The Triangle, Issue 5, Vol. 102

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Ananya Adur

Kaitlyn Ayers

Abinaya Ganesan

Ananya Ramanujapuram

Addy Rogers

INDEPTH EDITOR

Abinaya Ganesan

COPY EDITOR

Alexandra Osburn

SECTION EDITORS

Natalie Brown

Paula Ramos Perez

INDEPTH TEAM

Alexandra Osburn

Ajay Singireddy

Jasmine Yang

PHOTO EDITORS

Novah Ulm

Grace Wheatley

ART DIRECTOR

Carson Embree

STAFF

Aidan Brown

Jocelyn Aguilar

Irvin Castaneda

Ivy Davidson

Ram Gowda

Abigail Lovins

Izabelle Munn

Meghana Penmathsa

Alice Pisoni

Benjamin Psota

Sylvia Sasse

Abigail Smith

Deshna Venkatachalam

Lydia Weed

ADVISERS

Roth Lovins

Rachel McCarver

Editorial Policy

The Triangle is the designated forum for student expression at Columbus North High School. The student staff chooses all content.

Signed columns published in The Triangle express the writer’s personal opinion and not the views of The Triangle, student body, BCSC, administration, board of trustees or faculty of Columbus North.

The Triangle practices ethical journalism by providing balanced and fair coverage as determined by community standards. The Triangle strives to achieve 100 percent accuracy by checking sources, spelling, and quotes and attaining multiple sources.

The Triangle encourages letters to the editor, but reserves the right to reject them for reasons including but not limited to lack of space, multiple letters of the same topic and personal attacks contained in the letter. The Triangle will not edit for content, but reserves the right to edit for grammar and length. Letters should be submitted to room 1507 or sent via e-mail to administrator@cnhsmedia.com. All Letters much be signed by all persons involved in writing the letter, which the staff will check for validation. A letter sent via e-mail must be validated with a signature from the writer before The Triangle will publish it. If responding to a publication, letters must be turned in within one week of that publication’s distribution.

In the event of death, The Triangle will run a standard obituary. Pertaining to work submitted via social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, etc.), The Triangle will only accept written submissions from the original poster and owner and will only publish entries with the permission of the original poster and owner. The Triangle will not edit submissions for content and reserves the right not to publish them for reasons including but not limited to lack of space, multiple submissions of the same topic, vulgar or incendiary content. The Triangle will not publish photographs from Facebook. Posts on The Triangle’s social media pages by readers are owned by the readers and do not necessarily express the views or opinions of the staff. The Triangle is not responsible for their content and reserves the right to delete and report any inappropriate and unnecessary posts. By posting on The Triangle’s social media pages, the poster grants The Triangle permission to publish the contents of that post. In cases when a source’s information may bring ridicule or incrimination upon himself or herself, the editorial board reserves the right to cite the source as anonymous. The Triangle will never use composite sources and pass them off as anonymous sources.

7 BLACK HISTORY MONTH

North alumna Nadia Lomax shares her thoughts on Black History Month and how North students can honor Black history

IN MEMORIAM

Ariel Michelle Roberts, 18, of Columbus, Indiana, entered the Kingdom of Heaven and into the arms of her Heavenly Father on January 20, 2023, with her family at her side. Ariel had fought a faithful, courageous and brave battle against Glioblastoma for over a year with a constant smile and a light like no other.

Ariel was born in Columbus, Indiana, December 4, 2004, to her parents Todd and Carrie Roberts. Ariel is survived by her parents; best friend and sister, Coral Roberts; grandparents, Tommy and Linda Robinson and Mike and Cindy Weddle all of Columbus. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, friends, her cat Samoa and other pets that

EARLY CHILDHOOD PREPARATIONS

C4 Early childhood education students begin preparations for their preschool program

SHOWTIME

Show Choir competes in their first competition this season

16

17

all miss and love her dearly.

Ariel was a member of Garden City Christian Church where she was active in youth group and loved the youth worship band. She attended camp at Hilltop Christian Camp with friends and cousins and enjoyed being outdoors. Ariel attended Southside Elementary School, Central Middle School and was currently a senior at Columbus North High School. Ariel’s favorite classes in high school were her Veterinary Career classes where she got to further her love for animals and spent a few weeks working at Utopia Wildlife Rehabilitators, which she loved. Ariel was also a cheerleader on the Columbus North varsity football and basketball squads and had been named one of the varsity cheer captains this year. Cheerleading had been a big part of Ariel’s 18 years as she cheered at school from 5th through 12th grade and loved every minute of it, especially her

freshman year when she got to cheer on her Bull Dogs alongside her sister at several games.

While fighting cancer Ariel continued to do all the things she loved to do including, participating in youth group and many events, going to school, cheering on her Bull Dogs and attending tumbling classes at Victory Gymnastics until November of this past year.

Ariel was outgoing, funny and always keeping us on our toes. She was caring and loving all while being tough and strong. She was brave and fearless, but more importantly than all those things she was faithful, and we know she is healed and whole in heaven.

modified obituary from the Roberts family

BCSC GRADUATION RATE DECREASED SINCE 2020

Staff explain the reasons for the decline of graduation rates

Abbi Lovins

connection in school can be beneficial.

“I think the key is going to be building relationships with students to engage them in their learning,” Hester said. “When students know how much their teachers care about them, they will be willing to engage in the learning and work harder to

In addition to strengthening relationships between teachers and students, other school staff help students better understand and meet graduation requirements.

health, a shortage of staff to run them can be detrimental.

“One of the things that we talk about now is our mental health shortage in terms of counselors, psychologists and psychiatrists, the numbers are going down,” Hester said.

Hester, a former health teacher, is a strong advocate of mental health and believes that the need for mental health professionals is important in a school environment.

“I think that mental health and the wake of COVID-19 is in large part what has caused the graduation rate to drop,” Hester said.

Counseling Director Patrick Pemberton, goes further into how COVID-19 has impacted these rates.

“COVID-19 did impact online learning since not all students had access to the internet,” Pemberton said. “Others had to work to support their families and buy food. Schoolwork suffered in these situations.”

Hester also notes the challenges of online learning.

“I think that online is difficult,” Hester said. “I really believe in person should always be an option for kids, unless, of course, public health requires that we all be home and online for our own safety.”

While remote learning can result in less communication between students and teachers, reestablishing that

“Counselors and deans make referrals to McDowell and Restart for credit recovery and smaller class settings,” Pemberton said. “iGrad is a big help with at-risk students. In addition, some students may return for a fifth year, which counts as a nonstate even though the students earn a diploma a year later.”

Hester explains the benefits of iGrad, a program that aids in financial literacy for students.

“I think that the iGrad staff does an amazing job with our students. I’ve seen lots of positive relationships between students and their coaches,” Hester said.

Hester adds that while programs such as iGrad and counseling can greatly benefit student mental

“Unfortunately, in a time when mental health professionals are going down in numbers, the need of students to have those professionals has increased,” Hester said.“I’m hoping that we can get more people to go into mental health so we can provide our students and others with what they need in order to help them succeed.”

GRAD RATES

411 About the 411

411 Art Gallery’s new exhibition: 50/50 A Community Art Project

by Ivy Davidson design by Carson Embree

photos by Jocelyn Aguilar

In September 2018, Columbus welcomed the 411 Art Gallery downtown, which featured visual art, digital media, and performing arts.

Now, in its fifth year, the gallery is showcasing 50 art pieces from Columbus community members until Feb. 18, 2023, called 50/50: A Community Art Project. The Columbus Area Arts Council manages the 411 Gallery, and all of its previous exhibitions which have included “a wide range of types of artwork, including abstract painting, collage art, ceramics, furniture design, modern quilts, cross stitch, costume design, digital art, documentary film, and educational history exhibitions,” CAAC said. Exhibitions are usually featured between 8-12 weeks but the gallery is open year-round and will hold around four exhibitions each year.

According to CAAC, “50/50: A Community Art Project is an opportunity for community members to contribute to a group exhibition at 411 Gallery.”

The first 50 people who signed up to participate in the new exhibition received free “4 x “4 panels, provided by CAAC.

“The 50 artworks are sold for $50 each, benefiting future programming at 411 Gallery,” CAAC said.

The CAAC wants to positively affect our community and its members through art.

“Through 50/50, we seek to lower barriers to accessing art. This equitable opportunity allows all local artists, crafters, and creators to show their work in a gallery exhibition,” CAAC said.

Not only does the gallery impact the CAAC, but the entire community.

“411 Gallery is more than just a place to view artwork by local and regional artists – it helps drive our culture and impact our quality of life. It is a place where all people are welcome (regardless of their background, identity, or status) and can gather, think creatively, exchange ideas, be inspired, and heal,” CAAC said.

The gallery wishes to involve more young people with the art scene in Columbus, specifically downtown.

“We see a broad spectrum of visitors come to the gallery, including high school

Kavathe

EXHIBITS

students. We welcome youth and teens to 411 or to explore and hang out in the 6th Street Arts Alley,” CAAC said.

Since the exhibition is featured in a community gallery, it is important for CAAC to showcase local art and their artists.

According to the CAAC, “We regularly work with artists who live and create in Columbus or are Columbus natives. The best part is being able to support local artists and cultivate creativity in Columbus.”

With Columbus being full of passionate artists and people attentive to it, a place like the 411 Art Gallery is key to community members exploring art.

“We have so much creative potential in this community, and it’s important to me that we have a space in the heart of downtown devoted to creative expression.”

Display of artwork from the 50/50 Project at the gallery

Support Local by Tiffany Alexander

Seed Storage Device by Rachel

BRAND NEW BAND

Assistant Band Director Keith Burton has been promoted to Head Director of the Sound and Spirit of Columbus

by Izzy Munn design by Ram Gowda

After finishing the first half of their competition season, the Sound and Spirit of Columbus has received a new head director as the second semester begins. Director Keith Burton accepted the offer to become the new official director over winter break and started at his position once students arrived back from the holidays. Sophomore Megan England has been in band since the sixth grade and was very excited to see Mr. Burton as the new director.

“My first thoughts on Mr. Burton becoming the new director [were] excited, because I love how [he] teaches and how he interacts with his students,” England said.

Despite being the new head director at North, Burton is familiar with the program and has previously directed at other schools.

“I think the upcoming band seasons

will go very well because Mr. Burton has been teaching for several years,” England said. “He’s very familiar with the program, and he knows what is best for helping kids learn.”

Burton came into the North music program 21 years ago and has been teaching for 24 years total. He mainly works with the piano and the trumpet, but he can also play all of the woodwinds, as well as the brass and strings.

So far, the new season has started off well with the transition, but there are still differences in the day-to-day. One of these is the introduction of a new assistant director.

“[The season] is great so far. The obvious change is working with someone new,” Burton said. “Although Mr. MJ is not a stranger to the Columbus North program, having student taught with us two years ago. He’s a great fit for our program.”

Despite the exciting introduction of two new directors, that also means saying goodbye to another.

“It was sad knowing that I wouldn’t be working with Mr. Muñoz, but I’m really happy for him as he moves into his new career,” Burton said. “With that said, I couldn’t be more excited to be working with Mr. MJ.”

Although having a change from their regular band and directors has impacted the band, the goals and accomplishments remain the same.

“Any time a new director is added, there will be a sense of things being different, but we have had high standards of student achievement for many years, and that will not change,” Burton said. “We’ll continue to do the things we know lead to success while adapting to the personalities and needs of the students.”

photo by Isabel Fay

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Q& A

What does Black History Month (BHM) mean to you personally?

Personally, BHM signifies a time of deepening education. Not just for me, but for a lot of people. However, it shouldn’t be the only time that someone is learning about Black History.

What word or phrase would you use to describe the spirit of BHM for you?

The “spirit” of BHM has changed for me recently. I used to be one to look forward to it and celebrate it for myself. The spirit has changed from one of hope and cheer to one of exhaustion, for me at least.

I’m tired of the performative allyship that people and

corporations want to do in February, and then turn their backs on you on March 1.

Is there anything about BHM that you especially enjoy celebrating?

I enjoy seeing all Black creatives being celebrated. Black creatives offer something so special to the world, and it’s a shame that we really only get to appreciate it in mainstream places during BHM. If you have the chance to explore Black art, there’s so much depth and emotion in them, it’s truly moving.

by Paula Ramos design by Sylvia Sasse

North alumna Nadia Lomax shares her thoughts on Black History Month and how North students can honor Black history

Why do you think it’s important to celebrate Black stories, beyond just BHM?

I think celebrating Black people for what they are will normalize our existence in the world and allow the world to see us for what we arehuman.

How can high school students become involved in celebrating Black history? There’s so many opportunities to celebrate Black history. Get involved with the Black Lives Matter of Columbus, NAACP, and other Black organizations in Columbus. You can do your own research and look into things that your history books don’t tell you (which is a lot, by the way). Talk to your principals about doing educational events, uplift Black voices, highlight Black leaders besides MLK and Rosa Parks, there are so many things you can do this month.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

2/15 Watch-It Wednesday: “Spider-Man: Into the SpiderVerse” 3:30pm-5:00pm @BCPL Teen Area

2/16 Racial Wealth Gap: A hands-on look at the historic resilience of people of color

11:30am-1:00pm @ United Way Bartholomew County

2/16 Black Heritage Trail Self Guided Tour 4:30pm-7:30pm @Landmark Columbus Foundation

2/18 Free Black Movie Series

“Devotion” @ 10:30am-12:50pm @ YES Cinema

2/18 Black History Month Listening Party 1:00pm-4:00pm @ BCPL Teen Area

2/24 Teen DIY: Black History Month Collage 3:30pm-5:00pm @BCPL

Teen Area

C4 CONNECTIONS

C4 students teach future high school students about the opportunities the program offers

Every year, North hosts the C4 Open House, in order to teach younger students about the opportunities that these classes offer. On Jan. 25, the second open house of the year took place here at North, and kids from all over the district came to learn about how they can succeed with C4. One student who has been participating in C4 throughout the years is senior Carson Shoop, who is in the graphic design cluster.

“C4 started for me in the sixth grade when we came [to North] on a school trip,” Shoop said. “I saw the laser engraver for the first time, and from that moment on, I knew that when I got to high school that I would want to be in that class.”

Shoop is helping at this year’s C4 fair, in order to help teach students about the opportunities that taking a C4 class can give you, as well as how it can better prepare them for future careers.

“I think [C4] gets a lot of connections and work experience that help a lot,” Shoop said. “Right now we’re working with the Bartholomew County Public Library and their summer reading program, and making real world connections and getting that

by Izzy Munn design by Carson Embree

real word experience, which is crucial.”

Another student who is an active participant in the C4 classes is senior Robert Cantu, who is in his third year as an interactive media and 3D animations student.

“C4 classes stood out to me mostly because of the great options in classes that are more sophisticated than your average math or English class,” Cantu said. “They tie in learning to the work environment you want.”

Like Shoop, Cantu is also actively involved in the C4 pathway, and helped teach incoming 8th graders about the classes at Monday’s exploration fair.

“The experience at the fair is truly something,” Cantu said. “There are hundreds of younger students coming in with no clue what they want to do in the future. I always try to find a class that has something to do with their interests. And point them in the right direction.”

Despite having the bias of a C4 student, Cantu believes that there is opportunity and growth for everyone within the classes.

“If anyone is somehow not taking a C4 class yet, there is definitely something available for everyone,” Cantu said. “It doesn’t matter what kind of interests you have, I can safely say that there is a class that is perfect for any individual.”

C4 Pathways

Agriculture Business

3D Visualization

Radio and Television

Graphic Design

Computer Technology

Cybersecurity

Networking

Architectural Drafting and Design

Construction Trades

Automation and Robotics

Electronics

Mechanical Drafting/CAD

Precision Machining

Project Lead the Way Pre-Engineering Welding

Health Sciences - Dental

Health Sciences - Nursing

Health Sciences - Veterinary

Project Lead the Way

Principles of Biomedical Sciences

Cosmetology

Culinary Arts

Early Childhood Education

Education Professions

Criminal Justice

Automotive Services Technology

source: bcscschools.org

'I think C4 gets a lot of connections and work experience that help a lot.”

senior Carson Shoop

photo by Alice Pisoni

CLOSE TO HOME

Triangle staff discusses food insecurity in Columbus

It can be easy to think of the problems facing the world as something that happens far away, to other people, not within our own communities. Hunger is a great example. For many Americans, it calls to mind images of starving children in economically disadvantaged countries. We don’t often think of hunger as a more proximate issue, even though the data tell us that it affects our own neighbors. The reality is that for too many Columbus residents, food insecurity isn’t some abstract issue -- it’s a lived reality.

According to the United Way, around 3,000 children in Bartholomew County are food insecure. Feeding America estimates the number of food insecure residents of all age groups to be about 10,110 people: 12.1% of the population. It has a disproportionate impact on people of color, affecting 15% of Black residents and 20% of Latino residents compared to only 10% of white residents. Around 34% of those experiencing food insecurity find themselves stuck in a Catch-22; their income is too high to qualify for food

assistance programs like SNAP and WIC, but too low to meet their nutritional needs.

Fortunately, Bartholomew County has several community organizations that are working to fill in these gaps. Unfortunately, those organizations have experienced increased demand in recent years, apparently due to the ongoing economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Republic, demand at East’s school food pantry increased 19% between August 2020 and August 2021. Between 2019 and 2021, the number of food insecure residents increased by 2,400. Improving economic conditions give us reason to hope this rise can be reversed, but community organizations continue to provide needed support.

Our local organizations that help fight hunger are a blessing we’re lucky as a community to have. Love Chapel is an organization that focuses on giving back to the community. Especially with their food pantry they give people in unfortunate financial situations the opportunity to

get the food they need. Love chapel tries to make their clients as comfortable as possible when coming to collect their food.

Thrive alliance, a local meal site for older adults. Thrive alliance targets the senior population and does things such as delivery to adults who can’t go pick up the food themselves. This site charges little to nothing depending on age and is a good organization to bring awareness to older citizens in need.

Everyone can help fight hunger, even students. We can give back to the community by helping these organizations. There are multiple ways we can get involved such as volunteering at local food pantries. Even a tiny amount of service can make a difference to these organizations. Along with that, donating to these meal sites with either food or money is what helps run these organizations. The more food collected the more goes out to families in need. Bringing awareness to other people and students in our community will make a difference in the end.

THE RIGHTFUL OWNER OF THE LOMBARDI

Who I wish to see win the upcoming Super Bowl

As a Cleveland Browns fan, I once again don’t have much to cheer for in the NFL playoffs. But as a football fan, I still have my wishes on what I would want to see happen in these playoffs, and I have my picks for who I want to win the Super Bowl.

Starting with the American Football Conference, also known as the AFC, I would really like to see the Jacksonville Jaguars come out on top, especially because they were one of the worst, if not the worst, team in football last year.

This would be a major underdog tale if they managed to win the Super Bowl, especially since it would be their first championship in franchise history.

My pick for who I want to win the National Football Conference, also known as the NFC, would be the San Francisco 49ers. Although this team hasn’t had the same level of recent struggles as the Jaguars have, their quarterback situation is nothing short of a Cinderella story of its own. Quarterback Brock Purdy was selected with the last pick of the 2022 NFL draft and was listed as the third

by Ben Psota

string quarterback, but due to injuries, he had to step up and assume the starting role, and ever since he has taken the football world by storm.

As far as who I actually think will make it to the big game, I am most confident in a Cincinnati Bengals versus San Francisco 49ers Super Bowl because I feel like those are truly the two best teams remaining in the postseason. If those two were to meet, I would bet on the 49ers taking home the Lombardi Trophy and sending the Bengals home with their second straight Super Bowl loss.

GIRLBOSS OR GIRLBOT

The new doll M3GAN has stolen all of our hearts

Upon watching the trailer for the film M3GAN, I was immediately captured by the AI doll’s eerily graceful dancing and violent motives. And right after that, my TikTok For You Page was flooded with videos imitating her.

When Cady's parents die in a car crash, she is sent to live with her aunt Gemma, now her guardian. Gemma is a hardworking young adult, immersed in her job as a high-end toy developer. Unequipped with the parenting skills necessary to care for a grief-stricken child, she continues her development of M3GAN, an AI doll with the goal of befriending and comforting Cady, while helping Gemma. Later, as M3GAN becomes increasingly protective of Cady, she develops an attachment to her, and Gemma prepares to present her to the

world and change the future of toys forever.

Why are audiences so entertained by M3GAN? It amassed over $100 million at the box office, and an R-rated version is already in development. The film does teach lessons about how lazy parents shouldn’t rely on technology, or how artificial intelligence will eventually be society’s downfall. But most importantly, I like how the film doesn’t rely on this depth, but rather recognizes its own absurdity. The audience doesn’t have to ponder these topics; instead they can have a laugh and not take it too seriously. You want to root for M3GAN because she is simply amusing, even though she is out to kill. It is exaggerated and satirical at times, which I love, like the time she breaks out into Sia’s “Titanium” to “comfort” Cady. It is camp, if you will.

by Lydia Weed

Some critics say that M3GAN isn’t a true horror film. I disagree. It is more of a psychological thriller with a few scares rather than a big, gory flick. This also helps it relate to a younger Gen Z audience. Others said the acting was poor. Not using A-list actors proves M3GAN’s impact. It uses smart marketing: social media presence and memes. It is one of the few films made to connect with Gen Z without being cringey and unrelatable. Personally, I can see this film becoming a cult classic in the future.

If you are looking for a good time at the theater, I highly recommend watching M3GAN. It does not feel like a quick cash grab for a production company, but rather a genuine film crafted with effort and humor.

GRAMMY RECAP

A review of the 2023 Grammy Awards

The 65th annual Grammys, held on Feb. 5 was one of the greatest Grammys I have ever seen. It was jam-packed with great performances and nominations. I enjoyed this award show so much because it was so chaotic, but in a good way.

Winning a total of four Grammys this year, Beyonce broke records with her new album, ‘Renaissance,’ making her the artist with the most Grammy awards ever…32 of them. This year is also the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop and there was a loaded performance of the greatest Hip-Hop artists of all time, ranging from 1973 to 2023. It was a great show not because of the music but because of the unexpectedness. I was shocked at many of the winners of the ceremony. Some included the song of the year award, ‘Just Like That’ won by Bonnie Raitt. She won against some well-known artists like Adele, Kendrick Lamar, Steve Lacy and Taylor Swift, which is why I was so surprised. I had never heard of Bonnie

Raitt, yet she won song of the year, one of the most significant and watched awards in music. Her reaction was so pure and raw, I couldn’t help but root for her, despite me priorly wanting Steve Lacy to win song of the year.

Another unexpected win was best new artist. Previous best new artists range from The Beatles, to Billie Eilish, to Olivia Rodrigo, and now to Samara Joy. When her name was announced, I had genuinely never heard her name before, but it was very heartwarming to see her accept the award. I also wanted Steve Lacy to win over Lizzo, but Lizzo’s ‘About Damn Time’ received the record of the year award. I thoroughly enjoyed her acceptance speech, commenting about how she just wants to make people feel good and change the world, and I think she achieved that. The album of the year, awarded to Harry Styles ‘Harry’s House’, was well deserved, he is what I think is the modern king of pop. I would've preferred ‘Voyage’ to win

by Ivy Davidson

this award because ABBA’s comeback was one of my favorite things to happen in 2022. With that being said, a great population of the U.S. listens to Harry Styles, he is more versatile and more well known, but ABBA holds a special place in my heart. I can understand why Harry Styles won the Album of the year, it was a great album. Every song on it was good and it was streamed quite a bit since it is only his third album. There were honorable mentions this year including Stevie Wonder's performance, Kendrick Lamar winning best rap album, Willie Nelson winning best country album, but most of all winning best Americana album, Brandi Carlile. I usually have issues with the Grammys because half the time the same mainstream artist will win half the awards that night. That is mostly what stood out to me during the 2023 Grammys, the diversity in music that won and some people who the audience have never heard of are getting their recognition.

WHAT'S ON THE MENU

The Menu makes its streaming debut, finally getting some of the attention it deserves

When The Menu entered theaters in November of last year, it was overshadowed by hits such as Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and Glass Onion. Now that the movie is streaming on HBO, it has quickly gained popularity. The Menu is one of the best horror/thriller movies that have come out in a while. The tension was palpable and had me on the edge of my seat throughout the movie, and Emma Stone, starring as Seth Reiss, did an amazing job.

With the box office dominated by giants such as Dreamworks and Disney making cookie-cutter movies, The Menu was fresh

and original, making it stand out from its competitors. It cleverly overturned the audience's expectations, and I never knew what was going to happen next. The movie does a great job of making you feel uneasy and just as trapped as the characters, feelings that are heightened through the phenomenal music by Colin Stenson.

The build up in the first act perfectly sets the stage for the rest of the film, giving the audience little clues of what’s going on before bit by bit revealing it to the characters. The ironic shifts in the plot made the characters feel more real, and their reactions were perfect. Comedy and satire in the movie is allowed to exist with the horror rather than separating from

by Aidan Brown

it, avoiding overshadowing the plot or breaking the tension.

However, no movie is without flaws. If I could change anything about the movie, it would be the beginning and the foreshadowing. Some of the foreshadowing is on-the-nose, and the characters at the beginning seem flat and are exposition machines for the audience. The characters are elaborated on later in the movie, but the beginning made the movie seem much less promising than it turned out to be. If you like realistic dark horror, “The Menu” is a must watch. It’s beautifully disturbing and one of the best horror movies I’ve seen in a while.

THE HUNGER EFFECT

How food security affects students in and out of the classroom

by Alex Osburn, Ajay Singireddy and Jasmine Yang

photos by Novah Ulm and Grace Wheatley

Often said in exaggeration, this phrase can be overheard in casual classroom conversation as the lunch bell approaches. She skipped breakfast in the morning after waking up late and having to rush out the door. No second thought was put into the decision beyond the need to get to school on time.

BULL DOG PANTRY DATES

Feb. 10

Feb. 24

March 10

March 24

May 5

May 19

For those that experience food insecurity, this feeling of hunger is not by choice. Rather than being able to choose whether or not to eat breakfast on the way out the door, they must go to school on an empty stomach. BCSC Wellness Director Kristen Beck explains the impact hunger has on students.

“Students who come to school hungry struggle to

concentrate, which can negatively impact academic performance and often have greater absenteeism and less energy,” Beck said.

As Beck explains, having access to not just enough food, but foods that provide proper nutrition, is crucial for students, especially those at a younger age.

“Consuming foods that are part of a well-balanced diet allows students and adults to feel good physically and emotionally,” Beck said. “Proper nutrition for children, particularly young children, helps promote healthy brain development. These benefits impact children in school and out of school.”

However, when students do not have access to staple foods (essential foods in a person’s diet) or the resources to obtain it on a consistent basis, they have the potential to be affected by food insecurity. Food insecurity, according to Feeding America (a nonprofit organization that aims to help feed people through community-based agencies), is defined as the lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.

As stated in Food Insecurity and Hunger in the United States (a book that recounts the history and impact of hunger and food insecurity in the U.S.), hunger became a publicly acknowledged issue in the late 1960s. After that point, programs and projects were created to try to help battle

food insecurity.

One issue that caused such a delay in working toward a solution was the lack of a clear definition of ‘hunger,’ leading to a distinction between food security and insecurity. After forming a clear understanding of what food insecurity was, the National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act was put in place as a way to keep track of the nutritional status of American citizens.

Many factors can contribute to food insecurity, including economic shifts such as inflation. AP Economics teacher Natalie Perry describes how inflation can change what a budget was previously able to afford.

“Inflation is the devaluation of currency,” Perry said. “When you have inflation, you have a situation where you have a set amount of money, but it doesn’t buy what it used to.”

BREAKFAST, ANYONE?

A poll done on Feb. 1 on @ cnhsmedia Instagram asked if students ate breakfast in the morning before school

46% YES

54% NO

“I'm starving.”

SOLE SURVIVING

Food products often need to travel from producer to distributor to vendor, so this chain of supply can cause a domino effect if it is interrupted.

MEAT

CARBOHYDRATES

“If we have supply lines that are disrupted in any way, if it’s something in shipping or coming from another country, or even something that’s sitting here in the United States without someone to transport that good, then we’re going to see that reflected in our food prices because the supply available would be lower,” Perry said.

As AP Economics student senior Bhuvi Kadakia explains, a constantly high demand lets businesses justify maintaining and even raising prices that have already been adjusted due to factors such as supply inconsistencies.

FRUITS, VEGGIES & GRAINS

“We still have the same demand, even though the price is higher,” Kadakia said. “So a bag of chips, for example, is four or five dollars now, but people are still buying it at four or five dollars, so that gives the companies the right to increase prices more because the demand is still high.”

of products that are not necessary, is key when considering inflation and spending disposable income.

“Everyone, even though they’re earning less compared to a year ago, they’re still wanting to live the same lifestyle and not have adjustments to that, so the food price will just keep increasing,” Kadakia said. “We need to lower demand and collectively as a population buy less of these elastic foods, so the chips and the cookies, that kind of thing, to be able to bring that price down back to normal.”

On the other hand, AP Economics student senior Darren Li explains an alternate theory for decreasing the impact of heightened food prices on one’s budget.

“Some economists argue that to get out of a slow economy you just need to spend more,” Li said. “They encourage the government to give stimulus checks so then people will spend more money, and that’ll help stimulate your economy.”

HUMAN MILK

However, the prevention for rising food prices does not simply lie in lowering demand. According to Kadakia, the adjustable nature of elastic demand, which is the demand

The complex interconnections of supply, demand, inflation and price point leave no simple solution to lessen the effects consumers face in the grocery store. Rising prices can leave people at a loss and unable to purchase staple food items.

The Food Pantry at North is a resource to provide these essential foods to those who

A lack of carbohydrates would cause the body to start using muscle mass for energy.

Deficiency in amino acids would lead to organ failure, and insufficient vitamin C content would cause scurvy.

Organs would fail from insufficient amino acids.

This is the only food with enough nutrients to sustain human life on its own for extended periods of time.

Eating only one food group can have adverse effects on the human body Source: Live Science

have no access otherwise, in addition to other everyday items.

“We have other supplies like household products, toiletries, things like that,” Cruser said. “We also do other programs, like we have a Thanksgiving dinner program, we do an Angel Tree at Christmastime, we help kids with money for field trips, coats, clothes, all kinds of things like that.” Additionally, after the Pantry had been able to save up additional money through fundraisers, Cruser decided to use it to pay off lunch debt that had accumulated over the years.

“In 2019, I used the money that was in the Bull Dog Pantry account that I had raised from fundraisers and paid it off,” Cruser said. “This year we’re back to paying, so the Monday before Christmas break, I posted on Facebook and said ‘I’m trying to raise X amount of dollars to pay off the lunch accounts’ and then I gave them a link to donate directly to the website. In three days we had the money raised.”

This kind of indirect contribution that supports students’ ability to have food at school gives students the opportunity to seek out food, even if they are not comfortable directly asking for it. Cruser also fosters this in her classroom by

EMPTY BOWLS 25 FEB

At Central Middle School from 5 to 7 PM.

Each ticket gets unlimited soup, bread, cookies, drinks

Get tickets at Viewpoint books, Mill Race Center, the Visitors' Center, and of Facebook

providing snacks available to anyone.

“We just try to make sure that kids know that we are available,” Cruser said. “I keep snacks in here because I think by opening them up to everyone, the kids who actually

really need them don’t feel judged by grabbing them because everyone’s getting them. We struggle to get kids to come in there that I know need to come, all because there’s a stigma kind of around needing help.”

EARLY CHILDHOOD PREPARATIONS

by Paula Ramos Perez design by Irvin Castaneda

North C4 early childhood education students prepare for their preschool program

With preparations underway, C4 Early Childhood Education (ECE) students get ready to welcome preschoolers with their quickly approaching preschool program. ECE teacher Sara Vanderbur leads students through this new and exciting experience.

“We will have students that begin on Feb. 7 all the way to April 20, and [the preschoolers] will come every Tuesday and Thursday between that time frame,” Vanderbur said.

Laying out the groundwork for the program, ECE students are occupied with a great deal of planning. Taking part in the preschool program for a second time, senior Dezyrae Sharpe is working away on lesson plans for the children. “[Students] are preparing by looking at the preschool teacher list that our teacher made, “ Sharpe said.

“If we are on the teacher schedule for that day, then we are assigned to make

our own lesson plan. You have to have your lesson plan done the week before the preschool day.”

With ECE being a two-year course, students in different levels have varying responsibilities. “At the beginning of February, the second years take a large leadership role in the classroom here, and

classroom through BCSC and the firstyear students take over the lead roles,” Vanderbur said.

Interacting with kiddos aged three to five, Sharpe looks forward to gaining reallife experience. “I’m looking forward to going to different Bartholomew [County] preschools to get to see how the kids learn through play and what an actual preschool is like,” Sharpe said.

All in all, Sharpe hopes to take away another positive experience with the program.

the first-year students spend a lot of time observing students and their classmates,” Vanderbur said.

Towards the end of the program, student roles are reversed. “The year two students actually leave [the classroom] and go to an actual job site to work in a preschool

“When I started this class I knew [working with kids] was for sure what I wanted to do,” Sharpe said. “Being part of children’s education is very important to me,”

All in all, Sharpe hopes to take away another positive experience with the program.

“When I started this class I knew [working with kids] was for sure what I wanted to do,” Sharpe said.

"Being part of children' s education is very important to me.” senior Dezyrae Sharpe

photo by Grace Wheatley

SHOWTIME!

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Show Choir competes in their first competition this season

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North Stars perform "Kill of the Night" on Jan. 28.

Senior Ben Richards performing on stage for Vocal Pointe.

Sophomore Caroline Brucken singer her solo in "Bring Night" during the North Stars performance.

Vocal Pointe performs "Name of Song" on stage.

North Stars singer and dance to "Name of Song" during their performance.

design by Abbi Lovins photos by Novah Ulm

photo by T&E Miller Photography

photo by T&E Miller Photography

MAKING HersTORY

Junior Lily Breedlove shares her experience being the first North Girls Wrestler to make it to state alongside Arrabella Fortino

by Natalie Brown design by Aidan Brown

QWhat was it like when the team got started?

A: I started wrestling this year, it's my first time. We started with around 15 [athletes] and it dropped to around nine. I love all my teammates, we' re all close. And my coach, she's pretty chill, she's a teacher over at Northside! We all call her Coach P.

QWhat's your favorite part of wrestling?

A: My favorite part about wrestling would be the girls and the connections we' ve all made. They've all become my closest friends, and I didn't know any of them at the start.

QWhy did you choose to wrestle?

A: The first year of an actual girls wrestling team was such a cool idea, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. And it's been so fun.

QTell me about your experience going to the state competition, what was that like?

A: We went to the state competition recently. Two out of nine of us went to state, that was me and Arrabella.

QWhat was the most surprising part of going to state?

A: It was a really big shock to see how many tougher girls there are, because you get past that stage of regionals, and then the girls are no joke. Arabella got fourth in her weight class, and I got third. And how that works is [that] if you got third place, you go against second place at state, so another person from a different school that placed third in their regionals. But if you got fourth place, you go against a first place player from another area. Though we both didn't go past the first round, it was a cool experience.

photo for the Triangle

BOOTED TO THE BENCH

Sprained ankles, broken arms, concussions, and ACL tears are some of the many injuries that can occur in an athlete’s lifetime. According to Hopkins Medicine, 3.5 million teens and children sustain an injury while participating in a sport every year. Junior Kaitlin White discusses her experience getting booted to the bench due to a boot.

“I sprained my ankle at volleyball. I landed on someone’s foot and sprained it,” White said. “ I was out for like three weeks fully but recovery was around 8-10 weeks.”

Due to her sprained ankle, part of White’s recovery was to not play basketball. White explains how it felt to sit out on the sidelines.

“It was a lot different because you see it from a different perspective,” White said. “It was kind of helpful because I could observe others and how they play instead of just acting sometimes.”

While White’s injury was of the ankle, Junior Alexis Richards has sustained multiple head injuries.

“I’m a cheerleader and have had three concussions from the past five years I’ve been doing this, all were from stunting,” Richards said.

Richard’s recovery felt a little different from her perspective.

“It took away a lot of friendships I could have created with my team because I missed games, practices and even team bonding activities,” Richards said.

Richards explains how the concussion affected her daily life

Athletes discuss their personal experiences with the physical toll that a sport can take on a body

by Deshna Venkatachalam design by Sylvia Sasse

for months after the injuries.

“It affected my thinking and how I acted during and after getting them. I wasn’t able to concentrate or even look at a phone without my head hurting,” Richards said.

For Richards, a concussion is not a new experience, but for Junior Bryce Luttrell, his wrestling injury was an abrupt affliction.

“This guy picked me up and dropped me on my neck. My SC joint popped out of place,” Luttrell said.

The sternoclavicular joint connects the collarbone to the breastbone. Luttrell explains how long he had the injury before getting it checked out.

“I kept going and then I just took some pain meds because I had another match. I went on without getting it checked for about 4 more days after it happened,” Luttrell said.

Luttrell explains what he misses most about not being able to participate in certain activities due to his injury.

“Not wrestling. Like sitting at practice, I can’t do anything compared to my teammates. I’m just sitting there,” Luttrell said.

White explains that overall, for any athlete, the athletic trainers are a good source to seek out for help in case of an injury.

“The athletics trainers do a good job of making sure we’re okay- like if anythings bothering you and to help you get taped and stuff like that," White said.

photos by Grace Wheatley

junior Kaitlin White

junior Bryce Luttrell

Attraction:

Serotonin

Dopamine

Norepinephrine

Attraction involves brain pathways involved in reward behavior. During attraction, high levels of these hormones are released which is what causes us to feel excited, energetic, and euphoric.

Attachment:

Oxytocin

Vasopressin

These hormones are involved in the process of emotional bonding. While attraction is only for significant others, attachment can be for parent-child relationships, friendships, and other intimacies.

Love Science

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, here’s some fun facts about the science behind love

51% of students are celebrating Valentine’s Day this year

58% of students prefer getting chocolates instead of flowers during this holiday