March 2018 Leaf

THE LEAF Sycamore High School News Magazine Volume 5 | Issue 8 | March 21, 2018

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Design by: Natalie Brinkman, Allyson Bonhaus

CONTENTS

news 2 3 4 opinion 5 6 7

School walkout Synnovation Lab arrives

Young activist demand reform

Staff editorial Gun control Personal account of discrimination

Chudnoff creates new music Migos and Drake

Meet the activists

ADVISER Cheralyn Jardine

PHOTOGRAPHER McDaniel’s Photography

ABOUT US Professional memberships: • Columbia Scholastic Press Association • Journalism Education Association • National Scholastic High School Press Association • Ohio Scholastic Media Association • Ohio Professional Writers (National Federation of Women Writers) • Quill & Scroll International Journalism Honorary

Driverless cars

Student Activism

Fitting in with others

a&e 15 16 17 THE LEAF

Spanish trip to Argentina

cover 11-14

feature 8 9 10 sports 18 19 20

Season summary Cummins, So complete season Lacrosse warms up

Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Jenna Bao ASSOCIATE EDITOR Adhiti Chundur CREATIVE PROJECT DIRECTORS Taylor Close Yasmine Guedira Sydney Weiss Anne Marsh PRINT EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Natalie Brinkman Adhiti Chundur SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Sydney Weiss EXECUTIVE WEB EDITOR -IN-CHIEF Harsimran Makkad

LEAFLET EDITORS-INCHIEF Taylor Close Sydney Evans NEWS Yasmine Guedira SPORTS Sydney Evans Abigail Lefton FEATURE Allyson Bonhaus ENTERTAINMENT Lindsey Brinkman OPINION Hannah Lee VIDEO Emily Chien Yvanna Reyes

spotlight 21

Jeicy Hernandez Baquero

Outside cover: Yvanna Reyes Inside cover: Adhiti Chundur SPOTLIGHT CHIEF Kirsten Thomas A&E Columnist Sara Margolis OPINION Columnist Allyson Bonhaus STAFF WRITERS Morgan Brownell Maya Goldenberg Ben Green Harsitha Kalaiarasan Anisa Khatana Everett Kohinke Abigail Lefton Emme Loon Jessica Lu Lydia Masset Claire Myers Aidan Noble

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 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.

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NEWS March 21, 2018

Walkout warriors say #enough EMILY CHIEN

YVANNA REYES

media director video chief

AM I NEXT? One month after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, hundreds of SHS students participated in the Women’s March Youth Empower National Walkout.

The movement brought attention to the need for legislative change and urged Congress to take action to prevent gun violence from occurring in our schools and country.

SHS differentiated itself from most other schools by adjusting the bell schedule, as to minimize class disruption.

Those participating in the walkout were undoubtedly compelled by the cause.

Withstanding wind chill in 30 degree

We should not have had to do a walkout today.

weather, the crowd listened to speeches conducted by 17 of their respective peers and teachers.

Each speaker shared the names and backgrounds of each victim from Parkland.

Many of the speakers and students saw parallels between themselves and those they memorialized.

Sophomore Samuel Barans was one of the 17 speakers and is an outspoken advocate for change.

Senior Makayla Stover delivered an introduction for the event, and senior Asa Hodrick gave the walkout’s closing address.

In his speech entitled “Seventeen,” Hodrick said, “Just as you and I, they were artists, athletes, scholars, and

above all, humans...We will be the dominoes to topple our leaders into action.

“It’s up to us, in this generation, to enact change.”

Makayla Stover Walkout organizer

What called you to “walk out?”

This happened to high school students that are our age and had futures ahead of them, just like we do. This has happened countless times over the past twenty years since Columbine, and we are sick of nothing being done. I felt a duty to the survivors of Parkland and to ourselves to be a part of their movement for change.

What does the walkout mean to you?

We are all young, yet we refused to be silenced because of our age alone. We are advocating for change and action, and we want to be heard by those representing us in our government.

This affects all of us, and we won’t sit back and watch it happen. Registering to vote, advocating for change in our communities, and being involved in government is imperative for our students to remain heard.

Any closing thoughts?

We are hoping that Congress will recognize that we want gun reform, and we want it now. The time has come and gone to wait for another mass shooting to happen to do something about this. We are the future voters and constituency of those in office right now, and we demand congressional action.

Photos courtesy of Yvanna Reyes, Nitin Pauletti, Makayla Stover

The state of our nation’s policy on guns is ridiculous. Luke was the kind of guy who was kind to everyone and made them smile. I put myself in the shoes of one of his family members and felt the grief that struck them,” said Samuel Barans, speaker.

Q&A

Synnovation Lab arrives:

March 21, 2018

NEWS SWEN

What you need to know SYDNEY WEISS

social media director

Vision:

THE SYNNOVATION LAB is a new school within SHS. It was created with the vision of being personal, efficient, and applicable to the real world. It is designed to be collaborative and project-based while allowing students flexibility in their schedules.

Another goal of the lab is to reflect, both privately and with teachers and peers. The goal of having a reflection time is to think of ways to make the lab more efficient and ideal for the students.

Above all, the design of the lab is

largely dependent on the students who fill it. It will have a somewhat flexible schedule.

In the fall, only incoming freshmen and sophomores will be enrolled in the lab. The goal is to add students 50 students each year until 200 students are enrolled in total.

Students will not be entirely isolated from the rest of the school. They will be there for a portion of the day (ideally the middle, if possible with scheduling).

They will leave the lab for any

electives. Eventually, students may need to leave the lab for AP courses.

Mastery-based learning will be employed. This means that students will work to understand the material and will not move on to more difficult material until they reach the mastery level.

The Synnovation Lab is a new and exciting opportunity for the future of the school and education.

Location and logistics:

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Year 2 Year 3

Audience

The stage will be extended toward the audience to make more floor space Stage

Eventually, a new floor will divide the theater horizontally to double the total floor space and create two levels.

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There is a group of teachers and administrators who have been involved in the design and will be working in the lab next year.

As far as instructing goes, the following teachers will be working in the lab: Math: Mr. Greg Ulland freshmen sophomores History: Mr. Greg Cole English: freshmen sophomores juniors Mr. Breen Reardon Science: freshmen sophomores juniors seniors Mrs. Amanda Vilardo Mr. Timothy Arnold

This fall, 50 freshmen and 50 sophomores will be enrolled in the Synnovation Lab. In the following year, 50 students in the incoming class will be enrolled.

The goal is for 200 students to be in the lab within three years.

Year 1

There is a long-term plan in place for the location of the Synnovation Lab. It will be in the Little Theater permanently, but as new students are added, the theater will be expanded vertically to have more class space on the second floor.

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50

50

50

50

50

50 50

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The grading system will be slightly different from the system used for the rest of the school. Since the lab is centered on mastery-based learning, students will not move on to new “I think every student could benefit material until they have received from this environment,� Ulland said. an A or a B. Photo courtesy of Sydney Weiss

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NEWS

March 21, 2018

March for Our Lives empowers ANISA KHATANA staff writer

also plans to attend the IN THE WAKE of the Feb. 14 D.C. march alongside shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas two of his daughters.

High School in Parkland, Florida, the “The current nation was abuzz with talk of how the movement [for gun tragedy played out, as is the case with control measures] the worst of America’s mass shootings. feels different and is so But aside from being the worst school important to support shooting since the 2012 massacre because it is student-led at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Parkland is proving to have the potential and student-centered.

We adults are being to make a lasting impact on how the shamed by our past nation views and uses guns. ineffectual efforts and Organized by survivors of the protests.

Parkland shooting and other student “It took these activists, along with the support of courageous students national organizations like Everytown NEVER AGAIN. Students make posters calling for preventative for Gun Safety and Planned Parenthood, to shake us out measures against gun violence. Marchers at demonstrations of that harmful March for Our Lives will take place in like March for Our Lives use posters to directly convey their lethargy, to remind Washington D.C. on March 24, 2018. opinions and what they stand for. “Never again” and “#enough” us that we need to “The mission and focus of March have been popular mottos of the movement. Photo courtesy of keep raising our For Our Lives is to demand that a Yvanna Reyes. voices until we’re comprehensive and effective bill be and educators were buried imploring immediately brought before Congress to satisfied that we’re legislators to act. Their campaign is for really being heard,” Reardon said. address these gun issues,” according to kids, by kids.

March for Our Lives also invites the march’s official website.

“My hope is that this march will help advocates to electronically sign what “Whether you’re a Republican or keep everyone’s attention on the issue they have dubbed “An Act to Protect Democrat, there’s something to stand until something sensible can be worked and Save Your Children:” a petition for, whether it be against the gun lobby out,” Reardon said. outlining three legislative demands for or for the safety of your teachers and Celebrities including Amal and fellow classmates,” said Ryan Tufts, 12, elected officials to act by.

George Clooney, Oprah Winfrey, and “When students can’t walk into who will be attending the march.

Steven Spielberg have each pledged While the March on Washington is the their schools with a sense of security, $500,000 to March for Our Lives, that’s when gun control event that was originally IT TOOK THESE with Winfrey and both Clooneys also measures become a nonorganized, over 725 promising their attendance. partisan issue. sibling marches on COURAGEOUS Over $2 million in donations will be “These measures are March 24 have been STUDENTS TO used to pay for the organizing of the important not only to announced worldwide march; any leftover funds will go to SHAKE US OUT OF keep guns out of the in solidarity with those victims’ families. of killers, [but] to who plan to take D.C. THAT HARMFUL hands “If SHS students care about sensible keep students like you and The Cincinnati March LETHARGY. gun laws in the United States (and not, me safe on a daily basis,” for Our Lives Walk say, encouraging [teachers like] me and Rally, for instance, MR. BREEN REARDON Tufts said. to carry guns in the classroom), they Organizers and which begins at 11:00 should care about this march. proponents of the march a.m. at Cincinnati City “Parkland students deserve our are focused on developing the dialogue Hall, is a student-led affair calling for attention and our support for what they opened by Parkland survivors who spent “common sense gun legislation.” are [doing] for all of us,” Reardon said. the days after 17 of their classmates English teacher Mr. Breen Reardon

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Sources: time.com, marchforourlives.com, cnn.com

Leafing through the masses: What change do you want to see?

LOUDER THAN WORDS. Recent events have spurred students across the country to take matters into their own hands. Whatever the issue, young people have more resources than ever to make their voices heard. From raising money to organizing events, actions, more than just words, are what make change.

Image by Sydney Evans.

Staff Editorial “You are too young to understand.” “Let the grown ups deal with it.” We have all heard these lines before. Essentially, they communicate that the “real world” is too complicated, our perspectives too limited, and the problems too complex for kids.

When it comes to modern social or political issues, maybe they are right. Or, maybe it is time for students to show them what we believe in and just what we are capable of.

Activism does not have to be political nor necessarily controversial.

Activism is about refusing to be satisfied with the status quo and being determined to do something about it.

The causes you could champion are practically endless. Horrified by mass shootings? Concerned about civil rights and liberties at home or around the globe? Determined to end hunger? Create world peace? The solutions will always seem impossible if no one fights for them.

We believe that this is not a matter of ideology or affiliation but one of determination. It is too easy to grow frustrated in the face of inaction, then passive from that frustration. It is much harder to get educated and motivated, but we owe it to ourselves and to society to contribute our voices and talents to meaningful causes.

Students here are traveling to Washington, speaking with legislators, forming clubs, raising thousands of dollars, and driving innovative campaigns.

Now more than ever, just being a kid is no longer an excuse. We may not know what we “want to do when we grow up,” but we can choose what we are going to do right here, right now.

With unprecedented access and influence with social media, every person has the chance to make their voices heard. The world is quite literally at our fingertips.

What are you going to do with it?

“Greater access to running water in impoverished nations.

I think we in America take it for granted, but it is a huge sanitation issue,” said Mr. Ashwin Corattiyil, Student Dean.

“I wish to see stronger gun control; we need the safety of our citizens,” said Sophia Galyon, 12.

“I believe very strongly that we must find a way to lower the cost of higher education. $37,112 [is the average] student loan debt,” said Noah Kaufman, 11.

“I wish the school start time would be later,” said Blake Rile, 9.

Photos courtesy of Hannah Lee

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OPINION March 21, 2018

Schools under attack Why lack of gun control impacts students feature chief

ADULTS SAY TEENS cannot understand politics, that all politicians can offer is prayers and condolences, and that should be enough. But it is not.

Maybe teens see the world as it should be; maybe all the tiny compromises over every sentence in a bill desensitizes lawmakers.

Mass shootings are simply part of the news cycle now, not a warning nor devastating loss. There needs to be a spark of change.

Ohio has the ninth highest percentage of crime guns recovered that were originally purchased within the state. There need to be stricter laws preventing excessive numbers of guns, with emphasis on regulating semiautomatic weapons.

Students are impacted by guns; the latest school shooting at Parkland is just another example.

There are 18 year olds at SHS that can legally obtain rifles. How does this protect students or Ohioans?

“Since the high school shooting in Parkland...there have been 638 reported threats targeting schools across the nation from Feb. 15 to Feb. 27,” according to “USA Today.”

Can the United States not guarantee the safety of its children when all they want is an education? Should students have to fear that going to school may be a death sentence?

Gun control

The problem is in schools. Not even SHS is excluded from the fear. Days after the Parkland shooting, SHS got tied to a threat that turned out to be unfounded.

Yet, no student is safe in school as long as any 18 or 21 year old can go buy a semi-automatic gun.

The system cannot protect students because it cannot regulate guns. Having a gun is fine, but what is not okay is having a gun that fires around 90 bullets in ten seconds. That is neither self defense nor hunting.

This puts everyone around that weapon in danger, for someone may get a hold of it and use it for the wrong purposes. Gun control is necessary.

But can both parties agree to protecting children?

Is there a solution?

The problem is that there are too many guns in the U.S. Too many guns held by private citizens. Too many guns in schools.

“I would like to see stronger background checks and limits on the number of guns a certain individual is allowed to have,” said Anupama Narayana, 10.

There needs to be action for gun control rights, which is no simple task.

Some Congressmen have taken millions from the National Rifle Association (NRA), but that should not stop people from voting out these Congressmen or stop the Congressmen from doing what

is right and what the people want done.

“To people in other countries, having gun violence play such a downplayed role in our society and our education is horrifying,” said Claire Minton, 11.

Children have been dying. It is time to make a change, and teens are not the only ones who see the need for it. So why are there not strict regulations?

What does the Second Amendment mean?

“A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed,” according to the Second Amendment in the Bill of Rights.

The Second Amendment does not give Americans permission to buy nearly military-grade rifles.

Contrary to popular belief, the Second Amendment was only to protect against having a standing army and keep state militias in case they were called upon to protect the state.

“Guns are supposed to be used [by] people at war, not just people trying to live their lives,” said Ginevra Pascale, 9.

Yet, the senseless tragedies at schools across the nation do not influence many legislators to push for moral gun laws.

Teens are not too idealistic nor too young to impact the laws that affect them. Schools cannot always protect students from federal inaction, but civil action can.

does not advocate for the end of the Second Amendment, only for tighter restrictions on buying guns

the U.S. has 48 percent of the civilian-owned guns in the world

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the number of school shootings in 2018 (as of March 8) that lead to at least one person (not the shooter) being shot on school grounds

An AR-15 model has been used in multiple shootings: Sandy Hook, Las Vegas, Sutherland Springs (church shooting in Texas), Parkland, etc.

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Rifles and shotguns need no: permit to purchase, registration of the firearm, licensing of the owner or permit to carry

Sources: cleveland.com, nytimes.com, cnn.com

ALLYSON BONHAUS

Photo courtesy of Tribune Services

March 21, 2018

OPINION

Ally’s Alley: ALLYSON BONHAUS feature chief

‘What about me seemed so threatening?’

YVANNA REYES video chief I was on my way to my friend’s house for her 17th birthday.

The sun shone on my brown skin and outlined the picturesque neighborhood around me.

Wanting to save this golden scene, I recorded a ten second clip of the light piercing through the trees.

Suddenly, a police car pulled up beside me. With brashness drenching his voice, the officer indicated that someone reported suspicious activity-that I, a 16 year old girl, was reported as a suspicious figure filming houses in their neighborhood.

It was evident that the officer did not believe a word I said. He looked disgusted as he drove away.

As he disappeared out of sight, I began to examine myself for any semblance of danger in my appearance.

Wearing a blouse and denim shorts, I stood at a shrunken five feet, two inches. What about me seemed so threatening?

In truth, the situation nearly affirmed unconventional fears that I had upon moving to Ohio.

Having never experienced suburbia, this was the first time I attended a more affluent school with a white majority.

My physical differences felt amplified.

Before my encounter with the officer, I had always considered myself involved in social justice, especially in the sector of racial identity.

I never hesitated to engage in discussions, whether they were in class, table side, or online, involving the complexities of racial prejudice.

This time around, I felt compelled to go beyond my respective circle.

Racism is rooted in a lack of understanding of people who are dissimilar to us.

In order to combat discrimination in my community, I needed to culture an environment in which people of all sorts could empathize with each other and openly discuss ideas.

Fittingly, SHS soon after announced Diversity Week in which students would celebrate our variety of backgrounds.

Before I knew it, I met with and filmed seven groups of people from the Diversity Panel, each one representing a religion or race, and helped document their experiences.

I was exposed to a unique perspective of people who others, like myself, might not have known otherwise.

The video not only affected those who watched it, it also challenged my preconceived notions of my identity as an advocate of social justice.

Having moved from areas where a person of color (POC) majority was the norm, I was privately intimidated by white people. I viewed them as rich, powerful, and, overall, unlike me.

The police officer and I were physically dissimilar in every way imaginable, but we had one thing in common: we lacked empathy for each other.

We made assumptions about ‘the other side.’ We were afraid.

Resolving racial biases is a lifelong trial, one that I continually work to settle today.

Lessening fear and prejudice across racial lines is a two-way street, involving a mutual exchange of ideas, equal parts of sharing and listening.

I have learned to contemplate on both my action and inaction. I am fully allowed to be imperfect, so long as I am reflective and deliberative in my activism and, most of all, unafraid.

The March 5 deadline for action has passed. In September, Donald Trump ended the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) with a six-month gap time in order to come up with new legislation to deal with those who immigrated as young children and have lived in America for most of their lives.

Even with the California judge reversing Trump’s action (of canceling the program without a replacement), those who are affected by DACA are still unsure if they will end up in a country they have little to no memory of.

March 5 was supposed to tell them what would happen, but the deadline for Congress passed without action.

Those affected by DACA have grown up in American school systems, gone to college or work in America, paid their taxes, and chased the American dream just like citizens. Only, there is no path to citizenship for these people who know no other country but the one denying them this certainty.

Over 75 percent of DACA recipients are employed, so deporting them would come at a major cost to the U.S. This seems to directly conflict with American ideals of opportunity. How can the government not tell people what country they will be living in even as they have lived and grown as Americans?

They are in limbo as Congressmen decide their fates based on numbers, budgeting, and political agendas.

DACA deals with human rights, and right now Congress is saying that these people’s fate is reduced to negotiations and budgets.

There must be a bipartisan resolution to have a more lenient immigration policy and an easier path to citizenship.

Americans must call out the government for pursuing actions that do not align with the purpose of American freedom. It is the people who continue marching, protesting, and writing to argue that DACA recipients are Americans like everyone else.

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FEATURE March 21, 2018

Spanish students say ‘hola’ to Argentina HARSITHA KALAIARASAN staff writer

STRESS IS SECOND NATURE in high school, but as third quarter draws to a close and Advanced Placement (AP) exams loom on the horizon, spring break spells out rest and relaxation for weary students.

There is a myriad of travel opportunities for students in conjunction with various classes to visit unique countries and interact firsthand with the curriculum.

Students in Spanish IV or AP Spanish are eligible to go on the trip to Argentina. Those who chose to participate will have the chance to explore extraordinary sights while refining their language skills with native speakers.

After arriving and assuming the position of an amateur Spanish speaker, students will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and receive a lesson in the art of traditional tango dancing.

Also on the itinerary is a day at Iguazu National Park, which is home to the largest series of waterfalls in the world.

The tourists are also able to spend a day in Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, towards the end of their stay and visit the planned city of La Plata, as well as do any shopping before heading back home.

Ms. Meredith Blackmore teaches hard time choosing what part they are AP Spanish, and is in charge of most excited for. organizing the trip this year. She feels “I look forward to visiting the strongly about the impact of travel on Metropolitan Cathedral. It is so the growth of teenagers. beautiful and breathtaking, and I want “It is so important for young people to see it in real life after seeing so many to have experiences different from what pictures,” said Helen Sotropa, 11. they have always known just to become aware that there [are] different ways of doing things, of thinking about things, and to be inspired by other people.

“While you’re a high schooler you’re growing and developing. To have those influences opens you up to a whole new world,” Blackmore said.

As far as improving their language skills, Blackmore explains that students often learn more in one week abroad than in one quarter at school.

“I like to have students SIGHTS AND SOUNDS. Previous trips taken by Spanish write down all the new classes include visits to Madrid, pictured, as well words that they learn and Gibraltar and Segovia in Spain. “As a city person, I’m realize that they know really excited to go to Buenos Aires. The city is known more than they thought to have European qualities and I’m looking forward to they did,” Blackmore said. it,” said Helen Sotropa, 11. Photo courtesy of Meredith Amid all the invigorating Blackmore. sights, students have a

French Trip Cities: Brussels and Bruges, Beligum; Honfleur, Bayeux, St. Malo, Mont St. Michel, and Paris in France Homestay in Paris, France Teachers going: Mrs. Lesley Chapman, Mrs. Saundra Toerpe

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Music Program Trip Cities: Prague, Czech Republic; Vienna, Austria; Salzburg and Munich, Germany; Venice, Italy Teachers going: Mr. David Swift, Dr. Angela Santangelo

Design by: Allyson Bonhaus, Harsimran Makkad

AP European History Trip Cities: Paris and Normandy, France; Venice, Rome, Florence, and Assisi,Italy Teachers going: Mr. Andrew Ostendorf, Mrs. Leah Chapman, Mr. Andrew Ovington, Mrs. Tara Bessler, Mrs. Holly Hodel, Mr. Brian Sweeney

March 21, 2018

FEATURE

Driverless car development speeds along MAYA GOLDENBERG staff writer

UBER’S SELF-DRIVING VEHICLES drove two million miles

Transportation has a role to play in building and shaping this future by developing as of December 2017, and Waymo, a regulatory framework Google’s autonomous car project, has that encourages, rather driven over five million miles on public than hampers, the safe roads. development, testing, and It seems that as time goes on, deployment of automated these kinds of automobiles become vehicle technology,” Chao increasingly prevalent. The federal said. government’s hands-off approach to ROBOT TAKE OVER. In reality, driverless car are directed The SELF Drive Act, driverless cars has been aiding their by both hardware and software. The hardware is made passed by the House of development. up of cameras, lasers, and radars that send information The federal government does not have Representatives, authorizes to the car’s GPS. “Radar, however, allows the vehicle to see up to 100 meters away in the dark, rain, snow, or any safety requirements for autonomous the federal government to regulate the safety of selfother vision-impairing circumstances,” said John Patrick vehicles. So far, only voluntary Pullen in “Time Magazine.” Image courtesy of James driving vehicles, preempting guidelines have been laid out for Zinnbauer. states from passing their companies to follow. Under President own regulations. This means Barack Obama, the framework had 15 resulting in the backup driver taking states would not be able to implement key ideas. over. However, on Feb. 26, 2018 their own safety laws for driverless President Donald Trump’s California legalized self-driving cars on vehicles. administration published a new outline public roads without backup drivers.

Autonomous vehicles being tested on in September which removed some Even Ohio has been encouraging the public roads have been required to put original points, giving companies even advancement of self-driving vehicles, a human driver behind the wheel. The more control over voluntary standards. most notably self-driving trucks. In driver is there to take over in case the Elaine Chao, Secretary of the U.S. 2016, Otto, Uber’s self-driving truck, autonomous system “disengages.”

Department of Transportation, explains was tested as it drove down I-33.

Disengaging is when a vehicle’s selfthat the government wants to help The interstate is a smart highway, driving functions stop working, or if foster the driverless vehicle industry. outfitted with fiber optic cables “to there is an immediate safety concern, “The U.S. Department of instantaneously link researchers and traffic monitors with data from embedded and wireless sensors along Self-driving car legislation by state the roadway,” according to the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Ohio invested $15 million into this smart road. On Jan. 18, 2018 Governor John Kasich signed an executive order creating DriveOhio. It is the new branch of the Ohio Department of Transport that will oversee Ohio’s new technological transportation projects, like the smart road.

It is clear that the government sees autonomous vehicles as the future of transportation.

“Fully automated cars and trucks that drive us, instead of us driving them, will become a reality,” according to = states with driverless vehicle legislation the National Highway Traffic Safety =states without driverless vehicle legislation Administration (NHTSA).

Design by: Maya Goldenberg

Sources: forbes.com, nhtsa.gov, ncsl.org, congress.gov, dot.state.oh.us, fox45now.com, time.com, drive.ohio.gov

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FEATURE

March 21, 2018

Big IDEAs on fitting in CLAIRE MYERS staff writer

VARYING FROM AUTISM to hearing impairments to traumatic brain injuries, disabilities can impact anyone’s daily lifestyle and school life.

Some disabilities are physically visible while others are not. Every student has a different experience in school depending on the accommodations that are available to them and that they can use.

Accommodations are changes that help a student overcome or work around their disability. Having accommodations can help both students and teachers figure out the potential a student has and help them succeed.

IDEA stands for “The Individuals with Disabilities Act.” This is a law that makes available free appropriate public education to children who are eligible and ensures special education and other related services.

There are 13 different categories under IDEA. Under each category, there are countless different severities of each disability.

Students categorized under IDEA

INCLUSION. Everyone just wants to fit in and have fun with each other. Each person has something special to share. It is just a matter of learning about one another.

Photo courtesy of Paula Anstaett.

receive academic, physical, cognitive, and social-emotional instruction outside of a general education classroom. Some students may need to be placed in a special education classroom, while others may be mainstreamed but often receive help outside of the classroom.

“Sycamore does an excellent job highlighting how some students have differences but each and every student

has things that are easy or hard for us,” said Ms. Erica Haber, speech pathologist.

Many teachers may assume that a student is healthy because they look fine. This can cause struggles for students because a task that is asked of them may be too difficult, depending on what they can and cannot do.

Having a disability tends to cause social and emotional problems for students. They may feel out of place and have trouble expressing their emotions with others.

This is especially harder at a young age because other students do not understand why someone is different.

Additionally, teachers may have low expectations for a student and think they can do less than they are actually capable of. Students with disabilities tend to have lower self-esteem, as well.

“Teachers who understand different disabilities are able to differentiate their materials and accommodate for the students, helping those kids become more successful,” Haber said.

Understanding IDEA disabilities* Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) -Developmental disability -Affects communication (verbal and nonverbal) -Impacts social interaction

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Visual Impairment

Speech/Language Impairment

-Impairment in one’s vision -Partial-sight and blindness

-Stuttering -Impaired articulation -Language/voice impairments

Intellectual Disability -Significantly below average functioning intelligence

*only 4 of 13 listed for clarity

Sources: Center for Parent Information and Resources, TEACH-Make a Difference

Design by: Claire Myers

COVER March 21, 2018

WHEN S T U D E N TS SPEAK

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COVER

March 21, 2018

‘Be the change’ Youth pursue active mindsets HARSIMRAN MAKKAD web editor-in-chief

SYDNEY WEISS

social media director

“UNLESS SOMEONE LIKE you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not,” said Dr. Suess in his famous book “The Lorax.”

Activism goes beyond just the lines in a children’s book.

It goes beyond even the movements we hear about in the media: March for Our Lives, #MeToo and #Times Up, the Women’s March, and even the March for Science.

Activism is about inciting change: political, economic, social, or environmental. Regardless of one’s beliefs, activism encourages students to partake in activities that pertain to their convictions.

Throughout high school, students feel a push to be involved in politics, social change, and other forms of activism.

More recently, students throughout the nation have been stepping forward to fight for their views.

Since the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, more and more students across the country have been empowered to emulate activism. The students in Florida sparked an idea: even high school students can make dramatic change at a national level.

In this time of uncertainty and turmoil, it is more important than ever before for students to take action and stand up for what they believe in, for what they are passionate about.

This may take on the form of a walkout, march, or simply commitment to a club that works for something you feel strongly about.

Being a student activist does not mean being angry at the world. Instead, it is about unity, passion, and, most importantly, a desire for change. Rather than being complacent and accepting things as they are, activists

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stand up for the causes they believe in.

The kids at Parkland are certainly not the first students to actively fight for their beliefs, but the persistence shown has been unique to previous situations.

Activism is undoubtedly a broad topic. It may seem GIVE A LITTLE. Junior Madeleine Weiss donates money like there are an to buy menstrual products for the Homeless Care Club infinite number of fundraiser. This is just one easy way to be an activist in your organizations and community, as the club gives the products to the Greater activities for students Cincinnati Homeless Coalition. “It’s really important to give to join. Practically, back to the homeless, especially the women, since affording there are. basic necessities for periods is very expensive and seen as Indeed, it is up to a luxury,” said Ariela Kurtzer, 10. Photo courtesy of Anisa young people to make Khatana. a positive difference of forms of activism. in the world. They are the ones who Whether calling legislators, feel the effects of mass shootings, registering to vote, doing volunteer witness the plight of homelessness, and work, or even just participating in experience the sense of hopelessness discussions among friends, all forms that comes with such issues. of activism are recognized as efforts to Even those who cannot vote can make change. a difference as people who are impacted The problems that surround students’ by the legislation and actions of the lives may seem insurmountable, but older generations. they can and do affect real change Everyone has a voice and that voice is despite the overwhelming odds. important for change.

No matter one’s political beliefs, age, Oftentimes, students feel frustrated or location, all individuals can create about the political climate or current change. injustices. This frustration can be Students do hold the power to change channeled into productive activities. perspectives, and it is our responsibility At SHS, clubs constantly organize to use our voices to advocate for a marches and fundraisers for both better world. causes that occur close to home and at a If young people, the future politicians national level. and decision-makers of this country, are While these groups are working hard not willing to stand up when something to create change, it is important for is not right, then who will? students to understand the wide variety

Activists contact legislators

March 21, 2018

COVER

ALLYSON BONHAUS feature chief

Though there are many ways to champion a cause besides getting involved in politics, lobbying Congress to pass laws is a historic and prominent avenue of pursuing social change.

Therefore, it is important to know who to contact

about your issue. Most students here fall into either U.S. Congressional District One or District Two for the federal House of Representatives, so both representatives are shown.

There are places on each of their websites to send them emails.

Sherrod Brown Democrat Senator of Ohio Senator since 2007 Re-election in 2018

Rob Portman Republican Senator of Ohio Senator since 2011 Re-election in 2022

Steve Chabot Republican Ohio’s first Congressional District Representative since 2011 Re-election in 2018

Brad Wenstrup Republican Ohio’s second Congressional District Representative since 2013 Re-election in 2018

Quiz: which SHS club should you be active in?

START What is one adjective that describes you?

Kind

Personable

Do you like working with children?

Yes

Not particularly

Determined

Is it more important to be a leader at SHS or in your community?

My community

Would you prefer to help your peers or people outside of SHS?

Others

My peers

My school

OGB Club HeForShe Help with Operation Give Back, Homeless Care Club Ambassadors Club Participate in events an organization focused on Help distribute menstrual Volunteer around the throughout the year providing tutoring and materials products to those who need school and act as a “face that are focused on to families in need, primarily in them in Cincinnati. of SHS.” gender equality. the Sycamore district.

Design by: Sydney Weiss 13

COVER

March 21, 2018

Students activate everyday change LYDIA MASSET staff writer

WHEN WE THINK of activism, chanting and holding up signs in protest is often the image that comes to mind.

Active protest is crucial: it raises awareness, brings together like-minded people, and can help make strides for

change. But at the same time, activism cannot be limited only to these marches and organized events--it is something we should implement into our daily lives.

Whether it is the products you buy or the groups you become involved with,

change can come in many forms.

This brings up another key aspect of activism; it is not just political. Everyone is interested in different things; activism does not necessarily equal controversy.

VOLUNTEERING allows you to be part of a bigger movement for change.

It allows you to find more ways to get involved that are specific to your causes.

VOICING what you are passionate about to friends, family, and peers is a way to spread the word and start a discussion. This way, you can understand an opposing view or meet like-minded people.

VOTING in all elections or encouraging others to get registered and participating in elections is one of the most effective ways to make change happen. Even if you are too young to vote, you are not too young to help spread the word about a candidate or issue.

Consumers put power in purchases Where you choose to shop and the products you choose to buy can be a form of activism. For example, buying fair trade chocolate or cruelty-free makeup is a small step towards a broader goal.

Students can support businesses that have good practices. Ben & Jerry’s sources Fair Trade certified ingredients. Lush fights animal testing and promotes ethical purchasing. Milk Makeup is cruelty-free and has healthy ingredients.

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Boycotting businesses or brands is another way to stand up for what you believe in and support change.

column:

A&E Chudnoff creates new music March 21, 2018

SARA MARGOLIS

a&e columnist

JESSICA LU SINGING IS A TALENT in itself.

Yet, junior Nehalem Chudnoff takes his talent in a whole new direction by writing his own songs as well.

After learning guitar in eighth grade and then writing his first song, “Clown,” last year, Chudnoff has since made great strides in his music’s development.

Just earlier this year, Chudnoff released his EP. On it are five songs: “Curled,” “Daisy,” “Adam’s Room,” “No Name #1,” and “Epitaph.”

Mostly written about one night Chudnoff spent with his friends and the day after that, the name “Twelve to Twelve” draws inspiration from just one day of inexplicable and irrational feelings.

“I feel like everybody has these times when they’re confused about what they’re feeling and why they’re feeling that way. This album is about expressing these feeling in the most eloquent way possible,” Chudnoff said.

His personal favorite, “Adam’s Room,”

MUSIC’S IN MY SOUL. Junior Nehalem Chudnoff remembers music as playing an important role in his life, ever since his childhood. One particular memory stands out when he was just four years old at preschool. “We would listen to music on a little CD boombox, and I remember bringing in a CD of music I liked, and we were just dancing and singing to it,” Chudnoff said.

especially speaks to the EP’s particular sentiments.

“It’s about situations where you just had one of the best nights of your life, yet you still feel empty. You’re just emotionally distraught, and you just feel alone,” Chudnoff said.

Chudnoff’s musical style is heavily influenced by the somber, storytelling works of Elliot Smith and the soulful, yet vibrant, alternative rock tunes from Jeff Buckley.

Still, many of his avid listeners would agree that there is something distinctly unique about Chudnoff’s music.

“I love Halem’s music because I know that every song has a meaning. He puts so much heart into all of his music, and it’s great to see him pursue his passion, especially since he’s extremely talented at it,” said Erin McDonough, 10.

Chudnoff’s EP is now available on platforms such as Apple Music, SoundCloud, Spotify, and Tidal. Students can also follow @nehalemmusic on Instagram for music updates.

Photo courtesy of Everett Kohinke

staff writer

The old saying, “the movie is not as good as the book” used to not faze me. I always thought that the people who said this were just upset because most of teenagers’ time is spent on their phones or watching television.

But recently, I have seen a lot of book to movie adaptations and have come to the realization that those people whose words went in one ear and out the other may actually be right.

When I was younger, “Matilda” and “Harriet The Spy” were two of my favorite movies. They are coincidentally both books, but I did not care. I just enjoyed watching Matilda pour Cheerios with her eyes, and Harriet sneaking around.

Since I was young, I do not recall actually reading the books, but I can almost tell you I would not have enjoyed them because I had already seen the movie, and in my mind I thought the movie was always better than the book.

Times have changed. I just read “The Great Gatsby” in English class.

We then proceeded to watch the movie as we read.

To be quite honest, (nothing against Mr. Benjamin Vore--he is one of my favorite teachers) the movie did not live up to my expectations, therefore making me not as satisfied with my “Great Gatsby” experience. It shows that sometimes the book is all you need.

On the other hand, consider “The Hunger Games.” In my opinion, the book and the movie are just equally as good, unlike “Divergent” where once again, the movie ruined my experience and made me not want to continue on with the sequel.

It is upsetting that after I read a book I really enjoy, I watch the movie and I no longer have any respect for the story line and the book.

I hope that future book to movie adaptations can continue to improve.

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ENTERTAINMENT

March 21, 2018

Migos, Drake rap up hits

New albums in rap world rapidly gain popularity ABIGAIL LEFTON sports chief

HIGH HOPES AND newest album, “Culture ll,” on Jan. 26,

CG U O L D T S UP

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record-breaking releases have been the norm for rap/hip-hop fans in the first months of 2018. With overall domination from Drake with his single, “God’s Plan,” and Migos with their new album “Culture ll,” the rap/hip-hop genre is thriving.

In 2017, Migos released an album titled, “Culture.”

From the minute it hit the charts, it exploded and was listened to by SHS students daily.

Migos has since been nominated for two Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Performance for “Bad And Boujee” and Best Rap Album for “Culture.”

According to “Billboard,” Migos have had two number one hits and two top ten hits on their charts. “Culture” hit number one in February 2017 and has since been on the charts for 54 weeks.

Most rap fans would argue that “Culture” was an extremely successful album which racked up thousands of streams and was well deserved for the community. But with the creation of this amazing album was the problem of setting the bar too high.

Could they satisfy the extremely high expectations of their listeners with their next drop?

Almost exactly one year after “Culture” came out, Migos announced they would be releasing their

2018. Almost immediately, Twitter, Instagram, music blogs, and social media around the world begin hyping up “Culture ll” in a way where everyone expected nothing but greatness from this new album.

“As a huge fan of Migos, I had extremely high expectations for ‘Culture II,’ mainly because of the fact that almost every song on the original ‘Culture’ album was a banger,” said Davis NiBlack, 11.

Then the album dropped and critiques seemed to be saying negative things like, “‘Culture II’ appears to be tailored to finesse chart rules, which count 1,500 individual song streams toward one full album sale,” “the randomness

of the track list is maddening,” and “the quality of its songs handicapped by an album that plays like a long and formless grab bag,” according to “Rolling Stone” and “Pitchfork.”

“Everyone hyped up the album, and sadly, that is why the official reviews on the album were not so good. I very much so enjoyed the album; the music was quality, however I believe the critiques on the album were way too harsh because of high expectations.

You can’t expect every song to be a platinum banger,” NiBlack said.

Even with the harsh criticism, “Culture ll” hit number one on the “Billboard” charts on Feb. 10, 2018, and held steady for approximately two weeks. In contrast, there has been an exploding track that is making history.

Coming out of the shadows, Drake surprise-released his “Scary Hours”

album on Jan. 19, 2018, which included two singles including “God’s Plan” and “Diplomatic Immunity” which immediately began breaking records and racing to the top of the charts.

Specifically, “God’s Plan” broke both Spotify and Apple Music’s record for single-day streaming and is tied for the fastest R&B/ hip-hop track to hit the top ten chart. “God’s Plan” has monopolized the number one spot on the hot 100 chart with only being out for a little under one month. “‘God’s Plan’ was a great song and showed Drake was more just a singer. You can tell he has come a long way since his ‘Take Care’ album in 2011. Although ‘God’s Plan’ received more airtime, I also really enjoyed the lyrical prowess of Drake in ‘Diplomatic Immunity.’

As great as ‘God’s Plan’ was, ‘Diplomatic Immunity’ was better in my opinion,” said Youngbin Lee, 11.

Even with the surprise drop of an album with no preconceived notions or critics ready to strike, Drake is making history and has no intention of slowing down.

Keep your eyes locked on the charts because the second you look away, there will be a new top hit.

If you feel like there are not enough hours in the day to listen to all the new music, just know you are not alone.

R&B/hip-hop is on the rise.

CG U O L D T S UP

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MEET THE...

March 21, 2018

ACTIVISTS

Allison Landrum, 11

Photo courtesy of Allyson Bonhaus

“I think student activism is important because the adults seem to have more of an influence, but it’s our own lives at stake. It’s up to us to come together and make a difference in this issue.

I always knew that I was going to be a part of the walkout and the group lobbying in

Columbus no matter the consequences, because this is an issue that I feel very strongly about. Kids shouldn’t have to be afraid to go to school.

Doing things like making posters, writing speeches, and speaking with Congressmen helps me feel like I have some kind of control over this terrible situation.”

Bennett Heyn, 12 Photo courtesy of Jenna Bao

“I started a cell phone drive to help the environment and community. Soon, I will turn in all the phones I collected to the Cincinnati Zoo. Hopefully, my phone drive can help raise awareness and stop the extinction of the Western Lowland Gorillas.”

Photo courtesy of Allyson Bonhaus

Kaitlyn Jiang, 12 “Specifically for this situation, I was horrified by what happened in Parkland.

On social media, I saw a variety of ways to get involved, but I was the most intrigued by the nationwide school walkout that was supposed to happen on the 14th.

I decided to start speaking to others about the walkout and maybe participating in the organization of it,

since I hadn’t heard much about it...

From there, some of us who were extremely passionate about the issue and wanted to make sure that this walkout happened began to work on the logistics of the event. That’s basically how I became a student activist.

I think you just have to care about something very

deeply and be willing to do anything you can to contribute to a solution.

Personally, I think student activism is the most important thing a student can do while still in school, because you see differing views and you can learn from each other still.”

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Winter sports face state

March 21, 2018

SPORTS

ABIGAIL LEFTON sports chief

Boys swimming placed third at the OHSAA State Swim Meet. Sophomore Carson Foster won two events and broke a state record. He is the first two-time state champion since 2003.

Junior Anna Cummins has qualified for the OHSAA State Gymnastics meet since 2012. Cummins competed in the individual state championship.

At the end of the wrestling season, junior Jacob VayoSmith finished in second place at the GMC tournament. VayoSmith placed fifth at districts which made him a state qualifier.

Winter track had ten athletes go to the state competition. Senior Meghan DiGiovanna (above) competed in high jump. Senior Asa Hodrick placed seventh in the 200m.

Photo courtesy of Mike Eagan.

Photos courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

The girls bowling “Athlete of the Year” for 2018 is junior Paige Weitz. At the OHSAA State Championships, Weitz is a two-time first team all-conference and in 2018 rolled an 633 series for a sixth place finish.

For more winter sports summaries go to shsleaf.org

Boys tennis winds up for season HARSITHA KALAIARASAN staff writer

As the weather heats up, the competitions do as well as spring sports they begin preparing for their upcoming seasons. Boys Varsity Gold Tennis will do the same in the coming weeks.

The boys tennis program underwent the tryout process during the week of March 5. Although the teams are not solidified, Varsity Gold players from the previous year share their thoughts on the coming season.

Senior Nathan Zhang was part of the team last year that placed third overall in Ohio and was also the doubles runner up at the individual state tournament.

He hopes to cap off his senior year with an individual state title, as well as win the Greater 18 Miami Conference (GMC)

tournament.

“Going into my senior season has been bittersweet for me. On one hand, I cannot wait to compete with my teammates when everything is on the line. On the other hand, high school tennis has been an amazing experience, and I never want it to end.

“I am just going to take it day by day, match by match, and cherish every moment of this season,” Zhang said.

Varsity Gold’s greatest competitors include Mason, St. Xavier, and New Albany high schools.

In previous years, the support from the Ave Cave has been the edge the boys have needed to beat the top teams in the state.

Last year, Varsity Gold beat Mason in a tight 3-2 match to advance to the State Team Tournament semifinals, a result that was not predicted since they had

previously lost to Mason two times.

“Our fans are amazing and there is no doubt our successes have largely been attributed to their unbelievable energy.

I know this year the student body will be just as involved, and I cannot wait,” Zhang said.

Sophomore Elon (Samuel) MarcusShi also hopes to assume some leadership as key players face their senior year on the team.

“I feel like I have the responsibility to set an example for the incoming freshmen joining the program as well as lead them about what it means to be apart of Sycamore tennis,” Marcus-Shi said.

The rigorous days of practice have yet to begin, but Varsity Gold will be hitting the courts with energy.

The schedule for the upcoming season will be announced soon.

SPORTS

Cummins, So complete season March 21, 2018

KIRSTEN THOMAS spotlight chief

THE GYMNASTICS TEAM is currently comprised of two juniors: Anna Cummins and Alyssa Jeremiah So. So started tumbling in fifth grade and competing in seventh grade. She did all of this in China, where she lived at the time.

For So, gymnastics here is harder than it was in China.

The gymnastics she participated in while in China was much different.

Rather than competing against local teams, she competed in the southeast Asia region against teams from Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore.

Here, So is ecstatic to have Cummins as a teammate.

“Anna is a good teammate, she has helped me a lot with what high school gymnastics is all about and how the two programs are different,” So said.

Looking at Cummins’, gymnastics has always been apart of her life.

Cummins started gymnastics when she was three years old and competing

at age eight.

Regarding awards, Cummins has nearly too many to count. To date, she has 312 ribbons, 29 trophies, and 102 metals from her endeavors.

Bringing both talented gymnasts together has been only a positive experience.

Both girls participate in four events: vault, bars, beams, and floor.

For practice, the two travel to Seven Hills and practice with Coach Steve Connor and the Cincinnati Country Day gymnasts.

“Having Alyssa on the team is so exciting, adding another person to compete, train, and practice with,” Cummins said.

This year on the team, Cummins qualified for and competed at state. She will receive the four year senior award next year for being on the team all years of her high school career.

For now, the high school gymnastics season is over. Both girls participate in club gymnastics; So’s season being over, but Cummins’ continuing.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT. The duo has worked together throughout the season to challenge and grow as a team. Both have enjoyed the season with their new teammate. Looking forward to next year, each will train and come back strong for their senior years. Photo courtesy of Anna Cummins.

Cummins’ season will go on as she participates at districts, regionals, and nationals. Last year, she placed 20th at nationals.

Looking forward to their senior season, both girls are excited and optimistic.

“I am looking forward to being able to compete, and hopefully I will qualify for state,” So said.

Cummins sees the high school season as motivation and is looking forward to next year.

“This is the only thing I look forward to all year, and [competing at high school] is the reason I still do gymnastics,” Cummins said.

Until the next school season, both girls will train, conditioning and learning new skills. Their practices with CCDS have ended and will pick up next season.

With their final season approaching, the girls are hoping to leave their marks on the program.

“I hope the gymnastics program continues after we leave the high school,” Cummins said.

BALANCING ACT. Junior Anna Cummins takes on one of her events, the beam. This is one of four events that both Cummins and junior Alyssa Jeremiah So participate in.

The other three events are vault, beams and floor.

Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography.

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SPORTS

March 21, 2018

Lacrosse warms up to new season AIDAN NOBLE staff writer

THE LACROSSE TEAM has started the spring season, excited for what is ahead.

There are Varsity, JV, and JV B teams, with the JV team practicing from 3:00-4:45 p.m. and the Varsity team practicing 4:30-6:30 p.m. The teams practice lifting among other drills and exercises.

Lacrosse players lift through the off season, play summer lacrosse, and do box lacrosse in the fall, but the official spring season practice started in midFebruary. The first regular season game took place on Fri. March 13 against Miamisburg.

The team also participated in the Heart Mini Marathon’s 5K to support senior David Moskowitz, a team member who survived brain AVMs and a venous varix aneurysm earlier in the school year.

Moskowitz was this year’s Heart Mini spokesperson, and after months of physical therapy, he walked the 1K Steps for Stroke. The team raised around $4,000 for research.

While it is still early, Coach Greg Cole feels good about the season so far.

“We had a pretty rough season last year with a lot of young players; [there were] a lot of freshmen and sophomores playing on Varsity. This year those guys are sophomores and juniors, which is really good.

“I think our team is a lot more mature than they were last year after a year of growth.

“We’ve got some guys on offense who are very explosive and some boys on defense who are very fundamentally sound. I think we just have a group of guys who like each other, and that tends to be important,” Cole said.

So, how does lacrosse work exactly?

The game consists of ten players: four players on defense, three players on the offensive side of the field, and three players that can go anywhere on the field (midfielders).

The game starts with a face-off between two players. Once the referee blows the whistle, the players can both try to get the ball.

LA-CROSSE THE FIELD. Senior Kevin Russell faces off in a lacrosse game against Oak Hills. Currently, there are not enough Division I schools in the area with official lacrosse teams for it to be a GMC sport. The team often travels to play schools farther away or plays certain Division II schools. Photo courtesy of Sycamore Lacrosse.

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Around the goal is an area called the crece, where players cannot enter. Like other sports, when the ball goes out of the field of play, the opposing team may take possession of the ball.

When a player has or is close to the ball, another player may body check them. This is a hit between a player’s waist or shoulders.

A stick check consists of a player hitting another player’s gloves or stick to prevent them from getting the ball or knock it away.

While not currently a GMC sport, more and more schools are developing teams. Currently, the team develops its own schedule.

“Last year was not a great year; I think we’ll do much better this year. We also have a ton of young talent. It’s an exciting year,” Cole said.

SPOTLIGHT

Photo courtesy of Jeicy Hernandez Baquero

March 21, 2018

Hernandez Baquero prepares for future

KIRSTEN THOMAS spotlight chief

EACH ONE OF US has a passion, whether we have discovered it or not.

Four years ago, junior Jeicy Hernandez Baquero happened to stumble upon hers.

When she was in the eighth grade, Hernandez Baquero turned to makeup to try to feel better about past experiences.

From there, the thing that comforted her turned into her passion. Nearly every day, Hernandez Baquero practices her makeup skills and tries to incorporate a new skill every day.

Some of her favorite product lines include Anastasia Beverly Hill, Tarte, and Morphe. Most of her inspirations

STRIKE A POSE. Junior Jeicy Hernanadez Baquero poses for her quinceañera photo shoot. A quinceañera is a celebration of a Hispanic woman’s 15th birthday. Hernandez Baquero did a photo shoot in Florida. Photo courtesy of Luis Hernandez Baquero.

have been found online, such as Jeffree Starr, Gabriel Zamora and James Charles.

Looking towards her future, Hernandez Baquero intends to extend her passion into her career by applying to the Paul Mitchell Vocational School program and later going into event, wedding, and/or magazine hair and makeup.

The program she plans on attending takes about ten to 14 months to complete.

While going to Paul Mitchell, she plans to live at home and work a side job.

Until then, Hernandez Baquero is constantly looking for new ways to develop her skills and practice different techniques.

“I am thinking about starting a YouTube channel and blogging targeted towards young people who cannot afford all of the expensive brands.

The products will be good but also affordable,” Hernandez Baquero said.

Nearly two years ago, Hernandez Baquero did a photo shoot as part of her quinceañera. She enjoyed the experience and had her hair and makeup done professionally for the shoot.

This gave her a peek into her future at the career she is interested in.

Without the support of her family, Hernandez Baquero’s vision and plan for the future would not be fathomable.

“My mom has always [supported] everything I do; she was the one who

taught me to do what you want to do as a career because she says a job you love does not feel like a job,” Hernandez Baquero said.

Further, her aunt has always supported the vision she has for her future.

“My aunt loves the idea of me doing something [in] beauty; I am her only niece and she loves seeing me put myself out there and go to high places,” Hernandez Baquero said.

Hernandez Baquero has a planned out future ahead of her, leading to a career that will make her feel like she never worked a day in her life.

PRACTICE. A photo shoot gives Hernandez Baquero a peek into a potential future career. She hopes to learn more about hair and makeup at the Paul Mitchell Vocational School after graduation. From there, she hopes to launch her career. Photo courtesy 21 of Luis Hernandez Baquero.