January 2011 Inklings

9

INKLINGS

Volume 75 Issue 5 • Crown Point High School • 1500 S. Main Street Crown Point, IN 46307 • inklings@cps.k12.in.us

•

Recording studio

Super fans

Fan bases spread far and wide across the nation, but a solid fan base can be isolated solely in Crown Point High School. Super fans can be found driving to in a blue and orange car decked out in Bears memorabilia, or wearing the jerseys representing their favorite team to school.

pg. 13

the

IN know BPA qualifies for State Leadership Conference

For the second year in a row, the Business Professionals of America chapter at Crown Point High School has qualified to compete in the State Leadership Conference, to be held in Indianapolis, on Feb. 27 through March 1.

Students are seeking sponsors to raise funds for the State Leadership Conference.

Students will need $250 each to attend. Anyone interested in sponsoring a student or donating toward their efforts can send any donation amount to Mrs. Mary Bachnak, Crown Point H.S., 1500 South Main Street, Crown Point, IN 46307.

Checks should be made payable to CPHS BPA.

Dr. Eineman deemed professional to watch Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Teresa A. Eineman, was named by BusINess Journal as one of 2010 Northwest Indiana 15 professionals to watch.

Senior Sarah Parker recognized by NCWIT Senior Sarah Parker was one of 20 young women to be named a winner of the Indiana-NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing.

As part of an effort to encourage more young women to choose careers in technology, the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) and a consortium of 10 Indiana universities and 15 Indiana corporate sponsors are recognizing the winners for their accomplishments and aspirations in computing and technology.

Construction is completed on the long-awaited recording studio and is ready to be put to use.

pg. 2

Valentine’s Day dates

CPHS couples put our date plans to the test, giving you ideas for how to spend your Valentine’s Day.

pg. 7

From six weeks to

Administration switches to nine week grading periods for ‘11-’12 school year, providing more instructional time

By Lauren Cain editor-in-chief As middle school students transition into the high school, a major change to get accustomed to is the grading periods. Students use the nine week grading periods from kindergarten until they move into the high school, at which point the grading periods shift to a six week format. However, at the beginning of next school year, the high school is shifting to a nine week grading period.

“We’re the only entity with six weeks. Our elementary and middle schools don’t use them, and neither do our college partners,” Principal Eric Ban said.

Sophomore Brandi Collins doesn’t think that it will be hard to adjust.

“I don’t think it will be difficult at all, because we had (nine week grading periods) in elementary school and middle school.”

A significant benefit to this shift is the increase in instructional time within the classroom.

“We churn every six weeks,

stop, and then test. Instruction should be a fluid thing. With nine weeks, you have more instruction time,” Ban said.

Math teacher Michael David echoes Ban. “I think we can get more lessons in if you’re not stopping to do six week assessments.

Midterms will only stop the class once. There will be a net gain in instructional time,” David said.

The way in which the semester grade is compiled will be a change for upperclassmen who are familiar with the six week assessments and three grading periods averaging into their semester grade.

“I think students need to be aware that now students can have three grades that average to their semester grade. Now, it will only be two grades. It will be a change for juniors and seniors who have gotten used to six week schedules,” David said.

Replacing the six week assessments will be midterms.

According to Ban, it is still being decided how the midterms will

weeks

We churn every six weeks, stop, and then test. Instruction should be a fluid thing. With nine weeks, you have more instruction time.

“

“

Jan. 31, 2011

Eric Ban

Principal Crown Point High School

continued on pg. 2

9

benefits of the shift

from six week grading periods to nine week

• Teachers have more time to grade

• Preparation of students for college

Students have all experienced an instance where their teacher hadn’t finished grading all their papers before the grading period ended. With nine weeks, they will have more time to complete the grading.

Many colleges are still on a midterm schedule, so students will be prepared for midterms when they move on to enter college.

• More instruction time There will be a net gain in instruction time due to the current loss of class time for review days and assessment days built into the six week schedule.

• Alignment with other entities With nine week grading periods, the high school will be aligned with the other schools in the corporation, as well as their college partners, such as Purdue Calumet and Ivy Tech.

• Parents will know when grades are coming out

• Consistency for incoming students

For parents with children in multiple tiers of the school system, they will no longer be confused about when students’ grading periods end: the whole school corporation will end their grading periods at the same time.

Incoming freshmen will be acquainted with the schedule since it is used in the elementary and middle schools.

• More fluid instruction Without having to stop for reviews and for assessments, instruction will be more fluid and have less distractions.

• Teacher workloads reduced Teachers will get to spend less time coming up with tests and grading them, and more time focusing on instruction.

• Less tests Basic math will tell you that with this switch will come less testing. Six week grading periods consist of two six week assessments and one final, and nine weeks will simply have one midterm and final.

• More time to bring up grades With three extra weeks, students have a bigger opportunity to bring their grades up if they started the grading period with a bad grade.

2

News

Recording studio opens

Acts of violence raise safety awareness

IN IN the loop

Photo by Joe Nejman Juniors Kyle Rodd and Rob Ebbens test out the new recording studio. The studio will give musically inclined students the opportunity to record their own music. The studio features up-to-date software including iMac computers and Pro Tools software.

New addition to school gives musically talented students a place to be heard

By Megan Walker staff reporter Students with an interest in music who, until now, have not had the opportunity to be in a music group at school, can now jam to their own beats.

A new recording studio has now been added to the school, giving those with a passion for music (different from the tradi-

tional choir, band, and orchestra) a place to record and produce.

Completely paid for by grants, the recording studio gives students the opportunity to use a new iMac computer and Pro Tools software.

“Pro Tools is the standard in the industry no matter where you go. We’re very fortunate we have a school that provides the tools that students will see in college and the real world,” said recording club sponsor Chris Gloff.

For many singers and musicians, it is difficult and expensive to record on their own. Software can be difficult and expensive.

“This is something the school

Six weeks to nine weeks continued from pg. 1

calculate into the semester grade. David believes the midterms will help prepare students for college.

“There are still some colleges who focus on midterm and final schedules. We are integrating the next step for students that leave us: the college level,” David said.

Another key benefit is the consistency that the nine week grading periods will provide.

“It benefits students and even more so, parents because it’s more consistent with the grading practices in the rest of the school corporation. Students will come in being used to the grading systems,” David said.

This consistency will also benefit parents with students in multiple levels of the school corporation since grading periods will all end at the same time, avoiding confusion.

Aside from benefits for students and their parents, teachers will experience less of a workload, according to David.

February 14 Valentine’s Day Deadline for “Disabilities Awareness” month T-shirt orders Shirts will be delivered at the end of Feb. and will be worn every Wed. in March

has never had before. A lot of kids want to pursue music, and this is offering (an opportunity to) a lot to kids who wouldn’t be able to record on their own because of cost,” said junior Kyle Rodd.

The recording studio also gives students the chance to get practical experience.

“I enjoy the sweet sounds of music and I want to be a part of producing it,” said freshman Ben Fabrici.

For students interested in a music business career, whether it being recording themselves or producing new artists, learning about the software used in CPHS’s studio will give them an

“Teachers will no longer have to do 6 week tests or projects so it will reduce workloads.

They won’t have to submit grades as often,” he said.

A downfall, however, is that some teachers will have to reformat their previously

“

It benefits students and even more so, parents because it’s more consistent with the grading practices in the rest of the school corporation.

“

By Haajar Shaaban executive editor Going to the supermarket. Driving down the street. Walking in the school hallways.

These are all seemingly regular activities that are expected to be relatively safe. However, in the last month, incidents of violence, including a local series of drive-by BB gun shootings, have sparked school safety concerns.

Some local happenings have caused students to rethink their safety. On 109th Avenue, there have been several reports of a shooter targeting school buses and cars driving by. The shooter appeared to have been shooting with a highpowered pellet or BB gun. In response to these shootings, the Crown Point Community School Corporation has rerouted bus routes that usually pass through the area.

The alarming nature of this event raises concerns of school safety. “(CPHS is) pretty safe, if not the safest school in our area,” assistant principal Mark Gianfermi said.

Both Gianfermi and resource officer Chuck Noonan agree that the staff is a large contributor when it comes to keeping the school safe.

“I think it’s safe to say that the school staff as a whole is pretty in tune with the kids. So if a kid is going through a rough time, a staff member will recognize it and seek assistance for the student,” Noonan said.

When teachers and administrators are standing out in the halls, they’re doing more than just standing there.

They’re supervising students to see that no one is put in a dangerous situation.

Many administrators and officers at CPHS are school safety certified. Another thought of comfort is that there have been no recorded school shootings in which there was an armed police officer in the building.

If students are concerned about a fellow student, they should contact an adult in the building. If they would like to do so anonymously, they may call the tip line (663-4885, then dial 9).

“We try to take every precaution to promote a safe and secure facility for students, staff, and visitors,” Noonan said.

January 31, 2011

math teacher Michael David formatted lesson plans.

“Previously, the big push was to create units that revolved around six weeks. With some colleagues, they will have to change the work they’ve already accomplished. It won’t

idea of what they will be working with in the future.

“Someday I might want to record myself. Just the opportunity to learn to record is going to come in handy in the future,” said freshman Kyle Kirk.

The goal for the recording studio club is to record choirs, bands, and even auditions for college that students want recorded.

Gloff said the recording studio could eventually create an archive for the high school’s arts groups, helping these groups and individual students who will actually record the groups.

be a downfall to all, but a downfall to some,” David said.

Downfalls not only apply to teachers, but students too.

“Our exams at the end of the grading periods will cover more than the six week assessments did,” Collins said.

This shift has been in the works for two years. The midterm/final schedule is a key point that can be found in the strategic plan for this school year. Other ideas found in the plan include a modified schedule and blended learning. However, according to Ban, these things will not be implemented until later on because of structural issues. Once these challenges are solved, Ban hopes that students can experience internships in the community and job shadow at places like St. Anthony’s Hospital.

“We have some structural challenges.

We need to find a way to orchestrate field experiences and internships. It will emerge through trials,” Ban said.

February 21

miscellaneous

President’s Day

• The first day of scheduling for the 2011-2012 school year will begin on Jan. 31, starting with current freshman.

No school

February 28 End of fourth grading period

• Current sophomores will schedule Feb. 7-11.

• Current juniors will schedule from Feb. 14-18.

News

January 31, 2011

Unique student talents showcased Fun fair and talent show see successful crowds of supporters

By Katrina Zdanowicz staff reporter Five days a week, hoards of students line the hallways of Crown Point High School, facing the monotony of routine schedules Believe it or not, greatness is lurking around every corner of CPHS, hidden amongst the hustle and bustle of an ordinary day. As of late, the high school is becoming the perfect outlet for the unknown superstars of the school.

Whether they jump up on a stage to share their talents, or simply utilize them during a normal day, these students are definitely adding a set of unique and admirable qualities to the mix.

Volunteering time, creating friendships, and reaching out to other students are all talents worthy of praise. In association with Charity Finders, the special needs department put on a fun Photo By Mary-Katherine Lemon fair in the school cafeteria on Jan. Senior Mike Manion leads his band “Wombat Man” as the first act of 14. this year’s talent show. The band had the audience on their feet for their “There was face painting and a opening cover of “Feeling This,” originally by Blink 182. giant moon bounce, and everyone had fun,” said sophomore Andie Miller, who volunteers her time in Capone Shannon, who did a the special needs department and hip-hop routine with senior is also the founder of CPHS’s Best Israel Mercado. Shannon has a Buddies program. With the help dance scholarship to Joel Hall, of students like Miller, the special a prestigious dance academy in Chicago. His performance Three participants needs group raised $300. wrote their music and And yet, some talents really was a glimpse of where he will original lyrics that they are showcased on a stage with be taking his dancing in the future. performed at the talent flashing lights and pulsing “I really love when I get to show. music. CPHS’s talent show was an exercise in realizing that some showcase everything I’ve been them. pretty awe-inspiring people walk practicing and working for,” said As senior the halls every day. The event, Mercado. The duo has done the Stephen Saricos of hosted by Student Council on talent show two years in a row.

Freedom 129 said, “Crown Point Their performances have become Jan. 20, was completely sold a crowd favorite, judging High School and its faculty are out, and rightly so. The by the thunderous always great hosts for shows.” performers gave it While this is true, performing applause they their all, and the in front of your peers can be quite inspire. efforts paid off.

The a nerve-wracking experience.

“We “I thought it was going Crown Point rehearsed to be easier dancing in front of audience is for months Student Council sold known to be my friends and teachers than beforethe 685 tickets for this year’s e x t r e m e l y competition judges because I show so a talent show. s u p p o r t i v e actually know them, but I ended lot of hard of the up being more nervous because I work and see these people every day and the different talents sweat went into judges only once,” said freshman performed for it,” said senior

Did you

KNOW?

Did you

KNOW?

Francesca Bass, a member of Origins Dance Company, a competition studio. The company performed a jazzy number that showcased how long they’ve been dancing together.

The audience was certainly grateful to all the brave souls who overcame their fears to shine onstage, and the performers gained positive experiences and insights about what they want to do in the future.

“I finally got to come out of my shell and show people what I can do. I’ve been writing my own songs for about two years now, and I really do want to be a famous singer,” said sophomore Sarina Niewiadomski, who performed an original song, which she says is based on her own life but definitely exaggerated.

The 2011 Talent Show exemplified the idea of realizing greatness in the most unsuspecting places. Thank goodness such a talented group of students came forth to share. After all, what use are talents when they’re not shared with the world? Junior John MacNeil, who sang and played both the bass and the piano, said it best: “I didn’t do the talent show because I wanted to win. God gave me a gift, and I want to share that gift with as many people as possible. The talent show was a great outlet to do so, because there’s always a fantastic turnout, and it’s a very stress-free and positive environment.”

Winners

of the talent show Most Crowd Pleasing:

Freedom 129 Most Original:

Israel Mercado and Capone Shannon Most Talented:

Origins Dance Co. & Sarina Niewiadomski

New school mission statement drafted

3

By Mary-Katherine Lemon staff reporter Principal Eric Ban met with senior Lauren Cain, science teacher Jerome Flewelling, and parent Kerry Sarbieski on Thurs., Jan. 6 to draft a new mission statement for Crown Point High School.

The draft mission statement is: “Creating Possibilities Ensuring Success - Inspiring Character: Our promise to help all CPHS students achieve beyond their potential.”

Ban said that creating a new mission statement “was just part of a three year cycle of work we are required to do (by the Indiana Department of Education). It is a healthy process that requires us to reflect on our purpose.”

Ban chose Cain, Flewelling, and Sarbieski because of the unique qualities that they had to offer.

“These are talented folks and they were also willing and interested to do the work. They stepped up and volunteered,” Ban said.

Cain is editor-in-chief of Crown Point High School’s student newspaper, Inklings.

She is also a member of LEAD Council. Flewelling teaches Physics and AP Physics. He is also the assistant director for all theater productions at Crown Point High School. Sarbieski is a former advertising executive and parent of freshman Ben Sarbieski. The three were chosen to represent the voices of students, faculty, and parents, respectively.

“The writing team tried to reflect the current voice of our school community,” Ban said.

Ban sent out an e-mail in late November to student leaders, parents, teachers, and Crown Point business leaders asking for volunteers to write the mission statement.

“The input we received spoke to a more youthful and simpler message,” Ban said.

Ban had said that he did not “have preconceived notions about the mission statement,” but that it would probably draw upon the Six C’s: Career, Citizenship, College, Courage, Creativity, and Culture.

School board votes to move forward with referendum plan

By Garret Hogan copy editor After endless discussions, public forums, and meetings on end, the Crown Point School Board has voted to proceed with the referendum dealing with school funding. It has been decided that voting on the referendum will take place during the early May voting primaries.

The voting by the school board ended with a unanimous 5-0 vote to follow through with the referendum. Another decision made at this meeting was the amount of money the school board would attempt to receive from property taxes. The $5 million received by 2012 will help the school avoid cutting faculty and programs. The referendum, if passed, will increase property tax for the residents of Crown Point. Furthermore, it has been added that there will be a “21-cent hike per 100 dollars of assessed value” says the recent Post-Tribune article regarding the referendum. For example, the article stated that for an average home of $190,000, the tax increase would come

out to approximately $16 more a month.

“I think they should find alternative ways to save money at this school other than firing teachers. For example, they could have benefit nights, fundraisers or even charge for some after school activities. It obviously won’t solve our million dollar deficit but it could potentially save a few teachers,” said junior Savannah Jackson.

If the referendum does not go through, a possible consequence would be letting teachers go in order to help offset the deficit caused by the school funding formula.

The school board recently stated that decisions made about laying teachers off would revolve around the 20052006 school year. In other words, teachers hired during or after this year would potentially have to be let go to resolve the deficit.

“Thankfully I am not scared for my job because I have been working here for a while and by seniority I would not get let go. But for my entire department it is unsettling because if they go by the 2005-2006 school year that would only leave a few people in (the English) department,” said English teacher Lisa Landgrebe.

Photo By Mary-Katherine Lemon

Concerned parents and students attended a community forum on Nov. 15. They were educated on the budget crisis.

4

Opinion

January 31, 2011

Inklings

Week without technology teaches life lesson

Inklings is a student publication distributed to students, faculty, and staff of Crown Point High School. It is published monthly by the newspaper and advanced journalism students. Opinions expressed in Inklings do not reflect those of the CPHS faculty, staff, or the administration.

Inklings welcomes and encourages signed lettersto-the-editor. Letters may be edited for space or clarity. Letters must be signed and turned in to room E107 one week prior to publication and must not contain personal attacks. Letters may also be sent via e-mail.

Not all letters may be printed. Such decisions are the sole discretion of the Inklings editors and staff.

Advertising is subject to the applicable rate, copies of which are available from Inklings advertising department or by contacting 663-4885 ext. 11349.

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

Inklings may be contacted at 1500 S. Main, Crown Point, IN, 46307; 219-663-4885 ext. 11349; fax 219-662-5663; or inklings@ cps.k12.in.us.

Editors Lauren Cain editor-in-chief Haajar Shaaban executive editor Kelly Rostin managing editor Garret Hogan copy editor Arley Gomez news editor Abby Elston feature editor Kelsey Lennon entertainment editor Kayla Martisek opinion editor Milan Savich sports editor Frank Strino Samuel Beishuizen Alex McLean sports assistants Dani McCuan graphics editor Alyssa Blahunka advertising editor Sam Wright advertising assistant Joe Nejman Donnella Casillas Mary-Katherine Lemon chief photographers Ashley Downing photographer Staff Lacey Valois Katrina Zdanowicz Melanie Zdanowicz Alexa Grady RaeAnna Morgan Megan Walker Jordan Irons Mona Nour Adviser Julie Elston

By Lauren Cain editor-in-chief

V

iew:

Next year, CPHS will be switching to nine week grading periods, which will benefit students and the school as a whole.

editorial

Cartoon by Mona Nour

As the administration prepares for the switch from six-week to nine-week grading periods, it is necessary to evaluate the impact that this will make on the education process as a whole.

After reflecting on all the benefits this change will bring with it, one will be left to wonder why this change wasn’t made sooner.

The advantages of the shift from six weeks to nine weeks are abundant. There will not be too big of a change in the education process to disturb what already is. The current six week assessments will be replaced with a single midterm. For students, this may be considered a downfall since the semester grade will have less grading periods averaged into it. However, this will increase student productivity. Since there are currently three grades averaged into the semester grade, students are more susceptible to apathy. They dismiss one bad grade for the six weeks, because they have two more chances to do better. Without these chances next year, students will be forced to do well all the time because they can no longer use the other grading periods as a crutch. Students may be dismayed over this, but it will better prepare them for the future. In college, as well as in life, there will not be infinite chances to succeed.

Another great benefit of this is that students will receive much more instructional time in the classroom. Currently, students spend about five weeks learning, and then a week reviewing for six-week assessments. One day is lost each grading period to testing, and another day is usually lost to go over the results of the test and informing students what they did wrong on the exam.

Worst case scenario, students are only receiving four-and-a-half weeks of actual learning time in the classroom. This results in a lot of wasted time that could be spent better preparing for the semester final, or in some classes, an AP test. Without having to stop as often to review and test, teachers will be able to fit in more lessons and students will be able to better prepare for what really counts: the semester final.

Ultimately, the advantages of this shift far outweigh the negatives. Students will be receiving more instructional time in the classroom, there will be more consistency throughout the school corporation, and students will be better enabled to succeed in college. It truly is a wonder why it took this long to make the change that will benefit education so greatly.

This month, I took on a challenge unlike any other. I volunteered (don’t ask me why) to go a week without technology and journal about it for The Times. I went without using my cell phone, Facebook, TV, and my iPod. This challenge is also known as torture.

As a 17-year-old girl, and a journalist, I’m a communication addict. Let me tell you from my experience: communication without technology is rough. In order to get a hold of someone, I was used to shooting them a text. Without a phone or Facebook, I felt completely disconnected from the world. Granted, I could talk to my friends during the school day, but this is hard when classes are filled with instructional time and passing periods that are not long enough for any substantial conversation. On the weekends, this was even harder.

While, in one sense, I felt disconnected from the world, I was also able to observe much more than I previously had. The lack of technology also directly correlated with my increase in productivity. I got a lot of studying done for my finals, and got a head start on homework assignments and scholarship applications.

Like I said previously, this was a form of torture. But it’s a torture I’m glad I went through, and honestly, it’s something that I’d like to do again. Prior to this experience, I had never noticed how dependant our society is on technology.

Without a phone in hand, I noticed everyone around me who texts during a conversation, and talks about what happened on Facebook more than they talk about what happens in their own life.

After going through this, I realize how much I had previously relied on technology, but now that I recognize this, I am able to change it. This experience is one I recommend for anyone who uses technology as often as I do. It will undoubtedly change your outlook on life by making you open your eyes to the world around you and learn what is truly important in life.

Read about my experiences (as well as all the other volunteers’) in The Times on Feb. 13.

heard in the

halls

Image Importance “(Self esteem is important) so that no one can bring you down.” freshman Hannah Mills

Siblings in School “(My sister and I) do everything together; we’re in swimming together.

We get along really well.” senior Rachel Dykstra

Kinect vs. Wii “I like them both, but I think Kinect is better because you use your whole body.” sophomore Joel Gintzler

Talent Show “I like it because a lot of new talent gets discovered and appreciated.” junior Joe Favia

Opinion

January 31, 2011

5

Modern role models set fake example

By Kelly Rostin managing editor

Cartoon by Mona Nour

Should finals be before or after winter break?

Finals before break help students enjoy time off

By Kelsey Lennon entertainment editor Finals are the inevitable ending to each semester; it is also the time students feel the most stress. Currently, at the end of the first semester, finals are taken after the two week span of winter break, but I believe this poses an issue for all students.

The administration believes they are doing us a favor by prolonging the time before finals, but in the end it is only hurting us. After two weeks, students are bound to forget recently learned information or small details from class. Ideally, an extra two weeks may seem like the perfect time to study and review, but frankly that is not the case.

Although it may be the smart idea to hit the books while not in school, students will most likely be found elsewhere enjoying their time off.

That is where the second problem arises.

Winter break is just that, a break. Students should be enjoying the holidays with their friends and family instead of constantly having the burden of finals lingering overhead. How do teachers expect us to do well on tests if it is farthest thing on our minds? If continually worrying about finals, we will not receive the break we deserve and are looking forward too. We should be able to come back in the New Year to a fresh slate, instead of trying to recall information learned three weeks ago.

I propose for the following years that Crown Point adapts a finals schedule much like Merrillville High School has. Their students stay in school longer before break, take their finals, and then return a week after Crown Point normally would.

This would not be a drastic change to the current schedule, but would provide us with a more reasonable way to prepare for finals.

Students’ test scores should be the first concern when considering a new schedule, and this plan would give us all the benefits mentioned and leave us to fully enjoy a restful winter break.

I

ssue:

At the end of the first semester, finals are taken before the two weeks of winter break. This has been the schedule for years now, but it is now raising the question if this is the best option.

Current testing schedule gives more time, fresh mind

By Haajar Shaaban executive editor Students have been taking semester final exams after winter break for several years. Some argue that the two weeks is just enough time to forget all they had learned. If students are forgetting everything they’ve learned during four months in just two short weeks, then that is all the more reason for them to test after break. This way, students will be able to relearn everything from the previous semester, just in time to start a new year and new semester.

Taking finals after break also helps get students back into the school mood before testing. After two week of taking it easy, students often become lazy in their work. However, final exams are so important that they snap students back to reality, preparing them for another stretch of school until spring break.

If we were to take finals before winter break, students would have been in school for several consecutive weeks with no break, causing them to feel tired and stressed. After break we are refreshed from the two weeks and are more able to take on a heavy study load. In this way, students would be better prepared to take finals.

Having finals after break also allows us to keep our current schedule for the year. If we were to have finals before break, we would have to complete the entire semester before break. This would mean having to start school much earlier.

Also, although many take winter break as a time to completely relax with no homework, some people take this time to start studying. Having final exams after winter break gives these over-achievers a chance to study for exams more comfortably, rather than cramming for them that week.

Ultimately, the finals schedule should remain the same. Taking finals after winter break gives students more time to adequately prepare for exams both physically and mentally.

A few generations ago, Barbie dolls were under harsh criticism from the public because they were too perfect.

Nowadays, it’s the norm for young girls, and apparently now grown women, to strive for (and buy) their perfect body. And their criticism is nowhere to be found.

Recently, I was watching a show entitled “Bridalplasty,” which is a reality show where engaged women compete for their dream wedding, and of all things, their dream plastic surgeries. I was disgusted. I wondered how something as horrific as this could be actually portrayed on television for young girls, who are looking for role models, to watch. Then I realized that we are living in a society that is moving towards praising those who change themselves all in the shallow name of “pretty.”

“Bridalplasty” should not be the only influence under fire here, but rather the entire world of unrealistic body images that we indulge ourselves in. Take MTV reality star Heidi Montag for example. Pathetically enough, young girls, as an audience, paid more attention to Heidi for her string of ten plastic surgeries than to any relevant information that was going on the news.

What the poorly valued “pretty” role models fail to realize is that perfection and beauty do come from within.

While an outward appearance is somewhat important for representation, satisfaction comes from within ones self.

Success and beauty comes from an internal drive to be strong and persistent in achieving one’s dreams, not persistency to keep going under the knife. No matter how much an outward appearance is altered, happiness will not come unless one accepts herself as she is. I’m not being cliché here either. As someone who watches girls suffer everyday with body image issues, I so desperately want someone to finally step up and prove to young girls that they are, in fact, beautiful and perfectly fine just as they are.

At least Barbie accepted she was “perfect” just the way she was originally made, instead of changing every aspect of herself.

It’s an idea that all young girls need to be taught.

Madi Fernandez “I think it’s a good idea. (CPHS) will be with everyone – the middle schools and elementary schools.”

Senior

Junior

Freshman

What is your opinion on changing from six week to 9 week grading periods?

Sophomore

speak up

Claire Atherton

Ryan Debattista

Patrick Kvachkoff

“I think it would be better because there will be less testing and middle school was on a nine week schedule.”

“I don’t like it that much because if you mess up one grading period, it’ll be harder to make up.”

“I’m used to the six weeks scheduling so I prefer that... Nine weeks is good too.”

6

Jamming

I on

Photo by Mary-Katherine Lemon

Pep band performs at a basketball game against East Chicago on Sat., Jan. 22.

life

Ask Laugh Explore Wonder Inspire Live

January 31, 2011

resenting p e R

Sophomore swimmer Vanessa Haro along with other underclassmen members of the girls’ swim team were dressed up by the senior girls swimmers for senior night.

Photo by Mary-Katherine Lemon

Self confidence levels of teens

By K. Lennon / A. Downing entertainment editor and staff reporter

Self-confidence is a factor that plays into each day, especially in high school. Fighting doubts and low self-esteem can cause trouble in students’ lives, which can have a negative outcome. Learning how to deal with these issues can be a key to not just succeeding in school, but also life.

According to Mayo Clinic, there are three ranges of selfesteem: overly high, low, and healthy. Overly high esteem is when one feels superior to others and believes they deserve special privileges. Low self-esteem is when one puts little value on their opinions and ideas. A person with low self-esteem may believe others are better in all aspects. People with healthy selfesteem have balanced, accurate views of themselves.

Everyday, people are exposed to different forms of the media whether it is the internet, television, or print. These mediums have a high influence on the way normal people in the world act. From a skinny model on the cover of a magazine to high school kids getting drunk on MTV, teenagers began to think this is the only way to look and act for society to accept them.

“People start to think low of themselves when they see images of people that they think they should look like in the media, but they really cannot look like them,” sophomore Danny Granger said.

Dips in self confidence are caused by many things in day-today life. In high school, students feel stress from homework, teachers, parent, and planning for the future. It is when these feelings become long-standing that self-esteem can suffer.

“Depression can lead to a decrease in self-confidence, and a decrease in self-confidence can lead to depression. They are both connected to each other,” psychiatrist Dr. Fadel Shaaban said.

There are many ways to tell if low self-esteem is a problem.

Mayo Clinic says need for constant reassurance from others, intense focus on flaws and weaknesses, inability to accept compliments or positive feedback, and difficulty handling stressful situations are signs that low-confidence is becoming an issue. Also, a fear of failure holds can hold a person back from trying new things or succeeding in school, eventually ceasing any interest or new fulfillment.

Mayo Clinic also said personal thoughts have the biggest impact

by the

numbers

1 in 8 teens

suffer from depression due to low self esteem

41

percent

of teens report being satisfied with their appearance.

75

percent

of girls with low self-esteem admitted engaging in negative activities.

on self-esteem because they are the one thing a person can control.

Therefore, frequent negative thinking such as “I’m a failure,” or “I’ll never be good at anything,” can be a sure sign someone is

offers multiple choices in dealing with low-self esteem. Simple ways include focusing on the positive, forgiving yourself for mistakes, and encouraging positive changes in life.

Nine factors that affect self-esteem • • • • • • • • •

Culture Religion Role or status in society Work experiences Illness or disability School and extracurricular activities Personal thoughts and perceptions Other peoples’ reactions.

Close relationships with parents, siblings, and peers are especially powerful *According to Mayo Clinic

suffering from low self-esteem and needs a confidence boost.

Being happy or at least content can sometimes feel like a struggle, but there are ways to improve self-confidence. The first way is to obviously talk to a trusted adult, but Mayo Clinic

“Take small steps at a time, when you do succeed you feel better about the accomplishments that you made,” Shaaban said.

Shaaban also said picking friends carefully is also away to ensure happiness.

“People struggle so much

Cartoon by Mona Nour to feel better about themselves because of all the put downs. You can’t trust everyone so picking good friends is really important,” Granger said. “Don’t worry about what other people say.”

The ‘self-voice’ is the most important aspect when it comes to how people perceive themselves.

Mayo Clinic says initial thoughts may not be the only way to view a situation, so test the accuracy of those. Most people have longstanding ways of thinking and if those thoughts are negative they are even more difficult to break. By realizing these are just opinions, not fact based, is a way to break the cycle of negativity in the mind.

Once this is accomplished, change these thoughts into positive ones and think of the already accomplished.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said “Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

This is completely accurate and staying true to oneself is the best way to be happy in all ways.

“Being accepted by other people is not what makes a person happy or remembered. Accepting yourself and being unique not only makes you happy, but your own merit also ensures that you will never be forgotten,” said senior Caroline Hamilton.

7 in

10 girls

believe they are not good enough or do not measure up.

It is estimated that

45

percent

of Western men are unhappy with their bodies as compared to the 15 percent 25 years ago.

65 percent

of teens say that their sense of selfworth was influenced by how they look.

Facts compiled by Inklings staff

Feature

January 31, 2011

Valentine’s Dates

7

Cupid-approved dates that will make your sweetie swoon

By M. Zdanowicz and K. Zdanowicz staff reporters As Cupid’s annual visit is quickly approaching, couples everywhere are growing giddy with thoughts of love, romance, and giant boxes of chocolate. Of course, it has become somewhat expected for one to indulge their significant other in elaborate dates and gifts. This may be where the

stress comes in for some, who have not the slightest idea of how to live up to today’s high expectations for Valentine’s Day. Not to worry though, because that is where we are here to help. We have researched cute, fun, and affordable destinations throughout the region that are bound to help students rack up the brownie points with their sweetheart.

Three CPHS couples went on a date of our choosing. Each

Rachel Marczewski & Jacob Hazi

Inman’s Recreation Center Challenge your significant other to a few rounds of bowling, loser buys dessert. Inman’s, located in Valparaiso, features a Bowling Blowout for $7.95 until 6:00 pm during the week, and Cosmic Bowling from 9:00 pm to close on Saturdays. On Sundays, they feature a special BOGO deal, buy one game get one game free.

Tony’s Pizza Tony’s Pizza is a family owned Italian restaurant in Valpo known for quality pizza with fresh ingredients and is famous for their baked deep dish pizza.

Get a medium sausage baked pizza for $15, or if neither of you are into pizza, share a big plate of spaghetti; very “Lady and the Tramp.”

Designer Desserts This dessert shop is located in Valparaiso. “I really liked the cute and colorful atmosphere. Jacob’s favorite cupcake flavor was cotton candy and mine was German chocolate. We’d definitely go back,” said sophomore Rachel Marczewski.

date consists of an activity, dinner, and dessert and have earned the seal of approval from these couples. Not only is each date guaranteed to live up to the Valentine’s Day hype, but they also will not involve students dropping a load of cash. Feel free to mix and match the destinations to create your sweetest Valentine’s Day yet. Consider all your Valentine’s Day stress relieved.

Victoria Connelly & Austin Stanley

Abi Small & Evan Langbehn

Deep River Waterpark ice skating “Going skating is fun, cheap, and Deep River is close. Other couples should go because I always have a good time, and it was nice to hang out with Evan in a fun, relaxed environment,” said junior Abi Small.

Build-a-Bear This store offers a fun alternative to buying your Valentine a teddy bear. Let your sweetheart pick out their cuddly animal of choice, and then build it together. This is sure to leave you with more silly memories than simply buying a bear from a convenience store.

Amoré Amoré restaurant, located on the square in downtown Crown Point, even has love written in its name. Students can bring in their student IDs on Valentine’s Day and receive 10% off their meal.

JD’s Diner “The 50’s theme was so cool and my food was great.

I got the burger and fries,” said junior Austin Stanley. Students who go to this Hobart restaurant on Valentine’s Day can receive a free milkshake with two straws in it, one for them and one for their Valentine.

Sweet Tooth’s Dessert Café and Candy Sweet Tooth’s Dessert Café and Candy is new to the restaurant scene in Crown Point. Sweet Tooth’s offers all types of desserts to satisfy any craving, from giant chunky chocolate chip cookies to scrumptious red velvet cupcakes.

Valentino’s Cafe & Ice Cream Parlor So perfect for Valentine’s Day, it was practically named for the occasion. Sweet ice cream creations such as “The Sainted Devil” and “The Wonderful Chance” are definitely big enough for two. So girls, dig in and let the guys pay.

Photos by Donnella Casillas

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Feature

8

Getting seated for success

January 31, 2011

Certain seats are designed to avoid disruptive situations

By Kayla Martisek opinion reporter

Everyone knows “that one kid;” the guy that always leans back in his chair or the girl who can always be seen texting inside her purse. It disrupts the classroom and drives the teacher off the edge.

Each student is different and has different ways that they stop paying attention to what they are learning. Some are too social, and some get bored too easily, but there is a seat in every classroom to avoid those situations.

If a student day dreams frequently, a teacher might place him or her near in the front of the class or away from windows. Students can talk to the teacher, and maybe even get their seat moved to benefit them.

Face-Makers “The facemakers sit parallel to each other so they can’t see through the people in between them.”

Anne Lorek English teacher

Daydreamers “The best place for day-dreamers to sit is in the front of the room. I usually come by and tap on their desk.”

Bruce Sharp math teacher

Leaners “I try not to put them against the back wall.

I’m afraid they might bump their head.”

Linda Atwood French teacher

Talkers “I have kids that talk when I’m trying to talk, so I put them in a corner desk so when they turn around they have no one to talk to.”

Kelley Nelson science teacher Texters “I put texters somewhere where I could stand behind them. It makes kids less comfortable.”

Anne Lorek English teacher

Teachers share their secrets about high school The things teachers wouldn’t normally tell their students are revealed

By Jordan Irons staff reporter Students typically go through their days without even stopping to think about the teachers teaching their classes.

While students may not have a burning curiosity to know all about their teachers’ personal lives, it is interesting to take a peek inside their heads and see what they keep secret from all of the students. After conducting interviews on topics ranging from first impressions to stress levels, this is what your teachers had to say.

First impressions aren’t as important as you may think.

Students shouldn’t worry about the way they look when it comes to making an impression on their teachers.

Art teacher Lindsey Cox says that everyone places judgments on people, but that first impressions don’t affect her opinion of the students.

“Usually that student proves me wrong,” says Cox. Teachers get to know students over the time they’re in their class, so be the best student possible and don’t worry about those nervous first few days in a new class.

Teachers will give students the chance to show who they really are.

Students can be annoying.

Most teachers’ pet peeve is when students choose to not listen to directions.

“I’ll give instructions and they’re like ‘what do you want me to do?’” says theater director Kit Degenhart.

Science teacher Brian Elston says the ones that don’t think they can get anything out of school are the students

that irritate him the most. In general, teachers just want students to pay attention to them. Students could be placed on their “irritating students list” if they ignore them during class.

Teachers are people with lives and interests.

When people make new friends or meet new people, they find certain things that connect them. For some, this is music. Others may be more into movies. The same can be said for teachers. They do have personalities just like everyone else. They find common interests with their students and connect to them on a deeper level than just teaching a class.

Cox says that the fact that she’s younger helps her connect with her students. “They talk about music and I’ll know the bands,” said Cox.

Memorable students don’t always have straight A’s.

People that don’t shy away and will engage in conversation are the students that Degenhart remembers most from his years of teaching. Keeping quiet during the whole class and being the ideal student doesn’t always mean a teacher loves that student. Sure, they appreciate the good grades, but being withdrawn from class discussions won’t get students any points with teachers.

Social studies teacher Denise Vance says she remembers the class clowns from her classes. No one is saying students should be obnoxious or cause problems, but being outgoing and involving oneself with others in the room is what gets teachers’ attention. Sometimes a teacher might have a good relationship with a C student.

Teachers understand your levels of stress.

Everyone knows that school is stressful. What everyone might not know, however, is that teachers recognize what students go through. English teacher John Lambersie was in high school 19 years ago and he says, “High school is definitely harder now. There’s kids taking AP classes and they’re only in tenth grade.”

Spanish teacher Dana Zubriggen thinks that culture nowadays puts too much stress on kids. “I think college is less stressful than high school,” said Zubriggen. Teachers may load on the homework some days, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t understand the pressure students are under while in high school.

Smarts don’t always make the grade.

Let’s face it, sometimes classes are flat out difficult.

The only option a student may have left is to just do his or her best. Though it may seem hard, trying to keep up with a class will get a teacher’s attention. Teachers appreciate the work students put in to their classes. German teacher David Rosenbaum has taught for over 30 years, and the one quality he always makes a note of is a student’s solid attempt to do their best.

“Effort is tremendously important, sometimes even more important than natural talent. If students are willing to put forth extra effort, teachers are normally willing to make extra efforts to help them succeed,” said Rosenbaum.

This work ethic holds true not only in school, but the real world as well.

“Life has more to do with how hard you try, than with your innate talent,” said Rosenbaum.

Feature

January 31, 2011

As scheduling nears, students decide which classes work for them

Who should be taking what classes?

By Kelsey Lennon entertainment editor

A multitude of classes are offered at CPHS, but not every option is best for each individual. Much emphasis is put on the importance of taking advantage of these opportunities, but each student is different. In a breakdown of AP, honors, and dual credit classes, below is a chart describing which classes would and would not work for each type of student.

If you want...

Dual Credit classes

to get a headstart by earning college credits concurrently with high school credits for a much lower cost than the typical college credit, then take...

Dual credit classes are the class credits that are accepted also at Purdue Calumet and Indiana University Northwest. Students are able to get their credits in high school instead of waiting to take them in college. It is also less expensive to take the class and receive the credits now rather than later. “(Dual credit) classes are extremely beneficial not only for their content, but for preparation and imitation of what college level courses are like as well,” said guidance counselor Kim Swan.

She also said the key to success is motivation and work ethic.

“Students must be aware and serious about the rigor of these types of courses,” she said.

Junior Aubrey Clemens is enrolled in three dual credit classes. She said she made this decision because it was easier to get a college class out of the way while still in high school.

“I’d rather take college courses that interest me instead of something that was boring and I didn’t actually need,” she said.

If you want... to receive a thorough understanding of a subject, get a weighted grade in your GPA, and potentially get credits for college, then take...

Honors classes Honors classes are offered to every grade level and are available for English, math, social studies, and science. They are measured on a 4.5 scale.

“Honors students usually have more curiosity to understand knowledge, not just understand facts,” said English teacher Vince Bauters. He also said qualities that attribute to a good honors student is having the willingness to stay after class, being focused on skills aside from grades, and being inquisitive.

Freshman Mike Keller took five honors classes this year because he said he is able to handle them. He said he does well in honors classes by doing homework, going over all the material at home, and studying hard for tests.

“It was a good choice for me because it helps me use and budget my time wisely. The harder material also helps me practice and improve my note taking and methods of studying,” he said.

Sophomore Patrick Gazzillo decided not to take honors classes. He said he did not take any freshman year and does not plan to for the rest of high school.

“My hockey coaches told me it was a better idea to take the classes I’m sure to get an A in than to just settle at a B or worse.”

Advanced Placement classes Which will prepare you for:

AP classes are much like honors classes, but a bit more difficult. The classes are weighed on a 5.0 scale and students are able to receive college credit by taking an AP test at the end of the year. Social studies teacher Paula Barancyk said the qualities AP students possess are responsibility, independence, and being able to keep up with work.

“AP students have to have initiative and the incentive to challenge themselves,” she said. She said the keys to succeed in an AP class are to treat it as a college class and to study.

Senior Gabby Touchette is taking six AP classes this year including AP Calculus, Biology, and Government.

“They’re a good option because colleges like to see that you challenge yourself rather than taking the easy way out.” She also says the key to doing well is keeping up with homework and paying attention in class.

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9

Feature

10

Dude, where’s my money?

January 31, 2011

Wasting money on insignificant items takes toll on students’ wallets

By Melanie Zdanowicz staff reporter

Shopping at Goodwill, hitting up all the great sales at the mall, hunting for jobs (even if it means working behind the fryer at a fast food joint)…these are just some of the innumerable ways that students regularly try to save and earn some cold hard cash. It always pays to have a little extra money in one’s pocket. However, students are spending hundreds of dollars each year on unnecessary

$

Fa

Fact

t

• Teens report spending an average of about $19 in a typical week.

• Almost three in ten teens are in debt or owe someone money.

• 62% of teens say they’re concerned about being able to support themselves after high school.

• 89% of teens say they want to learn how to make their money grow.

wallet-drainers that may be the real reason causing their empty pockets.

“I think some of it is that kids don’t know any better. They spend money on expensive items thinking its better, when it necessarily is not,” said math teacher Bruce Sharp.

By resisting the urge to spend on these unnecessary items, students will begin to see how the savings can add up. Teens can either use saved money to spoil themselves, or let the savings build up and watch the mountain of green grow sky high.

Bottled Water

Energy Drinks

Chances are, if you are like more than 50 percent of Americans, you have a bottle of water in your possession right now. That bottle of Aquafina may be hitting students’ wallets harder than they think, though. The average bottle of water costs between $.25 to $1. For a student that drinks a bottle of water each day, they can be spending anywhere from $90 to $364 on water a year. The fallacy is that because the water is in a bottle it is purer, more regulated, and safer than tap water.

“I liked bottled water because I feel like it’s ‘cleansed.’ I think it tastes better and is a lot smoother. I always have a bottle of water with me all the time,” said junior Shana Wrigley.

However, just the opposite is true. City tap water has more safety regulations concerning bacteria and chemicals than bottling companies have. Students would make a wiser and more frugal decision by simply filling a sport bottle with tap water. Teens can use saved money from this to buy an iPod touch, about $280.

Teens are also throwing out their money on energy drinks, with nearly 700 million cans being sold in the past year. Forget the vitamins in their products that the energy drink industry claims will give teens a boost; the only aspects of the drink providing any energy are sugar and caffeine. Perhaps if students would make an attempt to get to bed at a decent hour, they wouldn’t need energy drinks which become addictive and start and a vicious cycle of late nights. For those who consume two to three energy drinks a day, that is $4 to $9 a day being shelled out on an unnecessary commodity.

Guys can omit energy drinks and save enough money to buy their favorite sports jersey without having to go for the cheap one.

Cigarettes Cigarettes not only take a toll on student’s health, but also their pocketbooks. For those who smoke two plus packs a week, that’s like puffing away $312 a year, considering cigarettes average about $6 a pack. Even smoking three cigarettes a day can put one behind $274 a year. This doesn’t even include the inevitable health expenses a smoker will have to pay on things like frequent doctor visits and medication. Besides, wouldn’t you rather spent $150 on a Flip video camera?

Coffee Chains Another caffeinated caper that is eating at students’ bank accounts is coffee at high end coffee chains, like the beloved Starbucks. For many, it may seem unthinkable to remove Starbucks’ steaming cups of deliciousness from their lives, but the usual visit to coffee chains such as this can put one behind, at most, $5.

This adds up to a bundle of moolah.

“My friend got me hooked on the coffee.

I spend at least $40 a month there,” said sophomore Ashley Jones.

If one must visit a coffee house, make sure you have time to sit and linger so that money is also being spent on the experience, not just the beverage. Girls nix the high end coffee and easily save enough money to buy Juicy Couture handbag or new Ugg boots.

High Octane Gas Gas companies also have teens wrapped around their fingers, and not because of rising prices. Many teens naively believe that putting a higher octane gas into their vehicles (like Super or Plus) will get their cars better mileage and make them run faster and cleaner.

The truth is, the octane has nothing to do with

according to Charles Schwab

performance of vehicles. The octane gasoline that one uses should never be higher than what the owner’s manual prescribes. Use the saved money to buy SIRIUS Satellite radio for your car instead, which is only $12.95 for one month of the 130 radio stations that it offers, including 100% commercial free music.

Dealing with siblings in school and life For many students, seeing their sibling does not just occur at home, but also in the halls at school. Having a brother or sister that attends the same high school can either help or hinder the way high school is looked at by a particular student.

“I like having an older sister that goes to the same school as me,” said freshman Greg Moll.

“My sister Brittany, a senior here at Crown Point, comes to me with advice as well as tips to survive as a freshman.”

For Moll, always having his sister in the same building helps him get through the day.

However, not everybody perceives having a sibling at the same school as a positive thing.

“I don’t like seeing my brother in the hallways everyday,” said sophomore Kyle Muha. “I mean, I have to live with him, so I want to be away from him as much as possible.”

Even though Moll and Muha

I like going to school with my older brother Jacob. He takes me to school, so I don’t have to take the bus anymore.

Also, another great thing that he helps me with is meeting upperclassmen.

“

“

By Alexa Grady staff reporter

Samantha Angel sophomore have different outlooks on having a sibling at the same school, they can’t hide the fact that they both will always have someone to lean on during the school day.

On the other hand, girls may be more likely to say optimistic things about having an older or younger sibling in the same school.

“I like going to school with my older brother Jacob,” said sophomore Samantha Angel.

“He takes me to school, so I don’t have to take the bus anymore.

Also, another great thing that he helps me with is meeting

upperclassmen.”

In addition to that, Angel also likes getting the inside scoop about whats happening in her brother’s grade.

“I learn all about different people just from hearing my brother complain about it.”

Sophomore Nicole Lankas shares more than school spirit and a last name with her sister.

“I’m always being compared to my twin, Jennifer, by the teachers that teach us both,” said Lankas. According to Lankas, when teachers ask her if she’s anything like her twin, she simply

replies, ‘No, not really.’

However, last names aren’t the only thing siblings can share.

Vince Bauters is just one of the teachers that have a pair of siblings in his classes.

“I teach Taylor Haniford in my American Literature class as a junior, and her younger brother, Eric, in my 10T class, as a sophomore. They both show enthusiasm and charisma in my class,” said Bauters.

According to Bauters, having siblings in his class makes him realize how much they are the same as well as different.

On the other end of the spectrum, students that don’t have a sibling attending Crown Point sometimes wish they could say that they did.

“I think it would be cool if i had a sibling that went to school with me,” said junior Nick James.

The thought of having a sibling that goes to the same school excited him.

“I would love to have a brother here that carried our name through sports,” James said.

Pros and cons of

Having a sibling g o t o s c h o o l w i t h yo u

Pros:

• Having an older sibling in the school means having someone who can help with your homework.

• For younger siblings, one of the greatest advantages of having an older sibling is getting a free ride to and from school.

• High school can be a battlefield, but an older sibling can help you deal with the problems as they come, since they have faced most of them before.

Cons:

● The older sibling can get stuck with more responsibility, like having to take their younger sibling to school or helping them with homework. ● If the older sibling had a bad reputation in the school, the younger sibling has to enter the school being known as the brother or sister of “that kid.”

iPad unnecessary in technologically savvy world

By Abby Elston feature editor Eyes aglow, heart racing, and smile protruding, someone is about to possess his/her latest desire. This sounds like a kid in a candy shop. However, this scene can be found in any electronics store involving any age group.

With all of its features and apps, the iPad becomes the latest craze. Many families are falling for this fresh fad, letting it become a household norm.

On the iPad one can read the paper, play games, or surf the web. Hmm, this sounds a lot like the iPod Touch…

The iPad, essentially, is a blend of an iPod Touch and a computer. This is a waste of at least $500 because most households have a computer to keep up with the everchanging, ever-moving society of today. The only way I would see a “need” for an iPad would be if a family has neither apparatus and would like to possess both.

Yet, there is. The iPad exemplifies that humans need to splurge on the latest invention when what they already have is just fine. Instead of focusing on relevant issues, civilization has put effort into luxuries instead of emergencies.

Pressing issues all over the world still do exist. Energy should be concentrated on these issues instead of improving upon solutions that have already been found.

Think back to the Renaissance when the world was captivated by knowledge and world issues.

Every invention that made its debut propelled the world forward somehow. Currently, the world is entranced in a state of selfishness; inventions today are seldom a great discovery.

Overall, the iPad is a frivolity. The best invention civilization could come up with is this random offspring of a computer and an iPod Touch, which are not that different to begin with.

Society needs to prioritize and figure out what is truly important in the world.

myview

Arts & Entertainment

You Tube remains viral

By Dani McCuan graphics editor It is truly unknown as to the amount of videos that have been posted on YouTube, but it is fact that YouTube hosts some of the most viewed content on the Internet. YouTube videos range from humorous parodies that make us laugh, to thought invoking subject matter that can completely alter a person’s views. These are a just a few of the memorable viral videos out. If you haven’t already, go check them out.

Kelsey Briggs Story

3-year-old Kelsey Briggs was murdered on October 11, 2005 by blunt force trauma to the abdomen. Her stepfather, Michael Lee Porter, enacted the fatal blow, later to find out he had abused the young girl multiple times beforehand. A video chronicling Kelsey’s heart-wrenching story was posted on YouTube two years after her death, and has since then gathered over 1,000,000 views on YouTube, as well as raised awareness to the horrors of child abuse.

This video is definitely not something for the weak at heart.

Equals Three

Equals Three is a weekly mini web show hosted by YouTube user Ray William Johnson, a 23-year-old college student living in New York City. Every Monday and Thursday, Johnson highlights the top three popular internet vid-

Our Top 5 YouTube Videos

eos with humorous commentary, much like Daniel Tosh from Comedy Central’s “Tosh.0.” Millions of viewers tune into Johnson’s show each week, which helped him win the YouTube award for “Second Most Subscribed”, or “Second Most Viewed”, channel of all time.

The Evolution of Dance

Judson Laipply, an American motivational speaker, first performed “The Evolution of Dance” in 2001, but it wasn’t until 2006 that he finally uploaded the video to YouTube. Laipply’s six minute long performance includes him dancing to clips of over 32 different songs and the level of humor and this man’s lack of concern for others opinions helped this video skyrocket on YouTube receiving over 70 million views in a matter of eight months. ‘The Evolution of Dance’ is currently the #1 Most Viewed Video of All Time on YouTube.

T-Shirt War

A stop-motion music video involving animated t-shirts interacting and ‘battling’ one another. ‘T-Shirt War’ was created by best friends Rhett McLaughlin and Link Neal, more commonly known as Rhett and Link. The comedic duo posted the video on February 2nd, 2010. Since then, it has received over 2,000,000 views and the sequel, ‘T-Shirt War 2’ was even used in a commercial for Mc-

Donald’s. Out of the 200 videos on Rhett and Link’s YouTube channel, ‘T-Shirt War’ is among the most popular.

Free Hugs Campaign

The Free Hugs Campaign is a movement that involves individuals who offer hugs to complete strangers in public places, for free. This movement started in 2004 by an anonymous Australian man known by the pseudonym of Juan Mann. Shimon Moore, the lead singer of Australian rock band Sick Puppies, recorded video footage of Mann and his fellow huggers over a two-month period in 2004. When Mann’s grandmother passed away in 2006, Moore turned the footage he had shot into a music video as a consolation present. The video was later uploaded onto YouTube, and has received over 65 million views as of November 2010.

5. Miranda Sings

Daily 4. Jessica’s Affirmations

Year Old Cries 3.3Over Justin Bieber

How to Be Ninja

How to Be Ninja is a spoof instructional video produced by Japanese-American Ryan Higa and a group of his close friends under the YouTube user name ‘Nigahiga’. The plot of the video is teaching a stereotypical nerd how to defend himself by using the so-called ‘way of the ninja’.

The parody has climbed to over 26,000,000 views since it was originally posted in 2007 and is currently one of the most watched videos on YouTube.

2. Glozell 1. Antoine Dodson

New blogging site offers alternative social networking

By RaeAnna Morgan staff reporter To the majority of the blogging world, Tumblr, a new popular blog, was a quick fix to any complaints one may have had. Multiple reviews have said it’s a fast, easy way to share everything from a blogger’s thoughts to his photos. Since its debut in 2007, the site has grown from 75,000 users to 3 million in just barely three years. Tumblr’s rising popularity caught the eye of the Review even United States President, Barack Obama. It ended up on his Top 5 Tech Tools in PC World magazine. The site now has an average of 15,000 new bloggers a day and over 2 million posts on a daily basis.

Tumblr is similar to both Facebook and Twitter. Like Facebook, when you log in to Tumblr your dashboard comes up, which is the equivalent of a news feed. It lists what the people you follow are doing or thinking. These people are like your friends on Facebook.

When you follow someone, everything from pictures and videos to random thoughts and quotes will show up in your dashboard. This is much like Twitter. On both networking

What better way to start incredibly early mornings than with a steaming cup of your favorite pick-me-up?

While Starbucks is a favorite of coffee lovers everywhere, those daily visits start to add up.

Make your own to-go cup and watch your savings stack up! Cute and convenient travel mugs keep your hands warm and your car clean. Most teachers will allow them in their classrooms, creating a sophisticated, collegiate atmosphere. Starbucks is selling their version of this morning necessity for $10.95, and they can be found at Walgreens for a mere $7.95. After considering the mornings spent in the drive-thru, travel mugs are well worth the cost.

Travel Mugs

11

Popular videos showcase humor, emotion

sites you can choose to follow certain people you are interested in. Unlike Twitter, on this site, bloggers have the ability to post pictures, links, music, and videos that will be shared with all their followers. For some, Tumblr is the preferred social networking site.

“I like Tumblr because it gives me more of an opportunity to express my feelings without having others judge me. I also think it’s interesting to go through and look at other people’s blogs,” said sophomore Courtney Recker.

Although it is said to be the fastest and easiest way to blog and share information, not all social network fans see it that way. They see nothing wrong with the old fashioned Facebook, Twitter, and other popular blogs.

“I know what the site can do, but it doesn’t seem all that great and there is nothing significantly different about it to make me want one,” said freshman Hannah Von Vanity.

Millions of bloggers use Tumblr, but many other blogging sites still have a substantial amount of users considering the fast growing popularity of the site. Blogs like

a few of our

favorite things Dr. Dre Headphones

January 31, 2011

These new Dr. Dre headphones are quickly becoming the new trend throughout our school. With top notch sound quality, these are another option to listen to one’s favorite music.

A slight downfall is their cost; $300 may seem to be a hefty price, but if you have the money, these new headphones will give you the best bang for your buck.

The Huffington Post and TechCrunch were still on multiple websites’ most popular blog lists, even topping Tumblr.

In attempt to gain more users, the site recently came out with an app for the iPhone. With this app, current Tumblr users can blog from their phones. This makes the site accessible on the go and ready to use whenever it is needed.

“Before being asked about Tumblr, I had never heard of it. Now that I know what it can do, it sounds like something I would like,” said sophomore Chris Dietrich.

Trying to make its status equivalent to that of Facebook or Twitter, Tumblr is slowly spreading through schools and communities around the country. Many local high schools, colleges, and businesses are using the site now just as much as Facebook or Twitter. The amount of users are growing fast, and the site is predicted to be one of the most popular blogging sites on the web with in the next year. Tumblr was recently featured on MTV, a sign that word of the site is spreading fast and shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Extra Dessert Delights Extra brand gum has found a way to satisfy its consumers at every time of day, even when a big piece of cake is the only thing on their minds. This new line of dessert flavored gums is delicious and surprisingly realistic. The key lime pie flavor, a staff favorite, lives up to the high expectations of the real tangy, exotic treat.

When it comes to dessert, the real deal is usually the way to go. However, Extra’s attempt at creating dessert in a stick of gum has left its customers pleasantly satisfied.

12

Arts & Entertainment

Kinect and Wii go head to head Both systems offer advanced gaming options

By Kelly Rostin managing editor When Cee Lo Green complains that his nemesis, who stole his girlfriend, is an Xbox, and he’s more Atari, the masses of younger generations are left with one question: “What’s an Atari?”

The evolution of gaming systems has been going on for ages as more and more advancements are made in the technological world. In the winter of 2006, the newly introduced Wii gaming system was hot off the shelves, and almost impossible for families to find during the holiday season.

It was the first motion control system of its time, making it the most technologically advanced system available.

Four years later, Wii gaming systems started to collect dust while the newest product in the evolution of gaming systems, the controller-free Kinect accessory for the Xbox 360, hit stores. This new add-on for the Xbox gaming system technologically topped the previously tech savvy Wii system, which required remote controllers to play all of the games.

Ever since, the comparison and wars of the systems have taken over the gaming world.

“I think the rivalry is good not only in general, but for the consumers as well because it pushes both parties to throw out newer and better games and also think of creative new ways to deliver experiences,” junior Alex Correa said.

Correa owns a Kinect for his Xbox 360 system.

“I like the new innovative way in which you have control over everything whether it be by body position or even voice commands,” Correa said. “I love the complete control it gives you. It takes away the need for a general controller completely.”

The Wii has the capability of web browsing and access to Netflix as well. Kinect users can use the camera to take pictures, watch Netflix using voice commands to control the viewing (so a remote is unnecessary), and video chat with friends on sites like Skype, as well as go online.

The difference? The Xbox requires connection to a PC for all of this while the Wii does not.

“I like the Wii a lot better because it’s easy to use, and I also really like playing Mario Kart with the steering wheel,” sophomore Shelby Kerr said. “I like the Wii game better because I can use the controllers in the games.”

Gamers like Kerr prefer the traditional experience of contact using a remote controller, which the Wii can offer to users. Even though some don’t like the new technology behind the hands free Kinect, there are still gamers who enjoy the benefits behind the “no hands” gaming.

“I personally prefer the Kinect because it is merely an accessory to the Xbox instead of a whole console itself. This set up gives gamers the ability to switch between fun group games back into the standard controller based games quickly and efficiently whenever we want,” Correa said.

Some like Correa argue that the controllers inhibit play, which is why they believe the Kinect is the preferable option. Not only is the number of players unlimited with the Kinect, but the Kinect doesn’t require extra accessories that cost more money. In comparison, the Wii, depending on the game, requires extra consoles for extra players, the Wii Fit board, a steering wheel, and etcetera. A Wii, nowadays, runs about $199 for a package bundle, which usually includes one remote and a starter game. Extra remotes and

other necessary objects (which all depend on the game that’s being played) cost extra. A Kinect costs about $150 on its own, but requires an Xbox 360 for use. A bundle for both the Xbox 360 and Kinect will run about $300 total, but no extra consoles are needed to be purchased.

“The Kinect is very responsive, as is the Wii, but still removes the need for the controller. The Wii minimizes use with the controllers.”

Correa said.

No matter how much the Kinect users are in love with the advancements of the accessory, there are still traditional gamer fans out there that simply prefer using a remote control for their gaming experiences.

“I still like having a controller better,” senior and Wii owner Elisabeth Bain said. “I like having the contact of a remote control. It’s just easier to me.”

Gamers will tell you that one of the final aspects that set the Wii and Kinect apart from each other is the age levels that each gaming device appeals to. Because of the level and concentration of the games, the Kinect appeals to more mature age groups, while the Wii is more family oriented.

“Everyone in my family has a Wii,” Bain said. “We all can play it together and it’s a lot of fun.”

Regardless of opinion, both the Wii and Kinect have unique aspects that could please each gamer based on their gaming desires and budget. And while the Kinect is the newest option, in a few years, a newer option will be available in thanks to the evolving technological world. ”I think that the gaming evolution is growing very quickly, and new ways to deliver entertainment experiences are being discovered daily,” Correa said. “It’s great because it pushes our technology and design to the limits and then asks, ‘What can we do better?’”

The Green Hornet creates a buzz among comic fans

By Joe Nejman staff reporter With the recent success of superhero films such as Christopher Nolan’s Batman series (Batman Begins, The Dark Knight, Dark Knight Rises) and Iron Man, it is rest assured that there will be plenty more films in the near future featuring these masked vigilantes, such as, Spiderman and Green Lantern. The latest old-school hero to the hit the big screen is the urban lone ranger, literally the great grandson of the Lone Ranger, “The Green Hornet.”

Britt Reid’s somewhat perfect playboy life of staying out all night and parting everyday comes to a dramatic halt when his father dies and leaves behind a highly prestigious media empire.

Review Still angry and alienated from his poor relationship with his father, Britt, played by Seth Rogen, befriends his father’s former mechanic, Kato, played by Jay Chou. After they both express their dislike for James Reid, Britt and Kato decide to vandalize the statue erected to salute him, but are thrusted into a life of vigilante crime fighting as the Green Hornet.

Michel Gondry directed, with a script by the comedy duo Seth Rogan and Even Goldberg (Superbad, Pineapple Express), this long awaited film adaptation of the classic crime pulp radio series of the same name from the 1930’s. Accompanying the silver screen with Rogan and Chou are James Franco, Cameron Diaz, Edward Furlong, Edward James Olmos, and yet another brilliantly antagonistic role by

Kara Biernat freshman

Christoph Waltz, to create a lively atmosphere on this comedic take of a classic character.

At a young age, Britt always got into school yard fights, usually because he was trying to help someone in need. After one specific occasion, his father, James Reid, punished him by ripping the head off his favorite superhero action figure and throwing it away. As a result, Britt grew up to resent his father, even though he was a respected member of the community. After his father dies from an allergic reaction to a bee sting, Britt and Kato decide to cut the head off of a James Reid statue. In the process, Britt witnesses a women being mugged by a gang of thugs. With the help of Kato, also an unofficial Kung Fu master, they thwart the muggers and Britt acquires a renewed passion for helping others.

Britt adopts the name Green Hornet, after the bee that killed his father, and leads a new life as a newspaper editor by day and crime fighter by night. Kato becomes the Green Hornet’s unnamed partner and driver of the “Black Beauty,” a nearly indestructible car designed

by Kato himself.

“The Green Hornet” is an entertaining comedy that is well worth seeing, weather you’re a superhero movie buff or not. The hardest step to overcome, for prior fans of “The Green Hornet,” is that this film is a comedy and doesn’t take itself as seriously as its predecessors. But if you can overcome the genre shift, or if you’re being introduced to the Green Hornet for the first time, definitely try to see it.

Jordan Irizarry sophomore

Aly Palmer junior

January 31, 2011

Personality changes when on Facebook

By Kayla Martisek opinion editor The ability to act differently when logging on to Facebook is available to anyone with a computer, but when students abuse that power by changing their personality for the worse, people get hurt. Students may end up hurting other people and hurt themselves in the process.

The social media website Facebook is known for its ways of connecting people but also for the amounts of drama it causes. Students who interact with each other online are often meaner and gutsy-ier when hiding behind their computer screens.

The simple fact is that it is so easy to start a fight online. You log on and type something mean, nothing more. We get tougher on Facebook because it seems like, when you’re online, there are no limits or consequences to what you can do.

Let’s face it; if there were a group of people surrounding you, watching your every move, you wouldn’t insult someone, simply because you know there are consequences for actions. This common sense is lost online where users don’t see the people online, but they are.

There are indeed millions of people viewing the comment or post you put out there for them to see. There is no face-toface confrontation, and no authority is there to stop you, but everyone can see what is posted. Instead of a group of people in the hallway, it’s everyone online.

Maybe users start fights because it’s easy, maybe it’s because there is no immediate consequence. No matter what the reason, it can and will hurt someone.

It may not be the person who started the fights, but it could be the person who ends it.

Facebook fighting may be easy to start but difficult to finish. The person who started it all has to make the first step to resolve issues. If not, then it could potentially go on forever.

Jermaine Rosario senior

What’s on your iPod? Buzzin 50 Cent

Bottoms Up Trey Songz

Space Bound Eminem

Mrs. Officer Lil’ Wayne

Like it’s Your Birthday Good Charlotte

Quarantine Oceano

Word Up Korn

I Move Chickens Gucci Mane

Wake Up Coheed & Cambria

Love Like Woe The Ready Set

Lots of Cash Gucci Mane

Love Like Woe The Ready Set

Sports

January 31, 2011

13

Gymnastics looks forward to post-season

By Frank Strino staff reporter After coming off of a winning year, it is common to see a team put forth extra effort during the offseason in hopes to repeat their past success, but perhaps it is more difficult for the region’s top teams to continue to put their best foot forward as the season progresses in order to stay atop their preseason rankings in hopes to advance to the next level.

The same can be seen in the Lady Bulldogs gymnastics team, after opening their season ranked 12th in the state, the girls are hoping to keep their spot among the state’s

top teams.

The team began their season by traveling to the annual Pairs Invitational where they finished in third place.

Even though the girls have lost to Valparaiso, Chesterton, and Portage, all of these losses were very close.

“I believe the team can do better this year,” junior Carly Kiran said.

“We have some really good freshmen who joined our team.”

Kiran, along with freshman Katelyn Cservenyak, have helped the Lady Bulldogs dominate the beam in meets against Chesterton

and Portage.

“We have a great team and everyone is good. We have girls that are state material,” coach Amy Pysh said.

Although Kiran finished in first on the beam and the floor and took third on bars, her 36.125 score along with a 34.4 point effort from Cservenyak, was not enough to help the Lady Bulldogs come away with a victory. The girls fell short and lost to the third ranked Trojans by two points.

The girls will travel to Hobart on Feb. 8 to take place in their eighth meet of the year.

Fandemonium hits the stands

Freshman Katelyn Cservenyak works on her form in a mid-season practice. Cservenyak contributed a score of 34.4 in the Lady ‘Dogs Duneland Athletic Conference meet against Chesterton. The Lady Bulldogs gymnastics team began their season ranked 12th in the state.

The team recently took on Michigan City but the results were unavailable at the time of press.

Students show support for their favorite sports teams, local and nation wide

By Milan Savich sports editor Creating the ideal professional sports franchise is very similar to cooking the perfect meal.

Both have one very important aspect in common: all the right ingredients are necessary. Just as the right appetizer, main course and dessert are essential elements, so are having the best team, the right stadium and, of course, the most important component: the diehard fans.

Students wearing merchandise of their favorite teams, whether it be jerseys, backpacks, jackets or hats, can be seen flooding the hallways of school on a daily basis. However, though many students may just be a casual fan of a local team, a handful of the bunch have been supporting their teams season after season, through thick and thin, earning a reputation for themselves as a super fan.

“I’m pretty sure one of the reasons I got the reputation for being the biggest Chicago Bears fan in the school is because I drive a blue and orange Bears truck to school everyday,” senior Andy Heck said.

Along with his blue and orange trucked decked out in Bears memorabilia, Heck’s bedroom is completely blue and orange carrying the Bears theme.

“I painted my room blue and orange and I keep a bunch of cool Bears stuff I’ve collected over the years in there,” Heck said. “I have autographs, game balls and even an autographed football from the 1985 Super Bowl.”

Heck has been following the Bears for the past ten years. In 2007, he even watched a Bears game right after a surgery.

“Since I’ve started watching, I’ve never missed a Bears game,” Heck said. “I even watched a Bears vs. (Green Bay) Packers game the day after I had a lung transplant. My mom said I kept dozing off during commercial breaks.”

Along with fans of local teams, some students may be seen wearing apparel of teams from around the country. One of the most common professional sports teams to be represented by wide fan base is the Pittsburgh Steelers. Known as ‘Steeler Nation,’ the Pittsburgh fan base is nationwide due to many steel workers, as well as their families, being forced to move because they were transferred. However, the Steelers also gained many fans nationwide during the 1970’s when their legendary squad won four Super Bowl titles in the span of just six years.

“I was born in Pittsburgh, but my family moved here when I was in the 5th grade,” junior Madison Cortese said. “I’ve been a Steelers fan my whole life. I’ve been following the team as long as I can remember.”

Although Cortese has lived here since the Steelers have won their past two Super Bowl title in 2005 and 2008, she and her family have carried the tradition and spirit of their hometown with them to Crown Point.

“I’ve been to two Steelers games before I moved here, but now my family always goes to J o e ’s Bar in Chicago to watch Steelers

games,” Cortese said. “We go back to Pittsburgh about twice a year.”

“About five years ago I started following the Green Bay Packers,” junior Kyle Anderson said. “I was tired of watching the Bears because they were never really any good, and I always liked Brett Favre and thought he was an awesome player.”

Even though Anderson is a Packers fan, he is the only one in his entire family to follow the team.

“My entire family are Bears fans, so I’m really the only person in my family who likes Green Bay,” Anderson said. “Every now and then when the Packers lose, especially if they lose to the Bears, my family will give me a hard time. But for the most part, they don’t really care that I became a Green Bay fan.”

Anderson, like many other Packers and Steelers fans, is showing support for his team approaching the upcoming Super Bowl game.

“I’m going to get a Green Bay tattoo in about a week. I’m really excited for them to be in the Super Bowl this year.”

Cortese will also be showing support for her favorite team.

“I’m excited for the Steelers to be in the Super Bowl again,” Cortese said. “It’s going to be a great game.”

S

scoreboard Boys Basketball CP-46 Chesterton-30 CP-67 LC-52 CP-49 MC-37 EC-51 CP-71

Girls Basketball Northridge-35 CP-52 CP-70 Chesteron-67 CP-70 LC-58

Hockey CP-9 Kankakee-2 LC-1 CP-3 CP-1 Munster-3 Nobelsville-3 CP-6

Boys Swimming CP-116 Portage-70 LC-81 CP-108 Lowell-47 CP-137

Girls Swimming

Globetrotters return to Crown Point

IN

the game

For the entertainment of sports fans, students, teachers, parents and athletes alike, the Harlem Globetrotters made a stop at Crown Point High School on Wed. Jan. 26. The doors to the event opened at 6 p.m. with the game begining at 7 p.m. in the gym. Last year, the Globetrotters sold out Crown Point High School’s gym and as expected, once again, sold out this year.

A date in ‘Dogs history

History looks to repeat itself this year. In January of 1961 the wrestlers finished up a perfect season, beating Bishop Noll. The ‘Dogs moved on to win the first sectional in school history. This year, the Bulldogs completed another undefeated season and They competed in sectionals this past Saturday, but scores were not available at press time.

LC-91 CP-95 Lowell-58 CP-125 CP-112 Portage-71

14

Sports

Lady ‘Dogs aim to get groove back

January 31, 2011

Swim team breaks school records

By Sam Beishuizen asst. sports editor

Photo By Donnella Casillas

Junior Kendall Brown sets up the offense while sophomore Sarah Rivich fights to get open in a game against Michigan City on Jan 21. After falling behind by 12 in the first quarter, the girls could not bounce back, losing 58-53. The Lady Bulldogs currently hold a 12-5 overall record.

By Alex McLean asst. sports editor A 9-0 start is an impressive feat, but a team needs to stay strong for the course of the season in order to obtain real success.

The 12-6 Lady Bulldogs basketball squad is trying to keep the momentum they began the season with through the end of the regular season and into the post-season.

The girls pounded through the doors at the start of the year, earning themselves a 9-0 record.

“We definitely started better than I expected,” senior Kelly Gross said. “We knew we’d do good, but winning the first nine (games) was great.”

Michigan City handed the girls their first loss of the year by a score of 46-51.

The team turned it around and won the next two, only to slip to a four game losing streak.

“We realized we have a lot of work ahead of us. We got excited with the momentum at the beginning of the year. When

you see a team a second time, it’s a whole different ball game,” Gross said.

The girls’ second loss came at home during the Region Rumble against Northridge. The girls struggled offensively in the 52-35 loss, only managing 3 points in the third quarter.

Next, the Lady ‘Dogs went on to face Chesterton. They fell behind in the first half and managed to force overtime. Despite their efforts, the Lady ‘Dogs fell in the end, 70-67.

“We need to get our heads in the game.

We need to work on playing the whole game at our best, not just one half,” senior Madeline Moore said.

The team made the journey to Lake Central for a rematch of a game earlier in the season where the Lady ‘Dogs pulled away with an overtime win. The tables were flipped this time, and the Indians claimed the victory, 70-58.

The girls returned home for another shot at Michigan City, who jumped out to a 23-11 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Michigan City went on to win 58-53.

“We’ve played these teams before and won. It’s just the second time through we didn’t make adjustments and they did,” Moore said.

Crown Point got their first win of 2011 at home, 52-32. The win snapped a four game losing streak. Senior Kelly Gross scored a game high 13 points.

The girls will wrap up their season on the road with games against Valparaiso and Merrillville.

“Our defense definitely has to get better before the end of the season. We’re working on recognizing what needs to be improved and improving it,” head coach Mike Cronkhite said.

Even though they have room for improvements, the team has high hopes going into the post-season.

“We all know we can win sectionals.

It’s just a matter of getting it done. It’s great to have a start as good as 9-0, but I have confidence that we can go much further than sectionals this year,” Cronkhite said.

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Sectionals are on the minds of the boys and girls swim teams as the regular season has begun to wind down.

“It has been a good season for us so far,” boys coach Doug Norris said.

“Everybody has really stuck together and are all working hard to prepare for sectionals.”

Over the past few weeks, the ‘Dogs picked up three DAC wins while the 400 free relay squad made up of sophomore Johnny Lynk and seniors Mike Kukurugya, Marcus Trybula, and Blake Yeager broke the previous school record with a time of 3:15.67.

The same group of swimmers previously missed out on the record by a heartbreaking .05 seconds.

“After just missing (the record), we told ourselves that we were going to get it before the year was over,” said Yeager who is committed at South Dakota State University. “Breaking the record was a nice accomplishment for us and it felt good to break it.”

The girls regular season officially wrapped up this month with the girls picking up three DAC victories.

“Our win at Lake Central was one of the best we have had since I came to Crown Point,” girls coach Bryon Angerman said.

Two school records went down when the ‘Dogs defeated Lake Central 95-91. Freshman Holly Schuster won the 200 individual medley with a record breaking time of 2:11.15.

Schuster teamed up with freshman Rachel Bukowski, junior Hannah Schuster and senior Caitlyn Lowry to break the 400 free relay record with a time of 3:39.71.

“It was really exciting breaking the school record,” Holly Schuster said. “It was overwhelming, but I was really glad to break the record.”

Girls sectional competition begins this Thursday night at Crown Point, while boys sectional swims begin Feb. 17.

January 31, 2011

A Minute With

Sports

15

Wrestling ranked first in state Bulldogs remain undefeated, look ahead to post-season

Mil

Super sized match up

By Milan Savich sports editor If you’re one of many who are forced into watching the hit show Desperate Housewives, this Sunday may be your chance to get out of it. Sorry Eva Longoria and gang, but this Sunday night’s Super Bowl shootout between two of the richest franchises in the NFL’s history (the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Green Bay Packers) may be just a tad bit more important than an over dramatic group of middleaged women with estrogen pumping through their veins. But don’t worry ladies, if history tells us anything, there should also be some pretty interesting commercials during the course of the night.

As they have reminded the football universe time and time again, the 2010 AFC champion Pittsburgh Steelers’ ‘steel curtain’ defense and aggressive run style offense has gotten the job done in the Super Bowl before, not only once, but a record setting six times. Their success is most likely the reason the Steelers haven’t strayed far from their standard of play established by Chuck Noll in 1970. The winning Pittsburgh formula has earned the Steel City six Lombardi trophies under three different head coaches. Needless to say, this organization knows what they’re doing.

Even though they may hold a record, Pittsburgh is not the only former Super Bowl championship team we will see this Sunday. The 2010 NFC champion Green Bay Packers not only have three Super Bowl rings in the bag, they won the first two, not to mention that the Super Bowl trophy was named after none other than legendary Packers’ coach Vince Lombardi. Green Bay sees a blossoming quarterback in the likes of Aaron Rodgers, who was previously overshadowed by the future hall of famer, Brett Favre. To add to Rodgers’ arsenal, The Pack presents a five receiver set which can be deadly if used correctly.

Oh, and let’s not forget that Green Bay will be setting up a nearly identical 4-3 defense to Pittsburgh, via the Pack’s defensive coordinator Dom Capers who had a short stint in the ‘Burgh during the mid ‘90’s.

I’m picking the twoand-a-half point underdog Steelers in a close one.

Regardless of the turnout, this years Super Bowl will definitely go down in the books as an instant classic.

By Sam Beishuizen asst. sports editor Defending the title of number one team in the state is not an easy task. Every opponent goes after you trying to prove that they can contend with the best team in the state. Wrestling is taking that challenge in stride this season as the ‘Dogs look to make a return trip to the state championship.

“We have been taking every single meet personally this year,” sophomore Dustin Schurg said.

“Everyone is putting in the effort that is needed for us to be successful.”

The ‘Dogs began the month against Merrillville in a match that proved to be the toughest of the season. The Pirates scored 20 points against the ‘Dogs who scored 46 in the win. The 26 point margin of victory was the smallest of the season.

“Merrillville was and will be our biggest competition this year,” coach Scott Vlink said. “They were the only team that stayed close to us, but we are ready for them.”

The ‘Dogs ended the regular season with four consecutive DAC wins. The boys picked up two victories against Lowell and Michigan City with ease.

They then headed to the DAC tournament at Portage and won by 74 points over Merrillville.

Sophomore Matt Langhbehn and seniors Kyle Shrewsberry and Eric Roach all picked up wins at the meet. The wrestlers credit their conditioning workouts to their success.

“We have been working really hard all season long,” Schurg said. “We have been doing a lot of

Photo by Ashley Downing

Freshman Josh Fuqua wrestles his opponent in the 103 pound weight class during the Jan. 19 meet against Valparaiso. The ‘Dogs went on to win the meet with a final score 65-3. The win capped off a perfect season for the wrestlers, who began sectionals Saturday in Crown Point. work, sprints in the morning and practice after school. We may not always like it, but it will all pay off for us in the end.”

In the final meet of the year, the ‘Dogs won all but one match on route to a 65-3 win over Valparaiso. Schurg, along with juniors Colton Saroff and Jason Tsirtsis all picked up wins during the meet.

The convincing win against Valparaiso wrapped up what has been the most successful year in Crown Point wrestling history.

The ‘Dogs finished the season undefeated in duals and won every event they entered. They shut out an area best five opponents

throughout the course of the season thus far, including three shut outs against DAC opponents.

The boy’s success is no secret to their opponents. Every team they face is motivated to knock off the state ranked number one Bulldogs.

“The other teams know that we are coming, and that doesn’t make it any easier on us,” Vlink said.

Preparation could prove to be the key factor for success this post-season.

“We have been preparing hard for the post-season,” Vlink said. “I believe that we are prepared for whatever anyone throws

at us in terms of conditioning and technique. The key for us is staying injury free at this point in the season.”

Sectional competition was held on Saturday in Crown Point, but results were not available at the time of press. If they advanced through sectional competition, the ‘Dogs will start regionals at Portage Wednesday.

“It has been a successful season so far, but we need to keep working hard,” Langbehn said.

“We are all trying to not let the state ranking get into our heads, and if we continue to do that we have what it takes to do well throughout the post-season.”

By Milan Savich sports editor

if we want to beat Merrillville,” Crary said. “Our team has been really significant by having every player step up and bring something different to the table.”

Although the Bulldogs only lost to Merrillville by a close sevenpoint margin, the team feels that they need to change their game plan in order to formulate success heading into the end portion of their regular season.

“Merrillville jumped out to a ten-point lead and put us down early in that game,” Crary said.

“Even though we were able to fight back, we were never able to get back over the hump. Since the game, we’ve changed the way we do things just to prepare for our next game against Merrillville.

Since the last time we played them, our goal has been to beat them and advance through sectionals. I feel like we have a great chance to make things happen this season.

The sky is open as I’ve ever seen it for us.”

Even though Merrillville is the number one ranked team in the state, the Bulldogs are hot coming off of a five game winning streak and feel confident heading into the latter half of the season, towards their rematch with Merrillville.

“We’ve had some great competition in the DAC this year, but we have enough talent to beat any team we have to play,” Crary said.

The ‘Dogs take on Merrillville at home on Friday at 7:30 p.m.

Bulldogs prepare for home stretch

Photo By Mary-Katherine Lemon

Senior Jared Smoot goes up for a jump shot in a game against East Chicago. The Bulldogs went on to win the game 71-51.

In pop culture, the expression ‘home is where the heart is’ is often used. However, setting all fads and trends aside, this lighthearted phrase may be in fact quite meaningful for the boys’ basketball team.

“Our home games have been fantastic this year,” senior Sean Crary said. “Last year, the turn outs were terrible, but this season the fans really came out.

Big crowds really get us pumped up.”

Approaching a seven-game home streak on their schedule, the Bulldogs are looking to advance on their 11-2 overall record.

“We’ve only had one loss at home this year,” Crary said.

“Having such great fan support really motivates us and we’re really happy the fans keep coming out and supporting the team.”

On Feb. 4, the Bulldogs will face off against conference rivals Merrillville, who handed them a 66-59 loss in their last meeting.

“We haven’t really had a good record against Merrillville in the last few years, and we lost a really close game against them earlier this year, so we want to win the game really bad,” senior Jared Smoot said.

Smoot, the 6’10” veteran center, is averaging ten points and seven rebounds per game.

“We’re really going to need to utilize (Smoot’s) height advantage

Personalities

16

January 31, 2011

A class act

Take

FIVE

Stray Dogs improv club allows students to express unique talent while helping animal shelter

Taylor Equihua Sophomore

Dino-mite When Kelsey Ingelhart braids my hair I look like a dinosaur.

Singin’ Along I’m in Bella Voce. The people in it definitely make it fun.

Photo by Ashley Downing

Juniors Cassidy Nowak and Katie McLaren play Aria at the Jan. 13 improv show. In Aria, two people pretend to sing opera without words, while two other narrators on stage tell them what to act out. It’s one of many games.

By Megan Walker staff reporter “Life is not complete without a good laugh. Good thing we have the Stray Dogs,” senior Tyler Noonan said after the Stray Dogs improvisational group performance on Jan. 13. For three years, teacher Don Bernacky and his improv club have put on comedy shows, raising money for the Lake County Animal Shelter.

Students, teachers, and community members each brought $5 or a five pound bag of dog or cat food for admission and were offered information about the no kill shelter that all the proceeds benefited.

“We donate all the money we make to the animal shelter because they can use all the help they can get.

They’re a no-kill shelter and have many lovable animals that need a home,” senior Georgia Otte said.

Bernacky said that last year’s efforts provided enough food to feed the animals through the summer.

This year’s show raised over $1,000 and approximately 200 pounds of food.

The 20 students in Stray Dogs are able to help animals by doing something they enjoy. “Improv is such a great exhaust of pressure because you get to play like you’re a little kid again. It’s just so much natural fun that if you miss it for a week, you really feel it,” Bernacky said.

New to the Stray Dogs is freshman Julia Abbott. “I enjoy that I can express my strange, random personality

with other strange, random people,” Abbott said.

Junior Sarah Maddack was persuaded to join by graduate Corinne Kocher, “She always told me how much fun it was, so I figured I would audition,” said Maddack.

Every member of the group has his favorite part of improv. “It’s the fact that I don’t have to memorize anything, which allows me to be spontaneous,” said senior Tyler Triumph. Other students have fun with the games in the show.

“My favorite part of the show is the game ‘Just in Passing.’ It’s all about trying to figure out what someone is trying to be with their body,” said freshman Andi Bailey.

Musical guest Freedom 129, a rock n’ roll/heavy blues trio from Crown Point, also performed as the musical guest. “We really liked the cause, and we always like playing benefit shows. It was a fun time, and the Stray Dogs are great people,” said senior Freedom 129 drummer Stephen Saricos.

Stray Dogs formed after several students came to Bernacky with an interest in comedy.

“When several students approached me wanting to learn about comedy, I said if there was enough interest I would start a club; 72 people came,” said Bernacky.

“We’ve been very fortunate that we get kids who come out each year who are ready to just be completely open and prepared to do whatever it takes to make a good show.”

Drama Free Something that annoys me is people and their drama.

Scoring Goals I wish I could play soccer like Sarah Rivich. She’s the best soccer player I know.

Diggin’ It I play volleyball for CPHS and for a traveling team. I’ve been playing since seventh grade.

You know it’s a new semester when...

“You’re finished with mid terms.”

Sophomore “You can throw away everything in your binder.”

Junior

Katie Francis

Freshman Bekah Blaesing

Kayla Kitchen

Senior

Thomas Clemens

“You have different classes from what you had first semester.”

“Teachers start giving you homework again.”

Photos by Donny Casillas