Harbinger September 2022 Issue

Vol. 55, Issue 2 September 2022

HARBINGER Meet the people who help run the school that ‘never sleeps’ p. 14-16

Zionsville Community High School 1000 Mulberry St. Zionsville, Indiana

Note from The Editor

We live in a pretty tense society, one that’s boiling, almost ready to implode at times with anger, whether due to national debates such as the overturning of Roe v. Wade (pgs. 4-5) or just the wear and tear of daily life.

It seems that people don’t sit back and smell the roses as much as they maybe should. Honestly, good is happening all around us. For example, just when school starts to feel long and monotonous, the student council pumps up the spirit and creates something to look forward to like Homecoming. (p. 12) And if the fun of Homecoming is already fading fast, you don’t have to go far to find a friendly face in the faculty at ZCHS. (pgs. 15-17) All around us good things are happening each day. I challenge you to look around as you’re walking from class to class. Look for the good in people. Look for friends who are supporting each other through both triumphant and tough times. Look for those that make a positive impact on others. It could be a friend, someone in the faculty, literally anyone. Hold onto at least one thing that made your day better if all else fails. And if you can’t find that one thing…. Well, tomorrow is a new day.

Mary DeMarco, Editor in Chief Mary DeMarco, Editor in Chief

Staff Editor in Chief Mary DeMarco Art & Graphics Editor Brooklyn Brown Social Media Editor Amelia Loewer

2

Follow us @zchsharb Staff: Josie Brackett Lauren Burch Emerson Lucas Adanna Mbanu Amelia Meyers Georgianna Moreland Greta Reed George Waller Madeline Wilson

Editorial A month into the school year, the workload is beginning to hit hard. It feels like one thing piles on another, and suddenly you’re overwhelmed by a seemingly insurmountable load of homework. It’s easy to feel burned out early on. While there’s no answer to magically fix this struggle, there are some things that can help you get through the year not totally frazzled and stressed out. More than ever we need to be cheering each other on and leaning on one another.

Every student at ZCHS is struggling or stressed out about something. While it’s difficult to look outside of your own stresses, and the problems that consume your day, it’s important to remember to be the person for others that you’d want to have in your life.

When you recognize a friend or a peer going above and beyond with an assignment or even just in life, give them that recognition. Tell them how good they’re doing or how much effort you’ve noticed they’ve put into a project or task.

As many of you have noticed, there have been many cuts this year in sports teams. Some people may have started the year feeling really disappointed.

They’re seeing teammates go out to practice while they stay behind. Let those friends know that just because something doesn’t work out, it doesn’t mean that they aren’t good enough. The most powerful thing we can do is to uplift ourselves and others through the ups and downs of life.

The mission of the Harbinger is to provide timely, relevant, and interesting content, while handling topics with respect and objectively. Harbinger aims to reflect the diverse nature of the student body of ZCHS by including those of all walks of life in the publication. The Harbinger serves as a public forum and invites letters to the editor and communication from others. The Harbinger is student-run and opinions in the magazine do not necessarily represent those of ZCHS or Zionsville Community Schools.

Cover (featured clockwise from top): Kevin Nibbs, Liz Overberg, Marlene Knisely, and Jenny Hoyer. Cover photos by Brooklyn Brown and Mary DeMarco

Contents News 4 Opinions Di-

Sports

vided Over Roe Decision wasn’t on 6 This My 2022 Bingo Card

10

8 Cutversation 9 “Fund”amentals 11 Getting Girls in the Game

4

Student Life 12 Homecoming: Behind the 13

Scenes Broader Horizons

Opinion

19

Pump up the Spirit

Faculty 14 Feature

20

17 Learnin’

22 24

Here’s the Scoop Student Survey

Feature the Ropes

17

Harb Highlights 3

Opinion Divided Over Roe Decision, New Indiana Law

Students find ways to voice opposition, support for abortion

By Adanna Mbanu, Staff

W

hen the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, senior Grace Noble was studying abroad in France, Upon hearing the news, Noble said her heart dropped.

“I didn’t find out about it right away when it happened because we didn’t have our phones and we only had access to the Internet for an hour a week,” Noble, the Students for Choice Club President, said. “So a group of my friends sat down to write to me about it.

So I obviously spent all of my internet time looking at news from the U.S. It just felt absolutely unreal.”

On June 24, Roe v. Wade was overturned, tightening abortion laws nationwide. The ruling leaves laws regarding abortion up to the states rather than the federal govern-

ment.

While Indiana didn’t have a trigger law put into place after Roe was overturned like Kentucky and other states, the Republican controlled House and Senate quickly passed Senate Bill 1, making all abortions illegal, exclud- Protesters gather and display signs at a pro-choice rally on June 25 at Monument Square. Photos ing cases of

by Adanna Mbanu rape or incest within the in the passage of SB1. first 10 weeks of pregnancy. The bill Because she was overseas at the time, Nowas scheduled to take effect on ble missed the chance to attend early protests Sept. 15, if not blocked by legal and “mourn the loss and grieve and have challenges. solidarity.”

When SB1 was passed, “I came back and actually had less rights Senator J.D. Ford, a Democrat than I did when I left,” Noble said. representing the 29th district President of the Young Republicans Paul which includes Zionsville, could Wheeler, senior, said leaving abortion laws up hear protesters from inside the Sento the states is “beneficial.” ate chamber chanting and stomping “I think it’s a good opportunity to have,” their feet.

Wheeler said. “You can see it in states like “There were lots of young folks that Kansas where they put it on a voter referencame down at the Statehouse to express dum, to allow the people to decide. I think their disappointment,” Ford said. There it’s better, allowing it to have individual were also some young ruling in each state rather than one federal The text of Senate folks down there that government ruling.”

Bill 1, outlawing were expressing their State Representative Donna Schaibley, a most abortions in In- support for Senate Bill Republican who represents Zionsville as part diana. The bill passed 1.” of District 24, points to the new law’s excepthe House and Senate Ford said the mations “to protect the life and the physical and was signed by jority of young people health of the mother, and in cases of rape and Governor Eric Holcomb he talked to expressed incest, and when a fetus is diagnosed with this summer. From igo. their disappointment lethal fetal anomaly.” in.gov in.gov

“We also ensured that mothers will not be criminalized in any way,” Schaibley said in a statement provided by her press secretary. “Moving forward, I expect to continue conversations about how we can decrease the number of unintended pregnancies by increasing access to birth control, and empowering women through education and prevention programs.”

Noble said the state’s new law is “insulting.”

Every single child should be chosen,” Noble said. “It’s ridiculous to me that we act like we’re doing these favors by forcing these babies to be born into the world. I mean our infrastructure is not equipped for that.”

In terms of the SB1 being passed, Ford said most legislators found the process stressful.

“It was so problematic that nobody enjoyed this bill,” Ford said. The pro-choice folks didn’t like that bill, pro-life people didn’t like that bill. So we argued that if nobody likes it, then we should just stop and give it more time that it deserves next January. But, they wanted to ram it through and I don’t think we’re prepared for it.”

Arianna Tussinger, junior, is “scared for

the future” and women who could potentially be pregnant that “just lost their choice.”

“We live in a man’s world, we always have, and probably always will,” Tussinger said.

Disappointment and rage has been channeled through protests nationwide, which Noble calls “empowering.”

“It’s really helpful to feel like you’re doing something productive with your anger and sadness and hopefully making a change or inspiring change,” Noble said. “It’s one thing to be angry, locked in your room, scrolling about what’s happening. It’s a totally different feeling that releases a lot of emotion to be out on the street with other people who are having the same emotions as you.”

Looking for information about the bill, or about abortion laws in general, can be challenging, especially finding a source that’s trustworthy.

“I would encourage folks to go to the General Assembly website at iga.in.gov. And specifically look for SB1 and to read it and to understand it and to see what it does and does not do,” Ford said. “It’s a very monumental piece of legislation.”

Page Program

What to know more about how state government works? Want to see legislators in session working on bills like SB1? The Page Program is available in both the Indiana House & Senate. Students interested in becoming a page should contact Democratic or Republican state organizations. Information can also be found online.

Other Ways to Get Involved

- Phone Banking - Canvassing - Young Republicans Club - Students for Choice Club - Young Democrats Club - Young People in Current Events Club News 5

Kicking off summer, on June 1 was the Amber Heard v Johnny Depp trial, which cast doubts over his future acting career. Depp’s win in the courtroom awarded him over $10 million in compensation. Many people became obsessed with this case and watched the entirety of it online.

“I personally feel that Amber Heard was looking for Johnny to be publicly exploited as a bad person to put her in a better light. However, this was a major fail and I’m very happy that she looks stupid now and Johnny is a goat” Ella Heiner, junior, said.

This two month trial quickly went viral and had everyone picking sides. With most being “Team Johnny,” his win in the courtroom was exciting to see.

Graphic by Brooklyn Brown

THIS Wasn’t on My 2022 Bingo Card...

By Greta Reed, Staff

The past few years blur together when we try to recount all of the crazy events that have taken place. If you’re behind, don’t worry!

We’re here to get you up-to-speed on everything you should know about celebrities, athletes, and more from the summer.

6 News

On July 1, the award winning show “Stranger Things” hit screens again for its fourth season. After waiting almost three years for this season, fans were on the edge of their seats to find out what would happen next in this sci-fi, 80s reference filled show.

“I think half the people watch it for Steve Harrington.” Ava Fleming, junior, said.

While it wasn’t what all fans were expecting, most are looking forward to the future of what this show will bring and what will happen next with the cast.

Aug. 8 brought the unexpected death of Olivia Newton-John.

This world renowned star was known among many generations for her portrayal of Sandy in “Grease.”

“She was one of the most iconic figures in the entertainment world and it was a shock to hear about her passing,” Khayley Tharp, junior, said.

The news of Shakira being accused of tax fraud hit on July 27. Shakira allegedly missed a total of six payments to the Spanish government and could face up to eight years in prison.

“I mean she could probably pay her way out of prison. She has like $300 million dollars,” Sapna Srinivasan, sophomore, said.

The accusation could heavily influence the rest of the pop star’s life.

On July 17 Jenny Han stole our hearts with the new hit TV show based off the book series “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” This Amazon Prime show captivated its viewers, making them beg for another season.

“I found out about ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ on TikTok and immediately put it in the Barnes and Nobles cart,” Maddie Kaltenmark, junior, said.

“It’s a great series, one I read in English last year and probably freaked out my classmates with how I reacted to the plot-twists because it was so good.

Though the TV show is top tier with outstanding casting, costumes, music, and everything else.”

The show inspired many to read the series to figure out what happens next in the engaging series and the audience eagerly awaits the next seasons of this show.

On June 2-3, the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II was celebrated. This was the celebration of her 70th year as queen making her the second longest reigning monarch in British history.

“I do think that it is a big milestone for the Queen.” Ozzy Inman, junior, said.

Just four months later, the world would stop; hearing the news of the Queen’s death on Sept. 8 at 96 years old. While those in the United Kingdom might be more affected by this news, for Americans it’s still shocking.

Many people looked to the Queen as a constant in their lives no matter where they were in the world.. She had been in power since 1952 which is for most of us, our entire lives. The day of, King Charles III became King of England and his wife Camilla Parker Bowles as Queen Consort.

August 11, the Cubs made history yet again while winning the 2022 Field of Dreams game against the Cincinnati Reds.

“The Field of Dreams game is a spectacle to see every year. Hopefully the MLB continues to have it,” Mateo Wells, junior said.

The Field of Dreams game is a fan favorite, though the MLB will not be hosting this game in 2023 making this year’s a special one to see, especially for Cubs fans.

News 7

Fall

Sports FUND-

amentals

By Amelia Meyers, Staff

These teams find unique ways to raise money

Ryan Luke, 12, Cross Country What is the purpose behind team fundraisers?

“Some of our fundraisers are to raise money to buy new tents for the meets and competitions as well as pay for extra team uniforms and gear for some of the runners so that the money doesn’t come from the coaches. We also volunteer at events such as the Zionsville Half-Marathon. We mostly help to maintain the water stations and pack up tents. The entry fees go to the cross country teams.”

What types of fundraisers do you do?

“Every year we hold an elementary school mile where we try to get all the elementary school kids out of the classroom for a bit. We like to show them the course and talk to them about how to run a mile and get them involved.”

How does it feel to be behind-thescenes at these events?

“I loved it. Last year I oversaw showing everyone the course. and getting to talk to the elementary kids. They get so excited about it. They’re always enthusiastic. They never quite know what’s going on, but they really don’t care. They’re just excited. It was awesome to be able to go out there and cheer them on and really show them some support.”

How do you promote fundraising events?

The Cheer team works at an elementary cheer clinic over the summer. Photo submitted

by Alex Bennet

8 Sports

“We help with a lot of all the newcomers at meets in the summer.

During the elementary school mile we try to get as many people as possible hanging signs and spreading the word and such just for the community to help show some support.”

Alex Bennet, 12, Cheer As cheer captain, what is your role in preparing fundraisers?

“Our coaches help us prepare stuff for the Youth Cheer Clinics which are held every year around September and part of what we do is make these t-shirts for little girls who want to take part in our clinics. We also help make some posters and send them to all the parents just to promote the cheer clinic. We also try to figure out a schedule or skills for the events. Mostly, we just teach them the jumps, drills, combinations.”

Kailyn Feeser, 12, Football Management Does the football team host any sort of fundraiser?

What do these fundraisers mean to you?

“Surprisingly we’re not really a big fundraising team, we kind of just have our big card sale at the beginning of the year and most of our fundraising goes through fees to help pay for team dinner costs and after-game snacks or Gatorade.”

“They’re really cool because you see these little kids and they’re so excited to see us and to learn how to cheer. It’s just so cute because they want to learn. We’re role models or inspirations for them because they want to cheer when they get older.”

Do you do anything to help promote the football teams?

How do fundraisers help the cheer team?

“For our Rush-On Main fundraiser, the cheer moms helped us set it up. They reach out to the staff and establish a date and time for us to help work there and we get paid half of what the staff gets for that day.

The fees help pay for uniforms since we’ve had the same uniforms for a while and we’re in need of new ones. We might use whatever money is left over to pay for anything else we need or want like game day materials; glitter, new bows, poms, tattoos, things like that, or even attire for themes.”

What is the best part about these fundraisers?

“Most of the promoting stuff is done through social media, the athletic and football pages, and wearing team gear on social media or to school, but the student section also gives us a big hand to promote the team. Unfortunately, we don’t get to come up with the themes, but we do participate on the sidelines and dress up in support.”

Would you like to do fundraisers for the football team in the future?

“I’d love to do something like a flag football clinic for elementary school students, open to anyone who wants to try it out and have different activities and stations. It’d be a really cool way to further promote the teams and raise money. I would love to help organize it all especially being interested in sports management and getting to see kids being excited to play and learn football skills.”

“It’s a great way to promote the cheer team, even if it’s hard to promote the events themselves because no one’s really interested in the cheer team. Mostly everyone’s interested in the football teams and that stretches from just the students here. However, it’s a fun way to really put the team out there because we all show up altogether as a team.

When people see us inviting these little kids out to learn cheer leading or showing up and working as a team at the restaurant fundraisers, it’s a great image for the cheer leading teams. I love getting to connect with these kids who have a passion for cheer or just working with my teammates during these events.”

Sports 9

The Carmel girls rugby team huddles at their first practice on Aug. 22. The team includes players from Zionsville, Carmel, Brownsburg and more.

Photo by Mary Demarco

10 Sports

Getting GIRLS in the Game

By Mary DeMarco, Editor in Chief

T

he sweet smell of white clovers is all around, having just narrowly escaped the clipping of a riding mower.

A bag as big as a middle schooler filled with rugby balls is dropped unceremoniously next to what most would consider to be the end zone, but for this purpose, it’s the trizone. Soon, the athletes arrive, throwing water bottles on the old, crumbling parking lot near the field and shouting greetings to their teammates.

These athletes aren’t the disheveled rugby boys in Zionsville jerseys, though. For starters, they’re girls. And The girls rugby players run drills during their first practice on Aug. 22. Photo by Mary Demarco erase that Eagle-green jersey what a lot of people like about it because we Olympics. I’m preparing them to be good from your mind. These girls don’t change anything.

Same pitch, same ball, leaders out in the world and good humans. are clad in Carmel Greyhound navy blue and same rules.”

Rugby is just the cherry on top.” yellow, even the ones from Zionsville like The only differences, according to RomaAt the first practice of the season, some junior Sarah Ngo. no, are the treatment each team receives. girls walked in with confidence while others “Everybody’s in. Yup! We don’t have really “I was coaching the youth teams,” Romawere content to stay quiet and follow the enough people to be picky,” Ngo said. no said.

“And I was blessed with being asked crowd.

Romano called for a huddle and Ngo plays for the area’s only all-girl rugby to coach the first all-girls team for seventh asked, ‘Who here has ever played rugby or team, with players hailing from Carmel, and eighth grade.

They gave them the boys’ knows what it’s about?’ About half the hudZionsville, Sheridan, Brebeuf, and Lebanon. hand-me-downs and I was appalled because dle raised their hands.

“People at Carmel really don’t care. It’s girls don’t just get boys’ hand-me-downs.

“You don’t have to know anything about people here [at ZCHS] that get mad at me,” That’s rude.” it beforehand,” Ngo said. “Not that many Ngo said. “They’re like, ‘you play for Carmel!’

Romano said her first practices as coach people know rugby but it’s just a really good But there’s not a team here, so it’s not like I she didn’t have control of the team, as the opportunity if you want to do a sport. A lot have a choice.” practices were run with the boys’ team. of people just try out rugby because their An all-girls rugby team is uncommon, but, “I was like, this isn’t working, I’m not doing friends tell them to and then they end up that doesn’t mean girls don’t want to play the this.

Then we split half the pitch with them. quitting their main sport instead.” sport.

We couldn’t even get full pitch,” Romano By the end of the practice, girls were cheer“Sadly, a lot of people just think that said. ing each other on in foot races, practicing when you have a little girl she’s going to Romano has worked to create a safe envikicks, knocking into each other, and throwdance and when you have a little boy they’re ronment for girls to get out of their comfort ing arms around their teammates. going to be in sports,” coach Kelly Romano zone, playing a sport almost completely new “We’re constantly trying to fight and fight said. “I’ve never met somebody who’s been set to most. and get the equality that the boys get,” Romaon those paths who’s been completely happy “I want all these humans to get better,” no said.

“We don’t play for ourselves we play with that.”

Romano said.

“This is a platform for you to for each other.”

In rugby, nothing in the rules or play changes do you. And that’s important. This is high between the girls’ and boys’ teams. school. I’m not preparing anybody for the “Everything’s the same,” Ngo said. “That’s

Sports 11

Cut versation

Getting cut from a team can be an opportunity for growth, after the disappointment

By George Waller, Staff

Y

our heart starts to sink as you search frantically for your name on the just-posted team roster. It’s not there.

The questions creep in. “Why didn’t I make it?” “What can I do now?”

As the student body grows in number, the size of many sports teams is staying the same. With more students trying out for teams, students may have noticed an increase in athletes being cut.

There are times when cuts are needed, often due to limited spots and play time.

Boys varsity golf “I don’t think coach Steve Simany coach is mons called cuts “the going to keep worst part of the any player job.” Coach Kristen Cooley, a girls soccer that has diffi- assistant coach, culty getting agreed “cutting is the along with their worst part.”

“We don’t take it teammates and lightly,” Cooley said. following the According to rules.” Simmons, there are - Golf Coach some qualities that Steve Simmons coaches look for in players, like if they are a team player, have personality, and will put in the work needed. Coaches also search for negative qualities. Cheating or anger issues, for instance, may set off alarms in coaches' heads.

“Some kids have more determination than others,” Simmons said. “I don’t think any coach is going to keep any player that has difficulty getting along with their teammates and following the rules.”

An athlete who gets cut from a team may want to step back and ask if it’s because of skill or the ability to be a good teammate.

“What do they bring to the team?”

Cooley said.

Coaches must also consider how to deliver the news and how to make it so the player can improve and gain the most from the experience.

“We haven’t figured out what is the

12 Sports

best way to deliver it,” Cooley said. “Other schools send emails or just go down a list and read off names.”

Simmons and Cooley both said they sit down with players one on one and talk with them about how to improve.

Simmons said he tries “to give an honest assessment to the player face-to-face.”

Coaches may suggest alternative routes the player can go to extend their relationship with the team.

“You can be a manager,” Cooley said.

Claire Weesies, 11, took on the role of volleyball team social media manager, a role she was offered after not making the team.

Leading up to the cut, Weesies had a gut feeling she wasn’t going to make the team and “prepared myself for the bad news,” she said.

Still, hearing the news wasn’t easy.

“I was upset,” Weesies said.

Weesies sees being a manager as an opportunity for growth.

“I still get to practice and I think being a manager gives me an advantage for next year,” Weesies said.

Weesies is still undecided about whether she will try out again next year, but thinks being the manager helps her odds.

“If I don’t decide to play, I would still want to be the social media manager,” Weesies said. “It's definitely fun.”

Another route players can take is to be flexible and adaptable. Football player Lauer Cawi, senior, has seen a lot of changes in the last year with his sport.

“Freshman year

through junior year I played quarterback because that’s what I wanted to play. But I’ve been behind Christan [Abney] and he’s a D1 commit so it’s hard to break that,” Cawi said.

Anticipating that he was most likely not going to get the spot he wanted, Cawi decided to do something about it.

“I told the coach that I just wanted to play and I would play wherever I could just to play,” Cawi said. “I've ended up playing five different positions this year alone, I've played quarterback, tight end, outside linebacker, and both safety positions that we have on our defense.”

Cawi’s openmindedness made it so he can continue to do what he loves. He still sees football in his future and he thinks he made the right decision.

“I love playing football so in general the position switch was a good idea,” Cawi said.

Getting cut can feel like the coach is slamming the door in your face. However, willing athletes often find new doors opening instead.

Photo by George Waller

broader horizons Students experience life abroad through IUHPFL

oble and Senior Grace N sk a ar Junior M Lu Paris, France

By Madeline Wilson, Staff ew friends, great food, no parents— sounds like the perfect summer, right?

The only catch? No English and no phone.

Over the summer, several ZCHS students immersed themselves in a new culture while studying abroad in either Spain or France with the IU Honors Program in Foreign Language.

Charlotte Raches, 11, spent six weeks in Ciudad Real, Spain. She said she felt immersed in the Spanish culture by the third day because her host family had already helped her improve her Spanish skills.

“I felt like I really was in Spain, like it was real,” Raches said.

The immersion process took longer for Grace Noble, 12, who studied in Saumur, France. Noble said she felt really comfortable with her host family, especially her host mom, by the last few weeks of her trip.

“I felt like my personality was able to come through a little bit,” Noble said. “I was able to make jokes a little bit more, and just connect more.”

Raches’ favorite parts of the trip were the bus rides to other cities because she got to know and connect with the other students.

“You really got to talk to everyone because you don’t have your phone,” Raches said. “I made so many close friends that I’m still in touch with.”

Molly Zucker, 12, also spent her summer in Saumur and said her favorite memories were also the excursions. She traveled to Paris, Normandy, and several castles throughout France.

“I think those were the best times, just

N

Junior Charlotte Raches and Friend Gail Miller Granada, Spain

Junior Molly Zu cker Saumur, France

Photos by: Emily ___, Jay Hargrove, and Yara Hage

because I was with all of my friends from the program and we had the opportunity to go to new places,” Zucker said.

When not with their host families or traveling, IU Honors Program students attended school in their exchange countries, noting major differences from American schools.

“We don’t interact as much as the kids there do,” Raches said. “We have little cliques here; they’re all one big group.”

Noble loved spending more time outside during the school day and how the windows in her classrooms were almost always open.

“It was so nice to be in nature so much more,” Noble said. “It felt less claustrophobic, and everything felt just brighter and nicer, and it was just a much better environment for learning.”

Lindsay Alessandrini, the World Languages department chair and a Spanish teacher, said immersion is the best way to build skills in a foreign language.

But Noble wasn’t even sure she would get into the program. Much of French I and II were online for her because of COVID-19, which hindered her learning.

“My French was very bad before the program,” Noble said. And now? “French is super easy.”

Zucker said she improved because she lived with her host family, allowing her to be completely immersed.

“I really understood the natural way that French people talk or act,” Zucker said.

Of course, studying abroad for six weeks is not free of challenges. Raches and Zucker both said the language barrier made communication difficult, and Zucker said she

also struggled with homesickness.

“Six weeks is a long time to be away from family, friends, and just commonalities you are used to,” Zucker said.

However, Zucker said she is thankful for these challenges because they shaped her experience and led to personal growth.

She said her time abroad helped her gain leadership skills, such as responsibility and organization, and helped her become more outgoing and adventurous.

“Because of this program, I want to continue to experience new things and new cultures, and understand people,” Zucker said.

According to Alessandrini, students who participate in a study abroad program gain confidence, self-reliance, and responsibility.

“It’s very obvious that they’ve grown a lot as people when they’ve been gone,” Alessandrini said.

The trip also gave Zucker a new idea of what she wants to do in the future. She was already interested in business, but now she may study international business in French.

“I knew I liked French, but I didn’t realize that it was something that I could keep doing for the rest of my life,” Zucker said.

Alessandrini, Raches, Zucker, and Noble all recommend that students participate in study abroad programs.

“If you have the resources and opportunity to study abroad, I totally, 100% recommend it,” Noble said. “But even if you don’t, I still think you can find a lot of value in just putting yourself in a new, vulnerable, uncomfortable situation.”

Student Life 13

the g n i r u t Fea Faculty Get to know some of the faculty members who make ZCHS what it is!

By Brooklyn Brown, Art Direct or

Knisley’s Kitchen

A

fter 33 years of serving high schoolers their lunches, cafeteria manager Marlene Knisley has been witness to over three decades of advancements.

“Oh my gosh, you can’t even imagine how much it’s changed from when I started,” Knisley said.

The changes will only continue to come with the current construction on the building, and plans to open yet another cafeteria this school year.

“It’s supposed to open this spring,” Knisley said, “which is exciting for you guys.”

During her time managing the lunch staff she has seen more than just building advancements, but also shifts in procedure overall.

Everything in the school’s kitchen used to be made from scratch, and Knisley was a part of the entire process.

“We made our own ranch dressing, we deep fried French fries, we deep fried shrimp poppers, we made our own cookies from scratch, we made our own cinnamon rolls from scratch,” Knisley said. “We do not do that anymore.”

The shift away from fresh made food was brought on by a multitude of factors; healthy choice regulations took away French fries, and too many students with too little staff means practical and quick options have become necessary. Above all, finding the food

14 Feature

itself has become a problem since the pandemic, and menu changes have been made to compensate.

“Of the job that is the hardest thing, just trying to keep up with the supply of getting our food in,” Knisley said. “Oh my goodness, my day to day life is busy.”

Along with managing other cafeteria staff, Knisley handles the supply orders, and is still very hands on in the kitchen.

“I serve breakfast every morning,” Knisley said. “I help on the floor; I help to do the cooking.”

To many students’ the busy life of Knisely might sound overwhelming, but working in the kitchen is a way of pursuing her dreams.

“In school I loved cooking…I love to cook, I still cook at home, I entertain lots and lots,” Knisley Marlene Knisely prepare food for for C lunch on Thursday, Sept. 1. said. “So that’s where I feel I want Photo by Brooklyn Brown to be. That’s what I like to do, so Although Knisley never attended college, that’s what I do.” she feels that after 33 years of working at Her appreciation for her longtime career ZCHS she has “learned a lot,” goes further than just a passion for cooking.

“Enjoy your job if you’re going to have to “I love my coworkers; they’re the best,” go there every day,” Knisley said. “Just follow Knisley said. “We’ve been together for a long your dream.” time.”

Managing ‘Las Vegas’

K

evin Nibbs manages “Little Las Vegas”, but his job has nothing to do with the vibrant city in Nevada.

Instead, what he calls “Las Vegas” or often “The Beast” refers to the bustling hallways of ZCHS. “There is always something going on,” Nibbs said, “We have so many functions that happen here at the high school; this is not normal.”

Nibbs is the event manager for the district and a day lead custodian for the high school.

The unusual needs of our high school are endless. Nibbs is responsible for hiring the other day lead custodians, and directing how they operate all the daily tasks; turning on safety signs, opening gates in the parking lot, unlocking doors for subs, general setups, tear downs, and clean ups. Nibbs’ job however goes even further.

“I’m responsible for the building and all the problems that come along with it,” Nibbs said, “and we have to manage the other events at the elementeries and the middle schools.”

He has worked at almost every school in the district and considers himself “one of the dinosaurs” due to holding his job title for around 13 years. Contributing to students’ growth has become an active part of Nibbs’ career.

“These years, you’re all learning and growing through life,” Nibbs said, “I sort of try to keep people encouraged.”

Nibbs looks out for students Kevein Nibbs does more than just maintain a healthy and safe school environment. He also plans out as they all the events for grades K-12. Photo by Brooklyn Brown navigate Nibbs said “We’re part of that team to help.” through Nibbs’ team of friendly helpers has sucthe complicated years of adolescence. cessfully contributed to years of prestigious “Sometimes you see some of that going school rankings. on in the hallway, so you just speak to make “I’m proud every time they say we’ve them smile,” Nibbs said. become a five star school,” Nibbs said, “ I feel Nibbs’ goal is to build a healthy relationlike we played some part in that… I say kudos ship between staff and students. to everyone because it took a team.”

“We’re [students’] friends, we’re not authority. Some people rebel against authority,”

The Center of it All

O

“

h, people check out books here?” is just one of the many questions that high school librarian and media specialist, Liz Overberg, answers on a daily basis. The media center, or library, is a place to read, get questions answered, visit the pet turtle (suitably named Hardcover), use the 3D printer, and Overberg is in the center of it all.

“A lot of our frequent fliers here in the library don’t necessarily like to read,” Overberg said, “On any given day there’s just a lot of different things happening.”

The media center’s resources also have an online extension which she also runs.

“We have a Canvas course that every student is enrolled in where there are links to all of our research databases,” Overberg said.

Thanks to Overberg, on the media center’s

canvas page, students can find online newspapers, audio books, e books, reading recommendations, help with research projects, copyright information and more. She often works with English classes and helps with their projects. Although her responsibilities are endless, Overberg enjoys her line of work.

“To me I just feel like it’s part of the job and I like doing it,” Overberg said She enjoys working alongside the growing students and creating a healthy environment for them in the library.

“Public libraries are sort of known as the one free place people can still Media specialist Liz Overberg jokes with a student in the library. go to and you’re not expected to...

Photo by Brooklyn Brown Continued on page 16

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Continued from pg. 15 ... the school library kind of tries to be an extension of that.”

For the first four years in her field she worked with middle schoolers, now she has spent the past eight with high school students, a change she was unsure of at first.

“I really, really like this age group,” Overberg said. “I love the part as it gets later and later in high school where everyone is figuring out where they want to go. It’s really cool to see everyone off to their post secondary plans.”

She feels that she learns “a lot from high schoolers and it’s a really cool perspective,” to see how teenagers think about the world and current events.

“I get to work with everyone, most teachers only have 100 to 150 students,” Overberg said. “I really get to see all different people from all different walks of life.”

Overberg checks in returned books on Thursday, Sept. 1.

Photo by Mary Demarco

“I really get to see all different people from all different walks of life.”

- Liz Overberg

A Safe Place at School

A

lthough she is new to Zionsville, Jenny Hoyer is no stranger to the busy life of a high school clinic.

“I’ve been a nurse for 20 years,” Hoyer said. “I feel really good about coming to Zionsville. It feels like the community is a really good community to be in.”

Before moving to ZCHS this year, Hoyer worked for Carmel High School. Working with teens for so long has helped her become more than a caretaker, but also an educator.

“They can kind of tell me what’s going on,” Hoyer said, “But I also have the opportunity to do a lot of teaching.”

Part of her daily duties include instilling healthy practices, aiding in lifestyle management, and even educating some students more about their own health issues.

“I feel like there’s really no typical day,” Hoyer said. “It’s just whatever blows in from the hallway.”

Hoyer said that the clinic isn’t just for “Band-Aids, boo boos, and ice packs,” but also a department to meet students’ mental health needs.

“The struggles here are a lot of mental health issues and pressure as it relates to kids’ lives,” Hoyer said, “We’re able to kind

16 Feature

of provide a safe space for students who are Her simple message to students is to maybe having a bad day, either at school, “take care of yourself.” She hopes students or at home, or just otherwise feeling a lot of understand that self-care can be as easy as pressure.” eating breakfast, drinking enough water, and Through a collaborative relationship washing your hands. Along with that, she with the high school counselors, Hoyer urges students to “keep things in perspecand the other nurses help students through tive.” physiological matters. That often means “This is a pivotal point in your lives, but providing a dark, quiet room or even someit’s not the only one,” Hoyer said. times an ice pack to help cool off someone having an anxiety attack.

“It can make me a little sad that I see these students struggling, but it makes me hopeful when I’m able to help them,” Hoyer Nurse Jenny Hoyer enters the day’s logs after lunch on Thursday, Sept. 1. Photo by Brooklyn said.

Brown

Homecoming: Behind the Scenes The Homecoming Committee plans the decorations and activities. Photos by Georgianna Moreland

By Georgianna Moreland, Staff

T

he photo booth, DJ, decorations, theme- all a big part of what made the Homecoming dance amazing.

But, how much preparation actually went into Homecoming? And who does all that work?

The average turnout for the Homecoming dance is about 1000 students, according to sponsor Amanda Harmon. While planning an event for maybe 100 students is a lot, imagine planning something where at least half the school is attending?

The planning for the dance, football game, and spirit week began in May, when the dance’s theme of “Beach” was decided, according to Lexi Caniff, senior Homecoming committee member, said.

The Homecoming committee was made up of about 15 members of the Student Council. Harmon has led the Student Council and Homecoming committee for 15 years.

“It was something that the school needed and I had the time to help out,” Harmon said.

Caniff has been a member of the committee for two years.

“I wanted to join the Homecoming Committee again this year because I like getting to help plan things

and share my ideas. I also enjoy being able to contribute to things and also help to make sure that Homecoming is a fun experience for everyone.” Caniff said.

The Homecoming Committee has several meeting throughout the months of August and September leading up to the dance.

“We constantly communicate through a group chat to keep ideas flowing,” Caniff said.

The committee met at members homes and at school to plan the activities, spirit days, and prepare decorations. The final meeting was the day of the dance to decorate the field house.

“The biggest things we talk about are decorating for both inside and outside the field house, assigning different jobs to everyone to keep everything organized and running smoothly, and just about what we can do to make it an enjoyable night for everyone.” Caniff said.

In the past, the concession stands were open and the committee bought cupcakes and candy and sodas, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, that can’t happen any-

more and water bottles were offered instead.

Besides this, the committee had to plan out that beach-themed photo booth. But what students really came for was the dancing!

“The DJs are students from within the Student Council. They make the playlists based off of recommendations from the Student Council Instagram account,” Caniff said.

The Homecoming Court is another big part of Homecoming week.

“The seniors nominate members of their class. Each senior gets to nominate one person. The five girls with the most nominations become the Homecoming Court.

Then those five names go back out to the seniors and they vote for which one will be the queen,” Harmon said.

But all of this wouldn’t be possible with out the Student Council. So many assume that it’s faculty that plan out most of the dance, but the Homecoming planners might actually have been the people you were dancing next to!

Senior committee members Mia Wilhite, Willow Brown, Lexi Caniff, Colleen Squier, and Sofia Gruionu

Emilia Lane breaks away to place second in the short go of the INHSRA State finals in June.

Photo submitted by Lane

Learnin’ # Feature

the ope R s

e Wh n the Lae n sglinb cae m to this e no ro-h se town, they rb u o tgh a panosi rof roe d o with them

By Emerson Lucas, Staff

In

small town Zionsville, where football and basketball are all the fuss, Emilia and Craig Lane bring their rodeo roots. Following in the footsteps of their father, they’ve been on a saddle since before they could crawl. Moving here from Colorado, which has one of the largest high school rodeo associations in the country, didn’t stop the Lane siblings from pursuing their passion for the sport.

In June, Emilia, a senior, was named Miss Indiana High School Rodeo after competing for her third time. To win this title, Emilia competed against other queens in multiple categories, including horsemanship, speech, and modeling.

“You’re the face of your organization and you’re an ambassador of your sport,” Emilia said. “You really just want to go out and show off the best parts of this really cool sport that isn’t as popular as it should be.”

There’s more to rodeo than riding horses and bulls. Craig, a sophomore, and Emilia each compete in several events.

Emilia competes in barrels, team roping, breakaway roping, goat tying, and pole bending. Craig competes in team roping, calf roping, and steer wrestling, his favorite and best event.

“It’s pretty “You really just cool to just be want to go out and going down like 35 miles an show off the best hour and hangparts of this really ing off the side your horse,” cool sport that isn’t of Craig said. as popular as it Like any other should be.” sport, rodeo comes with the - Emilia Lane, 12 risk of injury.

“You’re going really fast so there’s a lot of ways you can fall and hit your head,” Craig said. “And it’s pretty easy to get a steer horn to the stomach, or lose a thumb trying to wrap the rope around the horn.”

Craig says that when he was in first grade, he fell off his horse and hit his head on a rock, knocking him out for a few hours and causing a major concussion. However, he didn’t let this stop him from doing what he loves.

“I don’t ever really get scared by the risks because I think the better I get at rodeo the smaller they become,” Craig said.

Emilia said one of the best things about rodeo is the people you meet that become closest to you. Some of Emilia’s closest friends live in Kentucky and Ohio. Emilia and Craig

Craig Lane competes in steer wrestling in the short go of the INHRSA State finals to place second and help him place fourth for the whole year. Photo submitted by Lane have moved around a lot for their dad’s job and through all the places they have lived, Emilia’s closest friends have always been her rodeo friends.

“One of my favorite things about rodeo is that we all push each other” Emilia said.

“My biggest competition is my best friend in the entire world. And I want her to do her best, so that I can do my best.”

Craig and Emilia have been riding horses from a very young age. Their grandpa does rodeo, as well as their aunt, and their dad.

Craig said that growing up around his dad and his dad’s rodeo friends, he knew that that’s what he was going to do as well. Emilia agrees.

“I’ve been on a horse since I was pretty much two weeks old, and my dad put me into junior rodeos in our hometown” Emilia said.

“So, I’ve just loved it my whole life.”

Being from a place so unfamiliar with the sport, Craig says when he tells people he does rodeo, reactions can differ.

“People usually think it’s cool but then there’s also people that’d say it’s not really a sport,” Craig said.

Rodeo requires as much athleticism as any other sport.

“If you’re out of shape or not prepared to do your best, you’re letting your horse down,” Emilia said. “It’s 100% a real sport.”

With the cost of horses, horse trailers, gear, and traveling, rodeo can be one of the most expensive sports, too.

They practice whenever they get free time, usually a few times a week, Craig said. They go to different arenas around Indiana to

Want to know more about rodeo?

Check out the Indiana High School Rodeo Association at inhsrodeo.com

Want to watch rodeo?

Oct. 8-9 Indiana/Kentucky High School Invitational Rodeo Salem, Indiana

practice, typically a far drive. They compete around Indiana and occasionally out of state.

Craig and Emilia hope to take their rodeo career all the way to college, and maybe even further. Colleges such as the University of Wyoming and Montana State have rodeo teams and offer scholarships. Rodeo is considered a Division One sport.

Emilia says she’d like to go to college to rodeo if she had the chance.

The Lane siblings are the only two people found at ZCHS that rodeo. However, this doesn’t stop them from doing it. From the competition to the lifelong friends they’ve made along the way, Craig and Emilia say there’s nothing else they’d rather spend their time doing.

“If I don’t get to continue rodeo to the pro level, I hope to carry it through my future family and keep the sport alive,” Emilia said.

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Pump UPthe Spirit

What's stopping us from celebrating spirit days?

By Lauren Burch, Staff

A

Zionsville tradition, five days leading up to the Homecoming football game and dance when all students are encouraged to dress according to daily themes decided by the heads of the student section. Though spirit week is over, it's time to reflect on our participation points.

In theory, spirit week is meant to be a fun tradition before Homecoming to bolster school spirit; and to many students, school spirit represents support and gratitude for the town they’ve spent most, if not all, of their lives in.

Jonah Weber, junior, is very dedicated to spirit week and is known for his creativity for each of the themes. He has lived in Zionsville his entire life, and finds spirit week to be an important part of the high school experience.

“It’s a really strong connection with the school and the Just one example of spirit wear from Jonah Weber, junior, who goes above and beyond for every spirit week. Photo by Lauren Burch

20 Opinion

people who dress up,” Weber said.

However, myself and many more students, including one of the heads of the student section Matthew Wleklinski, senior, find that spirit week and its themes don’t resonate with the students for a multitude of reasons.

“We think people are going to think it’s not cool to participate in spirit week,” Wleklinski said. “So, we’re really trying to change that.”

For many, spirit week is overlooked. It’s just another week, so why bother dressing up like your going to Hawaii, or even show up to school in your pajamas?

But school spirit is important for the school environment, connection with other students, and a sense of community. And that’s exactly the point of spirit week, to boost school spirit.

“Community is important for spirit week because it ties everybody together and lets people be themselves.” Weber said. “It’s how I met a lot of people actually because I would dress up in something crazy and a lot of people would want to hang out with me.”

So what can be done to pump up the school spirit?

First, the heads of the student section should change the themes more regularly; it’s important to continue making spirit week more fun for students by having the new heads of the student section create new, relevant themes each year. Adam Sandler Day produced more buzz than the tried and true Jersey Day, for instance.

“I feel like this year we picked out some good themes and we hope to see more participation.” Wleklinski said. “I think in the future, if we start strong this year it’ll roll over into the oncoming years.”

Students also all have their own theme ideas in mind. Providing surveys to see what the general consensus is about what themes students do and don’t want to see would be immensely beneficial to school spirit.

Spirit Week may be over but you can still participate in the football game themes: Sept. 23: Toga Sept. 30: Black Out Oct. 7: Jersey Night Oct. 14: Pink out Finally, another major contributor to spirit week, which typically has more student participation is the spirit themes for the football games. Teachers and administrators should help to translate that same spirit into spirit week by having a competition, in which students vote for who dressed the best for each theme.

“I feel like they can obviously make new themes for spirit week, and have competitions of who did it the best,” Chloe Kelley, junior, said. In the past I’ve had teachers do that and it really motivates you to actually dress up for spirit week.”

Spirit week is a crucial component to the environment, community, and overall vibe of the school. Having so many people not participate is hindering the fun and excitement that is intended for the week leading up to Homecoming. It’s important for the heads of the student section, teachers, administrators, and students as a whole to do everything they can to encourage the much needed spirit of teenagers.

Here’s

The Scoop

The summer heat may be gone, but ice cream is a yummy treat no matter the season, reason

By Josie Brackett and Greta Reed, Staff

Fundae’s:

4.5/5 stars overall Plain Vanilla (5/5 stars): It had all of the qualities of a good vanilla ice cream, like a smooth texture with a natural vanilla flavor.

Expectations were exceeded when we tasted this ice cream.

Specialty (5/5 stars): For the specialty we decided to go with Fat Elvis. It’s a banana flavored ice cream with peanut butter and chocolate. It was love at first bite with Fat Elvis. There was so much to like; the subtle banana flavor melted into the background while the peanut butter and chocolate swirls were equal in ratio.

Atmosphere (4/5 stars): The atmosphere was very inviting and we liked how the walls were bright, beachy colors. There is nothing better than enjoying a scoop of ice cream in the warm evening breeze and the option for outdoor seating is something that makes it just that much more enjoyable.

Cost (3/5 stars): While the ice cream was the best by far, the prices were steep. Why buy a single scoop of ice cream for $5, when a pint can be bought for the same price at Kroger?

The Scoop

4/5 stars overall Plain Vanilla (4/5 stars): The ice cream has a tasty, fresh vanilla flavor.

Specialty (4.5/5 stars): The Cookie Monster ice cream was so good. This was a symphony of flavors and there were many Oreos dispersed throughout. The white chocolate pieces paired with the Oreo flavor and the fudge swirls exceptionally well, which added to the amazing taste.

Atmosphere (4/5 stars): The atmosphere has a small town feel. We really liked the chalkboards with the names of the ice cream written on them, it made it feel more personal and welcoming.

Cost (3/5 stars): While the ice cream was top tier, the price of $5 dollars for a small scoop of ice cream, again, is not ideal.

Dairy Queen:

3.75/5 stars overall Plain Vanilla (4/5 stars): The plain vanilla ice cream (soft serve) was as good as you can get it to be, it had a slightly artificial taste but a smooth texture.

Specialty (3.5/5 stars):As far as the specialty goes, we went with an Oreo Blizzard because it seemed to be one of the most popular ones. The ratio of Oreos to ice cream was slightly off and the Oreos were not mixed in well.

Atmosphere (2/5 stars): The atmosphere isn’t super welcoming, when one walks in the building it feels a little dated and the seating area was sticky.

Cost (4/5 stars): For a high school student, cost is a huge factor. For the price of $3, a plain cup of soft serve really is not that bad. As for the blizzard, the cost of $3 was reasonable. The prices are affordable for high school students and fit the quality of the ice cream.

Homemade

3/5 stars overall Plain Vanilla (3/5 stars): The vanilla had a good consistency and was light and creamy.

It was enjoyable to eat and very refreshing.

Specialty (1/5 stars): While the vanilla was good, the specialty flavor we tried was the complete opposite. We decided on the Cinnamon ice cream which looked like it would have been the best flavor there, but looks can be deceiving. The ice cream tasted like spoiled milk with cinnamon and sugar mixed in. The consistency was also off putting; it was lumpy and extremely thick, so much so that it was hard to swallow.

Atmosphere (4/5 stars): The atmosphere was very inviting; everything was picked up and clean. They even had a nice outdoor area with a fireplace and lots of seating with a pond to the right of the building. The employees were very kind and helpful.

Cost (3/5 stars): Again with the $5 for a single scoop of ice cream, especially with this ice cream in particular, it is not something that most people would be willing to pay on a regular basis.

Bub’s:

2/5 stars overall Plain Vanilla (2/5 stars): The plain vanilla was creamy, though the ice cream tasted like it had been sitting around for too long. After one bite I did not want to go back in for more because of the heaviness and off-putting flavor.

Specialty (1/5 stars): For the specialty flavor we got Yellow Cake Batter and it was disappointing to say the least. While there were other flavors offered, this one looked like the most appetizing. The taste was grainy and full of little pieces of ice that must have come from freezer burn. The presentation was well done and they gave us a fair amount of ice cream for the price.

For a $3 kids scoop one would expect to get something a little above average; however, this flavor fell short of average Atmosphere (3/5 stars): Most of Zionsville can agree that Bub’s has a great family-friendly atmosphere, but the ice cream area was dimly lit and had a gloomy feel.

We did not feel happy or joyful while getting ice cream here. We sat outside because there wasn’t a separate seating area for the ice cream customers.

Cost (3/5 stars): The price was pretty average for a $3 kids scoop.

Photos by Josie Brackett

Opinion 21

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Opinion 23

Harb Highlights Chess Club begins on Aug. 25 Photo by Charlee Norton

Best Buddies VIP Night Sept. 9

Top left Photo: ( Left to right ) 1st Row: Taylor Sullivan, Elizabeth Dattilo, Emily Chlystun, Braylynn Brown, and Heidi Schroeder 2nd Row: Ben Laad Bottom Right Photo: ( Left to right ) Alex Kroon, Evan Reynolds, Quinn Gerde, Jonathan Liang, Steven Narva, Owen Shipchandler, Jose de Andrade) Photo by Maddie Patrick

Senior Steven Narva cheers with his teammates as the boys tennis team celebrates their win against Hamilton Southeastern High School on Aug. 23. “The night was electric,” Narva said. “It was a big win for the team.”

Boys Varsity Soccer Zionsville Classic When: 10:00 a.m.

Where: ZYSA Stadium

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Picture Retakes A chance for a second try at your school photo!

When: 7:45-11:45 a.m.

Where: Varsity Gym

Sept.

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locations are subject to change.

Girls Varsity Soccer Home game against Brownsburg When: 5:30 p.m.

Where: ZYSA Stadium

Oct.

24

Home match against Guerin When: 5:30 p.m.

Where: 875 Sports Complex

Sept.

21

Boys Varsity Tennis

Sept.

Sept.

Sept.

What’s What’s next? next?

Check the schedule below to find dates, times, and locations for upcoming ZCHS events. Dates, times, and

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10

Varsity Football Home football game against Brownsburg When: 7:00 p.m.

Where: Stadium

Fall Break (Oct. 10-14)