The Harbinger September 2021

Vol. 54, Issue 2 September 2021

HARBINGER The Driver’s Dilemma (p. 16)

Zionsville Community High School 1000 Mulberry St. Zionsville, Indiana

Note from the editor

Elizabeth Rexing, Print Editor

Staff

As teens,we are often focused on what’s happening around us dedicating most of our attention to the present day. And with the beginning of a new school year, there is a lot to talk about. For example, in this issue, we feature the colorful National Art Honor Society mural painted this summer (p.

18), and of course, the problem at the forefront of many student minds: traffic and parking (p.

16).

The Harbinger staff is shifting some of our focus to looking forward as well. This magazine we dive into the Fall Festival coming this weekend (p. 7) and the Varsity football team’s aims for a repeat to the state finals (p. 8).

We are also focused on remembering the past. We also look back on hairstyles that have made a comeback from the 80s (p.20), and, most importantly, the 20th anniversary of the Sept.

11 terrorist attacks (p. 6).

Print Editor Elizabeth Rexing Digital Media Editor Logan Seiler Social Media Editor Riya Patel Feature Editor Kailey Wallenius Student Life Editor Lucy Robinson News & Sports Editor Mary Demarco 2

Reporting on a wide variety of events and representing the voices of the entire student body are what we strive for with each and every magazine. For this reason, starting this issue and hopefully continuing in future issues, we are including the results of a student-wide survey.

This month’s survey reflects student driver reactions to parking and traffic (p. 23).

No matter what we’re covering, I hope you find something fun, something new, and something to look forward to in the articles inside.

Elizabeth Rexing, Print Editor

Opinion Editor Gretchen Drews Photography Editor Sarah Maniscalo Art Director Brooklyn Brown Podcast Director Josh Nieman Staff Daysun Brown Jack Farrar Dax Lara Jake Young

Editorial Frustrations

There’s no hiding the frustration that the student body has been feeling this first month back at school. Traffic is a nightmare, parking is impossible, and construction is just annoying. On top of all of that, we lost the popular 8th period with the new schedule and are somehow expected to return to no note tests.

This year, it seems easy to find reasons to be upset, especially when it’s all happening at once. As students, it often feels like school policies and rules are completely out of our control. That being said, we know complaining won’t get us anywhere.

Instead, there are several opportunities for students to advocate for change in the school. Attending school board meetings, speaking with teacher department heads, and understanding the district’s actions, are great first steps in making a difference.

Another option is to join the Zionsville Student Rights Union (ZSRU). This group acts as a forum, bridging students and the school administration. According to student leader, senior Charlie Steiner, everyone is welcome this year to come, speak their minds, voice their concerns, and act as agents of change within the school.

More information can be found on their Instagram: @zsru2022.

The return from online and hybrid schedules is an opportunity to change the way the school works, to make positive change. Rather than passively returning to “normal,” we should address what we think could be improved. Whether that’s making changes to benefit student safety, mental health, or just life at the high school in general, students should have a voice in the school they spend the majority of their day in.

Let’s talk to our teachers and start meaningful conversations. We all have the power to make change!

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. The Harbinger actively welcomes all public comments and criticisms.

Contents News

Sports

4 Clashing 8 Leading the Way Community 10 Mental Health 6 Twenty Years, Never for the Win Forgotten 7 Fall Fest Returns

4 Student Life

12 Eagle Nation: Back and Better Than Ever 15 Passion Projects

12 Opinion

Feature

16 The Driver's Dilemma 18 Painting with Purpose 20 A Cut Above

Cover photo by Sarah Maniscalo. Cover art by Brooklyn Brown

21 Breaking the Ice 22 Time Flies 23 Student Survey: Parking

18

24 Harb Highlights 3

CLASHING Parents, students share concerns about ZCS masking policies with board

By Lucy Robinson, Student Life Editor

S

ince the ZCS school board’s decision on masks was made over the summer, school board meetings have been a hotspot for community outrage and opinion.

At the full meeting on Aug. 9 there were seven police officers present, two of which had metal detectors for those walking in.

“Our police partners have been attending our board meetings for several years,” School Board President Debbie Ungar said. “There are sometimes additional officers based on the anticipated size of the crowd.”

Most of the parents at the meeting were there to address the school board, and some presented their complaints with a lack of community input prior to the most recent mask mandate. The board voted, 3 -2, on July 28 to require masks for students under age 12. “‘Was this not worthy of a survey monkey?’” parent Heather Pervis asked at the meeting. “Let’s do a survey and see how parents are feeling about this. One question is all you need, ‘would you like your kid to wear a mask, yes or no?’ that’s it.”

Two students spoke at the meeting about their experience with masks, Hadley Pervis, a sixth grader, and Ryan Murry, a fifth grader.

“I’ve always liked school, last year was difficult though,” Hadley Pervis said. “It was my first year of middle school and it was hard enough learning my schedule. Everybody told us that we would be out of masks by next year, but yet that did not happen. And

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I strongly believe masks should be optional, the mask mandate, and one adult, Hull, vaccinated or not.” spoke in favor of it.

At the meeting several parents brought “Masks are the easiest method we have their complaints about the school board’s deavailable right now to care about one another cision, arguing both for and against masking. in this pandemic. They are more effective “I chose to speak at the board meeting the more people that wear them,” Hull said. because I firmly believe that a community is “Therefore, it is better community health shaped and made by its participants, so it’s policy to instate a district-wide mask mandate imperative that we, as community members, now. It seems the simplest way to prevent speak up if we would like to see something large-scale quarantines, remote learning, and change in the community,” parent Kelin Hull even lockdowns.” said. “If only one person is talking or one On the other side, a common argument point of view is shared, then the community won’t move in the direction you, as a member, would hope.

It means you aren’t putting in the work to help shape it.”

At the Aug. 9 meeting there were two main viewpoints present. Four adults and two children Several Zionsville residents have displayed signs in their yards to protest the current mask policies. spoke against photo by Elizabeth Rexing

Community The chairs of the School Board Members sit empty. Their next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 13 at 6 p.m.. photo by Sarah Maniscalo

was that not everyone in the middle schools are wearing masks.

“Make everyone wear a mask and suffer equally,” parent Leslie Moore said at the board meeting.

Despite speaking at the meetings, some of the parents do not believe the school board is taking their thoughts and opinions into consideration.

“I’m honestly not sure if my voice was heard at the meeting,” Hull said. “The board did not make a motion to revisit the mask guidelines, which was my ultimate goal, and honestly, appeared to be the goal of those speaking the counterpoint to my argument, as well. On that part, I think we all were equally frustrated at the board’s bureaucratic opacity.”

Pervis said that she felt their voices were heard by the board.

“Whether this changes their mind is another thing,” Heather Pervis said. “I feel as though the school board has provided no return dialogue for the reason behind masking kids under 12.”

The school board has not only received community feedback at the board meetings, according to Ungar, they have received and read many emails from the community.

No one can say for sure if the mask mandate will change, however as of Aug. 20 Carmel, Hamilton Southeastern, and Noblesville schools in Hamilton County have

started requiring masks for all students and staff, along with schools: Lawrence Township, Washington Township and Pike Township in Marion County.

According to Ungar, the board and their leadership team keep a close watch on how the current circumstances may change and adjust accordingly.

“Our leadership team remains in close communication with the Boone County Health Department and carefully monitors the number and circumstance of COVID cases in our school community,” Ungar said.

“Just as we did last year, adjustments will be made with public health input based on changing circumstances.”

The current mandate was decided with regard to Governor Eric Holcomb’s suggestions at the end of July.

“Governor Holcomb gave the responsibility for determining COVID-19 mitigation measures to local school boards after July 1, 2021,” Ungar said. “Each school board member considered information from public health leaders and the community before deciding how to vote.”

The next ZCS school board meeting will be Sept. 13 and they take place the second Monday of each month. As of now, public comment is still open at ZCS board meetings.

Locally, school boards face community backlash School board meetings have been getting tense in many neighboring school districts.

Carmel Clay Schools has suspended public comments for their upcoming board meetings. They have also added metal detectors to their board meetings since the regular meeting on July 26, when a gun fell out of a man’s pocket at the meeting. Along with that arrest, tensions have been very high among community members especially during the public comments. Carmel isn’t the only school district with loud packed meetings.

Hamilton County has also had problems with interrupting and laughing over others speaking.

School boards all over the nation are facing increased pressure.

News 5

Twenty Years, Never Forgotten

By Brooklyn Brown, Art Director

6 News

art by Brooklyn Brown

T

his year Fire and Police Tribmarks two ute in Lions Park at decades since 12:15 p.m., north of the Sept. 11 attacks the gazebo. that sent the U.S. The Brownsburg into a period of Fire territory is also national mourning, holding a public instigated wars in event, but there is Iraq and Afghannot yet a scheduled The dedication memorial in Lebanon. istan, and caused time due to Coronaphoto by Lauren Wagner many Americans to virus concerns. question their own safety and security.

“We will have services in Brownsburg After Sept. 11, it was clear that the counto commemorate the sacrifice made by try would never again be the same. That is so many and to reflect on the hope we why every year local communities and orgashould have in the resilient character of our nizations honor the memory of the lives lost nature,” Smith said. and commemorate citizens’ perseverance 343 firefighters and 71 law enforcement through the tragic event. officers lost their lives Sept. 11, so police “Twenty years is long enough that those and fire departments globally remember the who are becoming adults have only lived in anniversary with a special somberness. a post 9/11 world,” Tony Smith, Operations Although remembering tragedies can take Chief at Brownsburg Fire Territory said. an emotional toll, U.S. History teacher Although Zionsville students did not Henry Nolan said it’s an important part of experience the day themselves, they can honoring history. attend several regional events and memorials “First, it allows people to remember to gain a better understanding of the signifi- loved ones that were lost and to memorialcance of the 20th anniversary. ize them,” Nolan said, “It is important as The Brownsburg Sept. 11 memorial, loa nation to remember these events because cated at Arbuckle Commons, is open to the these tragic events usually lead to making public 24 hours a day and centers around our country stronger and safer.” a beam that was recovered from the World Nolan plans to take a moment to disTrade Center. A similar memorial is located cuss Sept. 11 with his students and recount at the Lebanon Public Safety office and also his own experience of that day. features a piece of debris. Along with paying “The attacks on 9/11 I feel will be a visit to these monuments, students can remembered because of the generations attend various ceremonies happening this that were affected by all the changes made Sept. 11. by our government in response to these According to Zionsville Lions Club attacks,” he said.

Board Director Tim Reinheart, local police, Extreme changes to airport security, fire, and sheriff Honor Guards are hosting a international travel, and building security

were made after the attacks. Despite being too young to have observed the attacks, students’ lives are affected daily by Sept. 11.

“I see reminders everywhere that are a result of that day,” Nolan said.

Students can take the time to memorialize the event that changed Americans’ lives forever on more days than just its anniversary.

“I would suggest that students and adults alike take the time to thank first responders and military when they see them as they run towards the scene of their next call without hesitation,” Reinheart said.

Fall Fest Returns

By Elizabeth Rexing, Print Editor eaturing fried food, daredevil rides, and evenings spent with friends and neighbors, nothing beats Fall Festival.

The 68th annual Fall Festival will take place from Sept. 10 to Sept. 12 in the traditional Lions Park location off Sycamore Street. The theme, “Welcome to the Jungle,” will be reflected in the parade floats and park decorations.

According to Lions Board of Director member and Fall Festival chairman Tim Reinhart, the parade, bounce houses, rides, art and food vendors will return while new events such as bingo and a salute to first responders will make their debut.

“This year, especially with the 20th anniversary of Sept. 11 falling on the Saturday, it helps to show community pride,” Reinhart said.

More information about the festival’s plan to honor the anniversary can be found on page 8.

F

According to Reinhart, precautions such as frequent cleaning and encouraged social distancing will be taken to ensure a safe weekend.

“Our community certainly missed all of the fun that weekend normally brings to their families,” Reinhart said. “Our primary goal is to have a safe and fun event for people of all ages.”

The Alpha Leos, a youth branch of the Lions Club, also worked to bring the festival back. The Alpha Leos plan to once again help with the VIP carnival and sell snowcones. Lily Nault, junior and President of Alpha Leos, is excited for the opportunity to put the festival on again.

“Last year when the parade was canceled, all of us in the club were upset,” Nault said. “It brings me pride that our organization is able to put on an event that everyone in our community can enjoy.”

Also drawing excitement is the VIP Carnival night for the Best Buddies group.

The event, which takes place the starting Friday of Fall Fest“always produces many smiles and stories,” Reinhart said.

No matter what part of the festival they participated in, community members missed all the fanfare last year, making the anticipation for this year’s event even bigger.

“This event means a lot to everyone,” Nault said. “I am very excited to see everyone at the festival!”

The Lions Club mascot rides with festival goers in a past Fall Festival. photo provided by Reinhart

Weekend Schedule Friday - 5 - 8 p.m. Best Buddies VIP Night - 9 - 11 p.m. Carnival

Saturday - 10 a.m. Parade - 12 - 11 p.m. Carnival - 12 - 9 p.m. Bounce houses - 12:15 p.m. 9/11 Police & Fire Memorial - 12:35 p.m. American Legion Opening Ceremony - 1 p.m. Royalaires and Choralaires performance - 2 p.m. Cornhole tournament - 7 p.m. Lions Lounge and live entertainment

Sunday - 12 - 6 p.m. Carnival - 12 - 5 p.m. Bounce houses - 12 p.m. BINGO for cash prizes - 1:30 & 3 p.m. Silly Safari News 7

the

Leading

Way

By Elizabeth Rexing, Print Editor

“A

t the end of the day, our goal is to win state,” senior running back Colin Price said.

With the aim to finish what they started last year, the Varsity football team is focusing on player leadership and perfecting every play.

The team ended the season last year falling short against Cathedral in the state finals. While the team didn’t come away as 5A champions, they did come away with an unbeatable memory.

“The state finals game was truly something I’ll never forget,” Aiden Krein, senior and safety said. “Playing at Lucas Oil under the bright lights with all our fans cheering us on was an incredible moment for us players, and coaches. It truly showed how great we can be.”

Head coach Scott Turnquist said the team’s flexibility helped them on their trip to Lucas Oil. “You have to always be prepared to adapt,” Turnquist said. “Last season threw things at us that we’ve never seen before.

Our coaches and players were willing and able to adapt to everything we needed to do.”

The team started this season losing 17 graduating seniors, 11 who were a part of their starting lineup. However, the 32 seniors on this year’s team have had significant playing time in Varsity games in past years, Turnquist said.

“We lost a lot of high-quality seniors,” Turnquist said.

“We’re always sad to see seniors leave but we’re excited about the kids that we have replacing those seniors. They’ve worked extremely hard to prepare for this opportunity.”

Among the seniors are several players that stand out to Turnquist. Colin Price, Joey Tanona, Trey Firestone and Senior Owen Rossell and coach Jaylen Cushenberry celebrate after a Zionsville fumble recovery in their game against Pike on Sept. 20. others have stepped up and takThe Eagles beat the Red Devils, 28 - 10. photo by Sarah Maniscalo en on an essential leadership role this year, Turnquist said.

8 Sports

“[Student] leaders have the tools and the ability to get us back on track.”

- Scott Turnquist, Head Coach “Player leadership is extremely important,” Turnquist said. “ If there’s a mistake we’ve made or we’re struggling, leaders have to have the tools and the ability to get us back on track. It’s not necessarily just knowing plays, it’s communication, it’s being able to rely on one another, and being able to right the ship.”

Turnquist also notes that the team’s starting quarterback, junior Christian Abney, has taken charge.

“He’s earned the spot and his teammates have seen him earn it,” Turnquist said.

“Anytime the guys see someone working hard to achieve a goal, they’re willing to follow, they’re willing to support him, and they’re willing to do what they need to support him.”

According to Turnquist, player leadership is something that the entire team works on and something any player can accomplish.

“Leadership isn’t a grade, it isn’t an age,” Turnquist said. “It’s about influence and that’s what we’re trying to get the team to

understand; any of the guys can be leaders, regardless of how old they are.”

As a player, Krein understands the importance of student leaders.

“Player leadership means everything to me because it dictates success,” Krein said.

“When coaches lead, they have great effect, but it’s unmatched to the effect player leadership has on fellow Senior Adam Longmire draws out a play to help freshman, Darrius Eleazard. “The importance of having student leaders is so that players.” the young guys feel accepted into the program and so they have someone to relate to,” Longmire said. photo by Sarah Maniscalo Krein also recognizes Turnquist too hopes to see Lucas Oil that leaderagain this season but also understands that ship and player influence extends beyond the the road to finals doesn’t come easily. football field.

“I think the beauty of Indiana High “Off the field I try to always be there for School Football is that [state is] really a possithe ‘little guy’ and lead others with the experibility for anybody,” Turnquist said. “I think ence I have in school and in life in general,” our guys know, especially going through last Krien said. season, that getting to state finals doesn’t just Krein gives advice to the underclassmen happen. It takes a lot of work, a lot of effort, and understands that achievements come on and it takes some luck and for some things to and off the turf. bounce your way.”

“Starting your high school career off But no matter the outcome, Turnquist will strong is so important to the success you will continue to focus on the conditioning, prachave in high school and beyond,” Krein said. ticing, and playing that take place throughout “I harp on the importance of getting involved the entire season. and having fun.”

“It’s certainly a goal of ours every year to Price adds, “When we hold each other at things that are required to win games and accountable, we’re at our best.” win playoff games, and go to championships? make finals but it’s one of those things where we should focus on the journey,” Turnquist This season, Price’s goals are to perfect Because if we just put a goal out there that said. “About what it means to take that daily every play. says, ‘we want to win state championships,’ step rather than only focusing on the end “Cutting the corners is not an option if we we forget what it takes to get there.” want to play at our full potential,” Price said.

As for the team’s future, Price is confident result.”

“Making sure we execute every play is crucial that the team will succeed. to maximize every drive.”

“We’re going to set the bar higher so that Playoffs and potential state finals are on Read about the student we can finish the job,” Price said. “Making everybody’s minds. How to get there is the an appearance and coming up short is not section at upcoming football team’s main focus. good enough. With the team we have this games on page 12 “Everybody wants to win, that’s kind of a year, I completely believe we can make it given,” Turnquist said. “How good can we be happen.”

“Player leadership means everything to me because it dictates success.”

- Aiden Krein, senior

Sports 9

h t l a e H l a t n Me For The

Win

Simone Biles sets the bar for knowing your limits

By Mary Demarco, News and Sports Editor

A

s one of the most accomplished gymnasts in the world, and a seven-time Olympic medalist, many people thought it was insane for someone like Simone Biles to drop out of several Olympic events. She’s already this far, why quit?

According to school psychologist Bonnie England, what many people don’t realize is that mental health is more than just how you’re feeling.

“It’s so hard to consider that we are a holistic person who is all connected,” England said. “There are physical symptoms and our emotions can manifest in physical ways.”

For example, Simone Biles found herself unable to perform because she was getting what she called the “twisties.” Despite being an excellent, top tier gymnast, she was having trouble telling up from down in midair. Over the next few days, she decided to drop two of her many events in the Tokyo Olympics.

But this doesn’t mean Biles was quitting on the sport or even on herself. She took the necessary steps to aid both her mental and physical health.

“I just don’t trust myself as much as I used

10 Sports

to,” Biles said in an interview with Sports Illustrated. “I don’t know if it’s age, but I’m a little bit more nervous when I do gymnastics.

I feel like I’m also not having as much fun, and I know that.”

No matter if it’s the Olympics or a high school competition, listening to one’s body and mind is imperative to long term success.

Senior softball player Molly Jefferson has noticed the effects of trying to do too much at once.

“If I do too much softball, my body gets physically ill,” Jefferson said. “It’s me overworking myself but it’s not physical, it’s mental. You have to know when to take a step back and you have to know that it’s okay to step back.”

“Mental health problems can affect a student’s energy level, concentration, dependability, mental ability, and optimism, hindering performance,” according to the Suicide Prevention Research Center.

Student athletes and not just the professionals, should keep in mind how much they can take on before a busy schedule or the pressure of performance becomes too much.

“When you’re not enjoying something anymore, I think that’s a pretty good sign that it’s become more detrimental than positive” - Bonnie England, psychologist “High school athletes have a lot on their plate,” England said. “It’s a long day, going to school then adding two hours for physical activity in the morning and in the evening.

Most kids have multiple things going on like

Simone Biles performing on the balance beam in the 2013 World Gymnastics Championship in Belgium. photo provided by Science Photo Library

clubs and sports, plus homework. To be the best in anything, you would really have to devote yourself fully to that thing.”

When you’re neck deep in a sports season, it can be tough to find room for much else outside of your sport.

“We have practice until 7 p.m. usually,” said senior football player Owen Readinger.

“So that leaves about two and a half hours after practice. That doesn’t include showering, eating, and doing all of the other necessities after a practice or after a school day.”

While many athletes successfully manage the busy schedule, according to England, a lack of enjoyment of the sport is a sign that participation might be “more detrimental than positive.”

“Sports should be an enjoyable thing and a chance for connection and camaraderie,” England said.

Readinger said it is important for athletes to discover their own reasons for playing a sport.

“I find pride in being able to make it through the heat of the summer, when you’re

“You have to do a personal discovery of what you enjoy about your high school sport.

It’s different for everyone.”

- Owen Readinger, senior sweating so much that you think you’re going to pass out,” Readinger said. “You just have to find what does it for you. Because if you don’t, it’s going to be a long season.”

Jefferson has found the support of

teammates to be an important aspect of her softball game.

“All of my friends are amazingly supportive and have my back when I’m pitching,” Jefferson said. “When I’m actually pitching in a game, it’s one of the only items my brain isn’t overthinking.”

Like Simone Biles, prioritizing mental health isn’t quitting on yourself or the team.

Taking the necessary break may mean that later on you can get back up and perform even better.

After Simone Biles dropped out of two other Olympic events, she went on to win a bronze medal in the Women’s Balance Beam Final.

“I think it’s always good to have a conversation with a coach or a trusted adult figure to figure out that balance between ‘maybe this is just making me stronger’, and maybe that ‘I’m just in a rut that I need to push through.’ But I think it’s always worth considering whether or not it’s become too much,” England said.

Sports 11

WELCOME TO E

EAGLE NATION Turn the page for more

photo by Sarah Maniscalo

EAGLE NATION

BACK & BETTER than ever

By Daysun Brown, Staff fter a year of masked fans spaced sixfeet apart, Eagle Nation is ready for a comeback. Student Section Club, formerly the Spirit Club, plans to do just that by bringing back fan favorites and adding new twists to this year’s football games.

The Student Section Club plans activities and themes for each game with the goal of getting students excited and involved.

“I’m hoping we can increase numbers and get it back to when our class was in freshman year. Get back to pre-COVID and, hopefully, celebrate normally,” senior club member Teddy Greenlee said.

According to new member and senior Anna Huston, the club is planning giveaways and hopes to add a t-shirt launcher to “make it more of an interactive game so it’s fun for everyone.”

Prize packs assembled by the club will be handed out to the best-dressed fans.

“We plan to give a prize to the most spirited fan and we are hoping to do that for all of the games,” Amanda Harmon, sponsor of the Student Section Club, said. “The prize we are wanting to give will help them carry out the theme for the next game.”

Freebies, such as noise-makers, pompoms, and more, matching the themes will be handed out at home and away games to help fans show their spirit.

A

Seniors Isaiah Davis and Louis Mariacher are the Senior Section leaders for the 2021-2022 season. Both were appointed by the Student Section Club Spirit Board to lead the crowd.

To keep the spirit up at the games Mariacher plans to do “whatever it takes.”

One goal for the club is to get everything back to normal. Last year capacity for the football games was limited and the guidelines were abundant. This year social distancing and masks will be optional in the student section.

“Any moment we could be told that there are restrictions on events as far as capacity and that sort of thing,” Harmon said. Harmon suggested following their Instagram @ the_eagle_nation and listening to the Seniors and student section leaders Isaiah Davis announcements to keep (left) and Louis Mariacher pose for the camera. up to date on changes.

Davis notes that the two plan to bring“energy every single night and to keep the student section Evidence of the enelectric.” photo by Sarah Maniscalo thusiasm was abundant

14 Student Life

Seniors Sydney Webber, Lily Robinson, Holly Worth, and Jocelyn Holdsworth at the football game on Aug. 20. photo by Sarah Maniscalo

with the big crown at a preseason scrimmage. With only four home football games, the club decided to promote the scrimmage.

The rain tested Eagle Nation at the scrimmage against Kokomo.

“It’s only the beginning.” Davis said.

“To know that everyone stayed throughout the scrimmage during the rain shows our character and our strength.”

Be sure to come to the rest of the games this season and show your Eagle pride.

“Eagle Football will be unmatched in spirit this year,” Mariacher said.

Upcoming Home Games: Sept. 24 7 p.m.

THEME: Blackout for Homecoming

Oct. 8 7 p.m.

THEME: Pinkout for Breast Cancer Night

Passion Projects Head, heart, hands and health are the H’s in 4-H. These three students competed in the Boone County 4-H Fair in July.

By Kailey Wallenius, Feature Editor

Emma-Rose Foster

Foster poses with her winning ribbons in her creation. photo submitted by Foster

In a dress made of buttons, ties, and hand gloves, senior Emma Foster walked the runway at the Boone County Fair, competing in the Wearable Crafts category. Foster earned a purple ribbon in the competition, and the title of Grand Champion.

Finding a category was a little more process of elimination for Foster.

“When I was looking at all the 4-H categories, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, so I just picked Arts and Crafts,” Foster said. “I can’t do any of the animals because I don’t have the property for it.”

With the miscellaneous activity, participants are able to have a wide range of what they can create.

“I like the creativity of it, you can kind of do whatever you want,” Foster said. ”Then you get awards for it.”

This is Foster’s second year of participating in this category of 4-H. “[Two years ago] I made a dress out of magazines,” Foster said. “I had a base dress from the 1800s, and then I resewed it all to have a nice base. Then I did a lot of cutting and gluing.”

Lylah Sands Senior Lylah Sands competed in the Juniors Leader Project and the Dairy project, and has done 4-H for many years. Sands earned a purple ribbon, the highest ribbon offered at the competition.

“I’ve been in 4-H since fourth grade,” Sands said. “Making this my ninth and last year, unfortunately.”

Working in the Dairy Project helped Sands learn about animals and how to take

care of them.

“Spending time with my cows and at the farm is really calming,” Sands said.

4-H teaches young adults many important ideas that can help in the future.

“I would 100% recommend 4-H to other people,” Sands said. “It’s a great way to meet new people, learn new skills, and do something you’ve never done before.”

Smiling at her cow, Sands celebrates her purple ribbon victory. photo submitted by Sands

Jayden Sanders

Sanders poses with her cow at the State Fairgrounds. photo submitted by Sanders

Competing with dairy cows, senior Jayden Sanders earned a purple ribbon, and the title of Reserve Champion.

Sanders has been participating in 4-H since fourth grade.

“When I first started, we recently had gotten a new kitten and I really wanted to show her at the fair,” Sanders said.

Sanders has tried many different activities such as veterinary science, cats, ceramic, photography, and dairy cows.”

“Each project is very different, and has leaders that are very familiar in the subject of the project,” Sanders said.

Showing cows requires extra time spent

at the fairgrounds.

“When the fair gets closer, we have to bathe our cow and clip their hair,” Sanders said. “When the fair starts, we spend the whole week with our cows at the fairgrounds making sure she is fed and hydrated and clean.”

Other activities can teach real life skills that will help beyond 4-H. “For vet science, we have monthly meetings with a local vet who is our leader, and she has workshops for us to do a tour of her vet clinic, and how to draw blood and do stitches,” Sanders said.

Student Life 15

The Driver’s Dilemma Changes

By Sarah Maniscalo, Photography Editor

in traffic flow cause frustration

Seniors Josh Nieman, Cole Chappell, and Jake Young cross the street in front of a long line of cars after school. photo by Sarah Maniscalo

K

ennedy Merrell, senior, drives to and from school every day and witnesses the chaos of the parking lot from her seventh period class in the fieldhouse.

“The class hasn’t even started yet, and I see parents lining up already sitting in line,” Merrell said. “Then the bell rings, and it’s madness. Everyone’s sprinting to their cars to get out fast.”

Before and after school traffic has been described as “horrendous,” “a nightmare,” and “anger-inducing” since the first day of school on Aug. 3.

The unavoidable construction has worsened crowded parking lots after the bus entrance was relocated to the already busy south side of the school and equipment storage further limited parking spots.

Principal Tim East said he expects traffic congestion to continue to improve since “more students will be staying after school for activities, so it spreads out the time that people are leaving and where they’re leaving.”

According to East, on the first day of school, dismissal time took 33 minutes, from the bell to the last car leaving the parking lot. Just five days later, the last car exited the student parking lot at 3:59 p.m., 20 minutes after dismissal.

“As families start to get back in the groove, ride-sharing and carpooling situations help reduce traffic,” East said.

Students, like Merrell, have also learned to change their routines to allow for extra time in the morning.

“I used to leave at 8:07, but now I have to

RUMOR: Debunked

On the second day of school, there were rumors that Principal Tim East and other members of the ZCHS faculty valet-parked student cars for those who were late to class.

“As people were learning where the empty spots were around the lot… we did allow some students to park along the back row of the faculty spots. ‘Go ahead, park there today. Fix it [in the future];’ as everyone was trying to learn the system. There was no valet-parking,” East said.

16 Feature

leave at around 7:50 just to make sure I get a parking spot,” Merrell said.

According to East, the administration monitors the status of traffic and works with local police to create a safe, efficient environment for drivers and pedestrians.

“Every day we will have Lieutenant Martin assisting us with the Hal Sharpe student driver and parent driver exit component, and holding traffic for the buses,” East said.

Two other road units from the Zionsville Police Department also assist when available on the corner of Mulberry and Hal Sharpe and the exit on Mulberry Street.

While students may be frustrated with the traffic entering and exiting campus, East reminds students to remain patient and stay vigilant.

“With a little over 2,500 people leaving, like a worship service, the Colts game, any of those kinds of things where everyone lets out at once, there’s always going to be some congestion,” East said.

No plans for return of senior parking

830 2021-22 parking tags as of Aug. 13

T

he tradition of the senior parking lot started when ZCHS was much smaller than the current population of over 2,200 students.

“Every freshman had their locker in the 100 hall. Sophomores were in the 200 hall, juniors were in the 300 hall, and seniors were in the 400 hall adjacent to door 41,” Principal Lieutenant Martin directs traffic at the exit on Hal Sharpe Rd. after school. photo by Sarah Maniscalo Tim East said.

Most designated senior classes, like Economics and Government, were located in the Duncan Michie, senior, felt compelled 400 hallway, so it became the unofficial “senior to encourage the administration to reevaluhallway.” ate their decisions. He created a petition on “As a perk of finishing your high school Change.org that garnered 300 signatures in the career, we put your parking right next to door first two weeks of school.

41,” East said.

Michie said, “I was prompted [to create the As ZCHS expands to include an East, West, petition] by the second day of school when it and Central campus, the administration wants took me 20 minutes to get out of my parking to move on from class-designated areas like a spot and another 15 to get out of the lot and senior parking lot. get home.”

“We still honor that there’s a certain According to Michie, the current senior component that goes with becoming a senior, class deserves certain privileges after experiencand leader, and mentor on our campus,” East ing three school years affected by COVID-19. said. “We designate that with a special parking “The change I want is some sort of compentag, but we chose not to designate an area that sation for how screwed the seniors got. Maybe would potentially force all seniors to park away lunch off campus every day a week instead of from their preferred spot where their first perijust once? Or more parking space dedicated to od class [starts] or their seventh period ends.” just the seniors close to the school because the The purpose behind this decision is to [unofficial] senior lot is completely full every provide students with the freedom to choose day,” Michie said. where they want to park and to decrease the East said the administration is “always intercongestion of cars entering and exiting the ested to know what our students think.” parking lots.

He added, “We don’t lead our school based on petition, and not everything is a public vote to determine.”

According to East, there are no plans to continue the tradition of a designated senior parking area.

“We chose not to designate an area that would potentially force all seniors to park away from their preferred spot.”

- Tim East, Principal

Student perspectives on this topic can be found on page 23

745 2020-21 total parking tags

740 2019-20 total parking tags

849 2018-19 total parking tags

*Information provided by Gina Duffey, administrative assistant, and Matt Walter, assistant principal

Feature 17

Painting with Purpose

By Elizabeth Rexing, Print Editor

A

colorful new school mural, located centrally in the main hall between the East and West sides of the campus, adds artistic flair to the cement brick walls of the school.

The National Art Honor Society, led by senior Max Robinson, designed, and painted the mural this summer. The mural was funded by Zionsville’s Chapter of Tri-Kappa. Robinson describes NAHS as an “art-based service group” and was excited to have the opportunity to “really change the school.”

“We need more student art in the hallways,” Robinson said. “It’s a great way to get student engagement and to add more color and energy to the hallways; right now they’re just dull.”

NAHS sponsor and art teacher, Jessica

18 Feature

Sterling said that the mural came as a result of a school-wide equity walk. Teachers and administrators walked around the school and examined the school’s climate, or how the school looked and felt when it was empty.

“The people that went on the equity walk noticed that our students didn’t shine on our walls or in our building,” Sterling said. “This [mural] was part of the initiative to make the students more apparent, even when they aren’t physically in the building.”

French teacher Amy Conrad, a leader for the equity walk, said the purpose was to “look at the school with fresh eyes.” The teachers wanted to answer the questions, “who is represented?” and “how might the school seem to outsiders?”

“One of the things that came up again

and again was that in a lot of spaces in the school, it felt cold,” Conrad said. “Every teacher was thinking, ‘we need more celebration of our students; we need more to make it more welcoming.’”

Part of the walk also focused on the word, “equity,” which focuses on the representation of all kinds of people. The realizations that came from the walk were a large part of the mural initiative.

The mural reads, “ZCHS Stronger Together,” and depicts two interlocking hands, highlighting the unity of the student body.

“It’s important, as a high school, that we acknowledge and present very clearly that we have a desire to accept students from different backgrounds, to be inclusive, to be proud of diversity,” Robinson said. “We are a school that’s stronger when we act photo by Sarah Maniscalo

together and when we support each other and it’s important that we demonstrate that.”

The mural team stuck with warm colors to make the hallway appear welcoming and chose red and green, opposite colors on the color wheel, for the hands.

“This shows the capacity to accept different kinds of people and different backgrounds represented by the complementary pairing of two opposite colors,” Robinson said.

Both Sterling and Robinson hope to see more murals painted in the future.

“Next summer, we might fill the panels next to this mural,” Sterling said. “Then hopefully we move throughout the rest of the school, anywhere that needs a little bit of love.”

According to Robinson and Sterling, NAHS’s hope for the future is to continue spreading art around the school.

“The school feels more inviting and personable now, even with just one mural,” Robinson said. “It already feels like a school that’s representing the students and the students’ ideas.”

Senior Max Robinson paints the mural outside the Wedge. “When we were designing, we wanted to stick to bright colors and in the setting of the hallway, something colorful that would stick out when you walk out,” Robinson said. photo by Lauren Wagner

Have something to say? Want to be a guest contributor for the Harbinger magazine? Follow us on Instagram @zchsharb for upcoming opportunities to submit a written piece and be featured! Read our first guest commentary below!

Guest Commentary

By Iris Bailey, senior

Beauty in the Ordinary

It’s hard to walk down the main hallway without being struck by the new mural from the National Art Honor Society.

Compared to the stained, ivory-colored walls, the mural sticks out like a sore thumb.

This isn’t to say that the mural isn’t absolutely beautiful and breath-taking, because it is, but it leaves the rest of the hallways looking even more dull by comparison.

The contrast pulls out every minute detail of what is not on the walls. Those blank, dreadful walls seem to intensify every scratch and smudge, and echo the complaints of the students walking through them: that the school is in need of a vibrant renaissance.

It’s an understatement to say, “the school might feel very bland,” as one of my peers mentioned to me recently. The school is dingy, dirty, and in some opinions, more akin to a prison than a place of learning. It’s almost demoralizing to walk in some of the

bathrooms and examine the dilapidated green stalls and their odd graffiti.

When I find myself grumbling about the depressive nature of the school, I feel ashamed for engaging in such a trivial issue. It’s not like I’m really affected by the drabness of the school, but to be fair, I’m really affected by the drabness of the school.

In the kindest way possible, all five senses are somewhat abused at the high school from the lurking BO smell to the eek of a unfolding chair in study hall. Sure, the new mural is a big step for the school, but what else can be done?

While the mural is a great first step, it is just a first step. Considering the resources or well, willingness, that the school has to offer, the outlook might seem pretty grim. So, for some, this would be the time to check out and continue on groaning about every way in which the halls of the school are not perfect or ideal or beautiful.

But the school is beautiful. It takes an observant mind to notice how daintily the light filters in through the skylight in the commons, how the floor in the gerbil tunnel sparkles in the sunlight, how peaceful the varsity gym is when unoccupied, or how the

carpet in the East Campus has an intricate and fascinating design.

And that’s not all. Beauty blooms on the kind words of a friend to another. Beauty is a teacher taking time to talk with a student after class or a held door when a stranger’s hands are full.

It’s the fact that you can hear a choir singing or a band playing in the midst of a busy day and that the math teachers in the East Campus always stand at the top of the stairs to greet their students, as if they were angels in heaven.

Beauty is knowing what sinks spray water everywhere, laughing when they do, and then advising a friend which sinks not to use.

The graffiti in the bathroom stalls giving advice and lamenting politics takes its own interpretive eye to appear beautiful, but it’s still wonderful. Beauty is abundant in the intricacies of the high school. It’s not always obvious, but it’s there, waiting to be noticed by a watchful onlooker.

Beauty is found in the ordinary. In some cases, it’s painted on the walls, like the mural, but in other cases, it takes a bit more searching to find.

Feature 19

A Cut Above What would you name your hairstyle? These students with cool, unique hair share their ideas.

By Sarah Maniscalo, Photography Editor

“Strawberry Lemonade” - Laurel Schoenbaum, 12

“The Lettuce” - Zach Griggs, 11

“Too lazy to pick up or down?

I guess you’ll never know!”

- Ibrahim Bata, 12

“A firetruck” - Katherine Readinger, 11

20 Feature

Breaking Breaking the Ice

The start of school can only mean one thing: ice breakers.

By Kailey Wallenius, Feature Editor

T

eachers love to begin the first days of school forcing students to awkwardly share basic information about themselves to the rest of the class. From your favorite ice cream flavor (mine is raspberry chocolate chip), to the amount of pets someone has (I have one), the most boring and meaningless information will be shared with students that you will most likely never actually talk to.

The idea behind ice breakers is positive, trying to make class time less awkward by learning others’ names and interests so that you will be able to better connect. However, saying your name aloud doesn’t really “break the ice,” and as a matter of fact might just solidify the ice even more.

Honestly, is there ice that needs to be broken in the first place? Is there tension in the classroom that truly needs to be fixed with games? The first day of classes just makes everyone nervous. If there is tension, then it is just nervousness from it being the first time in a new class.

I dread ice breakers, and whenever I have to awkwardly say my name and what I would bring to a desert island, I cringe inside. I dread ice breakers so much that I would prefer doing work over them.

Also, I usually just recycle the same three facts when I have to say something interesting about myself, and while the definition of “interesting” can change depending on who you ask, my double-jointed arm or my Oregon origins really aren’t interesting at all.

Ice breakers are important in a class where no one knows each other, like most freshmen, but for the upperclassmen most people already recognize each other. I know that teachers need a way for students to get to know each other, but there are so many better choices.

Senior Lily Robinson, junior Ryan Luke, and junior Maddie Patrick work together to create a replica of a drawing for yearbook class ice breaker game. photo by Lauren Wagner

Alternatives to Traditional Ice Breakers 1. Give small tables questions to discuss certain events. This makes it so no one has to share personal information, and you only end up talking to a few people instead of the whole class, which can make the environment less stressful and intimidating.

2. Allow the class to choose who they talk to, or allow them to play some with each other so they are still talking but they aren’t feeling forced into an awkward situation.

3. Have a class discussion about a fun topic, like popular movies, TV shows, or celebrities, students can share things with the class in a more relaxed environment.

4. If you don’t have the energy to come up with something fun, just introduce yourself to your students as a way to break the tension.

Opinion 21

Time

Flies The difficulties and stress of the new seven period days have students wishing for a simpler schedule.

By Gretchen Drews, Opinion Editor

I

t’s been a month since school has started and we’re officially back to our regular seven-period day schedule. You know, that thing we were doing before a global pandemic started? You’re probably tired of hearing about it though or maybe you’re like me and even more tired of this exhausting and fast-paced schedule.

One reason I dislike the seven-period schedule that I think everyone can agree upon is that we can no longer enjoy that extra half hour of sleep we used to get in the morning. If you’re someone like me who takes forever to get out the door, it’s really no fun having to wake up at 6 or 7 in the morning only to have to deal with a major traffic problem (which is an entirely separate topic).

When I eventually get to school, I’m usually ready to go. For my first period, I have painting which is a great way to wake up.

The class is so relaxing, but by the time I get out all my paints and brushes and paper it’s already almost time to pack up.

Every class goes by so fast, almost too fast. As someone who has to “get in the zone” to finish assignments or projects, I find it frustrating that once I become focused on something, the bell interrupts and then I’m off to the next class.

These quick changes not only mess up the flow of the class for me, but for most of my teachers as well as. They always seem to be cut off by the bell. Because of this, I think a lot of students—including myself— feel like our questions are left unanswered.

Since we have seven periods on Monday, Thursday and Friday and block scheduling on Wednesday and Thursday, we’re all constantly switching gears.

22 Opinion

This not only happens from period to period but from day to day as well. I already made the mistake of waking up a few hours too early because I forgot we still had a late start on Wednesdays.

This whole schedule is overcomplicated for no reason. The block schedule of last year was so perfect. Each day I was able to complete the tasks in my planner, but I wasn’t overwhelmed. In fact, I felt the opposite because of the reprieve from certain classes with the block days.

The block schedule was amazing considering the fact teachers were able to teach one or two lessons in one class period while also giving an adequate amount of time for work or any additional questions students might have on homework or notes.

Block scheduling helped to improve both my grades and mental health without having to pick one over the other. The block schedule allowed me to have more time to not just study and worry about if I’ll pass the next test, but to actually learn and gain something from my classes.

I know not all students share this opinion, so for that reason, I propose the school board takes a student survey at the end of this year to gain a better understanding of student opinion. No matter the results, the school should always consider making changes to the school’s schedule for students and teachers if it will create a better school life and environment.

“The old block schedule made the rest of the week go by so much faster.”

- Abby Martin, 12 “I get more time to do my homework, and my tests are more spread out.”

- Ava DeCamp, 12 “[During seven period days] I enter a class, get assignments and leave before I get anything done. I’m just running around all day.”

- Eli Huber, 12 “It’s been a really difficult adjustment for a lot of people. For me, I’d prefer we did either all block or none at all.” - Audrey Eskonen, 12 art by Brooklyn Brown

Opinion 23 sb

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Harb Highlights Left: Danielle James, freshman, pauses after catching her flag in the marching band’s half time performance on Aug. 20. “It’s a really great feeling when it all comes together to create something amazing,” James said.

Bottom: Students toss the colored powder into the air during halftime at the Sept. 20 Neon Night football game. photos by Sarah Maniscalo

Senior Jocelyn Holdsworth dribbles the ball in the Varsity team’s game against Brebeuf on Aug. 16. The Eagles won, 1-0. photo by Riya Patel

Girls and Boys Eagle Classic meet When: 8:30 a.m.

Where: Eagle Park

18

Girls Soccer

24

Varsity football

JV & Varsity games against Avon When: 10 a.m.

Where: ZYSA fields

Homecoming game and black-out night When: 7 p.m.

Where: Stadium

Sept.

locations are subject to change.

Sept.

11

Cross Country

JV & Varsity Invitational matches When: 8:30 a.m.

Where: Home complex

Sept.

11

Boys 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

28

Choir Concert

30

Orchestra Concert

Fall performance by ZCHS choirs When: 7 p.m.

Where: PAC

Fall performance by ZCHS orchestras When: 7 p.m.

Where: PAC