Inklings Oct. 2011

INKLINGS October 27, 2011 - Volume 76 Issue 2 - Crown Point High School - 1500 S. Main Street - inklings@cps.k12.in.us

This Issue: News

Broadway Construction Work on Broadway Ave. is coming to a close Page 3

Feature

Electronically Organized Different forms of technology can be used to help students get organized Page 7

Arts Spicing up fall Pumpkin spice products are a treat of the season Page 11

Sports

Boys Soccer makes history The team makes it to State for the first time Page 13

Opinion

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The nine-week schedule offers students more opportunities to develop their grades, less testing and prepares students for adjusting to college schedules.

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Visit us online at inklingsonline.org

Protesting the one percent Students participate in the Chicago branch of the “Occupy” movement

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By Olivia Graham / Dylan Taylor entertainment editor / opinion editor

nspired by the “Occupy Wall Street” protests, citizens of all kinds, from the Gucci and Coach-clad to homeless veterans, have been taking to the streets of the Chicago Loop protesting and uniting themselves as Occupy Chicago. This string of Occupy movements has become an international protest fighting what some citizens see as corporate greed in society.

“Occupy Wall Street” was proposed in July by Adbusters, a Canadian anti-consumerist group. After its Sept. 17 New York beginning, the “Occupy Together” movement has spread to 2,295 American cities, including places within short distance of Crown Point such as Chicago, Portage, Gary, Valparaiso and Indianapolis.

Senior Isaac Dutton and junior Elizabeth Dutton protested at Occupy Chicago on Oct. 8.

“Our family, like many other Crown Point families, is definitely feeling the pain of the recession,” Elizabeth said. “We decided to go to the protest and fight for the well-being of others that are going through what we are.”

Occupy Chicago’s mission statement says, “Occupy Chicago is here to fight corporate abuse of American democracy in solidarity with our brothers and sisters around the world,” and believes in non-violent,

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days since Chicago became occupied

photo by olivia Graham

Junior Elizabeth Dutton and senior Isaac Dutton protest at Occupy Wall Street on Oct. 8. The protests have spread to over 2295 cities not only in America but also in Australia and England among others.

peaceful protesting. The slogan “We Are The 99%” was created to refer to the unevenly distributed wealth

2,295

cities occupied internationally (as of 10/26)

between rich corporations and 99 percent of American citizens. Occupy Chicago grew from tens of people

1%

describes those who earned over $516,613 last year

to over 3,000 protestors marching down Michigan Ave on Oct. 10.

Jerry Boyle, an attorney from the National Lawyers Guild, gives legal advice to the movement.

“I’ve seen different reactions.

Some of the traders (businesspeople) agree with them, some of them disagree. It’s ranged from traders coming out here and saying, ‘you’re right. We need more regulations,’ to one night, someone putting a sign up there (Chicago Board of Trade) saying, ‘we are the 1 percent,” he said.

The Occupy Together movement is aiming to utilize some of the tech-conscious tactics of the Arab Spring, a series of revolutions in the Middle East, such as uniting and organizing participants via social media.

The movement is characterized by using techniques of culture jamming, a form of anticonsumerist advertising. Protestors are commonly seen wearing a mask of “V,” from “V for Vendetta,” a symbol of the internet-based activist group “Anonymous.”

Those siding with the protests, such as sophomore Lexie Vasos, believe the Occupy movements should be a wake-up call to banks.

“Occupy Chicago is definitely a good thing,” Vasos said. “People are losing their houses while the banks are getting richer. They should really even out the money distribution so everyone has enough money to support their families.”

See “Occupy” on page 3

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Occupy Chicago protestors arrested on Oct. 23 for refusing to leave Grant Park

Mayoral candidates face off in debate

By Garret Hogan senior editor

Incumbent David Uran and his opponent, county trustee Eldon Strong, answered public inquiries during a near two-hour mayoral debate at the United Methodist Church on Oct. 19.

In his recent term as Crown Point mayor, Uran has been successful in lowering the yearly budget by 10 percent. Uran has also improved public safety by adding more people to the police force and firemen without creating a burden on tax payers.

“In the past four years, I have made our streets safer, cleaner and less expensive, and I would be honored if you would allow me to continue to do that,” Uran said.

Strong also has many ideas and opinions about the changes he believes Crown Point needs.

He stressed the importance of his plan in delivering safety, planning and maintaining sidewalks and streets, balancing the needs of development and the environment and ensuring service to senior citizens. He also believes in governmental transparency, which means the town will be able to know what the government is doing.

“I retired not because of my love for the police force but for my love for the community,” Strong said.

Strong kept reiterating that America is in a recession. If he was mayor of Crown Point, he said, taxpayers would see a dra-

matic change in the community and there wouldn’t be spending on unnecessary things, such as the expansion of football fields.

“I think the two football fields were a bit much. I think we could have not spent as much money.”

Uran explained the importance of the football fields, saying that the expenses would be paid for by the revenue brought in by travel sports. Uran later mentioned that Strong has received multiple “Red Flags” on his tax returns, which are earned if one is spending too much money, having suspiciously low or unreported income or being a part of tax scams. Strong denied the allegations.

Election day is on Nov. 8.

Mayor David Uran

“In the past four years, I have made our streets safer, cleaner and less expensive, and I would be honored if you would allow me to continue to do that.”

“I retired not because of my love for the police force but for my love for the community.”

County trustee Eldon Strong PHOTOS BY OLIVIA GRAHAM

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2 Nine weeks switch yields changes

By Katie Sherman staff reporter

After much discussion, Crown Point High School’s administration decided that a nine-week schedule was the best option.

Assistant principal Deb Cuffia believes the nine-week schedule will benefit both students and teachers.

“Increase of instructional time and the alignment with elementary and middle schools and college partners are the main reasons why the administration decided to switch to nine-weeks,” Cuffia said.

Spanish teacher Lori Ryser also supports the nine-weeks.

“By moving from two testing sessions during the semester down to one, teachers have a number of days freed up for instruction,” Ryser said.

Students have their own opinions on the switch.

“I already feel like the change has given me more time to adjust back into school without stressing about exams right away,” senior Morgen Zimmer said.

A necessary consequence is the grading weights.

“The most important thing for students to know about the new breakdown is how their semester grade will be figured,” Ryser said. “With the nine-week grading periods, the midterm exam will be a separate grade, just like the semester exam.

Each grading period will be worth 35 percent of a student’s semester grade. Midterms will be worth 10 percent while final assessments will be worth 20 percent of a student’s semester grade. Midterms will not affect a nine-week grade; they will only affect the overall semester grade.

Junior Taylor Cassady believes that the switch is both effective and defective.

“It’s positive since you have more time to raise your grade but negative because you have more time to ruin your grade,” Cassady said.

According to Ryser, unless one is failing the class, they will not fail the semester.

“Nine-weeks feels so much more relaxed, it’s worth the trade off,” Zimmer said.

•Topaz is the birthstone for those born in November.

•Countries with independence celebrations in November include Argentina, Latvia and Lebanon.

10.27.2011 Inklings

Administration regulates student fundraising

By Aleks Kajmakoski/Abigail Eineman staff reporters

Students commonly sell candy bars or baked goods to fund a variety of projects. While some students see this as a tasty way to support a cause, administrators are cracking down on students who break fundraising policy.

“Students are not allowed to openly sell anything for out-ofschool or personal reasons,” Dean of Students Russ Marcinek said.

If one does want to fundraise, a permission form is required, signed by a club advisor that outlines the goods to be sold and their prices.

This is not the only restriction

on fundraising, however. A process to turn candy bars into purchasable items is also required.

Once the form is approved by administration, a mass e-mail is sent to teachers, informing them that certain students will be fundraising. Furthermore, any club or sports team can only do this for two weeks. Despite appearances, there are reasons for the red tape.

“When students sell illegally, they are stealing business from others who have gone through the (registration) process,” Business Professionals of America club sponsor Mary Bachnak said.

The BPA observes all regulations regarding fundraising, including 30-day candy limits

and two-week limits for other activities. Although it may seem that these guidelines might hurt club incomes, Bachnak said that following them is better in the long run.

“I see this as being done for equity between all organizations.

If all fundraisers are being done fairly, no one will have the problem of stolen profit,” Bachnak said.

Here is a scenario: a student is in class, and one of his friends is secretly selling candy. The student buys something from his friend, but by the time he sees someone with a BPA candy box, he is out of money. To the student, it makes no difference who he buys from. But while one dollar given

Purdue Glee Club performs Purdue University Varsity Glee Club includes CP alumnus

By Abby Elston copy editor

The CPHS auditorium was filled with the music of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club who joined CPHS’ own Bella Voce and Treble choirs on Oct. 7.

“I absolutely adored it because it was like seeing Glee on TV, but it was real life,” junior Julietta Wright said.

The evening began when the boys of the Glee Club ran out from the auditorium to the stage singing. Throughout the duration of the night, they sang many songs including a tribute to the state of Indiana

which consisted of a medley of different songs including “Gary, Indiana” from “The Music Man.” “First and foremost, it was done to get this great singing group to CP. From there it developed into a way to raise funds for a performing arts scholarship--the Marion Kellum Scholarship. It will likely become an annual event,” said fine arts department chair Kit Degenhart.

Towards the end, the performers reverted back to their Purdue roots by singing the fight song and forming the Purdue “P” altogether while singing it.

“It was amazing; my mind was blown. They were so good and so energetic,” senior choir member Leah Markowitz said.

CPHS also showcased school pride with the performances of two of its women’s choirs: Bella Voce and Treble. Bella Voce sang “Mama Who Bore Me” and “When Will I Be Loved;” Treble sang “Da Pacem Domine” and “Praise His Holy Name.” At the end of the concert, the three choirs collaborated to sing “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

“I felt really honored because you don’t get an opportunity to perform with a college group all the time, so to perform with a really talented group of guys and directors made me feel honored,” Markowitz said.

Jason Ban, a Crown Point graduate, performs his solo.

novembercalendar 18-19 11-12 16

novemberfacts •Native American Heritage Month and No-Shave November are among this month’s observances.

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City Election Day -Official Polling Stations6 a.m. - 6 p.m.

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Student Council Blood Drive -CPHS Field HouseAll day

Fall Play: “It’s A Wonderful Life” -CPHS Auditorium7 p.m.

Fall Sports Awards Program -CPHS Auditorium6:30 p.m.

Fall Play: “It’s A Wonderful Life” -CPHS Auditorium7 p.m.

24-25 Thanksgiving Break No School

to an approved seller pays for competition fees and travel costs, a dollar given to an unapproved seller has an unknown destination.

Marcinek says economic rules are also involved.

“Our (account) books must be reported regularly to the State Board of Accounts,” Marcinek said. “By law we have to include earnings gained through student fundraising. We don’t want to remove opportunities here. It’s not supposed to be cumbersome; we just want to maintain integrity.”

Marcinek also stated that he is aiming to make permission forms more accessible to students who want to fundraise for their clubs in the future.

in the know CPHS students and faculty participate in ‘Zumba’ exercise Zumba has come to Crown Point High School. Zumba is a fitness activity that incorporates Latin-inspired music and dance. Debbie Kennedy, a Zumba instructor at the Southlake YMCA in Crown Point, teaches the class at CPHS. Students and faculty interested in the Zumba class may come to the black box room in the fine arts wing every Monday at 4 p.m. Fees are $2 per class for students and $4 per class for adults.

“Wonderful Life” comes to CPHS The CPHS Theatre Department is performing “It’s a Wonderful Life” next month. “It’s a Wonderful Life” tells the story of George Bailey (played by senior Todd Aulwurm), a man who takes his life for granted.

It takes Clarence (played by senior CJ Phillips), George’s “guardian angel,” to show him what life would be like if he had never been born. George must see what an impact his life had on many people, and must learn to appreciate that he has a truly wonderful life.

The play will be performed on Nov. 11, 12, 18, 19. All performances are at 7 p.m.

Report cards available online today Report cards for the first nine weeks grading period are now available to be viewed and printed on the Crown Point High School website starting today. Parents and guardians of CPHS students must currently have or set up an RDS account in order to view and print report cards. Further instructions are available on the CPHS website: http://www. cps.k12.in.us/cphs/.

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10.27.2011 Inklings

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Occupy Chicago is definitely a good thing, People are losing their houses while the banks are getting richer. They (the government) should really even out the money distribution so everyone has enough money to support their families.

Lexie Vasos

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sophomore

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I like the general idea of standing up against government corruption, but the ‘Occupiers’ are completely sensationalizing their ideas. They’re spoiled brats, making something out of nothing.

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Jacob Barber senior

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Health care, wages, the political situation and even laws are largely controlled by these corporations. This needs to end.

Isaac Dutton senior

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PHOTO BY OLIVIA GRAHAM

‘Occupy’ protestors at Occupy Chicago on Oct. 8. The ‘occupation’ has been going on at the corner of Jackson and LaSalle, the location of the Chicago Board of Trade, since Sept. 22. The protest has spread through the city, including State Street and Grant Park.

Occupy continued from page 1 Still, some Americans, such as senior Jacob Barber, disagree with the Occupy movement and its goals.

“I like the general idea of standing up against government corruption, but the ‘Occupiers’ are completely sensationalizing their ideas. They’re spoiled brats, making something out of

nothing,” Barber said.

The Occupy movement has stated that their main goal is to stop corporate greed. Occupy Chicago’s more specified list includes the reinstatement of “The Glass-Steagall Act,” which, among other things, prohibited bank-holding corporations from owning other financial companies. Chicago protestors also want those working at Wall Street who helped cause the 2008

recession to be investigated and tried in court. In addition, they want college loans to be nullified for indebted students.

“Health care, wages, the political situation and even laws are largely controlled by these corporations,” Dutton said.

“This needs to end.”

History teacher Jim Ingelhart put the protests in perspective: “Our current situation resembles Western Europe in the latter half

of the 19th century. Old money dominates new money; inherited wealth dominates newly-created capital.”

Ingelhart believes that history is repeating itself, and people should learn from the past.

“Occupy Wall Street is a classic proletariat vs. bourgeoisie situation. It is a sign of mainstream discontent with Wall Street power, greed and wealth,” Ingelhart said.

four-foot shoulders and curbs on “side streets.”

Crown Point City Engineer Tris Miles says the purpose of the project is to improve intersections on Broadway by performing tasks such as adding turning lanes and making traffic lights consistent.

Construction has taken place on the intersections at 113th Avenue, 109th Avenue, 101st Avenue, Summit Street and 93rd Avenue.

Many student drivers have been affected by the construction project. Senior Ryan Debattista, who lives in the Waterside Crossing neighborhood in Crown

Point, said he takes Broadway when driving to school.

“The (traffic) light at Broadway and 109th Avenue is absolutely horrible. It takes so long to get through (the intersection),” Debattista said.

Due to the high amount of traffic, Debattista says that he also tries to avoid taking Broadway when he drives to his job at Pizza Hut. “Taking Broadway on a weekday takes an extra ten minutes (for me),” Debattista said.

Senior Alina Cappadora said she drives on Broadway nearly every day to get to her job at Chipo-

tle in Merrillville.

“Usually (Broadway) was the fastest way to get to Merrillville,” Cappadora said.

“When construction was really bad, I had to start taking Main St.,” Cappadora said.

Cappadora also said, “I think that (completion of construction) will make traffic flow smoother.”

Miles said that high traffic should be expected, “any time you have construction on a major thoroughfare.”

Miles said that the last task that needs to be completed for the Broadway project is “striping,” or painting lines on the road.

Broadway Avenue construction project to end soon

By Mary-Katherine Lemon news editor

PHOTO BY DONNella CASILLAS

Orange construction barrels have been a common sight on Broadway Avenue since construction began this past April.

The seven month-long, $6.07 million construction project on Broadway Avenue is scheduled to be completed in late November.

According to the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), the goal of the construction on Broadway is to “improve intersection capacity” and “extend the life of the existing pavement to the year 2021.”

Information available on the INDOT website said that “pavement rehabilitation” of Broadway includes “milling,” four-to-five inch “resurfacing” of the road,

Views on news Student reaction to events in our world Area Man charged with E.C. theft Darren Heads of Harvey, IL has been charged with stealing laptops from East Chicago Central High School (ECCHS) students. Heads allegedly held students at gunpoint and took their laptops while they were walking home from school.

ECCHS has a one-to-one laptop program for its students and teachers.

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I think this proves that all schools should have more security on their new laptops and have more monitoring as they get them.

Cody Davis freshman

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State First time female mayors Female candidates are favored to win mayoral elections in Gary, Fort Wayne and Indianapolis. Indianapolis’ Melina Kennedy, Fort Wayne’s Paula Hughes and Gary’s Karen FreemanWilson could make history. If she wins, Freeman-Wilson will also be the first black female mayor in Indiana.

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I think it’s awesome. It shows that women can take power in any type of political office or just wherever they are.

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Hannah Mills sophomore

Nation Steve Jobs passes away Apple Inc. co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs died on Oct. 5 after an eightyear battle with pancreatic cancer. Jobs co-founded Apple with Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne. Jobs, seen by many as the figurehead of Apple, is mourned by many technology enthusiasts. Jobs was 56 years old at the time of his death.

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I know a lot of people are really upset, and I’m upset as well.

I didn’t know him personally, but he made my iPod.

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Samantha Knox senior

World Gaddafi murdered Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi died while in the custody of rebel forces in Sirte on Oct. 20. Though Gaddafi was officially titled “Brotherly Leader and Guide of the Revolution of Libya,” many criticized him for being dictatorial - most notably the protestors and rebel forces that ousted him from his position.

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(Gaddafi) was a terrible, horrible man, especially with what he did to his people. I feel safer now that he’s dead.

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Frankie Hubble junior

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10.27.2011 Inklings

Jobs teach teens to value money

Inklings

By Kelsey Lennon managing editor At the rightful age of 16, my mother decided it was time for me to get a job. I will admit, I was excited. I was not doing much with my summer and also I could begin earning my own money which, for me, meant clothes, make-up and lots of fast food runs.

I started working at my mother’s office in the summer filing papers. It was the most monotonous and boring thing I had ever done, but in a way it felt good. It felt good knowing I was doing something productive and that it would eventually pay off. I could not wait for that Friday payday.

When I received my first paycheck, I was elated. I marched into the bank and, being a responsible teen, put half in my savings account and kept the other half to spend.

The next day I went to the mall and spent $40 on a phone case.

At the time I didn’t think it was that big of a deal; I figured I had money to blow, and it was okay.

A few paychecks later my mother informed me I would be buying all my clothes from now on. I thought that was fine; I hunted out the best deals, and I actually felt grown up, like I was supporting myself. But after two weeks and some nice shopping sprees, I was broke. I had no money to spend when I went out with my friends and was back to asking my mother for money. She was not pleased to say the least. I actually thought my money was never-ending, and I would always have some when I needed it. And that is when I learned my lesson.

Just because a store has a sale doesn’t mean you need to pick every single deal you lay eyes on. I just began understanding this concept.

Getting a job and earning my own money made me more aware of how I spent it. Now I no longer bother my mom (as often) for money, and I tend to save my own.

colleges

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Cartoon By Ellie Burrell

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The nine-week grading period is a positive adjustment that is more productive for students.

Change benefits students Less is not always more. The switch this year from the six-week to the nineweek grading periods has brought many favorable changes to student schedules.

The change has offered students more opportunities to develop their grades, less testing and prepares students for adjusting to college schedules.

Having nine weeks of learning uninterrupted by odd testing schedules and all-encompassing tests that interfere with chapters and lessons gives students more time to develop their grades. Stopping in the middle of lessons to test students over such short increments of time is foolish and confusing to students. The nineweek grading periods allow for more time for teachers to expand on subjects and to evoke a better understanding from students.

Furthermore the fact that the midterm tests don’t affect the nine-week grades simply makes sense. One test should not decide the fate of a grade that you’ve worked hard on for nine weeks. The nine-weeks grades more accurately portray a student’s performance for the fourth of the year.

Another plus of the switch to the nine-weeks is a decrease in stressful tests.

With students plagued with stress from every angle, including sports, extracurricular activities and jobs, having less stressful testing to worry about is a huge advantage. Also the tests cover more material when they are further from each other, which reflect more of an understanding of the subject by students.

Additionally, CPHS partners with several colleges to get students college credit through dual credit programs. These colleges, including Ivy Tech, Indiana University Northwest and Purdue Calumet, operate on nine-week schedules, so switching to nine weeks has helped lesson plans to be more easily adjusted to these colleges’ schedules. This also allows these classes to cover the material more accurately.

In addition to helping classes coincide with partnering colleges, the switch to nine weeks will help prepare students more for college since most colleges work on nine week grading periods.

The switch to nine week grading periods has already proven to be beneficial to students and will continue to help students to get a more valued education.

editorial

Inklings is a student publication created by the newspaper and advanced journalism students and distributed monthly to students, faculty, and staff of Crown Point High School.

Opinions expressed in Inklings do not necessarily reflect those of CPHS faculty, staff, or administration.

Advertising is subject to applicable rates, available from Inklings advertising department.

Inklings welcomes letters-to-theeditor, provided they are signed and submitted to E109 or via email one week prior to date of publication. Letters must not contain personal attacks. Inklings reserves the right to edit for space and clarity as well as to make decisions on which letters will be printed.

Inklings has been recognized as an Indiana High School Press Association Hoosier Star, an National Scholastic Press Association Pacemaker, Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Crown, and a Quill and Scroll George H. Gallup publication.

Contact Inklings by emailing inklings@cps.k12.in.us or by phoning 219-663-4885.

Haajar Shaaban editor-in-chief Alyssa Blahunka creative director Garret Hogan senior editor Kelsey Lennon managing editor Abby Elston RaeAnna Morgan copy editors Mary-Katherine Lemon news editor Katrina Zdanowicz Melanie Zdanowicz feature editors Olivia Graham entertainment editor Dylan Taylor opinion editor Samuel Beishuizen Alex McLean sports editors Kara Biernat Alexa Grady sports assistants Kayla Martisek design editor Ashley Downing web editor Samantha Wright advertising editor Donnella Casillas chief photographer Abigail Eineman Aleks Kajmakoski Trisha Semplinski photographers Rachael Bokota Ellie Burrell Hannah Colby Maggie Gelon Molly Grace Yazzmyne Lopez Danielle McCuan Mona Nour Brittany Pedersen Shannon Rostin Katie Sherman staff Julie Elston adviser

speakup Should students be able to sell goods during school?

Jessie Marsh freshman

Aleks Prentoski sophomore

Denise Schliemann junior

“They should be allowed to sell candy only if it’s for the school or a school related cause.”

“Yes, I think so, especially if the money is going towards charities or even after school activities students can’t afford.”

“Yes, because students basically learn how to run their own business and how to make a profit out of what they sell.”

Matt Malyj senior “Yes, if it’s for a good cause like donating money for breast cancer, charities or even raising money for a church.”

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10.27.2011 Inklings

Bullying still problematic despite age

By Danielle McCuan staff reporter

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Cartoon by mona nour

ssue: Trick-or-treating for teenagers?

Although some teenagers want to get in the spirit of fall and don scary masks for a night out, others believe the candy receiving tradition should be left to the younger crowd.

Teenagers should be able to enjoy trick-ortreating and the fun that comes with it

Trick-or-treating is too immature for teens and they need to find alternatives that night

By Maggie Gelon staff reporter

By Mona Nour staff reporter

Halloween is the one night of the year when dressing up like a gorilla is socially acceptable. Neighbors voluntarily hand out candy, and the everyday neighborhood morphs into a sugar mine. Children of all ages, even those in high school, should be allowed to partake in trick-or-treating and not be restricted by age.

Some areas have banned teenage trick-or-treating because they feel teens are disruptive, and there is a level of responsibility that is needed when trick-or-treating as a teenager. However, simply banning teens from trick-or-treating is not the way to solve Halloween havoc, nor is it fair to the teens that have good intentions.

Others hold the argument that teens are plainly too old to trick-or-treat, but it is in many ways like a portal back to childhood, and is that so wrong? It’s not unusual to hear of adults playing the occasional video game, a round of monopoly or even getting sucked into a cartoon, yet they are not thought of as “refusing to grow up.”

Trick-or-treating is an enjoyable way to connect with one’s inner child, not to be confused with a protest against adulthood.

If debating whether or not to be Spiderman for one more year, do not let age be the dictating factor. Trick-or-treating may seem childish to some, but for those of us that enjoy being Cinderella once a year, the tradition is going strong no matter what grade level.

Whether claiming they are old enough to use a cellphone while driving or mature enough to not have a curfew, teens often demand respect from their elders—but why are some teens contradicting their claims by saying they are young enough to trick-or-treat?

Maturity is achieved simply by acting mature…dressing up in a costume and going door-to-door for candy is anything but. Teens need to act how they want to be treated.

Trick-or-treating should be left as an event for younger children because they are not as independent as teens, who usually have the responsibility to plan a Halloween party.

In the past, some teens have literally acted scary on Halloween.

Teens have been generally known to be intimidating in the way they act and many reports have been made about teens who vandalized houses on Halloween. By choosing alternatives like planning a party or going to a haunted house, teens can spare the community the fear that buildings will be potentially egged or TP-ed during trick-or-treating time.

Halloween is, and should stay as, a memory from our childhood. If teens would like to be treated as adults, they should continue their constant pursuit of maturity by refraining from acting like a child this Halloween.

28 Inklings staffers agree

5 Inklings staffers agree

Amy Berchem French teacher

Ashley Jones junior

“I think that from newborn to 12th grade, you are considered a kid. Trick-or treating is for kids. I think it’s good to draw from your inner child.”

“I feel like when you pass 15 you are too old to go trick-or-treating. When I’m surrounded by 5 and 6-year-olds, I feel way too old to be doing it.”

Stephen Jeffirs sophomore “I’m for teenage trick-or-treating. There’s so much emphasis on growing up, and kids need a day to just have fun.”

As young children, it was not uncommon to hear spiteful comments such as ‘You’re fat!’ or ‘You’re ugly!’, spewed across the playground and spread throughout the classroom. Acts of kids being shoved in the hallways or having their books knocked out of their hands were not out of the ordinary. Even now, often times children fail to comprehend the harmful effects that their words and actions have on their peers due to a lack of maturity.

High school students may scoff at anti-bullying presentations and think bullying doesn’t happen anymore, but bullying definitely still exists.

A teenager’s self-esteem can be as easily shaken as a child’s. This is because teenagers have entered a point in their life where they are not entirely confident in who they are or what they want to become. Thus, bullying can have a much greater impact on teenagers than many expect. Also, the reasons for bullying increase and intensify during the teen years. While there are still taunts about weight, looks and personality, more mature topics like ethnicity, religion and sexual orientation, are added to a bully’s supply of hypothetical ammunition.

Additionally, bullied teens tend to take more drastic measures than children to cope with pain caused by bullying.

Teens are less willing to reach out for help and keep negative emotions bottled up inside for fear of retaliation. In extreme instances, teens may engage in self-destructive behaviors, whether it be physical self harm, drug use, violence or other examples of self-abuse.

Bullying among teenagers is an issue that needs to be taken seriously. Teens are mature enough to end this immaturity.

Are you going trick-or-treating?

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Linda Atwood Spanish teacher “I was taught that trick-or-treating is for elementary-age children. My parents let me have Halloween parties when I was older.”

Out of 265 students polled

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PHOTO BY donnella casillas

The drama department partakes in Zumba on Oct. 24.

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10.27.2011 Inklings

on

A page capturing the essence of student life

Adoption:

a family story

GRAPHIC BY ELLIE BURRELL

Students and faculty share personal stories, reflect upon adopted lives

By Katrina Zdanowicz co-feature editor

Defying the once-taboo connotation, adoption has become a major contributor to the American family. According to the Adoption Institute’s Public Opinion Benchmark, about 58 percent of Americans are affected by adoption.

This can include adopting a child, actually being adopted or simply having an acquaintance who is adopted. A pretty significant statistic, certainly, but adoption goes way beyond simply being a number. It is an aspect of certain individuals’ lives that has shaped their current situation and influenced the people they are today. Senior Paul Kendall, who was adopted at birth, doesn’t remember any other life besides the one he has always led. His adoption has never been a fact that is shied away from at home.

“I’ve always known that I was adopted. When I was little, my parents made me a book about my adoption. It was actually one of the first stories I learned to read,” Kendall said.

Junior Kaylee Clark was also made aware of her adoption at a young age. While not exactly being dropped off by a stork, she did have to travel quite a ways to make it to her family. Clark was adopted from Fuzhou, China, at the age of six months.

“The real story of my adoption came in bits and pieces as I became old enough to understand. I definitely feel that it was meant to be,” Clark said.

fastfacts Facts from adoption.com

99 percent

Being of Asian descent, she doesn’t resemble her blonde mother. However, Clark says that adoption doesn’t define her everyday life.

“It’s something I don’t even think about unless a classmate points it out or asks a question,” Clark said.

When it comes to asking questions of people who have been adopted, some peers are unsure of how to proceed.

However, Kendall has never received a negative reaction for his situation. In fact, it is often quite the opposite.

“In 90 percent of the cases, people respond to my adoption in an overwhelmingly positive way. They are usually intrigued and think it’s cool,” Kendall said.

Clark agrees, but she acknowledges that adoption can be a sensitive topic to breach. When it comes to inquiries, people range from being evasive to coming across as a little too direct.

“People can be afraid to ask questions. They don’t always realize how open I am about my adoption. But I’ll also get an occasional tactless question about my biological parents,” Clark said.

English teacher Daniel Hadary is often questioned about his biological parents as well, being asked, “so do you want to meet them?”

“I don’t really think it’s necessary. I have their medical records and letters they wrote for me to have on my eighteenth birthday. That’s enough for me,” Hadary said.

These letters are extremely special to him in a similar

of adopted children ages five and older know that they were adopted.

9 out of 10

adopted children ages five and older have positive feelings about their adoption.

Half

way that Kendall values his book as a keepsake. Clark, on the other hand, knows nothing about her biological parents.

Her connection comes in the form of 10 other girls who were adopted from Fuzhou at the same time as her. Most live in “The Region”, and they occasionally gather together to simply spend time with each other. The group is affectionately called the “Fu-11.”

Each individual adoptee has his or her own story and background. They decide how they want to stay in touch with the situation that led to their adoption. These three Crown Point residents have found methods that work for their lives and families and allow them to appreciate where they are today.

Clark recognizes that she could possibly be on another continent. She certainly would never have established her current friendships or been a part of the family she holds so dear to her heart.

“It was all about being in the right place at the right time. My mom says that it was fate that brought me to them,” Clark said.

Hadary muses that if not for his adoption, he may not be a teacher, and he most likely wouldn’t even be in Indiana. He was adopted from Oakland, California, soon after his birth, and he hasn’t been back since. He has an older sister who was also adopted.

“I wouldn’t change a single thing about my situation,” Hadary said. “I know that it’s been a blessing.”

of privately adopted children are the only child living in the home.

46 percent

of children who are adopted are under one year old.

21 percent

of private adoptions are transracial.

F

7

eature

10.27.2011 Inklings

Conquering the clutter

Several electronic tools are available to help one get organized in school

By Haajar Shaaban editor-in-chief

Overflowing folders, lost assignments and missed deadlines.

As the new nine-week grading period begins once more, many are not used to the order and having to keep everything organized. Thus, the beginning of the year is often characterized by the forgetting of assignments and disorganization in general.

However getting organized electronically is a new outlet for students who want to keep organized in a different way.

“I think with the right tools anybody can be organized and it’s just a matter of making that commitment just like anything else,” former network administrator Kevin Cash said.

Now of course there are several ways students traditionally keep organized. There is the agenda book, in which students can write assignments and other tasks that need to get done.

Students also often make a to-do list or use a calendar. However as more and more technological progress is made, new ways of getting organized have arose.

“I think (young people) have a tremendous advantage (because of the ability to use technology) but it’s like anything else; no matter what program you use, there has to be a commitment on the part of the person actually using it. The one thing you’ve got to be prepared for is the day it doesn’t work,” Cash said.

There are benefits of using technology to organize over traditional uses. If one uses their phone or computer to organize, everything they need is contained in one place.

Additionally, technology tends to be quicker. “(Using technology) is always faster than hand writing everything. It’s usually a lot easier to organize things because it does everything for you,” senior Casey Mihal said.

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With Google developing new products and applications every day, there are bound to be ways to organize using them.

“Google’s actually pretty nice because they have all this stuff out there that’s free so Google’s probably going to become one of the industry leaders especially for students I think because it’s a low cost provider,” Cash said.

One tool by Google that can help organize is Google Documents. Google Docs can be used to streamline application processes.

One can make easy-to-use spreadsheets to keep track of papers, essays, fees to pay, transcripts, and other important documents.

“You could do all this (organizing) yourself but most kids and most adults wouldn’t

Google Calendar

Once again, Google offers an effective way of organizing information. Google Calendar is an application that can be accessed anywhere internet is available.

“I put my everyday schedule for work, school, and after school events on my Google Calendar app on my phone,” Mihal said.

Notifications can be enabled to give automatic reminders. One can program their Google Calendar to set reminders on their phone or iPod or to send an e-mail an hour, day, or any time increment before the event.

When adding events, one can color code

Smart phones

Another aspect of getting organized electronically is on cell phones.

“The advantage of organizing on a smart phone is that everything can be in one place.

Phones are organized in a way that people can use it easily,” Mihajlovich said.

One application often used on a phone is note taking. One app, Colornotes, has the option of creating a checklist or a regular note. One can also color code and place “Colornote” widgets on their home screen for easy access. Notes can even be archived if the user wishes to use them later.

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Although Facebook is mostly used as a social outlet, it also has some features that can help students to keep track of some tasks.

“Facebook is an easy way to keep organized with not just school related things but also other important things in my life,” junior Kristina Mihajlovich said.

For example, Facebook displays the birthdays of all friends on the side. While it can be helpful, Mihajlovich thinks it shouldn’t replace actually knowing a friend’s birthday.

“The Facebook birthday feature can be a helpful ice breaker when meeting new people, but should not be an alternative to knowing your friends’ birthdays,” Mihajlovich said.

Another useful feature of Facebook when it comes to organizing is the group feature. Users can create a group and add people to it. They then can add information on the group, post on the wall of the group, and send messages to the group.

“We have a junior class page that I can read any messages sent out. And I can read these messages anywhere because I have Facebook on my phone,” Mihajlovich said.

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F 8 Students hold witness to paranormal activity eature

10.27.2011 Inklings

Does the realm of the paranormal extend to Crown Point? Students and teachers recount witnesses of spooky events GRAPHIC BY ELLIE BURRELL

By Melanie Zdanowicz feature editor

The unknown has never ceased to captivate the teenage mind. It is a part of human nature to be intrigued by the mysterious and excited by the prospect of something out of the normal, especially paranormal. What if, though, the paranormal was more normal than we thought? Perhaps that bump in the night or the creaking of a door wasn’t just a product of the wind but something else, something more eerie. Some students claim that the supernatural is something they are all too familiar with, and that the paranormal is their reality.

Society’s fascination with the realm of ghosts and the supernatural dates back to the dawn of man.

“Some of the earliest ghost stories are among humanities oldest stories. There have been cave drawings found about ghosts,” history teacher and ghost hunter

Don Bernacky said.

The passing of the years has not changed how we feel about ghosts. The introduction of new technologies that help better detect paranormal entities has further enhanced society’s curiosity for all things supernatural. Yet some students don’t need a medium to tell them there’s a ghost in their presence.

“I used to not believe in ghosts until I really started to grow older and think about what has happened in my house and to my family. Now I really believe in it all,” senior Lacey Valois said.

Valois claims her home is haunted by a ghost who takes the form of a man in a World War II soldier’s uniform. However, she is the only one of her siblings who seems to be immune to the ghost’s presence.

“My sister has to sleep with her door closed, or she’ll wake up to the ghost. She has woken up with cords wrapped around

her neck while I was okay in the same room. My brother has also been flipped out of his bed,” Valois said.

Junior Austin Cundiff can relate to the same kind of inexplicable happenings “There’s been some creepy things that happen at my house. I’ve seen and heard the doorknob rattle and turn when I was sitting alone in my room. When it opened, no one was there,” Cundiff said. “I thought it was someone in my family, but they were all sitting in the living room and didn’t believe me when I told them about it.”

Cundiff says that it is hard to get people to believe what goes on in his home, and he isn’t even sure if he believes in it himself.

“I don’t know if I believe in ghosts and spirits. I’m indifferent to it. I’m just used to what goes on at my house. It’s everyday life to me,” Cundiff said.

Even after hearing their peers make such claims, some students remain skeptical to the prospect of ghosts and other para-

normal and occurrences. Those who have witnessed paranormal activity aren’t trying to convert skeptics to follow their belief system.

“There’s a large possibility that what I deal with isn’t actually ghosts. I try to be an empirical observer and offer people explanations based on observations. If someone comes along with a better explanation, I’ll follow it,” Bernacky said.

Science still has yet to disprove a large amount of the strange occurrences people have witnessed. So if science cannot explain it, then is it indeed a spirit? That is a question that will continue to remain a mystery and perhaps is better left a mystery.

“We live in an amazing age of information where we break down everything into chemical or physical components. The corners of life where mystery is left are fewer.

The realm of the supernatural is one of the greatest unknowns left to us,” Bernacky said.

Moving, listening, seeing helps students to understand Different types of learning styles make grasping difficult, foreign concepts simpler for students

By Rachael Bokota / Kayla Martisek staff writer / design editor

Success in school is often thought to be gained through hard work and concentration. But there is an often forgotten factor that can greatly affect one’s success: the style of how one learns.

No two students have the same type of learning style. Though there are many explicit types, there are three broad learning styles: auditory, visual and kinesthetic. Because no student has just one learning style, he or she uses one primary learning style, such as auditory, while the other two, visual and kinesthetic, serve as back-up styles.

“I think it’s very important to combine styles. I make sure I speak so that auditory learners will understand as well,” English teacher Kasandra Loudermilk said.

For example, a student who primarily learns by visual techniques will grasp concepts best through written notes, but he or she can also learn through hands-on activities, which is a kinesthetic learning style.

“I think it’s important for teachers to teach in more than one way because I once had a teacher who taught pretty much only visually, and I didn’t do as well in that class,” sophomore Andrea Kuiper said.

Auditory learners like to listen and memorize what is taught to them. These types of students are more likely to learn by reading out loud with the class or discussing work with family and friends. While studying, auditory learners should use flash cards and have a peer to communicate key points back and forth.

Notes, written materials and handouts are the quickest way for visual students to learn. Visual learners work best through writing things down. For example, it is beneficial for these learners spelling out a word 20 times or simply writing down notes in class. Highlighting and rewriting key ideas will advantage students who learn visually while studying. The act of writing makes learning concepts easier for these students.

Kinesthetic learners make up over 50

percent of the population.

“I think kinesthetic is most common.

Kids really understand better if they can do it,” Loudermilk said.

While most of students learn this way, it is the least common way that teachers teach. Kinesthetic learners work best with in-class activities during which the student moves around the room. When a kinesthetic student moves their body, they store information better.

“I’m a kinesthetic learner because I feel like it’s easier to learn when I’m touching and moving things.” Kuiper said, “That way, it makes most sense to me.”

With each student learning better by different styles, it is important for teachers to try and incorporate all learning styles in their teaching methods.

“I try and give them the information as well as model it for visual learners, verbally say it for the auditory learners, and then practice with them afterward for kinesthetic learners,” Loudermilk said.

Learning Types Visual Learn by writing or seeing pictures

Auditory Learn by listening or discussing

Kinesthetic Learn by acting out or moving objects

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eature

10.27.2011 Inklings

Battling the stress

MONSTER

By Haajar Shaaban / Brittany Pedersen editor-in-chief / staff reporter

To do: Study for AP Biology test, AP English paper, go to soccer practice, apply to colleges, go to French club meeting, go to work; the list goes on. Many students experience an agenda similar to this, resulting in rising stress levels.

Plenty of factors contribute to why students are stressed out. Busy school schedules and multiple extra-curricular activities in addition to lack of sleep are just a few of the factors that can build up to overwhelm students.

“There is definitely more pressure (on students nowadays than there was before),” guidance counselor Michelle Bruss said. “Students may be in a sport or do different activities outside of school while carrying a full-time schedule so I think there are a lot of things that contribute to the stress that the student feels at school.”

One stressful aspect all students have to deal with is the academic part of school. Pressure from parents can cause students to feel that they must get a certain grade or be “good enough” at a sport.

“I feel like I have to do well in both (school and in extra-curricular activities),” freshman Alex St. Amour said. “(I feel pressure from) coaches, parents and sometimes friends.”

However this pressure could also often come from one’s self.

“I think students always want to achieve to the greatest level that they can so they pressure themselves as well just because colleges are a lot more competitive now even than they were ten years ago, so I think that kind of weighs heavy on the students,” Bruss said.

Another often stressful dimension of school is the extra-curricular activities and sports. Clubs meet before school, after school and even sometimes on weekends, which takes out a big chunk of time students could use to accomplish other tasks such as homework and studying.

Senior Hannah Raspopovich is in swimming and thinks it is one of the most stressful aspects of school.

“Trying to balance schoolwork and swimming plus adding in college visits and stuff takes away from my homework time,” Raspopovich said. “I feel like if I wasn’t in a sport I would have so much free time to actually work harder in school, but I can’t imagine my life without a sport.”

Some stressful issues are more specific to a certain class.

Freshmen are still adjusting to a new building, schedule and often times a much fuller agenda. St. Amour has found stress in trying to adjust to harder classes this year. “(The hardest part to adjust to is) the amount of homework compared to last year and the addition of midterms and finals,” St. Amour said. “I get over an hour more of homework, and midterms and finals are harder to study for than tests last year.”

Junior and senior year are often characterized by higher-level classes including AP and dual credit. This adds to the stress of upper grade levels.

Juggling schoolwork, a part-time job, extra-curricular activities, friends and other tasks causes students much stress

“Honors and AP and dual credit classes in the higher grades (can be very stressful because) a lot of materials are covered and the pace is very rapid,” Bruss said.

Looming college application and scholarship deadlines are additional causes of worry among some students, especially seniors.

Address the stress

“(The most stressful part of my life is) probably applying for scholarships,” senior Jacque Nikitaras said. “It’s stressful because I know that how many scholarships I get will affect the amount of money I have to pay for college.”

Another stress plaguing seniors is the anticipated stress of college. “(High school and college) both have stresses but in different ways. When you’re at the college level, the material that they’re covering is a lot more in-depth. It’s harder material than it is at the high school level, but then again the environment at the college level is different so I think that kind of balances out,” Bruss said.

CPHS alumnus Vinnie Needham says there are some things she wishes she knew before going to college to deal with stress.

“In high school I wish that I learned to manage my time. Having a lot more classes and a heavier workload limits the amount of time that you have to study in order to survive the demands of college you really need to designate enough study time to succeed,” Needham said.

Because many students are so stressed for many different reasons, they must find ways to deal with it. Bruss recommends taking time to unwind even if one is really busy.

“You always have tasks that you have to complete, whether it’s homework or for your job or for the activities that you’re involved in,” Bruss said. “I think you also have to have some time for yourself to have a little bit of fun.”

Different stress relieving methods work for different people. Junior Jose Tinoco confides in friends and additionally tries to get rid of stress through physical activity.

“In school I listen to my iPod and talk to my friends.

Out of school hanging out with friends and working out helps (relieve stress),” Tinoco said.

Raspopovich also talks with friends to relieve stress.

“When I get stressed out I usually talk to someone like my best friends or try to do something fun that’ll take my mind off that stress,” she said.

Nikitaras likes to write to get what she is stressed about off of her mind.

“I write. I try to get it all on paper,” Nikitaras said. “It helps me not to keep it all bottled inside.”

Bruss emphasizes the importance of getting enough sleep regardless of what needs to be done.

“Students need to get an adequate amount of sleep because if they don’t, then they just can’t function with school work and the activities that they have outside of school,” Bruss recommends that if the stress becomes too much, students should contact a trusted adult for help.

“Really if a student is feeling pressure or is overwhelmed they should talk to a teacher, counselor or parent. They might think there is nothing that can be done, but once they ask, there are things that can be implemented,” Bruss said.

PHOTO BY ALEkS Kajmakoski

Z

Get enough Z ’s Regardless of what needs to get done, everyone needs sleep. Getting a good night’s rest helps students to be refreshed and ready to conquer the day’s tasks. The recommended amount of sleep is about 9 hours for teens.

“Sleep is really important because you’re energized the whole day when you get enough.”

Auston Pavlinac junior

? ??

Talk it out

Write it down

Get help if needed

Confiding in friends or close family members can help to get a weight off students’ shoulders.

Try talking to a trusted person to unload thoughts can be relieving.

“When I get stressed out, I usually talk to someone like my best friends or try to do something fun that’ll take my mind off that stress.”

Hannah Raspopovich senior

Invest in a pen and a notebook to write thoughts, errands, or “To-Do’s” in. Make lists, write paragraphs, draw pictures. Seeing everything that is on mind down on paper may help with relief of stress.

“I write. I try to get it all on paper, It helps me not to keep it all bottled inside.”

Jacque Nikitaras senior

If the stress becomes too overwhelming, students should contact a trusted adult for help.

“Really if a student is feeling pressure or is overwhelmed, they should talk to a teacher, counselor or parent. They might think there is nothing that can be done, but once they ask there are things that can be implemented.”

Michelle Bruss guidance counselor

H

10

ealth

10.27.2011 Inklings

Autumn arrives with an abundance of allergies

Hay fever caused by allergens pollen, ragweed, mold perturbs students

By RaeAnna Morgan / Katie Sherman copy editor / staff reporter

Apple cider, bonfires and the changing colors of leaves are just a few of the more obvious signs that autumn is approaching. A sign not commonly thought of are the seasonal allergies that plague a large portion of the population.

“Fall is definitely the worst season for my allergies. With all the dust and mold from dead leaves, my allergies really act up,” junior Lauren Murphy said.

As the season changes and the weather gets colder and more dreary, some students begin to experience runny noses, itchy eyes and constant sneezing as symptoms of their allergies.

“My allergies are horrible because I sneeze a lot. It can get pretty annoying,” sophomore Michael Mayes said.

Typically, the season changes cause allergies to act up, creating the problem of keeping up with them and keeping them under control.

“The most common allergies are dust mites, pollen and mold,” Murphy said. “My allergies are always better if I’m in fresh air and clean places. They’re the worst when I’m in a stuffy house.”

While many students have allergies, most do not know the causes, reactions or treatments for them.

“You have to be exposed to something to develop the allergy,” Massow said. “It’s a malfunction of the immune system where all of a sudden the body does not recognize that particular allergen to PHOTO BY TRISHA SEMPLINSKI be a part of your environment.”

Sophomore Alyce Kuhn blows her nose during the allergy season. Kuhn said Many allergies such as her breathing becomes wheezy, her nose runs, and she gets migraines in the fall.

HEAL H & WELLNESS

FACTS

Allergies caused by ragweed, pollen, or mold are referred to as hay fever. Pollen and ragweed are the most common allergen triggers.

Histamines cause hay fever symptoms like sneezing, coughing, itchy/watery eyes, runny nose, and dark circles underneath the eyes.

foods and animals can be avoided, but it is difficult to avoid environmental allergies. Symptoms of seasonal allergies are hard to miss but most students ignore them.

“Reactions vary from watery, itchy eyes, to sneezing, nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, sinus infections, cough, worsening of asthma, or in really severe cases, anaphylactic shock,” Massow said.

Students who experience these reactions must be careful and watch for things that may cause reactions to occur.

“Fall is definitely the worst season for my allergies,” freshman Kelly Kislowski said. “I always have to watch for the pollen count, and when it’s high, I have to take my medicine (Zyrtec).”

While fall is a bad season for allergies, spring also poses many problems for people suffering from allergies. Pollen and other particles filter through the air an into the body of many people.

“The worst season for my allergies is spring,” freshman Madalyn Brownlee said. “They get worse when I go outside because I’m allergic to pollen.”

If one has an allergy, there are many options one can take to prevent reactions.

“Treatments include medication like nasal sprays or antihistamines,” Massow said.

The effectiveness of each treatment varies from patient to patient and what they prefer. Each patient reacts differently to different procedures and treatments.

“Some patients elect to do immunotherapy or allergy shots to try to build up an immunity to what they are allergic to,” Massow said.

Either way, victims of allergies must keep up with them or allergy attacks or flare ups can effect their everyday lives.

“I take Singulair every day. It’s a preventative medication, so I won’t get allergy attacks,” Murphy said. “If I don’t take it for a couple days, then my allergies will start to get really bad again.”

Antihistamines reduce sneezing and itchy eyes while decongestants remove mucus from nasal passages, allowing congestion relief. facts obtained by the Inklings staff

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inreview Just Dance 3 5 stars

Filled with all-new dance modes and songs, Just Dance 3 is sure to be a party pleaser. Players can unlock new songs and brandnew dance styles called “mashups.” Mash-ups take one song and incorporate different dance moves from previous songs. With a track list of over 40 songs, Just Dance 3 is sure to get people dancing.

fiVe BELoW 4 stars

If one ever needs to buy anything from a pair of jeggings to a cellphone case and happen to only have five dollars or less, this store is the place to go. Their products are so well-made that it’s deceiving to know that the price is so cheap.

Holidays are around the corner and at Five Below, it’s very likely to find something suitable to give as a gift.

The Crown Town Grill 3 stars

Located on the Square, the Crown Town Grill is a convenient place to grab a bite to eat. It has a wide selection of choices that are 1950s-diner themed. The atmosphere has a refreshing personality to it. However, the food is nothing memorable.

Kardashian Clothing Line 2 stars

The super star sisters are at it again with their clothing line at Sears, yet it fails to shine. The clothes are lackluster and pricey.

There are a few cute jewelry pieces but the main items are nothing compared to the hype they received.

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11.27.2011 Inklings 10.27.2011

Pumpkin spice and everything nice Fall is here and these pumpkin spice flavored goods can get anyone in the spirit of the season As the hot, humid weather of a summer day transitions into a chilly autumn evening, the aromas of Halloween accompany the elements of the season. Pumpkin spice is one of the most popular flavors of this holiday season for popular food brands, seeing as shelves are

stocked with limited time foods, scents, and drinks with the pumpkin spice taste. From large-chain coffee shops to speciality stores, the variety of such items are hard to choose from, especially for fans of pumpkin. Thankfully, there are some brands that highlight the mass production of the pumpkin spice hype, and actually fulfill the Halloween essence while giving the satisfaction one looks for.

Cinnamon Frosted Pumpkin Cookies The Lofthouse Delicious Cookies brand truly stands by its name, serving delectable pumpkin cookies topped with a creamy cinnamon frosting in Strack and VanTil stores around the region.

Although the cookie is bite size, the pumpkin taste is eminent and fits well with the amount of icing on top. Every component of this cookie is phenomenal and will complement any warm drink.

Dairy Queen Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat This blizzard provides a powerful smell of pumpkin, yet the flavor is not too overbearing. It has subtle hints of nutmeg, and is under a gargantuan mound of whipped cream. Actual pie pieces are present throughout the pumpkin flavored vanilla soft serve which just adds to the pie flavor. This dessert is an instant taste bud pleaser.

By Donnella Casillas / Aleks Kajmakoski staff reporters

Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin Cleansing Soap Although it’s clearly not edible, the scent of this “sweet cinnamon pumpkin soap” is both immense and enjoyable. Bath and Body Works definitely set their sights on a successful fall smell, and they achieved their goal with the strong scent of pumpkin while preventing the spread of a cold. So if one loves the smell of a pumpkin patch but can’t stand the taste of a freshly picked pumpkin, the fragrance of this soap will set the stage for the Halloween season for them.

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte Starbucks has released a limited time seasonal flavor that has a sensational taste. The Pumpkin Spice Latte is sure to enrich your taste buds with the vivid taste of pumpkin and cinnamon with whipped cream topping. The drink itself is like a liquidized pumpkin pie filling with a pinch of nutmeg, only excluding the graham cracker crust. The Pumpkin Spice Latte is sure to warm one up on those chilly autumn nights. One may also purchase a Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino for those unusually warm fall afternoons, but the latte is definitely more enjoyable with its smooth texture and warm taste.

Pumpkin Pie PopTarts The popularity of PopTarts is sure to skyrocket after more people realize the enchantment of Pumpkin Pie PopTarts. These pastries have the classic thin layer of frosting, scattered with sprinkles. Upon biting into this anytime-of-day treat, one’s taste buds immediately recognize the homey taste of freshly baked pumpkin pie. Along with this well-known taste, subtle hints of cinnamon throughout the PopTart can be recognized. Paired with a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, this is sure to bring joy to pumpkin lovers everywhere.

Chick-fil-A offers a fresh approach to fast-food

By Shannon Rostin staff reporter

Chicken fanatics fear not. Chick-fil-A has opened a new location in Merrillville, across from the Westfield mall. Until now, dedicated Chick-fil-A customers have had to go out of their way (the closest Chick-fil-A is in Lafayette) to cure the craving for the one- of-a kind selections. Although Chick-fil-A is a fast food chain, it is a step above most in the categories of taste and atmosphere. The restaurant provides customers with a family centered, laid back fast food restaurant by catering to the tastes of all ages.

The main attraction is the original, flavor-

ful chicken that can be ordered in many varieties. The menu holds everything from chicken strips to chicken sandwiches and everything chicken-related between. The product is tender, delicious and the perfect blend of juicy and crispy combines to give you a chicken experience unlike any other. One can taste the difference in the way the chicken is made, creating a perfected recipe. The restaurant offers a tasteful approach to original recipes.

The service and staff was a major part of my enjoyable experience. Although there was a massive crowd of people, the servers did their best to get our order taken and made in an unusually quick fashion. A manager of the res-

taurant even went as far as finding us a table to sit down. It was not long at all before we were seated and enjoying our delicious meal. Every staff member seemed to genuinely care about the customer, and aimed to highly please the crowds of people. The attitudes of the staff members seem to add an extra element to the overall experience of Chick-fil-A. Overall, my Chick-fil-A experience was a good one that I cannot wait to relive. I will definitely be a repeat customer. The tender and flavorful chicken is nothing short of amazing and it is a welcomed, unexpected version of fast food. Chick-fil-A is a great, family oriented approach to a quality fast food restaurant.

a few of our

Steve Jobs book In the wake of Steve Jobs’ death, Walter Isaacson has released a biography about the Apple co-founder’s life. The book details Jobs’ personal life, rise to fame, and how he shaped technology as we know it. This book is a good read for any Apple product enthusiast.

studentpick These adorable animal earbuds are becoming a trendy accessory in the music world. Their sound quality is not spectacular compared to other earbuds, however, they are only $11 on Amazon. com. These are great for music lovers trying to personalize their favorite accessories.

Streamline Animal Earbuds

The camera lens mugs are a perfect gift for any photographer or on-the-go person.

This mug looks so realistic that if a camera enthusiast takes this mug to school or work, one might receive some odd looks. Buyers can defend their brand with Canon or Nikon mugs. They are available at photojojo. com for $24.

Camera Lens Mugs

favoritethings

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Coldplay brings out new sounds

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ne brisk, eerie night, a young girl walks home from her friend’s house. She is walking casually. Suddenly, soft footsteps catch her attention. She turns her head to come face-to-face with a treacherous villain. Villains are the primary components of the must-see Halloween frights. From gruesome and gory villains to ones with an array of punch lines, one is sure to find a movie featuring a villain who fits his or her taste in horrifying (or humorous) movies.

By Mona Nour staff reporter

By Yazzmyne Lopez / Hannah Colby staff reporters

Gore Galore:

“Nightmare on Elm Street” Fans of gruesome scary movies are sure to love Freddy Krueger.

The original version of “The Nightmare on Elm Street” premiered in 1984. The movie is a little outdated. No fear -- a more modernized version debuted in 2010. This film explores the story of the pre-school caretaker seeking revenge on all the children who “tattled” on him. The children who he believes betrayed him are now being killed in their dreams by Freddy. This well-known villain is recognized by his sharp, knife-like claws and his red and green sweater. Freddy’s killings are typically full of brutality and blood, and are perfect for any gore-lover who can “stay awake!”

Spooky Suspense: “Child’s Play” Lovers of creepy, suspenseful scenes are the perfect candidates for the movie “Child’s Play.” This film is known for its sinister villain, Chucky. The movie premiered in 1988, but “Child’s Play” has many remakes for more contemporary tastes. The storyline is about a serial killer, Charles Ray, being murdered

outside of a toy store. He transfers his soul into a doll, and Chucky is born. Chucky is known for suspenseful and surprising killings.

This villain is sure to give viewers a good scare.

Familiar Face: “Halloween” A white hockey mask is wellknown by many for bringing terror, but the man behind the mask is the real fright. The movie “Halloween” reveals this renowned villain’s murderous ways. The original movie debuted in 1978, uncovering the all-time villain Michael Myers. He was admitted into an asylum after killing his sister. Fifteen years later, Myers escapes to launch a killing spree on a group of high school students. Watching this classic horror movie, this deceiving rogue can leave people craving more, but don’t worry -- there are many more spooky adventures starring this recognizable villain.

Queasy:

“The Strangers” Some scary movies can cause queasiness rather than a jump-outof-the-seat scare. “The Strangers” is a great movie for viewers with a dis-

like for gory movies. “The Strangers” follows a young couple harassed by three masked characters, who resemble clowns and rarely speak throughout the movie. However, the blood and guts are kept to a minimum, which is a must for any weak stomached viewer. This movie is full of suspense and sure to give the viewer a good scare without grossing them out.

Funny Bone: “Scary Movie Series” Jokesters who cannot take a scary movie seriously will appreciate the “Scary Movie” series. This series takes existing scary movies and changes the overall mood completely.

Many horror movie villains appear in these films, but they are more humorous and lively.

The plot usually consists of a group of teens stuck in predicaments from scary movies such as “Scream,” “Saw,” and “The Ring.” The overall feel of the movie is amusing; there will definitely be some giggling.

Footloose remake does not compare to original

By Molly Grace staff reporter

If the movie “Footloose” would have first been made today, I would say it is awful. The plot doesn’t make much sense: dancing is an evil activity and therefore must be outlawed. An outsider boy who happens to have a passion for dance gets the town all worked up when he suggests they revoke that law. Somehow the residents of Bomont seem to forget that, at the end of the day, it’s just dancing.

However, watching the original, I found myself enjoying it and not minding the nonsensical plot. There is an 80s charm to the film and an innocence to the characters.

The bothersome thing about the “Footloose” remake is that it is the exact same movie as the original, sometimes quoting it line-for-line, and yet the acting isn’t as good by far. Kenny Wormald, who plays the character Ren in the remake, is no Kevin Bacon. Also, Julianne Hough’s acting is surprisingly disappointing. She atrociously portrays Ariel, a character who, in the original,

In your face

audiences could identify with because she was a good girl with good intentions, despite a small rebellious streak. In this movie, she comes off as a tacky embarrassment compared to Lori Singer’s Ariel, and the costuming does little to convince us otherwise.

The one thing to be salvaged from this swamp is the character of Willard. Willard, played by Miles Teller, is the goofy best friend of protagonist Ren and is an outright comic gem.

During the montage where he is learning to dance, the audience was howling with laughter.

Teller supplies the majority of the laugh-out-loud lines (there were quite a few as compared to the rest of the film) and has a lovable presence and innocent Southern accent that made him a favorite among audience members.

Fans of the original might enjoy this version.

If you’ve never seen the original, do yourself a favor and just rent the 1984 version. You’ll get the same story with better actors. If you must see the new movie, see it for Willard. He is the only reason for seeing an otherwise pointless remake.

Coldplay would have been the last band to end up on my iPod before the release of their new album, “Mylo Xyloto,” on Monday. Coldplay’s new sound incorporates more of an electro feel to their music, while staying true to their deeply symbolic lyrics. Every song has a smooth transition into the next, establishing more of a theme throughout the album.

One of their hit singles, “Paradise,” had an interesting music video and was my absolute favorite because of the dramatic changes in beat that made the song come alive.

Some may say that Coldplay has abandoned their old sound completely, but I disagree.

Throughout the album, there are definite similarities between its style and their old works, but they could not have made a new album without making some changes. For example, “Us Against the World” could have easily fit in with the last album “Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends.”

These changes have proven to be successful considering the positive response from both old fans and new fans of Coldplay. The early release single “Every Tear Drop is A Waterfall” was number 14 on the Billboard charts in June and remained in this position for four months.

Coldplay collaborated with familiar pop singer Rihanna in the recent single that came out Tuesday, “Princess of China,” allowing Rihanna fans to anticipate the release too.

Given its ability to blend old with new, this album is one of Coldplay’s loudest, boldest and most powerful yet.

What was your most recent facebook status?

Koree Kitchens freshman

Will Somerton sophomore

Hanging out with my friends.

Just another day in paradise.

Maggie Teske junior

Emily Seberger senior

“Don’t every worry about things that don’t worry about you,” Wiz Khalifa.

How am I supposed to do my AP English essay when the Kardashian wedding is on?

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10.27.2011 Inklings

Football stays alive in post-season

Dogs head into second round of sectionals relying on defense

By Sam Beishuizen sports editor

Post-season high school football games can be some of the most intense games of the year. These games can be a matter of win or go home. A loss can end an entire season, and for seniors, an entire high school career. A win, and you move on to fight another day.

“In the playoffs, every week is a one game deal,” head coach Chip Pettit said. “You can’t look ahead. You can only look at team that you are playing and you work to move on.”

The ‘Dogs headed into the first round of sectionals riding a wave of momentum. They had won three consecutive games largely because of a stellar defense that has only given up 23 points in that last 18 quarters of play.

“Every time we give up points, we take it real personal,” Junior Anthony Geison said. “We have been using that to help our success.”

Defense has been key to the ‘Dogs current four game win streak.

Senior tight end Peter Parks credits the team’s focus and attitude to their recent success.

“Consistent work ethic and good preparation has been key (to our success),” Parks said.

The ‘Dogs work ethic paid off Friday night in the opening round of sectionals against Munster. They suffered an early loss when senior quarterback Joe Hopman went down after breaking his collarbone in the first quarter.

Sophomore back-up Jake Jatis man-

aged to lead the team in a third quarter comeback.

Jatis will again be in the spotlight Friday night.

“Jake will be back in this week,” Pettit said. “We are going to work on getting (Jatis) to understand the pace of the game switching from JV to Varsity.

Getting him accustomed to the speed of the game will be key.”

This week the ‘Dogs are welcomed in Valparaiso. In their only regular season match-up, the Vikings handed the Bulldogs a 14-21 loss. Since then, the ‘Dogs have gone undefeated, outscoring opponents 115-23.

Even though they will be playing injured, the players are confident that they will be able to compete with anyone they face.

“We are taking things week by week,” Parks said. “We will try to advance to regionals and then hopefully make it to Indianapolis.”

“I think it will all come down to how we play defensively,” Pettit said. “Offensively, we can get (Jatis) into an offense that he is comfortable in, and hopefully take care of the ball and do what we need to do to win.”

The ‘Dogs will square off against the Vikings tomorrow in Crown Point at 7 p.m.

2011Schedule Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

7-3

at Lowell vs. Hobart vs. Merrillville at Lake Central at Portage vs. Valparaiso vs. LaPorte at Chesterton

vs. Michigan City at. Munster* vs, Valparaiso*

WIN WIN LOSS LOSS WIN LOSS WIN WIN WIN WIN

* Sectional Game

The Bulldog offense typically finds itself playing out of the shotgun formation .

PeterParks Grade: Senior Height: 6’2” Weight: 270 lbs.

Position: Tight End Touchdowns: 5 Best part of the football season?

Going out on Friday nights with my boys, making plays, and winning games.

FootballHome 10.28.2011 7:00 p.m.

Crown Point (7-3) vs.

Valparaiso (5-5)

SoccerAway 10.29.2011 6:00 p.m.

Columbus North (18-2-2) vs.

Crown Point (15-6-2) (State Finals)

CrossCountryAway

HockeyHome

10.29.2011

10.30.2011

Crown Point at Terra Haute (State Finals)

Crown Point (2-1-1) vs.

Kankakee (1-3)

2:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

pHOTO BY aBIGAIL eINEMAN

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10.27.2011 Inklings

Boys soccer makes first trip to state

Girls defeated during overtime at semi state

Photo By Aleks Kajmakoski

Jenna Arnold makes a pass at the Chesteron game.

By Alex McLean sports editor

Photo provided by carmelo Morales

Boys soccer teammates celebrate after their semi-state victory. Pictured from left to right are Carmelo Morales, Dan Naumoski, Bay Kurtz, Martin Mitreski, Joey Davis, Brett Bayer, and Zach Sniederwine.

By Sam Beshuizen sports editor

Throughout the history of Crown Point High School athletics, not once has the boys soccer team competed in the state finals; until this Saturday.

The ‘Dogs will find themselves on center stage in Indianapolis squaring off against Columbus North in the state finals. The ‘Dogs are not favored to win, but that is the way it has been all year.

It had been 15 years since the ‘Dogs had advanced to regionals, but sophomore Carmelo Morales netted two goals in a 6-0 win over Lowell in the finals. Junior goalie Aleks Trifunovic made seven saves in the shut out victory.

Ironically, that would be the last game for Trifunovic. Senior goalie Christian Lomeli was given the starting nod ahead of starting in regionals after transferring. Lomeli had a new school and a new group of teammates to get used to.

“I did not know how the guys played, so I had to adjust,” Lomeli said. “Because they are great players, it made it much easier for me to get along with them and (adjust) to their playing styles.”

Lomeli made all the right moves in the goal propelling the Bulldogs to a 2-1 victory against Munster in the regional finals.

The win advanced the ‘Dogs to semi-state where, after being tied 0-0 at regulation, Lom-

life,” Lomeli said. “I just put that pressure aside and made my shot.”

The finals match was more of the same.

Only hours after winning the first match on penalty kicks, Lomeli found himself in the same position with the game on the line. Lomeli again scored the game winner, giving the Bulldogs a 5-3 penalty kick victory. Junior Jon Vargas was pleased with the result.

“We were really surprised we won after going into PK’s in both close games,” Vargas said. “It was a good game. We fought for it.

We just went out and played and did what we had to do.”

Columbus North will be making their third trip to the state finals while the ‘Dogs will make their first ever appearance. Being the underdogs in the game again will not bother Vargas.

“We never feel disrespected (being underdogs),” Vargas said. “Lake Central was a great team that has been to state, but we beat them.

Photo provided by carmelo Morales We should be able to beat Columbus too.”

Sophomore Spase Dorsuleski celebrates Lomeli is also confident in the ‘Dogs the teams regional victory over conference chances. rival Lake Central.

“With the way we are playing, I believe eli emerged as a penalty kick hero on both we can win state,” Lomeli said. “If not, I know sides of the ball. He made the game- winning that the guys gave it their best and that is all a save, as would be expected from a goalie, but teammate can ask for.” also netted the game winning penalty goal as Fans can watch the battle of the Bulldogs well.

Saturday night at Kuntz Stadium in Indianap“There was some pressure, but I have olis. The game kicks off at 6 p.m. and tickets played in games like (regionals) my whole are $10 a piece.

inbrief

Volleyball team falls to Valpo

By Alexa Grady sports assistant

The volleyball team ended its season with a record of 15-13 after falling to the Valparaiso Vikings in their first sectional game. The Bulldogs had hope as they defeated the Vikings in the first match, but crumbled under the pressure and were defeated 1-3.

Senior Melanie Zdanowicz had no illusions about playing against the state’s number one team, she did feel that the ‘Dogs had a fighting chance.

“Towards the end, we could have pushed harder,” Zdanowicz said.

Head coach Alison Duncan attributes the sectional loss to bad luck.

“Drawing (Valpo) first was kind of bad luck, but in order to win sectionals (we had) to face them regardless,” Duncan said.

According to Duncan, goals for this season were to be successful, give new players varsity playing experience to build for the future and place better in the DAC. “For the pre-season, we went to open

gyms that (coach Duncan) held, and we were involved in a weight lifting program with Coach Garrett,” junior Emma Ogden said.

This pre-season preparation was made clear when the team won against Highland 3-0 in the first game of the season.

However, the next couple of games did not go as planned. They lost to both Munster and LaPorte 0-3 in both matches.

The girls stepped it up when they hosted Lake Central, winning 3-2.

In their next game against LaPorte the Lady ‘Dogs walked away with a 3-2 win. They kept the winning streak going when they defeated Michigan City, Lowell and Chesterton.

Duncan is satisfied with the girls’ overall performance.

“The girls played great, and they showed a lot of team effort,” Duncan said.

“I am happy with the season because we came back in the second half stronger, but we didn’t win sectionals so there is room for improvement,” Ogden said.

The Lady ‘Dogs held even with South Bend Saint Joseph’s during regulation in semi-state. Six minutes into overtime, however, the Indians, who were last year’s state champions, found the net to take the lead and cemented their win with a second goal shortly after. “(Saint Joseph’s) did not out perform us. We just lost our focus towards the end of the game,” senior Amy Adams said.

Sectionals were no challenge for the Bulldogs. The girls shut down Lowell in the first game and cruised to an 8-0 victory. Kankakee Valley did not give the team much trouble either, as the girls beat them easily, 6-1.

Regionals proved to be more difficult. Munster did not manage to get one shot off in the first round, and the Lady ‘Dogs won by a score of 1-0.

“We were confident heading into the post-season,” Adams said.

“Everybody was really giving their all.”

In the regional final, the girls found themselves deadlocked in a 0-0 tie at the end of regulation. However, the Lady ‘Dogs came out on top in the end, 3-1.

Despite the tough end to this season, the girls are confident next year will be just as successful, if not more.

“I definitely think the bonds we forged this year will hold up through next season,” Adams said. “We are a family before we are a team. As long as they work hard, I am confident they can do well.”

Academic All-Star Bracco recognized

Photo By Larry Titak

Senior Courtney Kvachkoff bumps the ball in a game against Chesterton.

Junior Lucia Bracco was named a Region Sports Network and Indiana University Northwest Academic AllStar Award Winner. She ranks 10th in the junior class with a 4.27 GPA on a 4.0 scale while playing on the Bulldog golf and tennis teams. She is a Kiwanis scholar and was elected to “Who’s Who Among Outstanding Students in America.” In addition, she is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars and frequently volunteers with the Junior Golf Program at Youche Country Club. Bracco is also an active member of Student Council, Lead Council and Girls’ Varsity Club and has earned a merit award for artwork as well as multiple awards at the District Leadership Conference for the Business Professionals of America.

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10.27.2011 Inklings

Cross Country to travel to Terre Haute

Alex’s sports corner

Both boys and girls cross country qualifies for state meet after post-season success

By Kara Biernat staff reporter

NBA season shortened, lockout ongoing Alex McLean sports editor

In a league where Amazing Happens, the amazing has happened.

Today marks the 119th day of the NBA lockout, and already 100 games have been cancelled. Commissioner David Stern announced he doubts any games will be seen before Christmas.

The argument between players and owners has been about one thing—money.

Last year, players received 57% of basketball related income. The owners want a 50-50 split, while the players refuse to go lower than 52.5%.

Owners have seemed more open to negotiate.

Three weeks ago a 49-51 split was proposed, which the players rejected on two separate occasions.

Paychecks will start to be missed in November.

Once they realize how much their bank accounts are hurting, the players will have to start opening up to owners’ demands.

In simpler terms, there has been no progress made since the lockout started in July, but that was to be expected.

In the upcoming month, both sides, and the fans, will start to feel losses. Maybe then sports fans will get closer to seeing the NBA this year.

Photo By Abigail Eineman

Junior Allison Carpenter competes in the regional meet, where the Lady ‘Dogs took second. The team moved on to finish third in semi-state and will be competing in the state meet this Saturday in Terre Haute.

Hockey sets goals for new season

By Alex McLean sports editor

One goal stood between the Crown Point hockey team and state finals last year. One goal put a stop on a 23-8-2 season. Now the Bulldogs have one goal, to come out on top this year.

“We are working incredibly hard to get to state this year,” senior captain Curtis Artuso said.

“We do off ice conditioning every practice to keep ourselves in shape and we have been working on our shot accuracy so we can get that goal.”

The season opened up with a home game against rival Munster, who, were state champions last year. The team fought back after falling behind early, but the game ended in a 4-4 tie.

The ‘Dogs were given another chance at the Mustangs the week after, but they could not get the offense going, and lost the game 3-0.

Which surprise NFL team has the best shot at making the playoffs?

22

Raiders 49ers Bills

69

54 Lions

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The girls and boys cross country have taken determination to a whole new level.

This past month has been a crucial time for runners with the changing weather, hard workouts and post-season pressure.

The Lady ‘Dogs have stayed headstrong all season, which has finally paid off. Going into the post-season with a positive attitude awarded the girls with satisfying results in the end. The team came out on top at sectionals and took second at regionals.

“I’m proud with the way the girls competed at sectionals and regionals.

We’ve worked the entire summer for this, with out main focus on returning back to the state meet even stronger,” head coach Patty Begely said.

The success motivated the team to look nowhere but ahead, which showed at the semi-state meet in New Prairie last Saturday. They approached the race with confidence and determination, landing them third place.

“Qualifying for state was awesome.

Especially finishing third; it was a big step up for us. Now we’re staying focused and looking forward to doing even better next weekend down at state,” sophomore Lyndie Pierce said after the meet.

The Bulldogs took third place with a total of 102 points, coming close to the second place team, Valparaiso.

Crown Point not only qualified for state as a team, but had two individual qualifiers. Senior, Lauren McCarroll, finished fifth overall with a time of 18:39 which is a new personal record.

“Staying focused and motivated at practice helped me with my success at semi-state,” McCarroll said.

Pierce also individually qualified taking fifteenth with a new personal record of 19:22.

Begely was proud of the girls’ performance out there.

“The girls did real well at keeping a close group in the race. We had five new personal records which is always great,” said Begely.

The boys cross country team also showed what a lot of mileage, hard work, and motivation does. After taking fourth in sectionals, and third at regionals, the boys were looking forward to semi-state.

The way they placed in the first two meets of post-season made them anxious to see how semi-state would play out.

The boys qualified for state by finishing in sixth place at semi-state. The ‘Dogs finished with a total of 183 points. This is the second year in a row that the boys will be advancing to state.

Leading the team in all three meets were Daniel Walters, Tommy Cierniak, and Alex Ray. Daniel has come in first for the team all three meets and is striving to keep it up for state. He finished the semi-state meet with a 16:24, which lead the Bulldogs to a total of “Preparing for state takes a lot of dedication. It is rest, eating right, and staying focused on my goals,” said Walters.

The boys and girls will leave for state Friday on their way down to Terre Haute, where they will be competing at the LaVern Gibson championship cross country course on Saturday, October 29th.

102

40 60 80 Out of 247 students polled

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With a big wind behind them, the team hosted Kankakee.

Mazzaro continued his dominance in the net as the ‘Dogs rolled to a 10-1 win.

Last Friday the team got a third shot at topping Munster.

The Bulldogs got a quick 1-0 lead, but found themselves down 2-1 at the start at the third period. Artuso managed to find the back of the net and the game ended in a 2-2 tie.

Photo Provided by Scott Bening The ‘Dogs will face off against Junior Rob Mazzaro blocks a shot in the game against Munster.

Kankakee once again this Sunday, Mazzaro is averaging two goals a game for the 2-1-2 Bulldogs then they start preparation for the “You never want to get shut year, completely shut down any Fort Wayne Crossover Tournaout,” junior Timmy Yokovich Bloomington scoring attempts. ment.

“We stand a good chance of said. “(Munster’s) defense just Sophomore Kyle Siemers led the shut us down.” offensive attack as the Bulldogs winning the tournament. We are optimistic looking ahead on the After the humbling loss, the easily took the win, 7-0.

“Having a guy like Rob in the schedule; we really think we can ‘Dogs were hungry for a win.

Bloomington fell victim to a mo- net really makes it a lot easier on put a good win streak together,” the rest of the team. He puts us in Artuso said. “The team has been tivated Bulldog roster.

Junior goalie Rob Mazzaro, good situations to win,” Yokovich coming together a lot lately. We are ready for a great year.” who led the state in shut outs last said.

inside The NFL The former laughing stock of the league Detroit Lions, led by Matt Stafford, stormed out of the gates. The Lions look nothing like the team that did not win a single game in 2008. They won the first five games at the year and currently sit on a 5-2 record.

Detroit was recently handed a loss by the 5-2 49ers. First year head coach Jim Harbaugh aims to help the team claim the NFC West for the first time since 2002.

The 4-2 Buffalo Bills are trying to make their first playoff appearance since 1999 and are currently ranked third in total scoring offence. The Bills got the mainstream media’s attention their 34-31 win over the New England Patriots.

With the death of Al Davis fresh in their minds, the Oakland Raiders are looking to piece together their first winning season since their Super Bowl run in 2002, where they lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Alex says

“The combo of Matt Stafford and Calvin Johnson may be the best in the league. Nick Fairley and Ndamukong Suh will control the trenches in every game they play in.

Detroit is going to be hard to stop.”

Sam says “The 49ers are running away with the NFC West, literally.

Their run game and defense will only improve as the weather gets colder.”

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10.27.2011 Inklings

Blogging to his own beat

TakeFive

English teacher Jacob Adams analyzes popular culture

By Dylan Taylor opinion editor

Behind his wire-framed glasses and quietly knowledgeable demeanor, English teacher Jacob Adams has a pop culture infatuation. Even a quick conversation would reveal Adams’ intense interests in music, film and the philosophy of culture.

Aside from simply being an intelligent person to talk to about nearly anything from foreign films to post-modern philosophy, Adams, a graduate of Indiana University Bloomington, is a freelance pop culture blogger and journalist, a contributor to PopMatters.com, and a musician.

“Pop culture influences everyone whether they’re aware of it or not,” Adams said. “You can’t isolate yourself from it – you can either let it happen to you, or you can engage in it and think critically about it; that’s what I like to do.”

Adams started blogging in 2007 as an outlet for his opinions on film.

“I’m a huge fan of movies, and my family and friends would always ask me about movies that I liked and whether or not they should see some upcoming film or another. After a while, I started consolidating my thoughts into a blog format, and it has expanded from there,” he said.

Aside from writing for his personal blog “A Sea of Amusements,” Adams is a frequent contributor to PopMatters.com, a website dealing with aspects of popular culture.

“I wanted to write about culture and analyze it, so I checked out different blogs. PopMatters was the one that really fit what I wanted to do, so I sent in an application,” he said.

Of all his blogging assignments, Adams is most proud of a feature he wrote for PopMatters dealing with John Lennon’s “John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band” album and Lennon’s interest in musical minimalism.

“I have always loved Lennon’s music, but

after I wrote about it and analyzed it I was really able to appreciate it,” Adams said.

Adams’ biggest influences as a critical analyst are film critic Roger Ebert and music critic Robert Christgau.

“I read a lot of Roger Ebert movie reviews in high school and especially college,” Adams said. “I like how he doesn’t necessarily describe the movie, but describes how one reacts to it. I also love (Robert) Christgau; he frequently comes off as cynical and angry, but he has a strong voice, and that was very inspiring.”

On top of being an accomplished blogger and writer, Adams is a jazz saxophonist and composer, holding a music degree from Jacob’s School of Music at IU along with his degrees in English and secondary education.

“Jazz music carries a sense of freedom and of not knowing what is coming next.

The best jazz musicians, like John Coltrane, Miles Davis or free jazz musicians like Eric Dolphy, live in the moment,” he said.

Recently, Adams has been continuing with his frequent blog updates and composing piano-based rock and pop songs “as a break from jazz.” Being a freelance writer, he also has recently received an offer to write for Spectrum Culture, an independent music blog based in Portland, Oregon.

“I get to write music and book reviews, and in return the blog will send me concert tickets and promotional CDs of my choice,” Adams said. “I’m really interested to see how it all works out.”

Giving advice to potential bloggers, Adams said “just do it. I thought about it for a very long time, but there really isn’t any reason not to; anyone can write or start a blog these days.

Never turn down the opportunity to express yourself.”

Sophomore

Angela Angelovska

Cultured I wish I could be in Macedonia instead of Crown Point because my family is there.

Phys Wiz My favorite class is Physics because my friends make me laugh and feel better.

Hot Rod I am the proud owner of a 2012 white Camaro.

Bieber Fever I would love to meet Justin Bieber. I think he’s awesome and has really good music.

FYI

I’m really good in track and very athletic. I also make people laugh, it’s an amazing feeling.

Photo By Donnella Cassillas

My favorite Halloween candy is...

Alicia Burke junior

...Twix because it is caramel and chocolate.

...Hershey’s because I love chocolate.

...Snickers because it’s peanuts, chocolate and caramel.

Carmelo Morales sophomore ...Snickers because they are delicious.

Taylor Haniford senior

Ryan Anderson freshman Photos by Trisha Semplinski