

January 31, 2019

Pantone announces color of the year ALLISON MCELROY PR team EVERYONE HAS THEIR favorite colors, ones they may wear often or use to decorate their room. Despite individual color preferences, some colors are especially popular, and are used often in design and fashion. This year, the color coral will have its time to shine.

The Pantone Color Institute (Pantone) is a company that highlights top colors and predicts color trends. Pantone chooses a color to be the color of the year, a process which requires a lot of traveling and seeing popular colors around the world.

Pantone’s choice influences product development in fashion and design. This year, the Pantone color of the year is “Living coral.”

“Living coral” is a bold, bright hue that brings a happy vibe to anywhere it shows up. According to Pantone, “Living coral” is a color that “embraces us with warmth and nourishment to provide comfort and buoyancy in our continually shifting environment.”

Sophomore Maya Berry describes the color as being “bright” and a color that “stands out.”

“Living coral” can be incorporated into your life through a space you probably spend a lot of time in: your room. Just a little bit of this color adds a pop to a room and gives it a positive energy.

“I think this color would pop on an all white bed with accent pillows in the color "Living coral,” said Sophia Odaka, 10, who enjoys fashion design.

A coral colored comforter or accent pillow on your bed, a wall decoration in the color, or just one small coral accent can make your room a happier space.

Sophomore Laura Nordin said that she would add the color to her room because it is an exciting color that would improve her day and make her more positive.

“Living coral” also works as an accent to an outfit. The color may be a bit too bright for some preferences [as the focus of an outfit], however accessories are the perfect way to incorporate this positive color into your wardrobe without being too flashy.

You could incorporate this color by wearing a coral scarf or necklace to add a pop of color to a more neutral colored shirt, like navy, black, or gray. For a bolder outfit, “Living coral” also pairs well with teal. “[‘Living coral’ is] a very pretty color that makes me happy when I see others wearing it,” said Sarah Schrantz, 10.

Coral is sometimes avoided in fashion for being too bright, however, its positivity is helping it become a popular color this year.

“I personally really like this color because it reminds me of flamingos. This color gives off such a summer vibe, because of how bright it is. I don’t usually wear this color or use it often due to its brightness, but I do feel like it would be a good accent to many different outfits or even a room in a house,” Odaka said.

Look out for “Living coral” on the clothing racks and in the stores this year, it is likely to become a popular color in 2019.

Located at 9721 Montgomery Rd. in Montgomery (just behind UDF)

PANTONE 16-1546 TCX Living Coral

Color of the year 2019 PANTONE

Ever since 2000, The Pantone Color Institute (Pantone) has been picking one significant color to mark the new year. This year’s color is titled “Living coral” and is described by Pantone as “an animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone that energizes and enlivens with a softer edge. “ Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.

Voted the best hamburger

by WLWT Facebook fans and over a 4.5 rating on Yelp and Google.

Bones’ Burgers offers great tasting grass-fed Angus beef burgers...specialty cheeses... hundreds of combinations... parmesan cheese fries, just to name a few of the great reason to visit.

We call it...

20

Designed by: Lindsey Brinkman

Sources: glamour.com, cnn.com

ENTERTAINMENT

January 31, 2019

Preparations for Spring Festival

As America packs up its New Year’s decorations, halfway across the world, preparations have just started. The 2019 Spring Festival or chunjie, also known as Chinese New Year, is coming up on Feb. 5. Nearly 4,000 years old, the Spring Festival was created during the Shang Dynasty, and is currently the largest holiday in China.

The celebration is based off of the Lunar calendar, lasting for 15 days, and each day is abound with activities and traditions.

CUISINE. Food is the most important part of the New Year’s, with kitchens jammed with relatives cooking and tables overflowing with a feast of various dishes. On New Year’s Eve, families gather together to eat the Reunion Dinner, where numerous symbolic foods are eaten to bring a flourish into the new year. For example, dumplings and spring rolls symbolize wealth and exchanging of the old and new year. Fish are eaten for prosperity and surplus; noodles for longevity and peace. Niangao, or rice cakes, are eaten for a higher position in careers, and tangyuan, sweet rice balls, symbolize togetherness and harmony. A whole steamed chicken is eaten for reunion; and eggs are eaten for rebirth.

TRADITIONS. The Spring Festival is full of traditions, starting with a couple of days before New Year’s Day, where families would clean their entire homes to symbolize doing away with the old and welcoming in the new. After cleaning, decorations are set up everywhere; red lanterns, red posters with lucky Chinese characters, red papercutting, and red Chinese knots embellish streets and doors. The color red symbolizes luck and wealth in Chinese culture, and thus can be found everywhere. Clothing must be red as well, and completely new.

On New Year’s Day, older generations would stuff money into hongbao, or red packets, and give them to the younger generations to bring them good fortune into the new year. As for celebrations, traditional lion and dragon dances are performed on stage or outside in parades during the day time, drawing in bustling crowds, while firecrackers and fireworks light up the sky at night.

Designed by: Linya Guo

Oscars’ host missing in action JACK WOLFE PR team

The Academy Awards presents your host for the evening: Nobody. Yes, the 91st Oscars will not have a host due to a controversy surrounding their initial host, Kevin Hart.

Hart allegedly made offensive comments towards the LGBTQ+ community eight years prior on Twitter. which were only recently revealed after he was announced host.

“Yo if my son comes home and tries to play with my daughter’s doll house I’m going to break it over his head and say ‘stop that is gay,’” Hart said.

In a time where your past is broadcasted and documented on the Internet, it can be easily brought back up and spread instantaneously.

These statements can cause tremendous damage, and ruin present reputations, such as what happened to Hart and many other prior celebrities.

When asked his opinion on the Hart situation, theatre director of SHS, Mr. John Whapham explained, “Social media history is something that this generation should definitely think

about before you post.”

After news about the tweets got out, Hart was given an ultimatum from the academy: apologize for the tweets and host the Oscars or do not apologize and he can not host the Oscars. Hart decided not to apologize for reasons revealed in his Twitter account: “The reason why I passed is because I have addressed this several times,” Hart said. “I am not going to continue to go back and tap into the days of old when I have moved on and I am in a completely different space in my life.”

Since Hart has stepped down, no other celebrity has stepped up to the plate and The Oscars has not offered the position to anyone else. However, some people still want Hart to be the host.

One person who believed that Hart was still the best choice was Ellen DeGeneres. She even told him during the Ellen show that she reached out to the academy to rehire him.

“I called the Academy today because I really want you to host The Oscars. I was so excited

when I heard that they asked you,” DeGeneres said.

Having DeGeneres’s support is extremely helpful to Hart since she was effectively kicked off television for three years after revealing publicly that she was gay. She has since been known as a trailblazer for actors and actresses in the closet to be who they are.

However, even with DeGeneres’s support, Hart has decided to “not feed the trolls.”

“I have made the choice to step down from hosting this year’s Oscar’s....this is because I do not want to be a distraction on a night that should be celebrated by so many amazing talented artists. I sincerely apologize to the LGBTQ+ community for my insensitive words from my past,” Hart said.

Except for the host dilemma, the 2019 Oscar’s appears to be running smoothly. Find out if your favorite movie won an award on Feb. 24.

*At the time this issue went to print, no replacement host had been chosen.

21

FOCUS January 31, 2019

Cub Scouts first grade.

Troop 674 fifth grade. After 12 years, senior Ryan Hertlein has become an Eagle Scout. In order to achieve this prestigious honor, Hertlein “spread approximately 30 tons of gravel along the hiking trail at the Johnson Nature Preserve” as his service project. Hertlein achieved this honor on Nov. 20, 2018, which “represents twelve years’ worth of discovering hobbies and passions, developing life skills and character, building strong friendships, and opportunities to lead others,” Hertlein said.

Photo courtesy of Ryan Hertlein Page by: Allyson Bonhaus

SPORTS

January 31, 2019

E-sports escalates the ranks HANNAH LEE

copy editor MINECRAFT. POKÉMON GO. Halo.

League of Legends. These games and more have trended over the years as a popular pastime among many of our peers. However, recently the value of playing these games are rising as the title ‘e-sports’ has been created and competitions are now abundant with notable recognition.

It is no longer a hidden talent to be good at League of Legends but a skill that can challenged, awarded, and officially recognized in competitions.

The sports platform has a new event rising in global popularity including right here at SHS. E-sports is a club where video or electronic games such as League of Legends are competitively played.

There are some debates about whether e-sports are sports or not. But senior Mark Decile, a manager of esports club, shares that, “[e-sports] is everything a normal [sport] would be except the physical activity of it.”

The club has its own “team captains, practices, tournaments, etc.” just like any other sport.

The e-sports club was formed very recently last school year by a group of choir boys. SHS graduate, JJ Sam, was playing League of Legends in the choir room when they were “hit with an epiphany of ‘Why don’t we start an

e-sports club?”

Decile said that the club was official “within a week” with “over 60 people” showing up, with then seniors Kyle Ballman and Ben Swart heading the club.

Since its beginning, the club has grown exponentially, even Ballman and Aidan Reckamp won the national championship for League of Legends. Also, in the past year, twin brother duo Chris and Kyle McCann won a national championship in the game of Smite.

Next season, they hope to do it again.

Currently there are Super Smash Bros players from SHS in the national playoffs.

Another unique aspect of e-sports is that the bonds created are not just among local team players but “in a digital world with people across the nation.”

E-sports may be very attractive to students who do not feel they belong to the typical sports such as football or basketball, but have a special talent in electronic gaming skills. It seems esports will only grow from now on.

“We are nerds, gamers, exiles, and we don’t fit in with the normal crowd. We get looked down upon for wasting our time or for being losers so this is a place where anyone can freely express themselves and have fun doing it,” Decile said.

Drawing the line on:

TRASH TALK

or ts, Specifically in sp a way to me co be tra sh talking ha s t nece ss arily ou th wi ion sit gain a higher po it ha s be t ter. Over time making your self spec ting re t bu , me of the ga ju st become part em is now lings and self-e ste other people’s fee become s ha st. Tra sh -talk what we value mo lly in cia pe es bject, a cont roversial su s. ol scho

“You want to get in peoples heads… But at the same time it makes the person receiving trash talk have to think and put their mind in a place where they avoid outside distractions...Of course, you have your boundaries on what to say and what not to, but a lot of the times what your saying doesn’t have to be that harsh or offensive,” said Mr. Ma t thew Spary, SHS hockey coach.

Designed by: Josh Moore and and Madeleine Suh

place “There’s really no e down on me so ing for bring ins tigat ing ’re ey th in spor ts, even if . You ha ve em th e ov ab it you ha ve to d fo cu s an ut sh uth to keep your mo said Mr. ,” job ur yo ing on accomplish et ball sk ba S n, SH An dr ew Ov ing to co ach.

column:

GABBY KHODADAD PR team

As the College Football Season has winded down, it is time to reflect. The state of Ohio made one last special goodbye to Coach, Urban Meyer on New Year’s Day. According to The Lantern, “[Meyer’s] legacy is nothing short of exceptional.”

However, not everyone has the same opinion as Buckeye Nation.

SHS football coach, Mr. Sean Crowe believes Urban Meyer’s legacy at Ohio State was “underachieving.”

Meyer’s record at The Ohio State University is a whopping 82-9, meaning he has won 90 percent of his games as a Buckeye head coach.

He lead the Buckeyes to victory in the first College Football Playoffs in 2015. To the die hard Ohio State fans the most impressive fact is, Meyer is 7-0 against rival Xichigan managing to beat that team up north the past seven years.

With Meyer’s coaching career coming to an end at Ohio State; what does this mean for incoming recruits and the stellar football program? Personally, I believe that Ohio State will lose some key recruits this year, however, depending on how they do in the 2019 season we could get some top prospects to Columbus in the next couple of years.

SHS junior and football player Dillon Andre said, “I think it means that recruits will be headed to a new and unproven program unlike what it was with Urban.”

Early signing day passed a month ago, right after Meyer’s retirement. On early signing day alone there were 15 committed recruits, three of which were five-star recruits, seven four-star recruits, and five three-star recruits.

Another huge addition to the 2019 OSU team is University of Georgia (UGA) transfer quarterback Justin Fields.

As many of us have heard the new head football coach for the Buckeyes is Ryan Day. Day acted as interim coach from August through mid-September and had a perfect 3-0 record.

According to Meyer, “having Day on staff made leaving OK.” Meyer wants his legacy to be known as “a football coach who... devoted 33 years of [his] life to the love of student-athletes and just not on the football field.”

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SPORTS

January 31, 2019

BASKETBALL RUNS IN THE FAMILY Spotlight on the Wittenbaum brothers

SARA MARGOLIS MADELEINE SUH art & photo editor

sports chief

A SOPHOMORE AND a senior, both with red hair, on the court at the same time.

The Sycamore’s Boys Varsity Basketball team is lucky to have this combo.

Oliver and Jeremy Wittenbaum have a passion for basketball like no other, and the relationship they have on the court is an incomparable bond.

“A dream come true,” is what Jeremy used to describe this unique chance for them.

“I love seeing us succeed in a sport we’ve both invested countless hours into.”

With Jeremy graduating in May, the boys are not taking any of the season or memories for granted.

Oliver is ecstatic to have his brother back on the court with him after a hiatus from the 2017-2018 season. With the season opener ending in a win for the Aves, there seems to be a lot to look forward to.

“This year is our only time to be on the same team with the same name on our jerseys, and I won’t take this time for granted,” Oliver said.

The boys have a mutual feeling about sharing the love for the sport and being on the court.

“Being on the same court as him is special and it’s something I won’t ever forget,” Jeremy said.

Being brothers is not the only thing that sets these two apart. They are both redheads.

“When people see us on the court it’s an unusual sight. People usually think that he’s older than me or that we’re twins,” Jeremy said.

Height information provided by Coach Andrew Ovington

24

All photos courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

SYCAMORE AVIATORS Oliver Wittenbaum Position: point guard/ shooting guard Height: 5’10”

SYCAMORE AVIATORS Jeremy Wittenbaum Position: point guard Height: 5’7”

SPORTS

January 31, 2019

High flyers soar into competition GRACE ZHANG copy editor

THINK BACK TO Jan. 2. You have five more days of winter break. You are probably relaxing, or sleeping in. However, that is not the case for the Sycamore Flyerettes.

With competition quickly approaching, the second week of break traditionally means competition practice week.

So, what does a typical competition practice look like? First, these motivated dancers began practices on Jan. 2, each day consisting of a grueling three hour practice from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Tough workouts, landing tricks, and constantly cleaning the details make up the majority of the practice time.

According to the dancers, there is a lot of behind-the-scenes work that most people would not know about. In fact, many believed that learning the dance was not the most difficult aspect, but rather fixing, or in dance terms “cleaning,” the little things, such as hitting each

movement on time.

“I would say that the whole team works extremely hard and always tries their hardest.

We train a lot and have really been increasing our skills, especially in tricks. It’s a lot of fun to just relax, and just dance,” said Kelly Donovan, 9, a first year dancer on the Flyerettes.

As for the dance itself? The team’s theme is traveling through time, thus explaining their futuristic look. Turns out, the costumes are even a scoring category.

As for the song itself? It is a fun mashup

through the times, including snippets from “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by 80’s queen, Whitney Houston; “Yeah!”

by Usher, “Starships” by Nicki Minaj, and “Finesse” by Bruno Mars.

According to choreographer and coach, Hannah Young, “it has been so rewarding to watch these girls grow as young ladies and dancers. As we approach competition season, it can be stressful, time consuming and exhausting but well worth it.”

Fast forwarding to the present, the girls have just come off their exhilarating competition.

Pushing through obstacles, they came off victorious in third place. Even the harsh snow could not stop the persistent dancers.

“The girls worked so hard and I’m so proud of what they have all accomplished in such short of time,” said Mindy Kuertz, 12, co-captain.

Photo courtesy of Zoltan von Dienes-Oehm

Hockey shoots for success MADELEINE SUH sports chief

Hockey can be an intense and intimidating sport. However, with significant training and hard work, these hockey athletes continue to perform throughout the season.

Senior Jacob Zeidenstein describes his experience with the sport. “Hockey is an extremely fun game, but also extremely hard.

It takes so much mental and physical skill to be able to play at a high level. It’s honestly a bit absurd. For me, my hockey career has been nothing short of amazing,” Zeidenstein said.

The Aves have not been getting the results they wanted this winter; however, there are several components that have started to click for the

athletes. Marty Kahn, the Varsity Hockey goalie, said, “personally, I want to make first team all district and [strive for] 800+ saves.”

The team aims to win their district tournament. Varsity coach Matthew Spary helps the boys improve by first focusing on their technique and fundamentals. With this knowledge, the team can then use this to improve their overall game play. Kahn explains that the team practices three times a week and

play two or three games each weekend.

With a sport like hockey that is very unique, it requires time and commitment.

“I have only played for two years, but I have improved immensely. I’ve had fantastic teammates. We are extremely fortunate at Sycamore that we offer a JV team for kids new to the game to learn. Very few schools offer that opportunity and I’m so glad I took advantage,” Zeidenstein said.

Thank you to the Friends of The Leaf: The Bonhaus Family

Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

WHAT IS HANNAH UP TO? Hannah is always off somewhere. If you know what school event Hannah is at in this photo, email shsstudentvoice@ gmail.com! Three people who guess correctly will be randomly selected.

(Each submission is assigned a number and pulled out of a box.) Submissions end midnight Feb. 8. Winners will be emailed and receive an out-to-lunch pass.

Kick-off with BBQ WIN

FREE FOOD! Designed by: Linya Guo

HUNGRY FOR SOME DELICIOUS BARBEQUE? ENTER The Leaf’s Super Bowl contest to win one of three City Barbeque passes!

HOW TO ENTER: Email a photo of yourself supporting your

favorite football team, such as posing in a jersey, to shsstudentvoice@ gmail.com.