THE
LEAF
Sycamore High School News Magazine
YEARS LATER...
Volume 4 | Issue 1 | August 31,2016
MEET THE EDITORS 2016-2017
AMY DENG executive managing editor When senior Amy Deng’s friend told her about the fun times that happen in the journalism class, she knew she had to be a part of it. In the real world, Amy plays water polo and enjoys competing for the varsity swim team. Amy often spends her free time watching Netflix and hanging out with friends. Her dream travel spot is Iceland because the scenery is swoon worthy, She is often called AMES.
BEN RUSKIN
HANNAH MAY
co-executive editor in chief
co-executive editor in chief
Senior Ben Ruskin, has been a dedicated member of The Leaf since his freshman year. Outside of room 115, Ben can be found using his friendly and energetic smile to make others feel good. Ben likes to watch TV. His favorite shows are: Scrubs, How I Met Your Mother, Arrested Development, The Walking Dead, Breaking Bad, Bojack Horseman, and many more. AMES and HMAY call Ben BENNY.
Following in her sister and brothers footsteps, senior Hannah May joined journalism as a freshman and has been at it ever since. Aside from journalism, Hannah is the captain of the water polo team and a member of the varsity swim team. In her free time, Hannah loves to snuggle with her two cats, Nala and Ophie. In fact, all of her folders for school are covered in cats. Her favorite nickname is HMAY.
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IN THIS ISSUE TABLE OF CONTENTS
pg.2 NEWS
pg.3
pg.7
pg.8 FEATURE
pg.13
pg.14
pg.18
pg.16 pg.17 ENTERTAINMENT
2| New year, new school 3| Gym floor spirit 4| Sycamore strives for excellence
8| Streetcar opening early fall season 9| New year, new faces 10| Summer of discovery
16|Suicide Squad review 17| Electric ensemble at Hall of Fame
OPINION
COVER
5| Staff Editorial 6|Organizing yields success 7|Mo’ money less problems
11-14| 9/11: In remembrance
FUN &GAMES
18| Tennis pulls of three-peat 19| Football begins with Nippert game 20|Girls golf plays up to par
15| Connect the dots
SPOTLIGHT
SPORTS
21| Making music magic 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 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.
THE LEAF
Sycamore High School 7400 Cornell Road Cincinnati, OH 45242
ADVISER
EXECUTIVE CO-EDITORSIN-CHIEF Hannah May PHOTOGRAPHER Benjamin Ruskin McDaniel’s Photography MANAGING EDITOR ABOUT US Amy Deng Professional memberships: ASSOCIATE EDITOR • Columbia Scholastic Press Association Jenna Bao • Journalism Education Association CREATIVE PROJECT • National Scholastic High School DIRECTORS Press Association Jenna Bao • Ohio Scholastic Media Association Taylor Close • Ohio Professional Writers Sarah Horne (National Federation of Women Lauren Kurtzer Writers) BUSINESS • Quill & Scroll International MANAGEMENT TEAM Journalism Honorary Eshika Kohli Cheralyn Jardine
David Wertheim PRINT EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Natalie Brinkman Adhiti Chundur Sydney Evans SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Sydney Weiss WEBMASTER Caroline Bruns WEB EDITOR -IN-CHIEF Harsimran Makkad LEAFLET EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hannah Frey LEAFLET MANAGING EDITOR Emily Chien
LEAFLET DESIGNERS/ WRITERS Eshika Kohli Rujula Kapoor Sydney Weiss COPY EDITOR Anne Marsh NEWS Yasmine Guedira Max Torem SPORTS William Coleman Caroline Veraldo FEATURE Allyson Bonhaus ENTERTAINMENT Taylor Close
OPINION Alexander Karev Joshua Patterson FUN & GAMES Samuel Ruskin STAFF WRITERS Meghan DiGiovanna Jacob Englander Stephanie Kidd Hannah Loftspring Christine Macke Hajime Minoguchi Calliope Osborn Madeline Schramm Abhilash Yarlagadda
THE LEAF August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG|1
N
NEWS
Renovations revamp SHS pride HANNAH MAY
YASMINE GUEDIRA
executive co-editor-in-chief
news chief
173130@sycamoreschools.org
185007@sycamoreschools.org
W
hile students were away during summer break, SHS underwent multiple restoration projects. Principal Doug Mader said, “We had a lot of goals that we wanted to get accomplished.” Some significant transformations include the renovation of the pool, the relocation of lockers, the replacement of the gym floor,
and the implementation of the One2One technology program. As for the future, the administration plans to continue updating the building by using a multiphase process. Mader said, “For the rest of this year, I don’t think that there will be any major physical changes.”
Aquatic recreation center The pool underwent massive changes. The tiled ceiling was replaced, the bottom of the pool was painted, and new LED lights were added. Junior Sarah Abraham said, “The pool looks so nice. It’s repainted and there is a new ceiling and everything. It just looks brand new.” The roof of the pool initially had to be redone because of structural issues. Due to the fact that they were already making repairs, the administration elected to update other parts of the pool as well.
Mader said, “While we [fixed the roof of the pool] we decided to paint and fix the pool.” The bleachers were also painted green and gold. Senior Laura Setser said, “The pool is a lot cleaner, and it looks a lot nicer. It [represents] Sycamore pride much more than it used to.” A new ventilation system was installed last year to improve the air quality. Overall, the new aquatic facilities will be beneficial to both the swimming and water polo teams in the upcoming seasons.
Lockers For the first time in SHS history, lockers are optional assets for students. Freshman Grace Deppert said, “I chose to get a locker because it is my first year, and I want a place to keep my sports stuff. But, I do think it is a good idea to make them optional.” The lockers that formerly
occupied the area next to the commons on the first floor have been transferred upstairs and now reside along the wall across from the locker bays. Dean of Students Ashwin Corattiyil said, “The reason we [relocated the lockers] is because we were not using all of our lockers. There were 900 unused lockers.”
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All photos courtesy of staff
NEWS Another enhancement of the athletic facilities around campus was the gym floor. Mader said, “The plan was already in place to redo the gym floor.” The floor was sanded and new graphics were put into place. Corattiyil said, “With the specific changes for this year, we focused on the athletic spaces that hadn’t been touched in a really long time.” The first phase of the administration’s plan is physical renovation, hence all of the enhancements within the school
All photos courtesy of staff
Gym floor
in recent years. The physical enhancement projects that are going on in the school are not just for elevating the aesthetic appeal of the building, but also to create a safer and more sound structure.
Corattiyil said, “Overall the goal is to properly update and maintain the school. We are trying to do something, not just to make it look prettier, but to make the facility itself a better and stronger working facility.”
One2One: (Google) Driving the future After years of planning and preparation, SHS is proud to introduce its One2One program. Every student in the high school will have an Acer Chromebook to bring to school everyday. Technological fluency is critical to success in college and the workplace. In fact, technological aptitude significantly increases chances of employment and promotion, increases productivity, and enhances communication skills. Junior Ryan Tufts said, “Last year I participated in the One2One pilot study, and it was so helpful to have a fast computer with me throughout the day to work on online assignments and research.” One significant step of the transition was the switch to a Google Drivebased system. This system allows students to collaborate on documents in real time with makes editing and group projects easier. AP European History teacher Mrs. Leah Chapman said, “We will be using the computers to sign up on MindTap, a website that gives students additional tools for preparation for
the AP exam. We will be using Google Classroom to share documents and do live review and test preparation.” Google Classroom allows for easy sharing of documents and assignments between students and teachers. Additionally, Blackboard resources will be more accessible for planning throughout the day. English teacher and Fast Track supervisor Mrs. Beth LeBlanc said, “For my classes, we’ll be able to complete projects online. I’ll also use Google Classroom more to provide more frequent feedback on writing assignments. “For Fast Track, the planner that the mentors and mentee fill out will now be completed on Google Classroom rather than on paper. This will allow the mentee[s] and their families to have access to their planners at home.” This year teachers have just started integrating laptops into the curriculum. As this program develops, learning will be adapted to fit each student individually so learning becomes an interactive and engaging experience for all students.
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NEWS
HANNAH MAY
JENNA BAO
executive co-editor-in-chief
associate editor
173130@sycamoreschools.org
181003@sycamoreschools.org
F
our years ago, when the current seniors walked the halls of SHS on their first day of school, they had an entirely different experience from that of the incoming freshmen. Not only has the physical appearance of the school undergone changes, but internal transformations, such as the implementation of Ace bell and new student day, have been imposed. Going into his third year as SHS’ principal, Doug Mader recognizes that he has accomplished many of his goals. However, he is still constantly striving to improve the school.
Ace bell
This year the Ace bells were essentially organized by grade and alphabetical order so counselors can meet with students during ace time instead of pulling them from instructional classes. Ace bell will be extended to 45 minutes on counselor meeting days. The other functions of Ace are to give students a break from the academics, create in environment where students will be able to bond for the entirety of their high school
careers (from this point on), and to encourage leisure reading. Last year, the first year of Ace, it was met with some resistance. Dean of Students Ashwin Corrattiyil said, “Reading is something you will do your whole life, so even if you don’t really feel like reading, it’s gonna be part of your life whether you go to college, the military, or the workforce, that will be a component. After receiving feedback from students, the administration has turned Wednesday into a collaboration day and also plans to allow students who get out to lunch passes to leave school during Ace and lunch once a month for lunch. Corrattiyil said, “Last year a lot of students...were really unfamiliar with it in the beginning, but eventually really got into a routine. If you have suggestions, instead of resisting it, just tell us how we can meet in the middle and make it better.”
Photo courtesy: McDaniel’s Photography
Sycamore strives for excellence
The future
Moving forward, Mader plans to execute his goals and focus on the big picture. His ultimate goal is to have every SHS student inspired to learn. Mader believes that the success of the school is based on the morale of the students. Mader said, “The long term [goal] for Sycamore High School is for every student that walks in the building; they feel accepted, engaged and they want to achieve. If we do that, we will be on the tongue of every school in the country.”
Honoring Hochstrasser for hard work CAROLINE VERALDO sports chief 173000@sycamoreschools.org
While many teachers take time off from schoolwork over the summer, AP Environmental teacher Ronald Hochstrasser had different plans. Hochstrasser traveled to Washington, D.C. to receive the Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators. This award is given to outstanding kindergarten through twelfth grade teachers who employ innovative
approaches to environmental education. Only approximately 20 teachers are selected to receive this award each year. With his application, Hochstrasser submitted a few letters of recommendation from students as well as a letter from science department supervisor, Ms. Julie Haverkos. The award was presented by the White House Council on Environmental Quality in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency.
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There are many reasons for why Hochstrasser was selected for this prestigious award. In addition to his efforts inside the classroom, he has increased the opportunities for students to immerse themselves in nature through extracurricular activities. He has collaborated with students on many environmental-related projects such as rain garden construction, birdseed sale, and pollution and water supervision.
Staff Editorial
Leafing through the masses: How do you feel 9/11 impacts your generation?
The effects of 9/11. The options presented when one considers such a prompt are practically endless. Yet upon a bit of reflection, it occurred to us that, as students born between the years of 1998-2002, we may not be in the most suitable positions to determine how this tragedy has changed the world. After all, this is the only world we have ever known. Or, perhaps not. We were raised with intense airport security, assuming that taking laptops out of bags and leaving behind fluids were irksome but obvious expectations. We were raised with millions of other children that got used to war, assuming that it was the default state of our nation. Many felt the effects of the war in their own families, others around the world saw it in their own backyards. And while one would certainly be hard-pressed to think of a time in history without racial or religious tensions, today witnesses a world far too interconnected, too educated, and too boastful of progress to still be making assumptions about groups that contain millions of individuals. We are incredibly lucky to attend school in an environment where we are taught to love and honor diversity because so many others are taught to be terrified. Certainly there were numerous large-scale effects of 9/11, decisions that continue to shape not only America, but the world. But really, regardless of our opinions on any of those, we recognize that hindsight is 20/20 and people had to make difficult decisions in mindsets that we cannot really begin to understand. Whatever the intention, the actions of the government after 9/11 were results of and contributors to fear. And while that fear is justified and basically the purpose of the attack, perhaps it is time to get past it. As 15 years pass from that momentous day, there is the possibility of moving society forward. We may honor the event with memorials, but no longer with the Islamophobia or distrust the terrorists intended to cause. The world was undeniably changed by 9/11, and there is no going back to a time before it, not with so many unaware of what that world was even like. Perhaps instead, (and call us idealistic), we can forge a new world of more unity and hope than ever before, not guaranteeing peace, but fighting for it.
“
“Security has been increased and our generation has become more aware of the war on terror.” Ben Peri, 10
“It made the war on terror more real, in the sense that it could affect us back in the United States at home.” Mrs. Valerie Nimeskern, social studies teacher “The fear of terrorism has definitely grown. One of my friend’s dads even refused to go out of the country on any September 11.” Nathan Zhang, 11
“
Photo courtesy Adhiti Chundur
“Security on almost anything is much higher. I work at Kings Island and they make us bring clear bags and use metal detectors on everyone.” Megan Combs, 12
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O
OPINION
Organization orientation: Striving to stay neat SYDNEY EVANS co print editor-in-chief 183020@sycamoreschools.org
E
veryone wants to start off the year on a positive note, and at the start of the year I always tell myself ‘this year I am going to stay organized and use my planner.’ That works for a few weeks until I start to get more and more work. Classes start to speed up and I forget to write assignments down in my planner and keep papers in separate folders. I keep saying ‘I’ll fix it later,’ but I never do. This a common problem among high school students and it only continues to get worse with procrastination. When you start putting things off, you start to lose control, and that is the moment that ensures that the rest of that year will be disorganized. It is a bad habit that must be broken. Those first couple of days of the year are the easiest, and it will get harder as the days progress into weeks. Just like fixing all other bad habits, you just have to get past the first few weeks of positive change and then your bad habit will become a good one. According to kidshealth. org, “Keep your assignments and class information together in binders, notebooks, or folders that are
organized by subject. “You might want to set up a file drawer at home to keep track of research, returned assignments, and other things you want to hold on to.” If you keep yourself organized, it will also make studying and reviewing school work much easier. You will not be forced to look through every binder or folder you own to try to find one work sheet. However sometimes you do not realize how bad your disorganization is because you are used to dealing with it. This presents another problem because knowing you are unorganized is bad, but not knowing is even worse. There is a way to tell when you are disorganized. If you find yourself stuffing loose papers in your backpack or grabbing multiple notebooks for the same class just because they are close at hand, it is time to stop and regroup. Although this may seem like a pain now, starting to organize and remain organized is an extremely important life skill. It will work to improve your study habits, and it will relieve the stress of constantly searching for the materials you need.
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Photo courtesy: Sydney Evans
Praising unsung heroes ALEX KAREV op-ed chief 183020@sycamoreschools.org
High school students are known to be messy and cause quite a bit of chaos in the lunchroom. However, we have a select few individuals that are capable of handling the sheer destruction that we often cause: our janitors. In general, janitorial work is an industry that does not get much recognition. That is why it is our duty as students to show some love to our janitors. Imagine if you had to do work that went unnoticed. Would you feel proud of what you have done? That is why it is so
important just to say “thanks.” It does not matter what you do to show support; anything is meaningful. Anything from a simple thank you to a hug would suffice, and it would mean the world to our janitors to receive some love. Junior Rishav Dasgupta said, “Our janitors are definitely the best out of any school in Ohio. They always make sure everything is nice and neat and never complain. They definitely deserve a lot of recognition.” The next time you see a janitor either in the Commons or cleaning a classroom after school, do the right thing and say thanks.
OPINION
column: MAX TOREM
Mo’ money less problems
Why paying athletes makes sense SAM RUSKIN fun and games chief 193157@sycamoreschools.org
T
he topic of whether or not to pay college athletes is a constant argument. There are many advocates in favor of and many against the idea of paying athletes who play sports for their colleges. How would you feel if you were working hard, training, and giving up study time for a coach then being paid squat? Here are some reasons why college athletes should be paid.
1. Chance of injury
There have been instances of players becoming paralyzed by hits or tackles on football fields or receiving other injuries that have ended players’ careers before they even got started. These athletes are sacrificing their bodies for the chance to play the games they love and possibly make it to the professional level. These athletes deserve something in return for putting themselves on the line.
2. Athletes bring in large amounts of money
With the amount of money these colleges bring in with games, even compensating the players would still leave schools with more than enough of a profit. Instead, these schools mooch off of their athletes, stealing the money that they earned. Seems a bit unfair.
3. College athletes struggle to make ends meet
Even though these athletes usually get huge scholarships, these “free rides” do not cover everything. Athletes often practice long after the dining facilities close and are forced to eat off-campus and pay from their own pockets. There are also other costs, such as renting suits and tuxes for banquets that are not paid for.
4. Paying students would only make them more competitive
Imagine if these athletes not only had a trophy to compete for, but also some “dinero.” This would only fuel the players and it would not even affect the schools. The amount of profit would easily satisfy both sides.
5. Where is all that money going?
A lot of money goes to the top coaches. These guys make up to $7 million a year. That is insane. If these schools honestly think the coaches deserve that much, then these players should earn that, ten-fold. Do you really feel these athletes do not deserve a little compensation? These kids work hard and deserve to be paid for it. So now it’s up to the universities to help these players out, and give them the salaries they deserve.
Photo courtesy: MCT Photo
news chief 176003@sycamoreschools.org Welcome back Aviators! The 2016-17 year has officially begun, and hopefully you are feeling as refreshed as the school is. That is right, the school has undergone changes that will make a huge difference for this year and in years to come. Perhaps the most noticeable and effective change is to the lockers. You have likely noticed that there is a pool of tables that is separated from the rest of the commons. Located closer to the gym, these tables are reserved for seniors, and they have taken the place of the lockers that used to be there. The lockers were moved upstairs and they have been put up along the wall closest to the gym. This move will allow for not only more general space near the locker bays, but a more comfortable eating experience too. Moving some of the tables to a different area creates less clutter overall. Some of you may have noticed that the school looks more vibrant than it did in years past. Of course the commons and the Hub (formerly the IMC) have been redone and look better than ever, but did you notice the fresh paint everywhere? Various parts of the school, mostly ceilings and walls, have been repainted for the first time in about 20 years. Look around and you will surely see some previously dull areas looking alive. Finally we wrap around to athletics, where we discover the new gym floor. The floor has just been renovated and some noticeable features are a new logo at half-court, the GMC logo on either side of the court, and a new font for the words that say “Sycamore Aviators.” As a new year for the school begins, a new year begins for you too. All I can say as of now is good luck and fly high.
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F
FE ATURE
Streetcar opening early fall AMY DENG
SYDNEY WEISS
managing editor
social media director
175053@sycamoreschools.org
192046@sycamoreschools.org
A
new streetcar will be introduced on Sept. 9. It is a modern streetcar system designed to link downtown and uptown Cincinnati locations throughout Over the Rhine. It will operate for 18 hours a day and 365 days a year. The 3.6 mile route consists of 18 stops that loop from Second St. to Henry St., north of Findlay Market. The goal of the streetcar was to create new developments and transportation to put people to work and boost the city’s tax revenue. The route is designed to allow for stations along the routes to be clean, simple, and easily recognizable. These stopping stations were built so riders can easily understand the routes the streetcar takes. Specifically, stations include a route map, information about the streetcar system, and an electronic sign
displaying the arrival time of the next car. Each vehicle will hold around 150 people with five streetcars in total. The cars will operate as electric vehicles on rails embedded in the streets. They will work around regular traffic, pulling alongside street curbs to pick up and drop off passengers. Another reason why the streetcar was built was to make more room for businesses to grow. When more people drive cars, those vehicles take up space that could be used to start businesses, thus pushing people to move away. Consequently, when people move away, so does business. Ultimately this would lead to an overall population decline in downtown Cincinnati. The city needs more jobs, development, and people. The streetcar will help develop the city for it will put the land currently used for parking to
better use. The budget for the streetcar is $147.81 million. It is funded through federal and local sources such as the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the US Department of Transportation (USDOT). The allotted hours of the streetcar system are still in progress, but the current vision for the vehicle is to have it run Monday through Thursday and on Sunday from around 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, it will operate from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. The fare price for one ride is still to be determined. Fare stations will be located at station shops and strategic spots along the route. Bus routes will not be disturbed. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA) will be working to make sure streetcar routes do not interfere with current bus routes.
Everything you need to know... The car is ideal for people traveling to these places: • Government Square • Gateway Quarter • Fountain Square • School for the Creative • Contemporary Arts Center and Performing Arts • Public Library The streetcar is one step in the • Music Hall • Aronoff Center effort to make Cincinnati a location • Washington Park • Horseshoe Casino for smart young people who may otherwise go to Chicago or New York. The cars will run from the banks to The fare is not set yet, however it has been the Central Business released that there will be stops along the streetcar District to Over the route to pay fares. Rhine.
http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/streetcar/design-route/ http://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/streetcar/news/
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FEATURE
Embracing new year, new faces ALLYSON BONHAUS feature chief 193006@sycamoreschools.org
Peter Muehlenkamp Government and Law Studies teacher, Varsity Baseball coach
Sean Minion
Amy Gillespie
Latin teacher for Latin I-IV
ESOL Teacher
at Sycamore Jr. High and SHS
What is your impression of SHS?
What is your impression of SHS?
What is your impression of SHS?
I graduated from Sycamore so I am pretty familiar with the place. With that said, a lot has changed... the classrooms now have four walls, there is a new academic wing in front of the building, and there is no Smoking Lounge anymore (I did not have a pass to the Smoking Lounge).
Family. That is one of the first things they highlight. There is a strong sense of community, collaboration, and working towards higher goals.
I’m happy to be a part of Sycamore High School. I grew up in the area and am glad to be back home after a few years of teaching ESOL in Indianapolis.
What is your background in education?
What is your background in education?
What is your background in education? Four years teaching at Hughes Center (CPS) [and]13 years teaching at Reading High School. Nine of the above 17 teaching years included being Athletic Director also. Five years of Vice Principal at Reading High School. 17 years of coaching Varsity Baseball (three at Hughes and 14 at Reading).
Why did you chose to purse education? I chose education because I love to be involved with a community and its kids. If I’m not teaching or coaching at school, I am coaching my kids.
Anything else you would like to include about yourself? I have been married 14 years to Shelli. We have three kids: Maddie, Max and Leo.
My main background is that I got my Master’s in Classics at Xavier, my teaching license from Illinois, and did three years of teaching college as an assistant.
This is my seventh year teaching English to English Language Learners. I have taught at Lakota Local Schools, in the Indianapolis area, and also in South and Central America.
Why did you choose to pursue education? I wanted to give students the same opportunities as I got. The focus of education and classics is liberty of mind-know your options, understand and perceive things for how they are. I want to give students that freedom.
Anything else you would like to include about yourself? I am one of six kids. I am a big Xavier fan; my two brothers are going to Xavier now.
Why did you chose to purse education? I have a passion for language and other cultures--ESOL is the perfect fit for me.
Anything else you would like to include about yourself? We are expecting a baby any day now, so I won’t be around the first few weeks of school. After our baby boy is here, I look forward to being an active member of the Aviator family.
A+
More new teachers to follow
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FEATURE
Summer of discovery: Learning beyond classrooms YASMINE GUEDIRA
clear that it’s hard to truly explain it to someone without them having actually been there. ummer is the perfect time “It’s something that I will seldom for adventure, and for junior ever experience again but it was Alexander Newberg that absolutely beautiful. It was the coolest meant trekking across Europe with experience of my life.” his family for two weeks. They Newberg’s experience helped him traveled though England, France, see the world in a different way. and Italy. Newberg said, “We went to London, Paris, The Loire Valley, and Venice, which was one of the most beautiful cities ever. Everywhere I looked was picture perfect.” One of his most memorable moments was climbing the Mer de Glace glacier in Chamonix, France. Newberg said, “I wanted to do something rugged so my parents scheduled for my dad and sister and I to climb a glacier. “I learned how to climb with ice picks. The water was so crystal news chief
185007@sycamoreschools.org
S
Photo courtesy: Alex Newberg
G E T I N V O LV E D
SCIENCE
Junior Ryan Tufts said, “Science Bowl is an amazing opportunity that provides interested science students with challenging quiz bowl-like competition. It’s a great way to test your knowledge and skills and compete against classmates.”
LANGUAGE
Freshman Connor Close said, “Latin Club is an enjoyable experience because you get to hang out with your friends while competing in Latin trivia and Latin-related art competitions. We have a box of togas in the room that we use to play Toga Twister.”
MUSIC
Senior Peter McCutcheon said, “SEE1 is really different from a lot of groups since we are classically-trained musicians. We have to apply our knowledge of our instruments to unusual styles. I’m just really proud to be a part of it.”
ACADEMIC Senior Emma Traylor, “Mock trial has something for everyone. It’s for the knowledge seekers. It’s for the debaters. It’s for the justice lovers. It’s for the people who love being with other people. It’s fun and engaging and mentally stimulating. Why wouldn’t you want to join?” Design by: Yasmine Guedira and Adhiti Chundur
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COVER
In Remembrance THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG 11
COVER
Looking back fifteen years later: How 9/11 changed America HANNAH MAY
JOSH PATTERSON
co executive editor-in-chief
news chief
173130@sycamoreschools.org
171042@sycamoreschools.org
11 O at SHS
worst recessions in United States order to stop its alleged pursuit history in 2008 when the housing of weapons of mass destruction. market collapsed. Since then we withdrew from To go with that, the national Iraq in December of 2011, but the budget has also increased, with threat that was Al-Qaeda has now SARAH HORNE the United States spending more transformed into ISIS. creative projects director 174214@sycamoreschools.org than $598 billion on military Another change has been the defense, 53.71 percent of the public view of war. Since the Former athletic trainer, Bush administration invaded Iraq, federal budget. Perry Denehy was a To put that in perspective, that public opinion has shifted from firefighter who could Citizens rights is almost nine times the amount one that wants to be involved relate to those firefighters Since then, so many things have we spend on veterans’ benefits, who ran into the burning changed. Airport security is now in the Middle East, to one that wanted to stay away from foreign which is $65.32 billion. world trade center on more advanced than ever. Before 9/11 the military budget 9/11. The Uniting and Strengthening conflict. was around 34 percent of the A Gallup poll showed that in The terrorist attack America by Providing Appropriate budget, and its highest point was 2013, 36 percent of Americans lead to 343 New York Tools Required to Intercept and in 2010 when the United States supported action in Syria, while firefighters passing away. Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001, in 2003, 64 percent of Americans was spending around $700 billion It was the largest loss which was passed shortly after on defense. supported action in Iraq. In of a group of firefighters the attack and is also known as Even though it has been 15 2001, 82 percent of Americans in one day in American the Patriot Act, now allows the years since 9/11, nothing will be supported action in Afghanistan. history. National Security Agency to roam the same as it was before that Denehy said, “To see through phone calls and emails in National Debt how many firefighters lost order to track potential terrorist fateful day. The national debt has also their lives for others was movement. increased, now exceeding $16.7 the ultimate sacrifice.” Sources: trillion, or around $53,000 per War on Terror http://www.cfr.org Denehy raised money person. This, coupled with tax The War on Terror has not https://www.nationalpriorities.org from people at SHS and cuts and reduced government gone away. On March 20, 2003 https://www.washingtonpost.com used it to help those who the United States invaded Iraq in revenue contributed to one of the http://www.gallup.com were impacted by the attack. He then traveled to New York and hand delivered the check in Mr. Kevin Wittman Officer Paul Payne Mr. Tom Gaffigan order for it to be used “I will never forget “My concern was the “9/11 led to the wisely. the firefighters, police welfare of my youngest result of traveling When he worked at brother who had worked officers and civilians inconvenience, tighter SHS, he would share there [at the World who sacrificed their a personal video from TSA security, [and] Trade Center] for years his time in New York to own lives to save banking and cash as a commodities educate students and another life.” restrictions.” keep the event from trader. He had noticed being forgotten. commotion and a Denehy said, “It is burning smell, so he important to both share went outside just when personal viewpoints the second plane hit.” and also listen to the student’s experiences.”
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n September 11, 2001, the United States was forever changed. That day, two Boeing 767 commercial airlines crashed into the World Trade Center, killing 2,996 people and injuring over 6,000, going down as the worst terrorist attack in United States history.
Thoughts on 9/11:
12|THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG
COVER
All photos by Adhiti Chundur
Paying tribute to tragedy 9/11 memorial leaves impact LAUREN KURTZER creative projects director 174029@sycamoreschools.org
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alking into the 9/11 Memorial and Museum was an eyeopening experience that sparked my patriotism. I was only two when the Twin Towers collapsed. I remember nothing about it; stories are the only way I can understand that fateful day in American history. After exploring the museum and revisiting a few of the worst hours in American history, I was able to see how terrible that day truly was and why the aftermath was so drastic. In the summer of 2015, I went to New York City to visit my cousin, and, as an American citizen and history lover, one place I planned to see was the 9/11 memorial and museum. What surprised me was how many people wanted to see it. I thought that adults would not want to relive that horrific time in their lives, granted the museum had opened only month earlier. Not only was there an hour long line, there were people from all over the world (The people in front of me were from Eastern Europe). I realized that they too wanted to learn about an event that has affected the entire world. The museum was at its best in providing minute by minute record of
what happened, with time-lines across the walls. It also brought the tragedy to life by showing victims’ belongings, remains of the building, phone calls, pictures, and live television broadcasts. A particularly emotional room was the one where victims’ final phone calls were played. You could hear the terror in their voices, and observers shed plenty of tears.
Although I do not remember that day, I was able to relive it. That day, I also heard two speakers who were on the scene. One was a former firefighter and the other a former New York New Jersey Port Authority worker. For them that day started off normally; it was their kids’ first day of
school. That is, until they were called to Ground Zero. These heroes saw colleagues die. A place that the Port Authority worker ran was in shambles. The firefighter helped rescue the last survivor in the building. They saw two beautiful buildings of their beloved city reduced to rubble. But after the cleanup in March 2002, workers decorated a beam from the building and paraded around the city to show strength of not only the city, but the country. The room was dark and somewhat depressing, but in those two mens’ stories I heard resilience. I heard about how a nation came together in its toughest times and overcome the tragedy of 2,996 deaths. As we remember this difficult time, the most significant reminder that we should be proud to be Americans is the One World Trade Center that was built to show that no one messes with this great nation. It was such a surreal experience to see the heartbreak of the 9/11 attacks, but it was a necessary evil which helped me become more knowledgeable on a turning point in the world’s history. I encourage all students to, if given the opportunity, go see what happened that day and make sure we never forget. Ask parents, relatives, and teachers where they were on September 11, 2001. Everyone has a story.
THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG |13
COVER
Educate to end hate: ADHITI CHUNDUR
co print editor-in-chief 182114@sycamoreschools.org
Rise of American Islamophobia
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14|THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG
Photo by: MCT Campus
ver the last decade, paranoia, ignorance, and bigotry have generated a rise in antiMuslim sentiment. Fear over small groups of extremists perpetuates hateful stereotypes that significantly impact all of the 1.6 billion Muslims in the world. The rise of terrorist groups like ISIS and the increase in both “lone wolf” and organized attacks in the U.S. and Europe have created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety. When ignorance prevails, a diverse community is reduced to a stereotype. Perception of this group is colored by those who shout the loudest, in this case, this fear and manipulate the extremists. They simply people’s anxiety and use religion to shield their ignorance to alienate a large horrific and unspeakable acts group of people. of violence-but by no means Allowing this alienation do they represent the Muslim to occur sustains a cycle of population. insensitivity and violence, In the U.S., even political leaders have “Allowing this publicly expressed Islamophobic and alienation to occur anti-immigrant sustains a cycle of views with no consequences. ignorance, fear, and From blocking violence” Muslims from entering the U.S., to suggesting a “registry” to track them, which is one of the reasons politicians evidently find why it is so easy for Islamophobia to be a useful politicians to gain support by selling point for their policies. using inflammatory language. When prominent public Freshman Yusuf Alam figures get away with antisaid, “We [as Muslims] need Muslim rhetoric and fear to be active in politics. We mongering, they legitimize need to demonstrate that
we are good citizens of this nation, and make positive contributions to the society at large.” In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, in 2014, the American public rated Muslims more coldly/ negatively than other religious groups. ThinkProgress has tracked over 100 anti-Muslim attacks that have happened in the U.S. since the November Paris attacks. Not only present in politics, Islamophobia also reaches into communities and schools. For example, last year 14-year-old Ahmed Mohamed was arrested for allegedly bringing a hoax bomb to his school. It was actually a digital clock he had built. Excited about his project,
he showed it to one of his teachers whom then reported him to the police. A survey conducted by the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) in 2015 found that 55 percent of Muslim students experienced some form of bullying. The toxic attitudes and vitriol circulating in the 2016 political and cultural climate only serve as excuses for this unacceptable behavior. To stop the rise of Islamophobia in our schools, communities, and governments, individuals, including students, need to educate themselves to form a more accepting society. Alam said, “I wish more people would understand that Islam is not a violent religion. In fact, it recommends not acting with violence.”
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FUN & GAMES How To Play:
SAM RUSKIN fun and games chief
Two people will choose a different color. Each player will choose two adjacent dots, horizontal or vertical, and draw a line through it. The other player will do the same. They will continue to do this until they form a box. If you have completed a box, you can fill it in with your color. Forming a box allows you to play an extra turn. The person with the most boxes, once all the dots have been connected, wins the game.
193157@sycamoreschools.org
Welcome to a new year of “The Leaf.” This section will be where we will feature a new game each issue. This month’s game will be a...
Connect The Dots!
Sudoku Difficulty: Easy 9 2
8 6
4 9 1 3 5 3 8
1 4
6 1
1 6 3 9 4 3
2
3 1
6 9
RM
2
4 9 5
P G
L G E
A N R O
T
A D
O M V A
N O C
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Guacamole Juice Parmesan Spaghetti Rings
iddle of the onth What has rivers but no water, forests but no trees, and cities but no buildings?
Answer: A Map
*Solution verified by hand and by computer
4
Answers: Avocado, Orange, Eggplant, Tomato, Orange
1
The Honeycomb
Start at the colored hexagon. Spell solutions to the hints below by winding your way through the shapes. You can backtrack and use letters more than one time. Each new word starts with the last letter of the previous word. The theme is: Fruits and Vegetables
THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG |15
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AR T S & ENTER TAINMENT
BEN RUSKIN co-executive editor in chief 175057@sycamoreschools.org
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uicide Squad? More like “Deadshot the Movie.” DC is in dire need of a “reputation saver.” With the “Batman v. Superman” reviews down the toilet, fans had high hopes for the group’s newest cinematic project. Unfortunately, critics continued to bash “Suicide Squad” before it was ever released in theaters, lowering viewer expectations. Although critics may discourage some, I cannot be stopped. I was determined to develop a unique opinion of the movie rather than let the critics decide for me. “Suicide Squad” was not a completely terrible movie, but it was not great.
Like I said, it should have been called “Deadshot the Movie.” Deadshot, portrayed by Will Smith, had an immense part in the film. Although Smith’s acting was phenomenal, I was expecting a broader focus on each character’s story. Deadshot’s character, as intriguing as he may seem, felt like the only dynamic villain in the cast. The movie left me wanting more. It seemed like something was missing. The trailers for the film were absolutely fantastic, maybe even better than the movie itself. Also, the soundtrack was basically flawless. If only the movie was as well done as the music and previews.
Box-Office Flops
“THE LONE RANGER” (2013) estimated losses:
$94,748,943— $119,748,943
16|THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG
Photo MCT Campus Photoby: courtesy of Adhiti Chundur
Super bad guys, super bad film
To avoid spoiling the movie, I will not completely delve into the plot. But I will say this, the content is everything we have already seen. A large light beam into the sky, a stereotypical villain, and a plot to end the world. DC needs something new and creative. The “after credits” scene follows Batman, played by Ben Affleck, getting ready to form the Justice League (an obvious set-up for the upcoming movie for 2017). Even though I may not have enjoyed “Suicide Squad,” as expected, I will continue to follow the DC universe. Hopefully DC will get its stuff together and start to produce movies worth watching.
“GREEN LANTERN”
“R.I.P.D.” (2011)
estimated losses:
estimated losses:
$90,074,414
$90,837,890— 114,837,890
Photo courtesy: Peter McCutcheon
ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT
Electric ensemble rocks out at Hall of Fame HANNAH MAY
The Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame. The directors of the 173130@sycamoreschools.org hall strive for a balance he Sycamore Electric between student bands and Ensemble, or SEE1, is professional performances. a rock orchestra group Seniors Peter that showcases electric string McCutcheon and Max instruments. SHS orchestra Shirly and junior Adrian director David Smarelli Oliver took advantage of the created the club in 2003 and opportunity and traveled to has been leading it ever since. Cleveland, Ohio on Aug. 8 Working together to perform with five of the Near the end of June SEE1 elementary school players. began collaborating with Shirly said, “It was fun fourth grade students from playing with the younger kids. Maple Dale Elementary It was kind of like an insight School who wanted to into my future because I want expedite their musical growth to be a music teacher. So, I by practicing with more got to figure out how to get experienced players. them to listen and start and Smarelli said, “It was really exciting to see them getting excited about something, and it’s an extension of what we’re doing here. The cool thing was seeing the fifth graders look up to the older guys. It is really gratifying to see that the little kids were inspired by these guys.” executive co-editor-in-chief
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The Hall of Fame
As the two groups worked together, an invitation to perform arose out of a parent’s connection to
stop playing.” Together, the two groups played two sets along with individual performances by the high school and elementary school ensembles. Shirly said, “It was an experience. Definitely a lot of fun. When it was just us [SEE1 members] it was a lot of fun, especially when [McCutcheon] hit those really high notes.” Instead of simply covering songs, the SEE1 members structured and rearranged pieces to suit their instruments and talents. McCutcheon said, “Coming up with the music was pretty
fun because a lot of it was open solo playing. We just had to figure out the structure of it. I had a sheet of paper taped to the floor to see how each song was structured.”
The future
Looking forward, SEE1 members are excited about future possibilities for the program. Smarelli said, “The biggest thing is the fact that when [the elementary students] hit high school there is already going to be a group that can jump into SEE1, and there is going to be a lot more experience when they get to high school.”
McCutcheon plays the bass alongside senior guitarist Shirly and junior drummer Oliver. SEE1 will play its next concert on Feb. 24 at SHS with special guest Joe Deninzon, lead singer and electric violinist for the band Stratospheerius. The orchestra Senior Spotlight concert will feature McCutcheon on the acoustic bass on Oct. 14 at SHS. Photo courtesy: Peter McCutcheon. THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG |17
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SPORTS
ALEXANDER KAREV opinion chief 194160@sycamoreschools.org
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espite winning the past two Division I state titles, the SHS Boys Varsity A tennis team entered this year’s tournament as an underdog. Ranked number three in the state, the team began its quest for three consecutive state titles against the New Albany High School tennis team. New Albany was ranked second in the state and expected to beat the defending state champions,
Photo courtesy: McDaniel’s Photography
Tennis pulls off three-peat
were relentless in cheering for their team.” SHS took the early lead 1-0 with a victory from the second doubles team of D’Souza and Qi. This lead, however, was short-lived when Jackson’s Joseph Thomas defeated class of 2016 member Alex Taylor. After a win from junior Nathan Zhang and sophomore Alexander Karev, SHS found themselves one match away from capturing the state title. Taylor said, “Once we got the win at first doubles, we could taste the title. It was right there on our fingertips.” The state championship was now on the racket of senior Noah Stern. Stern clinched the 3-1 victory for the team, capturing the elusive third-in-arow state championship for SHS. Coach Michael Teets said, “It’s definitely a special feeling winning a state team championship. Not many programs can say that they have won three in a row. Each one is special and Photo Courtesy: McDaniel’s Photography they’re all different.”
however, members of the class of 2016 Rohan D’Souza and Ajay Qi clinched the victory for SHS, 3-1. This victory led to a final between SHS and first-ranked Massillon Jackson High School. The crowd for SHS was a big factor in the outcome of this match by supporting every player on the team, whether they lost the point or won it. Tennis analyst Scott Gerber said, “There was great tennis in the foreground with a loud, energetic crowd in the background. While all schools brought a few people to this Sunday’s tournament, Sycamore took it to a completely different level. Their fans
Karate kid crushes competition WILLIAM COLEMAN 171098@sycamoreschools.org
While Team USA boasted its 558 Olympians this summer in Rio, a SHS student was on a Team USA of his own. Senior Zachary Hanus journeyed to Dublin, Ireland to compete for USA’s National Karate team. The World Union of Karate-Do Federations (WUFK) Karate Championships took place in the Emerald Isle this past June, hosting karatekas (competitors) from North and South America, Asia, Africa, and Europe. 10 years ago, Hanus started his first martial arts clinic in Symmes Township with Sensei Benjamin Nishime.
Hanus said, “When you know you have trained harder and longer than anyone there, it is more like a battle against yourself to stay in that mindset and to focus.” However, Hanus did not have much of a problem with the mindset and focus obstacle. Hanus was named World Karate Kumite (freestyle fighting) Champion and won a bronze medal in Kata (solo). Hanus said, “When the American flag was draped around me on the podium, I felt like I had finally won something that I had all along. That was the moment when I was able to show it to the world.”
18|THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG
Photo Courtesy: Cincinnati Enquirer
sports chief
SPORTS
Football begins with Nippert game sports chief 171098@sycamoreschools.org
A
s the school year begins, Sycamore Football looks to improve upon a four and six 2015-16 record. This started with a game versus La Salle Lancers and will continue this Friday with a game against Covington Catholic Colonels. Principal Doug Mader said,“I think it was an amazing opportunity to showcase Sycamore’s talent and class.” Ahead of a four win, six loss 2015 season, the Aves aim to work their way back to .500 for the first time since 2014. Of their ten games on the season’s schedule, SHS has seven of the same opponents as last year along newbies to this year’s lineup of games like Fairmont and Hamilton. Senior running back Ra’Von Bonner said, “Our schedule is no cakewalk. We have to get after it every day, starting now. We’ve always had the talent, we just haven’t had the character.” All together, the team lost ten seniors
from the class of 2016 over the off-season. It filled those roster spots with former sub-varsity players and incoming freshmen from the class of 2020. The team faces the setback of transitioning into a new team with a few newcomers to varsity, but sooner rather than later, they will be able to overcome this hump of adversity and embrace the change. Head coach Scott Dattilo said, “Chemistry is very important. Our players are willing to sacrifice themselves for the betterment of the team.” Even though the La Salle game was at a neutral site at Nippert Stadium, it counts as a home game for the Aves. SHS has only four true home games at Bud Acus Alumni Field (5757 Cooper Road). Those home games are versus Hamilton (Sept. 16), Lakota East (Oct. 7), Oak Hills (Oct. 21), and Mason (Oct. 28).
Ra’von Bonner DAVID WERTHEIM business manager 175000@sycamoreschools.org
LAUREN KURTZER creative projects director 174029@sycamoreschools.org
After coming off of a strong end to the 2015-2016 season, the Sycamore Aves Dance Team is looking forward to building on a successful season. Armed with four returning dancers and eight new members, returning coach Elise Williams, and new coach Kimberly Cooper, the team is getting ready for its fall performances and beyond. Senior Rosanna Bartlett said, “So far, summer training has been a blast! The girls on the dance team this year are amazing, and everyone is like family. I can’t wait to see how much closer we become throughout the rest of the year!” All through the summer the team had one-hour conditioning practices on Saturdays and two-hour technique practices on Wednesdays. On top of practices, the girls went to the Universal Dance Association dance camp at the Great Wolf Lodge. There, each girl learned four routines and performed them at the end of the camp. They also worked on technique and bonded as a team. As the summer work winds down, they are preparing to perform at upcoming football and soccer games. playoffs and win.” Sophomore Verany Iek said, Last season, he led the GMC in rushing “Dancing on the Flyerettes team with 1,429 yards. He also scored eight has been a great experience for me touchdowns in a game against Oak Hills in so far. Everyone is extremely nice arguably the performance of the year for a and encouraging. I couldn’t ask for GMC player. a better team.” Bonner said that he is looking for a “great campus life and academic prestige.” Bonner said, “I want to play around great people, not just great players.” As for schools that have not offered yet, Bonner said he would like to hear from Louisville, Purdue, Kentucky, Indiana, Syracuse, and Iowa State.
Player Profile
Photo courtesy of Lauren Kurtzer
While the SHS football program has seen several players graduate to pursue college football, not since Darius Hillary signed with Wisconsin almost six years ago has SHS had an athlete as high-profile as current running back Ra’Von Bonner. With nine Division I offers (and counting), Bonner has a plethora of choices to choose from, with his most recent offer coming from Illinois on Aug. 6. He is rated as a three-star prospect according to the 247sports.com Composite Rankings, the number 58 player in the state of Ohio, and the number 92 running back in the country. Bonner said that this year he would like to improve that. Bonner said,“[My goals are] 2,000 yards, 40+ touchdowns, First Team All-State, Ohio Mr. Football, and to carry [SHS] back to the
column:
Photo Courtesy: Ra’Von Bonner
WILLIAM COLEMAN
THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG |19
SPORTS
column:
JOSHUA PATTERSON
opinion chief
171042@sycamoreschools.org
Girls golf plays up to par CAROLINE VERALDO
have a hole in one under their respective belts as well. As SHS does not have a golf course on ed by coaches Andrew Ovington campus, the team hosts all of its practices and Julie Haverkos, the SHS lady and home matches at other nearby golf golfers are looking forward to having courses. They compete in away matches a strong 2016-2017 season. and tournaments all across the state. Although they graduated former state Bradley said, “Even though we do a lot champion and class of 2016 member more traveling than other sports, it is Anna Alsip, the ladies’ team will still definitely worth it. Maybe we can get our strive to match last year’s immense own golf course at school someday.” success. The team’s leading golfer this year so far Senior Chloe Bradley said, “We may is senior Orchid Wang. Wang has been face a larger amount of difficulty placing golfing since freshman year and competes as high as they did last year, but I am still in many tournaments outside of the school confident that this will be an awesome season. year.” Wang said, “I’m really looking forward The squad experienced its first taste to this new season. We gained some new of success this season when freshman younger players who are really motivated, Shruthi Chiadambaram hit a hole in one at the Meadow Links course this past and the entire team has high hopes that we’ll make it far this year.” month. With only one in-season match so far, the Although they are relatively rare for golfers have a long season ahead of them. most golfers, the SHS golf team is no Nevertheless, they are excited and look stranger to hole in one shots. Both forward to updating and improving their sophomore Heather Bruck and class 0-1 record by the end of the year. of 2016 member Hannah Zeidenstein sports chief
173000@sycamoreschools.org
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Water polo teams swim together
One of the constants we have in life is sports. Whether it is playing or watching, there is always something in the sports world to consume. No matter where you attend school, sports are a central theme. Unfortunately, this year started a little differently for the Worthington Kilbourne water polo team. Members of the team were involved in a fatal car crash on Aug. 12 while traveling to a pre-season tournament at Napoleon High School. This accident resulted in the death of Courtney Fisher. It is events like this that highlight the fact that sports are not the end all be all. This is especially true for the fans. While the Bengals 0-7 record in the playoffs under Marvin Lewis may feel like it is destroying SARAH HORNE creative projects director your soul bit by bit, it actually has 174214@sycamoreschools.org no bearing on you as a person or on your life. The Worthington The same goes for the athletes. Kilbourne water polo While your accomplishments as team was traveling to a an athlete may elevate you, they pre-season tournament in do not define you. Being a good Napoleon, Ohio when a athlete does not guarantee your van carrying six members life’s success, in the same way that of the team crashed into a being a mediocre athlete does not semi truck. destine you for a life of failure and The water polo misery. community across the Life is a fleeting thing. No one Midwest has come lives forever, so it is important to together to support the live your whole life to the fullest. team during this time We know Fisher as a water polo of grief. Vigils, banners co-captain her senior year and and GoFundMe accounts a Division I commit to Marist have been created to help University. However, there is a Worthington Kilbourne. story behind every athlete. She is more than an athlete because sports is not everything. Life is bigger than sports, and no one can deny it. 20|THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG
The accident resulted in the death of Courtney Fisher. The other five individuals were rushed to Toledo Hospital for critical care. These are the names of the people involved in the crash:
Courtney Fisher
Vicki Fisher
Melanie Samantha Fink Fisher
Betsey Fisher
Sydney Zullich
These Cincinnati high school water polo teams have come out and shown their support for the Worthington Kilbourne community: Cincinnati Mavericks
Milford
Mason
St. Xavier
Princeton
Sycamore
A community-widevigil was held at 8:30 on Aug. 17 at the lower bus ramp. Everyone was given a candle to be lit in honor of those affected by the crash.
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SPOTLIGHT
Making music magic JENNA BAO
ALLY BONHAUS
associate editor
feature chief
181003@sycamoreschools.org
193006@sycamoreschools.org
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HS has always had a strong music program, in part due to its wealth of dedicated and talented student musicians. Currently, one of those students is junior Kiri Wang who has played the cello for nearly a decade. Wang said, “I like music a lot mainly because I grew up with it, with my parents taking me to concerts and forcing me to listen to [classical music] while we were on road trips. I guess I got used to it.” Wang plays in not only SHS’ orchestra, but also the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra Philharmonic Orchestra. She will play in the All-National Honor Symphony Orchestra this fall. Wang qualified for the national group
Sophomore Lindsey Wong has played the flute since she was eight years old. Her mother used to be an opera singer and conductor. Her elder sister is also musically talented and performs on the piano. Wong performs solos and plays orchestras. To keep herself motivated, she listens to other performers, encouraging her to practice more. Wong said, “The flute has a beautiful, melodic voice which I love. This makes me want to practice flute as much as I can to make my technique and sound better [and] to be able to reach the most famous flutists’ level.” In the future, Wong hopes to become a known flutist and perform as a soloist. She also wishes to get into a good orchestra and become a professor at a music conservatory. Wong has won the Overture Award,
this year after getting into the Ohio Music Education Association (OMEA) Southwest Region Orchestra last school year. Wang said, “I am pretty active in groups like CSYO Philharmonic, and [so] I decided to audition for regionals last year. I made first chair, which qualified me for All-State because you have to be in the top three chairs of your region to get [into] the state level.” The state orchestra was Wang’s main goal as a sophomore but she found out about the possibility to audition for nationals through the All-State Orchestra organizers. Wang said, “Trying out for Nationals was kind of a last minute decision...I didn’t think I’d get in because there are people I am in groups with that’d Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestra (CSYO) Concerto Competition, Louisville Concerto Competition, Central Ohio Flute Association competition, National Flute Association (NFA) competition, and the Music Teacher’s National Association international competition for all categories of music. She has also sent a recording to New York and won the Alexander and Buono International Flute Competition. Wong is in the CSYO and played as a soloist with the Louisville Orchestra. Wong said, “I play the flute because there are many things in life where I cannot express my feelings, but in flute, I can.” Wong is taught by Demarre Mcgill in Texas and Amy Porter in Michigan. Wong is an internationally award-
totally kick my butt [on the cello], and thinking about the musicians in California and New York stressed me out. However, since I had the chance, I tried to make it the best!” Although the audition process was tedious and required her to record pieces over and over, it paid off when she was accepted (and nearly fainted upon hearing the result). Players from around the nation will convene in Grapevine, TX in Nov. 10-13. As for advice for other players, Wang said, “You really have to persevere through the ruts you go through while practicing. It’s frustrating but it’s the only way you can really master whatever you’re playing.”
Photo courtesy of Lindsey Wong
winning flutist and hopes to continue playing the flute in the future. Music has been a large part of her life due to her mother, and she continues to share that love for music through her flute.
THE LEAF|August 31, 2016|SHSLEAF.ORG| 21
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