Scout - October 2017

SCOUT VOLUME 53 / OCT. ISSUE / LAKE CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL / ST. JOHN, IN

SOCIAL MEDIA

Students project a glamorized profile of themselves on social media, which can skew the way others perceive them.

sport support

self expression

brady schutt

How much pep is really in our step? See how students show their spirit.

Explore opinions about controversy surrounding graffiti and whether it’s art or just crime.

Brady Schutt (12) showcases his unique hobby and thrillseeking nature.

IN THIS ISSUE

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR When I was given the Editor in Chief position of Scout, I was ecstatic. Throughout the summer I was brainstorming ideas for the first issue, and I could not wait until class started. Then it hit me, if I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing. From developing content to assigning and editing pages. Now here I am, finished with my first issue of Scout.

After each deadline benchmark, I found myself getting sentimental. I had just packaged my first page, and I saw myself as a scared staff member my first day in publications my sophomore year. I have changed so much since my sophomore year; it's incredible. I'm not saying that to make myself seem amazing, I'm saying that because I am truly proud of the person I am, well, the person I'm becoming.

The discussion section was the first idea I came up with. There were so many times I used to go on social media and feel bad about myself. I would always compare myself to those who seemingly had a perfect life. Once I

had talked to these people, I realized that I was just like them. Their lives weren't any more glamorous than mine.

That old Courtney Rhomberg is someone I had once known. As I mature, I realize that a perfect life is unobtainable, but a happy life is very much achievable. I was given the opportunity to speak at Freshman Rush in August. It opened my eyes to how fast my high school career has went by. As I had mentioned in my speech, high school flies by. I only hope other students will have a similar positive experience as me.

Even though it is quite early in the school year, Scout has taught me that every person has a story. Every person deserves to have their story told. I'm taking the responsibility of meeting wonderful people and telling their stories. I hope to give Lake Central a different perspective on our school as a whole, and share the stories of those who live extraordinary lives.

Scout is a student run publication of Lake Central High School in St. John, Indiana. All content is student directed and produced. Questions and comments can be directed to Courtney Rhomberg at courtneyrhomberg2000@gmail.com.

OUR IDENTITY, THEIR IDENTITY OUR COUNSELORS

Onthecover:Photoby:CourtneyRhomberg

ART FORM CHOIR

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Although similar in nature, the extra curricular choirs, Counterpoints, Da Capo and Trebleaires, have unique aspects about them.

GRAFFITI

ATHLETICS STUDENT SUPPORT

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Student athletes are shown support throughour students and faculty at the sporting events. The school mascot reveals his pressures and expectations for the student section.

Students and teachers discuss the differences between graffiti as an art as well as a crime.

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COURTNEY RHOMBERG

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

FOCUS

Read how Garron Pitchford (12) deals with his struggles during t he football season.

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Although there are many different faces in the building, some that go unnoticed are the counselors . Every person has a story. Find out who these counselors are and what influences them everyday.

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Brady Schutt (12) has a unique pasttime: offroading. From dirtbiking to driving his Jeep, "Natasha", Schutt takes crazy hobbies driving to a new level.

ADVISORS

Mrs. Sarah Verpooten Ms. Carrie Wadycki

Courtney Rhomberg DESIGN EDITORS Mia Brann Anni Rajput Melicah Rodriguez SamanthaSzewczyk EDITORS Justin Andrews Camille Bereolos Jessica Cook Molly Fischer Hannah Hill Kevin Holechko Brittany Howell Bailey Lewis Kristen Mirabelli Michael Pucci Madison Sandoval Brianna Sarkisian Lauren Wisniewski Mikaila Zvyak

TEAM LEADERS Dana Brownewell Karisa Candreva Julia Casner Bianca Matchain Danica Mileusnic Nicole Reitz Ashley Robinson Gabriella Shumylo Sabina Solarczyk Maisie Westerfield

STAFF MEMBERS Charmagne Abangan Jovani Alcantar Frida Arellano Emily Bell Amariah Burgess Jed Burgos Jared Carroll Allison Centanni Morrissa Chinn Scott Daniels Meghan DeChene Ayah Eid Claire Faberbock Samuel Fiera Faith Huenecke Hannah Kosinski Jovana Laporsek Casey Lessentine Mia Martinez

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Students go in depth as to why they choose to glamourize their social media profiles and posts. The pressure of perfection steers students to enhance their normal posts.

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EDITORIAL Although social media has

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RESPOND Students respond to the

the culture."

Jade Mehok Matt Mergenthaler Amber Murray Yousef Nammari Kieran Newton Madeline Niewiadomski Ricardo Paz Haley Renner Kiley Szatkowski Morgan Taylor Michelle Testa Angelika Trybunia Isabella Watts

quote by Allen Ginsberg: "Whoever controls the media, the pictures, controls

AROUND THE REGION Some students say to

themselves, "But there is nothing to do in the Region..." A variety of activities in and out of school will be listed on this page.

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its benefits, there are wrong ways to use this outlet.

Media platforms become a breeding ground for cyberbullying and hate speech.

STAFF SCOUT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

BRADY'S STORY

DISCUSSION SOCIAL MEDIA

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ART FORM Art forms are a common and effective way for one to express oneself whether it is through one’s voice or through a tangible art piece. Although many forms of art are practiced, some do not receive the recognition that they deserve.

Graffiti and choir are two prime examples of this. Every student has a unique way of expressing his or her creativity.

The empty auditorium glows with stage lights, awaiting the Fall show. This massive theater seats 1,110 audience members at full capacity.

Photo by: Ashley Robinson

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an individuals voice grows

DA CAPO

THE ART

“YOU REALLY GET TO KNOW A LOT ABOUT EACH OTHER WHICH IS REALLY NICE BECAUSE YOU DO BECOME A LITTLE COMMUNITY AND YOU DO FIND WAYS TO HELP EACH OTHER. IF YOU NEED SOMETHING, SOMEONE ELSE CAN HELP YOU.”

The choir rehearses during class. There are a variety of choirs offered at Lake Central. Photo Credit: Michael Pucci

choreograph dances at least twice a year. It’s a lot of fun,” Timothy Bakas (12) said.

The all-male acapella choir, Da Capo, uses a blend of male voices to create a barbershop-esque sound. This choir is known for mixing different sounds and forming connections with the other members.

“The dynamic is just really goofy, we make a lot of jokes, but we still get the work done that we need to get done. I would say being in Da Capo is easier because the music is definitely easier, and it’s easier to get guy’s voices to blend together,” Joshua Dejarlais (12) said.

Despite being an all-female choir, the Trebelaires are still able to hit a full range of notes by utilizing her powerful voices.

“It can be a little harder because we do have girls who drop down to tenor and bass notes, they’re called contraltos, so they sing very low and we have girls who [sing] really high. You can be amazed at what the female voice can do.

Despite not having guys in our voice, you can get that rich deep sound also,” Caitlin Mavity (12) said.

OF MUSIC

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Counterpoints is a smaller group of people that do more advance songs with different types of rolls such as alto and bass and a couple of tenors,”

“

Trebleaires is really fun because we get to dance and we get to go out and do community service like caroling and singing to groups that can’t come out and see our shows,”

GEORGE GUNDELACH (12)

VINSON PATTERSON (12)

CAITLIN MAVITY (12)

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Da Capo is the smallest of the three show choirs at Lake Central, but I think we get the most attention,”

TREBLEAIRES

The music program offers many opportunities for those interested in singing.While there are various choirs students can choose from, some take it a step further and participate in one of three accapella groups offered.

The three extracurricular acapella groups, Counterpoints, Da Capo and Trebelaires, are similar in nature but unique in what goes into their performances. Counterpoints is the most exclusive show choir that focuses primarily on perfecting their performances.

“We do really challenging pieces that test both our vocal range and our music performance skills, and we

COUNTERPOINTS

Page by: Julia Casner, Meghan DeChene, Molly Fischer, Hannah Hill and Amber Murray

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EXPRESSION creating the controversial craft

G

AT A COST

Photos by: Ashley Robinson

it. I got suspended [for] 11 days with request of expulsion. They tried expelling me for drawing graffiti in my notebookson my own property. They thought I was gang affiliated because of my art form,” the anonymous student said.

Occasionally, store or building owners will donate their walls to graffiti artists.

“I have done a couple of permission walls in Chicago and Gary. You don’t have to worry about being chased. You can actually take your time; you can do one of those crazy detailed drawings that you’ve been trying to put up,” the anonymous student said.

However, these donated walls are not always what the graffiti artists are looking for as they do not provide the ‘rush’ that is so appealing to them.

“If you actually go out and write on walls, get chased by cops [and] risk your life in those crazy spots to just get your name up, then that’s what makes you a tagger or a graffiti bomber. When you actually go out and paint illegally [it] is probably the best feeling. Just the adrenaline of it. It’s all speed. You have to finish up your piece and run from the spot,” the anonymous student said.

In the end, graffiti can be viewed as an illegal act or one of self expression- it all just depends on who is looking at it.

“You can’t limit art because when you limit someone’s artistic abilities, you’re putting them in a closed state of mind,” Zachary Kolisz (12) said.

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“There’s the part of me as an art teacher that loves the freedom of expression and the creativity,” Mr. Volk said.

VS “I wouldn’t want someone to tag my property without me being aware of it,” Mr. Volk said.

CRIME

“IT’S JUST THE WAY I EXPRESS MYSELF. I’M JUST A NUMBER TO THIS WORLD SO GRAFFITI GIVES ME A VOICE.” - ANONYMOUS

raffiti is an art form that can be found to be controversial because of the way that it is practiced through vandalism.

“I think when I see graffiti, when it’s done in a negative way with gang symbols, then I see that as vandalism and as a threat and something that can harm people,” Mr. Paul Volk, Art, said.

Although graffiti can be seen from a negative point of view and is illegal when done without permission on another’s property, some people see it as a form of expression.

“I don’t go through all those risks and restless nights just to make a wall look ‘cooler’. It’s the way I express myself. I’m just a number to this world so graffiti is what I feel like gives me a voice,” an anonymous student said.

Not just those who practice this dangerous form of art support it.

Photographers may support their fellow artists by capturing their artwork and speaking out.

“I take photos of graffiti because there is just something about graffiti paintings I like a lot, especially the really detailed ones. I support graffiti painting because graffiti [paintings] more times than not have a meaning behind them,” an anonymous student said.

Since graffiti can be seen as an illegal and gang-affiliated art form, people make assumptions about those who practice graffiti.

“I’ve been in trouble several times for

ART

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ATHLETICS As the athletic season wraps up, the student section comes together to support the teams. This support helps influence teams before games, allowing them to get into the mindset of conquering any opponent. Support is given off the field as well as on the sidelines.

The football teams plays against Crown Point on Sept. 8. The theme for that night was USA. Photo By: Samantha Szewczyk

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STUDENT

INDIAN TIMELINE 1. Students come together during the first home game of the season. Students were able to participate at the game with a Hawaiian theme.

2. Andrew Matthews (12) and Jason Sambor (12) help Justin Graves (12) cheer on the football team. Graves gained help hyping up the crowd from his friends during the game.

3. Senior girls cheer during the homecoming game. The football team faced Michigan City during the Homecoming game.

Photos by: Samantha Szewczyk and Camille Bereolos

2005 Curtis Pratt

2007 Eric Gehrig

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“PLAYING WITH A STUDENT SECTION IS MY FAVORITE TIME TO PLAY,” NOAH OSEARO (12) SAID.

SUPPORT

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coming together with spirit and positivity Page by: Ayah Eid, Hannah Kosinski, Nicole Reitz, Morgan Taylor and Angelika Trybunia

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t’s 7 p.m. on a Friday night at the Burial Grounds and the crowd erupts in cheers. “We Are LC” can be heard from miles away. Many students come out and show their love for the athletic programs here at Lake Central.

“I think it is a necessity for a student to attend these games as it makes the whole high school experience that much more special. It shows that our school has a lot of spirit and shows that we are a great student section no matter what,” Sarah Tellas (12) said.

In past years, school spirit was almost never shown. However with the help of themed games, students find more of a purpose to make their way to an athletic event.

“I try to get involved as much as my closet will let me. I do not go out to buy the big stuff. If I can find something at the dollar store, that helps. I try to gear up as much as possible,” Maxwell Hill (12) said.

Not only do the students in the stands show spirit through weekly themes, but spirit is also shown on the field.

“Lately the cheer team has been getting into the themes like wearing Hawaiian leis and wearing red lipstick for USA,” Morgan Tattini (10) said.

Having themed games allows students to come together and support Lake Central.

“Participating in the theme really helps us feel like we are really part of the student section and show that we are not separate from the school,” Tattini said.

Not only do students show spirit at football games, but they also attend sports benefits to support the athletes. Recently, the cheer team performed at the soccer benefit for Jack Quinlan (12).

“I really liked going to the soccer benefit because it really showed that we could all put our heads together and help out for a good cause,” Tattini said.

Students showing support in the student

section can affect the athletes on the field as well. Having stands filled with peers there to cheer on their school’s teams can help to boost athlete’s energy and motivation.

“Playing with a student section is definitely more exciting and the crowd makes everything more hype. Playing with a student section is my favorite time to play,” Noah Osearo (12) said.

For attendees of all games, no matter the sport, the student section serves to be an exciting place to hang out with friends and support the school.

“Being in the student section is always a good time. It is just fun to hang out with your friends while cheering on the football team,” Tellas said.

Whether students are participating in the student section or playing in a game surrounded by one, it creates a positive place for the community to come together and cheer on our teams.

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NO 2016 Tyler Witnicki

YES YES

27% NO 73% YES

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Is the Indian a good representation for LC’s sports’ teams?

Ever since I was a freshman, I’ve always loved coming out to games. I was honored [when I found out I was going to be the Indian]. Being the Indian can be pretty overwhelming, everyone coming at me with opinions and ideas and you can only accept a few of them. The toughest part is trying to give everyone what they want. Besides that, it is cool to interact with everyone and make the themes,” Justin Graves (12) said.

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2015 Jacob Mantel

OUR INDIAN

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FOCUS

“I HAVE A BIGGER RESPONSIBLITY TO UPHOLD THE NAME AND SYMBOL OF LAKE CENTRAL,”

Page by: Brianna Sarkisan, Bailey Lewis and Brittney Howell

ALEXIS MUNOZ (12) SAID.

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Part of the Tribe

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1. Logan Russell (9) raises his arms in triumph after crossing the finish line. This is Russell’s first year on the cross country team.

Photo By: Kevin Holechko 2. Alexa Sherlund (11), Hope Huenecke (11) and Lauren Stearns (12) rush to celebrate with their team after a successful play. The team celebrated by doing a group huddle and exchanging highfives. Photo by: Camille Bereolos 3. Anthony Carter (12) and a Munster opponent start the play in full defense. The team won the game against the Mustangs with a final score of 33-14. Photo by: Angelika Trybunia 4. Braden Johnson (9) jogs past opposing runners along the path.

The race was held at Lowell High School. Photo by: Kevin Holechko 5. Cuahutemoc Rodriguez-Lara (12) pushes her opponent in attempt to retrieve the ball. This is Rodriguez-Lara’s first year on varsity. Photo by: Amber Murray 6. Giovanni Lopez (12) hustles the football down the field after catching the pass. This game took place at Munster High School on Aug. 18. Photo by: Angelika Trybunia 7. Veronica Ruiz-Avila (9) attempts to take the ball from the opposing team. Although Ruiz-Avila is on JV, she played in a few varsity matches this season. Photo by: Courtney Rhomberg 8. Garron Pitchford (12) gets emotional during the Homecoming football game against Michigan City. Pitchford was injured in the beginning of the season and can no longer play.

Photo by: Karisa Candreva

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“ONLY SOME KIDS PLAY SPORTS AND SHOW THEY CAN HANDLE A FULL SCHOOL DAY, THEN THREE HOURS OF PRACTICE,” RICO GOMEZ (11) SAID.

GARRON PITCHFORD

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Sophomore year I was on JV, and then junior year I split time between varsity and JV. I would have played varsity [senior year] if I didn’t blow my knee out at the first practice of the season. I tore my ACL, medial meniscus and lateral meniscus. It technically happened on two occasions. The first time I was covering a receiver, and I turned to make a play on the ball when my knee gave out. I was able to walk so I thought I had just tweaked it. A few weeks later I was just running when I heard my knee pop, and I fell to the ground and experienced the worst pain I have ever felt. I had surgery on Aug. 23. The doctors said I wouldn’t be 100 percent for a whole year.

They also said they couldn’t repair the menisci, so I just don’t have any. They said this will lead to arthritis when I’m in my mid-thirties. Not being able to play my senior year is awful. I pray that nobody on the team gets hurt because I wouldn’t wish this on anyone. Being a Lake Central Indian means so much to me. It means that you are apart of something bigger than yourself. You’re apart of the Tribe, and some people might not think the same thing but to me it is a big deal. If there is any way I can go out there and support the Indians I will. The team really does love the moral support that the fans and students give. Football is an unforgiving sport, that perspective has never changed. I went down and the next guy had to step up; that’s just the way it goes. Watching from the sidelines and seeing my teammates play has changed my perspective of a few guys on the team. Previously, I didn’t think some of them had what it takes but they’ve shown me that they’re tough and can fight [until] the end. Being an athlete at Lake Central has granted me new friendships that wouldn’t have been possible if I hadn’t played football.

Never quit. If there is one thing I’ve learned it is to always give 100 percent,” Garron Pitchford (12) said.

ISSUE 1/ATHLETICS/15

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OUR IDENTITY, THEIR IDENTITY Teachers, students and staff members have things that separate them from school. Whether it’s having an interesting pastime or being a parent, everyone’s lives differ. Looking at people from a different perspective can give insight into what goes on behind the scenes. We all have different experiences that shape us into who we are and why we do what we do.

Students make their way through the crowded hall. Every student has a different story to tell.

Photo by: Courtney Rhomberg

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“

Page by: Charmagne Abangan, Jovanni Alcantar, Jovana Laporsek, Madelyn Niewaiadomski, Ricardo Paz and Gabriella Shumylo Photos by: Jovana Laporsek

“

[My brother, Scott] was 44 [when] I was 48, so it happened about five years ago. He had really bad Crohn’s disease, which affects your intestines and stomach. [He also] struggled with depression and his wife had left him. There’s a history of things that kind of went wrong in his life. When his Crohn’s disease would get bad, I remember him being in the hospital for two months at a time where he couldn’t eat solid food. [When] he committed suicide, he didn’t have a job [and] he couldn’t physically work so he had been staying with my parents trying to get himself back together. He found a job at the Dyer Nursing Home. He was seeing this lady — because that was all that he wanted, was just to find another woman — and he thought, ‘Oh my God, life is good,’ and then she said, ‘I’ve decided I want to go back to my husband’ so he was devastated. My mom and dad were watching TV and before they knew it, it was 10:30 [p.m.], [but] he’d always come down at 8 [p.m.] to take a shower. My mom checked on him [and] he hanged himself at my mom and dad’s house. I was angry about that.

I went numb for a while. It took me about two weeks to get back to work, but at that point, I felt like I couldn’t be a counselor anymore because I felt like I lost my ability to be able to help people. My co-workers here came over to my mom’s [house] because I was staying with her. They were like, ‘Robin, you just have to pick a day where you’re going to go back to work,’ and I told them, ‘You know what, you’re right.’ Plus, I have two sons, I had a family and I wasn’t doing anything.

I finally picked a day and I decided, ‘Life goes on. I’m going to miss him. I’m angry and I wish he wouldn’t have done it.’ I went home, started taking care of my family [and] went back to work. Back then, I was just a freshman counselor; I wasn’t seeing all grade levels. I went back and the kids needed to see me. They had no idea what I had just gone through and I realized that I can do this. They need me. [Their issues are a] big problem to them that’s why I need to help them. It’s just sad because no one knows what goes on in that person’s mind in that particular moment and time.”

I have a five-year-old named Rayna and she is in kindergarten at Kolling. I always make her identify that if you’re mad it’s okay, if you’re sad it’s okay. You can be mad at mommy, but mommy still loves you. She can tell me how she feels and she’s good at identifying her feelings. I think maybe if I wasn’t a counselor, she wouldn’t be as good at that or even know to do that. My mom was amazing too and I think she is the reason that I am the way that I am.

My daughter is very open about her feelings. I think maybe sometimes I’ll take a different approach because I’ll see something that happens here during the day with a kid and it makes [me] realize how precious that relationship is, or how precious it is to just be a kid and enjoy things. Sometimes it’s humbling when [I] get home. We have a trampoline so I’m on that all the time. We swim, we dance at home, she likes to do arts and crafts, she’s in gymnastics and I just love to watch her. She’s my mini and she sometimes comes here to the soccer and football games. She thinks she’s the mayor of Lake Central.”

MRS. MELISSA RETTIG

MRS. ROBIN MAY

Many people do not think much about what happens behind the scenes of staff members’ lives. After taking a look into our counselors’ lives, we found there is more to them than helping students overcome problems. Some of them face challenges themselves.

MRS. MELISSA ST. CLAIR

OUTSIDE OF THE OFFICE

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ISSUE 1 / OUR IDENTITY, THEIR IDENTITY / 19

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All my life I wanted to be a teacher. When I was in high school I grew up with Scout, I was on Quiver and I decided I wanted to be a journalist. As soon as I graduated high school, I started writing for The Times, I was a correspondent for The Times and for The Post and I thought well I’m doing this already, maybe I should get a degree in something because I can always write. [But] my very first teaching job was down in Kentland at a small Catholic School. I only made $12,000 a year, but I would’ve done it for free because I wanted to teach so bad. [I was] 23, pretty much [straight out of school]. When I was going through the school counseling program, one of the classes was an art therapy course, so we had to do some kind of art therapy. I decided to write a blog. It was to write about the experiences of me raising two boys because it’s different to raise two boys. I’m thankful I did it [and] it was such a good experience. It was exactly what I needed.”

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BRADY 3

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“YOU CAN CHOOSE WHAT YOU WANT TO DO. THERE’S EASIER TRAILS AND HARDER TRAILS, SO [YOU CAN CHOOSE] DEPENDING ON YOUR JEEP AND HOW SERIOUS IT IS.”

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SCHUTT

Off-roading in his Jeep drives him far into the wild side

1. Brady Schutt (12) drives his Jeep. He spent time learning about how to improve his driving skills and learning about vehicles.

2. Schutt drives his Jeep Cherokee. He purchased his car for $200.

3. .Schutt poses with his Jeep Wrangler. Schutt’s dad bought this Wrangler when Schutt was in seventh grade.

Photosby:CourtneyRhomberg

Page by: Frida Arellano, Dana Brownewell, Jed Burgos and Allison Centanni

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efying people’s expectations and participating in an ‘out of the box’ activity can be challenging. However, Brady Schutt (12) challenges that idea. Schutt has been offroading since middle school. Schutt has developed a passion for the activity. He has spent much of his life working on his bike and Jeep, which he has used as a learning experience.

“My dad got a Wrangler when I was in seventh grade, so we put a lift kit on it and got 33 inch tires,” Schutt said.

Starting at a young age, Schutt learned off-roading like the back of his hand.

Once he became involved in off-roading, he couldn’t stay away from it. Doing something he has loved for such a long time has only made him grow a stronger connection to the sport, and he’s not the only one who feels that way about it.

“My dad grew up with dirt bikes when he was my age, so he rode those. [When he was older]

he bought the Jeep. Our uncle talked us into [offroading],” Schutt said.

Although some may think of off-roading as an extreme or reckless sport, it doesn’t startle Schutt.

Figuring out what trails the vehicle can handle, whether it’s a bike or a jeep, is part of the fun.

“You can chose what you want to do. There’s

wild and let loose. He spends his free time going to new parks to expand and perfect his skills.

He’s also discovered what parks work best with his Jeep. Whether it’s a sand dune in Michigan or a park specifically for off roading, you can find Schutt there.

“There’s an off-road park called Badlands which is in Attica, Ind. [I also go to] Silverlake Sand dunes, it’s in Michigan. The dunes are wide open so you can go wherever you want, it’s really sweet,” Schutt said.

Off-roading not only bonds Schutt closer to his family, but it gives him the experience to meet and interact with new people who share similar interests. Creating friends of similar passions can help develop lifelong friendships. Schutt shares the hobby of off-roading with a few of his peers. “[Off-roading] is something to talk about with friends. I can share that bond [with them] because

“THE DUNES ARE WIDE OPEN SO YOU CAN GO WHEREVER YOU WANT, IT’S REALLY SWEET.” easier trails and harder trails, so [you can choose] depending on your Jeep and how serious it is.

Usually [we take] my Jeep, my dad’s Wrangler and our uncle’s Wrangler,” Schutt said.

Not only does Schutt have the bravery, he also has the attitude needed to carry on this unique sport. Schutt has no problem finding places to go

I have friends that ride dirtbikes too so we can ride together,” Schutt said.

Schutt has spent his time perfecting his offroading skills and working on his bikes. Schutt plans on taking his interest and applying it to his career. He finds it important to do something he is passionate about.

“I really like working on my Jeep and my dirtbike, it’s fun for me to learn how they work. I want to be a mechanical engineer so I’m hoping to do something with automotive engineering. I think it’d be really cool,” Schutt said.

Schutt gives off-roading his all. He believes it is all about pushing the limits and testing boundaries.

“You can choose what you want to do. There’s easier trails and harder trails, so [you can choose] depending on your Jeep and how serious it is. Off roading is pretty much driving on an open canvas, I can go wherever I want,” Schutt said.

ISSUE 1 / OUR IDENTITY, THEIR IDENTITY / 21

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DISCUSSION social media As more and more people are using social media to post about their lifestyles and personal opinions, communication becomes flooded with glamorized and outspoken posts. These posts make it easy for individuals to hide behind a screen.

Students glance at their phones while sitting together at lunch. The comfort of a screen allows students to be bold and lavish with their posts without having to physically communicate with their peers.

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LET’S GO...

social media creates outlets for users to glamorize and idolize Page by: Karisa Candreva, Scott Daniels, Faith Huenecke, Casey Lessentine and Michelle Testa

P

osting on social media allows individuals to be creative with their personal image; however, this self-expression doesn’t reflect all facets of the true person, making living through a screen seemingly glamorous but misleading.

“I think there’s a lot of things that you just don’t put on social media.

It’s usually just the good things that you [share]. The bad things also define who you are and that’s not something you like to [post],” Kelly Nguyen (11) said.

BEHIND THE SCREEN

popular than everyone else and I believe that is unhealthy,” Mathew Matakovic (12) said.

Often times celebrities, artists and musicians who have a major following and share their lifestyles are mirrored by fans that strive to live similarly to them.

“It’s almost like I try to exude the kind of the confidence they exude, not be them, but kind of show myself in a way that they would,” Sykes said.

More people are becoming

“SOCIAL MEDIA HAS AFFECTED USERS BY LURING THEM INTO A SYSTEM OF POPULARITY MEASUREMENT.” Whether posts include over-edited pictures or misleading stories, society is burdened with the negative effects of unrealistic viewings found online.

“From my social media, you wouldn’t really be able to tell who I actually am in real life. I think to know who I am, you really have to know me personally. With [the TV show ‘Catfish’], you can definitely live a fake life,” Caleigh Sykes (11) said.

Many use social media sites to create an alternative persona, and with society idolizing the perfect person, people feel that this is the new standard they should reach.

“Social media has affected users by luring them into a system of popularity measurement, whether it be through friends, followers or likes, where everyone wants to be more

engrossed in social media, and according to Dr. Sally Andrews, Nottingham Trent University, the average person checks their phone 85 times a day. “[It hurts seeing people on their phones] when I’m out doing something. I would rather spend one-on-one time with my friends than being on our phones,” Daena Schuh (11) said.

Posting, liking and commenting is done at the touch of a button.

Whether the posts that are shared embody the true individual or just a glamorized version of a person is left up to the user.

“If people spend all that time on their phones and social media they are just seeing how [someone else’s] life is better even though that might not be the truth,” Hope Huenecke (11) said.

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46

percent of students polled feel bad about themselves after going on social media

yes

50

percent of students polled don’t feel bad about themelves after going on social media

no sometimes 352studentspolled

4

percent of students polled sometimes feel bad about themselves after going on social media

SOCIAL STATS

HOURS SPENT PER DAY

1-3 348studentspolled

HOURS SPENT PER DAY

<1 339studentspolled

HOURS SPENT PER DAY

<1 332studentspolled

Between Snapchat, Instagram and Twitter, students constantly check their social media accounts throughout the day. It’s hard to realize how much time is actually spent on these platforms each day.

ISSUE 1 / DISCUSSION / 25

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HIDING BEHIND A SCREEN editorial Page by: Molly Fischer and Hannah Hill

S

ocial media is at the forefront of much of today’s world. With over 7 billion people on the planet and a universal way to share and connect with others, the internet has become a common ground for people to voice their opinions.

Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tumblr give viewers instant access to news and bring otherwise overlooked issues to light. With having a public platform to express opinions, people can share ideas or opinions that can cause controversy.

With all the current scrutiny over the issues of fake news in the media, more debates and conversations erupt over the credibility of certain claims or sources which can cause a vicious divide between users with conflicting beliefs or views.

Because of the growing influence of social media, some decide to turn to the internet to share controversial ideas on political views, religious ideals and contemporary debates. This can lead to arguments and debates that can quickly turn sour.

Those who take part in these heated discussions can be quick to judge in the heat of the moment and get easily angered and lash out. When the other person involved isn’t directly present it feels more comfortable to lash out at others because they don’t have to directly face the repercussions of their actions.

Having the ability to hide behind a screen can make someone feel more outspoken and entitled than they would be in a faceto-face conversation. An individual may feel more powerful and courageous than they would normally be and may not hesitate to share more scrutinizing claims or information about the person they’re arguing with. A person may also feel like his or her thoughts and opinions will add to the ongoing conversation resulting in

Photoby:CourtneyRhomberg

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more people weighing in on the subject and causing more controversy to ensue.

Since some are quick to rip apart another’s claim or defend their own they may not see the error of their ways.

People may not see or consider the effect of their words on others and continue to spew hurtful remarks. Some can be so passionate about getting their point across that they cross the line into what may be classified as hate speech.

Some consider hate speech to be entirely subjective because what offends one person may not offend another meaning hate speech is hard to define and even harder to accuse someone of the action.

Although freedom of speech is a right, it can be difficult to distinguish between what’s an opinion and what’s a hateful remark intended to hurt another.

Hate speech in online posts may cause others to feel personally attacked, victimize or targeted. This can lead to cyberbullying, which has become a major issue in today’s society considering that the internet is open to everyone worldwide.

Avoiding cyberbullying isn’t as simple as shutting off your phone when there’s an influx of hate. It’s just as serious as physical bullying. When someone is subjected to cyberbullying, they don’t have the opportunity to directly face their attacker making the situation more complicated to handle or receive help.

People are more willing to be more raw and mean-spirited online, resulting in hurt feelings and a growing divide between opposing perspectives. Although this problem seems to be growing, there are ways to prevent an explosive argument. If you think before you speak, stay calm and remain respectful and mindful of other’s opinions then healthy debates can occur.

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RESPOND “Whoevercontrolsthemedia,theimages, controlstheculture,”

Allen Ginsberg

Pageby:KristenMirabelliandCourtneyRhomberg

NATHAN PREVIS (12)

“

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Whoever controls the media, the main source of information that the majority of the world follows, controls the thoughts, ideas and opinions of those followers. The controller’s beliefs become the followers beliefs and therefore the culture of the people is affected. Obviously the media is controlled by actual people who have their own values and opinions and that reflects in the way that they report the news. People say that news channels and reporters are supposed to be unbiased, but most of the time that is not true. If regular people are constantly using a certain media outlet as their source of information, then they will start thinking and believing in the same ideas that those who control the media do. That’s why the types of people who watch CNN and FOX News tend to have different beliefs and values than each other.”

HAYLEY SKREZYNA (12)

“

The media without a doubt plays the biggest role in shaping people’s minds, especially teenagers. We are still growing into ourselves, so when we see posts about a dance trend or some ridiculous challenge, it will catch on. Therefore more and more people get involved. Countless celebrities are being made famous due to the media for plainly being rude. When something is trending, this allows all sorts of people to communicate and connect with each other inevitably creating a culture of people glued to their phones.

TV, Twitter, Snapchat [and] Instagram are all places where people can vent out their frustrations or post what they like or believe in, and there will always be people who disagree. This can cause fights online which creates an audience. Media doesn’t grant respect or truth. It is always up for different viewpoints.”

ISSUE 1 / DISCUSSION / 29

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GETCONNECTED Instagram #lchoco17

Page by: Isabella Watts, Claire Faberbock, Jade Mehok, Matthew Mergenthaler, Sabina Solarczyk Page by: Danica Mileusnic, Kristen Mirabelli

Twitter #firstsemesterthoughts MICHAEL TOPORIS (10) 1

SARAH TELLAS (12)

“The only days i enjoy school are pasta wednesdays and quesadilla tuesdays, dont @ me.”

Twitter: @Michael_toporis

SOPHIA BOECKSTEIGEL (12)

“When do all of these senior ditch days start?”

Twitter: @boxedeagle

3

2 1. Fall break is coming closer everyday. Students will be able partake in the festive activity of visiting the pumpkin patch.

Photo by: Sabina Solarczyk 2. Local farmer’s market offers free entry and many activities. Elzinga Farm Market has pumpkins, corn mazes, hay rides and much more. Photo by: Sabina Solarczyk 3. The Cross Country team huddles together after competing at a meet. Cross Country IHSAA State will be on Oct. 28. Photo by: Joshua Chen

UPCOMING EVENTS

SEPT 23-OCT 29: Fright Fest at Six Flags OCT 1-31: Deep River Halloween Adventure Park OCT 17: LCHS Fall Choir Concert at 7:00 P.M. OCT 20: Hammond Monster Mash at the Jean Shepherd Community Center OCT 26: Fall Break begins OCT 28: IHSAA State OCT 31: Halloween

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PURDUETTES PERFORMANCE The Purduettes will be performing at Theatre in the Center in Munster. They have been entertaining audiences since 1942 with 50-60 people in each ensemble. This year, they will be adding two more performances so be sure to check them out.

MADISON KUBIAK (11)

“ok but maybe I SHOULD bring a blanket.”

Twitter: @maddie_kubiak

Admission: $35 COUNTY LINE County Line Orchard’s last day is coming quickly. County Line offers great activites for everyone, including apple picking, corn mazes, concessions and live music. Visit this favorite fall attraction and grab some donuts before the season ends.

KATHRYNN VETTAS (10)

“Why are all these freshmen taller than me #FirstSemesterThoughts.”

Twitter: @kathrynnlettuce

Admission: $1 to $10 LEONID METEOR SHOW Visit the Calumet Astronomy Center to watch the meteor show. The peak of this shower will occur that night and it’s an event that doesn’t happen often. If someone you know is interested in stars and anything galatic, grab them and watch the meteors.

TAYLOR THOMAS (11)

“when’s winter break??”

Twitter: @taylorannwho

Admission: Free ISSUE 1 / GET CONNECTED / 31

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LAUREN KAMYCOWSKI (12)

“but there’s nothing to do in the region”

HAYLEY SKREZYNA(12)

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