The student news publication of Walnut Hills High School
Volume CX, Issue 8
The Buckeye State Blues Ohio public universities are easier for students to afford, but are becoming harder to gain admission into Between 1980 and 2012, college enrollment rates have gone
26%
41%
from to of the population
Friday, February 5, 2016
Inside this issue
Pep rally, page 2
The most selective public university in Ohio is Ohio State University
49.5% of students accepted into Miami University are out-of-state residents
From 2009-2014, the acceptance rate for Miami has decreased by < 12%
15,491 stufor Miami University Miami University’s Early is a 28 dents were adDecision rate (75%) is 10% Ohio University’s mitted to Ohio higher than its Regular average GPA for adUniversity in Decision rate (65%). mitted applicants is a 2014: 74% 3.43. The national of appli96% of students ac-
#OscarsSoWhite, page 3
The average ACT score
From 2009- average acceptance cepted into The Ohio State University are in 2014, the rate for all the top 25% acceptance universities is of their class. rate to OSU has de55.5% creased by The least selective public university in < 10%
PHOTO COURTESY VINCENT PAOLO VILLANO
Men’s Basketball, page 4
Ohio is The University of Akron.
The minimum GPA requirement for University of Cincinnati’s DAAP program is a
3.0.
All inforgraphic information fron: <http://www.collegessimply.com> <http://www.miamioh.edu> <http://www.osu.edu> <http://www.ohio.edu> <http://www.uc.edu>
36%
of the students admitted to University of Cincinnati enroll.
GPA student struggles Nick Robertson, ‘19 As many students get their graded exams back this week, many see this time as one to reflect on the first semester. Grades have been finalized, GPAs updated, and that has caused mixed emotions around the school. GPA, or grade point average, is a sign of how well an individual is currently doing in school, averaging all of their grades together into one number. GPA determines class rank, which is how good a GPA is in a class, compared to other students’; the higher a GPA, the higher a class rank. A lot of Walnut students, especially younger ones, are still confused about GPAs and the class rank system. Many students, like Essaye Tekia ‘20, believe that the current system of information from resources like Powerschool is inadequate; “We don’t have the infrastructure available [to be informed] and have to
ask teachers [about class rank and GPA].” Most other interviewed students, like John Owens ‘21,say they don’t even know how to calculate their GPAs, or access their class rank. Carlo Bronzi ‘21 says, “[There is] not enough information or explanation given to easily calculate your GPA, especially for Jr. High students.” Currently there is no way to access your class rank information for a student, forcing them to have to ask a teacher or counselor. Sam Hoover ‘17, “Frankly, it sucks, the system sucks.” One easy solution to this problem is education and implementation of tools and resources into well-used sites like Powerschool, Blackboard, and the school website to inform and educate students about their class ranks. A simple tool could easily be implemented and would be much appreciated by Walnut students. GPA, however can be seen on Powerschool.
OHIO: JOHN WOLANIN/THENOUNPROJECT.COM
Infographic by SENIOR Alexandra Berding, Augusta Battoclette, ‘17 and Matthew Youkilis, ‘19
Couple Goals, page 5
How to access your GPA online Augusta Battoclette, ‘17
1. Go to <powerschool.cps-k12.org> and login with your username and password. 2. Scroll down until you see Student Dashboard on the left side of the screen and click it. 3. Your screen should now say Open Student Dashboard. Click the link, which should open a new tab that takes you to your CPS Dashboard. 4. Click Open Playbook Student Profile. This should take you to a page titled Playbook Student Portrait. 5. Scroll down the page until you find the GPA section, which should display what yours is. This is one way to find your GPA. The best way to find it out is to meet with your counselor and have them print out your transcript, which has your final grades for every class you’ve taken at Walnut, along with your weighted and unweighted GPA, class rank and the number of credits you have.
HANNAH BUNDSCHUH/CHATTERBOX
Overtures, page 6
Lunch Issues, page 7
FEATURES
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FEBRUARY 5, 2016
PAGE 2
SECTION EDITOR: HALI LANIER
CINCINNATI, OHIO
Walnut’s spirit shines at the pep rally
LOGAN WALTERS/CHATTERBOX
SENIOR Nick Barnett ‘16 leads his team in the obstacle course. He sends a ball down the court, aiming it for the bowling pins at the end. Hali Lanier, ‘ 17 Pavan Yaddanapudi, ‘17 Cheers erupted Fri., Jan. 29 as grades 9-12 rallied the Men’s varsity basketball team into the winter pep rally just ahead of their win against Withrow that night. SENIOR Nate Smith, ‘16 led the pep rally, eliciting energy from the stands. The first activity was a dance competition that pitted the SENIORS against the junior and freshman classes. In both rounds, the SENIORS swept the competitors with their exceptional dance moves and won the event. Following the dance competition, an obstacle course took place with participants from various classes. The course involved spinning around a golf club, changing into swimwear, and knocking down bowling pins sequentially. Yet again, the SENIORS conquered the event leaving fellow
contenders trying to make a last stand. The pep rally is a great way to generate hype for Walnut’s sports program as evidenced by spirit week. Spirit week brought both recognition and student involve-
“Some people dress in what they like and it gives them a chance to express themselves.” Tor Vaz, ‘17 ment to sports through a schoolbased initiative. The themes for the week were Beach Monday, Twin Tuesday, USA Wednesday, Eagle spirit Thursday and Class Color Friday. This was a change from previous spirit weeks when Class Color day was on Thursday and Eagle
Spirit day was on Friday. The decision to do this created a uniformity among classes and presented more intensity to the event as classes came together to acknowledge and commend the sports program. As with the high school pep rally, Junior High got a chance to participate in their own. It was held in the Junior High gym, and incorporated activities similar to events held in the high school pep rally. However, one unique aspect of the Junior high pep rally was that it was led by Walnut’s first ever 7th and 8th grade Nut House, created by Mr. Brokamp. A dance competition was held, along with a round of Knockout and a Do It Like Me challenge. A presentation of the winter sports teams was included alongside the scheduled competitions. Many students participated in the spirit week. Tor Vaz, ‘17 said, “ It gives a chance for students to
get more involved and participate in fun things like that.” Vaz went along to say “ Some people dress in what they like and it gives them a chance to express themselves.” The spirit not only reached the upperclassmen, but brought forth a lot of school pride in the underclassmen as well. When asked what she liked about spirit week, Heather Cochran ‘19 said “People can do it, and there’s a certain theme that you and your friends can do.” Additionally, students advocated for minor changes in for spirit week. Some suggestions were for a random day on which students choose any outfit to wear and a group dress day which differs from the twinning day as it includes more than two individuals. Spirit week is a great way to bring the student body together and shed light on all of the great winter sports happening here at Walnut. GRAPHIC CREATED BY NICHOLAI LEKSON/CHATTERBOX
LOGAN WALTERS/CHATTERBOX
The men’s varsity basketball team sprint onto the court as the crowd cheers them on, ahead of their senior night basketball game. They run through a tunnel formed by the girls’ varsity cheer leading squad.
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SECTION EDITOR: JOESEPH GLANDORF & VANESSA MOORE
CINCINNATI, OHIO
#OSCARSSOWHITE Avery Samuels, ‘16 All 20 actors and actresses nominated in the leading or supporting role categories in the 2016 Academy Awards are white. This is the second year in a row no people of color were nominated. Twitter is angry––the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite took over the internet on the nomination release date, and has continued to trend. “[The fact] that this has happened two years in a row is very statistically improbable if the Oscars were inclusive and representative,” SENIOR Mouhamadou Guisse said. “Accomplishments of all people should be recognized. Give credit where credit is due.” However, not everyone feels the same way. There is also a large number of people who feel that the Oscars are already inclusive enough, and that the racial discrepancy is a coincidence. “If they thought that a white actor was better for their talent rather than their skin color, then they deserved to win,” Evan Bond, ‘18,
said. “If the actors are nominated for skill and prowess then whoever wins deserves to win.” By definition, (the majority of ) the actors nominated are talented. However actors of color are often equally talented. Why, then, have there been no actors of color nominated in recent years? The answer might lie in the demographics of the Academy itself. “[The Academy] is dominated by 6,000 white males,” Brian Sweeney, who teaches Film Techniques and Analysis, said. “Hence the films [nominated] do not reflect society’s diversity.” To be specific, out of the more than 6,000 Oscar voters, 94% were Caucasian, 77% were male, and voters had a median age of 62 according to a 2012 survey by The Los Angeles Times. This much is true: diversity is good. It makes things more interesting and more representative. Although the lack of racially diverse nominees can be in part attributed to the homogeneity of the Academy, the problem extends beyond
the Oscars. On Sept. 20, Viola Davis won the Emmy for Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She was the first non-white winner. In her acceptance speech, she said, “The only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity. You cannot win an Emmy for roles
“Accomplishments of all people should be recognized. Give credit where credit is due.” SENIOR Mouhamadou Guisse
that are simply not there.” Plus, the roles that are there often lack depth. Rarely does one see a protagonist of diverse race, gender, and sexuality without the film being entirely focused on their diverse traits, and when a person of color isn’t the protagonist they are usually thrust to the side and cast in a shallow, archetypal role.
“Because there is so little diversity in the writer’s rooms, both in gender and race, regular movies such as Grown Ups ends up casting an entirely white cast and throwing Chris Rock in there so they don’t look racist,” SENIOR Austin Lamewona said. “Movies have a lot bigger effect than people realize. [They have] a huge influence on kids. If, for example, a little African American girl grows up only seeing people who look just like her in positions like ‘the black best friend,’ and never in high-ranking positions like doctors, she is going to be subconsciously unaware that she can be high-ranking as well.” The people want representation. #OscarsSoWhite proves that. Furthermore, this deficit of diverse representation is solvable, but it will take a major shift in the way Hollywood operates. Alumna Zoe Cheng graduated in 2015. She currently attends the University of Southern California, where she is studying screenwriting. USC is famous for its Hollywood alumni.
“This problem is so much bigger than the [#OscarsSoWhite],” Cheng said. “The Academy cannot nominate actors of color if there are no actors cast in these award season roles. The media has a huge impact on our lives––we watch movies to figure out how to do things. As a writer, I diversify because I want to. I want to change what movies are like.” In order for there to be increased representation in the media, Hollywood as a whole must reform its practices. Writers and directors must be more open to diversifying their casts. Movies and television shows must diverge from the typical “white guy” protagonist that audiences are sick of, if #OscarsSoWhite is any indication. The Academy has already vowed to add new young, non-white members to their voting body and to nominate less homogenous films next year. Clearly change is happening, and will keep happening as Cheng and other filmmakers who share her vision become part of the industry.
OSCAR STATUE: FEDERICO PANZANO/THENOUNPROJECT.COM
Walnut’s 2016 Oscar predictions
“Affirmative action does not yield good results. Forcing diversity with the Oscars will lead to drawing attention to bad movies.” Anonymous
Augusta Battoclette, ‘17 Avery Samuels, ‘16
Two classes from every grade were randomly chosen to participate in a survey regarding personal predictions, awareness and opinions on the 2016 Oscars. The statistics below in no way represent The Chatterbox’s opinions. DISCLAIMER: Two nominees names were misplaced and not included on the original survey: Micheal Fassbender, Steve Jobs and Christian Bale, The Big Short.
Best Picture Grades 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12: The Martian
Best Actor Grades 7 & 8: Matt Damon The Martian Grades 9, 10, 11 & 12: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant
Best Actress
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Best Visual Effects
Grades 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Grades 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Grades 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Grades 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12: Star Wars & 12: Sylester & 12: Jennifer & 12: Kate Winslet, Stallone, Creed Lawrence, Joy Steve Jobs
Do you think Leonardo DiCaprio will win an Oscar this year?
Do you think the Oscars need to be more inlusive?
How aware are you of the Oscars controversy? Very aware Somewhat aware Not very aware Not aware at all
Yes No I don’t know Who?
Yes No Neutral
The Chatterbox Policy Statement
The Chatterbox has been guaranteed the right of freedom of the press through the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. The administration of Walnut Hills High School is thus bound to support and protect the Chatterbox’s inalienable rights as a free press. As an integral part of the Walnut Hills High School community, the Chatterbox has the responsibility to report in the most comprehensive and objective manner possible. Students, parents, faculty, and administrators
are encouraged to use this publication as a forum to express any ideas or concerns, whether they be personal or of local, national, or international scope. Journalists are required to work under established guidelines. Invasion of privacy as a means of news gathering is prohibited. Articles found to be discriminatory, libelous, or unnecessarily obscene (as determined by the editors or the advisor) will not be published. Finally, journalists are granted the right to keep private the name of a source from whom they received informa-
tion with the understanding that the source was to remain anonymous. The role of the newspaper advisor will be to provide counsel and criticism pertaining to the newspaper’s content and production. Although both the advisor and the administration hold certain powers regarding the Chatterbox, both must respect the paper’s autonomy. No student shall be prevented from joining the staff on the basis of sex, race, creed or national origin.
SARAH DAVIDOFF, ‘13
The Chatterbox Editorial Staff Alexandra Berding, Editor-in-Chief
Isaac Stephani,
Managing Editor of News and Features
Maddy Fixler, Managing Editor of Student Life
Avery Samuels, Managing Editor of Opinions
Augusta Battoclette, Managing Editor of Design
Luke Warren, Managing Editor of Photography
Swede Moorman, Business Manager
Lela Robinson, Video Content Manager
Pavan Yaddanapudi, Online Content Manager
Samantha Gerwe-Perkins, Adviser
Dawn Wolfe, Adviser
FEBRUARY 5, 2016
PAGE 4
SPORTS
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SECTION EDITOR: KRIJN SCHWARTZ
CINCINNATI, OHIO
SHOOTING FOR STATE: MEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM Aaron Espelage, ‘18 “I believe we’re going to win every time we lace ‘em up” said basketball coach Ricardo Hill. Hill is as confident as ever, coming off of a 24 point victory over Withrow High School at home. The Walnut Hills High School men’s Varsity basketball team is 13-4 for the entire season and 10-1 in the Eastern Cincinnati Conference. The team is in first place in the ECC and Hill believes that they could be contenders for the state title. The last time Walnut’s basketball team was this talented was three years ago, when they finished third in the 2013 State Tournament. This year, the 17 players on the team are younger than those in some previous years. “Whoever competes the hardest gets to play, and typically 12 guys see the floor,” Hill said. Abba Lawal, ‘19, is nearly seven feet tall, Lawal is in his second year in the U.S. (coming from Nigeria), and his first year at Walnut Hills High School (coming from Clark Montessori High School). “Abba is still learning the game but he has a chance to be the best ever to have come out of this school,” Hill said. Hill has high praise for all of his players: “Everyone is really unselfish this year.”
Hill coaches with a team first approach and does not tolerate selfish play. “It’s all about being a team, even if you’re not playing, you have the goal to help the team,” Hill said. The day after the team defeated Withrow by a score of 59 to 35, they traveled to play La Salle High School for a game outside of the conference. Walnut fell to LaSalle High School with a final score of 79 to 44. “That’s what can happen with a young team, inconsistency can occur.” Hill is not looking into the loss that much: “Sometimes you just have to tip your cap to the other team… they were lights out, I don’t think they missed a shot.” Hill is now focused on winning the conference and defeating Milford, the team’s next opponent. One of the team’s more experienced players is Michael Davenport, ‘17. Davenport has been on the Varsity team since his freshman year and sees potential in the young team around him. “We are still reaching our full potential and the more we play, the more we come together as a team,” Davenport said. He has felt the pressure of winning every season and this year is no different. “Every year I’ve become more comfortable with the pressure and our attitude of winning has never changed,” Daven-
ISABELLA PITTMAN/CHATTERBOX
SENIOR A.J. Fletcher and Corey Davis, ‘18, go up for a rebound in the game last Friday against Withrow High School. Omari Peek, ‘18, waits for a pass from his teammates. Peek scored seven points during the game, and the Eagles defeated the Tigers with a final score of 59 to 35. port said. He thinks well of the younger players: “Having a balanced front court and back court mixed with the play of Abba, is really helping us.” Not only is Davenport happy with the team this season, he believes Hill and the coaches are doing a great job preparing them for games this year. “The coaching staff has
prepared us well with film and pre-game scouting.” The team is focused on the conference championship, the tournament, and on their upcoming opponents. Hill wants his young team to thrive coming into the tail end of the season and Davenport believes they have what it takes.
KELLI STEWART/CHATTERBOX
At the Eastern Cincinnati Conference Championship at Anderson High School on Jan. 24, the Walnut Hills High School men’s and women’s swim teams had 21 swimmers place in the top five in every one of the 48 events. The men’s team placed second and the women placed third overall against Turpin High School, Anderson High School, Glen Este High School, Kings High School, Loveland High School and Milford High School. Above, swimmers compete at SENIOR Night on Jan. 30 at Walnut Hills High School. To read more about the triumphs of the swim teams, visit <www.whhscbox.com>.
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STLE & CULTURE
SECTION EDITOR: ELISE FRITTS
FEBRUARY 5, 2016
PAGE 5
Hollywood heats up with love for V day Keegan Sullivan, ‘17 Ozzy & Sharon Osbourne These two have been the head of the tabloids since the 70s. But through the physical fights with one and other, Ozzy Osbourne trying to murder Sharon Osbourne, Sharon Osbourne’s attacks on Ozzy Osbourne’s bands during performances and more, they’ve stayed together through it all. They truly are a ride or die couple. Married since July 4, 1982, this rockstar and his wife have two children together, Jack and Kelly. Ozzy Osbourne is a singer, with hits like Crazy Train, War Pigs and Paranoid. Sharon Osbourne is a manager, talk show host, talent show judge and author.
Neil Patrick Harris & David Burtka Famous for their adorable Instagram pictures and creative Halloween costumes, these two have been married since Sep. 16, 2014, and together since 2004. A surrogate gave birth to their two children, Harper and Gideon. These five year-old twins are a huge part in the lives of both “Daddy” and “Papa.” Burtka proposed to Harris about nine years ago, and a year later Harris proposed back on Valentine’s Day. Harris is famous for his role as Barney on How I Met Your Mother and his new television show Best Time Ever with Neil Patrick Harris. Burtka is a famous chef and actor, who guest starred on How I Met Your Mother as Scooter (Lily’s high school boyfriend).
David & Victoria Beckham These two got married July 4, 1999. They met at a charity soccer match in 1996 and have been in love ever since. They have four children, Brooklyn Beckham (16), Romeo (13), Cruz (10) and Harper (4). The family lived in what the media called “Beckingham Palace” in Hertfordshire for 15 years, until they moved into London. David Beckham was a very famous soccer player for 20 years, winning many awards and playing for seven different teams. He is now a model, well known for his Calvin Klein ads. Victoria Beckham is very busy as well as a singer Posh Spice, businesswoman, fashion designer and model. Even with their busy schedules, they manage to stay together.
Will & Jada Pinkett Smith These actors got married Dec. 31, 1997. They have two children together, Willow and Jaden. Will Smith is famous for roles in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Focus, Independence Day, Hitch and Men in Black. Jada Pinkett Smith is known for roles in Gotham, Magic Mike XXL, Madagascar 1,2 and 3 and The Nutty Professor. Using their considerable platforms, they’ve recently led the Oscar’s boycott. The Smiths have said they will not attend nor watch the Oscars this year. Like many famous couples, there have been a lot of rumors about their relationship but they’re still going strong.
Ellen Degeneres & Portia De Rossi Easily the most famous lesbian couple, Degeneres and De Rossi have been together for 12 years. They met backstage at an awards show and have been together since 2004. After gay marriage was legalized in California, these lovebirds tied the knot in Aug. 16, 2008. However, not even their lovely wedding photos could uphold the gay marriage law, and it was overturned Nov. 5, 2008. But all marriage licenses previously issued continued to be valid. Degeneres and De Rossi are still married and living together, with no kids in their future according to Degenres and De Rossi, but a lot of pets and a lot of love. Barack & Michelle Obama The most presidential power couple, these impressive people have been together since 1989. They both graduated from Harvard Law School and ended up at the same law firm in Chicago. Michelle Obama had just had her last year as an associate and was assigned to mentor a new associate from Hawaii, the one and only future president of the U.S. They clicked right away and the rest was history. He ended up asking her out and taking her for ice cream. They dated for three years and married Oct. 3, 1992 (which later became Mean Girls day). They have two daughters, Malia and Sasha, and a dog named Bo.
Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie Brangelina has been one of the most adored couples since 2005, falling in love on the set of Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Pitt had been engaged to actress Gwyneth Paltrow and married to actress Jennifer Aniston, then left Aniston for Jolie. Jolie had previously been married as well to Jonny Lee Miller, then Billy Bob Thorton, but eventually Pitt and Jolie found each other, marrying on Aug. 23, 2014. Jolie adopted three children from various countries by herself for different reasons; they were later also adopted by Pitt. They also have three biological children. Jolie is an actress, filmmaker and humanitarian. Pitt is an actor and producer. Both have received Academy Awards, making them ultimate relationship goals.
Beyonce Knowles & Jay Z Carter Jay Z married Beyonce on April 4, 2008. They have a daughter, the famous Blue Ivy Carter, who turned four Jan. 7, 2016. One of the most famous couples in music and Hollywood, Carter and Knowles consistently cover the media. Although their true meeting is veiled, they met through the music scene some time between 1997- 2000. For the first few years, they kept their relationship private while going to events together and producing/performing duets very often. Their marriage was intimate and in Carter’s apartment. They handled Knowles’ pregnancy in the same way, frequently denying and hiding it.
Prince William & Duchess of Cambridge The royal couple, married April 29, 2011, have been a power couple around the world for years. Their wedding at Westminster Abbey was star-studded and broadcast live. The couple has been making headlines ever since, bringinging babies Prince George and Princess Charlotte into the world. Prince William and Princess Kate met at St. Andrews University and dated for a few years, breaking up for a few months before regretting their decision and they fell back into each other’s arms. Oct. 2010, Prince William secretly proposed to the duchess in Kenya with his late mother Princess Diana’s wedding ring. They now live happily as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Taylor Swift & Calvin Harris Swift and Harris’ relationship started out away from the public eye. Their secret romance was brought forward to the public in April of 2015 when Harris was spotted leaving Swift’s home. They were introduced nearly a year ago by singer Ellie Goulding at the 2015 Brit awards on Feb. 25. While Swift is a famous country singer turned pop star, Harris is a DJ born and raised in Scotland. The two have seemed increasingly serious, meeting each other’s parents and spending the holidays together. PROFILE TAG:THOMAS HELBIG/THENOUNPROJECT.COM HEART: OKAN BENN/THENOUNPROJECT. COM
Single on Valentine’s Day? Katie Chase, ‘16 Valentine’s Day is just another day for those who are single. We spend the day hanging out with our other single friends, if we have any, or watching Netflix and indulging in chocolate ice cream and pizza. On Valentine’s Day and the whole month leading up to it we are constantly reminded of the fact we are single every time we walk into Kroger, Target or Walmart. The first thing you see is the great big Valentine’s section filled giant teddy bears, chocolate hearts, flowers and other little gifts for that special someone. As someone who has been single every Valentine’s Day, except for one (it was first grade, he took me on a date to Frisch’s…. you could say things got pretty serious), I am here to help you get through this day with some tips: 1. Know that you are not the only one who is single and experiencing “Single’s Awareness Day.” 2. Love your singleness––take a moment to think about all the benefits of being single… you don’t have to buy anyone else gifts or figure out something special to do for your bae. According to a statistic from
statisticbrain.com, 53% of women will end their relationship because of not getting a Valentine’s Day gift. 3. See what’s going on in the single scene––go out to dinner with your single friends, or maybe have them over for a girly movie night or a guys game night. 4. Treat yourself––buy yourself all the food you can possibly indulge in, I suggest some brownies or a pizza… maybe even both if you are feeling like treating yourself. Papa John’s and Mama Mimi’s sell heart shaped pizza on Valentine’s Day. 5. Listen to a playlist to get you out of that funk! One of my personal favorites is on Spotify, and called “Single + Loving It” with hits such as “Feeling Myself ” by Nicki Minaj and Beyonce with many more single anthems for you to blare in your room or car. 7. If none of these seem to work, then just stay inside your house all day and don’t leave until February 15th. Who needs Valentine’s Day? Having a boo is overrated in my opinion. There is something to look forward to during this holiday: 50% off chocolate and candies the next day.
JULIA DUELL/CHATTERBOX
Some people like to stay in away from all the romance outside on Valentine’s Day. Cuddling up with Netflix and your favorite ice cream is a good way to spend the day.
FINE ARTS
FEBRUARY 5, 2016
WHHSCBOX.COM
SECTION EDITOR: VERONICA VICTA
PAGE 6
CINCINNATI, OHIO
The Overture Awards Emily Glazer, ‘17
AN OVERVIEW OF THE OVERTURES:
The Overture Awards are an annual high school fine arts competition in the Greater Cincinnati area in which high school artists of the highest caliber compete in for recognition and cash prizes. This year, Walnut had five students make it to the semifinals, or the top 20% of competitors. Four of these students advanced to the finals, or the top four students overall in a category.
The Freshman Finalist and the Three Time Winner Annika Hsi, ‘19: Dance
SENIOR Isabella Geis: Violin
Q: How long have you been involved in the arts? AH: Since I was 11. My parents signed my sister up and then they also signed me up, so then I just went along with it, and then over time, I came to like it more and more. IG: I have been playing the violin for 12 years now, and I got into it kind of randomly. I just chose the instrument and after I’ve been playing for a while, I just really liked it. Q: How did you get into the Overtures? AH: A lot of my friends, who already graduated, did it in previous years so I kind of watched and cheered for them. IG: This is the fourth year I’ll be doing them. In ninth grade,I was introduced to it by Mr. Caliguri, the orchestra teacher, so I just decided to audition that year, and ever since I really liked it and kept auditioning. Q: What is it like competing with others who have the same talents as you? AH: Well I’ve been competing since I was little but primarily with ballet, but it’s just interesting to see the other competitors and learn from them. It is very humbling. IG: The Overture Awards are really interesting because, I know violin, but I’ll be competing against pianists and wind players and so the instruments aren’t really separated which is different from most competitions. Q: What was your opinion of how you did at the semifinal competition? AH: I had a really great time performing in the semi-finals, and it was nice seeing other amazing artists perform as well. IG: I thought I had played better than the other years. And this year I was really impressed with the overall level of playing.
SENIOR Anna Donnelly: Vocal Music
Q: How long have you been singing? AD: I’ve been singing for a while, but I’ve been taking private lessons for five years. When I got involved with school choirs I realized I wanted to pursue it seriously. Q: How did you get into the Overtures? AD: This is my third year doing Overtures, so I kind of feel like I know the ropes. I am just going to enjoy it. Q: What did you sing for the competition? AD: I am singing “Ah, Love, but a Day” by Amy Beach and “Mein Herr Marquis” from Die Fledermaus by Johan Strauss. Q: What was it like competing? AD: I think it’s really cool to see people doing the same thing as me because it is pretty unique to pursue something in the performing arts. It’s fun. Q: How did you feel about your semifinal performance? AD: I think I did well. I felt very comfortable with performance and I just tried to enjoy it! Q: What are your future plans? AD: I’m going to college to get a music degree in singing and then, I’ll probably go to a graduate program to pursue singing professionally with opera companies.
Kendall Young, ‘18: Musical Theatre
Q: How long have you been in musical theater? KY: I have been doing theatre in general since I was probably five. I started classes and camp at five and my first professional play when I was eight. It was A Christmas Carol at Playhouse in the Park. Q: How did you get into the Overtures? KY: First I auditioned for Walnut, but I actually didn’t make the cut--I was a runner up. So I told my voice teacher and she told me to still try. Q: What did you do for the competition? KY: I sang “Not for the Life of Me” from Thoroughly Modern Millie and did a monologue from Bessie! The Life of Bessie Smith. Q: What was it like competing? KY: It’s intimidating. I’m a tenth grader going against people who already won the competition. You kind of just have to be confident, which I struggle with. Q: How did you feel about your semifinal performance? KY: I thought I did well although I didn’t make it to the finals! I was proud of my performance ‘cause I really put myself out there and boosted my confidence in performing.
SENIOR Abbey O’Rourke: Vocal Music
Q: How long have you been singing? AO: I have been singing for ten years. I got into music through my elementary school music teacher. She introduced me to the Cincinnati Children’s Choir in third grade and I have been singing with them since. Q: What was it like competing? AO: I don’t know yet, the first round of competition for voice was a private audition. This was stressful because I had no one to compare myself to. The semifinals are open to the public and we can watch the other competitors so it is more intense. But really, I am just trying to improve my performances and expand my solo experiences. Q: How did you feel about your semifinal performance? AO: I think I did very well. I was nervous so my mouth was a bit dry but the performance paid off! Q: What are your future plans? AO: I am planning to major in music education and vocal performance. I have been accepted into Capital University, The University of Akron and Miami University.
ALL PHOTOS BY ISABELLA PITTMAN/CHATTERBOX
PEANUTS
WHHSCBOX.COM
FEBRUARY 5, 2016
PAGE 7
SECTION EDITOR: ALLISON MEIER
CINCINNATI, OHIO
Lunch problems for the junior high
HANNAH BUNDSCHUH/CHATTERBOX
Seventh- and eighth-grade students chat as they leave the gym after the bell rings for class. Most of the time they leave huge messes for the janitorial staff to clean up in the few spare minutes between lunch periods. Hannah Bundschuh, ‘18 Tall yellow walls and glossed wooden floors may make a perfect setting to play a game of hoops, but it doesn’t quite fit the description for housing the massive amounts of seventh and eighth grade students during lunch. Surprisingly, this is what the high school gym is used for between the hours of 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. every school day. This is a change in environment from last year when the Arcade and courtyards were open for eating and many students have had a hard time adjusting, particularly with the younger kids. In a survey of 157 Walnut seventh and eighth graders, 42.68% said that they eat in the gym, 49.68% said that they eat in the cafeteria and 7.69% said
that they eat elsewhere. An anonymous eighth grader said in the survey that “the gym is too crowded and we don’t have freedom to move around.” Similarly, Aniyah Toler, ‘20, said “[I would] like to be able to walk around at lunch. The cafeteria should be the place to go if you want to sit and eat your lunch.” However, the cafeteria seems to pose major problems among the students as well. Many of them are still confused about the trash bin situation and are concerned about the amount of garbage left behind by their peers. Kayla Bryant, ‘21, said, “People aren’t recycling as much as they should so people in the sustainability club [which includes] me have to constantly tell them how to recycle.”
Other problems students face is getting to class on time after the lunch period ends. The gym is released in squadrants and because of this, students in the section released last tend to arrive at their classes several minutes after the bell rings. Taylor Hallser, ‘20, said, “The dismissal is a mess. I am late [to] class most days because of it.” Still, whether you eat in the cafeteria or the gym, the number of junior high students flocking the halls this year makes it hard to please everyone. Being respectful of other students and making sure that trash goes where it belongs is the first step in helping resolve the lunch time situation.
Avoiding the Effie backpack Dear Piper Peanut,
My backpack is always big and heavy from everything I put in it. Do you have any advice for what I should keep in my backpack during the day and what I should leave in my locker or keep at home. Sincerely, Shoulder-cramp Sheila
Notebooks/Binders Most teachers require you to have a binder or folder to keep your stuff organized. Bring it with you everyday so you can maintain its organization and be prepared for whatever you do in class.
Extra pencil/ pen This is for if you’re in a rush and need to write something down.
Planner Keeping a planner with you during every class helps you keep track of what assignments need to get done and when certain project due dates are occurring. Seventh graders receive free planners at the beginning of the year, however any student can pick one up for a few bucks from the spirit shop in the cafeteria.
Pencil pouch This one is pretty self explanatory, but you should always be prepared for class with writing instruments including pens, pencils, and highlighters.
Folder with extra paper Don’t be that kid who mooches off of their peers every class because they’re not prepared with paper! Keeping a stack of sheets either in a binder or in a folder will help you be prepared for every class. Wallet If you buy your own lunch from the school you should make sure to keep your wallet or some extra cash with you so you can do just that. This is a good space so it doesn’t get lost at the bottom of the larger pouch
Where does junior high eat? 8%
49% 43%
The pie chart above shows the results of a survey of 157 Walnut Hills seventh and eighth graders. Many of the junior high students have complained about their lunchtime environments being left in a mess after the period is over.
New snow in New York Maham Usmani ‘19 This winter may have seemed light at first, but it proved otherwise as January progressed. Due to unexpected snow, Cincinnati Public Schools had two snow days, one on Jan. 20 and the other on Jan. 22. However, in New York, the after-effects of the snow lasted much longer than just snow days. The blizzard that struck toward the end of January in New York this year left behind slippery pavement, icy roads, a travel ban and disrupted the New York subway system. Days of school in certain districts were called off as well. Esme Wright, ‘20, is an eighth grader at Walnut Hills High School, and recalls the snowy event. “There was a lot of snow, and [New York] was freaking out about it because it was the biggest snow storm yet,” Wright said. “they told everyone not to go out on the roads, they canceled school, they said to be really, really careful and they said don’t drive.” Compared to New York, Cincinnati did not receive nearly as much snow. Even with the light amount of the soft, white ice, two days of school were taken off in Walnut Hills. Wright “was excited
MAHAM USMANI/ CHATTERBOX
Esme Wright smiles as she talks about snow days. Snow days can be seen as extra time to catch up on homework, or just to relax. but [thought that they] shouldn’t have had that one snow day.” But, however, she felt that the decision for the snow days was appropriate. Wright thought that the snow day on Jan. 22 “was okay, since we got a snow day, but we shouldn’t have had it.” But regardless of the amount of snow received in both regions, school was called off. Some students may rejoice at this news, while others may cower. ‘Snow day’ may seem like an easy term to define, but means something different for everyone.
ARCADE
FEBRUARY 5, 2016
PAGE 8
SECTION EDITOR: TARA SALES
WHHSCBOX.COM
CINCINNATI, OHIO
Who is your role model and why?
“My Aunt because she battled cancer for 30 years and never complained; it made me realize how grateful my life is.” ~Cooper Keener, ‘16
“Belal Hajhamed because he’s the livest and makes the most money.” ~Amiene Fetwi, ‘16
“Maia Lanier because she makes light of every situation.” ~Sydney Kitchen, ‘20
“My mom because she’s my ride or die.” ~Juelle Walker, ‘20
“My mommy because she’s like me, just older.” ~Zoe Clark, ‘17
OCTAVIA CARMEN-HOUSER/CHATTERBOX ISABELLA PITTMAN/CHATTERBOX TARA SALES/CHATTERBOX LOGAN WALTERS/ CHATTERBOX
Donald Newberry provides inspiration for students
“I
was born to perform. Nothing can stop me from doing good. My mind is a pearl. I can accomplish anything in the world. If my mind can conceive it and my heart can believe it, then I know I can achieve it. Cause I was Born to Perform.”
TARA SALES/CHATTERBOX
Newberry said “I wrote the poem to set the tone with me and my students. I teach them that low expectations don’t work, but high expectations are good. I believe my students came into the world with a mission , so I help them figure it out.”
GUEST TEACHER/ DONALD NEWBERRY
Feeling helpless, hopeless or depressed can result in extreme emotional pain and desperation. Sometimes these feelings result in thoughts of suicide, but it’s important to let someone with these thoughts know that there is help and hope. If you or anyone you know is having suicidal thoughts, talk to a trusted adult or call 1-800-273-TALK or text START to 741-741.