November 2018 Leaf

THE LEAF Sycamore High School News Magazine Volume 6 | Issue 3 | November 19, 2018

WHAT MAKES US DIVERSE 13-17 Diversity at SHS is shown through the differences between us 8 Student valued overseas travel over school 2 Staff members and students stop shaving to raise awareness

CONTENTS

EDITOR IN CHIEF Allyson Bonhaus ART & PHOTO MANAGING EDITOR Sydney Weiss MANAGING EDITOR Kirsten Thomas WEB EDITORS Kirsten Thomas Sydney Weiss SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Jessica Lu ART & PHOTO EDITORS Linya Guo Harsitha Kalaiarasan Anisa Khatana Sara Margolis BUSINESS STAFF Lindsey Brinkman Hannah Lee Charlotte Weiss Jack Wolfe PR TEAM Gabby Khodadad Henry Loeb Allison McElroy Deeya Prakash Jack Wolfe NEWS Anisa Khatana SPORTS Madeleine Suh FEATURE Harsitha Kalaiarasan ENTERTAINMENT Lindsey Brinkman OPINION Abigail Lefton VIDEO Lydia Masset

ASSOCIATE VIDEO EDITOR Alex Jowanovitz COPY EDITORS Hannah Lee Bhaavya Jha Chloe Mensch Megan Soellner Grace Zhang SECRETARY Delaney Ciotola FACT CHECKER Josh Moore CARTOONIST Isabella Magato CREATIVE WRITING EDITOR Nehalem Chudnoff SLUG PATROL Alex Bullock STAFF WRITERS Ephraim Carlson Deeya Prakash

ADVISER Alexandra Frost PHOTOGRAPHER McDaniel’s Photography 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

NEWS

FUN & GAMES

2 Movember 3 Harvard lawsuit 4 Calendar

18 ‘Tis the season Crossword

OPINION

ENTERTAINMENT

5 Staff editorial 6 Asian mental health 7 Black Friday 8 Missing school

19 Mary Poppins Returns 20 Donut review 21 Black Friday tips

FEATURE

FOCUS

COVER

SPORTS

9 Korean Pop 10 Sugar 11 Winter holidays 12 Thanksgiving 13 Diversity 14 Diversity 15 Diversity 16 Diversity 17 Diversity

THE LEAF

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

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

22 Noah Pelberg

23 Hockey 24 McWhorter 25 AQT

Read more with our website

shsleaf.org

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

@SHSLEAF

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS We are so happy you are back! Thank you for your readership- The Leaf would be nothing without you!

So, you are probably wondering what this issue is all about, and we can’t blame you.

Our staff has had the privilege of reflecting on diversity in the past few weeks with a new perspective.

It is engrained in all of our minds what diversity means- a difference in ethnicity, religion, abilities, and so on.

In this issue, we share the traditional diversity stories such as ethnicity, but we also explore the new angle we are taking, such as how student’s opportunities, choices, and lifepaths make them unique.

We have asked many of you (thank you for your cooperation and responsiveness!) to share your story, and how you are diverse from other people here at SHS- staff and students included.

SHS is an extremely diverse place, and we hope you can take this opportunity to learn about your fellow peers and teachers and celebrate how unique we all truly are.

Diversity does not have to be so “in the box” if you will, and we hope to explore that with you in this issue.

Besides the colorful coverage of diversity (get it?), we have lots of other stories of unique people to attract your eyes. One of our staffers went on a pretty awesome adventure (see page 10), which makes her pretty unique too.

All of these differences, big or small, make us who we are. That is something to be celebrated.

For those of you skimming this letter just to find out if we have fun and games in this issue, you’re in luck. Our fun and games page as well as “focus” is back and better than ever- make sure to check them out.

As always, our website www.shsleaf.org is waiting for you. We update our website daily, so check it out to ensure you don’t miss a beat.

Also, we post what is called a “human of SHS” every day- one SHS student is featured and share a little bit about themselves.

If you have anything you need to communicate to us or something you want us to cover in The Leaf or online, please send us an email at shsstudentvoice@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you have made it this far, thank you and good job, but go ahead and read the dare we say marvelous issue we have made for you. Enjoy!

NEWS

November 19, 2018

LET IT GROW

Movember comes to SHS ALLYSON BONHAUS editor in chief

No-Shave November began as a non-profit NOVEMBER MARKS THE month of in 2009, encouraging men to not shave at all mustaches and long facial hair. Whether you (trimming permissible) and donate whatever follow No-Shave November or Movember, the money they would have spent on shaving to the month aims to raise awareness of men’s health American Cancer Society. issues.

One critical issue the month tries to raise Both intend to recognize the leading causes of death in men: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, awareness for is prostate cancer, which is especially life-threatening when it has spread to mental health, and suicide prevention. other parts of the body.

Sometimes those with cancer lose their hair, Women are also encouraged to get involved to so this month is a way for men to embrace their spread awareness. Senior Miriam Chowdhury hair and raise awareness about men’s health was not able to participate this year but by growing a mustache or not supports the event. shaving at all.

IF I CAN GROW “A woman brazenly “Movember appeals to me displaying her cactus legs because it attempts to confront AN OFF-PUTTING may even be more effective the low life expectancy of men MUSTACHE TO MAKE in making a statement! Or worldwide, a serious topic, in an approachable manner. It’s fun, PEOPLE MORE MORE for those who may feel a little self-conscious owning weird, and completely positive,” AWARE OF MEN’S up to their Sasquatch-level said Mr. Kerry Crotty, English teacher who helped lead MENTAL HEALTH IN limbs (like me), a simple hair donation can do the trick,” Movember at SHS. GENERAL, I’M GONNA Chowdhury said.

While some do simply At SHS, staff members participate for fun, the event DO THAT and students are raising aims to stimulate conversations MR. BENJAMIN VORE awareness by letting their and increase awareness about own facial hair grow. men’s health.

Several staff members and “Once I get into week three, my beard becomes extremely scratchy and uncomfortable, students have also decided to participate in the month. but I think of how some people have to deal “Of the men’s health issues that Movember with discomfort when dealing with a critical illness. So what’s a little scratchiness?” said Mr. raises awareness about, the one I’m most passionate about is mental health and suicide Kevin Wittman, government teacher. prevention because mental illness is something Heart disease is the number one leading that runs in my family. cause of death in men in the U.S. (accounting “And if I can grow an off-putting mustache for 24.4 percent of total deaths), with cancer to make people more aware of men’s mental behind it, according to the Centers for Disease health in general, I’m gonna do that,” said Mr. Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2015.

“I do it because it raises awareness on certain Benjamin Vore, English teacher.

Suicide made up 2.5 percent of total deaths medical issues that not a lot of people really in American men in 2015, while suicide did not want to talk about, but [are] very prevalent even make the top ten leading causes of death and kill millions of men each year. Increased for women, according to the CDC. awareness is crucial if we are to help fix them,” “I hope [SHS students] take the opportunity said Ethan Miller, 12. to reach out and discuss health issues with the Movember is championed by the Movember men who are important in their lives. I know Foundation, a non-profit that began in Australia everybody needs a nudge from time to time, and in 2004. In 2017, Movember raised 17.1 million I’m hoping that nudge can come in the form of a dollars in the U.S.; 76.1 percent of the funds hairy upper lip,” Crotty said. were spent on men’s health projects.

02

Designed by: Sydney Weiss

NEWS

November 19, 2018

HARVARD LAWSUIT: explained DEEYA PRAKASH staff writer

CAPTAIN OF MASSACHUSETTS’ top tennis team, national debate champion, SAT Score: 1560/1600, excellence in 11 advanced placement classes, and a 4.42 GPA. Still, rejection from almost every single Ivy League university. Why? In the eyes of Students for Fair Admissions, it was because the student with the application was an Asian American.

For almost a century, affirmative action has been debated throughout the nation.

Focusing on Jews, African Americans, and financially unstable families, this debate centered on whether promoting diversity was helpful or counterproductive. Now the spotlight has shifted to Asian Americans.

Here are the basic nuts and bolts.

As of Oct. 15, 2018, Students for Fair Admissions, a group of Asian Americans who have been rejected from Harvard University, has entered a lawsuit with the college over racial discrimination in acceptance.

“It falls afoul of our most basic civil rights principles, and those principles are that your race and your ethnicity should not be something to be used to harm you in life nor help you in life,” said Edward Blum, the President of Students for Fair Admissions.

They argue that Harvard uses an unlawful quota system while determining acceptance that results in qualified Asian Americans being denied admission. This, they state, is a violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which outlaws discrimination based on race, color, gender, and religion.

That is the plaintiff’s side of the story.

However, the defense, who is ridiculed about their admission policy left and right, has something to say as well. Harvard states that they in fact do not use an unlawful system and have one simple goal: diversity.

By the numbers, this prestigious Ivy League school is made up of 11.6 percent

Latinos, 14.6 percent African Americans, 22 percent Asian Americans, and 2.5 percent Native American/Pacific Islanders.

This means that the rest of the 51 percent of Harvard is white.

For some Asian Americans, this is satisfactory and is not a cause of question at all.

“The diversity at Harvard has been key to my learning, and I think that if there weren’t so many people of different backgrounds, I wouldn’t be forced to think about things in new ways,” said Emily Choi, a student at Harvard, to The New York Times.

For others, this calls for a raised eyebrow or two.

The New York Times stated that the Asian American race scored the highest out of any other race on admissions measures like test scores, grades and extracurricular activities.

The only thing that dragged them down was the personality rating.

While qualifying students for admission, Harvard looks at approximately 14 different categories, some of which are academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, athletic, personal character, and overall achievements.

The student is then labeled with a number one through six for each category, one being the best a student can receive.

According to The New York Times, 21 percent of whites get a one or two in the personal rating whereas only 17 percent of Asian Americans do.

The plaintiff argues that the number is often given without even meeting the student.

The plaintiff brings up that it is unfair that qualified Asian American should be held back and artificially controlled while less qualified white, black, and Hispanics rise to the top.

Harvard disagrees, stating that its own expert analysis concluded that there is no discrimination and that seeking diversity is a valuable part of student selection.

David Card, a chief expert on the defense, elaborated on this point during his extensive testimony.

“I find it extremely... impossible to reconcile [the plaintiff’s] claim that the personal rating is the mechanism by which discrimination against Asian Americans is operating,” Card said, according to The Chronicle of Higher Education.

When speaking to Asian American students, they feel that this is a court case worth fighting for. SHS freshman Anelise Kim speaks for the plaintiff and for young Asian Americans across the nation.

“I’m glad of the lawsuit because I’ve heard things in the past about Harvard being discriminatory. It makes me [kind of] mad knowing what they [are] doing.

When I was younger, I actually wanted to go to Harvard.

“It’s kind of dream crushing to see that I would have had an even lesser chance than others to get into the school, especially since the reason is because of my race which is something out of my control entirely,” Kim said.

Freshman Kathryn Mott also supports the plaintiff and speaks to the benefit of diversity in schools as a student.

“Having people from different backgrounds and different races gives everyone a different view on the world, and makes you think with a new perspective… A more diverse school makes me feel more included… as everybody is so different and unique that everyone fits in,” Mott said.

So while the students battle the professors as this issue is brought to court yet again by appeal, some hope that this may be the end of affirmative action, once and for all. Others believe that this matter will never be put to sleep. Only time will tell.

Though this trial is starting out at the bottom tier, it will eventually be taken to Supreme Court as both sides are choosing to appeal.

So do not worry about the outcome for now. This, as some experts say, is just the dress rehearsal. Photo courtesy of Jenna Bao

NEWS

November 19, 2018

ELECTION RECAP

COMMUNITY CALENDAR NOVEMBER Nov. 17

Nov. 23

Band and Orchestra Boosters Craft Show

Black Friday See pages 9 and 21 for more

Nov. 20

Nov. 24

Nov. 21-23

Nov. 29

Thanksgiving break

Aves Choir Concert 7 p.m.

Nov. 22

Nov. 23 - Dec. 31

Board of Education meeting 7-9 p.m.

Thanksgiving See page 12 for more

Small Business Saturday

U.S. Senate Sen. Sherrod Brown (D) Campaign promise: In his victory speech, Brown emphasized the importance of unity and the power of the working class. Brown is known for supporting and being popular with working-class Ohioans and hopes to make Ohio a national role model.

U.S. House of Representatives Rep. Steve Chabot (R)

WinterFest at Kings Island

Dec. 5

Orchestra Concert

Dec. 7 & 8 Improv Show

Campaign promise: In an election night blog post on his campaign website, Chabot thanked those who elected him, discussed his take on the new Democrat-majority house, and reaffirmed his support for President Donald Trump.

Dec. 15

One Act Play Festival 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Dec. 17 - 20 Semester Exams

Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography

Dec. 20

End of Second Quarter

04

DECEMBER Designed by: Anisa Khatana

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine (R) Campaign promise: In his victory speech, DeWine proclaimed that Democrats and Republicans must work together in order to solve Ohio’s problems. DeWine is excited for Ohio’s future and looking to improve Ohio’s schools, jobs, and opioid situation.

Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons, Larry Phillips Photography. Sources: vindy.com, abc22now.com, stevechabot.com, wsaz.com

Photo courtesy of Harsitha Kalaiarasan

Nov. 10 - Jan. 6

Krohn Conservatory presents: A Crystal Holiday

LEAFING THROUGH THE MASSES: What is a way that you are diverse?

Photo courtesy of Grant Carter

“I do taekwondo and I am a black belt. I think it is really unique to learn such martial arts,” said Brii Braziel, 9.

“My family comes from a different part of the world than other people that I know and see,” said Mr. Ashwin Corattiyil, Dean of Students.

“I come from a family of 15 kids, we are all from different states and countries,” said Isabel Ingle, 12.

Photo courtesy of Abigail Lefton

As a part of a very diverse high school, our school district does not pass up opportunities to tout our diversity. And so an apathy or a “yesterday’s news” feel has come to the topic of diversity.

Yet, do we at SHS fully realize what diversity is?

Diversity is defined as “an instance of being composed of differing elements or qualities,” according to Merriam-Webster.

It is more than race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. Diversity encapsulates your story, who you are and how it makes you you. Diversity is in the fabric of the human experience- no one has the exact same experiences.

It echoes in the way you express yourself, your personality, the heritage you carry- diversity is all the different elements that make each one of us unique.

By going to a school with so many diverse people, we as a student body have the opportunity to be more culturally aware, appreciate individuality, and even facilitate more creativity. According to Peterson’s, a guide to college information, having a diverse school can do so much as improve children’s social skills.

Our diversity gives us immeasurable benefits. Yet, we must become aware of them to utilize them fully. We cannot passively say SHS is pretty diverse and then not begin a conversation. We must take advantage of the well of differences among us.

Diversity is recognizing all the different qualities and learning something from the differences, watching for the shared experiences, willing to learn something new, and determined to listen to other’s stories.

Celebrating our diversity may seem cliché and overkill after being continuously shouted, but our student body is full of unique stories. Stories that want to be shared because they are interesting and perhaps surprising to you.

Take a step back and simply read the stories. Learn something about someone you never knew before. Imagine what a mile in their shoes would feel like. Appreciate the uniqueness each student brings to the table.

It is important to celebrate diversity, to give it its due as it has helped mature us and form who we are becoming. Every student at SHS is unique in some way, so celebrate your own individualism.

Students should take this opportunity to realize that our diversity at SHS is something that deserves awe and recognition. Use this chance to start a conversation- what does diversity mean to you? Dive into the story of your own diversity. No one lacks a story.

Photo courtesy of Bhaavya Jha

Staff Editorial

Photo courtesy of Isabel Ingle

THE FABRIC OF SOCIETY. What unites a group of people, beyond their individual traits and differences, is their willingness to stand together no matter what. While the differences between all SHS students and citizens of the world are what make the human experience rich and diverse, we must learn to celebrate these differences together. Image courtesy of Anisa Khatana.

“I am diverse because I play trombone, many people don’t spend the time to play a musical instrument.” said Grant Carter, 10.

OPINION November 19, 2018

‘Therapy is for the weak’

Exploring the dangerous stigma among ‘model minorities’

JESSICA LU

social media director

WE ARE THE fastest growing ethnic

group in the country. As a group, we earn more income than any other racial category.

Half of us that are 25 and older obtain bachelor’s degrees or higher. Asian Americans, we are the model minority.

And it is killing us.

In Asian culture, there is a big emphasis on secrecy and appearances. We are not supposed to “air our dirty laundry” to others. Struggles?

They are supposed to be nonexistent.

“Like if your kid is diagnosed with depression or PTSD, your reaction would be ‘God Forbid, what would people think?

“Better hide the fact that my kid is unhappy’... they treat mental health like it’s this huge secret that would somehow degrade your reputation,” said Akhila Durisala, 11.

And reputation is huge in our communities.

Mental illness is considered shameful and even perceived as being ungrateful to parental sacrifices.

As Asian Americans, we can have trouble mitigating what we see in our friends’ families

06

versus what we see at home.

“We can’t talk to our parents about anything, so when we start experiencing failure, we think it’s our fault and that we’re disappointing our parents,” said Christine Zou, 12.

“So many Koreans are hardcore perfectionists, and the main reason is because of the influence the adult put on their kids,” said Esther Ku, 11.

This culturally-fueled pressure to be exceptional in every aspect as well as the expectation to live up to the model minority myth has only created a recipe for disaster.

According to a 2016 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, suicide was the leading cause of death among Asian Americans ages 15-19.

Similarly, The National Latino and Asian American Study (NLAAS) found that Asian Americans are “three times less likely to seek mental health services than whites.”

Even our community is not resistant to tragedies.

We need to normalize discussion about mental

health in our Asian communities. And these discussions need to be listened to seriously, emphatically — and without criticism.

While the rest of our country is increasingly moving towards destigmatizing mental illness, our Asian population is lagging behind. “[Asian] parents should recognize that showering your child with love, compassion, and understanding will help the situation incredibly.

“I mean, what do we value most? The impossible goal of having a perfect reputation in society or our children?” Durisala said.

SILENT STRUGGLE. For Asian Americans, talking to parents or other family members about their struggles may not be an option.

While mental illness is prevalent among all racial groups, Asians especially struggle with getting help due to cultural factors. When seeking help, it is important for Asians to find culturally competent professionals to fit their unique needs. Photo courtesy of Jessica Lu.

OPINION

November 19, 2018

column:

Early Black Friday threatens family time

ALLYSON BONHAUS

ALLISON MCELROY

editor in chief

staff writer

YOU ARE SITTING at home, enjoying

Thanksgiving. If we didn’t work on Thanksgiving, we would be planning our own Thanksgiving together and inviting [our family] over for once,” said Arnold Cortez, Walmart employee, to Marketplace.

Cortez has been working at a Walmart in Texas for 15 years and has missed out on a real Thanksgiving many times.

He is just one of many workers who experience this struggle.

“When stores are open on Thanksgiving it causes people to leave their families. Some people only visit their family rarely [and this] shortens quality time with their loved ones,” said Laura Nordin, 10.

Not only does beginning Black Friday on Thanksgiving affect workers, but it also affects consumers.

If shoppers are trying to obtain a popular doorbuster or major deal on an item, they may cut their Thanksgiving dinners short in favor of sales.

“I think Thanksgiving is for families and people shouldn’t be concerned about spending money on a day for giving thanks,” said Elizabeth Forman, 10 Some major stores have chosen to close on Thanksgiving. These include T.J. Maxx, Nordstrom, Costco, Staples, and more.

One retailer, REI, chooses to close on Thanksgiving and on Black Friday itself, encouraging the public to spend time outdoors.

Some consumers are eager to begin their holiday shopping minutes after their last bite of pumpkin pie, and retailers are eager to make a profit.

However, holding off on shopping for one more day would allow all families, of both shoppers and workers, to spend quality time together. After all, thankfulness, not shopping, is the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Sources: fortune.com, chicagotribune.com, marketplace.org, businessinsider.com, nbcnews.com

Photo courtesy of Grace NeCamp

a delicious Thanksgiving dinner with your loved ones. What you may not realize is that many people will not get this opportunity this Thanksgiving, or for many to come.

First, a disclaimer: I have gone Black Friday shopping on Thanksgiving for the past few years. After our dinner is long over, my family enjoys going out to stores.

Nevertheless, walking through the crowded stores, I always have sympathy for the overworked employees giving up their holiday to serve me.

Many employees at major retailers have no choice but to work on Thanksgiving if their store opens early for Black Friday.

Each year, stores have been opening earlier and earlier on Thanksgiving day.

One of the most notorious examples is Walmart. In 2017, the store was open all day on Thanksgiving, with Black Friday deals starting at six p.m.

Other retailers also opened on Thanksgiving last year. These stores included J.C. Penney, Macy’s, Kohl’s, Old Navy and Target.

Starting Black Friday deals early may increase profits, but the negative impact this practice has on employees outweighs the benefits.

Employees who work on Thanksgiving for Black Friday miss out on treasured time with family and friends, instead they work long shifts and deal with huge crowds of impatient shoppers.

According to a 2016 survey from CareerBuilder, about half of the workers in retail, hospitality and leisure industry were working on Thanksgiving.

That is too many employees working tiring, low-paying jobs on a day intended for rest and family.

“Every year [my wife and I] have to work

I VOTED

No matter which side of the aisle you may be on, Nov. 6 may not have been your favorite night of 2018.

Democrats took the House as Republicans maintained control of the Senate, spelling for two more divisive years to come with a split Congress.

Yet, there is something to be taken from the results other than seat differentials.

More women than ever have taken their place in Congress. ABC News claimed that a “pink wave” swept the nation.

At least 101 women were elected to Congress, more women to ever hold seats in Congress at one time before.

“I stand here before you tonight as your Congresswoman-elect with many firsts behind my name. The first woman of color to represent our state in Congress. The first woman to wear a hijab to represent Minnesota...The first refugee ever elected to Congress,” said Ilhan Omar.

Omar is far from the only one to have accomplished so many firsts on Nov. 6.

Not only women asserted their mark on history, but men of color and men who identify as LGBT came out in droves to campaign as well.

According to The New York Times, 188 white women, 16 LGBT women, 84 women of color, ten LGBT men, and 131 men of color ran for Congress.

No matter what happened on the night of Nov. 6, as a country we should be proud that our culture of diversity finally has shone through from sea to shining sea.

Even the voting culture expanded, as new voters account for approximately 17 percent of the vote, according to CBS News.

We must see the 2018 midterms as the first step toward an evolution of a greater sense of civic duty. Women heard the message to represent their interests and have delivered.

As Ayanna Pressley, the Congresswomanelect and the first black woman to ever be elected to Congress from Massachusetts, said, “None of us ran to make history. We ran to make change … and change is on the way,” according to boston.com.

As a country, we will continue to test the limits of our ability to see beyond the party line. Meanwhile, the country asserts that everyone, no matter their politics, deserves a place to be heard.

What is left is to continue the evolution to a representative Congress, without growing complacent or disillusioned.

07

OPINION

November 19, 2018

From CVG to CDG

Why I volunteered to miss five days of school ANISA KHATANA news chief

AT 1:30 P.M., I check the time, perform a bit of mental math, and smile giddily to myself.

If today were any other Thursday, I would be smiling like an idiot in the middle of my study hall.

Today, I am just another American in Paris.

Towards the end of October, I went on a week-long overseas trip while school was still in session. The timing can be justified by my older brother’s, who is currently studying in Greece, fall break.

My father and I decided to meet him in Paris for a visit, mostly because a 462 dollar roundtrip plane ticket to Paname (that just happened to coordinate with the dates we had in mind) is too good to pass up.

Normally, missing even one day of school would terrify me. I attend school when I am sick. I avoid field trips. I never take mental health days – all because I absolutely despise missing lessons and making up work.

Being a junior with a rigorous course load only amplified this terror.

I made myself agree to miss these five

08

days because, to put it bluntly, when someone asks if you want to go to Paris, you say yes. You just do.

So, before I go on, please know that I understand how unbelievably fortunate I was to have this opportunity. I understand that the following realization reeks of privilege, and it may seem like a no-brainer to some.

Mine is an extreme example of the situation I am about to discuss, and I in no way expect every SHS student to pick up and fly to Morocco just because.

But despite how cliché this is going to sound, my trip changed how I look at my life. It made me realize the importance of personal growth that occurs outside of the classroom, outside of grades and résumé.

My trip made me realize that while there is always work to be done and it is important to do that work well, it is also important to remember that this is your life.

Whatever your situation, it is so easy and so natural to get caught up in the stress and anxiety of high school. However, it is also

ENJOY IT. The view from the roof of Paris department store Printemps. Enjoying the scenery along with the culture made this experience truly unforgettable. Photo courtesy of Anisa Khatana. incredibly important to take time to enjoy the world around you outside of school.

I never truly understood that until I was 4,000 miles away and literally could not do schoolwork because I was exploring Saint-Germain-des-Prés and my math homework was not.

For a week, school was just a part of my life. It was not my entire life. And that is how we need to think about school sometimes.

So, dear reader, I beseech you to create your own Paris.

Do something that feels radical. Do something you normally would not. It does not have to be extravagant; it could be as simple as forgoing a few hours of homework time on a Wednesday night to go see a movie.

All that matters is you allow yourself to enjoy the experience without being haunted by any consequences it may create.

FEATURE

November 19, 2018

More than just music

Student creates club to share love of Korean pop HARSITHA KALAIARASAN feature chief WITH TODAY’S technology, information spreads in the blink of an eye; perhaps it is our global world that is responsible for bringing a formerly obscure music genre to the limelight.

Korean pop music (K-Pop) is taking the world by storm. Groups like the Bangtan Boys (BTS) have become regulars on world stages and American talk shows, not to mention the international music charts.

Accordingly, it was also BTS that introduced junior Asalya Samieva to the world of K-Pop and converted her to a devoted fan. Wanting to form a community at SHS, Samieva chose to create K-Club.

“The reason I created [K-Club] is to create a place where a group of people with the same interest can easily share and express themselves.

“As a rookie fan, I wanted to get to know more about it, so I thought the best way to learn more was to talk to other people who had been fans for longer,” Samieva said.

Samieva recognizes the often stereotypical views of K-pop and their fans

SHINE. Junior Asalya Samieva’s interest in K-Pop extends beyond just the music. Along with juniors Alex Rohr and Yuzuka Maekawa and seniors Kennedy Byrd and Verany Iek, she performed a dance cover of popular K-Pop songs at the Variety Show. Her group is called Shine Young (SY), and the quintet hopes to cover more songs in the future. Photo courtesy of McDaniel’ s Photography.

and hopes to form a more open and accepting community.

“I wanted to get to know more people who share the same interest as me and have a place where I can be myself.

“I felt like if we had a club where everyone is accepting, people who are uncomfortable sharing their interest can be themselves and have fun,” Samieva said.

Following this principle, Samieva has one clear goal for her club.

“My main goal for the club is to have fun. I want people to have fun and enjoy being in this club. I want them to feel welcome and accepted.

I want us to become a family and support one another.

“And for those who are new to K-Pop or just interested, I wanted them to get to know what an amazing world it is.

Our ultimate goal would be to get more people to get to know the genre.

I am really thankful to have this opportunity to create a club at SHS,” Samieva said.

Cincinnati’s drug epidemic worsens ALLYSON BONHAUS editor in chief

Ohio is at the junction of the drug epidemic.

Interstates I-70, I-80, and I-75 cut through the state and interstate I-65 is nearby. These interstates are key to the drug trade, making Ohio the perfect pit stop.

Dayton, Cincinnati, and Toledo are among the top ten cities in the United States for the number of overdoses, according to Arrow Passage Recovery. Approximately ten percent of all overdosing deaths in the U.S. happen in Ohio.

Adding to the problem of addiction, opioid drugs like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine are being cut with more dangerous substances.

These synthetic opiates, such as carfentanil and versions of fentanyl.

According to WCPO, Hamilton County has

gone through a 1,000 percent increase in synthetic opioid deaths in the past five years.

Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, with carfentanil 10,000 times stronger than heroin.

Carfentanil has recently come to Ohio, making its debut in late 2016, immediately triggering unintentional overdose deaths.

Over the summer the Department of Justice (DOJ) began Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS).

Ten districts, including both the Northern and Southern Districts of Ohio, are participating in SOS due to having some of the highest overdose rates. The operation aims to prosecute anyone connected to synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl.

“We at the Department of Justice are going to dismantle these deadly fentanyl distribution networks.

“Simply put, we will be tireless until we reduce the number of overdose deaths in this country,” said Attorney General Jeff Sessions, according to The Department of Justice Office of Public Affairs.

President Donald Trump signed legislation on Oct. 24 into law to encourage research into nonaddictive drugs to be used as painkillers, replacing addictive opioid painkillers, and improving access to treatment centers.

Ohio Republican Senator Rob Portman was central in the bill’s passing. The Senate passed the bill 98 to one. Democrats see this law as the initial step to curtailing the opioid epidemic.

09

Sugar plagues Americans SYDNEY WEISS art & photo managing editor SUGAR IS HARMFUL: most everyone is aware of this fact. Not everyone knows the full effects of sugar on the body, or that while natural sugar is better than processed sugar, it can still be harmful.

Not everyone is aware of the severity of the sugar epidemic that plagues America, or that there are “sneaky” foods that do not taste sweet but still have an abundance of sugar.

According to investigative science journalist Gary Taubes, sugar is the modern tobacco.

Not only is sugar harmful on the body like tobacco, but, like tobacco, people are not aware of the full effects. According to brain scans, sugar has similar addictive qualities as cocaine.

Of course, sugar can cause weight gain or increased risk of diabetes, but an excess of sugar in the diet can also be linked to acne, heart disease risk, depression, skin aging, or an abundance of other health concerns.

The aforementioned risks are mostly results of sugar surplus over time, but on a day-to-day basis, overconsumption makes people lethargic, have sugar cravings, and act jittery and anxious.

10

People tend to think they are exempt from these issues since they do not overdose on donuts, ice cream, and cupcakes. But, a huge smoothie, low-fat yogurt, and other supposedly “nutritious” foods can have just as much sugar packed into them.

Even foods that are not associated with sugar or do not have a profound sweet taste like premade soup, ketchup, and pasta sauce can have more sugar than is safe to consume.

Soft drinks are potentially the biggest culprits as they are loaded with sugar. Sugary sports drinks were still available to 83 percent of high school students as of 2010.

The seemingly random sugar in otherwise healthy foods is a result of American food companies removing fat from foods in the 1950s

in order to reduce heart disease. To make these same foods taste decent, they began to amp up the sugar content.

Still, many people believe they are not consuming very much sugar when in reality, the average American consumes 765 grams of sugar every five days and three pounds of sugar per week.

The overconsumption of sugar is neither a trend nor an isolated problem: it is a full-blown epidemic, affecting more Americans than drugs do.

Sources: huffpost.com, forbecom, healthlinecom, webmd.com All photos courtesy of Sydney Weiss

FEATURE

November 19, 2018

Winter calls for celebration HANNAH LEE copy editor

THE HOLIDAY cheer is in the air.

Something about the chilly wind and comfortable winter clothes foreshadows the many winter holidays that are coming up.

Hanukkah

This Jewish holiday means “dedication” and is the festival of lights. It lasts eight days and menorahs are lighted.

The story begins in the ancient times when the Jews led by Judah miraculously defeated a mighty army with a small group of men. They rededicated the temple but found that there was only enough oil for one day.

Astoundingly, the limited amount of oil lasted all eight days until more oil was supplied. This is why Hanukkah lights the menorah, one candle a day for eight days to commemorate this amazing history. The menorah has nine candles where one is used to light the others.

Today, Hanukkah is celebrated by Jewish communities all around the world. They give

H

A

Traditional Hanukkah foods include Jelly Donuts and Potato Pancakes

There are numerous spellings of the word Hanukkah: Chanukah, Hannukah etc.

Designed by: Sara Margolis

gifts everyday. Traditionally, gelt (money) was given instead of gifts.

In addition, fried foods are eaten to celebrate the oil that lasted through all eight nights. A signature fried food eaten during Hanukkah is latke, a potato pancake.

Christmas Christmas is the most popular winter holiday celebrated in the U.S. It is originally a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus.

The story behind Christmas takes place in Bethlehem, where Mary, a virgin, gave birth to Jesus in a manger. A star shined bright above the manger to signify the birth of Jesus and so a star is placed on the top of a Christmas tree.

Additionally, the three wise kings come and gave gifts of myrrh, frankincense, and gold following the star to Jesus and today gifts are exchanged as a Christmas tradition among friends and family.

N

U

K

K

Kwanzaa Although often heard of, Kwanzaa is not a holiday that many people celebrate or truly know about. It lasts seven days and this year begins Wed. Dec. 26 and lasts until Tues., Jan. 1, 2019.

Kwanzaa means “first fruits of the harvest” and is a African cultural holiday celebrated

by African Americans and Pan-Africans. It was created by Black Studies professor Dr. Maulana “Ron” Karenga in 1966.

The day also celebrates the seven principles of Kwanzaa: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, a sense of purpose, creativity, and faith.

There are also seven symbols of Kwanzaa consisting of the unity cup, candle holder, seven candles, fruits/nuts/vegetables, mat, ear of corn, and gifts.

Each day a candle is lit and gifts are traditionally given to children on the last day of Kwanzaa, each one placed on a mat.

A

H

Hanukkah will begin on Dec. 2 at and end Dec. 10 at sundown.

Playing Dreidel is a traditional Hanukkah game

11

FEATURE

Thanksgiving

November 19, 2018

By the numbers

THANKSGIVING DINNER

50 million

736 million 40 million

pumpkin pies are consumed each Thanksgiving.

pounds of turkey that Americans eat on just Thanksgiving Day.

bean casseroles made each year for Thanksgiving.

MACY’S THANKSGIVING PARADE

1924

the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade had live animals from the Central Park Zoo.

An estimated 46 million turkeys are consumed on 39 90 Thanksgiving. This is 20 percent of the total number of minutes isturkeys the time consumed each year in appearances is the it takes tothe fill the U.S.big record set by the Snoopy balloons flown in the balloon in parade history. parade.

ALL IN ALL

36.1 million

41.9 million $50.11

people will be filing in and out airports around the world for Thanksgiving.

people will get in their cars and hit the road this Thanksgiving.

was the average amount of money spent on Thanksgiving dinner in 2015.

Sources: National Retail Federation, American Automobile Association, National Turkey Association, Adobe Digital Index, blackfridaydeathcount.com Sources:GivingTuesday.org, mentalfloss.com, eatthis.com, newsroom.com Designed by: Harsitha Kalaiarasan

OUR MAN Y VOICES

OUR DIFFERENCES: Diversity shapes SHS, creates unique community of Aviators ALLYSON BONHAUS

SYDNEY WEISS

editor in chief

art & photo managing editor

PARENTS HAVE CHOSEN school districts to live in based off it. Lawsuits have been fought over the lack of it. Social movements have pushed it to the forefront of politics and news.

Diversity influences multiple factors of life, whether institutions celebrate it or not. From the Harvard lawsuit to the controversy over the caravan, Americans do not always hit the mark on diversity.

In response, societal movements have represented different groups to raise awareness of diversity and the ways to support diverse communities.

Social movements remind Americans to show more respect and appreciation for the diversity in America. Black Lives Matter, LGBTQ+, and MeToo are just a few movements that raise awareness of the diversity of human experiences.

In the U.S., the multifaceted composition of America is something many take pride in.

students made up 15.09 percent of the district, Despite everything, America is a nation built on immigrants. and African American students made up another Diversity is not only on such a large scale as 7.74 percent. Multiracial students made up 6.44 percent of the schools. the country nor on such a small scale as only Sycamore had a population of 65.12 percent the country people are from. white students. The average for the state was Each of us is diverse in some way. SHS is too.

73.45 percent in 2016.

“The diversity at Sycamore “I went to a Catholic private allows students to understand IMPORTANCE OF school for a couple of years the importance of embracing EMBRACING OUR and it was not diverse at all. our peers regardless of their race or socioeconomic PEERS REGARDLESS The student body was very close-minded to say the least. background,” said Akhila OF THEIR RACE OR Durisala, 11.

Sycamore, being diverse, has really portrayed what the true SHS is full of many groups, SOCIOECONOMIC definition of America really is,” even ones that cannot BACKGROUND Durisala said. be captured by the Ohio More than race, Sycamore’s Department of Education AKHILA DURISALA, 11 diversity is apparent in its (ODE). Yet, the department’s composition of 17.11 percent of district profile of Sycamore disadvantaged students and 9.81 percent with Community Schools is telling of the unique disabilities. experience students have here.

After bearing through all those statistics, it As of ODE’s 2016 district profile, Asian

WHO ARE THE AVIATORS? Sycamore students come from 40 different countries and speak 40 different languages

40 14

40

Sycamore is 48 percent female and 52 percent male

48:52

Sycamore has 36 percent minority enrollment. SHS has 30 percent minority enrollment

30% 36%

environment has many benefits. From learning that stereotypes are not representative of a race or culture to have better communication skills, the impacts of learning amid diversity are numerous.

Take a fishbowl discussion, for instance: a flow always comes because we are not all the same.

Our differences stimulate the discussion. Each person is unique in their opinions, driving the debate.

Every student brings their experiences, cultural perceptions, values, etc. into conversations. Every student learns from this.

According to the Center for American Progress, students who were exposed to diverse communities when they were younger were more prepared for postsecondary school and beyond. “...going to a diverse school like Sycamore really establishes and distinguishes how important it is to love everyone around us regardless of race,” Durisala said.

16 percent of Sycamore students have limited English proficiency

16%

Sources: sycamoreschools.org usnews.com

Despite how culture generally correlates to becomes clear that there is an appreciative amount of diversity in the school district. what a group has in common- a shared language, values, traditions, etc.- at SHS the culture is There are obviously many more ways to defined by the differences students bring to the measure diversity other than race, economics, table, not our uniformity. or ability, but this provides a clue as to the “We will likely never be in a setting where different experiences welled within the walls of every single person agrees with us about every Sycamore schools. single issue, and I’m glad Sycamore has given “The world would be such a dull place if me the opportunity through our diverse student everyone thought and acted the same way. body to interact with all these I think the way so many OUR VALUES AS A different people on a daily countries and cultures are basis,” Zhang said. represented at Sycamore is COMMUNITY [ARE] Sycamore Community an indication of our values as RESPECT, LOVE, AND Schools is ranked 26th on a community- respect, love, Niche.com for the most diverse and acceptance,” said Carolyn ACCEPTANCE schools in the Cincinnati area, Zhang, 12. receiving an A- in the category.

SHS prides itself on its CAROLYN ZHANG, 12 Diversity impacts every diversity. The flags in the aspect of one’s experience, commons, annual Diversity especially during such formative years as high Week, and services for the students with school. disabilities are only a few examples of how SHS Furthermore, learning in a diverse shows its appreciation for the diversity here.

15

COVER “Half of my family background comes from Bangladesh. Having such a large portion of my heritage come from the other side of the planet has made me eager to learn about other traditions and very appreciative of everyone’s cultural differences. My existence is the physical result of cultures merging and sharing ideas and customs. And to me, that’s the most wonderful thing a culture can do- share itself.”

-Miriam Chowdhury, 12 “My family and I came to America for [a] better education. I was ten when I came to America from Eastbourne, England.”

-Lachlan Chalmers, 9 “My family is very diverse. I was born in Switzerland. My father is from England and my mother is half French, half English. I grew up in a mostly English household in Switzerland for nine years, and we moved to Panama. I lived in this diverse region of Central America for three years and then we moved here. Through these travels, I have experienced many different cultures and traditions… these have been really influential on me and the way I see others now.”

-Jemma Pooley, 9.

“My parents were born and raised in a small town in Northern Ireland, however when my dad started working he moved to England, my mum moved to England as well so she could be with my dad. After a while they moved to the North of England and I was born. I lived in England for just over six years before my family moved away from England to go to Germany; we lived in Germany for around seven years, then we moved back to a different area of England.

We spent just under two years there before we moved to Ohio. This was probably the biggest move because in England I had settled in very well and it was the biggest relocation that had ever happened to our family. Moving countries earlier in life means that I am able to adapt to fit the surrounding environment now.”

-Grace Caldwell, 9

16

November 19, 2018 “I lived in China for three years, but I don’t remember it. It’s nice to be bilingual, and it’s nice to celebrate other cultures. I don’t really notice cultural differences between my family and Sycamore honestly. I think Sycamore is really diverse. Actually, we went to Georgia for a mock trial competition, and it was really surprising. At Sycamore, most people don’t say racially insensitive things.

In Georgia, people were racist to us which was interesting. People would come up to me and ask ‘Where are you from?’ and I’d say, ‘I’m from Ohio.’

They’d say, ‘No, where are you really from?’ and I’d say, ‘Cincinnati.’ They’d say, ‘No, where are your parents from?’ and I understood what they were asking. My family values education a lot, and that’s probably because my grandparents aren’t educated, but they still are saving money for our college and stuff, and they are

literally cutting corners. They save so much money, and they live in not great conditions just for it, so the fact that they sent my parents to the U.S. for college and they are still saving money for me definitely makes education really important to my family. I feel like I’d be wasting what they worked so hard for.”

-Theodore Weng, 12 “Something that makes me unique is that I am one of only two of my extended family members who lives outside of Indianapolis, Indiana.”

-Mrs. Jody Googins, TPA teacher “One of my great-great-grandmas down the line was a Native American tribe’s chief’s daughter. The tribe was Cherokee.”

-Dylan Connors, 10

SHS CELEBRATES DIVERSITY “

Living in different countries throughout my life has taught me to be more open and accepting of not just everyone but also myself.

COVER

November 19, 2018 “Almost all of my family is from Colombia, including me, and we moved here when I was three. That makes me myself because of the way that I appreciate things more. In Colombia, my dad’s side of the family didn’t have very much so he taught me to appreciate everything that we can afford even more.”

-Juliana Gutierrez, 9 “I am Puerto Rican and Italian, My dad’s side is Puerto Rican, and most of them speak fluently and go to church.

My mom’s side is Italian and don’t speak it and don’t go to church.”

-Olivia Lazona, 11 “With a mom from Czech Republic and a dad from Slovakia, I’ve grown up listening to and understanding three different languages. As a second-generation immigrant, I feel proud of my parents’ cultures, their beautiful languages, and am able to view certain topics from various

viewpoints because of the different ways in which Czechs, Slovaks, and Americans approach them.”

-Tabitha Godarova, 11 “I think it is really cool that I get to see two completely different cultures. My mom’s family is significantly different from my dad’s when it comes to things like holidays and family events.

When I get to visit my mom’s family in Argentina I notice how welcoming all their friends are to me and what an inclusive community it is.”

-Carly Sandow, 11 “Growing up in Canada is very different in ways you don’t notice.

The secondary language is French; Montreal is literally like France inside of Canada. It’s interesting how their cultures mix with each other. Being Canadian is important to me even if I haven’t lived there in awhile.”

-Jennifer Lu, 12

It has helped me in becoming more adaptable to situations too. I don’t find myself feeling too awkward ever.

“

-Debasmita Kanungo, 11

Photo courtesy of Debasmita Kanungo

“I moved here from Italy when I was five. At first, it was a bit rough because I didn’t know any English. It was hard to make friends because no one spoke Italian...but over time as I learned English, things got easier. We go and visit Italy during the summer since all my family except for my immediate family live there. I’m really proud to be Italian. It’s not something I’ve ever tried to hide. I love being able to live in America but at the same time still show my culture. Whenever I get the opportunity, I’ll jump forth and try to show my culture to others and kind of invite them in. I really like... having [other people] share my culture just like I share the American culture now.”

-Ginevra Pascale, 10 “My great-grandma is from Argentina, then she moved to Italy, then she came here. My great-grandpa, who was from Italy and was her husband, passed away three years ago. We only visit my great-grandma sometimes, not as often as we used to.”

-Hailey Hill, 9 “My grandma moved to The States when she was eight. She learned from a young age from working on a farm to become a diligent worker. She was never completely educated, but she knew how to work harder than anyone I know. She instilled upon my dad that he [should] become educated and leave behind his labor-centered childhood. My dad therefore has succeeded to what my grandma told him to do, but for me, he realized that education isn’t always going to be my only ticket to success. All he wants for me in life is to be happy [with] what I do and have a stable environment for my family. His eyes were opened upon many new doors as he became educated and realized that he wants me to have an equal balance of hard work ethic and academic abilities.”

-Ethan Wallace, 10 “I was adopted when I was five months old from South Korea. I have a gotcha day and an adoption day. My family celebrates both days as well as my birthday, so it’s kind of like having three birthdays.”

-Anna Cummins, 12 Designed by: Sydney Weiss

17

FUN & GAMES November 19, 2018

‘Tis the season crossword 2

1

3 4 5

6 7

8

9

10 11

Sudoku

Hints

Difficulty Level: Hard

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

2 8 5

3

9 7 4

Across 3. What did Ross dress up as to teach Ben about Hanukkah in “Friends” 6. Clara enters another dimension in this ballet 7. The last name of the actor who leaves the North Pole for the Big Apple 8. Go to Perfect North Slopes to participate in this activity using poles 9. A traditional winter drink made with milk, cream, egg yolks, etc.

10. Celebration with seven basic symbols reflecting African culture 11. Please do not touch me or my magic may go away, I sit on a ___ Down 1. Beware shopping is hazardous on this day 2. This train only carries those who just believe 4. He’s a mean one, Mr. ___ 5. Name of the lampstand lighted nightly during Hanukkah *note that there are no spaces between words

18

For answers please go to shsleaf.org Puzzle Maker used to create Crossword

Page by: Allyson Bonhaus, Charlotte Weiss

ENTERTAINMENT November 19, 2018

‘Mary Poppins Returns’ flies into theaters CHARLOTTE WEISS business team

ON DEC. 19, Mary Poppins will pull things out of her magic bag for the first time in 54 years.

The new movie, “Mary Poppins Returns,” will hit the theaters across the country. Although this sequel has been a long time waiting, many are thrilled to see this film.

During the original film, Mary Poppins comes to watch Jane and Michael Banks, the children of Winifred and George Banks. Mary Poppins teaches the children to be obedient and takes them on adventures with the chimney sweep, Bert.

In the new movie, the story of Mary Poppins continues, instead of the same plot being repeated like in others’ renditions. Jane and Michael Banks are now adults and Michael is suffering after the loss of his wife.

Mary Poppins returns to watch after Jane and Michael, but also Michael’s three children. The sequel features the same thrilling

animated adventures that are in the first film.

Another difference is that instead of Bert, the chimney sweep, traveling throughout the magical adventures with Mary Poppins and the children, it is Jack, the lamplighter.

Also, the director of the sequel is Rob Marshall, whereas the director of “Mary Poppins” was Robert Stevenson.

In the film, Dick Van Dyke, most famously known for his horrendous British accent, played Bert and Mr. Dawes Senior, the bank chairman in the original 1964 version of “Mary Poppins.”

Van Dyke returns in the new rendition as Mr. Dawes Junior.

In addition, Van Dyke is the only cast member to have a role in both Mary Poppins films, which is an astounding feat, considering the films are 54 years apart.

In addition, Lin-Manuel Miranda, the writer of the hit musical, “Hamilton,” will play the role of Jack, with a similar role to Bert in the original. Also, Mary Poppins will be portrayed

by Emily Blunt, which was previously the role of Julie Andrews.

“I love the story and Lin-Manuel Miranda is

in it, which makes it even more exciting,” said Megan Radakovich, 9.

Other cast members of the new movie include Meryl Streep, playing Topsy, Mary Poppins’ cousin, and Angela Lansbury, playing the Balloon Lady.

“I watched Mary Poppins at least 15 times as a child so I am very excited to see it,” Radakovich said.

So, when you are sick, follow some of Poppins’ advice and take a spoonful of sugar to help the medicine go down.

New albums grab attention LYDIA MASSET video editor

Ballads 1 Joji Release Date: Oct. 26 Genre: Lo-Fi Hip hop

MUDBOY Sheck Wes Release Date: Oct. 5 Genre: Hip hop

A Brief Inquiry into Online Relationships The 1975 Release Date: Nov. 30 Genre: Indie Pop

19

ENTERTAINMENT

November 19, 2018

Donuts take foodies for a loop LINDSEY BRINKMAN entertainment chief

Holtman’s Donuts If you are looking for a cute donut shop, Holtman’s Donuts is the place for you. At first glance, one might find the outside aesthetically pleasing, however a step inside will reassure this thought. Holtman’s received a rating of 4/5 donuts, because even though the donuts were a tad dry, they were still really good and the inside decorations were nice as well.

Rating:

Jupiter Coffee & Donuts Jupiter Coffee & Donuts is the shop to go to if you like sweet donuts. They have many different, unique takes on the traditional donut, and each donut is soft and moist. This earned them a 3.5/5 donuts because even though the donuts were good, the ambiance was not.

Rating:

Donut Spot This little Donut shop had a cute inside, and was nicely decorated. However, if the ambiance was considered good, the donuts would then be fantastic. The donuts were airy, fluffy, and light. They were the perfect mix of frosting and dough. The mix of both great donuts and decor earned the Donut spot a 4.5/5, because the inside was lacking just a little something.

Rating:

20

All photos courtesy of Lindsey Brinkman

ENTERTAINMENT

November 19, 2018

Surviving Black Friday: the tips and tricks GRACE ZHANG copy editor

Before skipping to the next step, words can not stress enough how helpful this step is. With a budget, you will be saving money beyond the sales. How so? Instead of unnecessary impulse buys, you will stay focused on finding what you need. Trust me, your wallet will thank me later.

After all, nothing beats saving cash without sacrificing style.

PLAN, PLAN, PLAN Your game plan will be your best friend. So with that, start with making a list. Begin by listing your wish items by store first, then prioritize them by order of importance. This way you can direct your energy into finding your favorites first as you visit each store. Additionally, when you know what you need to look for, chances are you will not make the dreaded impulse buys.

Not only is it a whole lot more fun to shop with friends and family, but it can be super helpful too! When searching for items on your list, you can work together to find them. Plus, chances are that not everyone is interested in browsing every store. Also, this provides an added bonus: extra people come in handy when holding spots in dreaded checkout lines.

PICK YOUR SUPPORT

MAKE A ROUTE

START WITH A BUDGET

Thanksgiving is near, the surge of adrenaline when racing for in-store sales is back, and so the shopping marathons begin.

Before you start, check out my top tips for navigating Black Friday like a pro.

Do some researching to map out your route around the mall or drive from multiple different stores. As frivolous as this may sound, your time will not be exhausted in needless driving or walking. Plus, you will be sure to efficiently hit all the stores on your wish list. Less time wasted equals more shopping time.

Check out the Black Friday Codes and Deals database for deals from your retail favorites, made available online. No matter what your preference is, Black Friday is truly a day of deals for all.

Designed by: Allyson Bonhaus

Mind behind the masterpiece NEHALEM CHUDNOFF creative writing editor

What We Think They think that I’m a burden, they condemn me in sermons, they say that I will grow up shooting guns and stealing purses.

They think that I’m a genius, they think I’m dumb and lazy, the lines of fire interfere as things grow dull and hazy Black, White, Asian, Hispanic, men and women who cross the Atlantic They come far and wide to share our abode, and lately, it seems that our answer is “no” They say we’re a burden when they all should be learning to love one another and stop all this hurting

The Process: It all starts with one simple emotion; a sensation that I want to express with the words that I am soon to write across my page. With “What We Think,” while my subject was diversity (a celebrated and exciting prospect), I decided to focus on the pain that some feel while living in a culture that does not seem to accept them.

America is widely known as a cultural melting pot, with a plethora of different groups and people from all walks of life. But there are those

that are not thrilled about that idea. Unfortunately, these voices of anger and discrimination tend

to stand out more than those of acceptance.

The wide-spread intolerance of diversity sends deep tremors of pain into the heart of these minorities, affecting the way they live in drastic ways. The acceptance of other people and cultures (especially those that largely differ from your own) is key to our success as human beings. We must stop hatred from spreading in our society before the contents in our melting pot begin to burn.

FOCUS November 19, 2018 A certified scuba diver, sophomore Noah Pelberg has been an avid scuba diver ever since his father first introduced it to him at the age of 12. “I love scuba diving with my family because it brings us closer together because we have to communicate to each other underwater without using words,” Pelberg said. In only three years of diving, he has scuba dived for 1590 minutes over 37 dives. He has reached depths of 89 feet and has dived in caves, Akumal, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; Hawaii, and Roatan, Honduras. “[Scuba diving] is so relaxing, you just float and enjoy a whole different world underwater,” Pelberg said.

Want to be our Want to be our next Focus? Email next Focus? Email shsstudentvoice@gmail. shsstudentvoice@gmail. com with your talent. com with your talent.

Photo courtesy of Noah Pelberg Page by: Allyson Bonhaus

SPORTS

November 19, 2018

Skating into the season column:

Hockey prepares for a new year JOSH MOORE

fact checker AFTER A STUNNING and successful season last year, SHS’ own hockey team is ready to get back on the ice. The team has not wasted any time, beginning the pre-season over the summer.

Soon after the 2017-2018 season, the team had to say goodbye to more than a few seniors, but the team has made up for the loss by welcoming a number of new players.

The team has focused on drills that benefit a wider majority and will be holding multiple pasta parties and team events to build team bonding.

“I would say that there won’t be a lot of really permanent positions made for people playing.

A lot of offensive forwards are going to get the chance to play defense as well as a few defenders playing offense.

“Yet, I feel like we will be ready for a lot of these positional changes as we do allow all our players to actively participate in both defense and offense during practice,” said Nick Kerry, 12.

Since October the team has been practicing Tuesdays through Thursdays, and they hope to keep up this schedule all the way through the end of December.

Coaches make time to practice skating and handling of the puck in the hopes all players will have the skills necessary to play Varsity hockey.

“Since we have lost a number of seniors from the previous year, we have started to build our team performance around the defense.

“Overlooking the loss of players, I feel like our team still has a lot of strong pieces to build around,” said Michael Wells, coach.

The team has scheduled a number of scrimmages and season games from Nov. 16 to Jan. 19.

The team has also updated their players attire in hopes to rile up school and team spirit.

The school has funded the team purchase of brand new jerseys, helmets, hockey socks, and gloves.

Along with the number of games played this season, the coaches and players will also be hosting fundraisers such as Skate with the Aves during winter break.

Skate with the Aves is an event where all Sycamore community members are given the chance to skate with the whole hockey team.

If you would like to support the team, you can do so by following Aves Hockey on Twitter.

Just keep swimming “I also did water polo which helped keep me in shape... my goal is to get my 100 fly time down to 1:05,” said Ryan Carmody, 10.

“[I hope] to make the top eight at Prelims in the 100-yard freestyle at the state championship meet,” said Samuel Risma, 12.

“I am looking forward to this season because I will be able to make close friends and improve my times,” said Sophie Campbell, 10.

Designed by: Sara Margolis and Madeleine Suh

LINYA GUO

art & photo editor As the weather is cooling down, ski resorts all over America have opened, including Indiana’s Perfect North Slopes.

SHS Ski Club goes to Perfect North Slopes eight times in total, each time depending on the weather and how many slopes are open.

“Usually we get to go at least one time before winter break, but depending on the weather, we may not be able to start [until] January. “[We usually] end in February, when it starts to rain and heat up,” said Mrs. Kimberly Cooper, one of the three ski club sponsors and a snowboarder herself.

The Ski Club is an open club, with relatively no restrictions. When they reach the slopes at 4:00 p.m., the only rule is for everyone to return back to the bus by 8:00 p.m.

The levels of club members vary, from complete beginners to experts.

“Every year we seem to have people who have never skied before, a lot of middle ranged skiers; this year, there’s a group of students who are going to try a ski racing team,” Cooper said.

The amount of members in Ski Club vary each year, sometimes up to 130 members participating.

Senior Molly Hayes has been a member of Ski Club for the past three years and plans on participating again this year. “[I love] hanging out with my friends while doing something I love,” Hayes said.

The club sponsors are excited for this year’s activities as well.

“My favorite moment is... seeing beginners helping each other out to learn different skills, or just learn how to safely get down hill, [while] falling a lot and laughing and having a great time,” Cooper said.

“I [love it when we’re] getting on the bus when everyone’s exhausted and it has been a good time,” said Mrs. Beth Quinones, a sponsor who has been skiing for over 50 years.

Quinones also advocates for more people to join the club.

“It’s a way to be active outside in the winter months and you can do it with friends,” Quinones said.

23

SPORTS

November 19, 2018

McWhorter leads Lady Aves GABBY KHODADAD PR team

FINDING YOUR PASSION and talent can take a long time, however for junior Aliah McWhorter, the process has been a bit different.

McWhorter found her passion when she picked up a basketball at age seven. Ever since her passion and love for the game has only increased.

“Basketball is my world. I love to play and watch it on TV. I look forward to the season every year so I can compete and have fun with my teammates,” McWhorter said.

McWhorter gives credit to watching and studying basketball.

Her favorite players were Brittany Griner who played for Baylor, and she still loves watching and learning from Geno Auriemma’s infamous UCONN women’s basketball team.

They all give her an inspiration to further her knowledge in the game.

“Just watching them [UCONN, Griner, and other proffesionals] play I can see what kind of impact they can make on offense, defense, and leading their team,” McWhorter said.

The 6’1” junior not only plays basketball for SHS, but she also plays year-round for the Midwest Takeover.

When McWhorter is not playing for the school, she is constantly traveling around the country playing in top tournaments in front of college recruits.

SYCAMORE AVIATORS ALIAH MCWHORTER Position: Point Guard Height: 6’1” SHE SHOOTS SHE SCORES. Junior Aliah McWhorter goes up for an unguarded layup against rival Mason last January.

McWhorter and the Aves lost to the Mason Comets in a tough game, ending their season in fourth place in the GMC with a record of 15-10. “I hope this year we have another winning season and that we all improve. I think this year we can all make something happen on the court and grow even more as a team,” McWhorter said. Photo courtesy of McDaniel’s Photography.

“I started playing in third grade at Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy. For a few years it was mostly just to play with my friends for fun.

“Later, I began to love the game even more and started playing competitively in seventh grade,” McWhorter said.

The junior gives a lot of credit to her teammates in helping her get this far in her career.

“My teammates are my closest friends. They always push me to be a better player. We all support each other, whether that is in tough games, practices, or off the court,” McWhorter said.

Senior teammate Mallory Comerford said, “It’s really fun to be Aliah’s teammate. Some of the stuff she does is just amazing. “...I do not know how she does it.

Aliah is wonderful on and off the court.

She is so nice and funny.

“She is just a great person to be around and a very crucial part of the team. I’m honored to be her teammate and I can’t wait to see what amazing things she does.”

McWhorter has just begun her junior year season has already received multiple college offers from Division one schools such as Wake Forest, UNCW, Detroit-Mercy, Akron, Kent State, and many more to come.

“Until I got my first college letter, I had never really thought I could play in college. Since then, I think about playing in college all the time. After college who knows what I will do,” McWhorter said.

Throughout McWhorter’s high school career she has received many awards including first team all GMC her freshman year, and second team all GMC last year.

McWhorter also led the conference in blocks freshman year averaging 2.9 per game. She also finished in tenth place on the all time scoring record for the 17-18 season with 250 points.

McWhorter and the Lady Aves will begin their season this upcoming weekend at Turpin.

The Lady Aves’ first home game will be against rival Mason in their annual matchup on Dec. 5.

November 19, 2018

Academic Quiz Team prepares to succeed

SPORTS

LINYA GUO

art & photo editor WHEN THINKING OF the word “sports,” physical activities such as football and soccer are often the first to come to mind.

However, one commonly forgotten sport is also one of the most competitive sports that requires countless of hours of training and practice: Academic Quiz Team (AQT).

AQT started their season at the beginning of October.

Although everyone is welcome to join in this no-cut sport, playing time will vary based on individual skill.

The SHS AQT team splits into two teams of Varsity and Junior Varsity (JV). The JV team consists of freshmen and sophomores, while the Varsity team consists of juniors, seniors, and occasional sophomores.

AQT questions cover literature, science, history, and math, as well as other topics such as government, sports, and occasionally, pop culture.

While both teams cover questions of the same

topics, the JV and Varsity teams have different levels of difficulty for the questions.

JV questions cover freshman and sophomore curriculum, while Varsity questions are focused more on the curriculum of the last years of high school.

As part of the GMC, the Varsity team competes against all schools in the league.

There are nine matches each season for both teams. When they compete, Varsity plays two full games, while JV plays one.

A match consists of three rounds: team, consisting of four players answering questions in 10 categories; alphabet, where a team of four answers a list of 20 clues, each beginning with the same letter; and lightning, a 20-question jeopardy style of play with buzzers.

Mrs. Laura Newton, the coach of the Varsity team, discusses the goals for this year’s season.

“Last year we finished tied for second place in the GMC [with Lakota West]; this year we would like to win the season, or our final

tournament, to earn a spot at the regional competition in April,” Newton said.

To work towards their goal, the team will practice every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The practices consist of sample rounds of play, team building, and review of AQT style questions.

“We practice by playing matches against one another; we also occasionally use the time to share information to help people on the team to improve, especially in areas where we are weaker,” Newton said.

AQT members also have fun while working hard and competing during practice.

“I love going to competitions and beating other schools, and making new friends while competing,” said Angela Peng, 11.

“A lot of the students are either [my] former... students or current students, and some of them are taking [my class] next year, so it’s fun to get to know them in a different way,” said Mrs. Leah Chapman, JV coach.

Pin it to win it

What you need to know about wrestling Neutral stance is the starting position where your head and shoulders are lined up with your opponent

Victory is achieved when there is a pin or fall. Whoever pins their opponent automatically wins that match

Protective ear coverings are worn to prevent Cauliflower ear which is when the ear is hit and irreversible swelling occurs

Penetration step is the first movement that enables your body to get in the position to score

Designed by: Abigail Lefton

Photo courtesy of Jake Vayo-Smilth

25

WHERE IS HANNAH?

Photo courtesy of Jessica Lu

Photo courtesy of Jessica Lu

Win a free bundt cake by creating your own hashtag that describes SHS. Email your hashtag to shsstudentvoice@ gmail.com by midnight Sun., Nov. 25 to win a bundt cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes. The winner will be selected by the journalism class upon return from break based off of originality, coolness, and good old Aves pride. Staff and students may apply. #makeyourmark

Hannah is always disappearing. If you know where in the school Hannah is hiding in this photo, email shsstudentvoice@ gmail.com! Three people who guess correctly will be randomly selected.

(Each assigned a number and pulled out of a box.) Submissions end midnight Sun., Nov. 25. Winners will be emailed and receive an out-to-lunch pass after break.

FIND YOUR SPIRIT