1.27 issue by HiLite News

CARMEL HIGH SCHOOL 520 E. MAIN ST. CARMEL, IN 46032 WWW.HILITE.ORG

JAN. 27, 2011 | VOL. 56 | ISSUE 6

Carmel’s favorite superheroes Page 14

*CARMEL HIGH SCHOOL’S STUDENT NEWSMAGAZINE

Report on Student Health:

Does This Make My State Look FAT? Students implement lifestyle changes to combat the drop in life expectancy. — Page 16

Be a

riend, keep in

ouch.

Page 2 | Table of contents | hilite | hilite.org | Jan. 27, 2011

Table of Contents 4 News

Administration enforces the recent ID card policy.

8 Feature

According to a Pew Research Center report, interracial relationships are on the rise among younger generations.

14 Student Section

Junior Ashley Sipe comments on her real-life superhero.

16 Cover Story

Both unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle have contributed to a drop in life expectancy.

20 Entertainment

Audrey Bailey reviews the Art and Design District’s newest tenant, Donatello’s.

26 Sports

The women’s basketball team looks to upset the Ben Davis Giants, whose last loss was to the Greyhounds. The Giants bring a 73-game winning streak into the game.

28 Perspectives

The HiLite staff discusses the benefits of healthy lifestyle choices.

32 15 Minutes

Senior Elena Murzyn tames birds as a falconer.

Arjuna Capulong / Cover Design Daniel Li / cover Graphic

Jan. 27, 2011| hilite.org | hilite | just a minute | page 3

Will you be my valentine? This Feb. 14 marks the 1,515th anniversary of a celebrated day of romance Men

WOMEN

spend an average of $163.37 and purchase 73 percent of flowers sold.

spend an average of $84.72 and purchase 27 percent of flowers sold.

53 percent of women would break up with their boyfriends if they didn’t receive a gift on Valentine’s Day.

however...

Where did this heart shape originate? The shape of the traditional Valentine’s Day heart comes from from the shape of a silphium plant’s seed. Initially, the heart looked like a pinecone, but in 1347, the dip in the top of the heart first appeared.

gift ideas: HOW POPULAR IS...* ...BUYING CANDY?

4,876 candy shops existed nationwide in 2007.

LOVEBIRDS

Some people thought that the first bird a female saw on Valentine’s Day foreshadows who she would marry. Doves supposedly meant her husband would be a kind-hearted man, but seeing an owl meant the woman would remain single forever.

STUPID CUPID

The unofficial celebrity of Valentine’s Day, Cupid was actually a full-grown but childish adult in Roman mythology. When he used his gold-tipped arrows, people thought he could insert love or sexual desire into a relationship.

ALL YOU NEED

Robert Indiana’s “LOVE” sculpture was first used as a symbol for peace during the Vietnam War. Indiana reportedly was inspired by a banner in a Christian Science church with the words “GOD is LOVE.” An original sculpture stands outside the front entrance of the Indianapolis Museum of Art.

...ORDERING FLOWERS?

19,759 florist stores existed nationwide in 2007.

...PURCHASING JEWELRY?

27,484 jewelry businesses existed nationwide in 2007.

*1 unit represents 4,500 businesses.

AND FINALLY... Eight million Americans choose to send valentines to themselves.

Melinda Song / Art, graphics, design indobase.com, scottsdalepublicart.org, Telegraph.co.uk, womansday.com, Census.gov / sources

Page 4 | NEWS | hilite | HiLite.org | jan. 27, 2011

NEWS

submitnews@hilite.org | twitter.com /Hilite_news

News Briefs Summarizing newsworthy content found daily online at www.hilite.org

Dance Marathon scheduled for Feb. 26

The economy in Carmel

Construction in the Main Street area leaves small business owners optimistic about the future despite recent statistics. To learn more, visit youtube.com/HiLiteOnline to watch video coverage of this story.

The event, which raised over $174,000 last year, will occur in the Freshman Cafeteria on Feb. 26 from 4 to 10 p.m. Find all of your Dance Marathon information—stories, photos, forms, event schedules and more—online at www.hilite.org/ extras/dance-marathon-2011. Also, plan to see larger coverage of the event in the next print issue of the HiLite. Student government is sponsoring a Neon Dance on Jan. 29 after the home men’s basketball game. The event will take place in the fieldhouse. Tickets are $5 at the door, or $3 for those going to both the game and the dance. The Neon Dance will replace Winter Formal this year. Winter Guard will kick off the competition season on Sunday. According to Winter Guard sponsor Rosie Queen, the performance is scheduled at Bishop Dwenger High School in Fort Wayne. The team will also be performing at this school Monday around 8:30 p.m. for the community. Applications for K-8 Mentoring are due Monday. Any students interested in the K-8 Mentoring program should pick up an application from room E216 and returned to social studies teacher Robin Pletcher. Currently, LifeLines is making preparations for Black History Month in February. According to Alec Rader, LifeLines vice president and junior, the club will be airing television episodes and movies for the school to see.

For the rest of the stories and more coverage of the school, go to hilite.org

Due to a change in Earth’s rotation, astrologers have changed the zodiac signs, from 12 to 13 and the corresponding dates have changed as well.

Students adjust to school’s new identification system The recent enforcement of the ID card policy sets up new guidelines for students, sometimes at their inconvenience. by tony tan ttan@hilite.org

katie moorman / photo

Think you’re a Libra? Think again

ast semester, the administration announced it would begin to more strictly enforce an ID card policy that had already been part of the student rules and expectations outlined in the Pathways guidebook restricting students to carry their ID with them at all times, presenting it should a staff member ask for identification. This started with ID checks during three consecutive SRTs this month. Now that a few checks have been conducted, according to Assistant Principal John Newton, the administration has begun to look at appropriate punishments for students who don’t have identification. “We’re going to see how it works for several weeks here, and then if you don’t have (your ID), (the administration) will look at some sort of a punishment,” Newton said. According to Newton, this policy is not new; the administration is merely trying to enforce the policy more rigorously due to several incidents. “It has always been there, we’re just going to try to enforce the policy,” Newton said. “We think the reason that we’re doing that, bringing some attention to the ID situation, is because we have had kids tear up their IDs, to scratch out their faces and we’ve had kids that use other people’s ID cards to buy lunches. We think it’s time now that we look into the ID cards and make sure everybody has one. We just want to know who’s who.” According to Newton, the ID checks during SRT are not over, and the administration will probably conduct more ID checks throughout the semester. “The first set of checks have happened. It won’t do us any good unless we check every now and then because people will stop bringing them. We don’t want you to bring it just for a couple of weeks; we want you to have it all the time,” Newton said. Newton also said the administration has not yet decided on the exact punishment that it plans to dole out to students who still do not have their ID cards after they were given appropriate opportunities to do so. “(The punishment) would fall under the category of failure to comply to a reasonable request,” Newton said. “So we haven’t decided, but I think it might be that we give you a chance to get it, and if you don’t get it the next day or two, then we’re going to give you a detention or community service. Something not so bad.” During the school-wide ID check on Jan. 6. senior Sarah Rothenberg was among those who had a conflict. Rothenberg said she disagreed with some of the potential punishments given to those violating the ID card policy.

“I feel like detention is really harsh of a punishment because sometimes you’re in a hurry and you forget your ID or you forget your ID at home,” Rothenberg said. “If it gets too out of hand, like a person is constantly forgetting their ID, maybe a talk with the dean or something like that (would be an appropriate punishment), but not like a fullout detention.” Rothenberg said she thought that if people were misusing ID cards at lunch, then a solution would be just to have students’ IDs checked at lunch. “I understand where they’re coming from with the policy, but I don’t think we should have to carry it around with us, because why else would a student be here if they’re

Story continued on next page > >

Henry zhu / photo

card check: Senior Sarah Rothenberg uses her ID card to purchase food at lunch. Rothenberg was forced to buy another ID due to the new school policy .

jan. 27, 2011 | HiLite.org | hilite | NEWS | PagE 5

< < Story continued from last page not a part of Carmel High School?” Rothenberg said. Also among those who said they have encountered inconveniences arising from the new enforcement of the policy was junior Roy Chen. “I didn’t have my ID card, so they wouldn’t let me go in (the lunch) line,” Chen said. “And then, I was going to get a new ID card because I had $5 to buy a new ID card. And then, I tried to walk out of the cafeteria (to buy a new ID card) but they wouldn’t let me. In the end, I had to use my $5 to buy lunch because they wouldn’t let me out to buy an ID. And then, I had to go home and search through my spare change for two more dollars to replace the two that I

had spent on lunch, and then I used that money to buy an ID. It was just (a hassle).” In general, Rothenberg said some components of the policy were unnecessary. “I saw no point in buying a new ID when I have one from recent years and I only use my ID to check out library books and to go to lunch, and it still worked the same, so I thought (buying a new ID) was a waste of my money having to go back.” Rothenberg said. Chen said he also agrees with Rothenberg in that the policy creates inconveniences. “Right now,” he said, “I just don’t like the fact that right now the way they have it is like a few people’s misdoing goes to everybody.”

More coverage Go Online To view a recent interview with Principal John Williams about the ID card policy, go to our website at hilite.org or to our Youtube channel, youtube. com/HiLiteOnline.

School plans to expand current weight room into larger athletic center starting in 2012 by James benedict jbenedict@hilite.org Coming from Eastern High School in Louisville, KY, junior Malcolm Brown is a recent transfer to Carmel. As a member of the football team, he said he has been introduced to many new traditions at Carmel, one of which is Carmel’s weight program. Brown said while the weight program here has helped him a lot since entering advanced physical conditioning, he said he does notice that the weight room itself is small for his class size. That will soon change. According to Athletics Director Jim Inskeep, the current weight room will be expanded to a full-scale athletic center for the use of all Carmel students. Inskeep said, “(It will be) a new weight room and an expanded area of education, so it would be two additional basketball courts, which are basically teaching stations for physical education, which will be on the second floor. On the ground will be a new facility for weights.” The new athletic center will be an expansion of the current weight room and it will be built on the field house parking lot. Construction is scheduled to begin sometime in 2012 and is estimated to take somewhere between 14 to 16 months to complete. According to Carmel Clay School District’s website, the district has budgeted two $3 million payments for the facility, one in 2010 and another in 2011. However that amount could change over the next two years. The entire athletic center will use money from the Capital Project Fund, which is funded by the state. The school district can spend the money on anything it chooses, but according to Inskeep if it does not spend all the money granted, it will lose the rest. “In a normal year, a variety of smaller projects take place in the district. It might be re-roofing or new technology in a certain building,” Inskeep said. Over the next two years, however the majority of the money will be spent on the new fitness facility. The Capital Projects Fund is already built into the state’s budget; there will be no tax increase to pay for the new facility. “With it, it’s basically cash for the fitness facility. If you had to create bonds, it is almost like putting in on a credit card, you’re going to have to pay more for it at some point and it’s charged for interest, instead of paying for it with cash. You’re not paying on years and years and years after this,” Inskeep said.

katie bourgerie / photos

tone up: Students in physical conditioning class exercise in the weight room. Athletics director Jim Inskeep said the weight room will be renovated and expanded. Aaron Bosket, strength and conditioning coach, said the new athletics center would greatly help student athletes because it will let them to do a more diverse workout. “Right now we mainly do weight training,” Bosket said. “With the new athletic center we will be able to do more core workouts, cardio and flexibility.” Brown, Bosket and Inskeep said they believe the current weight room is too small for the number of student athletes using it. Bosket said that every year he has taught at Carmel the number of students using the weight room has expanded, while the size of the facility has stayed the same. Inskeep said that the current weight room does not meet the requirements for a school the size of Carmel. “(The weight room is) pretty limited,” Inskeep said. “It’s the size of 1A (division) schools and it doesn’t ventilate well. It’s got low ceilings, its got four columns in the middle for support... It’s not fitting the needs of physical education

or athletics. We do need more space.” The new facility will be available to all Carmel students. It is being built for both physical education classes and athletics, according to Inskeep. Bosket said physical education teachers have been asking to use the weight room for a lifting section in P.E., but there is currently not enough room. Bosket also said that an expanded weight room would allow multiple classes to be taught at the same time. Currently two classes combine for lifting, but with the new facility, many independent classes could be conducted at the same time. Brown said he sees why there is a need to expand and hopes to have even greater improvement with the new facility. “The overall weight program is pretty great, it’s helping me so much and I can see the improvements. It may need to be expanded to a bigger size seeing as our classes are larger,” Brown said. “I feel that it would be a pretty great idea.”

Page 6 | NEWS | hilite | HiLite.org | jan. 27, 2011

educational reform

Cutting costs of education Gov. Mitch Daniels’ proposal to Congress would provide more funds for rising tuition expenses, allowing students the option to graduate early. much discussion about the proposals. The report also states that the agenda proposals would be placed into different legislative bills during the 2011 General Assembly, which began on Jan. 5. or many seniors like Katelyn Daley, the rising costs of With the state of the economy, Tanna Hanger, college and school tuition is both nerve wracking and stressful— career counselor, said the rising tuition of colleges is most and the costly universities she said she hopes to likely on the minds of many families and this proposition attend don’t help in easing her worry. New York University, could affect many students’ college decisions. Marquette, Duke and Princeton are just a few of the many “It’s not just private colleges; it’s everywhere. It’s inflation,” expensive, out-of-state private schools to which she has she said. applied this year. Daley said if Daniels’ plan were to be put into action, “They range in price but most of them are extraordinarily she would choose to graduate early and take the money, expensive, plus they’re out-of-state,” Daley said. especially if it could be used for the expensive out-of-state But with the institution of Gov. Mitch Daniels’ schools she wants to attend. proposition he plans to make to Congress, “For me, any amount would they wouldn’t have to be. help,” she said. According to a report in early November However, Daley said there could on Indianapolis news station WTHR It’s going to completely be some possible drawbacks to (www.wthr.com), Daniels said he plans depend on the student. completing high school in only to make a proposition to Congress that I’m sure that it will benefit three years. would motivate and reward students to some kids. A year can “It would make me sad; I would work harder during their years in high make a big difference, miss out on a lot of opportunities, school. Daniels’ plan would allow students though. like the ones you get when you’re a who were eligible and gathered enough senior,” she said. credits to graduate after their junior Tanna Hanger The members present at the year. According to the plan, the money College and career counselor Roundtable discussion in early that would be spent on supporting them December had similar questions through their last year of high school— dealing with graduating a year any amount between $4,500 and $12,000early. According to the report, members said if more -would then be put toward the cost of tuition at the poststudents choose to graduate early rather than take secondary education institution of their choice. advanced placement classes, this could affect a school’s A December report from the Daily Reporter released ability to offer these classes and prevent them from being more details concerning Daniels’ education proposals, an option at all. although many questions still remain unanswered. Daniels, According to Hanger, missing senior year wouldn’t deny along with State Superintendent Tony Bennett, gave their students any other scholarships they could receive from a ideas to Indiana’s Education Roundtable, which promoted certain college, even if they did use the money allotted by Daniels’ plan, because colleges mainly look at freshman through junior year grades. However, she said this doesn’t excuse students from working hard all the way through senior year. On Jan. 11, Governor Mitch Daniels delivered “(Students) need to take every year seriously, and (they) his annual State of the State address, need to finish strong (their) senior year so that (they) have a good transcript,” Hanger said. focusing on addressing his educational goals Senior Kayla Perry said graduating early and taking the for the state. Some of these main goals are money from Daniels’ plan would be a difficult choice. highlighted below. “I’m not super worried about (the cost of tuition), but it is definitely something I think about. It would give me a Reform measures reason to think about graduating early,” she said. • Vouchers to send impoverished children to To counter the rising costs of tuition, Perry said she private schools has applied for some scholarships within the schools she • New charter schools applied to, including Ohio State University, University of • Narrower rules for contracts with teacher unions Kentucky, Indiana University and Marquette, as well as • Base teacher’s pay on student performance some outside scholarships. • Allow students to graduate a year early to However, Perry said her decision to graduate early pursue college, and that the state money that would take away valuable memories from her high school would have gone to their high school during experience, especially senior year. senior year should instead be used to offset “I think senior year’s pretty important,” Perry said. “I college costs think it’s the year you get to have a little more fun and you ibj.com / sources get to have a little bit more freedom. You’d be missing that

by emma neukam eneukam@hilite.org

‘‘

”

and you may not get to graduate with your friends.” Daley also said missing that last year of high school might maker her feel behind her peers if she attended college a year early. “I don’t think I’d feel as well rounded if I skipped the last year,” she said. Overall, Hanger said, ultimately, whether or not students take advantage of Daniels’ potential opportunity would be up to them, and it might be a different answer for everyone. She said, “It’s going to completely depend on the student. I’m sure that it will benefit some kids. A year can make a big difference, though.”

Expensive education Take a look to see how much college tuition used to cost... and how much you’ll pay today. General Trends

Families are paying about $172 to $1,096 more in tuition and fees this year. College tuition and fees increased 439 percent from 1982 to 2007 while median family income rose 147 percent.

Indiana University In-state: 2005: $7,112 2010: $8,613 Out-of-state: 2005: $19,508 2010: $26,160

Purdue University

Inside the Bill

In-state: 2005: $6,458 2010: $8,638 Out-of-state: 2005: $19,824 2010: $25,118

Harvard College All students: 2005: $28,752 2010: $37,012

Duke University All students: 2005: $32,409 2010: $38,741

www.collegeboard.com / source

jan. 27, 2011 | HiLite.org | hilite | NEWS | PagE 7

With new national curriculum standards, students commit to college, career preparation

by ellie seta eseta@hilite.org With lab notebook in hand, senior Zenas Shi heads to his chemistry class. However, instead of walking into a typical science classroom, he walks into an empty lab. Shi is among a select group of seniors who are a part of the independent study chemistry class. Shi’s class has no tests, no daily homework or even a teacher present in class. But more importantly, this class has no curriculum. The only expectation is that every student must present an in-depth research project at the end of the year. This class may seem like an ideal course for most high school students due to its lack of structure, but Shi is quick to point out that this course is one of the most rigorous classes he has taken. “I learn a lot better when I am challenged,” Shi said. “And through this class I have learned so much more than I would have in a typical class.” Although independent study classes like this are very different from the typical high school course, the analytical aspects surrounding the class are something that students should prepare to see more of in the coming years. According to the Indiana Department of Education, on Aug. 3, 2010, Indiana became one of 39 states to adopt the Common Core National Academic Standards, a new national academic curriculum which is hoped to be adopted by all 50 states. This new curriculum is part of a new national initiative to better prepare American students for college and careers through more rigorous methods of learning. This new method of learning is one that Shi has already found to be very effective, especially in reaching his maximum learning potential. Dr. Linda Thompson, director of curriculum for Carmel Clay Schools, said the new Common Core National Curriculum is much more rigorous than the previous state curriculum. She said what sets this new curriculum apart from the old state curriculum is that instead of focusing on what to learn the new curriculum focuses on how to learn. “(The Common Core) curriculum is based on critical thinking which enhances a student’s opportunity for academic exploration,” Thompson said. She said it is also focused on analysis, extended meaning and critique. In an effort to increase understanding in all academic areas, the Common Core also integrates literature into science, social studies and technical education. Similar to independent study courses, the Common Core curriculum prepares students to analyze and interpret information in a much more analytical way. Thompson recognizes the importance of teaching students how to think and analyze information instead of just reading and memorizing information from text books. Thompson said she hopes to implement this idea of exploratory and analytical learning into all academic areas of the Carmel Clay Schools curriculum. However this concept of analytical thinking is not new to the AVID program, which specializes in teaching students study skills and preparing students for college. Jennifer Williams, AVID coordinator and English teacher said it is this element of analytical thinking which has made the AVID program successful with a one hundred percent college acceptance rate for the past three years. “For our kids, what is important is them learning

shokhi goel / photo

independent study: Senior Zenas Shi sits in class during multivariable calculus. As part of the newly-adopted program called the Common Core National Academic Standards, students are challenged with curriculum focused on college and career preparation. how to study and also developing discipline for their schoolwork,” Williams said. “Learning how to study requires higher level thinking.” Similar to the AVID program, the new curriculum will focus on analytical thinking but also implement more exploratory teaching styles. It is this element of intellectual exploration that Shi has found to be the most beneficial aspect to his chemistry class. “Since the class requirements are so broad you have a lot more freedom in what you choose to learn about,” Shi said. “It is great because you get to decide and discover what you like and what you are passionate about.” Thompson said she believes that this new curriculum will be able to satisfy student’s desire for educational exploration. She said that, although the new Common Core curriculum is more challenging, she believes students will be able to handle the increased rigor and will benefit from it in the long run. This is especially the case in preparation for external tests like AP and IB exams. It is Thompson’s hope that all high school students are able to take at least one AP class, or at least have the capability to succeed in an AP course. She said that taking AP classes is the key to succeeding in college. “It is our hope that no matter what direction (students) move they will be prepared,” Thompson said. Overall, Shi said he thinks he will be very well prepared for college level chemistry classes because of his independent research this year. “I really think that I will be much more prepared than students who have only learned chemistry in a classroom setting,” Shi said. “The hands on training I have had this year has really been irreplaceable.”

Myths and Facts Common Core addresses the myths about the State Standards initiative FAQ 1. What is the Common Core State Standards Initiative? • The Common Core State Standards Initiative is a state-led effort to establish common high school standards that will ensure graduating high school students are prepared for college or entering the workforce. • English teachers will be asked to teach science and social studies reading materials. 2. What will these Common Core State Standards mean for students? • It will homogenize the learning standards for students in different states, giving students across the country equal opportunities regardless of where they live. 3. Does having common standards lead to dumbing down standards across the board? • No, the Common Core Stand Standards were based on the best state standards across the nation, yet realistic and practical to be institutionalized in schools across the nation. corestandards.org / source

Page 8 | FEATURE | HiLite | hilite.org | Jan. 27, 2011

FEATURE A Modern Relationship Go Online

For interactive soundslides on female students participating in male-dominated classes.

SUBMITFEATURE@hilite.org | twitter.com/Hilite_news

In 2008, 14.6 percent of all new marriages in the United States were between different ethnicities or races. Twenty years ago the rate was 6.7 percent.

www.hilite.org

Pew research Center / source

Poll finds interracial relationships have gained more acceptance over time By Victor Xu vxu@hilite.org

unior Mikaela Carlson acknowledges the differences between various races. After all, it is well known that cultural conflicts have been a leading cause of racial bias ever since different civilizations came into contact with one another. Yet these same differences are part of the reason why Carlson said she looks beyond Caucasians in choosing her dating partners. “We have different backgrounds in how we grew up and our family life,” Carlson said of her relationship with senior David Chiang, an Asian. “For example, family dinner is different and some little traditions are different, but it’s not a huge obstacle. It’s a good thing because I learn something new every day from him. It’s neat.” Carlson’s views reflect the wider shift in attitudes toward interracial relationships over the last several generations. A poll taken in February 2010 by the Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan organization that collects information on current issues, showed that 85 percent of “Millennials,” individuals ages 18 to 29, say they would be fine with a marriage to someone from any race. In particular, 93 percent of non-Asians said they would be fine with marrying an Asian-American, and 92 percent of non-whites approved of marrying white Americans. According to Eric Grollman, a graduate student at the Indiana University Department of Sociology specializing in sexuality, gender, race and social psychology, the sharp increase in the number of interracial couples and marriages since the 1960s was caused by three factors: a decrease in negative attitudes toward interracial relationships, an increase in contact across racial lines and the fact that young adults are becoming more independent from their parents and families, often by moving to other states and attending college. “Younger generations are growing up feeling less opposed to interacting, including dating, with people of a different race than themselves,” Grollman said. “I would suggest that this is due in part to changing racial attitudes, as well as greater exposure to diversity like attending college.” Chiang, who began dating Carlson in the spring of last school year, said he did not distinguish between racial lines in his relationships. “Personally, I feel that relationships between different races or ethnicities are quite similar to those of normal relationships,” Chiang said. “I don’t see the need or want to segregate myself in terms of interaction based on simple differences in origin.” Carlson said her perspective on interracial relationships changed with age, and now she feels the same way about choosing her partner in a relationship. “I actually don’t really consider race when I’m looking for someone,” she said. “Maybe I did in middle school, but once you’re in high school you mature and your standards

Jenna Ruhayel / photo illustration

Story continued on next page >>

Jan. 27, 2011 | hilite.org | HiLite | FEATURE | PagE 9 being around it. My parents, being the older generation, of course have more conservative views, but they’re open to the idea and have given the freedom to act for myself. (They) display a more restrained acceptance. But, in my case, my parents have stepped back and allowed me to figure my relationships for myself.” Carlson said her family’s exposure to diversity has influenced the way her parents and grandparents have viewed relationships between individuals of different races. “My grandparents have traveled a lot and are pretty worldly, so they’re not partial to any race,” she said. “I know my parents had a high school made up of a lot less kids and less diversity than Carmel High School today. Our world today is Jenna Ruhayel / photo definitely more accepting of races than Dinner Date: Senior David Chiang shows girlfriend and junior Mikaela it has been in history. (My parents) care Carlson how to use chopsticks during dinner. Studies show that interracial more about how well he treats me and how polite and self-motivated he is.” relationships such as theirs have become increasingly common. According to Chiang, his parents even encourage his interaction with << Story continued from previous page people from diverse backgrounds. He are based more on who they are as a person. I don’t consider said, “They do demonstrate an interest when they notice race all that much and I don’t believe you should. I mean, my interactions with (people) of different races. The it’s there, but it shouldn’t be a deciding factor.” bias is barely there because they’ve noted the changes of According to Grollman, more and more of such relationships throughout the years.” relationships could be expected in the future. He said According to Grollman, despite the general increase perspective changes regarding interracial dating in the in numbers of interracial relationships, there are definite past several generations would continue. In fact, according cultural incongruity issues that may arise in interracial to the survey by the Pew Research Center, the 85 percent relationships as opposed to other types. acceptance of interracial relationships by people ages 18 “In the early 1990s, a huge study, the National Health and to 29 sharply contrasts with views of older generations. Social Life Survey, found that interracial couples, as well as Seventy-three percent of 30 to 49 year-olds approved, 55 couples with partners coming from different educational percent of 50- to 64-year-olds approved and just 38 percent or social class backgrounds, were more likely to… (receive) of those ages 65 and older accepted such relationships. negative reactions of parents and communities. So, people “Given changes we’re seeing today from the 1960s, we in interracial couples were less likely to introduce their will continue to see more and more interracial couples and partners to families and friends. And because they weren’t marriages,” Grollman said. “But I don’t think that we’ll as included into every aspect of each other’s lives, they were ever see as many interracial couples (as) we would expect more likely to break up.” if partner choice were random. That is, race still matters in He added that while the scenario is less common today, terms of partner choice and whether we even find a person interracial couples may still face unfavorable or even attractive. Though explicit racism is becoming less of an hostile reactions from family, friends and communities. issue, we still see a preference for white skin as the standard Such responses sometimes contribute to the dissolution of of beauty and considering darker skin as ugly.” relationships between individuals of different races. Chiang said he believes newer generations are more Chiang said that while such cultural differences may inclined to look beyond members of their own race exist, they are just another opportunity for the essential in entering relationships. He cited greater exposure to bonding that matures strong relationships. diversity at school and in society as a whole as a reason for “There are definitely some challenges with regards to this change. culture differences,” he said. “For instance, customs and “I feel it’s because we’ve matured in an environment that traditions may differ, but it’s the blending and mutual encourages and works well with diversity,” Chiang said. “If understanding that the relationship in many cases develops anything, it’s more that we learn to accept the idea just by a much stronger bond.”

Historical Milestones 18th century:

American President Thomas Jefferson reputedly had an affair with his slave, Sally Hemings, and fathered several of her children. Recent DNA tests support these claims. cliff1066, “thomas jefferson,” Dec. 19, 2008, Public domain Newsweek / source

1959:

Richard Loving and Mildred Jeter sued Virginia for its antimiscegenation laws. The Supreme Court ruled the law unconstitutional in 1967.

Bettmann/Corbis, “Loving,” May 6, 2008, Creative CoMmons license Newsweek / source

1967:

Prominent African-American activist Alice Walker married Mel Leventhel, marking the first legally recognized interracial marriage in Alabama. MDCarchives, “Alice Walker,” Nov. 15, 1989, Creative Commons license Newsweek / source

1969:

John Lennon married Yoko Ono in Gibralter. The couple remained together until Lennon’s death in 1980. Gisela Giardino, “Watching the Wheels,” Oct. 9, 2004, Creative Commons license Life / source

1967:

President Barack Obama’s parents were of two different races. His mother, Ann Dunham, was Caucasian and his father, Barack Obama Sr., his father, was Kenyan. Pete Souza, “President Obama,” Jan. 13, 2009, Creative Commons License Newsweek / source

Interracial relationships by generations A 2009 study finds that younger generations are more likely to accept interracial relationships

Pew Research center / source Caroline Zhang / graphic

Generation:

Silent (1928 1946)

Percent who said it’s “alright for whites and blacks to date each other: 68%

Generation:

Percentage:

Baby Boomer (1946 - 1964) 83%

Generation X (1965 - 1980) 86%

Millennial (1981+) 92%

Page 10 | FEATURE | HiLite | hilite.org | jan. 27, 2011 Ultimately, Spencer said, students have to pay attention to ingredients and labels on drinks like Vitaminwater. According to her, informed consumers can identify products that are more harmful than beneficial. However she said many students aren’t so well-informed. But even Poindexter said she is aware of Vitaminwater’s high sugar content. “I didn’t drink (Vitaminwater) as much at first because it was like ‘wow, they’re so high in calories, there’s so much sugar,’” Poindexter said. But once the company introduced Vitaminwater Zero, containing zero calories and little sugar, Poindexter said, she became interested again. Also, according to Poindexter, she only looks at the vitamin percentages of Vitaminwater because some of its other health claims, like those saying the drink can prevent cancer, are too far-fetched to rely on. “If you’re saying, ‘Oh (Vitaminwater) is going to make me so much healthier’—okay, yeah, that’s kind of too much,” Poindexter said. Like Poindexter, Williams said health drinks don’t contribute much to one’s overall health. “I’m sure it can help you. But not as much as (companies) are advertising, ’cause they’re still trying to make money,” he said According to Poindexter, people should understand that all companies will tend to exaggerate the benefits of their products, though she doesn’t see that as a reason to stop drinking Vitaminwater. “I’m not saying you have to read the fine print,” Poindexter said, “But as long as you have the understanding in your mind that (companies) are selling a product, then, there’s nothing wrong with (their marketing tactics).” But according to Spencer, even for consumers who are aware of this, the better—and cheaper—solution is a natural vitamin intake from fruits and vegetables. “Drink water, eat your fruits and vegetables, and you don’t need Vitaminwater,” Spencer said. Williams too said health drinks are not worthwhile. In addition to having questionable benefits, he said, “(Vitaminwater) tastes bad. So there’s no reason to drink it.” Indeed, Spencer said, taste actually plays the larger role in whether many students drink Vitaminwater or don’t. “I think some kids get in the habit of drinking (Vitaminwater) because it tastes good or whatever, and then they think they’re getting all this extra benefit because of the vitamins in it,” Spencer said. However, according to Poindexter, while those extra vitamins attracted her initially and are helpful, she would still drink Vitaminwater even without them. “(Vitaminwater tastes) good. They’re not as high in sugar and sodium as soda,” Poindexter said. “They’re still better for you.”

The Health Drink Hype Students turn to beverages like Vitaminwater despite possible exaggeration of benefits

Henry zhu / photo

Better than Fruit?: Freshman Sydney Poindexter said although she is aware health drinks such as Vitaminwater have only a negligible impact on improving health, she still drinks them because she enjoys the taste. Glacèau has been recently sued over fraudulently labeling products like Vitaminwater.

By Hafsa Razi hrazi@hilite.org

reshman Sydney Poindexter is not, as she says, a “fruit person.” According to her, the only fruits she likes are apples and clementines. When it comes to her vitamin intake, Poindexter said she realizes were it not for the popular health drink, Vitaminwater, she would be lacking in daily nutrients. “My mom’s like, ‘Well, you know what, (Vitaminwater) has the vitamin that you’re not getting because you don’t eat bananas,’ or whatever,” Poindexter said. Glacèau’s Vitaminwater, like other health drink brands, boasts drinks “packed” with vitamins. But these drinks might not be as beneficial as they seem. In Jan. 2009, the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), a consumer advocacy organization, sued the Coca-Cola Company, owner of Glacèau, in an ongoing lawsuit, according to the CSPI’s website. It said Vitaminwater made “deceptive and unsubstantiated claims,” violating Food and Drug Administration (FDA) policy. The CSPI said fraudulent health claims masked large amounts of sugar and calories, calling Vitaminwater an exploitation of consumers’ desire to drink healthily. However, students like Poindexter continue to buy health drinks like Vitaminwater even though they might not live up to their labels. According to Poindexter, she drinks Vitaminwater a couple times a week. In addition to its taste, she said, Vitaminwater’s health benefits are what attracted her to the drink. Since she doesn’t regularly eat fruits, Poindexter said, the vitamins in Vitaminwater are especially important to her. But according to Nancy Spencer, nutrition and fitness teacher, students shouldn’t rely on supplements like Vitaminwater to substitute vitamins from natural food.

“Eating a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables is better than drinking health drinks,” Spencer said. “(Fruits and vegetables) have all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that your body needs.” Drinks like Vitaminwater, Spencer said, are not just unnecessary—their high levels of sugar and calories actually outweigh their nutritional benefits. According to her, it’s those potentially harmful ingredients in health drinks that aren’t promoted or well-known. Some students, though, are aware of the negative effects of health drinks. Freshman Ari Williams said he never drinks Vitaminwater because he dislikes its taste. However, according to him, Vitaminwater isn’t healthy either. Despite its promoted health benefits, he said, Vitaminwater still contains sugar and other unhealthy substances. “They wouldn’t be as good for you as just regular water,” Williams said.

How Vitaminwater measures up Vitamin C

Potassium

Vitamin B12

1 1/2

= Vitaminwater power C flavor has: 180 percent of daily value of vitamin C

3/4 One kiwi has: 120 percent of daily value of vitamin C

Vitaminwater has: 350 mg of potassium

One banana has: 450 mg of potassium

Vitaminwater has: 60 percent daily value of B12

One cup of milk has: 15 percent daily value of B12

Glacèau Vitaminwater, Food and drug administration and national institute of health / sources Caroline Zhang / Graphic

Page 12 | FEATURE | HiLite | hilite.org | jan. 27, 2011

Attack of the Allergies

The number of food allergies in the world has been on the rise in recent decades sanitation in the past few decades. “Instead of people dying from poor public sanitation (in the mid-1900s), people started to develop other problems,” Patterson said. “That’s when I think the instance of allergies he number of food allergies in the world has been started to rise, maybe because of what we’ve done to our on the rise in recent decades. environment in terms of vaccinations, and public health When eating in the school cafeteria, at a and antibiotics, and the way we raise our children and the party or at a local restaurant, most high school way we process our food.” teenagers will order food based on what they feel like eating. Hunter said the particular rise in wheat allergies may However, junior Rebeccah Hunter must take an extra be due to a change in processing milk, safety precaution. Since she is allergic to specifically, pasteurization or boiling of wheat, she needs to make sure the foods milk to kill the bacteria. she is eating do not contain anything “Pasteurized milk can cause that sort that may start an allergic reaction. 1 in 5: people in the United of allergy in a person,” Hunter said. “Your “When I get wheat, I kind of feel States who have experienced body isn’t built to handle pasteurized like I have no energy left and I get a allergy or asthma symptoms foods. It’s not built to handle processed really bad stomachache,” Hunter said. foods either. Theoretically, if (I) drank “Basically, I feel like crud.” Hunter’s food allergy is not 3 to 4: Approximate percent of raw milk instead of pasteurized milk, my wheat allergy might go away.” uncommon. According to Newsweek, Americans who actually have a One factor that may affect the viability food allergy a study two years ago placed the rate of an allergy, as Patterson previously of food allergies at one in 70 children, compared with one in 250 children in 30,000: Number of people who said, is the change in the process of foods. Another factor may be the age the 1970s. The rise in food allergies has visit the emergency room each of the person who becomes allergic. caused some public schools around the year due to food allergies Patterson said allergies are more likely nation to react. For example, according to The Boston Globe, Dedham High 4 million: Days of work missed to affect children than adults. “You can get it the first time as an School in Dedham, MA is scheduled to due to hay fever adult, but mostly you get it as a child,” discuss a new policy this January that calls for eliminating food as a “reward 15: percent of people who think Patterson said. Hunter said she first had an allergic or incentive” and prohibiting the sale of they have allergies reaction to wheat when she was 14 on a outside food and beverages during the vacation in France. school day to keep allergic students safe. WebMD / Source “I got home and I was like, ‘Mom, David Patterson, an allergist and this is what happened to me all through clinical immunologist who is on staff France.’ I had this huge red rash all across my neck, and it at St. Vincent Hospital, Clarian North Medical Center and was awful and horrible. I went off wheat and it went away,” Community Hospitals Indianapolis, said no one really Hunter said. knows for sure why allergies are on the rise. Similarly, junior Mason Yao remembers being However, one reason may be the changes in public allergic to fruit at eight years old. “I would say (my allergy) possibly affected my earlier life,” Yao said. “Earlier I was pudgy, it would have done me well to eat (fruit), because I love sweet things, and fruits are sweet, but they gave me allergic reactions, so I didn’t want to eat the fruit. So possibly I could have been skinnier had I been able to eat fruit.” However, Yao said since his reaction is not extreme, sometimes he chooses to disregard his allergy. “Later on, mostly in high school, when I realized apples are tasty and they’re like healthy, sometimes I eat an apple, and I get (the allergic reaction), but I can ignore it, because it’s not very severe,” Yao said. Hunter also said her allergy lizzy Grubbs / Photo only slightly affects her life. She Eat this, not that: Junior Rebeccah Hunter eats a wheat-free cookie. Studies can eat the same foods as everyone show that food allergies, such as Hunter’s wheat allergy, have increased in else, except with minor changes to recent years.

By Adele Zhou azhou@hilite.org

By the numbers

the ingredients. “Basically everything that everyone else eats like bread and cakes and cookies, I eat too,” Hunter said. “It’s just made out of something different so I have to buy different bread than everyone else.” However, the root cause or causes for the rise in allergies is yet to be known. Patterson also said there are a number of treatments for allergies, but doctors continue to search for new cures. “Over a number of decades, we’ve had newer and newer drugs and better drugs (doctors) are starting to come out with,” Patterson said. “There may be novel treatments coming out in the next decade. Our understanding with the human genome will probably help spur some novel treatments. Maybe one day there will be a cure (for allergies).”

Biology of an allergy Food allergies are genetic and can run in families.

A person with a food allergy ingests that food.

First time the allergycausing food is eaten

Some cells in the body produce immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody, which is usually used to fight disease.

The antibodies attach to specific cells in body tissue, called mast cells.

Next time the food is eaten

Food allergens, proteins in food that cause a reaction, enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body

The food allergens come into contact with the antibodies.

The mast cells release chemicals such as histamine. Depending on where the histamine travels to, different symptoms occur: Skin: hives Stomach: vomiting Throat: trouble breathing

Webmd / source Caroline Zhang / Graphic

Page 14 | Student section |HILITE | HiLite.ORG | jan. 27, 2011

STUDENT SECTION An Age of Superheroes

Photo of the Issue

Julia Leigh Keller-Welter submitted a picture of the TechHOUNDS team bonding over Xbox. Submit your own on the HiLite Facebook page.

Studentsection@hilite.org | twitter.com/Hilite_news

Students marvel over their favorite superheroes, both in real life and the fantasy world

Poll Results

by andy yang ayang@hilite.org

43%

uperheroes have dominated the stories in every time and culture. They tend to be people who are a bit larger than life and who have worked to make the world a better place for everyone. But for junior Ashley Sipe, superheroes do exist in real life. “For me, my real life superhero would be my uncle (Greg Trout). He was adopted when he was little, and he’s native American; so growing up, he didn’t have an easy life because people made fun of him for that. Plus, my grandma was always really sick, so my mom was the one who took care of her, and he always felt really out of place in the family. He had to go through a lot. He ran away when he was young, and he regrets everything now, but I’ve learned a lot of life lessons from him,” Sipe said. Trout and his wife currently work as search dog trainers, traveling to Ground Zero after 9/11 and to New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in order to help out, according to Sipe. She said

Batman

REAL NAME: Bruce Wayne OCCUPATION: Industrialist, Philanthropist BASE OF OPERATIONS: Gotham City FIRST APPEARANCE: Detective Comics #27 (May 1939) FUN FACTS: -The artwork of Leonardo Da Vinci was the source of inspiration for Batman’s cape -Catwoman was Batman’s first opponent; Scarecrow was the second -Batman’s utility belt contains over 35 items

Captain America

29%

11% Superman

FIRST APPEARANCE: Action Comics #1 (June 1938)

Spiderman

FIRST APPEARANCE: Amazing Fantasy #15 (Aug. 1962) DANIELLE YIN AND ANDY YANG / GRAPHIC dccomics.com / SOurce

FIRST APPEARANCE: America Comics #1 (March 1941)

she began looking up to him when she was 12. It was then, she said, when her mother got sick. “He was the one who would always be there for me, and he would keep the family together, when everything was falling apart, and just made me really proud of him cause nobody else could do it, only him,” she said. Although Sipe said her family is no longer in contact with Trout, she said he has not only had a positive influence, but has also helped her think about her future as well. “He definitely made me a stronger person, and made me more tolerant of and think about things that I never would’ve thought about before, like people being adopted or coming in from a different situation and how hard it can be on them, to not feel accepted,” Sipe said. “I’ve definitely gotten a lot of ideas from him. He’s shaped me as a person because he’s around for so much of my life. I’ve definitely learned stuff from him, and he definitely makes me want to go into an area helping people like he has because I can tell that it makes him happy and he enjoys what he does.

Wonder Woman

FIRST APPEARANCE: All Star Comics #8 (Dec. 1941)

Page 16 | Cover story | HiLite | hilite.org | Jan. 27, 2011

Scaling It Down Unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle have contributed to a drop in life expectancy.

conner gordon / photo

Jan. 27, 2011 | hilite.org | HiLite | Cover story | page 17

By Darlene Pham

t the end of his freshman year, sophomore Leo Bennie Welter weighed between 170 and 180 pounds. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, he was overweight. It was then that he decided to turn his life around. By changing his diet and physical activity, Welter lost 40 to 50 pounds in just 10 weeks.

“I decided I didn’t want all this weight for adults is approximately 77 years. The on my hands. It’s a burden,” Welter said. prevalence of obesity can reduce as many “I felt horrible most of the time. I just felt as five years from the life expectancy of ugly and self-conscious.” the current generation. Welter said he attributes his weight Cindy Carmack, a bariatric dietician gain to a lack of physical at the St. Vincent Bariatric activity and an unhealthy Center of Excellence, said diet, including fast foods obesity is not the only factor and sweets. that shortens life expectancy. I decided I didn’t want An increasing number of However, she said that all this weight on my hands. It’s a burden. I adolescents in the United further increases in rates may felt horrible most of the States, similar to Welter, cause a continued decrease in time. I just felt ugly and live sedentary lifestyles life expectancy. self-conscious. and possess unhealthy According to the Centers Leo Bennie Welter eating habits. for Disease Control and Sophomore As a result, for the first Prevention (CDC), the time in two centuries, number of overweight or experts predict that the obese children in the United current generation of children will have a States has tripled since 1980. Sixteen shorter life expectancy than their parents, percent of children from ages 6 to 19 according to a report in the New England suffer from obesity. Another 15 percent Journal of Medicine. is considered at considerable risk of The current average life expectancy becoming overweight.

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Story continued on next page >>

Page 18 | Cover story | HiLite | hilite.org | Jan. 27, 2011

What’s in your snack? The Overall Nutritional Quality Index (ONQI) ranks foods based on nutritional density. 100 broccoli pineapple tomato 95

non-fat milk 90 banana oatmeal 85 80

raw almonds milk (1% fat)

75 70

unsalted popcorn 69

65 60

instant oatmeal

white rice 55 milk (2% fat) milk (whole) 50 pasta canned peas 45 40

yogurt

orange juice 39 skinless chicken

35 30 chicken drumstick 25 hamburger (75% lean) bagel peanut butter 23 20 fried egg 15 diet fizzy drinks pretzel sticks 10 dark chocolate 10 white bread 5 0

hot dog milk chocolate crackers

nuval.com / source

<< Story continued from previous page In Indiana, the percentage of adult obesity increased from 27.4 percent in 2009 to 28.1 percent in 2010. According to the Indiana State Department of Health, about two million people in Indiana are obese. Compared to the rest of the country, Indiana ranks 11th in obesity rates. Refusing to be another part of these statistics, Welter turned his eating habits around. Instead of eating out at fast food restaurants, Welter started to eat at home more often. “I told my mother that we shouldn’t eat out all the time, that we should eat healthier at home,” Welter said. “I didn’t eat any dessert or sugary things. I ate a lot of vegetables and fruit and a lot less meat.” Welter said he now considers himself somewhat of a “loose vegetarian,” with chicken being the only meat he eats. Like Welter, senior Alexia Ohnemus also changed her diet a few years ago. Although not as drastic, Ohnemus realized her unhealthy habits and decided to change. “I went through a phase where I ate really healthy, but I ate a lot. I would eat fruit, then yogurt, then Sun Chips, and I realized that was too much for a snack, so now I’m better at eating healthy,” Ohnemus said. While Welter and Ohnemus have made efforts for a healthier lifestyle, many teenagers have adopted habits that could endanger their health in the future. Sophomore Kevin Trinh said he admits to practicing unhealthy eating habits and what could potentially be a dangerous lifestyle. “I eat fast food a lot,” he said. “My parents work a lot and come home late, so it’s just easier to buy McDonald’s or something than wait for them to come home.” Trinh is one among the one-third of children who eat fast food every day. The frequent consumption of fast food has increased by almost five times among children since the 1970s. “I probably eat fast food at least three days a week,” Trinh said. “It’s probably really bad for me, but it’s good and easier for my parents, so I guess I don’t really care.” Health teacher Emily Good said via e-mail that people should avoid eating high-fat and high- sodium foods, many of which are prevalent in fast food restaurants. While Ohnemus eats fast food occasionally, she tries to

Prevention Objectives Indiana Obesity Prevention Plan addresses high school students • Objective B:

Increase the percentage of high school youth who maintain a healthy body mass index for age. • Objective E: Decrease to 8 ounces or less the average daily consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages among adolescents. • Objective F:

Increase the percentage of youth who consume 3 or more servings of calcium-rich low fat dairy products daily.

• Objective G:

Increase the percentage of youth who report eating breakfast regularly

• Objective I:

Decrease the percentage of teens who report eating fast food 3 or more times a week • Objective M:

Decrease the proportion of adolescents who view television or who play computer or video games or use a computer for something that is not school work for more than 2 hours per school day in.gov / source

keep it in moderation when she does. “I eat fast food, but when I do, I try to make sure I don’t get a lot of the extras and only the basic things. I don’t get the full meal because that’s when you get the added things,” she said. Welter said he understands why there is a growing trend in eating fast food. “It’s just easier, but your health is important. If you do eat fast food, you should only do it once a week,” he said. Ohnemus’ diet, filled with protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, is ideal for a healthy lifestyle, according to the CDC. Carmack said people should limit the intake of empty calories such as sweets and high fat foods. Welter said that for him, it’s all about being balanced. “I can afford to binge on food because I can balance it out,” he said. “You hear people say a more balanced diet is the key to a healthy weight, and people disregard that, but it works.” A poor diet isn’t the only factor of the obesity epidemic. According to the CDC, a lack of physical activity also contributes to causes of obesity. Welter said that before his lifestyle change, he had no physical activity. He did what most kids do today: watch television, play video games and go on the Internet. Now Welter said he exercises daily, alternating days between cardio and conner gordon / photo weightlifting workouts. BODYBUILDER: Sophomore Leo Bennie Welter exercises using a weight While poor diet and lack of machine. Although he said he occasionally focuses on muscular strength, physical activity contribute to obesity, he most often centers his workouts around jogging or other activities that according to the CDC, the greatest area benefit cardiovascular health. of obesity prevention is behavior and

Jan. 27, 2011 | hilite.org | HiLite | Cover story | page 19 environment, which includes parental involvement in their consciousness then, can’t anymore. I’m children’s health. self-sufficient,” Welter said. According to WebMD.com, a website with updated While obesity is a growing epidemic, medical news and findings, the best way to prevent it has not gone without notice. The childhood obesity is for parents to take charge. Indiana Obesity Prevention Plan was Good said a major contributor to childhood obesity is a created in 2010 to combat the growing lack of parental awareness and regulation of food intake in trends of obesity. their children’s lives. The purpose of the plan is to create “We need to do a better job educating,” she said. an environment that will make it easier Ohnemus said, “People should be teaching their kids to for Indiana residents to choose healthy do better than themselves. They should inspire their kids to eating and activity patterns. do better than they did in their life. To know that your kids As a result of this plan, changes are will live a shorter life than yourself is just sad.” apparent here at this school. Vending “They don’t think it’s that big of a problem, but parents machines that sell soft drinks are not don’t force their children to go outside. If they don’t get available during school. High sodium exercise, they will inevitably gain weight and become obese,” foods, like French fries and Pop-Tarts, Welter said. “With all the modern dangers of the world, are no longer sold during lunch. I can see why parents wouldn’t want kids unsupervised Efforts to combat obesity also exist outside, but really it starts with the parents.” on a national scale. For the past five conner gordon / photo According to Good, the effects years, Nickelodeon, of childhood obesity are not limited a network targeting REHYDRATE: Welter purchases a bottle of water from a vending machine to a shorter life expectancy. It also young teens, has during a workout. Welter said he prefers water to other beverages due to the leads to poor self esteem, emotional issued a Worldwide unhealthy side effects of sodas and energy drinks. If society continues distress and a number of diseases: Day of Play. to allow (obesity) to coronary heart disease, type 2 The station stops diabetes, various cancers, stroke, Carmack said rates will continue to increase if society be socially acceptable, broadcasting for three hours to encourage sleep apnea, respiratory problems permits it to. its viewers to go outside and play. and people continue and liver disease. She said, “If society continues to allow it to be socially But Nickelodeon is not alone in to choose unhealthy According to Carmack, being acceptable to lead an unhealthy lifestyle, and people encouraging more physical activity. lifestyles for themselves, overweight or obese could affect continue to choose unhealthy lifestyles for themselves, it Other stations, including NBC, it will get worse. daily life as well with consequences will get worse.” broadcast shows like “The Biggest Loser” like fatigue, joint pain, shortness of Ohnemus said she recommends that students watch to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Other Cindy Carmack breath, inability to tie shoes or cross their food intake. shows include VH1’s “Celebrity Fit Club” St. Vincent Bariatric Center of Excellence legs and difficulty to participate in “Don’t eat when you’re bored. Only eat when you’re and MTV’s “I Used To Be Fat.” These some recreational activities. hungry. Eating when you’re bored is such a bad habit to get shows follow people struggling with Although Welter was not faced into, and you don’t realize how much you actually eat.” weight as they begin their journey to with life threatening complications, he said he had a low Welter said to keep it simple. pursue healthy lifestyles and encourage those at home to self-esteem. “If you want to lose weight, there’s no reason you can’t. do the same. “I used to be so self conscious about my neck. I would Don’t make the excuse that you’re too busy. Just go on the Despite this growing exposure to the problem, the rates wear hoodies to try and hide my neck,” Welter said. treadmill or lift weights and diet, which is the most critical,” are still rising. But he said he has more confidence now. he said. “Keep it simple with healthy balanced eating and “We are getting better, but I believe we still have a long “Anyone who could have taken advantage of my selfa lot of exercise.” way to go,” Good said.

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”

By the Numbers The prevalence of obesity among high school students increase at a steady rate. 2001 - 2002

2003 - 2004

Indiana obesity rates continue to increase

2005 - 2006

2007 - 2008

27.4 percent 2009

16.9

15.5

17.1

15.4

18.1

17.8

17.4

16.7

19.6 15.1

18.8

16.3

2-5

10.4

11.0

13.9

10.6

Percentage

28.1 percent 2010

6 - 11

12 - 19

Age Groups

Total Laura Peng / Graphic

CDC.gov / source Caroline zhang / Graphic

Page 20 | Entertainment | HiLite | hilite.org |jan. 27, 2011

Entertainment

Opening this weekend: • Biutiful • The Mechanic • The Rite

submitentertainment@hilite.org | twitter.com/Hilite_news

Upcoming concerts:

• Feb. 17: Sarah McLachlan at the Murat • Feb. 22: Joshua Radin at the Vogue Theatre

Distinctive Dining Donatello’s opens in downtown Carmel offering a special occasion atmosphere to the Arts and Design District by Audrey Bailey abailey@hilite.org

Emily Puterbaugh / Photos

ocated directly in the center of downtown Carmel on West Main Street is a quaint, family-owned restaurant called Donatello’s. Specializing in Italian cuisine, Donatello’s offers authentic meals along with an intimate atmosphere. This newly opened establishment is one students should try and, hopefully, come to love. When first walking through the doors, cloth-covered tables accompanied by maroon-painted walls greet visitors from the chill of Carmel winter weather. The entire atmosphere of the restaurant presents itself as incredibly intimate and personal. A table on the back decorated with bottles of wine, plates, silverware and other dining necessities reflect an Italian family gathering. As I was seated by a polite young gentleman, no time was wasted. Looking through the lunch menu everything sounded delicious. Perhaps the fact that I forgot lunch money that day added to the desire, but nonetheless, each meal listed sounded delectable as well as authentic. As I tried to decide between fettuccini alfredo, French pizza and tortellini Michelangelo, the waiter brought warm sourdough bread to awaken my taste buds. By then, the decision was made. I decided to order the tortellini Michelangelo. Although the pronunciation was a little problematic, the meal to come proved all my efforts were worth it. The meal arrived quickly, within 15 minutes, and the first scent that presented itself was that of bacon. After that distraction, I glanced down at my plate and admired the presentation itself. The large tortellini pasta was drenched in a cream sauce accompanied by mushrooms and bacon. Trying each component, I found the cream sauce appealed the most. Perfectly seasoned and balanced, the cream sauce had a rich color and flavor. After tasting the sauce, I took a bite of the pasta itself. At first, the al dente pasta combined with the salty ricotta mixture inside proved to be a perfect combination. The only criticism I had, however, was in regard to the filling. While eating the dish, the saltiness seemed a little overwhelming. I felt the need to continually cleanse my palette with a glass of cold ice water. Although the salt content was beyond my preference, the first bite was extremely satisfying. The bacon also added a pleasant, unexpected smokiness to the dish. Overall, the meal was exactly what I had hoped for. As for desserts, Donatello’s has several options, including the house specialty Italian cream cake. As the server explained this cake was his grandma’s recipe. In fact, her Italian cream cake had won state awards in Indiana. From that point on, I was convinced. Although stuffed from the tortellini Michelangelo, an opportunity to taste award winning Italian cream cake was a chance I

was not going to forgo. The massive slice of vanilla cake did not disappoint, but this was not the everyday Betty Crocker vanilla cake. The cream cheese-frosted cake covered with coconut held its own. The moistness of the cake, the rich tang from the cream cheese frosting and, lastly, the crunch from the coconut made this one of the best cakes I have ever had. Only a couple minutes passed before the cake vanished. One side note, the price Donatello’s charges for its menu items is a little higher than high school students may be comfortable with about $10 to $15 for a typical lunch but the tortellini and the cake made it worth it. Overall, Donatello’s offers exceptional authentic cuisine in an intimate setting. I hope to return soon in order to try more of what they offer. One aspect of my dining will always remain constant, however, and that is the Italian cream cake. Everyone should be willing to pay a little extra for a meal like the one I received at Donatello’s.

Strategic Location: Located right on Main St., Donatello’s is in close proximity to the school and right in the heart of the Arts and Design District. This fine Italian restaurant opened its doors on Dec. 30.

jan. 27, 2011| hilite.org | HiLite | Entertainment | PagE 21 Let Them Eat Cake

This dessert is one of the main attractions at Donatello’s. Winning awards at the State Fair, the Italian cream cake is an item on the menu every customer should try. This massive slice of vanilla cake is moist, sweet and, at the same time, a little tangy. The cake itself melts in the mouth, while the frosting is a sweet cream cheese frosting topped with crunchy coconut shavings. Each layer is filled with a light and creamy icing much like the one on the exterior of the cake. The tanginess from the frosting along with the sweet decadence of the cake itself makes this dessert one of the best out there.

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

Fast Facts While Donatello’s takes a relaxed approach to dining, here are some fast facts about this newcomer to downtown Carmel. Hours: • • • •

Monday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday 5 to 10 p.m Closed on Sunday

Donatello’s Chicken Caprese sandwich takes seasoned grilled chicken and places it securely between two pieces of Italian ciabatta bread. Accompanied by homemade pesto spread (basil, garlic, parmesan cheese and olive oil), onions, tomatoes, lettuce and, mozzarella cheese, this sandwich is sure to satisfy any appetite. The chewy Cibata bread is a perfect combination with the crunchy lettuce, onions and juicy chicken. The pesto, on the other hand, is there to add a lemony tang and freshness to the sandwich. Overall, this dish is a delicious, hearty lunch any day of the week.

Price Range:

• $15 to $25 for dinner • $10 to $15 for lunch

Location:

• 9 W. Main St.

Grand Opening:

• Donatello’s first opened its doors Dec. 30

In Their Words: • •

According to Donatello’s website donatellositalian.com, Donatello’s is “a homage to dining in a classier time.” The restaurant’s motto is, “a classic never goes out of style.”

Follow Donatello’s:

• Stay in the loop by following Donatello’s on Twitter @EatAtDonatellos

Hungry for more?

For more photos of the delectable cuisine at Donetello’s go to

High ‘Steaks’

This well rounded lunch item at Donatello’s offers the freshness of lettuce, tomato and red onions along with the meatiness of tender steak. Served on a soft baguette, the Classic Steak Sandwich is a delightful meal. The sharpness of the red onions was well complimented by the sweetness of the fresh tomatoes and crunchy romaine lettuce. The only criticism is in regard to the preparation of the steak. Although the meat was well cooked, with a soft pink inside, it lacked proper seasoning (salt and pepper) and tasted somewhat bland. Overall, the sandwich remained filling and satisfying.

www.hilite.org Emily Puterbaugh / Photos

Page 22 | Entertainment | HiLite | hilite.org | Jan. 27, 2011

A ‘Sensible’ Winter Show for All

With ‘Sense and Sensibility’ opening soon, the HiLite takes a glimpse at the show SENSIBLE SOLUTIONS: “Sense and Sensibility” cast members rehearse in the Dale E. Graham Auditorium. Tickets to the show are available at the bookstore.

A Rising Star

compiled by meredith boyd and lauren Burdick mboyd@hilite.org, lburdick@hilite.org

Q & A with senior Bethany Arrington, who plays Eleanor Dashwood in the show

A Student Apprentice

Tell us a little bit about the show’s historical context.

Q & A with junior Matt Bloom, who is working behind the scenes as a student director.

Jane Austen wrote the book, and this is actually an adaptation of the book. (Austen’s version) was in the 1800s era.

How does being a director differ from being in the cast or crew of a show?

Is the cast and crew staying true to the literary version?

I’m here every rehearsal and I’m sitting with Ms. Cassidy, who is the main director. I’m taking notes on whatever she says, and she asks me for opinions and I get to give my ideas to the blocking or how the characters interact. I come up with the ideas for the scene and set.

Do you have a preference between acting and directing? This is really new; I’ve never done anything like (directing) before. I really enjoy being on stage. They’re really different; I’d say I like both of them.

EMILY PUTERBAUGH / PHOTOS

Our director decided that she really wanted to do a Jane Austen production. It’s strictly the era. Our costumes will be that and our set as well. I know, personally, as a modern actor doing a more classical work, I take a lot of time researching the language, because language is a lot denser. Instead of saying “thank you,” I say “it’s a pleasure to thank you for everything you’ve done.” It’s just really lengthy. So I definitely did my research on words, just so I know exactly what I’m saying. That way if (the audience) doesn’t know what I’m saying, they can tell by my body or my inflection exactly what I’m trying to get across.

Council of Talent Held by Terror This issue, Kush Joseph profiles The Council as the Band of the Issue Band members

• Kim Hoffa: vocals, Avi Goot: drums, Evan Crafts:

What’s in a name

• While Goot initially chose the name, he

• “It’s pretty original; it’s a mix of everything,”

Venues Played

• “It started because the band I was in freshman

guitar, Kyle Impini: bass, Mason Yao: pianist/ rapper

Sounds like

Goot said.

• Houndstock, Tailgate for Life, MS Battle of the

Bands

said he never thought it would stick. “I thought it was going to change, but when you get a reputation with a name it’s hard to change it,” he said.

jan. 27, 2011 | hilite.org | HiLite | Entertainment | PagE 23

Want to see your band here?

Each issue we profile a student band.To nominate your band contact us at submitentertainment@hilite. org. Featured next month: Late Night Reading.

Humble beginnings

year all graduated. Originally, it was me and Evan Crafts,” Goot said.

conner gordon / photos

STRIKE A CHORD: (clockwise from the left) Crafts, Impini, Hoffa, Yao and Goot practice their set. According to Goot, the band is already excited for Houndstock. “We’re pretty psyched to top our Houndstock performance from last year,” Goot said.

Page 24 | SPORTS |HILITE | HiLite.ORG | Jan. 27, 2O11

SPORTS

submitsports@hilite.org | twitter.com/Hilite_news

Sports Scoreboard Accurate as of 1/24 press deadline

Men’s basketball Record: 5-8 Upcoming: Saturday versus Ben Davis (home) Notable: Guard and senior Joshua “Josh” Baldridge and center and senior Alec Peterson lead the team in scoring.

woMen’s basketball Record: 15-4 Upcoming: Tomorrow versus Ben Davis (home) Notable: Forward and senior Torrie Thornton and guard and junior Blaire Langlois lead the team in scoring.

woMen’s swimming Record: 6-0 and finished first in MIC Upcoming: Saturday in Greyhound JV classic (home) Notable: Team looking to stretch its state title streak to 25 consecutive heading into Sectional play

Men’s swimming Record: 6-2 and finished first in MIC Upcoming: Saturday in Greyhound JV classic (home) Notable: The team aims for a three-peat of the state title heading into Sectional play in February.

Go online

For sports scores, updates, additional photos and more.

www.hilite.org

Women’s Varsity Basketball

• v. Ben Davis tomorrow at 7:30 at home.

Men’s Varsity Basketball

• v Ben Davis,7:30 at home Sat.

Did you know?

Varsity wrestler and senior Patrick Parham became the 17th wrestler in Carmel history to record 100 varsity wins as a starter.

Men’s basketball

Talented Transfers

With new players, the men’s basketball team hopes to continue to build team chemistry while rebounding from poor start By Charlie Browning cbrowning@hilite.org

rated schedule in Indiana.” Robinson came to Carmel because Fort Wayne Elmhurst no longer had a basketball program starting this year, which gave him the eligibility to transfer to any school of his choice. nlike the majority of players on the basketball team this year, “I’ve enjoyed playing at Carmel and have become close with some of seniors Nyree Robinson and David “Clayton” Sanders didn’t the guys on the team here,” Robinson said. “It has definitely been a good grow up playing basketball in the Carmel system. Instead, at this transition for me.” time last year, they were at Fort Wayne Heady said the addition of Elmhurst and Mount Vernon high Robinson and Sanders to the team school, respectively, playing basketball has been a positive addition for the on successful Class 3A teams. As a result Both guys came from successful programs basketball team. of some uncommon circumstances, and they are high-character men who “Both guys came from successful though, this year they are suiting up for programs, and they are high-character have adjusted well to the new setting. They the Carmel basketball team. men who have adjusted well to the Sanders, who was a major came from two schools that won and were new setting,” Heady said. “They came contributor in leading Mount Vernon established programs, and they did very from two schools that won and were to the Class 3A Semi-state, ended up well to adjust into different roles this year. established programs, and they did at Carmel because his stepfather, Scott very well to adjust into different roles Heady, accepted the coaching position Scott Heady this year.” Head basketball coach at CHS. Heady said both Robinson and Sanders said he has enjoyed the Sanders bring something important transfer of schools and likes playing at to the game, but each is different in his style of play. a school with a high-caliber schedule such as CHS. “Clayton is more of a defender,” Heady said. “He is a versatile combo “It was a good switch of schools, and I enjoy all the players guard who plays smart and just does what he has to do to produce a and coaching staff here,” Sanders said. “(Mount Vernon) was win. Nyree is more of an athletic slasher who is really explosive in a 3A school, and the schedule there is nowhere near as hard as Carmel’s. Here, by the end of the year, we have the number-one Story continued on next page >>

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Player Bio Nyree Robinson

74 inches tall

Weight in pounds 170

wrestling Record: 18-3 Upcoming: Saturday in Sectional at Zionsville (away) Notable: Senior Grant Scurria is currently the third-ranked wrestler in the State at 145.

12 years of playing

Jersey number 4

1 semester at CHS

MORE ONLINE

For up-to-date scores and stories, go to our website

www.hilite.org Mary Brooke Johnson / photo

Games started 3

Jan. 27, 2011 | hilite.org | HiLite | SPORTS | PagE 25

<< Story continued from previous page transition. He can use his athleticism defensively and is a good rebounder as well.” Sanders said although he has been asked to do many of the same responsibilities on the court at Carmel as Mount Vernon, the style in which Carmel plays differs from the style he played at Mount Vernon last year. “We are a faster-paced team here where we like to score in transition and play pressure defense,” Sanders said. “Last year my role was to play point guard and get other guys shots, and this year I still Clayton need to be a team player and continue to try to get other guys shots.” Heady said the team has played well in spurts but has failed to put together a full 32 minutes collectively, and that Sanders and Robinson can be key factors in helping the team find consistency. “Right now our main issue is consistency,” Heady said. “We’ve shown signs of playing very good basketball, but we haven’t been able to put 32 minutes together yet. The work ethic and attitude on this team are very good, and they are all high-character guys. With both Nyree and Clayton coming from winning programs, I think they can bring that winning attitude to our program.” Heady said he believes the team has potential as long as it continues to improve. “Our goal is just to get better each week and

continue to improve each game,” Heady said. “I think if we do that then we will be up there contending for conference championships. It sounds simple, just get better as the year goes on, but that’s what we are focused on.” As the team enters the most important part of its season, the focus of always getting better becomes more and more important. The team is reaching the middle of its Metro

Interscholastic Conference (MIC) schedule with teams such as Ben Davis, Lawrence North and Warren Central. “Everyone has started to find and accept their role,” Heady said. “Our chemistry continues to get better. We had six players who were new to varsity basketball, so it takes time for them to gel; it’s a process.”

Player Bio Sanders

71 inches tall

Weight in pounds 175

12 years of playing

Jersey number 12

1 semester at CHS

Games started 8

Mary Brooke Johnson / photo

FROM STAFF FromTHE the staff

James

Benedict

Not so much fun anymore. Club sports need more school support.

Carmel offers a large variety of activities for its students to participate in. Whether its football or choir, there is niche for almost every CHS student. If you find yourself looking for something new, any student can start his or her own club. All that is needed is a teacher sponsor, but for the most part, CHS is very hands-off. While this allows students to make very specific and unique clubs, large clubs are starting to feel the repercussions of having limited support from Carmel and the state of Indiana. Athletic clubs have been the most hurt by this lack of funding. Sports are expensive to play. Riddell, one the most well-known manufactures in football protective gear, sells shoulder pads for $440, and helmets for $240. Instead of making players pay for all the gear themselves, CHS rents the gear, plus other equipment, to each player for $90. While Carmel can’t afford to financially support every club, they can offer some other services to help ease the burden from club sports. While I do believe Carmel needs to support its club sports more, it would be unfair to not first mention the support they do give. This school allows club sports to use Carmel logos and names and other benefits. It would also be unfair to not point out that due to current funding and regulations, including a new sport is not easy. If CHS

wanted to add just one sport they would have to hire a coaching staff, purchase equipment, include another equal sport for either women or men (the opposite of which ever was the new sport) and much While I do more. There also needs to be other high schools in the state believe that play the chosen sport, for Carmel competition for CHS. needs to Many of these club sports have support its as many, or more participants club sports than school-sponsored sports. more, it Carmel should take athletics would be clubs that have a large number unfair to not of athletes and give them certain perks over regular clubs. first mention These clubs represent a large the support population of CHS and should they do give. be supported as such. The three practice fields that are used by the football team during its season are left unused in the winter and spring. CHS could easily donate these to fields to a spring club sport, such as rugby or lacrosse.

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Since club sports do not practice at CHS, just getting to practice can be a large problem for student athletes. Giving the fields to club sports would greatly benefit those sports while providing little cost to Carmel. After playing a certain time in a varsity sport athletes distinguish themselves from their peers by getting a letter. While most club sports have their own version of lettering, they are not truly lettering. Instead they get a letter from their club sport, but CHS does not recognize it. A threeyear varsity hockey player is just as much of an athlete as a three-year football player, and their accomplishments should be treated equally. If Carmel changed its policy to recognize club sports for lettering, it would make club athletics accomplishments more of a part of the CHS community. Carmel has a large diverse population and an equally diverse group of clubs. While it is impossible for the school to fully support every sport, they could offer some low cost support. Little things like the use of CHS facilities or recognition of athletes’ accomplishments would go a long way in easing the burden of club sports.

James Benedict is a sports reporter for the HiLite. Contact him at jbenedict@hilite.org.

PAGE 26 | SPORTS |HILITE | HILITE.ORG | Jan. 27, 2011

basketball

Beating the Best The women’s varsity basketball team takes on Ben Davis tomorrow night. The Giants are on a 76-game winning streak with their last loss against Carmel. By Matt Barnthouse mbarnthouse@hilite.org

a whole lot of what we do in practice. The approach we take is usually pretty consistent. Obviously our kids really know the history, and have been motivated with what happened omorrow, there will be a showdown. in the college ranks when they (Connecticut) In possibly the best game of the whole got beat by Stanford after a long streak. We women’s basketball 2010-11 season, the have a chance to do, assuming that they stay Greyhounds will host Ben Davis, a team has undefeated, to do exactly what Stanford did. not lost a single game in over two years. In a They were the last team to beat them and we battle of the titans, and a battle for both Metro were the last team to beat them, so hopefully Interscholastic Conference (MIC) and Indiana our kids are motivated.” High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) In order to beat Ben Davis, the supremacy, the Greyhounds Greyhounds will have to contain look to beat the ESPN number Gatorade All-American forward six-ranked team in the country. Bria Goss who is arguably the Carmel is the last team to beat Giants’ most productive player. the Giants, and they are looking We have a DeFruscio said, “She is really to be the first to beat them again, chance to good and I think we have to do when Carmel defeated Ben Davis do exactly what we did last year, to protect two years ago in the Regional what Stanford the middle of the paint. If we keep tournament. did (against her out of the paint we can have a Though this may be the biggest Connecticut). better chance winning because she regular season game of the is their leading scorer right now season, practice has not changed Scott Bowen and if we limit her to touches of according to varsity player and Head Coach the ball or whatever, and I think we senior Lucy DeFruscio. can stop them because everything DeFruscio said, “We go to revolves around her.” practice every day to try our Bowen agreed with DeFruscio’s statement hardest and try to get better as a team, and and said, “We obviously need to know where the fact that they’re #6 in the nation is really she is, she’s really good on the offensive boards. impressive to us, but they are just seen as another She will be a main focus when it comes to the opponent in the MIC.” offensive rebounding. She will definitely get Head Coach Scott Bowen seems to have our attention with probably multiple defenders the same opinion as DeFruscio. He also drew finding their way guarding her.” a parallel to women’s college basketball titan The girls were at one point undefeated and Connecticut, who just lost against Stanford to ranked second in the state. Then they traveled end its 91-game winning streak. Coincidentally, down to New Castle to participate in the Hall of Stanford also was the last team to beat Fame Classic. The team lost both games versus Connecticut before the streak began. Evansville Memorial and Jeffersonville to drop Bowen said, “We usually don’t really change in the state rankings. Co-captain and junior Blaire Langlois said, “We just had a bad tournament. As a team we could not hit any shots. It was even worse because A look at Ben Davis’ notable stats we were on (local) television and we • Currently ranked number-one in state polls did not play like we know we can.” • Number-six in the ESPN Super 25 high school Carmel athletic teams are not polls accustomed to being the underdog. The • It has not lost since its matchup against Carfootball team has been a championship mel in the 2008 Regional game contender for the past five seasons., • Head coach Stan Benge won national high ranking number one in the state at school coach of the year last year one point in the season every year. In the 2010 season, the team reached Bria Goss: the Giant’s MVP Sectionals before losing to Fishers. • Won two Pacers-Fever Player of the Week Other consistent title contenders at Awards Carmel include the women’s swimming • National Gatorade High School All-American team, which won State championships • McDonald’s All American • 1st team all-state in 2010

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Facing the Giants

indystar.com / source

Story continued on next page >>

lizzy grubbs / photo

WHo’s open? Forward and Senior Torrie Thornton looks for an open teammate during a game against Anderson on Jan. 12. Thorton led the Greyhounds in scoring that game with 19 points.

Jan. 27, 2011 | HILITE.ORG | HILITE | SPORTS | PAGE 27

<< Story continued from previous page for 24 straight years and the men’s and women’s tennis teams who have both been the title favorite for the past two seasons, with the men’s team winning the State championship this year and the women’s team winning the State championship last season. Tomorrow night, a Carmel sports team will be in a new position: one of the underdog. Langlois adds that the team will not change its gameplan for tomorrow. They will remain primarily in their 3-2 matchup-zone to slow down Ben Davis’ fast-paced offensive strategy. The Greyhounds will have to stop her if they want to have any chance of winning. Senior leadership from DeFruscio and Torrie Thornton will be key to lift the Greyhounds to victory.

Huddle UP: The varsity women’s basketball players are addressed by their coaches during the Jan. 6 game against Lawrence North. The Hounds were victorious 5851. It was a big win because the team had lost the previous two games in the Hall of Fame tournament. Its toughest challenge of the season will be tomorrow, taking on number-one ranked Ben Davis. LIzzy Grubbs / photo

From the staff

swimming

Women’s swimming team attempts to win 25th consecutive State title By david zheng dzheng@hilite.org

Sectional and State are both two days is because the first day is preliminaries and the second day is the finals, but you can only score points at finals.” Head Coach Chris Plumb said the team does not plan Two years ago, the women’s swimming team won its 23rd to do anything differently this year in its bid for its 25th consecutive State championship, breaking the previous consecutive State title. “We plan on doing all the things record of 22 consecutive State championships for any necessary to perform at our best at the State championship women’s sport set by Punahou School in Hawaii from 1974 meet,” Plumb said. “It is 24 years of to 1995. After another State victory last support, not pressure; people cheering year, this year’s women’s swimming us on and supporting us and helping team is just looking to extend its It is 24 years of support, us understand the value of hard work unprecedented record with a 25th not pressure, people and having big dreams.” consecutive State championship. cheering us on and Shaheen, who swims the 100Sectional preliminaries are supporting us. breaststroke, said that the team is scheduled for Feb. 3 and Feb. 5. If the starting to taper in preparation for women’s swimming team advances Chris Plumb State. “Between Sectionals and State in the tournament – and chances are Head Coach we won’t do anything, and we’ll just be that it will – it will compete at the State relaxing for the State meet,” Shaheen meet on Feb. 11 and Feb. 12. said. “We’ll still have morning and afternoon practices, but According to Samantha Shaheen, varsity swimmer they’ll just be really easy.” and senior, both the Sectional and State meets are two When asked about some of the other schools in the days long. “If you make the Sectional team and get your tournament, Plumb said that this school’s women’s State cut, you’ll move on to competing at State where you swimming team focuses solely on itself. “We view the will hopefully score points,” Shaheen said. “The reason tournament as four quarters in a game with a six-day halftime period, and our goal is to improve each quarter and manage the emotions of the tournament,” Plumb said. “The coaches Men’s Sectional Women’s Sectional and athletes are focused and prepared for the challenges that lay ahead.” • Feb. 3 and 5 • Feb. 17 and 19 Shaheen said she agreed with • Noblesville • CHS Natatorium Plumb in that there is more support Women’s Preliminary Rounds Men’s Preliminary Rounds than pressure. “It could be a lot of pressure, but it’s really just an honor • Feb. 25 • Feb. 11 to have all those people behind us,” • IUPUI Natatorium • IUPUI Natatorium Shaheen said. “A lot of swimmers from past years will come back to Women’s State Men’s State cheer for us, so it’s nice to know how • Feb. 12 and 13 • Feb. 26 much work has gone into this whole • IUPUI Natatorium • IUPUI Natatorium thing. The best part of being on deck at State is looking up and seeing all carmelhighschool.net / source the Carmel fans in the stands.”

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The Road to State

”

Alex

Mackall

A game-winning play. The NFL PLAY 60 challenge continues to do a great job of educating young fans about proper fitness. One in three children, 17 and younger, in the United States are obese or overweight. This is a huge number and it continues to increase each day. If this statistic was exact at CHS, it would mean 1,477 teenagers, just in this school would be overweight or obese. That’s equal to the entire senior class and about half of the junior class. However, also increasing in today’s society is the amount of prevention and other types of programs that teach families and children about obesity, what leads to it, the effects of it and how to prevent it. One of the best programs currently out there is the NFL PLAY 60 challenge. PLAY 60, according to nflrush.com, is a program designed to eliminate obesity in children. The idea of PLAY 60 is to encourage kids to play or be active for 60 minutes each day, as the NFL players play 60 minutes each game.

Read more of Alex’s column online at www.hilite.org

Page 28 | perspectives | HiLite | hilite.org |JAN. 27, 2011

PERSPECTIVES submitperspectives@hilite.org | twitter.com/Hilite_news

Check out the blogs: For blogs and more, visit the HiLite website at www.hilite.org.

Staff Perspective

Students should vow to live healthy lifestyles for the new year and beyond Around this time, many students’ New Year’s keep up the workout routine and it can even resolutions often begin to fade and are quickly provide entertainment and a distraction by forgotten until next year. It’s not a surprise talking. that most New Year’s resolutions don’t conThe easiest way to lose weight and become tinue past the first month. In fact, accordoverall healthier can involve basic everyday ing to an article published in the New York tasks. Livestrong.com lists many ways in Times, research conducted by the University which a few minutes of normal everyday activiof Minnesota in 2008 shows that by Valenty can keep people fit. For example, instead of tine’s Day, 80 percent of those who make taking the elevator, use the stairs. According New Year’s resolutions fall off the wagon. This to the website, climbing the stairs tones leg is especially true for the most common and muscles and burns calories. Purposely parking most important resolutions, farther away also adds a little like losing weight or getting fit, bit of exercise into the day by but there’s no better time for forcing people to walk more. students to remain resolute. Surprisingly, small changes According to the U.S. like these in daily activity can Department of Health and make a big difference in fitGetting or staying Services, 13 percent of high ness level. school students in Indiana Especially in the winter, it’s healthy is a New are obese, which is defined by hard to go outside and get Years resolution that some exercise and fresh air. having a body mass index of everyone should 95 percentile or higher. Other In this case, exercise usually facts of interest are that 20 be done indoors. Why take on, regardless must percent of high school stunot hit the shopping mall? of your own lifestyle. Livestrong.com suggests dents did not participate in at least 60 minutes of physical after leaving each store, Good health should that activity on any day during the those seeking to increase be a lifelong goal seven days before the survey fitness level should walk at and 29 percent watched teleleast 500 steps before enterand the earlier vision three or more hours per ing the next store. Remember you begin living a day on an average school day. that small changes in everyWhile the number of obese day activities add up quickly, healthy lifestyle, students rises and physical and these changes can help the easier it is to activity decreases, it is espemaintain a healthy lifestyle. cially important for students There are also wintertime continue these to hold true to their fitness activities that double as good habits throughout resolutions this year. exercise. Ice-skating and skiIt’s a well-known fact ing are great ways to keep in your life. that resolutions are hard to shape while also enjoying the keep. Whether it’s to use the outdoor weather. computer less or limit candy intake, everyone Students must also remain optimistic has trouble sometimes. However, there are despite the current weather. Though the some simple tips to succeed with a fitness or dreary conditions can be a damper in keeping exercise resolution. New Year’s resolutions, as the weather gets One important aspect of setting a resoluwarmer and spring arrives, staying fit tends tion is that it needs to be specific. A defined to become easier as exercise can be moved goal needs to be set, like losing five pounds outdoors. or working up to exercising four days a week. Students will benefit from setting a specific This will help keep students’ eyes on the health goal and coming up with creative ways prize. It will also be easier to evaluate the to keep it after the initial excitement of the resolution and track improvement. resolution wanes. It’s important to especially Another aspect to keep in mind is to enlist focus on the ones that work on increasing a buddy for help. Support is always a motivafitness level and exercising more often betor. With the support of peers, it’s easier to cause keeping fit should be a lifelong goal.

Have an opinion?

To be featured as a guest writer in the next issue, send your column to perspectives@hilite.org.

Speak Up

compiled by melinda song

What do you do to stay healthy during the winter?

“I go to the gym and work out sometimes, and then I try to eat healthier—eat salads and more fruit.”

Our Stand

Junior Paige Hergenrother “To be quite frank, I don’t really (do anything). I guess maybe putting our dogs out because they’re always running all over the house. They go (everywhere) and then you’re spending like an hour trying to dig them out.”

junior ian kathan “I play ‘Just Dance’ on the Wii, which is really fun, and I can do it with my brother and sister, and I also park down at the stadium, so I have to walk up the trail every day.”

senior kellé Harrell

JAN. 27, 2011 | hilite.org | HiLite | perspectives | Page 29

From the Editor

Sara

Rogers Dude. Where’s my privacy? In 2010, I was exposed. As an active user of social networks and electronic devices, a good portion of my life plays out daily by means of the evolving, boundless and ever-terrifying realm of technology. Granted, my information is always secured and protected by various privacy settings. In the last year, that sense of security broke down as recent developments ushered in an era of information sharing, making many people’s lives uncomfortably public. According to a Wall Street Journal study conducted in December of last year, 56 of the 101 most used smartphone applications sent the phone’s ID code to companies without user consent. Forty-seven others sent the phone’s location without consent. The most unnerving were the five applications that sent personal information, including age and gender, to outside sources. While this information sounds scary, I wasn’t too worried. I carefully monitor what I post online, what others post about me and how I use my beloved Blackberry. Only under very rare circumstances did I give away any of my personal information. I was safe. Or so I thought. According to the Wall Street Journal, applications I used and used often, such as ESPN ScoreCenter, Facebook, Pandora Radio, The Weather Channel and “Angry Birds,” a popular iPod game, regularly transmit information from users to third party marketers. Like many of you, I’ve given up a fair amount of my free time to access these applications on my iPod Touch and on my phone. Little did I know, I was unknowingly giving up my personal information, phone ID and current location to hundreds of people who I will never meet. Smartphone applications are far from the only culprits in this situation. In October of last year, Facebook faced a

the wayside. Congress and the Federal Trade Commission similar problem after it was revealed that the site released (FTC) plan to work in conjunction this year to combat free user data to marketers and Internet trackers without releasing of private information. permission from its users. Similar to the “do not call” list, both groups hope to More recently, a warning circulated on Facebook develop a “do not track” list to prevent online monitoring notifying users of Spokeo, a website search engine of personal information. For an additional preventive designed to amass information from a wide range of sites resource, the White House developed the Subcommittee on and develop user profiles based on a phone number, e-mail Privacy and Internet Policy in October address, name or username. I decided of last year. to check out the site, emblazoned According to the official White with the phrase “not your grandma’s While little has been House blog, the goal of the committee phonebook.” Well that’s certainly true, resolved in regards is to “develop principles and strategic seeing as my grandmother would directions with the goal of fostering never be so creepy. to digital privacy, consensus in legislative, regulatory, and After typing in my home phone it is comforting to international Internet policy realms.” number, the site immediately brought see that advocacy However, humans are social beings. up results. The page itself had my groups, journalists and We thrive on person-to-person mother’s name, her approximate lawmakers are not interaction and sharing information age, marital status and ethnicity. It letting this issue fall to with others, whether to help give gave a Google Maps image of my the wayside. directions, refer friends to restaurants neighborhood and a view of my house or movies or show pictures from a from the street. Big Brother wasn’t just recent vacation. It’s entirely unrealistic watching me, he was taking pictures. to believe that any list or legislation will change such deepThe page knew the number of bedrooms in my house rooted habits. as well as the square-footage. It could even pinpoint my The solution falls in the hands of the public. Despite mother’s “lifestyles and interests,” providing an eerily privacy settings and pending legislation, I am only as safe accurate portrayal. as my last post. While users can take their names, phone numbers and I only hope that everyone will choose to be a little e-mail off of the registry, this website still embodies the more cautious this year on Facebook and elsewhere. That’s ease with which information is available on the Internet. something we can all “like.” To put it simply, everything shows up somewhere. While little has been resolved in regards to digital Sara Rogers is the editor-in-chief of the HiLite. Contact her privacy, it’s comforting to see that advocacy groups, at srogers@hilite.org. journalists and lawmakers are not letting this issue fall to

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graphic perspective

daniel li / art

Page 30 | perspectives | HiLite | hilite.org |JAN. 27, 2011

from the the Staff Staff from

Marianna

Cooper

Speak up. With Congresswoman shot for political policy, free speech should be appreciated. In most classes I have taken at Carmel, those few individuals willing to voice their opinions tend to dominate the discussion. The majority of the class chooses to remain silent. Most students tend to forget or dismiss the privilege of free speech in the safe environment of a classroom setting. When I first sat down to write this column, I had planned to focus on a controversial blasphemy law in Pakistan and how it has led to violence in that country. The headline would have read, “Violence in Pakistan should encourage appreciation of U.S. safety in free speech.” However, on Jan. 8, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona, known as an avid backer of health care and other democratic policies, was shot outside a supermarket where she greeted those she had been elected to represent. The faith I had in my headline, and furthermore the reliance I had in freedom of speech, no longer applied. In Pakistan, where blasphemy laws make it a crime punishable by death to speak out against Islam, those who have taken a stance have found themselves persecuted. In November, a Christian Pakistani woman, Asia Bibi,

was sentenced to death for besmirching the name of the Prophet Mohammed. She is still alive, but the reform of the blasphemy laws is hotly debated to this day. After Bibi’s sentence, the discussion for doing away with the blasphemy laws opened. The governor of Pakistan’s wealthy Punjab Province took a stance in support of Bibi and against the laws. On Jan. 4, he was assassinated for this viewpoint by his own body guard. Just as Taseer and Bibi were pinpointed for their views, Giffords’ tragic attack is the result of negative rhetoric taken too far. Connections have been drawn in the press to Sarah Palin’s unfortunate choice of posting a map that uses cross hair targets to designate those candidates posing a political threat to the Tea Party in the midterm election. Giffords was marked on this map. Although attacking Palin would be extreme, the connotation of the targets serves as an example of hatred, fueling what should remain friendly debate. When, as Americans, we see an instance of the vulnerability that goes hand in hand with forming an opinion, why should we participate in discussion and

confidently voice our opinions within the classroom? Only through learning to hear the views of others can we open our eyes and find acceptance of what is different. The classroom discussion is a safe, educational forum where a student only has to raise his hand to share. If you have an opinion, speak up. If not, listen and educate yourself on the issue at hand. Through practicing tolerance now, we will feel more confident in our freedom of speech as eventual leaders of the country. I am comforted by one crucial difference between the tragedies that have occurred in the United States and Pakistan. A week before being shot, Giffords participated in a House reading of the Constitution, reading these poignant words from the First Amendment, “Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech.” While violence may have occurred in both countries, in the United States, the law protects the right to speak up and to speak freely. Marianna Cooper is a video reporter for the HiLite. Contact her at mcooper@hilite.org.

from the Staff

Ryan

Zukerman

2011. Finally a chance to be optimistic. Paraphrasing John Williams, if we knew at the beginning of each year the problems we would face, many of us would never even start in the first place. Let’s face it, 2010 was a bad year. In addition to catastrophic events like the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and the outbreak of “Bieber Fever,” 2010 was the deadliest year for natural disasters since 1986. Over 260,000 people died, millions more were displaced and insurance agencies estimate losses of $222 billion. The year brought everything: earthquakes, health care reform, “The Decision,” forest fires, Wikileaks, sink holes, bed bugs and more. Had we known we would be facing all of this, most of us would have dropped out of the race long ago. So now that the ball has dropped and we can finally put 2010 in our rearview mirror, one looming question still blocks the road forward, “What’s next?” As bad as 2010 was, let’s focus optimistically on what will be better. Because if the new year allows us to do anything, its to get a fresh start, a fresh perspective. It seems like 2011 is building up to be an exciting year. Everything looks like it is going to be better than it has been in quite some time. In the technology department, this year will continue our trend of becoming larger in memory and smaller in size. Tablet computers will surpass

the release of the entire Beatles catalog on iTunes? That laptops in sales, and superphones—phones that can do announcement was so shocking that The Beatles will almost anything—will also come to dominate the market. continue to dominate the music world deep into 2011 if As for TVs, the 3-D concept is just getting started. Already not into 2012. We can expect, however, 3-D TVs that don’t require glasses have new releases from Katy Perry, Rihanna, been introduced. This new technology Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga. is also going to be introduced into Only 27 days into the new year and videogames as well when the Nintendo So now that the ball it already seems as though the medical 3DS ships this year. has dropped and we world will have a record year. University It has been a turbulent year in can finally put 2010 of Oklahoma scientists found a way to the political world with the tragic stop pancreatic cancer in early stages and Arizona shootings targeting U.S. in our rearview mirror, researchers found that the H1N1 flu strain Representative Gabrielle Giffords, one looming question is pointing toward a universal vaccine. and President Obama will do his best still blocks the road So what can we expect in 2011? The to ensure that this year goes smoother forward: What’s next? answer is recovery, and it’s about time, too. than it started. It seems as though the last few years have Hollywood is also going to have been nothing but bad news; first Hurricane a huge year. With titles like “Harry Katrina, then the recession and finally 2010. We need a break, Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 2,” “Pirates of the and thank goodness we are getting one. I mean who really Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” “Green Lantern,” “Kung Fu li / Art knows what’s next? Panda 2” and “Cars 2” set to debut, expect long lines and quality entertainment at the movie theaters. Ryan Zukerman is a beats/calendar editor for the HiLite. As for the music industry, 2011 is going to have a Contact him at rzukerman@hilite.org. tough time competing with 2010. What can compete with

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JAN. 27, 2011 | HiLite.org | hilite | perspectives | Page 31

from the Staff

Shayan

Andy

Ahmad Yang

Don’t worry. Excessive stress is not necessary for success.

instrument, going to eat with friends or pretending to The perception pop culture creates about high school is that be a mannequin at Victoria’s Secret—well, that last one it is the best time of our lives, worry-free and adventurous. As might just be us. In fact, taking time out to do activities far as we can tell though, CHS is no “High School Musical”. like that have more benefits than just fun. This isn’t just because we don’t break out in song and According to the Mayo Clinic, relaxation can “reduce dance numbers, but because we all have problems that can’t muscle tension and increase blood flow to major muscles.” be solved with just a duet. Maybe if we all did no schoolwork Also, relaxation results in a healthier response to stressful like the kids at East High our experience would be the best, situations, “with a decrease in negative emotional but that’s simply not how reality works. reactions and greater energy reserves.” Instead, we get an overload of tests during this time of And if your parents are the type who try to make your year: SATs, ACTs, APs — all of this on top of our normal life into an episode of “Lockdown” and won’t let you go out work. With all this pressure on our shoulders, it seems like during weekdays, CHS has a number of clubs that at times we can’t even stand upright anymore. can seem comical. At least one of them has to appeal to Some find the only way to face down these problems is to your interests, and joining a not-so-serious club like the push themselves to the brink on a regular basis, stressing out popular Four Square Club or Johnny to the point of complete meltdowns. Depp Fan Club can really relieve some The problems we face can be dealt with without this sort of misery, stress. Unless you’re not good at Four We need to though. Even if we can’t live our lives so Square of course, but that’s neither that we can do away with our troubles here nor there. understand that high by singing, we can all reach our goals If none of these work out, the school is far from just by using the right mentality: we call entertainment industry is superfluously the end of the road; it the Chill Mentality. large, so there has to be something on in fact, it is only the The first step to becoming chill is the television that attracts you. Just sit beginning. easiest. We need to understand that high down and watch some shows, whether school is far from the end of the road; in you want to laugh at the ‘guidos’ on fact, it is only the beginning. The Man the “Jersey Shore” or get absorbed in a tells us that if we fail we might as well drama like “House.” be homeless, but as the great Jack Black said in “School of We’re not saying you should totally drop off on Rock,” we’ve got to stick it to the Man. Even if the Man says academic duties, but all of this is achievable with balance. we have to overstress to succeed, it simply isn’t true. What people need to understand is that if they just It’s essential to lose this mind set because most of us did what they need to do they would find they have a haven’t even lived a quarter of our lives yet. Though it may surprising amount of extra time. Organizational skills feel like there is nothing we can do, we can all take a step take little work and pay off while waiting for the last gasp forward and look back: When has all the tension ever been does nothing but place extra pressure upon ourselves. worth it, and more importantly did the result of the stress we When the time comes, do your work, and even start up create for ourselves ever justify the negativity it generated? on it before hand. There really isn’t any point in extending Many students feel as if the only possible way to obtain yourself beyond that. success is to stress out and overwhelm themselves, but goals And most importantly, be grateful for what you have. can be obtained without living in the library bathrooms. Even if it doesn’t seem like much at times, be glad you The suburban mind set which society forces upon us is have the friends you have, the opportunities you get, to live in the future. Right now we must focus on college; in the candy you get from the nice stranger in the van with college we must focus on getting a good job; once we have the wooden panel on the side, and though it may seem that its all about our family and so goes the cycle. The fact is ridiculous to need to say this, be happy you have a life at all. With our vision shrouded with stress, we lose sight of that if we only live in the future, we can’t enjoy the present. these graces. The impression we have as adolescents in society is that Second semester is when the tests start piling up, and without unwavering diligence it is impossible to reach students need to remember to take it easy, even if at times excellence, but by balancing out the time we spend working things seem out of control. As long as we can prioritize and the time we spend relaxing, a perfect system that allows and organize, we can keep our lives in check and keep our us to do the right amount of both can be achieved. brains from bursting with stress. It may seem like we have no time to take a break from So get your work done, but make sure to have a little work, but if we don’t do just that we might as well just put fun, get a little chill, do a little dance or whatever you have a bullet in our brain’s pleasure sensors. Many people only to maintain yourself. spend their time to chill during the weekends, but going five Just remember: there really isn’t all that much to worry days straight at high intensity with only sleep for relaxation about. Just chillax, brochachos. time is borderline insanity. Weekdays are not made solely for hard-core school and Shayan Ahmad and Andy Yang are reporters for the HiLite. work time. There’s nothing wrong with taking time off Contact them at sahmad@hilite.org and ayang@hilite.org. during the week just to do the things we love: playing an

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Contact information Mailing Address: 520 E. Main St., Carmel, IN 46032 Phone: (317) 846-7721, Ext. 7143 Website: www.hilite.org E-mail: Staff members of the HiLite may be contacted by using their first initial and their last name appending @hilite.org. For example, Sara Rogers will receive mail sent to srogers@hilite.org.

Responding to the HiLite Letters to the editor will be accepted for the Feb. 25 issue no later than Feb. 3. Letters may be submitted in Room C147, placed in the mailbox of Jim Streisel, e-mailed to letters@hilite.org or mailed to school. All letters must be signed. Names will be published. (Letters sent via e-mail will be taken to a student’s SRT for him to sign.) Letters must not contain personal attacks against an individual and may be edited.

Purpose

The HiLite is a student publication distributed to students, faculty and staff of Carmel High School, with a press run of 4,500. Copies are distributed to every school in the Carmel Clay district as well as the Chamber of Commerce, city hall and the Carmel Clay Public Library. The paper serves as a public forum and two-way communication for both the school and the community. Opinions expressed in the newspaper are not necessarily those of CHS nor the Carmel Clay system faculty, staff or administration.

Credentials

The HiLite belongs to the Indiana High School Press Association, Quill & Scroll and the National Scholastic Press Association.

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Businesses may advertise in the HiLite if their ads adhere to guidelines. The advertising policy is available in Room C147 or at www.hilite.org.

Staff Editor-in-Chief Sara Rogers Managing Editors Steven X. Chen Mackenzie Madison Rebecca Xu David Zheng Accountant Pat O’Neill Acumen Monica Cheng Ellie Seta 15 Minutes of Fame Yameen Hameed Artists Meredith Boyd Daniel Li Alex Mackall Rebecca Xu Business Manager Patrick Bryant Beats/Calendar Rachel Boyd Melinda Song Victor Xu Sarah Yun Ryan Zukerman Cover Story Laura Peng Entertainment Lauren Burdick Meredith Boyd Feature Afra Hussain Caroline Zhang Front Page Arjuna Capulong Daniel Li Graphics Daniel Li Tim Lu Danielle Yin News Tracy Sun Nina Underman Perspectives Emma Neukam Jade Schwarting Photography Arjuna Capulong Lizzy Grubbs Special Projects Katie Norman Darlene Pham Jackson Whiteker

Sports

Stuart Jackson Reuben Warshawsky Student Section Shokhi Goel Web Steven M. Chen Yusheng Zhu Ray Qian Patrick Tan Reporters Julie Kippenbrock Shayan Ahmad Lindsay Lehman Nick Andrews Chris Li Audrey Bailey Ben Lu Matt Barnthouse Natalie Maier James Benedict Alex Mackall Katie Bourgerie Amira Malcom Rachel Boyd Lauren Mugavin Hope Boyer Dhruti Patel Charlie Browning Thalib Razi Marianna Cooper Erum Rizvi Audrey Courter Tony Tan Eric Dick Olivia Walker John Du Katie Walstrom Ryan Duffy Jerry Xu Cassie Dugan Andy Yang Grayson Harbour Kendall Harshberger Adele Zhou Henry Zhu Blaine Herbst Kush Joseph

Photographers Kathleen Bertsch Katie Bougerie Gabrielle Bowers Brandon Candis Kathryn Dawson

Conner Gordon Mary Brooke Johnson Emily Puterbaugh Jenna Ruhayel

Adviser Jim Streisel Principal John Williams Superintendent Jeff Swensson

Page 32 | 15 MINUTES | HiLite | hilite.org | jan. 27, 2011

15 MINUTES OF FAME 15Minutes@hilite.org | twitter.com/Hilite_news

Bird’s the Word

Senior Elena Murzyn tames raptors as a falconer

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By katie norman knorman@hilite.org What got you started as a falconer?

I’d read about falconry before, but what really got me started was seeing Mark Booth’s falconry program at Connor Prairie. I talked to him after the show, and he told me about the laws and responsibilities required of a falconer, regaling me with tales from his childhood. He directed me to the right people and two years later, I was training my own falcon.

Why did you choose this falcon?

I didn’t really choose her, not in the way you would choose a dog or a cat. As a licensed falconer, I am able to legally trap raptors from the wild within a specific season. I trapped Tephra on Sept. 19 off of a telephone wire in Westfield.

Katie norman / photo

Where do you let your bird hunt?

Because Tephra is a kestrel and hunts mostly sparrows, I am able to hunt in almost any public place and wherever I am able to get permission from private owners so long as I have my license on me. I’ve been to abandoned fields, the backs of schools and restaurants, parking lots around Carmel and Westfield, all around my neighborhood and anywhere else I’ve seen a sparrow fly.

What safety precautions are you required to take?

The biggest threat I have to worry about is the presence of other, larger hawks. My last bird was killed by another hawk while we were out hunting last year, and I’m always on the watch to prevent that from happening again. If my bird or I—she usually reacts first—spots danger, I immediately call her down and leave the area. Less worrying but just as dangerous are cars, ignorant people and power transformers. Evening is also dangerous since the darker it gets, the more likely the hawk will be to find a comfortable perch high in a tree and refuse to come down ‘til dawn. As far as precautions go, the most I can do about that is stay away from busy roads, crowded places, and telephone poles and never hunt late in the day.