Cub Reporter Issue 8

cub

REPORTER

February 17, 2012

Lawrence Central High School, Indianapolis, Indiana

Volume 63, Issue 8

Drive or die?

Turn to page 14.

PAGE 2 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

cub

REPORTER ollow our

racks

NEWS

What’s inside

3 opinions 8 features 13 news

Clear, concise reporting on the good, the bad and the ugly.

Someone’s got to do it.

Students’ perspectives on problems affecting Lawrence Central’s halls and the world beyond 56th Street.

Contact us.

Lawrence Central High School 7300 E. 56th St. Indianapolis, IN 46226 (317) 964-7400

In-depth coverage of students, global issues, rising trends and the not-so-average Bear.

Tell us.

Letters to the editor are welcome, but they are limited to 200 words. The author’s name will be printed with the letter. Letters should not contain obscene or libelous language. Letters may be submitted in Room 132, placed in the mailbox of Cub Reporter adviser Elizabeth Granger or e-mailed to her at elizabethgranger@msdlt.k12.in.us.

Purpose.

To provide news to the Lawrence Central community.

Advertising.

Businesses may advertise in the Cub Reporter if their ads adhere to guidelines. The advertising policy is available in Room 132 or via email at elizabethgranger@msdlt.k12.in.us.

18 sports 24

arts+entertainment

Trends are changing, the popcorn’s popping and yesterday’s in is tomorrow’s out. Don’t worry; we’ll help you keep up.

Scores, matches, games, meets and touchdowns. Lawrence Central Bears are back and with a vengeance.

Corrections.

The Cub Reporter corrects its mistakes.

If you believe the Cub Reporter made a mistake in a previous issue, please let us know by contacting a member of the staff or sending an email to elizabethgranger@msdlt.k12.in.us.

Staff.

Editor-in-Chief

Samantha Strong

News Editors Caroline Varie Meredith Varie

Opinions Editors Carley Lanich Meredith Nordmann

Features Editors Katie Billman Sara Heiny

A+E Editor Kevin Kryah

Sports Editor Alex Kryah

Social Media Editor Lane Creech

Online Editors Leah Arenz Coleman LaBarr

Reporters

Avarie Bowman Candace Bullock Sally Finkel Esbeida Flores Jacob Helmus Glynnis King Molly Liss Kristen Swanson

Adviser

Elizabeth Granger

Principal

Thomas Oestreich

11

6 26

18 4

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 3

NEWS

Kiwanis honors Dunn

Special delivery

CarolineVarie

Tuesday’s celebration of Valentine’s Day brought special messengers with special deliveries. The LC Players sold ACTS OF LOVE and then delivered roses and other Valentine’s Day goodies during the day. The funds raised will be used to pay for upcoming expenses for the theater production class.

Senior Valerie Tubbs delivers a rose to freshman Brenda Aguilar. Cub photo/Colemann LaBarr

carolinevariecub@gmail.com Senior David Dunn has won fourth place in the Kiwanis (Downtown) Club of Indianapolis’ 37th annual Abe Lincoln scholarship awards program. He is the recipient of a $5,000 scholarship.

According to Steve Willem, chairman of the awards committee, the scholarships honor students “who have proven, despite overwhelming personal difficulties, that they can and will succeed.”

When he was very young,

Dunn was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and a form of autism known as Asperger’s syndrome. He said his stepmother convinced him he could be a success in anything he wanted.

Dunn now carries a 4.37 GPA and is ranked No. 8 in his class. He has also earned awards for his work in music and in journalism.

Dunn plans to major in political science at DePauw University or Hanover College.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re leftwing or right-wing,” Dunn said.

“If you can’t see things from both sides, you will never fly.”

Modified calendar still being tweaked MeredithVarie meredithvariecub@gmail.com The MSD of Lawrence Township Board of Education voted Jan. 23 to implement a modified calendar for the 20132014 school year. The decision was reached after the board voted in October 2011 to wait to make a final decision on the calendar until, at the latest, January of this year.

The January vote confirms the use of a modified calendar for the 2013-2014 school year, but the final calendar will be presented and voted on at the February school board meeting.

The modified calendar to go into effect in 2013 changed from the initial proposal in the fall. According to associate superintendent Janice Combs: (1) Instead of two weeks back-to-back in the fall, there will be one full week in October and a full week at Thanksgiving; (2) Instead of two full weeks

HANDS RAISED What students and teachers are saying about a modified calendar:

for spring break, there will be one week – with the Thursday and Friday prior dedicated as built-in snow make-up days; (3) The teacher and student start days were bumped back two days; and (4) A teacher records day was built in for the Monday after winter break, which means students will not return until that Tuesday.

Changes were made in part based on feedback from the public. The proposal presented at the January board meeting will be further modified concerning the start of school, the reduction of spring break and removing a parent/teacher conference day that would have been held before the beginning of spring break.

The changes came after other district calendars were examined and a township-wide survey was conducted.

During the fall of 2011, MSDLT conducted a parent survey.

Approximately 1,200 parents

responded; 52 percent were in stitute teacher costs (because of favor of a modified calendar; 17 better teacher attendance); percent were in favor, with res(3) If MSDLT does not move ervations; and 31 percent were in this direction, the district calopposed. endar will not align with other In addition to support from Marion County school districts. persons within the township, Additionally, the change the change will align Law- may allow students and staff the rence Townopportunity to ship with re-energize and other Mar...if we see the same rest through exion County tended breaks, 30 percent savings schools and Combs said. other districts have may save All 11 the disMarion Counrealized, that could trict money. ty districts, mean $300,000 to Combs said Combs addthe Board is ed, will be on the General Fund.” changing the some form of Janice Combs calendar for a modified calassociate superintendent 2013-14 for a endar by 2013of schools few reasons: 2014.

(1) Area “MSD Pike districts that have gone to this is a bit different—they are concalendar have found that their tinuing their current practice publics like the calendar better of providing a balanced calenthan the traditional calendar; dar option for their families,” (2) Area districts that have Combs said. “Hancock and gone to this calendar have real- Hendricks County school sysized a 30 percent savings in sub- tems are also moving to a modi-

“I think it would be nice to have the longer breaks. I think a lot of people are ready for a longer break, especially at those times of year. And it will be nice when planning a vacation.”

to school.”

Kristi Duff media assistant

“I don’t really care either way.

We are still going to have to go

“

Leigh-Anne Harr sophomore

“I think it’s good because if we go to school a lot then we get kind of pressured, and if we have a break then we will be able to loosen up more.”

Ivan Rodriguez freshman

“It’s all right. I’ll like having an extra week for breaks.”

Christopher Young junior

“It’s fine with me. I’d like to know when my breaks start and end.”

Jamal Anthony sophomore

“I would like the extra breaks

fied calendar.”

Although a final vote on the modified calendar is expected to be taken at the Feb. 27 school board meeting to determine the specifics of the 2013-2014 school year, further changes may come from the state legislature. Several bills have been written about the start date for all Indiana schools.

Currently, the bill in the Senate would require, if passed, schools to start after the fourth Monday of August. This start date has been moved earlier from initial proposals to have schools start after Labor Day. The effects of such a bill, should it pass, are unknown for school systems with modified calendars. “(Whether or not the start date would be affected) will depend upon the language of the law. Some language has been written that allows school districts who have moved away from a traditional calendar to apply for a waiver,” Combs said. during school year, but the shortened summer break would not be fun. The underclassmen are going to have ‘fun.’ ”

Barak Strahan senior

“I’ll be able to spend more time with family at Thanksgiving.”

Zach Mosier freshman

PAGE 4

FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

NEWS

Grabbing the ‘key’ to art success CarleyLanich carleylanichcub@

Junior Laura Coleman won a Gold Key award for a dress made entirely of magazines. Courtesy photos/ LC Art Department

Eight LC students are winners of the Central and Southern Indiana Region of Scholastic Art Awards. Senior Reed Price and juniors Megan Hunt and Laura Coleman won top honors with Gold Keys.

Out of 185 Gold Keys, 227 Silver Keys and 361 Honorable Mentions awarded, LC brought home 11 Gold, 13 Silver and 11 Honorable Mentions.

Entries in the annual competition are judged on creativity and originality. The Gold Key award is the highest recognition for the regional level of the competition. Art is entered in several categories such as photography, mixed media,

fashion and drawing.

Winners of the Gold Key regional award will move on to national judging in March for the chance to win a Gold Medal, Silver Medal or American Visions and Voices Medal.

Winning artwork will be on display at Clowes Memorial Hall through Feb 26.

“All of the art teachers would like to congratulate their award winning students,” art teacher Vicki Shafer said. “They have worked diligently to take their art to this highly competitive level.”

Other LC winners are seniors Kyle Becknel, Shaley Keller, Briana Davis and Esbeida Flores, and junior Lindsey Redifer.

See related editorial Page 9 Senior Reed Price received two Gold Keys, three Silver Keys and one Honorable Mention for his drawings. He also received a Silver Portfolio award. Price says that he finds everything around him to be inspiration. He was always artistic as a child, but he began taking his art more seriously in the seventh grade.

“I was so happy and so relieved when I heard about my Gold Key awards,” Price said. “And to know that all this hard work is paying off just made it that much better.”

“If I win at the national level or not, it’s a great achievement to even be moving on to nationals,” Price said. “It can open many doors for my artistic goals.”

Junior Megan Hunt won one Mixed Media Gold Key award and one Honorable Mention for Mixed Media. Hunt spends two to six weeks in class working on her art projects. Hunt noted that new skill develops with each project. Hunt learned of the Scholastic Art Competition through her art teacher.

“My motivation to join the competition was curiosity to actually see how my pieces would be judged by professionals,” Hunt said. She was surprised when she learned of her achieve-

ment. Until now, Hunt said, she didn’t realize she had the potential for higher competition.

“The contest results actually surprised me, because when I created the masking tape one it was mainly for entertainment,” Hunt said. “I am rather relaxed for the final judging because it is an accomplishment just to even be there in the first place.”

MARK

NEWS

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 5

YOUR

CALENDAR

FOR

Feb. 20: Presidents’ Day, no school Feb. 22: Freshman class ring meetings with Herff Jones Feb. 25: Lawrence Central Classic Feb. 27: School board meeting, 7 p.m., LECC Feb. 28: Parent class ring meeting, 7:30 p.m., auditorium Feb. 29: Leap Day, which occurs in most years divisible by 4 March 9: Variety Pops, 7 p.m., auditorium March 10: SAT, 8 a.m., enter LC through the Student Life Center

PARENTS

Adult volunteers needed The PFO Breakfast Club needs parent volunteers for the breakfast table in the Commons. Volunteers are scheduled to work one morning a month from 8 to 8:50 a.m. The job involves setting up the breakfast display, selling to students from 8:30 to 8:50, putting away unsold items, counting the money and turning in the day’s deposit to the school treasurer.

Volunteers are scheduled in teams of two and training is provided. If interested, contact Bev Fudge at 823-0203 or bdfudge@msn.com.

Snow day closings on website, local media outlets

Schools were closed for four days in February 2011 because of bad weather.

While this winter has been mind, snow days can still occur. The school district reminds families that information about school closings and/or delays will be posted on the school website, www. ltschools.org, by 6 a.m. In addition, the information will be available on local television and radio stations.

Information compiled by CR staff

show is “more of a crowd pleaser this year,” and their results seem to be reflecting that. Out of the five judges, two placed the World Guard in first place.

LC’s “A” or JV Guard has a show this year concentrated specifically on noise. “The Art of Noise” features four tarps that read “Noise,” “Poetry,” “Song” and “Rhythm.” Each word is paired with a song or poem, one of which is M.I.A.’s “Bird Flu.” Freshman Abbie Anderson said, “It’s not a typical show … (the hardest part) is ‘Bird Flu’ because the tempo is so fast and it has advanced choreography.”

Color guard director Becca Sullens guides the guards through rehearsals every other day at 6:45 a.m. to be ready for The World Guard or varsity show, “The Box,” is centered on nine boxes that are constantly moving around the competitions on Saturday with court. Courtesy photos/Meredyth Cross an additional four-day overnight camp for World Guard.

The World Guard will continue through the Indiana High School Color Guard Association competitions that will take New Palestine and placed third them to state finals on March 17 LeahArenz in their division at Borwnsburg. with the “A” Guard. leaharenzcub@gmail.com They will The World then go on Guard or varto the World show, The Color Guard competi- sity It’s not a typical show Guard Intertion season has officially begun. “The Box,” is on LC’s World Guard took home centered … the tempo is so fast national competitions that boxes second place at the Scholas- nine and it has advanced will take them tic World competition Feb. 11 that are conchoreography.” to the World at New Palestine, and the “A” stantly moving around the guard finished in fourth place.

Abble Anderson C h a m p i o n The World Guard and “A” court. Sophofreshman ships April 1214.

Guard had placed second and more Allison Last year third, respectively, in their first Reid said, “We competition at Brownsburg on use one flag, … a whole bunch the World Guard placed eighth of weapons, mostly rifles, and in State and the “A” Guard Jan. 28.

The Cadet Guard, made up we have one saber part in the placed third.

The guard’s next competiof 70 dancers from Belzer Mid- beginning.”

According to Reid, this tion is Saturday in Danville. dle School, earned a silver at

Guards place in top five

“

Small team, large accomplishments JacobHelmus jacobhelmuscub@gmail.com

Junior Samantha Strong captured first place in international extemporaneous and second in impromptu speaking at a Greensburg speech meet Jan. 16. Junior Adam Thorne came in sixth in dramatic interpretation.

Unlike the football or basketball teams, the speech team flies under the radar, largely because the team is so small —

there are only eight members.

“Having such a small team is discouraging since the team has been much larger and stronger the past 10 years,” coach Julie Alexander said. “However, ... now that I’m no longer at LC — she works at Scecina High School — students don’t know me, and I’m not there to recruit. I am grateful for the kids I have and am proud of them.”

There are eight events to compete in, but each team member can participate in just two. A

round of the competition consists of five to eight speakers in each event with one judge listening to all of the speeches.

After each competitor has delivered his speech, the judge will rank them from best, or a 1, to worst.

After the first round the speakers give the same speech again but to a different judge, and the same process occurs for three more rounds.

After the fourth round is complete each speaker earns a

cumulative score. If the speech received a 1 in all four rounds, then the total would be 4 points and just like in golf, the lowest score wins. ”The highlight for me this year so far is watching how much both (senior) Audrey Meyer and (junior) Adam Thorne have grown in their interp (interpretation) skills,” Alexander said. “They are amazing.”

The team’s next meet will be Feb. 25 at Columbus East.

NEWS

PAGE 6 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

Capturing the spirit of the

Wild West Juniors in Michael Burr and Richard Phillipy’s U.S. history/English 11 honors classes took a trip back to the Wild, Wild West. With many in costume, students experienced the days of lassos, bandanas and horses through the decorated Studio Theatre and a chance to rope a cow from atop a saddled horse.

Clockwise from left: Going in for the catch, junior Matt Dorsey prepares to rope Skinny the Cow. Junior Cassi King dresses the part. Burr helps junior Cole Hester saddle up on the fully outfitted model horse. Cub photos/Brendan Haney

Waivers available but conditions apply Students cannot expect ‘to get an easy pass to graduation’ SallyFinkel sallyfinkelcub@gmail.com Core 40 tests do not always determine whether a student graduates.

In many school districts, including Lawrence, high schools have the option to grant waivers for students who cannot pass their end-of-the-year assessments but continue to put in the effort.

This does not mean that a student can fail the End of Course Assessments (ECA) and expect to get an easy pass to graduation.

According to associate principal Kristie Corn, there are five components necessary to earn a waiver. To even be considered for a waiver, a student must fully meet all five of these components: • Have a solid 1.667 grade point average, • have 95 percent attendance, • have attended several remediation sessions, • have taken the ECA at least once a year, and • have a math and/or English teacher sign off on proficiencies.

Corn said there is not a single exception to any of these five components.

The waiver is a serious option, she said, that helps many

students. There are students in given a special privilege to our school who apply them- complete their high school eduselves in class but just cannot cation with a diploma, when pass the tests. normally they would not have Corn said it is important to had that opportunity. understand it isn’t a matter of Before the deal is sealed, laziness that however, the causes these students must students to Eight percent of last attend a meetseek a waiver. ing with the year’s senior class Students principal who graduated with waiv- has the deciwho are looking at the possion to agree ers.”

Kristie Corn with the cirsibility of a associate principal waiver are cumstance, switched from or to veto the regular study halls into reme- idea in its entirety. diation study halls. In the reCorn said that 8 percent of mediation study halls, the stu- last year’s senior class gradudents are assisted by teachers ated with waivers. and tutors in subjects that need The waivers were created attention.

by Indiana’s legislature. When These students have been they were initiated, it wasn’t

“

known how long they were expected to last.

Next year waivers may be discontinued by the state.

Corn said waivers have been beneficial to students.

The waivers are not used to boost graduation statistics in the state. “It’s more to help the kids,” Corn said.

Corn said she talks to many sophomores about preparing for the English ECA. She also speaks to them about their grade point averages so there are no surprises come their senior year.

She said it is important for students to understand where their grades stand in order to graduate and that preparation is the key to getting the honor of walking.

NEWS

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 7

NEWS

BRIEFS

Auditions Wednesday

Auditions for Variety Pops, LC’s annual talent show, will be 4-6:30 p.m.

Feb. 22 in the auditorium.

Instructions, information and a sign-up sheet are available on the door to Room 196. The show will be 7 p.m. March 9 in the auditorium.

AP registration to Feb. 25

Registration for the May AP (advanced placement) tests is to be completed in the bookstore by Feb. 25. The cost is $87 per exam. The state of Indiana will cover the cost of math and science exams for students who are enrolled in the classes.

Students who receive free or reduced lunch can have their test fees waived in all subjects. They must indicate their F/RL status when completing the registration forms.

After Feb. 25 a late fee of $40 will be charged; the absolute deadline for registering is March 9.

AP testing is in the first half of May.

Key Club collecting shoes

Key Club is collecting shoes and donations for an organization called Changing Footprints. To help protect people from diseases and as a gateway to their education, the organization collects, sorts and donates shoes to the homeless, disaster-stricken and underprivileged in countries across the world as well as here locally in Indianapolis. Shoes of all kinds can be used. Donations may be left in Room 133 before the end of February.

Pennies aid patients

Pennies for Patients, a fundraiser sponsored by the student council, is collecting spare change through March 2 to help leukemia patients.

Information compiled

by Cub Reporter staff

Viewing the decades

The English 11 Honors and U.S. History Honors classes taught

by Shari Jacobs and Judy Beckner strolled through the decades last week with the aid of huge posters displayed in their hall. Juniors Scott Swingle and Sam Torres, top, attach a tie-dyed shirt and bellbottom jeans to their 1970s poster. And junior Khadeisha Boone adds a camouflage jacket and helmet to the 1940s. Popular vote chose the 1850s display, done by Klrissa Basham, Laura Coleman, Alyssia Dawson, Meliyah Harris, Megan Hunt and Allie Powell, as the classes’ winner. Cub photos/Coleman LaBarr.

Número de detenciones fronterizas se redujeron EsbeidaFlores esbeidaflorescub@gmail.com Los arrestos en la frontera se redujeron considerablemente durante el año fiscal de 2011 mostrando que el número de personas que intentan entrar ilegalmente a los Estados Unidos es mucho menor que en años anteriores.

Durante el 2011 los agentes

fronterizos arrestaron un poco más de 327,000 personas a comparación con los de el año 2000 que fueron más de un millón.

La economía de Estados Unidos ha estado en crisis los últimos 3 años reduciendo el incentivo de muchos por venir a trabajar en el país. Por otra parte, la cantidad de agentes fronterizos se ha duplicado en los últimos 7 años, llegando a la cifra record de 21,000.

Aparte de los uniformados, se ha reforzado la frontera con intercepción aérea, video cáma-

ras, censores en el suelo y otros elementos que hacen cada vez más difícil y costoso entrar al país.

Mientras tanto, un cambio importante en la política de manejo de inmigrantes ilegales capturados podría ser anunciado en pocas semanas. Actualmente, los arrestados por las patrullas fronterizas son devueltos a México, al cruce más cercano. Pero las nuevas medidas podrían penalizar con cárcel a quienes sean arrestados. Con excepción de niños y

enfermos, los indocumentados podrían ser encarcelados de acuerdo a siete categorías que van desde aquellos que son arrestados por primera vez hasta las personas con historial criminal.

Lo seguro es que el ingreso de indocumentados a los Estados Unidos es mucho más difícil y menos deseable.

Lo más probable es que las elevadas cifras de indocumentados tratando de cruzar la frontera cada año no se vea más en mucho tiempo.

Number of border arrests decrease This is the English translation of the column above.

The number of arrests on the border reduced considerably during the 2011 fiscal year demonstrating that the number of persons who are attempting to enter the United States illegally is much lower than in years past.

During 2011, the border authorities arrested only a few more than 327,000 persons as compared to 2000, when more than a million persons were ar-

rested.

The economy of the United States has been in a crisis for the last three years reducing the incentive for many to come and to work in the country. For another part, the quantity of border authorities has doubled in the last seven years, reaching a record 21,000.

Apart from the uniformed officers, the border has been reinforced with air interception, video cameras, ground sensors and other elements that make

it more and more difficult and costly to enter the country.

Meanwhile, an important political change in policy that manages captured illegal immigrants could be announced in a few weeks.

Currently, the arrests by the border patrol are returned to Mexico, after crossing closely.

But the new measures could penalize illegal immigrants with imprisonment by those who arrest them.

With the exception of chil-

dren and those who are sick, undocumented persons could be incarcerated according to seven categories ranging from those who are arrested for the first time to people with criminal records.

What is certain is that the entry of illegal immigrants into the United States is much more difficult and much less desirable. Most likely, elevated numbers of aliens attempting to cross the border each year will not be seen in the future.

PAGE 8 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

OPINIONS

Just a minute with...

Got a minute? Then we’ve got some questions. With 2,600 students, it’s tough to know everyone. We’re taking a minute to get to know our student body. Match each student’s number with the corresponding numbers on the answers. Watch out, you could be next.

What was the last movie you saw?

1) Tangled 2) Paranormal Activity 3 3) Sherlock Holmes 2 4) Red Tails 5) Sherlock Holmes 2 6) Shottas 7) Love Don’t Cost a Thing 8) Underworld Evolution

If you could be a character in any TV show, what should would you be in?

1) Psych 2) Family Guy 3) The Mentalist 4) Good Times 5) Adventure Time 6) Boondocks 7) Spongebob 8) Boondocks

What is the last book you read?

1) Ender’s Game 2) Beowulf 3) Eragon Series 4) Urban Books 5) Feed 6) To Kill a Mockingbird 7) Dr. Seuss 8) Hunger Games

What’s your favorite class?

1) AP Stats 2) Pre-Calculus 3) Interdisc English/ Geography 4) Business Management 5) Algebra 2 6) Study Hall 7) Math 8)Gym

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would you like to see play the lead role as you?

1) Vin Diesel 2) Omar Epps 3) Jim Carrey 4) Tasha Smith 5) Taraji Henson 6) Mike Epps 7) Kelly Rowland 8) 50 Cent

1) Maxie Saxton senior

3) William Elliott

junior

5) Danae Liggins

sophomore

2) Jared Dinkins

senior

6) Frank O’Banion

sophomore

7) La’vasia Jones

freshman

4) Asmaa Fullen

junior

8) Jordan Richard

freshman

Auto Service Technology McKenzie Career Center If you are interested in a career in the automotive profession then we are your ticket to the future. We train entry-level technicians, parts personnel and service advisors. This is a two-year course. Our first year class is open to students who will be sophomores and juniors next year. Our students have the opportunity to get six college credits at IVTC College & Vincennes University through the automotive associate degreed course for free. There is a paid internship available for second year students. Check it out at www.ayes.org.

Students need to fill out an application and get it to their counselor ASAP. Applications should be submitted to auto instructor Don Sheets @ McKenzie Center ASAP.

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 9

Bring the focus back to the students The Bears’ Athletic Club The spotlight sways from the (BAC) and Lawrence Central students on the stage to the stuPerforming Arts Association dents on the field; however, the students in the classroom remain (LCPAA) have made it no small task to emphasize the success of under the dim fluorescent light their programs. Mounds of Bear bulb shinning monotonously on Wear were advertised when the any given school day. football team fought their way We honor athletes of charto State in 2010; meanwhile, acter and performing artists when the speech team made it of character; however, other to State in 2011, with a member students of character are left in earning his way into the national the shadows of their books and tournament, nothing but a small binders. While, yes, the top 30 announcement of the senior was made one class are honmorning. Like ored and celebrated annuWe need to create the students backed by ally, students a third category LCPAA and involved in of character - stu- BAC, students academic acinvolved in tivities worth dents of characacademics decelebrating are ter.” serve the rectoo often overognition and looked. The support of parents, volunteers students involved in robotics, and their peers. The students who travel to a national tournacannot do it alone. They deserve ment every year; in Academic the recognition their athletic and Super Bowl, reading up to four performing arts counterparts novels for a single competition; receive. By creating an organizaor Brain Game, art, journalism, tion similar to BAC or LCPAA, the speech team…, the list goes but focused on students’ acaon and on. These students’ hard demic involvement, funds can work, time and effort go unbe raised and attention can be noticed. But more importantly, their achievements go unnoticed. focused on their hard work and

“

achievements.

Countless performing arts trophies glimmer in the Hall of Fame.

Plaques, photos and trophies earned by our athletes gleam in the athletic corridor. However, academic recognition is simply Top 30 photos for each senior class.

Even the top 10 students of each class are no longer recognized.

While a wellrounded student body is worthy of applause, school is a place of education.

School is meant for students to broaden their minds and expand their base of knowledge. Schools are scrutinized based upon their academic achievement, not their marching bands or football teams.

We need to create a third category of character – students of

Students

character.

It is time for the excelling academic teams to be acknowledged for their achievements.

It is time for the students who succeed in the classroom to be recognized. It is time for the student athletes and performing artists to share their spotlight.

30-second editorials • Driving accidents due to using a cell phone shouldn’t be a problem in America anymore. Every state should have laws in place that ban all cell phone use while driving, regardless of age. Neither teenagers nor adults are experienced enough to balance both activities; it’s not worth it.

• It’s really cool that so many LC students have been recognized for their art. The student body may not be aware of how talented some of our artists are, but they should; we care so much more about sports than arts of any kind. Nothing against sports, as they’re all great, but students should appreciate all aspects of the school.

• Texting and driving is dangerous, period. Driving alone is multi-tasking, but adding a phone to the mix is just plain wrong. Not only are you

putting your life in danger, but the lives of those in your car and those of other drivers. It makes more sense to just focus on the road. That text can wait. Your life is worth it.

• Social Networking isn’t going away anytime soon. Yes, it is quite a distraction when it comes to getting things done, homework for example, but to say we’re better off without it is ridiculous. Facebook has made planning events much more easy and organized. Using sites like Twitter and YouTube can help you reach out to large numbers of people. Ultimately, social networking has brought the world closer together, making communication as easy as one, two, three.

•Black History Month celebrates the history and success of AfricanAmericans as a community. There

were many great minds such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks that helped shape our society into how it is today. Without these great minds many years ago society would have a very different view on race.

Black History Month should continue to be celebrated and our school should do a better job on educating students about the history, culture, and heritage of African Americans.

•The LC wrestling team has really come on strong this postseason. Six wrestlers moved on from regionals and into semi-state, three of which were regional champions. And one has qualified for state for the first time since Dominique Butts went in 2009. Keep it up, wrestlers!

See related stories on Pages 14, 4, 13, 11, 25

AND

Hugs

EDITORIAL

Growls

Hugs to the Giants winning, but growls to the end of Indy’s Super Bowl festivities.

Hugs to Groundhog Day, but growls to six more weeks of cold weather.

Hugs to the Super Bowl being in Indy, but growls to the Giants winning.

Hugs to after-school activities, but growls to loads of homework.

Hugs to great weather for the Super Bowl, but growls to the chilly times ahead.

Hugs to driving and texting, but growls to texting while driving.

Hugs to Temple Run, but growls to Demon Monkeys.

Hugs to Friday nights, but growls to Monday mornings.

Hugs to not getting much snow this winter, but growls to not having a snow day.

Hugs to winter sports, but growls to them coming to an end.

Hugs to Spring Break, but growls to waiting another month for it.

Hugs to hot chocolate on a cold day, but growls to not having any marshmallows.

Letters to the editor The Cub Reporter accepts and encourages public input through letters to the editor. The letters are to voice opinions or concerns to the Cub Reporter’s audience. Letters including libelous or obscene materials will not be printed. Like all materials in the publication, letters reflecting criticism should criticize issues, not individuals.

No letter will be printed without positive ID. The Cub reserves the right to edit comments for grammatical errors and for length as long as it does not alter the meaning of the comments.

Letters must be signed and will be printed with the author’s name. Requests for anonymity of the letters’ authors will be denied.

OPINIONS

S

peak Your Mind:

Modified Calendar

1) How do you feel about a year-round schedule?

1) No. 2) I like a long summer.

3)Ask why they’d want a longer winter break.

4) Yes.

Josue Lopez freshman

2) Why do you feel this way?

1) No. 2) I don’t like school.

3) Try harder.

4) I don’t think so.

Monica Guerrero

1) I don’t like it.

2) Summer is my favorite, I want it longer.

3)There are more things to do in summer.

4) Definitely.

Grant Sterchi junior

3) What would you tell someone who thought the opposite?

freshman

1) I prefer it.

2) More break time.

3) To enjoy a shorter summer.

4) Probably, yeah.

See related news story Page 3

4) Do you think you learn more or retain more on a year-round schedule?

1) No way. I would hate it.

2) I need a break from school.

3) You’re dumb.

4) Yeah, I forget a lot of stuff.

Cameron Garrett Aaron Massengill

1) That’d be dumb, not good.

2) I get burnt out, I need summer.

3) They’re entitled to their own opinion.

4) Nah..

sophomore

junior

Christian Fleece senior

it All

“No me gusta español.”

Lauren Hibbler, 10 “Just remember you’re unique. Just like everybody else.”

Connor Tuthill, 11 “I love Kendall Homan!”

Angelica Torres, 10 “‘I’m worth 12 of you, Malfoy.’”

Afton Goins, 12 “It is what it is.”

Kendall Homan, 10 “All is fair in love and fashion.”

Emma Engler, 9

1) Not necessary.

2) Summer is a good stress reliever.

3) I wouldn’t oppose it.

4) Kids will learn and it’s up to them.

1) It would be good.

2) It wouldn’t make school seem as long.

3) That it’s better 4) I would retain more.

Jordan Meenan

sophomore

Bear

PAGE 10 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

“If you can’t find something to live for, then you better find something to die for.”

Joe Leyden, 10

Destiny Casson

senior

“If beavers ruled the world we’d no longer have the cheese danish.”

Rebecca Duke, 11

We should be proud to be Bears Thinking Aloud

CarleyLanich carleylanichcub@gmail.com We spend roughly eight hours a day at school, not mentioning the time put in for athletics and extracurriculars.

LC, for many of us, is a home away from home. So then why does it seem like the LC name carries such a negative connotation with it?

Sure, LC has its troublesome students, but so do most other high schools. Just because there may be a few rotten bananas doesn’t mean the whole bunch is bad.

But what’s even more trouferent background or passion, bling is that when I tell friends and I love hearing their stories. from other schools where I How boring it would be if we go, I often hear, “Oh, you go were all the same. to LC.? Isn’t that school reIt’s true that I’m probably a ally ghetto?” bit biased. I’ve And to never been to make it even another school.

There is no school worse, I But with all quite like ours. It’s sometimes of the awardhear these winning sports truly a privilege to very words and activibe an LC student.” in the LC ties LC has to halls. offer, there’s LC is not ghetto. LC is always something going on diverse. With a student body of and something that you can more than 2,500 students, there get involved in. LC, being the are many different people and large school that it is, provides cultures. Everyone has a difmany opportunities that you

“

wouldn’t ordinarily find in a small school.

Additionally, for the most part, I find LC students to be welcoming. Yes, there are cliques, but within those cliques are families. These are the people you see every day and couldn’t live without.

Before you decide to bash LC, think about it. There is no other school quite like ours. It’s truly a privilege to be an LC student.

So, next time you hear somebody say, “Oh, you go to LC?” don’t just shy away.

Tell them you’re proud to be a Bear.

OPINIONS

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 11

FACE OFF Topic: Should there be a Black History Month?

GlynnisKing glynniskingcub@gmail.com

rap

hic

/G

lyn

nis

Kin g

The month of February is a busy month considering it’s the shortest and sweetest of the year (Valentine’s Day).

But that doesn’t stop the groundhog from seeing his shadow, or the millions of NFL fans from camping out in front of their televisions anxiously awaiting the Super Bowl.

With all of these exciting events happening during this month, there’s one major event that can’t be forgotten: Black History Month.

Black History Month is an important time to recognize and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of AfricanAmerican heritage.

Since 1976, every U.S. president has made the month of February Black History Month. During this month bg

The idea of Black History Month came along in 1926 when Carter G. Woodson realized the absence of black history in history books. So he wrote his own rendition of the history of black people and made one week in February “black history week” to teach people what he wrote in that book. In the 1920s segregation was alive and people would not know anything about black history without that week.

But now, society is different. The meaning has been lost, and the extent of what is taught in school about black history during this month barely goes beyond Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. I assure you that 99 percent of you didn’t know how black history began.

One could argue that in a society where we focus on equal rights, this month makes people “more equal,” and I can agree with that. I mean, there isn’t any white history month to speak of (even though that’s because we learn white history in class.)

Our education system still lacks a sufficient amount of history about African-Americans.

Yes, we read “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” and learn a bit about slavery, but we

hardly learn about black leaders and inventors. Instead of addressing the problem that is our educational system, we continue on with black history month with hopes that it will soothe the cries of AfricanAmericans who yearn for a little bit more equality in their everyday lives.

The idea that basically an extended Martin Luther King Jr. day will suffice for over 100 years of African-American history is insane.

Anyone can agree that our nation — and school — is extremely diverse, and the lack of history about anything besides the one-sided story we read in textbooks makes no sense.

Supplementing this deficiency with a month is dabbing at the problem.

Simply put, in the words of Kanye West: “Make black history every day; I don’t need a month.”

Cu

CandaceBullock candacebullockcub@gmail.com

many schools take time to recognize and remember several AfricanAmerican leaders of our nation.

For example, someone may read a fact about a historical African-American each day.

Taking the time to celebrate during this month is a good way to show our appreciation for the African-American race. It’s also a time to learn about all the achievements that AfricanAmericans have done over many years of struggle.

However, there is also some controversy as to why AfricanAmericans have a particular month to be recognized. Some critics think it is OK to have this month to be recognized while others disagree, saying it’s not fair to have the shortest month of the year be the month to celebrate black history.

In my opinion, having this month to celebrate is a great opportunity no matter how short it may be. I say make the most of it and learn all you can.

There is a lot of important history to learn about African-Americans that schools and textbooks don’t cover. So this month ask a friend, relative, or do a little research of your own.

Let’s continue to show our appreciation and not forget about the importance of Black History Month.

Facing the subject: Do you think there should be a Black History Month?

Dajsha Brown, 9

“Yes, I do, to show respect and thanks for all the black Americans who slaved and went through a lot to stop slavery and segregation.”

“Yes, because blacks used to be minorities and now they’re not because they fought for what was right.”

Alana Jones, 10

“Yes, black history month tells about our history and celebrates what happened in the past to put light in the future.

“If there’s going to be a Caucasian, Black, Hispanic, and Asian month, then yes. That’s equality.”

Jameson Berry, 11

Dion Jones, 12 Cub photos/Glynnis King

OPINIONS

PAGE 12 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

Lawrence Central #winning From the Inside

SallyFinkel sallyfinkelcub@gmail.com There are five seconds left on the clock. Five… the ball rebounds off the basket. Four…the home team grabs the ball. Three… the star player darts toward the basket. Two… the score is 73-74. One… The ball soars through the air… We all know the story. The basket is made, and zero… the crowd goes crazy. The alternative ending to this tale, however, is different.

One… the ball soars through the wait, hits the rim, and dribbles quietly on the ground.

Zero… Silence.

Most school crowds would react this way. They see the

game only as a win-lose situation. You either win, or you lose. This year at our school, we should only be a win-win crowd. Our school spirit has increased noticeably in comparison to last year, and hopefully, this pattern will continue. The loudness and excitement of our school spirit on and off the court portrays our true feelings about Lawrence Central.

Regardless of the final score of the game, we should be proud of our students. The fact that an LC Bear would strive for the last second shot defines how much we want to win for LC.

Whether you want to believe goal for many of the gymnasts it or not, it is a fact. We work here. Sophomore Makayla hard to be a successful school Johnson always wanted to because in the end, we all care. participate on the team, but School spirit can be the line it was cut during her eighth between having a team, and grade year. having a team cut. Athletics For those of us in any sort give our students a chance to of extra-curricular activity, win, but without a team, that think of the family we have opportunity made. I know I isn’t there. wouldn’t want In the orchestra We work hard to be my school year of family, my a successful school Cub family, 2009-2010 the school was because in the end, or my Key forced into Club family we all care.” taking a tragic to have to loss. The LC experience the gymnastics same ending team was taken off the sports as the gymnastics family. With roster. For many of the more school spirit, it is with students, this was the only hope that we will not have competition that was truly to experience the same fate. titled a defeat.

Luckily, this sort of outcome “Things were being cut will not happen again for quite everywhere,” athletic director some time due to financial Sandra Walter said. “Everyone support. took a loss, and we took a big “Our board has been very loss.” supportive of our athletics,” The gymnastics team was a Walter said. “I’ve never seen us

“

LC’s athletic teams earn many trophies for their outstanding performances in games and competitions. Cub photo/Sally Finkel

be so successful.”

LC deserves to win in every aspect of our school, but in the end it’s up to us.

We must applaud our wins and learn from our losses. As American author Richard Bach said, “That’s what learning is, after all; not whether we lose the game, but how we lose and how we’ve changed because of it and what we take away from it that we never had before, to apply to other games. Losing, in a curious way, is winning.”

‘Curl’ your enthusiasm The Low-down

MollyLiss mollylisscub@gmail.com Frieda from Charlie Brown once said, “People always expect more of you when you have naturally curly hair.” As a person with naturally curly hair, I can completely agree with Frieda on this subject, and here’s why.

When the air turns warm and school has ended, a favorite summer activity is to go swimming. While this is super fun, when you get out of the pool you are faced with a dilemma. It’s called pool hair. Chlorine always

has an interesting effect on possible, but I digress. everybody’s hair, but especially There’s also the wind on curly hair. A person with problem. I’m not sure what straight hair probably can deal the world’s natural elements with pool hair relatively well, have against curly hair, but but when curly hair dries, it’s obviously they have some sort like the frizz apocalypse. of history.

It’s the same with rain.

Magazines also have ultraRain and curly hair do not get high expectations of people along at all. If you’ve ever seen with curly hair. I don’t know a cat really freaked out and if they think those of us with its fur fluffs curly hair up to about already know three times its every curly ...when curly hair normal size, hair trick in that’s what I’m the book, but dries, it’s like the talking about. frizz apocalypse.” they sure act This like it. Pretty probably much all the all happens tips for hair because curly hair has a mind in magazines only work if you of its own. Sometimes it just have straight or slightly wavy decides it wants to stick up or hair. For example, if I put out, or in directions I didn’t my hair in small wet braids even know were physically overnight, I will not wake up

“

with loose waves. I know this from experience because a few years ago I tried it, and it didn’t work. I ended up with separated sections of hair with a weird looking crimp to them. It also happened to be picture day; ah, that was a good day.

Not that I don’t love my curly hair—I really do—I’m just saying that Frieda’s quote is completely true.

People with curly hair go through a lot of trials and tribulations. But in the end, it’s nice to have curly hair. It gives a person character, and also it’s a known fact that people with curly hair are 60 percent smarter than those with straight hair. Actually, I just made that up, but it’s probably true somewhere.

FEATURES

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 13

Choosing to be

disconnected Students relinquish social networking through Facebook and Twitter

“If people want to talk to me, they’ll just call me or I’ll get an e-mail saying they are trying to reach me via Facebook,” Griffin said.

Unlike Robinson, Griffin doesn’t feel that Facebook connects family any CandaceBullock more than personally calling them and candacebullockcub@gmail.com asking for an update. Most of Griffin’s family contacts each other by calling or In a world where communication texting, so the use of social networking is key, joining the social networking is unnecessary. movement has become essential to “I’m not completely against all staying in tune with what’s happening things Facebook, but I do think that the around the world. Websites like communication on those websites gets Facebook and Twitter have more than in the way of natural communication.

400 million users (as of 2010) who are People speak in ‘text-talk’ and they constantly updating statuses about think that just because you ‘like’ their lives. But what if they weren’t someone’s status or they added you as available? For many students, this friend that you all of a sudden know scenario is hard to imagine. each other,” Griffin said.

“Social networking connects According to Griffin, the only people. You are able reason she made to find out when a Facebook her people’s birthdays freshman year was ...the communication are, you’re able to because everyone on those websites gets was making them. see pictures of your distant relatives in the way of natural Her Facebook had and talk to friends. more activity during communication.”

It’s important her freshman year for maintaining Maddy Griffin than any other year connections with senior because everybody people who are far played the games away. It basically keeps you connected,” with each other. But the novelty of senior Jared Robinson said. being able to add friends and play According to Robinson, being games wore off. connected through Facebook doesn’t “Facebook has kind of the same only keep you from committing “social statuses over and over again. No one suicide,” but it also keeps you in the says anything original and Twitter is the know about family members and same. People update about trivial stuff. friends that may live far away.

I can’t really get into it,” Griffin said.

“Facebook and Twitter can be used Griffin said there are many for good; it’s just that people use it to conversations that go on in school update about what they’re eating and that talk about stuff that happened on when they’re going to the bathroom, Facebook, but she doesn’t feel like she is which isn’t using the technology for all missing out on much. that it’s worth,” Robinson said.

“I understand it is a way to Senior Maddy Griffin feels the communicate and express yourself, but same. However, although she has both you don’t have to do it if you don’t want a Facebook and a Twitter, she doesn’t to, so I choose not to partake in it,” use them.

Griffin said.

“

Facebook by the numbers: 400 million active users 130 friends people have on average 100 million active users currently access Facebook on their mobile phones

60 million status updates are posted each day 55 minutes are spent on the site each day 50% of active users log on each day 35 million users update their status each day 20 million people become fans of pages each day 3.5 million events are created each month 3 million active pages Source/http://www.digitalbuzzblog.com/facebook-statistics-facts-figures-for-2010/

Cub graphic/Candace Bullock

PAGE 14

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 15

FEATURES

matter of

Life or Death LaneCreech lanecreechcub@gmail.com

Senior Lauren Hebel was in her car, driving to school, when she remembered that she had lent a textbook to a friend. She realized she’d need the book in school that day.

In a hurry and hoping to catch her friend still at home, Hebel whipped out her cell phone to send a text message about the book. As Hebel looked away from the road to send the short text, she swerved into oncoming traffic.

Hebel looked up just in time to jerk her car back into the right lane.

Although she was fine, she said the incident scared her enough to put the phone away when behind the wheel.

“I have never been so close to an accident before. I won’t make that mistake again,” Hebel said.

Texting while driving has become an epidemic due to the increased popularity of cell phones and text messaging. In a 2011 Harris Poll, 60 percent of drivers admitted to using a cell phone while driving, and 49 percent of drivers admitted to sending or reading texts when behind the wheel.

According to Channel One News, more than 5,000 people died due to texting while driving in 2009, and more than 450,000 were injured.

Texting while driving can be as banned in non-emergency instances. dangerous as driving while under This includes talking on a phone. the influence of alcohol. A study Laws like these are in place to done at the University of Utah found discourage drivers from texting that texting while driving delays behind the wheel. The fine in responses as much as having a BAC Indiana for texting while driving is (blood alcohol content) level of 0.08 up to $500.

(Indiana’s legal limit.)

According to Lawrence Police In other words, drivers can be as Department Communications impaired by texting while driving as Director Gary Woodruff, not a lot if they were intoxicated. of citations are actually given for One of the biggest issues with texting and driving. texting while driving is that teens The purpose of the increased know the risks but regulation believe they have is ultimately control over the to heighten situation.

I have never been so awareness about “I know texting the dangers of close to an accident texting while and driving is dangerous. I just driving. before.” didn’t think that As far as it would cause me proving somebody Lauren Hebel to almost run into was texting while senior another car headdriving, “We on,” Hebel said. generally do not According to a AAA survey, 32 look at somebody’s phone unless we percent of teens have the same view actually observe them texting while that Hebel does. driving,” Woodruff said.

The government and media Generally, the only time the have recognized that texting while police department would search driving is an important issue. a person’s phone is in the case of Many state governments ban either bodily injury. The police department texting or all cell phone usage while would then obtain a search warrant driving. Indiana is one of the states for the phone records. that has a texting ban for drivers of There have also been several all ages. public service announcements with For drivers under 18, all handcelebrity endorsers encouraging held communication devices are drivers to “X the Txt.” In other

“

words, endorsers advocate waiting until they are out of the car to send texts.

There is currently a bill called the STANDUP Act that lawmakers and supporters of more teen driving restrictions are trying to have passed.

This act would require all states to meet certain standards when it comes to teen driving regulations.

This act addresses curfews and when full driving privileges can be obtained.

Allstate Insurance is a supporter of the STANDUP act and more regulations for teen drivers. Allstate offers a Teen Driver Pledge as well as startling facts about distracted driving.

Keep the Drive (www.

KeeptheDrive.com), also sponsored by Allstate, is a teen-led organization that encourages teens to keep their eyes on the road. The group encourages teens across the country to participate in spreading the message.

The website offers posters, facts and other tools to assist in spreading the word, “to help you raise some eyebrows and awareness.”

This texting while driving epidemic plagues tech-savvy adults as well as it does teens.

“Oh man, I do that (text) and I really need to stop,” principal Thomas Oestreich said.

Five seconds is the average time your eyes are off of the road while texting. When traveling at 55 mph, that’s enough time to cover the length of a football field. (2009, VTTI) Cub photo/Lane Creech

Keep your eyes on the road - Keep your phone out of reach, like in the trunk or glove compartment.

- Buy a car with a manual shift, which makes it hard to text and drive.

- Pull over to somewhere safe to send or read texts.

- Consider the effects of texting and driving, which impairs drivers similarly to driving while intoxicated.

- Silence your phone or turn it off completely so you won’t be tempted to pick it up.

- Download an app on your smart phone to prevent cell phone usage while driving.

- Let your friends know that you’re trying to break the habit of texting and driving so they can support and help you.

Source/stoptextsstopwrecks.org

- Have a designated passenger to send or read important texts.

Texting and Driving

by the Numbers

11

teens killed every day from texting and driving

23

times more likely to crash when texting

34%

of teens admit to texting while driving

35

states that limit texting while driving

35%

decrease in reaction time when texting and driving

80%

of crashes are due to 3 seconds of inattention

91%

decrease in steering capability when texting

$500

maximum fine in Ind. for texting and driving Source/textinganddrivingstatistics.com, textingndriving.com, MCT Campus

PAGE 14

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 15

FEATURES

matter of

Life or Death LaneCreech lanecreechcub@gmail.com

Senior Lauren Hebel was in her car, driving to school, when she remembered that she had lent a textbook to a friend. She realized she’d need the book in school that day.

In a hurry and hoping to catch her friend still at home, Hebel whipped out her cell phone to send a text message about the book. As Hebel looked away from the road to send the short text, she swerved into oncoming traffic.

Hebel looked up just in time to jerk her car back into the right lane.

Although she was fine, she said the incident scared her enough to put the phone away when behind the wheel.

“I have never been so close to an accident before. I won’t make that mistake again,” Hebel said.

Texting while driving has become an epidemic due to the increased popularity of cell phones and text messaging. In a 2011 Harris Poll, 60 percent of drivers admitted to using a cell phone while driving, and 49 percent of drivers admitted to sending or reading texts when behind the wheel.

According to Channel One News, more than 5,000 people died due to texting while driving in 2009, and more than 450,000 were injured.

Texting while driving can be as banned in non-emergency instances. dangerous as driving while under This includes talking on a phone. the influence of alcohol. A study Laws like these are in place to done at the University of Utah found discourage drivers from texting that texting while driving delays behind the wheel. The fine in responses as much as having a BAC Indiana for texting while driving is (blood alcohol content) level of 0.08 up to $500.

(Indiana’s legal limit.)

According to Lawrence Police In other words, drivers can be as Department Communications impaired by texting while driving as Director Gary Woodruff, not a lot if they were intoxicated. of citations are actually given for One of the biggest issues with texting and driving. texting while driving is that teens The purpose of the increased know the risks but regulation believe they have is ultimately control over the to heighten situation.

I have never been so awareness about “I know texting the dangers of close to an accident texting while and driving is dangerous. I just driving. before.” didn’t think that As far as it would cause me proving somebody Lauren Hebel to almost run into was texting while senior another car headdriving, “We on,” Hebel said. generally do not According to a AAA survey, 32 look at somebody’s phone unless we percent of teens have the same view actually observe them texting while that Hebel does. driving,” Woodruff said.

The government and media Generally, the only time the have recognized that texting while police department would search driving is an important issue. a person’s phone is in the case of Many state governments ban either bodily injury. The police department texting or all cell phone usage while would then obtain a search warrant driving. Indiana is one of the states for the phone records. that has a texting ban for drivers of There have also been several all ages. public service announcements with For drivers under 18, all handcelebrity endorsers encouraging held communication devices are drivers to “X the Txt.” In other

“

words, endorsers advocate waiting until they are out of the car to send texts.

There is currently a bill called the STANDUP Act that lawmakers and supporters of more teen driving restrictions are trying to have passed.

This act would require all states to meet certain standards when it comes to teen driving regulations.

This act addresses curfews and when full driving privileges can be obtained.

Allstate Insurance is a supporter of the STANDUP act and more regulations for teen drivers. Allstate offers a Teen Driver Pledge as well as startling facts about distracted driving.

Keep the Drive (www.

KeeptheDrive.com), also sponsored by Allstate, is a teen-led organization that encourages teens to keep their eyes on the road. The group encourages teens across the country to participate in spreading the message.

The website offers posters, facts and other tools to assist in spreading the word, “to help you raise some eyebrows and awareness.”

This texting while driving epidemic plagues tech-savvy adults as well as it does teens.

“Oh man, I do that (text) and I really need to stop,” principal Thomas Oestreich said.

Five seconds is the average time your eyes are off of the road while texting. When traveling at 55 mph, that’s enough time to cover the length of a football field. (2009, VTTI) Cub photo/Lane Creech

Keep your eyes on the road - Keep your phone out of reach, like in the trunk or glove compartment.

- Buy a car with a manual shift, which makes it hard to text and drive.

- Pull over to somewhere safe to send or read texts.

- Consider the effects of texting and driving, which impairs drivers similarly to driving while intoxicated.

- Silence your phone or turn it off completely so you won’t be tempted to pick it up.

- Download an app on your smart phone to prevent cell phone usage while driving.

- Let your friends know that you’re trying to break the habit of texting and driving so they can support and help you.

Source/stoptextsstopwrecks.org

- Have a designated passenger to send or read important texts.

Texting and Driving

by the Numbers

11

teens killed every day from texting and driving

23

times more likely to crash when texting

34%

of teens admit to texting while driving

35

states that limit texting while driving

35%

decrease in reaction time when texting and driving

80%

of crashes are due to 3 seconds of inattention

91%

decrease in steering capability when texting

$500

maximum fine in Ind. for texting and driving Source/textinganddrivingstatistics.com, textingndriving.com, MCT Campus

FEATURES

PAGE 16 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

‘Something to remember’ CandaceBullock candacebullockcub@gmail.com

“It didn’t hit me until we were coming in through the Patriots’ tunnel and I saw all the people and thought, ‘Is this really happening?’”

These were the thoughts of ARC coordinator Deidre Gray right before she emerged to perform with Madonna in the Super Bowl’s half-time show.

Gray was referred to perform in Madonna’s half-time stage performance because of her work in the Indianapolis gospel scene. This allowed her and her fellow choir members to earn a position in the choir of “Like a Prayer.”

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and I will never forget it,” Gray said.

In the choir performing the song, “Like a Prayer,” there were more than 200 members.

There were nearly 500 mem-

bers in the entire cast making it the largest ensemble ever to perform for a Super Bowl. It was also the first Super Bowl that was streamed online.

In order to prepare for the show, Gray attended rehearsals every day the week beforehand. They rehearsed for long hours in the earlier part of the week, with stand-ins for artists like Cee-Lo Green, M.I.A., Nicki Minaj and LMFAO until they arrived later in the week.

Once they arrived, they only had two full dress rehearsals. According to Gray, the momentum built as the week progressed.

“Even though I had seen the show a couple of times before, it still felt like I was seeing the show for the first time,” Gray said.

According to Gray, who spends a lot of her time in the performing arts, this was literally a dream come true.

The choir that Deidre Gray was a part of surrounds Madonna and Cee-Lo Green during the song, ‘Like a Prayer’ in the Super Bowl half-time show. Source/MCT Campus

Making your schedule?

Enjoy writing and being in the know?

Think about signing up to join the Cub Reporter!

Pick up your application in Room 132. All applications are due March 1.

A writing sample and teacher’s recommendation are required.

FEATURES

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 17

The power

of WATER

CarolineVarie

carolinevariecub@gmail.com

Contaminated water from swamps is often the only accessible water.

Children like this Rwandan girl spend the majority of their time collecting water instead of learning in a classroom. Lack of education leads to unemployment and poverty in the future. With a well, this child could potentially have more time in the classroom and avoid poverty in the future.

Jamie Rahmany, a sixth grade teacher at Lawrence Township’s Sunnyside School for International Studies, is teaching her students more than math, science, reading or writing. Her students are learning about the art of saving lives — through water.

At the beginning of the school year, Rahmany asked her students to research the top 10 problems facing children their age. They found a reoccurring issue: water. The students discovered that economy, education, health and poverty are all linked to water.

“We looked at problems that kids our age face around the world, and we felt the most moved by The Water Project and how kids our age don’t have clean water,” student Dustin Gates said.

After dividing into groups and researching these issues, the students had to determine which country suffered most from the inability to access clean water. Kenya continuously appeared to be the answer.

They became “the experts,” learning about the water crisis from the inside out, and its effects on the world. They learned that dirty water can

cause a child to carry up to 1,000 parasitic worms in his body, and that women and children will walk for hours in dangerous conditions to bring back dirty water.

“The statistics were too staggering to ignore,” Rahmany said.

The students created a project called “One Drop at a Time” to raise money to build a well in Kenya through The Water Project, a non-profit organization that provides access to clean water.

“That was the thing I think we were most struck by; that these women would spend the majority of their day walking for water,” Rahmany said. “We talked a lot about being that thirsty to literally risk your life to drink water. It was something that resounded with all of us.”

The class hosted candy sales, penny wars, button sales and “The Water Challenge” to raise money. These fundraisers and donations, have raised $1,705 as of Feb. 8.

“The Water Challenge” was used to raise funds and spread knowledge about the water crisis. The students encouraged the school and the community to drink only water for two weeks and keep track of the money they saved by drink-

ing from the water fountain or ordering water instead of other beverages at restaurants. The money saved was donated to “One Drop at a Time.” Teachers who donated money then received a bottle of water.

“Every time the kids delivered a water bottle to a teacher during ‘The Water Challenge,’ they would tell them ‘here’s the gift of clean water.’ It was really powerful to hear them say it,” Rahmany said.

After a well has been dug, The Water Project will provide a tracking link so the students will be able to see the impact of their donations from thousands of miles away.

“Kids aren’t going to school because they’re sick from dirty water,” student Juan Lopez said. “Children will be able to go to school and stop worrying about dirty water.”

The students have created a blog, a Facebook page and a donation page, and they presented their project to the school board in January.

The class was also featured on WTHR’s ‘What’s Cool in School’ with Bruce Kopp.

“It’s changing us because we would just think about ourselves, but now that we’re doing the water project, we’re thinking about everyone,” student Cecelia Leon said.

Donate

to the Cause Funds Raised: $1,705 • • • • •

Goal: $6,500

Visit the One Drop at a Time’s donation page at thewaterproject.org/community/profile/ jamie-rahmany Contact Jamie Rahmany at jamierahmany@msdlt.k12.in.us Follow their progress on their Facebook page, One Drop at a Time Stay in tune through their blog page at iheartcleanwater.tumblr.com Buy a button for $3 from the students If they come up short at the end of the year, The Water Project will connect them with another group to combine funds and reach their goal.

Cub graphic/Caroline Varie

Two young boys in Sudan experience access to clean water an hour’s walk away from home. Rahmany’s students are raising money to create a scene like this: a village full of changed lives. Sources/ thewaterproject. org

PAGE 18 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

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Top Central Sound opens their show with a combination of the songs “One Night Only” and “Last Dance,” which includes a solo from junior Elle Krauter. Left Sophomore Marrialle Sellars forms one-third of the trio that introduces the all-girls section of the show, “Dreamgirls.” Below The closer of the show involves a quick costume change into ‘70s-influenced outfits. Cub Photos/Lane Creech

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CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 19

The

Left: The guys of CS move to the beat for the all-male portion of the show, “Step Into The Bad Side.” Cub photo/Lane Creech Above: Sophomore Bailey Garey performs “Over the Rainbow” for Sweet Sensation.

Courtesy photo/Dewey Swanson

Above right: Junior Perri Smith sings her part of the girls trio, which is the opening part of the show’s second number, “Dreamgirls.” Cub photo/Lane Creech

Competition seasons begins with a Central Sound Grand Championship KristenSwanson kristenswansoncub@gmail.com It involves waking up at 4 a.m., hours of tiring practice and exhausting workouts, but it’s not Army boot camp.

It’s show choir season.

Central Sound, LC’s coed show choir, returned from its season’s first competition, at the Shelbyville Singsational show choir invitational on Feb. 11, with a Grand Championship.

During the prelims, Central Sound captured honors for Outstanding Visual Caption, Outstanding Back-Up Band and Outstanding Female Soloist with senior Akiya Bryant.

Sweet Sensation, LC’s all-female choir, earned first Runner-Up honors and Best Back-Up Band at the same

(Central) Sound of

MUSIC

competition. excited about their prospects this year.

Sweet Sensation has only 11 returnJunior Mackenzie Spicer, who is in her ing members this year and is working second year of being in the choir, said on transitioning its 29 new girls. Junior the show is great, and she’s looking Whitney Shaw, who has been in Sweet forward to daily growth as a choir. She Sensation for three years, is excited said she believes the choir members about this year’s show. still have a lot to work on, though.

“I’ve never been this blown away “We really need to work on buckby the talent we have,” Shaw said. She ling down, focusing, and retaining the said she believes the features our director girls just need to work wants in order to reach on being confident and our best. I believe we I’ve never been maintaining energy. can get there,” Spicer this blown away by Sophomore Alana said.

Jones is new to Sweet Junior Tyler Ruch the talent we have.”

Sensation. She is excited Whitney Shaw is a third-year memabout the season and junior ber of Central Sound. thinks they have a good Ruch is also excited chance at winning. “We just need to about this season and can’t wait for work and make things better,” she said. people to see it. Although he says it’s Jones enjoys show choir and meetdifficult to get enough stamina to pering new people, but the hardest part for form a perfect 20-minute show, he still her is having energy by the end of the enjoys the competitions. show.

However, he believes there is still Central Sound members are also work to be done.

“

The Classic at Lawrence Central Preliminaries and festival divisions will begin at 8 a.m. Feb. 25 at LC. Prelim awards will be presented at 5:30 p.m., awards at 10:55 p.m.

Daytime only: $10 Evening finals only: $10 All day: $15 Children 12 and under: $5

“We need to learn to work hard every day and leave our problems at the door,” Ruch said.

Both choirs will continue their competition season Saturday at Center Grove.

And on Feb. 25, LC will host its annual Show Choir Classic. The finals will begin at 7 p.m. and Central Sound will perform at 10:30 p.m. with the awards presentations at 10:55 p.m.

Forty choirs will be competing in the Classic, and both Central Sound and Sweet Sensation will perform.

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PAGE 20 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

The Rhythmic Revolution Artist: Kellie Pickler Album: 100 Proof Genre: Country

Kellie Pickler’s third album puts aside the Nashville pop like her earlier albums and she goes looking for her country soul. 100 Proof is pure, honest and powerful. Not unlike her previous albums, it was in the top 10 Billboard already within the first week of its release. With a voice that reminds you of Miranda Lambert, she has the use of tough, country girl lyrics. It is evident that the previous American Idol finalist has moved away from mainstream into the realm where she truly belongs.

Even though the album is almost strictly country, it can also be relatable to other pop genres. Many of her lyrics

are co-written with Grammy nominated singer-songwriter James T. Slater and Leslie Satcher. The light and heartfelt lyrics about misinterpreted love and relationships are relatable to all ages, especially those in their teen years.

This album has a wide variety of range starting with her lead single “Tough.” The song portrays just that.

The upbeat song contrasts immensely from the balladlike song from the end of the album, “The Letter (To Daddy).” It is a perfect and pure way to end the album.

Similar Artists: Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Faith Hill

Rating: 1-2-3-

British musician, rapper and producer Taio Cruz became even more popular with the release of his third album TY.O on Dec. 2, 2011.

Cruz, who is known for his smash singles “Dynamite” and “Break Your Heart,” released this 11-track album that includes multiple genres of music including dubstep, rock anthems as well as Cruz’s bread and butter, hip-hop. The reason for such a simple album name TY.O is to show people how to correctly pronounce his name.

Rating: 1-2-3-

Artist: The Fray Album: Scars & Stories Genre: Pop-rock

Artist: Lana Del Rey Album: Born to Die Genre: Indie-pop

I recommend “Run for Your Life,” an honest, heartfelt song with meaningful lyrics.

Overall, Scars & Stories is an excellent album that combines elements of The Fray’s previous albums with a new, upbeat sound. The album features lead vocalist Isaac Slade’s unique voice and incredibly catchy tunes that will undeniably be stuck in your head, in a good way. This album is a must.

Similar Artists: Coldplay, The Script, One Rebuplic

Song Suggestion: Run For Your Life Carley Lanich

-5

Song Suggestion: Troublemaker Jacob Helmus

Song Suggestion: Tough Meredith Nordmann

Rating: 1-2-3-4-

The album also included some smash hits that featured big time artists such as the song “Hangover” that featured Flo Rida.

But Cruz didn’t need much help with the album and it was evident in his solo song “Troublemaker.” It is a song that is good from beginning to end and a great party song to get up and dance to.

Overall TY.O is an outstanding album that includes a good mix of dubstep, rock and hip-hop along with a good clash of solo and duo songs. Be on the lookout for the dropping of Cruz’s third album single “There She Goes” during the second quarter of 2012.

Similar Artists:Flo Rida, T-Pain, Jamie Foxx, Usher

-5

With two solid and successful albums under their belt, The Fray released their third album, Scars & Stories, on Feb 7. The band best known for hits like “How to Save a Life” and “You Found Me” found inspiration from their travels abroad and personal experiences.

Many tracks of this album are inspired by historical events such as the lead single, “Heartbeat,” a song about the genocide in Rwanda.

Similarly, “1961” is a powerful song inspired by the lasting effects of the Berlin Wall.

Artist: Taio Cruz Album: TY.O Genre: Electropop

In contrast to her flop performance on Saturday Night Live recently, Lana Del Rey’s album is surprisingly good.

“Born to Die” is Del Rey’s second studio album and major label debut. The album was released Jan. 27 and features the track “Video Games.” This track supposedly propelled her to fame.

The album has become the fastest selling album in England, selling more than 100,000 copies within its first week

of release. However, Del Rey is still trying to establish herself in America.

Originally named Lizzy Grant, Del Ray’s music has an indie-pop feel to it.

“Video Games” has a lot of harp in the background and not much else, so her voice comes through very clearly.

“Born to Die” has a relaxed feel.

Del Rey’s unique style of singing is not upbeat or too repetitive, unlike that of many other singers in the industry.

Some of her songs come across as a little rough, but with more experience she has the potential to become a respected singer.

Similar Artists: Florence + the Machine, Adele, Ellie Goulding

Rating: 1-2-

-4-5

Song Suggestion: Born to Die Molly Liss

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 21

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What’s H t in Indy Cub Grub

C.R. Heroes serves up some super sandwiches 10570 E. 96th St. Fishers, IN 46038 (317) 576-1070 www.crheroes.com

www.vanhalen.com

Rock Band Van Halen returns to Indy

LaneCreech lanecreechcub@gmail.com

Legendary rock band Van Halen will be in Indianapolis for a performance at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 22 downtown at Bankers C.R. Heroes is a family pub that Life Fieldhouse. The famous ‘70s and serves up traditional American fare.

Upon entering C.R. Heroes, it’s hard ‘80s rock band returns with David Lee Roth, who parted from the group in not to miss the walls, covered with all 1985. The concert is part of Van Halen’s types of hero memorabilia. There are posters of Superman, Batman and even tour celebrating their 40th anniversary as a band. Van Halen will perform Incredible Hulk hands coming out of older songs from all of their albums as the wall. In addition to the superhero well as tracks from their new album, A collection, one entire wall is covered Different Kind of Truth. with photos and knickknacks from real life heroes like police officers and firefighters.

C.R. Heroes also has an area with video games to entertain children while waiting for their meals. Overall, this restaurant creates a family friendly and inviting atmosphere.

Coincidentally, I was waited on by LC junior Ashton Meares. She was very pleasant and provided great service.

The most popular items on the www.codysimpson.com menu at C.R. Heroes are the Hoosier Daddy sandwich and the soft pretzels appetizer. The Hoosier Daddy is a Cody breaded pork tenderloin sandwich Simpson at served with garlic mayo. The soft pretzels, a favorite of mine, are served Murat with ranch dressing and cheese for Saturday dipping.

After devouring the soft pretzels, it Australian native and up-and-coming was time for the meal. I enjoy comfort pop sensation Cody Simpson will food so I went with the chicken and perform 7 p.m. Feb. 18 at the Murat noodles. This entrée is served on top of Theater at Old National Centre as part a heap of mashed potatoes. This meal of his “Welcome to Paradise Tour” was very tasty and filling, and I would across the United States and Canada. certainly order it again.

Well-known for his catchy hit “On My C.R. Heroes is a great restaurant Mind” that broke the top 40 in 2011, to go to with the family if you’re Simpson will perform songs from his looking for a casual, enjoyable dining most recent album released last Sepexperience. Everything is moderately tember, “Coast to Coast.” priced, around $10 a meal.

www.idmb.com

www.cirquedusoleil.com

‘This Means War’ now in theaters

King of Pop reigns at Bankers Life

“This Means War” was released on Valentine’s Day. Starring Reese Witherspoon, Tom Hardy and Chris Pine, the film follows two male CIA operatives who are inseparable best friends.

However, when they meet Lauren (Witherspoon), their friendship is put to the test. They use their deadly skills and their high-tech knowledge against each other to try and capture the heart of the beautiful blonde in this romantic comedy.

Michael Jackson: THE IMMORTAL World Tour will be at 8 p.m. Feb. 24Feb. 25 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

Performed by the Canadian entertainment company Cirque De Soleil, this experience celebrates the life and artistry of the late King of Pop. A team of 10 choreographers worked to bring to life Michael Jackson’s most well-known lyrics and dance moves.

Tickets vary from $50 to $250.

Big Ten women take the court The Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament 2012 will be held March 1-4 The women’s tournament takes to the hard court at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for 11 games over four days. Celebrating the 17th season of Indianapolis being its host, it has 22 games and two titles up for grabs. The two weeks also include several fan events such as the Big Ten Hoops Day 5K, Big Ten Conference Career Expo, pep rallies and more.

Cub photo/E. Granger

‘The Test’ now at IWM

“The Test,” an exhibit of facts and stories about the Tuskegee Airmen (featured in the recent film Red Tails), is on exhibit through March 4 at the Indiana War Memorial, 431 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis. Free.

Compiled by Meredith Nordmann and Jacob Helmus

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PAGE 22 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

Oscars are on the approach CINEMANIAC Everyone’s

a Critic KevinKryah kevinkryahcub@gmail.com It’s almost here. On Feb. 26, the 84th Annual Academy Awards will air from the Kodak Theater on ABC. For most film fans, this is a huge night; whether or not you believe in the value of awards in and of themselves, Oscars can change the trends of studiofunded movie trends and can completely change the course of actors’ careers. Within the Hollywood system, Oscar’s dominance is tied only with box-office returns.

Given that the Oscars come after legions of other awards shows, some predictions of who will win may seem like obvious choices based on previous results.

This, however, is not always the

case. There have been shockers throughout Oscar history, and there is generally one surprise or upset each year.

Last year’s, for me at least, was “The King’s Speech” victory in both Picture and Director; I had a lot riding on David Fincher and “The Social Network,” source/fandango.com but I digress.

“The Artist” has ten nominations and is a This year’s surprise, I strong contender in the Best Picture race. believe, will be in the Best Actress category; Meryl As for the coveted Best Picture, Streep is the favorite to I predict “The Artist” will come out win, but ahead; it’s artsy, Viola Davis well-acted and walked engaging, but it away with I predict that “The has none of the the SAG self-consciously Artist” will come out award indie sensibiliahead.” for best actress, so ties of its nearit’s a toss-up. Best est rival, “The Actor is also a bit Descendants.” of a close race, but I think George While “The Descendants” was still Clooney will prevail over Jean excellent, “The Artist” will likely Dujardin. Supporting actor catego- appeal to the Academy more. ries are pretty much locked up for Then again, I could be comOctavia Spencer and Christopher pletely wrong, as I was last year. I Plummer, so it’ll take a miracle to hate you, Colin Firth… knock those two out.

“

Just another brick in the wall Musing on the Music ColemanLaBarr colemanlabarrcub@gmail.com When rock and roll first emerged, no one knew what types of genres would sprout from this masterful creation.

Roger Waters, Syd Barrett, Nick Mason and Rick Wright, however, knew exactly what to make out of it.

In 1965, after many name changes and line-up removals, the psychedelic space rock band, Pink Floyd, emerged.

Barrett named the band after blues artists Pinkney ‘Pink’ Anderson, and Floyd Council. In 1967, their first album, “The Piper at the Gates of Dawn,” was released, which contained Barrett’s lengthy riff-laden passages. The album became one of the most psychedelic British albums ever made, behind the Beatles “Sgt.

source/fandango.com

Pepper’s,” of course.

Barrett was getting notoriety all over the world, but he was now a heavy LSD user and was on the border of insanity. He would go on stage and would sporadically play notes, or not even play at all.

Pink Floyd set the bar for the rest of the The band was in dire rock bands for the future need of a change or they best albums of all time. would be over. They deIn 1979, “The Wall” was released cided to bring in their old and it left jaws wide open. For friend, David Gilmour.

Waters, the story that was told in the They planned to keep Syd, album wasn’t enough. He created a just not have him do the live movie to go hand in hand with the shows. album. Wright Howwas fired in The album became one 1980 because ever, Barrett he and Waters of the most psychedidn’t get delic British albums ever couldn’t take it along. well, and left In 2005, made...” the band. Not the band much is known if he was even aware joined together for a final concert that he left the band. With Barrett and the first one in 24 years. In 2006, gone, they could get to work. They Barrett passed away, along with produced a couple mildly successful Wright in 2008. albums but 1973s “Dark Side of the The soul of Pink Floyd may have Moon” was an instant masterpiece died, but their music will live on and would go down as one of the forever.

“

source/fandango.com

Chronicle shakes it up KevinKryah kevinkryahcub@gmail.com

Ever since “The Blair Witch Project” hit it big back in ’99, “found footage” style movies have become more and more prevalent in mainstream cinema, and it isn’t hard to see why; “Blair Witch” was made with an extremely low budget and ended up becoming a box-office phenomenon. From a studio standpoint, throwing a few million away on a movie that’s supposed to look cheap and having it soar into the black seems like a genius undertaking. What sold those previously mentioned examples, though, was realism; some people (for a short time, at least) thought they were real, which greatly increased the fear factor. More recent found-footage movies (like “Cloverfield”), though, have tried to cheat by adding special effects and Hollywood style.

“Chronicle” is one of those cheaters, and an egregious one at that. Camera angles switch from protagonist Andrew’s camera to the smartphones of bystanders to security cameras on a whim. The found-footage angle is a weak gimmick and “Chronicle’s” biggest failure is adhering to the dramatic limitations of the genre.

That being said, there are moments of “Chronicle” that are actually quite good. The three main characters playing around with their newfound telekinetic powers provide genuine laughs, while the sensitive, anti-social Andrew (Dane DeHaan) has a few moments of naturalistic angst that provide the film’s strongest scenes. We empathize with Andrew, though, and there is real satisfaction in seeing him use his powers to come out of his shell before he becomes mad with power.

It is at that point, though, when the film really loses steam; Andrew goes from shy teen to Nietzcheparaphrasing psychopath quicker than suspension of disbelief will allow. To that end, the final battle with Andrew’s moralistic (but bland) cousin Matt is a CG-filled disappointment. Also, throughout the movie, explanations are scant, motivations are murky and certain characters are too thinly drawn.

Still, the direction is slick and the acting from DeHaan and fellow lead Michael B. Jordan are superb. Most importantly, though, “Chronicle” breathes fresh air into the superhero genre, which it sorely needs. Now if only it could’ve freshened up the found-footage genre…

Genre: Sci-Fi Director: Josh Trank Rating: PG-13 Length: 84 minutes

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 23

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CUB COMIC

By the Numbers

4

Number of noses a slug has

45

Minutes a beaver can hold its breath underwater

Lighthouses in Maine

3

62

Number of eyelids a camel has

Number of muscles a caterpillar has

2000

Calories burned per hour of chewing gum

20

Weight in pounds of the largest pumpkin ever grown

1061

source/snapple.com/retiredfacts

Cub comic/Audrey Meyer

What’s LC’s...

TV SHOW:

SONG/RINGTONE:

Spartacus Alexandru Gavrila, 10

This Year by: The Mountain Goats Matt Pickle, 10 Long Hot Summer by: Keith Urban Emily Mott, 9

Miami Ink Doctor Who Tosh.0

Allison Specker, 10 Anna Hooker, 12 Jacob Lane, 11

International Harvester by: Craig Morgan Kaitlin Cherba, 10

TOP 10 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS 1. Olive Garden

6. The Melting Pot

2. P.F. Chang’s

7. Spaghetti Factory

3. Cheesecake Factory

8. Carrabba’s Italian Grill

4. Noodles & Co.

9. El Rodeo

5. St. Elmo Steakhouse

10. Le Peep

Top 10 list researched and compiled by Avarie Bowman

@CubOnline: What are some distracting driving habits you see? @m_higgy13 Mary Higgins, 12 People putting their make-up on

@brandonfeld Brandon Feldemeirer 12 @melismaac Melissa Macneur, 12 Music is definitely a distraction.

People tapping their fingers/ nails on anything. DRIVES ME CRAZY!!!!!!

@karlatino Karleigh Latinovich, 12 I see a lot of people texting and driving.

@npetr12 Nick Petr, 12

@saviorxavior Xavier Somerville, 12

@d_christen12 Drake Christen, 11 I sneeze often while driving.

@danieldnelson Daniel Nelson, 11 People bite and pick at their nails.

Ipods and people changing their music

texting, talking on the phone, eating

PAGE 24 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

SPORTS

Only one advances to State Hamilton. Seniors Clay LaBarr and Demetrius Jackson, and junior Scott Swingcolemanlabarrcub@gmail.com le, also made it to semi-state.

After finishing the season with a With a chance to make it to the state 16-8 record, the Bears wrestling team tournament on the line, the Bears had a had high hopes for the Sectional tour- tough week of practice to get prepared. nament, and the tournaments to come But things didn’t go quite as exafter. pected last weekend. The only wrestler LC had two to make it through first-place finishto the state tournaers at Sectionals ment was Robinson.

— junior Riley “This is my fiThis is my final year Newkirk and senal year at LC, and I at LC, and I wanted to nior Dominique wanted to leave my leave my mark...”

Robinson. mark and get someBut a dozen Dominique Robinson thing for all of the Bears went on to senior hard work I’ve put Regionals.

The in over the years,” way the tournaRobinson said. ment works is that the top four placers The state tournament will be at in each weight class move on, so 12 of Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Saturday.

LC’s 14 wrestlers made it to Regionals.

The Bears have only four seniors The team took second place. leaving the team after this year, so keepWith 12 at Regionals, expectations ing a well-built team together shouldn’t for going on to semi-state were much be tough. higher than in previous years. Three Freestyle club wrestling will bewrestlers took first place at Regionals: gin Tuesday for wrestlers interested in Newkirk, Robinson and junior Myron learning a different type of wrestling.

ColemanLaBarr

“

Senior Dominique Robinson rides out his oppenent in Sectionals (top).Senior Clay LaBarr hits a hard cross face against his opponent. Cub photos/Colman LaBarr

SPORTS

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012

PAGE 25

Putting on the full court press, senior Steven McCann defends a Warren Central Warrior from getting down the court (above). Fading away in the first quarter, senior Jeremy Hollowell scores 2 of his 27 points on the night in a 59-56 win. Cub photos/Lane Creech

Stepping it up for Sectionals AlexKryah alexkryahcub@gmail.com

With Sectionals coming up, the Bears are looking for a spark to get them back on track. The team is now 11-5 and has two more regular season games.

The boys have been working on their defense, but they aren’t playing it with the consistency they were earlier in the year.

In the last five games, the boys have either held their opponents to fewer than 40 points or have given up more than 68 points.

“Some teams want to play up and down, so we’ll have more or less possessions,” head coach J.R. Shelt said. “But we’re not executing down the stretch right now, offensively or defensively. When you play good teams, that’s going to kill you.”

The boys have been play-

ing solidly offensively, just not boards as well as creating opin the last two minutes of the portunities for other players. game. In the last seven games, The Bears still have some they have been averaging 70.4 loose ends they need to tie bepoints per game. For most of fore Sectionals, though. But the season, it has been senior they’re also looking for a spark Jeremy Hollowell carrying the of momentum, which is one offensive load, of the biggest averaging keys to postmore than season success.

24 points per

“ W e Those guys need to game this need to start get it in their heads season.

He executing in has also had the last two that they need to step minutes of the four straight J.R. shelt it up...” game,” Shelt 25-plus-point head coach said. “We also games.

But need to get now, seniors Tyler Fischl and Tyler Corley teams playing to our tempo, have been getting in on the ac- which is something we’re starttion, filling their roles and then ing to do now.” some. Corley is averaging 17 But for the first three quarpoints per game in the team’s ters against Warren Central last last six games, while Fischl is Thursday, the Bears couldn’t averaging 10.3 points per game. control the tempo. The WarFischl has also been an offensive riors 2-3 zone stalled the Bears’ catalyst by grabbing offensive offense in the first half, limit-

“

ing them to only 20 points. The Bears were down by 13 at the half, but down by only 7 at the end of the third quarter.

The fourth quarter was a different story, however. It seemed as though a switch turned on for the Bears, as they started dictating the tempo and speeding up the game. Hollowell was heating up down the stretch as well, giving the boys a 6-point lead with three minutes remaining.

The Warriors weren’t done, though. Warren Central slowly cut the lead down until they tied it on a pair of free throws with 16 seconds left. The Bears had the final possession.

Corley attempted to drive through the Warriors’ zone and dish it to a player, but the pass was deflected to senior Steven McCann. McCann passed the ball to Hollowell, who put up a 27-foot jumper with less than a

second remaining.

Nothing but net.

The win over the Warriors is a confidence booster on the defensive end as well as in the clutch. That could spark momentum for the boys into the post-season.

“I’m also on the guys about showing some leadership,” Shelt added. “We’re not getting leadership from the guys that we should. There are some silly things happening right now that shouldn’t be happening with the amount of experience that’s on the court. Those guys are going to have to get it in their heads that they need to step up to keep themselves in line as well as their teammates.”

The boys will look to step up their game tonight at Southport. LC’s final regular season game will be at home, where the Bears will take on Ran Patterson and Broad Ripple.

PAGE 26 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

SPORTS

A day among the pro’s AlexKryah alexkryahcub@gmail.com

Touch ‘Em All

In our society, we desire fame. We want to be that guy on ESPN who’s going crazy in front of the camera. We want to see famous people out in public. Talking to them would be a dream, an unreal experience. Well, on Jan. 31, I got the opportunity to talk to not one, not two, but 11 different players from the teams that played in Super Bowl XVLI. I was one of eight high school journalists to be part of Media Day.

Both the Giants and the Patriots had one-hour sessions to talk to the media, which I was officially part of.

The Patriots were the first team to come out.

And, of course, 90 percent of the media surrounded Tom Brady’s booth 30 minutes beforehand to get a good spot. So that opened up space for me to talk to Patriots TE Rob Gronkowsi (better know as “Gronk”). Gronk has put up the best numbers for a TE ever in the NFL because of his combination of size and speed, which gives opposing defenses match-up nightmares.

I asked Gronk who on the Gi- came out of Tom Brady’s mouth ants defense could serve as a were the best words a high threat to slow down the Patriots school journalist could hear. high octane offense. He told me “Well, that’s a good questhat the Giants defensive line tion,” he said. Of course he was going to be an issue, with went on to answer the queseveryone on the line being able tion, saying they would need to wreak havoc to change up in the backlooks and use field.

Wide screens, but ...enamored at the fact I was sitting receiver Wes that he said my ques- there, enamWelker said the same thing tion was a good one. ored at the fact when I asked that he said him that quesmy question tion. was a good one.

The highlight of my day The Giants interviews came after I talked to DB Pat- opened my eyes to how conrick Chung. Tom Brady’s booth fident they were. This was Eli was still packed, but I saw an Manning’s second Super Bowl opening to get to the front of against the same team. Manthe pack. I squeezed in and ning sounded confident in his right then and there, I was 5 feet preparation and his team’s abilaway from Tom Brady. For two ity to win. It also helped that he minutes I yelled to get his atten- had consulted his older brother, tion, like everyone else, when, Peyton, about the Patriots definally, he looked me dead in fense. Two Giants defensive the eyes. backs, Corey Webster and An Despite having the tempta- trel Rolle, both said they were tion to ask him if Giselle was “never scared of anything” there, I asked him my legiti- on defense. I also was able to mate question: speak to the Giants’ Mathias Ki “How do you plan on ne- wanuka, Justin Tuck, Brandon gating the strength and quick- Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw. ness of the Giants D-line?”

As Barney Stinson would And the next words that say, my day was “legendary.”

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Girls 4 x 200 swims in state JacobHelmus

jacobhelmuscub@gmail.com

The Lady Bears swim team season came to an end on Feb. 4 as they did not make it out of their Sectional. The ladies finished third out of 13 teams and scored a total of 267 points.

However, the Lady Bears did send the 200-yard relay team consisting of sophomore April Eales, junior Victoria Colvin, sophomore Bailey Garey and senior Maggie Shanahan to the state meet by winning their race easily be two seconds. This is the first time LC has sent a re-

lay team to state since 1994.

The Lady Bears had many The girls did not swim as standouts throughout the meet, well as they hoped they would including Eales who placed at state, though, finishing 28 in fourth out of 26 in the 200-yard the state meet. freestyle.

At SecThe girls tionals, Lawfinished with rence North This is directly related a record of dominated the 10-3 and also to the work they put meet, winning were able to 11 of the 13 claim the title in...”

Andrew Renie of the third events and finhead coach best team in ished with 523 points.

This Marion Counwas the fifth ty. year in a row that Lawrence “The best part of the season North has taken home first for the coaches was watching place at Sectionals. how hard the girls worked. At

“

the sectional meet, we had 90 percent best times. This is directly related to the work they put in this year,” head coach Andrew Renie said.

It is now the boys’ turn to see if they have what it takes to make it to state.

“The most important thing is that we swim our best at Sectionals,” Renie said. “The boys worked hard this season as well. I am anticipating similar results. We should have about 90 percent best times.”

Sectionals began Thursday at Lawrence North and will continue Saturday.

Cundiff moves on to State AvarieBowman

avariebowmancub@gmail.com

Junior Martin Cundiff is continuing on to State Saturday at Arrowhead Bowl in Lafayette.

LC’s boys and girls bowling teams had a successful Regional tournament. Junior Ashley Mooney placed second for the girls while Cundiff placed sixth for the boys and freshman Andrew Benslay placed 13th.

All three bowlers went to Semi-State, but Cundiff is the only one to move forward to state by placing eighth.

The boys’ team expected the success this season as they returned many of their bowlers from last year; their expectations have proven to be true as they won eight out of 10 matches throughout the season.

However, the girls had to start from scratch as two of their five bowlers had never picked up a bowling ball before.

Despite the lack of experience on the girls’ team, they were able to come together and also win eight out of their 10 matches, the same record as the more experienced guys.

“I’m proud of my girls for coming together as a team and pushing each other to do better,” Mooney said.

The captains (Cundiff for boys, Mooney for girls) also played a pivotal role in the teams successes this season.

Mooney was able to carry the Lady Bears a long way in the post-season with great accomplishments, while Cundiff took a big leadership role and really glued the team together with his positive spirit.

“The best part of being on the team is seeing how much talent there is and being able to be involved at school,” Cundiff said.

SPORTS

CUB REPORTER • FEBRUARY 17, 2012 PAGE 27

Swimmers ‘Freezin’ for a Reason’ pack. Many of the participants are looking forward to both rejacobhelmuscub@gmail.com wards.

“Yeah I’m looking forward “Freezin’ for A Reason.” to it — hanging out with my This quote pretty much sums friends and helping the Speup the LC swimmers’ expericial Olympics.

I’ll finally get ence when they participate in to check it off my bucket list,” the Polar Plunge on Feb. 25. It freshman Brohas become a dy Petrucciani tradition for said. all the swimBut if mers who I couldn’t ask for the plunges want to take a much better.” in the cold quick artificial creek and the ‘ice bath’ in Eaincentives Kollette Koehler gle Creek evaren’t exciting junior ery year after enough, the the swimming “aft er splash season is over.

Who in their right mind would bash” does get the participants want to do this? Anyone who excited. It is completely free wants to help an extremely to anyone who participated in good cause would. Each swim- the plunge and will be held at mer who participates must the Pike Freshman Center. The raise $75 in pledges before they party will include awards to the can run into the freezing cold winners of best costume, largwater, and all the money they est campus team, most money generate goes toward benefit- raised by an individual and ing the Special Olympics in In- most money raised by a team.

The event also creates better diana. chemistry for the Bears swim Even though donating to a team in 2012-2013. charity is the biggest reward of “The event is awesome and all, the people who raise more I get to spend it with my team. than $75 get other incentives I couldn’t ask for much better,” as well, such as a beach towel, junior Kollett e Koehler said. hooded sweatshirts or a back-

JacobHelmus

“

These four swimmers from last year take their plunge into the freezing Eagle Creek Reservoir, as the firefighters that they have to touch before they can head back to shore await them. Courtesy photo/Kollete Koehler

Girls’ season ends in Sectionals KristenSwanson kristenswansoncub@gmail.com

Coach John Albers had brought the basketball team from a record of 14-128 in a span of five years to a 2011-2012 season record of 13-7. In Albers’ fourth year at LC, he has turned the girls’ basketball program around, bringing a winning season.

Their last two regular season games were victorious for the Lady Bears. The team won 67-57 in a Conference Indiana

game against Southport. They third quarter, the Lady Bears also narrowly defeated Fishers couldn’t pull out a win. After Warren Central started press74-72. ing, the girls In the seccouldn’t make ond round of a comeback Sectionals, the This is the best reand lost 59-41.

Bears faced off cord since 1987...”

Sophoagainst Warren more Kyra Central, whom John Albers Tucker led the they lost to head coach team with 16 in the regular points, while season 51-46.

The Lady Bears would come junior Breanna Jones had 10. up unsuccessful once again in The Lady Bears ended their seaSectionals against the Warriors. son with a record of 13-7.

This has been one of the best Although within 3 points in the

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seasons in years for the girls.

“I feel like we finally reached a level of competitiveness that we have been striving for the last four years,” Albers said. “This is the best record since 1987, and we won the Shelbyville Holiday Shootout this year. So, all in all, a breakout season for the Lady Bears and now we have to carry it over into next year.”

Albers said he hopes his players are proud of what they have done this season and their impact on the program.

11-5 13-7 16-8

3rd at Sectionals Sectionals, Feb. 18

PAGE 28 FEBRUARY 17, 2012 • CUB REPORTER

IN THE

STUDENT INTEREST

Spotlight

Nathan Hinkle

Cub photo/Coleman LaBarr

Cub Reporter (CR): What is the name of the class completing this project?

Nathan Hinkle (NH): “It’s an after-school class… we have to pay for kits that we bought, about $175, that’s for the neck, the head and the body. We have to sand it all down ourselves and build it from scratch. The class is at MCC.” CR: Why did you decide to take this class?

NH: I like working with my hands, and I have three guitars and I always thought, “I’d really like to build one to my specifications or what I like.” So, I got a whisper of the opportunity, and I found out the man leading the class was my physics teacher, so I talked to him about it.

CR: Does everyone build a guitar or do they get to choose what they build?

NH: Everyone builds a guitar; however, there are different body styles they have and the one I got is a V-Shape and there’s other ones that look similar to the Gibson guitars.

CR: How long have you been playing the guitar?

NH: I’ve been playing for about five to six years now.

I did take lessons for about the first two years.

CR: Where did this interest in the guitar come from; did you pursue it for fun?

NH: Well, Guitar Hero played one part and the other part was mainly that I just wanted to learn.

Junior Nathan Hinkle is one of rougly 12 Lawrence Township students participating in an after-school class at MaKenzie Center for Innovation and Technology. In this class, students design and construct their own guitars, from start to finish. Hinkle, an avid guitar player, shared his experience with us:

CR: Are you in a band?

NH: Still looking for a band. I have a drummer, which is one of my best friends, but other than that, we’re still looking for a singer and a bass player.

CR: What’s the goal of this project?

NH: The goal is to get done. We don’t have really a set time per say, everybody has to be finished. Everyone in the class is doing pretty well.

CR: You mentioned you’ve been playing the guitar for five or six years. Is music really important to you? Is it a big part of your life?

NH: Yeah, it helps me when I’m feeling down; it helps me express myself.

CR: What do you personally hope to accomplish?

NH: I’d really like to be able to say, “I built this.” I want to feel this accomplishment.

CR: Do you look forward to this class; is it one of your favorite parts of the week?

NH: Yeah, I look forward to it. It’s somewhat an escape, but it’s really just something I enjoy doing.

CR: Would you participate in this class again if you had the opportunity?

NH: The teacher, Mr. Smith, said it takes about 40 hours of work to build a guitar. He said after you build your first, when you move on to your second one, you start getting better at it.

“I’d really like to be able to say, ‘I built this.’

I want to feel this accomplishment.”