October 2017 Leaf

THE LEAF Sycamore High School News Magazine Volume 5 | Issue 3| October 30, 2017

CONTENTS

news 2 3 4 opinion 5 6 7

Senior Halloween

Puerto Rico

One year with President Trump

Staff editorial Juvenile detention NFL kneeling controversy

feature 8 9 10 sports 18 19 20

Autumn fashion trends Five days Netflix-free

Fall TV shows

Favorite part of playing a sport

Winter drumline

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

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

spotlight 21

Makayla Stover

Girls tennis

Meet the first responders

ADVISER

What’s next?

Fall fun/National Merit

a&e 15 16 17 THE LEAF

cover 11-14

Who’s got spirit?

Retraction: In the September Issue, page 5, in “Leafing Through the Masses,” Kathleen Schmidlin, 9, was incorrectly identified. We regret this error.

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 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

October 30, 2017

Senior Halloween shows off creativity JENNA BAO

executive editor

One of SHS’ favorite traditions reflects that you never get too old to dress up. Senior Halloween is an annual perk for seniors to show off their creativity and have fun at school.

The event took place Fri. Oct. 27.

Seniors dressed up individually, in pairs, or in small/large groups. They attended all classes in their costumes until seventh bell, when they met in the gym for a parade.

There were also awards for best costumes in multiple categories such as the funniest or the most creative.

Costumes often relate to themes connected to school or recent events.

For instance, seniors Shannon Glass and Elayna Berry dressed as Drake and Josh from the Nickelodeon TV show, “Drake and Josh.”

“We think it is funny and popular now since Drake Bell came to our school,” Glass said.

References to history and social issues also arise. Senior Kiri Wang dressed as a 1950’s housewife with her group.

“We think it is unique and makes a statement; we want to show what girls might have been expected to be like just 60 years ago. It is all in good humor, 2

though, because it will be pretty funny too,” Wang said.

Some other costumes referenced events that have been in the public eye recently.

“I dressed up like Chipotle with others dressed up as E.coli,” said Lalitha Konda, 12.

Others are simply choosing to dress up as some of their favorite movie, book, or TV characters.

“I’m going as my favorite anime character, Asuna from ‘Sword Art Online,’” said Maia Davidson, 12.

In particular, homemade outfits created occasions for friends to get together, sometimes at the last minute.

“Some members in our group left my

PIECE IT TOGETHER. Seniors Albert (AJ) Fryman, Azadvir Singh, Benjamin Swart, Israel Lorenzana, Joshua Nickol, Luke Tenbarge, Matthew Woodside, and Oliver Garrett win best homemade large group costume as Tetris blocks.

“Basically we all went to Lowe’s and Home Depot and bought the same supplies. We organized who would have what shape and which combination we liked the best. After that it involved a whole lot of cutting, a whole lot of tape, and a whole lot of paint,” Swart said. Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography.

friend’s house during our sleepover at two in the morining to go to Walmart to get more supplies. It was definitely a night and day to remember,” said Stephanie Hong, 12.

Read the October Leaflet!

Coming out Oct. 31!

More Senior Halloween pictures!

Staff childhood costumes Can you guess who this teacher is? Check the Leaflet to find out.

October 30, 2017

NEWS SWEN

Puerto Rican struggles continue HARSITHA KALAIARASAN staff writer

JESSICA LU staff writer

Five weeks have gone by since Puerto Rico was destroyed by Hurricane Maria. Although time has passed, thousands of Puerto Ricans are still struggling to survive.

Parents attempt to find clean drinking water and food every day, but the children there grapple with issues as well, including the lack of normalcy usually found by going to school.

NPR estimates that 30,000 students NPR reports that around 200 of the have left Puerto Rico in search of a 1,113 schools there are now open, but safe haven on the mainland. Mainland most are being used as shelters or are schools have been accommodating open to provide relief to the community with the registration process, waiving by supplying documents to make The issue is personal for the transition easier. food and water to locals.

Students have me because my great With basic relocated all over the grandfather lived in human needs country, including Puerto Rico, and I’ve not being met, Ohio. been there a few times. the subject of Around 90 colleges Luckily he was able to school has fallen have taken an extra to the wayside. step and waived get a flight out, but What is alarming tuition or lowered I knew this hurricane however, are the costs by granting would ruin lives. I repercussions of in-state status to the felt like I had to do missing such a influx of Puerto Rican KARISA GRANDISON, 11 significant part of students. the school year.

The goal of these A study by Attendance Works and institutions is to make the process Child and Family Policy Center show of recovery easier for the island’s that missing only 10 percent of the inhabitants, but recovery has been hard school year gives way to a higher on Puerto Rico and its people. chance of dropping out of school.

“I don’t remember what that looked With only around 15 percent of the like,” said Samiliz Ruiz Collazo, age population possessing electricity, ten, looking at the lights in the Orlando schools have had a hard time locating Sanford International airport upon teachers. Many educators made the arriving from Puerto Rico. decision to leave Puerto Rico for Along with her brother, Collazo will be opportunities on the mainland. staying in Florida with family.

Teachers are not the only ones hoping She will deal with the stress of to find relief on the mainland. In an school, along with uncertainty about the effort to get kids to school, parents have condition of her family back in Puerto sent kids to Florida and other states to Rico. She will be entering a new school live with relatives. without friends. Such is the case for

Photo courtesy of Meredith Blackmore

Puerto Ricans everywhere; a future filled with the unknown.

With governmental aid proving insufficient, Puerto Ricans are relying on donations from organizations.

Although citizens want to contribute out, sometimes their donations can cause more harm than good.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), used clothing is “rarely a useful item to collect for disaster relief,” often occupying limited warehouse space or thrown away.

Even food and water can impede the speed of the relief effort. All food items, like used clothing, need to be inspected, sorted, packaged, transported, and then distributed, taking up relief organizations’ time and money.

The Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) and other relief organizations recommend sending cash instead, allowing the relief agencies to make purchases specifically tailored to the victims’ needs.

SHS, with this fact in mind, has raised $500 for the Hispanic Federation in order to help get much needed resources to the inhabitants of the island.

With donated money, relief organizations can buy food and supplies locally, stimulating the local economy as well as reducing expenses and pollution from transportation.

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October 30, 2017

Trump rounds out first year

Photo courtesy of Tribune Services

NEWS

SYDNEY WEISS

social media director

PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP entered his presidency with staunch supporters and harsh dissenters.

Like all presidents, he came with a grocery list of items that he wanted accomplished. Having almost finished his first year, Trump has completed some of those goals and left others untouched.

It would be near impossible to discuss every item Trump has spoken about in the past year. The following are his main campaign promises and his progress in pursuing them.

Border Security & Immigration One of Trump’s major points during his campaign and debate process was tightening border control.

“We will build a great wall along the southern border, and Mexico will pay for the wall,” Trump said during a campaign speech in Phoenix, AZ. While a finalized wall plan has not been set into motion, he has been working on prototypes. Funding is the major obstacle to building the wall.

Trump has sent executive memos to immigration officers suggesting a tougher approach to border security, which has resulted in a decrease in people crossing the border.

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On Sept. 5, Trump made the decision to end Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in six months, a decision which would affect many individuals who came to America as children. More recently, Trump has agreed to extend DACA while Congress works on an alternative plan.

Environment Throughout the campaign process, Trump expressed that he was not concerned with climate change.

He stated that he wanted to end the Clean Power Plan that arose during former president Barack Obama’s presidency. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt has proposed a plan to roll it back.

Trump also pulled out of the Paris Climate Accord, an agreement among nations to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. Trump does seem to be actively pursuing the environmental issues he spoke about during the presidential campaign and debate process.

Healthcare Before being inducted into office, Trump explained that he desired to end the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and create a new plan in its place.

Obamacare has yet to be replaced, but

plans and ideas have been proposed.

Trump also issued a new rule stating that birth control coverage is not required by certain employers who provide health care, a decision that immediately received significant backlash.

Economy “I will be the greatest jobs president,” Trump said during the speech in which he announced he would be running.

As a whole, the economy has been fairly stable between Obama’s and Trump’s administrations.

Unemployment rates have decreased slightly. After the hurricanes, jobs have decreased, but that is to be expected after disaster strikes.

In fact, during Trump’s presidency most areas of economics have either remained consistent or improved, including wages and GDP growth.

As for stocks, they are experiencing highs. As of Aug. 8, Dow was up 12 percent for the year.

Future With Trump serving as president for nearly 365 days, and campaigning for over a year before that, he has discussed and completed more than the topics mentioned. Over the next three years, there is no telling what goals Trump could pursue.

Sources: theatlantic.com bbc.com nytimes.com

Leafing through the masses: Why is school safety important?

“If students aren’t safe, they can’t learn.

Although we don’t want to think about the bad things, it’s our reality,” said Ms. Latoya Pitts, English teacher.

ONCE AGAIN. Time and time again, the United States has been plagued by mass shootings. The death tolls continue to increase, and yet little seems to be done to solve the problem. However, even as the population slowly becomes desensitized, the tragedy is no less significant. Image by Sydney Evans.

Staff Editorial

“It’s really important because you need By now, most high school students do not really remember a time to keep people when mass shootings were “uncommon.” safe. Overall, I think Therefore, we are willing to bet that a common reaction to the worst mass shooting in American history that took place in early October was, school safety is number one over “This again? How terrible.”

The Gun Violence Archive defines a mass shooting as an occurrence everything. I’m in which four or more are shot/killed in a single event. By this glad we had the definition, Las Vegas’ tragedy was the 273rd of 291 this year. So far, ALICE training,” said there have only been 294 days of 2017.

Mitchell Durham, 9.

To varying extents, we have all become desensitized. How could anyone make an argument to the contrary when we perpetuate a condition in which 12,000 gun homicides are committed each year?

As a society, we are no longer filled with the rage and injustice that we felt after Sandy Hook or after San Bernardino or after Orlando. It is impractical to put ourselves through that kind of passion and emotion time and time again, because what has it really accomplished?

We are shocked and then we are outraged and then nothing happens.

We continue with our lives, and at some point we are no longer shocked when the next one comes.

The problem is: a murder today is no less tragic than one that took place a few years ago.

We are not blaming people for moving on, nor are we arguing that everyone should agree on the solution, but we cannot continue to go down this slippery slope of stagnation.

When the generation that grew up preparing for shootings in schools is grown up, how many people will have to die in a shooting for it to make the news?

Sure, we do not have all the answers. Most of us cannot even vote.

But we at least owe it to the victims, and to ourselves, to respond. Care.

Listen. Figure out what you think is the solution and say something about it.

If not, we are more likely than not to regret it one day when it hits closer to home.

“We have to go to school, and the parents want us safe. For the kids to be safe, they need the school to protect them,” said Yuzuka Maekawa, 10.

“Safety is important so that we can have an environment where learning can flourish,” said Lydia Cooke, 11.

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OPINION October 30, 2017

Juvenile system leads to future issues

AIDAN NOBLE staff writer

IT IS HARD to believe that kids just like us can spend years in a juvenile prison, some older ones even spending time in federal prisons.

But is federal prison a good option for kids that will be exposed to the prison lifestyle so young? Neustrelitz Prison is a juvenile detention facility in Germany that approaches discipline in a different manner.

Instead of having them lumped into a space with other troubled children who may worsen their problems, kids there can ride horses and take care of rabbits as part of their rehabilitation and therapy.

Of course, this comes with the usual surveillance cameras, blue sweat suit uniforms, and barbed wired walls. The difference is Germany’s awareness of how young brains function and how they are vastly different from fully developed brains.

Currently in Germany, juvenile protection laws cover kids until age 21, and even then, there is a political debate to extend the age until 24.

That is vastly different from the US, where some kids will be charged as adults

BY THE NUMBERS

37.5% Of court involvement charges are Property Offenses

37 times More likely to be charged as an arrested as an adult after juvenile prison

$240.99 Average cost per day of a delinquent in state-funded, post-adjudication residential facilities

Colorado defendants as young as age 12 can now be tried as adults for Class 1 and 2 felonies with the permission of a district attorney.

The United Nations adopts the Declaration on the Rights of the Child, which allows children to be given leeway due to immaturity.

1987

1959 1903 Denver Judge Ben Lindsey becomes an early supporter of Juvenile Justice.

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Photos courtesy of Tribune Services

That is vastly different from the U.S., where some kids will be charged as adults around 16 or 17.

Those being sentenced to juvenile prison were 37 times more likely to be arrested as an adult.

From 1970 to 2015, “systemic abuse of children in youth prisons has been uncovered in all but five states.”

According to Juvenile in Justice, a 17 year old in a juvenile detention center said,“I first came here at 13... I came back a couple months later. More weed charges.

They put me on adult probation at 13.”

In Sycamore, the first time a minor is charged with minor offense, it can be removed by community service and will be erased from a permanent record.

In a study done by “Time Magazine” in 2009 showed that, “Kids who entered the juvenile-justice system even briefly…were twice as likely to be charged as adults.”

Although both the U.S. and German juvenile detention centers are different, they both set out to achieve the same goal of remedial care for youth. Yet, perhaps the US could look to other countries for some new ideas.

1967 Colorado defendants aged 16 or older are now eligible to be tried as adults on Class 1 and 2 felonies, but only after hearing a court judge.

1990 The United Nations adopts the Convention on the Rights of the Child, banning sentencing juveniles to life without parole. Only two countries failed to ratify it, the United States and Somalia.

Sources: PBS, youth.gov, crminal-law.freeadvice.com

‘TO KNEEL OR NOT TO KNEEL’ SARA MARGOLIS a&e columnist

controversy on kneeling or locking arms during the national anthem has filled the media. Some are upset because they think that players are disrespecting the American flag and the people who fought for our freedom, while others agree with the players and are standing

by their side in the fight against racism and police brutality.

The protests started last year with 49er Colin Kaepernick. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell decided that there would be no punishment for kneeling or sitting, while President Donald Trump has stated that the protests are disrespectful.

“

Athletes today are trying to set an example of how it is wrong the way that some African Americans are treated, and I think they have the right to do this, but they should realize they are also part of this country, and they should respect the flag and its freedoms.

“

One of the biggest problems in America is when people who are largely removed from oppression feel the need to tell the marginalized how to deal with struggle.

You’ll find that struggles are overshadowed due to a lack of empathy and compassion from those who remain unaffected. Problems are overlooked and silenced when people (overwhelmingly white) that hold positions of power restrict your voice entirely, or when common citizens remain largely ignorant of issues at hand.

An example is when NFL owners and fans pressure the players to disregard their movement and stand for the national anthem.

These occurrences show that America has forgotten what democracy is. No one’s upholding our country to the values of equality that the Constitution and anthem’s rhetoric establish. Colin Kaepernick kneeled in order to show America that he wouldn’t stand with a country that overlooks oppression; it’s not out of disrespect for the military.

ASA HODRICK,12

“

ANDREW SULFSTED,9

October 30, 2017

OPINION

Ally’s Alley: ALLYSON BONHAUS feature chief

A few weeks ago, I attended a Sycamore Board of Education meeting, and it shocked me how few residents regularly attend. There were very few residents---probably around ten.

At these meetings members talk about school performance, allocating money to different places, and making/amending/ removing policies.

As I am a resident, I am interested in the chain of command. How do the board members directly impact my experience, and can I have a say in how they do? The meetings help answer these questions.

Prior to this, an administrator told me SHS reached out to the community. They said they wanted students engaged in learning, helping each other, and being responsible.

If they have this “job” for us, should they be interested in if we do it?

Attending board meetings is a step in ensuring that all our priorities are the same.

People generally look into the school district they will be a part of when buying a house, whether they have kids or not.

Since residents must pay taxes, they may want to know what is important to a district, and therefore what tax money is used for.

So, should adult citizens charge the institutions that receive their tax money with running schools in the best possible manner?

However, I am in no way saying Sycamore is not operating or using funds correctly. I just want to point out: should we not be curious what is important to the people affecting our school day?

Personally, I go to board meetings so that they see the face of a person they are impacting with their policies, so that they know who is affected by their words.

Should a student or resident not be curious about whether the things important to them are important to the school board?

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“

FEATURE October 30, 2017

AUTUMN TRENDS FALL INTO SCENE

chunky sweaters

ANNE MARSH

shoulder bags

creative projects director

graphic tees

bomber jackets

denim on denim

mom jeans sneakers 8

Photos courtesy of Anne Marsh

Binge breaking

October 30, 2017

FEATURE

Student goes five days without Netflix

MAYA GOLDENBERG staff writer

I REMEMBER WHEN I first watched Netflix: it was in fourth grade, with my best friend, eating Papa John’s pizza and frozen mini Cinnabon buns.

Back then I would play outside, run around with my friends, or draw in my free time. Now, I just watch Netflix instead.

What used to be a treat once every month has recently become my go to activity when I have nothing to do… sometimes even when I have things to do.

I am not the only one wasting away in the isolating glow of Netflix.

A large portion of our generation finds it acceptable to spend a whole weekend curled up in front of a screen, mindnumbingly watching Netflix marathons;

DAY

1

After school, I wanted so badly to relax and push my long to-do list aside by eating a snack and watching Netflix…

Of course I still ate a snack, but while watching Youtube videos instead. I do not even like Youtube.

Netflix was dearly missed because the shortness of the Youtube videos shortened my snack time and made it harder to escape the stress imposed by all the work waiting for me. To sum, I missed my trashy Netflix shows.

My thumb was found hovering over the Netflix app on my phone throughout the day… that is a problem.

D A Y

2

a friend of mine estimates that she watches over 30 hours of Netflix each week.

We stream shows with friends and family as a ‘fun’ activity to do together.

My cousin told me he and his wife watched “13 Reasons Why” in two days (each episode ranges in length from 50 minutes to 60 minutes).

The thing is, all of this time spent streaming TV is wasted. We could be creating real memories with our loved ones instead.

We should all ask ourselves, “When I look back at today, what will I remember? What will I think of how I spent my time?”

I do not see myself being happy one day recalling most of my time I started to feel a little less connected to technology, which is a great feeling. It made me more present in the world and in the moment.

This challenge inspired me to not watch TV before bed, instead, replacing it with reading.

At first, I was a little worried about not being able to fall asleep as quickly, but reading was surprisingly relaxing and a great way to wind down.

DAY

3

being spent doing school work and streaming TV. Of course, school and extracurricular activities are not going to be penciled out of my schedule, but Netflix?

That both can and should go. So, I decided to try a week without Netflix.

Take Away This really opened my eyes to how much better we can feel when we do not watch Netflix. We can get more done, spend more time being with the people we love, and feel less connected to technology.

For these reasons, we should all plan on making Netflix what it should be-something we would watch every once in awhile, with Papa Johns and frozen mini Cinnabon buns in tow.

DAY

Not allowing myself to watch Netflix eliminated my break after school.

This helped me finish my homework faster because I am still in that school mentality--normally.

But, today was not a normal day because it consisted of waking up extra

DAY 4

Now that I can not watch it, I am beginning to notice that Netflix is everywhere. It is on billboards, there are articles written about it, and commercials for the streaming company air on the radio.

Being constantly reminded of what I cannot have made me really want to watch an episode or two… but I stayed strong (even though “Frasier” was calling my name).

I was really happy that I did not take any time out of my day to watch a two decades-old show because instead I spent time with my family (and homework).

Honestly, life is better without the constant distraction of Netflix, and today really solidified that.

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early for cross country and a crazy amount of homework. For these reasons, I did not finish all of my work.

On a more positive note, I did not want to watch Netflix as much, but that may have to do with the fact that I was pretty much sleep walking for the whole day.

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FEATURE

October 30, 2017

CINCINNATI BRINGS AUTUMN FUN ‘The 411 in the 513’ ANNE MARSH

Photo courtesy of Anne Marsh

creative projects director

Coffee Please

Coffee Please, a charming cafe in the heart of Madeira, is the perfect autumn hangout. Chill here with a hot cup of coffee or bring a new book and sip an iced latte right next to their own coffee roaster.

“I always stop here for some chai tea or just to write in my journal because it’s so cozy,” said Thea Ferdinand, 12.

Hours: Monday-Saturday 6:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.; Sunday 6:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

French Park

There is nothing better than the crunch of leaves under your boots and crisp autumn air on your cheeks. French Park offers scenic hiking trails and a stream to splash in.

“Getting some exercise alone or with friends is always refreshing, and I love to see all the trees once the leaves have changed color,” said Keren Idelman, 12.

Hours: sunrise to sundown

Irons Fruit Farm Seniors Bailey Truitt and Garrett Lockwood enjoy the fall weather as they pick pumpkins at Irons Fruit Farm. Whether you use them for some tasty pumpkin seeds or a spooky Jack-o-lantern, choosing the perfect pumpkin is always a fun activity. Irons has apple sales, tractor rides, a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, and a bakery with treats like the famous apple donuts.

“I just like being outside and getting involved in businesses and activities in the area. Pumpkin picking is a fun experience and a great way to bond with friends,” Truitt said.

Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Monday-Friday $8/person; Saturday-Sunday $11/person

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Photo courtesy of Anne Marsh

Photo courtesy of Emily Chien

SHS has 18 seniors who made the cutoff to be named 2017 National Merit Commended Scholars. They are in the top three percent of scorers on the 2016 PSAT in the nation.

These scholars were announced on Oct. 26.

Top row, left to right: Israel Lorenzana, Brad Rollins, Jodie Lawson, Nathan Zhang, Matthew Isakson, Sydney Evans, Benjamin Goodyear.

Bottom row, left to right: Meera Nadathur, Yasmine Guedira, Stephanie Hong, Atit Pathak. Annena Lundgren, Anita Pan, Anne Marsh.

Not pictured: Ryan Tufts, Matthew Swartz, John Folz, Kyle Schroeder Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography.

COVER

October 30, 2017

Moving on after mass shootings

Covers by: Adhiti Chundur Illustration by: Melinda Looney

What students can do to help

COVER

October 30, 2017

Shootings call to increase gun control LYDIA MASSET

1,500

As long as weapons of this nature are not regulated they will continue to fall into the wrong hands and this cycle of When gun control first tragedy will only continue. comes to mind it seems like an In 2016 a bill was proposed to mass shootings insurmountable string of tragedies, Congress that mandated a federal In the United States since violence, and controversy. Gun background check for every firearm Sandy Hook in 2012 control is a complicated problem, and sale.

A bill of this nature would help complicated problems do not simply go prevent the wrong people from buying away.

WHAT IS THE SECOND a gun, while not banning them all America is certainly no stranger AMENDMENT? together. to mass shootings or guns, but we at The bill unfortunately did not pass “A well regulated Militia, being Sycamore sometimes believe we are. (along with three other proposed bills) necessary to the security of a free State, This is not necessarily the case. It when 46 senators (both Republicans and the right of the people to keep and is easy to believe we are immune to Democrats) voted against them. The bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” a mass shootings because we do not problem of gun control is not just reliant face every day when we go to school; on how individuals are buying guns, but however, that does not mean that it is who the people buying the guns are, and not there.

Rob Portman what they are allowed to do with them.

According to Cincinnati.com, the first According to the American Journal of Call: (513) 684-3265 quarter of the year was Cincinnati’s Public Health, drug and alcohol abuse Write: worst for gun violence, coming at 82 “increase the risk of violent crime by as 448 Russell Senate Office Building percent higher than at the same time much as seven-fold.”

Washington, DC 20510 in the previous year. Cincinnati also This can become especially experienced its worst mass shooting Sherrod Brown problematic in states such as Ohio ever this year at the Cameo Nightclub Call: (513) 684-1021 where it is legal for licensed people where fifteen were wounded and two Write: to bring concealed carry weapons were killed.

425 Walnut St #2310, Cincinnati, OH into bars.

This proves that it is also Ignoring this problem is not the 45202 crucial that drug and alcohol abuse answer, but neither is living in fear. rehab programs are funded to help Here at SHS we have A.L.I.C.E. training what defines a mass decrease the amount of people at risk in place to help keep us safe in the shooting? for violence. event that something like this were to There is tragedy and a clear need According to a report by The occur. Being prepared for tragedy is for reform, but how? How will change Congressional Research Service extremely important, but beating the happen?

The truth is you can make (CRS), “mass shooting” is defined as a problem at its source is key. a change right now. There are 46 multiple homicide incident in which There has been some reaction to senators who chose to prevent safety, four or more victims are mass shooting in the past, for example 46 senators who need to be called and murdered with firearms, within one in the state of New York. After the urged to change, and most importantly event, and in one or more locations in Sandy Hook Elementary School mass 46 people who cannot be re-elected until close proximity. shooting in 2012 several states stepped they change their stances. forward and made changes to their gun I urge you to think about all the control laws, New York being one of Why own guns? lives lost and the people you have to them. lose in your life. Now is the time to do Protection The New York Secure Ammunition something about these tragedies. Make and Firearms Enforcement Act of 2013 Hunting the call, write the letter, encourage (NY SAFE Act) was passed, which those able to vote to do so. made it necessary to have a background Sport shooting Gun violence is not going away. The check in order to buy a gun, as well Gun collection effects of gun violence are not going as several other changes all targeted away.

The glaring need for change is Job requirements towards improving gun safety. Such certainly not going away.

It is time we reforms are important, but they will Design by: Adhiti Chundur stand together and do something now not be effective until they are Sources: Pew Research, NYTimes, Mass before it is too late.

12 widespread.

Shooting Tracker

staff writer

ohio senators:

October 30, 2017

COVER

Heartwarming heroes Routine blood donations save lives EMILY CHIEN

media director

When national tragedy strikes, helplessness infects the American population like a disease. How can any one person make a significant difference in helping those affected?

What can they do to help prevent more deaths in the future?

Little do many know, there is a simple answer. Donate blood, and donate

routinely.

News of the most recent mass shooting in Las Vegas spurred long lines at nearby blood banks, many of which could not use all of the extra blood produced in reaction to the crisis.

In fact, most blood utilized after this tragedy was what hospitals had in storage, brought in fresh every day by

DID YOU KNOW?

41,000 blood donations needed every day in the U.S.

13%

of daily blood donations come from high school blood drives

38%

one donation can help save three lives

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2

of Americans are eligible to donate blood, but less than

days required between donations

10%

Every

seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood

actually donate blood regularly

REQUIREMENTS TO DONATE

HOW TO DONATE Register.

Register at Hoxworth Blood Center or right here at school when the blood drive stops by. Either way, take the first step to save a life.

Get a mini-physical.

Before giving blood, there is a quick checkup to ensure the health and safety of all blood donors. Safety always comes first.

Bring your ID.

16 +

Be at least 16 years old.

Be at least 110 lbs.

Eat and drink plenty.

Source: Hoxworth Blood Center

regular blood donors. Remarkably, those who gave blood regularly were the ones who really saved lives.

As always, blood donations are vital for those with chronic diseases as well as those surprised by sudden injury.

While donating in reaction to an incident is admirable, it is more essential to donate routinely.

Donate.

Finally, give blood. Typically, one is able to do so about every two months to give the body adequate time to recover.

Replenish.

Giving blood means giving up energy. Make sure to stay hydrated, well-fed, and well-rested before and after doing so.

Design by: Emily Chien

13

COVER

October 30, 2017

What’s your view?

Students express opinions on gun control

“

David Godar, 12

“

I think there should be background checks, and there should be bans on automatic weapons at the state level because I want as many good adults as possible to have access to guns for self-defense and defense against government tyranny.

I guess I’d propose that guns be, in general, legal in more places, for example, college campuses, as the rape rate would go down because it would serve as a deterrent for bad people.

What to do in a mass shooting

”

Politicians from both sides of the aisle agree that things must be done to protect the public and make sure this never happens again- for example, the ban on bump stocks. Certain partisan lawmakers are quick to run to other gun control talking points.

We cannot allow lunatics, who pass every rigorous background check and display no signs of craziness, to ruin gun ownership for the rest of us. Millions of Americans own weapons for self defense and recreation, and we cannot allow one person who slips through the cracks to ruin it for the rest of us.

”

Jacob Frankel, 11

How to apply a tourniquet 1. Tie below the injury to stop bleeding 2. Elevate injury and keep warm

Forget your belongings TRAINING

Know your

Alert Lockdown Inform Counter Evacuate

If you can run, take others with you

Be aware of where the shooter is located

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Evacuation is ideal when possible

Design by Sydney Weiss

If all else fails, counter the shooter by throwing objects or swarming

How to help Vegas 1. Donate money 2. Regularly donate blood

Steve Sisolak, Clark County Commission Chair from Las Vegas created a GoFundMe page that has raised more than $10 million

Source: alicetraining.com washingtonpost.com

ENTERTAINMENT

Saying hello, goodbye

Fall television presents beginnings, finales

TAYLOR CLOSE

leaflet editor-in-chief As time progresses, everything comes and goes, and television is no exception. Every fall and spring there are several shows that debut and several more that enter their last season. just like the circle of life.

This fall is no different, with several premieres hooking in a new audience.

These premieres have to be captivating enough to keep the viewers coming back each week.

One such show is “Young Sheldon,” a spin-ff of another popular series, “The Big Bang Theory.” “Young Sheldon” is the backstory of the antisocial main character, Sheldon Cooper, and his life as a child genius.

Seeing as it is almost Halloween, it seems fitting to have a show on the topic of the supernatural. That is just what “Ghosted,” starring “Parks and Rec” actor Adam Scott and “the Office” actor Craig Robinson, is about.

Scott and Robinson play unlikely partners who are recruited to work for the Bureau Underground, a government agency responsible for everything unusual. Both actors bring some of the humor from their previous shows, adding much-needed comic relief.

While it is easy to get lost in the excitement of new shows, it is important to remember the ones that have been returning for several seasons and ones coming to a close with one final hurrah.

There are a myriad of returning shows that are around for their second, third, or even ninth season, like “Modern Family.” They continue to produce alternative realities to their audiences for the hour or so that they are aired each week.

Hulu’s “The Mindy Project” is just one of the shows saying goodbye this fall, with its sixth season being its last.

The show has followed Doctor Mindy

Lahiri (Mindy Kaling) on her journey to becoming a better person.

This last season will be all about how Lahiri deals with her new life as a married woman. Like previous seasons, this one will have witty remarks from not only Lahiri, but the rest of her practice as well.

ABC’s “the Middle” is also entering its ninth and final season. Featuring a dysfunctional middle class family of five, the show highlights the ups and downs of family life in a humorous way.

While each episode is not connected, a common theme throughout this season is tying up loose ends and reminiscing on the past eight seasons.

This cycle of new replacing old will continue to progress as long as television is around, but it can be hard to say goodbye. One way to fix this is to get hooked on a new and upcoming show.

Returning shows TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS THURSDAYS THIS IS US RIVERDALE how to get away with

NBC

9PM

B R O O K L Y EN E-NIN N I N9:30 PM

FOX

black i s h

abc

9PM

8PM

THE

abc

10PM

Goldbergs Superstore the

abc

8PM

modern family abc 9PM

NBC

8PM

GOTHAM 8PM FOX Designed by: Taylor Close

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ENTERTAINMENT

October 30, 2017

Winter Drumline returns HANNAH LEE

opinion chief YOU MAY HAVE heard of Winter Guard or pep band, but have you heard of Winter Drumline? You probably have not, because it is returning this year!

The band program has many extracurricular activities extending from the main one, the marching band. After the fall season of marching band, many members continue in the winter with Winter Guard or pep band However, for percussion, there was no winter activity that allowed them to come together and practice in recent years, much less prepare to go to competitions.

Then this year, percussion director and Junior High band director Mr. Ryan Lamb announced that there will be a Winter Drumline after much consideration and planning.

After acquiring approval from the Sycamore Band and Orchestra Boosters board and administrators, the music, competitions, and schedules were planned out straight away. Choreography for the drumline is continually being designed.

The Winter Drumline will consist of percussion members from marching band, including drumline and front ensemble; however, anyone who wishes to join is welcome as long as he or she is ready to commit and put in time for rehearsals.

“I feel that Winter Drumline is going to be a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I’d have to say that the part I’m most excited for is the challenge,” said Jordon Scott, 9.

Rehearsals will be similar in format to the marching band rehearsal times. However, the weekends will be considerably more lenient.

Lamb promises that each month

16

except for February, when the drumline will have most competition, will not have Friday and Saturday rehearsals.

“I’m very excited for Winter Drumline, and I hope it is as enjoyable as drumline is for the marching band,” said Jeremiah Gast, 9.

Competition-wise, Lamb has signed the group up for competitions in A class.

Current marching band percussion members have been given a sneak peek of the music with a recording of the first minute of the piece.

The first competition will take place on Feb. 4 at Northmont High School in the Mid East Performance Association (MEPA) circuit, and the last will depend on whether the drumline makes championships or not.

The MEPA championships will be on April 7 at the Nutter Center and the Winter Guard International (WGI) championships will be on April 19-20.

NEW BEGINNINGS. Returning this school year, a new competitive drumline starts in the winter.

The group is open to all students who are interested in practicing music skills; in addition, there are several different roles for students to choose from. Similar to Winter Guard, the winter drumline will compete indoors. Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography.

column: SARA MARGOLIS

a&e columnist I PERSONALLY DO not under any circumstances enjoy horror movies, horror TV shows, or basically anything related to the word “horror” whatsoever.

It is not just because these things keep me up at night, or because they make me scared to be home alone. It is because the plots of these movies and TV shows provoke some people to actually take these terrible situations and make them come to life.

One example is the famous movie “American Psycho” with Christian Bale, Jared Leto, and Reese Witherspoon, which inspired an absurd murder involving a high school student.

In 2004, Michael Hernandez stabbed a peer to death. According to wickedhorror.com, “He claimed to model his behavior after fictional serial killer Patrick Bateman in ‘American Psycho,’ saying that he identified with the killers in horror movies and had aspirations of becoming a serial killer himself.”

Now I am not saying everyone who sees a horror movie has the intention to hurt someone or plot an awful prank, but I do wonder: do some people go to the movies with the intent of later taking actions from the big screen to real life?

Or is it all merely caused by a person’s intention to commit a crime to get their name out into the world, becoming well-known?

All that being said, 2017 has produced no shortage of horror for fans to consume this Halloween.

“It,” based on Stephen King’s novel received rave reviews, and “Get Out” has a 99 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. “mother!” with Jennifer Lawrence could also work for those who lean towards psychological thrillers.

Even though I will not be celebrating Halloween with horror, I hope everyone has a great holiday.

October 30, 2017

FIRST RESPONDERS

“

Mrs. Susan Murphy, RN I lead the Emergency Medical Response Team at SHS. It’s a basic training of first aid triage for people on our staff who want to be part of that. We have about 15 [staff members involved], and we do training every other year...

We’re ready to help out in any kind of situation, so we’d be able to help if there’s a shooting and it’s cleared safe, but in those situations we’re more responsible for getting [students] out safely.

We can help if there’s an explosion in a building nearby and help can’t get in or there’s an incident in chemistry as well. We’re ready to help the community.

[In these events] you triage people (green for good, yellow to keep an eye on them) and get them treated based on the level of care needed, so by the time EMS gets there, they know what they’re dealing with.

It’s all coordinated with the fire department.

“

MEET THE...

Photo courtesy of Allyson Bonhaus

PSSST...

I’ve been in the education field for nearly 14 years. My previous career was serving as a U.S. Marine for 23 years, which provided me the opportunity to gain first hand experience in the area of Force Protection.

During my career, I served multiple combat tours as well as humanitarian tours worldwide.

Sycamore Community Schools, like all schools across the country, are required to have a written plan which covers incidents such as an active shooter. These plans, along with detailed drawings of each building located in the district, are confidential.

We are required to perform

To give us your story ideas, email shsstudentvoice@ gmail.com or stop by room 115

three safety related drills per year. These drills include rapid evacuation, lock down in place, and a tabletop exercise for staff members which simulates a realworld scenario.

The district has also taken a proactive approach to train students in A.L.I.C.E training (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate).

I can say without hesitation based on my personal experience working with other school districts, [SHS] takes school safety very seriously and continues to seek out training for selected staff to develop...upon our current training for both students and staff.

“

“

Mr. David Foster, Support Services Director

Photo provided.

Emergency medical response trained staff members: -Ed Clark -Greg Cole -Sandy Combs -Emily Conatser -Kelley Flodder -Sean Geers

-Shelley Oltorik -Paul Payne -LaToya Pitts -Beth Quinones -Dawn Stone-voss -Stacy Cahill

-Kate Korchok -Laura Westendorf -Jeremy Pletz -James Smanik -Bonnie Stephenson

17

SPORTS

October 30, 2017

Inside scoop on what makes these athletes tick

‘The best feeling’

ABIGAIL LEFTON sports chief

Patrick Tueimeh, 12, football “I love playing football because playing under those lights is the best feeling. I love playing for our crowd and the Ave Cave as well. “

Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

Grace Deng, 10, water polo “I love meeting people with the same passion as me! Practicing so often brings the whole team closer together, and I have met some of my closest friends through sports. “ Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

Grant Laneve, 11, cross country/track “The thing I most enjoy about these sports is the bonds that are built between me and my teammates. I love how we all push each other to improve ourselves and reach our potential. We all get to know each other pretty well, maybe even a bit too well. “ Photo courtesy: Grant Laneve

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Athletes get in ‘condition’

October 30, 2017

SPORTS

BEN GREEN staff writer

WHEN PEOPLE THINK of sports,

they think of the games played every week and the glory of victory.

Little do we hear about the hard work outside of these competitions. We rarely hear about how athletes prepare for these games and how they practice for these big moments.

The most important part of preparing for an upcoming season is conditioning.

In football a strict schedule is set indicating when full contact takes place and how long athletes can practice.

Their practice starts in early summer and ends on the last day of summer.

Football is one of the few sports that have two-a-days, where players have two practices in a day that consist of conditioning, lifting, and learning plays.

The conditioning consists of mostly running and up-downs, where players jump to the ground and try to get up as soon as they can.

After a loss, players have to run “the

green mile.” In this grueling mile, players run five yards, have an up-down repeatedly, and run back to the end zone.

“Losing sucks but the green mile is in the back of my mind during the game for motivation,” said Jackson Rudd, 11.

Tennis conditioning run by Coach Michael Teets has both boys and girls meeting at 6:00 a.m. from mid/late October until early/mid February during the offseason.

They start each session with a light jog followed by a string of stretching.

After stretching, they jump rope for five minutes, which leads to a group of ten stations made up of wall sits, running the ladder, planks, crunches, and shuttles.

“We have run the mile many times and gave all of our effort and hard work in practice,” said Sara Bolger, 9.

Players’ conditioning is mostly running, but they also have to spend

time in the Gregory Center to lift and get stronger.

“Lifting weights gets the players strong, but also the coaches get to see how the players are mentally and if they are leaders in the weight room,” said Jamar Hunter, freshmen football coach.

PUSH IT. Athletes condition for weeks before the season begins. A big part of that is lifting and running. This makes students put in time over breaks and early in the morning. Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography.

Girls tennis swings at state MADELEINE SUH staff writer

On Oct. 20, the Varsity Gold Lady Aves tennis team competed for advancement in the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) state tournament.

“You start the tournament with sectionals, and if you advance you go to districts, then state if you make it into the final four [of the District level], which [Harsitha and Helen] did!” said Abby Pescovitz, 10.

While sophomore Harsitha Kalaiarasan and junior Helen Sotropa were the only SHS athletes on the court at state, their teammates were there to cheer them on.

On the previous Thursday, students STRONG. Sophomore Harsitha Kalaiarasan gathered in the halls to recognize the plays for Varsity Gold tennis. Kalaiarasan and girls’ talents and to wish them good junior Helen Sotropa played at state on Oct. luck for the following day in the Walk of 20. The pair finished in the top 16 doubles.

Champions.

Photo courtesy of Aves Tennis.

“The Walk of Champions was very exciting because the whole school [got] to see the leaders of our team… with all of us behind them showing our love and support,” Pescovitz said.

“I’m feeling confident going into this match. My freshman year I lost in the first round of state, and since that loss I’ve made it my goal to reach the final four…”

“Hopefully...I’ll reach my goal because I’ve worked so hard and prepared constantly.”

“I’m excited for what will happen tomorrow but most importantly I need to stay calm...I want to enjoy every moment,” Sotropa said before state.

After battling through a hard loss of 3-6, 6-7, the Lady Aves doubles court finished in the top 16 at State.

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SPORTS

October 30, 2017

‘Who’s got spirit?’

Varsity cheerleaders reflect EMILY CHIEN

media director

KIRSTEN THOMAS spotlight chief

FOOTBALL PLAYERS ARE not the only ones featured under the Friday Night Lights. Cheerleaders can be found near the bottom of the Ave Cave at each home game cheering on the team and getting the crowd excited.

“My favorite part about cheer is getting the crowd hyped up, having fun, and having school spirit,” said Alexandra Scheier, 12.

Cheerleaders practice tirelessly on tumbling, cheers, and dances, as their season consists of games, pep rallies, and competitions.

“This year our team decided to compete in October so the practices have become a lot more intense,” said Rachel Schneider, 11.

Cheerleaders recently competed on Oct. 29 at Hamilton High School.

Preparation for that included practicing three days a week in the month of October and a three-day clinic to learn all of the material throughout September.

“This is one of the best squads we have had in a while, and I am excited to see what we can do at a competition,” said Allison Ross, 12.

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With a record-breaking eight cheerleaders able to tumble, members have been working individually on their skills to better the routine.

“It is a lot more fun as a senior because we teach the cheers, and we have a little sisters program that just started this year,” said Hannah Long, 12.

No matter how difficult individual and group practices may be, these experiences form bonds that make enduring rigorous practice bearable.

“Before the season starts we have parties at people’s houses, and when we first start practices we get to know

each other and talk about our goals for the season.

“For most of us, it feels like a family.

I have made some of my closest friends through cheerleading, and it makes me look forward to going to practices and games,” Long said.

The Varsity cheer team consists of seven senior girls who have participated over the past four years.

“I will miss the energy in a stadium on a Friday night. There is nothing like being a Varsity cheerleader and I am so sad it is my last year,” said Constance Kavensky, 12.

Row 1 left to right: Stephanie Kidd, Rachel Schneider Row 2 left to right: Allison Ross, Hannah Long, Alexandra Scheier Row 3 left to right: Megan Moreno, Constance Kavensky Row 4: Grace Hall, Emma Smith, Julia McDowell, Sophia Neat, Molly Ferguson Not pictured: Brianna Sloan, Calliope Osborne, Kathleen Fritz

SPOTLIGHT October 30, 2017

Stover leads Unified for Uganda KIRSTEN THOMAS spotlight chief

SHS students travel all over the world to catch a break from stress, school, and reality. Senior Makayla Stover also took a trip this summer, but for a very different reason.

Stover is president of the SHS chapter of Unified for Uganda, which strives to make a difference in the lives of Ugandan children.

Stover traveled through the U4U chapter here but corresponded with the overall organization through Moeller High School.

Nine students from Cincinnati attended, as well as one from the University of Iowa.

Traveling for two weeks allowed students to see what children in Uganda do every day, including the places they go.

“We shadowed the kids at school and home,” Stover said.

Attendees tend to call such endeavors reverse mission trips, as students learn there and come home to continue work.

SHS has the biggest chapter of U4U. Sponsorship and mentorship has been increasing.

Sponsoring a child involved with U4U

From left to right: FRIENDSHIP. The mission trip focused on all children. Bonds are made between everyone involved. Without U4U, these friendships would not be possible.

ALWAYS IMPROVING. Upon returning home, students work to improve the lives of those in Uganda. This is referred to as a “reverse mission trip.” The help provided would not be as beneficial without this trip.

ALL SMILES. Stover holds one of the children she met on her trip. During her time there, Stover spent time with multiple kids, not just ones she sponsored or had previous connections with. The goal is to come home and make changes in Uganda in regards to the trip.

All photo credits to Makayla Stover.

gives contributors peace of mind knowing that all monetary donations go directly to the children.

Paying $300 per year assures a child has access to education, a meal at school, a uniform, and emergency medical care. This can make a world of difference in a child’s life.

Students sponsored are of all ages and even attend different schools.

Stover found that being able to travel to Uganda and see the different way of life was eye opening.

“I got to meet lots of different kids with different living situations,” Stover said.

Everyone who went on the trip are seniors this year, and most of them were presidents of their respective chapters.

Seniors who went had to apply, interview, and show their leadership roles. “[U4U is a really cool thing to get involved in,” Stover said.

There are meetings every month, so anyone interested can make sure to stay up to date on their social media.

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