Chronicle 19.5

Volume 19 Issue 5 | William Mason High School | 6100 Mason Montgomery Rd., Mason, OH | 1.21.22

“Beyond Building”

See page 2

An aerial view of Shadow Lake Mobile Home Village, the neighborhood Emerik Moser lives in.

Illustration by Becca Hunter

2 News January 21, 2022

LEGO building offers students more than just a creative outlet

Aditya Thiyag | The Chronicle built LEGO sets on his own and that and there were always new, more helped students. As an Eagle Scout
he would often “make a day out of” extensive and flashier sets centered with the Boy Scouts of America,
Step by step, brick by brick. building large sets. By “working in around those coming out,” Stanescu- Weaver worked on several large-
That is the approach that high chunks” and turning building into “a Bellu said. “Even as I grew up, there scale projects and said that he had
school students are taking to build collaborative experience”, Weaver said were always sets for things that I en- one mindset that he would be in
LEGO sets, and in turn, the approach that he found the building experi- joyed. I’ve recently gotten into space during both large LEGO builds and
they are taking to live their lives. ence more enjoyable. In addition to travel and there are plenty of sets on scout projects.
LEGO is a toy manufacturing being more fun, Weaver believes that older generations of rockets, like the
company centered around connect- working with other people makes space shuttle.” “I tried looking at the small pieces
ing plastic bricks that form various the experience easier, especially with that I got done and being positive
objects from a plethora of franchises larger builds. As Stanescu-Bellu grew up, he instead of trying to look at this huge
when assembled. Each LEGO set con- said that the size of the sets that he undertaking and thinking, ‘there’s
tains bags of multiple lego bricks and “LEGO sets can be very big en- built increased significantly as well. so much still to go,’” Weaver said. “It
an instruction booklet, with sets being deavors, and having someone else With piece counts crossing into the was all about being positive, looking
divided into age range and franchise, with you makes the process feel a lot thousands, Stanescu-Bellu said that at how much I got done [that day].
allowing for people of all ages to smaller and a lot more manageable,” there were some dull moments in the Like, ‘I was able to dig up this entire
build sets together. Weaver said. “I remember even in building process, but by focusing on section,’ instead of being negative.”
For senior Adam Weaver, LEGO sets first grade I had a friend over and we “what was directly in front of [him]”
have been a way to connect with his put the Star Wars AT-AT together, so rather than becoming overwhelmed Despite the grueling nature of
friends and family. With his dad being I’ve never really built by myself.” by “looking too far ahead”, he was some of the larger builds, Stanescu-
a LEGO fan for years, Weaver said able to complete large builds. He said Bellu said that the variety of LEGO
that familial passion was the reason Themed sets, like those centered that this approach lent itself well to means that there is a set for every-
that he personally got into LEGO. around entertainment franchises other aspects of his life, including the one, that it is a hobby that anyone
Their shared interest allowed the such as Star Wars or Harry Potter, are college application process. can pick up and enjoy.
pair to build relationships with one the most popular among the LEGO
another and enjoy the hobby together community, with the former causing “It’s really easy to get stressed out “The great thing about LEGO
rather than separately. a 31% increase in the company’s net when thinking of all the outcomes in is that there are sets for almost
“For my dad’s birthday this year, I income, according to CNBC. Senior the application process and how going anything you can think of, making it
got him the Star Wars Mandalorian Constantin Stanescu-Bellu said that to college will impact the rest of your easy to pick up a set and be genu-
spaceship [in LEGO],” Weaver said. his love for LEGO stemmed from the life.” Stanescu-Bellu said. “However, inely interested in it.” Stanescu-Bellu
“But, we built it together as a bonding variety of these themed sets. Since just like in LEGO, it’s better to just said. “I think anyone can get into
experience. It was a fun time where there were always sets that “were able focus on the next step that you have LEGO, and for someone who hasn’t
he got something cool that he could to satisfy [his] curiosities”, he said that to take every day to get closer to your built a LEGO set yet, look for a set
put on a shelf and we got to LEGO kept him engaged as he got goals.” that represents one of [your] pas-
spend time together.” older. sions or interests.”
Weaver said The application process
that he rarely “I remember being really into is not the only place
LEGO Ninjago and comic where a chunked
book heroes as a kid approach has

Illustration by Nishka Mishra, Photo contributed by Constantin Stansecu-Bella

January 21, 2022 News 3

Warren County Youth Court offers students unique experience

Izzy Gaspar’raj | The Chronicle those juveniles who have pleaded Photo by Izzy Gaspar’raj
guilty to their crimes can be heard in Student jurors deliver sanctions for the prosecuted juvenile after deliberating and
Not many students know what it is front of a jury of high-schoolers. After choosing the sanctions themselves.
like to go to court and be prosecuted as hearing the case, the jury then presents
a juvenile, but even fewer know what it a penalty for the offender. Kirby said giving the prosecuted juvenile a sanc- participated in the program this past
is like to be a prosecutor. that, when a juvenile is diverted to the tion in which the accused had to write semester as a prosecutor and a juror
Youth Court program, it gives the of- a ‘Letter to Future Self’, in the case that and said that her previous interest in
Students do not normally have the fender the legal opportunity to remove they were about to do something simi- law led her to apply to the program.
power to prosecute and defend one an- the case from their record. lar again. Kirby was very impressed Chakraborty said that her interest in
other, but the Warren County Juvenile with this and decided to add it to his law has increased after taking part in
Court’s Youth Court program is giving As a rule within the diversion pro- list of possible Youth Court sanctions. the Youth Court program. She greatly
high school students the opportunity gram, youth juries cannot sentence Kirby said that the penalties youth enjoyed the atmosphere and said
to do so. Every few weeks, high school the prosecuted juvenile to a detention juries have given out have given him a she feels more prepared now, having
students who were chosen through ap- facility. For the case to be successfully new perspective on what sanctions will a better idea of what to expect in a
plication to participate in the program dismissed, the offender must follow help juveniles who get in trouble. courtroom after participating in the
appear at and participate in a hearing through with the sanctions given by program.
of a juvenile offender. These students the jury. Otherwise, the case will be “[They] don’t think community
from numerous different districts fill placed back into the traditional court’s service is really effective,” Kirby said. “I did it for a solid half-hour and it
the roles of juror, prosecutor, defense docket. In addition, the adults in the “They’re more in tune with what kids was terrifying,” Chakraborty said. “To
attorney, bailiff and even judge. courtroom can also tweak the jury’s need more than I am; it’s really fasci- think of how you have to do that every
final decision in cases where they feel nating to watch.” day for a while is pretty scary, but kind
Judge Joseph Kirby is the presiding the sanctions given may not be age- of fun.”
judge at the Warren County Juvenile appropriate for the juvenile. According to Kirby, the lawyers
Court and decided to establish his that help with the Youth Court cases Especially for young people, a court
Youth Court program as a way of “It’s kind of a huge break you get as have told Kirby that they wish they can be an unfamiliar and uncomfort-
implementing a meaningful program a juvenile, to receive diversion through had a program similar to this when able setting. Kirby believes that Youth
into the court. To develop his pro- your court,” Kirby said. “[Our] obstacle they were young, because learning the Court offers an opportunity to students
gram, he first looked at Youth Court is finding the right case that’s worthy mechanics of a courtroom as a student to “see the court process in a positive
programs in other states to see which of it.” would have given them a large advan- light”. Through the program Kirby
features he wanted to include in the tage when going to college or enter- created, he said that students get an in-
one he was creating. He decided to Freshman Khusbu Patel participated ing the work field. Though Kirby has timidation-free opportunity that gives
establish a “total” youth court, in which in the Youth Court program in the first been serving in his court since 2013, he them real-world experience and even
every role in the courtroom is filled semester of the 2021-22 school year and said that observing the participants in encourages them to possibly become a
by a high school student, with only was a juror for most of the cases as Youth Court has provided him with a judge or lawyer someday.
himself or a few adult lawyers sitting well as a prosecutor once. She said she learning experience as to why juvenile
beside youth lawyers to help them at felt that, because the prosecuted juve- criminals may do the things they do. “It gives them a chance to be a part
certain points. Kirby said that he had nile was near the same age as her and of the solution,” Kirby said. “We can
some personal motivation in play when the other youth presiding in the court, “[The participants] remind me how all complain about what’s wrong with
creating this program, as he rarely they could give educated sanctions difficult it is to judge their own peers,” our society, but we have to be able
sees the students in the area that are from their ability to relate to others’ Kirby said. “Sometimes that makes me to be the ones to step in and solve it.
not tried in his court, and he wanted to their age’s experiences. feel a little bit better because there’s no And sometimes solving it is giving the
meet these other teenagers in the area. way I’m going to be able to understand remedy that’s going to stop that kind
“As kids, we understand the mental what a 15-year-old is thinking.” of behavior. So, be part of the solution.”
“There’s a lot of great kids in this health issue part of it,” Patel said. “We
county,” Kirby said. “I just don’t ever understand why you may do some stu- Freshman Shukti Chakraborty also
get to see them because they don’t pid stuff-–these are people like us who
do anything delinquent to come in can mess up.”
front of me. [Youth Court] brings in
great kids. They’re smart. They’re the Patel said that, though she enjoyed
future leaders. We may have a budding both roles she filled in the courtroom,
lawyer or judge in the midst of us. It she found that the prosecutor job was
really [has done] me a good service to more fun because she got to speak
see some of the good kids as opposed in front of the courtroom and utilize
to just seeing the delinquent kids all of critical thinking skills. Despite her
the time.” enjoyment, she also found that the role
was very nerve-wracking, as it was in a
Warren County’s Juvenile Court very professional setting. She said that
allows some less severe cases to be being a prosecutor was “a lot of fake
diverted to the Youth Court program. it until you make it” and that she was
In the juvenile justice system, the shaking from her nerves.
diversion program allows juveniles
who have committed a crime to avoid Kirby said he has learned a great
taking part in traditional juvenile pro- deal from observing the kids in Youth
ceedings. In the Youth Court program, Court, as some sanctions that juries
have recommended have surprised
him. In one instance, a jury ended up

4 News January 21, 2022

Mason architect has lasting influence on the lives of many

Tanys Keskar | The Chronicle Photo contributed by Tracey Carson building. Yingling said that the Voo-
Al Voorhis shown discussing the architectural plans for the current Mason High rhis family has had a very positive
On December 15, 2021, Al Voorhis influence on the community over the
passed away at 95 years old. pancakes, and interacting with the David Lenert, a former MCS Board years, through both their architecture
community. Carson said that Voorhis member, worked with Voorhis and and their kind spirits.
Voorhis graduated from Mason City enjoyed supporting the community VSWC through the design process
Schools (MCS) in 1949, and is known through pancake day. of multiple Mason buildings. VSWC “They were extremely personable
today as the architect of numerous continued to be the local architecture concerned citizens in the community,
Mason buildings. His firm, VSWC, “A lot of our members, especially firm that the schools and city could away from their architectural respon-
was founded in 1952 and built the famous members like to be on the depend on for all of their new build- sibilities, away from their day job,”
current Mason Middle School, West- serving line where you’re seeing ings. Lenert said that Voorhis was a Yingling said. “[They were] just really
ern Row Elementary School, Mason people,” Carson said. “Al, who is prob- leader who worked meticulously on kind, big-hearted people who liked to
Heights Elementary School, Mason ably one of the most known people designing the school buildings for his be involved in the community.”
Early Childhood Center, Mason High in the community, he’d always be on community.
School, Mason Public Library, Mason dishes. He enjoyed being in the back, Voorhis loved supporting students
Community Center, and numerous humbly washing the dishes.” “Al was a good leader and could and in the 2000s, Voorhis and a few
buildings in Mason town square. lead from the middle of the pack, and other citizens started a senior pep
Voorhis attended high school in his firm was the same way,” Lenert club for the Girl’s Basketball Team.
Voorhis was one of the founding what is now the current location of said. “[We had] a lot of late nights Eventually, the club grew to over 100
members of the Mason Kiwanis Club the MCS Central Office, located on working on all of those [projects], members, and they would all wear
in 1956, and served enthusiastically North East Street, and witnessed the but it was absolutely worth it, and I white sweatshirts.
throughout his life. Today, Mason growth of the city over the years. wouldn’t trade it for anything in the
Kiwanis has raised over $40,000 for Mason had around 750 new students world.” After every home game, the
the local community. Their efforts in the district every year for ten years. team and the senior pep club would
include providing youth services, The school board decided that new Connie Yingling, a current MCS celebrate the game by eating pizza
scholarships and they volunteer in school buildings were needed to ac- Board member, continued to work together. Jere Clark, a current Mason
the community, with acts including commodate Mason’s growing com- with VSWC during the construction High School (MHS) math teacher, was
shoveling snow, raking leaves, and munity. of the current Mason High School a student on the MHS Girls Basket-
supporting the Imagination Library, ball team when the senior pep club
an organization that gives books to “He loved the community, he loved supported the team at games. Clark
young kids to foster a love of reading. said that Voorhis was always there to
architecture, he loved what he was support her. She played basketball
Tracey Carson, the current Public doing with his life and being able to in high school and college, and the
Information Officer for Mason City senior pep club traveled to her games
Schools (MCS), moved to Mason in do it where he lived. to continue cheering.
2005, served as Mason Kiwanis presi-
dent in 2012, and is currently a Mason Connie Yingling, Mason City Schools Board Member “[When I] walk[ed] off the court,
Kiwanis board member. Through [Al Voorhis] would always have a
Kiwanis, Carson worked with Voorhis ” smile on his face,” Clark said. “He was
and said that she witnessed his caring always so excited to be there and sup-
character that inspires many to follow port us. It meant as much to him as it
in his footsteps. did to us, and it’s really cool to have
that feeling. That support means a lot
“[He] was always such a cheerful, when you’re out there.”
optimistic man,” Carson said. “No-
body had more humility of spirit than The community will continue to
Al.” benefit from Voorhis’s contributions,
as his actions and spirit inspired many
Since its founding, Kiwanis has to give back. Yingling said that Voo-
hosted an annual “Pancake Day” rhis was dedicated to supporting the
fundraiser to support its efforts in the Mason community and students.
community, such as working with
the Warren County Abuse and Rape “He loved the community, he loved
Crisis Center. Mason Kiwanis mem- architecture, he loved doing what he
bers come together to make pancakes was doing with his life and being able
for the community, which includes to do it where he lived,” Yingling said.
tasks like washing dishes, making “[He had] a really great, giving heart.”

January 21, 2022 Feature 5

Unconventional classroom arrangements foster positive student mindsets

Alisha Soni | The Chronicle

Teachers have begun to branch Photo by Alisha Soni
out of the traditional classroom Senior Anaya Joshi makes hot chocolate for herself at at teacher Nichole Wilson’s coffee bar, which is available to students daily.
standard.
For students, the lengths that location that best fits them, whether Strudhoff said that being resource-
Some MHS teachers have created Wilson goes to create a pleasant, it was in a higher setting or a more ful in finding classroom furniture
more comfortable and collaborative productive environment are greatly comfortable spot. Now that she is a has been important to his success in
learning environments by enhanc- appreciated. Senior Anaya Joshi has high school teacher, Boselovic aims creating the classroom environment
ing their classrooms. For English made note of the different compo- to create a similar setting in her he wants.
teacher, Nichole Wilson, the impacts nents of the classroom that affect classroom. She said she tries to allow
of a decorated room, coffee bar with her mood and create excitement students to work in the environment “I’ve always been someone that
snacks, bean bag chairs, and flex- to learn. Joshi said that apart from that best suits their learning style. just begs, borrows, and steals,”
ible seating, are all key to creating the inviting atmosphere and snack Strudhoff said. “I find a lot of stuff
a comfortable classroom. With the variety, Wilsons’ classroom serves as Boselovic also takes into consid- that I feel might work. It’s a lot of
environment that Wilson has fos- another motivator for students. eration the mental health aspect seeing ideas and other teachers’
tered, students get the opportunity of the classroom. Boselovic said classrooms that might work and
to converse about ideas in an “out-of- “She has a lot of hidden things she believes the components of the then putting them into action.”
the-box” manner. around her room that pertain to a learning environment are important
unit we were doing,” Joshi said. “I in giving a student the chance to As more and more classrooms be-
“People will be open and vulner- find that it gets you more motivated de-stress, especially from their other gin to take a comfortable approach,
able with ideas that they’re explor- to see [the content] being worked classes. teachers view their classrooms as
ing when they can pick where they into the real world. It’s really excit- an opportunity for students to find
sit and with whom they speak with,” ing to learn because she is so pas- “Students generally feel calmer comfort and motivation in their
Wilson said. “I find that there’s bet- sionate about it.” when they walk into the room,” learning environments. Accord-
ter classroom management, better Boselovic said. “It gives students a ing to Strudhoff, the effect of these
collaboration, and trust [that] devel- For English teacher Sarah break in their day to not have the classrooms are worth the time and
ops throughout the year.” Boselovic, her open-classroom same monotonous type of classroom. effort it takes to create them.
concept and unconventional seat- It blends perfectly into my teaching
Many of the components in Wil- ing allow the classroom to follow style in general, which is [based on] “There are students that don’t feel
son’s classroom have been influ- a cafe-type environment. When student choice.” comfortable in school just because
enced by her upbringing. Growing Boselovic was a college student, of the rigidity that has been put
up, Wilson and her family expe- she would often visit the cafe on From whiteboard tables to wobble in place in the American system
rienced financial difficulties, so campus to work on homework or chairs, – teacher Bud Strudhoff’s of education,” said Strudhoff. “[My
she would often be sent to school other assignments. She noticed that classroom also fits outside of a tra- classroom] breaks a couple [of]
without eating. Now as a teacher, she other regulars there would gravitate ditional learning environment. His barriers that create an atmosphere
uses the opportunity to provide bev- toward the same spot each time. diverse inventory consists of primar- where they can hopefully learn a bit
erages or snacks for her students. Many students would often sit in a ily hand-me-downs, perhaps from more.”
other teachers or his own home.
“[When] I hadn’t eaten when I
went to school, the stress of not eat-
ing got in the way of what we were
supposed to be doing, “ Wilson said.
“But [now] I can provide it [for stu-
dents].There’s an expense that comes
out of my pocket and that’s not a
problem at all. I’m happily investing
time and money into that.”

Apart from the food available to
students, Wilson’s intricately deco-
rated room also connects back to her
family. Despite financial hardships,
Wilson’s family has always found the
holidays to be a special time. They
maintained the goal to be as decora-
tive as possible, especially during
the holidays. Wilson has carried
that decorative mindset over to her
classroom. Her classroom is always
rotating different themes that pur-
posefully tie into the specific unit
being taught.

6 Feature January 21, 2022

Junior Trilokeshwar Jaikumar bats against the Dallas Cheetah’s at the Minor League Cricket (MLC) Junior Championship in Atlanta. Photo contributed by Tileshwar Jaikumar

a game that unites
Athletes grasp life lessons through the game of cricket

Aimee Liu | The Chronicle practices set by his team. connect,” Jaikumar said. “It’s sort of a ment is always attainable, according to
Mason cricket players are realizing “Sometimes I just sit in my house common ground, despite your race, Godbole, is the best part of his sport. He
religion, or income–everyone is equal said cricket has taught him many life
that the meaning of their sport extends throwing a ball as hard as I can, and in the game.” lessons and has given him a healthy
far beyond the playing field. trying to catch it, because the most ran- tool that helps him cope with stress.
dom things help you out,” Pati said. The sense of unity was something
Cricket is a popular team sport that sophomore Hermabh Chakravar- “Cricket has taught me that it should
around the world, comparable to what In addition to the matches they thy has also experienced through crick- never be just you in life,” Godbole said.
most Americans know as baseball. participate in within the MCA, several et. Watching the Indian Premier League When you have a team next to you, and
It is a bat-and-ball game, in which 11 players have also had the opportunity to in seventh grade, Chakavarthy’s interest friends to stick up for you, even when
players on each of two opposing teams play in a variety of tournaments within in cricket was sparked and he felt you’re not in the best spot, it impacts
take turns batting and fielding. The the tri-state region. Sophomore crick- compelled to join local kids playing the you physically and mentally.”
oval field contains a central rectangu- eter Neel Godbole said that he, along sport in the park. He said that through
lar strip, called a pitch, as opposed to with some of his other high school his involvement with cricket, he has Through cricket, Pati has also learned
a square of bases on diamond-shaped teammates, have had the opportunity been able to form a better connection many skills like discipline, maturity,
baseball fields. One wicket, a set of to play in the Midwest Cricket Tourna- with his extended family in India. and patience. These individual accom-
three wooden stumps that can be hit ment among adult competitors. plishments, however, have not been
to stop a run, sits on either end of the “When I used to go to India, I didn’t the most important takeaways from
pitch. “At our age, not many people can have much in common with [the people Pati’s sport. Pati said that joining cricket
play at that high of a stage, facing there],” Chakravarthy said. “But cricket introduced him to a whole new group
When gameplay starts, a bowler people who are much older,” Godbole is a big thing in India and now that I’m of people that he eventually got close
on the fielding team, equivalent to a said. “We have to train much harder for in it, it’s helped me connect to a lot of to, and that that sense of community he
pitcher in baseball, stands on one end of these tournaments because the adults people, like my grandparents, cousins, discovered has helped him uncover a
the pitching area and throws the ball to are at a higher skill level than we are.” and even people in our local commu- purpose.
the other team’s batsman, the equiva- nity.”
lent of a batter in baseball, on the other As it remains an honor for many “Playing as a team helps someone
end of the pitch. After hitting the ball, MCA athletes to participate in local While the connection that cricket like me who used to be individual
the batsman attempts to score as many adult tournaments, their sport’s unique provides is something many players and competitive,” Pati said. “I’m still
runs as possible by running to opposite cultural background allows for their enjoy, Jaikumar has also learned the competitive, but now I have a bunch
ends of the pitch before the fielders can travels to extend far beyond the tri-state importance of resilience through his of teammates that rally with me, so it
get them out, usually by hitting the into areas around the United States as time on the cricket field. He said that makes me feel like I’m a part of some-
wickets. The team that scores the most well as international destinations such although there can be tough moments thing bigger than just myself.”
runs after all their batsmen have run as India, England, and Wales. during a game, the sport always offers
wins the game. the opportunity to recover. The team mentality was an aspect of
Junior Trilokeshwar Jaikumar, who cricket that Charkravarthy also enjoyed.
During the summer cricket season at has been playing cricket since he was “[Cricket] is a lot like life,” Jaiku- Finding a sense of community in the
the Midwest Cricket Academy (MCA), four, has played for many different mar said. “Sometimes you go down, sport, in addition to a great hobby,
players practice daily for three to five teams over the years, but after a coach sometimes you go up – it’s like riding Chakravarthy said that cricket has
hours and participate in matches on the at MCA noticed his leadership qualities, the lows so that you can eventually taught him many personal lessons and
weekends. Although the sport’s summer he became the captain of his current succeed.” has made him not only a better player,
schedule requires players to spend most team. After getting to travel all over but a better person.
of their break on the field, sophomore the world for cricket, Jaikumar said that Godbole also feels a sense of in-
cricket player Sachet Pati said that his through his travels he has noticed the creased mental understanding through “Cricket is like a microcosm of life,”
training extends beyond the scheduled unity that cricket brings to people from cricket. The “constant encouragement” Chakravarthy said. “It teaches you how
a variety of different cultures. and the reassurance that improve- to work with people, and that every-
thing can not be about yourself.”
“[Cricket] is a way for everyone to

January 21, 2022 News 7

MHS accomodates for influx in new student population

Risha Chada | The Chronicle overwhelming and stressful, primar- said. “There are so many different ways that being new at MHS last year through
ily because of how big it is,” Bhat said. to get involved and so many clubs and a remote learning platform was difficult
The annual flood of new students into “I wish I had gotten more involved in organizations, but sometimes you do and made it hard to connect with any of
Mason High School since 2001 has not clubs and sports early on when I moved, have to go seek that out and if that’s not his classmates.
ceased, and neither will administrative that way, I could’ve gotten to know a lot in your nature, then I worry about that
efforts to help students better adjust. more people.” transition for some students.” “[Online] I would ask my teachers any
[questions] I had, but I couldn’t really
Over the past 20 years, Mason High MHS is aware of the daunting task With Pay’s experience helping fresh- talk to anyone else,” Patterson said. “[In-
School (MHS) has been welcoming an new students like Bhat face, however, men and new students alike acclimate to person] my counselor was really helpful
average of 180 new students every year. and took steps to implement a new stu- the high school, she believes that there is in showing me around the school, she
With stress placed on the administra- dent orientation to help them adjust to a key difference between being a fresh- also told me different things I could
tive department to accommodate the student life. The new student orientation man and entering the district completely [join] and it opened me up to a broader
schedules and graduation requirements takes place in early August and helps new. Pay said that while both groups horizon.”
of these students, Mason has developed those new to the district meet others in of students are new to the high school,
an effective system to integrate these the same situation as them. Bhat said most freshmen have already had friends Patterson also acknowledges while it
students into the high school. that being able to connect with other or have seen familiar faces in the school was hard to find connection with other
new students helped her find people who as opposed to new students who do not. students, Mason had many opportunities
Missy Courts, administrative assis- she could relate to and who held the that were not available at his old school.
tant to the guidance office, often sets same initial worries and loneliness she “If you have been in Mason for a few Patterson said that Mason has a wide
up meetings with counselors and new felt. years, you at least have that core group variety of classes that allowed him to
students and sees the uncertainty new of people or classmates that you recog- explore more of what he enjoyed.
students face when entering into a larger “The orientation helped a lot with nize and feel comfortable around,” Pay
high school. Courts said that it is impor- understanding the school layout,” Bhat said. “Whereas with new students, they’re “There’s so many [options] you can
tant for new students to get involved in said. “Mason did a great job helping me coming into this new building and some- choose an AP, Honors, or even a regular
school clubs and activities at any new find my way.” times there is a struggle to find that core [course],” Patterson said. “I took psychol-
school, but especially important at MHS group of comfort people.” ogy and physical education, and now
so new students can find a starting point Despite the school’s best efforts, I’m in ceramics, which is something I’ve
when placed in a grade of approximately students like Bhat still felt struggles of Harper Stull, a sophomore at MHS, really wanted to do and now I can.”
800 students. coming into Ohio’s largest high school. has experienced the despondent venture
Bhat said coming to MHS, with about of being new twice in her two years of While MHS has made strides in help-
“It’s a little harder when you’re a teen- 4000 students overall, was vastly dif- high school, and agrees with Pay’s as- ing new students adapt to the school,
ager, because it’s not like when you were ferent from her old school, which had sessment of the difficulty of not having Pay believes that MHS still has room
six or seven and met kids playing ball around 500 total students. a “core group” coming into any high for growth. For students like Patterson
outside,” Courts said. “When somebody school. Stull was first new to Ursuline and Stull who utilize MHS’s courses
comes in already involved in something “It’s hard to move anywhere, but I Academy as a freshman and moved and clubs, it is much easier to adapt to
it makes me so happy because there’s a think it was harder moving to Mason,” to MHS for her sophomore year. Stull the school, but the difficulty for new
group of friends right there.” Bhat said. “Not only because it’s Ohio’s said that the student cliques that are students is in coming to an unfamiliar
largest school, but also because it’s defi- normally present in stereotypical high school and finding activities they love.
Diya Bhat, a senior at MHS who nitely a lot more competitive compared school were never glaringly obvious or Pay said that she believes a way to im-
moved from Georgia two years ago, to my old school.” exclusive to Stull at MHS. prove how MHS integrates new students
agreed with Court’s assessment of the would be allowing new students to make
difficulties when trying to meet people Freshman counselor Megan Pay, who “It would be hard to be new no matter connections to other students before
at a new school. Bhat moved to Mason is in charge of incorporating freshmen where I was going, but it wasn’t as hard starting school.
the summer before her sophomore year, into the high school and helping them to be new here,” Stull said. “The hard
leaving her with a summer in an unfa- adjust to it, said that she understands the part wasn’t blending in, it was finding “As humans, for the most part, we
miliar suburb with no friends. Bhat was difficulty of transitioning to the exten- my people.” thrive on connection, so adding layers of
left to look to school to make friends, sive building of MHS and the struggles connection could have a positive impact
and even then, a school of 4,000 students that come with trying to find your place Like Stull, sophomore Jeremy Patter- on how students [adjust] coming into
left her all but stranded. at the school. son has been labeled “new” twice in his this building,” Pay said. “Some students
two years of high school. Patterson came who are more introverted and struggle
“When I moved to Mason, it was super “I do worry that some of [the] new stu- to MHS his freshman year, but was on- to find ways to get involved may benefit
dents may struggle to find a place here line until this school year. Patterson said more from it.”
at Mason with [such a] vast number,” Pay

Graphic by Izzy Gaspar’raj

8 News January 21, 2022

Foreign language classes offically switch to proficiency based grade scale

Bradyn Johnson | The Chronicle evaluated their students. materials and skills. “We decided to make it work
Jurewicz said that through the “The research has recently with the standard base language
Foreign language classes have in ASL I, the end goal is a novice
officially moved to a proficiency- new proficiency-based grading shown that the more we focus high which is using simple sen-
based approach of teaching, system, she saw her students be- on gaining skill in Spanish as tences,” Loucks said. “That’ll be
which focuses on building fluen- come vulnerable with the process opposed to learning and checking around an A.”
cy, rather than becoming fluent. which resulted in an eagerness to off boxes, we produce students
learn. who can use Spanish in real-life Every foreign language is dif-
In prior years at MHS, lan- situations,” Rapp said. ferent, the levels of proficiency
guage classes such as American “They understand that it is okay within courses also vary. Loucks
Sign Language (ASL), Spanish, to make a mistake,” Jurewicz said. Rapp said that although all said that ASL two is supposed to
French and German utilized the “And now that that has gone by language teachers are in favor of be a few steps ahead of level one
general letter-based grading sys- the wayside, students are much the new proficiency approach, the courses even though they are
tem. This changed, however, once more likely to ask questions and most difficult aspect for teach- still learning, however, are being
the Ohio State Department of participate.” ers was the physical action of evaluated on a different scale
Education decided that the letter- implementing an approach that according to the skills they are
grade approach was not the most Through the new grading does not use percentage-based expected to reflect in a level two
effective way to engage students scale’s definition of proficiency, evaluations into a system of grad- course.
in acquiring and comprehend- teachers have realized that stu- ing that does use numbers and
ing various skills and tasks, and dents have started to demonstrate percentages. “They’re expected to achieve
would move to a proficiency scale a more accurate representation of just a step higher than they were
to more effectively evaluate stu- what they understand and have Although there have been the previous year,” Loucks said.
dent’s skills and progression. learned, in a deeper context than many changes made to the new “That gets them rethinking some
a traditional letter-based scale grading scales and systems, things from prior years a little
Class and grade standards are previously provided. teachers still have to evaluate bit.”
tweaked yearly to ensure that their students with a traditional
constructive changes are made “This is a more accurate rep- letter grade in accordance with The grading scale aims to equip
to course materials in order to resentation of what students can state laws. Despite this, teachers students with a proficient under-
benefit a student’s learning and do,” Jurewicz said. “This is a more are trying to aid students in meet- standing of the language rather
well-being. compelling curriculum.” ing proficiency requirements to than obtaining precise fluency.
take away the angst of attaining Rapp said that the new approach
German teacher Melissa Jure- Through the proficiency an A in the course. American allows students to gain a skill
process, students and teachers Sign Language (ASL) teacher rather than learning words and
wicz said that Mason High School alike are learning that language Christine Loucks said that each phrases.
classes have more to their course level of proficiency comes with
(MHS) must abide by the state than a grade. Spanish teacher its unique grade since scratch- “It helps students realize
of Ohio’s rules and regulations Tom Rapp said that the profi- ing the letter grade system is not they’re acquiring a skill as op-
regarding all course benchmarks, ciency approach is beneficial to plausible. posed to trying to learn facts,”
and it resulted in many teachers his students within the realm Rapp said.
having to change the way they of acquiring and obtaining new

Illustration by Alisha Verma

January 21, 2022 Feature 9

doing some networking
Internet users defy judgement, craft lifelong friendships

Ava Yungbluth | The Chronicle Hillman said that she and her friend from the start is what led to keeping Graphic by Nishka Mishra
continue to be invalidated by others in such close touch with her friend,
Students at Mason High School who haven’t had the same experienc- though never meeting them face-to-
are linking up with new friends. es. According to Hillman, without face. She said it created a mindset
having background knowledge, different from those she may have
Through social media, gaming or many individuals place incorrect with in-person friends, reminding
other platforms, individuals are mak- judgments on the experience of hav- her that this person is unique in
ing new online connections, simply ing virtual friendships. comparison.
with a few clicks or taps. While the
internet has often been regarded The struggle of invalidation to- “We’ve never seen each other in
as dangerous or unreliable, specifi- wards internet friendship is one not person,” Hillman said. “[No factor
cally in terms of crafting relation- unfamiliar to junior Sara McManes, is ever big enough to] change our
ships or sharing information, these who has felt it first-hand. She noted relationship. We can talk anywhere,
newfound and carefully formed that many people tend to say that anytime.”
friendships have offered teenagers such connections online “aren’t real
some positivity on sometimes isolat- friends.” McManes said she disagrees, McConville, comparatively,
ing platforms, such as Instagram or believing that her online friendships coordinated a time with her online
Twitter. are not that different from those friend from Pennsylvania to visit
made in real life, only differing due Ohio for them to spend time with
Junior Mia Hillman has had an to the former occurring through a one another, McConville taking
online presence since 2017 and said screen. her in her friend group to go to
she is grateful to have the world homecoming. She enjoyed seeing a
at her fingertips when it comes to “People [do not] really under- new side of her friend, saying that
making new friends online. Excited stand the fact that these are actual one’s “online self” is most likely
by the opportunities to meet people friendships that have been built for a always going to slightly differ from
from around the globe that she while depending on the friendship,” their in-person self. She said their
would not have otherwise, Hillman McManes said. “Yes, they are my real group did everything they could to
said she sees few limits when it friends, and I think people are be- ensure that their friend felt just as
comes to meeting others outside of coming more open to it because it’s comfortable with them in person
her community. becoming a more prominent thing as they did online.
in this day and age.”
“It’s just good to get to meet “As long as you both are being
people you wouldn’t have otherwise One of the potential reasons very authentic to each other and
met,” Hillman said. “It’s interesting behind a person’s invalidation of on- like really genuinely getting to
to get that firsthand experience [see- line friendship is the lack of shared
ing things they do] that are different common knowledge between the know each other, meeting in per-
from your own life.” two friends, such as awareness about
school activities or local events. son is so much fun,” McConville
Hillman’s first online friendship Though that may cause some initial
was made on the app Musical.ly confusion, freshman Kenna McCon- said. “[My other friends and I] al-
five years ago and has, according to ville said that she believes that such
Hillman, grown stronger ever since. distinguished obstacles often provide ways try to make the other person
Finding that they both enjoy creat- enrichment and conversation mate-
ing art, the two soon-to-be friends rial with online connections. feel welcome and comfortable.”
followed and liked each other’s con-
tent, deciding to exchange numbers “I think something that [makes Like McConville, McManes has
later on. In Hillman’s eyes, they “just
worked”. Through this bond, she said these friends special] is that they’re had the chance to meet two of her
they have been able to stay close and
in touch. not here in the school,” McCon- friends in person. One from Florida

“They are probably one of my old- ville said. “You can tell each other drove up to see and hang out with
est friends, I would say at this point,”
Hillman said. “They’ve helped me anything openly about what’s going McManes, if only for a few days.
through some tough times, I’ve
helped them through tough times, on in your social life and it doesn’t For the other friend, McManes
we always have each other’s backs.”
really have an effect on anyone else traveled outside of the United
Though their relationship has
faced similar experiences to in- around you.” States. While on her annual trip to
person friendships, such as hav-
ing FaceTime calls to catch up or An in-person friendship con- Denmark, that friend flew from her
collaborating on a project together,
nection is often at risk when the home of England to Denmark to

other person moves far away, while, meet up. Seeing her companions

through an online friendship, such in a three-dimensional aspect was

obstacles are less prominent in monumental, according to Mc-

impeding communication. Hillman Manes, and something that will

said she believes that initially not stick with her for a long time.

having known the person in real life “It was nice to hug these

people,” McManes said. “We’ve

had such a huge friendships, so it’s

like, ‘Wow, I get to actually hug you

and tell you how much I love you to

your face.’”

10 Feature January 21, 2022

Bollywood Dance club promotes cultural connections

Josie Lorenz | The Chronicle in the U.S. “But as we got older, we started to real- nect with and form a bond with the
Senior Manasvi Guduru founded the ize that we weren’t receiving as many other members and express herself
Mason’s Bollywood Dance club is opportunities to showcase our love for through dance. Dance is a creative
stepping up for more than just dance. club with fellow senior Reva Reddy Bollywood. There wasn’t much repre- outlet for Raj who “loved the concept
during her sophomore year. Both Gu- sentation of the Indian community in of dancing to Bollywood songs and
The Bollywood Dance club has duru and Reddy noticed a gap in how Mason and we felt out of touch with having the opportunity to perform for
launched back into action. “Bollywood their culture was portrayed through- our culture. We decided to create the people.”
Dance” refers to dance in the Indian out the school and other activities. To club to not only pursue our passion for
movie industry originating in the 20th help fill that void and apply their love Bollywood but also share our culture To members of the club, expanding
century. Original Bollywood dance of dance, they created the Bollywood with others.” their outreach and showcasing their
centers around traditional and Indian Dance club during their sophomore hard work is fulfilling as they connect
folk dance but has evolved to consist year of high school and made it open Senior Raizel Raj joined the club in to their peers and their culture. Mem-
of styles like Bhangra and Garbao. to any student looking to learn. 2019 when the club was first formed. bers have sought out opportunities
Bollywood dance was soon popularized The club had to go dormant for the to do so at all times. The club views
“Reva and I have been dancing 2020-2021 school year due to COVID-19, events, such as the Taste of Mason as
for all of our lives,” Guduru said. which left a break in the progress they a great way to embrace and showcase
their heritage.
Illustration by Allison Droege made. Raj joined back
once able to and was “We perform for the Taste of Mason
captivated by the every year and are performing again
inviting environment this year,” Guduru said. “[The] Taste of
of the dancers. Having Mason is such a great opportunity for
talented peers of all our club to not only get promotion,
backgrounds excited to but also to share our culture with the
teach and learn enrap- Mason community.”
tured Raj. Raj said she
enjoys the atmosphere Raj admires the all-encompassing
and inclusiveness of the community that surrounds the club
club. and everyone in it. It is important to
“The choreographers her that all are included and have the
do a great job of teach- opportunity to learn and perform. She
ing fun dances in a lively had been dancing since she was young
environment,” Raj said. and was excited to see peer leadership
“It’s a very fun club with and the extensiveness of those partici-
an inclusive community. pating.
All the [members] bond
over their love for Bol- “This club has been one of the most
lywood dance.” inclusive clubs I’ve been in,” Raj said.
Raj was pulled in by the “It’s also completely student-led and
shared the same passion run. So, I’ve seen lots of comfort and a
and to exchange culture. strong community among the mem-
She found it easy to con- bers. High-schoolers from all ages,
races, and dance backgrounds have the

opportunity to perform.”

January 21, 2022 11

12 Feat

20all wrap

As the curtain closed on one of the more eventful years in the lives of cu
structive trends and new experiences, many took time to reflect o

MEDIA Evelina Gaivoronskaia | The Chronicle Della Johnson |
TRENDS
2021 was a year full of box office hits and Wherever Mason students went in 2021, they were
Grammy-worthy albums. Whether it be discov- faced with a multitude of various crowd-following
ering a new artist or starting a new hobby, stu- fads. Now that the year is over, they are figuring out
dents at MHS found fun and interesting things to where to chart their own paths.
pass the time.

“I started Watercolour painting [last Leaving “Devious
year]. I’ve always liked to do art but I re- Licks” in 2021
ally like using this new medium. I’m able
to experiment more and make different “I went to wash my
pieces” hands and these
kids, they took the
- Isabella Falcone, senior soap, they took the
toilet paper, they
On Kanye West’s Donda: even took the whole
dispenser off the wall.”
“My friends got me into the album, I have probably
spent over 10 hours listening to it.” - Jewel Stearns, sophomore

- Crew Gibson, sophomore “Sometimes when I really needed to use the bath-
room they would be closed because people would
keep stealing stuff. That was the worst.”

- Logan Strunk, senior

“My favorite movie was definitely Spider- “I’m looking [forward] to traveling around
Man: No Way Home. He was one of the first the world with my friends.”
superheroes I was introduced to as a kid so
it was [cool] to see Spider-Man evolve as [I] - Trinity Steele, junior
did.”
“I’m excited about going
“I felt every emo- to Japan for my birthday. It’s
tion watching that been in the planning since
movie. I definitely last year and I’m going with
cried but in a happy my cousins, so that’s exciting.”
way.”
- Anisa Chirumamilla, freshman
- Nicole Mater, senior
Illustrations by Allison Droege, Page Design by Della Johnson

ture 13

021ped up

urrent Mason High School (MHS) students, filled to the brim with de-
on the ups and downs of 2021, readying themselves for 2022.

| Editor-in-Chief Isabelle Paley | The Chronicle SCHOOL

SPORTS When students at MHS find themselves in a whirl-
wind of hobbies and sports, it is the classes and
In 2021, MHS moved back into sporting events af- work that often keep them grounded. Throughout
ter a year of cautious distance. Students were ready
to play for their favorite sports and cheer for their 2021, students connected with new teach-
beloved teams. Whether on the sidelines or on the ers, new subjects and new passions.
field, the games of 2021 were filled with excitement.

“I’m looking forward to “Mr. Mackey has helped me
my last AAU season for through [the first semester]
basketball. I’m gonna be because he has a lot of very
a senior, so that means inspirational things to say and
my last summer play- he’s always telling students to
ing basketball in my club keep their heads up.”
team. I’ve been playing
since 4th grade with the same - Rylie Nalder, sophomore
team and I even play with two
of them for the school as well “I took Zoology and it was really fun
so there’s a really good con- because we did a lot of dissections and
nection.” my teacher was great. I want to be a
marine biologist in the future, so zool-
- Carly Prows, senior
ogy and animal science is something
Junior Larson Brown during a Mason football game. that really interests me.”
Photo by Lily Haller.
- Manasi Kanna, junior
“When Larson Brown threw a
great touchdown against Syca-
more [allowing the comets
to win 43-40]. He’s such
a good quarterback and
led Mason to a bunch of
wins and [great plays].”

- Tyler Kim, junior

14 Entertainment January 21, 2022

In our “Fears and Goals” assignment, we Bekah Hufnagel, junior Bradyn Johnson | The Chronicle
were asked to creatively portray one fear
and one goal we have as artists. My fear as Men’s Assistant Football Coach, Alex Beurket,
an artist is being able to start a piece and is currently reading Legacy, where James Kerr
not worry about mistakes, shown by the explores deep into the triumphs of the world’s
cracks coming from the clock and towards best rugby team, also known as the All Blacks
the blank piece of paper, and my goal is to of New Zealand. Eventually he comes out
embrace my artistic mistakes, shown by with lessons on responsibility, culture and
how the cracks can create something beau- legacy. Kerr discovers that leaving a mark in
the sports industry is key to success. Not
tiful like a vase of flowers. only is Beurket reading this piece, but the
football team and it’s rising seniors are as
well to learn the importance of leader-
ship. Beurket gives Legacy by James Kerr
5/5 stars.

Evelina Gaivoronskaia | The Chronicle

Monochrome and minimalist – junior
Kotaro Fujiwara greets the new year with a
sleek black look. His outfit features a black
turtleneck paired with a pair of straight-
legged pants and a belt, creating a strong
base. Fujiwara’s wool coat adds texture
and a comforting feeling of warmth. The
stand-out piece of his look is his shoes:
black loafers with leather tassel detailing.
When combined with the refined feel of the
coat, the loafers pull the outfit towards the
chic, European aesthetic that has risen in
popularity in the past few months. Because
of the modern minimalism of the outfit, Fu-
jiwara’s rings pop with a silver shine, adding
complexity to the all-black outfit. Through
dressing in his favorite clothing Fujiwara is
able to “feel empowered and connect with
[his] inner self.”

Got to Give It Up by Marvin Gaye Human by dodie Waves by The Dear Hunter Surf by Young Thug
When the Levee Breaks by Led Zeppelin Happy Little Pill by Troye Sivan Blue Lips by Regina Spektor Flex Up by Lil Yachty
I Want To Write You a Song by One Erase Me by Ben Folds Five Mannequin Challenge by Young Thug
ilomilo by Billie Eilish
Direction

January 21, 2022 Feature 15

Yoga provides students path toward wellness and balance

Divy Bose | The Chronicle

Whether for religion, fitness, or Photo by Divy Bose
simply alleviating anxiety, yoga has Senior Brooklyn Darby instructs fellow senior Seri Braun in “upward dog” yoga pose during session at HiFi Yoga.
grown into a popular pursuit.
plan to the energy of the room.” body.” different tricks or difficult practices
Yoga has become a part of students’ Another way that Darby improves As yoga is utilized to heal the body, that require a certain level of flex-
daily routines as a source of decom- ibility.
pression and has turned into a peace- the “mood” of the room is by making there are many variations of yoga in
ful escape. Senior Brooklyn Darby has sure her students put any mental or itself. Sophomore Max Yuchasz prac- “There’s a huge stigma that sur-
pursued yoga for nearly five years as physical tension at ease. As a varsity tices aerial yoga, a form of yoga that rounds yoga that you have to be a
an opportunity to further her knowl- athlete on the MHS Girls Volleyball requires not only physical strength certain size or look a certain way,”
edge of the art itself. Her interest in team, Darby has had to learn about but also mental stamina. Yuchasz said Darby said. “But if you are a begin-
yoga grew from wanting to branch injury prevention and has learned he thinks of yoga “as a puzzle.” ner, don’t compare yourself to the
out of school activities and find a how helpful yoga can be to athletes other yogis. Instead, look up to them
secure state of mind. such as herself. “You can’t necessarily get your and learn from them.”
body to do what you want at first,
“[Yoga] made me so much more “[Yoga is] really beneficial to me “ Yuchasz said. “So practicing, and Since everyone starts somewhere,
aware of where my headspace [is] at,” and the students,” Darby said. “It re- getting over that mental block of keeping a strong foundation of the
Darby said. “It is really good for your ally is fulfilling to teach and the best thinking you will not be able to, is basics is what leads to improvement.
mind to be able to separate yourself feeling is when I know I made my what will put the pieces together at Even with years of experience, Yucha-
from those busy schedules and find students’ day just by loosening up the end.” sez said he still finds himself work-
[a] sense of calmness.” the tension in our muscles.” ing at the beginner skill set.
Yuchasz has a background in aerial
Darby made yoga an essential part Yoga can also improve the mobility yoga from performing for circuses “Some days are just worse than
of her lifestyle when COVID struck of student-athletes in the sport they around Cincinnati. He found that others and my body is physically not
in 2020, an event that made Darby participate in. As an athlete, Darby there were many intertwining skills connected to my brain,” Yuchasez
increasingly aware of her mental said that her ability to loosen up and between yoga and his past profession. said. “But even when I cannot nail
health. Darby said that yoga kept her release any muscle strain has im- Yuchasz said that yoga can be chal- the basics, I still feel relief from the
daily routine in check and remains to proved massively just by doing yoga lenging, even with the skills he has energy I release into what I love do-
be a continuous part of it. exercises. As injuries have come up, become accustomed to. ing.”
Darby said that putting her focus on
“[Yoga] was a constant I could rely mending her own body made yoga “I couldn’t even manage to climb Many tend to put yoga in a spiritu-
on,” Darby said. “It brought me some more empowering. onto the rope when I first started aer- al, mental, or physical category when
kind of life during COVID [and gave] ial yoga,” Yuchasz said. “I would come yoga comes to mind. But Darby said
me the opportunity to put time aside “I have had some past injuries due in on extra days to take strength and that aspirations in yoga vary and that
for my own well-being.” to just being stiff and carrying so conditioning classes to even manage there is no set limit on the outcome
much stress in my shoulders,” Darby to hold myself up in the air.” of the practice itself.
The inspiration for Darby’s inter- said. “I always had to sit up and had
est in yoga was her mom, Tamiika so much lower back pain, but doing When yoga comes to mind, many “Everyone says yoga is defined by
Darby, who is a yoga instructor at those repetitive movements in yoga focus on the supposed obligation to how many tricks you can do or the
HiFi Yoga. Darby utilized her mom’s exercises is what really healed my be flexible instead of the strength religion that it stems from,” Darby
practices and yoga flows as an oppor- that is gained. But for Darby, yoga said. “But really, yoga is what you
tunity to bond with her mother and is much more than being able to do make of it.”
said it made yoga even more enjoy-
able for her.

“My mom and I will be in the mid-
dle of the living room asking each
other if our yoga flows are smooth
and transition well,” Darby said.
“[Writing] the yoga flows together is
a learning experience for me as an
instructor.”

After two hundred hours of con-
stant studying over the origin of yoga
and yoga exercises, Darby herself has
become a certified yoga instructor
at HiFi yoga. Darby has had to learn
to adjust her plans based on what
her class wanted out of each session.
Darby said that “going with the flow”
of her class and switching up her les-
son plan helped improve the overall
atmosphere of the yoga studio.

“As an instructor, you have to read
the room,” Darby said. “Even if I
write out my flow plan ahead of time
I completely scratch it and adjust my

16 January 21, 2022

Coaches looking for ways to improve athlete mental health

“It is not a sign of weakness to go “I support anything that is supporting the “I think we’ve got a lot of needs for the
to a sports psychologist.” mental health of any of the students” athletes and the coaches to have a mental
health specialist that focuses on sports.”

Sean Speidel | The Chronicle tion. A psychologist could do anything “The last thing I say to my runners Stemple student athletes can utilize the
from aiding in a stressful situation to right before a race is ‘have fun out mental health resources available to all
When a player twists their ankle, they helping an athlete deal with some of the there,’” Rapp said. “They need to relax, students at Mason High School. In the
can go to a trainer and get it taped. But stressors that come with their athletic have fun, train hard, and have great future if Premier Health decides to add
when they have an emotional issue they performance. These are all things mental preparation as well.” psychologists to their services he would
have nowhere to go. that an online program could not ac- definitely want to take advantage of that
complish. While the program did help Collegiate and professional teams service.
Mason provides athletic trainers to the team, Schur said that having an are beginning to pay more attention to
deal with players’ physical ailments, but in-person psychologist could be much the mental well being of their ath- For now student athletes at MHS can
many coaches have noticed that there more beneficial. letes. National Football League teams
is no one on the sidelines to provide have sports psychologists on staff as a visit their guidance counselor who can
mental help to athletes in a stress-filled “I think we’ve got a lot of needs for resource for their players. The Seattle
situation. the athletes and the coaches to have a Seahawks star quarterback even has his arrange for them to meet with one of
mental health specialist that focuses on own personal psychologist.
A study by the National Athletic sports,” Schur said. “It’d be great if our the school’s many mental health coun-
Trainers’ Association stated that “Many kids can have someone a little more real The United States Olympic Com-
student-athletes report higher levels of and close to them to work with them on mittee offers sports psychologists to selors, therapists or school psycholo-
negative emotional states than non-stu- more of an intimate basis.” their athletes, and several professional
dent-athlete adolescents.” The scene is golfers have a personal psychologist to gists. Even though some coaches would
no different here at Mason High School Hope Squad advisor and assistant help them stay mentally sharp. Rapp
(MHS). football coach Alex Beurket has a said that seeing athletes on the profes- like to continue to explore the idea of
unique perspective. He teaches Psychol- sional level use a sports psychologist
Mason’s student-athletes feel pressure ogy, works with mental health profes- shows that going to a psychologist can sports specific counseling, Stemple also
to succeed in order to uphold the prec- sionals in his role as the Hope Squad be beneficial and should not be frowned
edents of excellence that have been set advisor, and coaches football. Beurket upon in the world of athletics. agrees that student athletes need to take
before them. When athletes fall short, believes having a counselor or psy-
it can be detrimental to their mental chologist working with student athletes “It’s not a sign of weakness to go to a advantage of Mason’s many resources
wellbeing. would be beneficial. sports psychologist,” Rapp said. “ It’s a
sign of caring for your own health and but at this time it is not realistic at this
There is a growing emphasis on “My general thoughts are that it caring for your own performance.
mental health in the academic setting. would be a great idea,” Beurket said. “I time to retain a psychologist for extra
Many schools, including Mason have support anything that is supporting the Over the past few years Mason City
multiple counselors and psychologists mental health of any of the students, Schools has been a leader in focusing curricular activities.
to tend to students’ needs. In the athletic staff, and people in the building.” on the mental health of their students.
setting, however, the coaches must play Beurket believes exploring the idea of Many Mason coaches know that
that role. Due to Mason’s ongoing athletic suc- providing counseling for student ath-
cesses, student-athletes feel mounting letes would be another way for coaches focusing on emotional and mental
Mason girls soccer coach Andy Schur pressure to live up to the high expecta- to focus on the well being of their
believes that focusing on an athlete’s tions while also trying to reach a level athletes. health are major components of run-
mental health is just as important as of personal success. This increase in
their physical health. This past season pressure to succeed can cause athletes “With the resources that we have, ning successful programs. In addition
Schur said that the boys’ and girls’ to develop performance anxiety issues I think we are in a great position to
soccer teams used an online sports psy- which can make them scared to play [implement an athletic psychologist],” to coaching their sport and motivating
chology program in order to strengthen the sport that they love. Cross country Beurket said. “ [We could] be an ex- their athletes to perform at a high level,
their mindset. According to Schur he’s coach Tom Rapp said that he believes ample for other schools, areas, districts they are aware that success on the field
still evaluating the effectiveness of the an athletic psychologist could play an around the city, state, and country. This cannot be reached without athletes
online program but he has seen some important role in relieving athletes of is something that could and hopefully who are not only physically healthy but
proof that it is working for some of his the anxiety they may be feeling. be done to help people.” mentally healthy as well.

athletes. “We put so much pressure on Some MHS coaches have reached out Even though the conversation of
ourselves,” Rapp said. “I think sports to athletic director Scott Stemple about adding a sports psychologist is still in
“I think some of the young ladies psychology can play into that a little the idea of retaining a sports psycholo- the discussion phase, Schur still plans to
bit, learning that you are not defined by gist. Stemple has looked into the pos- do everything he can to provide a sup-
on the team really bought in,” Schur your sport.” sibility of making a sports psychologist portive emotional environment for his
available to Mason’s student athletes athletes. He is grateful for medical staff
said. “If it can help five or six kids, then Rapp said that when the pressure and through Premier Health, the district’s and trainers who help keep the athletes
anxiety begin to build, the fun is taken medical partner. Currently Premier physically healthy. He knows that coach-
I think it’s something worth looking out of the sport, so it is very important Health does not provide resources in the ing isn’t always about on the field game
for athletes to be mentally prepared. sports psychology area but according to strategies but strategies and tactics to
into.” help his student athletes experience
a positive experience as they move
While the online program Schur forward on and off the field during their
high school years.
used did show some success, it does
“I appreciate Mr. Stemple’s willing-
not offer a true interpersonal connec-
ness to look into it as an option for our

school,” Schur said. “We will continue

to help and support the players during
their journey through the high school
soccer program in whatever way they
need us to.”

January 21, 2022 Sports 17

CHRONICLE SPORTS SUPERHEROES

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Divy Bose Savannah Libby

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Sean Speidel Andrew Little

Illustration by Alisha Verma. Page design by Abby Waechter.

Chronicle sports STAFF RECOGNIZES THE HEROIC EFFORT OF SOME OF MASON’S MARVELOUS ATHLETES

18 Sports January 21, 2022

Development key for Comets heading into rest of season

Savannah Libby | The Chronicle ards who has logged his fair share

Andrew Little | Sports Editor of wins during his tenure as Mason

Since joining the Greater Miami head coach knew this year’s team was
Conference in 2008 the Mason Comets
boys basketball team has had only going to have to grow up fast but he
three losing seasons (2008, 2010, and
2013). In that time the Comets have remains confident in his younger
claimed two conference titles and
been among the winningest teams in players and their desire to put in the
one of the toughest public school con-
ferences in the state of Ohio. Sitting 5-7 work to continue Mason’s winning
overall and 1-6 in the conference (as
of 1/17 press time) the Comets face the ways in a league that typically sees
potential of only their fourth season
under .500 in the last 14 seasons. teams play upperclassmen.

Coming into the 2021-22 season, the “These are talented young kids that
Comets returned only one player who
logged significant varsity minutes. are deserving of varsity time,” Rich-
Guard Alex Morton, who averaged 13.1
points per game last season was placed ards said. “Which is now tough for a
into the position of carrying the bulk
of the load for the Comets while also young team to do because this league
serving as a mentor to a blossoming
group of younger players who will be is Senior and Junior strong.”
tasked with continuing the Comets’
string of winning in future years. The coaching staff recognized that

While the seniors still have time to with inexperience comes mistakes but
right the ship, a tough schedule lies
ahead. A closer look at the rosters Richards has been more focused on
reveals that despite the challenges of
this season a bright future awaits the how well his team has learned from
Comets since eight of the team’s most
significant contributors are under- their mistakes. He feels his players
classmen, including six sophomores.
are now starting to move on from
Sophomore Ben Menker logged
some varsity minutes a year ago as a their mistakes and focusing more on
freshman, but this year the 6-4 guard
made the leap to the varsity starting the next play rather than dwelling on
lineup. Menker is currently averag-
ing 7.8 points per game including a 16 a play that is already over.
point outburst in the Comets’ Janu-
ary 11 win over Colerain. At first the “We are learning and when we
pace of the game required a major
adjustment for Menker and the rest of make mistakes a lot of times those Photo by Lily Haller
mistakes can be amplified if they Sophomore Ben Menker gets excited after a big play against Sycamore.
varsity newcomers. Menker feels that let it,” Richards said. “Now I think

going into the second half the season, they’re taking a step back and un- impact on the defensive end of the learn and build off that.”

the younger players are now more derstanding this in order to skip to the court for the Comets while continu- While several sophomores are

comfortable on the varsity level. next play and that’s getting better, but ing to improve his offensive skill set. getting exposed to the varsity level

“It’s a big switch from freshmen or it’s still a work in progress.” A standout on the baseball diamond, this season. The Comets have relied

JV to varsity because of the physicality Sophomore long-range shooter Matt Hanley is currently third in the GMC heavily on the steady play of seniors

and how fast the pace of the game is,” DeBrosse went from a player on the in blocks per game while being called Morton (13.6 points per game, 3.8 re-

Menker said. “We have had enough freshman team a year ago to the var- upon to guard some of the league’s bounds per game, 2.4 assists) and point
games under our belt now that we
know what we need to do, and how sity level this season. DeBrosse proved top big men. After playing exclusively guard Todd Middleton who is averag-
fast we need to move and communi-
cate. Now we are [becoming] varsity he was a valuable addition to the team on junior varsity as a freshman, Han- ing nearly 10 points and 4.5 assists per
players and not just JV players playing
varsity.” in the very first game of the season ley started the season coming off the contest. The team’s lone two juniors

Long time head coach Greg Rich- when he went four for four from be- bench but has become a staple of the Jack Ullom (9.8 ppg., 6.8 rpg.) and Ben
hind the three-point line while scoring starting lineup.
14 points in the Comets’ season-open- Golan (6.8 ppg., 3.4 rpg.) have played
ing win against Tri-Village. The Comets have some tough
games ahead all against teams ahead significant roles this season and are
It’s been a major adjustment for of them in the GMC standings. These
DeBrosse who felt one of the biggest upcoming games provide the team yet another reason for optimism
challenges this year’s team faced with an opportunity to climb in the
was getting used to playing with a standings and show how the team has heading into the second half of the
completely new set of teammates. He made major strides blending together
believes that as the season has pro- and playing a complete game. season and looking ahead to next year
gressed the younger players are start- when they’ll be counted on for senior
ing to blend in more which has helped At the start of the season, it was leadership.
the overall growth of the team. more about learning how to play
together and getting comfortable at Richards believes his young team
“We really didn’t know each other the varsity level. Now as the team is is finding their rhythm while work-
starting to play more like a collec- ing hard to play off the strengths of
well at the beginning of the season,” each other in order to gel together as
DeBrosse said. “We have really grown tive whole Menker feels the team is one unit. He can see their progress
and gotten to know each other. The in the way his players are starting to
guys are having fun, and just building still learning and the first half of the acknowledge each player’s abilities.
chemistry is really what brought us all
together.” season provided them with the op- “I think everybody individually
was trying to find their own niche,”
portunity to build toward finishing the Richards said. “When that happens, it’s
hard to come together as a team. As

Another sophomore who keeps season on a strong note. the season is progressing. I think we’re

showing signs of constant improve- “There’s room for improvement,” all understanding each other’s tenden-

ment and a preview of what is to come Menker said. “A lot of the challenges cies, roles, strengths, weaknesses,

for the Comets is 6-5 forward Jake we were facing this year are helping and I think that’s helping them come

Hanley who has made an immediate our younger guys experience it to together as a team.”

January 21, 2022 Sports 19

Bowling team rides strength of junior class to new heights

Andrew Little | Sports Editor feated and atop of the GMC stand- Photo by Della Johnson
ings, but the Comets are averaging Junior Ogden Nijikowski bowls during a practice as his team watches.
After three consecutive finishes as over 1000 pins per game which is
co-Greater Miami Conference champi- good for first and the conference and out. Despite two of their top players own scores.
ons, the Mason Comets boys bowling 120 pins above Middletown who are having off days, Jack Riley, who holds “You don’t have as much pressure
team has rolled ahead of the field to sixth in pins per game. Brackenridge the sixth-highest average on the team,
become the favorites to win the con- said that the experience he and his stepped up and rolled a personal best because you know somebody else can
ference outright. teammates gained as underclassmen of 234. He placed second on the team go in there and shoot [well],” Bracken-
has allowed them to pull ahead of behind Aiden Hunt and ninth overall ridge said.
The Comets have leaned on a strong their competition this season. in the tournament to help lead the
junior class that makes up eight of Comets to a third-place finish out of Several members of the team, in-
the ten varsity bowlers. Ogden Ni- “When we were freshmen we were 28 teams competing. Riley said that cluding Nijikowski, got into competi-
jikowski, Caden Graham, and Kyle going up against teams who were coach Joe Riestenberg preaches a tive bowling through friendships. A
Brackenridge are entering their third basically like all seniors, and then mentality that anyone on the team student discount at a local bowling al-
season on varsity but have been joined last year we were sophomores going has the ability to step up when called ley while in middle school gave them
by classmates Jake Moyer, Jack Riley, up against all seniors, and now all upon, a mindset that the team has a chance to bond and grow as bowlers.
Will Hauck, Timmy Hollenback, and those people have graduated,” Brack- bought into. Hollenback said that everyone on the
Aiden Hunt all in their first or second enridge said. “There’s no reason we team benefits from the bonds that
year on varsity. Senior Nate Shockey shouldn’t win outright. I don’t see “Our coach says the same thing at they have built.
and sophomore Josh Steffen have anybody who can really challenge the beginning of every match and
also contributed, including a victory us.” tournament,” Riley said. “He says that “With the help and support of team-
against Lakota East where Steffen’s 235 we’re all capable of starting and we’re mates around you, they help you with
was the highest on the team. In a match, there are two games all capable of bowling high scores, your lines and how you throw it,” Hol-
with five players bowling. The other and that really comes out true.” lenback said. “[They] make sure you
Over the past three years, the trio of three bowlers serve as substitutes put a spin on it and make sure you’ve
Brackenridge, Graham, and Nijikowski and can replace a starter if they are Breckenridge said he is comforted hit your mark right. Having team-
has steadily improved their scores. having a bad round. However once knowing that even if he is having a mates being the same age, growing up
This season each has improved their a substitution has taken place, they bad round, he has teammates that are with them, being friends for a while
per-game average by at least 20 pins. cannot be switched back until the capable of making up for it with their and correlating to a sport is just a re-
Teams such as Middletown and Oak end of that game. ally nice thing to have.”
Hills that have challenged Mason at
the top of the GMC for the past few Brackenridge, Graham, Hunt,
seasons relied heavily on their upper- Nijikowski, and Steffen all have
classmen who have since graduated. maintained averages of over 200 pins
Brackenridge said that the experi- per game, placing them in the top 11
ence he and his teammates gained as of the GMC. Brackenridge said that
underclassmen has given the Comets having so many talented bowlers
a competitive edge this season. allows the Comets to compete with
teams that may have a star player.
“We almost have an advantage over
everybody else because they’re all “We probably have the best depth
first-year on varsity or second year in the state,” Brackenridge said.
on varsity, but we’ve already been “Some people may have more great
on varsity for three years,” Bracken- bowlers than us but we have so many
ridge said. “We’re not nervous and we [good bowlers].”
already know how it works.”
The Comets’ average score is almost
One of the most important skills 50 pins higher than the second-place
for a bowler is to be able to read the team in the GMC, Colerain. In a sport
lines on the lanes to ensure they are where scoring heavily fluctuates
having the best ball delivery possible. depending on the lane conditions and
Nijikowski said that he, Brackenridge, whether the bowler is having a good
and Graham can rely on each other day or not, the Comets’ consistency is
in-game due to their familiarity. key to their status as the top team in
the conference. Nijakowski said that
“We know each other’s lines,” Nijik- the team leans on its depth to prevent
owski. “We know how to feed off of the inconsistency that other teams
each other. I can help [my teammates] undergo.
because I’ve been with them so long.”
“We are not sporadic at all,” Nijik-
The Comets finished in a three-way- owski said. “We are very consistent. If
tie with Oak Hills and Middletown for one of us bowls bad, we’re bound to
the conference championship Brack- have tons of other people step up”
enridge, Nijakowski, and Graham’s
freshman year. The next year they At the Back to School Bash tourna-
finished as co-champions with Middle- ment in Fairfield on January 8, Ni-
town. (As of 1/15) Both teams are unde- jikowski and Moyer were struggling
in their first game and were subbed

20 Entertainment January 21, 2022

EXPERIMENTAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT by Aditya Thiyag

As an up-and-coming musician, it can be extremely tempting to follow trends that are prevalent within the mainstream at the time. However,
multiple artists have found success by taking the road less traveled and experimenting immediately; from hip-hop to pop music, these four

artists are redefining modern music and breaking boundaries.

Born Tahliah Debrett Barnett, FKA Twigs has been a consistently power- CAPRISONGS
ful force within the electronic music community for nearly a decade. Her 2022
haunting vocals coalesce with similarly avant-garde production to produce
album experiences that feel cohesive enough to be screenplays. Her 2019 Magdalene
magnum opus, Magdalene, is a concept album that is influenced by the 2019
religious story of Mary Magdalene and has since become one of my fa-
vorite albums of all time that dabbles in nearly every genre under the sun.
Through clever metaphors within her lyrics and futuristic instrumentals,
Twigs hopes to shatter the norms of heteronormativity, breaking not only
musical boundaries, but societal ones.

fka twigs

LP! Experimental hip-hop artist JPEGMAFIA has remained one of the most
2021 brash forces in music recently since his debut studio album Black Ben Carson
in 2016. With crass yet inventive album and song titles, his songs range from
Veteran intense, punk-inspired raps to melodic storytelling ballads. The Baltimore na-
2018 tive’s prowess is most apparent within his production, as he does every aspect
of the song recording process himself; from mixing and mastering to writing
jpegmafia and producing, his talent is leaps and bounds ahead of most rappers currently
in the mainstream, and with his 2021 release LP! being my favorite album of
2021, I can’t wait to see where he goes next.

Record producer Clarence Clarity has only recently begun to make waves, but SAWAYAMA
his eclectic approach to alternative R&B has quickly garnered critical acclaim. 2020
Serving as the primary producer on 2020’s SAWAYAMA by British singer-song-
writer Rina Sawayama, Clarity showcased the full extent of his producing prow- No Now
ess, crafting the 80’s inspired Tokyo Love Hotel and the metal infused Who’s 2015
Gonna Save U Now?. Outside of his collaborations, Clarity’s solo discography
absorbs the listener in unique funk experiences that feel larger than life and the
critical acclaim around it shines light on an underappreciated aspect of the mu-
sic recording process for a producer building his career on blending genres.

clarence clarity

Post By far the most famous artist on this list, art-pop legend Björk has yet to let her suc-
1995 cess deter her from experimenting with her music. Originally the lead singer of alt-rock
band “the Sugarcubes”, Björk’s solo music career has spanned over three decades, but
Debut her music has never felt dated. Her refusal to stay in her comfort zone has led to her
1993 spawning classics in almost every genre, with her second studio release Post becoming
a house and techno classic. Her uncompromising nature extended past the realm of
bjo..rk her music releases, as she crafted a virtual reality experience, Björk Digital, that was the
first ever virtual reality YouTube livestream and showcased her music videos through
the years. The 56 Icelandic artist is a shining example of how artists don’t need to fall
off as they age, but can instead have their music grow and evolve with them.

Page Design by
Della Johnson

January 21, 2022 Entertainment 21

MOVIE REVIEW Disney's Encanto 4.5/5
DIRECTORS: Byron Howard, Jared Bush Some of the lyrics may come off
Review by Alisha Soni as cheesy, like “your bro loves you
Encanto is much more than just to the audience on a deeper level. so…let it rain, let it snow, let it go…
another Disney movie and a box of- Viewers are allowed to glimpse into that’s what I’m always saying, bro”
fice hit. Despite the film coming out the personal lives of more than just in the song “All of You.” However,
in November, it found new life over the main character, revealing their the energetic beat, relatable lyrics
the season due to its availability insecurities and flaws in a human and catchy tune seem to overpower
on Disney Plus, allowing audiences way. One of Mirabel’s older sisters, the flaws.
to experience three-dimensional Luisa, has been blessed with the gift
characters, vibrant songs, and stun- of super strength, and she takes ad- The movie additionally provides a
ning animation that culminate in an vantage of her power to constantly glimpse into the beauty of Colombi-
unforgettable film. assist the community. Through an culture. It is a great step forward
the song “Surface Pressure'', it in having more representation in
The movie follows the Madrigal is revealed that as the strongest, the entertainment industry, espe-
family, where the mystical Encanto Luisa feels the burden of meeting cially as this is Disney’s first Latino
blesses each child of the family with expectations as everyone depends musical. Typical Colombian dishes
a special gift. Unlike the rest of the on her. However, the ending was are presented in the film such as
Madrigals, main character Mirabel rushed, which left a few questions arepas and buñuelos. Influences of
has never received her gift. Mira- unanswered and slightly brought Colombia’s diversity are also shown
bel’s inner conflict in the film stems down my enjoyment of the film. through clothing and architecture.
from this incident; she has felt like
an outcast and is always looking for Songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda Encanto is without a doubt, a
a chance to prove her worth to her and composer Germaine Franco beautifully animated film. The ani-
family. As a result, Mirabel chooses craft a lively soundtrack, perfectly mation and incredible detail create
to try to uncover the source of the capturing the energy of the film. a more life-like appearance, while
danger when the power of the Unlike many other Disney movies also maintaining the whimsical, live-
Encanto is threatened before it’s too in the past, Encanto’s songs carry ly feel of Disney movies. Through
late. Latin influence from the culture it the gorgeous art, the compelling
originates from, making the music characters, and the catchy songs,
Directors Byron Howard and Jar- more enjoyable. The film utilizes this film continues the Disney tradi-
ed Bush do a fantastic job moving the art of songwriting to help de- tion of crafting heartwarming stories
the plot forward for the most part, velop the plot and create a deeper for people of all ages.
while also taking advantage of the understanding for the audience.
various characters that can connect

Dawn FM Review by Sean Speidel

by The Weeknd
ALBUM REVIEW3.5/5

The Weeknd’s latest release, gives the whole album an effort- the previous tracks and went
Dawn FM, is an all-around im- less flow. Dawn FM consistently back to the dark and moody
mersive experience reminiscent gives off an energetic and groovy sound that the artist was known
of the pop music of the 1980s. vibe that I thoroughly enjoyed. for, making this song feel safer
by comparison.
Although he has been featured Almost every track on Dawn
on several hit songs such as FM has a perfectly executed However, the album redeemed
“Hurricane” by Kanye West transition to the next. The bridge itself towards the end. “I Heard
and “One Right Now” by Post from “How Do I Make You Love You’re Married” featuring rapper
Malone, The Weeknd has not Me?” to the lead single “Take Lil Wayne and “Less Than Zero”
released an album since After My Breath” is seamless, and the brought back the upbeat sound
Hours in March of 2020. The up- jingle from the station “103.5” that was offered in the first few
beat sound present on Dawn FM Dawn FM between “Here We tracks. Wayne’s feature offered a
is a surprising contrast from his Go… Again” and “Best Friends” refreshing contrast to the rest of
darker past works, but this album is a well timed interjection that “I Heard You’re Married” while
does not feel out of place within reinforced the radio aspect of maintaining the energetic feel
The Weeknd’s discography. the album. The transition of each that makes you want to sing
song to the next brings a sense along. “Less Than Zero” was the
Dawn FM is a concept album of cohesion to the album that perfect track to finish out the
presented as a radio station makes it so much more fun to album. It maintained the energy
(103.5 Dawn FM) introducing the listen to. These excellent transi- that was re-established by “I
beginning of the afterlife. Actor tions go along with the smooth Heard You’re Married” and excel-
Jim Carrey hosts the faux broad- sound of the album to make the lently used the synth that was so
cast and his spoken word is the album one homogeneous experi- prevalent throughout the album.
segue between tracks, bringing ence. The entire song had a fun, natu-
cohesion to the album. ral flow that felt like the dance
One fault I found in the album party at the end of The Weeknd’s
If I had to use one word to was that The Weeknd got away journey to the afterlife, bringing
describe the sound of the album, from the excellent storytell- the album to a satisfying close.
it would be smooth. The Weeknd ing and imagery presented in
expertly utilizes his soft yet ca- earlier songs like “Gasoline”, and The Weeknd may have
pable voice to soothe the reader the later tracks started to feel changed up his style, but Dawn
while also showing off his impres- somewhat unoriginal. Songs like FM’s 52 minutes of bliss left
sive range. Putting his vocals “Starry Eyes” strayed away from fans satisfied with the first major
over extremely melodic synth the upbeat feel that I loved from album of 2022.
beats was a genius decision as it

Page Design by Della Johnson

22 Opinion January 21, 2022

The poor Staff Editorial
prioritization of
visuals in film Two-week mask mandate will not suffice

Aditya Thiyag | The Chronicle After nearly two years of living about putting them in your car before
through a pandemic, fearing news of you head to school, you have to take
Film is a visual medium. quarantines and ill relatives, and reading them off to eat or drink, you are unable
It’s a phrase that I’ve heard before, but it’s something that I about vaccines and precautions every- to fully tell what that new student looks
didn’t really understand until recently. where we go, it is still so incredibly clear like. It is exhausting.
Last week, I watched Birdman or The Unexpected Virtue of that we have quite some time before we
Ignorance and The Lighthouse - two wildly different films each can stop caring. It is even more exhausting to still be
with unreal performances, inventive screenplays, and compelling living through a pandemic that could
characters. Yet the thing that stood out the most to me was the Yet, looking at the number of students have been over so long ago.
visual style of both films. and faculty unmasked throughout the
Examining the former, Birdman is filmed to look like it was halls of Mason High School for the Enforcing a prolonged mask mandate
shot in one take, meaning it’s one continuous experience from majority of this school year, prior to the would not destroy the reputation that
beginning to end without any apparent cuts, akin to 2019’s 1917, two-week mandate instituted on January Mason has built for itself as progressive
enhancing the chaos of the film on-screen and the multifaceted 18, you would not know that. If anything, or “ahead of the curve.” Those tweets
conflicts between characters taking place simultaneously. The you would think that the curve of daily and articles and newsletters about Mason
Lighthouse, on the other hand, is an entirely black and white film, case numbers has been flattening, rather being open for the entirety of the 2020-21
presented in a square-like 1.19:1 aspect ratio (the size of each shot) than the spike that has actually been school year would not be diminished.
that allows for more verticality within each shot and enhances the happening. The one issue that is tarnishing the repu-
dated feel of the 1890’s setting. tation of Comet Country is the fact that
For context, most films are shot in a widescreen, 16:9 aspect ratio What is even more frustrating, regard- half of our high school is maskless, that
leading to “cinematic” black bars appearing on the top and bottom less of individual choices, is the reason- dozens of students are testing positive
of each shot. The most recent film to feature such an aspect ratio ing behind the brief mask mandate. It for COVID-19 every single day and being
was the smash hit Spider-Man: No Way Home, a movie that I en- was stated by Mason City Schools (MCS) forced to quarantine in their bedrooms
joyed quite a bit for the fan service, performances, and characters, Superintendent Jonathan Cooper on the out of fear of giving it to their other
but a movie that, upon rewatch, felt extremely dull visually. MCS YouTube channel, in a video posted family members.
Now, I’m not trying to sound like an elitist that thinks the MCU on January 13, that the rule is being
marks the death of modern cinema or that every hit movie needs implemented as a way of speeding up Sacrificing the livelihood of thou-
to redefine the industry. I grew up with and enjoy the MCU and the contact-tracing process, not explicitly sands of Mason residents while stating
superhero movies, and calling No Way Home a soulless cash grab stated as necessarily for protecting stu- that your hands are tied is not avoiding
is such a disservice to the passion on display in front of and be- dents. In a previous video, he discussed controversy. Rather, it is perceived as
hind the camera. But I think it’s okay to point out the fact that the how staff members were “tired” when it avoiding blame. Temporary measures,
movie didn’t use its monstrous budget to its fullest extent. Instead came to policing masks. And, as most especially after such a prolonged lack
of spending extra time on practical effects and a visual style that students could see until January 18 when of substantial measures seem fickle and
made it stand out, we got several CGI sequences that ultimately walking the halls of MHS, students were compensating. If this pandemic is to ever
left me wanting more. tired of masking as well. cease in its claiming of time and life
This brings me back to the idea of film being a visual medium. from the students in this district, strong
It seems like an obvious statement, but one that I think isn’t dis- And we get it. You are tired. It has action must be taken.
cussed enough. When we sit down in a theater with our oversized been years of mask-wearing and your
popcorn, 3D glasses, and family members, we aren’t there to listen ears ache. You got your braces off this And that strong action should, at the
to an orchestral performance or read a novel. We’re there to watch year and you want people to see your very least, be a mask mandate for the
a movie. And a movie isn’t just a script or a bunch of weightless teeth. Masks are annoying, you forget foreseeable future.
computer-generated characters floating around a screen. A movie
is an event that should transport the audience to another world for
a couple of hours in a way that no other piece of entertainment
can. And in movies without a visual style, I find myself less and
less invested in that world, and instead of asking myself why I
didn’t just read the script.

The Chronicle’s Policy Josie Lorenz

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January 21, 2022 Opinion 23

It’s time for women’s Editorial Cartoon
sports to recieve
equivalent support

Bradyn Johnson | The Chronicle Belonging due to my dad’s job, I only wished I spent less time
can be found daydreaming about leaving and more time appre-
Women all over the world have fought for equality in society, nearby ciating what I had.
and fighting for equality in women’s sports is no different. As a
teenage athlete, that also happens to be a girl, I see it all the time. Isabelle Paley | The Chronicle I was so prepared to leave the Evergreen state
but once I was free from it, all I wanted was to go
For instance, when I turn on the TV to watch a Women’s Seniors, as we enter our last semester of high back. I missed the rain I used to complain about
National Basketball Association (WNBA) game, I search the school, I know that all of us are counting down so much, sitting in the rush hour traffic in Seattle,
television only to see that there is a little more than half of the the days until graduation. We’re ready to leave our or seeing a Starbucks on every corner. I missed the
arena that is filled. These women are amongst the best athletes in high school days behind and start a new life, in a evergreen trees that lined the streets or stepping
the World and it feels like they get the least coverage and overall new school, and for some, a new state. My first class out on my deck and seeing Mt. Rainier every day. I
support. However, as soon as I turn the channel to a National at Mason High School was senior homeroom. We never expected to miss a place so much, but once I
Basketball Association(NBA) game my eyes dart to the audience went around the room, sharing our names and one was left was when I truly understood how wonder-
as I observe I see an abundance of fans. The stands are completely thing that we were excited about for this upcom- ful it was.
packed with people. This always confuses me because WNBA ing year. And overwhelmingly, the most popular
games are just as fundamentally sound as NBA games. answer was “leaving Ohio.” A year ago, my answer So as May 1st comes around, and you start to
would have been the same, except it would be choose where you are going to spend the next four
The lack of support doesn’t just occur in professional leagues, Washington and not Ohio. But once I was forced to years, stop and think for a moment, “Is leaving
it continues in collegiate sports too. Back in March, I had been leave my hometown a year earlier than planned, I Ohio going to be the best thing for me?” If your
watching ‘March Madness.’ On social media, there had been word realized how much I truly loved that state. answer is yes, that’s great, and I wish you the best
that during the tournament the men’s teams got loads of March of luck in your endeavors. But if there is one ounce
Madness gear that consisted of shirts, water bottles, pants, jackets, Senior year is full of exciting milestones, but on of hesitation. If you thought for one moment you
and much more, and not to mention the March Madness officials the first day when you’re only looking forward to were going to miss Cincinnati, consider staying.
built an entire weight room. Then I wondered what the women’s leaving, you miss the experiences that are right in Going to Ohio State or Miami is not going to be
teams were getting as well. Let’s just say that it wasn’t what I was front of you. In Washington, I planned to go to col- the biggest mistake of your life. It’s human nature
expecting. They got a rack of weights in a large room and a cou- lege somewhere exotic like California or Hawaii. to find comfort in familiar things, and staying in
ple of t-shirts, I’m not even going to mention their tasteless Covid I wanted to get away from the town that watched the familiar territory might be the best thing for
meals. I was flabbergasted when I saw this biased form of bigotry, me go through the awkward phase of adolescence you. Because I would have never known that a state
did the March Madness officials think this would go unnoticed? or the one grocery store that all the kids would go I wanted to escape from is now the only place I
to after school. Freshman year, I made going to want to be.
The inequality not only happens to women in basketball but UCLA my whole personality. I wanted to trade the
other sports as well. Take into account the U.S. women’s profes- constant cover of rain for the never-ending sun. So before you make that final decision, think
sional soccer team that is ranked number one in the world. They However, when I was forced to leave Washington about my story. Your favorite place could be right
fought to get equal pay for doing the same job that the mens’ soc- and front of you, and you wouldn’t notice until you
cer team does, and maybe even better. The Washington Post stated moved miles away. I would give everything for
that 28 female players sued the U.S. Soccer Federation(USSF) for another year in Washington, so please don’t take
equal pay. The lack of support and equality happens everywhere for granted what you have, because once you leave,
and not just in professional sports. it’s going to be difficult to go back.

These biased events make my toes curl because I live it, and
I’ve also learned to accept it. I play varsity girls basketball and the
average attendance is similar to that of the WNBA games, except
ours are filled with parents, grandparents, siblings, and cousins.

Now don’t get me wrong, at least they support us, but some-
times that’s just not enough. The most frustrating part is when
you have to beg people to come to your games for even a little
support and encouragement. It would be easy to say that it is in-
convenient for students to come to games on weekdays, however,
if you attend the same sporting events with the opposite gender
they get a good amount of support no matter what day.

I know that it could be a financial hardship for students to
attend multiple games during the week, so offering incentives
like free admission for students, simply giving out free pizza and
popcorn or even enticing students with raffle games to play may
be a solution. We should do whatever it takes to pack our stands
because when we have fans, playing the game feel so much more
exhilarating. Knowing that the whole school is there to cheer you
on and give you support makes it feel like you are on top of the
world during that short 60 minutes of play. I can’t ever help but
smile when there is a crowd cheering us on.

At the end of the day, it is important to cheer your school’s
teams on no matter what sport they play or what gender they hap-
pen to be. It never hurts to show support.

January 21, 2022 24