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carmel high school • 520 e. main st., carmel, IN 46032

15 minutes Junior Lawrence Yeh dances his way to fame

dec. 14, 2009 • vol. 55 • issue 5

Walking on

Thin Ice

Students must balance colder weather with continuing need for exercise during winter season Check us out online @ www.hilite.org for the latest news, scores, video, polls and multimedia content

Carmel High School • 520 E. Main St., Carmel, IN 46032

DEC. 14, 2009 • VOL. 55 • ISSUE 5

Contact information

table of contents

cover story

Mailing Address: 520 E. Main St., Carmel, IN 46032 Phone: (317) 846-7721, Ext. 7143 Web site: 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, Michelle Hu will receive mail sent to mhu@hilite.org.

Responding to the HiLite

Letters to the editor will be accepted for the Jan. 29 issue no later than Jan. 15. 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.

Staying in shape As winter sets in, students are forced to seek different ways to exercise during the long, cold wintry season

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.

Advertising 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.

Reporters Sally Bae Audrey Bailey Meredith Boyd Hope Boyer Maggie Brandenburg Andrew Browning Patrick Bryant Monica Cheng Ryan Duffy Cassie Dugan Yameen Hameed Grayson Harbour Kendall Harshberger Ben Lu Alex Mackall Photographers Gabrielle Bowers Arjuna Capulong Shirley Chen Stephanie Coleman Shokhi Goel Lizzy Grubbs Kate Grumme Stuart Jackson Emily Puterbaugh Daniel Smith Jinny Zhang

04 06 feature 10 12 student section 15 entertainment 20 22

Superintendent Barbara Underwood’s retirement results in two candidates for the job Proposed budget cuts pose risks for the continuation of summer school

TOMS integrates social conscience into business model

Staff Editor in Chief Michelle Hu Managing Editors Rosemary Boeglin Sarah Sheafer Accountant Andrew Burke Acumen Arjuna Capulong Jinny Zhang 15 Minutes of Fame Afra Hussain Artist Daniel Li Rebecca Xu Beats/Calendar Emma Neukam Amanda Nguyen Laura Peng Nina Underman Cover Story Sara Rogers Entertainment Maddi Bourgerie Ellie Seta Feature Hera Ashraf Rebecca Xu Front Page Tim Chai Steven Chen Graphics Daniel Li News Susie Chen Beverly Jenkins Perspectives Julie Kippenbrock Jade Schwarting Photography Nick Johnson Kaitlyn Lampe Special Projects Kelsey Binion Amanda Nguyen Min Qiao Tracy Sun Sports Mackenzie Madison David Zheng Student Section Lauren Burdick Web Mike Jiang Nishanth Samala

news

Faraz Majid Katie Norman Priya Patel Darlene Pham Thalib Razi Mitch Ringenberg Erum Rizvi Katie Walstrom Reuben Warshawsky Jackson Whiteker Celina Wu Michelle Yun Sarah Yun Caroline Zhang Web team Michael Luo Pedram Navid Matt Pickard Michael Price Video Marianna Cooper Parker Myers

Adviser Jim Streisel Principal John Williams Superintendent Barbara Underwood

Christmas is becoming a more secular and commercial holiday as more people are celebrating it

Sophomore Eric Lawler uses his spare time to raise funds for a school in Liberia

HiLite staff picks top holiday cookie recipes HiLite staff presents the most popular holiday gifts

WANT MORE? Go to www.hilite.org for stories, videos, slideshows and more

sports

24 26 perspectives 28 30 15 minutes of fame 32

Senior Jordan Davis works part-time for the Pacers Changes to intramurals frustrate students

STAFF PERSPECTIVE: Exercise and fresh air is important in winter Jackson Whiteker, Nick Johnson, and Hera Ashraf post their opinions on everyday life

Junior Lawrence Yeh dances to hiphop in his free time

CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS from the 11.20 Issue

In the entertainment story “Presenting a ‘Spectacular’ Tradition,” Michelle Steele meant to say Act 2 includes freshmen but not dancing, and there has always been two acts. Also, Matthew Hook and Kaitlyn Lampe’s names were misspelled. In the entertainment section “Behind the Curtain,” under “Economy Influences Costume Budget” Ann Conrad was accidently called “Shane ‘Zach’ Conrad.” COVER>> TIM CHAI / PHOTO

<< just a minute 03

HiLite • December 14, 2009

diet coke what’s inside...

CARBONATED WATER

This main constituent of soft drinks, carbonated water, also known as sparkling water, is simply water with carbon dioxide (CO2) bubbled in. This process, known as carbonation, results in the formation of carbonic acid (H2CO3).

CARAMEL COLOR

One of the oldest and most widely used soluble food colorings, caramel color, is made through a heat treatment of carbohydrates in the presence of acids, alkalis, or salts. This caramelizing process produces a substance with an odor of burnt sugar and a somewhat bitter taste. Its color ranges from pale yellow to amber to dark brown.

ASPARTAME

An artiﬁcial sugar with chemical formula C14H18N2O5, aspartame was synthesized in 1965 and has since become widely used in a variety of foods and beverages. The FDA did not authorize its use in all foods until 1996 because early trials indicated that it may cause cancer in rats. Other artiﬁcial sweeteners include sucralose and saccharin.

PHOSPHORIC ACID

POTASSIUM BENZOATE

C7H5KO2 is used to preserve foods by inhibiting the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria. It works well with most acidic foods, which explains its use in sodas. Benzene, a known carcinogen, may be formed if potassium benzoate is used in combination with sodium and Vitamin C.

NATURAL FLAVORS

Coca-Cola’s trademark secret to its unique taste.

CITRIC ACID

C6H8O7 is a weak acid used as a natural preservative and to add a sour, or acidic, taste to soft drinks. The acid is also found naturally in fruits and vegetables, most notably in lemons and limes.

CAFFEINE

C8H10N4O2 is a central nervous system stimulant most notable for its popularity in coﬀee. The bitter, white crystalline xanthine alkaloid was discovered in 1819. Caﬀeine is associated with a variety of health warnings, especially when take in excess amounts causing sleep disorders and anxiety.

Food-grade H3PO4 is used to acidify foods and beverages. It leaves a tangy and sour taste. Studies have shown that phosphoric acid intake has been linked to lower bone density.

NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH / SOURCE

ARJUNA CAPULONG / PHOTO

Q & A WITH A CHEMISTRY TEACHER Why is sugar harmful? Sugar suppresses the immune system. How do soft drinks deplete calcium? The acid causes the calcium to leech from the bones into the blood system. DEBORAH HAIRE

What about artificial sugars? The sad part about those is the fact that the body can’t tell the diﬀerence between artiﬁcial sweeteners and real sugar so it continues to secrete insulin into the bloodstream. This causes confusion for the pancreas, which secretes the insulin.

What are substitutes to soft drinks? Good old fashioned water. But of course people won’t do that. If you want a soft drink, then drink a vitamin-enriched water product. How much sugar would you recommend? I’d say very little sugar if any. As far as young people go, moderation is the key. But as you age, sugar is detrimental to one’s overall health and may lead to cancer, arthritis, dementia, and type-2 diabetes.

NUTRITION FACTS OF DIET COKE Serving size: 8 ﬂ oz. Calories: 1.0 Carbohydrates: 0.1 grams Sodium: 28 mg Potassium: 12 mg Phosphorous: 18 mg Caﬀeine: 31 mg Aspartame: 125 mg COCACOLA / SOURCE

04 news >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Underwood to step down this month Superintendent retires after 15 years in district, leaves unfinished business for successor

by nina underman nunderman@hilite.org

of credit and students deserve some credit, but she’s been the leader during a period in which students in this district have performed at a remarkable level. I think you have to give the leader of the district credit for our achievements.”

n Dec. 31, Carmel Clay Schools will say goodbye to Superintendent Barbara Underwood. Underwood will retire after 15 years in the district, the last eight of which she served as its superintendent. The school board has narrowed the search for her replacement down to two candidates.

Underwood said, although the district has been successful lately and under her direction, the new superintendent will have to deal with issues including budget cuts and teacher contracts.

School board president Andrew Klein said Underwood’s legacy will be a strong one. “She’s leaving behind a very strong school system,” Klein said. “She leaves with student achievements at an extraordinarily high level. Her successor will have big shoes to fill.” Underwood, who came to Carmel Clay Schools in 1994, said she never intended on becoming superintendent. “That was not something I ever planned to do in my career,” she said. “In fact, I resisted it for years and years.” Underwood said there were some unusual circumstances that led to her finally taking the job. She said she was

Superintendent Candidate #1

lizzy grubbs / photo

unfinished business: Teachers voice their disagreement over the contract dispute in front of the Educational Services Center, where the school board has its meetings. As Underwood retires this year, she will leave the teacher contracts issue in the hands of the next superintendent. Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum when the current superintendent at the time, Ernest Husarik, resigned. “Things just didn’t work out like everybody planned, and so after about 10 months that individual left,” she said. “We spent about six months without a superintendent. When the board initially asked me (to be superintendent), I said no. Then they asked me to think about it, and I thought about it and figured I might as well do it for three years. I told them I’d do it for three years, and I did it for eight.”

“I don’t like making budget cuts,” she said. “I’ve proposed cuts that the school board won’t act on until after I’ve left, but it looks like there may be the need for a tax referendum in the spring, which the new superintendent would have to manage.”

Karin Uhlenhop, English teacher at this school for six

Story continued on next page

Superintendent Candidate #2

Underwood said she has enjoyed many aspects of her job, but said her favorite part over the years has been working with curriculum to evaluate current programs and create new ones.

JEFF SWENSSON Jeff Swensson is currently the Assistant of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment for Carmel Clay Schools. Before he came to the Carmel school district, he worked at MSD Warren township schools as an Associate, Deputy Superintendent and in 2001, served as Interim Superintendent for Warren township schools. Swensson completed his B.A. at Amherst College, earned a Masters from Northwestern University and completed his Ph.D. at Indiana University. BY PRIYA PATEL jeff swensson / submitted photo

“What I enjoy most is still looking at curriculum programs,” she said. “I enjoy looking at how are we doing, monitoring our progress and working with not only central staff, but also principals and teachers on how we can continue to get better. This is a district where people are very receptive to that idea, that even though we’re awfully good, we can still improve.” Klein said communication and strong leadership have been some of Underwood’s strengths. “The fact that she has overseen a district where student achievement has been so high in every level and in every aspect is something that she deserves a lot of credit for,” Klein said. “Obviously, teachers deserve a lot

MICHAEL BENWAY Michael Benway was announced as the second finalist for the position of Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent via the Carmel Clay Schools Web site. Currently, Benway is the Superintendent for Valparaiso Community Schools, a position he has held since 1990. According to a message posted by Andy Klein, president of the Carmel Clay Schools Board, Benway received his B.A. from the University of Vermont and earned both an M.A. and a Ph.D. from Indiana State University. BY PRIYA PATEL Valparaiso Schools / Photo

<< news 05

HiLite • December 14, 2009

<< Story continued from previous page years, said she hopes the new superintendent will focus on resolving the teacher contract issue. “I hope that whoever is hired makes resolving teacher contracts the top of the priority list,” Uhlenhop said. Underwood said she is extremely proud of the caliber of teachers and administrators she has hired over the years, as well as her role in pushing for the International Baccalaureate program at this school. She said she will miss the constant problem-solving and activity that

comes with the job and the interaction with the Carmel Clay Schools community. “What I will miss most are the people,” she said. “I have such great people that I work with throughout the entire school district.”

“I’m still trying to figure out what I want to do,” she said. “I’m OK with the fact that I’ll have plenty of time to figure out what to do next.”

“What I will miss most are the people.”

Under wood said she has truly enjoyed her time here being employed as superintendent. “I have enjoyed it immensely,” Underwood said.

Superintendent Barbara Underwood Underwood said she has no immediate plans following her retirement. She said she and her husband, who is also retired, may travel “I am so glad I got the opportunity to do it. It’s not an easy a bit and catch up on some unfinished housework. job, but Carmel is a great place to be a superintendent.”

Fewer teachers participate in Skip-a-Final by grayson harbour gharbour@hilte.org Despite this school’s Skip-a-Final program, sophomore Rossie Nho cannot skip any of her finals this semester. And she said she’s not happy about that situation. “It is unfair, and I don’t like it,” she said. “Why is the program even in place if I can’t skip any of my finals?” Nho is one of a growing number of students here who can skip few if any finals, as more teachers take away the option for a variety of reasons. Teachers in the English department, for example, do not let their students skip finals because those exams provide the teachers with valuable data on how they’re teaching and

how they can improve. Other teachers said they choose not to let their students skip their finals because they feel the exam reinforces all the concepts students have learned in the past semester, while others said they simply do not like the program. English teacher Linda Johnson said she would not allow her students to skip the finals she gives even if the department gave its approval. She said, “I do not feel that students should be allowed to skip their finals. Even if the English department allowed me to let the students skip the final, I wouldn’t. I simply do not believe in it. The only time I feel the Skip-a-Final policy is justified is perhaps allowing seniors to skip their second semester finals.”

end-of-semester finals schedule Dec. 16: Periods 5, 7, 6 and 8 Dec. 17: Periods 1 and 2 Dec. 18: Periods 3 and 4

Don’t get lazy Even if you qualify for Skip-A-Final on Dec. 11, you must maintain your eligibility before you take all your finals.

skip-a-final application / source On the other hand, Spanish teacher Rhonda Trapkus said she, like most of the other Spanish teachers, allows students to skip her final. “When Skip-a-Final first started, we as a Spanish department decided that, since Spanish is an elective, we should give the kids a break and allow them to skip their finals,” Trapkus said. “As the program has progressed, we still feel that way, and I think that as long as a student is maintaining a C+ average or better, they should be allowed to skip their final.” According to Assistant Principal Amy Skeens-Benton, who brought the program to Carmel from her former teaching job at Lawrence Central High School, Skip-a-Final started about 10 years ago. Its intention, she said, was to create an incentive for students to maintain a high attendance rate. The school board voted in favor of a policy that allowed students who met attendance and grade requirements to skip one final per semester. However, the policy stated it was at each teacher’s discretion to allow students to skip their finals.

Michelle hu / photo

a chance to skip: Junior Alexis Lugo turns in her Skip-a-Final form to Rachel Winters of student services staff. Although the program is still in place, there are fewer teachers who allow their students to skip a final.

Despite the mixed reactions from teachers, Principal John Williams said the administration has “absolutely no plans to change or eliminate the Skip-a-Final program for next semester or the foreseeable future.

06 news >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

D R E S S R E H E A R S A L: Choirs rehearse for “Holiday Spectacular.” The choir department is one of the performing arts departments the district’s proposed budget cuts could affect. GABRIELLE BOWERS / PHOTO

Budget cut proposal puts departments at risk Recent draft for reduction in school finances could cause changes in performing arts, other areas

by Beverly Jenkins bjenkins@hilite.org

or the past 14 years, the Marching Greyhounds have been finalists at the Bands of America Grand Nationals competition. Their streak is the second longest in the nation. The accomplishment is one much deserved, according to Austin Miller, Marching Greyhound and junior, as it involves a large amount of time and effort. Miller said he estimates marching band members devote approximately 15 hours per week to the band during the fall season and half of that time during the off-season. “During competition season, most of (the Marching Greyhounds) are at school by 6:45 a.m. and stay until 6 p.m. for rehearsals,” he said. The time spent rehearsing as a group, according to Miller, has a major, positive effect on the band’s overall performance. The marching band isn’t the only award-winning program in the department. Last May, the symphony orchestra members were recognized as the 2009 National Orchestra Cup Grand Champions, and the Winter Guard finished fourth in the world at the Scholastic World Class. The list goes on. But for Miller and approximately 40 percent of the student body that participates in the performing arts department each year, all of this may change in 2010. A recently drafted proposal, written by Superintendent Barbara Underwood, aims to cut $3 million from the Carmel Clay Schools’ budget. Up to $30,000 of the proposed cuts would be taken from the performing arts department, including early bird and summer rehearsals.

According to Richard Saucedo, performing arts department chairperson and Director of Bands, however the situation turns out, the school system will face challenges. “We’re just in a really tough situation,” he said. “Dr. Underwood has always been a great supporter of the performing arts, but she is in a very tough position. If we have to cut some things at Carmel Clay Schools, she aims to do that as fairly as she can.” Due to Underwood’s imminent retirement at the end of 2009, the school board has delayed a decision until January, but many are already anticipating possibilities if the board votes yes on the proposal.

beyond the high school now. “You learn so much doing things you love within these choirs,” she said. Alexander said she has been using her training from the choirs here and is applying it to auditions for universities.

“We’re just in a really tough situation.”

If the cuts are approved, Miller said he estimates that instead of 15, “maybe only six hours” would be spent on marching band each week, and some of the competitions and performances normally attended would be reduced. However, Saucedo said the drawbacks aren’t as dramatic as students like Miller may think. He said the only major drawback of the cuts would be the elimination of summer marching band. Since the marching band’s competition season is during the fall, the group does most of its preparation during the summer. The orchestra, theater and choir departments would also feel the effect if the cuts are approved. Ambassador and senior Chelsea Alexander said her involvement in the performing arts department has been beneficial even though she’s looking

While Alexander said her time spent in the performing arts department has been a memorable one, she said she’s also glad she won’t be around to see any changes if the cuts are passed.

“Doing what you love all the time, it’s so much fun. Supposedly, if things go the way (the proposal) wants, there will be no chance for rehearsals or competitions,” Alexander said. “I’d hate to see it change.” richard saucedo

However, the rumors surrounding the possible cuts can be misleading, according to Saucedo. “(The cuts) just mean that there would be a little bit less that we can offer these kids,” he said. “Basically, it would mean a lot less rehearsal time. Obviously less time means there would be a lot of pressure to get more done in a smaller amount of time.” Miller said whatever happens, the department will adjust and be even more active in fund raising if need be. “(The marching band) has dramatically impacted me in a very positive way,” he said, “and regardless of the cuts, band kids will not let (this program) go under.”

<< news 07

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Proposed cuts may force summer school classes to face elimination in summer 2010 by patrick bryant pbryant@hilite.org

Even before the 2009-2010 school year started, freshman Victoria “Tori” Potts had already taken a class at Carmel High School. For Potts, finishing a session of summer school gym helped add room to her schedule for the year. “I took summer gym, so that I didn’t have to take it during the regular school year,” she said. Like Potts, many students use summer school to get ahead in their courses. But this could all change if budget cuts, proposed earlier this semester by Superintendent Barbara Underwood, are approved by the school board.

“ When you cut budgets, there are tough choices that have to be made, and you hope that the people that m a k e t h e s e d e c i s i o n s t a k e i n to consideration the effect the cuts will have on kids,” Williams said.

“Summer school is very important to our kids, but when you have budget cuts, nobody benefits.”

According to Principal John Williams, the cuts, amounting to $3 million, could be approved by the school board as early as January. “Summer school is very important to our kids, but when you make budget cuts, nobody benefits,” Williams said. Another move to cut expenses is a referendum, which, if approved by voters, would result in a tax hike for all Carmel residents. Williams said under state law, school districts aren’t allowed to “operate in the red,” or with a deficit, so it can be hard to have a balanced budget without sacrifices.

Potts said she thinks a cut in summer school will be a negative change for her next year. “( The change) will force me to take P.E. my sophomore year instead of another elective,” Potts said.

According to economics teacher Dan Bates, a 31-year veteran here, students looking to take AP classes during the summer to save time and money in college will also be affected if the change occurs. “When you cut programs, it hurts people,” Bates said.

principal john williams

shirley chen / photo

P.E. PYRAMID: A physical education class practices gymnastics techniques. Although summer school classes could get cut because of the budget cuts, summer gym may be the only one left untouched because of the high number of students who enroll.

Bates said he understands the cost of summer school, but said he believes not having summer courses will hurt not only students, but teachers as well.

Bates said the school would need to add classes during the year to accommodate students who would have taken summer classes and that, he said, would be “brutal,” especially on younger teachers who typically are assigned these extra teaching classes. Bates said this might be problematic because of the increase in class size, especially ones that he teaches like AP Macroeconomics.

classes during the year. Also, according to Bates, getting rid of summer school would be harmful to motivated students who are trying to get ahead for college. “Being able to drop a class in college that you’ve already taken in high school could save $800 to $2,000,” Bates said. Potts said she also thinks that the changes will affect her education. She said adding summer school students to the mix during the regular school year would have a positive effect on the situation, especially considering expected teacher layoffs.

“It’s a ‘ripple effect,’” Bates said. “You can pack only so many kids in a classroom.”

Bates said he realizes cuts are being made across the board, but he said it is tough considering the hours that teachers spend preparing instruction for summer school.

DANCE CLASS: Students in their physical education class perform a dance. Bates said during summer school, he Many students prefer to take summer school physical education, which the teaches about 70 students, a total he budget cuts could affect, to make room in their schedule. said would amount to about three

“Personally, it’s demoralizing to work on lesson plans for summer school and work on the AP curriculum,” Bates said, ”and now see that it can be taken away.”

shirley chen / photo

08 news >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

New policy regarding snow days could result in addition of days to school year

by kendallharshberger kharshberger@hilite.org This year, if winter weather causes schools to close, the school will no longer have multiple flex days to make up for it. Instead, there is only one flex day on May 4. If there is more than one snow day, students will have to remain in school after the last day of school. In the past, two half days could be combined to form one full day. Since CHS planned for the last two days of finals to be half days, this allowed the school to have two full flex days, a day where school is not in session unless it is needed as a make-up day for inclement weather.

According to Superintendent Barbara Underwood, this policy is no longer in place. “State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Dr. Tony Bennett, changed the rules for this year,” Underwood said. “No longer can two half days be added together to equal one full day.” At the May 18 school board meeting, Steve Dillon, Director of Student Services, presented the new 2009-2010 calendar which included the changes for how snow days would affect the school calendar. According to Underwood, CHS is in session for 180 full days and four half

days this year. Due to the recent change in half days policy, CHS will need to make up any days missed due to snow days by adding on days after school is technically supposed to be finished. Sophomore Kelly Clark said she thinks this is a fair rule but doesn’t want to be in school longer than necessary. “It’s fair because teachers need to teach their whole curriculum, and we need to make up for the things we missed, but we didn’t cause the weather change,” Clark said. “It’s not our fault that it snowed or it’s icy; it seems kind of unfair in that aspect.”

Do THE MATH State requires schools to be open for 180 days

180 normal school days 4 half-days + (equivalent to 2 full days) 182 school days now:

The present policy does not allow for any extra flex days.

then:

The past policy allowed the school two flex days.

180 normal school days 4 half-days + (equivalent to 0 full days) 180 school days

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10 feature >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Buy One, Give One Free TOMS “One for One” movement donates one pair of shoes for every pair purchased

Kicks for kids:

Junior Oyke Duroglu wears her TOMS shoes. Duroglu said she bought the shoes because she liked the style and the fact that she was helping a child in need.

lizzy grubbs / photo

By Darlene Pham dpham@hilite.org

the company has donated over 150,000 pairs of shoes to children in need through the One for One movement.

When junior Oyke Duroglu bought her shoes, she also gave a pair to a child in need. By just paying for that one pair, a child in need received a pair of shoes. The pair of shoes Duroglu bought was TOMS, a brand that donates a pair of shoes for every one pair it sells.

This movement chose shoes because in developing countries, walking is the main mode of transportation. Without the necessary protection, infection through cuts and sores can be caused by unsafe roads and contaminated soil. By giving shoes, infection can be prevented, as well as the risk of amputation as a result of disease.

“I wanted to buy TOMS because I liked the whole style and look of them. Also, I liked how a child got a pair when you bought some,” Duroglu said via e-mail. TOMS advocates a movement, called One for One which donates shoes to children in need. The One for One club here, founded by senior Victoria “Tori” Weinkauf, supports and promotes this movement. “TOMS Shoes is a small company based out of Venice, CA. he founder Blake started the company with the goal of finding a way to give shoes to children who cannot afford them,” Weinkauf said via e-mail. “TOMS is different because when you order a pair of shoes, you know that you just helped a child immensely by giving them their first pair of shoes. It is more of a direct affect thtan donating money or other similar things.” According to www.tomsshoes.com, the official site of TOMS shoes, TOMS was founded by American traveler Blake Mycoskie in 2006. Since the beginning of TOMS,

Not only do they assist children in need, but TOMS also appeals to people like Duroglu into buying their product. “Giving a pair of shoes when you buy a pair is what kind of made me get a pair,” said Duroglu.

Dell, American Express, Converse, Apple, Gap, Hallmark, Microsoft, Starbucks and many more have all joined with RED to help fight AIDS, a significant problem in Africa. According to club sponsor Michelle Satchwell, there is certainly a trend in these companies associating their products with charities. “It’s saying that corporate America is seeing that it has a responsibility to charity works and volunteerism. It allows people who don’t have the extra money to donate to charities to buy what they need, but be able to donate at the same time,” Satchwell said.

Not only does TOMS support the One for One movement, but the company also presents vegan shoes and shoes made of recyclable products. The Oyke Duroglu lightweight shoes are environment friendly as TOMS Weinkauf agrees with Duroglu. “It is a bit of a uses vegetable and non-toxic dyes on its shoes. The shoes are different twist on charity. Instead of just donating money, designed after an Argentine shoe, the place where it all started. TOMS appeals to the consumer market. A child gets a pair of shoes when someone orders a pair of shoes. So to give This aspect, however, may give concern to some that the a pair, you get a pair which is an ineresting and intriguing shoes are not as good quality wise. Duroglu, however, concept to many people,” she said. disagrees. She said she thinks the quality is good, although they can sometimes be flimsy. TOMS is not the only company that associates with a charity. RED products, or products whose companies have agreed While TOMS features these eco-friendly shoes, it’s the One for to donate 50 percent of their profits to buy and distribute One movement that really encourages people to buy their antiretroviral medicine to AIDS victims in Africa, also uses products. “I think it’s a good charity. I like the fact that it’s kind consumers to help a charity. According to joinred.com, of a buy one, get one free deal, but instead of you getting the official site of the RED movement, companies like another pair, it goes to a child in need,” Duroglu said.

<< feature 11

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Although majority of seniors graduate in May, some choose to finish high school early By Nina underman nunderman@hilite.org

n Friday, over 4,300 students will stream out the school doors, eager for a chance to relax and recharge over winter break before returning to school on Jan. 4. When senior Sarah Walker leaves the building, she’s not planning to come back. Walker is one of a group of seniors who will be finished with high school at the end of the first semester. Having already met all of the credit requirements for her diploma, she is choosing to graduate early. According to school registrar Maria Pacalo, this year about 50 seniors are graduating early. Pacalo said this number is consistent with previous years.“To be a mid-year grad, students go through the counselors and make sure they have enough credits and adjust their schedules,” Pacalo said. “You

certainly have to have enough credits to graduate early.” A fter she finishes high school in December, Walker said she is directly moving to Florida to start at St. Petersburg College in January. She said her parents were supportive of her choice.

December as well. “I’ve had two sisters that went to Carmel before me, so I knew the whole school before I even came here,” Trefny said. “I had been around the school forever and was kind of over it, so I talked to Complete seven my counselor (about becoming a midsemesters year graduate).” Notify counselor

Procedure 1.

2. 3. Obtain dean approval 4. Show proof that student has been accepted and will attend a college

Trefny, who said he plans to attend Ivy “My dad actually thought it was a Tech Community College in the fall good idea. He thinks it’s taking people to study culinary arts, said his parents longer nowadays to go to college, so were fine with his decision. my graduating early would help me get ahead. My mom was OK with it as “My parents were totally for it,” he Carmel Pathwats / source well,” Walker said. “By graduating high said. “I’ve been working construction school early, I’ll be getting ahead, so and in restaurants since I was 15 I’ll be done with college sooner. If I ever decide to take a years old and I already have a construction job lined break, I’ll still be on track to graduate college normally.” up after high school. My parents were fine with the fact that I would be taking a semester off to work and just Like Walker, senior Andrew Trefny is gradutating this save up more money.” Counselor Stephanie Aikins said that reasons for becoming a mid-year graduate are unique to each student. “There are a bunch of reasons why students choose to become mid-year grads,” she said. “It really depends on the student. Maybe there’s pressure to make money or get college credits sooner. For some, school’s just not a happy place for them and they want to leave early.” M id-year graduates may be leaving school a semester early, but, according to Pacalo, they are allowed to return for commencement activities. “ They do come back in May if they want to walk in graduation. May is when they will get their diplomas, along with the other regular graduates,” she said. Walker said she does plan to return for graduation, but Trefny said he isn’t sure. “It depends if I have time,” he said. “I think (graduation) is just a symbol, so it’s not that important to me.” Though they each have different post-graduate plans, both Walker and Trefny said they will miss little, if anything, about high school life. Walker said she might miss some parts of her senior year but is ready for the next chapter of her life. Stephanie Coleman / photo

College Info: Senior Sarah Walker goes through the college and scholarship information in the counseling center. Walker said she plans to graduate at the end of this semester.

“I’m sure I’ll miss going to games and stuff, but I’m excited to move on,” she said. “It’ll be scary, but I’m excited.”

12 feature >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

A Commercial Christmas With more people celebrating Christmas without religious bearing, many argue the increasing secularism and commercialism of the holiday

By Emma Neukam eneukam@hilite.org

enior Anurag Bhattrai takes part in all the expected Christmas time traditions—decorating the tree, putting lights on the house and exchanging gifts with his family and friends. There’s just one quality that separates him from most other celebrators of the holiday; he’s an atheist.

Junior Saumya Sankhavaram said the holiday bears no religious meaning to her family because she is Hindu. “It’s just a time for my family to get together and be together over the holiday,” she said. “There’s no festival that coincides with (Christmas) so we don’t really do anything else.”

before Christmas with an Advent calendar.

Both Bhattrai and Sankhavaram said the holiday is becoming increasingly secular.

Charlene Whitehead, store manager of Wooden Key Gift & Card Shop in Merchant’s Square, said she believes Christmas is more commercialized than it was several years ago.

Because he is an atheist, Bhattrai said he does not participate in any religious celebration during the holiday. “My family really doesn’t celebrate it; they just kind of go through the motions,” he said.

“Lots of people besides Christians celebrate it,” Bhattrai said. “Santa Claus seems to be a much more important figure than Jesus is. People are more excited about presents rather than celebrating the birth of Christ.”

According to the Alliance Defense Fund, an organization aimed at defending religious liberty, 95 percent of Americans celebrate Christmas each year—but like Bhattrai, not all of these Americans actually celebrate it for religious significance. With more people like Bhattrai celebrating Christmas without religious basis, many argue that the holiday is becoming increasingly secular and commercial.

Despite what Bhattrai says, junior Emily Bonham is a student who said she does celebrate Jesus’ birth, and it’s a major holiday in her religion, Catholicism. “We celebrate it to commemorate the birth of Jesus,” Bonham said. Besides celebrating with lights and a Christmas tree, her family also counts down the days

Even though she celebrates Christmas for religious reasons, Bonham said she thinks gift-giving is definitely emphasized over the holiday. “You see how much buying gifts is stressed so early in the year,” she said.

From a retail standpoint, Whitehead said a business could gain an entire year’s profit during the holiday season. In fact, retail sales jumped 40 percent last year in December compared to the preceding months and consumers purchased $28.2 billion worth of gifts in department stores alone. But in Bonham’s opinion, the holiday should not be transforming into a secular, commercial holiday. “We’re losing the reason why we celebrate holidays in the first place,” she said. Bhattrai said he doesn’t care that the holiday is becoming secular, but said it’s just part of the “cultural revolution” society is going through. With the current state of the economy, Whitehead said she notices consumers are spending their money on different types of gifts this year. “When the economy is doing dips like it has been, people tend to get back to family values,” she said. In other words, to respond to the current economic recession, consumers buy gifts that portray sentiment, like the items sold at Hallmark. Whitehead said she believes people notice Christmas becoming increasingly secular and commercialized mainly because of the emphasis the media has on advertising for the holiday. “(The media) kind of forces you to promote it more,” she said. “Advertising is out there, and we as consumers, we’re finding the best bargains, the best deals, and we have made it (commercialized).”

shokhi Goel / photo

Secular celebration: Senior Anurag Bhattrai decorates a Christmas tree in his home. Although he is an atheist, Bhattrai said he celebrates Christmas to spend time with family and friends.

Despite the contrasting opinions, Christmas is a topic for much debate this holiday season. As Whitehead said, “Everyone has an opinion. I think if you want it to be a commercial holiday, it’s out there for you and if you don’t, then you have (Christmas) in your heart.”

<< feature 13

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Holiday sales: by the numbers

154,000 GPS units sold during

the 2008 holiday season on Amazon.com

$460 billion spent in 2008 on Christmas expenditures

1.5 million Nintendo

consoles sold this year in November

314.7 million cell

phones sold globally during the 2008 holiday season

77.4 million computers sold during the 2007 holiday season

22.7 million iPods

sold during the 2008 holiday season Rebecca xu / graphic Gartner.com, macworld.com, idc.com, amazon.com, WTHR.com / sources

Students debate between real and fake trees Though many students put up Christmas trees even if they aren’t religious, they differ on whether they use an artificial or real tree for the holiday. While a real Christmas tree is custom, some students see fake trees as the more convenient option.

so that’s why we still use one now.”

convenience and ability to be reused.

Miller admits there are some drawbacks from using a real Christmas tree. “It gives off a nice scent, but it also makes a mess since it sheds and leaves pine needles everywhere.”

Duvanenko said, “My family uses a fake Christmas tree since the real ones smell and shed and you have to clean it all up afterwards.”

According to senior Molly Miller, using a real pine tree is the more traditional option. Miller said her family goes out together every year to pick out a pine tree to decorate for Christmas. According to Miller, her family has always used a real Christmas tree.

However, Miller said she is still in favor of using a real Christmas tree. “Given the choice, I would probably also choose to use a real Christmas tree,” she said. “It’s traditional and I’m used to it.”

She also said using a fake tree is the more practical option. “It’s reusable, so you’re not killing a tree every Christmas. Some people also have allergies from real pine trees.”

She said, “My dad grew up with a real Christmas tree and

On the other hand, sophomore Abigail Duvanenko prefers using a fake Christmas tree, mainly due to it’s

Duvanenko said she would choose to continue using a fake Christmas tree if given the choice. She said, “They’re just more convenient.” By Caroline Zhang

14 student section >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Guest Column: I’ll get up, just give me a second Junior Bethany Arrington reminds us that life lessons can be found everywhere I do think my mishaps make a great analogy of life in general. You just keep getting back up again and continue no matter how hard the fall. I have bounced back from every fall and mishap. Maybe not in the most graceful way or even that fast, but I’ve done it and will continue to do so.

bethany arrington I have yet to fall off Carmel High School’s auditorium stage and am proud of it. However, I have fallen off the stage in the studio theater, tripped on a rug during a Comedy Sportz match, gotten my hair caught on a wire that hoisted me to fly on the auditorium stage and completely wiped out trying to get my folder in a slot during choir freshmen year. I would not consider myself an incredibly clumsy person, although it’s embarrassing, considering the fact that I take dance classes and run in my free time that I cannot seem to stay upright while performing or practicing.

I have also tripped over many a root on the cross-country trail and have come back from the warm-up; yes I hadn’t even attempted the workout yet,--with dirt covering my body and leaves in my hair. Although it hurt, I took the time to clean myself up and get back to what I was doing and finished the practice.

through my schooling here. In the performing arts department, I have learned that you don’t touch Director Jim Peterson’s computer unless you want to cry, and you always make sure mime makeup will come off before the next period, otherwise people stare at you or that you can never have enough sequins on a choir outfit for “Holiday Spectacular.” Now maybe these aren’t the most important lessons, but I have also learned that you cannot do things by yourself and need to trust your fellow performers or teammates, that it’s not always going to be about you when you’re on stage or on the field; sometimes you need to play backup or pull a teammate through a race and you have to sing your loudest and be willing to mess up so you can identify what needs to be fixed.

“I think that both sports and the performing arts here truly teach some life lessons.”

I think both sports and the performing arts here truly teach some life lessons as well as skills we can take with us when we graduate. I have learned a lot while on a sports team and within the performing arts department and I am only halfway

Life lessons can be taught anywhere, whether on the field, on stage or in the classroom, it is just the matter of learning from them and getting back up again.

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<< student section 15

HiLite • December 14, 2009

# 2,221 of 4,644. . .

Lends a Helping Hand Every issue, the HiLite features a random student. This time, it’s sophomore Eric Lawler, who fundraises for a school in Liberia

BY PRIYA PATEL ppatel@hilite.org

ver since his friend, sophomore Allissa “Alli” Kizer, asked him this summer to help her out, sophomore Eric Lawler has been really excited to get to work helping her fundraise to build a school in Liberia.

“I asked Eric to help because we both had the same pictures and goals in our heads- of helping those who need it most; and for both of us, Africa has been the place that has drawn our interest. I know it is something that he really cares about and someplace where he really wants to make a difference, just like me,” Kizer said.

of Science degree in Pastoral Studies, Theology, Christian Education, Business Management, and Missions. The website also said that the school plans to offer classes in technical skills for students who choose not to enter in the college-level program. “So far, the first floor of a three-story building is finished, but the building isn’t nearly close to completed with supplies,” Lawler said. They are going to work to raise money to focus on one aspect of the school’s needs, and then move on to other needs as they are completed then more come.

Kizer’s family friend wanted to create an organization to build a Christian college in Liberia. However, it was not to be just another Christian college in Liberia, it was going to be different.

Lawler said that as far as fundraisers go, they have hosted specific fundraisers to raise money, but are also brainstorming new ideas that may help bring in some more money.

The Liberia International Christian College (LICC) aims to “offer a breadth of opportunities which are uncommon among Christian colleges in Liberia; including accessibility, affordable tuition and fees, and work study programs.”

“The first thing we did was raise thousands of dollars by attending a walk in Indianapolis for the cause, and we got many sponsors and walked along the canal in a 5k walkathon. We’ve also been thinking of bake sales, benefit concerts, and the like to help raise money if different ways,” Lawler said.

“The main cause is to help train Christian leaders in Liberia and since education is such a rare thing over there, it’s something I feel like it is an awesome concept being done for a great reason; this school is really going to help Liberia,” Lawler said. With Lawler and Kizer’s help, their friend is now well on his way to successfully building a school.

“I feel like it is an awesome concept being done for a great reason; this school is really going to help Liberia.”

According to the LICC website, the college began its first full semester of classes in March of 2009, offering a Bachelor

He said, “Helping out has made me want to, someday, go to Africa and help out directly with the project; it has made me want to do something that will not only benefit me, but help others as well.”

Lawler believes he could confidently say he is a changed man because of this project. He said he never really paid attention to Africa, but now that he’s helping,

GABRIELLE BOWERS / PHOTO

This introduction to a whole different world has inspired Lawler to incorporate helping people and traveling to Africa into his future plans and goals.

HELPING HANDS : Sophomore Eric Lawler works on a problem in class. Lawler began rasing money to build a school in Liberia after hearing about the project from a friend.

ERIC LAWLER

he’s fallen in love with it.

16 cover story >>

HiLite â&#x20AC;˘ December 14, 2009

Winte Workout(side

As days get colder and shorter, students find ways to and focus on fitness during the long win By Cassie Dugan and

<< cover story 17

HiLite • December 14, 2009

A er

e?)

o stay active nter months d Celina Wu

s the frosted grass crunches beneath her running shoes with each stride, senior Sarah Schinbeckler braves the chilly winter weather. Her face red with exertion from running, she attempts to avoid the ice and slick patches on the ground. Because of the obstacles, exercising in the cold is not a frequent occurrence for Schinbeckler. “I run outside much less in the winter time because of ice and rain. Running outside when there is ice is extremely dangerous,” Schinbeckler said. Schinbeckler said she prefers to exercise indoors, especially during the cold winter months. She added that staying dedicated to working out during the winter is crucial to maintaining overall fitness year-round. “I don’t slack when it comes to exercising during the wintertime,” she said, “because doing so ruins the fitness I’ve worked up in the previous months.”

Jeremy Neeley, a fitness counselor for L.A. Fitness, motivation increases dramatically during the cold. “Winter makes motivation (to exercise) go up. It’s our busiest time of the year here, November through January,” Neeley said. “It’s because people have to come into the gym now whereas before they could just run around the block and be like ‘Okay, that’s good.’ Once you get in here and do your normal cardio, you start to branch out to weights and aerobics classes. Those people start seeing results and the drive to keep working out rises.” However, according to both Neeley and

Despite what may seem accurate—that cold weather leads to decreased activity—according to

Story continued on next page

kate grumme / photo

JUST A BLUR: Senior Sarah Schinbeckler runs through her neighborhood. She said despite the cold weather she continues running through the winter to stay in shape.

18 cover story >>

Frugal fitness tips

Consider some ways to stay active this winter without breaking the bank. Compiled by Sara Rogers

1. Run or walk outside It’s free and available at all times. Before going outside, make sure to dress in layers. While on the move, be aware of hazardous patches of ice and snow to avoid slipping or twisting an ankle. 2. Visit the library Rent exercise DVDs or videos to use by yourself or with friends. When returning the video, check out another to stay motivated. 3. Power walk around stores While shopping for the holidays or otherwise, make an effort to power walk around the mall or store. According to Women’s Health magazine, you can burn up to 140 calories in an hour. 4. Jog up and down stairs For as little as 20 minutes, jog up and down stairs for a convenient and moderate aerobic workout. 5. Invest in handheld weights Handheld free weights can cost as little as $15 for a pair of 5-15 lb. weights at Target or Wal-Mart. Use free weights to help build lean muscle and improve arm strength. 6. Try yoga Rent a yoga instructional video or book from the public library or a video store. Yoga poses help improve core strength, balance and create a peaceful state of mind. 7. Jump rope Jumping rope provides moderate aerobic exercise and helps build lean muscle. According to Women’s Health magazine, you can burn up to 200 calories with just 30 minutes of activity.

HiLite • December 14, 2009

<< Story continued from previous page Schinbeckler, it is important to maintain a steady amount of exercise on a regular basis rather than exercising sporadically. “You can’t expect to come in (to the gym) and start exercising here and there and expect to see results,” Neeley said. “In order to see the results everyone wants to see, you have to keep your heart rate elevated for at least 30 minutes three or four times a week.” Schinbeckler said she stays healthy by doing just that, plus more. She said she normally exercises twice a day, and winter doesn’t slow her down, especially since her track and field season is lurking right around the corner. “Exercising year-round is critical in preparing myself for track and field. It is important for all athletes to practice during the off-season because it pays off when competition starts,” Schinbeckler said. She said she also provides encouragement for those who do not participate in a sport to still keep up with their health. “As for those people who don’t play a sport, exercising during the winter will keep you warm and awake,” Schinbeckler said. “I guarantee you will feel less bogged down and exhausted.” L.A. Fitness associate Alex Blazier also said that there are reasons that even non-athletes should work out during the winter. “There are many benefits of exercising indoors,” Blazier said. “You have the benefit of having television or reading books while you are on the machines inside.

“As for those people who don’t play a sport, exercising during the winter will keep you warm and awake. I guarantee you will feel less bogged down and exhausted.” Sarah Schinbeckler

Schinbeckler added that during her daily exercises, she not only practices cardiovascular exercises but also strength and aerobic exercises.

8. Visit the Monon Center If you aren’t a member, you can purchase a day pass for $8 or a monthly pass for $20. These passes allow access to the aquatics facilities, fitness center, track and gymnasium.

“I use both hand weights and leg machines to help develop muscle along with a separate cardio workout, like running or yoga, which keeps my heart healthy,” Schinbeckler said. “I have a physical conditioning class every other day and I go to Cardinal Fitness with friends every day.”

9. Buy a fitness ball Fitness balls, or stability balls, normally cost around $15-20 and can assist in hundreds of exercises strengthening the core and improving balance.

According to Neeley, among other ways to burn calories easily during the winter, there is one simple, yet essential, part of an exercise routine that everyone seems to overlook: stretching.

10. Swim at the CHS pool The CHS natatorium offers lap swims for $3-5 daily or $20-25 monthly. Check the schedule online at www.carmelswimclub.org or find a direct link online at www.hilite.org. Sara Rogers / photos healthyliving.com, carmelswimclub.org, carmelclayparks.org / source

“A lot of people don’t think stretching is a big deal, but it is. What most of those people don’t know is that stretching actually burns calories. So if you’re looking for an easy way to burn calories and do it indoors, stretching is perfect,” Neeley said. Some other ways to cut calories without the hard work include activities as small as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. The Web site www.weightlosssuccess. com suggests parking farther away from your school or work site so more walking is required. Also, pacing while you are on the phone, swaying or moving your legs while sitting and doing a little dance while brushing your teeth or drying your hair are some effective, but enjoyable ways to shed a few extra calories.

<< cover story 19

HiLite • December 14, 2009 Looking further than just exercise, nutrition affects one’s health tremendously. And over the holiday season, many are hoping to make a comeback from indulging in all the foods this time of the year had to offer. While Schinbeckler said being a vegetarian helps her nutrition, she also admitted to giving up at least one junk food to prevent too much calorie intake.

HE SHOOTS, HE SCORES: Senior Mark Garrison attempts to score during a Carmel Dads’ Club practice on Dec. 7. Carmel Dads’ Club offers numerous opportunities for students to stay active during the winter, including men’s and women’s recreational basketball.

Neeley, however, suggests a compromise. “You can eat what you want, really. But instead of doing three huge meals throughout the day, split it up into five or six smaller meals,” he said. “The calorie intake in smaller amounts of food is more easily burned off. It actually works to your advantage because each time you eat it is like a new opportunity for your metabolism to start working again.” Nutrition, strength and cardio all interact in equating one’s health. This formula does not alter just because the seasons change and temperatures drop. “You have to build a value of health for yourself,” Blazier said. “More illnesses and colds come along during the winter season. You should use that as motivation because regularly exercising makes you less prone to sickness. You can’t put a price on health. You should want to stay healthy and increase your chances of living longer. You shouldn’t use winter as an excuse to just stop.” Schinbeckler said, ”Being dedicated to exercise year-round is definitely a hard lifestyle, but I don’t regret a minute of it.”

factors of fitness The Mayo Clinic discusses the five most important elements of physical fitness. Maintaining all five areas helps promote a healthy lifestyle.

1. Balance training Balance helps improve coordination while strengthening your core. This also increases stability, which deteriorates with age. 2. Core exercise Core exercises help train your muscles to brace the spine and enable you to use your upper and lower body muscles more effectively.

3. Aerobic Fitness Aerobic exercises, also known as cardiovascular or endurance exercise, work to improve the efficiency of your heart, lungs and blood vessels. Common examples include walking, jogging, running, swimming and biking. 4. Muscular Fitness Muscular fitness is key to improving body composition and increasing bone strength. Using resistance machines, hand-held weights or your own body weight can help improve muscular fitness. 5. Stretching Stretching is one of the most overlooked aspects of fitness. Stretching before and after exercising helps improve your range of motion and posture while relieving stress and soreness. sara rogers / photos mayo clinic / source

4 5

Sara Rogers / Photo

20 entertainment >>

Something’s

Cooking this season

As the holidays approach, students look for the perfect treat. Here are several cookie recipes as well as our favorite. White Chocolate Cherry Cookies Ingredients 1 stick butter, softened 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons milk 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts 1/2 cup candied cherries 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chunks

HiLi t e Pick

Directions Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a medium bowl, with electric mixer, cream butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla and beat until just combined. Set aside. Sift together flour, soda, and salt. Add milk to the butter mixture and then add the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Batter should be stiff. In another bowl, combine nuts, cherries, and white chocolate. Then add to batter, stirring only to blend. Drop by heaping tablespoons onto a greased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake for approximately 11 to 13 minutes. Cool on wire rack.

Almond Snowball cookies Ingredients 3/4 cup sliced almond 3/4 cup sugar 3/4 cup unsalted butter 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1/8 teaspoon almond extract 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon fine salt 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

Directions Pulse the almonds and sugar in a food processor until very finely ground. Add the butter and process until smooth for about 1 minute. Scrape the dough off the inside of the bowl, if needed. Add the vanilla and almond extracts and pulse to combine. Add the flour and salt and pulse to make a soft dough. Turn the dough out onto a large piece of waxed paper and roll into a log about 15 inches long and 1 1/2 inches wide. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Cut the chilled dough into 1/2-inch pieces and roll by hand into balls. Space the cookies evenly on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until slightly golden, rotating the sheets once. Put the confectioners’ sugar in a pie plate. Briefly cool the cookies on a rack, then gently toss in the confectioners’ sugar until evenly coated. Return to rack, cool to room temperature, and then toss again in the confectioners’ sugar.

Ellie Seta and maddi bourgerie/photos

<< entertainment 21

HiLite • December 14, 2009

OOps! What went wrong?

Hershey’s kisses peanut butter blossoms

Sometimes things don’t bake as planned. Here are some tips to help make the perfect batch of cookies

Ingredients 48 Hershey’s kisses 1/2 cup shortening 3/4 cup peanut butter 1/3 cup sugar 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 1 egg

If cookies stick to the cookie sheet...

2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoons vanilla 1 1/2 cup flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/3cup granulated sugar

• The cookies were left on cookie sheets too long before removal. • The cookie sheets were not greased and the recipe called for greasing. • The cookies were under-baked. • The cookie sheets are warm or hot before baking. • The cookie batter is too warm (hot kitchen). • The cookie sheets were not sufficiently cleaned between uses.

Directions

If cookies did not spread enough during baking...

Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Beat shortening and peanut butter in large bowl until blended. Add 1/3 cup sugar and brown sugar and beat until fluffy. Add egg, milk and vanilla to mixture. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt. Gradually beat into peanut butter mixture. Shape dough into 1 inch balls. Roll in sugar, then place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Immediately place a chocolate into the center of each cookie, it will crack around edges. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack to cool.

If cookies spread too much during baking...

Butter Cookies

• • • •

The cookie dough was over-mixed. The cookie dough was too cold. The oven temperature was too hot. Solid vegetable oil shortening was substituted for butter in the recipe.

• The oven temperature was too cold. • The cookie sheets were greased too heavily. • Diet margarine or vegetable oil spreads were substituted for butter or regular stick margarine • Dark brown sugar was used instead of light brown sugar generally called for in recipes. • The cookie sheet was still warm when the cookie dough was placed on the sheet. www.hersheys.com/source

Pecan graham cracker squares Ingredients

Ingredients

1 box graham crackers 1 cup brown sugar

1/2 stick butter (unsalted) 2 eggs 1 cup sugar 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 cup cake flour 1/2 tablespoon baking powder

2 sticks butter (unsalted) 1 1/2 cups crushed pecans

Directions

Directions Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Cream sugar and butter until almost white. Add eggs, milk, vanilla and flour in small amounts at a time and continue beating. Shape dough into 1 inch balls and place onto a cookie sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes.

Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Break up graham crackers into squares and lay out completely covering a jelly roll pan. In a saucepan heat brown sugar and butter, boil for about 1 minutes once butter is melted. Pour brown sugar mixture over graham crackers so all are completely covered. Pour crushed pecans over squares. Bake for approximately 10 minutes.

Top10… <<

22 Entertainment

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Still looking for that great gift idea? How about holiday music or the perfect seasonal movie night? The HiLite’s got your covered with these lists.

…Most popular gifts this holiday season

Compiled by Audrey Bailey

Wii Balance Board and Wii Fit Plus Game Bundle

Like last holiday season, the Wii is back and is now offering other features like the balance board that allows students to do various exercises and track fitness progress. It is the most popular gift of the holiday season.

iPhone 3GS

The new iPhone is able to offer the same as previous models, while also providing voice control, video recording, 32GB of storage and more.

The iPod touch stores music while also allowing the download of apps ranging from games to helpful tools. The iPod touch can also get Wi-Fi connections allowing students to go online.

Shirley Chen / photo

Price: Starting at $199 Where: Apple Store, Best Buy

Beatles Rock Band

Similar to the other Rock Band, where students can create a virtual band and play using gaming guitars, drums and vocals, Beatles Rock Band features music by the Beatles along with special effects. Price: $239.99 to $248.99 Where: Game Stop, Best Buy

Kindle Reading Device

This device allows students to download newspapers, books and other forms of literature onto the Kindle device, allowing them a portable way to access information. Price: $199 to $260 Where: Best Buy

Price: $299 to $699 Where: Target, Apple Store

iPod touch

These include downloading of Play station games and movies, Bluetooth support for Skype communication, MP3 ability, built in Wi-Fi and Memory Stick use. Price: around $250 Where: Target

Price: Around $300 Where: Best Buy, Game Stop

PSP

Call of Duty

This video game is a single-player game that allows students to take part in WWII as either an American, British or Soviet soldier. Students are then placed with computercontrolled allies to fight through the game.

This device allows easy video recording with one touch, and is also small and compact allowing students to carry it wherever they go. Price: $149.99 to $229.99 Where: Best Buy, Radio Shack

10.

Sims 3

HP Mini Netbook

This small, portable laptop is great for storing music, games photos and more. Also, with long-lasting battery power and a petite frame, this computer is ideal for students.

This virtual world, gives students the opportunity to create people, societies and characteristics. With new features in creating your Sim, this game is for all ages and all personalities. The new game will be a new take on the computer game of the century. Due to the popularity of the past games, Sims three is a guarantee hit.

Price: About $379.99 Where: Target

Price: $39.99 to $49.99 Where: Target

Price: Around $52.99 to $79.99 Where: Target

Flip Video

<< Entertainment 23

HiLite • December 14, 2009

…Holiday Movies and Music …BEST HOLIDAY ALBUMS The top new release holiday albums as ranked by Billboard music

1. My Christmas

Andrea Bocelli

2. Peace on Earth

Casting Crows

HiLite reporters Yameen Hameed and Mitch Ringenberg review the top 10 holiday movies ranked by Fandango.com 2. “Home Alone” -

1. “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” – It’s a shame that no ﬁlm

Oh, Macaulay Culkin, what happened? One minute you’ve hit box-office gold with this movie, and the next you’re in court for having some questionable slumber parties with Michael Jackson. Anyways, this movie was essentially a landmark in my childhood, but watching it now, as a (hopefully) more mature young adult, it’s hard to enjoy it in the same way. However, if the idea of watching two thieves getting outsmarted by a ten-year-old and subsequently maimed for an hour and a half sounds good to you, then by all means, enjoy.

4. “Miracle On 34 th Street” –

When it comes to ‘40s Christmas ﬁlms, “Miracle on 34th Street” is still unique and worthwhile in its own right. A mall Santa Claus who claims to be the real deal is institutionalized until a younger lawyer defends him as the “real” Santa Claus. It may be typical Christmas heartwarming fare, but what else would you want in a holiday movie? Warning: Avoid the watered-down mess that is the 1994 remake.

5. “A Christmas Story” – Possibly the funniest holiday film ever made, “A Christmas Story” is one of the most popular and oft-quoted Christmas movies. Constant TV airings have lessened its impact, however, the fact remains that it’s a classic. It’s hard to imagine anyone who hasn’t seen this film at least six times, so there’s not much point in discussing plot details, but if you happen to be among those rare, unfortunate souls, immediate viewing is required.

6. “The Polar Express”- I love

7. “The Santa Clause” - I don’t

adaptation has ever done this classic Dr. Seuss tale justice. The 2000 Ron Howard/ Jim Carrey vehicle was overwrought and unfunny, completely failing to reach its potential. The 1966 TV cartoon is decent but compared to the classic story, it falls ﬂat. Maybe in time Hollywood can do this great Christmas tale some justice, but until then the cartoon version will just have to suﬃce.

3.The Taylor Swift Holiday Collection

Taylor Swift 4. Noel

Josh Groban

5. If (

Andrea Bocelli 6. Christmas: 25th Anniversary

Mannheim Steamroller 7. Gold And Green

Sugarland

9.Making Merry

how ridiculous and over the top this movie is, but I ﬁnd a lot of the “heartwarming” depth to be cheesy and trite. As for the visuals, I don’t like how the characters themselves look, but the angles of motion are well done.

understand why this movie is so well known and loved. The story is somewhat original, but it’s weighed down by mostly bad acting and unrealistic characters. Although the majority of the humor is meant for kids, there are a lot of jokes kids wouldn’t understand but adults wouldn’t ﬁnd funny.

10. Let It Snow! Michael Buble

9 . “ N at i o n a l L a m p o o n’s Christmas Vacation” – A nice,

10. “Tim Burton’s the Night Before Christmas” – The originality

8. Christmas From the Heart

David Archuleta Various Artists

WWW.BILLBOARD.COM/CHARTS / SOURCE

lighthearted comedy without much else to it. It’s deﬁnitely fun to watch and see how some jokes recur, but it doesn’t make a lasting impression as a comedy movie I would necessarily recommend.

in this ﬁlm is remarkable. Just the concept of holiday worlds alone is great, but a lot of Halloween town’s interpretations of Christmas really stick out to me, like the musicians playing“Jingle Bells”in a minor key. The sound track and visuals also make this a movie to remember.

3. “Elf” – As juvenile as some

of the humor is, I can’t help but be entertained by “Elf.” I guess that has something to do with the casting of Will Ferrell. Yes, he plays the same characters in every movie, and yes, he’s got a onenote shtick, but who cares? That guy could ﬁlm himself reading the phone book for two hours and it would probably be the funniest thing I’ve ever seen. It’s hard to deny this movie’s awesomeness.

8. “It’s a Wonderful Life”– If you were

expecting me to use the word “wonderful,” be disappointed. But still, this is a great classic and one of those movies everyone must see. The acting is above average and the story has some nice lessons that can be easily learned due to the realistic characters.

WWW.FANDANGO.COM / SOURCE

24 sports >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Pacing toward his mother’s career

While many choose not to pursue parents’ professions, senior works hard to follow mom’s footsteps

how the game is going.

BY REUBEN WARSHAWSKY rwarshawsky@hilite.org

enior Jordan Davis attends almost every home Indiana Pacers game. He is currently employed by the Pacers, and his job is to relay the game’s statistics to the broadcasters.

Davis’s mother, Deborah Hughes, also works for the Pacers in the media coverage department. Davis said he plans to enter his mother’s profession in the future. “Going into the same field as your parent is less common than it was,” said Darrell Anthony Luzzo, president-elect of the National Career Development Association from Oklahoma.

Hughes said, “Jordan helps with getting all the papers together so that I do not have to spend time doing that, such as copying them and reading them to look for errors in the writing.”

“I have been to Marquis Daniels’, Anthony Johnson’s and Jamaal Tinsley’s houses. We hang out and play video games together.”

Students now have an abundance of alternative career choices. According to the U.S. Labor Department, the number of occupations has increased 22 percent since 1980. Hughes’s responsibility with the Pacers is to pass out the statistics of the current game to the statistics team so the television play-by-play announcers know the statistics and

Recently, a Junior Achievement poll of approximately 1,000 teens between ages 13 and 18 reported 82.5 percent of teenage girls and 76.1 percent of teenage boys are not interested in following the same career paths as their parents took. Several decades ago, children were often expected to take over a family business and continue in the same path as their parents.

JORDAN DAVIS

However, today teachers and school counselors primarily influence a teenager’s career choice, then the Internet, then professionals that teens encountered through job shadowing, and last parents. In addition, many parents discourage their children to follow in their profession because the parents understand that profession’s hardships and negative sides.

UPCOMING PACERS GAMES Dec. 14

at Orlando

7 p.m.

Dec. 16

vs. Charlotte

7 p.m.

Dec. 18

at Memphis

8 p.m.

Dec. 19

at San Antonio

8:30 p.m.

Dec. 21

vs. Milwaukee

7 p.m.

Dec. 22

at Boston

7:30 p.m.

Dec. 26

vs. Atlanta

7 p.m.

Dec. 27

at Miami

6 p.m.

Dec. 29

at Chicago

8 p.m.

Dec. 30

vs. Memphis

7 p.m. PACERS.COM / SOURCE

Davis said he enjoys his job because he gets the opportunity to work behind the scenes of a National Basketball Association (NBA) game. In addition, he said he is confident about acquiring a future job with the Pacers.

SHOKHI GOEL / PHOTO

NUMBERS MAN: Senior Jordan Davis looks over statistics from the last Pacers game. He gives television broadcasters the in-game statistics for Pacers games. former Pacers players. Davis said, “I have been to Marquis Daniels’, Anthony Johnson’s and Jamaal Tinsley’s houses. We hang out and play video games together.”

Davis said, “After I finish high school, I have a good chance of being hired fulltime by the Pacers because I already have been trained in what to do.”

Hughes said she was excited when the Pacers hired Davis because Hughes had worked for the Pacers for 16 years and Davis had always been interested with her job since he was young. In turn, he was hired to help out his mother.

Hughes said, “Jordan has learned to speak with a great tone in his voice, and also he has learned the skills of working with people in the media field. This job can go many places for Jordan such as (a similar job) with the WNBA, NBA, NCAA or IHSAA.”

The Pacers Sports and Entertainment employs approximately 180 full-time employees and anywhere from 400 to 800 parttime employees.

Davis is currently is paid only $4 for each game he works, but he said his job has other benefits. For example, he has made relationships with several

High school students are not allowed to work full-time with the Pacers, however many part-time job opportunities exist. Potential opportunities exist with guest relations, box office, stat crew, ball boy or Pacemates. Anyone interested can submit an application found on the Pacers’ Web site. As for his job, though, Davis said, “I get ideal seats to every home game, and I get paid. Who would not want that?”

<< sports 25

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Changes to intramurals frustrate students Intramural basketball players say changes made to the program detract from fun BY JACKSON WHITEKER jwhiteker@hilite.org

all of these changes will help us compensate for the fact that we have one less sponsor than last year.”

Last year, the intramural sponsor was former physical education teacher Robert Kopnisky. After Kopnisky’s retirement, Clay Middle School teacher Wesley Drew took over as the main sponsor. To manage having only three sponsors instead of last year’s four, Drew has had to make a few changes to the intramural basketball program.

Vanneman said he is still against these changes. “(Drew) should let the players have more control of their game,” Vanneman said. “He needs to relax a little bit.”

Many students, including intramural basketball player and junior Kevin Vanneman, are angry for various reasons. “It’s been a little different this year because (Drew) has been switching a lot of stuff up—leagues, rules, no spectators,” Vanneman said. “Honestly I’m not for all these changes. They take away the fun that used to be in intramural basketball.” Patrick Sondles, intramural basketball player and junior, said he is also angry about the changes made this year. “I don’t want to be too harsh because nobody has really given (Drew) a chance, but having no fan support is a big blow for our team,” Sondles said. “We bring in crowds from all over the place, and not allowing the fans to watch really affects how we play.” Despite these players’ complaints, Drew, the current intramural sponsor, offered an explanation for the changes that have been made. “This has been a huge issue,” Drew said. “We’re trying new things out. Some of it worked, some of it didn’t. (We don’t allow) students to watch games because they have been getting into things that they shouldn’t.” Drew also said the new changes will help make the intramurals program easier to run. “Also, last year we were having trouble keeping track of who’s in the teams. We’ve set it up so that the teams are locked from the get-go. Hopefully

Sondles said that the “Dobo incident” made a lot of people angry with the program. According to Sondles, the incident included Benjamin “Ben” Dobrovodsky, senior and intramural basketball player, getting angry about not being able to play when the opposing team didn’t show up and yelled profanities at intramural sponsors. “It’s one of the things that people base their anger on,” Sondles said. But Drew said he has realized that some of the intramural basketball players are angry, and said he has plans to fix that. “I think we are trying to make it better,” Drew said. “We’re talking about what’s working and what’s not. At this point we aren’t having some of the problems that we were having. Because of this, we will be allowing some students to come in and watch games.” But Vanneman said he won’t be happy until intramural basketball is like it was last year. “He needs to bring back the original format of Carmel intramurals. I think this would fix all of the problems that we’re having now,” Vanneman said. Despite these complaints, Drew said the current changes will stay in effect unless the circumstances change and that players will have to get used to them. “With changes, people have to make adjustments,” Drew said. “It can be frustrating. We’re just trying to see what works and what doesn’t. In our minds, we are trying to make the games better.”

SHIRLEY CHEN / PHOTO

STEADY AIM: Kevin Vanneman, intramural player and junior, prepares to take a shot as he practices for his team. Starting Jan. 6, games are supposed to take place every Wednesday.

INTRAMURALS CODE OF CONDUCT 1. Once a game is completed, participants need to leave the ﬁeld house. Loitering in the ﬁeld house/common areas is not tolerated. Students are expected to respectfully comply.

4. All participants are expected to conform to special rules or procedures set forth for any scheduled activity.

2. School policies on dress code and behavior apply.

5. All participants are expected to exhibit good sportsmanship, fair play, and abide by all rules of the Intramural program and the scheduled activity.

3. All participants listed on a team entry must meet all stated eligibility requirements. Teams will forfeit all wins for which an ineligible player participated and further action may be taken.

6. Any foul language, or act(s) of unsportsmanlike behavior of a non-physical nature, will not be tolerated. Dismissal from the activity and referral to the Dean’s Oﬃce will occur.

7. Any act of sexual harassment will not be tolerated. Dismissal from the activity will be applied, and a referral to the CHS Dean’s Oﬃce will also occur. Removal from the league may also result. 8. Any participant dismissed due to an act of unsportsmanlike behavior regarding a physical confrontation will be immediately removed, the student will be referred to the Dean’s Oﬃce, and removal from the league may also result. CARMEL ATHLETICS.COM/SOURCE

26 sports >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

F oot b all S tate champ i onsh i p

Despite loss of key players, Hounds should be fine Even so, an asterisk feels appropriate here, something we’ve seen emerge too often in sports.

parker myers I’m resisting the urge to write completely about “the play.” But that’s finished. Nothing we say will bring back the call, no amount of facebook groups will change the IHSAA’s mind. The call was the official’s discretion, and that’s that.

But all season long, we’ve seen the team fight through expectations to become an entirely different unit. Quarterback and senior Adam Shaffer has developed into a better passer than Morgan Newton, throwing for five touchdowns in the State Championship. And the Hounds’ defense was the reason for the Hounds’ success this year, as it surrendered only 108 points up to the State game. It’s so interesting, then, to think of what the team will be like next year. The team that is constantly referred to as “after-Newton” is about to become that “after.” That list of seniors is astonishing to look at. Next year, the

FOUL CALL: Carmel seniors Michelle Baques, Brenna Sharp and Anna Phipps react to a questionable call by the referee. Warren Central receiver Maurice Magee’s catch on fourthand-goal was ruled complete, which led to the two-point conversion that sent the game into overtime.

team will be without its starting quarterback, top two receivers, top safety, two cornerbacks and three of the best linebackers in the state. If that doesn’t unnerve you, check your pulse. The senior class really blossomed under pressure this year. In the pre-season, junior Scott Stilson battled with Shaffer for the starting position. Although Shaffer won the starting position, Stilson proved that next year would be his team. Carmel’s top two running backs, Devin Brinson and Jesse Hollander, will both return next season. The receivers will be hit hard, but all season long we’ve seen Brett

Story continued on next page

PEP TALK: (Top) Head Coach Mo Moriarity gives the team a speech at the end of the State game. CAN’T CATCH ME: (Bottom) Quarterback and senior Adam Shaffer runs the ball down the field. Shaffer won the Phil N. Eskew Mental Attitude Award.

<< sports 27

HiLite • December 14, 2009

<< Story continued from previous page Erwin and David “DJ” Fraser step up when needed. They will be fine. The defense is what worries me. You can’t ignore losing the top lineman, almost all of your linebackers, and most of the secondary. Justin Todd, Shawn Heffern, and Matt Seward will all return to the team next season. We’ve seen Heffern and Seward make crucial interceptions all season long, and Todd has more tackles than all but five players on the team. It will be interesting to see how Carmel develops. But don’t make the mistake of writing the Greyhounds off. Come next season, I think we’ll all be surprised again when the team returns better than expected.

Proper nutrition plays key role in wrestlers’ dieting success

BY MAGGIE BRANDENBURG mbrandenburg@hilite.org

ne of the greatest fears of the sporting world (and its parents) has been athletes pushing themselves to and past their breaking points in changing their bodies to compete in their sports.

According to wrestler and junior Brad Ellis, this was partly the reality during his sophomore season when he said he pressed himself to lose unhealthy amounts of weight. Ellis said he ate less food than usual to achieve his weight loss goal of 18 pounds. “Last year, I didn’t diet the right way. I ended up being really tired and not very active except for wrestling practice,” Ellis said.

Parker Myers is the CHTV football announcer and a reporter for the HiLite. Contact him at pmyers@ hilite.org.

BRAD ELLIS

But according to Head Coach John Kopnisky, those types of dieting habits are not the norm at Carmel, as he said coaches endorse only healthy dieting. “I think we’re in a day and age now that we have a greater understanding of how dieting is done,” Kopnisky said. “It’s easier for us to communicate exactly how it’s done and there are more resources and it’s easier for us to find those resources.”

ARJUNA CAPULONG / PHOTOS

IRON DEFENSE: The Carmel defense stops Warren Central running back Shakir Bell in his tracks. Bell ran for 236 yards and two touchdowns during the State Championship game.

WAIT…THERE’S MORE. TO SEE THE REST OF ARJUNA’S PHOTOS, GO ONLINE TO WWW.HILITE.ORG

According to Kopnisky, the drive to lose or gain weight to make a different wrestling weight class comes from the athletes themselves. Unlike football, where athletes typically want to gain mass, the goal during the wrestling season is for athletes to cut fat and make more room for muscle, but still be able to make it into their ideal class. Another motivation is to gain or lose those pounds that may keep athletes from being close to the rest of their weight class.

According to Kopnisky, the number-one warning sign is performance. This, paired with close supervision of eating habits, helps to keep unhealthy dieting from being a problem among wrestlers here. “Luckily, we haven’t had any situations this year, and everybody is performing great, which tells me that they’re dieting well.” Kopnisky said. “I always ask questions. (I) ask them what they’re eating, how often they’re eating, making sure that they’re keeping hydrated, what they ate last night, what they plan on eating after practice. (The coaches) are going into those details.” According to Lindsay Langford, a sports dietitian with St. Vincent Sports Performance, healthy habits are much more beneficial to athletes when gaining or losing weight. Rather than just cutting calories, which can cause a huge energy deficit, or making several trips to fast food restaurants, which will only help athletes to gain fat, constant energy intake to keep their metabolism up is the key to gaining muscle. “Any rapid weight loss plays havoc on the athlete,” she said. Ellis said he has learned from his mistakes last year and now practices healthy dieting habits rather than just reducing his caloric intake. By eating the same amount of healthier food and eliminating junk foods from his diet, Ellis said he has chosen the right way to go in his athletic career. “If you eat the same amount of food that are just better for you, for me at least,” Ellis said. “I feel better and I’m able to go harder.”

Ellis said, “It’s on how well you want to perform. So (wrestlers may) want to go to a lower weight class, because (they) think (they’ll) perform better.” The drive some athletes have to perform well and succeed puts pressure on their coaches to monitor and protect their wrestlers from unhealthy habits.

KAITLYN LAMPE / PHOTO

HEALTHY HABITS: Senior wrestlers Eric Courter and Josh Yoder eat some of the healthier lunch foods. Eating healthy helps them to maintain their respective weight classes.

28 perspectives >>

speak up! COMPILED BY MAGGIE BRANDENBURG

What do you do to exercise during the winter? “I’m on the swim team.”

HiLite • December 14, 2009 staff perspective

Exercise and fresh air are important in winter Developmentally as teenagers, we are especially susceptible to wild mood swings. One minute we can be the happiest people in the world, and the next we’re sobbing, blaming everything on anything under the earth’s sun. While some of these mood swings may just be the normal effect of hormones, students need to be aware that some of the swings could also be a case of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Junior Samantha Osleger

“I’m in APC. We do running and stuff with medicine balls. Then we work out with weights for an hour.”

Sophomore Kevin Cook

“I run and I lift weights and do pilates.”

According to www.webmd.com, a Web site that informs people of different medical topics, SAD is a type of depression that affects people during certain seasons, mak ing them feel depressed. Most people tend to experience SAD during the late fall and winter.

This interference can cause problems with serotonin a brain chemical that controls your mood. While it is normal for people to feel down on some days, feeling down for a long period of time could be a sign of SAD. There are treatments for SAD, one of which involves sitting in front of a “light box” for more than half an hour. While this easy treatment, patients essentially stare at light for 30 minutes or so, and they have to do it daily or the treatment will stop working.

OUR STAND

As we approach the wintr y months, students should be aware of the symptoms of this seasonal depression and ways to prevent it. SAD can be difficult to diagnose, as it could very well be mistaken for non-seasonal depression; the symptoms are virtually the same. Both can result in feeling sad, grumpy, moody or anxious.

During the winter months, when sun and dry weather are hard to come by, it is still important to get plenty of exercise. To avoid conditions such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), get outside and get a little fresh air and some physical activity.

Both non-seasonal depression and SAD can lead to a lack of interest in usual activities or friends, weight change, a change in eating habits, oversleeping and continuous fatigue. But unlike with non-seasonal depression, which is more easily diagnosed, since SAD is seasonal, and most people aren’t even aware that they have it.

Some may argue that everyone feels worse in the winter. Some also argue that everyone tends to feel the symptoms of SAD, if only a mild form of it.

Senior Katie Hutchins

this type of depression is caused by a lack of sunlight. According to the experts, the lack of light interferes with people’s sleep-wake cycles and their other circadian (biological clock) rhythms.

These arguments may be true as researchers theorize that

Counseling is also an option, but it can be expensive and time-consuming. Both of these treatments work, but there are other ways to help that don’t involve such lengths. One easy remedy is to get outside and exercise. While winter days may be dreary and gray, it’s still better than staying inside. Also, exercise increases endorphins, the body’s natural pain reliever, and releases stress and anxiety.

In addition, being fit and healthy often makes people feel better about themselves. A daily walk outside can make all the difference for those who have SAD or who are at risk of developing it. Don’t want to walk alone? Invite a friend or group along. It’s important for students to take care of themselves this winter. Get up, get out and exercise. A little fresh air and some physical activity can certainly lift your spirits and help you to prevent potential problems that could become something more serious.

<< perspectives 29

HiLite • December 14, 2009

check out blogs Online www.hilite.org

graphic perspective

rosemary boeglin tim chai FASHION BLOG Two HiLite staffers and fashion enthusiasts team up to bring high fashion and street style to a student budget by keeping you up-to-date on good deals and sales, interviewing fashionable students, giving helpful how-tos and more. Daniel Li / Art

In digital age, there’s no such thing as being too careful

michelle hu In the previous issue of the HiLite, we warned students to be careful and always question content from the modern age, especially as it becomes harder to verify what’s true and what’s not. Unfortunately, that same day, a white supremacist organization targeting young students issued a press release showcasing the HiLite as a perfect example of what could go wrong when technology’s involved. We cannot express our apologies enough, and we hope the situation serves as a lesson for everyone. Not the least of these lessons is that the world includes people who aren’t nice. But I don’t want to draw any more attention to the organization. Instead, we’d rather move forward. Understand the organization targeted Carmel High School

deliberately. Carmel High School has the largest student population in the state, and the HiLite is a well-respected publication both locally and nationally. It is deeply regrettable that this has happened to us, but we as students should all learn that there are people out there who have hidden agendas and use the media to their advantage. Innately, we as humans put trust in other people. Columnist Thomas Friedman of the New York Times summarizes this idea well when he wrote about human nature concerning 9/11 on Dec. 26, 2001. “This is America’s core problem today:” he writes, “A free society is based on openness and on certain shared ethics and honor codes to maintain order.”

ad,” implying that we had done so intentionally. With the power of the press, we learned that people most often read headlines first and form opinions based on them.

“It is deeply regrettable that this has happened to us, but we as students should all learn that there are people out there who have hidden agendas and use the media to their advantage.”

Another lesson we were able to learn was what it is like being the news instead of the source of news. As we listened to the rumors and stories circulating around the community, we learned how any small detail could be used to twist a story in a different direction. Initially, when the Indianapolis Star wrote about the issue, the headline was “Carmel High School newspaper publishes white supremacist

This was an unfortunate incident perpetrated by those who hope to spread their racist agenda to impressionable teenagers. As a student myself, I feel horribly violated, but I know now that the media can also be used for hidden purposes, and it’s more important than ever to guard yourself against those type of attacks.

In today’s world, technology takes away human contact from communication, and discerning what’s true becomes more difficult. As a result, it’s more important than ever to keep a sharp mind when observing the world. But we urge you to keep faith in others, because it’s what fundamentally keeps society together. Michelle Hu is editor-in-chief for the HiLite. Contact her at mhu@ hilite.org.

30 perspectives >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Loopholes through a law are wrong

graphic perspective

jackson whiteker A few days ago, while browsing the news, I found an article about a college student who was fined an outrageous amount of money for illegal file sharing of copyrighted songs. My first reaction (for an undisclosed reason) was fear. Then, I was reminded of quite a few years ago hearing many stories about people getting caught for similar things. Ever since the invention of the Internet, people have used it to share files. It grew famous with computer applications like Napster, Limewire and Kazaa and is now thriving with BitTorrent and Transmission. At this time, we also started hearing about primarily teenagers and young adults getting fined outrageous amounts of money for downloading music illegally. There were even commercials that said in an annoying voice something like, “Would you steal a purse? No. Would you steal a car? No. Then why would you steal music?” And despite these advertisements, downloading music and other media has just increased in popularity. After I read this article, I have been debating how bad exactly this is. Because our generation grew up with computers, we know how to work around the inconveniencies of laws regarding the Internet. One way this can be done is to listen to music on YouTube or other streaming web sites. Other ways include recording music on the radio or getting music from the library. Even when you take all of these ways to get music, both legal and illegal, into account, you still must think about whom you are affecting by not buying the music. Jackson Whiteker is a reporter for the HiLite. Contact him at jwhiteker@hilite.org.

WAIT…THERE’S MORE. TO READ THE REST OF JACKSON’S COLUMN, GO ONLINE TO WWW.HILITE.ORG ALEX MACKALL/ ART

<< perspectives 31

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Indiana colleges and universities deserve a second look While I understand the desire to experience a new and different area of the country, I’m troubled by the fact that many seniors are overlooking many excellent Indiana universities, especially public schools. I’ve heard plenty of classmates articulate their desire to attend an out-of-state school simply because they don’t want to attend IU, Purdue, Ball State or IUPUI.

nick johnson With many college application deadlines quickly approaching, I have heard plenty of fellow seniors voice their opinions on their college choices. Some have already decided which school they will attend next fall, while others are still pondering the various college options available to them. I include myself in that second group, as I have applied to five schools but still haven’t chosen one. Throughout my college search, I have received countless helpful opinions from many of my classmates. However, one common sentiment about the college search bothers me. At least once a week, I hear a classmate say something along the lines of, “As long as I don’t go to school in Indiana, I’ll be happy.”

MORE OPINIONS ONLINE WWW.HILITE.ORG

By ignoring Indiana’s exceptional public universities, many students are giving up an opportunity for a low-cost, highquality college education. IU’s Kelley School of Business was ranked 11th nationally in 2009 by U.S. News & World Report, which also ranked Purdue’s undergraduate engineering program ninth in the nation in 2009. Ball State features a nationally recognized communications department that resides in a brand new facility named for its most famous alum, David Letterman. IUPUI can also boast of national recognition, as U.S. News & World Report ranked it seventh on its list of “up and coming” schools. Besides offering nationally ranked academic programs, Indiana’s public universities also offer tuition costs that seem like pocket change when compared with those of private schools and out-of-state public schools. In addition, these schools allocate millions of dollars in scholarship money specifically for Indiana

students each year, providing a discount on the already low cost of tuition. While money should never serve as the only deciding factor in the college selection process, it must be considered, especially with the current economic climate in mind. As a potential business major, I’m finding it increasingly difficult to spurn IU and the Kelley School of Business in favor of an outof-state school. I will admit that I entered my senior year with the hope of going to an out-of-state school, but I have come to realize that Indiana’s public universities offer a wide range of academic opportunities and activities. It’s difficult to imagine more than a handful of good reasons for attending an Indiana school, yet many of my classmates continue to look upon IU, Purdue and other state schools as second-tier options. The fact that a large number of this school’s graduates choose to attend these schools does not take away from their exceptional academic quality and economic value. As the college search continues for many, Indiana’s public universities should be given equal consideration with private and out-of -state schools. Nick Johnson is photo editor for the HiLite. Contact him at njohnson@hilite.org.

First Amendment essential to journalists High School in Illinois, received the SPLC’s Courage in Student Journalism Award, which commends those who advocate and support free press rights for students.

hera ashraf

Authorities, media too quick to blame “terrorism” for events “I’m not trying to defend Hasan and his actions nor am I blaming the army, but this is a matter of 13 lives that were taken—13 lives that didn’t deserve to be taken, but were, because no one was there to stop what was happening.”

sarah sheafer As 6,300 student journalists and advisers piled into the room, there was a mixture of excitement and nerves. From Nov. 12 to 15, students from all 50 states, England, South Korea and Germany came to participate in the JEA/NSPA Fall National High School Journalism Convention in Washington, D.C. It was the award ceremony night, and many young journalists were eager to see their publication’s name flash onto the large screen over the stage. However, before any of this took place, the Student Press Law Center (SPLC), a nonprofit organization that gives legal assistance and educates student journalists about their First Amendment rights, gave a couple of special awards. Barb Thill, former adviser of The Statesman at Stevenson

Thill’s acceptance speech, while short, grabbed my attention. Here was an award-winning newspaper whose voice was being suppressed by its school’s administration. Back in January, the newspaper printed a package of articles that localized a New York Times article, covering the phenomenon of casual alcoholfueled “hook-ups.” Because of the articles, the school’s administration started exercising prior review. In protest, Thill resigned from her position as journalism adviser. Sarah Sheafer is managing editor for the HiLite. Contact her at ssheafer@hilite.org.

WAIT…THERE’S MORE. TO READ THE REST OF SARAH’S COLUMN, GO ONLINE TO WWW.HILITE.ORG

32 15 minutes of fame >>

How did yo u get invol ved with break -dancing? One of m

y good friend s, Ian Deibert, motivated me to dance and that’s how I started.

d o yo u da n c e w it h a n yo n e in p ar w h e n yo u p t ic u l a r r ac t ic e? Now, I d

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Junior Lawrence Yeh can Pop and Lock A r e yo u p l a By Michelle Yun nning To

Perform in

the f

u t u r e? Yes, someone has asked me and my dancing bud dies to per form for a charity/ fund raiser. But I do n’t have the major det ails so I can’t sa y much about it.

D o yo u p l a n ance on Tuesd ays after scho to continu ol b r e a k or when we h e ave Break-Dan d a n c ing in colle ce Club. Before Ian left g e? In college, I hop for college th e to meet mo is year, we re would practic dancers with e whenever w diverse/uniqu e had the e types of chance. He ca st yles so I can le me over to m arn new thing y house in s from the summer a them. I plan o lot so we cou n dancing un ld d an til I grow ce in my basemen old and my b t. I usually pra ones ache!  ctice at home in my b asement when I want to work on new H o w d o yo u things and in learn new the Freshman Perf moves for y orming Arts C our dancin enter at school. g? First, I watch so meone (on Yo uT u b e or in person) do something re Wh o f ir s t in al ly co o l th at I would like s p ir e d yo u to learn, and th to D a n c e ? en if I see a mirror, I try to imitate I don’t know if the move I sa w it’s really “who” before. When I dance I usual inspired me but actual ly try to “freestyle” an ly dancing its d el m f. It helps ake up stuff al me relieve the ong the way. That stress I get fro way, I won’t h m school and I’ll spend av e to do the same old hours just dan things repeate cing because it’s fu d ly and have more va n. riety.   Wh e r e d o yo u p e r f o r m? Recently me an d a few friend s entered the ta lent show and we were awesome and received #1 Pe ople’s Popular vote.

Want to see him dance? check out Lawrence demonstrating his dance moves at www.hilite.org Shokhi goel and michelle hu / photo illustration

To submit nominations for 15 Minutes of Fame, e-mail Afra Hussain at ahussain@hilite.org

Acumen The Relationship Issue

Platonic Friends... Page 2 Chivalry... Page 3 Bromance... Page 4&5 Musician Relationships... Page 6 Romantic Films... Page 7 Ask the Contributors... Page 8 Carmel High School. Volume 6. Issue 2. December 14, 2009

02 acumen >>

Purely Platonic

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

Purpose Acumen is an occasional publication serving to supplement the HiLite. Acumen is distributed to the students, faculty and staff of Carmel High School. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily representative of those held by CHS, the Carmel Clay system faculty, staff or administration.

Staff Editor Associate Editor Reporters / Photographers

HiLite Editor in Chief HiLite Managing Editors Adviser Principal Superintendent

HiLite • December 14, 2009

Jinny Zhang Arjuna Capulong Monica Cheng Shohki Goel Kendall Harshberger Michelle Hu Stuart Jackson Daniel Li Priya Patel Darlene Pham Emily Puterbaugh Min Qiao Thalib Razi Sarah Sheafer Katie Walstrom Jackson Whiteker Michelle Hu Rosemary Boeglin Sarah Sheafer Jim Streisel John Williams Barbara Underwood

In This Issue Dear readers, A popular quote by Assistant Principal Dr. John Newton states: “If you’re having problems with your girlfriend or boyfriend, remember we have approximately 4,400 students and about half are girls and half are boys. You have 2,200 other choices. Just go out and find another one, maybe two or three. Don’t get hung up on just one person.”

Students look to friends of opposite gender for friendships instead of relationships

By Priya Patel ppatel@hilite.org

ften, people do not believe that a single, eligible male can be close friends with a single, eligible female; however the “just friends” phenomenon is actually commonplace. Junior Tyler Hardcastle and Sophomore Katherine “Katie” Cheesman have been best friends for the past year, but said they feel nothing romantic for the other. Hardcastle said all of their friends know they are just friends, and no one really bothers them with the misconception they may be a romantic item. “We’re friends. We tease each other a lot and do things together all the time, but it’s nothing more. We’re basically like brother and sister,” Hardcastle said. Hardcastle and Cheesman met at church in the church band they play in. Since that has required much extracurricular dedication, they often spend a great deal of time together. “We’re always together doing different things for church that we ended up becoming really close,” Hardcastle said. According to interpersonal relations teacher Lila Torp, it is not uncommon to have friends of the opposite sex that mean nothing more than any other friend of the same sex.

Relationships prominently influence the lives of most high school students. However, modern television and film sensationalize the drama of high school relationships. From platonic friends to bromances, the staff of this Acumen issue shows how there’s more to a relationship than dating.

“It’s just a perception that (boys and girls) can’t be friends without anything extra going on,” Torp said. Though Torp admits sometimes teenagers’ judgment are often clouded with hormones, she said she still feels platonic friendships are an imperative part of life. “Even then, friendship is an excellent way to understand the opposite gender, because I think we think and communicate differently, and if you don’t have someone to trust who can provide honest feedback in troubles and help you understand the other gender, it becomes hard,” Torp said. “Not all friendships are going to (become romantic), and it’s annoying when people jump to conclusions about that because it puts undue pressure on dating, but I do think it’s really good to have guy friends because it helps to have the guy perspective on things,” Cheesman said. Cheesman said though she does look to Hardcastle or other male friends from the friend group for more honest opinions, she entrusted all of her friends to tell her their true feelings on the subject. However, she does agree that more often than not, she will get the most straightforward answers from the male friends in the group.

HiLite staff members Kendall Harshberger, Jackson Whiteker and Stuart Jackson contributed to this Acumen as well, but their work couldn’t fit on the pages. Their stories, interviews and photos can be found at www. hilite.org/acumen. Acumen Editor Jinny Zhang

Corrections and Clarifications from the 10.29 issue On page 5, freshman Regan Brown’s name was misspelled in the photograph caption. Cover >> Arjuna capulong / Photo Illustration

emily puterbaugh / photos

Just friends: Sophomore Katherine “Katie” Cheesman and junior Tyler

Hardcastle spend some time competing in pool. They have been close friends for the past year and disagree with the misconception that all friendships become romantic.

DID YOU KNOW? On average, both males and females place a greater trust in male friends than female friends.

Cheesman said, “It is great to know that when I ask him for an honest opinion, he’ll tell me what he really thinks, instead of trying to spare my feelings.”

Texas A&M university journal of social and personal relationships Michael / source

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HiLite • December 14, 2009

Is Chivalry Dead? No By monica cheng mcheng@hilite.org While the concept of chivalry is constantly changing and conflicting views arise about whether chivalry is still practiced, senior Matthew Hook said chivalry is still alive. “But I feel that male chivalry isn’t as prevalent as it’s been before,” Hook said. “I think that can be viewed as a good and bad thing. Women don’t need to rely on men as much anymore. But random acts of chivalry is also good.” Such acts of chivalry would include opening doors, pulling out chairs, carrying books and allowing the girl to go first in lines. Although chivalry is generally implied to men, Hook said it does not always have to only go one way. “It shouldn’t matter who is being chivalrous. Chivalry, in the traditional sense, is men being courteous to women. But now, it’s just a sign of respect.” “Taking it back to the roots, it was the thought back then that women needed to be treated so delicately because they weren’t up to the standards of men. So they needed men to open doors and carry books for them. But that’s hardly polite because it’s sexist to women,” Hook said. However, while some men are more polite and chivalrous toward women, there are others who do not approach women in the same way. Hook said that would most likely be explained in the way students were brought up in a family. He said order of birth may also have some impact because older siblings may be more caring toward others. “I know some people who always act chivalrous to girls for the sole purpose of impressing them,” Hook said. “But I think it would be better if they act polite just for the sake of being nice and not for any other reason.”

Yes

Student and relationship expert offer insight on prevalence of chivalry Dictionary Definition of Chivalry Chivarly: chiv-al-ry [shiv-uhl-ree] –noun 1. The sum of the ideal qualifications of a knight, including courtesy, generosity, valor and dexterity in arms. 2. The rules and customs of medieval knighthood. 3. Gallant warriors or gentlemen. dictionary.com / source

By thalib razi trazi@hilite.org According to Rachael Noble, a dating and relationships columnist and coach, chivalry has nearly died out in Indiana. She said chivalry in a relationship involves the man helping and providing for the woman whenever she needs assistance, including holding the door for her and paying for her meal on a date. Noble said she believes chivalry in Indiana will disappear entirely in the next twenty years because women have been campaigning for the same rights and treatment as men for a century. In order for complete fairness, she said, many people feel chivalry must go. “When I’m with a male friend and we’re walking into a building, I’ll let him hold the door for me. This lets him know how I want him to take care of me,” Noble said. “But the times have obviously changed in some ways; many of my guy friends are completely secure and actually excited that their girlfriends or wives are making more than they are.” Noble said in the beginning of a relationship, the man should pay for the meal and do his best to be chivalrous and romantic in all ways. But over time, it would be more practical to put money together and split the bill, she said, since women and men are equal in the workplace and have similar incomes. At the same time, according to Noble, with all the time and money women put into beautifying themselves for their men, it would be nice if the man would pick up the check at the restaurant. “When I said that in my column, I got all these indignant e-mails from men saying, ‘You want equality but you want us to pay? We’re going to treat you like equals in everything,’” Noble said. “I realized then just how dead chivalry is here.” daniel li / graphic

DID YOU KNOW? Chivalry originates from Middle Ages of European feudalism, when knights obeyed strict socially, religiously and morally proper beliefs.

History World international / source

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HiLite • December 14, 2009

I Lov

Males emb

By Darlene Pham dpham@hilite.org

uniors David Chiang and Lawrence Yeh have known each other since 5th grade. They first met at Chinese school, and according to Chiang, their years of experiences together have made them close friends. At first glance, they seem to be just another pair of friends, but get to know them, and a deeper relationship is revealed. “It’s pretty much understood that we are inseparable, in a good way,” Chiang said via e-mail.

Yeh said he agrees and he and Chiang sh bond than most other friendships. “We sh thoughts and we understand each other th anyone. We have a connection. Our humor i Like, if I make a joke may get it, but D laughing,” Yeh said.

All men should have a go at “bromance” with any one of their close friends. It’s really fun and it’s a great bond.

C h i a n g a n d Ye h h a v e developed what, in modern terms, is called a “bromance”. A “bromance”, or the close, non-sexual relationship between two males, is a recently coined term used especially in the media. Movies, such as “I Love You, Man” and “ The Wedding Crashers”, and TV shows, like “Scrubs” and “Bromance”, have drawn attention upon this close bond, and even have placed an acceptance to it.

sarah sheafer / graphics

According to Chiang and Yeh, they fully e “bromance”. “It is a connection and relations share that shed light on a new perspective and psychological release,” Chiang said.

Chiang’s and Yeh’s is not so unusual, a school psychologist J She said that most m be more open emo “It’s not as macho as Lawrence yeh for some,” she said.

Health teacher Emily Good said society ha created a misconception about how men sh “Men are portrayed as ‘strong’ and ‘less compassionate’, where females are often depicted as the ‘weaker ’, more ‘emotional’ gender, “ she said via e-mail. G o o d s a i d t h a t t h i s criticism could cause

HiLite • December 14, 2009

ve You, Man

<< acumen 05 Popular “bromances” in film and television

brace the growing trend of “bromances”

embrace their ship that guys e of emotional

hare a deeper hare the same he best out of is intertwined. e, no one else David will be

some men to struggle in displaying their emotions. Yeh said he acknowledges this downside. “I can’t get any “Unfortunately, some males still view this as a weakness,” girls because they think I’m gay,” he said. she said. Good said she agrees that girls may become an issue with “Bromance,” while it provides a deep bond between two “bromances.” “Girlfriends will typically get jealous because friends, has its pros and cons. Seniors Griffin Brunk and her boyfriend may want to spend more time with his Jordan Chen also embrace their “bromance” and said that friend than her,” she said. their friendship is important. “It’s good to have someone you can really trust, someone to be there for you when you Another negative, according to Wildman, is that close need them,” said Chen. “Without that close friend, a lot of friendships can take away time spent with other pressure can’t be released. There a lot of things you miss on relationships, like with parents or other friends. too. The high school experience isn’t the same.”

s “bromance” according to Jane Wildman. males tend to otionally now. s it used to be

Brunk said he agrees. “You miss on the aspect of life without that close bond,” he said. There are, however, some negatives of being too close to one person. According to Good, it becomes more difficult to meet new people and try new experiences. “It’s difficult to rely on one person all of the time. Jealousy becomes an issue,” she said.

as somewhat hould be.

imdb.com / photo

Paul Rudd and Jason Segel as Peter Klaven and Sydney Fife in the film “I Love You, Man.”

Brunk, however, does not think there are any downfalls to partaking in a “bromance.” “It doesn’t really take away from anything. It’s not exactly mutually exclusive. It only attracts things away if you make it attract,” he said. “My girlfriend doesn’t really mind.” Despite the downfalls, Yeh said “bromances” are worth it. “All men should have a go at “bromance” with any one of their close friends. It’s really fun and it’s a great bond. David is my best friend ever,” he said.

abc.com / photo

Donald Faison and Zach Braff as Christopher Turk and J.D. Dorian on the television show “Scrubs.”

Shokhi g

oel / ph

otos

vid and Da e h e Y e c r sinc wren niors La nown each othe u J : r e ave k orev e.” ends f er school. They h hip a “bromanc i r f t s ds aft Be ang out heir frien Chiang h and consider t e 5th grad

rottentomatoes.com / photo

Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn as John Beckwith and Jeremy Grey in the film “Wedding Crashers.”

DID YOU KNOW? In the ‘90s, Dave Carnie first coined the term “bromance” in his skateboard magazine Big Brother to describe the close friendships some skaters had.

theage.com.au / source

06 acumen >>

HiLite • December 14, 2009

All you need is love

rom the sixties hippie to the eighties punk to the nineties grunge, the classic musicians many know and love have been in some crazy relationships.

By Katie Walstrom

bobgruen.com / photo

The good - Yoko ono and John lennon Although many believe Yoko Ono is possibly the reason for The Beatles’ tragic end, it doesn’t change the fact that she and John Lennon had a very loving relationship. They agreed on each other’s political views, rebelled and protested against society and eventually had a son named Sean. Never once did they leave each other’s side. In my opinion, John and Yoko had the ideal relationship. They had

a high level of trust and comfort with one another, shared an obvious passion for peace and anti-war movements and had a never ending love for each other. However, because of the four bullets shot by Mark David Chapman, John Lennon is no more. Although John isn’t capable of being with Yoko physically, his spirit has never left her for a minute.

The bad - Kurt cobain and Courtney love

The ugly - Nancy Spungen and Sid vicious The ugliness of drugs, alcohol and violence was promoted in the songs of the Sex Pistols, which Sid Vicious played bass for. These factors also contributed to the short-lived lives of Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen. Sid actually had no talent for bass and had never played before. He was the bassist for the Sex Pistols simply because the former bassist had quit and Sid was best friends with the lead singer Johnny Rotten. Nancy had a terrible childhood and was diagnosed with many mental disorders and had become a band groupie at the time she and Sid met. Both previously used drugs, but Nancy introduced Sid to heroin and that became the basis of their relationship.

fanpop.com / photo

Somebody to Love: Yoko Ono and John Lennon (top left), Nancy Spungen and Sid Vicious (above) and Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love (right). These highly publicized musician relationships ranged from loving to deadly.

Their “love” was filled with heroin addictions, alcoholism and domestic abuse. If you need a visual, rent the movie “Sid and Nancy”, a biography of their relationship. Their relationship ended when Sid stabbed and murdered Nancy in a drugraged fit. The next day, he had no recollection of it. Months later, unable to bare his life without Nancy, Sid took his own life. This relationship was ugly in the beginning and ugly in the end. The key to a good relationship is to take the time to build up trust and love, something Sid and Nancy did not have.

purepeople.com / photo A good relationship must be built on trust and love. Creating that bond takes time. Kurt and Courtney, however, didn’t think to take it slow. Their love was fast and spontaneous. As romantic as it sounds, it wasn’t stable enough for a longterm relationship, let alone marriage and a family. Kurt and Courtney married after less than a year of dating, and the birth of their daughter Frances came not long after. Although I believe Kurt and Courtney loved each other, they weren’t stable enough mentally or emotionally to have a strong relationship. A person must love oneself before he or she can be expected to love another. Unable to handle his depression and anxiety, Kurt took his own life in 1994.

DID YOU KNOW? One of the shortest marriages recorded was when a Polish couple living in Germany requested an immediate annulment the day of their wedding.

msnbc.com / source

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HiLite • December 14, 2009

Unconventional Romantic Films

(500) Days of Summer

These movies stand out from a sea of stereotypical love stories. By Min Qiao

As far as love stories go, the romance between Tom and Summer portrayed in “500 Days of Summer” ends as disastrously as possible. They started out , as seen through Tom’s eyes, as the ideal, head-over-heels, match-made-inheaven soulmates. Naturally, Tom is shocked when Summer breaks up with him. In his denial, he continues to hold on to the hopes of reconciling with Summer. The movie is so special because of the way this relationship is portrayed. The story’s quirky time line subtly enhances the way it is told. The one-track perspective gives a realistic glimpse into the head of an idealistic whose fantasies about love blinds him to the problems in the relationship. The audience, as well, is fooled into thinking that this is a perfect romance with a happy-ever-after.

WALL-E The image of a worn-down car toon dumpster truck might not inspire much hope for a serious thought-provoking movie, but this little dumpster truck is one of the most caring and touching characters to ever hit the big screen, especially since he did not speak a single word throughout the movie. Certainly, the message sent about life’s disconnections and relationships is an important one. However, the most touching part of

this movie is definitely the relationship between Eve and Wall-E. Ironically, the two robots have more humanity then all the humans in the movie combined. They might be well-programmed, sophisticated machines, but their devotion and care to each other create romance that will melt anyone’s heart. The best part of the movie is when Eve sees Wall-E’s commitment for her and is so moved that she falls in love with Wall-E.

BrokeBack Mountain The quality of Ang Lee’s “Brokeback Mountain” is unquestioned, a fact proven by the multitude of awards that this film garnered. Despite whatever one’s views might be on homosexual relationships, the film’s emphasis is on the tragic love story between two people who could never be together. It’s a love story that easily rivals that of great classics such as “Titanic” and even Romeo and Juliet. But what makes “Brokeback Mountain” even more riveting is the raw and complex

IMDB.com / photos

emotions portrayed by the terrific cast. This film really captures the tragedy of impossible romances and in the end, it depicts the basic conflict of man versus society. This movie does a great job of showing the kind of societal pressure that beats people down and it succeeds because it simply tells a great story. “Brokeback Mountain” does not send any message about gay rights or preach to its audience about civil liberty, it’s just about two people in love, who could imdb.com / photos never be together.

DID YOU KNOW? According to the American Film Institute, the top 3 romantic films of all time are “Casablanca,”“Gone with the Wind” and “West Side Story.”

www.afi.com / source

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HiLite • December 14, 2009

Ask the Contributors Acumen reporters and photographers of this issue share the keys to a good relationship

“The key to a good relationship is being able to laugh off the little things. You have to be comfortable enough with the other person that you can be yourself and let loose.”

“For a long-lasting relationship, it’s important to take the time to get to know the person and for them to get to know you. Most relationships fail because they were rushed into.”

“I have always felt like the secret to a good relationship is finding a partner that has the same sense of humor as you. Everything revolves around this. Call me shallow.”

By junior Darlene Pham, reporter

By junior Katie Walstrom, reporter

By sophomore Jackson Whiteker, reporter

“Being able to end an argument is vital to a good relationship. If one realizes that the other is right rather than vainly pressing forward, especially if the issue is petty, it would go a long way in cementing a tried relationship.”

“I think the key to any successful relationship is a good sense of humor. It helps bring people closer together because you never really know someone until you know what makes them laugh.”

“Whether the relationship is between friends, parents or a significant other, I would say be forgiving. Holding grudges is the easiest way to destory a relationship.”

By junior Thalib Razi, reporter

By junior Emily Puterbaugh, photographer

By senior Min Qiao, special projects editor and reporter Michelle Hu and arjuna capulong / photos