Seasonal Struggles
Page 5 | Results Are In | Emma Hayes, Hannah VanLandingham
Page 8 | Agriculture for All | Sydney Pinchouck
Page 20 | Generation of Elevation | Omar Elsayed, Dupree Henry
Table of Contents
News
Page 4 | State in Sight
Page 5 | Results Are In
Page 6 | Sudan
Page 7 | ‘Tis the Spending Season
Features
Page 8 | Agriculture For All
Page 9 | New Season, New Rhythm + Farming a Victory
Page 10 | Generations of Joy + Community Countdown
Page 11 | New Season, New Rhythm + Farming a Victory
Cover
Page 12 | Seasonal Struggles
Voices
Page 16 | Ask Mrs. Bush + Games
Page 17 | New Viral Sound + Small Business Spotlight
Page 18 | A Step Ahead
Page 19 | Cinematic Connections + Photo of the Issue
Sports
Page 20 | Generation of Elevation + Omar’s Opinion
Page 22 | New Arena, Same Rivals
Page 23 | Winter Sports Preview Gallery
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Letter from the
Engrained in my memory forever are the feeling of crisp newspaper in my hands, the smell of clean newsprint, and my discolored fingers from fresh news ink.
These feelings are as much sentimental as they are physical, which has evolved throughout my time as a consumer of news, to that of a creator of news, and finally to that of an adviser and teacher of media and journalism. My view has not changed about the importance of our industry to the success of a society that is based in freedoms and making informed decisions. After all, a large function of Student Media is to help teach our target audience—students—what integrity, relevancy and newsworthiness, along with factual and ethical reporting, all look like.
The Orb has also evolved over the past 35 years of its existence, but
Adviser
we have not changed our method of publication until today, where we are now only available on a screen. The change to digital-only is due to changes in school funding at both the State and local level. While this decision was not in line with our standard practice of letting students make all content decisions, it is a change that will eventually allow us to better cover the people and events that matter to our students and school community in a timelier manner.
We will miss seeing the Orb in print, something students and teachers have been accustomed to for generations of Royals. We appreciate your support in helping to keep you informed and connected to all things HSE and look forward to serving you online and in digital format for more generations to come.
Behind the Cover
The cover photo depicts a person in a faceless individual quickly scrolling through social media located in a pitch black room. This is a representation of the cover story, Seasonal Struggles, which covers topics of seasonal depression and difficulties in the winter months. This photo represents the burnout many students feel in the winter, electing to scroll mindlessly for hours on end rather than complete schoolwork or study for tests. This subject is explored in the cover story, which is located on Page 12. Photo by Lili Perez.
Staffer of the Issue
This issue’s selected staffer is Hannah VanLandingham. Hannah is a senior and serves as Editor in Chief for the Orb, as well as CoCreative Editor. Her job is to oversee all content that is being written each issue and help keep the staff on track. As the staff manages navigating changes in workflow while switching to online publication instead of printing, Hannah has kept the staff grounded, focused and encouraged to keep working hard. Her ability to spot good stories and create connections in the newsroom is inspiring to staffers and her endless work for the newsmagazine both inside and outside of class does not go unnoticed.
Meet the Staff
Hannah VanLandingham Sydney Pinchouck
Charlotte Miksha Dupree Henry Editor-in-Chief/Co-Creative Editor Managing Editor Copy Editor Off-the-Ground Editor
Lili Perez
Kennedy Ulmer
Addison Ginther
Maddy Page Co-Creative/Features Editor News Editor
Omar Elsayed
Mandy Abeyta Sports Editor Staffer
Maryam Izadine
Max Johnson
Mya Pyle Staffer Staffer Staffer
Claire Robertson Staffer
Emma Hayes Staffer
STATE IN SIGHT
We The People Students Advance to State Competition
Story by Addison Ginther | ginthadd000@hsestudents.org
We the People was officially started in 1989 by Congress to honor the bicentennial of the constitution. Since then, it has become widely popular across the nation and is now competed by 48 different schools representing their state. Teams attend Regionals where they can either win or get a wildcard to then advance them to State. Teams then attend state, followed by Nationals which are hosted in Washington D.C. every year providing the students with an immersive learning experience of real government work.
“Congress initially funded [We The People] and then about 13 years ago they took away the funding so because of that , every state now does not have a program ,” We the People coach Janet Chandler said. “Indiana has always kept its program and is partially funded by the Indiana Bar Foundation and the Indiana General Assembly.”
We the People is a class divided into three levels with elementary, middle school and high school. At the high school level, if AP Government is taken in the first semester, the student is automatically put into We the People.
“Students are divided up into six
different units where each has a different focus,” Chandler said. “They then work to answer questions that are given to them by the Center For Civic Education who runs the program nationally. After answering the questions, they then testify in front of a panel of judges so the process simulates a congressional hearing
“It’s incredibly exciting, and I can’t wait to see how the team does especially with all the work we’ve put in.”
-Natalie Truong, 12
where then this panel of judges will ask them questions about what they have said or about what they haven’t said where they then assess them on that.”
As of Dec. 4, We the People has just won Regionals and is now preparing for state. This year, state will take place on Dec. 11 in downtown
Indianapolis.
To prepare for State, students follow the same revision process that they have used for previous competitions. Although State will require students to create new papers, their revision process is going to stay the same. This revision process is a very neat and continuous cycle where students will craft their papers, check them with Chandler where she will then give them corrections and suggestions where then students go back and fix their papers. These papers get written, checked and fixed over and over again until they are perfect and ready to compete.
“I love the competitive feel that State brings,” senior We the People member Natalie Truong said. “Knowing Nationals is at stake along with going against the best of the best in our State [really brings that feeling].”
These students have put a lot of hours and hard work into writing these papers and expanding their knowledge about the constitution and different government properties to ensure their readiness for state.
“It’s incredibly exciting,” Truong said. “I can’t wait to see how the team does especially with all the work we’ve put in.”
We the People members gathering around their newely won trophy to celebrate their regional win. Photo contributed.
RESULTS ARE IN Questions with School Board Elects
Story by Emma Hayes | hayesemm000@hsestudents.org, Hannah VanLandingham | vanlahan000hsestudents.org
On Nov. 5, almost 200,000 members of Hamilton County cast their ballot for President. Yet amidst the widely publicized Presidential race, some other key races slipped through the cracks. Some of the races that flew under the radar on ballot were three positions on the Hamilton Southeastern school board were up for grabs. The school board has a large amount of local power, including the powers to approve budgeting, change the school handbook, hire the superintendent, as well as other tasks.
Out of the seven seats on the board, in the 2024 election there were three seats that faced election. Incumbents Suzanne Thomas and Sarah ParksReese ran again, both retaining their seats, and newcomer this year, Latricia Schooley ran, also winning her seat on the board. All three candidates were endorsed by the Hamilton Southeastern Educator’s Association, while each of their opponents were backed by Fishers One.
Schooley won the seat for the Delaware Township, after running against newcomer Greg Lannan with 54% of the votes. This will be her first time serving on the HSE School Board. She’s talked many times about wanting to provide a better voice for students with exceptional needs and improving communication within the district.
“[The most important issue I will face as a member of the board is] advocating for students with diverse learning needs and representing the community in addressing challenges within the district,” Schooley said.
She cited her both her experience going to board meetings in the past, and her experience as a mother of four, with a son with special needs.
“I understand the significance of effective communication, advocacy, and support for a child’s educational team,” Schooley wrote. “I firmly believe that every child should have a realistic opportunity for success.”
importance of communication. She talked about her desire to connect with the community, having conversations with her constituents in order to address their concerns.
“If there’s a concern of theirs that I can help address and bring it up with administration, perhaps it’s a concern of other people as well, and they just haven’t brought it forward yet,” ParksReese said.
Thomas was the third winner of the three races, and won reelection against former school board member Terry Tolle, with 60.9% of the vote. She currently serves as secretary of the School Board and serves on the seat for Fall Creek Township.
Parks-Reese won reelection in Wayne Township, where she was first elected to the board in 2020. She won her election against John Stewart with 58% of the vote.
Parks-Reese initially ran for board in 2020 amidst discussion about the discrimination clause in the student handbook.
“I followed along with the board’s discussion of that and its eventual approval of it,” Parks-Reese said. “But I also noticed the person that held my seat at the time had been on the board for 20 years and I thought perhaps it was time for a change.”
Above all she stressed the
Thomas also initially discussed her initial run in 2020 for school board, talking about the COVID-19 pandemic and seeing her children go through the school district as motivations for her initial run. After the past four years she decided to run for reelection and won with the highest margin of the votes in the schools districts. She also walked through her process when deciding when to vote, first going through policy to ensure that it is above board. Then she looks through the impact of it, trying to figure out the impact and making sure it’s helping as many as possible. Finally, she looks at the cost effectiveness, examining even if it was a grant, would it be possible to continue the funding through after the grant expires. In the end, she stressed the importance of teachers’ salaries, “Teachers are our number one, so if I have to look at anything in our budget, it is always to pay our teachers first,” Thomas said.
Above all she just expressed gratitude at her reelection. “It’s a validation of great works,” Thomas said. “Seeing parents and teachers support the work I’ve done and believe in me to continue, putting the students first and serving my community.”
Portrait of Sarah Parks-Reese. Photo contributed.
Portrait of Suzanne Thomas. Photo contributed.
THumanitarian Crisis In The Middle East
Story by Maryam Izadine | izadimar000@hsestudents.org
Design by Lili Perez | perezlil000@hsestudents.org
he humanitarian crisis in Sudan remains in an alarming state of urgency. Recent reports on Sudan show accounts of rape and sexual Assault rising at frightening rates. Just less than a month ago claims of mass Suicide in Sudanese villages surfaced.
“The conflict in Sudan is a genocide. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), comprised of a majority nonSudanese people since the beginning of the conflict, are torturing, injuring, and killing innocent women, children, and civilians. The media is seeing the horrendous acts of the RSF, with the help of the United Arab Emirates, and chooses to ignore and protect these acts, which is unacceptable and inexcusable” Saied criticizes the absence of consideration for Sudan.
As the conflict painfully drags on, the efforts for Sudan’s liberty have not been retired, for Sudanese students in Fishers, the devastation in Sudan rings loud as the conflict, which has ravaged Sudan for over a year, is both personal and distant; a disaster they can’t control as it unfolds before them.
Liena Abdulla, a Sudanese student from New Halfa and Wad Madani, shares how the conflict has affected her outlook on the world and even her own life. “I was 15 when I truly began to grasp what was happening,” Abdulla says. “Hearing stories of parents fleeing with their children, unsure if their homes would be standing the next day—it’s terrifying. I’ve never been more grateful for safety, but that gratitude is always tinged with guilt.”
Liena puts into words the reality of many Sudanese Americans, even with the Army’s recent resurgence and resounding victories, like the liberation of El Fasher, the celebrations are bittersweet.
Across all borders, from their places of refuge in Cairo to their homes in Fishers, Sudanis celebrate. “We have
sweet news from El Fasher.” Abdullah Sultan, a Sudanese man whose been documenting the tragedies of Darfur, said in a video uploaded to his TikTok. But for students like Saied and Abdulla, the inability to take action or even endure the conflict with their families in Sudan has made the victory feel foreign. In the words of Voltaire “every man is guilty of the good he did not do,” this very well illustrates the sentiment Sudanese American students hold.
Liena Abdulla reflects on the toll the war has taken on their loved ones who remained. “I never understood why some of our older relatives refused to leave. They didn’t want to abandon their homes; the ones they spent years building. But now, those same homes are gone, and they’ve lost everything,” she says.
The Army of Sudan has been on a disconcerting offensive, Weeks ago Sudanis watched the army eagerly as they took back Khartoum. Now they watch as the Army takes back the capital of Darfur after months of having been under the unforgiving hands of the Rapid Support Forces. Amidst all this anticipation, Abdulla, and many other students- Sudanese or otherwise still feel left in the dark. She says “I don’t know much either. As sad as it is, I am seeing fewer and fewer people talk about Sudan, that I am not even sure what is happening there currently.” It makes you wonderwhy is such a profound breakthrough in this conflict left unheard ofespecially to the students who depend on this information most.
Nouran Saied, another Sudanese student shares a valid critique of the way the delicate state of Sudan has been handled. “The media doesn’t tell the full story,” Saied says. “They talk about bombings and political turmoil, but they ignore the families, the people who are living this nightmare
every day. Sudan deserves more attention.”
Both Saied and Abdalla talk about how the media lacks in their representation of Sudan.
Abdulla says “My biggest critique is for them to cover the entirety of the story of Sudan, not just the fact that the government is falling and the bombing that is destroying the country. I want the media to show people the stories of the families in Sudan, not the ones that have been living outside of Sudan for years. Naturally, Palestine is getting more attention than most other places, which it deserves, as the situation there is horrifying. Nonetheless, Sudan and all other Middle Eastern countries should have some kind of coverage on their situation as well.”
Liena wishes for the plight of Sudanis to be heard in all their forms, both Saied and Abdulla wish for the Un sanitized and Anecdotal version of Sudanese stories.
“I wish the student body knew that depth and severity of the conflict in Sudan. Sudan is the biggest hunger crisis in the world, millions of Sudanese people are being kicked out of their homes, over 150,000 people were killed, and over 19 million children are not in school. I hope people do not forget about Sudan and keep Sudan in their thoughts and prayers.” Nouran says.
The horizon shows a new dawn of Sudan; a bright future. Al-Fasher has been reclaimed by the SAF, but the fight for Sudan’s freedom is far from over.
For Sudanis globally, the hope for freedom remains strong. “Inshallah, Sudan will be free one day,” Saied prays. “But for now, all we can do is share these stories, keep Sudan in people’s minds, and pray for a brighter future.”
‘TIS THE SPENDING SEASON
How Teens, Adults’ Holiday Spending is Changing
Story by Charlotte Miksha | mikshcha000@hsestudents.org,
Graphic by Dupree Henry | henrydup000@hsestudents.org
The winter season is often kicked off with a bout of stress, especially for students. Not only do they have the difficult task of finals weighing on their shoulders, but also the growing concern of buying gifts for friends and family as the holidays approach. As students grow older, purchasing presents and spending money on others becomes an expectation. However, this can have negative effects on not only students’ wallet, but the issue of holiday consumerism in America that rises every year.
According to Gallup, a Washington D.C. managing consulting company, Americans will spend $1,014 on Christmas and holiday gifts in 2024. This is the highest spending has been; in 2023, Americans spent $923 on gifts and in 2020 Americans only spent $805. Every year, in gross, Americans spend almost 100 billion dollars on holiday purchases. These statistics exhibit the growing trend of greater and greater spending yearly in America. A multitude of factors influence this behavior; inflation has risen 21.4% since 2020, which has increased the price of consumer goods, consumer spending on food, alcohol and clothing has largely increased in recent years, online shopping remains largely accessible and online exposure to thousands of holiday-centered ads urge consumers to buy gifts.
“Nearly 60% of teens say rising costs have impacted the number and types of gifts they have received for the holidays,” said research firm Big Village according to a study conducted on the opinion of 13 to 17 year olds on holiday spending. “And nearly three in four (71%) are concerned about the impact of inflation on this year’s holiday shopping season.”
Since gifts exchanges among close friends and family are usually expected, especially for those who celebrate winter holidays like Christmas, students feel pressure to purchase nice gifts with their limited savings. “I often find it stressful finding gifts during the holiday.” said senior Adalynn Gard. Most high schoolers work jobs that make minimum wage, if they have a job at all. The pressure to purchase gifts can often feel misplaced on students who do not
have the funds for holiday shopping. “I make a lot of my own gifts,” said Gard. “But it’s still stressful because I have limited time.”
Graph of the average amount of money each Americans spent during the holidays in previous years and the expected amount for 2024.
AGRICULTURE FOR ALL
‘Grow With Us’ Initiative Press Conference Hosted at HSE
Story by Sydney Pinchouck | pinchsyd000@hsestudents.org
Indiana’s agriculture education program is continuing to expand and the Grow With Us initiative is being fostered to support that. The initiative combines classroom education, work-based learning, and leadership opportunities to create a beneficial experience for everyone in agriculture education programs. A press conference for Grow With Us was hosted at the high school on Nov. 20, where many state FFA leaders spoke about their perspective on the initiative, including Indiana Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch.
Crouch also serves as Secretary of Agriculture for the state and oversees the Department of Agriculture, which involves supporting future leaders. After being surrounded by agriculture consistently in her childhood, she served on the first water conservation board that was founded in the state of Indiana which gave her a deeper appreciation of agriculture. When she became Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Agriculture, that interest in agriculture was magnified.
“Agriculture is a big business,” Crouch said. “[Indiana is] the seventh largest agriculture export in the country, so we need to ensure that it continues by developing and supporting, through initiatives and programs like Grow With Us, our young leaders of tomorrow through FFA.”
Principal Reggie Simmons spoke at the press conference about how he has seen agriculture education impact the school. This included awards recently won by the school’s FFA chapter as well as a grant that the program recently received. His personal experiences with agriculture are important to him so that he can help foster the program in the district he works for.
“My twin grandsons who attend Brooks School Elementary bring home tomatoes from the garden at their school,” Simmons said in his speech. “Who knows, by the seeds planted in them, this may inspire them to do FFA when they become high schoolers.”
Members of leadership of the school branch attended the press conference to see how the Grow With Us initiative will affect their experience in agriculture education.
“I think we are so privileged,” branch Sentinel Callen Johnson said. “We get a lot of opportunities for our FFA chapter and I think this new initiative is going to help a lot of people who may not have those same opportunities.”
While this press conference was
hosted by Hamilton Southeastern in light of recent achievements, representatives from across the state traveled to share how this initiative will affect their programs. South Putnam Middle School and High School FFA Advisor Cameron Frazier addressed the deep importance of this initiative-making agriculture education available and meaningful to every student in the state of Indiana, regardless of direct contact with agriculture.
“Agriculture Education is truly a place for every single student, no matter where they come from, what their background is, where they are going, or even their interests,” Frazier said. “ FFA and the agriculture education program is truly for every single student if they take that opportunity.”
Lieutenant Governor Crouch speaks about value of Grow With Us initiative during press conference. Photo by Max Johnson.
Simmons speaks at press conference about how he has seen agriculture education impact his students. Photo by Max Johnson.
NEW SEASON, NEW RHYTHM
Winter Percussion Brings Wild West to Life
Story by Mandy Abeyta | abeytman000@hsestudents.org
With the first hints of winter and Indiana’s crisp chill settling in, a familiar feeling of excitement hangs in the air as some students prepare to take on another show. The leaves have fallen, the football fields are quiet and the buzz of a marching band season is behind them. Though, for the percussionists at our school, the change in seasons signals a new rhythm – Winter Percussion season is about to start. Percussion Director Javier Ramirez, explains what Winter Percussion is.
“Winter percussion is essentially marching band, but inside and without the color guard and the horns,” Ramirez said. “Everything that you see on the football field, we take it onto the basketball floor, and then we just take away the horns and the color guard. It’s just percussion.”
This season, percussionists
are taking a more straightforward approach to storytelling, rather than their typically concept-based approach. Audiences are meant to connect with the storytelling right off the bat.
“The show is definitely more direct. Instead of making you think about what the show is, we just tell you what the show is from the moment we step [onto] the floor,” Ramirez said. “We just tell you over and over again what the show is just in different ways.”
This show’s theme is unique, aiming to immerse the audience in the rugged, old world of the Wild West. Through music, props, and choreography, the performers aim to transport viewers to a time of dusty trails, lively saloons, and untamed adventure.
“Throughout the show, we will introduce the [Western] world that we
FARMING A VICTORY
FFA Takes Home Fourth Place
Story by Charlotte Miksha | mikshcha000@hsestudents.org
FFA members from all around the country flooded Indianapolis for the 97th National FFA Convention and Exposition on Oct. 23 through 26. The organization is focused mainly on agriculture and leadership. Club members traveled to Indianapolis to compete among the thousands of participants present. In the Agricultural Communications Career Development Event (CDE), The club reigned victorious as fourth in the nation out of teams from 39 other states.
“It’s just kind of hard to gauge how you do compared to other people,” senior team member Ellie Taylor said. “Honestly, we were pretty surprised how well we did.”
live in. We’ll take you into the saloon where we will do some pretty crazy stuff. We’ll play percussion related things on some mugs and then we’ll play on bar tops,” Ramirez said. “We’ll do spoons and washboards. Quite literally everything that you would imagine that you would see in a saloon, we will try to depict that.”
While the saloon sets the tone for the show, it will literally end with a bang, keeping it in line with the Wild West theme. This is yet another aspect that differs from past shows that Winter Percussion has done.
“The goal is to have a duel at the very end of the show,” Ramirez said. “I won’t announce that there’s a winner, but the guests will just have to [watch the show], to see if there’s a winner or not.”
The team scored their top five placement by submitting a team communication plan and each member of the team’s individual
practicum. These individual practicums consisted of social media posts, a news story, a magazine layout and a broadcast production. “I think some of us came into it with a lot of background on our individual practicums,” Taylor said. “It made us really well prepared and allowed us to focus on the team plan and bring in
aspects of our skill set to that.”
The impact of FFA on students stretches farther than just the day of contest. “FFA is important because it helps develop skills such as public speaking, it helps you learn about the field of agriculture, and helps to build character values,” said sophomore team member Liam Kenyon. “I participate in [FFA] because I personally want to be in vet science, and this is a perfect ground for me to do that.”
FFA’s influence does not only allow for positive change in the people involved, but all those around them.
“It provided a lot of community for students,” Taylor said. “As well as ways to help give back to the community.”
Liam Kenyon, Dupree Henry, Ellie Taylor, Elizabeth Dekker and Caroline Mills hold their fourth place plaque at the National FFA Convention and Exposition. Photo contributed.
Community Countdown
Story by Claire Robertson | robercla001@hsestudents.org
Christkindlmarkt
The Christkindlmarkt found in Carmel Indiana, is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2017. This is a German themed Christmas market filled with lots of shops, food and activities. The market will run from Nov. 23 to Dec. 24. The market is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. They are open Wednesday and Thursday from 4-9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 12-9 p.m. Sundays they are open 12-8 p.m.
Butler Ballet - The Nutcracker
The Butler Ballet will host its annual Nutcracker performance starting on Dec. 5. Ticket prices start at $79. This event will be held at Clowes Memorial Hall on the Butler campus. The times for this event will vary so make sure to check out the website for more details.
“Butler’s Nutcracker is special because the whole production is danced by Butler dancers,” Merril Heitz, senior Butler Ballet dancer said. “Butler has consistently been one of the top 3 collegiate dance programs in the U.S.”
Winterlights
Winterlights at Newfields presented by Bank of America, will start their season on Nov. 23 and run till Jan. 6, 2025. Tickets for this event start at $25 and can range up to $55. Visitors will get to walk through Newfield’s gardens while looking at roughly 3 million lights that will cover trees to their very tips. Visitors can also walk through the historic Lilly house. Smore’s kits as well as gingerbread popcorn and other treats will be available for purchase.
GENERATIONS OF JOY
Importance of Family Business
Story By Ash Balog |Balogaud000@hsestudents.org, Hannah VanLandingham |Vanlahan000@hsestudents.org
For many, the winter months are a time that people spend with their family. While some spend time decorating Christmas trees with their loved ones, sophomore Erin Sambol, sells them.
Sambol’s Tree Farm, her family’s business, is open during the holiday season and mainly sell Christmas trees, as well as other festive items.
“Everyone who works out there are family friends, like people we know,” Sambol said. “It is really just like a very personal business”.
Her mother, Susan Sambol further expanded on just how close the entire crew is.
“A lot of people that work out here are our neighbors, or friends from our church, or kids of our friends, we’ve got a really good crew,” Susan said. “They are strong because we have kind of got a connection to everybody.”
Working somewhere where everyone is really passionate about their jobs, and everyone knows each other brings another level of comfort to the area for Erin as well. During the holiday season she spends most of her time on the farm.
has been around helping since the farm opened, but as she got older, she started taking on more jobs, making wreaths and working at the register. Doing so helped create a better understanding of running a business for her.
“I think it is for sure given me a better understanding of real jobs and like the real world. It definitely helped,” Erin said.
Erin has grown up on the farm and has learned many important life lessons through her experiences. She
Her family has also seen her grow into the job as she works more and more at the farm.
“She has matured a lot. Initially she didn’t really enjoy being out here,” Susan said. “[But] now that she’s old enough to do the register, and interact with the [customers], she loves it, and she is very well suited for it.”
Through her work with her family, Erin has gained a unique perspective and appreciation for them. She sees personally all the work put into each and every item sold and understands how hard a small business is to operate.
“I see it every day,” Erin said. “[Small] businesses [are good] for everyone because they are personal.”
Display of wreaths made by Erin and Susan at Sambol’s Tree Farm. Photo by Hannah VanLandingham.
Erin Sambol makes a sale to a customer at Sambol’s Tree Farm. Photo by Hannah VanLandingham.
SPOTLIGHT FOR ALL
Unified Performing Arts Brings Students Together
Story by & Graphic by Mandy Abeyta | abeytaman000@hsestudents.org, Mya Pyle | pylemya000@hsestudents.org
The air fills with a festive melody as handheld bells jingle and kazoos buzz in sync to the cheerful tune of Stan Francis’ “Jingle Jingle Jingle.” Students sing with enthusiasm, their voices blending together under the guidance of choir director Danielle Mullen, who conducts from the front of the room. This is no ordinary rehearsal. This is the Unified Performing Arts (UPA) program where exceptional learners and their peers join forces to create
a similar experience for our students,” Mullen said. “At the beginning of the school year, I contacted two of our exceptional learners’ teachers, Mrs. Gerard and Mrs. Lee, who shared the same vision and that’s how our Unified Performing Arts Program began.”
UPA has a similar approach, with student peers taking on a supportive role for the exceptional learners at every meeting, like a Star Peer would. Additionally, the majority of student peers have prior experience in performing arts—such as choir or theater.
music, build confidence and foster friendships.
“This past summer, my son Jackson participated in a Broadway Bootcamp in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma,” Mullen said. “As part of his experience there, the campers partnered and performed with the kids of an organization in their school system called Stars on Stage.”
Stars on Stage provides exceptional learners with the chance to shine in the spotlight. Each performer, known as a “Star,” is paired with a “Star Peer” who supports them throughout the process. Star Peers learn their Star’s lines, music and choreography, stepping in to assist whenever needed. Together, they ensure every Star feels confident and thrives on stage.
“We have 25 Exceptional Singers, and 65 Peers involved in our program,” Mullen said. “I am so proud of how our student peers have stepped in and become such active participants and leaders during our rehearsals.”
Junior Claire Huntzinger is one of the 65 peers involved in UPA. She helped Mullen create the club and frequently attends rehearsals.
“I am a very active member in Best Buddies and choir, so I had immediate interest [when Mullen wanted to start UPA],” Huntzinger said. “This club has given students of all ability
levels a safe space to dance and sing. It has been so fun to watch all the friendships form and to see everyone come out of their shells.”
Not only is it exciting for Huntzinger but Mullen as well.
“I’m so proud of our ‘Exceptional Singers’ for working so hard to learn new things about music, choreography, playing instruments, and working toward our first performance together,” Mullen said.
Beyond the music and the choreography, the friendships blossoming during these rehearsals
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have become the heart of the program.
“The joy our kids bring to every rehearsal makes this experience so rewarding and fulfilling,” Mullen said. “They are having so much fun together and have formed wonderful friendships.”
Anyone wanting to see UPA in action is encouraged to attend the annual choir holiday show, “Ring in the Holidays,” on either Dec. 5 or 6. This will be their first performance together on-stage in the Leonard Auditorium. Tickets are available on PurplePass since Nov. 23.
“It inspired me to create a program here at HSEHS that strives to create
UPA members dance and sing together in preparation for the upcoming holiday choir show at a rehearsal on Nov. 13. Photo by Mandy Abeyta.
Senior Frederico Scartezini chats with a friend at the Nov. 13 rehearsal. Photo by Mya Pyle.
The Effects of Seasonal Depression on Students
Story and Graphics by Claire Robertson | robercla001@hsestudents.org, Story, Photos, and Graphics by Kennedy Ulmer |ulmerken000@hsestudents.org
Seasonal depression is a common term that begins to pop up again as the winter months arrive. Psychology Today defines it as “a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons, usually fall and winter.”
Unlike regular depression, these feelings may be easier to shake once there is a shift in the individuals’ surroundings. Nonetheless these feelings are very real and affect the day-to-day lives of high school students.
“[Seasonal depression makes me] feel sad, tired, and unmotivated,” shared an anonymous participant of a Southeastern Media Network survey about seasonal depression. These feelings are very common for those experiencing symptoms of seasonal depression.
Some of the most prevalent symptoms can include low energy, persistent sadness, loss of appetite, and insomnia
According to bf.kendal.org, seasonal depression is most commonly found in people ages 18-30. Researchers at Thriveworks looked at the Google interest for “seasonal depression”. They started collecting data in 2018 and so far, the highest spike has been during 2023. This year, it is expected that on average the search interest will be 33.8 out of 100.
“My depression typically spikes during certain times of the year,” senior Erin Lock said. “One near the end of summer and then it spikes back up during the holidays. It typically leaves me more drained than usual, and I get overwhelmed more easily.”
Multiple participants of the survey have claimed the feelings are a result of the changing weather.
“Since it’s dark so early I just want to go to bed and I don’t feel motivated to do work,” one response said.
Anyone can be impacted by seasonal depression, even if they are generally happy and active within school and the local community.
Junior Guryon Dhaliwal is very active in the local community. He is the president of the Badminton Club, a member of the Speech and Debate Team, and has currently logged over 60 hours of community service for National Honor Society. However, despite his reputation as someone
Infographic by Kennedy Ulmer.
who is very busy with community involvement, he still feels himself slowing down during the fall and winter months.
“The fall and winter months can sometimes bring feelings of stress and a sense of being overwhelmed, especially with shorter days and colder weather,” Dhaliwal said. “It has
Junior Guryon Dhaliwal is an honors student who is very active in the community. Staying busy with clubs, volunteering, and schoolwork helps him stay motivated and overcome feelings of depression and anxiety during the winter months. Photo by Kennedy Ulmer.
become hard to keep up with all of my activities.”
According to mayoclinic.org, the reason for why seasonal depression typically occurs during the colder months could be due to the reduced sunlight which in turn reduces serotonin levels. Reduced serotonin levels will affect one’s mood.
According to renown.org, in teenagers, symptoms tend to revolve around school issues. This can be shown by showing up late for class, waking up late, and losing interests in activities.
Also, considering that the workload increases for most high school students during the fall and winter, it is reasonable for students to experience higher levels of stress surrounding school during this time.
“I will often see students start to feel overwhelmed by the volume of projects, homework, and assessments, especially with finals coming up,” school social worker Kylene Toney said.
Dhaliwal balances schoolwork and mental health by practicing mindfulness, maintaining a routine
sleep schedule, and setting goals for himself.
“[I have found that] rewarding myself after completing tasks and taking regular breaks for self-care helps me stay focused and keep motivation levels up,” Dhaliwal said.
Dhaliwal also likes to stay active in the community, as it helps him stay positive and feel fulfilled.
“[I enjoy] volunteering regularly at local organizations, participating in events that bring people together, or contributing to a cause, like helping at food drives or mentoring younger students,”
Dhaliwal said. “Those are great ways to stay engaged and give back to the community, especially during the winter holidays.”
Unfortunately, even though the winter holidays are the time where donations and volunteers are arguably most needed, it is difficult for students to involve themselves in community activities due to seasonal depression.
“Some students are energized around the holidays, looking
forward to the upcoming break and celebrations. Others that struggle with anxiety and/or depression might find themselves withdrawing from others and disengaging from socialization,” Toney said. “Anxiety and depression become a problem when they interfere with functioning, and this includes social functioning.”
These feelings tend to make students want to remove themselves from social setting and isolate themselves as much as possible.
“When I feel overwhelmed, I don’t like spending time with others, so I tend to be on my own a lot.” Lock said. This results in less community engagement around the holidays, which should be a time for more community engagement.
School social worker Mrs. Kylene Toney has suggestions for how to combat feelings of depression and anxiety during the winter months.
“The first step in coping with strong emotions is identifying [your] triggers,” Toney said. “This way, [you] can fill [your] toolbox with healthy coping mechanisms to use when [you] start feeling down.”
Some ways to recenter include grounding exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided breathing. Guides and tutorials for these techniques can be found for free on YouTube.
Many students like to use music as an outlet to decompress, such as junior Justin Pearson.
“I like listening to sad music when I am feeling depressed,” Pearson said. “It feels therapeutic and helps me remind myself that I am not the only one going through this.”
Elizabeth Feeney and Kylene Toney, the school social workers.If you are in need of emotional suppport, set up an appointment to visit their offices. Photo by Kennedy Ulmer.
According to the website agoodplacetherapy.com, listening to sad music can release hormones called prolactin. These hormones help with mental pain. Listening to sad music can also regulate one’s mood because it creates connection. Starting a playlist with songs that gradually change the mood from sad to happy can help relax the brain and improve one’s mental state.
Additionally, several recent studies have proven the effectiveness of light therapy for easing symptoms of seasonal depression. Light therapy masks and lamps can improve one’s mood by providing more light in one’s cornea, and are available for purchase on Amazon.
Seasonal depression may seem like a neverending battle for high school students, but with the right support and coping mechanisms, it is possible to overcome these feelings.
Graphic by Claire Robertson.
Graphic by Kennedy Ulmer.
ASK MRS. BUSH
Director of College and Careers on Final Exam Preperation
Q: What is your biggest piece of advice for people getting prepared for finals?
A: It is actually time to start preparing for your final exam. Now is the time to start laying out a plan of action about how you’re going to study. [I’m] not saying you have to start 5 hours a day studying the class, but let’s go from the class that you’re having the most problem with to the class that’s the easiest, and maybe take every other day and maybe add an extra hour to your study time on that final. Going back to August, kind of just recouping some of the things that you did, make a schedule about what you’re going to recover. Look at some of the tests that you did, if you have copies of your tests. Go back and maybe read some of the assignments. If you didn’t do well on a test, kind of go back and maybe try to recoup that knowledge. Look at your notes, if you took any notes, that’s why it’s so important to take your own notes in class so that you can go back and look at it. It’s your study guide in your handwriting, in your brain. I would say now just start really making a schedule for the next six weeks about how you’re going to prepare. What you never want to do is cram, because if you try to cram something, it’s not all going to fit and something’s not going to stay in. Don’t cram, just prepare.
Q: Why are finals so important, especially for Upper Classmen who may be feeling a little bit burnt out about them?
A: I understand the burnout. I understand senioritis. I’ve heard it so many times, because you’re getting to the end of something, and getting to the end of something can be tiring and you just want it to be done. But it can’t be done until it’s done. And what you have to do, especially if you’re a senior, you have to understand these grades that you’re putting down are very important. We send initial transcripts in the beginning when kids were applying to college. College will want to see what you did this semester, so giving up now when you’re trying to get into a college is not what you want. You have to change the way you think about it. I’m trying to get out of high school. You’re literally trying to get into something, so you can’t give up now. You can’t stop now. You’ve got to press on because you have a goal in front of you. That’s why they’re important for juniors, because you have this semester and one more semester, and that’s what we’ll present to colleges next year. Freshmen and sophomores, it’s important because you are building a foundation. Every end of the semester for every grade means something different, but each one of those are so important. You just can’t give up. You’ve got to finish your race, take your break, recharge, and then start again.
Q: What is your advice for freshmen who have not taken finals in high school before?
A: So freshman, this is a new thing. It is a little scary and very stressful sometimes because you don’t know what to expect. Just like I said earlier, have a plan and have a study schedule. Don’t wait until December 9th to start figuring it out. Look at what you’ve done. Look at your tests and start building a study schedule now. Start now to give yourself time to figure out, do I need to go back? What do I need to relearn? What do I need to reteach myself? Use Pathways to go to your teachers and say, I don’t think I got this because I got a C or D on this test. Can you kind of help me figure out what I didn’t know, and put a plan together for yourself now. Don’t stress yourself out so much, though. Yes, they’re important. Yes, they are critical to your grade, but here I think they are only 15% of your grade . You don’t need to stay up until 1:00, 2:00 in the morning. Just set yourself a schedule. Plan your work. Work your plan.
For more information from Mrs. Bush, subscribe or listen to her podcast, Find Your Future with Mrs. Bush, on Spotify or check your College and Careers page on Canvas.
GAMES
New online, mobile friendly games are uploaded to southeasternmedianetwork.com every day. Scan the QR code to be directed to the games page of the website to find all previous games and each day’s new upload.
NEW VIRAL SOUND
Social Media Music Marketing
Story by Ash Balog | balogaud000@hsestudents.org, Max Johnson | johnsmax002@hsestudents.org
The internet has no doubt completely changed the way society works, especially when it comes to the music industry. Artists no longer need to rely on record labels to break into the industry; they only need internet virality to launch their career, especially on TikTok.
Some believe that this need for TikTok virality has negatively affected the music industry, but senior Landen Davenport has a more nuanced view on the topic.
“I think it is really good for smaller creators,” Davenport said. “But I also think it has got less to do with the music now and more just to do with the business side of things.”
Davenport is currently in his second year in the Music & Sound Production class, where students learn the technical side of making music and other audio productions. While the class is taught at Fishers High School, HSE students are welcome to take the class. The teacher of the class, Ray Masterson, also shared a neutral view on the topic of social media’s influence on music marketing.
“No artist has been able to really tap into the zeitgeist without going viral in their own way,” Masterson said. “TikTok is just the current way of doing it.”
A zeitgeist is the collective attitude of a culture at a specific point in time. The zeitgeist of our era is one where social media is one of the most influential factors in what becomes popular. This raises questions about whether or not the music industry has become oversaturated with artists.
“It has always been oversaturated,” Davenport said. “I love that anybody can do it now. There are no barriers to get started.”
In contrast to Davenport, Masterson views the topic from a more technical aspect.
“There are so many people that do not really learn how to make music that put music out there,” Masterson said. “On the upside you get some fresh new ideas, on the downside most of the music is not well produced.”
With so many artists vying for their turn in the spotlight, Davenport’s advice for those who like making music is to not worry about what’s popular at the moment in the music industry, instead encouraging them to make music for themselves
“There is all this complexity in getting records or getting deals or going viral,” Davenport said. “You do not have to make music for anybody. If you like doing it, just do it.”
SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Handmade on Main
Story by Sydney Pinchouck | pinchsyd000@hsestudents.org
Located at 516 S. Main St. in Sheridan, Handmade on Main is a women and family-owned boutique that showcases local artists and crafters. They sell one of a kind handmade items, such as jewelry, home décor, pottery and paintings. They opened in 2022 to showcase local talent.
Current local artists include paintings by FabMom Designs, décor by Chalking After Midnight, Nook Puzzles, and pottery by Zukes Cave. This wide variety of artists is always changing and adding to support more local artists. Visit the store to check out current artists or inquire about selling from the store.
Handmade on Main is open Tuesday through Saturday each week from late afternoon to early evening and are kid and pet friendly. They can be found on Instagram @handmadeonmain. st where they are currently posting holiday gift guide ideas from their inventory.
With the holiday season approaching, Handmade on Main is a great place to purchase all kinds of gifts for friends or family. From art to toys, there is something to be found for every person a gift may need to be for found for.
Landen Davenport helping a band record in the music studio at Fishers High School. Photo by Max Johnson
Navigating the Journey of Graduating Early
Story by Maddy Page | pagemad000@hsestudents.org
As we approach the end of the semester, final exams are becoming alarmingly close and the inevitable lack of motivation to finish the semester out strong is apparent in many students. After a long semester of studying and working hard to earn good grades, students often no longer want to continue their efforts seeing that the end is in sight. However, for some, they have worked hard enough throughout their time in high school and have earned the opportunity to graduate at semester instead of at the end of the school year like most of their classmates.
While graduating early has many benefits and rewards, the process is no easy task and often takes planning with counselors and parents prior to making the decision. If students are interested in graduating early, they should know that the process starts around one’s sophomore year of high school to ensure that they are taking all the required classes to earn their diploma early.
While this process is often tedious and time-consuming, it can be rewarding for students in many ways. For example, athletes planning to play their sport in college can focus solely on it without stressing about school. Senior Kaylyn BostromChristy speaks about her plans to play volleyball at Southwestern Oklahoma State University, and how graduating early has benefited her.
“I plan on playing club volleyball this spring with Team Indiana,” BostromChristy said. “But with a free schedule where I do not need to worry about school.”
On top of being able to focus on one’s sport without the stress of school and homework, students can even utilize their time to get a job to earn money for post-secondary education. Additionally, there are financial benefits to graduating early.
“For those graduating a full year early there is a Governor’s Scholarship that you earn $1000 for postsecondary education upon graduating a full year early,” Counselor Greg Davidson said.
Along with these benefits, seniors or juniors graduating early may even avoid the inevitable effects of contracting ‘senioritis.’ Senioritis, as its name implies, is what seniors often experience towards the end of their time as an active high schooler. They know what their plans are and where they may be completing their post-secondary education and the fact that the end is in sight creates this sudden lack of motivation. By graduating early, students may even avoid losing motivation towards the end of their high school career.
While there are many benefits of graduating early, it can often be a lonely journey as one may be graduating without one’s friends.
“The hardest part of graduating early is leaving my friends and teachers,” Bostrom-Christy said. “I will still be in Indiana, but it will not be the same because of the relationships I will miss.”
Standing in front of a volleyball net in a dark gym, senior Kaylyn Bostrom-Christy stands serious for the Southeastern Media Network varsity volleyball media day. Bostrom-Christy plans to graduate at semester as well. Photo by Emily Chen.
CINEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The Blue Blur is Fostering Comfort on the Big Screen
Story by Maryam Izadine | izadimar000@hsestudents.org, Kennedy Ulmer | ulmerken000@hsestudents.org
New movies are consistently dished out every holiday season without fail, including highly anticipated films such as “Moana 2,” “Back in Action,” “The Batman 2,” “Freakier Friday,” “Zootopia 2,” and many more. One new movie in particular has Film Studies student Imran Syedasaniya buzzing: “Sonic the Hedgehog 3”. With its blend of nostalgia, humor, and action, “Sonic 3” is shaping up to be one of the most popular films of the season.
What makes Sonic so captivating, though? Why do some films leave a lasting impact while others fade away? It’s all about connection. Whether it’s laughing at a character’s jokes or feeling their struggles, good movies pull the audience into their
worlds. “Films are so captivating and engaging because you can understand the characters and their emotions,” Syedasania said. “Being able to relate to a character can help build connections between the audience and the movie.”
The Sonic franchise has already proven it knows how to create that connection. The first two movies captured fans’ hearts with their humor, fast-paced action, and likeness to the video games. Now, with “Sonic 3,” expectations are even higher.
“I loved the first two movies, and I’m hoping this next one will be just as good!” Syedasania said.
But there’s more to success than just fan anticipation. When a movie builds hype, it has to deliver.
“Having a connection to a movie before it releases is so important for the movie’s success,” Imran said. “But if the movie doesn’t stand up to par, then the backlash will be bad for the franchise.”
Of course, the stakes are part of what makes “Sonic 3” exciting. Can it hit the right balance of nostalgia, humor, and heart that fans expect? Movies like “Deadpool and Wolverine” have shown that great character interactions and sharp humor can carry a film, and fans are hoping Sonic 3 will deliver that same energy.
So, as the holidays approach, don’t forget to grab some popcorn and see if “Sonic 3” lives up to the hype. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Blue Blur or just looking for a fun
PHOTO OF THE ISSUE
This fall, HSEDrama presented Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville, a mystery-comedy play based on a Sherlock Holmes novel. This issue’s photo comes from Lili Perez, a driven and accountable leader in the Southeastern Media Network. Whether she is out capturing the thrill of a sporting event or at school
Left, junior Micah Fishel stands dressed as Doctor Watson appearing shocked and concerned. Middle, standing with hands out and a look of fright on her face, is senior Sydney Pinchouck. Right, wearing a cowboy hat, is senior Frederico Scartezini.
OMAR’S OPINION Legacy Pressure
Story by Omar Elsayed | elsayoma000@hsestudents.org
LeBron James Jr. (Bronny), son of arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, entered the NBA as the 55th overall pick in the 2024 draft, a spot that typically garners little to no media attention. Yet, from the moment he stepped onto the court, his every move has been scrutinized, with many questioning whether he belongs in the league or is only there because of his father. After a rough start with the Lakers, Bronny was demoted to the South Bay Lakers in the G League, where he won’t even play in away games. But the relentless criticism of his early NBA career is overblown. Players drafted that late rarely face this kind of pressure—so why does he? Because of his name.
Being the son of LeBron James comes with immense pressure and players drafted late often need time to develop. Not everyone is a Rookie of the Year-level prospect seamlessly transitioning to the league. Bronny obviously isn’t a great basketball player. He averages fewer than one in each stat per game with limited minutes, but he’s still finding his footing. Meanwhile, top picks like Alex Sarr and Zaccharie Risacher have underperformed compared to later-round rookies such as Dalton Knecht and Jared McCain, and they haven’t faced nearly as much scrutiny as Bronny. The world seems eager to tear him down simply because of his father’s legacy. The reason he even goes by Bronny in the first place is because he wanted to make his own identity ever since he was a kid.
Bronny’s journey is unique, and he deserves the same patience granted to other young players.
Young Sports Stars Replacing the Old
LeBron James
Aaron Rodgers
Lionel Messi
13 years OLDER
For over two decades, names like LeBron James and Stephen Curry have been the first to come to the mind of nearly every avid sports fan when basketball comes into discussion. Even those who do not follow sports can recognize their names as basketball players who are arguably at the top of the NBA. This holds true across multiple sports, as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been the faces of soccer, and Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers used to be that for football.
However, all these players share something in common; they are now old. For the most part, they do not have full heads of white hair or wrinkles across their faces, but they are all over ten years older than their professional league’s average age.
Although those still playing are filling the stat sheets, they are seeing a drop-off from their previous years.
Looking at stats this season, James is averaging 3.8 fewer points, 0.8 fewer steals and 0.2 fewer blocks than his career averages. The Player vs Time graph above shows a similar decline in Messi and Rodgers’ stats this season as well. Messi is averaging 0.23 fewer goals per match, 0.18 fewer assists and 12.3 fewer appearances per year and Rodgers is averaging 32 fewer passing yards per game, a 0.4% higher interception rate and 7.6 fewer touchdowns per year.
Although the players that many fans have grown to love are on their decline, there are some young players in each sport that are rising
GENERATION OF ELEVATION
Old
League Average Age Comparison
Story by Dupree Henry | henrydup000@hsestudents.org, Omar Elsayed | elsayoma000@hsestudents.org
3 years
YOUNGER
4 years
YOUNGER
9 years YOUNGER
to stardom, with players like Anthony Edwards in the NBA, CJ Stroud in the NFL and Lamine Yamal in the soccer world making their mark in their respective sports.
This generational shift is evident as more young stars are emerging and achieving accolades. In the NBA, young talents like Jayson Tatum and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have moved into the top five of the MVP conversation this season, challenging established names like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic who even still aren’t in their thirties. In soccer, Lamine Yamal’s meteoric rise and contribution to Spain winning the European Championship at just 16 years old has already placed him among the best youngsters in the world. CJ
Stroud is making headway in the NFL as well, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year, making his first Pro Bowl and leading his team to a division title last season.
These players are controlling the stat sheets and earning the accolades that were once dominated by the older generation. As older stars like James, Messi, and Rodgers age out and are sadly nearing their retirements, the new generation is becoming more skilled, athletic, and versatile, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in their respective sports. This combination of the older generation’s decline and the younger generation’s rapid rise is fueling a shift in the athletic landscape. A generation of elevation.
The future of sports seems more promising than ever. The next generation is not only filling the shoes of their predecessors but also setting new standards for their disciplines. Sports are in good hands moving forward, and the next era of greatness is already unfolding.
“These old, broken-down NBA players talking about their era and how they were back then, and the players today are not as good as they were back then,” former NBA player Larry Bird said in the 2019 NBA Awards Ceremony, “It’s just amazing how these guys are playing the game today, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.”
Anthony Edwards C. J Stroud
Lamine Yamal
OStory by Lili Perez | perezlil000@hsestudents.org
the Fishers Event Center will be the largest mid-sized event facility in the area.
Starting strong, the girls’ team is undefeated with a record of 7-0-0. With last year’s Mudsock game in mind, with a score of 70-67, the team this year is ready to defeat the Tigers again.
The varsity boys’ team has been practicing and gearing up for the season, preparing for this moment–mudsock. They beat Ben Davis, who went to state last year and lost against Fishers, in a scrimmage scoring 5645.
n Dec. 20, 2024, the boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball teams will play a double header against rival Fishers at the new Fishers Event Center.
With a seating capacity of 7,500, the Fishers Event Center is a cutting-edge venue situated at 11000 Stockdale Street. Once it opens on Nov. 22,
“I would say the intensity is different only because it’s our rivals,” senior Braeden Totton said. “Physically, I have been preparing every day at practice ... also in the weight room to ensure my body is prepared for a physical game. Mentally, I have just been taking mental reps of plays and different situations.”
To prepare for the game, players and attendees need to note some essential details. The venue operates on a cashless system and only permits card and mobile payments. Bags are required to be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and should not be larger
than 12” x 6” x 12”.
With readiness and preparation, boys and girls basketball are hyped to take on the Tigers at the Fishers Event Center.
“I am very excited heading into the first-ever game at the Fishers Event Center. It’s a great experience to play in front [of] what could be hounds of fans,” Totton said. “Not many high school athletes can say they will have played in front of 7,000+ fans for a basketball game.”
Junior Kennedy Holman prepares for the shot against Laurence North on Nov. 7. Photo by Carson Trotter.
Junior Jack Jacobs takes a shot during practice on Nov. 13. Photo by Carson Trotter.
WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW GALLERY
Story by Omar Elsayed | elsayoma000@hsestudents.org
Photo by Marley Hayes.
Photo by Marcus Laux.
Photo by Katherine Senseman.
Photo by Drew Kaplan.
Photo by Omar Elsayed.
Photo by Addison Ginther.
Photo by Catherine Lederman.
Photo by Carson Trotter.
