Chronicle 20.4

Volume 20 Issue 4 | William Mason High School | 6100 Mason Montgomery Rd., Mason, OH | 12.15.22

“Customs of the Season”

See page 2

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

Illustration by Becca Hunter

2 December 15, 2022

Celebrating with Community

Megan Lee | The Chronicle
With the first semester of the 2022-23 school year coming to a close, students at Mason High School are looking forward to how they are going

to spend their winter break. The Chronicle staff asked some students what their winter traditions are, and how it brings them joy.

Each Christmas Eve, the Habra family spends the night enjoying a delicious ham dinner and Senior Maria Habra
watching the classic movie A Charlie Brown Christmas. From the outside, these traditions may seem
simple, but to the Habra sisters, this needed family time means so much more. Nearing the end
of her high school career, Habra said that she is using this remaining time to further her tight-knit
relationship with her sister. Through the holidays and Christmas cheer, these sisters are realizing just
how special their family time can be.

“[My sister] and I are exceptionally close,” Habra said. “Celebrating [Christmas] is something we can
always do together, as a family.”

Each year, many families gather around the Menorah to celebrate Hanukkah. For Sophomore Sa- Sophomore
mantha Pinsky, this holiday brings more than just peace. Hanukkah is an eight-day long holiday that Samantha Pinksy
goes from December 18 to December 26. For each day of Hanukkah, Pinsky and her grandma go
shopping for eight different gifts they will open throughout the celebration period. When lighting Freshman
the Menorah, Pinsky and her family say prayers together and use them as a way to connect. As she Caleb Nicholls
and her sister grow older, it gets more difficult for the whole family to spend time together. Pinsky
said she is grateful for this time of year to connect with, her sister and the rest of her immediate fam-
ily.

“As a family, we are always busy and everyone’s got their own thing,” Pinsky said. “It’s nice to have
that time when we can all just be together and celebrate.”

A small and thin wafer made with just flour and water may seem unappetizing, but for Freshman
Caleb Nicholls’s family, the impact is much more meaningful. The Christmas wafer, also known as an
Oplatek, is broken at the table before a Christmas eve dinner. Originating in Poland and Czechoslo-
vakia, it was common to break the Oplatek, which represented the body of Jesus Christ. However,
in some American cultures, the wafer symbolizes hope and forgiveness. Nicholls said it’s a tradition
each person in the family can respect and participate in. Breaking the Oplatek gives hope and light
to the coming new year while uniting families in the process. Nicholls said he finds joy in being able
to experience this with his family.

“It keeps our family’s ancestry alive,” Nicholls said. “We find comfort in knowing their legacy is still
with us.”

Chinese New Year is an annual festival in Chinese culture that welcomes the new year. In 2023, it Junior Angela Chan
will take place at the end of January. Chan and her family spend each Chinese New Year eating tradi-
tional Chinese dishes such as dumplings, shrimp and fish ball soup. Chan’s family passes on money
in red envelopes, which symbolizes good fortune. They also attend different Chinese festivals in the
area and celebrate with other families throughout the celebration period. Chan said her family’s way
of celebrating is consistent as well as impactful.

“It’s going back to my heritage and my culture,” Chan said. “It’s so special to my family specifically
because we’ve been doing it for years and years.”

When the Christmas season comes around, many kids look forward to a line of presents under Sophomore
the tree. However, Sophomore Zach Bryan’s family experiences the Christmas spirit much sooner. Zach Bryan
Each year, the Bryan family goes to the Liberty Center where they compete to buy each other the
best Christmas gift. Each of the three Bryan siblings is given $50 to spend on each family member.
Each sibling finds joy as they run around the mall dodging one another, creating a competitive but
entertaining night.

“It’s the first thing that comes up when Christmas comes around,” Bryan said. “It connects us as a
family.”

Illustrations by Becca Hunter

December 15, 2022 3

Students grapple with long term consequences of COVID

Alisha Soni | The Chronicle In adapting to her lack of taste and pasta and meat, due to their textures. “There’s always some awkward
The ability to taste and smell is too smell, Simko’s diet mainly consisted “It became more normal for me situations, specifically with smell, like
of soups and fruit – soup had a water- [when] I’m trying to cook something
often taken for granted. like taste and fruits were comparable but [it] affects the experience because and I can’t tell if it is spoiled or not. I
Apart from flu-like symptoms, to a pile of sugar. Simko said that she eating is more of a chore [now],” could get sick,” Simko said. “If there’s
was not able to taste or smell most Simko said. a fire, I wouldn’t be able to smell the
COVID-19 can affect the ability to foods, but there were certain foods smoke.”
taste and smell. According to the that stayed normal such as peanut Due to COVID, senior Gavin Dove
Centers for Disease Control and butter and ranch and others that were lost both his sense of taste and smell In an attempt to regain their
Prevention (CDC), symptoms for a distorted, such as chocolate having a for around four months starting in senses, Simko and Dove have both
normal case of COVID last from a few rotten fruit taste. January 2021. Besides the impact it tried popular online remedies and
days to a few weeks, however, some had on his senses, he never received methods. Users on the social media
Mason High School (MHS) students “[Now] when I eat, I solely rely on any flu-like symptoms. Like Simko, app TikTok recommended burning
are experiencing long-term effects of texture,” Simko said. “Foods that only Dove became reliant on the texture an orange on a grill and eating it
a loss of taste and smell from COVID. have one texture, I would get sick of of his food to eat. With this lack of with brown sugar to bring back the
really quickly.” experience in eating, Dove was able sense of taste. Although Dove said
Junior Rachel Simko first to find a positive in not being able to that he could taste the orange, it
contracted COVID in January 2021. As Simko’s symptoms continued, taste. was ultimately not effective for both
Simko’s symptoms solely consisted she began seeing her lack of taste and Simko and Dove.
of the loss of taste and smell, which smell as a new normal. She said her “Eating just became so much
she is still experiencing although she lack of taste and smell has allowed more boring,” Dove said. “It was “The only thing I had tasted for
recovered from COVID. However, she her to define a different relationship hard to have a favorite [food] when months was this orange,” Dove said.
said that it was a difficult adjustment with food after learning to adapt everything tasted like nothing. I tried “After I regained my taste and smell
because her eating experience and has new favorite foods such as to make the best of it and I tried to back, orange juice is more bitter. I
changed completely. be healthier [because I am] kind of a used to love orange juice, but I don’t
picky eater.” enjoy it as much [now].”
Illustration by Alisha Verma
In the first few months of losing Besides the burned orange method,
her taste and smell, Simko had been Simko said she tried olfactory
experiencing phantom smells, where training, which is the process of
she would randomly come across imagining a smell and trying to smell
an unprompted smell that was not it.
physically present.
“I couldn’t imagine what anything
“I would smell [something] but tastes or smells like anymore six
it was not actually [there],” Simko months after I lost my taste,” Simko
said. “I would be smelling corn in said.
the middle of my history class, but
[I did not know] why would that be Junior Abbie Maier contracted
COVID in December 2020. Maier’s
happening.” symptoms consisted of intense pain
Besides the impact that the lack and stomach aches, resulting in
multiple trips to the emergency room.
of the two senses has had on Although Maier had the symptom of
her, Simko said that there lie lack of taste and smell for only a few
potential risks in losing taste days, she said that it worried her that
and smell. her senses might never return.

“I couldn’t smell anything but I
didn’t think anything of it,” Maier
said. “ I was in denial about it because
I didn’t want to lose my smell. I know
someone that still can’t taste or smell
and it’s been two years.”

As of December 2022, Simko has
been lacking her sense of taste and
smell for almost a year. Although she
has grown accustomed to this new
situation of living, she said she still
misses her ability to taste and smell.

“At this point, I don’t think it’s
coming back,” Simko said. “I want
to be hopeful but I don’t think that’s
gonna happen.”

4 December 15, 2022

MHS Student Government reinstates StuGo grants

Laurel Wang | The Chronicle

The clubs of Mason High School Photo by Laurel Wang
(MHS) have been granted new op- Jyotirmayee Chaudhury (left), Shreya Singh (middle), and Ellie Li (right) study for their HOSA event using books bought by
portunities. StuGo grants.

This year, MHS Student Govern- Mason’s community together. better sound quality and setup, boost- students to learn more about money
ment (StuGo) reinstated a grant “Having StuGo be able to sup- ing Mason’s community as a whole. management. Zutshi said the grant
program to provide MHS clubs and would help CSL support their mar-
activities with funding to achieve port clubs and help them increase “The AMs are a big part of Mason keting campaigns and offer opportu-
their goals. Due to the COVID-19 pan- their impact on our school and our culture, and this will make it easier nities in the bank for more students.
demic, the program had been post- community is definitely very help- for us to deliver an experience for
poned for several years, but StuGo ful because a lot of these clubs are everyone,” Hansen said. “We’re able to give more people an
leaders made reviving it a priority. doing things that benefit our school,” internship experience, which is really
Velu said. “In HOSA, each and every Comet Savings & Loan, the what the bank is all about,” Zutshi
Junior Arushi Gupta serves as the one of our students are representing student-run bank at MHS where staff said. The StuGo grant will allow the
Student Body Treasurer. Along with Mason at the state and international and students can deposit money, bank to continue advertising its cam-
the other treasurers and student body level, and that’s something that ben- expanded its size in its 20 years of paigns since they do not bring in a
leaders, Gupta developed the appli- efits our community as a whole.” operation. As a result, more funding profit like other MHS businesses such
cation process, which consists of a is now needed to support the bank as the Comet Zone.
Google Form and an interview with Like HOSA, MHS’s live music club, than when it was first started. Senior
group leaders. She said the grant The AMs, also applied for a StuGo Riya Zutshi, the Senior Vice President StuGo advisor Jeff Schlaeger
program is part of a greater effort to grant to address a club need. Junior of Analytics at Comet Savings & emphasized the organization’s mis-
give back to the community. Brodie Hansen said in recent prac- Loan (CSL), said the bank applied for sion of community outreach within
tices, band members noticed some of a StuGo grant to help them maintain the Mason community. He said that
“Student Government is a club that their equipment was breaking down their operations. StuGo’s access to resources allows
tries to reach out to the community and required replacements. them to better support other clubs
and bring the school together,” Gupta “We used to only have one mar- and activities within MHS.
said. “The grants are for us to be able “We had problems with our XLR keting team when the bank opened,
to fund other clubs that need it [and] cables and some of our speakers, and which was a lot cheaper than having “Hopefully [club grants] help them
provide that with the right reason- we wanted to get some percussive five marketing teams and always hav- launch into more success than they’re
ing.” instruments for the singers,” Hansen ing campaigns,” Zutshi said. already experiencing to begin with,”
said. Schlaeger said. “It’s really important
Six MHS organizations applied By giving students experience with for something with the name of ‘Stu-
for grants to address specific needs. Hansen said the grants will help real bank accounts and real money, dent Government’ to support student-
Among them was HOSA - Future improve The AMs’ performances with CSL provides a vital opportunity for led initiatives and give back to our
Health Professionals (HOSA), a building.”
health-sciences club that Biomedical
Science students participate in. HOSA
promotes health-science education
through student competitions on
related topics.

With an influx of new members,
outdated texts, and the shutdown
of an online textbook provider, new
textbooks were a priority. But at over
$100 per volume, HOSA leaders
turned to StuGo for help purchasing
new textbooks.

HOSA President Sanjana Velu felt
the application progress was straight-
forward, and StuGo leaders helped
the group identify their specific
needs. Velu said that without the
grant funding, HOSA students would
not be able to adequately prepare for
competition.

“We needed that money to get us
going with some of the textbooks for
this year so our students could study
and prepare for competition,” Velu
said.

Velu said the grant program
benefited both HOSA members and

December 15, 2022 5

MHS students connect with music through Spotify Wrapped

Aimee Liu | The Chronicle wanted it to be whatever I liked.” Graphic by Allison Droege
One signal of the end of the year is With top genres of rap, dark trap

the release of Spotify Wrapped. and pop, junior Tory Lamper said that
Spotify, a popular music streaming music has always helped to keep them
grounded. Lamper said they are almost
service, released Spotify Wrapped in 2016 always listening to music, reflected in
as an annual compilation of a user’s lis- their more than eighty-thousand min-
tening activity throughout the past year. utes (almost two consecutive months) of
Through interactive slides, the platform listening this year.
shares with users their top artists, songs
and genres, as well as curated playlists. “Music helps me focus and calm down,
and it’s a good way to express your emo-
Users worldwide, including many tions without saying anything, whether
Mason High School (MHS) students, you don’t feel heard or don’t have the
have found excitement and enjoyment words,” Lamper said. “It’s super powerful,
in Spotify Wrapped, which is always re- and it’s an essential part of my life.”
leased in early December. The platform’s
presence, particularly on social media, Lamper said that the first time they
has grown over the past few years and is saw Spotify Wrapped, it was confusing,
now a common source of conversation but they found it to be like “a personal-
among students. ity quiz for music” and thought it was
interesting to see an overview of their
Senior Leo Luo said his Spotify listening habits.
Wrapped consisted mostly of rap and
pop, with artists like Kendrick Lamar, “I like being able to look at [Spotify
The Weeknd and Playboi Carti. He said Wrapped] and being able to remember
that the music people listen to tends to memories from certain songs,” Lamper
reflect their emotions throughout the said. “It’s always fun to see my music
year. taste. It’s kind of like who you were for
that year.”
“It’s a collection of all your statistics
that Spotify has taken from your listen- As Spotify Wrapped has increased in
ing experience,” Luo said. “What we popularity, people have shared posts on
listen to is representative of what we’re Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter about
feeling. Whatever the artists are talking their results. Lamper said that with it
about, the emotions they’re trying to being such a “huge thing,” they have
express can explain what you’re really easily been able to share music with new
feeling throughout the year.” people.

Luo said that his favorite aspect of “I think a lot of people bond over
the annual recap is being able to share music,” Lamper said. “Learning about
it with friends on social media and see different people’s music tastes can bring
what everyone has been listening to. you closer to them and help you learn
more about them as a person.”
“It’s like a bonding experience because
music is very popular and having this Much like Lamper, Sage Choi, a junior,
thing that connects us is really nice,” Luo said that music has been “such a big part
said. “Music is a community thing, so of [their] life” and that discovering new
it’s really enjoyable to share music with music helps them get inspiration as an
each other and get to know each other artist. This year, Choi found their Spo-
better.” tify Wrapped to include a lot of Taylor
Swift and Billie Eilish, as well as more
Sophomore Elizabeth Fox’s 2022 top than 147,000 minutes (more than three
artist was ABBA and her top genres were months) of listening.
rock and pop. She has been using Spotify
for four years, but only started looking “There’s music for almost every emo-
at the Wrapped feature two years ago. tion and situation,” Choi said. “If you’ve
She said it has now become her favorite had an experience, someone’s probably
thing about the platform. written a song about it. It’s a great way to
know I’m not alone.”
“It’s definitely cool to look back on my
year because I can see the different as- In addition to its versatility, Choi said
pects of what I was listening to at [differ- that music is a way to connect with other
ent times],” Fox said. “The feelings from people. They said that people enjoy Spo-
the memories were coming back and tify’s “little finale of the year” because
it’s just kind of interesting to see your it provides a sense of closure, as well as
personality wrapped up in the music that something to talk about.
you listen to.”
With the unifying effect of Spotify
Fox said that while she occasion- Wrapped, Choi said that the positive
ally felt pressure to shape her Spotify impact of music has extended far beyond
Wrapped by listening to specific music, the songs, artists and genres themselves.
the opinions of other people ultimately
did not matter to her. “I’ve started conversations with people
that I don’t normally talk to because of
“I was really conscious of how my Spotify Wrapped,” Choi said. “I think
Spotify Wrapped looked throughout the there’s a great amount of relating you
year,” Fox said. “But at the end of the day, can do with people that you didn’t realize
I think it’s just something fun to look at you could relate to, because music is
and see what you were listening to. I just such a universal, community thing.”

6 December 15, 2022

Senior twins anticipate post-high school separation

Drew Hoffmaster | The Chronicle to go down different paths. “Our Mom did a good job separating like to attend the University of Michi-
“I’m definitely excited to start the us in elementary school so we wouldn’t gan or Ohio State University.
When Molly DeBord heads off to rely on each other,” Caitlin Heare said.
Bowling Green State University next next part of my life,” Jamie DeBord “I did dance and [Erin] did a couple The Heare sisters would like to
fall, it will feel like leaving a part of said. “I feel I need to grow up as more of sports that did not intertwine with explore college on their own but they
herself. of an individual.” dancing.” know that it will not be easy. They may
already have their own friends, inter-
That’s because her twin Jamie will Senior fraternal twins Caitlin and Erin Heare is interested in studying ests, and activities, but they will miss
possibly be four hours away at the Erin Heare feel like they are prepared Environmental Science in college. She having someone at their side to talk to
University of Kentucky. The 18-year- as they face their impending separa- has narrowed down her list to out-of- whenever either wants to talk.
old fraternal twins have never been tion when it’s time to head off to state schools like the University of
separated. college. Caitlin Heare believes their Michigan or the University of South “[College] is like leaving your whole
mom helped her and her sister develop Carolina. While Caitlin, who is think- family and then coming back,” Caitlin
“I’ve never had to do anything individual self-reliance from a very ing about studying Psychology, would Heare said. “Whenever I come back,
alone,” Molly DeBord said. “I’ve always young age. she’ll still be here.”
been with someone which makes the
topic of college so hard because it’s the Even though they were born togeth-
first time I will be alone.” er, senior fraternal twins Braeden and
Justin Fedders are very different. They
Molly DeBord views twin sister have always shared the same room, car
Jamie as “a built-in best friend.” They and video games but they are confi-
both actively try to engage in each oth- dent in their own individual identity.
er’s interests. The sisters both work the
same jobs at Frutta Bowls and Blush “Even though we were born the
and Bubbly. They even like listening same day in the same room we are
to country music stars Morgan Wallen different people,” Braeden Fedders
and Lee Brice. said. “We both have our own ideas and
outlooks.”
Even though the end of high school
is still a few months away, the sisters The Fedders have toured colleges
are thinking about what life might be together and separately. They do share
like when they are faced with the pros- a desire to attend schools with good
pect of living with a stranger. reputations and vibrant social life.
Braeden is considering going to Indi-
“When you move in with your col- ana University or Ohio State University
lege roommate, you guys aren’t friends for political science or public policy.
and it might be a little bit awkward, ‘’ Justin is interested in Miami Univer-
Molly DeBord said. “With Jamie, I can sity, the University of Cincinnati, or
be one hundred percent myself. I’ve Ohio State University and wants to
never had to act like someone else.” major in business.

Molly and Jamie had always “We will not go to different colleges
dreamed of going to the same college, because we want to,” Justin Fedders
but, as they started touring colleges, said. “ But we want to go to colleges
they both realized that this dream that are better suited for our interests.”
would not be possible. Jamie DeBord
wants to go to the University of Ken- While the college application process
tucky to study Biology while Molly can be stressful the Fedder twins have
plans to attend Bowling Green State encountered a noticeable advantage.
University to study Marine Science. They have been able to bounce ideas
off of each other for their college es-
“It was really apparent that we says, proofread and even use their twin
wanted to go to different schools,” Ja- experience to help them in their essays.
mie Debord said. “I toured big schools
and Molly toured very small schools “I was happy to help [Justin],”
that I wouldn’t want to go to and she Braeden Fedders said. “It’s just typical
wouldn’t want to go to the schools I for me to help with stuff like this.”
was looking at.”
Once they are away at college, the
While the prospect of being apart Fedders are planning to call, text, and
causes some separation anxiety for the go out of their way to stay connected.
Debord sisters, they feel as if the split Neither of them are thrilled about the
might be necessary to help them grow change, however, they are ready to
as individuals. Their lives are closely gain new experiences in life.
knitted together with the two of them
sharing the same interests and friends. “I am nervous, but it is what it is,”
Jamie DeBord said that they need to Braeden Fedders said. “We always knew
get used to the fact that they will have that it would come and it will be dif-
ferent.

December 15, 2022 7

Online crimes increase, Mason spreads awareness

Elina Bishoyi | The Chronicle numbers of internet crimes have is very unlikely. The majority of the safety training is useful in prevent-
been skyrocketing in the past two time, [abduction happens] through ing these interactions from turning
The digital age can be deadly. years, and the only way to combat online relationships that are built into dangerous situations.
On December 5th, Agent Brian with that is to educate,” Kimbrell said. with vulnerable people looking for
the Secret Service educated parents “Hopefully you learn what’s appropri- support and are manipulated into “I think [students] should have
about the dangers of online crimes ate, what could be potentially danger- doing acts they wouldn’t have done cyber safety training, especially, in
during the Cyber Safety Awareness ous, how to avoid those dangerous prior.” the younger grades when [students]
event at the Mason Municipal Center. activities and then know where to are starting to get social media and
This event was hosted by the Nation- turn to for help.” Cybersecurity affects anyone who exploring the whole internet,” Patel
al Center for Missing and Exploited avidly uses the internet, making said. “[They need] a rundown of how
Children (NCMEC) in partnership Agent Brian is an ambassador for high schoolers today a prime target. dangerous [the internet] can actually
with the Secret Service, who began NCMEC and has educated students Students often manage several social be and how it’s not just a joke - it’s
this nationwide initiative. across the country since 2020. He media pages including their personal actually serious.”
Officer Matt Kimbrell, Mason High said he has interacted with students Instagram and Twitter accounts, but
School (MHS) Campus Safety officer, and adults to further the mission of many are also tasked with managing Even though Patel said she has not
assisted in reaching out to the Secret NCMEC and provide education to club and organization social media directly seen cases of severe cyber
Service and organizing the event. prevent cyber crimes from growing. pages to spread awareness about crime, she knows the effects of mis-
Kimbrell said he hopes the event will certain causes and fundraisers. For using technology.
spread awareness around Mason. “If we can catch someone before the MHS Student Government, senior
“[The internet] can be a great tool, they get victimized that’s ideal, but Riya Patel acts as social media man- “There’s a lot of weird people
but it can also be a very dangerous even if someone has been victimized, ager and has found the social media on social media and it’s so easy to
tool,” Kimbrell said. “Our whole goal we can help them,” Agent Brian said. platforms she uses to be an effective disguise yourself as someone you’re
is hoping this information reaches as “[This event] is about bringing aware- way of promoting clubs and events. not,” Patel said. “You never know
many people in our community so we ness to the issues, reducing victimiza- who’s behind the screen.”
felt it was imperative to do it again.” tion, educating and helping the lost “Usually we use [social media] to
Officer Kimbrell said he has seen get back home.” promote our upcoming events,” said Agent Brian believes his role in
the number of cyber crimes increas- Patel. “We also use Instagram to post educating students and parents,
ing in the past few years. According Using these organizations and pictures of our events and how suc- particularly high school students and
to NCMEC, the number of online en- events, Officer Kimbrell has taken cessful they were just to promote the parents of high school students, plays
ticement cases has increased roughly the initiative to educate the Mason club.” a crucial role in preventing abduc-
97.5% from 2019 to 2020, the year Co- community about the dangers of the tions and further internet crimes.
vid-19 increased digital interactions. internet and the new crimes the digi- Patel said she believes that cy-
“Everything is online now, so the tal age has brought. ber safety education is important “Many times high schoolers are
amongst students to prevent crimes not cognizant of the people out there
“I think when people think of “ab- from occuring. As communication be- who intend to do them harm,” Agent
duction” it’s a van that pulls up and tween strangers becomes easier with Brian said. “That’s why I’m here: to
sweeps you into it and drives away,” social media and the internet, cyber help educate and bring awareness to
Kimbrell said. “That happens, but it these topics that could be harmful to
a student’s life.”

Infographic by Allison Droege

8 December 15, 2022

Junior Sienna Blank Ellie Saylor | The Chronicle
at The Lumineers
From country to pop, Mason High School (MHS) students have been enjoying the
music of many talented artists at live concerts. The Chronicle staff asked some MHS
students about their most memorable concert experiences from 2022.

Indie-folk band The Lumineers per- On August 23, 2022, Cincinnati Junior Noah Golan
formed on June 7th, 2022 at the River- welcomed Pitbull and opening guest at Pitbull
bend Music Center in Cincinnati. Junior Iggy Azalea at the Riverbend Music
Sienna Blank said that she listened to Center. Junior Noah Golan attended the
many of their songs growing up and concert and enjoyed the summer heat
was very excited to attend the concert along with the high energy levels of the
with her friend. Even though it rained audience. Golan said he encourages
heavily, Blank said that they made the other students to also go to concerts,
most out of the experience. due to his positive experience.

“It was me and a bunch of other “I would recommend students to
people dancing in the rain, which was attend concerts,” Golan said. “It’s just a
really fun,” Blank said. “[Going to a con- lot of fun, no matter what the music you
cert] is something that is stereotypical like, it’s always fun and energetic.”
for teenagers [but] I definitely think it’s
something, no matter what kind of con-
cert, worth experiencing at least once.”

Junior Mich Goggin Mitski, a Japanese-American indie AJR, known for its pop music, went Sophomore Miguel Castro
at Mitski artist, went on a worldwide tour in early on its world OK Orchestra tour in 2022. at AJR
2022. Junior Mich Goggin traveled to Sophomore Miguel Castro, who at-
Delmar Hall in Saint Louis, Missouri to tended their concert in Illinois on June
see the artist on stage and was im- 6, 2022, appreciated the opportunity to
pressed by Mitski’s calm yet inviting relax and have fun.
stage presence. Goggin said he was
grateful for the concert experience, “I feel that going to a concert was a
especially since it was his first concert very fun summertime activity that gave
after the COVID-19 pandemic. me some fun lasting memories,” Castro
said. “I think it was good to go because I
“It’s so much more real to experience didn’t have to present myself how I usu-
the music in person,” Goggin said. “You ally do [in school].”
get to feel the music. You get to experi-
ence music and enjoy it with the crowd.”

Senior Jack Heimbuch As part of the One of Them Ones tour, On August 3, 2022, the indie band Sophomore Rhea Doshi
at Lil Baby and Chris Brown Chris Brown, Lil Baby as well as special Glass Animals visited Cincinnati on their at Glass Animals
guest Yung Bleu performed at the North American tour. Sophomore Rhea
Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati on Doshi attended the sold-out concert
August 2, 2022. Senior Jack Heimbuch with her sister and was excited to enjoy
attended multiple live concerts over the the music with her. Doshi also said that
last year and said that he appreciated she enjoyed the band’s energetic stage
how music bonds people together. presence.

“There are a lot of different groups “Playing music and having so many
that all enjoy the same music and some memories linked to songs takes me
people that you wouldn’t expect there,” back to when I was first listening to it,”
Heimbuch said. “I would say just the Doshi said. “Music can really help bring
diversity in the crowd is probably the people together and give them some-
biggest thing I noticed.” thing to bond over.”

Junior Webb Beatty The Chase Center in Cincinnati hosted the pop-rock band Panic! At the Disco on October
at Panic! at the Disco 25, 2022. Junior Webb Beatty appreciated all of the technical aspects of the show and was
excited to attend and support live music.

“I enjoyed the energy of the show and how much technical work went into it,” Beatty said.
“Another thing I liked was the performance overall, it was very upbeat and the lead singer
did a great job.”

December 15, 2022 9

OCD diagnosis leads to crushing symptoms

Divy Bose | The Chronicle of the disorder is minimized. repeating routines, maintaining focus to place can be a struggle without
“You can have OCD tendencies, in the classroom can be difficult. counting a desired number of steps.
Being a neat freak is not what OCD Ulsh said that he struggles to concen-
is about. but that does not mean you have trate when he feels objects are imbal- “I like numbers since they help me
OCD,” Brady said. “Liking something anced or not in his preferred order. with my anxiety,” Ulsh said. “I count
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder a certain way is a preference, not the my steps to get me from point A to
(OCD) is a mental health disorder disorder itself.” “If a teacher prints out letters that Point B.”
characterized by extreme agitation are crooked on a page, I cannot even
and recurring thoughts and be- Different people can experience touch it,” Ulsh said. “[Some] of my Ulsh said that addressing an OCD
haviors. Those diagnosed with this different symptoms of OCD. While teachers [get] slightly annoyed, and diagnosis with teachers and family
disorder often face extreme symp- organization became a necessity for I can’t blame them for that since members can be difficult, and he
toms such as excessive hand-washing Brady, senior Rowan Ulsh said that they’re adjusting to [new] informa- tries to go as long as possible before
and fear of germs. However, OCD is his OCD instills a constant worry of tion.” bringing it up to prevent feeling like
far more than a habit of cleanliness, germs and bacteria. a bother to those around him.
and Senior Nick Brady has first-hand Treating OCD can come in many
experience with the struggles OCD “I can’t put my shoes on without different forms based largely on “I don’t want to tell my teachers
brings. constantly thinking about how dis- patient preference and severity. The about my OCD because it just means
gusting they are,” Ulsh said. “It stops most common paths of treatment are something is wrong and they can-
“I have a giant coin collection that me from functioning and gets in the therapy and medication, but Brady not fix [it],” Ulsh said. “I feel like an
my sister decided to trash,” Brady way of me being a normal person.” found that squishing a tennis ball in annoyance when I talk about it, but,
said. “I wasn’t able to sleep for two his pocket releases energy and helps in reality, my brain is making these
days until I meticulously reorganized Not performing these particular him cope with his OCD. problems for me.”
everything.” routines can lead to a feeling of
intense apprehension for those with “It distracts me from my OCD Ulsh said that having conversa-
For those diagnosed with OCD, OCD. Brady said that going against tendencies long enough to allow me tions about mental health develops
having to stay organized or set a his tendencies can result in him feel- to temporarily focus on my school more of an understanding towards
routine is more than just a pet peeve ing trapped in his own body. work,” Brady said. “I use a lot of the commonly misunderstood topics - a
or superstition. Brady said he must al- same techniques to ease OCD as I do necessity when it comes to OCD.
ways remain equal or symmetrical in “When I was first diagnosed with for my ADHD.”
his everyday life, as well as remain as OCD, I had a tendency to always “Mental illness should be normal-
organized as possible. Brady said that sit closest to the door during class,” Counting numbers is another com- ized, not trivialized,” Ulsh said. “It
the concept of OCD is often misun- Brady said. “I was scared that if I mon strategy that is seen in OCD to really annoys me when people say
derstood by his peers and the impact didn’t sit by the door, something bad help cope with different tendencies. they’re ‘a little OCD’ or have a pet
would happen.” Ulsh said that walking from place peeve when [OCD] is something that
really inhibits my life.”
As some OCD symptoms require

Infographic by Allison Droege

10 December 15, 2022

Davis focuses on his future in photography

Carly Prows | The Chronicle digital marketing and has already made Photo by Carly Prows
his presence known on various social me- Caden Davis (right) photographs Gavin Dewitt (left) at Pine Hill Park.
When he is not tackling opponents dia platforms. He also decided to create a
on the field, Mason High School (MHS) website that allows him to easily promote from a different perspective. to get where he is now. Davis encourages
senior Caden Davis finds pleasure in the his business and share pictures. “Before I was never really experiencing others to try new hobbies and have faith
art of photography. in the process it takes to achieve goals.
“I have experience promoting myself anything,” Davis said. “So photography
Many football players fall victim to the with Tiktok, Instagram, and Snapchat,” has definitely opened that world where I “Obviously there’s going to be ups and
“jock” stereotype with no time for other Davis said. “But with a website, [pictures] can really enjoy what’s going on and the downs,” Davis said. “But you just have to
hobbies, however, Caden Davis found a are accessible to anybody, so it’s really experiences.” trust yourself and your ability to create
passion outside of football. As an elite ath- helped me a lot.” what you want to do.”
lete, Davis has not only triumphed in his Though Davis has been successful so
sport but is also pursuing photography, What started as a simple hobby has far, he admits that it was not an easy road
which has earned him a growing business sprung into a successful photography
and popularity on social media. business for Davis. Although he enjoys
the cash flow that comes with good
Davis has given up an abundance of business, Davis believes he would be
time for an extracurricular, but photog- a photographer regardless of making
raphy is worth more to him than people money or not.
may think. Even with all the accolades
football has brought him, Davis would “I do [photography] more as a job
rather choose to pursue photography. rather than a hobby currently,” Davis said,
“but even if I’m not making money, I’ll
“Obviously football takes up my entire always be doing it.”
life,” Davis said. “But photography is what
I want to do in the future and will take Although he only started with his
me to the next level.” phone, he never missed the opportunity
to take pictures while spending time with
Photography was not a hobby that friends. Being the “photographer” of his
Davis just picked up one day; it was a slow friend group has inspired him to capture
and steady process that began early on. moments that he can reminisce about
Inspired by his mom and her camera, his and share with friends.
interest in photography had been evident
from a young age. “I was always documenting what I was
doing, and my friends would ask me to
“I was always videoing and recording send the videos and pictures,” Davis said
on my mom’s camera,” Davis said. “I “I love to look back and think ‘oh man,
found pictures of me [as a young boy] look at how that happened.’”
always with the camera.”
As Davis progressed as a photographer,
Davis is hopeful for a future career in he began to realize how to view the world

December 15, 2022 11

12

-

Thrifting has become essential to current fashion, as consumers try to pursue
more environmentally-friendly tactics when buying new clothes. Junior Lauren
Smith loves building outfits with fun items she finds around thrift stores. She
also said it is easier to find statement pieces while thrifting, rather than online
shopping.

“I get a lot of inspiration from things I find at the thrift store because they have
really interesting clothes there,” Smith said.

Smith started this outfit off with a basic, form-fitting tee, and layered it with a
brown jacket. She paired them with low-rise blue jeans. Low-rise jeans are starting
to make a comeback, due to the 2000s Y2K style currently trending again. Smith
said she enjoys low-rise jeans because they’re more flattering to her figure. She
completed her outfit with black combat boots and layered jewelry.

Accessories can make or break an outfit. Even though they Sophomore Anastasiia Kafedzhieva
may appear small, they can add color and detail to an outfit. When She said she is not afraid of overdress
building an outfit, Junior Riley Mays said she enjoys drawing Kafedzhieva enjoys wearing big fur co
inspiration from nature. She said her aesthetic is very nature-based, background. With this outfit, she start
as she enjoys dressing in earthy tones. She started her outfit with She paired this with a black leather m
a brown crewneck sweatshirt and paired it with blue mom jeans. For her shoes, she chose platformed l
She added black boats and a layered necklace. said that she was bullied for being too
because she feels confident in them.
“Accessories are really big for my outfits,” Mays said. “Necklaces,
bags and stuff like that add a lot to an outfit.” Just like other forms of art, Kafedzh
wear can present your identity to oth
Page Design by Izzy Gaspar’raj
“[Fashion is] a way to show yourse

13

Khusbu Patel | The Chronicle

For some students, their daily clothing choices may be a mindless decision, but for others, fashion is an outlet
for expression.

The Chronicle staff asked some more fashion-focused students about their thoughts on some current trends,
and what they have been wearing recently.

Sophomore Gresham Fout described his outfits as having a
“library” aesthetic. He started his outfit with a blue crewneck
sweatshirt. He also added brown pants and white shoes. As is
apparent in Fout’s outfit, fall is notorious for its neutral tones. The
change from vibrant colors in summer to more neutral tones in fall
makes fall fashion look chic.

“I like dressing for fall because there’s a lot of brown and orange
colors, and I really like that palette on me,” Fout said.

a loves to mix different aesthetics in her wardrobe. Layering is commonly used in many fall and winter fashion
sing and wears whatever she feels confident in. looks. As the climate becomes cooler, jackets, vests, turtlenecks
oats and boots in the winter, inspired by her Slavic and sweaters make an appearance in school hallways. Senior Ellie
ted with a black turtleneck, a classic fall essential. Bishop enjoys the warmth and aesthetics of layering. She said that
miniskirt and added a pop of color with red tights. it can be tricky to style clothes and still be warm in the winter or
leather boots. When she was younger, Kafedzhieva fall. This makes layering essential during cooler months.
o tall, but she is starting to wear heels again
She completed the look with a gold necklace. “I think [layering] adds texture to an outfit,” Bishop said. “It adds
hieva said that fashion and what you choose to dimension and depth, and makes the outfit more interesting.”
hers.
elf, so people know who you are,” Kafedzhieva said. She started her outfit off with a cropped gray sweater and
then layered it with a black vest. For her bottoms, she wore black
flare leggings. These leggings are starting to trend, as flare jeans
become gain in popularity. She topped it off with black Converse
and dangly silver earrings.

14 December 15, 2022

Student Opinion: In Conversation With:

What was your most Senior Johan DeMessie
embarrasing moment from
Compiled by Reva Rampalli
grade school?
Tell us about yourself! Tell us about your hobbies,
Probably when I fell asleep in math interests and extracurriculars!
with my head propped on my arm,
then it slipped, and my head slammed Hi, my name is Johan. I’m a senior this year. I’m passionate about
environmental science and sustainable engineering. I’ve always
into the table. - Junior Brady Smith enjoyed the freedom that research provides me to explore topics that
interest me. I’ve been doing science fairs since I was in the fourth grade
In second grade I spilled parmesan cheese on the and my love of science has expanded since then.
floor and I was too scared to tell the teacher. After
lunch, the teacher asked why the room smelled Outside of my interest in science, I enjoy playing the violin.
like spoiled milk and some kids rattled on me, the I play violin in the Mason High School symphony orchestra.
teacher made me sweep up the cheese in front of
Outside of school, I also play violin in the Cincinnati
the whole class. - Junior Lily Samuel Symphony Youth Orchestra. I also helped run the
school science fair, helping to organize events and
Scan this QR code The time I put a phone holder we also helped judge the middle school science
to have a chance to socket thing on my forehead fair. I also help out with peer tutoring and also with
be featured in next and had a giant bruise for 3 days. Tusk, which is a science demos club. Basically, we go
edition’s Student around and help organize science demonstrations
- Senior Grey Montgomery for kids in elementary school. Sometimes we go
Spotlights! during our Connect time and we just put up fun
science demonstrations for kids. Science is at the
Student Opinion: heart of my interest.

What is your favorite season? Tell us about your research work and
about what you’ve accomplished!
Fall Spring
40.6% 18.8% Over the past five years, my research work has been
looking at developing a low-cost sensor to treat heavy
Winter metals in drinking water. Across the world, over 3 billion
18.8% people lack access to clean drinking water. Heavy metal
contaminants like arsenic, chromium and lead are
Summer very toxic contaminants that can lead to serious and
21.8% detrimental health effects. Because of this, I wanted to
address these concerns in my work. My development
Results taken from Google Form poll with a sample of 32 responses. absorbent deck uses recycled plastics in order to create
Graphics by Allison Droege. Page design by Izzy Gaspar’raj. a low-cost brand that’s over four times cheaper and two
times more absorbent than conventional solvents like
activated carbon.

What sparked your interest to create a water
treatment system?

Ever since I was little, I’ve visited my relatives in Ethiopia.
There, I witnessed the challenge of clean water firsthand.
Seeing the lack of access to clean water and the struggle
for clean water inspired me to look for a solution. Starting
in eighth grade, I made a rudimentary absorbent in my
garage. Since then, I moved on to lab work, working at a local
university. I looked at simulating environmental effects in a

lab and treating and testing adsorbents. I hope to pursue
a degree in environmental science and want to continue
pursuing the topic of sustainability in the future.

What is your favorite thing about your
research?

I really like how research has been able to connect
me with people I would have never met before. It is
almost like a bit of a community that forms around science
first, but seeing other people’s research, I was like ‘wow, it is so great to meet people.’
I’ve also met people who are either professors or they’re actually a part of modern
management. It has been interesting to see how much their advice has impacted me
by helping me to address issues I had not seen before.

December 15, 2022 15

entertainment MOVIE by Alisha
Verma
After exploring everything from wonderfully thanks to the film’s stellar not overly sentimental.
dinosaurs to extraterrestrials, Spielberg central cast, featuring the brilliant Gabriel 3.5/5
has finally turned the camera on himself. LaBelle as the driven Sammy, Michelle However, The REVIEW
In The Fabelmans, we follow the semi- Williams as his charismatic, yet troubled Fabelmans falters
autobiographical tale of Sammy Fabelman’s mother, and Paul Dano as his brainy father. during its most The Fabelmans
growing love for film set against the No character outshines the other, with the touching moments
backdrop of his crumbling family life. exuberant Williams leveling out the more due to screenwriters DIRECTOR: Steven
From the second he sees his first movie, analytical Dano, yet both never outdoing Spielberg’s and Tony Spielberg
his ice-blue eyes fixated to the silver the equally vibrant LaBelle, who holds his Kushner’s often heavy-
screen, mouth slightly open in awe, it is own against his A-list co-stars. handed writing. Otherwise

easy to tell young Sammy has found his The film’s early-mid 60s backdrop heartfelt scenes are cut by a

calling. Shots of the young filmmaker is wonderfully crafted by Spielberg’s glaring lack of subtlety, ridding you
directing his amateur films with his friends, collaborators. Each scene is steeped in
hunching over a desk splicing together 60s Americana, with rock ‘n’roll peppered of any real emotional reaction. Despite a
film and, geeking out over equipment, are throughout John Williams’score, and lush few humorous moments, the overbearing Page Design by Izzy Gaspar’raj
heartwarming. It’s moments like these, cinematography from Janusz Kaminski, writing can only go so far before it
where Sammy is so utterly entranced in his who bathes the film in warm hues becomes downright annoying.
passion, that the movie soars. reminiscent of technicolor blockbusters
It’s this love of filmmaking that leads of the era. Mark Bridges’costume design The Fabelmans at its core is a heartfelt
Sammy to a startling truth about his is another high, its boxy silhouettes and love letter to artists everywhere. Despite
its faults, it’s Spielberg’s pure passion at the

family, fueling the film’s main conflict. neutral tones imbuing in the movie just the movie’s center that provides the film with
These emotional moments are anchored right amount of nostalgia that’s sweet but enough heart to keep it afloat.

by Megan Lee SHOW by Shrija ALBUM
REVIEW Shandilya REVIEW
3.5/5
Wednesday 5/5 HEROES AND
VILLAINS
(Season 1)
by Metro Boomin
CREATORS: Alfred Gough
and Miles Millar

Wednesday Addams, the dark and twisted striking is her newfound friendship with her As a sequel to the star-studded album the contrasting themes in the title. It’s
daughter of the Addams family, has been roommate Enid. Writers use their friendship NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES, HEROES best seen in the switch from “Around Me”
made a stereotypical juvenile. By putting to address that Wednesday is capable of AND VILLAINS plays to the strengths of all to “Metro Spider”. Around me features
Wednesday in the seat of a“regular”teenager, more than just her haunting exterior. Her featured artists while incorporating Metro Don Toliver’s haunting vocals on a pop
Netflix has taken the classic Addams family snarky attitude gives Enid some trouble, but Boomin’s innovative take on trap to create adjacent beat. The following track, Metro
story and directed toward a younger teenage seeing the two grow more fond of each a captivating yet cohesive album. Spider, featuring Young Thug, is a more
audience other adds much-needed warmth to the energetic and active trap beat.
show. The first track, “On Time”, starts the
Wednesday enrolled in Nevermore, a album off bright and uplifting, featuring “Creepin”, featuring The Weeknd and 21
school for outcasts, after being expelled While Wednesday’s new found a beat switch and transition to the next Savage, is the most played song on the
from her previous school. She is forced relationships add a needed depth to her track, “Superhero”. Metro also presents album thus far and for good reason. The
into sharing a dorm with Enid Sinclair, a character, the writers have taken stereotyping themes of heroes and villains by sampling Weeknd’s R&B vocals are astounding as
bright girl who is the complete opposite of teenage drama too far by involving a basic Homelanders’climactic speech from always as he cover’s Mario Winan’s “I Don’t
Wednesday. As she furthers her involvement love triangle plotline. We see Wednesday the Amazon Original TV Series “The Wanna Know.”Metro utilizes a sample
in Nevermore, we see Wednesday placed in a struggle with the decision between Tyler Boys”. “Superhero”brings back the self again in “Feel The Fiyaaah”, an underrated
seemingly odd position with two boys, Xavier and Xavier. While both exaggerate their proclaimed “Dynamic Duo”of trap with track that displays A$AP Rocky and
Thorpe and Tyler Galpin. Through the drama, affection toward her, Wednesday refuses to Future’s smooth flow over a classic Metro Takeoff’s lyrical style and smooth flow.
Wednesday tasks herself with solving a series accept her newfound interest in either of beat.
of murders taking place near the school. them and forces both to believe she is not While it could seem like the album
interested. Even though the portrayal of the Continuously, Metro proves he depends on its features from well
Jenna Ortega portrays Wednesday in such basic“love triangle”trope can be perceived knows how to highlight the talents of established artists, Metro Boomin
a unique light. Her ability to hold the distinct as more interesting with Wednesday’s dark his features. Travis Scott’s melodic flow perfectly balances many different styles
sarcasm and spunk of the character makes personality, the plot is overused and the and sublime vocals are seen best in the which is no simple task.There is not a
this one of her most realistic performances storyline is too predictable. It does not take chorus of “Lock On Me”and “Niagara Falls”. single feature or track on this album
yet. At age 20, the young actress is much for viewers to see how the plot will The piano loop and kick drum beat on that feels forced. Metro Boomin’s genius
knowledgeable about the gravity of her unfold, and it makes the ending boring. “Niagara Falls”combine perfectly with production and narration from Morgan
job. She even choreographed the now-viral Travis Scott’s vocals and 21 Savage’s Freeman culminate to create a cinematic
dance number that takes place in episode Netflix’s adaptation of Wednesday is a classic monotone delivery to make it one listening experience and give Metro
four. Jenna Ortega is the real reason the show unique take on the familiar story, but by of the best songs on the album. Boomin status as an unforgettable name
is so successful. involving her in teenage cliches, the classic in trap.
character was stripped of her original spirit. The diversity of this album alludes to
Wednesday goes through many obstacles
in the eight episodes, however, the most

16 sports December 15, 2022

Toohey Time

Photo by Lily Haller
Adam Toohey, hired on July 25, breaks a huddle with his players after a timeout in his third game as head coach for the Mason Comets against the Colerain Cardinals.

Comets usher in new era with Toohey at head coach

Ali Sami | The Chronicle When Toohey took the job, he something I enjoy and I think it Photo By Lily Haller
New Mason boys basketball coach immediately prioritized building up brings me closer to my teammates,” New Mason head coach Adam Toohey
the team’s off-the-court connections. Menker said. “I truly think things went 72-46 during his five years leading
Adam Toohey knows he has big Menker said that he has been im- like these help us win on and off the Tippecanoe Red Devils.
shoes to fill. pressed by Toohey’s effort to build the court.”
relationships on and off the court. Scan this QR Code to visit the
Longtime head coach Greg Rich- The impact of Richard’s influence wearembc YouTube page and watch
ards stepped down after 27 seasons “We have these meetings before is evident on Toohey and the play-
leading the Comets. Richards won every practice. And those meetings ers who started their high school Harper Stull’s story on Toohey.
399 games during his Mason tenure we talk a lot about relationships and basketball careers under the veteran
including a district championship our culture, and it’s nothing about coach. They still feel that the les-
in 2017. actual basketball at all.” Menker sons learned from their former
said. “It’s more about our personal coach have helped them confidently
Toohey admits that is a tough lives, and I think that’s really con- embark on a new journey with their
act to follow, and said he cannot nected our team this year.” new coach who is also committed to
replace the impact Richards had on helping young men develop as play-
the program. Junior Jake Hanley, a two-year ers on and off the court.
starter, said that he is enjoying
“I can’t, the shoes are too big,” Toohey’s emphasis on the players’ Hanley believes coach Richards
Toohey said. mental health. left the program in a great spot and
is now in good hands with Toohey.
Toohey is familiar to Mason- “He does a lot of things that help
Toohey, met Richards in 2009 when the players. He has four core values “I think he shaped the program
he was hired at Mason as an assis- that the team follows, care, com- for what it is right now,” Hanley
tant football and softball coach, and pete, communication and passion.” said. “He set the standard for what
an intervention specialist. Thirteen Hanley said. “We do culture talks the program can and should be.”
years later, Toohey is tabbed as the and small groups, kind of just get-
man to take over for Richards. ting as close with each other, lead- The boy’s basketball team has
ing to questions about our personal started off their season 4-1 includ-
Before taking the Mason job, he lives, school lives, and basketball ing out-of-conference wins against
coached at Tippecanoe High School lives. And on top of that, we do Dunbar and Springboro. They are
where he compiled a 72-46 record yoga, which was part of [Toohey’s] currently tied for second in what
over a five-year span from 2017 to mental decompression while also should be a tightly contested Great-
2022. getting ready for games.” er MiamI Conference this season.

Toohey believes Mason is the The team spent a lot of time off Menker said that the team is very
right place for him and his family the court together prior to the sea- grateful for the legacy Richards left
to be, especially since he has experi- son, including an overnight retreat, on the program, and is excited to
ence working in the school district. fall workouts and shootarounds. continue his success with Toohey.
“Mason to me is family. It really is,” During this time, the team spent
Toohey said. a lot of time talking about culture “Richards has had a great impact
and named it “the brotherhood.” on me and Toohey has already
Toohey said Mason is a special made a big impact on me with his
job for him because the school has a Junior Ben Menker believes these short time here so far,” Menker
long tradition of athletic success, in- efforts have helped the players said. “I hope Coach Richards enjoys
cluding the basketball program that grow closer outside of the sport and his retirement just as much as I
Richards led for over two decades. have contributed to their chemistry enjoyed playing for him, and I can’t
in games. wait for the success that is yet to
“What attracted me is his longevi- come with Coach Toohey.”
ty, and I really respect that,” Toohey “The brotherhood really is
said. “I think a lot of Mason’s
coaches are like that.”

December 15, 2022 17

STUDENT ATHLETE

‘s ofthe MONTH

BEN GOLAN

Andrew Little | Sports Editor taking more shots. Golan shot 36.5%
from the field last season on 4.5 at-
Senior Ben Golan has taken on a tempts per game and is shooting 50%
major role early in the season for this year on over 11 attempts a game.
the Comets. Through five games, the He has helped his team’s offense by
forward leads the team in points, re- grabbing four offensive rebounds each
bounds and blocks. His 10.4 rebounds game which leads the conference.
per game are the most in the Greater
Miami Conference. Golan has also contributed as a
defender. His 1.0 blocks per game are
Last season, Golan operated off the currently fourth in the GMC, and he is
bench playing 11.5 minutes per game. also averaging 1.2 steals per game.
This year, he has stepped up as a full-
time starter and leader for the team. The Comets are off to a successful
The senior has also made strides as a start to their season with a 4-1 overall
scorer. He improved from 3.9 points record. Golan exploded for 27 points
per game as a junior to 14.4 per game and 12 rebounds in the Comet’s come-
so far this year. That is good enough back win over the Springboro Pan-
for eighth in the GMC. thers. Golan also grabbed 16 rebounds
against Princeton. He led the team in
He is leading the team in scoring scoring again in a win over Oak Hills
and has improved his efficiency while with 13 points.

GOLAN'S NUMBERS

1st 14.4 5th

1st in the GMC for 14.4 points per game 5th in the GMC for
rebounds per game blocks for game

Statistics last updated on December 9, 2022
Comet Zone’s Student Athlete of the Month selected by The Chronicle Sports Staff. Photo by Liam McManes. Graphic by Allison Droege. Page Design by Izzy Gaspar’raj

18 December 15, 2022

College Football Bowl Game Face-off

Andrew Little | Sports Editor FENWAY BOWL 12/17
Sean Speidel | The Chronicle CINCINNATI VS LOUISVILLE

As the college football bowl ANDREW’S PICK: Cincinnati SEAN’S PICK: Louisville Scan this QR Code
games approach over winter break, “I can’t believe Sean is picking against “The Cardinals have something to to see Andrew and
our sports writers Andrew and Sean his own city. Yes, they just lost Luke prove after Scott Satterfield left to Sean’s full picks for
challenged each other to a test of Fickell, but Louisville also changed head take the UC job. They will fight hard every bowl game
their expertise. The two each picked coaches. Both programs are in transition to beat their former head coach and and check their re-
the full slate of bowl games and and UC was the better team this year.” kick off the Jeff Brohm era right.“ cords as the games
debated the highest-profile games play out.
of the slate including the College ORANGE BOWL 12/30
Football Playoff matchups. TENNESSEE VS CLEMSON SEAN

ANDREW ANDREW’S PICK: Clemson SEAN’S PICK: Clemson

“I’m a big believer in freshman Cade “We agree! Cade Klubnik is going to

Klubnik. Tennessee is missing several key step in nicely and Clemson is the better

players due to injuries and opt-outs as of two orange teams facing off in the

they limp to the finish line of 2022.” Orange Bowl.“

SUGAR BOWL 12/31
ALABAMA VS KANSAS STATE

ANDREW’S PICK: Alabama SEAN’S PICK: Kansas State
“Alabama will likely not have their top “Nick Saban said TCU had a “bad loss
draft propsects like Bryce Young, but against a bad team” in the Big 12 title
don’t overcomplicate this like Sean is. game. Kansas State will take that per-
It’s Alabama. They reload, not rebuild, sonally. Head coach Chris Klieman is 3-0
and will show off their young talent and in games against top-five teams. The
depth in a victory over the Wildcats.” Wildcats will keep that streak alive.”

FIESTA BOWL 12/31
#2 MICHIGAN VS #3 TCU

ANDREW’S PICK: Michigan SEAN’S PICK: Michigan
“This pains me as a Buckeye fan, but “Michigan’s offense has stayed strong
Michigan is good enough to win the after Blake Corum’s injury. I just don’t
championship. Max Duggan and TCU see TCU beating the Wolverines, espe-
will still put up a fight.” cially with Duggan banged up.”

PEACH BOWL 12/31
#1 GEORGIA VS #4 OHIO STATE

ANDREW’S PICK: Ohio State SEAN’S PICK: Ohio State
“Call me crazy, but the Buckeyes have “You are crazy for that pick, but
the firepower on offense to take out the so am I. The Buckeyes are out for re-
reigning champs. Ohio State will be play- venge and their star-studded offense
ing angry after losing to Michigan again, is the only one that can compete
and can pull off the upset.” with Georgia’s defense.“

COTTON BOWL 1/2
USC VS TULANE

ANDREW’S PICK: USC SEAN’S PICK: USC

“As much as I love an underdog, I can’t “USC is hungry for a win after their

possibly take Tulane over Caleb Williams devestating loss to Utah that ended

and USC. The Green Wave had a tremen- their playoff hopes. They should easily

dous season, but are no match for the beat this year’s Group of Five represen-

mighty Trojans.” tative Tulane.”

Illustrations by Alisha Verma ROSE BOWL 1/2
UTAH VS PENN STATE

ANDREW’S PICK: Penn State SEAN’S PICK: Utah
“Penn State deserves more respect. “Utah is on a roll after they won the
Their only losses are to CFP teams and PAC-12 championship in dominant
they’re full of impactful underclassmen fashion. I see them winning a close one
like RB Nicholas Singleton.” in the Rose Bowl.”

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP 1/9

ANDREW’S PICK: Ohio State SEAN’S PICK: Ohio State
“Ohio State is talented, angry and “CJ Stroud will get it done. The Heis-
motivated. They will not blow their man finalist is going to will this team
chance for revenge with a national to a national championship. There’s no
championship on the line.” way he loses The Game three times.”

December 15, 2022 19

Mason Hockey team provides opportunites for athletes on the ice

Camden Paeltz | The Chronicle

Southwest Ohio may not be a high

school hockey hotbed but that has

not stopped the Mason High School

hockey team from getting creative

in building their program and their

own traditions.

The Comets’ hockey team has a

small roster consisting of six seniors

and a cast of underclassmen. For

several of the players, playing on the

MHS team was their first experience

playing competitive hockey. Senior

Bailey Bryan said that the Mason

hockey team is unique in that it al-

lows students to get out on the ice

and learn the game no matter what

their skill level.

“There’s a lot fewer kids playing

high school hockey in Ohio,” Bryan

said. “We’re not going to be drawing

tons of kids like in Minnesota. Here,

it’s just if you want to play and you

can skate, you could be out there.”

Before high school, Aidan Albers

played for the Cincinnati Swords, Photo by Camden Paeltz
a club hockey team in the area. He Sophomore Tanner Liebig prepares to take a faceoff for the Mason hockey team against the Beavercreek Beavers.

frequently traveled long distances in bers said. “ I’d be traveling from minutes away from the school at to bond with one another,” Albers
order to play with that team. Albers state to state and city to city on this South Metro Sports in Dayton, Ohio. said. “We plan on doing more team
said that having a team as a school club hockey team. When I switched Since there’s not an abundance of ice dinners, and definitely more parties
club sport allows him to have a more to high school hockey, it opened a rinks in the area the team is required as the season goes through to make
enjoyable high school experience lot of time for me to enjoy other to travel long distances for games sure we have that connection as a
while still playing the game that he activities, hang out with friends and and practices. team and that we really know each
loves. just meet new people in general other on and off the ice.”
which I enjoyed doing.” Because of the rink’s location, the
“When I was in club hockey, I team does not play in front of a lot The team’s growth has allowed
didn’t really have a lot of time.” Al- The team’s home games are 30 of fans. Sophomore Max Kennedy them to expand to new opportuni-
said that the team is self-motivated ties including playing out of state.
and understands it is difficult for On November 19th, the team got
students to make the trip to games, the opportunity to play in Nashville,
but he does believe that if some fans Tennessee at the Bridgestone Arena
would give it a chance they might where the National Hockey League
enjoy watching the Comets compete Nashville Predators play. This was
on the ice. their first out-of-state game ever.
The Comets were invited by St.
“Everybody gets more excited Xavier High School from Louisville,
when a lot of people come to watch,” Kentucky to play a game at the
Kennedy said.” They become more venue. Senior Owen Natorp said that
eager to win. It would also be fun for playing in that environment was a
everyone that comes to watch. Maybe unique opportunity that was only
show off a little bit.” possible due to the team’s recent
growth.
In addition to gaining exposure,
the Comets are making an effort “Playing out of the state was just a
to grow closer as teammates. Many really cool experience,” Natorp said.
Mason teams have weekly team din- “I think it was for a lot of the kids,
ners to build camaraderie. This year, especially if they’re newer, a really
the hockey team implemented these cool thing for them being able to do
for the first time. Albers said that the
team dinners have helped everyone

come closer together including all something different that they prob-

Photo by Camden Paeltz the new members they have taken in. ably didn’t expect when joining the
Senior Garrett Hurr attempts a shot on goal for the Mason Comets hockey team. “We’ve been starting a team dinner team.”

20 December 15, 2022

Photo by Taylor Murray
In pod B3, PBS and HBS teacher Karen McDonough hangs a holiday decorations including cheerful signs, colorful lights and a snowman which all the pod teachers pitched in to purchase.

Decorations, cheer and good vibes bring pods to life

Taylor Murray | The Chronicle a difference in morale. She said that up as a different character from the and teachers being out in the hall
having the speaker playing is a fun video game and they took turns rac- makes a huge difference in their day.
Between holiday decorations, end- way to break the monotony of a typi- ing down their makeshift Rainbow
of-year parties, and weekly dance cal school day for many students. Road on scooters in between bells. “When the teachers are out talking,
sessions, the halls of MHS have never White said that the pod teachers hope it feels very inclusive and fun,” Kehl
been more welcoming. “[C3] is a friendly place [and] we this gives students a chance to relax said. “When teachers are back in their
love to connect with kids,” Johnston and have fun in school. rooms, it feels very academic, but
Many teachers within Mason High said. “Those relationships are a num- when teachers are out in the hallway
School (MHS) pods use different ber one priority for us up here, and “Mason can be very grade-focused socializing [with] students, it’s a fun
strategies to spread joy and enhance I hope that [students] get a sense of and kids are stressed about different five minutes before you go and do
the school environment. MHS pods that [so] they can know that this is a things,” White said. “I think it brings classwork.”
are groupings of classrooms labeled safe place to go.” them some joy to see [us] racing on
by numbers and letters to represent scooters and having a fun time. It’s a Kehl also really appreciates the
their floor and location in the build- Music is not the only way to spread way to connect with their teachers in music in C3 on Fridays. They said
ing. cheer and create a fun environment a different way.” that the music cheers them and ev-
at MHS. Pre-calculus teacher Bonnie eryone around them up, even if their
Pod C3 has music blasting from its White and her colleagues in Z2 spend Similar to Z2 and C3, pod B3 also day is not going particularly well.
speaker every Friday - a ritual started all year looking forward to Hallow- strives to create a student-friendly
to create a more relaxing environ- een so they can dress up, play games environment. Principles of Bio- “I love how I can hear [the music]
ment for students. Psychology and with their students, and embrace medical Sciences (PBS) and Human from way down the hallway,” Kehl
AP Psychology teacher Angie John- their inner child for a day. White said Body Systems (HBS) teacher Karen said. “Definitely on Fridays when they
ston said that she has always wanted that decking the halls for Halloween McDonough, along with her fellow play music, C3 is the number one
to play music over the intercoms is a time-honored pod tradition, so teachers in B3, enjoys decorating her [pod]. Walking around and hearing
between bells, but with no luck from she and the other Z2 teachers do their pod for the holidays. She said that that music just gets you amped up
the front office, her pod decided to best to set aside the day for students students often give positive feedback for the day.”
take matters into their own hands. to have fun. about funny signs on doors and lights
The teachers of C3 now play peppy out in the hall. Teachers like McDonough, John-
tunes for Friday football games, holi- “We’re getting towards the point ston, and White are taking steps to-
day music in December and overall where we hope that [Halloween] is “The pod is really good about wards a more welcoming and positive
happy, popular songs whenever they just going to be a day where we can decorating,” McDonough said. “On atmosphere at MHS. White said that
can. have our kids help us decorate and my door, I even have a little Bio Med she wishes for students to feel com-
have fun,” White said. “We get out to- thing with Barbie doll clothes and fortable interacting with her, even if
“I think [students] enjoy seeing us gether, [dress up] and have moments [students] get a kick out of it when they do not have her as a teacher.
in the hallway, and if we are ever out for [students] to slow down since they they come in. I think it just makes
and the music is playing, we can sing, typically don’t get [many] opportuni- [the pod] inviting and makes them “I would hope that they would see
dance [and] have fun,” Johnston said. ties to just be a kid.” want to be there.” us and know that we’re the type of
“I feel like it makes us more human teachers they can just come up to and
to them [and] builds a relationship.” This Halloween, the Z2 teachers Jackson Kehl, an MHS senior, have a conversation with,” White said.
dressed their pod hallways as the said that they have the pods ranked “I hope they know that this is a safe
When the music is playing and the Rainbow Road from Nintendo’s Super in their head and C3, B3 and Z2 are place for everyone. I think ultimately
C3 teachers are out chatting with stu- Mario Kart. The teachers also coordi- among their favorites. They said that that’s how we would want every kid
dents, Johnston said she has noticed nated costumes so everyone dressed simple things like posters on doors [entering] our pod to feel: safe, happy
and belonging.”

December 15, 2022 21

Photo by Nancy Riley

Junior color-guard captian Ally Wielinga catches her rifle during a performance of the 2022 competition show, Odyssey, at Dwire Field.

MHS marching band makes history in Indianapolis

Josie Lorenz | The Chronicle in the program. the beginning,” Wielinga said. “We re- help each other,” Wielinga said. “It
“The difference between my fresh- ally pushed ourselves to a new level really impacted our final perfor-
On the grandest stage, the Mason and that allowed us to be the best we mance being stunning.”
High School marching band made man year and this year was that we can be and be beautiful.”
school history. felt more like a team [and] more As her marching band career
cohesive,” Hufnagel said. Months of practices in all types of comes to a close, Powers will always
On November 12, the MHS band weather, including two full weeks of consider herself a member of the
placed fourth at the Bands of Ameri- Senior Flute player Shelby Power complete run-throughs leading up Mason Marching Band family and
ca Grand Nationals at Lucas Oil Sta- said she was impressed with the to Grand Nationals had members of said she will continue to support the
dium in Indianapolis, Indiana. Grand growth of the marching band follow- the band looking forward to their band. She said she is excited to watch
Nationals is a national competition ing past difficulties with COVID-19. ultimate test on the Lucas Oil field. the band continue to grow and pre-
featuring bands from around the She said that the seasoned nature of Wielinga admitted that the practices pare to march in the prestigious 2024
country who compete in three rounds the band developed by these hard- could be long and grueling but she Rose Bowl Parade.
of performances. Only 12 bands ships brought the team together in a knew that all the hard work would
qualify for the final round. way that created success. culminate in a memorable experi- “[The band is] going to the Rose
ence. Bowl in 2024,” Power said. “I’m re-
The band placed second in their “As a whole, the band in the past ally excited about that. I don’t get
class in the semi-final round while four years has gotten more mature,” “Getting the opportunity to per- to march in it because I’m a senior,
also earning commendation for Gen- Power said. “Especially after dealing form my show to its fullest potential but I’m really excited about what the
eral Effects, an award given for the with COVID-19, we never knew what was an incredible feeling,” Wielinga future is going to bring.”
band’s overall unity and beauty and was going to happen to that season. I said. “As I counted down the amount
honor they achieved for the first time think that pushed us to work harder.” [of rehearsals] we had left in the year, Wielinga said she feels pride in
in school history. I only pushed myself harder until it the progress the band has made as a
The band’s show, aptly named “Od- was our last.” whole in her time on the team. She
Senior drum major Bekah Hufna- yssey,” not only showcased their per- has no doubt they will achieve great
gel has been a part of the marching formance on the field but accurately While hard work and practice have things and continue to make history.
band since her freshman year. She captured the band’s commitment to always been important to the march-
was thrilled that the band could high-level performance and journey ing band’s success, Wielinga said the “We have left our mark [and] made
bring home such prestigious honors. over the past few years. Junior Color history made in the 2022 season can school history, [which] I’ve dreamt
She said the General Effects recog- Guard member Ally Wielinga said be credited to the positive attitude of about for such a long time,” Wiel-
nition was earned due in large part there was a passion that each band the band. inga said. “I hope that everyone stays
to the team’s continued growth and member committed to the show that inspired, passionate and motivated. I
overall team chemistry which has helped them soar to new heights. “Everything we’ve done as a team have no doubt that that will happen.”
been evolving during her four years [was] to motivate each other, support
“This year everybody was so into it, each other, uplift each other [and]
even though we had some doubts at

22 December 15, 2022

The new year Staff Editorial

does not limit FIFA World Cup unites student body

our goals Sports bring people together. the team in its short life. Cincinnati served
The Federation Internationale de as a microcosm for America’s interest in
Megan Lee | The Chronicle Football Association (FIFA) World Cup, soccer during the world cup.
held every four years, brings together the
Our year should not be defined by a single decision made on best national soccer teams from around When the World Cup and Olympics
January 1st. the globe to the biggest competition in come around, people often say that
sports outside of the Olympics. For most the US would be dominant in soccer if
The meaning of a new year means something different to each casual fans in America, this tournament our best athletes played. After all, our
person. We spend our holiday days off meticulously formulating a contains the only soccer games they will womens team is consistently one of the
set of steps to make our lives more enjoyable, meaningful or even watch over the four year span. best in the world. Instead, sports like
effortless. Behind each objective is the one main goal which you After failing to qualify in 2018, the football, basketball and baseball take
wish to achieve during the next 12 months – a new year’s resolution. United States Men’s National Team top priority with it media coverage. The
(USMNT) got the invitation this year. They solid performance of the men’s team,
The truth is, we spend the whole year pretending that our one were in Group B, one of the toughest in who were the second youngest team in
resolution will fix everything in its path, that as long as we achieve the tournament, with England, Wales and the tournament with an average age of
that one distinct goal, we have succeeded. However, each time, Iran. Over 16 million people watched as 25, signals optimism for the future of the
we give in to this ideal and normalize not making our difficult the United States beat Iran 1-0 to advance sports. Perhaps the United States’ return
decisions sooner. You are not confined to the new year to make a to the round of 16. The team then fell to to the World Cup after eight years will
real choice for yourself. the Netherlands 3-1. America’s success in inspire a new generation of soccer players
the tournament after not qualifying four and help the team reach its full potential.
We as a society strive to input our views and choices into one years ago has helped reinvigorate soccer to As this year demonstrated, there is a
another’s decisions. But yet we frown upon those who do choose the national culture. The average Sunday market for the sport.
to move on, take a leap and choose to make an aspect of their own Night Football game still outpaces the US
life better. I am guilty of it, to look for approval in a choice that is World Cup games in terms of viewership, The World Cup is still captivating
solely my own. Why now on this one day a year is it normalized to but soccer does not need to pass football to audiences after the United States
actually care about how someone is choosing to improve their own make an impact. elimination. Viewers that can only name
life? Why is it expected of us? The 2022 FIFA World Cup is being Christiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and
played in Qatar, meaning that the games Neymar were cheering vigorously as
We have grown up seeing others in our lives obsessed with the either take place in the morning or early underdogs like Japan and Morocco
idea that it is only now that this change will matter, giving us afternoon rather than primetime viewing. advanced deep into the tournament. A
a clean slate to start the same cycle over again. Instead, we are Dedicated soccer fans are waking up highlight of December lunch has been
hit with the realization year after year that no matter how much early in the morning in order to not miss watching games on the big screen or at
we wish we could change it, our hardships are still with us. The any action, but even the casual sports individual tables. Hundreds of students,
betrayal and heartache, even the strength and positivity are not fan is tuning in for the major matches. many of whom never watch soccer, were
wiped away. In fact, according to Fox, Cincinnati was enthralled as Croatia upset Brazil in
the top city in the country for viewership penalty kicks. That is the power of sports.
We treat each new year as a milestone in a world of change. Yet of the Round of 16 match against the A group of people can share a communal
each year, we stay the same. Resolutions go unfulfilled, we preserve Netherlands. experience of emotions whether they
ourselves to change whatever it is that they feel is “wrong.” We The world cup has been successful have a connection to the team’s or are just
haven’t normalized the feeling of failure enough to allow ourselves in displaying that soccer can be a very viewing for entertainment.
to accept that fact. exciting sport to watch and has introduced
the sport to a wider audience. Cincinnati Soccer may not be the most popular
One single resolution does not define our success over the course is a shining example of a growing soccer sport in the United States, or even in
of a year. city. In 2021, FC Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium the top three. Still, for one month it has
finished fourth in attendance in Major united people around the country to
You do not need to wait until December 30th to decide you need League Soccer. The city has rallied around cheer, be captivated by penalty shootouts
a change in your life. If you want to spend more time with your and repeatedly ponder the same thought.
family, do it. If you want to quit or start something new, do it. If There should be no ties in sports.
you want to spend more time with your loved ones, do it. You are
capable of making resolutions whether it’s one New Year’s Eve or in
the middle of July.

Choosing a new path for yourself is not supposed to make you
feel guilty. Take pride in the fact that you were capable and ready to
choose something for yourself. We make the mistake of pressuring
ourselves to follow the mold, especially during our years in high
school.

The Chronicle’s Policy Megan Lee
Savannah Libby
The Chronicle is the official student Call 398-5025 ext. 33103 for infor- The National Scholastic Press Asso- The Chronicle Staff Technical Editor Aimee Liu Advisor
newspaper of William Mason High mation regarding advertising in The ciation, Quill and Scroll International Editor-in-Chief Izzy Gaspar’raj Josie Lorenz Dale Conner
School. Chronicle. The Chronicle reserves the Honorary Society for High School Jour- Bradyn Johnson Business Manager Taylor Murray Connect with
right to refuse advertising it deems in- nalists and the Ohio Scholastic Media Managing Editors Alexa Crociata Camden Paeltz the Chronicle:
The Chronicle promises to report the appropriate for a high school publica- Association. Risha Chada Staff Designers Khusbu Patel
truth and adhere to the journalistic tion. Tanya Keskar Becca Hunter Carly Prows @mhschronicle
code of ethics through online and print Contact Information Sports Editor Nishka Mishra Reva Rampalli
mediums. As an open forum for students, let- The Chronicle Andrew Little Alisha Verma Ali Sami facebook.com/
ters to the editor are welcome, but are William Mason High School Design Editor SDDEtlriiavenfywfaWBBHoirsosiheftfeomrysiaster Ellie Saylor mhschronicle
The Chronicle is produced by students subject to be edited for length, libel, ob- 6100 S. Mason Montgomery Rd. Allison Droege Shrija Shandilya
enrolled in Journalism I, II and III. scenity, clarity and poor taste. Letters to Mason, Ohio 45040 Alisha Soni @mhschronicle
the editor may be dropped off in room (513) 398-5025 Sean Speidel
Editorials reflect the staff ’s opinion C103 and must be signed. Laurel Wang
but do not necessarily reflect the opin- Ava Yungbluth
ions of the school administration or the The Chronicle is a member of The
Mason City School District. Columbia Scholastic Press Association,

The Chronicle is published monthly.

December 15, 2022 23

Learning from Editorial Cartoon
athletic recruitment

Carly Prows | The Chronicle

There is nothing like talking to college coaches over the Celebrating As my friends and I talked about all the gifts
phone – a combination of nerve-wracking, surreal and exciting we asked Santa for, I felt like Santa did not care
feelings. I prepared for my first call with a college coach Christmas as a about me, as he never left me any gifts. I came
the same way I would prepare for a big test: researching the home from school and questioned my parents
school, digging for important information on the coaches non-Christian about Santa. They told me he was simply a
and team and even practicing how to greet them. Though my myth that Americans shared. I couldn’t share
preparation took a lot of energy, I knew it would establish a Khusbu Patel | The Chronicle the joy all of my classmates felt.
great conversation.
When I think of winter, a few things pop into I felt compelled to follow traditions because
Another aspect of recruiting is visiting schools and meeting my head: snow, snowmen and, of course, snow everyone around me did, but I was never really
the team and staff. I began visiting schools during my days. But I also think of the festive celebration sure if I was qualified to celebrate Christmas. I
freshman year in high school. I did my best to envision my of Christmas. Growing up in a Hindu pretended to have a Christmas list and a family
future at every school I went to, whether it felt right or not. household, I was still drawn towards the joy that participated in American Christmas
Looking back now, as a senior, visiting schools as early as your of Christmas. I heard about all the fun things traditions. I wanted to fit in with the other kids.
freshman year in high school can pile a ton of pressure on an my classmates did, like watching Polar Express
athlete. before the break and decorating gingerbread I began to question if my lack of the
cookies during holiday parties. As I watched religious sentiment behind Christmas meant
After my club basketball career ended last summer, I had many of my classmates embracing the that I shouldn’t celebrate Christmas at all.
seven scholarship offers on the table and was eager to find a traditions of the season, I began to wonder why I’ve come to enjoy celebrating the Christmas
future home. I knew Ashland University would be the school I I do not celebrate Christmas in my household. season and my family has started to embrace
chose the moment I met the coaches; everything felt right. As this season of colorful decorations and festive
an athlete, this moment–this feeling–was one I had dreamed of I grew up in a Hindu family, celebrating all celebrations.
my entire life. As soon as I realized that I wanted to commit to the holidays and going to the temple every
Ashland I called the coach. I felt a little anxious but extremely week. I didn’t celebrate any American holidays While the original holiday celebrates the
excited because I knew this was my chance to play at the and didn’t know much about Christianity. As birth of Jesus, I love participating in the
next level at a great school with a great women’s basketball a child, my only opinions on the world were joys and fun of Christmas. I enjoy singing
program. inspired by my family’s Hindu views. Before carols, observing the traditions and spending
attending school, I didn’t even know what memorable time with family, even though
Ask any prospective athlete; recruiting is a lot to juggle. Christmas was, only gathering what I could I am not Christian. My family continues to
Though being recognized for your athletic prowess is an about American customs from television practice Hinduism. However, celebrating the
immense honor, recruiting can come with many stressful and and the media. When I went to school, my Christmas season doesn’t take away from our
heartbreaking experiences. Nothing beats the feeling of calling peers exposed me to the endless joy-sparking religion.
the Ashland coaches and committing to a school after years Christmas activities that brought us all
of hard work and dedication. However, I was unprepared for together and lifted my spirits. Even though people may have religious
the other phone calls I had to make to the schools that had sentiments behind Christmas, I know that
also offered me scholarships. I never realized how business- I don’t need to be Christian to practice the
centered recruitment was until I told the coaches I did not want American tradition of Christmas.
to choose their program. I couldn’t help but feel guilty – this
being the first time I really had to tell someone “no.”

Other Mason High School athletes have gone through
similar experiences with recruiting and the stress that comes
with it. Senior golfer Timmy Hollenbeck committed to play
golf at Wright State University, and he said that he recalls
some of his most stressful moments being the periods of no
communication from other college coaches. Recruited athletes
are expected to be expert communicators, so when we reach
out to coaches and get no response, it creates some anxiety.
Hollenbeck admitted that even though it is an unsettling
process, he learned to be patient.

Communicating with coaches for so many years has
personally taught me a lot about how to maintain a thorough
and mature conversation with adults. Whether it is a phone call,
text or email, I understand the importance of communication.
Hollenbeck’s teammate AJ Wilhelm committed to play golf at
Xavier University and said that talking to coaches taught him
to speak coherently and respectfully. He consistently asked
direct questions, helping him build meaningful relationships,
which ultimately led him to him finding his home.

The recruiting process has not only been a rewarding
experience, but also a learning experience. Communication
with coaches has taught me how to express gratitude and push
through the toughest phone calls. There was no better feeling
than knowing my hard work was being recognized, so making
the decision to commit to Ashland brought everything full
circle.

24 December 15, 2022