Issue 5

Clarion The

InsideNow

“A Clear Call Summons All”

Online

February 28, 2014

Opinion

Feature

Sports

- p5 Comic Con

- p2 New phone policy - p6 Boys basketball

- p4 Giestings - p5 Military students

Connersville High School • 1100 Spartan Drive • Connersville, IN 47331 • www.chsclarion.com • Volume 100 • Issue 5

Winter weather wreaks havoc School board decides, announces make-up plans for snow days Katie Bailey & Erica Valentine

A Plowing snow as it accumulates, custodian Shawn Pflum clears off the courtyard during SRT on Jan. 16. January brought record-breaking snowfall for

Co-Editor in Chief & Staff Writer

record-breaking 51.6 inches of snow fell in central Indiana this winter, making it the snowiest winter in Indiana history.

December brought two delays and two snow days, but in January the snow and ice began to pile up.

Add to that eight days of subzero temperatures and wind chills bottoming out at -34 degrees, and one has the perfect recipe for snow days and delays.

Fayette County School Corporation broke all recent records with 10 snow days and 10 two-hour delays.

Speculation about make-up days ran high among students, staff and community members until the Feb. 11 School Board of Trustees meeting.

After a lengthy discussion, covering a

variety of angles and questions, the board voted to make up four of the snow days by extending school days at the high school by one hour, Monday through Thursday from Feb. 24 to April 24.

Two snow days were already built into the calendar. After listening to teachers concerned with making up days before the important state tests in the spring, the board decided to use Good Friday as a make-up day, as well.

They added the remaining three days to the end of the year, making the last student day May 28.

In terms of the graduation date, Principal Randy Judd said it would be “difficult but possible” to have graduation on June 1 if the students’ last day was on May 28. He noted that there is a lot of checking of diplomas and credits involved, not to mention determining final class ranks. If one more make-up day had to be added to the end of the year, a June 1 graduation date would not be possible.

Snow days continued on page 8

Students plan for next year’s classes central Indiana and led to multiple school delays and cancellations. Kennedy Ferguson photo

Seth Winstead

S

Co-Editor in Chief

cheduling for next year’s classes will take place throughout most of February. The guidance department started with the current freshman Feb. 10 and will work their way up to next year’s seniors. Scheduling should be finished by early March.

After checking the career planner and filling out tentative schedules, students will meet with counselors during English classes. The counselors will double-check course selections and answer any questions.

To make the process easier and to avoid possible future class dilemmas, students should pay attention to classes they have already taken and prerequisites for classes they hope to take. “You should keep in mind what classes you’ve had and any you enjoy,” Guidance Department Chair Jaime Hamm said. “One way you can tell what classes you need is [by checking] your career planner and transcript.”

Although the 2014-15 school year will not see any new classes, there are

still some changes involving classes and CORE 40 diploma requirements.

One of these changes is that the FACS class, Preparing for College and Careers, will no longer be dual credit. Instead, Ivy Tech credit will be partnered with the business class, Information and Communication Technology.

Another change is that four years of math will be required for CORE 40 diplomas for students who are current sophomores or younger. In addition to standard math offerings, some other classes that count as a math credit are business math, accounting and upper level science courses such as dual credit biology, physics and advanced life animal science.

The final change will affect future mid-term grads. “If you want to graduate early, you have to fill out an application,” Hamm said. “[This is] to make sure the students are in touch with what is going on.”

Some classes require applications.

“You have to apply for WTCC, then you can tour and fill out an [actual] application,” Hamm said.

Applications are required for mass

A participates at the Feb. 19 meet at Monroe Central. Katie Moffitt photo

12, algebra, geometry, U.S. history, government, economics, P.E. and health,” Hamm said.

Even though these classes are tentatively offered, a minimum number of students must be enrolled in a class for it to be scheduled. Interested students need to enroll before spring break; open enrollment is available until spaces fill up. The fee per class is $15.

Discussing class requirements with junior Katrina Austin, guidance counselor Jeremy Corn assists with scheduling students for next year. Seth Winstead photo

Academic teams commence season Katie Moffitt

Watching as a proctor checks his answer, senior Jacob Guttman

media, yearbook, newspaper, interning and co-oping, which allows a student to go to school for four periods and then earn credit for working at a variety of jobs.

Also, it is time to consider summer school. Taking a class over summer eliminates a semester of that class, which can provide a more flexible schedule. “We offer English 9 through

Staff Writer

fter three meets, the academic teams have accumulated six team firsts, two seconds and three thirds.

Additionally, students have brought home 24 individual academic ribbons.

At the Feb. 24 meet, the Science Team, coached by

Chris Dalrymple, placed first, while the English Team, coached by Laura Davis, placed second. Social Studies, coached by Shawn Curtis, and Interdisciplinary, placed third.

At Feb. 19 meet at Monroe Central, the English team and Science Team brought home first place honors, while the Math Team, coached by Made-

lynn Kitlinski placed third.

At the season opener Feb. 6 at Cowan, Science, Social Studies and Interdisciplinary earned first place, and English took second.

Each year the teams are assigned a different time period to study. This year they are studying the topic of the United States’ westward expansion.

Each team covers differ-

ent aspects of that topic.

In order to be ready for their competitions, each team meets after school at least once a week.

During these practices, they discuss the readings they have been assigned along with other resources used to gain a better understanding of the topic.

Academic continued on page 8

Opinion

page 2 ‹ Clarion

February 28, 2014

Students take love too far

Staff Editorial

E

very day we see it, whether it be during passing period, at lunch, or before or after school. Public displays of affection are most certainly not strangers to the staff and students. But, is it really necessary for students to hold their significant other tightly and gaze into their eyes like one of them is going off to war?

No matter where one walks in the school, it always seems like there is a couple who hangs onto each other like it’s the last time they’ll ever be together. Sure, it’s understandable to express some sort of physical affection towards a loved one. After all, we’re high school students, so the relationship is “bound to last forever” and is the most meaningful thing in our lives; but is tonsildiving in a public facility

really needed because history class may keep the two apart for 50 minutes?

From the student standpoint, this is an issue for the ones involved, because they could possibly get in trouble if they don’t ease up off their partner.

Possible consequences could include anything from detention to suspension, depending on how many times a student violates the rule.

While it’s an issue for the couples, it’s even more of a problem for the bystanders who have to witness the over-the-top affection every day.

Many students don’t enjoy walking to class and seeing couples all up on each other. Whether it bugs a student or not, consideration and respect should still be given to others.

Not only does PDA occur during school, but it happens copiously at school functions. No mat-

ter what dance one goes to, there are always people “grinding” on each other. If dancing is shared between couples, how is grinding on your partner in front of a crowd of people in any way respectful to both the crowd and your part-

ner? This is 2014; surely there are alternative dance moves that don’t consist of practically having clothed sex. Have some decency.

Affection is something that certainly shouldn’t be outlawed, because it’s natural. But would stu-

Technology trial continues

dents find it acceptable if husband and wife teachers “swapped spit” during passing periods?

To solve this problem, respect the rules and other people by tuning down on the affection and saving it for a more appropriate time.

Rocks&Roses Roses to

The custodians for their frequent (nonstop?) snow removal. Speech team for battling the weather to get to meets. Diver Cory Rufin, who advanced to Regional, and swimmer Andrew Bernzott, who advanced to State. Junior Colton Gonzalez, who advanced to State in wrestling. Chartwells for giving students free lunch The School-Wide Positive Behavior & Support Intervention Committee for hanging over 1,100 Valentines around the school. FFA for the FFA Week activities. Athletic Director Brent Duncan and athletic secretary Wendy Sargent for rescheduling athletic events due to snow. Senior Jacob Guttman for being a National Merit Scholarship finalist. Band and choir members who advanced to State with their solos and ensembles. The guidance dept. for being recognized by the American School Counselor Association as an ASCA Model Program.

Students’ actions will decide new technology usage policy Staff Editorial

F

Martin Hoffman photo illustration

Clarion The

Connersville High School 1100 Spartan Drive Connersville, IN 47331 www.chsclarion.com

or years, students have been asking to use their phones and electronic devices during passing periods and lunch, and now they finally have their chance.

Beginning Feb. 10, students were given a one-week “trial” opportunity to show whether they could responsibly use electronic devices, including cell phones, tablets and laptops, during classes, passing period and lunch.

During class and SRT time, the devices should be used for educational purposes and should only be used with teacher permission. Before school, during passing periods and during lunch students can use their phones more “socially” as long as they adhere to the

high school’s acceptable use policy.

This opportunity will bring CHS out of the technological dark ages and into the 21st Century.

Students should remember that this is not their chance to have free reign of their phones and Facebook accounts.

Students who can’t realize this will jeopardize this chance for all students.

If the extended trial goes well and the new policy is adopted for next year, it will take technology to a new level in classrooms and will further utilize the Wi-fi upgrades that were added to the building last summer.

Phones can be used as clickers: teachers can post a question on the board, and students can answer via text. This way students can tell immediately if they are right or wrong.

Using devices also can open the door to doing online homework where students can see their grade right after hitting the submit button.

While the first week of the trial was a success, students will need to continue using devices responsibly to keep this privilege.

The ultimate decision about whether students will be able to use devices in classrooms in the future or whether devices will be forever banned rests on the actions of students during the remainder of the school year.

“A Clear Call Summons All” The Clarion is a student publication serving as open forum for student expression at Connersville High School, where it is distributed to all students, faculty and staff. While the staff aims to provide a balanced account of news, opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of faculty, staff, administration or school board. The editor is solely responsible for the content.

Editors in Chief

Katie Bailey

Seth Winstead

Principal

Randal Judd

Adviser

Lisa Morris

Rocks to

People who don’t clean up their messes, whether at lunch, in the hallways or in the bathrooms. People who walk slowly and obliviously block the hallways. Students who keep breaking the vending machines. Extended hours. Expired pop in the pop machines. Arctic weather.

Staff

Janet Cain illustration

Kara Dye Dakota Firsich Cara French Jordan Harris Ali Hostetler Gill McDonald

Michael McMillan Megan McNally Katie Moffitt Lilli Stinger Erica Valentine

News

February 28, 2014

Clarion › page 3

Band raises funds with dance Date for annual dinner dance moved to April 5

Dakota Firsich Staff Writer

T

Participating in last year’s dinner dance, sophomore band member Lilli Stinger serves guests dessert. Sam Fain photo

he band’s fifth annual dinner dance will be held Saturday, April 5 at the Roberts Building.

Because of all the time missed due to snow days and 2-hour delays, the dinner dance was moved from the original March 1 date.

This gave the band students more time to work on music selections for both the dinner dance and the solo and ensemble contests.

The doors will open at 6 p.m., and the dance runs from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.

First and second hour band students trade off the live music responsibilities, playing selections from the Big Band era.

Tickets are $ 18 and can be purchased from band students. The

dance is not formal, but students can dress up.

“I like that we get to dress up and feel pretty while at the same time providing entertainment for the community,” band sophomore Lilli Stinger said.

This is the first year the dance will have a theme. Decorations will reflect this enchanted forest theme. Those who attend the event can expect a best-dressed contest, music and food.

“You should go just to enjoy an evening of good music and to have fun,” Band Boosters president Deron Price said.

“Besides the dinner dance being fun, you get food and there’s a silent auction. We always have awesome stuff in it because that’s how we raise money. It’s just a really positive atmosphere because we’re all there having fun and dancing,” band senior Rainie Grant said.

The meal will be catered by Richmond Catering. The menu consists of chicken breast in wine

“

You should go just to enjoy an evening of good music and to have fun. Deron Price, Band Booster president

”

sauce, scalloped potatoes, green beans, roll and dessert.

Coffee, tea, lemonade and water will be served to drink.

Band Boosters host this dance as a fund-raiser for the band’s needs.

It is the biggest fund-raiser of the year, earning about $2,000.

The Band Boosters help manage the dance. Around 10 to 15 Band Boosters help each year.

Student attendance was low in the past, but recently the dance has gained popularity, according to band sophomore Katie Moffitt.

The band hopes to have 250 people attend the dinner dance.

Choir, band members advance to State Despite weather, musicians earn gold

Ninety-one band and choir students competed at the Indiana State School Music Association district solo and ensemble contests.

Band members competed Feb. 1, while choir students competed Feb 8.

Three out of six band students advanced to State from Division 1. Eighteen out of 24 choir students who competed at Level 1, earned gold and advanced to State, as well.

At the State contest choir members earned 22 golds and two silvers.

Three band members, juniors Charles Precht and Jordan Hazelrigg and senior Brayton Taylor advanced to State, and will compete there March 1.

For the ISSMA contests students master and perform a musical selection.

“It is good for students to compete because it raises their confidence,” Choral Director Roger Tyler said.

The winter weather impacted their preparation, since they lost much practice time due to snow days and two-hour delays.

“Preparing this year has been stressful because all of the days that we’ve missed.

That makes it a little more challenging to put it together, especially since the

band district contest was so early in February, right after all the days we missed in January,” Band Director Stephen McKean said.

“The most stressful part about preparing for ISSMA was trying to get everyone to practice because a lot of people didn’t want to practice, but did well at district,” band sophomore Noah Bevington said.

From the choir perspective preparation was stressful, as well. “The most stressful thing about ISSMA is how structured it is and all the rules you have to abide by. You have to have good posture and good facial expressions, you also need to enunciate words,” choir sophomore

Annie Taylor said.

“It’s all individual, so it all depends on how hard the person works, but obviously we have successful people in our ensembles so they usually do pretty well,” McKean said.

The following choral students advanced to State: Kennedy Crisp, Madison Miller, Olivia Ryckman, Abby Riedman, Almyra Manlove, Amelia Amrhein, Andy Stamm, Cameron James, Brayton Sizemore, Charles Sullivan, Katelyn Huber, Jordan McGraw, Halle Farris, Hannah Slagle, Olivia Miracle, David Cox, Michael Klein and Stephen Lentz. All seven ensembles advanced to State as well.

es out to the less fortunate.

Although not all the classes in this program are free to students, joining the ECHS program is free. All of the Ivy Tech dual credit classes are free. Most of the other dual credits are free, too, while some classes cost about $25 per credit hour.

If any student is still interested in the program, they should see their guidance counselors right away to apply.

There are two pathways available: STEM and business. STEM covers science, technology, engineering and math classes.

Students who enroll in the STEM program are able to graduate with a Core 40 and Academic Honors diploma, as well as gaining 10 college credits.

Business pathway students can receive a Core 40 diploma, five college credits and a Technical Honors diploma.

However this pathway does not restrict a student just to Technical Honors.

“The ECHS program aligns very well with the Academic Honors diploma,” Hamm said.

ECHS classes are different from Advanced Placement courses. “[The difference between AP courses and ECHS is that] ECHS is AP with a purpose,” Hamm said. Instead of taking “random” AP courses, these classes can go towards a selected major.

The ECHS classes aren’t replacing current college classes offered here, so the previous college classes will

still be available to take. The number of dual credit classes did not change with this accreditation.

“Having the ECHS designation will help us partner with more colleges and universities to hopefully increase our dual credit offerings,” Hamm said.

The ECHS program has

specific classes that a student must take and is different than just taking random dual credit classes.

These are dual credits intended to transfer as one complete unit, instead of one class here, one class there, Hamm said.

Kara Dye Staff Writer

In first hour band class, sophomore Noah Bevington and freshman

Jessica Arthur practice for the ISSMA State band competition. Kara Dye photo

provides opportunity for college experience

Program offers college credit earned during high school

Katie Bailey Co-Editor in Chief

Students wishing to get a head start on college need look no further than CHS’ Early College High School (ECHS) program. This program is a rarity in Indiana, with only seven schools offering it.

With this program, it is possible to complete not only high school, but also two years of college. The credits are through Ivy Tech, Indiana University, Purdue University and Vincennes University.

According to guidance department chair Jaime Hamm, “Pretty much any college in Indiana will work [with the credits].”

The program also reach-

ECHS continued on page 8

Participating in the Feb. 20 celebration for the first ECHS cohort, freshmen Spencer Bunyard,

Brendon Sasser and Sarah Burk use signs representing potential college choices. This activity was to show what pathway students think they will take. Rustina Raines photo

Feature

page 4 ‹ Clarion

Giestings: t’s hemistry

Lilli Stinger Staff Writer

“But baby, we have chemistry!” While the pick-up line is corny, media specialist Kim Giesting and science teacher Marvin Giesting give the overused line a new and more literal meaning.

The Giestings stumbled into their CHS love story by chance. Mr. Giesting wasn’t looking for love when he met Mrs. Giesting; in fact, he was a self proclaimed bachelor. Mrs. Giesting was a first year science teacher at CHS in 1985, and Mr. Giesting had been at CHS one year. “[She was] kind of cute, but I wasn’t interested in dating,” Mr. Giesting said. “In both serious relationships [I’d had before], they ended in break-up. I have a hard time hurting people. I actually had no desire [to start another relationship].”

“My first impression was that he was a nice guy,” Mrs. Giesting added. But she, too, said that she never imagined that the two would have any sort of future together when they first met.

“It was my first year teaching. We got to know each other during the school year because we both taught science. So we had that common denominator. We just got to become Kim and Marvin : Logan, Carson, gs in better friends as the school st ie G tinThg. ephotos courtesy of Kim Giesting year progressed. We didn’t es Gi start dating until after school let out for the summer,” Mrs. Giesting said.

Mr. Giesting, too, recalls what started it all. “We were in the same lunch groups; there was conversation just among a large group of people. [We]

February 28, 2014

just kind of got to know each other, being colleagues.”

Once the actual romance began, though, the Giestings soon realized that they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. They only dated about a month before becoming engaged.

The quick engagement might seem impulsive, but the Giestings didn’t think so. “It just felt right,” Mr. Giesting said. “[Friends and family were] quite surprised.”

It was easier than expected to be dating as teachers, though. “That [dating] period happened during the summer, so there really wasn’t an issue.

We didn’t really run into students or anything like that, so nobody knew we were dating,” Mr. Giesting said.

After spending 26 years together, things have changed. “The relationship is a whole lot stronger,” Mr. Giesting said. “Everything requires adjustment in the beginning. You kind of get used to your partner, and things that you maybe didn’t like, you just get used to and begin to accept.

The things you do like, of course, help keep you together.”

Mr. Giesting fondly recalls the best thing about his wife. “She puts up with me,” he laughed. “[She’s] dedicated and devoted to the marriage.”

Though working together might be a problem for some people, Mr. Giesting couldn’t really think of any major strains it puts on the relationship. “We talk too much about school; that’s about it,” he said.

Both Giestings, after 26 years, are willing to give advice to young couples just starting out life. “Be prepared to put up with things that you maybe don’t like in your partner,” Mr. Giesting said. “Eventually you’ll get used to it; you’ll accept it. It will be a part of your relationship.”

People can become discouraged when real love seems hard to find in today’s world, but the unexpected love stories like the Giestings’ can provide some hope.

Mrs. Giesting offered some final advice to beginning couples. “[Just] get to know each other. Have fun.”

Ideas for those dating on a dime

Dakota Firsich photo illustration

Cheap ideas to treat that special someone

Cara French

Staff Writer

Now that Valentine’s Day is over one might have trouble keeping the relationship alive. There are plenty of cheap places one could take that special someone.

Animal Lovers For students who love animals, the Indianapolis Zoo is a great place to go because of the wide variety of different animals to see.

It is both educational and interesting.

While some animals can’t handle the cold, many are still out.

If it is too cold to stay outside for long, one can explore the aquarium, which has many different species of sea animals, including smooth dogfish sharks, sea horses, moon jellyfish and cownose rays. There is even a “petting zoo” area where vistors may touch the rays and the sharks.

Penguins and polar bears enjoy the cold and are

always on display.

Dolphin shows are included in the price of admission, but one must pick them up when one checks in and they have specific show times.

The forest building has different species of bats and otters one can see. The desert area is always heated so the meerkats, snakes and lizards will always be on display.

Parking is $6 and tickets for two adults are $20.

If one gets tickets online it is only $18. Face paintings and glitter tattoos are available for $5 each. A good way to save is to pack snacks and drinks and take them instead of buying them there.

Book Lovers If one is looking for a cool place to hang out with that special someone and some friends, then Brian’s Bookstore would be a good place to go.

Located at 408 N. Central Avenue, the bookstore is a great place to get cof-

Question&Answer “You eat Chinese food and watch movies.“ Treasure Isaacs , 09

fee and cookies and look at books and magazines.

They are open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A large regular coffee is $1.69, and specialty coffee drinks and frappes are available, as well. Soups, sandwiches and desserts are also on the menu.

Outdoorsy Types The great outdoors is usually free, and the woods or a lake may be a perfect place for a date.

The shore of the Whitewater River behind Maplewood would be a perfect place to have a picnic.

Or one could head over to Whitewater State Park where admission is only $5. They have hiking trails and horse trails, as well as a beach and boat and canoe rentals. Hueston Woods in Oxford also has trails, a beach and rentals, and the admission is free.

The Romantics Movie nights at home are cheap and romantic. It’s

Even in the winter The Indianapolis Zoo can be a good date destination. It is located at 1200 W. Washington St. and is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday though Sunday. For more information call 317-630-2001. Mark Kaser photo, courtesy of Indianapolis Zoo public relations

nice to sit close and watch a good movie.

At Family Video one can rent a movie for one night for $2.79, get two new movies and two snack items for $9, or get two $1 movies for five nights and two snack items for $5.35.

Netflix is an inexpensive alternative to the theater. It offers TV shows, and movies for only $8 a month.

On iTunes one can rent a movie for around $3-$5.

Food Lovers For the first date with

that special someone, food can cut down on the small talk and make things less awkward. “[The best place to take a date] is a buffet because there is food, and food is great,” freshman Chloe Doerflein said.

At The China Buffet two can dine for about $13. The dividers around some of the tables allow for private conversations and the restaurant plays soft music at all times.

It is located 532 W. 30th Street near Kroger.

What is your idea of a perfect date?

“Going to the movies then coming home and having a bonfire. “ McKenzie Fulks, 10

“At night, under a full moon, in the forest to just sit and hangout. “ Nathaniel Arvin, 11

“Going to the movies then just hanging out at one of your homes. “ Tim Rusk, 12

Feature

February 28, 2014

Clarion › page 5

National comic convention debuts in Indianapolis, March 14-16 What: Comic Con When: March 14 -16 Where: Indianapolis Convention Center

Katie Bailey

C

Co-Editor in Chief

alling all nerds, geeks and lovers of comics, anime, graphic novels, books, movies and TV shows, both past and present: Comic Con, considered the holy grail of comic book conventions, will be at the Indianapolis Convention Center, March 14-16.

This will be Indiana’s first Comic-Con, and it will be produced by the same group that holds comic conventions in cities like Orlando and Nashville. In the past, Indiana has hosted Gen Con, a much smaller convention.

Three day passes to Comic

Con cost $45. A one-day pass is $20. “The people of Indiana want to attend a fun, reasonably-priced comic convention that they do not have to travel many hundreds of miles to get to,” managing member of Action3 Events and Promotions LLC Stephen Solomon said.

The convention features vendor booths, panels with celebrity guests and cosplay.

Cosplay, as all members of fandom know, is short for “costume play,” and is a performance art in which participants wear costumes and accessories to represent specific characters or ideas from their favorite comics, books, movies or TV shows.

“We have our own convention programming, as well, which will include a cosplay contest with $500 in cash priz-

“

I’m most looking forward to taking my son, who wants to make comic books for a living. Shawn Curtis, social studies

”

es and a trivia contest. We’ll likely also have speed dating and table-top gaming and/or card gaming,” Solomon said.

Evan Peters, who will star in X-Men: Days of Future Past will be a guest at the convention on March 15 and 16.

Autographs will be $40, and photo ops will be $35, and can include up to two adults and four children.

Daniel Cudmore will also be a celebrity guest. He, too, will star in X-Men: Days of Future Past, but he is mostly known for his role as Felix Volturi in the Twilight Saga.

Autographs will be $30, and photo ops will be $35. Also Maisie Williams, who plays Arya Stark from the show “Game of Thrones,” will be at Comic Con. Her autographs and photo ops will be $30.

Many have been waiting for years for Indy to host Comic Con. “It seemed incredibly odd that Indianapolis did not have a major comic convention,” Solomon said. “It is a great city in the heart of America. It seemed like a great opportunity to really create a fun convention. As well, we enjoy the Midwest. The people are so friendly,” Solomon said.

Convention Events Friday, March 14 Exhibitor Hall Theater: 1 a.m. - Cosplay Chronicle Saturday, March 15 Room #122: 10:30 a.m. - Cosplay 101 11:30 a.m. - Nerdy Trivia 12:30 p.m. - Nerdy Speed Dating Sunday, March 16 Room #108: 11 a.m. - RPG (Role Playing Game) 12 p.m. - Costume Prop Making 1 p.m. - Cosplay 102 2 p.m. - Star Wars Movie Poster Collecting 3 p.m. - Team TSD’s “Vampire Diaries” panel Room #109: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Who’s Yer Gamers presents gaming all day long

Students soldier-up for civil service Military pathways lie ahead for some seniors

Seth Winstead

F

Co-Editor in Chief

or seniors, graduation is three months away. While some may venture to college, or take a year off, or even go straight into the workforce, some plan to serve their country.

The thought of signing up and leaving home to experience loud, mean drill instructors, rigorous physical activity and possible deployment halfway across the world sounds daunting to most people. But for the few taking this path, it makes perfect sense.

“My decision to go into the military was a surprise to most of my family and friends,” senior Jade Knight said. “But what I want to do is prove to myself that I’m strong enough to handle any obstacle thrown at me.”

While Knight’s decision was more of a surprise, one student has planned to join the Marines for a long time.

“It has been what I have wanted to do ever since I was little,” senior Jerrad Dennis said.

In order to make their

plans a reality, they had to apply. For some, the process of joining wasn’t as bad. “The application process was easy,” Knight said.

“I told my recruiter, Sergeant Kolb, I wanted to enlist, so I did my paper work daily and a week later I went to MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) and swore in.”

Sitting in

“

It will be the hardest training of my life, but I will learn a lot from it.

”

Jerrad Dennis, senior Even though it was easy for Knight, in another recruit’s case, it was more challenging.

“It took me a month to get into the military,” senior Cory Rufin said. “It was extremely hard because you have to have a perfect medical history and be able to pass all of the physical fitness tests.”

The knowledge they

Question&Answer “I just want to make a career out of it.“ Cole Snyder, 12 [Marine Corps]

art class, Private First Class Jade Knight works on a project for 2D Art while dressed in his military fatigues. Katie Bailey photo

hope to gain from the military is diverse.

For Knight, it’s more personal insight. “I hope to gain self-discipline, selfless service and internal strength,” he said.

In Dennis’ case, the knowledge he seeks is more service-oriented.

“I would like to learn respect and how to work on helicopters and airplanes,” he said.

The recruits will face hardships. “The most difficult part will be the running,” Dennis said.

In Knight’s case, his struggles are more emotional when he thinks about his future. “I think I will struggle the most with leaving my wife and kids when I get deployed in the future,” he said.

Like Knight, another student worries about being stationed far away. “What worries me about being in the military is not seeing my family for a long time,” senior Alisha Lucas said.

Knight is a Private First Class in the National Guard. He will complete

basic training and plans to serve in the military “until they kick me out.”

Dennis is currently a United States Marine Corps “poolee,” a recruit who has signed up but hasn’t been to boot camp yet. He will leave for training after graduation.

Rufin is a private in the National Guard and will leave for training Aug. 5.

Lucas is not currently ranked in the Army, but she will take the ASVAB soon and will go into training over the summer.

Why are you going to the military? “[I’m going] because I view the Marines as the highest respected branch of the military, and I want a challenge.“ David Cox, 12 [Marine Corps]

“[I’m going to the military] for my family and college.“ Cory Rufin, 12 [National Guard]

“I’m going for the challenge, benefits and to be a part of a team.“ Tyler Hentz, 12 [Army]

Sports

page 6 ‹ Clarion

February 28, 2014

Bowlers battle tough season Jordan Harris

B

Staff Writer

owling season has ended.

The team had hoped to make it to the Regional again this year but fell short of their goal.



Eyes on the pins, sophomore Martin Hoffman works on his technique during a bowling practice ,as team members freshman Dakota Lykins and sophomore Emily Werner watch.

His highest score was 248, which put him within the top 3. Kara Dye photo

Throughout the season, the team practiced several times a week at the Plaza Lanes in order to place well in their competitions.

The team ended their regular season with a record was 10-3.

Sophomore Martin Hoffman practiced a lot to place well in

competitions. He tried to make it to the alley at least three or four times a week.

The team tried different throwing, spare and strike techniques in order to perfect their game to receive higher scores.

“We bowl a lot of different games and do different spare techniques in order to improve,” sophomore Lane Reece said.

Goals differed but making it to the Regional was a common goal among the teammates. ”My goals for the season were to set a high average and to make it to the Regional,” Reece said.

“I really just wanted to improve a lot. Last year was my first year on the team and we made it to the Regional. I had hoped to at least make it to the Regional again, whether it was as a team or individually,” Hoffman said.

“My goals for this season were for us to just do our best and just really have fun,” senior Suzanne Seibert said.

The team competed at the Sectional but didn’t advance. “[Individually] I didn’t do very well; I had a tough time. I should have done better, but I didn’t and I’m kicking myself for it,” Hoffman said.

Expectations drive team Michael McMillan

W

Staff Writer

ith a record of 12 wins and eight losses, the boys basketball team is looking to achieve their goal of advancing through the Sectional.

They’ve reviewed their tapes and have spent practice time perfecting their skills, running drill after drill to improve their oncourt performance.

“Our strengths are team defense and chemistry. Our players really like each other and work well together,” Coach Kerry Brown said. These strengths show up on the court since the players know how to read each other and what to expect.

There is always room for improvement, however.

“We need to improve our offense, defense, player skills and teamwork,” Brown said. These goals will be achieved through hard practice and dedication on

Spartanettes Guy Girl Dance 1. With their partners, Spartanettes Sarah Schutt and

Katlyn Bottomley take part in the annual Guy Girl Dance, Feb. 21 in the Spartan Bowl. Grant West and Caleb Day were among the guys asked to participate in the dance. Kara Dye photo

2.

All smiles, Spartanettes Sarah Burk, Michaela O’Brien, Taylor Wilcox and Kennedy Doyle and perform with the 30 members of their team. Kara Dye photo

3.

Happy with their performance, dance partners senior Presley Fohl and junior Alan Volz strike a pose for the crowd during the Guy Girl Dance. Kara Dye photo

“

Basketball to me means not playing for the name on the front or back of your jersey, but playing for your basketball family in the locker room. Dezmen Rent, senior

”

the part of the players.

“We try to identify what we need to improve on as a team, and we use our practice to correct those problems,” Brown said.

The players have been practicing about 10 hours a week. They ended their season with a 49-33 win against Greenfield-Central on Senior Night, Feb. 25.

With only a few more practices before their March 5 Sectional game against New Castle, the team has high hopes. “We hope to win the Sectional and Confer-

ence,” Brown said.

Not only does Brown have expectations to win, but his players do, too. “I plan to win Sectional and to finish above 500,” senior Dezmen Rent said. He says he is willing to do what it takes to achieve that goal and that practice and determination will help. Rent knows that he can’t do it without help from his teammates.

“Basketball to me means not playing for the name on the front or back of your jersey, but playing for your basketball family in the locker room,” Rent said.

The team dedicates a lot of time and energy to their sport and each player has a different reason for doing so.

“My favorite part is playing for the people on my team, and not anyone or thing else,” senior T.J. Billups said.

For the players on the team, their sport is more than just a game. “Basketball is a way of life,” Billups said.

“

My goals for the season were for us to just do our best and just really have fun. Suzanne Seibert, senior

”

“The Sectional was good. We had a chance to make it to the Regional, but in the last few games we just fell apart. We ended up placing sixth and to advance we had to place fourth, so our season was over,” Reece said.

“I think [overall] we did really well. We placed pretty high [in most competitions] for such a small team,” Seibert said.

For team members the love of the sport kept them playing, and many of them have continued playing even though the season has ended.

“I’ve been bowling since I was a little kid. I love the sport, and I tried out for the team last year, and it’s really escalated since then,” Hoffman said.

Others wanted a new experience. “I tried bowling because it was different and not a lot of people do it,” Reece said.

Boys basketball team evaluates goals; aims for upcoming Sectional success

Setting up for a free-throw, senior T.J. Billups takes his shot as senior Dezmen Rent watches at the Nov. 27 home game against the Union County Patriots. Kennedy Ferguson photo

Sports

February 28, 2014

Clarion › page 7

It’s ‘Moore’ than martial arts Gill McDonald

Staff Writer

What is Kuk Sool Won? It’s not a form of karate. It’s a Korean martial art.

When did you start martial arts?

Five years ago. My mom convinced me to go in. She wanted me to do an activity since I wasn’t doing any sports.

What is your uniform called and what does it consist of?

It’s called a dobok top. The dobok top is the actual top, and you have special pants and a special belt. Each time you get a new belt, you get a new rank.

How often do you practice martial arts?

Two days a week for an hour at Health Works gym on Western Avenue. I practice at home whenever I have a chance, in between my wrestling schedule and my sports schedule.

Do you enjoy it?

I like it a lot actually. I wouldn’t be in it for five years if I didn’t. I love knowing that my five years of hard work has paid off. It is interesting being able to progress in my belt rank.

Do you compete in tournaments?

Every year there is a St. Louis tournament just for Kuk Sool Won, and every now and then I will go, but there are also small tournaments sometimes in Richmond that I go to.

When did you become a black belt?

Two or three years ago. Every year there’s a giant testing seminar at the YMCA. The grand master of the association comes. He tests all these brown-black belts, which are almost black belts. He tests them, and each master tests a different group.

How many different levels and tests does it take to be a black belt?

There are 10 different levels a person goes through to become a black belt. To rank up to the next belt, you have to test with your teacher every four months.

How long did it take you to go from a beginner to a black belt? What’s next?

It took me about four years to become a black belt, and the next rank is seconddegree black belt.

When will you get a second degree black belt?

I’m not getting one [right now] because it is expensive and time-consuming.

Bold, Blond & Bald

Tradition bonds boys swim & dive teams “It’s fun to do our hair this way and follow tradition.“ Cole Barricklow, 10

What is your favorite move?

I like the butterfly kick, which is where you do a series of kicks over and over, and it just looks cool. It’s really fun. It’s like a jump spin kick.

What’s the best move you’ve ever done and when did you do it?

A jump high spin kick into a punching bag, and I did it last year.

How long does it take to perfect a difficult move?

A lifetime. A move is never really perfect.

What have you learned from Kuk Sool Won? You learn respect, self-discipline and you learn the martial art, of course.

Do you think martial arts is a part of your daily life?

Yes, because I use it in wrestling; I use it in every possible sport that I can. It helps me a lot in school work.

Have you ever taught anyone?

In class I have, but that was under my instructor. Since I am a black belt, I am legal in the association to teach, but I don’t like it.

Would you like to teach Kuk Sool Won? I’ve thought about it, but I wouldn’t want to because I would think that I would mess up and then teach 30 people the wrong way.

What do you hope to achieve through martial arts?

Since I’ve already received my black belt, it came with four college credits and a giant certificate that hangs on my wall in my bedroom, and it’s actually just for self-achievement. I’m glad that I finally achieved my goal of becoming a black belt.

That makes me feel better than any other achievement in my lifetime. That is the self-achievement I have.

Have you ever hurt anyone?

I’ve almost broken two or three people’s arms by doing techniques where you do an arm-bar. I’ve given people bruises in sparring, and I feel bad about that, actually.

Have you ever had injuries?

Not from martial arts.

P

rior to Sectional the boys swim team underwent a transformation.

First they bleached their hair blond. A week later they shaved their hair into a variety of Mohawks, and in the days before the Feb. 20 Sectional the boys shaved their heads.

While swimmers say losing their hair decreases their drag in the

“It’s just about giving everything you have at Sectional, taking off all your hair and putting your entire life into Sectional for a few days.“ Daniel Beckner, 12

Kenny Cox photo illustration

Freshman Talon Moore earns black belt, competes in Kuk Sool Won competitions

pool and improves their times, it also has become a team bonding tradition. “It’s a pretty cool way to unify the team,” senior Sam Gragg said.

Senior Andrew Bernzott advanced to State for the swim team and senior Cory Rufin advanced to the Regional for diving.

by Megan McNally, Staff Writer

“It brings us together as a team and shows our appreciation for the sport.“ Alec Metcalfe, 12

“Nothing makes you feel faster than when you shave, and you’re standing up there on the block; you’re so excited to go swim, and everyone’s counting on you.“ Sam Gragg, 12

Archery team takes aim for State Ali Hostetler

Staff Writer

Drawing back their bows during practice on Feb. 10, archery team members sophomore Colton Fowler and senior Sierra Lephew practice their aim in the lower gym with the rest of the team. Ali Hostetler photo

Despite having multiple competitions pushed back or cancelled due to weather, the whole archery team qualified for State at their first meet of the season.

The State Tournament will be held at the Pepsi Coliseum at the State Fairgrounds, March 22. Approximately 1,600 students will compete there.

If the students do well at State, they can advance to the National Tournament in Louisville, Kentucky in May. Due to all the snow days, they haven’t had much time to practice. “We’ve lost so much time to help our members get their aim points, especially at the long range at 15 meters, so we went into the qualifying events without sufficient practice,” Head Coach Maurice Green said.

While the weather set the team back, it wasn’t their only challenge. “Around half the 30 team members are new this year,” Green said. “[One of the weaknesses of the team is] having people who have never shot a bow and trying to keep a good pattern at the

long shots,” junior Landon Fowler said.

With the lack of practice time and the new members, it was hard to know what to expect at a competition.

“Before the qualifying meet our new members hadn’t gotten to be in an actual competition to get those nerves out, so they were going to be nervous going [into qualifiers],” Green said.

The archers have set individual goals. “[I want] to win at the Regional again and make it to Nationals,” Fowler said. “I hope to keep an average of 270 and help the team get better prepared for State and Nationals.”

At each meet only 24 out of the 30 archers compete. “We look at the scores, practices and the amount of consistency,” Green said.

“I would say our leaders are our seniors like Sarah Taylor and junior Kayla Cornthwaite,” Green said. “They are the more outspoken leaders.”

“I estimate there will be about eight meets[this season],” Green said. The team had a tough loss against Union County Feb. 11. Their next tournament will be March 8.

Opinion

page 8 ‹ Clarion

February 28, 2014

FFA Week activities Club offers lunchtime events to celebrate FFA

Writer’sCorner Surprised!

by Katie Bailey

I could watch you all day, Just to see the person you have become.

You have been through so much over the years: The depression, the self-loathing, the pain and fear, And you’ve always put on a brave face.

Those things made you grow and become who you are before me.

for more FFA Week photos, visit chsclarion.com

It’s hard to believe that I am looking into a mirror.

I am no Narcissus; I am just surprised that I have made it this far.

Destiny Russell, 10

I am surprised that I am here today, and I am who I am.

My broken past gives me hope for a fulfilled future!

Abby Gettinger photo

Stay with me

by Katie Moffitt

Jasmine Durham, 10

Katie Bailey photo

I’ll pull you in close, so close our noses touch.

You say, “I love you.”

I ask, “How much?”

Stay with me in this place.

We’ll help each other through.

Our hearts are intertwined; I can’t make it without you

Paxton Caldwell, 10

Sierra Shafer, 09; Wyatt Kibbey, 10

Katie Bailey photo

Snow days

Continued from page 1

Considering that, and fearing more bad weather, the board thought it would be best to move graduation back a week to June 8 so that seniors and their parents could finalize their plans.

“No one wants to move graduation,” Board VicePresident Warren Taylor said. “However, we can’t predict the weather, and we wouldn’t want to have to change the date again in a month after bad weather.”

While the extended days began on Feb. 24, on Jan. 30 the administration introduced a modified schedule to help compensate for lost class time.

The point of this schedule is to help make up some of the lost time in first, second and third period classes by making them longer on the next school day following any twohour delays. This schedule will have to be updated to accommodate the new longer day.

Also, the end of the third

nine weeks grading period was pushed back to March 21 to try to balance the last two grading periods due to the snow days.

When it comes to determining snow days or delays, Superintendent Dr. Russell Hodges has the final say so.

While this can be a lot of pressure, he doesn’t face this decision alone. Hodges receives input from Transportation Director Jane Oakley, the county and city highway departments, weather forecasters and people in the community whom he calls his “spotters.”

To determine whether to call a delay instead of a snow day, Hodges and others have to believe that there is a chance that the weather and/or the roads may improve within the allotted two hours.

According to Hodges, the hardest part about making theses decisions is that the decision impacts so many people.

Katie Bailey photo

Mark Beard, social studies Kara Dye photo

It’ll be gone within seconds; Wind pushing it away.

With each tick of the clock, you begin to stray

Academic

Continued from page 1

Videos and internet searches are used for visuals and definitions.

For the first few meets of the season, team members compete individually and their combined points make up the team score.

Later in the season, each team of five collaborates to come up with “round

We’ll hold each other tightly, and remain like that forever Don’t think about the future.

This moment is a feather.

table” answers to the multiple choice questions.

Ribbons are awarded to both the highest scoring teams and to the highest scoring individuals.

The teams’ recent successes highlight the importance of academics. “It shows our drive and ambition,” Curtis said.

ECHS

I’m desperate and begging.

I need you here.

Once you’ve left, I’ll live in fear.

Though I know you have to go.

I still try to ignore it.

Let’s focus on now.

Let’s live in this moment.

I’ll hold you in my heart with the memories we’ve made.

Memories I’m forced to cling to, when your love for me fades

Continued from page 3 However, in order to get the credit to transfer the student must receive a grade of C or higher in their courses.

All courses on the core transfer library will transfer to all public colleges and universities in the state of Indiana.

Private colleges and universities can and do accept ECHS credits, but each institution is different.

Once the credits transfer, they should appear on the students college transcript.

The grade from the class goes on the college transcript. When a student enrolls in college after high school, they must show the transcript of dual credits earned while in high school to the college registrar. At that time it will be determined how the ECHS credits will transfer.

To submit to Writer’s Corner students should attend Writers’ Club meetings in Paula Shouse’s room in W165.

To read additional student work visit chsclarion.com or scan this QR code with a QR reader app, like ScanLife, for your smart phone or tablet.