MAKING A MARK
February 2018 | Volume 29 | Issue 5
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UNDER THE SEA
The crew of the musical, The Little Mermaid, explain the process of creating the show.
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CHOOSING LOVE
Color Guard sends a positive message through their performance, promoting inclusivity.
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Feb. is Black History Month, dedicated to bing to light the acomplishments of African Americans.
The Orb Staff Advisers
Staffers
Jordan Klobusnik David Young
Grace Barclay Laurel Black Ethan Blake Lilian Connelly Grace Dix Emma Eggers Evelyn Eggers Katelyn Hartman Kersti Hash Skylar Hettenbach Isabelle Johnson Lauren Kilburn Evelyn Lahr Cameron Miller Luke Molloy Hayden Sisemore Olivia Smith Kiara Thomas-Powell Sarah Woodward
Editor-in-Chief Makenna Sisemore
Online Editor Christina Poetz
Copy Editor Eliana Bucklin
Editors MacKenzie Barclay Andrea Bautista Marissa Hubbard Ilene Marzke Britta Seland Laura Stancato Jennifer Turock Lilyan Wray
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH American civil rights has changed in numerous way since MLK’s death 50 years ago.
UNIFIED TRACK
Students describe the significance and impact of Unified Track as a sport.
THE FEMALE FIGHT
Students that attended the Women’s March Jan. 20 and took the class Lean In discuss female empowerment.
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OLYMPIC ODDITIES
Photo Courtesy Of Wikimedia Commons
Exploring uncommon Olympic sports Individuals across the globe recently had the opportunity to witness athletic history being made at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics. Each winter sport is classified in one of three categories: ice events, alpine events and Nordic events. Although these classifications are composed of the familiar competitions, they also include recreations not as favored. “I really enjoy how unique these winter sports are,” junior Emiliano Ibarra said. “They require just as much skill as the typical sports presented in the Winter Olympics.” While many may have turned to the more popular sports such as skiing and figure skating, others paid attention to the sports not commonly watched. “My favorite unique sport in the Winter Olympics would be freestyle skiing or park skiing,” Ibarra said. “It’s really fun to jump and slide on rails as opposed to just skiing down a slope.” Since Jan. 1924 when the first Winter Olympics took place, there have been a number of sports that no longer appear in the games. Dog sled racing made its debut in 1932 and again in 1952 where it was last included. Other sports that used to be part of the event were ski ballet and skijoring, a race in which the competitors ski across a course while being pulled by a horse. “I definitely think there are less common sports,” figure skater, senior Emma Leonard said. “The best things about them is seeing all the effort and strength that those athletes have.” Although these Olympic sports have been removed, other uncommon sports have remained. This year, audiences may have witnessed skeleton, a competition involving an individual speeding up to 80 miles per hour on a sled without a steering or breaking mechanism. Others could have watched members of the biathlon combining two very different things, skiing and rifle shooting. The Winter Olympics, has historically been known to include sports out of the ordinary. Although the activities may be seen as “unusual,” they still require dedication and precise skills in order to be performed at a high level. Story by Laurel Black.
Favorite Event “My favorite thing to watch is figure skating because I used to be a figure skater. I skated for eight years, and my old coaches went to olympics, and they told us how it all works.” Elyse Dawley, 11 “I like to watch the opening ceromony, along with snowboarding. I love the variation in [snowboarding]. There are multiple different events, each with specific styles. The tricks done are absolutley amazing.” Nathan Smalley, 12 “Out of all the events in the Winter Olympics, I’m most excited to watch curling.” Marni Myers, 10
“I’m super excited for the downhill skiing, as well as the big air contest. It’s amazing to see what people can do on the terrain park, plus this year someone who grew up going to Perfect North is competing.” Carli Back, 12
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Why did you want to be in crew? “I joined crew because I love being a part of drama club in any way I can and crew is a unique and really cool way to get involved.” Mallory Cavanaugh, 12 “I joined crew because one of my friends told me about drama club and how much fun it was.” Natalie Blaine, 11
“Freshman year one of my good friends actually recomended it to me. She said she liked how everyone is brought into this family aspect.” Megan Merryman, 11 “I chose backstage crew because that’s what I’ve always done, and I’ve gotten to know and love the other members.” Spencer Lawson, 12
“I am involved in alot of clubs and sports at this school. Growing up I loved theater so joining crew was a way I could do both drama club and sports.” Nicole Dillow , 12
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UNDER THE SEA Spring Musical Behind Scenes
Stage to sea, crew members transformed the auditorium to an underwater oasis for the production of The Little Mermaid the musical. The crew, a group of Drama Club students, have worked on backdrops and props since the beginning of the year to prepare for the upcoming show. Senior Sylvia Smith has been a member of Drama Club since the second semester of her freshman year. She has worked on the creation that will turn the auditorium stage into an oceanic world. “[The crew] has already begun creating different types of fish, from sea urchins to starfish,” Smith said. “Yards and yards of seaweed and flowers have been made to decorate the stage and lights are used to bring out an ocean vibe.” Junior and Drama Club member for three years, Junior Madeline Hanks designs costumes for the cast. She loves to have the ability to express herself through customizing different characters throughout the play. “I love everything about costumes,” Hanks said. “I love the ability to add accents to the personality of a character and make them feel more real.” From mermaids to fish, the main characters in the Little Mermaid are from all over the sea. Transforming the actors and actresses into these characters calls for crew members to work creativity. The crew has worked to recreate the image of the Disney Princess, Ariel. The bright red hair and green tail of the mermaid requires creative and precise work. Four year drama club member, senior Finnagen Chu, is excited for the audience to see Ariel and the costumes the crew has made for lead actress, senior Avery Lytle, to wear. The crew has been at work since Jan. trying to produce the musical for the school. Their hard work has made The Little Mermaid come to life in front of the audience’s eyes. Story by Grace Dix and Isabelle Johnson.
MEET THE CAST
Avery Lytle Ariel
Luke Blackburn Prince Eric
Sopia Romaine Ursula
Dalton Dietrich King Triton
Evan Hamby Sebastian
Haley Stroup Flounder
Lauren Reising Scuttle
Ava Gerber Chef Louis
Raina Sternke Flotsam
Madison Moll Jetsam
Demrie Hasey Grimsby
Stephanie Mokube Mersister
Photos from Google Images and Cameron Miller.
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CHOOSING LOVE
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CHOOSING LOVE
Winter Guard spreads love through performance In a world often filled with negativity, spreading positivity can go a long way. This was the Winter Guard team’s goal as they held up signs saying various phrases such as “CHOOSE LOVE” at the end of their performance. “This show is definitely one of a kind because it’s a show everyone can relate to,” junior Ryan Dobias said. “When we take the floor, I can feel the positive energy of the crowd as they become part “Spreading the of our message.” The team incorporated a message that message of inclusiveness everyone should by adding parts of Madonbe treated the na’s speech at the Women’s march last year into the same means a lot soundtrack. At one point, she said, “Say this with me: to me.” we choose love”. Following this, the team yells “We choose love” while holding up their signs. “It means a lot to spread the message of love because minorities are not given the same basic rights as others and that shouldn’t be the case,” junior Braeden Watkins said. “Spreading the message that everyone should be treated the same means a lot to me.” While making a statement that could be viewed as political was a bold decision, the crowd seemed to enjoy the
different take on their performance. “Our audience joins in by saying ‘We choose love’ with us,” Dobias said. “It’s super cool because it’s as if they are becoming a part of our show and are joining us in spreading a positive message.” With the spotlight on the team, using their platform to make a statement was nerve-racking, but it was worth it in the end. “One of my favorite things about the show is the feeling I get after the performance.” Dobias said. “There have been so many people that came up to the guard and told us how much our show touched them.” Not only does the team promote inclusiveness through their performances, but also by advocating for a gender neutral and equal guard. How did your team choose on the “Gender really has no immeaning ‘Choose Love’? pact on how we’re treated “The meaning of our in guard,” Dobias said. performance is to show that “They care more about us there is still love in the world and we choose to spread more love working hard and being rather than hate,” the best that we can be.” Hannah Velpel, 10 Story by Grace Barclay.
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH A time for reflection, celebrating heritage
While America was the first country to dedicate a month to honoring black history, it began to grow long before the Civil Rights Movement and slavery in the United States. Before there was the United States of America, there were cultures growing in African kingdoms and tribes. Music, dance, art, language and religions, all telling the story of their ancestors. African men, women and children who were taken from their home and forced into slavery and it was often expected of them to conform to the society that enslaved them. In the face of adversity they persevered. Africans and African-Americans refused to be silent and refused to be hidden. In Feb. we not only
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celebrate the accomplishments of black men and women, but also celebrate the struggle and how in the worst of circumstances many made a difference. While we are all seen as equal in the eyes of the law, many believe there is still prejudice in the country. As the next generation, students of Indiana schools as well as across the country have a role to play in making the world safer, free of hate based on race, and this starts with education. This Black History Month, ask more questions, listen more intently and remember the people who dedicated their lives to their cause in order for Americans to have the freedoms that they do today. Story by Evelyn Lahr.
When Feb. was officially recognized as Black History Month in 1976, President Gerald Ford aimed to bring light to the accomplishments of a race Ford felt was commonly overlooked by the government. Ford’s message on the observance of Black History Month expressed several accomplishments of Black Americans, then contrasted them with the mistreatment the race had to endure. “In celebrating Black History Month, we can take satisfaction from this recent progress in the realization of the ideals envisioned by our Founding Fathers,” President Ford said. “We can seize the opportunity to honor the too often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Dean and Black Student Union sponsor Jagga Rent pointed out the importance of Black History Month is not confined to the month of Feb. Rather, the achievements of black Americans can be celebrated any day of the year. “It’s not so much about the month being important opposed to the culture being important,” Rent said. “Anytime we can shed light on African culture and heritage is important.” One way students can learn more about black heritage is through BSU. As the club sponsor, Rent wanted more students to be comfortable with the ancestry. “I felt there was a need for a place where African American students could feel at home and could celebrate and educate those students about their culture and unify the school,” Rent said. “There had not been an entity like that in the past and I wanted to bring something new and fresh to the building.” The club planned numerous events to celebrate Black History Month, including an underground railroad simulation, a panel hosting several successful African Americans from across Indiana, coordinating days where members will all wear the same color, as screening of the movie “Selma” and a mentor program at Hoosier Road Elementary. These events, paired with year-round meetings and discussions, help enrich the student body’s knowledge. “BSU has helped me embrace African American culture by the meetings that we have,” senior Shelby Ford said. “We have talked about the different African American traditions from places like Jamaica, the Caribbean and Nigeria. We have also had panels with successful African Americans, which also enriches our knowledge of African American culture as more and more African Americans are becoming more successful and influential in our society.” Story continues on next page...
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Each year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and Culture hones in on one sector of achievements. The theme for 2018 is “African Americans in Times of War,” which highlights African American service in the US military. “African Americans who have participated in the military have affected how the military is run today,” Shelby Ford said. “Their courage and sacrifice will not go unnoticed to the younger generations of militants.” Black History Month will have additional emphasis this year with April 2018 marking 50 years since the assassination of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This anniversary may invite reflection on the progression of civil rights and equality in America. “African Americans have the same rights as any other citizen in America now,” Shelby Ford said. “Even though there is still racial divide in our country, African Americans have taken advantage of the opportunities given to them and have been successful even in a world of hate.” In addition, advances in media have helped give a
voice to those who would previously been denied one. Now, views can be expressed to wide audiences in convenient and fast ways. “Civil rights has improved with the expansion of the message. I would say in the fifties, the movement was hard to mobilize because of a lack of communication and the lack of technology in terms of getting the message across,” Rent said. “The advent of the internet and social media has made the message broader about equality and civil rights. Most times, it’s not a new concept. It’s something most people have heard of.” In addition, the anniversary may also illuminate how American civil rights can still improve. Though all races are now constitutionally equal, prejudices still exist in America. “Civil rights can still improve, with that being a very debatable topic,” Shelby Ford said. “Some things that should be changed or improved will not happen because of the society we live in.” Story continues on next page...
African American Political Representation Number of U.S. representatives who are black 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 1965
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1969
1973
1977
1981
1985
1989
1993
1997
2001
2005
2009
2013
source: Pew Research Center
Numerous people believe the end of prejudice begins with early education on civil rights and equality. In doing so, the hope is that the majority and minorities will become more united. “The way America will be united, the way equality will happen is when people on both sides care enough to do something about it,” Rent said. “The key is to get both sides walking together and trying to solve this problem. I think the way you do that is you keep the conversation going. How do you create avenues for people to talk and have civil discourse about inequality and disproportionality in our country?” While this may seem like a difficult goal to achieve, many are holding hope that this generation will make waves of change when it comes to promoting diversity and protecting the civil rights that were fought for in decades passed. When looking back on advances in civil rights since Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. died 50 years ago, it might make some wonder what further advances in equality will happen over the next 50 years. Story by Hayden Sisemore.
BHM Theme: “African Americans in Times of War” Vernon Baker joined the army in 1941 after he got tired of being a railroad worker. Baker is known for being the first African American to recieve the medal of honor.
Former slave Crispus Attucks was known as one of the first casualties in the Revolutionary War as a victim of the Boston Massacre and was remembered as one of the earliest African American war heroes.
Daniel James “Chappie” Jr completed his airforce training in 1943. He is is only African American to be a four star general an to recieve the Distinguised Honor Medal.
Harriet M. Waddy got her name as a radio broadcastor, who encouraged African American women “to get into uniform.” Waddy was promoted to major and proved that black women can be succeed in the military.
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Running For Solidarity Teammates discuss Unified Track With inclusion for all, Unified Track provides an opportunity for people with and without disabilities to be a part of a team. Containing an assortment of track and field events, peer students and student-athletes are partnered up to perform in a setting that inspires encouragement and unity. Qualifying as a varsity sport, peer students are given the opportunity to compete against other schools alongside their classmates. Senior Maggie Campbell has been a part of unified track for three years, and having participated in several of the events, she has begun to see the kind of impact this type of team can have on students. “It gives high functioning students the opportunity to work with those who sometimes need a little push or pull throughout the season,” Campbell said. “It allows the different students to become family and make new friends that might not have been made otherwise.” Forming relationships and being a part of a team alongside students with intellectual and developmental disabilities plays an essential role in creating a sense of belonging amongst students. Established upon the idea that everyone should be treated equally and provided with the same opportunities, unified track aims to form bonds that extend far beyond the track.
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Senior Alex Sevening is a member of Unified Track who believes that the most important aspect of the team falls within the concept of treating its members invariably. Sevening aims to create an encouraging enviornment where all students are treated equally and fairly. “Unified Track is important because it is imperative that every kid with a disability feel like they belong, they are just like everyone else,” Sevening said. “ We all come from different backgrounds, have different personalities and likes and dislikes and that is the beauty of unified track.” The differences that bring a team like unified track together are the same differences that help shape a community of inclusiveness. A special impact can be made on peer students and it may only take a single season of track. Junior Stephanie Arnold is a part of peer tutoring classes and also participates in Unified Track. Arnold utilizes her time on the team to develop friendships with other students who share share her love of the sport. “[My favorite part about unified track] is running,” Arnold said. “[I also like] talking to my team and friends.” Story by Marissa Hubbard. Photo contributed by Jim Self.
BIG BREAK
Senior Joshua Fugate finds purpose after injury Senior Joshua Fugate did not expect to spend second semester of his last year of high school in a brace, but he is. Fugate’s T11 vertebrae, which is at the bottom of the thoracic spine, snapped in half, causing an abrupt end to Fugate’s high school basketball career and a complete change to the second half of his senior year. “It happened while [the team] was doing a three-on-three drill [at practice],” Fugate said. “I was blocking Delind Hooks out and I lost my balance when he jumped in the air. He collided with our other teammate, Chaz Birchfield, in the air and they both fell and landed on the back of my shoulders and I basically folded in half.” Because of his injury, Fugate is limited to the amount of things he can participate in due to side effects from pain medications and discomfort resulting from his fractured spine. “It’s really hard to get [out of bed],” Fugate said. “Basically the only way I feel comfortable is if I’m laying down in bed. Other than that, I can feel it all the time. In basketball, I haven’t been to a practice since. I try to make it to every game, but if it’s a far game away I can’t go, just because it’s hard on me. Other than that, I can basically go to games but that’s about it.” According to a study by the Reeve Foundation, about 1.2 million Americans are currently living with paralysis resulting from spinal cord injuries. In Fugate’s case, it is a miracle that he was not paralyzed, according to his doctor. “Breaking my back has taught me two things and one is that everything happens for a reason and I just have to figure out what that reason is,” Fugate said. “For some reason, I wasn’t paralyzed from [the accident] and I have to figure that reason out. I have to try and keep positive.” At the Varsity basketball game on Friday Feb. 16, Fugate was placed in the game, where he scored two points from a layup. Story by MacKenzie Barclay.
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A FEMALE FIGHT Students get involved, encourage female empowerment Whether it is through social media posts, peaceful protests or a march that takes place all across the country, women are finding their voices and speaking out. TIME Magazine named the ‘Silence Breakers’ as their 2017 Person of the Year, as a dedication to the women who came forward and revealed their experiences with sexual assault. This recognition of women is simply a single step in the journey that inspires women to speak out against societal norms they feel are unjust. However, the female fight that persists in society goes further than sexual assault. Women are gaining a presence and standing up for what they believe in. Students at the school are following in the footsteps of high-profile women, whether it be through attending a local march or enrolling in a class devoted to female empowerment. About a month ago, men, women and children gathered all over the country to march in Indianapolis Jan. 20. Among the marchers were many students from the school, who held their signs high and made their voices loud. Students saw the march in Indianapolis as an opportunity to convey their voices and feelings. “The Women’s March was an amazing experience,” junior Madeline Zirkle said. “It was an opportunity [for girls] to support each other at an empowering event.” Gathered together to march through the city among like-minded individuals, a group of students were able to make a mark on society in an uplifting environment focused on positivity and empowerment. Among the students was senior Sydney Smith, who marched loud and proud alongside her fellow classmates. “To me, the Women’s March was more than just marching around with signs and chanting,” Smith said. “It was a representation of how far women have come in our country, but also an acknowladgement of the fact
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that female inequality is still heavily prevalent today. It showed that women are strong and will not stop fighting until we end all inequality and sexism.” Alongside opportunities outside of school that provide girls with opportunities to stand up for what they believe in, the inclusion of a new class at the school provides students an accessible outlet for a positive learning environment. The class Lean In: Female Leadership Through Multimedia Studies was recently added to the curriculum. Taught by Jill McGrath, Lean In serves as an opportunity for female students to come together and learn about topics central to them, while in the comfort of a classroom. “I took Lean In because I am interested in feminism and what that means,” senior Maura Dankoski said. “[This class] helped me expand my mind and understand that different things empower different women, and it helped me find things that empower me.” The central message of Lean In revolves around specified topics for female students, as well as the meaning of feminism and its application to society. The addition of a class directed towards girls to a curriculum full of various specialized classes serves as a way for female students to come together and support one another in a positive environment. “This class showed me that I have been more successful as a peson than I thought,” senior Mia Mackenzie said. “I thought a class directed towards [female students] would be fun and interesting along with learning how to become better leaders.” Through various ways, female voices are gaining a presence in society, both overall and right here in the school halls. From big-name magazines to a classrom in the CCA, girls voices have gained a presence and are here to stay. Story by Laura Stancato. Photo contributed.
MICHELLE’S MARK A moderated conversation with former First Lady Michelle Obama For eight years, former First Lady Michelle Obama worked alongside her husband, former President Barack Obama in the White House. Determined to make an impression and serve a valuable role as the First Lady, Obama initiated four campaigns for the betterment of Americans, especially pertaining to children. Now, away from the spotlight of the Oval Office, Obama continues to work to further her campaigns and beliefs. In front of a sold out crowd of more than 13,000 people (according to Indy Star), in Indianapolis Feb. 13. Obama, through the help of Women’s Fund of Central Indiana spoke next to moderator Alecia DeCoudreaux about her story, the importance of female involvement in areas of service and female empowerment. Growing up in the South Side of Chicago as a young, African-American girl, Obama experienced various struggles firsthand. She stressed the importance of a strong support system. “You don’t get anywhere in life without people holding you up,” Obama said. “I was no exception.” Obama cited her extended family as her main support system. Though her family was not economically wealthy, she was constantly surrounded by unconditional love.
Authenticism was a main aspect of Obama’s message to girls in the audience. She discussed the importance of individualism and acceptance of oneself. “I’ve just been able to be consistently me, and I’m okay with that,” Obama said. “I didn’t have to be the First Lady that I read about somewhere. I didn’t have to be anyone but me.” Obama’s path to success is one that women can look up to and use as inspiration for success. She firmly pushed girls to get out and vote, and encouraged women to put themselves in positions of public servitude. Obama mentioned how diversity is necessary in decisionmaking processes; her position as an African-American woman was often helpful in providing a different perspective. Overall, Obama delivered an uplifting conversation that left the audience with a feeling of capability. A one hour conversation became a motivational memory for members of the audience. In a positive environment, Obama left the audience with a message that can be carried on and turned into societal change. “Act with decency and some compassion, and no one can take that away from you,” Obama said. “Wake up and do the best you can, and be a kind, decent human being.” Story by Laura Stancato. Photo by
Obama’s Campaigns
Let’s Move
Joining Forces
Let Girls Learn
Reach Higher
Daniel Arthur Jacobson, contributed by Women’s Fund of Central Indiana.
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Throughout this issue of The Orb, the diversity of our student body is portrayed through clubs, perseverance and societal movements. Many clubs, sports and classes have made their mark by discussing controversial topics. Our student body reflects the changes in our world, from the women’s march in Indianapolis, to Michelle Obama’s speech regarding human empowerment. People have left their mark from the 1920’s to now, with the establishment of Black History Month and the first Winter Olympics. Now, the student body is preparing to become the next generation of trailblazers, beginning to leave our prints on the world around us. While change does not always come quickly, students can be encouraged that they have an opportunity to be instrumental in their passionate movements. Story by Lilian Connelly.