GEHS

St. Patrick’s Day Edition March 2015 Volume XIV, Issue VIII

cloudier. If the goal of PARCC dent, Dr. Keith Kline, has publicly Testing Overload tests are to, “measure whether expressed his disdain for super- students are on track to be suc- fluous testing) and students cer- Inside this issue: No doubt everyone has been cessful in college and their ca- tainly do not like all the tests, thrown for a loop by the odd reers,” (as stated on their web- why are we taking them? scheduling of the past few Traditions 3 site) then do third graders really weeks, however, not everyone need to be taking them? A lot In 2002 Congress passed some- understands why the block can change in the years between thing called the “No Child Left Fun Facts 4 schedule was put in place. Yes, third grade and high school grad- Behind Act,” this act did many the changes were made to ac- uation, and odds are a test taken things to affect education in commodate time for the new in third grade will be a poor America, and one of those things Famous People 7 PARCC tests but why exactly are judge of how a child’s teenage was to require that schools test we even taking these tests? Are students annually to monitor and adult years will go. Awesome Redheads? 8 they really necessary? their progress. That explains the Even for high school students, reason for some of the tests, but High school has always taking the PARCC assessment not all. The reason we students seemed to consist of one stand- Spring is in the Air 9 seems like overkill. Between the have to take so many tests even- ardized test after another, and ACT, PSAT, SAT, OGT, AP Exams, tually comes down to local gov- the PARCC test is just the latest pop quizzes, regular tests, and ernment decisions, decisions Sports 10 in a long line of assessments. The semester exams, high school is made at a state and district level. purpose of these tests is pretty turning into one massive test obvious once one knows what taking spree. Adding another Whatever the reasoning Spring Fashion 14 PARCC stands for: Partnership for standardized test to the midst behind the excessive testing, it’s Assessment of Readiness for Col- seems to be borderline insane, time that elected officials finally lege and Careers. The tests are even if the intentions are good. remember what school used to designed to gage a student’s be about. It’s time we return to readiness for their future educa- The PARCC tests have barely the days when school wasn’t tion and careers. They are sup- just finished and already some about taking tests, and instead St. Patty’s Day posed to help teachers and students are forced to turn their start using school for what it was Parade route— schools see the areas where their attention to the next big round of created for: actually learn- students are struggling in order page 4 testing: the OGT. The OGT tests ing. -Danielle Watkins to better help them. At first this year are the week of March glance this seems like a good 16th-20th, and actually deter- idea but it doesn’t take much mines if a student can graduate SPRING BREAK Happy thought to bring up the question: high school. In the end, it seems Isn’t this a bit extreme? Should that the value of your entire high St. Patrick’s Day REMINDER students really have to take this school career can be determined many tests? by your scores on a series of West Clermont’s official Spring tests. At the surface the PARCC tests Break is:

seem relatively innocent, it is Now, it’s also obvious that important that high school stu- teachers don’t like testing any April 6th—April 10th

dents understand how prepared more than the rest of us. Too they are for college and know Luck of the Irish much testing takes away from School opens again on April what they need to work on in valuable class time for teaching. 13th. order to get on track for a suc- Kiss the So if teachers do not like the cessful career. Beneath the sur- tests, administrators do not like The Easter Bunny comes on April Blarneystone face, however, things are much the tests (our own Superinten- 5th. 4 Leaf Clover Page 2 The Luck of the Irish The Torch

Why Green? In a Pinch There are two types of people in the world; Have you ever wondered why we pinch those who do not wear green on St. the ones who are Irish and others who wish they Patrick’s Day? Well, St. Patrick’s Day fanatics believed that leprechauns were were. magical fairy creatures who would pinch anyone they could see. The revelers St. Patrick’s Day has been celebrated in Ire- thought if you wore green, you would become invisible to the leprechauns! If you land since before the 1600’s as a Roman Catho- did not wear green, people would pinch you themselves as a warning. This has lic holiday. However the holiday soon came to become an American tradition that we all enjoy (or dislike, if you do not own any- America in the 1700’s when Irish Immigrants be- gan to celebrate in the streets. Before the thing green to wear). So, watch out for those leprechauns this year and make sure 1700’s the original color of the holiday was blue you wear your green! -Savannah Shepard but was soon changed to green. Green was found to be a more appropriate color because of Irelands tri-colored flag, lush green landscape Why Are Leprechauns Lucky? (“Emerald isle” is the country's nickname), the color of spring, and of course, the shamrock. Leprechauns are small little men that are about 2 feet tall and are lucky be- cause they guard their treasures, like gold, and protect it then. Because they St. Patrick’s Day is now celebrated by all protect their gold the gold keeps them lucky because they have it with them. Americans worldwide. Adults can be seen at celebrations wearing crazy green hats, green Leprechauns do not like it when people touch their gold, they will do anything to feather scarves and four-leaf clover glasses. The protect it. The Leprechauns are also lucky because they also make rainbows and celebrations are so crazy and fun; it truly makes they keep their gold at the end of rainbow -Cheyenne Irwin all of us wish we were Irish! -Kayla Overbee

Traditions on Saint Patrick’s Day Chicago - Sometime in the 19th century, as St. Patrick's Day parades were flourishing, wearing the color green became a show of commitment to Ireland. According to greenchciagoriver.com, in 1962 the show of solidarity took a spectacular turn in Chicago when the city decided to dye a portion of the Chicago River green. The tradition started when parade organizer, Steve Bailey, noticed how a dye used to trace possible sources of river pollution had stained a colleague's overalls a brilliant green. Bailey thought, why not use the dye to turn the whole river green on St. Patrick's Day? So began the tradition.

Boston - St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Boston bring over 600,000 visitors to the city, which has a large Irish-American community. The city has one of the largest parades, and events are held in the large number of Irish pubs in the city. The Irish Cultural Centre holds a celebration, and many events feature Irish food, such as corned beef.

New York - New York City is the location of the oldest civilian parade, which boasts over 150,000 participants. This includes veterans along with firefighters, policemen, and cultural clubs. It is led by New York's 69th infantry regiment. Another city in New York state, Pearl River, has the second largest parade in the state with crowds of over 100,000. In Buffalo, there are two St. Patrick's Day pa- rades.

Scranton - This Pennsylvania city's parade is one of the oldest and largest. Since 1862, this parade has been one of the most popular, with current celebrations attracting around 150,000 people/tourists.

New Orleans - This coastal city was the largest point of immigration for the Irish. St. Patrick's Day celebrations are typically held at the community or neighborhood level.

Ireland - This celebration is more religious in nature, as it is considered a religious feast day. While it was made an official holiday in 1903, the first Saint Patrick's Festival was held in 1996.

Auckland - Auckland, New Zealand is the first to host the St. Patrick’s Day parties each year. The celebrations throughout the city in- clude a parade, a fleadh (which is dancing and music fests), and the lighting of the tallest building in the city Sky Tower, a kelly green. This is the location of a St. Patrick’s Cathedral -Thu A. Nguyen and Shawnee Kuper Volume XIV, Issue VIII The Luck of the Irish Page 3

Good Luck Charms According to the classic Noah Webster's dictionary, luck can good luck to their finders, especially if found accidentally. In ad- be defined as "a purposeless, unpredictable, and uncontrollable dition, each leaf is believed to represent something: the first is for force that shapes events favorably or unfavorably for an individ- faith, the second is for hope, the third is for love, and the fourth is ual, group or cause.” People say that certain items are lucky such for luck. It is debated whether the fourth leaflet is caused genet- as: rabbit’s feet, four-leaf clovers, Irish people, and horseshoes. ically or environmentally. Its relative rarity (1 in 10,000 clover) Why are these items “luckier” than others? suggests a possible recessive gene appearing at a low frequency. Alternatively, four-leaf clovers could be caused by somatic muta- Rabbit’s feet were originally considered lucky by the ancient tion or a developmental error of environmental causes. They could Celts, but only if the rabbit was killed in a particular place, killed also be caused by the interaction of several genes that happen to by a particular method, or by a person possessing particular at- segregate in the individual plant. It is possible all four explana- tributes (e.g. by a cross-eyed man). The Native Americans be- tions could apply to individual cases. lieved that only the left hind foot was useful for charms, and the rabbit must have been captured or shot in a cemetery. The term “Luck of the Irish” actually refers to the tragic history of the Irish people, from the potato famine to the misfortune in Many sailors once believed that nailing a horseshoe to the America in the 1800s. Some believe, however, that the “Luck of mast of one’s ship would deter storms. It is also said that an up- the Irish” is their ability to bounce back from such tragedies, or side-down horseshoe is unlucky because the luck is “draining out maybe it was their success mining in California and finding their of it.” “pot o’ gold.”

The four-leaf clover is an uncommon variation of the common Is luck a real force? Or is it just a bunch of garbage? You de- three-leaved clover. According to tradition, such leaves bring cide! - Aaron Troknya McDonald’s is Going Green! It is that time of the year again! Yes, the Shamrock Shakes at McDonald’s are back! The Shamrock Shakes are sold during the month of March to celebrate St. Patrick’s day. The shakes are a seasonal mint-flavored, green colored dessert. The shake was first introduced in 1970 by Rogers Merchandising in Chicago and was originally lemon-lime flavored with vanilla ice cream and lemon- lime sherbet with vanilla syrup. It was not until 1973 that it became a green color, which eliminated the lemon-lime sherbet. Then in 1983, mint flavoring was added to the shake, which is still what the shake consists of today. If you want one, you better hurry be- cause they are only sold for a short period of time! - Ashley Lorenzen Are Lucky Charms Really Magically Delicious? Lucky Charms is a brand of cereal made by the company General Mills, first released in 1964. The cereal consists of two compo- nents: toasted oat pieces and multicolored and shaped marshmallows (Lucky Charms was the first cereal to include marshmallows!)The marshmallows are a variety of eight different shapes. These shapes all have special “powers” in the commercials as well. The pink heart has the power to bring things to life. The shooting stars can give someone the power to fly. The horseshoe is able to speed things up. The clover is for luck( but you never know what kind of luck you’ll get.) The blue moons have the power of invisibility. The rainbows make it possible to instantaneously travel from one place to another. The balloons give the power to make things float, and the hour- glass can control the speed of time. There also have been “Limited Edition” marshmallows. These are marshmallows that were added to the cereal for a temporary period of time. Some examples are: a whale shape added in 1986, a green pine shaped marshmallow promoting Earth Day with a free Colorado Blue Spruce seedling with proof-of-purchase. Two new marshmallows were added in June of 2013 to represent LBGT pride month!

The mascot of Lucky Charms is a leprechaun named Lucky, featured in commercials produced for the cereal. Lucky was originally called L.C Leprechaun, but the name was then replaced by Lucky, also called Sir Charms. Lucky Charms did not originally have a jingle, but later on, a short Irish tune accompanied by two lines saying “Lucky Charms, they’re magically delicious!” was added.

On www.MrBreakfast.com, Lucky Charms was voted as the 4th greatest cereal of all time, so they are indeed magically delicious! -Lexi Shipman Page 4 St. Patrick’s Day Fun The Torch

St. Patrick’s Day Fun Facts St. Patrick’s Day Food Ideas 1. THERE’S NO CORN IN THAT BEEF 4. THERE ARE NO FEMALE LEPRE- Breakfast- CHAUNS Corned beef and cabbage, a tradi- Cooked: Green or rainbow pancakes with green tional Saint Patrick’s Day staple, Don’t be fooled by any holiday deco- eggs served with green milk and green mini German pancakes. doesn’t have anything to do with the rations showing lady leprechauns. In grain corn. Instead, it’s a nod to the traditional Irish folk tales, there are no Fruit (colors of the rainbow): Strawberries, or- large grains of salt that were histori- female leprechauns, only nattily at- anges or cantaloupe, pineapple, kiwi or green cally used to cure meats, which were tired little guys. grapes, blueberries, purple grapes. also known as “corns.” Make Ahead: Green muffins served with green 5. BUT THE LEPRECHAUN ECONOMY milk 2. THE WORLD RUNS UP QUITE A BAR IS THRIVING TAB Super Easy: Lucky Charms served in green milk Another little-known fact from Irish with green food coloring All of the Saint Patrick’s Day revelry lore: Leprechauns earned that gold Lunch- around the globe is great news for they’re guarding. According to legend, brewers. A 2012 estimate pegged the leprechauns spend their days making Cooked: Green noodles with sauce (cook total amount spent on beer for Saint and mending shoes. It’s hard work, so noodles in water that has green food coloring in it) Patrick’s Day celebrations at $245 you can’t blame them for being territo- million. And that’s before tips to pubs’ rial about their pots of gold. Super Easy: Sandwich and use a cookie cutter to bartenders. make it a shamrock or Four Leaf Clover 6. THE LINGO MAKES SENSE 3. IT COULD HAVE BEEN SAINT MA- Super Easy: Make a quesadilla in a green tortil- la and make a clover shape EWYN’S DAY You can’t attend a Saint Patrick’s Day event without hearing a cry of “Erin go Dinner- Most people go with corned beef and According to Irish legend, Saint Patrick Bragh.” What’s the phrase mean? It’s a cabbage, but you could do a pork recipe. If you wasn’t originally called Patrick. His corruption of the Irish, “Eirin go Brách,” want to try something fun, try a St. Patrick’s Day birth name was Maewyn Succat, but he which means roughly “Ireland Forever.” pizza idea with green peppers and green crust. changed his name to Patricius after - Peyton Burdick becoming a priest. - Austin Feltner

Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Day Parade The St. Patrick's Day Parade is held rain, snow, or shine, to celebrate the life of one of Ireland’s greatest Saints! It has never been canceled since their first pa- rade in 1967. It will be held March 14th at 12:00 p.m. The route for the parade will start on Eggleston & Reedy heading northwest up Eggleston, left onto Cen- tral Parkway then left again onto Sycamore Street heading south then left onto 5th street heading east and ending on Sentinel. The Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Pa- rade is produced by the Cincinnati St. Patrick Parade Committee. The committee is composed of residents from both Ohio and Northern Kentucky. In 2015, the Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Parade will celebrate its 49th anniversary.

-Asia Mineer Volume XIV, Issue VII The Luck of the Irish Page 5

St. Patrick’s Day Movies Good Luck is Real! (Almost) Saint Patrick’s Day is But did the volunteers that Whether you happen to be a good Adam and Paul (2004) Paul fast approaching and got hired actually have sport or just have some kind of Irish (played by Tom Murphy) and Ad- stores all around are fill- good luck? While some admiration, St. Patrick’s Day is a am (Mark O’Halloran) fight in a ing their shelves with a people might try to use widely known holiday. St. Patrick’s duel to the death over a bowl of variety of products pro- these statistics to prove Day is a holiday that celebrates unfinished macaroni and cheese. claiming the luck of the that luck exists, psycholo- the death of Saint Patrick when he user. With shirts floating gists have other ideas. The returned from Ireland. The color Bloody Sunday (2002) a dramati- around with sayings like volunteers that believed green is typically associated with zation of a Irish civil rights protest “Luck of the Irish” one they had good luck tend- the holiday. If you don’t want to go march, along with a massacre by can’t help but wonder if ed to be more extrovert- out drinking or just out in general, British troops on January 30, 1972. there’s any basis for the ed and more confident. In watching movies that have an Irish Eureka Street (1999) a group of myth of good or bad luck. job interviews these char- vibe could be easily substituted for North Irelanders trying to make If there such a thing as acteristics made the candi- the works. Several good ones are: their way in life in the face of sec- good luck? Are some peo- date seem more appeal- Leap Year (2010) Anna Brady tarian and political polarization. ple really luckier than ing and more likely to be (played by Amy Adams) decides to others? The answer? Yes! hired. This habit of people Of course, there are other options travel to Dublin, Ireland to propose (Well, sort of). believing they are lucky but go ahead and try these out, to her boyfriend on Leap Day, actually having good maybe you could get some luck of Psychologist have been Jeremy (Adam Scott) because ac- things happen to them has the Irish. studying the concept of cording to Irish tradition, a man been observed by scien- “luck” for years, and for who receives a marriage proposal - Minh Nguyen tists time and time again. the most part they’ve all on a leap day must accept. agreed. Countless experi- While good luck might The Luck of the Irish ments have been done not actually exist, the be- and almost all of them lief in luck might be worth- St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, have shown the same re- while. If you think you’ll and maybe you are trying to gain some sults. People that believe have a good day, you’re luck!. Unfortunately for you there is only in luck and consider them- more likely to have it! In about a 1 in 10,000 chance of finding a four selves to be lucky, actually the end, the key to success leaf clover. There are no clover plants that have more success than isn’t luck, like so many naturally produce four leaves, which is why non-superstitious people. would say, but confidence four leaf clovers are so rare. The shamrock For example, one study of in yourself. Be confident has been one of the most internationally rec- almost 700 volunteers saw and you might just feel the ognized symbols of luck for centuries. In the early days of Ireland, that those individuals that luck of the Irish. Druids (Celtic priests), elevated four leaf clovers to the status of Celtic believed they had good charms, that were presumed to offer magical protection and ward off luck were far more likely - Danielle Watkins bad luck. The first literary reference to draw on the tradition of four to get a job than those leaf clovers as good-luck charms was in 1620, Sir John Melton wrote: "If who did- a man walking in the fields find any four-leaved grass, he shall in a n’t be- small while after find some good thing.” The mystique of the four leaf lieve in clover continues today, since finding a real four leaf clover is still very luck. rare. Each leaf is believed to represent something: the first is for faith, the second is for hope, the third is for love, and the fourth is for luck. The Irish often say that the green hills of the Emerald Isle (Ireland) contain

more four-leaf clovers than anywhere else. Hence, the “luck o’ the Irish.”

-Brittani Siegel Page 6 The Origins The Torch

History of St. Patrick’s Day This holiday is celebrated every year on March 17th, honoring the has St. Patrick sticking a walking stick into the ground while trying Irish patron saint, St. Patrick. The celebrations are largely Irish to grow it by God, which turned it into a tree. culture themed and typically consist of wearing green, participat- ing in and watching parades, and drinking. St. Patrick's Day was first celebrated in America in 1737, orga- nized by the Charitable Irish Society of Boston, including a feast There are many legends associated with St. Patrick. The symbol of and religious service. This first celebration of the holiday in the the shamrock used for St. Patrick's Day comes from the story of St. colonies was held largely to honor and celebrate the Irish culture Patrick using the shamrock to illustrate the Holy Trinity. The three- that so many colonists had been separated from. leafed plant coincided with the Pagan religion's sanctity of the number three and is also the root of the green color theme. Early celebrations continued this modest tradition. In New York, the first celebration took place as a small gathering at the home Another popular belief is that St. Patrick banished the snakes from of an Irish protestant. St. Patrick's Day parades started in New Ireland. The story says that while St. Patrick was fasting, snakes York in 1762 by a group of Irish soldiers in the British military attacked him, so he chased all snakes into the ocean. However, who marched down Broadway. This began the tradition of a mili- there have never been snakes in Ireland during the post-glacial tary theme in the parade, as they often feature marching military period. The absence of snakes and a symbolism involved with units. The holiday eventually evolved from the modest religious snakes is believed to explain the story, although it could have dinner into the crazy holiday we know today. been referring to type of worm rather than snakes. One legend - Adrian Avendano

St. Patrick’s Day “True or False” Color Identity Crisis

1. Chicago celebrates St. Patrick’s Day by dyeing their rivers The island of Ireland is lush with green landscapes and is known green. as the “Emerald Isle.” It is often thought that Ireland’s national color is green but Irish President’s standard or flag is deep blue 2. Four Leaf Clovers are seen as unlucky and must be de- and the constitution is printed in a blue book. What is the cause stroyed. of this difference?

3. Lucky the Leprechaun is the mascot of “Lucky Charms” Well, Ireland was originally a kingdom under the rule of Eng- land. Blue was the color of St. Patrick who brought Christianity to 4. George Washington claimed Irish Heritage, as do over 34 Ireland. The color was associated with the kingdom as a result. million Americans Nationalist groups in Ireland wishing to break away from Eng- 5. Nobody knows why St. Patrick is a saint. land used the color green in their flags as a form of rebellion. In 1922 Ireland gained its independence but a Northern part still 6. People wear green to avoid being punched by others. remains a part of the United Kingdom. The Northern Irish still use blue in their flags to maintain their ideals of unity to the rest of 7. The first St. Patrick’s Day Parade was held in Boston, not the UK. Ireland. The Republic of Ireland does not even have a national color but 8. Shamrocks are not solely ‘Irish’ and are native to other coun- maintain blue in certain flags and documents as a way of re- tries. membering their history. Irish all over the world wear green, not necessarily to support an independent Ireland but to show pride 9. Bagpipes were introduced to Scotland by the Irish. for their isle of origin, both the North and the South. 10. St. Patrick’s Day is on March 27th. - Zach Jeschke - Jacob Klump

Answers F. - F,10 - T,9 - T,8 - F,7 - F,6 - T,5 - T,4 - F,3 - T,2 - 1 Volume XIV, Issue VIII The Luck of the Irish Page 7

Pierce Brosnan: Irish actor best known True Facts About Famous Irish People for playing the famous British spy James Bond (1994 to 2005). Was also in St. Patrick’s Day With St. Patrick’s Day coming, many Mamma Mia!, Robinson Crusoe, Remem- of us celebrate by partying, or wearing ber Me, Mars Attacks! and Mrs. Corned beef and cabbage is a tradi- green attire, or simply by showing our Doubfire. Brosnan was also awarded an tional St. Patrick’s Day dish. Irish pride or lineage. But even though honorary OBE, an Officer of the Most most claim that everyone is Irish on St. Excellent Order of the British Empire, by More than 100 St. Patrick’s Day pa- Patrick’s Day, most of us do not know of the Queen of England. This award is rades are held across the United the famous people who were born or given to non-British citizens for their States. raised in The Emerald Isle that really contribution to British interests. He was are Irish, including: 15 million St. Patrick’s Day cards are born in Navan, Meath County, Ireland exchanged on St. Patrick’s Day. Niall Horan: famous Irish singer/ on May 16, 1953. performer. Also the only Irish member of 10% of St. Patrick’s Day cards are Michael Fassbender: German-Irish actor, the boy band One Direction, was a con- sold in New York. featured in X-Men as Magneto, Incep- testant on the famous British television tion, 300, Inglorious Basterds, and Jane show the X-Factor, where he was saved In Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day is a reli- Eyre. Even though Fassbender was born from elimination by being put in a band gious holiday similar to Christmas and in Germany, his mother was Irish and he with four others: Harry Styles, Louis Easter. lived in Killarney, Ireland as a young Tomlinson, Liam Payne and Zayn Malik. boy. Fassbender can speak fluent Ger- St. Patrick was not Irish, he was born in Together they placed third in the com- man, though English is his first language. Britain. petition. Horan hails from Mullingar in Fassbender was born on April 2, 1977 Westmeath County, Ireland, born Sep- Patrick used the 3 leaves of a sham- tember 13, 1993. Liam Neeson: Irish actor best known for rock to explain the Christian holy trini- his lead roles in Taken, Qui-Gon Jinn in ty: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Oscar Wilde: a famous Irish writer, Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, Spirit. playwright, and poet, author of the Schindler’s List, A-Team, Batman Begins, Picture of Dorian Gray and the Im- and The Chronicles of Narnia. Liam March 17th is when St. Patrick died. portance of Being Earnest. He was also Neeson is also a famous, honorary OBE. known for his sexuality and attacking The actual color of St. Patrick is blue. Neeson was born in Ballymena, North- the British for their hypocrisy, as well as, ern Ireland on June 7, 1962 In Chicago, on St. Patrick’s Day, the the general Victorian narrow- rivers are dyed green. mindedness. He studied at both Trinity Michael Gambon: Irish Actor best known College in Dublin, Ireland and Oxford for playing Albus Dumbledore in five of St. Patrick is credited with bringing University in England. He was born in the Harry Potter movies (Prisoner of Christianity to the Irish people. Dublin, Ireland on October 16, 1854. Azkaban, Goblet of Fire, Order of the Phoenix, Half-Blood Prince, and Deathly - Compiled by Kevin Oliver Bono (aka Paul David Hewson ): front- Hallows part one and two). Gambon man of the popular Irish alternative rock took over the role as the Hogwarts’s band, U2, as well as an activist. In Headmaster after the original Irish ac- 2003, he was nominated for a Nobel tor, Richard Harris, passed away. In Peace Prize for spreading awareness of 1998, Prince Charles knighted Gambon. AIDS in South America. He was also He was born in Cabra, Dublin, Ireland ranked in 2003 as the Chevalier dans on October 19, 1940. I’Ordre de la legion d’Honneur (Knight in the Order of the Legion of Honor) by -Cat Towell French president Jacques Chirac. He was born in Dublin, Ireland on May 10, 1960. Volume XIV, Issue VIII Luck of the Irish Page 8

Leprechauns are Real 10 Reasons Why Being a Leprechauns are Irish, we know this to be fact. They are also Redhead is Awesome known to wear green, have pots of gold and act like general 1. Only 2% of the world’s population has red hair. So you’re a tricksters. Some of these a true, most of them are true, like the majestic unicorn, basically. gold and tricksters bit. Their origins lie in the humble island na- tion of Ireland , we know this to be truth. However here is where 2. You’re huge in the wizarding world. our knowledge and the facts start to differ. In Northern Ireland, Leprechauns are known to wear “military red coat and white 3. If you dye your hair, red is the hardest shade to maintain, breeches, with a broad-brimmed, high, pointed hat, on which he which means no one can REALLY ever fake your color. would sometimes stand upside down.” In Monaghan (An Irish 4. Red hair is a recessive gene, so if you have a redhead city) Leprechauns are known to wear “a swallow-tailed evening child, it means you’ve won the genetic lottery. coat of red with green vest, white breeches, black stockings, shiny shoes, and a long cone hat without a brim.” 5. As a redhead, you develop an awesome sense of humor, because you grow up being teased. The basis of leprechauns giving out three wishes when caught comes from Fergus mac Léti, King of Ulster. He fell asleep on the 6. Every year, there’s an entire day dedicated to celebrating beach and woke up to find himself being dragged into the sea by red hair in the Netherlands three lúchorpáin (Leprechauns). He captured his abductors, who granted him three wishes in exchange for release. The lepre- 7. Red hair and blue eyes is the rarest combination in the chaun is said to be a solitary creature, whose principal occupa- world tion is making and mending shoes, and who enjoys practical 8. The Romans kept redheaded slaves at a higher price jokes. 9. Gingers generate their own Vitamin D There is much debate about whether Leprechauns are real. While there are currently no reports of leprechauns in America, 10. Ancient European cultures believed red heads were pro- there have been several sightings over the centuries in Ireland. tected by bad fairy magic. None of these sightings have been proven though, so I will leave the believing part to you. -Shaun Yingling - Compiled by Michael Black

A POP OF COLOR How to make Green Popcorn ` 4 quarts popped corn ` In heavy saucepan on medium heat melt butter then add sugar, corn ` 1 1/2 cups sugar syrup, cream of tartar and salt. Increase temperature to medium high and bring mixture to a boil, stirring constantly to dissolve sugar. ` 1/2 cup light corn syrup ` Once mixture boils, add in the food coloring and stop stirring. Boil for ` 2 tablespoons butter 5 minutes (do not stir). Mixture should be about 250-260 degrees. Re- ` 1/2 teaspoon salt move from heat and carefully sir in vanilla and baking soda.

` 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar ` Working quickly and while mixture is foamy, pour mixture over popped corn and gently stir to coat popcorn. ` 1/4 teaspoon vanilla ` Place popcorn into a large roaster or rimmed baking sheet (lined with ` 1 teaspoon baking soda parchment paper or sprayed with cooking spray) and bake at 200 de- grees for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. -Zach Jones ` Green food coloring Page 9 Spring Time is Coming The Torch

SPRING IS IN THE AIR . . .

Spring is the time of year when the transi- - Host a “Game Night” where you and all -Play air hockey tion is made from the dark and gloomy your friends just play a variety of board -Learn a new skill (i.e. a musical instru- Winter to the bright and happy Summer. games all night ment etc.) The first official day of Spring is March - Host a “Movie Night.” Watch some old -Play darts (safely of course) 21st, ending the Winter season. movies -Make a sock puppet or a sock monkey - Host a bonfire party - Play Twister with friends The season of Spring is a time for hap- -Write a song or short story -Practice throwing a boomerang piness, life, laughter and joy. It is also a -Paint or color a picture - Go shopping or just browse time to get outside to do the activities you -Watch the sunrise and or sunset - Help a neighbor with yard work want to do. Get out of the house, breath -Go to the library and check out a good -Go camping the fresh air, and be productive. The sea- book -Volunteer at a retirement home son of getting in shape is soon arriving, so -Start a garden - If you have a job, work more hours to go cover up your treadmill and get out to -Go to the zoo and study some of the save for college the track. If you are not into exercising, animals -Have a backyard BBQ you can do your own thing or try a few of -Snail or turtle races (it’s true, you really -Make baked goods to share and enjoy these simple, yet fun suggestions: race snails) -Try out photography or make a photo -Take a bike ride with family, friends album -Attend Reds games -Sort through old toys and clothes and -Give one act of kindness each day -Go to Opening Day Parade donate them to a good cause -Go fly a kite -Draw a mural with sidewalk chalk Whichever activities you do; enjoy the - Lunar mini golf, a new addition at the -Have a picnic in a park weather. We deserve it after the cold, Eastgate Mall -Put on a play with friends snowy winter we have just survived. - Road trip, either to go camping or to -Work on your car visit someone out of state -Take a hike or go for a walk or ride your - Skate at the Beechmont Rollarena bike - Bowl at Cherry Grove Lanes -Remodel your room or house - See a movie at either Pierce Point or -Make a card or a gift RAVE Cinemas -Play Cards - Volunteer at Petsmart or an animal shel- -Have a board game party ter

Spring Allergies

As Spring comes near it is good to know what the allergies of spring are doing to your body. Pollen makes your nose and eyes itch. The pollen gets in your nose and makes you sneeze uncontrollably. It also gives you a stuffy and runny nose. The pollen spores get into your eyes and make them water and itch so they tear up. Here are ways you can do to help avoid this. You could limit the outdoor activities during high daily counts of pollen. Keep windows and doors closed as much as you can in your house and car.Take a shower after being out doors or the pollen in your hair can bother you all night.

Dust mites are another allergy they are almost like pollen except they also cause post nasal drip and a bad cough and it also gives facial pressure and pain. It also gives blue and purple swollen area under the eyes. Here are some ways to prevent dust mite aller- gies. Wash pillow cases blankets and sheets once a week. Use a damp mop or rag to clean up dust. -Austin Ashcraft Page 10 Sports of All Sorts The Torch

UNITED COLOR FUN RUN End Of An Era As the winter sports season draws to a close, let us reflect on the great achieve- Exercise, fun, and community involvement all ments of the Academic Team this year. In two nail-biting matches versus Mil- rolled into one! Glen Este and Amelia PTSO’s ford, the team narrowly lost 31-29 and 32-29. In the tournaments on March 9th, are sponsoring a race. You run a 5K and get the team lost in round one to Loveland. The season is ended but the following sprayed upon by the spectators. By the end of members were recognized for their achievements: Brittany Armstrong received the run you are a colorful mess! 1st Team All-Conference, and Aaron Troknya received 2nd Team All-Conference.

Let us bid a fond farewell to Brittany Armstrong; Senior and Captain. The team WRESTLING - Congratulations to record was 2-12 with the only wins against Withrow. The matches are four-on- the GEHS wrestling team for their outstanding four. The varsity starting lineup consisted of Sophomore, Aaron Troknya; Senior season this year. A special “Thumbs Up” to Gage Branson and Nate Stone for placing and Captain, Brittany Armstrong; Sophomore, Maggie Vine; and Junior, Danielle 2nd and 4th (respectively) in the District Tour- Watkins. The junior varsity lineup had Freshmen Hallie Boso, Jack Schmidt and nament. State competition is March 12th- Josh Bunton along with Sophomore Olivia Reynolds. Sophomores Rachel Taylor 14th. and Olivia Reynolds would be swapped out throughout the JV matches and would trade-off with Danielle Watkins and Maggie Vine during the Varsity Swim Team In Review Rounds.

The Glen Este Swim Team this year has done So, let’s all prepare for next year. There were several matches in which the well. The team was mostly new swimmers but the team’ points were within ten points of a win. There’s nowhere to go but up, everyone on the team has improved under and with a whole new batch of Freshmen next year the team can’t help but get the new coach, Brad Langford. The Coach, better. -Aaron Troknya who grew-up around swimming, used his knowledge and connections to help the swim- Glen Este’s Sluggers and Slingers mers be the best and fastest that they could be. The team practiced Monday through Fri- As we approach the spring, the baseball players get more and more anxious to get out on the field. In order to improve from last years team, Coach Hatfield day at Anderson High School, Turpin High says, “We need to get ahead in counts as pitchers and make the routine plays. School, and at the M.E. Lyons YMCA with the Also we need to continue getting two out hits to score runs.” The varsity team is Amelia team. At meets, the swimmers returning 13 players, including 12 seniors. Experience will not be lacking for the cheered on their teammates when they were Trojans this year. Coach Hatfield say, “We are excited to get started. We have a not swimming. -Shawn Yingling large number of players returning from last season’s 18-9 squad so we definitely have a successful routine.” He also says, “As a coach I need to develop the offen- FISHING sive depth this year to improve from last year.” The Trojans have to replace the That time of year is coming again! Fishing loss of Tyler Burdick from last season. Hatfield says, “He had a tremendous season season is just around the corner. Get your and career as a Glen Este Trojan. Replacing his offensive numbers will be a col- rods and reels ready because it is going to be lective effort and we have numerous guys to help in that effort.” He also said, a good year for fishing. As last year was not “The toughest challenges this season will be to win league because the league has a great deal of parity.” The toughest teams they will face are Moeller, St. Xavier, the best year, the cold kept striking us during Centerville, Cov. Cath., Dixie Heights, and the league opponents. This season there the fishing season leaving fish in a type of will be three teams: freshman, JV, and a varsity. The coaching staff for varsity shock, which caused them to bite less. Late consists of head coach, Mike Hatfield, and assistant coaches, Bill Boston, Rob Lu- March is the start of what many people look banski, and Chuck Calhoun. JV is led by Paul McDonald and freshman team is led forward to, so whether you are fishing at a by Robbie Lubanski. Good Luck and go Trojans! pay lake or going to East Fork, good luck and - Peyton Burdick happy fishing. - Adrian Avendano Volume XIV, Issue VIII Mixed Bag Page 11

LADY TROJANS PREVIEW. . . It’s A Woman’s World

The Lady Trojans Softball team is expecting to have Men have ruled the United States for over 200 years, another very successful season this year, returning now it is time for women to rule… At least for one day. Sun- seven starters from last year. Coach Scharfenberger, also known as day, March 8th was International Women’s Day all around Ms. Keegan, says “the key to building off last season and having a the world. This is the day for feminists and women to share better one this year will have to be making less mental and physical errors.” She also stated, “that everyone on the team this year will their feminist beliefs, to celebrate being a woman, and to have to step it up with the losses of graduates Bailey Miller and openly raise awareness for women’s equal rights through- Katelyn Maynard.” When asked who the team’s impact players out all cultures. This day began back in 1908 when 15,000 were, Scharfenberger stated, ”My seniors, especially Brooke Parker, women marched through the streets of New York City de- Jessica Dmochowski, and Megan Downey.” manding shorter working hours, better wages, and the right to vote alongside men. In 1910, two years after the march, The Lady Trojans will have a 15 woman roster with two of the players as pitchers. Coach said, “one thing she will have to do as a a working women’s conference was held. That is when a coach to better the team is to be tougher on her team so they stay woman named, Clara Zetkin, proposed International more focused throughout the game and season. Women’s Day be created so that every year on the same day, women from different countries will press for their The toughest opponents this year will be Centerville, Northmont, demands to be heard. That is how women get to rule the Lebanon and all the teams they will face in the Louisville tournament. world. -Shawnee Kuper The coaching staff this season consists of Coach Scharfenberger, Coach Miller, and Coach Parker. -Austin Feltner

THUMBS UP TO…..

Congratulations to our fellow SAFE TO SHOP Trojans for outstanding effort and performances: Shopping malls are not only a great place to shop, eat, and hang out with friends but also symbol of  Paighton Libengood for American culture and capitalism. A symbol that is winning the ECC Leaps threatened by radical Islamic jihadist group al- and Turns Competition! Shabaab. They are a group from Somalia, that is affili- February 28. The JV ated with Al-Qaeda, responsible for a 2013 attack on  Jacob Hamilton and Aus- and Varsity squads a mall in Kenya. A recent propaganda video released tin Snyder represented combined to compete by the group called for a lone wolf attack on the Mall GE at the State Champi- against all 7 other ECC onships in Akron. Austin schools with Cheer and of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, the West Ed- is the #18 ranked Game Day routines. monton Mall in Alberta, Canada and other Western weight thrower and Ja- shopping centers. cob is the #12th ranked  Brady Dunigan and Tan- pole vaulter in Ohio. ner Davis for competing Should this threat be seriously taken? No, because as individual throwers at malls have already stepped up security. The malls in  The GEHS Cheerleaders the District level in bowl- the greater Cincinnati are not the obvious targets. for winning 1st Place in ing. the inaugural Eastern Shop on and remember, if you see something, report Cincinnati Conference it. Cheerleading Champion- ship on Saturday, -Zach Jeshcke Page 12 Mixed Bag The Torch

then you are lucky enough. Quotes and More… ---2015 -A best friend is like a four leaf clover hard MOST AN- -There are only two kinds of people in the to find and lucky to have. TICIPATED world, The Irish and those who wish they were Irish. -May your glass be ever full may the roof MOVIES--- over your head be always strong and may The movies every- -An Irishman is never drunk so long as he you be in heaven half an hour before the one has been can hold onto one blade of grass to keep devil knows you are dead. waiting for and when we can finally from falling off the earth. view them. (released date). -Here's to a long life and many more; A -The Irish are a fair people, they never quick death and an easy one and too -The Avengers: Age of Ultron- May 1, speak well of one another. pretty girls and an honest one and may 2015 you reach heaven. -May your blessings outnumber the sham- -Star Wars: The Force Awakens- rocks that grow and trouble avoid you - May the good Lord take a liking to you... December 18, 2015 wherever you go. but not too soon. -Furious 7- April 3, 2015 -If you're lucky enough to be an Irishman -Compiled by Austin Ashcraft -Jurassic World- June 12, 2015

-The Fantastic Four- August 7, 2015 BAD TEEN DRIVING , -Terminator: Genisys- July 1, 2015 Many teens have begun putting the metal to the pedal towards freedom, however, some teenagers are bad drivers. Some teenagers are at that age where they think they -Spectre- November 6, 2015 are smarter than their parents. Well, they are not because when these teens are be- -Ted 2- June 26, 2015 hind the wheel, they may do some stupid things. One of those things is talking or tex- ting on their phone while driving. When you drive your eyes have to be on the road, -Ant-Man- July 17, 2015 because if you are on your phone an accident could happen. Another thing that teens -Minions- July 10, 2015 might do is not obey the speed limit. For example; say the speed limit is 45 mph and someone just zooms on by, they are not going 45 mph they are probably going 60 -The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2 mph, which could lead to an accident. Some people might disagree about these things, -November 20, 2015 but parents wants to keep their children safe, so how can they be sure that their chil- -Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Di- dren will be safe when they get behind the wheel? -Kevin Oliver mension- October 23, 2015 Somewhere Over a Rainbow -Unfriended- April 17, 2015 The Divergent Series: Insurgent- March The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is what everyone wish- 20, 2015 es for; but you are about to be disappointed. There is nothing at the end of the rainbow. The rainbow is just one of nature’s greatest optical illusions. So -Mission: Impossible V- July 31, 2015 basically, everyone is getting punked by mother nature. Rainbows are formed when it rains while the sun is out because the water droplets bend the sunlight in just the right -Alvin and the Chipmunks: Road Chip- circumstances. The reason why you can see the rainbow is because the sun is behind December 23, 2015 you and the water droplets are in front of you. No two people will ever see the same rainbow at the same time because of the persons viewing point. According to the Na- -compiled by Michael Black tional Center for Atmospheric Research, in order to see the rainbow, you have to be looking at a 42 degree angle. How weird is that? - Shelby Press Volume XIV, Issue VIII Hard Questions Page 13

Are You A Agoraphobia: Fear of situations in which Chronomentrophobia: Fear of clocks. escape is difficult. Hypochondriac? Hemophobia: Fear of blood. Brontophobia: The fear of thunder and Trypophobia: Fear of holes. Fear: An unpleasant emotion caused by lightning. the belief that someone or something is Coulrophobia: Fear of clowns. Nomatophobia: Fear of names. considered dangerous or likely to cause Euphobia: Fear of hearing good news. pain, or a threat. If we didn’t feel it, we Pteromerhanophobia: The fear of flying. wouldn’t be able to protect ourselves Pedophobia: Fear of children. from legitimate threats. We often fear Cacophobia: Fear of ugliness. situations that are far from life-or-death, Necrophobia: Fear of dead people. Arachnophobia: The fear of spiders. and thus hang back for no reason. Do you Acrophobia: Fear of heights. have a specific phobia? Is there something Samhainophobia: Fear of Halloween. that makes your skin crawl? Something Pogonophobia: Fear of beards. that makes your heart race? Makes your Lutropublicaphobia: Fear of public toilets. palms sweat and/or feel uncomfortable? Metrophobia: Fear of poetry. Monophobia: The fear of loneliness or Here is a list of some common phobias being alone. and also some very strange ones: Gelotophobia: Fear of being laughed at. Claustrophobia: Fear of small or confined Everyone has a certain phobia. There’s spaces. Scolionophobia: Fear of school. no shame in denying that. There is always going to be something that makes you Atychiphobia: Fear of failure. Ophidiophobia: Fear of snakes. uncomfortable and do whatever it takes Leporiphobia: The fear of the Easter to avoid it. How about you? What are you Basiphobia: The fear of walking or stand- Bunny. afraid of? ing because of the possibility of falling down. Achluophobia: Fear of the dark. -Jacob Maryo

Ablutophobia: The fear of washing or Anthropophobia: Fear of people. bathing. Podophobia: Fear of feet. Lactophobia: Fear of milk.

Name Brands or Generic Brands?

Name brands are usually more expensive than the generic brands when it comes to household items. People that are trying to save money are afraid that if they get generic brand things that it will not be as good and a waste of money, so they go ahead and buy the expensive brand of the things they need. They do not even try to attempt to buy the generic. Sometimes generic is better for you. It is less money and usually on sale more than the name brand. Name brand products are getting pretty expensive nowa- days. The organic name brand food is highly expensive and some people actually need it for dietary or health issues, so they have to buy it. I suggest that if you do not need or have to buy the name brands items then try out the generic items. I bet you will find that you like it and it tastes or work just the same or maybe even better. -Shelby Press Page 14 Fashion The Torch

2015 Spring Fashion: Girls

With spring coming upon us I know that we are all ready for the warm weather, but is your closet? Fashion is one of the main ways everyone can express themselves, but even though we all have our own individual style, we still can’t help but becoming influenced by the new trends.

Females are the rulers of the fashion world. We’re not afraid to get in touch with our creative side and try bold new things. Speaking of bold, creative trends, here’s a look at the trends for this spring.

Bandeau/ Bralette: Spring is a time for everyone to not be so uptight with their clothing and opt. for something more comfort- able. Bandeaus and bralettes are another form of a bra that is actually supposed to be seen under shirts. They are covered with patterns and colors that add a different flare to a basic outfit, also not to mention they are way more comfortable than the average bra! The biggest trend for bralettes right now is the strappy web bralette. Pair this with a low cut back shirt to show off the pretty straps! Flowy/ baggy shirts and tank tops: These tops provide a casual look to an outfit that could be spiced up by your decorated braette or bandeau! Flowy shorts/ parachute pants: For another fashion trend that can be dressed up or down, the infamous trend that thrived in the 80’s, the parachute pants (and now shorts version) is going to be seen on almost every female this spring. Not only are these shorts comfortable, but they can be worn in many different ways that can really make a fashion statement. Pair them with a solid colored tank top, a strappy bralette to make a look cute and casual. Sandals/Flip-Flops: Sandals and flip-flops rule the warm weather. With this season being so laid back, everyone is going to want something that will be easy to slip on and go while still looking cute. To make a full outfit, pair brown sandals with black parachute pants, a flowy white tank top and a sparkly bandeau for a more dressed up look! FASHION RULE OF THE SEASON: SHOW SKIN, BUT BE CHIC ABOUT IT! – Little is more; in the world of fashion this rule is true! While trying to stay cool in the warm weather be moderate. If you choose to show leg, cover on top, if wanting to show shoulders, cover your bottom! The best style anyone can have is to be classy! This spring season, be safe, stay cool, and stay fashionable! -Kayla Overbee

Men’s Spring Fashion 2015 · Jeans/ striped (any color) polo t-shirt and any shoes of their choice: This style just suits their positive side. Stripes are a great way to bring out the best in you! This is a new year to start dressing more fashionable. Fashion is not just · Khaki grey shorts/ Black long sleeve polo shirt and black low for girls, guys can have a sense of style top converse: This is a more laid back look. You can look nice, as well. Here are a few new spring ide- with a more comfortable look. as for the guys out there wanting a new style. · Red flannel with a grey sweater/Jeans or the choice of beige khaki shorts or pants: This is another more casual look. It is also, · Bright Plaid Flannel shirt/ Ripped denim jeans and Sperry’s: something nice to wear for any occasion. This is more of a casual look. This look can be worn for holidays, family events and a style you can even wear to school. Guys; Do not be afraid to change your style. Change can be a great thing. Try something new and maybe even wear some- · Khaki Shorts/ White Hollister t-shirts and TOMS: This is also thing that you never thought you would be able to wear. Style is more of a casual style. This is something to wear on a warmer not just for girls. Try something new this spring and bring out day. the inner you! -Mikaela Bobb Volume XIV, Issue VII Later in Spring... Page 15

Hopping Deeper Into Easter The Fools of April Fool’s

Hop, hop, hop in comes the Easter Bunny! The April Fool’s is a holiday that celebrates the idiocy of fools worldwide, Easter Bunny has been the symbol for Easter since but it is typically only celebrated in North America. Whether you like the Germans introduced it in the 1700s. The Germans first introduced “Osterhase”, an egg lay- being safe with your pranks or you just happen to be a bit of a dare ing hare, in Pennsylvania, where they first settled devil; you are bound to have some fun for yourself. Here are some in the United States. Although Easter is a Christian prime examples of both: holiday, many of the traditions used today, such as the Easter Eggs, came from Pagan traditions. Dec- -Stick some post-it notes all over someone’s car and wait for the result . orating Easter Eggs date back to the 13th century, -Have some donuts laying around? Why don’t you stuff them with some say. So there we are. We just hopped through the history of Easter’s traditions. Now it is some mayonnaise or toothpaste? Have fun with this one, Satan. time to talk about what Easter is all about. Easter -Take out someone’s deodorant’s and replace with cream cheese. Wait is, in Christian’s view, the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his crucifixion on the cross. Many who for it.. do not believe in the resurrection just think of -Does your victim likes ketchup? Add some baking soda. It is recom- Easter to be about Easter egg hunts and candy, which is not a bad thing! Now we need to rest a mended that you stay away from the victim while they use it. little before the big day. -Your significant other just happens to be sad? Make them a sundae Phew! We may need to with mashed potatoes and gravy! Prepare for incessant crying and a chow down on some car- rots to get recharged be- single life. cause Easter this year is Whether or not you decide to select something from the aforemen- hopping up quick, April 5th is the date to watch tioned list or create something unique of your own, remember April for! See you then! Fools pranks are not meant to hurt someone long term. So, please apologize to your victim when your prank goes smoothly. - The Easter Bunny -Minh Nguyen

Spring Fever

It is almost that time of year again; the time where we are all getting infected. Infected…with Spring Fever! The outdoors will be calling, calling for us to get out of our houses and enjoy the respite from an annoyingly bitter winter. Let us face it; every- body is going to have it, especially after how cold and snow-covered these last few weeks of winter have been. When spring comes, go outside and rejoice to the sight of green (or somewhat green, since the snow was pretty heavy this year) grass and trees devoid of the oppressing blanket of ice and snow, unless you live in the city. In the city, just be happy all the ice and snow is gone, and the weather is actually tolerable instead of an iced over hell. Although Spring Fever sounds more like a disease from the Walking Dead, where everybody is ‘controlled’ by the warmer weather; I think we will enjoy getting ‘infected’ this year. Go nuts and enjoy your ‘disease’, we’re all looking forward to the end of winter. -Jacob Klump Page 16 WORD SEARCH The Torch

Volume XIV, Issue VIII Page 17 Page 18 The Torch Volume XIV, Issue VIII Page 19