Chronicle 20.1

Volume 20 Issue 1 | William Mason High School | 6100 Mason Montgomery Rd., Mason, OH | 9.16.22

“The Banished Belly Button”

See page 2

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

Illustration by Alisha Verma

Illustration and page design by Allison Droege

2 September 16, 2022

Updated dress code

think twice about

Shrija Shandilya | The Chronicle at MHS for seven years and feels that
there has been a bigger emphasis placed
This year, an exposed belly button on hearing the student voice, especially
may come with a price. in making decisions about the school.

For the first time since 2017, Mason “There are a lot more student-led
High School (MHS) has an enforced groups,” Spitzmueller said. “[There are]
dress code. The 2022-23 policy requires a lot more opportunities for students to
students to wear “a shirt with a hem give feedback on different things – like
that meets the top of the waistband when we changed our schedule, we had
while standing.” Students were notified student focus groups.”
over email and during the first week of
the school year. This creation of opportunities for
students to voice their opinions aids ad-
MHS Principal Bobby Dodd said that ministrators in creating a better learning
there has always been a dress code, but environment. Spitzmueller said that this
in past years, it has been less enforced. is something that they are always look-
This lack of enforcement caused ing to improve.
uncertainty among students and staff
on what is appropriate to wear, so “There are a lot of other things that
Dodd and other MHS administrators we’re doing that are coming from stu-
discussed the possibility of change to dents to improve the environment and
help foster a strong educational envi- make students feel comfortable and like
ronment. Dodd said that this change this is a safe place to learn,” Spitzmueller
in policy is intended to ensure that said.
students are living up to Mason’s three
big rocks (culture, inclusive excellence While pursuing this idea of making
and personalized learning) when it students comfortable and ensuring a safe
comes to apparel. learning environment, Spitzmueller said
that she doesn’t believe that administra-
“We always have to remember [that] tion needs to create extremely strict
we’re an instructional institution,” rules. After analyzing different dress
Dodd said. “We try to create a safe codes around the area, she said that she
learning environment for all students. found that Mason’s new dress code is still
[The dress code] gives them an oppor- far less strict. However, the new policy
tunity to really focus on that.” is a change and it can be hard to adjust
to. She said that she hopes that students
Dodd said that he feels that the recognize that their worth should not be
dress code has already created a better tied to apparel.
learning environment and hopes that
students will think back on this dress “I do think just looking at that connec-
code when in a professional work tion between your image, what’s inside
environment. and your feelings about yourself inside is
a good conversation to have and a good
“Sometimes, we have students reflection for kids,” Spitzmueller said.
say, I get to wear whatever I want to
wear at work,” Dodd said. “To a cer- Junior Ethiopia Jegol was dress coded
tain point they may, but then there on the first day of the 2022-23 school year.
are also places where you have to The current consequence of being dress
follow protocols and procedures coded is a referral to a digital form and
when it comes to what you wear.” a discussion. Jegol said that she was not
aware of the change in the policy prior to
The dress code was developed being referred, and was initially confused
by student and staff discussions as she had never had any past disciplin-
with MHS Assistant Principal Laura ary action.
Spitzmueller. She said that she
volunteered to lead this discussion, “It was just really shocking,” Jegol said.
in which students looked at dress codes “[A teacher] started asking me my name
from local school districts and Mason and everything and I was like, why did
Middle School to determine ideas for a you just come up to me right now?”
reasonable dress code for Mason High
School, as well as to stay consistent Jegol said that she valued the creative
with the middle school. freedom the past dress code gave her and
“[We] talked through ideas about the feels that the new one hinders her expres-
different dress codes and the students sion. She said that she feels that limiting
had an opportunity to share.” Spitzm- that outlet is harmful and a change that
ueller said. “There were pieces from mainly targets women’s fashion.
the different dress codes that [we] liked
[and] that we thought we should look “My outfits are me expressing myself,
at further.” so the fact that they’re trying to tell me
Spitzmueller said that she has been what I can and what I can’t wear is good
for no one and it mainly impacts people
who wear women’s fashion.”

Story continued on page 3

September 16, 2022 3

causes students to
their school attire

Story continued from page 2 constantly bring a jacket,” Yoshimura said. Illustrations by Alisha Verma
Although this change focuses on students,
Additionally, Jegol said that she feels that
this change does not positively impact MHS’s MHS staff have also been impacted. MHS
learning environment. She said the she math teacher Kristina Broaddrick said that
believes that it has caused more disruption, she is happy about this new dress code policy.
especially when students are sent to the office She said that she likes the new dress code
over slivers of midriff showing. Jegol said that because it establishes clothing that is appro-
she thought her shirt met the waistband of priate for the school day and school environ-
her pants and her midriff was barely exposed, ment. Broaddrick said that she feels that this
which added to her confusion about being dress code not only increases overall comfort
dress coded. level but also creates some form of unifor-
mity that is beneficial to everybody.
“Nothing about my stomach should be
impacting how I do in school,” Jegol said. “I think it’s really important to think
about time and place. No one’s saying that
Junior Mia Yoshimura said that since the the clothes that are not appropriate here are
majority of her tops are cropped, she was un- always not appropriate,” Broaddrick said.
sure what to wear for the school year. She and “School is a certain period of hours that as a
many other students at MHS have chosen student, there are certain clothes that are go-
to wear jackets over their cropped clothing ing to be appropriate for this.”
to avoid violating the dress code. Yoshimura
said that she removed her jacket during Broaddrick said that she feels that the past
lunch and was subsequently dress coded for dress code caused the school to be too relaxed
showing her midriff. around clothing, however, defining a dress
code is difficult due to different body types.
“I know a lot of people who have also For example, in the past, Mason has had a
gotten dress coded for half an inch [of their requirement that shorts must meet the end of
midriff showing] so I measured afterward,” the fingertips. Broaddrick said that she feels
Yoshimura said. “I had 2.7 inches of my stom- that requirements like this are unreasonable
ach out so I guess I wasn’t surprised that I got because everyone has different arm lengths.
dress coded.” She said that she likes the current dress code
because there is no variable for body type.
Yoshimura said that she feels that the new
dress code is mostly justified, however, a “There are just so many pieces that go
complete ban on any portion of the midriff into how you decide what’s appropriate and
showing is irrational, as crop tops are popular what’s not appropriate, and so to really take
right now and a majority of what is avail- a step back and say, bare-bones, this is what’s
able in stores, making them generally what needed, takes all of that out of the equation,”
students wear. Broaddrick said.

“I don’t think stomachs are a distraction to Broaddrick also said that she feels that
education,” Yoshimura said. “If [administra- this dress code aids in creating standards to
tion would] put a maximum of how many ensure a safer learning environment for all.
inches can be out, I think that would be more
reasonable.” “I think that having those standards helps
keep all of us within the guardrails,’’ Broad-
The 2022-23 MHS dress code policy also drick said. “We can take care of each other a
specifies that students cannot wear any cloth- little bit better this way.”
ing depicting “violent language or images,
any illegal item or activity or sexually sug- Despite the varying impacts the 2022-23
gestive content.” Yoshimura said that she has dress code policy has had on students and
noticed shirts with violent graphics not get- staff, Dodd said that this is a policy decided
ting dress coded as often as women’s clothing through collaboration between students and
with midriff exposure. teachers and this demonstrates the inten-
tional work being put into creating a better
“I think this might be limiting what girls environment at MHS. Students and staff
can wear to school,” Yoshimura said. “It’s are able to share their feedback and see real
more targeted toward girls because I don’t changes based on this. Dodd said that this is
see guys get dress coded.” all done with the best interest of students and
staff in mind, and that feedback will continue
Yoshimura and many students at MHS to be valued in the future.
have to adjust their wardrobes as a result of
the difference in dress code policies from the “We’re open to getting feedback and we’re
2021-22 school year. She said that she felt more also open to making changes based on the
free to wear what she wanted last year, and feedback if that creates the best learning
most of her tops are cropped, but now when environment for our students and staff and if
shopping, she’s more conscious of whether it’s in the best interest of our students,” Dodd
her clothes are within the dress code. said.

“Every morning, I’m more aware of what
I wear to school now and I’m adjusting and I

4 September 16, 2022

Plans for coffee
shop opening
on hold... again

Laurel Wang |The Chronicle

Mason High School (MHS) students and all of us Illustration by Nishka Mishra and Alisha Verma
looking for a coffee break won’t find supporting each
one this year, as plans for a student- other and making sure beverages through an online ordering preparing to use the time to expand
run coffee shop continue to brew. that we’re all working and par- service. collaborative efforts with the Mason
ticipating,” Louis said. community.
The Cosmic Cafe was initially Senior Emma Winegardner was an
set to launch in the 2022-23 school Students are involved in every facet early member of the Cosmic Cafe “We’re looking for different ways
year. However, the opening has now of the business, from calculating team, joining the operations branch to incorporate [the Mason commu-
been postponed indefinitely. Supply menu prices and last year. She said that she hoped nity] into what we’re doing to make
chain issues and community demand to see the coffee shop in operation us better,” Winegardner said, “[Com-
for the expansion of other facilities navigating Ohio’s School Nutrition during her time at Mason. Still, puter Science National Honor Society
caused Mason City Schools (MCS) to guidelines to working with an archi- Winegardner said the class is taking (CSNHS)] is helping us with our
prioritize construction in other district tect on the coffee shop’s blueprints advantage of the delay as an op- website, Comet Zone is going to be
buildings. The coffee shop team has and contacting ingredient suppliers. portunity to evolve the coffee shop’s making our cups, uniforms, and mer-
received a rough timeline to open for business plan. chandise, and Digital Image Design
business in the 2023-24 school year, Brandon Rompies, MHS Assistant (DID) made our logo.”
but construction plans have yet to be Principal, said the redesign of the “It was kind of sad to hear that we
finalized. Learning Commons is part won’t have our coffee shop in the Senior Keshav Kamat works in the
Learning Commons,” Winegardner operations branch of the coffee shop.
MHS Alum Myles Tavernier (Class of several other updates to MCS said, “But I think it’s also a good thing Despite the delay, Kamat said the
of 2022) worked to implement the cof- buildings intended to update and that it was a little postponed because Cosmic Cafe team is focused on the
fee shop into the redesigned Learning expand learning spaces. it gives us more time to make it future of the coffee shop.
Commons in 2019, but, the COVID-19 perfect.”
pandemic forced plans to be shelved. “We’d like to see a space where “We have a whole year to prepare
In 2022, Tavernier and a team of peers students can gather to work together, All students in the class will par- for it so that the next seniors, next
revived the project, working with grab a cup of coffee, [and] create what ticipate in a barista training course juniors, whoever it might be, even in-
MHS administration to create a busi- is a modern-day collaborative work- with a local partner and are currently coming freshmen, they’ll understand
ness plan for the cafe. space,” Rompies said. “We want it to touring a variety of local coffee shops what they need to do, and Cosmic
be the hub for the whole high school.” to learn more about the details of run- Cafe can be close to near perfect,”
Although the coffee shop was not ning a business. Kamat said.
completed during his time at Mason, The coffee shop will be located in a
Tavernier entrusted the vision to a newly-designed Learning Commons Winegardner said the team is
new group of leaders. and include a seating area for stu-
dents to enjoy their drinks in a relax-
“It made me a little disappointed ing environment. Student baristas will
because it’s the fourth team that’s serve customers locally-sourced
been on this coffee shop,” Tavernier
said, “[But] there is a coffee shop class coffee, teas, smoothies and other
now that’s able to keep it up and keep
it running.”

Cosmic Cafe Internship students
have taken the lead in building a
business from the ground up. Junior
Hannah Louis works in the operations
branch and said the coffee shop is a
highly collaborative effort.

“It’s all of us working together

September 16, 2022 5

Mason scouts trek through wilderness after year of training

Divy Bose | The Chronicle the weather on top of Mount

Baldy transitions from

Living off of freeze-dried stifling humidity to freezing

meat and energy bars, a temperatures from day to

boy scout troop managed night, so they wore a t-shirt

to climb up a 12,441-foot and shorts during the day,

mountain. but then switched to wearing

In the summer of 2022, multiple layers of clothing

Mason Boy Scouts Troop and puffer coats at night.

43 lived in the wilderness “We would sweat during

in Philmont, New Mexico the day and shiver at night

on top of Mount Baldy. The since the weather change

troop flew to Denver and was so dramatic on top of the

then drove to New Mexico, mountain,” Heekins said.

giving up cell service, Before the scouts could

home-cooked meals and go to sleep at night, they

purified water for the next Photo contributed by Pranav Purma would tie all of their bags

several days. Scouts Luke Jacob, Wyatt Heekins, Advay Chandra, Sebe Leni, Nicholas Pedersen, Joe Stegman, Pranav onto a tree using a thick rope to
The scouts trained for this Purma
and adult volunteers rock climb during their hike on Mount Baldy prevent bears from getting into
trip for a year, hiking as much
their things. Purma said that
as one hundred miles by go- [I decided] that seeing those beautiful nicate with our parents once or twice,” seeing a bear during the trip
views from the top of the mountain Pederson said. “We only had cell service was alarming, due to safety concerns.
ing on “shakedown hikes,” which are would be worth it.” in certain areas throughout the trip and “We saw a bear about a hallway’s
were forced to cut ties with technology.” length away from us,”’ Purma said.
smaller but challenging courses. The At the start of the trip, the troop “Luckily, all of our bags were out of
woke up at three in the morning and The scouts had to carry a propane sight and protocols were followed, but
scouts took on at least one course and hiked up the mountain for three to four gas stove during the trip, making it it still initially shocked us.”
hours, making it just in time to see the even harder to hike along the trails. Having bears around meant that
trekked miles through rain, heat or sunrise. However, seeing the scenery Purma said that bringing forty pounds scouts were required to not have any
meant being on a higher elevation, of cooking equipment and dishes was
snow for a year to build up the endur- which can lead to many complications extremely difficult but essential.

ance that was needed for Philmont.

Due to seasonal changes, training

could be unpredictable. Freshman Wy-

att Heekins said that his hardest hike fragrances foreign to the wilderness

was trekking through knee-high snow and risks. Purma said that the higher “Having that much weight on me -- meaning no deodorant. Heekins said

during the winter. they trekked up the hill, the harder it while walking five miles was tough,” that they had to choose between staying

“We all thought the snow was too became to breathe. Purma said. “I did not think it was that alive or getting eaten alive from main-

much to walk through and almost gave “I felt a tickle in my throat and bad until I felt free after I took all the

up,” Heekins said. “Everyone was saying completely lost my voice nine days into equipment off of me and took a much taining hygiene.

to turn back around, but we ended up the trip,” Purma said. “I could not talk needed break.” “We couldn’t use deodorant at all

walking another forty minutes through the rest of the trip because of the severe Prepackaged foods ended up be- since we didn’t have a way to wash it off

it and stood our ground.” dehydration I went through, as well as ing their only food source. The food before we go to bed,” Heekins said. “We

Even with the extensive training, elevation sickness.” was freeze-dried and bland, such as all had to just flat out smell and suck

spending numerous days in the wilder- Since the scouts had no cell phone the chicken dishes or mac and cheese. it up.”

ness did not initially seem appealing to signal or charging outlets in sight, they Even with the stove to cook the meals Hearing other scouts’ amazing expe-
senior Pranav Purma. Building up the
reverted back to the old ways of using a in, Pederson said the food was hard to riences during this trip was what moti-
strength it took to hike between four
map and compass for directions. Fresh- swallow. vated Purma to take on the challenge
and fifteen miles a day, up and down-
man Nicholas Pederson said not being “The food we carried resembles a lot himself. He said that experiencing a
hill, was something Purma saw as a
able to use technology for most of the of space food,” Pederson said. “It’s not different lifestyle was intimidating, but
tough but rewarding experience.
“Honestly, I was not even planning trip was difficult to adapt to. good unless you are starving, but it was it made him want to continue similar
“We could only commu- our only option besides energy bars or opportunities.
on going,” Purma said. “But once snacks.”
I saw spots open up “All of the miles walked and hard
for the trip, The scouts had to carry all of their core training we went through was
food, supplies and clothing in one worth it,” Purma said. “This experience

bag, making it difficult to has made me want to pursue more
decide what clothes adventures in the wilderness and take it
were essential. to the next level.”
Heekins said

The troop hikes up Mount
Baldy in New Mexico

Photo contributed by Pranav Purma

6 September 16, 2022

Science Olympians earn second national title

Drew Hoffmaster | The Chronicle national competition. They spent Photo contributed by Katie Wilson
countless late nights practicing at Michelle Li (left) and Elizabeth Yu (right) watch as their gravity vehicle glides down
The Mason High School (MHS) the school and devoted many hours at Solon Invitational.
Science Olympiad team scored their meeting up at each other’s houses to
second consecutive national title in take practice tests and study. Wilson team must now also adjust to losing in their lives since middle school,
May 2022. said huge chunks of their free time their class of 2022 seniors who played science olympiad is their community
at home were committed to honing a large role in the team’s win. within MHS. Akbar said he ultimately
Science olympiad is a nationwide and perfecting the scientific fields in felt like science olympiad helped him
competition where students partake which they specialized. “It was really close last year and get out of his comfort zone and being
in a multitude of science, technol- now [this year] it’s kind of cutthroat,” with the team allowed him to truly be
ogy, engineering, and mathematics “I spent over 25 hours a week on sci- Akbar said. “We lost a really strong himself.
(STEM) events. These events can ence olympiad,” Wilson said. “So it’s a senior class that graduated last year,
range from taking a test to building a lot of time [spent] and a full-time job so we’re going to try filling up the “I’m usually very reserved and
mousetrap car. for all of us.” holes.” quiet,” Akbar said. “But in science
olympiad, I can talk about stuff that
Senior Katie Wilson, who was one of While the team’s excruciating effort Science olympiad has also inspired interests me.”
Mason High School’s Science Olym- helped them to achieve a national many of the members to want to pur-
piad team captains during the 2022 title in 2021, they started to feel the sue a STEM field after high school. MHS Science Olympiad team mem-
national competition, competed in effects of their non-stop studying Akbar said the exposure science bers love competing in science olym-
the Bridge, Anatomy and Physiology, during the 2022 year. One of the olympiad provided him to the STEM piad altogether. Akbar said the bonds
Green Generation, and Dynamic Plan- team’s event leaders, Senior Michelle world helped him decide on a poten- they form while under the stress of
et events. Wilson did not only play a Chen, said she felt the extent of this tial career. studying, learning, and practicing
large role in the team’s 2022 nationals burnout as a result of pushing herself brings them closer with each other
win but their 2021 win as well. to the limit in 2021. Chen also said the “Science olympiad helped me creating a close-knit group.
burnout combined with the pressure explore different areas of science,”
“We were not expecting to do as to win nationals again and the loss of Akbar said. “After competing and “We always hang out after
well as we did,” Wilson said. “But at the seniors from the past year made researching for Science Olympiad, [competitions] and go to dinner,”
the last minute, we were able to pull 2022 an extremely difficult competi- Akbar commented. “I feel like this is
it together and bring out a second- tion season. I definitely want to go into a STEM really [cliche], but [science olympiad]
year victory.” is like one big family.”
“It was kind of our job to fill those field.”
When the pandemic hit in 2020 shoes and it was pretty difficult,” To the team members, most of
and canceled that year’s science Chen said. “Especially coming off the
olympiad nationals, the team felt virtual season where everything was whom have had science olympiad
their preparation had gone to waste. so different.”
As a result, they poured their extra
time and energy into preparing for As the final week before nationals
the 2021 competition. Wilson said the arrived, the upcoming competition
team thought winning nationals was date spurred the team back into ac-
beyond their reach since the best the tion. Chen said that the whole team
team had ever achieved was second came together to help each other
place three years prior. prepare as much as possible and this
teamwork was why the MHS Science
“I think [2021] was our strongest Olympiad team managed to win an-
year ever,” says Wilson. “We knew that other national title.
we could do somewhat well, but none
of us expected a full win.” “It was pretty unexpected,” Chen
said. “We really could have worked
Wilson started science olympiad harder this year, but a lot was going
when she was in eighth grade. At first, on, and we knew it would be difficult
Wilson only joined the middle school to compare with all of these really
team because her friends were on it, good schools who have full-on pro-
but Wilson said she eventually devel- grams just for it.”
oped a passion for it.
Just as after the 2021 nationals win,
“I got really into it, really fast, and the MHS Science Olympiad team is
kind of fell down the [science olympi- feeling the pressure once again as
ad] rabbit hole,” Wilson said. “[I] have they begin preparing for a new com-
been involved in it ever since.” petition season. Senior Amir Akbar
said that in addition to the pressure of
Like Wilson, the rest of the MHS continuing their winning streak, the
Science Olympiad team dedicated
themselves to excelling at the

September 16, 2022 7

H.S. admin implements measures to ease student safety concerns

Aimee Liu | The Chronicle

Students’ fears about school safety Photo by Aimee Liu
are being addressed as administrators MHS Principal Bobby Dodd (left) talks with Mason City Police Officer Scott Lyons (right) prior to the start of the school day.
try to balance security and a welcoming
atmosphere. see or hear something on social media,” this year, the school’s goal is that “at takes away from an effective learning
Rompies said. “The warning signs any given time, there [should be] some- environment.
With the onset of the school year at before national tragedies are there, and one wwalking the halls.”
Mason High School (MHS), staff have we need to empower students to help us “We are always looking to do better
tightened many safety measures. In connect those dots.” While Zimmaro’s main responsibility without making the school feel like
particular, they have focused on keep- lies in keeping the school safe, she also a prison,” Distel said. “That’s the line
ing doors secure, monitoring cameras MHS also has an established campus understands the importance of students we’re always trying to walk; we want
more closely and having staff in the staff, consisting of two school resource feeling comfortable with adults in the schools to be both safe and welcoming
hallways. These are responses to recent officers and four campus supervisors, building. to our students and people from the
occurrences of violence across the who assist with overseeing the building outside community who want to come
country, especially the school shooting on a daily basis. “I want to make sure that I seem in.”
in Uvalde, Texas in May of 2022. approachable, and that if you see me in
The resource officers are expected the hall, you can come to me with any- Students like Womack have felt the
Senior Bethel Jegol said that many to walk the halls, supervise spaces with thing,” Zimmaro said. “I want students impact of these new protocols in many
MHS students are experiencing in- high numbers of students and moni- to know that I’m someone they can rely ways. While the changes have limited
creased apprehension around school tor the security cameras. They serve as on.” some options, they have also improved
safety. first responders in case there was ever a safety — and awareness of its impor-
situation that required law enforcement. In addition to tighter supervision of tance — within the high school.
“Being at school can be a scary thing,” Womack said that even though she does the hallways, students are required to
wJegol said. “In a way, we’re all kind of not interact with them often, having the eat lunch in areas under staff supervi- “I think it’s good that the school is
preparing for [potential threats]; we’re officers in the building provides her a sion. There has been a recent increase trying to be more cautious by putting in
always on edge.” sense of reassurance. in students using DoorDash, an online more safety measures to make sure that
food delivery system, so the administra- it’s a safe place for students, especially
MHS Assistant Principal Dan Distel “It’s nice to know that there are police tion has tried to keep this option open with everything going on right now,”
said that one of the most significant officers in case something does hap- but also ensure its safety. Rompies said Womack said.
safety issues is the multitude of doors pen,” Womack said. “They’re just a nice that orders can now only be made dur-
and entry points in the school. The comfort.” ing lunch hours and must be dropped Although safety implementations
concern lies more with unauthorized off to the Natatorium entrance. are constantly evolving, Jegol said that
individuals entering the building than Tracy Zimmaro, one of the four there is a sense of reassurance in know-
with students leaving. supervisors, monitors the halls, checks While the regulation of DoorDash is ing that the school is proactively mak-
doors to make sure they are locked just one example, the task of maintain- ing plans to extend safety further.
“[As] we look at events that have and goes into bathrooms to make sure ing a balance between comfort and
transpired in schools around the coun- students are staying safe. Zimmaro said security throughout the entire school “I still think students are scared, but
try, we are trying to be very conscious that while the campus staff has always is more complicated. Distel said that in- putting in all these measures [has] been
about paying attention to what entranc- focused on monitoring the hallways, creasing security measures sometimes a plus,” Jegol said. “I think it’s a step in
es kids go in and out of most frequently the right direction.”
because that’s where people can enter
more easily,” Distel said.

While this change may provide slight
inconveniences to students, most are
understanding of its intentions. Senior
Morgan Womack said that knowing the
doors are being closely monitored has
made her feel safer in the building.

“I can see why the door situation is a
hazard and why we’re being more care-
ful with it,” Womack said. “Safety is a
big fear most kids have nowadays and it
shouldn’t be that way.”

The MHS Safe Schools Tip Line is
an anonymous reporting system where
students, staff, parents and community
members can submit safety concerns.
Assistant Principal Brandon Rompies,
who is also on the District Safety Team,
said that the tip line is a place for stu-
dents to connect with trusted adults in
any capacity they may need.

“It’s a way for students to reach out if
something doesn’t feel right, or if they

8 September 16, 2022

Hutzelman prepares for life on the runway

Reva Rampalli | The Chronicle soon as she began; instead, she started in their productions. However, this hosted in New York City. Future models
Mason High School (MHS) senior with dancing. Hutzelman was a part did not stop her from pursuing the who attend this training camp got the
of the Cincinnati Ballet for six years spotlight. chance to be trained by Coco Rocha,
Avary Hutzelman is making her way until she was cut for being too tall. widely known as the Queen of Pose.
into the intense world of modeling. Hutzelman said that she felt there was “I love the fashion industry and my Each model gets a one-on-one session to
no point in putting in so much effort in height,” Hutzelman said. “I obviously speak with Rocha and discuss what cam-
Hutzelman has been in the show ballet if she was not going to be able to have an advantage being so tall so paign they should shoot for. Hutzelman
business game for a little over nine dance that’s why I jumped into modeling. got the opportunity to be featured in a
years. Unlike some usual teenage hob- 1990s Versace campaign. She said Rocha
bies, she chose to take a unique Hutzelman’s drive for becoming a is her role model and has taught her so
path: modeling. model is derived from her genu- much about modeling.
ine love for fashion and its
Hutzelmans’ creativity. She likes to “Learning from the best, learning
modeling career did share stories and ex- from the actual Queen of Pose, it was
not just take off as press herself through just so surreal,” Hutzelman said.
the art of pose.
Photo contributed by Avary Hutzelman Hutzelman said that Being a novice in a field as com-
becoming a model petitive and demanding as modeling
has shaped her into requires her to learn the ins and outs.
the person she is Hutzelman said Rocha not only taught
today, as it has her the fundamentals of modeling but
allowed her to ex- also how to make the right choices and
plore a new variety stay safe.
of tasks.
“It’s made me step “She taught me so much about not
out of my comfort just modeling, not just the basics, but
zone and do things that I the business side of it and how to pro-
once would have been terri- tect yourself when it comes to contracts
fied to do,” Hutzelman said. and agencies and things like that,”
The modeling game Hutzelman said.
requires a lot of confidence,
especially when it comes to Since then, Hutzelman has signed
others’ opinions. Hutzelman with Select Model, a modeling agency
said that no matter what others based in Chicago. Despite having an
in the industry may say about agent, Hutzelman’s job opportunities
are still limited. As a minor, there are
her, it is important to remain many contracts and laws put in place
thick-skinned. for safety. Hutzelman said that once she
“Fake it till you make it,” Hutzel- turns eighteen, she will have access to
man said. “It’s all about your mindset; more opportunities.
there are some nasty people in the in-
dustry with some hurtful things to say.” In August of 2022, Huztelman trav-
The modeling field requires Hutzel- eled to Indianapolis to model for her
man to travel around the country to cit- first professional modeling gig. She
ies like New York and Los Angeles. For modeled for the popular American
Hutzelman, more time means every- athletic apparel and shoe chain, Fin-
thing, especially when trying to balance ish Line. She had to go through an
school and extracurricular activities. intense casting process for this assign-
“I just find pockets of time where I ment, where she was photographed in
can really hone in and focus on school multiple looks. Hutzelman said that
and not let it distract me from model- she enjoyed her experience because the
ing and also not let modeling distract environment was so encouraging and
me from my schoolwork,” Hutzelman uplifting.
said.
One of the first long-distance trips Hutzelman, who has chosen a unique
career path, is dedicated to giving her
Hutzelman went on best while enjoying what she is doing.
for modeling was She is fueled by her love for design and
to the East Coast. fashion to continue modeling.
Hutzelman
attended the “I think it’s the same thing when
Coco Rocha you’re passionate and genuinely inter-
Model Camp ested and you care about something
so much you’re gonna want to put the
work in and be as committed as pos-
sible,” Hutzelman said.

September 16, 2022 9

Physics students compete overseas in Kutaisi, Georgia

Taylor Murray | The Chronicle

Two Mason students brought home Photo by usaaao.org
the gold for Team USA from the In- Senior Samvit Das (center back) and Senior David Zhang (center left) prepare for competition in Georgia with Team USA.
ternational Olympiad of Astronomy
and Astrophysics (IOAA). Olympiad back in eighth grade. interested in astronomy and astro- bonds through the science programs
physics,” Das said. that they have dedicated their last six
On August 14, seniors Samvit Das [Science Olympiad] was the first time years to. From middle school Science
and David Zhang traveled to Kutaisi I actually took competitive tests for After participating in IOAA, Zhang Olympiad to the prestigious compe-
in the country of Georgia to repre- physics and learned physics for more is heavily considering a career in tition that is IAOO, Das and Zhang
sent Team USA at IOAA. The olym- than just my enjoyment.” physics due to his success in the field have been devoted to learning more
piad took place over eight days and as a student. Das said that he also is about their passion for nearly a third
consisted of two four-hour exams: Zhang, on the other hand, has been probably going to pursue a job in of their lives. This wouldn’t have
one exam about theoretical astro- going to planetariums and watching physics research. Additionally, he is been possible if not for the social
physics and one math-based exam the stars since he was little. He has looking forward to mentoring other network that they have built.
that tested the students on their abil- always been captivated by astronomy, students in similar fields.
ity to analyze data about the stars and and that has carried on throughout “Once you find something that
related physics. his life. Between astronomy events, “Going to college is obviously you’re passionate about, finding a
summer camps, and training calls the most important thing on my good community and people to con-
There was also a two-part observa- from the team’s coaches, Zhang spent mind right now,” Das said. “Once I nect to is definitely an essential part
tional competition about the night nearly his whole summer diving into get there I’d definitely be open to of getting really good at something,”
sky. One part took place at night astronomy and preparing for IOAA. mentoring people, whether that be at Zhang said. “Just making connections
when the competitors set up a tele- Zhang said that he and his friends Mason or anywhere else, [in] astron- with people and seeing how other
scope and answered questions about found different practice exams to test omy and astrophysics or just Physics people are tackling different chal-
the stars. The other part was a paper their knowledge of different topics Olympiad in general.” lenges is important.”
and pencil test over different celestial that would be featured at IOAA.
bodies. The two have made many strong
“I think it’s a lot of fun,”
Aside from studying and compet- Zhang said. “I really enjoy
ing, the participants were also given studying and learning more
the opportunity to meet and interact about different things, and
with students from all over the world there’s also a social aspect be-
on trips throughout the countryside cause I do a lot of [studying with
and Georgian caves. While Das and friends].”
Zhang’s team was comprised of eight
kids from all over the USA, there Das said that despite his enor-
were 45 countries represented in the mous achievements in academ-
overall competition. ics, the most valuable thing that
he got out of the experience was
“I made friends with a lot of people making international connec-
from other countries, like Canada tions and bonding with people
and the United Kingdom,” Zhang of different backgrounds over a
said. “Our guide was from Georgia, common interest.
and I think a lot of us became pretty
good friends with him.” “That was probably the most
memorable thing, not even
Team USA returned to the coun- winning medals there, but just
try with a total of 10 medals: four getting to hang out with people
bronze, three silver and three gold. from all over the country, even
Das and Zhang were each responsible the whole world, who are also
for a gold medal, which would not
have been possible had it not been
for hours of diligent studying. The
two have spent years independently
researching astrophysics and as-
tronomy.

“A lot of my motivation comes
from seeing my friends do well in
Science Olympiad or other competi-
tions, like Astronomy Olympiad,” Das
said. “They really pushed me to do
more.”

Das was intrigued by physics from
the start. He found his calling in
physics through a volume of Angry
Birds: Furious Forces when he was
8, and his interest only built from
there. In a short autobiography for
the team, Das wrote that he has been
fascinated by physics from a young
age.

“Physics has always been with me,”
Das said. “But I think I got into com-
petitive physics when I joined Science

10 September 16, 2022

Internship puts Bio Med students on frontline of Nigerian health crisis

Infographic by Alisha Verma Alisha Soni | Staff Writer to ask different questions regarding out what he found interesting in the
Through an internship at George- their symptoms and recommend a medical field.
course of treatments to help them.
town University, Mason High School With the added use of technology, ju- “There was specific equipment
(MHS) students used their passion nior Hanniel Rudrapati said he found that people use in the real world and
for public health to impact Nigerian this experience both interesting and we got to experience what it looked
communities. realistic. like,” Mehta said. “It helped me gain
experience and, moving forward, it
Sophomore Mithul Vivek was intro- “Throughout the week we basi- can [help] me determine what I want
duced to the Advanced Public Health cally became experts in four diseases: to do.”
and Medicine internship hosted at acute respiratory infection, anemia,
Georgetown University through malaria, and typhoid,” Rudrapati said. After the end of the week-long
Health Occupations Students of “They gave us Oculus VR headsets program, Rudrapati said that he was
America (HOSA), a worldwide compe- and we got to interact with [the interested in continuing what he
tition where students participate in patients] and ask them questions as had studied during the internship.
different medical events. Vivek said if we were real doctors. The VR made Rudrapati, along with Mehta, Majji,
with his ongoing passion for medi- us feel like we were actually there, and Vivek, was accepted for the Inter-
cine, and his determination to make a [which] was pretty cool.” national Internship Program, which
difference in the world, he decided to is an add-on to the Advanced Public
apply for the internship. Another project called for the Health and Medicine internship at
group of interns to present an innova- Georgetown University.
“I’ve unfortunately had a couple of tion that could improve the public
losses in the family that could have health of Nigerians. Sophomore Prab- “It’s basically what we did during
been prevented with proper medical hat Majji and his group proposed us- the summer [times 10],” Rudrapati
care,” Vivek said. “I want to make a ing stations throughout the country said. “You work for nine months
difference in someone else’s life so to provide access to clean drinking instead of a week and your project
that they don’t have to go through water through the use of boiled water coordinators, somebody actually
the same struggles my family did.” and aluminum sulfate, a nontoxic liq- in Nigeria, will take your plan and
uid that can be used to purify water. implement it.”
During this one-week internship, Majji said both of these items can be
the high school interns focused on commonly found in Nigeria, and that Although public health is a very
ways to improve public health aspects his idea will actually be implemented generalized topic, Rudrapati found
in Nigeria, Africa. The program by staff members working in Nigeria. the internship highly educational
targeted improving conditions in this and fun. Rudrapati initially joined to
underserved country through various “Clean water is [extremely] im- learn the basics of medicine and its
lectures and projects that gave the portant, even though in the United impact on public health worldwide;
interns real-world experience dealing States we take it for granted,” Majji however, he found a way to continue
with patients and different diseases. said. “[The stations] are going to be his research journey through the
incorporated in Nigeria, so that’s International Internship Program.
For one of their projects during the pretty cool.”
week, the interns were tasked with “Before I didn’t really think about
diagnosing a real patient from Nige- Under instruction by professionals, how many aspects there were to
ria and recommending treatments to the interns were also taught a variety [medicine] or much need there is
them. To prepare, the interns worked of skills such as performing an ultra- for high-quality medicine in Nige-
with Nigerian doctors to learn about sound and conducting cardiopulmo- ria,” Rudrapati said. “I’m going to do
the different diseases afflicting the nary resuscitation (CPR). Sophomore another internship next year and I’m
region. Then, to test their knowledge, Neev Mehta said that the hands-on going to try to become a staff mem-
the interns met the patients online activities were helpful in figuring ber because [this program] created a
spark for me.”

September 16, 2022 11

12 Bha

Sophomore Sahana Sivan Megan Lee | The C
poses in her Arangetram attire.
Fighting through str
Photo contributed by Sahana Sivan induced fevers and Advanc
Placement (AP) tests, Bharatan
dancers showcase years of practice
Arangetrams.
Students of classical Indian dance,
Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi or Kathak,
an intricate routine to demonstrate th
sive knowledge of the art form to the
and family. This performance, someti
long, is called an Arangetram.
A Bharatanatyam dancer is put thr
highly intensive training to learn rhy
eventually lead to a sequence of steps
performed at their Arangetram. Stude
five to ten years with a guru or teach
to perfect this art.
Senior Tanisha Senthil started her
to her Arangetram about eight years
her first few years of studying Bharat
she was taught a series of steps that w
as a foundation for more varied and a
steps. Senthil said her childhood was
the stories that she would learn to tel
dance.
“My entire life kind of revolved ar
fact that my Arangetram was coming
hil said. “It was really nerve-wracking
this was my first time dancing in fron
five hundred people.”
In addition to the nerves that acco
performing intricate steps in front of
crowd, Senthil also had to balance stu
rigorous courses with her love of dan

13

Practice. Prepare. Perform.
aratnatyam dancers spend years of preparation

on culminating performance

Chronicle hil’s Arangetram coincided with the week of her everything in Bharatanatyam and I’ve officially school, she is also preparing for her Arangetram
AP exams, but instead of giving up, she used graduated, I can actually start teaching because in less than two weeks.
ress- the stress to motivate herself. Senthil said that I’m qualified to be a Bharatanatyam guru.”
ced although the stress was present, she didn’t let it “It’s stressful at times because you’re prepar-
natyam stop her from pushing through the process. While Senthil appreciates the opportunity to ing 10 dances and you have to memorize all of
e at their teach following her Arangetram, other students them,” Sivan said. “You have to give it your all,
“It was a stressful time because I had just had find joy in the artistic aspect. For junior Nithi- and it’s a lot especially when you’re trying to
, such as a few AP exams too,” Senthil said. “And then the laa Ramachandhran, who just recently had her juggle other activities, sports, and homework.
perform day of [my Arangetram], I got a stress-induced Arangetram on August 27th, 2022, dance had
heir exten- fever, which wasn’t great, but I [managed] to become a creative outlet for her. In the weeks Sivan explains that there are moments when
eir friends dance through it.” leading up to her Arangetram, Ramachandhran the balance between school, dance and her
imes hours had practiced for five hours on Sundays. These social life can be hard to find. Practicing takes
For her friends and family, the experience rehearsals would last longer depending on what up a lot of her time and being able to keep ev-
rough was bittersweet because they knew that her Ar- was being worked on and were accompanied by erything straight is a challenge. However, Sivan
ythms that angetram signaled the end of her Bharatanaty- a live band that would be playing at her perfor- said she has not gone through this experience
s that are am journey. Senthil’s mother, especially, pushed mance. alone. Her friends, who have already experi-
ents spend Senthil to pursue dance when she was young. enced their Arangetram, are providing a huge
her learning Senthil said after spending fifteen to twenty “You have to re-synchronize with those comfort to her, especially in the weeks leading
hours a week practicing dance, the payoff was musicians, and like, every time the music goes up to hers.
r journey worth it. faster or slower, you have to adapt to it,” Ram-
ago. For achandhran said. “So it’s difficult but also what “I’m the last one and so it’s nice to know that
tanatyam, “I sacrificed a lot to be able to go dance, makes it cool.” there are also other people doing it,” Sivan said.
would act so [I] finally had the opportunity to showcase “It’s easier to share the experience with [my
advanced what I’ve been doing all this time [through my As in all types of dance, music becomes the friends] who are very supportive.”
filled with Arangetram],” Senthil said. “Getting all those basis for every movement. The ability to tell a
ll through standing ovations and receiving such [praise] story through movement allows for different Along with her friends, Sivan has the support
from my teacher was just such a rewarding dancers to tell their own version. Ramachandran of her family behind her. When her mother was
round the experience.” explains that being able to feel the music is a younger, she did not have the opportunity to
g up,” Sent- big part of her passion for dance. have an Arangetram, so this is a huge deal for
g because Now that she has completed her Arangetram, their family. Sivan said that her family’s support,
nt of about Senthil has the opportunity to continue her pas- “Having a bit of creative liberty in how to not just financially, but also in pushing her to
sion for dance by teaching others. Senthil said express myself using facial expressions is a big continue with her passion gave her the strength
ompany her Arangetram not only exhibited her mastery part of dance,” Ramachandhran said. “[The mu- to push through the stress.
f a large of Bharatanatyam but officially qualified her sic] gives me the ability to tell a story through
udying for to teach others the art she had spent so long dance and connect with the audience.” “I feel like I’m not just doing this for myself,
nce. Sent- mastering. but I’m doing this for a lot of people,” Sivan
In addition to allowing the dancer to express said. “I know my parents have put a lot of effort
“When I graduated from Bharatanatyam, the themselves and their passion, Arangetram is into making this happen, [so] I made it happen.
biggest reward for me was having the opportu- a way to bring people together. As sophomore I can go out and say ‘I’ve done my art.’”
nity to teach,” Senthil said. “[Now that] I learned Sahana Sivan enters her second year of high

14 September 16, 2022

Student Opinion: In Conversation With:

How do you feel about the Senior Nithya Duddella
coffee shop plan being post-
What issues are you passionate about
poned and why? and what actions have you taken?

Disappointed, I was looking I’m super passionate about
forward to buying overpriced environmentalism. It’s always been a
coffee and just hanging out with goal of mine to do any small task
while being conscious of how
friends. - Junior Ellis Clay my actions affect Earth. I am
a co-founder of the initiative
I feel frustrated, because lots of my friends and I were excited to EcoDharma, and we work to
have it during our junior year of high school. On top of that, if preserve the Earth through
it even happens next year we will be almost about to graduate an Indic perspective. On the
anyways, so there won’t be much fun in going there. I think note of environmentalism,
that it would be really cool if they came out with it next year I’ve donated 500+ boxes
for the underclassmen, but most upperclassmen that I know and counting of eco-friendly
of were pretty disappointed that the plan didn’t go through. feminine hygiene products to
underdeveloped areas. I did this
- Junior Ashlyn Bhatt
I thought it was a cool idea and excited to have through organizing singing performances
where people could pay to attend my
coffee before school but I understand that it concert for Carnatic-Indian Classical music,
was a lot of work and time and effort to be put and all of the proceeds would be spent on
in so I don’t mind too much. Whoever came up buying more feminine hygiene products. I’ve
with the idea, kudos to you. - Junior Audray Mix been hosting in person, and now online music
camps at orphanages in India every summer to
Scan this QR code That’s fine I don’t really teach Indian Classical music since I was 12. I am
to have a chance to drink coffee that much. also a licensed meditation coach because mental
be featured in next health is super important to me.
edition’s Student - Freshman Evelyn Green
How does your identity and the issues you
Spotlights! support play a role in your outlook on the
world?
Student Opinion:
My parents came from a very religious and culturally rich
Which cliché character would you be? village in south India that isn’t well known. I’m proud to be
from that area. However, the village isn’t very economically
Wise Old Mentor Trusty Sidekick rich. There are people struggling to get medical attention,
9.1 % 45.5% poor people on the streets and a lot of orphanages. It gives
me more to work to so someday, everyone in that village can
Chosen One get what they rightfully deserve. My grandparents have instilled
15.2 % ‘seva’, which means ‘service’ in Sanskrit. They serve at homeless
shelters and host lunches and dinners at their house for
Evil Genius Dumb Jock anyone who is struggling to get a meal for the day. This is what
21.2 % 9.1% motivated me to serve at homeless shelters and soup kitchens
almost every week.
Results taken from Google Form poll with a sample of 33 responses.
Graphics by Allison Droege. Page design by Izzy Gaspar’raj What would you like to see change in the world we
live? What do you aim to change by advocating for
the topics that you speak out on?

I would like to see more people doing their part to actively
combat littering and pollution. It doesn’t have to be major –
just small steps each day from every person goes a long way.
I’d also like to see less stigma surrounding feminine hygiene
products. I’ve been passionate about this topic because this is
heavily frowned upon in my culture, and it shouldn’t be.

If there’s one thing you want people to take away from reading
this, what would it be?

I hope people can find things they’re passionate about to work towards. I hope
to encourage people to be more conscious about their actions. Any small act of
kindness can easily be turned into something bigger and better that will impact
hundreds of more people.

September 16, 2022 15
by Ava
entertainment MOVIE Yungbluth
ing REVIEW
Some watched for the planes, some for the personalities, and Rooster wasn’t the only intriguing new character, 4.5/5
others for pure nostalgia, but everyone was able to find something each of the new young pilots had a charm-
they enjoyed after watching Top Gun: Maverick. personality. Even the initially annoying and
cocky character Jake “Hangman” Seresin played
The opening credits of Top Gun: Maverick showed a sequence of by Glen Powell became likable. His annoyingly Top Gun:
planes being readied on an aircraft carrier before taking off to the cocky attitude never faltered, but Hangman Maverick
electrifying song, “Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins. This scene was proved himself to be a good person, and sure did DIRECTOR:
extremely similar to the opening scene of the original Top Gun and walk his talk. Natasha “Phoenix”Trace (Monica Bar- Joseph Kosinski
paid homage to the film by imitating it both visibly and audibly. baro) and Robert “Bob” Floyd (Lewis Pullman) formed
Opening the movie with a call-back to the original immediately set a great good-guy bad-guy dynamic. Overall, the new
the tone of exhilaration and nostalgia for the movie. supporting characters were great additions to the story in
their own ways, and it was intriguing to see how they all
Right off the bat, fans are reintroduced to the lovable devil- reacted to working under Maverick’s mentorship.
may-care attitude of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell played by Tom Cruise. While all the new supporting characters had lots of potential
As the star of the new film, Cruise put hard work into performing for great storylines, their screen time was cut short and replaced
highly impressive plane stunts in the movie. The three-time Oscar with unnecessary scenes of Maverick and his supposedly “rekindled”
nominee and director Joseph Kosanski combined efforts with a relationship with his new love interest, Penny Benjamin. Known as
team of ace pilots to create scenes that showcased genuine flight, the admiral’s daughter, this character, played by Jennifer Connelly,
which added to the immaculate adrenaline the film built up for the was hard to develop an emotional attachment to because there
viewers and actors. was not enough background provided. Penny and Maverick seem
to have a history that wasn’t properly introduced, leaving many
Alongside the buildup of excitement through action scenes, the loose ends and questions that went unanswered by the end of the
arc of the relationship between Maverick and supporting character film.
Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw played by Miles Teller was remarkable. Altogether, Top Gun: Maverick exhibited an excellent hybrid
Mainly portrayed through Rooster, there were multiple parallels to of nostalgia and fresh excitement that left nearly all fans wanting
the original Top Gun that were very well placed and enhanced the more, and with the introductions of new characters and storylines,
sweetness of the nostalgia factor of the film. One scene that was it is easy to see how another movie could join this franchise.
especially moving showed Rooster playing the piano in the bar
just as his dad did in the original Top Gun. This excellent shot truly
showed the hurt and longing in Maverick’s eyes when thinking
about his old friend.

ALBUM Megan Thee Stallion’s second studio album, Trauma- help, but I don’t even know what I need.”This is expertly
REVIEW zine, is a perfect showcase of her iconic sound and done while maintaining her iconic sound and not slowing
the pace of the album.
Traumazine versatility as an artist.
Megan Thee Stallion has had one of the most ex- Due to the switch between her acclaimed pop and em-
by Megan Thee Stallion plosive careers of the late 2000s. Ever since her rise powering songs to more emotional and revealing songs,
by Shrija Shandilya to fame in 2019, Megan’s influence has extended the album can feel incohesive at times. More mainstream-
beyond the music industry. She has made sounding songs like “Her”almost fall flat in juxtaposition to
4/5 strides for women in rap with her willingness heavier ones like “Flip Flop.”“Pressurelicious (feat. Future)”
to speak out about disparity in the industry. fell short compared to a song like “Plan B”in which Megan
Earning 6 Grammy’s in the past 3 years, she uses a Jodeci sample to create a 90’s-esque sound. Future’s Page Design by Izzy Gaspar’raj
has pioneered a unique and iconic pop culture feature didn’t match this creativity.
identity along with elevating herself from being
a popular female rapper to one of the great artists I find that this newfound variety shows Megan’s
versatility. In the past, Megan has been criticized for not
of this generation. In this rise to fame, she faced criti- having range and utilizing the same flows, but Traumazine
cism, ridicule, and attempts to underplay her success, definitely debunks that claim. Songs like “Not Nice,”feel
fueled by racism and misogyny. innovative and refreshing, the same with harmonies and
Traumazine starts off hard-hitting with “NDA.”Piano- vocals on tracks like “Consistency”and “Star.”These ele-
heavy and intense, this track is emotional and vulnerable ments are somewhat new to Megan’s music, making them
yet still fast-paced. This is a perfect choice for an opener, in stand out. Not only are her lyrics able to prove her talent
terms of both theme and sound. “NDA”captures Megan’s and importance, but the successful integration of new ele-
familiar style while showcasing her overall vulnerability ments also affirms her status as Best New Artist, which she
that is seen throughout the album. This emotion is best won at the 2021 Grammy’s.
described in “Anxiety”where Megan opens up about the
pressure and underlying trauma she has as a result of Overall, Traumazine showcases variety while also stay-
her quick rise to fame. She addresses the labels placed ing true to Megan’s novelty, both sonically and lyrically.
upon her and the impact the public perception has on This album clearly shows Megan’s growth as an artist and
her. Megan is able to masterfully deliver emotional and this shift and exploration of new stylistic choices makes me
introspective lyrics such as “they keep sayin’I should get excited to hear what is next for Megan Thee Stallion.

The third season of the Netflix original “classic nerd,” he became a real option for marriage.
show “Never Have I Ever” was released this Devi and was treated on par with the rest
August and soared to the top of the charts. of the male leads. His addition as an Indian The new season highlights a SHOW by Nishka Mishra
The show captivates teenage audiences lead created a new narrative that showed new side of Devi that has never REVIEW
with its relatability through the characters ethnic men as attractive and did an incred- been seen before. This season 4/5
and romance that will leave you at the ible job of not treating Des’s characteriza- she focused on making
edge of your seat. tion as “below” what American media amends to her friends and
would consider conventional love. furthering those relation-
Never have I Ever debuted the first-time
actress Mayritai Ramakrishnan as Devi, the Season 3 also featured Kamla, Devi’s ships in her life instead Never Have I Ever
show’s star. Devi is an Indian-American cousin, pushing for her own independence (Season three)
teenager who works through the chal- from... Watching a South Asian character on of chasing after her next
lenges of her father’s death, balancing her screen who broke away from her arranged date. She was also able to
culture and friendships, and a steamy love marriage was powerful, to say the least. work through her grief and
triangle. The plot of the first two seasons Even in the face of rumors and exclusion
showcases Devi with her two best friends from her family, Kamla disobeys the idea other personal mental issues CREATOR: Mindy Kaling
Fabiola and Elenor and their quest for high of an “obedient wife” that was pushed with more honesty.
school popularity. While the new season onto her and takes her future into her own
furthers on these plots, the main distinc- hands. She made romance choices that Season 3’s message was
tion is that season 3 works to break out of were controversial in the eyes of her family
classic Indian stereotypes that are found and valued building a career instead of giv- impressive as it was a refresh-
on the screen and develop a new depth to ing it up for marriage. Shedding light onto
Devi’s character. Kamla’s bold choices was influential in get- ing change of pace compared to
ting rid of some of the stigmas often placed
This season, Des was introduced as a on Indian women, especially surrounding previous seasons. Devi was no longer the
new love interest, and instead of being the
boy-obsessed nerd she was introduced to

us as, but instead a more mature person

with new priorities. And it was unfortunate

it took three seasons for the shift to take

place, but Devi’s progress was a win in the

books overall of Indian representation.

16 sports September 16, 2022

ON THE FAST TRACK

Freshmen Paschka and Teply key to early cross country success

Camden Paeltz | The Chronicle hope to improve a little bit on my
placement. If I can, I think our team
Some speedy freshmen are leading is going to be very good.”
the charge for the girl cross country
team’s fast start. Freshman Tessa Palmer has also
been an early season standout. She
The Comets opened their season has been one of the team’s top ten
with a victory at the annual Ohio runners in each meet, including be-
High School Athletic Association ing the sixth finisher at the preseason
(OHSAA) Preseason Cross Country meet which is one spot away from
Invitational. Many of the top teams scoring.
in Ohio compete in that race, and the
Comets had not won it since 2014. Mason won their second race of
That year they went on to finish as the season, the Moeller Prime Time
state runner-ups. Invitational, where Paschka placed
first overall and Teply placed third.
Efa Paschka led the way finish- Condit, McKay, and Avery Legault
ing fifth overall and first for Mason. each finished in the top 15.
Freshman Bella Teply placed ninth,
and returning runners Carlie Condit, Paschka and Teply were immedi-
Grace McKay and Addison Stephens ately placed with the top training
all placed top 35. Their efforts led the group when summer conditioning
Comets to their first preseason meet began. The group consists primarily
win in eight years. of upperclassmen. Teply said working
with the veteran girls helped her and
Paschka said that winning the Paschka get acclimated with the team
preseason meet proved to the team and culture and in turn, improve as
that they can compete with anyone runners.
in the state, and gave them a lot of
confidence and momentum heading “We have more fun practices dur-
into the season. ing the summer,” Teply said. “It’s not
running motivated sometimes, it’s
“All the top talent in the state just fun. It’s not all about running.
showed up to that,” Paschka said. “I They help us as a team because we’re

Photo by Camden Paeltz
Efa Paschka manuevers past the hay bales at the Mason Invitational meet.

Photo by Camden Paeltz becoming closer together. I think wasn’t expecting to do this well.”
Bella Teply races in the Mason Invitational where she placed 9th overall. it helps that we’re becoming closer Paschka has already broken bar-
outside of running because then we
can help each other, and get to know riers in her freshman season. She
each other better.” shattered the record in the team’s
four-mile time trial in August. Her
The Comets were victorious at debut time in the 5k of 18:53 is just
their third race of the season, the Ma- ten seconds off of being on the
son Invitational, and again Paschka Comets’ top-ten all-time leaderboard.
and Teply were the top two finishers. Most importantly, she has led the
team to an undefeated start.
Teply was the Comets’ second
finisher in their first three meets, but Paschka said she is thrilled that
she did not expect this heading into her season has started with two team
the season. Teply expected to be just wins and back-to-back individual
another member of the front pack to top-five finishes, but is focused on
start the season, but said her mindset continuing to reach new heights and
changed once she started competing build off her early success.
and realized she was a top runner on
the team. “I feel like I just want to keep im-
proving my time and do well in races
“I was just like, ‘I’ll see what hap- and help the team,” Paschka said. “I
pens,” Teply said. “My goal time for want to break 18 minutes in the 5k. I
the beginning of the season was over just can’t stop once I set these bars.
20 minutes. I ran a 19:15 first meet. The better I do the more I just want
Then I needed to redo my goals. I to keep improving.”

September 16, 2022 17

STUDENT ATHLETE

‘s ofthe MONTH

EFA PASCHKA

Andrew Little | Sports Editor Mason’s undefeated start to the season,
and offer immense optimism for the rest
Freshman cross country runner Efa of the year.
Paschka was the Comets’ top competi-
tor the first time she stepped on a high Paschka has been breaking barriers
school course. She led the team to a vic- since she started running with the team
tory at the OHSAA Preseason Cross Coun- in the summer. The team had high hopes
try Invitational with a fifth-place overall for her after her accomplishments with
finish. As of September 9th, her personal the Mason Middle School cross country
record of 18:53 is the best 5k time from a and track programs, but she has surpassed
freshman in the state of Ohio. those expectations already. She broke the
team’s record on their four-mile time trial
Paschka followed up her stellar debut course before the season. Her current per-
performance with a victory at the Moeller sonal record in the 5k is just ten seconds
Prime Time Invitational. She finished with away from joining the program’s top ten
a time of 19:20, over ten seconds faster all-time leaderboard, and that is some-
than the second-place finisher. thing that will likely happen as the season
progresses.
At her home course, the Mason Invita-
tional, she placed fifth overall and was The sky’s the limit for the freshman
the Comets’ top finisher in their win. In who is already one of the best runners in
that race she faced off with and defeated the state. If she can build off of her im-
many of the top runners in the midwest. pressive start she could lead the Comets
Her efforts have been a driving force in to a dominant season.

PASCHKA'S NUMBERS

1st 18:53 5th

First place-finish at the 18:53 minute 5k Placed fifth at OHSAA
Moeller Invitational Personal Record Pre-Season Cross

Country Invitational

Comet Zone’s Student Athlete of the Month selected by The Chronicle Sports Staff. Photo by Camden Paeltz. Graphic by Allison Droege. Page Design by Izzy Gaspar’raj

18 September 16, 2022

Imanaliev competes with Kyrgyzstan U-16 National Team

Ali Sami | The Chronicle tion of the game. Photo contributed by Dezzi Imanaliev
Imanaliev played for Mason’s Mason sophomore Dezzi Imanaliev trains with the under-16 national soccer team in
From playing on the Mason multi- Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
purpose field, all the way to playing Junior Varsity Green team, one step
in Central Asia, Dezzi Imanaliev has below varsity, during his freshman
taken on the challenge of travel- school season. Some of his team-
ing overseas to play for his national mates stayed in contact with him
team. while he was competing to help
inspire him. Imanaliev said that
Imanaliev was born in Kyrgyzstan his experience playing for Mason
and moved to the United States when prepared him well for the challenge
he was seven years old. He was one of playing with the top athletes in his
of 25 players invited to the Kyrgyz age group in Kyrgyzstan.
under-16 national soccer team camp.
The team’s coach saw his highlight “Mason was very involved in this
and workout videos from America process,” Imanaliev said. “I think the
and extended a camp invitation. coaching staff is at a high level, and
some of my teammates at Mason
The national team then flew motivated me to train every day.”
Imanaliev and his dad to the capital
city of Bishkek. The camp lasted One of Imanaliev’s Mason team-
for the entire month of August. mates, Donnie Carmany, said that
Imanaliev said that the trip to Bish- Imanaliev’s talent and approach to
kek brought out many emotions for soccer were evident during the sea-
him, but the Kyrgyztan coaching son so he is not surprised his talent
staff’s confidence in him set his mind was recognized overseas.
at ease.
“He came into freshman season re-
“I was extremely nervous,” ally mature,” Carmany said. “He was
Imanaliev said. “But it was a super like one of the older guys. He came
simple process. [The Kyrgyzstan in mature, he knew what to do and
coach] just texted me through how to act.”
WhatsApp. He asked me to send him
a couple of videos of myself playing The Mason soccer program was
and he got interested in me.” very supportive of Imanaliev partici-
pating with his national team. The
When Imanaliev arrived in Bish- experience caused him to miss the
kek, he was immersed in a full soccer first month of the scholastic season.
schedule. There were days when his
entire schedule was determined by Mason soccer and the Ohio Soccer
the team to fit the rigorous training Coaches Association released con-
regimen. Imanaliev said the prepara- gratulatory statements on social me-
tion and competitive environment dia. Carmany said that Imanaliev’s
were unlike anything he had experi- Mason soccer family is very proud of
enced. him and that he was representing the
team even if he was on a different
“We would wake up at 6:45 AM, continent.
eat breakfast, get our phones back
after they took it away at night, and “That’s a once-in-a-lifetime op-
then we left for training at 10 AM,” portunity,” Carmany said. “I’m really
Imanaliev said. “After training, we happy for him. He worked a lot to
had our nap time and then prepared deserve this.”
for training again from 6 PM to 8
PM.”` Imanaliev returned to Mason, Ohio
on September 5 and rejoined his
The camp was meant as a tryout Comet teammates. Imanaliev said
for the u16 national team that would he is very fortunate to have had the
compete in international play. The once-in-a-lifetime experience, and he
camp culminated in a friendly match wants to use it as an opportunity to
with the South Korean u16 team, the grow as a player and a person.
third-ranked team in Asia. Imanaliev
was subbed in at the 65th minute of “It’s cool,” Imanaliev said. “But at
the match and played for the dura- the end of the day, you just have to
stay humble to yourself and keep the
focus on what you’re doing.”

September 16, 2022 19

Mason baseball players participate in Little League World Series

Sean Speidel | The Chronicle Giovanni Lupinetti celebrates as he makes his way toward home plate. Photo by Sarah Lupinetti
On August 27th, Mason Challenger Lupinetti said. “I found the good in the
Seeing their siblings’ joy while playing to before. world.”
league athletes had the opportunity of on the big stage made it all worth it for “I think it might bring more kids with
a lifetime to live out their own field of them. Schaedig said that his sister was Being a part of the Little League
dreams at the Little League World Series. so excited to be on television and that disabilities into our space,” Lupinetti World Series was a once-in-a-lifetime
she will never forget what an exciting said. “This will give them more of an experience for everyone involved in the
Every year the Little League World experience the LLWS game was. outlet. They’re willing to give it a try and Mason Challenger League. Schaedig
Series (LLWS) in Williamsport, Pennsyl- to have this amazing experience now said that he is grateful that the Little
vania chooses two Challenger League “My sister does not stop talking about that we went to the Little League World League World Series was able to create
teams to play in an exhibition match. how famous she is, and how all of her Series.” a unique experience for the players that
Mason was one of two teams selected in friends at school tell her how well she they can cherish forever.
a raffle to play in 2020 along with a team played,” Schaedig said. Although both Lupinetti and Schaedig
from San Jose, California. After the tour- have siblings on the team, many of the “This is something that they’re gonna
nament’s cancellation in 2020, the Mason Playing in the little league world league organizers and volunteers don’t be able to remember for the rest of their
Challenger league finally got its chance series gave the challenger league a na- have any familial connections. Lupinetti lives,” Schaedig said. “This is something
to play this year. tional spotlight. Lupinetti said she hopes said that she was inspired by the passion that they know that they won’t be able
that this attention provides an opportu- that these people had for helping others. to be held down by their differences,
The Challenger League is a division nity for more kids in the Mason area and and they’ll be able to do anything. They
of Little League baseball that gives kids all over the United States to be able to “Having my brother in the league re- made it to the World Series. They did
with developmental and physical chal- be a part of a challenger team and play a ally made me realize how many people what seemed impossible to some people,
lenges the opportunity to play adaptive, don’t have anyone in the league and they overcame fears of baseball and
organized games of baseball. Two Mason sport that they wouldn’t have been able they just do it out of pure enjoyment played and succeeded.”
High School students, Andrew Schaedig and they want to help other people,”
and Sarah Lupinetti, traveled with the
team as “Buddies” and assisted the chal-
lenger players on the field.

Before the team left for Williamsport,
they had a sendoff parade organized by
the City of Mason in celebration. The
celebration was meant to be similar to
the ones that Mason High School teams
get for advancing to the state tourna-
ment. Lupinetti said that she appreciated
the support from the community and
that it made the challenger league feel
recognized just as any other team would.

“The parade really set a good stage
for the game,” Lupinetti said. “We felt
like everyone around us really cared and
was cheering us on. And it just felt so
awesome.”

Once they arrived at the little league
world series, the team was treated like
they were celebrities. Their names were
announced as they stepped up to the
plate and were cheered on by fans. The
team had Major League Baseball Hall-of-
Famer Rickey Henderson as their third
base coach, who also gave the players
medals after the game. Freshman buddy
Andrew Schaedig said that the attention
the team received was unlike anything
the team had seen before and it was a
surreal experience for the players, bud-
dies and organizers of the league.

“They’ve never played and had fans
who came hours from where they live
just to see them play,” Schaedig said. “We
were just there for them. It was amazing.
They couldn’t be happier. I’ve never seen
a member happier”

Schaedig said that seeing the players
filled with joy as they got to play on the
highest stage was an incredible feeling
and is part of why he wanted to be a
buddy for these players for a long time.

“The enthusiasm just on everyone’s
faces was amazing,” Schaedig said.
Everyone was just so excited so it was a
great experience”

Schaedig and Lupinetti got involved
with the Challenger League because
they each have siblings on the team.

20 September 16, 2022

Rugby provides outlet for Myah Natorp

Khusbu Patel | The Chronicle far fewer concussions occur in rugby rugby, [therefore] I wouldn’t have the Rugby players often connect with
than they do in football. connections I do now.” each other through experiences
Myah Natorp is not afraid to get dirty. provided by their programs. Teams
After watching football from the “[In] rugby people don’t hit as As Natorp began playing more, she have socials for players to get to know
safety of her home, while players recklessly,” Natorp said. “You can’t fell in love with rugby. Because the one another outside of the sport. Natorp
fought to hold the front lines, tackle above the shoulders and there’s sport is so rare in Cincinnati, however, said these events have helped push her
Sophomore Myah Natorp decided it an emphasis on correct tackle form Natorp usually has to travel 30 minutes out of her comfort zone and talk to new
was time to get herself involved in [which reduces] concussions.” to the nearest rugby facility in Walnut people.
the action. Natorp had always wanted Hills just to practice. To play games,
to be involved in the gritty combat of In rugby, two teams of 15 players Natorp often has to go much farther to “The rugby community helps me be
contact sports and found a way to the have 80 minutes to advance the ball Cleveland or Columbus which makes it open to everyone and not judge people
chaotic warfare through the world of past their opponents’ side of the field difficult to find many games per season. immediately,” Natorp said.
rugby. Traveling to tournaments from (called a pitch) and touch it to the Traveling can be extremely time-
Canada to California, Natorp’s life has ground for a score worth 5 points consuming, which makes it hard for Natorp, who has played on
been completely revolutionized by (called a try). Players may only pass Natorp to balance rugby with school. international rugby teams, said rugby
rugby. Natorp said she found her start the ball backwards or sideways with connects people from all different
in rugby when she visited Australia. no blocking allowed, and the only “Rugby has utterly consumed my backgrounds and helps break distance
However, her initial interest in the sport way they can move the ball forward is life,” Natorp said. “Because we have barriers. Natorp said these experiences
came from a uniquely American one: by kicking it. Rugby is unique in that to travel so much I end up doing my have made her a more open and
football. play is continuous even after players homework on the way to games which empathetic person because she gets to
“I had been begging my parents are tackled on the field. After each can be tiresome”. “learn so much about other girls’ lives
to let me play football, but they kept try, worth 5 points, the scoring team is and get a different perspective on how
saying no,” Natorp said. “I’ve always allowed an opportunity to kick the ball Although playing rugby and the world is.”
thought playing a contact sport was through the posts for an additional 2 managing school work can be difficult
cool and football was just the most points (called a conversion). to work with at times, Natorp said Natorp has been pushing to make
popular one, but my mom was afraid rugby has helped her mentally. Mental this sport more common at MHS and
of me [playing] because she didn’t want Natorp plays the eight man in strength is a necessity for rugby in she has finally gotten the sport to be
me to get a concussion.” rugby and her role is to put in big order to outsmart the opposing team listed with the other clubs in the school.
Both rugby and football are tackles, carry the ball through the and execute smart plays. Natorp said Natorp said that the sport could thrive
aggressive contact sports, but they defensive line and provide support to the difficulty of rugby can act as a sort at MHS if people could overcome their
differ when it comes to the way players the backs. Natorp said that one huge of escape from other stressors in her initial nervousness.
play. Because there is no padding in misconception is that rugby is just life.
rugby uniforms, opposing players hit football without the pads, but that is far “Even if you suck, you’re going to get
with caution, and the rules from the truth. “[Rugby is] a really good outlet for better and meet people [who] are going
dictate the harshness of when I just need somewhere to go and to help you along the way,” Natorp
a tackle. Rugby players “[Even] when you don’t score or be myself,” Natorp said. “I’ve also grown said. “You’re going to make great
are taught to use their when you lose by 40 points, your whole a lot of confidence through rugby connections that will boost your self-
arms and shoulders when team is still ecstatic that they even got because you have to be self-secured not confidence. No matter what size you
tackling opponents to play because it’s such a genuinely only to tell your teammates what to do, are, how you’re built, how fast or how
and there are serious fun sport,” Natorp said. “[Also] football but also be able to get back up and keep strong you are, there’s always a position
consequences for any [doesn’t have] as good sportsmanship as playing after you make a mistake.” in rugby for you.”
contact above the
shoulders. Natorp
said this is one of the
main reasons that

Graphic by Allison Droege. Photo contributed by Myah Natorp

September 16, 2022 21

From Poland to Israel, from darkness
to light, we are still here.

April 16 - 30, 2023

FROM POLAND
TO ISRAEL

Open to Cincinnati high school seniors MARCH OF THE LIVING
with at least one Jewish parent. INFORMATION SESSIONS

Come learn about March of the Living, Monday, October 3
an opportunity to join Jewish teens 7pm | Mayerson JCC
from all over the world for a profoundly
moving experience. Observe Yom Wednesday, October 12
HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) 7 pm | Virtual
in Poland, where you will march from
Auschwitz to Birkenau, the largest Thursday, October 27
concentration camp complex built 7pm | Mayerson JCC
during World War II. Afterwards, you
will travel to Israel to observe Yom
HaZikaron (Israel Memorial Day) and
celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut (Israel
Independence Day) to cap off the trip
of a lifetime.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

This trip iDs agveindeWrooulsflyHfouloncdaeudsbt y&THhuemJaewniitsyhCFeonutnedr.aGtiroanntosfaCrienca-i-dn-m-n-a-in-t-ii-,s-ta-en-r-de--do--rb-g-y-a-tn-h-iz-e-e-Jd-e-b-w-y-i-st-hh--eF-e-M-d-a-eyraeHtrisooonnroiJzfCoCCi,nnicntinpanalarttlnio.eCgrisnohciyp-Jw1oiut”hrnoTehryessmaller ------------------
Nancy &
grants are not need based and are offered to Cincinnati Jewish high school seniors who have not already used their highschool Israel
travel grant.

LEARN MORE AND APPLY AT MayersonJCC.org/MOTL

22 opinion September 16, 2022

In the race to compete Staff Editorial
with standards set by
others, you might always Write your own story
find yourself behind
At Mason High School, we often get grow up, to be responsible –- we aren’t
Risha Chada | The Chronicle too competitive in both our academics adults. We are teenagers. And this is one
and athletics. Frequently in the media, of the only times in our lives that we
We’ve all been there. Our tests get handed back, face-down with students are told that to succeed, we have the opportunity and the means to
a big, red grade circled at the top of the paper. The people around have to make certain sacrifices. We are branch out and try new things. We aren’t
you flip over their tests and face the music. You brace yourself be- told that breaks are equivalent to lazi- adults and don’t have the corresponding
cause you know you did not have time to study for this last math, ness and that pain is the key to success. responsibilities – we don’t have kids to
science, or English test. You rip the bandage off, flip the paper But that’s not the case. feed and we don’t have rent to pay. How-
over, and wince because you know that test score is going to tank ever, in just a few years, these things will
your grade. We are kids, not adults. And we de- be at the forefront of our minds.
serve to be treated as such.
You know, however, that that was just one test. You can study, It’s astonishing to look back and real-
move on and do better. But what about when you flip over that It seems that athletes have been held ize how much simpler things were when
test, and the big, red, circled percentage is something you are sat- to a higher and higher standard of we were younger – one less class, one
isfied with? Well, that is, until the person next to you boasts about excellence with every year that passes. less hour of homework, one less chore –
his/her/their grade. Suddenly, you’re no longer content with your Oftentimes, athletes are pushed for but the truth is, the past will always look
grade because someone else did better than you. excellence and perfection. The truth is that way as we grow and reflect on our
that perfection is unattainable. Someone past mistakes and successes.
Too frequently, we compare our own achievements with others. could practice for 12 hours a week, lose
Too often our own standards of self-worth and accomplishment sleep and struggle through school, and Being a teenager in high school is one
become diminished because we focus on what the people around it still might not be enough to get on of the only points in life when we can
us are doing and how we don’t measure up. that team or get a scholarship. be, and try anything. Instead of spending
hours a day working non-stop, training
As a senior who is applying to four year colleges with shock- Athletics are becoming less like a your body towards a level of perfection,
ingly low acceptance rates, I have to wonder, ‘why am I applying teamwork initiative with people who try taking a pottery class – just for the
here? Why am I paying 70 dollars to apply to a school that I do share similar interests and more like a fun of it, not competitively. Instead of
not even want to go to if I get in, let alone pay a hefty tuition fee way of life for some students – making spending ten hours in a gym every day
for?’ More often than not, the answer becomes related to some- practices, missing family time, and car- out of obligation, try joining a charity
thing someone else did. Someone else with my major is applying rying a deep obligation to the sport. Un- group – not to put it on your resume,
to that school, so I need to. Or the acceptance rates, the measure of relenting practice and dedication stem but just for the experience and to help
how many people got in out of everyone who applied, for different from a culture that praises students who others.
colleges become a measure of how “good” that school is. make sports their number one priority.
Don’t be trapped in something you
This instinct to measure ourselves up to standards other than No one will find success in the same feel obligated towards, because you’re
our own occurs outside of just test scores and colleges but in way. Some people do best by focusing not.
nearly every aspect of school – standardized test scores, extracur- on one activity day in and day out. For
riculars, how late someone was up studying the previous night, most, there has to be a healthy balance This is our time to write our own story.
how hard we work and how busy we are. of activities in order to stay motivated. We hold the pen in our hands. So instead
This means focusing on a few things of following the novel that someone else
But the consistent need to validate ourselves with others’ accom- and having time to sit down and relax. wrote, let’s write our own.
plishments and failures can have a negative impact on us. Instead
of being proud of ourselves, we lose faith in our own abilities. We As much as we push ourselves to
stop trying, we tell others we are not suited for the task, that we
cannot handle it without even trying new activities or pushing
past different obstacles. We become stagnant, refusing to grow
and change, because we simply do not believe we can.

Instead, we need to push past our limited worldview that a test
score defines us, or more accurately, that someone else’s score
defines us. We need to compare achievements with only our own
past accomplishments. We need to compete with ourselves more
than we need to compare ourselves with others.

Look to see if you’ve grown from your mistakes, not if you’re
as perfect as the person sitting next to you. In reality, the happiest
out of us are the ones who are satisfied with themselves, and we
could all take a page out of their book.

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
right to refuse advertising it deems in- nalists and the Ohio Scholastic Media Managing Editors Alexa Crociata Camden Paeltz Connect with
The Chronicle promises to report the appropriate for a high school publica- Association. Risha Chada Staff Designers Khusbu Patel the Chronicle:
truth and adhere to the journalistic tion. Tanya Keskar Becca Hunter Carly Prows
code of ethics through online and print Contact Information Sports Editor Nishka Mishra Reva Rampalli @mhschronicle
mediums. As an open forum for students, let- The Chronicle Andrew Little Alisha Verma EAllliieSaSmayilor
ters to the editor are welcome, but are William Mason High School Design Editor DSDEtlriiavenfywfaWBBHoirsosiheftfeomrysiaster Shrija Shandilya facebook.com/
The Chronicle is produced by students subject to be edited for length, libel, ob- 6100 S. Mason Montgomery Rd. Allison Droege Alisha Soni mhschronicle
enrolled in Journalism I, II and III. scenity, clarity and poor taste. Letters to Mason, Ohio 45040 Sean Speidel @mhschronicle
the editor may be dropped off in room (513) 398-5025 ALavuarYeluWngabnlugth
Editorials reflect the staff ’s opinion C103 and must be signed.
but do not necessarily reflect the opin-
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.

September 16, 2022 opinion 23

Editorial Cartoon

Queen Elizabeth
II: An icon in life,
inspiration in death

Bradyn Johnson | Editor-in-Chief
Tanya Keskar | Managing Editor

Queen Elizabeth ll was alive for more than nine decades, Mind your seemed to matter.
ascending to the throne at only 25 years of age. On September family’s
8th, 2022, she died at 96 years old. She lived for 35,040 days, business My life and my siblings’ lives have been filled
841,536 hours and 3,027,456,000 seconds. She met with 13 U.S.
Presidents, dating back to the early 1950s. She was a dog-mum Josie Lorenz | The Chronicle with numerous questions about our family–our
to over 30 corgis and dachshund-corgi mixes throughout her
lifetime. She also had the longest reign in British history. Race was not something that was very impor- business.
tant to a five-year-old me. Yes, I knew of it, and I
It is amazing to think she has participated in history that we understood it to an extent, but I did not think it “Are they really your siblings?” strangers ask.
have only read and watched about in books and documenta- could ever really affect me or my family.
ries. During World War II, she helped the war effort, including “Which one of you is adopted?” they pry.
training as a driver and mechanic and effectively earning the Apparently, I was wrong, because as I grew up,
equivalent of the rank of a captain. I saw that race was very important to nearly ev- When people ask so many unwelcome ques-
eryone that had ever interacted with my family.
People from all around the World were glued to their tions, it is like they forget who they are talking
phones on Thursday when they heard the news that the Queen I come from a beautiful family of eight. My
had passed on. It was almost as if a close relative had passed, mom, dad, older sister and brother, and I all hap- to. Suddenly, instead of a young girl who just
though it was actually a person who served as a political pen to be white. My two younger sisters happen
figurehead in a country on a different continent. As a society, to be black, and my younger brother is multi- wanted to hang out with her family, I became an
why is it that we idolize celebrities that we know so little about? racial. I never thought this mattered. After all,
Magazines and tabloids have followed every detail of her per- my family was my family. What we looked like object of curiosity.
sonal life – trying to get cameras in windows and reporting on should not concern the couple walking past us in
rumors of a scandal. a Chipotle parking lot or the group of teenagers See, this is where I wonder, is it like this for
hanging out at the park.
The Queen has become an icon in American culture, featur- other situations? Perhaps a white child adopted
ing cameos in movies such as Paddington, James Bond and But it did. Whether it was a quizzical look
Minions. The people around her became famous for being the from the Chipotle passersby or snickers from the into a white family? Because I would surely
royal family, but as society follows the scandals, it takes away immature adolescents at the park, race always
focus from the actual accomplishments and impacts these see asking about that situation as an intrusion.
people have.
What makes my family different? Google has all
We idolize them to the extent that it becomes an obsession,
where these celebrities become larger than life, but they are of your answers on how a family can look like
real people who should have the liberty to make mistakes and
maintain their own privacy. Too many people have jumped mine. So I guess I am asking, why do you care
on the bandwagon of following the Queen’s actions without
understanding why. what my family’s exact, detailed situation is?
I do understand the curiosity. But, you have
One reason that Queen Elizabeth was popular was that she
was around for so long – for some of us before our great grand- to see how frustrating it can be for those on the
parents were even alive. She had seen so much and watched other side of it, constantly being questioned
society as it progressed. In a world dominated by male political while living their daily life.
leaders, she led the female voice and became a role model.
Making impressionable young children and
She was a beloved figure and created a sense of unity and teens question the legitimacy of their loving
tradition for her country, and was equally respected by all family because of their race is an act that I can-
sides of the political spectrum. Thankfully, women who aspire not fathom justifying. I have seen the effects it
to hold political positions from around the world look to her has on my young sibling’s mental health. It is so
as an example of poise and grace. And while the Queen is not easy to take your curiosity elsewhere, so please,
with us anymore, her legacy of service and hope will continue
as she touched many hearts in countries all over the world. mind your own business.

24 September 16, 2022