The Oracle 2017-18: Issue 5

THE 0RACLE

march 8, 2018 | vol. 46, no. 5 | Cehs news

SWISH

is indiana still a basketball state?

pg 14

Photo by William Stainbrook, 12

back cover photos by Madi Schutte and Liz Hagan

opinion

senior age Young and old seniors discuss the benefits and setbacks of age difference within their grade

A

audrey tian

H

aving my birthday be on June 22, 1999, my parents decided early on that I would wait until I was older to go into kindergarten, so I began school later than most, and ever since then I’ve been one of the oldest people in my grades.

Being old for your grade comes with both good and bad sides to it. There are the obvious upsides of getting your license first, being able to go see R rated movies without parents’ permission first, and generally having more freedom from parents.

There are many more bene-

4

s one of the youngest students in my grade, it has always felt like I’m behind the rest of my peers in major milestones in life. I qualified to get my driver’s license last, celebrated each birthday last, etc.

I’m often asked if I skipped a grade, and I never really know how to answer. At my elementary school, the cutoff date of birth for kindergarten registration was June 30, 2000, and my birthday is seven days later, July 7, 2000. However, the school system allowed me to register early and enter kindergarten that year any-

way. So, yes, I did technically skip preschool, but only by a week, so it doesn’t feel like I’m ahead or anything like that.

I’m so glad I was put where I am, though, because I might not have become friends with the same incredible people I’m friends with now if I had ended up staying back a year.

For the most part, I actually don’t feel much of a difference from my friends and peers in the school atmosphere. I still take the same classes as everyone else, and most of my friends are in my grade. It was actually convenient when everyone else started getting

fits of being older, and much of it you don’t even think about.

It is just a privilege that you’ve always had. Many people would say you get more respect from your peers for being older than everyone else, and looking back at my time in school I can see that being the case on many occasions.

However, there are also downsides to being older than all your friends. Whenever you get your license, be prepared for a wave of people asking you to take them off for lunch because it will happen immediately.

If you are especially old like

me, you are either asked if you were held back a grade or it is just assumed that you were.

Another problem is during elementary school all of your friends get to bring in cupcakes and other fun treats for their birthday and share with their friends, but a lot of times if you’re old for your grade that means your birthday is during the summer so you never got to share with all your friends.

Overall, I believe the good definitely outweighs the bad, and being old for your grade is a good thing. So if you are old for your grade, enjoy it.

their licenses before me and let me tag along when they went off campus to lunch sophomore year.

One thing that’s pretty neat about being younger is that I’ll still be 17 years old when I graduate high school, so in some ways, I’m a little ahead.

Of course, “ahead” and “behind” are all relative. I’m comfortable right where I am, and my age has often come to be an advantage. Ultimately, age is just a number, and I won’t allow a mere number to hinder my success in life.

Thomas Voils

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of The Oracle, Columbus East High School, and Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation.

March 8. 2018

design by Audrey Tian

opinion

Phone-y Phenomenon

PHones need to leave the classroom

E

ach day, the world is controlled by a small device that fits into our pockets. Its power determines how we think, how we communicate and consequently, how we learn.

Having a cell phone is a part of life and a part of living in a complex society. Nearly 95 percent of Americans own one, but do phones really help our education?

Originally, the “Bring Your Own Device” policy, also known as the policy that allows students to use their phones at school and use the school’s BYOD internet, was put into place for educational purposes.

In those times, students were not issued a laptop, so it made sense that students had the right to bring their own technological device, usually a cell phone, and use it as an educational guide. Now, all students have their own school-issued computer. This computer replaces the role the cell phone used to have.

Even though students have a laptop they can use for educational purposes, the policy of having cell phones in the classroom has not changed. The school handbook states

that “cell phones and electronic devices may be used with teacher approval,” even though cell phones play a little role in education.

Cell phones have become more responsible for distrac-

tion. In classrooms, individuals tell teachers that they’re using their phone for “itsLearning” when, in reality, they’re using their device for social media and gaming. Resource has turned into cell phone hour

noah shoaf instead of homework time.

Teachers are finding it harder and harder to monitor these devices. Although they have the right to enforce phone use, students detest any form of enforcement.

Perhaps educators should re-examine how they address phones in the classroom. The Centre for Economic Performance found that schools with a no-phone policy improved test scores by six percent.

Also, according to this source, students who were classified as low performing found a dramatic improvement when phones left the classroom. Their test scores soared 14 percent.

Other consequences of phones at school is that they enable cheating. It is almost too easy to snap a picture of the test and blast it through a group message or to Google a question during an exam. Today cheating is becoming more frequent because of the power of technology.

It is clear that phones are a distraction. It is why we check our phones 150 times a day. Also, they make cheating even easier.

If we really want education to prepare students for a competitive workforce, maybe cell phones should be left out of the equation.

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of The Oracle, Columbus East High School, and Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation.

design by Sean Ryan

March 8. 2018

5

opinion

Appreciating Librarians Without them Schools Would be on A Dystopian Path

A

t East, the library is the most underappreciated resource that students have access to throughout the school day.

Within the library, not only do students have access to books, they have access to a certified librarian whose job is more than just checking out books. Having access to a certified librarian gives students the ability to receive help from someone who is also trained at teaching and helping students in a variety of subjects.

Many librarians are often seen as just “ladies who check out books”; however, they often help students with papers and find additional resources for students to use for whatever they are in need of assistance.

While most information can

be found in online sources, the library offers an abundance of information first hand, whether it be in print or online, through extensive databases.

Emily Cordova is the library specialist here at East. Within her school day, checking out books is only the smallest part of her job. She has the ability to assist teachers with their lesson planning on top of providing teachers with additional resources to use within their curriculum.

Cordova also creates and provides students and staff with online sources such as ItsLearning.

Not only is she a specialist in providing information on whatever subject one may be looking for, but she also is well rehearsed with using tech-

nology and instructing others on how to use their personal technology.

She is knowledgeable on resources and information that extend beyond what is offered within the school and creates goals for the library as well.

The importance librarians play within schools should be more appreciated by students.

Without them, we would be less knowledgeable on certain informational resources such as the databases within ItsLearning, which has helped me and many other seniors in writing senior papers.

Not only that, but without Cordova, many students would not have the technological resources that so many classes require students to have access to.

shelby gordon

It is also important to appreciate how much librarians do for us besides helping us find a good read or checking out books.

Librarians are literally “information masters” in terms of being able to find anything and everything one would need for a variety of reasons.

Without them, students would not have access to resources to help them with their academic curriculum.

Students should recognize and appreciate everything Mrs. Cordova and all school librarians do for students and staff.

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of The Oracle, Columbus East High School, and Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation.

6

March 8. 2018

design by Reagan Perkins

opinion

Laptops Left Behind

How Student Laptops are Holding Up After 3 Years

B

eginning in the 2015-2016 school year, students at East have had school administered laptops to use for academic purposes. With over 1000 students to administer laptops to, obvious issues have arisen.

Issues with laptops given to students begin with the fact that WiFi connectivity is spotty at East. Areas outside of classrooms and resources often do not have solid connec-

tions, consistently frustrating students who try to accomplish online tasks in wings of the building with poor internet

access.

One issue which frustrates students the most is computers freezing while browsing the web or typing. From personal experience, laptops seem to freeze up at random times, on or off of school internet.

This issue seems to affect the majority of students and makes working on school laptops incredibly frustrating.

Students have also found out that the laptops are prone

Issues have ranged from laptops failing to hold a charge to completely crashing for some students.

In contrast to software and hardware issues, many positives have arisen from personal student laptops. For example, students who may not have had reliable access to a computer away from school now do.

Before personal laptops for students, East only offered a couple of computer labs and carts of netbooks.

While the current laptop system has flaws, for the most part it offers superior computer opportu- REPORT DAMAGE nities to students as opposed to computer labs.

For the last three years, students at East have enjoyed the multitude of benefits of having laptops.

Students can carry a personal computer around to every class to certain physical problems. without having to constantly Laptop displays often get find a new computer and waste discoloration patterns from the time signing into it. damages of being in backpacks.

The laptops have also given

Luke Harpring students the opportunity to bring a school computer with them everywhere in the building. Students who may go to a teacher’s classroom or other resource areas in the school can use their laptop rather than being restricted to computer labs.

While there are clearly issues with the current laptops, this is to be expected to some level considering the scope of how many computers there are to oversee. As a whole, the laptop system has worked well since most of the major issues that students have faced are isolated incidents. Computers after all, can have fluke errors.

Ultimately, students and staff should have the understanding that a computer network as large as the one at East is destined to have complications and, although computers are frustrating at times, they are a powerful tool that allows for the next generation of learning.

So the next time issues with laptops are frustrating, keep in mind the opportunities that they give students.

The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of The Oracle, Columbus East High School, and Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation.

design by Reagan Perkins

March 8. 2018

7

feature

birth year premiere tAKING A LOOK AT WHAT MADE YOU 1999-2000

1999-2000 seniors seniors

By Chesney Loehr

September 15, 1999 Wedgewood Baptist Church Shooting Shootings have become a major part of our lives, especially in the past couple years. Public September 15, 1999 shootings have caused major controversy and fear among the community. Since this event, Wedgewood Baptist Church Shooting shootings have become larger and deadlier.

Shootings have become a major part of our lives, especially in the past couple years. Public shootings have caused major controversyJuly and fear among the community. Since this event, 1, 2000 shootings have become larger and deadlier.

Vermont Civil Union law The Vermont Civil Union law allowed legal status between same-sex couples and the the July 1, 2000 legal rights and responsibilities of a married couple. This law helped further the success of Vermont Civil Union law same-sex marriage and the acceptance of LGBT+ relationships across the U.S. The Vermont Civil Union law allowed legal status between same-sex couples and the the legal rights and responsibilities of a married couple. This law helped further the success of same-sex marriage and the acceptance of LGBT+ relationships across the U.S.

2000-2001 juniors 2000-2001 May 18, 2001 ‘shrek’ Released juniors

november 24, 1999 ‘Toy Story 2’ released

July 8, 2000 ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ Released

October 11, 2000 300 gallons of black sludge is released into the Mississippi River causing an environmental disaster Oil spills have impacted the ecosystems across the world. They cause endangerment to October 11, 2000 wildlife and plant life.

Since this oil 300 gallons of black sludge is released into the Mississippi River causing anspill, many more have taken place causing wildlife that we consume, such as North Atlantic bluefin tuna, to become endangered. environmental disaster

june 11, 2001 nintendo releases game boy advance

Oil spills have impacted the ecosystems across the world. They cause endangerment to January 15, 2001 wildlife and plant life. Since this oil spill, many more have taken place causing wildlife Wikipedia Launched that we consume, such as North Atlantic bluefin tuna, to become endangered.

If you say that you have never used Wikipedia on a school project you are lying.

Wikipedia became this magical site that contained every morsel of information for any January 15, 2001 school project you could ask for. We all have heavily relied on it, making it almost Wikipedia Launched essential procrastinators.

If you say that you have never used Wikipedia on afor school project you are lying.

Wikipedia became this magical site that contained every morsel of information for any school project you could ask for. We all have heavily relied on it, making it almost essential for procrastinators.

2001-2002 sophomores

September 11, 2001 Terrorists hijack U.S airlines and crash them in the World Trade Center, The Pentagon, and woods in Pennsylvania.

This is one of the most influential events to impact us today. When the towers fell, our world changed. Security increased in public areas, especially airports, and everyone began to worry about safety in America and many believed that war would be the answer.

January 8, 2002 No Child Left Behind Act The No Child Left Behind Act changed the academic system. The act stated that all students were to be given equal and fair rights to a high school education, no matter what disability was present. It emphasized that students who were at a “disadvantage” were to be given the same academic opportunities as others.

8

March 8. 2018

November 2, 2001 ‘Monsters Inc.’ released June 11, 2002 ‘American Idol: The Search for a Superstar’ Debuts on Fox design by Emily Hales

to worry about safety in America and many believed that war would be the answer.

2002-2003 freshmen

February 1, 2003 U.S space shuttle Columbia disintegrates in Earth's atmosphere killing all 7 astronauts After orbiting in space for 16 days, seven passengers aboard the Columbia Space Shuttle died in an unfortunate accident. The event was devastating, however it helped NASA. Due to the event NASA was able to fix mechanical and management issues that were present during the accident, resulting in safer models for future missions.

March 19, 2003 The US-led invasion of Iraq begin War has taken up majority of our personal history. After 9/11 and The Gulf War, many wanted more war to defend the United States. The United States invaded Iraq in hope to end terrorism, but in reality the invasion only caused further problems.

feature

January 8, 2002 No Childyear Left Behind Actevents take place, such as movie and book releases. Often, events that take Every popular The No Child Left Behind changed system.

The act stated thatofallthese students place the year you were Act born affectthe theacademic way your life is today.

Many events are the reason were to be given equal and fair rights to a high school education, no matter what disability why we are the way we are.

Each class’s birth year has contributed to today’s culture. What has was present. It emphasized that students who were at a “disadvantage” were to be given the your contributed? sameclass academic opportunities as others.

May 30, 2003 ‘Finding Nemo’ is Released July 9, 2003 ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl’ Released

Pregnancy Services STI Testing & Treatment

ClarityCares.org

9

feature

Spring break Vacation location suggestions S

By Grace Staggs

pring Break is a great opportunity to take time away from your normal high school life.

It seems that every year, people go to the same places (usually beaches in Florida). For anyone who wishes to mix it up this break, here are the top ten non-Floridian spring break destinations.

~New York, New York - Every person should have a New York City experience at least once in their life. Whether you prefer to go for a walk in Central Park, a skate at Rockefeller, or a show on Broadway, the city has something for you.

~Tulsa, Oklahoma - First home to singer Garth Brooks, Tulsa is a family-friendly town featuring both a zoo and an aquarium. If you are not so interested in animal life, there are also a few unique art museums open for visitors.

~Aspen, Colorado - If you are looking for a high (on adrenaline of course), Colorado’s slopes are some of the best in the United States.

Their family-friendly aura featuring various degrees of difficulty make for an adventure, no matter who you are.

~Island Park, Idaho - Despite most of Yellowstone National Park being located in other states, one percent of the park can be claimed by the potato state. Outside of the park, Idaho is full of mountains and natural attractions for when you need to get away from all the American industrial sites.

~Salem, Massachusetts - Visit this bewitching city to go back in time.

Best known for its historic Salem Witch Trials, Salem has made a living off of advertising its dark history in a new and interesting way. If witches are not your thing, you can visit the Ugly Mug Diner and Canobie Lake Park for a fun-filled day..

~Seattle, Washington - Channel your inner “Grey’s Anatomy” fan by visiting the city where it all went down. Visit these tourist attractions, but be careful and stay safe; try to keep yourself out of the hospital.

~Niagara Falls, Ontario- While most choose to flee to the south, find out what the north is all about. Don’t forget your passport when you cross rainbow bridge into Canada and visit the iconic Niagara Falls or just submerge yourself in the culture of our syrup-loving neighbors.

~Bloomington, Indiana - If you do not have enough time to stray too far, visit B-town, home of the Hoosiers. Make your own cookies at Baked! or just go out for a day on the town shopping until you drop.

~Atlanta, Georgia - Take a sip of Coke at the World of Coca-Cola museum as you enjoy the warm weather that comes with the south. Only 4.5 hours away from the nearest beach by car, Atlanta also features a 30-acre botanical garden and the CNN Center.

10 March 8. 2018

~Black Hills, South Dakota - Take a roadtrip with your closest high school buddies to visit four of our country’s most iconic presidents at Mount Rushmore. Follow up on this all-American experience by taking a hike through Badlands National Park.

design by Connor Reed

the compulsory social media addiction

A

seemingly endless stream of photographs, videos and text flash by, illuminated by the light of a small screen. Updates on the lives of friends and family, articles from blogs or news outlets, and posts from celebrities are all concentrated in one small corner of the internet, keeping our social media addiction as a real phenomena. People are hooked.

While self-discipline and regulating the time one spends on sites definitely can be implemented to combat the addictive force, these sites are designed with the intention to keep people scrolling and clicking.

Each place uses their own

specific formula to attract users. For instance, according to Time Magazine, Facebook hires a team of human analysts to refine the ability of their automated software to filter through posts to find the most potentially interesting stories and feature them on a person’s timeline.

In 2006, the implementation of a filter on Facebook feeds remained a controversial issue with student groups against the issue forming on the platform.

Now the use of programs which determine what users will see in their feed is normalized.

Websites like BuzzFeed train and direct their employees to make and distribute the most

design by Leonardo Saldivar | photo by Liz Hagan

popular types of content in the quickest amount of time possible.

YouTube favors creators who make longer and more trendy videos, giving them more monetization and publicity. Any video with a sensational clickbait title featuring a popular or outrageous challenge attracting immense amounts of traffic and is pushed onto trending and recommended pages. This squanders the chances for smaller creators to gain exposure and an audience.

While the immense amount of pages and profiles on social media saturate the platforms, inevitably creating a need for regulation, appealing to the

By Courtney Schnur

average consumer seems to be a major goal.

The development of automated programs allows sites to track a user’s search history to push products which cater to their interests. Advertisements appear based on what a person follows or looks at on a site.

Even the nature and use of Internet humor, playing on self-deprecation and memes which make light of everyday scenarios, emphasizes the need to remain relevant and #relatable.

Social media can be a beneficial tool for quickly sharing information and staying connected with others, but remaining aware.

feature

Junk Food Media

feature

Health vs. phones smartphones could be the cause of rise in mental illness

By Brayana Cacho

A

s the 21st century progresses with its advancements in technology, smartphones have impacted a majority of the population.

People have caught on to the notion that the devices may be in control of more than just our social reputation — they may also dominate our mental state.

A Huffington Post study from 2015 shows most claim to spend only half of the time on their devices than they actually spend, showing that we have become far more comfortable with our smartphones than we claim to be. It is as if checking phones has become second nature to the human race, and it is only going to worsen as time goes on.

A survey taken by students of East shows that 70 percent claim to spend a majority of their free time on their phones, regardless of location. A Huffington Post study showing average phone usage to be 7-10 hours a day would easily be met if school and work were out of the question.

People are so concerned with getting more followers or views on their story that they forget about school assignments, chores and other activities.

With such a young group of people being introduced to social media, it is almost as if it is their fate to be consumed by this technology. Parents are now giving children devices at a very young age, which is not only is it harmful for develop-

12

03:30 Messages

67% Edit

8/10 students claimed to spend over 60% of their device consumption on social media.

13/20 students claim to spend at least 5-6 hours a day on devices 4/20 claim to spend at least 7.5 hours 3/20 students claimed to spend less than 3 hours a day 3/5 students admitted to forgetting about homework because of distraction caused by their phones.

4/5 admit they check their phone every time they get a notification Send

ing eyesight, but it can also have a negative influence upon its viewers’ mental health.

A Twenge study shows that a reason why more people are struggling with mental health is likely because they spend more time on their phones than they do with things that can benefit them.

People would rather be on their phones instead of doing chores, getting extra hours at work or spending time with family. Being productive can benefit all aspects of one’s health — and most importantly, one’s mental health.

Along with being unproductive, they are lowering their own self-esteem by viewing the “Instagram models” of their schools and envying them, and instead of focusing on positives of themselves, they focus on negatives. Mental Health America states that low self-esteem leads to isolation, loneliness and sadness, and sadness for long enough can develop into depression.

Along with depression, anxiety falls close behind as teenagers constantly monitor their phones and wait for notifications.

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, seek help and perhaps leave the devices at home.

feature

Drinking DebAte Discussing the legal drinking age in america

T

he United States differs from the majority in several areas, including which measurement system it employs, the laws it holds on obtaining a license, common rules of driving and, most notably, its drinking restrictions.

The latter is hotly discussed, for the most part, among teenagers.

The argument most often applied to the issue comes from 18-year-olds, whose options following their 18th birthday expand nearly exponentially.

At 18, teens are introduced to several aspects that will play into their adult lives.

It is the three years between legally becoming an adult and legally consuming alcohol that can trip teens up, though there are several teenagers still in support of the drinking restriction as it is.

“Twenty-one is good,” senior Alec Burnett said.

In other countries, drinking is strictly a social activity, available to those of a much younger age than

design by Logan Foote

By Cam Key

is allowed in America. For example, Italian teenagers are given the opportunity to consume fermented drinks such as beer and wine beginning at the age of 16.

The social mentality surrounding the consumption of alcohol in other countries focuses primarily on having a good time, unlike in the United States, where the idea of using alcohol as a coping mechanism is perpetuated heavily by Hollywood and on social media.

“As a dad, I certainly don’t want a lower drinking age,” AP Government teacher Troy Buntin said.

For adults, the main issue in reducing

the legal drinking age is the mentality that teens are too immature to regulate themselves under the influence. According to older generations, teenagers already misuse their technology privileges, and adding another layer of temptation would only make things worse.

Another issue for adults is the drastic change that has taken place with the alcohol itself.

“You could make a drink today that doesn’t taste like alcohol,” Buntin said. “When it doesn’t taste like alcohol that’s when you get kids who really get themselves into trouble.”

The official argument in favor of the restriction is that a higher drinking age reduces the risk of misusing alcohol at a young age, which may reduce the risk of

alcoholism later in life. This argument is quickly rebuked by teenagers in support of a lower drinking age. There is insufficient evidence supporting this claim, and as many teens would attest, alcohol addiction can occur at any age.

Specifically, teenagers who already drink illegally tend to favor the introduction of a lower drinking age and argue that alcoholic beverages are liable to misuse at any age, legal or not.

“Unfortunately, people are going to do what they want,” Burnett said.

The problem for these teens is that it takes more than a few outspoken people to change a law. For legislation to be introduced, expressing interest in a change is the first step. However, ongoing support and demand for the change are key in a bill’s longevity and eventual passing.

“Unfortunately, people are going to do what they want,” said Burnett.

The problem for these teens is that it takes more than a few outspoken people to change a law.

Expressing interest in a change is the first step. However, ongoing support and demand for the change are key in a bill’s longevity and eventual passing.

March 8. 2018

13

14

sports culture in indiana has changed over time, so is basketball still the top sport?

15

By Ethan Glaid

W

hen people think about Indiana, what usually comes to mind, other than corn, is basketball. Basketball has been a part of Indiana since 1892, and its legacy still lives on today.

One night, a director of the YMCA in Springfield, Massachusetts decided to come up with a winter season game for a group of men. That night, James Naismith created the game of basketball. He tied two peach baskets to the ends of the gym, and players would pass the ball around to try and score.

As the idea of basketball began to catch on, Naismith found himself in the great state of Indiana.

At the time, Indiana had not quite found its sport. Baseball did not spike that much of an interest, and football was not as popular because of the fact that Indiana cared more about how tall the corn was more than who ran for three touchdowns last Friday night.

Basketball began to spread through Indiana like wildfire, and for good reason.

According to The Indianap-

olis Star, Indiana is one of the most agricultural states in the United States, which is what made basketball the perfect sport. Farming is best suited for spring, summer and fall, so when the winter rolled around farming was non-existent. With no crops to worry about and no lawn to mow, what else did Indiana have to do other than go watch Friday night games in the winter months?

Not only was basketball a great seasonal sport, it was also a very unique sport in the fact that it could be played by yourself or by getting together with some friends to play a quick pickup game.

As time progressed, the obsession over basketball grew and grew.

Brent Chitty, the boys’ varsity basketball coach, has seen basketball change from when he played to now as he coaches.

“Basketball was one class. In Indiana, [basketball] was a lot,” Chitty said.

Everywhere one looked there would be a basketball goal. Kids would have them nailed up all over the

place, and where there was a hoop, there were people playing at it.

The passion that developed for basketball was unprecedented and there was not that much love for the game anywhere else.

“I played in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and they like basketball a lot but it is not like Indiana where the game is held in very special places,” Chitty said.

On March 7, 1928, Hinkle Fieldhouse, located at Butler was created. This building held Indiana’s very first professional basketball game. With a university capacity of 10,000, all eyes were on the players. Being a basketball player in Indiana was like being a country artist in Tennessee.

Senior Wyatt Koopman has first hand experience being out on the court during those suspenseful, late-night games.

“It gets a lot of support just being in the state

of Indiana and [because of] how important basketball is,” said Koopman.

Looking at the state now, not much has changed with respect to our sports culture. Indiana still shows the passion for the game like it always has.

Indiana University and Purdue University are both ranked in the top 20 for college basketball attendance in the country.

While that statistic may not sound too impressive, Indiana University’s Simon-Skjodt Assembly Hall continues to sell out even with an average season this year.

The love does not stop at college though. Here at East a survey was taken of people’s favorite sports and of the 16 sports presented, 62 of 216 students chose basketball. This number is significant due to the amount of sports students had to choose from.

Ever since basketball was brought to Indiana, people fell in love with the sport. People everywhere in the state honor basketball preserving Indiana’s reputation as “The Basketball State.”

Junior Matthew Frost December 1891

November 1892

“Basket ball” The Evansville was invented by Journal and James Evansville Courier Naismith as the reported first game it is basketball contest known as today. held in Evansville.

March 11, 1892

First public basketball game was played in Springfield, Massachusetts.

March 16, 1894

“First” game played in Indiana between Crawfordsville and Lafayette YMCA basketball teams.

1899

1977-1978

Columbus East men’s basketball is a state finalist after winning regionals.

March 7, 1928

December 12, 2017

2017-2018

Columbus East Columbus East men’s basketball men’s basketball wins sectional beats North for semifinals but loses the first time since sectional 2015. championship.

1996

2017-2018

February 2, 2018

Senda Berenson The first official Columbus East Columbus East Columbus East adapted the rules college basketball men’s basketball women’s basket- women’s basketfor women and game was hosted at won sectionals for ball beat Columball wins in introduced the the Hinkle Fieldthe first time since sectionals and bus North for the game at Smith house in Butler 1977 and for the first time in 7 (11 advances to College.

University. last time ever since. or 12 games) regional years. semifinals.

Sources: Indiana Historical Bureau | MaxPreps

16 March 8. 2018

design by Aliza Presto | photo by Meg Holl

As a state with a variety opinions, basketball seems to have a clear impact all across the state.

La Lumiere | La Porte, IN High school in Indiana with the most college recruits

Notre Dame | Notre Dame, IN #1 ranked mens college team in Indiana

New Castle Fieldhouse | New Castle, IN Largest high school gym in the world - capacity of 9,325

“hoosiers” | knightstown, IN Famous film “Hoosiers” shot in 1985

Rikki Harris | Indianapolis, IN #1 female recruit in Indiana N C

Southport Fieldhouse | Southport, IN First basketball game in Indiana played here

Indiana University | Bloomington, IN 5 NCAA team championships: 1940, 1953, 1976, 1981, 1987

Columbus

John Wooden | Martinsville, IN Inducted into the Hall of Fame for coach and player accomplishments

Larry Bird | French Lick, IN Retired Celtics player from Indiana

Romeo Langford | New Albany, IN #1 recruit in Indiana Sources: Rivals | Indianapolis Star | IU Hoosiers | ESPN | Biography | IMDB *Statistics based off 2017-2018

17

Basketball has a deep history in Indiana, but football seems to be increasing in popularity

By Max Nolting

I

n 49 states it’s just basketball, but this is Indiana.

Basketball is very important and holds a special meaning in the state of Indiana. The Hoosier state without a doubt has always been a basketball state and will continue to be a basketball state. The amount of talented players the state produces and the quality of basketball in the state is incredible.

From the high school, to college and even to the pro level, basketball means more in our state. To be able to play high school basketball in Indiana is truly a special honor and privilege. I have

been lucky enough to be able to play against some of the best competition the state has to offer in some very special environments.

The rich tradition that each high school gym holds gives each basketball game that special touch. I have personally been to a high school game in Indiana that had around 8,000 spectators in attendance, and it was not even the state champi-

onship game. No other state is packing gyms like Indiana is.

People in this state love their basketball, and they love to watch competitive games, something that is abundant in this state.

Not only is the high school level deeply rooted in tradition and meaning, but at the college level you can find some of the most devoted fans and talented basketball players. If you don’t

M

uch has changed over time in Indiana. Especially as far as the sports landscape is concerned, interests are really beginning to differ from the suspected norm. The tradition is that Indiana has always been thought of as a basketball state and even regarded as the “basketball capital of the world.”

However, in recent years, the script has been flipped and a state that was once the home of the hardwood has turned to the

18 March 8. 2018

turf.

Just look at the effect that football has in Columbus. Everyone is out on Friday nights in Columbus sporting either orange or blue to support their respective football team every week of the season.

Basketball hasn’t become an afterthought, but it’s barely even

comparable to football anymore in Columbus.

Whether it’s due to success or just a new practicality, sports fans are turning more toward football. The Colts have a Super Bowl championship and Indianapolis has also hosted a

think Indiana is a basketball state, then you need to attend an Indiana University basketball game. One experience at Assembly Hall will change your mindset of basketball in Indiana forever. Indiana loves their hoops and is, without a doubt, the basketball capital of the world.

Super Bowl which just helped to turn the tide more to a football landscape. Even with a lack of highly ranked recruits in football coming from the state of Indiana, it’s obvious that the talent is still there on Friday nights.

NCAA football and the NFL are taking over the landscape of the entire country with football never being more popular than it is right now. People thrive on the intelligence, personal drive and physical ability it takes to compete at such a high level week in and week out.

With football taking over America, Indiana is no exception.

Sophomore Olivia Linnemann, Senior Kristen Lyons, and Junior Zach Pierce design by Aliza Presto | photos by Noah Shoaf and Eli Newell

Inside and outside of their coaching careers, a few of the basketball coaches share their most important games to the biggest influencer in their life.

He Gi ad rls Co ’ J ac V h

CO AC H

What was your most important game?

By Yetla Reyna

When did you start playing basketball?

Probably when I was three years old.

And how long did you play?

I’ve been playing for about 50 more years.

Collegiately I played until I was about 21.

What was the hardest challenge you had to overcome when you played basketball?

I think for every good basketball player, the toughest thing for them is that basketball is a year round deal. You have to be shooting every day. It’s a high skill leveled sport.

ity s r h a v s’ Coac y Bo ad He JV ach ’ ys Co o B ad He

y t t i h c we R E H I E C ich A HM O ma C AC n CO When did you start coaching basketball?

My first coaching job would have been 1986. So about 32 years ago.

I think as a coach, the most important game that I’ve ever coached was one with a group a few years back during [Amateur Athletic Union] season that got us to the top four in the nation. And we won that game, the girls were settled with that and so as a result we lost the next game. That was a really fun run, but as a player I think one of the most important games I ever played was for the state tournament in the AAU.

ude.” “attitude is alt it

“...basketball is a year round deal.”

Cover

COACH PROFILES

Do you have advice from a previous coach that you will always remember?

Attitude is altitude. That pretty much sums it up. As long as you have a good attitude and you go out there and work hard, then the sky's the limit. And you’re 100 percent in control of your attitude, other people don’t impact that or should not be able to.

Are there rituals you and the team perform before a game?

What are they?

What was the hardest challenge you had to overcome when you played basketball?

Having to accept a role when I got a little older. I knew I wasn’t necessarily the top two or three players. I knew I had to find how to help the team, kind of swallow my ego, my pride, you know not be the guy that is shooting the most points.

What’s something you always tell your team?

There are a ton of rituals. Coach Brown is one of the most superstitious people I’ve ever been around, to the point that we wear the same socks, same shoes, same everything pretty much every single game. If we have a losing streak then we’ll change it up a little bit. The girls have their own little sets of rituals too, like walking up the same side of the stairwell, the same music we listen to. One of our favorites we listen to in the girl’s basketball program is Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars. They all eat mini M&M’s before games and stuff like that, so we all have little rituals and we believe it’s impactful in our performance.

I always ask them to play hard. Play hard and play smart. That’s what I always tell them and tell my daughter, if you do those two things you will always give yourself a chance and that’s all I can ask.

Who is the greatest influencer of your life, in or outside of basketball?

Well I think my fate, God is a big influence.

At this point I think my family, allowing me to still do this. I’m gone a lot so obviously I miss them. They’re just very supportive of me.

“Play hard and play smart.”

19

By Elaina Sims

Ron Novak, Law Enforcement and Keystone Teacher

Freshman Emma Mills

Bob Hartman, Business Management, Personal Finance, Accounting, etc. Teacher

Junior Alec Wise

Sophomore Annie Frazier photos by Elaina Sims

Students & Lifestyle

death of reading Effects of not reading on our generation

S

cholastic Kids and Family Reading Report states that “only 51 percent of children said they love or like reading books for fun, compared to 58 percent in 2012 and 60 percent in 2010…”

While this statistic may not appear to be a drastic change, it definitely demonstrates kids’ growing distaste for reading.

Reading is an important factor in learning. Books used to be where all of our knowledge was until technology blossomed.

The increase in the use of the Internet and accessibility to phones, computers and tablets are definitely factors in the decline of plea-

22 March 8. 2018

By Lexi Parton

sure-reading.

In the classroom, a few textbooks may be on hand but most resources are online. Online resources allow for copying and pasting, thus preventing students from fully absorbing material and furthering their knowledge.

It has been said that the decline in reading is greatly affecting the millennial generation.

“Newer generations are really lacking creativity and they use their imagination less and less due to the decline in reading,” sophomore Christopher Rios said.

Technology is constantly making new advancements, especially in regards to schooling. Rather than picking up a book to learn new information or answer a question, students rely on the Internet.

“I think that the less our generations read, the less work that is put into grades and school,” junior Traci Roe said.

Smartphones are one of the biggest reasons for the decline in reading as social media replaces books. Teenagers are too caught up in comparing themselves with everyone they do not take time to sit down and just read a really good book. So,

do smartphones really impact this situation?

“I think that if anything would be a factor in reading decline, it would be smartphones.

When we have social media, it gives us something to always be doing,” freshman Anaya Warren said.

A change may be valuable if one happens but it may take several people to make it happen. There isn’t a technical way to make teens read but persuasion and handing them a good book can help.

design by Robert Kanehl

I

received a concussion on Aug. 31, 2017, after hitting the left side of my head right next to my left eye. I still have not recovered from this incident after going to five doctors, missing five weeks of school in the first semester and completing physical therapy.

This injury not only affects my performance in school but also everything else in my daily life. However, the only effect that I had right after the impact was dizziness without a headache or anything of that matter.

I went to the doctor a day after the impact who reported that I had a mild concussion and referred me to a concussion doctor. A week or two later, I started to get double vision, which is where your eyes have a difficult time converging on one object, and this lasted for about a month and made it difficult to do anything involved with writing or using a computer.

I met with my concussion doctor and did some tests which involved counting down by three from 100 and saying months backward, which I

Sports

Perspective: Concussion Effects

By Nicholas VanAartsen

found difficult at the time. He referred me to a physical therapist because of the problems with my eyes.

With my double vision, I started going to my first physical therapist where I completed many vestibular exercises, which help the eyes focus. This therapy made the double vision go away after one month of going twice a week to physical therapy and once a week to the concussion doctor. Still, I took the ImPACT test, which evaluates concussions, and I did not pass all of its components.

After another month and a half of going to the two doctors, I took the ImPACT test again and scored at least 20 percent higher on everything compared to the baseline test I took before the concussion.

However, the doctor said that I still had a concussion because of the tracking issues and fact that I was still losing focus in my eyes. Although the test said otherwise, she had to refer me to another doctor.

Three months into treatment and I still had problems with paying attention, remem-

bering and my eyes. I went to the new doctor who gave me new exercises for my eyes and told me about another vestibular therapist who also gave me an assortment of exercises.

I went to the therapist every week and some effect of my concussion improved, but tracking and focusing were not helped. When this happened, I went to get glasses to fix my eye problems which have helped.

I went back to the concussion doctor one month later and was told that I still have a

concussion. There is not much that I can do about it besides only using the computer for 30 minutes every hour and spending 10 minutes on my phone a day. Now I have to wait until mid-April to go back to the doctor, and hopefully I will feel better by then and be cleared.

This is what I have been through with my concussion and demonstrates just how much concussions can affect people in their school and daily lives.

Concussion Symptoms Thinking/Remembering • Difficulty thinking clearly • Feeling slowed down • Difficulty concentrating Physical • Headache • Dizziness • Balance problems • Sensitivty to noise and light Emotional • Irritability • Sadness • Anxiety Sleep • Excessive sleep • Sleeping less than usual • Difficulty falling asleep

design by Logan Foote

25

Sports

aboysrunning start track

By Maggie Gregory

Boys track is set to see several similar returning aspects from years past alongside a few changes. There is a new track coach for the boys, Coach Pherson. It is his first year coaching track but he has coached several other sports making him very knowledgeable on training athletes. Athletes on the track team believe that he will translate well with our program.

The track season started on Feb. 12 and athletes have been practicing every day since then. All track members practice after school at 3:30 and are split up into different groups depending on what events they participate in. Right now everyone is deciding what events they feel comfortable in.

The goal as a team is to beat North and win conference every year even after the track team lost a lot of members last year. “East track is under the radar and we have something to prove,” said senior Zarrien Johnson-Bey. Current strengths as a team are strongest in the field events with good freshman class of jumpers coming in. The team has several multi-sport athletes, giving the team the eligibility to be stronger.

Johnson-Bey gave a little more inside on boys track and what his personal goals are for the season and future plans once high school track comes to an end.

What are your personal goals for the season?

Junior Jared Baker

“Some goals I have this season is to win conference in long jump and high jump. Take first in sectionals in long jump and place in state in long jump. I was fortunate enough to be apart of Indiana Running Club in Bloomington during the offseason and really take my performance to the next level. Breaking 22 feet in long jump and getting 6’5 in high jump are more expectations for me than goals. Eating healthier and participating in yoga for flexibility are going to help me reach my goals.”

What are your main events?

“My main events are long jump and high jump. I started track my junior year and felt those two events were my most dominating. My main focus is on this season, though.”

Future plans for track?

“I do plan on doing track at the college level. I am deciding between a few schools right now and plan to make a decision around April.”

26

design by Audrey Tian | photos by Liz Hagan

The girls track season started on Feb. 12. Practices are after school every day and occasionally on Friday mornings. A typical practice for sprinters involves a long warm up and workout while distance runners typically do longer runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays and track work Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

“Our main goal for the season is to have fun and run fast,” said senior Lizzy Frazier.

Frazier is a four year distance runner for the girls track team. “While the sprinters have a lot of talent, our best strength as a distance team comes from our compatibility, which makes it much more fun to work hard,” Frazier said.

Girls track is expected to succeed this season despite the low number of seniors this year, ringing in at a total of two distance runners, Lizzy Frazier and Kristen Lyons, and only one pole vaulter and sprinter, McKenna Downey.

Sports

Girls track

unified track

Unified Track is set to start the week after Spring Break on Mar. 26 with Natalie Knorr taking it on as her senior project.

Unified Track works alongside boys and girls track and allows the unified members to have a buddy to run or compete with them during their event. Unified Track gives everyone a chance to participate in a sport and be together and just have fun. It is not super hard or a time-consuming commitment, but it allows people to build amazing, lasting relationships.

The overall goal this season is to continue the success of last year. Although it is not very competitive and the main goal is always to just have fun, there is state competition and if you are fast enough you can compete for a state title.

Senior Morgan Meier, who has participated in Unified Track for four years, explained why she is passionate and what the overall goal is for Unified Track on a personal level.

Why are you passionate about Unified Track?

“It is a lot of fun and I get the opportunity to meet new people and build relationships with some really awesome students. I love that unified track gives all students to be included and involved regardless of ability.”

How do you believe this organization impacts those involved?

“It builds self confidence especially for students that are not given many opportunities to be involved with sports. It changes the atmosphere of East to be more inclusive.”

27

Arts & Entertainment

Student Music

S

ince the birth of SoundCloud and other music sharing platforms, student artists have emerged in almost every genre. As different groups and independent artists push music out into the community or on social media, the popularity of doing so increases and results in a burst of local pop culture.

What starts out as a few friends making music together can turn into an original album with a new audience from the community to fans all around the world.

Students create their own sound in order to properly express their thoughts and ideas to those around them.

They may use music as a way to

grow

SOUNDCLOUD

SOUNDCLOUD COLLAB

28

say what they otherwise are unable or as a new hobby.

Either way, it gets released for this generation and more to come.

The success of these young artists may be credited to the quality of their work as well as to local recognition and social media.

Music is also spread using events such as Nomad Arts in which groups such as Grow perform alongside other groups and various individual artists.

At the very least, the students have the satisfaction of sharing their hard work with friends and family.

Grow released a new album February 2 of this year. Their self-titled LP is spreading throughout East and into the surrounding community.

Feedback from the album has been mostly positive with the excitement of recognition and sound quality of the album. “I liked how professional it sounded, especially knowing that these are kids I’m around every day,” junior Sarah Estes said after hearing the album.

While most students agree on the overall success of the album, many have inquired about the band’s inspiration for specific songs such as to say goodbye (pt 1) and l/h/p/w.

The band only “grows” with the success of the album as students all over Columbus listen and share music with their peers.

Grow is made up of Alex Schumacher, Isaac Harper, Jacob Murphy, Dylan Erdmann and James Harrison. Listen to this album on growing.bandcamp.com or see one of the guys for a physical copy.

One of the opportunities opened to the public by the popular music platform, SoundCloud, is the world of individual tracks and group collaborations. This is especially popular amongst indie and rap artists.

At East, these artists include Aaron Sims, under the name Dummo Perky, and Shane Foster, under the name Shay. They have uploaded various music collaborations including Siege, KILLEM and Not The One. Not The One is essentially a diss track targeting another local artist, who had previously released a song entitled The One. While there seems to be a somewhat negative energy surrounding local artists on platforms such as SoundCloud, these students turn it into a way to express themselves and share their thoughts with others.

Listen for yourself and decide where you stand. You can find more work done

by Sims and Foster by searching “dummoperky” or “shaygotthek” on SoundCloud.

design by Annie Bastian | story by Abigale Smith

artist spotlight

design by Emily Hales | photo by Liz Hagan

how to avoid a pathetic aesthetic

S

By Eli Newell

pring is approaching quickly and with spring comes the opportunity to venture outside and capture a perfect photo. What makes a great photo? Is it a clear subject? Do you need quality lighting? Do you have to have Photoshop? These are some common questions you may ask yourself if you are trying to capture that perfect portrait for Instagram, take that artsy shot for your VSCO, or if you are just taking photos for fun.

All of these elements are important for a good photo along with the setting of the photo. Here are some helpful tips to guide your search for the perfect photo.

30

design by Emily Hales | photos by Eli Newell

By Isaac Harper

design by Robert Kanehl

Arts & entertainment

interesting reads GET LOST IN A GOOD BOOK

31

Dance Marathon: After months of preparation, 414 students gathered to help fight domestic and dating violence, raising a grand total of $184,370 for Turning Point. The picture above is of glow in the dark mini golf, just one of the fun activities that night.

Bring Your Tractor to School Day: Tractors lined up for Bring Your Tractor to School Day in honor of National FFA week. During FFA week, members of Future Farmers of America take part in many activities that are agriculture based.