The Harbinger, November 2020

HARBINGER November 2020

ZCHS Students Current Event Poll Find out what students think about current events

Expert Educators Read about some of the longest residing teachers of ZCHS and the changes they’ve seen

History of the Harbinger See what the very first Harbingers were like and how they have evolved

Zionsville Community High School

TABLE OF CONTENTS News

Opinion

4 A Better Black Friday?

14-15 ZCHS Students Current

Feature

Event Poll

5 All About Lindsey

16 Stinkin’ Rich

Sports

6-7 Expert Educators 8-9 Teens Who Teach

17 Preparing to Play

Student Life

18-19 Bond, Team Bond

10-11-12 History of the Harbinger Cover photo by Rachel Shultz

13 The Pantry is Full

STAFF Print Editor

Rachel Shultz Media Editor

Riya Patel Web Editor

Logan Seiler Announcements Editor

Lauryn Moss Video Project Editor

Josh Nieman

Student Life Editor

Becka Bash News & Sports Editor

Kailey Wallenius Opinion Editor

Mary Demarco Feature Editor

Lucy Robinson Copy Editor

Henry Holloway

Staff Members

Brooklyn Brown

Gretchen Drews

John Farrar

Ella Hughes

Dax Lara

Sarah Maniscalo

Elizabeth Rexing

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@ZCHSNews

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EDITOR’S NOTE T

here have been a lot of changes that we have experienced during the past year. I know that we have all probably heard enough about change, but I’m really proud of the resiliency you have all shown. None of this has been easy, for us or our teachers.

This issue, many of our stories focus on change. There are new changes, like the differences this year in Black Friday and new regulations at food pantries, but also gradual changes, like how our long-time teachers have adapted to the many changes at school, and how our Harbinger magazine has grown since its creation in the 1950s.

Change is a lot of what we cover, but the changes don’t stop with what we have included in our magazine. We have an apparent new president-elect, Joe Biden, and the historic first-ever female vice president- elect, Kamala Harris. As a female myself, it has been exciting for me to witness such a fascinating moment in history. The first woman in the White House has been long overdue.

That being said, we must hold the leaders of our future accountable.

We want people in the White House who represent all Americans.

Unity is so important, especially after all of the divisiveness and chaos the election has ensued.

I hope that unity will continue to be a focus of our students as we navigate the uncertainty that is the rest of our semester.

Our staff has worked so hard to produce our second issue, and we hope that you enjoy this issue of the Harbinger.

Keep up the good work Zionsville!

Rachel Shultz, Print Editor

EDITORIAL

Students and Politics W

ith all that has happened in the world this election year, it Juniors has been hard to go anywhere without hearing about polHannah itics. More students have been learning about politics, especially Doran and through social media. We would like to commend the students CJ Yates of Zionsville for educating themselves and forming their own hold signs opinions. In the past, we have done current event polls, but promoting never have we had this number of respondents. It is important candidates to know what you believe, and it is also important to keep a during balanced knowledge. Make sure that you get your information Election from unbiased news sources, and fact check all information Day on Nov. 3. you find on social media before you allow it to influence your photo subbeliefs. As students, we need to keep an open mind and learn mitted by about opinions other than our own. Disagreements and debates Hannah are bound to occur, but we need to be respectful and not resort Doran to personal attacks. We hope that the students of Zionsville will continue to stay up to date on politics and current events to remain informed and engaged members of our society.

The mission of the Harbinger is to provide both the student body of Zionsville Community High School and the local community with the unbiased truth. The staff strives to handle every topic they take on with respect and objectivity, while also providing a source of entertainment and intriguing content for the reader. The Harbinger aims to reflect the true atmosphere of ZCHS by including students of all walks of life in the publication.

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A

Better Black

FRIDAY?

How Black Friday may be different this year

By Brooklyn Brown, Staff record 189.6 million U.S. citizens shopped from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday in 2019 according to the National Retail Federation. Junior Ryan Smiley thinks that the “stampedes of people” that gather for Black Friday sales has always been problematic, but might not be an issue this year due to COVID-19.

“I don’t think as many people will be shopping in real life, there will probably be an increase of people shopping online,” Smiley said.

Most likely, retailers will try to avoid instore exclusives and encourage online sales, according to gamespot.com. Even before the pandemic, companies like Amazon were already participating in huge online Black Friday sales like “Prime Day” and “Holiday Dash”.

“I’m glad that it’s kind of happening now that we are in a more technologically advanced place,” sophomore Jasmine Mckinnon said.

She’s looking forward to ‘Cyber Monday’ sales and plans to cash in on electronics and name-brand clothes that would otherwise be too expensive.

Sophomore Lilly Bass was hesitant to participate in Black Friday in the past because of how competitive the sales could get.

“Everything is usually sold out by the

A

time most people get there,” Bass said.

Now that there will be more online sales, she plans to search for deals on skincare products from stores like Ulta and Sephora.

“My favorite thing is that everything and every website has a sale, rather than just particular shops on any other regular day,” Bass said.

Black Friday is much more than just a massive sale, it’s become a key part of modern culture in the U.S. Some people even depend on the deals and use the extreme sales to make Holiday gift-giving more plentiful.

“Not everyone can afford a bunch of Christmas stuff full price,” Mckinnon said.

The unique events of this year could make sales more accessible, meaning getting affordable gifts will be easier than ever. It’s possible that because of this many people might enjoy online deals. However, adapting to this new take on the Black Friday tradition might be difficult for some.

“It is normally very chaotic,” Smiley said.

Mckinnon doesn’t think people will be able to give up the annual chaos of Black Friday so easily.

“I wouldn’t be surprised that even if Walmart [for example] was closed, some [anti-maskers] would still show up wanting that in-store exclusive deal.” Mckinnon said.

Mckinnon thinks that new Black Friday norms like workers being forced to miss Thanksgiving with their families is laced with toxicity. Luckily, stores like Target,

Walmart, Best Buy, Bed Bath & Beyond, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and more have been confirmed to close on Thanksgiving Day this year, according to gamespot.com.

“Some stores now are getting crowded... and it’s not even Black Friday,” Mckinnon said.

To avoid the mad rush of shopaholics, many Black Friday sales might start as early as the first week of November according to gamespot. com .

“I feel like that’s a better idea to keep people distanced inside their homes to help prevent COVID-19” Bass said.

“Personally, I don’t participate in Black Friday shopping but if I did, I would probably go to an NBA store for deals on throwback Jerseys,” Smiley said.

Zionsville students like Bass, and Smiley who were hesitant to participate in Black Friday before might try out this less crowded new take on Christmas deals.

“I think shopping will be different for the next couple of years because COVID-19 drastically affected the world… and it will make us rethink how we do things in person,” Mickinnon said.

Illustrations by Brooklyn Brown

4 news

All About

By Rachel Shultz, Print Editor

W

hether you sing with Lindsey Fletcher in Chorale, stop by her table at Best Buddies, catch her on top of a varsity cheer pyramid at a football game, or watched her win Homecoming Queen in September, her involvement in school activities and her positive attitude make her a well known student.

“There is never a dull moment with her,” senior Sophie Shank said. “It is so common these days to just be filled with negative comments. Lindsey never dwells on that.

She looks to the bright side and I think that people gravitate towards that.”

Fletcher and Shank, varsity cheerleaders, have been on the team together for four years.

“I love how “Lindsey is always super exshe always has cited to be there,” something new Shank said. “She is always wanting to talk about. try something She always has to new and isn’t a super positive afraid to try anything. She is super attitude and encouraging and she’s incredibly gets excited for you. Lindsey has outgoing. a flyer since -Tara Harmon, been freshman year, but 12 she has grown so much.”

One of Fletcher’s favorite activities at school is cheering.

“I just love cheering at games and entertaining people,” Fletcher said.

Fletcher has improved greatly during her time as a cheerleader, learning to do extensions, and even having her own pyramid.

“She is so dedicated and always wants to put her best foot forward. She has worked hard to be able to do what she does today,” Shank said.

Fletcher attends tumbling classes to work on her stunts as well. “[I like] working on new skills and getting better.” Fletcher said. “I’m working on my back handspring.”

Aside from cheer, Fletcher is also involved in Best Buddies. “[I like Best Buddies] because I get to

Lindsey

hang out with my one on one,” Fletcher said.

Fletcher’s one on one is senior Tara Harmon, who is also the club’s president.

“I love how she always has something new to talk about,” Harmon said. “She always has a super positive attitude and she’s incredibly outgoing. Not to mention I’m so proud of her for being Homecoming Queen.”

Fletcher was crowned queen at the Homecoming game on Sept. 18.

“I was crying,” Fletcher said. “I was super shocked.”

Fletcher loves cheering for others as a cheerleader, but also enjoys her own moments in the spotlight, both in her win as Homecoming Queen and her time in Unified Track.

“I like when people cheer me on,” Fletcher said.

Fletcher’s sass and positive attitude have an influence on those around her.

“She always has the best comments that never fail to make me laugh,” Shank said.

“She also loves to do TikTok dances with me or just dance around in general. She really knows how to put a smile on my face without even trying.”

Involvement in various activities around

the school give Fletcher a way to make a lot of new friends.

“I think it’s just fun to get to know people,” Fletcher said.

The high school will not be the same without Fletcher’s attitude and school spirit.

“She is a funny, inspiring, and kind girl.

I don’t know why someone wouldn’t want to be friends with her,” Shank said.

Lindsey cheers on top of her cheer pyramid during a 2019 football game. photo by Peyton Burney

Lindsey, accompanied by her family, walks under the balloons during senior night. photo

by Rachel Shultz

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Expert Educators

By Gretchen Drews, Staff

Z

ionsville Community High School is constantly changing. Not only does it day to day as students and staff move among the halls, but throughout the years as well. Who would be around for long enough to see many of these changes? Take for example, these four teachers.

One familiar face is Ann Bender who teaches Cadet, Film Literature, and English 10 Honors. She has been a teacher here at ZCHS since 2005 and an educator since 1993 (that’s 27 years of teaching!). Bender was inspired to begin teaching for a couple of reasons. To begin, her mother was a great influence on her as she herself was a teacher as well as her brother.

“I think it is in our blood,” Bender said.

Even so, as a young child, Bender had a passion for the career as she would teach her dolls and stuffed animals for fun while she played with her toys. At first, Bender had wanted to teach English at an elementary school level, however, upon rethinking her choice and after taking a great English class, she decided she wanted to teach high schoolers instead.

“I chose education after my first semester at Butler,” Bender said. “I was actually placed in as an elementary education major, and I changed to English Secondary Ed.”

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Something interesting to note, is that Bender has always considered Zionsville since the beginning of her career. In 1993, she had applied for a teaching position at the high school as well as Pike High School in Indianapolis. At the time, she was hired

by Pike and ended up doing some student teaching there, but she always hoped to have the opportunity at Zionsville. A spot finally opened.

“I remember driving by the high school and thinking someday I will work there,” Bender said. “A couple months later a position opened up in the middle of the year, and I applied and interviewed for it. I got the job and the rest is history.”

Sara Thornley is another teacher who has been with ZCHS for a while. In her 15 years of working at the school, all of them have been dedicated to teaching in the Resource Room for Special Education. Thornley also graduated from this very school. After high school, she decided to go to Indiana University and graduate with a major in Sociology. Then, there weren’t many job options for her, but after sharing an experience teaching for SPED with her sister, she knew it was her calling.

“My sister was a SPED teacher at Noblesville High School at the time and menKubly, 1994

tioned I should try to become an aide in the classroom,” Thornley said. “I did, and I loved it so much that I decided to go back to school and get my SPED Teaching License.”

After receiving her teaching license, she began searching for jobs and surprisingly there was an opening at the high school. At first, Thornley didn’t know if it would be the best option as her mother worked as a secretary then and she didn’t know how she would feel returning to teach at a school she graduated from. That was until her one of her old teachers who was also a principal at the time encouraged her to come work for the school.

She took a leap of faith and did the interview.

“The principal at the time Jim Eggers insisted I come interview,” Thornley said. “He was one of my favorite teachers in high school, he taught Psychology, so I just couldn’t say no.”

Thornley said she has always been aware of how the school has changed and progressed.

For example, the number of students has grown and the building itself has expanded.

Most notably, the wedge, the PAC, and of course the longest and busiest of hallways that stretches from the freshman center to the main campus— the “gerbil tunnel”.

“I graduated with 168 students. We are obviously much bigger than that now,” Thornley said. “The new high school, new to me

probably not you, is built on and around my old high school and middle school.”

Aside from the physical changes, Thornley also has noticed changes in how students function in school; the best example being with cell phones. When Thornley was in high school, she and her peers weren’t allowed to bring them into class and remembered that if anyone was caught with them, teachers would take them away. Nowadays, she doesn’t think twice when she sees students go about carrying phones around.

“Cellphone use is one major change, because now it’s so embedded in our everyday lives and they don’t bother me at all,” Thornley said.

Something else that has changed is teaching methods. Scott Kubly, a math teacher who has been teaching for 32 years, said his teaching style has transformed in many aspects. Kubly now has white boards and markers in his classroom as well as some more efficient tools like PowerPoint that make teaching lessons easier. Web assigns have also helped Kubly out a lot because of its self-grading system.

“My teaching style has definitely changed since 1989,” Kubly said.

“Back then it was the blackboard, chalk and eraser that I used to present a lesson.”

With the pandemic, Kubly also had to make some technological adjustments and like every teacher, he had learn how to hold Zoom meetings for remote students. The application has not only given him the ability to teach lessons to students at home, but also

Thornley, 2007

assist students who need extra help or are in need of more collaboration.

“I have learned more technology in the past six and a half months than I ever thought I would need,” Kubly said.

Bob Brennan, who has taught both Social Studies and Economic classes here at the school did not set out to be a teacher. After his college graduation, Brennan worked second shift at his job.

He would mostly nap during the day, so he was well rested before going to his night shift.

One day, after Brennan returned from work, he heard his daughter talking about her day at school where one of her teachers asked her about her parents’ jobs. After hearing how she answered, Brennan made the decision to become a teacher.

“I came home from work and was told that my daughter was asked what your parents do,” Brennan said, “She replied, ‘My mommy works, and my daddy sleeps.’ I was working on second shift at the time.”

Brennan, has also learned some new tricks to getting students to learn better. Brennan made it a point to say how while it is important for his students to grasp the material being taught by him, it’s far more important to establish a good and healthy environment so that students are able to learn and focus.

“The subject matter is secondary to the relationships you build in the classroom,” Brennan said.

Brennan, 1998 photos provided by Aerie

Thankful for Teachers Teacher Appreciation Week may not be until May, but there is still a lot that the students of Zionsville can do to show how grateful we are for our teachers. Take some time to thank your teachers for what they do. We wouldn’t be here without them!

Bender, 2007

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Senior Alissa Kizer works with a second grade student. photo submitted by Kizer

# feature

Teens Who

Teach

A look into what it means to be a cadet teacher

By Sarah Maniscalo, Staff

G

ood morning Miss Alissa,” Alissa Kizer, senior, is greeted by second graders as she walks into Jennifer Bender’s classroom at Boone Meadow Elementary School each morning.

“They’re so excited to see me, which makes my heart happy,” Kizer said.

Cadet teaching is a popular curriculum for senior students, with 28 participants this year. It is designed to give students personal experience in classrooms across the district.

Students are placed in a class within the school district each semester to serve under teacher mentors and provide assistance in various capacities.

“Cadets report to their classrooms by 9,” Ann Bender ZCHS, English teacher and cadet program advisor said. “[A cadet] may lead morning meeting, hang a bulletin board, grade papers, lead a small math group, read a book to the class, answer questions, got to recess, take the kids to the bathroom or specials, attend specials, meet with the mentor, plan a lesson, teach a lesson … the possibilities are really endless.”

Kizer usually starts her day by grading papers or any other form of assistance to her mentor teacher. After the morning lesson, she works closely with students on their reading.

“Take in every moment even if there is time when you are just observing the teacher teach because every minute there is priceless,” Kizer said.

Bender is in charge of the program and has been since 2006.

“I was asked to do Cadet by the previous principal. I joked with him about why he was asking me to take over the program. Was it because I was the best person for the job or because I was the only one who had room in her schedule? He said it was because I was the

“

best person,” she said. “I have been devotedly passionate about the program ever since.”

Bender was given the opportunity to work with Butler University a few years ago. She worked with Angela Lupton, MS, an assistant dean at the College of Education for Butler, to create a quality curriculum. Zionsville was the pilot program for Butler’s Cadet teaching dual credit course. “[Cadet teaching] continue[s] to be the only dual credit program Butler offers.”

Bender said, “Since we started, several more local high schools have joined the dual credit program at Butler.”

The program is beneficial in providing insight to students about their future careers.

“They have an opportunity to see if this is the right career path for them. They will know by the end of the year if they want to be a teacher,” Bender said.

Alaina Carr, senior, is interested in pursuing a future career in youth development.

“This class helps me gain insight,” said Carr. “It is a first-hand experience of seeing how even though the kids are all the same age, they all learn in different ways and at different paces.”

Numerous cadet teachers have gone into the field of education, and some former students have even moved full circle, back into the building to teach their own students.

“A couple [of] years ago on the first teacher day of school, I walked into a meeting with new teachers and I heard my name,” Bender said. “‘Mrs. Bender.’ I turned around and I saw five former cadets in the room.

They had just been hired. I had never been so proud or happy.”

And even if Cadet teachers do not pursue a career in education, Bender said, experience still shapes each student to become a better

version of themselves and look at the world in a new light.

“This class has taught me how to be patient, creative, and open-minded,” Carr said. “The kids influence me to reciprocate their happiness and excitement going into each day.”

Not only does hands-on experience in the classroom benefit the cadet students, but it also influences the children in the classroom.

The cadet program facilitates a bond between student and cadet.

“It’s so amazing to see the progress the students make and celebrate with them when it happens!” Meghan Stehle, senior, said.

“When they are parents, they will know what it is like to be a teacher. When they are voters, homeowners, community members, they will know what it is like in the classroom, not just from the perspective of a student, but from the perspective of someone who has taught,” Bender said. “These cadets will be the voices of students and teachers for the rest of their lives.”

How to Join

If any juniors are interested, the application process, which includes an essay, two letters of recommendation, and an interview, begins in January. Interviews will be conducted at the end of January and selections are made the first week of February for the next school year. feature 9

history of the

Harbinger

By Elizabeth Rexing, Staff

Then and Now

There’s no denying that 1956 was different than today and much of what was published previously in Harbingers show these changes.

But despite the differences throughout these 64 years, some topics continue to make the headlines. Back when soccer wasn’t considered a varsity sport at ZCHS (1981) and the football team was a IHSAA champion (1987), Bieber Fever (2010), Silly Bandz (2010), High School Musical 3 (2008), and CD (2007) and album reviews (1982) were hot

publication pieces. These things aren’t as popular in today’s publications however, topics like powderpuff (1984) , Mr. Z (1991), and the performances of Royalaires, Choralaires, and other choirs, which were previously known as the Eagleaires and Mademoiselles (1967) still appear in the Harbinger, as do more serious issues, like climate change (2007) and saving the planet (1990), elections (1976, 2008), and unfortunately, the dreaded PSAT (1967).

What’s Not to Love?

“The vision, the design, the ideas, everything just changed every year so it was like you got to recreate it almost.”

-Jill Chickedantz, former Harbinger adviser “I really enjoy the humor and the more in-depth analysis over certain topics that are being discussed [in the podcast].”

--Rylan Lutterman, 11 “I really like the photography on the Instagram account, it’s very fun and artistic.”

-Ava Esteves, 10

“I love the Harbinger because you get to see a different side of the student body and get to see the life of other students and what they’re accomplishing. The magazine also is a nice break during 8th period and always makes me smile.”

-Daysun Brown, 11 “I liked to see the creativity, the curiosity and quite frankly, the talent, that they would produce… I was always just inspired by that.”

-Lori Wilken, former Harbinger adviser

Importance of Student Media “The more people you get involved in [student media], the more voices that you have, the more important your publication will be….

Media is such a huge influence on our society right now so I think it's vastly important that you guys get the experience of putting together a publication and dealing with an audience.”

-Jill Chickedantz, former adviser “It’s about democracy and First Amendment rights’; it’s about creating a community feel in your high school; it’s about capturing the voice of your generation through your recording. It doesn’t matter how old you are, your perspective matters.”

-Lori Wilken, former adviser

10 student life

“Student publications are important because they give the student journalists and the student body real world experiences.”

-Kim Thaman, former adviser “Harbinger is a class unlike any other. Every day is something new.

Students have the opportunity to explore their interests and learn new skills. Plus, the Harbinger staff provides a real service to the entire school. Student media classes prepare students for careers both in and out of media by giving them real-world experience in working together on a large project like the magazine or Harb Headlines.”

-Lauren Wagner, adviser

The first newspaper, “Ye Olde” Eagle Review, is printed at Eagle Township High School, which has an enrollment of 338

The Harbinger publishes that “ZCHS is bursting at its seams” and ZCHS’s enrollment is 668 students

The school name is changed to Zionsville Community High School. ZCHS’s publication is renamed The Harbinger.

The Harbinger magazine wins the National Scholastic Press Association Newspaper Pacemaker An exclusive interview with the new principal, Tim East, is published by The Harbinger First Harbinger with a color cover is published Harbinger Headlines, a video announcemnts show, is created The Harbinger starts printing entirely in color The Harbinger joins Social Media on both Twitter and Instagram. The Harbinger places 6th in NSPA Best of Show

Harbinger’s first episode of its podcast, Put the Pen Down, airs. The magazine wins an IHSPA Hoosier Star award and is a finalist for the NSPA Pacemaker Award

1968 2008 2011 2018 2020

2019 2017 2010 1992 1956

A Timeline of Events

student life 11

How To Find the Harbinger The Harbinger isn’t just the magazine; it’s made up of multiple platforms that are all run by the staff. Check out the key below for information on where to access all things Harbinger.

Magazine: Comes with yearbook purchase Instagram: @zchsharb Twitter: @ZCHSNews

Podcast: Put the Pen Down (via Soundcloud) Headlines: The ZCHS Harbinger on YouTube

Want to Get Involved?

Join any branch of the Harbinger staff (Print, Headlines, or Social Media) after taking one of two, semester-long prereq classes: Journalism or Digital Media

Cover Collage

12 student life

The Pantry is

FULL

Student volunteers embrace safety changes at food pantries

By Lucy Robinson, Feature Editor Standing outside the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry, junior Courtney Durda helps to load cars full of food. As she watches the food being given to people, she can see their mood skyrocket. Their numerous thank yous and smiling faces never fail to brighten her day.

There are many ZCHS students who have taken to volunteering at food pantries, whether it be for a group, such as the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and others, or their own accord.

“Our community, like many others, has people who need help,” Hanna Wilhite, junior, said.

Whatever reason these students volunteer, service hours weren’t the only thing they get out of it.

“My favorite part is seeing how grateful people are to get their food for the week,” Sheridan Eggers, senior, said. “It removes a ton of stress by not having to worry about

groceries when so many are out of work.”

Volunteering at these food pantries gives students the opportunity to help others.

These pantries are especially needed now during the pandemic.

“With such high levels of unemployment, lots of people need extra help when it comes to feeding their families,” Eggers said. “The line of cars stretched for multiple blocks, and people from all walks of life made use of the food pantry’s resources.”

With more people coming to food pantries now, many precautions have been put in place.

“Instead of having people come inside and choose the foods they wanted from the shelves, we set up tents outside and had them drive through, opening their trunks for us to load food in quickly and safely,” Eggers said.

At the Zionsville Food Pantry, they shifted many of their procedures when COVID shut down the town.

“We started immediately serving clients from their cars,” Nancy Thompson, a director at the Zionsville Food Pantry, said.

“We began to prepare bags ahead based on what foods we had in stock, so we could wheel the tables out to curb and more easily serve.”

There have also been many changes in the volunteers and how many there are at a time, limiting it to only seven or eight.

“We have had a big turn over in volunteers as many of the regulars faced family or medical A shelf of food at the Zionsville Food Pantry, photo provided by Nancy Thompson

issues that prevented them from serving,” Thompson said. “We used younger, and more resilient volunteers, wearing masks, Teacher Danielle and not getting close to the Wilson runs a client, for food drive during everyone’s proNovember that tection. We also students can get limit which members of the involved in. The leadership team food drive will come to make run from Nov. 9 sure we aren’t to 20. Non-perall exposed at ishable items can one time.” be brought to 8th The pantry is provided with period classes. fresh produce “It’s a humbling from multiple experience,” Wilson different places. said. “I often take Many compafor granted that I nies have offered the pantry never have to worry their products about food, and I for free or at a think it’s importreduced cost to provide for the ant for students to also become large number the pantry involved with our serves. community.”

“This past week we served 100 families, which seems to be our average number per week,” Thompson said.

Volunteering is beneficial to both the people volunteering and those in need. It is important that people get involved however they can, especially in these times.

“Just knowing that you are helping at least one person is a great feeling that I believe everyone should feel,” Wilhite said. “Volunteering also creates a sense of unity in our community, and in times like COVID that feeling is what keeps us together.”

Fall Food Drive

student life 13

ZCHS Current Events Poll Results taken from a poll of of 547 ZCHS students

graphics by Becka Bash, Student Life Editor

Survey included “Other / Prefer not to answer� option, so results may not add up to 100%

student life #

Stinkin’ nkin’ Sti Rich Rich

What high schoolers think about some of the richest people in the world

by Mary Demarco, Opinion Editor

J

eff Bezos is estimated to be the world’s first trillionaire as early as 2026, according to “The Economic Times”. Is it ethical for someone to have the ability to reach the trillions? Could a person with that much money be doing something better with their wealth?

Throughout history, there have been some big names in billion dollar companies such as Steve Jobs, creator of Apple, Mark Zuckerberg, creator of Facebook, and Bezos who runs Amazon. Yet, you would think that they wouldn’t need all of this money to sustain themselves.

“I don’t think that there’s anything in this world that you need a trillion dollars for. Never are you going to need a trillion,” junior Molly Jefferson said.

Yes, this money is theirs’ and you could argue that they worked hard to become this rich. But instead of keeping this wealth to themselves, billionaires could do so much more, such as helping out the homeless population, working on climate change, or any other large issues occurring in the world.

“Once you have enough revenue where it becomes in the millions and then there’s nothing to do with it, I don’t see the point of just having it lie around,” sophomore Grace Howe said. “Where else is it going to go? And the fact that there are so many places in the world that need that money

and there’s no way that they could get it.”

Instead of keeping this wealth to themselves, billionaires could contribute more to society as a whole. In general, a more equal way in which we could all live together would be better. A way where we can avoid rich privilege and focus on the actions people have chosen instead. A way in which we’re able to support those struggling and continue to grow as a community.

The homeless population in America has come to 552,830 people, according to “The State of Homelessness in America”.

According to the Huffington Post, it would take $20 billion dollars to end homelessness in the U.S. With the amount of money some people have, this problem could be eliminated.

“They need to start doing stuff. Jeff Bezos could be doing so much more than he does.

I wish he would help with kids and poverty or anything. He donates a million dollars but that’s like a cent to him,” Jefferson said.

Rich privilege is ever present in our society. From the legal system to everyday events.

“Once you start showing off your cash, people are just going to let you pass,” Howe said. “That’s the whole reason why people plead guilty. They don’t have the money to defend themselves. If you have money you can just pay your way out of it or get

96.6%

We asked 58 of high school people said that students their rich privilege is thoughts in still real now an informal Snapchat poll 16 opinion

76.3%

lawyers.”

The richest in our society need to reevaluate this privilege and the government needs to find ways to create an environment where people aren’t treated unfairly based on wealth Many people turn a blind eye when rich people are able to get their way out of prison time because of the amount of money, privilege, and fame.

Other people who are lucky enough to claim the title of billionaire or millionaire have contributed greatly to society as a whole. Mackenzie Scott has given $1.7 billion to institutions that support women’s rights, LGBTQ equality, and organizations that fight climate change and racial injustices. She has done so much more than just this with the wealth she is fortunate enough to have.

Others have continued similar actions similar to Mackenzie Scott which is what should happen. Why let your money sit around, never to be used? With the opportunities the rich have, they should choose to donate, and help those who are struggling.

In order to live in a better world, those who are privileged enough to live with millions and billions of dollars need to start donating more to those who aren’t afforded the same.

said they wanted billionaires to donate money to charities

94.8 %

of people said that rich privilege is present in Zionsville

Preparingto

Play

Despite high costs, club sports elevate athletes in off-season

By Henry Holloway, Copy Editor s ZCHS athletes excel, one reason for the high level of performance may be the year round training that comes from participation in club sports.

“A lot of our athletes in the off season will play club and travel sports within their respective sport, such as soccer,” Athletic Director Greg Schellhase said.

“They’ll play for a club or travel team that will really help prepare them for the high school season.”

Senior Andrew Redkey plays club and varsity tennis. He started playing his freshman year and plays year round. “[Club tennis] simulates how you’re going to be playing in matches,” Redkey said. “It just prepares you for the situations you’re going to be in high school matches.”

Redkey said becoming accustomed to the atmosphere is a key component of success in an actual match. “[Club] allowed me to perfect doubles in season and I had the ability to do trial and error because it didn’t matter for anything in club,” Redkey said.

Schellhase said club and travel sports are an important part of improvement for some athletes.

“Our athletes are a lot of times doing private training and things outside of their respective sport, but then they’re also doing things individually such as playing tournaments on their own, going to clinics and lessons and things outside of the school practice that help prepare them for the high school season,” Schellhase said.

For senior and varsity tennis player Nick Winters, the consistent discipline in training enforces his skill.

“I train all year in club, and if it weren’t for that there’s no way I’d be where I am today,” Winters said.

A

year round keeps me in shape so that I can Sophomore Ethan Hatchett swims breaststroke at an outdoor have a more successful club practice during the summer. photo by Kailee Rockers high school season,” senior Ruth Cronin said.

“Already being in shape in the water by the time high school swimming starts allows me to take my training to the next level during the winter instead of having to spend my season getting back into shape.”

While club sports are beneficial in keeping student athletes in shape and elevating their competitiveness, Schellhase said there are disadvantages as well.

While playing in club is a key aspect “It’s become a profit center for of success in tennis, it also proves to be companies and for individuals,” he said. a vital component in other sports.

“It costs a lot of money to participate “I would say that club soccer helps a in travel sports, club sports, to give player develop more technical skills and lessons.” helps to meet different people and find Schellhase said the purpose of high new ways to play the game,” Nick Bohm, school athletics can be lost in club and senior, said. “This transferred very well travel sports. over to high school and our team since “Some of those sports are more we mostly all played club and were able just about the sport. It’s not about the to bring those experiences over and use experience, playing with your peers, that to win the championship. playing for your community, that kind of Junior Isabel Metzger plays club volthing,” Schellhase said. “It’s more of the leyball at Circle City where the competitransactional as opposed to the transfortion level adds to her continuous training mational.” and endurance.

Despite these downsides, Schell“Being on a competitive club team hase said that club sports are currently builds your endurance a lot because integral to the success of many student at tournaments you play three or four athletes. games a day,” Metzger said. “This “I think those team sports have benefitprepares you for school season because ed [from club sports],” Schellhase said. you are already in shape and can give “Most of our athletes that are playing your 120% since you just play one game at the varsity level do compete in some a night.” sort of travel sport within their respecClub and travel teams allow individutive sport in the spring or summer.” als to build strength year-round.

“Training with the club swim team

sports 17

Bond,

Team

Bond

Check out how the swim team, the pole vaulters, and the wrestling team bond with their teammates and grow closer as a team

By Kailey Wallenius, News and Sports Editor

Swimming Sisters- Girls Swimming

T

he girls swim team has a fun way for new swimmers to get to know the team.

“We have little sisters, and we pair them as freshmen and seniors,” senior Carlin Barksdale said.

The older sister helps the younger sister become more comfortable with swimming and with the group.

“We give each other gifts every home meet, and we hang out with them every once in a while,” Barksdale said Being a younger sister also has its benefits.

“When I was a freshman on the team, I had a senior swim sister, and it was a good way to meet new people on the team and not be in my little friend bubble,” Barksdale said.

The girls swimming team does not rely only on the sister strategy to get to know each other.

“We have a holiday party for the girls team, where we do white elephant gifts,” sophomore Katie Buroker said.

18 sports

The swim team also likes to get together after their many practices in the morning.

“Some of the girls will go out to breakfast afterwards and talk, or just go to someone’s house and hangout,” Buroker said.

Joining the swim team is also a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

“I knew a couple of the girls before I went into high school swim, but I became really good friends with some of the other girls that were there and I really liked it,” Buroker said.

Sports teams are a way to bring different kinds of people together.

“Everybody has super different personalities and the way that they collide is super funny, and everyone is really different, but it is really fun to be friends with these people,” Barksdale said.

Senior Carlin Barksdale spreads her wings as she does the butterfly to the finish line. photo provided by Carlin Barksdale

Tight-Knit Teenagers- Pole Vaulting The pole vaulters are a smaller team at ZCHS. “There are five of us who are currently doing [pole vaulting}, but two more might come back for next season,” senior Cade Priddy said.

The small number of people on the pole vaulting team allows them get to know each other better.

“You get to know everybody, because when you’re on a team like track with thirty people its harder to get to know everybody as well,” Priddy said.

Students on smaller teams appreciate the intimacy of a smaller team, as being able to bond more makes it that much special.

“I feel like we have all gotten to know each other really well in such a short amount

“We all have this really amazing bond, even through all the different grade levels.”- Kennedy Merrel, 10

of time, and we all have this really amazing bond, even through all the different grade levels,” junior Kennedy Merrel said. “I became best friends with one of the freshmen that I would have never even known or crossed paths with.”

On the other hand, being a smaller team creates more competition among the teammates.

“Me and this one senior, she’s been really great this whole year. I feel like I have finally gotten to the level where we are competing against each other,” Merrel said. “She is better than me, which is amazing, but now I’m trying to catch her, and she’s not letting me catch her.”

While the official season has not started, practice has begun for the five pole vaulters.

“We started practice about a month ago [mid-September] which is really early to try and get as much practice time in,” Priddy said. “We don’t usually start practice until mid November.”

The team plans on doing some fun bonding activities to get to know each other and grow closer as a team.

“We haven’t done a whole lot yet, we went to get breakfast as a team after practice once, but we are planning to go to some new places like Sky Zone, and some other fun places like that,” Priddy said.

Sophomore Ava Estevez, senior Annie Busse, junior Kennedy Merrel, senior Cade Priddy, and junior Abby Hitchcock pose with their poles after a long practice. photo provided by Kennedy Merrel

Bonded Brothers- Boys Wrestling One large team sport is wrestling. The wrestling team has about 35 boys on it, making it a team with enough athletes to make the atmosphere competitive.

“I think having a big team is beneficial, it makes it harder for you to be a leader with a big group, and it gives you something to work for,” senior Logan Wagner said.

Having a medium sized team allows smaller groups of guys to become closer, and gives a variety of people for the boys to meet.

“We’ve got a group of about six or seven seniors that I probably wouldn’t be friends with right now if I didn’t wrestle,” Wagner said.

This size of team also allows the boys to celebrate their victories together as a team.

“Everyone gets super hype when anyone

succeeds or wins a match, we honestly treat each other like brothers,” Wagner said.

Another reason that the team is closer, is because of their coach, history teacher Doug Welch.

“He’s made a really good effort as getting to know us as people, and not just wrestlers,” Wagner said. “Even with the JV kids, if a JV kid shows up early to practice he’ll give them props at the end, he just jokes around and messes with everyone, tries to make sure everyone has a good time.”

Welch also likes to make a personal connection with each of the team members.

“We play a lot of spike ball, we actually talk to Coach a lot. We communicate really well. He’ll call us out of the clear blue at like 8 o’clock at night and ask what are you

doing,” Wagner said.

“Everyone gets super hype when anyone succeeds or wins a match, we honestly treat each other like brothers.” - Logan Wagner, 11 sports 19

ZCHS Moments Psych Club Pumpkin Painting

Bring Change to Mind

Psychology Club hosted a pumpkin painting event on Oct. 27 in the Freshmen Center Cafe. “I would totally paint pumpkins again next year for Psych Club,” junior Sophia Raikos said. “It’s a really easy fall activity where you get to hangout with friends and have some fun listening to Halloween music and eating candy.”

Drawing with chalk, junior Alli Domogalik writes encouraging messages outside the senior doors.

photo by Ruth Cronin

Cross Country State

Orchestra Concert

On Oct. 8, sophomore Tyler Alessandrini plays bass at the fall orchestra concert. Zionsville parents and patrons watched the concert socially distanced in the Performing Arts Center and virtually. photo by Riya Patel

photo by Riya Patel

Pink-out Powder Throw

At the football game on Oct. 2, students show their school spirit by throwing pink powder. photo by Rachel Shultz

The girls and boys cross county teams won fourth place and ninth place respectively on Oct. 31 at the state championships. “We were all so thankful and excited. We didn’t know if we’d even get a season,” junior Taylor Osterling said. photo by Logan Seiler