HiLite Issue 9

sports The difference between baseball and softball page 24

acumen The “Money” issue takes a look at the green See section C insert carmel high school • 520 e. main st., carmel, in 46032

april 30, 2010 • vol. 55 • issue 9

Cloudy with a Chance of Information An in-depth look at how Google’s many popular online applications are being utilized in school settings page 16 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

April 30, 2010 • Vol. 55 • Issue 9

table of contents

Contact information Mailing Address: 520 E. Main St., Carmel, IN 46032

cover story

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 May 20 issue no later than May 10. 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.

16

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.

perspectives supports S taff perspec tive: HiLite staff Carmel Clay Schools

Eating disorders are especially prevalent during teenage years

Juniors Andrew Aisen and Rostam Razban on the sport of chess

04 06 feature 08 student section 12 entertainment 15 22 sports 24 26 may still be available.

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.

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 have Carmel Clay Schools referendum to wide impacts social Despite increasing privacy levels on networks, personal information

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

Advisers

Principal Superintendent

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 Miin “Steven” Chen Michael Luo Pedram Navid Matt Pickard Michael Price Yusheng Zhu Video Marianna Cooper Parker Myers

Jim Streisel Jincy Gibson John Williams Jeff Swensson

Senior Owen Yonce plans to explore music, world after graduation

Newly opened Carmel store is onestop shop for all needs

Drama depar tment presents “Oklahoma” for spring musical

Despite some cosmetic similarities, softball and baseball are actually very different sports

Choosing the right shoe imperative for runners’ speed and safety Cover>> Steven Chen / Graphics

28 30 15 minutes of fame 32 referendum

Ya m e e n H a m e e d , R e u b e n Warshawsky and Marianna Cooper share their commentary

Corrections and Clarifications from the 3.25 Issue

In the news story “Taxpayers to vote...,” Carmel is the 10th largest district in the state with the lowest school income tax rate in the county. Also, “$12 general fund” should read “$12 million.”

In the news photo “Breakaway Bots,” Ryan Wilmes is not working on the robot, but a cart.

In the cover story, Indiana does not have a “State Open Records Law.” It is called the “Indiana Open Door Act.” In the entertainment story “Award-winning choirs ...,” the Ambassadors performed a song from “Boy from Oz.” In the news story “Students start conservationist...,” junior Ben Webb is president of the club.

The entertainment photo “Bravo” was submitted by Jordan Phelps.

<< just a minute 03

HiLite • April 30, 2010

A guide you can follow to make sure prom goes as smoothly as possible How to make a boutonniere Prom Checklist

1

Choose a small/midsize flower such as a rose or a carnation.

2

Use scissors to cut off the stem of the flower three inches.

3

Create a “bed” for the flower with a small amount of baby’s breath and greenery.

4

Wrap all stems together completely with green floral tape.

Confirm transportation

5

Tie a bow at the bottom of the boutonniere with one-fourth-inch silk or satin ribbon.

6

Keep the fresh flower boutonniere moist and cool until it is ready to be used.

Make sure you have your keys, ticket, student I.D. and corsage or boutonniere

7

Carefully attach to suit with a safety pin.

How to tie a bow tie 1

Change the length of the bow tie to fit your collar. After this, place the bow tie around your collar, one side should be 2 inches lower than the other.

2

Cross the longer end over the other end. Next, bring the longer end underneath the shorter end and then bring it out from the center like tying shoelaces.

3

Fold the shorter end horizontally with the fold towards your right.

Place the longer end over the shorter end in the center.

4

Insert the longer end through the loop at the back of the shorter end. Pull both ends gently to tighten the knot. Bring collar down.

Confirm dinner reservations Confirm hair and/or makeup appointment

Bring extra clothes for the post-prom party Bring the camera The Fountains is located at 502 E. Carmel Drive Remember prom starts at 8 p.m. and ends at midnight ehow / source Daniel li / graphic Tracy sun / photos

04 news >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Education reform to provide OPERATION financial opportunities for schools REFERENDUM: PROS by kendall harshberger kharshberger@hilite.org

Tuesday’s primary elections hold special importance to the Carmel Clay School System.

Race to the Top (RttT), put into action

by President Obama, focuses on improving the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 by changing the way the government improves schools.

This year’s primary ballot will have a designated spot to vote either for or against a seven-year, $12 million referendum to aid the school system’s general fund.

Passing the proposal would create a raise in property taxes paid by households.

States may apply for federal grants if they submit an application in which they propose a reform plan for their state’s schools. Indiana was one of the forty states to apply, but was not chosen for the grants, finishing as number 23.

According to Dr. Tony Bennett, Indiana will not be applying for phase two of the program, which will choose two more states for federal grants.

Though there are both pros and cons to the proposal, here are some benefits to passing the referendum.

With this referendum passed the school board would be able to do the following:

“What the federal government wants to see is a strong legislation and strong support from the ISTA (Indiana State Teachers Association), and we just don’t have that,” he said.

According to Bennett, Indiana is still working on reform without the help from RttT. “We currently have a program called Fast Forward, which is focused on utilizing our evaluations appropriately.

We’re talking about not just seeing if the student passed the test, but seeing if they improved and grew over a period of time,” Bennett said. “We proposed that to Race to the Top.” “But,” he said, “just because we weren’t chosen doesn’t mean that we aren’t going to follow through on it. Race to the Top would have just made it happen faster.”

Also, Bennett said Indiana is working on

• Replace the revenue lost from the state budget cut and the expiration of the current referendum. gabrielle bowers / photo

checking in: Junior Lauren Hancock looks over her six weeks grade report.

If education reform is passed, the government will allocate money based on college and career preparation, not academic reports. a pilot program for teacher evaluations.

implemented already.

“What we want to see is, do their students grow?” he said.

He said, “I think it ’s a common misconception that Indiana schools haven’t done anything. They’ve done some major reform, especially when it comes to putting more emphasis on student performance.”

Mark Shoup, spokesman for the ISTA, said that he does not believe the money from RttT would address the most pressing need in the funding crisis.

• Decrease class size by adding staff.

• Reconfigure programs that would be or had been cut as a result of budgeting, so that students could still participate in them.

• Continued funding for extracurricular activities and school clubs.

• Continued school funding for the Advanced Placement and advanced curriculum programs.

Tricia hackett / source and compiled by priya patel

need to know: school turnaround grants

“ R a c e t o t h e To p m o n e y w o u l d n’ t b e used for what we at the ISTA think is most important. That is, the fact that class sizes are increasing and teachers under employment are decreasing,” he said.

As for reforming Indiana schools, Shoup said there have been some major changes

School Turnaround Grants is a $900 million program that would support the intervention of 5,000 of the nation’s lowest-performing schools; a large portion of the School Turnaround Grants are used to promote school improvement. The part of the funds not used will be awarded to implement the following four models: •Transformation model: strengthen the staff in the

school, replace the existing principal, implement more research programs, allow more flexibility

•Restart model: Close and reopen or convert the school to exist under the management of a charter operator or education management organization

•Turnaround model: replace the existing principal,

replace no more than 50 percent of the staff, provide extended learning time, implement researchoriented programs •School closure model: Close the school and transfer the students to higher-performing schools in the school district compiled by susie chen and Daniel li /graphic

<< news 05

HiLite • April 30, 2010

OPERATION REFERENDUM: CONS If the referendum doesn’t pass, it would mean the school board would make drastic cuts to an already tight budget.

With $3.8 million less in funding from the state and the expiration of the current $3.2 million referendum, the school is at a loss of $7 million. Sales and income taxes, where the money normally comes from, have been negatively impacted by the recession, causing an even steeper decline in revenue for the school.

Here are some immediate effects of not passing the referendum:

Other schools explore options to escape operating in deficit Central Indiana schools focus on alternatives to referendum to solve revenue problems by kendall harshberger kharshberger@hilite.org As the Carmel Clay Schools District prepares to trim $3.2 million from its budget, surrounding central Indiana schools are also altering their financial plans.

alternative ways to solve revenue issues.

According to Dr. Libbie Conner, superintendent of Noblesville Schools, the district is currently planning to make $3.9 million in budget cuts.

• Class sizes would increase drastically; one elementary school class may have as many as 40 students.

Carmel is proposing a referendum, to be voted on May 4, to solve its deficit problems; other schools are looking at

Jason Urban, principal of Fishers High School, said that the Hamilton Southeastern Schools District is intending to cut $4.5 million from the current school budget.

• Students would not have as many opportunities for extracurricular activities as they do now due to decreased funding.

What is noblesville doing?

What is hamilton southeastern doing?

According to Noblesville Schools Superintendent Dr. Libbie Conner, financial changes are expected to affect all levels of Noblesville schools. Overall changes include the following:

According to Jason Urban, principal of Fishers High School, changes to all levels of Hamilton Southeastern schools include the following:

• Many jobs would be lost due to staff cuts; the money cut would be used to free up money for other programs.

• Increase in property taxes to pay for the referendum; these taxes would be paid directly by the households in the Carmel Clay Schools district.

Tricia hackett / source and compiled by priya patel

• $2 million in reduced health insurance plans or a cut in 20 teaching positions • $525,000 cut by freezing the salary and benefits of all certified staff at present levels • $13,000 worth of transportation cuts • Recommended 50 percent cutback in staff not directly related to instruction, including school counselors and media specialists • Some art and music teachers may be eliminated, along with athletics staff and nurses Specifically at Noblesville High School, cuts include, but are not limited to, the following: • 25 percent reduction in clubs and academic teams • 25 percent reduction in athletic programs Specifically at Noblesville Middle School, cuts include, but are not limited to, the following:

gabrielle bowers / photo

on the job: Media specialist Francie Sands sorts through books. In the past, due to budget cuts, school administration explored ways to reduce financial deficits, such as eliminating media specialists.

• Swimming, golf and basketball will be eliminated • A proposed $300,000 cut by adjusting 5th and 6th grade schedules • $150,000 cut by changing 7th and 8th grade schedules

• Elimination of the 1.5 percent employee benefit fund • Over $1.6 million will be saved by beginning a hiring freeze and salary freeze for all current employees • Small cuts, such as eliminating district cell phones • Summer school will be reduced in general, and summer school transportation will be eliminated • Administration positions from the entire district will experience cuts

what is carmel doing? referendum vote What: According to the Carmel Clay Schools website, the ballot question will ask: “For the seven calendar years immediately following the holding of the referendum, shall the school corporation impose a property tax rate that does not exceed sixteen cents ($0.16) on each one hundred dollars ($100) of assessed valuation and that is in addition to the school corporation’s normal tuition support tax rate?”

Who: Any registered voter who pays taxes to the city of Carmel, Indiana Where: Your assigned polling location When: May 4, 2010

06 news >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Online personal information forms a social signature most common passwords by thalib razi trazi@hilite.org

U

nlike many students at this school, junior Amy Lovell expected few messages on her Facebook wall wishing her a happy birthday earlier this month.

The only personal information on her Facebook profile page is her name and her e-mail address.

shirley chen / photo

privacy control: Amy Lovell logs on to her Facebook page, where the only information she gives out is her name and e-mail address. Lovell said she keeps most personal information private.

“It’s sort of precautionary,” Lovell said. “‘It’s secure,’ (websites) say.

‘We promise we won’t share your i n fo r m a t i o n w i t h a n y o n e .’ B u t there’s always some way to get that information once it’s out there.”

While students have control over what personal information they choose to include on the profile pages of their social networking sites, they may not have control about what companies and criminals can deduce based on that information.

According to Nabeel Yoosuf, a computer science major at Purdue Universit y seek ing a PhD. in information security, companies often make inferences about potential customers and employees based on personal information found online on social networking sites. He said these sites only give out their users’ personal information after hiding identifying characteristics, but this decreases the utility of the data.

Last month, according to a New York Times article, the online movie rental service Netflix shelved its second $1 million contest for researchers to improve its recommendation software when scientists from the University of Texas at Austin found that the

anonymous data from the first contest (movie recommendations, ratings and transactions) could be used relatively easily to re-identify the user’s account in the Netflix system, potentially revealing sensitive information like political, religious and social views.

However, while websites may give the personal information of their users willingly, anonymously and legally to companies, Yoosuf said, criminals can hack into a Facebook account or even simply impersonate a friend on a different social network in order to access a person’s profile.

Then, according to Yoosuf, since banks use date of birth as one factor of identification, and social security numbers correlate with date and state of birth, identity thieves with that information have an advantage.

“Humans are strange, sometimes,” Yoosuf said. “Some of us put our whole life cycle up on Facebook; we like to be connected, we like for people to know about us. But there should be a balance; basically, imagine that what you put online will live forever.”

Although Lovell said she could imagine how some could enjoy getting many birthday notifications on Facebook, by not putting her birthday on her profile, the wishes she does receive become more personal.

“I had a friend from Albuquerque who I hadn’t talked to in years wish me a happy birthday, which was kind of cool,” Lovell said. “This way, I know that hey, she actually remembered, and she didn’t just happen to see it on my Facebook page.”

If you have any one of these passwords, you might as well post your social security number online.

The top ten most common passwords are: - password - 123456 - qwerty - abc123 - letmein - monkey - myspace1 - password1 - link182 - (your first name) intechnology.com / source

did you know?

Many banks use birth date as a factor in account identification.

Social security numbers correlate with date and state of birth.

All an identity thief needs to access your personal information, if it is not properly protected, is to make an account and join a social network you belong to. nabeel yoosuf / source

<< news 07

HiLite • April 30, 2010

New health care bill regulates nutritional information

By Jackson Whiteker jwhiteker@hilite.org As a small underlying part of the health care bill that was recently signed by President Obama, chain restaurants will have to start posting calorie information on menus. This law also applies to vending machines. Sophomore Hannah Wilska believes that this change will affect her everyday life.

“It’ll make me more aware of what I’m eating,” Wilska said, “It’ll probably affect how I eat a little bit because you’ll know what’s in it and the nutrition info.”

how many calories are in your lunch?

Apple juice: 50 calories

Fruit Singles: 104 calories Chocolate milk: 160 calories

Wilska said she believes this minor change in how restaurants display products could actually affect many people’s lives. “ When people are clearly shown how many calories are in something, it can change their mind about something they eat regularly,” she said.

Pasta, rotini with meat sauce: 345 calories Orange slices: 45 calories

According to the White House’s website, chain restaurants that have more than 20 restaurants will have to follow the new legislation.

total: 704 calories

Pendergrass said she doesn’t think this new legislation will directly affect how the cafeteria works and presents its food items here. “We already show all the nutrition information for everything that we ser ve. We have to follow strict guidelines because we rely on the federal government for funding,” Pendergrass said.

Romine said she thinks many students don’t have to worry about how many calories are in food. “I have a high metabolism so I don’t really care what I eat,” Romine said.

main cafeteria nutritional menu / source, susie chen / photo illustration

Junior Marie Romine said the new legislation not affect her as much as Wilska. “(The bill) won’t because I don’t look at nutrition facts. When I see something and it looks good, I eat it,” Romine said.

On the contrary, Romine said she believes not many students will hear about this part of the legislation and therefore will not pay much attention to the changes it brings about.

Wilska said the legislation will probably help many students choose what they eat. “I think it’ll benefit other people too and it’ll be easier for them to stay healthy,” Wilska said.

Susan Pendergrass, assistant manager for the main cafeteria, said, “I don’t foresee it making a huge impact.

The info is there and the kids that want to use it, use it,” Pendergrass said. “I think it’s an overall good thing.”

Pendergrass said that despite what information is shown, the effectiveness of the new law all depends on the attitude of the consumers. Pendergrass said, “The legislation will at least help kids that pay attention and care about what they eat. It might not affect those who don’t care about what they eat.”

All in-state universities to accept any AP scores of 3 or above after 2010 by michelle yun myun@hilite.org Starting in 2011, a new legislation states that any AP credit starting from 2011 must be transferred to in-state colleges or universities if the students earn a score of 3 or higher.

Under this new law, an additional 10,000 AP exam scores of 3 are expected with students receiving approximately 44,000 college credit hours in Indiana.

Indiana public institutions may require students to earn a score higher than 3 for credit if the course is part of the student’s major. However, the student will still receive elective credit toward their overall degree requirements to graduate from college.

Maureen Borto, who teaches the English portion for AP Block, says the legislation may open up a lot of possibilities for students in many facets both academically and financially.

“I think it’s a great piece of legislation in the sense that it’s really rewarding,” Borto said. “A 3 is a really good score and it’s really hard to achieve. So, I think it’s great colleges are rewarding students, and it might get students to challenge themselves.”

Because the new law makes a passing score easier to attain, and allows for more tests to be accepted, many students are expected to react well to the financially beneficial legislation.

Senior Courtney Kim, who took AP English Literature and earned a score of 3 or above, notes how the new legislation will allow her to save money in college.

classes, take less classes, or even get ahead.”

However, some students, like sophomore Stella Jeong, have differing opinions about the legislation. Jeong took AP World History last year and is currently enrolled in AP European History.

She said she hopes to go to college out-of-state but is still looking into various options instate. Though she said she believes the legislation will benefit students staying in-state for college, it still leaves the students wanting to go out-of-state without the same benefits.

“It’s a great piece of legislation in the sense that it’s really rewarding.“

Kim said, “Next year, I plan to go instate for college. So, I think it’s really beneficial for AP credits to transfer because it means I can pay less for

maureen borto

“I think (the legislation) is unfair for the people who really do want to go outof-state,” Jeong said. “For me, it will be okay because I’m probably going to stay in Indiana, but it will pose to be an inconvenience for some Carmel students.”

08 feature >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Unreal Ideals

Teenagers across the nation, like junior Bethany Arrington, have dealt with body image issues through eating disorders, often spurred on by the media

A

By darlene pham dpham@hilite.org

t first glance, junior Bethany Arrington has it all. A successful cross-country runner, the lead role in several school plays, a spot on the ComedySportz team, her talents are countless. But appearances often deceive, and they did for Arrington, especially in middle school and ninth grade. It was back then when Bethany said she was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa.

“Middle school is rough. Everybody matures at different rates and all you want to do is fit in,” Bethany said. “I was running cross-country in sixth grade and that was the first time I was aware of my body and started to compare it to other girls’.”

Bethany’s situation isn’t unusual. From a study by Medical News Today regarding current health issues and news, this decade shows a larger influence by the media on body image than those from the 1990s.

Bethany said she agrees and said the media, especially, is a major influence to how people perceive their body image.

“When the media started to call Tyra Banks, a Victoria’s Secret model, fat, that made me think, ‘What about me? What does that make me?’” she said.

School nurse Carol Gelatt said the media does indeed play a large role on how people look at themselves. “I think there is an emphasis on our society to be thin. I think our focus needs to be on wellness. Everybody’s body type is different, everybody looks different and that’s what makes us unique and special,” she said.

The media’s portrayal of an ideal image, according to Medical News Today, correlates to eating disorders. According to the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA), there has been an unprecedented growth of eating disorders in the past few decades. Nearly 11 million people have been diagnosed with an eating disorder.

Emily puterbaugh / photo

AN IMAGE OF CONFIDENCE: Junior Bethany Arrington strikes a pose outside of school. During middle school, Arrington suffered from poor self-esteem and was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa as a freshman.

“It’s so difficult to understand an eating disorder,” Bethany said. “A lot of people think it’s a choice and not a disease. I wanted control, so I did that and started to control what I ate, but it came to a point where it started controlling me.”

A common misconception about

By the numbers

TEN MILLION ONE MILLION females have an eating disorder (and

males)

AGE OF ONSET OF EATING DISORDERS

14%

10%

age 20 or age 10 or under over

43% ages 16-20

33% ages 11-15

80% 70% 42%

of women are of 15 to 17-yearof first through dissatisfied with old girls don’t like third graders want their appearance how they look to be thinner national eating disorders association, national association of anorexia nervosa and associated eating disorders, campaignforrealbeauty.com / sources Rebecca Xu / graphics eating disorders is that they only affect girls, but according to NEDA, 1 million males have an eating disorder. In fact, from 1999 to 2005, there has been a 37 percent increase in the number of males diagnosed with an eating disorder.

Although he said he does not have an eating disorder, junior Jared Herbert said the media definitely affects boys as well as girls and influences him on his body image.

“For boys, it’s not so much as an emphasis on being skinny.

Being skinny would be a bad thing for boys, but it’s more that we want to be bigger and stronger,” he said. Herbert said to him, the ideal guy image would be six feet tall, strong, muscular and tan.

<< feature 09

HiLite • April 30, 2010 He said, “You see pictures of guys in like Sports Illustrated and they’re all muscular and ripped. It does affect how guys want to look like.”

Bethany’s mother, Laura Arrington, said the media definitely influences everyone, not just girls. “I don’t think it is just women anymore, but it overflows into men. (Men) are focused on how they look and getting girls,” she said. “It’s really to sell more products and appeal to more people. It’s kind of sad that the media is promoting discontentment in yourself.”

Not only does the media play a large role in body image, according to Bethany, but the pressure of what other people, especially those of the opposite sex, perceive, can also play into the issue.

“(Anorexia) is real and it’s prevented by loving yourself with who you are.

It’s so important that we treat each other with respect. If people felt accepted, a lot of this would be prevented.”

As for girls, Bethany said the modeling industry tries to portray the ideal image of what girls should look like.

“Beauty to the modeling industry is five feet, 10 inches and 110 pounds, but really, how many people are like that?” she said. “A lot of what we compare to is not real, the makeup, the airbrush. Celebrities have entire groups of people to make sure they look good. No one has that but them. Perfection does not exist. If you strive for perfection and compare yourself to something that isn’t real, it’s a losing battle from the start.”

Bethany arrington

“In seventh grade, I was a varsity runner and I had the lead in the school play.

It came to the point where I switched friend groups, you know, the ‘popular friend group,’” Bethany said. “I felt like I didn’t get attention by boys because I was still really flat-chested and I just matured later and I learned to feel inadequate. In order to be liked, I felt like I had to look a certain way.”

Herbert said he agrees with Bethany’s impression, but from the male perspective. “I think girls are more attracted to the more muscular and taller guys. You can’t be skinny and short and too pale. I don’t think girls are very attracted to that,” he said.

According to NEDA, eating disorders aren’t always the need to control food and body image; there is often a deeper

Story continued on next page

>>

media strikes itself Various figures in mainstream media are promoting selfconfidence for girls and women, especially in recent years

Dove—2004 to present

Dove, the maker of a line of beauty and body care products, is promoting the beauty of real women in its Campaign for Real Beauty. In a series of advertisements, Dove used models ranging from size 6 to 14 wearing only their underwear.

Campaignforrealbeauty.com / photo

Nike—2005

After Dove launched its advertisements, athletics company, Nike, also began a campaign depicting real women. Instead of choosing average women, Nike used models with toned muscles to show that being fit, but not thin, was good.

body image problems IN America Americans are perhaps some of the most self-conscious people in the world. How does it translate in statistics?

PREVALENCE V. RESEARCH FUNDING

On any given day

of women

25%

700

10

$647

600

8

of men

are on a diet 5’11”

Prevalence in population (in millions of people)

45%

500 6

400

$350

4.5

4

300 200

2

5’4” 0

2.2 $12 Eating Disorders

Alzheimer’s

Schizophrenia

100 0

National Institute of Health research funding (in millions of dollars)

Comparison of eating disorders to other illnesses

10

Inpatient treatment (patients living in a facility) can cost up to

$30,000 a month

Outpatient treatment (living independently, but with therapy and monitoring) can cost up to

$100,000 total

AVERAGE MODEL AVERAGE WOMAN 117 lb.

140 lb.

national eating disorders association, national association of anorexia nervosa and associated eating disorders, campaignforrealbeauty.com / sources Rebecca Xu / graphics

nytimes.com / photo

PROUD: This Nike advertisement begins with: “I have thunder thighs. And that’s a compliment because they are strong and toned and muscular.”

Tyra Banks—2005 to present

Former supermodel Tyra Banks began hosting camps for improving girls’ confidence which evolved into her TZONE Foundation in 2005.

After a tabloid frenzy over an unflattering picture of her in 2007, Banks launched the “So What?” campaign to promote positive body image of all women.

Most recently, Banks demonstrated her own confidence by not wearing hair weaves on an episode of her talk show. people.com / photo

10 feature >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

<< Story continued from previous page

to irregular heart rhythms.

cause, such as depression or substance abuse.

Mrs. Arrington said she saw those symptoms in her daughter. “I definitely saw mood changes (in Bethany) and her not being herself, not talking like herself.

It was the disorder talking. The person changes completely,” she said.

According to Gelatt, eating disorders can be very dangerous. “When you look at anorexia, it is self-starvation, so your body is deprived of the nutrients it needs to function. Therefore, the body compensates and slows down to conserve energy to live,” she said.

According to Gelatt, if someone you know has an eating disorder, the best action to take is to support him or her in their efforts to recover. “You can’t force someone to change their habits or adjust their attitudes, but you can keep encouraging. It’s important for friends and parents to stay involved and to make sure they follow up with their primary care physician so they can get well,” she said.

“You can’t force someone to change their habits or adjust their attitudes, but you can keep encouraging. It’s important for friends and parents to stay involved and to make sure they follow up with their primary care physician so they can get well.”

G elatt also said the most severe symptoms include a slower heart rate and lowered blood pressure which can eventually lead to heart failure.

Muscle loss and severe dehydration, which could cause kidney failure, is a result. The bones lose density and become brittle and the hormones become imbalanced.

Electrolyte levels can become abnormal and can lead

Carol Gelatt

Mrs. Arrington said this is exactly what they, as a family, tried to do for Bethany.

“The parents have to be, not only on the same page, but on the same paragraph, the same word,” she said. “I think the best thing is our open communication.

It’s really important to stay open and try not to judge; it’s hard not to judge. We listen to her and remind her that there are different ways to cope.”

continuous battle,” she said. “I am much more confident now. I still struggle on not comparing myself to others and to not not eat. My friends are really supportive and my parents really understand.”

Bethany said eating disorders can be prevented and her best advice for others is to stop comparing themselves to other people. “(Anorexia) is real and it’s prevented by loving yourself with who you are,” she said. “It’s so important that we treat each other with respect. If people felt accepted, a lot of this would be prevented.”

Photoshopped oR NOT? Test your eye for photo retouching of a few celebrity magazine covers Go on the HiLite website at www.hilite.org and take the quiz

go online to hilite. org

But Bethany said her struggle continues, even now. “It’s a

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12 student section >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Number 4,393 of 4,464 takes...

The Road Less Traveled

Senior Owen Yonce plans to travel the world and ultimately explore music after graduating high school Counselor Stephanie Payne said one of the more common reasons for a student to delay college is to travel abroad or take on a passion they have.

For Yonce, this is exactly what he has decided to do after finishing high school. “I want to travel everywhere around the US,” he said. “I want to go places, meet people and just have lots of cool experiences. After a couple months of traveling, I’ll then settle down and focus on music, maybe out East.”

As for how he intends to pursue a career in music, Yonce said he hopes to be playing live shows and to spread his music. He also said it helps to know other bands and artists who could help him get started in the business.

Yonce also said that playing music is what he has decided to strive for, yet he is aware that his pursuit will not be the easiest.

“You just have to be determined,” he said. “A lot of times there will be road blocks, but if that’s what you want to do, then you have to work hard at it.”

shokhi goel / photo

SWEET MUSIC: Senior Owen Yonce plays his guitar at school. According to an NPR article, more and more high school graduates are opting for “gap years,” or years taken off of school to pursue a passion or interest. by celina wu cwu@hilite.org

off to explore other interests or aspirations is becoming more admissible.

he end of the school year is quickly approaching, and for seniors, this signifies the culmination of their high school careers. After completing high school, most seniors here will take the next step and attend college in the fall. However, senior Owen Yonce has different plans after graduating.

According to the article “‘Gap Years Can Be Smart Move for High School Seniors” from smartmoney.com, the concept of gap years, or taking time off instead of going to college, is gaining acceptance among students, parents and colleges as something worthwhile. Also, the article “High School Seniors Opting for ‘Gap Year’” from National Public Radio (NPR) states that although there has not yet been any formal research of this demographic, experts senior owen yonce believe the number of graduating high school students who are postponing college to explore areas they are passionate about is growing. This information is based on what they are hearing anecdotally from guidance counselors in high schools across the nation.

T

“I want to do some traveling, in and out of the country,”Yonce said. “I’d like to explore nature, and of course, I want to be a musician and make records.”

“If that’s what you want to do, then you have to work hard at it.”

Although going to college after high school graduation is the nor m here, there are exceptions. Yonce represents one of these special cases due to the nontraditional course he has decided to take after graduation. Despite the attitude that deferring college plans is atypical and unconventional, taking time

Concerning Yonce’s decision to defer college to pursue a music career, Payne said, “I think it’s his choice to do what he feels is important for him. It can be a positive thing to devote more time to practicing his music. If it works, great, but if not, then you always have college as an option.”

Yonce said although he is not planning on going to college soon, he has not completely ruled out the option for the future. “I haven’t fully decided that I am not going to go to college at all. It’s just a last option. I’d rather travel, try for a music career, but if that doesn’t work out, then I might go to college because I want to learn and get an education, but as a back-up plan.”

Payne said the advice she would give students like Yonce is to follow their passions. “We all have to make what we think is the best decision for ourselves. Sometimes that is just what you have to go on. You have to go on faith and just go for it.”

doing something fun this summer?

You could be in our next issue!

Contact Shokhi Goel at sgoel@hilite.org or via the HiLite Fan Page on Facebook if you have exciting plans this summer.

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HiLite • April 30 , 2010

<< entertainment 15

Bringing Glamour Back

Boo & Gaga, a new Carmel store, is a one-stop-shop for everything from formalwear to cosmetics

By Min Qiao mqiao@hilite.org

S

ituated at the heart of Carmel, Boo and Gaga is a newly-opened boutique that specializes in formalwear and upscale designer makeup.

This quaint boutique carries the Jovani line of designer evening gowns, and while the store itself only displays a small portion of the Jovani collection, customers may order any dress from the Jovani catalog there.

Certainly, these do not look like the run-ofthe-mill prom dress, and every piece stands out and looks unique in its own.

The Jovani designer seems to favor loud prints and chunky jewels. Whether it has a unique cut or a cool print, every dress has a feature that gives it the “wow” factor.

However, for someone who is looking for a more muted, classic look for prom, most of the dresses just seem a bit too much for me. But for those looking for a one-of-a-kind dress that would stand out from the crowd Saturday, Boo & Gaga is definitely a store to visit for some last-minute dress shopping.

Prices range from about $300 to $500 and each purchase is carefully logged to make sure that no one else here would be able to buy the same dress.

As for their makeup line, everything that they carry is used by the owner herself who is also a professional artist. Most of the products featured are best suited for a more glamorous evening look rather than everyday use.

Everything from the shadow quads to their lip stains all seem to have sparkle or shimmer that would be difficult to pull off during the daytime. According to an associate at the store, these products are all imported from Italy, yet still sold at department store prices. The owner also does complimentary makeup with a purchase of a dress, but without any purchases, makeup sessions can cost $99.

Overall, Boo & Gaga certainly offers some unique looks for Prom and everything there is the definition of glamorous. While some of their dresses might be a little too much, it is that quality that makes the dresses from

six Prom Must-Haves

Make your prom a night to remember. Here are six tips to avoid a prom disaster. Compiled by Ellie Seta

2

1

Cell Phone

Just in case your night does not go as planned—but let’s hope you won’t need it.

Maddi bourgerie / photo

GOT COLOR?: Boo & Gaga’s colorful dresses are sure to stand out it the crowd. The boutique specializes in glamorous formalwear especially dresses. that line stand out.

On the other hand, their upscale cosmetics collection was not very impressive. There was not a wide selection and what they

5

did carry just looked way too bold. Boo & Gaga is definitely a boutique for the glamorous and it will not disappoint if you are looking for a “red-carpet” look for Saturday.

extra money

You never know if your stingy date will decide not to pay for something.

Cotton Swabs Dancing equals sweating and raccoon eyes are nobody’s friend.

3

4

Safety Pins

If your strap breaks use the safety pins to hold up the strap.

Hair ties

If you opt to wear your hair down you may want to tie it back later on.

6

Breath Mints Do yourself and your date a favor by keeping your breath fresh all night.

Michelle Hu / photos

Boo & Gaga 15 East Main St., Suite 100 Carmel, IN 46032

• Formal Dresses • Funky Heels • Designer Makeup • Unique Swimwear • Professional Makeup Sessions

16 cover story >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Educatio

As technology advances, students and in the intangible technology “cloud.” W how will it affect the future o

By Amand

S

enior Jason Wing is an active Google user. Wing said he uses Google every day; he said he checks his Gmail every one to two hours.

As an active user, Wing said he’s noticed Google’s prevalence around the web. “My life is basically in Google,” he said. “I think there is Google domination because every site you go to, there is a Google site bar. Some sites use Bing or Yahoo, but Google is used ubiquitously.”

According to Chris Atkinson, Google certified teacher, technology coordinator, lead science teacher and STAR Discovery Educator, Wing’s experience demonstrates a growing trend in computer users: “cloud computing,” a term that refers to users storing their information from documents to e-mails online, or in the “cloud,” rather than storing those documents on a physical computer.

Atkinson said via e-mail, since Google is so popular, it is leading the way with cloud computing.

Emily Puterbaugh / Photo illustration

HiLite • April 30, 2010

on in the

d teachers here are storing documents What does this “cloud” consist of and of technology and education? da Nguyen “Google stores its information on Google’s servers. These large warehouses of servers are also known as ‘data farms.’ If we store any documents or e-mail, we are using their servers, which we would call that storing information in ‘the cloud’ for access anywhere we have an Internet connection,” he said.

But while cloud computing is becoming more prevalent, Wing said he has some concerns. He said, “The information cloud seems a little dangerous because there are a lot of hackers online and they can just go through your file and find interesting things that you don’t want other people to know, but the benefits are that if you’re computer completely shuts down or you get a new computer, it’s really easy to integrate your files from old to new making the whole information cloud idea bittersweet.”

Although Wing said the information cloud is bittersweet, Enid Baines, Tech Cadre member and English teacher, said the Google cloud is efficient and cost effective. “The cloud is someplace everyone can go and save their information.

Everyone has access to it, too, without the hassle of downloading it. Cloud computing is free, which would save costs especially for schools that have to cut funds.”

Story continued on next page

>>

<< cover story 17

18 cover story >> << Story continued from previous page Ryan Ringenberg, Tech Cadre coordinator and social studies teacher, said he agrees with Baines. “Computing can be more mobile, collaborative, and flexible as files can be accessed anywhere the Internet is available.

Less hard drive space is needed on personal devices because files and software used in cloud computing are located on internet servers,” Ringenberg said. “It provides more flexibility and easier access to files, especially if

HiLite • April 30, 2010 working from different locations. It also allows for easier collaboration. For example, with Google Apps, several users can have access to a file and then edit the file from any computer.”

m@k3 @ $3CUR3 P@$$W0Rd Microsoft provides a list of useful tips as well as common mistakes made for creating a strong password

Cloud computing, like any new idea, has advantages and disadvantages. Ringenberg said the pros are easier collaboration, access, mobility and less hard drive space needed. A con is not being able to access the Internet if it is down.

“A risk some find with cloud computing is simply the trust factor,” he said. “When your files are stored with an Internet company, you are assuming several things including that the company will protect “There is a lot of potential the integrity of your files, that they will not lose your files, that their servers in changing the way of cooperative are backed up and that the company work. We’re moving away from the will take the appropriate measures of pen and pencil and more preserving your files if they were ever toward technology.” to be bought out or go bankrupt. It is always a good idea to have your files Enid baines saved in a different backup location to alleviate some of this risk.”

Wing said he agrees that there are risks with cloud computing. “The information cloud gives both the sense of safety and the sense of fear at the same time. In one point of view, it’s an excellent idea because it makes life easier for those with more than one computer or those who have just a home computer as opposed to a portable one. People could just get onto Google and open up files that they need,” Wing said.

USE THESE STRATEGIES: Make it lengthy. Passwords should contain at least 8 characters. 14 or more characters is ideal.

Combine letters, numbers and symbols. A 15-character password composed of random letters and numbers is 33,000 times stronger than an 8-character password of just letters.

Add complexity. After coming up with a password, swap lowercase letters for uppercase ones. Substitute a “3” for an “E” or a “0” for an “O.” AVOID THESE STRATEGIES: Do not sequences or repeated letters. Avoid using “123456,”“222222,” or “abcdefg.” Adjacent letters on the keyboard, such as “qwerty,” should also be avoided.

Do not use obvious words or dates. Avoid using your birth date, name, social security number or phone number.

Have more than one password. Do not use the same password for every situation. At the same time, make sure to keep track of which password goes with which account.

Microsoft / source

lizzy grubbs and daniel li / photo illustrations

Google apps list

Discover some of Google’s most popular and unique applications

Picasa is Google’s free photo editing software that allows users to upload, edit and share photos online. Users can create albums, order photos or tag the photo’s location on the Google Maps application.

Google Calendar allows users to keep track of meetings, appointments and other important dates. The application also supports calendar sharing, mobile access and e-mail, including text reminders.

Google Reader allows users to keep track of their favorite websites. Google Reader checks favorited news sites and blogs for updated content. The application can also be accessed via cell phone and sent to friends.

Google Mail is Google’s free e-mail service.

Otherwise known as Gmail, Google Mail can be accessed online or through a user’s phone. Gmail has searching, labeling, filtering and spamblocking features.

<< cover story 19

HiLite • April 30, 2010 “I do have a fear that if I put anything important on Google, then some hacker could access information like my credit card number and pin code, my account information and passwords,” he said. “I feel that even though the Google cloud is in existence, you shouldn’t put anything online that you wouldn’t mind your neighbor seeing, even if you feel that Google is a safe and secure site. That’s why I wouldn’t put any information that could damage my future into the cloud.

Sometimes I’m afraid that if Google were to ever shutdown for some reason, that I wouldn’t know what to do.”

Although there are some threats that come with cloud computing, Google has appealed to many people globally. Ringenberg said. “It’s where the future lies. Schools and universities will start replacing their Microsoft products with Google products.”

Atkinson said more than seven million students are using Google applications nationwide, and that number is growing daily. “Google is truly on the cutting edge of browser-based applications,” he said. “Google applications are powerful cloud-based applications that allow you to perform word processing, create websites, presentations and calendars, all while easily collaborating with others.”

“With Google, the information has shared accessibility, immediate updates, and you won’t have to download the next version unlike in other software. There is a lot of potential in changing the way of cooperative work. We’re moving away from the pen and pencil and more towards technology,” Baines said. “The next step is teaching students more about cloud computing so that they can put their documents in the cloud up where everyone can get to it.”

Schools are already taking the next step toward the idea of using the cloud.

According to Atkinson, over 1,400 students in the Carmel Clay district are using Google applications to create, communicate and collaborate with fellow students and teachers.

“I believe cloud computing will establish itself as being safe and will become the preferred method.”

Ryan Ringenberg

Atkinson said, “Google makes it easier to manage my documents, presentations and websites. It allows me and my students to easily communicate and collaborate with others.”

Atkinson said after working with Google, he only has positive comments about its innovative ideas. “In my opinion Google is a powerful company-a good powerful. I think their Web influence and expertise are offering new opportunities to students all across our world, and for that I am thankful,” he said.

Baines said she was initially interested in Google cloud computing because of its ability to let students collaborate with each other. “Google is sort of replacing Moodle, which is a web managing site for teachers and students,” she said. “Google’s features make it easier for peer collaboration because it will allow people to make changes in a document and edit it simultaneously. Cloud computing will allow you to save on the web instead of saving it on your H drive. This way, you can invite other people to look at your work.”

YouTube was added to the Google family when Google, Inc. purchased it in November of 2006. YouTube is a free videosharing site that allows users to upload, watch and share videos.

Google Earth is a software that lets users explore the Earth’s cities, terrain and oceans through satellite images.

New features include historical global images, ocean floor and surface data and high-quality 3D buildings.

Google Talk is a messaging software that enables Google users to chat via messaging or video chatting. PC and Mac users can install a plug-in to use Google Talk through the Internet. PC owners can also choose to download Google Talk for desktop use.

Ringenberg said, “It is a cheaper alternative to the current way information is stored. Some of the perceived risks might initially keep many businesses, institutions, or individuals from going this route, but as time moves on, I believe cloud computing will establish itself as being safe and will become the preferred method.”

Google Sites is a free program that can create and share Web sites.

Users can create different sites using templates or create their own. The program also allows for shared access of the site for companies or groups.

Google Docs enables users to create and share documents online. Through Google Docs, users can edit and view documents from any computer or device with Internet access. The program can also create PowerPoint presentations and Excel spreadsheets.

Google / source

20 entertainment >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Annual Fashion Show takes place on May 20 Celina Wu cwu@hilite.org

who wish to go see the show.

This year, the 13th annual fashion show is scheduled to take place on May 20 during both sessions of SRT in the auditorium.

As for what audience members can expect to see during the show, Fisher said, “We are going to see a little bit of everything, from prom dresses, homecoming dresses and sun dresses to shirts, pants and skirts.”

Fisher said fashion students are provided with multiple tickets that they can distribute to friends and other students

Preparations Fisher said students are responsible for putting together the mix CD to which they will walk during the show. Also, students spend time making promotional posters, signs and commercials for the event.

Furthermore, a modeling agency will be coming in to give the students some pointers on how to improve their model walk.

showcased work It will showcase garments that fashion students have made throughout the course of this school year. According to fashion teacher Judy Fisher, all

Kate Wellman, fashion student and senior, said she has made a prom dress, other dresses and a skirt, all of which she will wear for the show. Samantha Volpe, also a fashion student and junior, said she will fashion students, from the very be modeling a skirt, party dresses and a beginning up to the highest levels, vest during the event. Besides the effort will participate in the show. This year, that goes into actually constructing the a total of 192 students will model their various articles of clothing, Fisher said garments in the show. there is a lot more to the preparation and work that students put into making where to get tickets the show happen.

Fisher said she encourages students to get tickets and go see the fashion Wellman and Volpe both said they agree show. “The show is really fun because with Fisher. Wellman said, “It’s a lot of of the popular music that will be fun to see your friends modeling and playing and students will get to showing of their talents and the clothes see what’s in style,” Fisher said. “Also, they made.” Volpe agreed and said, “The students get to see the talent of their fashion show is a good opportunity for peers. There is so much creativity and us to show the effort we have put into talent.” our work, and overall it’s just a really great and fun atmosphere.

Shirley chen / photo

Sew Concentrated: Kate Wellman, fashion student and senior, sews free handed with needle on a final garment.

She is preparing for the fashion show on May 20.

New action movie lives up to its name

By Mitch Ringenberg mringenberg@hilite.org

“Kick-A—” based on a comic book of the same name, manages to impose a unique spin on the formula by setting it in a world of real-life superheroes. Fortunately, director Matthew Vaughn isn’t going for originality with this one, but rather, sheer entertainment value.

forbiddenplanet.com / source

The film follows quite a few characters, but centers around high school student Dave Lizewski, a comicbook geek who’s ignored by all the popular jocks, cheerleaders, etc. at his school. After being mugged by some neighborhood criminals, Dave decides to take the law into his own hands and becomes a masked vigilante known as Kick-A—. Peter Parker can do it, so why can’t he? He quickly learns the answer

after his first attempt at stopping a criminal ends with him being stabbed and run over by a car. Whereas most superhero films contain a complicated origin story or traumatic childhood experience,“Kick-A—” tries to deal with the idea of a superhero in more realistic terms.

The rest of the plot isn’t wor th discussing, which is fine, because the movie’s strengths lie in its absurd violent sequences and cast of quirky characters. Trailers for this “Kick-A—” may lead you to believe otherwise, but this movie is definitely not for young kids. Unless you want your ten-year-old sister to see a little girl crushing a grown man in a car compactor.

Fans of hardcore action on the other hand will find plenty to like here.

The film contains some of the most

downright entertaining and over-thetop action scenes in recent memory.

Director Vaughn knows “Kick-A—” is ridiculous, but the movie never tries too hard to remain tongue-in-cheek, nor does it take itself too seriously.

Due to the film’s many controversial aspects, movie studios in Hollywood refused to provide the film with a realistic budget. Rather than watering down his movie, Vaughn raised the money on his own in order to film it on his own terms. This proved to be a brilliant move, because Vaughn’s film is refreshingly un-PC and would have been a disaster had it been handled by a commercial studio. Movie snobs and the faint-of-heart can look elsewhere, but for anyone who can leave his or her pretensions behind for a couple hours, you can’t go wrong with this particular movie.

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22 entertainment >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

‘Oklahoma!’ takes the stage The performing arts department introduces the spring musical, scheduled to premiere May 6

F

by Yameen Hameed yhameed@hilite.org

or the spring musical, CHS will be performing “Oklahoma!” the first collaboration between composer Richard Rodgers and librettist Oscar Hammerstein II (who wrote “The King and I,” “The Sound of Music”).

to fall in love with him, although it becomes difficult when Jud Fry (Junior Jacob Smith) also falls in love with her at the same time.

“It’s like a constant battle between the two,” Rafalski said.

The 1943 classic, thought to have revolutionized theater, by will be performed on May 6, 7, and 8 at 7:30 p.m. and May 9 at 2:00 p.m., with tickets on sale for $8, $10, $12, and $15.

According to Rafalski, the two characters serve as opposites to each other, with Jud being more “dark and sinister.”

“It was the first musical where the music really tells the story,” actor and senior Michael “Mickey” Rafalski said.

Kuskye said the story goes deeper than that though, with many other small romantic subplots being intertwined, such as the relationship between Will Parker (Senior John Walters) and Ado Annie Carnes (Senior Jenn Maurer).

Rafalski said it was successful enough to help bring about more of its kind.

Director Lamonte Kuskye agreed and said “Oklahoma!” is “iconic American” due to the cowboys and the fact that it premiered during World War II. According to the Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization website, “Oklahoma!” is based on the 1931 play “Green Grow the Lilacs” by Lynn Riggs. It is a love story between a cowboy Curly (Michael “Mickey” Rafalski) and a farm girl named Laurie (Senior Rebecca Petersen), set in the Native American territory of Oklahoma at the turn of the century during a rivalry between farmers and cowboys of Oklahoma.

“Very often (the ballet sequence) is cut out (by high schools), but we have many trained dancers who can do this, so it will be a very cool addition.”

“(Curly’s) the lead main role. He is a very bright character, a happy-go-lucky kind of guy,” Rafalski said.

Rafalski said the main conflict is Curly trying to get Laurie

Kate Grumme / Photo

DON’T HOLD back: Senior Rebecca Petersen practices a scene during an after school rehearsal. The cast typically practiced everyday after school from 3:30 to 5:30 or later depending on what the cast is rehearsing.

“Most of (the musical) takes place in the farm. It should be beautiful,” Kuskye said. The set will include a large house, but according to Rafalski, objects will be moved around to work with the changing scenes.

As a musical, “Oklahoma!” features many distinct song selections. According to the Rodgers and Hammerstein Organization website, some of the main songs include “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning,” “I Can’t Say No!” and “All Er Nothin’.”

Rafalski said that as a lead cast member, he has a role in most of the songs. Also, two periods of orchestra classes will be accompanying the singers. Another unique aspect of the musical, Kuskye said is its use of ballet which honors the original tradition of the first production.

Lamonte Kuskye

“Very often (the ballet sequence) is cut out (by high schools), but we have many trained dancers who can do this, so it’ll be a very cool addition,” he said. The ballet sequence, which occurs during Laurie’s dream, will be done by the ensemble with no spoken or sung words.

“When you’re a dancer, you’re in more numbers than an actor, even though as an actor you need to focus on lines and practice more,” ensemble member and freshman Kari Baker said.

Baker said rehearsals are after school four or five days every week from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

“If we do stay later to work on something, it’s usually until 9:00,” she said.

According to Kuskye, rehearsals have been occurring since the end of February, meaning over two months of practice have been put into it.

Rafalski said, “We work on all of the things separately, but when we put it all together is when it really looks great.”

>>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

entertainment 23

Department to showcase artistic talents Art department to put students’ work on display in lobby during second week of May

by Maddi Bourgerie mbourgerie@hilite.org

The art department will put on the annual Art Show May 6 to 10 in the school’s lobby. The event will coincide with the performing arts presentation of the musical “Oklahoma!”

The display is open to everyone including students, families and the public.

“I encourage everyone to check out the talents that will be displayed,” art teacher Katherine Ristow said.

As for the show’s timing with the musical, Ristow said it’s a good marriage of talents. “(The musical) brings a lot of foot traffic. It is a good weekend for the art show to be put on because the impact of the students talents can reach more people,” Ristow said.

The art show allows students to display a year’s work all at one time. “I will have 2 to 3 pieces myself,” Elise Morfas, Drawing 6 student and junior, said. “It’s hard to choose my favorite because we’ve done so many pieces throughout the whole year.”

“I look forward to the show, not necessarily to see my work displayed, but to get a chance to look at what other students have been working on. I look at them for inspiration,” Morfas said.

Ristow said it is interesting to see the final display and how

students have progressed over the school year. She said she can tell how individual students express themselves.

“It takes a lot of work, extra time and organization to set up the art show,” Ristow said, “but it is worth it in the end and a great conclusion to the school year.”

Maddi Bourgerie / Photos

Our own Van Gogh: Elise Morfas, Drawing 6 student and junior, draws a picture of the Statue of Liberty using graphite for her final project titled “A Political Expression.” Morfas will be just one of dozens of art students to have their work displayed in the annual art show in the school’s main lobby from May 6 to 10.

Need to know more?

Everyone can come for free, it is an open show with absolutely no charge. The show will be displayed throughout the school day, as well as any other time one would like to stop by. Just in time for mothers’s day weekend.

Decisions, Decisions?

Ristow said, “We set aside pieces that seem to be the best out of the most finished assignment throughout the year and then we pick from those to display at the end of the year art show. Students

can also bring and submit work from home. This makes the art show very diverse.”

What will you see?

All art department classes will be displaying student work. Other art classes such as painting and pottery will also have a large collection. Fiber design will have projects of their own such as weaving. Jewelry classes will also display projects such as handmade rings. “Every year the creativity of students is extremely impressive,” Ristow said. All students will have at least one piece from this year.

Whose work will be in the art show?

Picky, picky: Katherine Ristow’s Drawing 6 class chooses their two to three drawings. The students say it will be a hard choice considering they are all worthy pieces.

• • • •

Drawing 1-6 AP Studio Art Ceramics 1-6 Painting 1-2

• • • •

Fiber Design 1-4 Jewelry 1-4 Media Arts 1-4 Independent Study Media Arts CHS Art Department / Source

24 sports >>

A Tale of Two Sports

HiLite • April 30, 2010

More than gender creates divide between baseball and softball

A

By Alex Mackall amackall@hilite.org

ccording to Jack Norworth’s famous tune “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” it’s “one, two, three strikes you’re out at the old ball game.” Although the song is written about baseball, this line, and many other baseball rules, also holds true in the game of softball.

Even though both baseball and softball are played with a ro u n d b a l l, a g l o v e, a cylindrical bat and are played on a diamond-shaped field, the two sports have significant differences.

“I think softball is much more fastpaced than baseball.”

According to softball player and senior M ar ia Huber, who has been involved with softball for 13 years, there are many factors that play a role in MarIa Huber making softball different from baseball. Some of these factors are ball and bat sizes, pitching style and game rules.

Huber said that the setup in softball allows for “slapping.”

The Origins

Equipment

Baseball was invented in 1839 in Cooperstown, NY. Softball was then developed from baseball.

In softball, the bat can be no more than 34 inches long or more than two and onefourth inches in diameter. In baseball a much longer bat may be used. Also, softball has a much larger ball. In softball, a ball must be no less than 11 7/8 inch and no more than 12 1/8 inch in circumference, while the baseball must be no less than 9 inches and no more than 9 1/4 inch.

Field Dimensions

UP TO BAT: A main difference between softball and baseball is that softball players use metal bats, while baseball players use wooden bats.

Slapping is the ability of a left-handed batter to hit the ball as they are already on their way to first base. Huber said this is a useful strategy in softball because with the shorter distance to the base, the “slappers” can often make it to first base without hitting the ball very hard.

Although Huber said she thinks “small ball,” or hitting the ball a short distance, is more prominent in softball, baseball Head Coach Eric Lentz said, “Bunting and ‘small game’ are an important part of both baseball and softball.”

The pitching distance is much farther in baseball. A softball pitcher throws from 43 feet while baseball pitchers throw from 60 ½ feet. Also, a regulation softball field has 60 feet between each base and a baseball field has 90 feet between each.

On the other hand, softball Head Coach Emily Good said that although small ball is important, she thinks there are many more powerful hitters in softball today due to the sport’s conditioning.

Lentz, who has been involved with baseball for 37 years and has been coaching for 18 years, said the infield also separates the two sports. Lentz said via e-mail that baseball fields have both a grass and dirt infield. Huber said, “A few of the really nice softball fields have grass in the infield, but the majority just have dirt infields.”

One of the most obvious variations between baseball and softball is the pitching style. According to Good, although the girls pitch underhand, they can still throw trick pitches like baseball players can. She said, “Absolutely. We can throw a drop; we can throw a curve ball; you know we can do screw balls; so there are a lot of people that are misled to believe that it’s a slower ball coming at you.”

Huber said she thinks that while pitching does contribute to the quickness of the game, a more prominent factor is the rules of stealing. Ben Backes, baseball player and senior, said that in baseball a runner on base may steal at any time, but Huber said that in softball a player may only steal once the ball has been released from the pitcher’s hand.

EMILY PUTERBAUGH / photos

STEADY AIM: Third baseman and senior Ben Backes winds up to throw the baseball during practice. Among the many differences in baseball is that baseball players pitch overhand, while softball players pitch underhand.

Despite their many differences, Huber said, softball and baseball do have similarities. In fact, Huber said she thinks the two sports are a lot alike. In both sports, the batters must stay in their batting order, they play with nine players on the field and have many of the same basic rules in terms of strikes, balls, outs, etc.

<< sports 25

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Men’s club lacrosse on track to becoming school-sanctioned

By Jade Schwarting jschwarting@hilite.org Alex Eaton, Carmel Club Lacrosse varsity team captain and junior, joined his first youth league in 5th grade after watching his older brother play the sport at this school.

Eaton said he has seen the program grow tremendously since he began playing.

Eaton testified to this when he said, “Carmel Dad’s Club has almost 500 players in its league now which is more than there’s ever been. The sport has grown so much in Indiana because of the success of the local programs and the increase in attention it has gotten in the past couple years. People see a game or hear about it and want to try it out. Soon their friends want to play too and it just ends up being a chain reaction because it’s so fun.”

According to Jim Eaton, the Carmel Club Lacrosse President of the Parent Steering Committee, lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the country at both the high school and college levels. “(Lacrosse) started on the east coast and since then, it has gradually made its way west. Now Indiana and the rest of the Midwest states are finally catching onto the sport,” Mr. Eaton said.

Indiana currently has 32 high schools with lacrosse teams and that number is continuously growing. However, since the sport is not school-sanctioned, the expansion of lacrosse programs throughout the state has brought challenges.

Since lacrosse is a club sport, the team does not have free access to school facilities. Players spend more money on the sport than students who play school supported sports.

The team pays to use the football field for games and also practices off-site.

According to Mr. Eaton, the school typically pays for game expenses out of its pocket, but instead, the lacrosse teams must pay dues to the Indiana Lacrosse Association (ILA) and the referees. The team collects fees at the beginning of the season and these dues allow the team to play in both local and out-of-state games.

Carmel Club Lacrosse Head Coach Brandon Burke said these fees do not include the players’ own equipment and the time commitment involved. He said, “The season dues are

NICK JOHNSON / photo

MENTALLY FOCUSED: Alex Eaton, varsity lacrosse player and junior, awaits a pass from his teammate. The men’s lacrosse team is on track to becoming a school-sanctioned sport in the upcoming year, as opposed to being only a club sport. over $400, which is not including out-of-state travel costs since we are self-funded. (The players) commit to preseason training, a tryout process to be selected onto a team and practices five days a week when there are not games.”

In order for lacrosse to be less expensive, the sport would have to become school-sanctioned.” Eaton said he wants to see this happen within the next couple years, but the change would introduce a new challenge.

“There would be less expenses for the parents and we would have unlimited use of school facilities,” Eaton said.

“However, becoming school-sanctioned could limit the number of out of state games we can play. Since Indiana doesn’t have as many competitive teams as the east coast, we might not be able to play that better competition (if our travel is limited).”

For students who know little about lacrosse, Eaton said he encourages them to attend a match. He said, “The sport is fast-paced and a mix of lots of different sports. It’s a skill and finesse game but there are lots of hard hits too. It’s really exciting to watch. Admission is free too, so I really see no reason why people wouldn’t want to come out for at least one game.”

Even though the school does not currently fund lacrosse, Eaton said he is excited to see the outcomes of future decisions regarding lacrosse.

Eaton said, “Although the sport is not (popular) enough yet to be school-sanctioned, it’s so much fun. I love that you can spend hours doing it and it never gets boring. It also has its own culture and lifestyle that can stay with you even after you’re done playing.”

Carmel Men’s Lacrosse timeline 1999 Carmel lacrosse program began with 37 players.

2000 The number of participants grew to 46 players

2001 Team grew to 54 and junior varsity team was created

2002 Varsity went undefeated with 68 total players

2003 Team grew to 72 players for junior varsity and varsity

2004 A third team was added in addition to the two other teams

2010 Program on brink of becoming a school sanctioned sport

CarmelLacrosse.com/Source

26 sports >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Avoiding the Shoe Blues

As Mini Marathon approaches, runners sport appropriate footwear to avoid injury

S

By Andrew Browning abrowning@hilite.org

am Morris, cross-country and track runner and senior, is one of 35,000 runners from around the country preparing for the Mini Marathon, which takes place in Indianapolis on May 8. This year’s race will be Morris’s fifth Mini Marathon, and his first half marathon since he finished with a time of 1:25 in a race at Fort Benjamin Harrison in October.

Morris said he has come to enjoy the 13.1-mile races more than the traditional high school 5k. “I don’t really like the fastpaced races, “Morris said. “I’m better at the longer stuff where you have to hold a steady pace for a long period of time.”

Yet Morris, as much as anyone, has come to realize the importance of the shoes he wears during his races and

the months of training beforehand. Morris has battled several injuries throughout his high school running career, and these injuries prevented him from running the Mini Marathon last year.

“One of the first questions I ask the high school and middle school kids is, ‘How old is your shoe?’” Grant said. “Generally speaking, no matter how much you use your running shoe, at six months of age it loses 40 percent of its cushioning.”

“I had two stress fractures my junior year, one during crosscountry and one during track, which is why I know that shoes are really important,” Morris said. “It was probably from overtraining during the summer, and I may not have been wearing the right footwear because I don’t think it supported my feet properly.”

Vincent Georgescu, an employee at Runners Forum and senior, said he has learned the ins and outs of footwear after over two years working in the shoe business.

Jon Grant, program manager for St. Vincent’s sports performance, said about 80 percent of the athletes he treats in the spring are dealing with running-related injuries. He said one of the main mistakes that athletes make when they train is spending too much time and too many miles in their running shoes.

THE SOLE OF A SHOE Jon Grant, program manager for St. Vincent’s sports performance, outlines the parts of a shoe

He said another issue that can cause problems for runners is when they wear a shoe that doesn’t match the biomechanics of their foot and stride.

“When people wear the wrong shoes, their body reacts,” Georgescu said via e-mail. “If a person is under-supported (like Morris), then the pronation can cause their knee and hip to turn awkwardly which causes injury.”

Senior Kim Collins is another runner who knows what it’s like to endure hardships as a result of footwear. Like Morris, she too has battled injuries during her high school running career, and had to find the appropriate shoes to correct the problem.

“I have slightly flat feet, and I also have knees that bend in slightly,” Collins said. “So after a while my shoes wear away, and it gives me knee problems and I have to get shoes with extra arch support.”

Collins ran the Chicago Marathon on Oct. 11 with Team World Vision, an organization dedicated to raising money to build wells in Africa. She said she dealt with her knee problem off and on during training for the marathon, but a more pressing issue arose when she developed tendonitis behind her left knee just a week before the race.

“I’m not sure if it was the shoes or just over-training, but it was too late to switch shoes,” Collins said. “A week before I was supposed to race I went out to run and couldn’t make it out of my cul-de-sac because it hurt so bad.”

This gel is really, really soft. So what happens when you’re running you land out (on your heel) and they put all this really soft stuff out here because this is where we land. (The heel) is like a pillow.

(This area) is like concrete.

As they run across, their foot hits this concrete and doesn’t allow it to overpronate or roll in.

This side that’s the soft pillow collapses and what that does is it forces the foot back to neutral. So it’s soft, hits the concrete, stops and allows them to come back.

Jon Grant / Source Arjuna Capulong / Graphic

Collins said she took appropriate measures to stretch and ice her knee during the week leading up to the race, the tendonitis wasn’t a factor during the marathon. She finished in 4:08, and raised over $600 for Team World Vision.

Collins can be considered one of the lucky ones. She overcame knee problems and tendonitis to run a full marathon in October.

Story continued on next page

>>

<< sports 27

HiLite • April 30, 2010

<< Story continued from previous page Meanwhile Morris is just trying to stay healthy enough to run a Half Marathon in May. He said he has been wearing a new style of shoe that he hopes will solve his recurring foot issues, and he believes smart training will get him to the Mini with two healthy legs.

“Now I wear a neutral shoe, meaning there’s no support in it, because I have inserts in my shoes that keep my foot stable and help prevent injury,” Morris said. “Hopefully if I train smart then I shouldn’t get hurt and I should be good to go.”

Georgescu echoes Morris’s newfound belief in the value of the proper pair of shoes.

“It is vital for runners and walkers both to train in the correct shoes. By supporting the feet properly, the rest of the joints from the knee and up to the hip will remain properly aligned and in place which will keep the athlete happy, healthy, and able to keep training,” Georgescu said. “The beauty of running is that the only piece of equipment that you really need to keep injuries away is the right pair of shoes.”

Athletes as role models reuben warshawsky Billy Payne, the Augusta National Chairman, recently criticized Tiger Woods about his immoral behavior by commenting, “Our hero did not live up to the expectations of the role model we saw for our children.” However, just because Tiger Woods is a great professional golfer, his job requires him not just to be a professional athlete.

His first responsibility is to perform and win golf tournaments and his second responsibility is to be a role model for younger kids. It is important for athletes, both professional and amateur, to realize that although their primary mission is to be a successful athlete, they must also make the correct moral choices.

ON THE RUN: Runner and senior Kim Collins (right) trains with junior Devika Chakabarti after school. Collins ran the Chicago Marathon last year, and said she realizes wearing the right type of footwear is key to avoiding injury.

However, I have to defend athletes here because I am one.

Athletes are human, which means they make mistakes. I understand we expect athletes to be superior to the average human being, but they are still fallible. The pressure on athletes to perform on and off the playing field is sometimes too intense at this school. Athletes need the occasional break from the public eye in order to relieve stress, and our athletes should be less exposed to the media. Athletes enjoy the spotlight that local, state and school television broadcasts and media coverage supplies, but being in the spotlight blinds them from reality.

“It is important for athletes, both professional and amateur, to realize that although their primary mission is to be a successful athlete, they must also make the correct moral choices as well.”

The majority of athletes at this school understands the significance of being a student-athlete as well as being a good role model. Younger children do indeed regard athletes at this school as role models. Many younger children dream of becoming the next high school football, soccer or basketball star. Therefore, it is essential that athletes here behave in a manner that those children want to emulate. Athletes need to possess the best characteristics of both an athlete and a person; those qualities include perseverance, sportsmanship and the pursuit of excellence for an athlete, and integrity, honesty, generosity and kindness for a person.

SHOKHI GOEL / Photo

The Greyhound Kick-off Mentor (GKOM) program was started several years ago to make the upperclassmen role models for the freshmen. This program was designed to help students academically and socially, but perhaps a program needs to be started that is designed to make junior and senior athletes role models for freshmen athletes. This would serve as a reminder to the upperclassmen athletes that they are being looked up to.

In the past several months, members of the men’s basketball team made poor decisions. They did not grasp the importance of their responsibility as being part of a team at this school. But the blame must also be placed on their lack of understanding the significance of being an athlete here. Athletes might not realize that they are being scrutinized not only on their athletic abilities but also their choices. The Student Athletic Board is a group of student-athletes dedicated to making sure they make the correct decisions daily.

Fortunately, this school understands the importance of its students being good role models.

Athletes need to be held to higher standards than the average person, as opposed to the lower standards they are currently held to. Professional athletes need to demonstrate how to be good role models. Many professional athletes are making mistakes on a larger stage than the stage at this school, so athletes here believe that they can make the same sort of mistakes and get away with them, which they cannot. Therefore, professional athletes need to be reminded that they are role models for younger children, so that high school athletes will be reminded they must be role models. If professionals can get away with making mistakes, then amateur athletes will begin to believe that they can get away with making mistakes.

All high school students should be role models to younger children. Athletes sign codes of conduct, but they should also be expected to sign a contract that states they are expected to be good role models for young students and children in the community. Without a doubt, the spotlight just shines brighter on athletes. Athletes here know how to make the correct decisions. This is just a reminder that they need to make the correct decisions on and off the playing field, because if not, consequences will occur.

Reuben Warshawsky is a reporter for the HiLite. Contact him at rwarshawsky@hilite.org.

28 perspectives >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

staff perspective

I

Vote for the referendum

t is widely known that one of Carmel’s greatest features is its school system. Year after year, the Carmel Clay School District continually tops the charts in terms of student achievement. Our ISTEP+, SAT, ACT and AP test scores are, if not the highest, some of the best in the state. The success of our students reflects a community that truly values education. It also reflects countless hours of dedication from our teachers, most of whom are overworked and underpaid.

But those high scores and excellent programs are in jeopardy. In light of reduced state funding for education, increased fixed costs and rising enrollments, during the Tuesday election, Carmel Clay Schools seeks a $12 million tax referendum that will allow it to keep elective programs in place, and to protect class sizes and property values.

It is clear the city of Carmel values education. In order to maintain the high standards that our students deserve and that we as a community have come to expect, it is imperative that all eligible voters vote yes to this much-needed referendum.

to increase because the district will lack sufficient funds to hire enough teachers. According to the district’s informational website on the referendum, it has been predicted that elementary schools would have 37 to 40 students per class, with similar numbers at the middle and high schools.

The website also states there would be at least a 20 percent reduction in all other staff positions. Many advanced and elective programs would have to be eliminated and there would be a minimum of 30 percent reduction for many of the extra-curricular programs that have become an integral part of the Carmel Clay Schools educational experience.

While some may worry about an increase in taxes, especially since the referendum would span seven years, it is important to know that taxes in Carmel have consistently decreased over the past several years and that the school district has always been a fiscally responsible member of the community. Carmel Clay Schools has the fourth lowest per pupil funding rate in the state. At the same time, it has the lowest school tax rate in Hamilton County. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median home price in Carmel in 2007 was $251,400. The proposed referendum would only cost the owners of that home an extra $18 a month. That amount is a small price to pay for the quality of education that students receive in this area.

Our stand In the upcoming election, students with the opportunity should vote in favor of the referendum in order to continue the funding of Carmel’s outstanding academic programs.

Carmel Clay Schools has seven tax-supported funds that make up its budget. The largest of these funds, the general fund, is funded through the state government and comprises 63.3 percent of our district’s budget. Two years ago, Indiana changed the way it funds education by reducing the amount of tax dollars put towards the general fund. This change, coupled with the economic recession, led to an announcement in January by the state government that Carmel Clay Schools would lose $3.8 million each year. That means each month, the system will receive $317,000 less from the state government than it anticipated, leading to serious financial concerns for this district, in addition to the spending it already planned to cut.

But as the school district loses money, enrollment continues to grow. As of now, if the referendum does not pass, five teaching positions will be cut from each elementary school, 10 teaching positions from each middle school and 35 teaching positions at the high school. Without a referendum, class sizes will continue

The bottom line is that our school district has a revenue problem. It can continue to make budget cuts, increase class sizes and reduce programs and services for the 15,500 students that it serves, or it can rely on the support of the community to pass a referendum.

Carmel Clay Schools has been able to provide unique opportunities and unbeatable educations to its students for many years without asking for anything in return. Now, the district needs our help. President Barack Obama once said, “We have an obligation and a responsibility to be investing in our students and our schools.” For the city of Carmel, that time has come.

speak up!

Compiled by David Zheng

In a recession, what should the school spend its money on?

“They should spend the money on the kids to get better food in the cafeterias. We should have healthier food.”

Freshman Kristen Ogburn

“The school should spend more money on field trips because they are a great way to engage in hands-on learning.”

Junior Kevin Song “They should think about putting more of a focus in performing arts because statistics show that grades and test scores are greater in schools with performing arts.”

Senior Reid Bonner

<< perspectives 29

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Bribing kids to do well in struggling schools might just work According to the report, the students’ test scores were like results of an extra three months learning the curriculum, but accomplished through a monetary incentive system.

To some opponents, the study has flashed money in front of children’s face; their belief is that money has no place in a classroom.

michelle hu When I was in fourth grade at Towne Meadow Elementary, we had periodical auctions, using fake money to pay for real toys and games. We earned money through being good citizens and earning exemplary grades, and now, one man is trying to implement this reward system with real money.

In the April 8, 2010 issue of Time magazine, the cover article presented an idea researched by Harvard economist Roland Fryer on whether or not monetary rewards provide an incentive for children to perform better in school. It cost $6.3 million and tested 18,000 kids in four cities, searching for a solution to a decades-old problem: how to solidly raise performance levels of students in inner-city schools.

Some of the cities showed little results, almost as if the program were not in place at all; one showed significant promise.

But let’s get real here. Why does any adult or teenager our age go out and work instead of relaxing at home?

Why do some of us bother to pay thousands of dollars for continuing education instead of finding a job right out of high school? It’s simple: the real world bribes us with money. From a young age, teachers and counselors (especially in Carmel) teach us that a college degree of any kind will result in higher salaries in the future.

and thousands of dollars in tuition, but many of us are taught early in life that bigger payoffs require bigger initial risks and investments. With children who live for immediate gratification, that’s extremely difficult to teach.

For many households in inner-city schools, there aren’t teachers who are willing to spend their own money to buy these rewards or parents who teach their children the values of higher education. The truth is, effectively educating children is impossible without parental involvement, and even then, it’s not a guaranteed success. But this study could very well hold the key in some situations.

“The truth is, educating children well is impossible without parental involvement, and even then, it’s not a guaranteed success.”

According to a Collegeboard report from 2007, the difference between a high school graduate and a dropout each year amounts to over $8,000. The median salary of someone with a PhD compared to a dropout is 10 times that: almost $80,000.

Granted, to earn a PhD requires countless hours of extra work

Don’t get too excited though. Even if this idea proves to be successful, it is unlikely that a school like Carmel would ever implement it.

The idea is that these incentives will teach young children to work hard for a goal, and provides the boost that many do not receive from their parents.

And even if some may view his project and work as irresponsible, Fryer’s doing a much better job in his research than most politicians these days.

graphic perspective

More Opinions Online www.hilite.org

steven chen Energy-efficient appliances “In midst of the green revolution, many people and the government have stepped up the criteria for what qualifies as ‘good’ for the environment.”

Meredith Boyd / Art

30 perspectives >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Video games should be accepted as a viable form of storytelling others for irrational reasons.

yameen hameed

It feels like storytelling media as a whole is in a period of expansion right now, due to changing technology. Kindle and similar e-book readers are replacing printed books while movies and television are attempting to make 3D more than a simple gimmick. But these are only new forms of access, enhancing existing forms of storytelling media but doing little to invite new consumers. E-books simply convenience those who read printed books, as they are functionally the same and can’t introduce more people to reading for leisure.

Simply put, electronic or printed, either way you are reading a book. Similarly, the general public accepts movies and television enough that 3D won’t have a large impact on the number of movie and television viewers as a whole. But the problem is that many current storytelling devices are only accepted by certain groups of media, being rejected by

Video games have been a part of a good amount of people’s lives since the late ‘70s, when arcade games became prevalent in various locations. But it wasn’t until the early ‘90s that games were actually used for storytelling, becoming more than simply “President Ronnie has been kidnapped by the ninjas. Are you a bad enough dude to rescue Ronnie?” Role playing games like “The Legend of Zelda” and “Final Fantasy” were among the first to tell more detailed stories by being based around a quest of some sort. This has evolved over time, but it seems like many people still see video games as a form of childish entertainment, lacking depth. In 2002, District Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh, Sr. (related to Rush) ruled that video games do not receive Constitutional protection because they don’t convey ideas or expression, and are thus more similar to board games and sports than movies. (His test was clearly lacking, being based on only four games.)

met with poor reception by critics and rejected by fans as being too different from the original. Disregarding the fact that they’re usually made with poor budgets and have little input from the original creators, the movies fail because their plots were originally conceived for use in a game.

“The difference between video games and other story telling devices is that games allow the viewer to interact in that world.”

Although I disagree, I will admit that few video game plots are versatile enough to be adapted into other forms. Whenever people try to make a video game into a movie or show, it is

The difference between video games and other storytelling devices is that games allow the viewer to interact in that world. This is limited, but can engross people more and cause them to empathize with characters. This may be especially true in games like “Chrono Trigger” where multiple endings can be achieved depending on actions taken.

But even with relatively linear games, cutscenes can be used to string together gameplay and create a cohesive story, such as with the “Metal Gear” series. The Japan-only “Mother 3” even managed to have a compelling climax through the use of an in-game battle sequence. Thus, video games have a unique, interactive approach to conveying plots that makes them no less respectable than any storytelling device.

Yameen Hameed is a reporter for the HiLite. Contact him at yhameed@hilite.org.

National Basketball Association Playoffs are a drag but in a longer best-of-seven series the underdog is generally out matched. For example, the top overall seed has been upset only three times in the history of the playoffs.

reuben warshawsky With the National Basketball Association playoffs in full swing, many viewers including myself are switching off the television.

The current system provides no excitement to viewers. With the format consisting of four rounds of best-of-seven series, the playoffs drag on and on. The games become monotonous because teams are repeatedly playing the same team. In addition, the significance of winning each game is lessened since a team has to win four games before it can advance.

When the playoffs first began in 1947 they consisted of two rounds of best-of-three series and two rounds of best-ofseven series. This is the most fascinating version of the playoffs because it provides a greater chance of upsets. In a best-ofthree series the underdog can successfully pull off the upset,

The playoffs are so boring that many sportswriters are writing columns on the National Hockey League playoffs instead of the NBA playoffs.

That is embarrassing. Hockey is quickly gaining popularity in the United States but it remains well behind basketball.

Even avid fans of the NBA cannot watch the playoffs until the finals. The only time I watch the playoffs besides the final round is to watch my favorite player Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma City Thunder. That is a problem. The games are too predictable with the home team losing only one time in the opening round so far this year.

to best-of-three except the championship series. Also, the game play of the NBA needs to be changed. The teams should play two 20 minute halves similar to college to speed up the game play. Also, if the game goes to overtime, it should be decided by a one-minute overtime to intensify the excitement of the game.

“The playoffs are so boring that many sportswriters are writing columns about the National Hockey League instead of the NBA playoffs. That is embarrassing.”

In order to generate more interest, the playoff format needs to be reformed. This could begin by first not allowing half of the teams to be included in the playoffs.

Only the top 12 teams should be allowed to participate instead of the current top 16 teams. All of the series should be reduced

As the NBA playoffs trudge towards its conclusion in June, I advise sports viewers to watch something else.

However, that is the problem. There is no alternative. With the explosion of March Madness, people want to watch quality basketball. It is the responsibility of NBA commissioner David Stern to reform the playoff system so that it will at least be interesting enough to watch.

Fortunately, the National Football League Draft received so much media coverage in the past month relegating the NBA playoffs to the background.

Reuben Warshawsky is a reporter for the HiLite. Contact him at rwarshawsky@hilite.org.

<< perspectives 31

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Social media leads to lack of verbal communication

graphic perspective

marianna cooper While I am trying to work on my homework but am interrupted by my mom chatting away on the phone, I notice that she seems to have an easier time verbally communicating than I do. This lack of phone conversational skills for our generation can be attributed to social networking sites and choosing texting over making phone calls. Although texting has become socially acceptable, we are missing out on a major aspect of communication.

Many Americans seem to be choosing texting over phone conversations. According to the 2008 Neilson Mobile Survey, Americans made and received only 204 phone calls a month, but received 357 text messages per month. Although sending a quick text message is more convenient when having certain conversations, it limits the conversational practice needed for job interviews, in the workplace and when networking. After becoming dependent upon having time to craft the perfect response during texting conversations, phone conversations can become intimidating.

Alex Mackall / Art

Check out blogs Online www.hilite.org

FASHION BLOG “I see senior Reid Watson every other morning, and I can honestly say that I’ve seen him wear ties more often than a lot of the adults I regularly encounter. I don’t know how he has the effort to get so dressed-up every morning, but I wish somebody would bottle it up and sell it to me.”

rosemary boeglin tim chai

Facebook, too, takes a toll on conversational skills. Some might argue that social networking sites have actually increased communication, considering the facebook.com press page lists that the site has more than 400 million users on Facebook and these users spending an average of 55 minutes logged in to the site daily. However, users have the option to skim and edit their responses with every wall post, while there is relatively little time to think before speaking on the phone or meeting with someone in person.

Marianna Cooper is a reporter for the HiLite. Contact her at mcooper@hilite.org.

wait…There’s More.

To read the rest of Marianna’s column, go online to www.hilite.org

32 15 minutes of fame >>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

Check, Mates

Juniors Andrew Aisen and Rostam Razban are working to revitalize Chess Club

By jackson whiteker jwhiteker@hilite.org

Rostam Razban When did you learn to play chess?

How have you improved Chess Club?

I used to play chess when I was six with my family when I was bored. I joined a school chess team. I then took ten years off from playing chess. Then, I started coming to Chess Club.

We’ve obviously done in-studio announcements.

We’ve also done pizza days. Recently, we had a March Madness tournament where the person with the most accurate bracket won a free chess board.

How can someone improve his or her chess game?

What are some characteristics Chess Club Members should have?

That’s an easy answer. You just have to play more games. Every game teaches you something.

Everyone would fit in. I guess, you’d have to be smart.

Chess takes a lot of intellectual ability. Some people are really energetic and crazy while others are quiet.

andrew AISEN What made you change the way you market the club?

Well, at the beginning of the year we didn’t do any announcements whatsoever and there was only like five or six members including myself and Rostam.

After, we started doing those announcements, just in a witty, kind of humorous way. It kind of got a lot of people, especially underclassmen, to come in and just see what it’s all about.

chess club” you’re kind of a loser, but I kind of feel that I’ve changed that definition at Carmel High School and I pride myself in that.

How much has chess club changed this year?

Well, it’s quadrupled in members, we now actually have events, and basically everyone at Carmel High School recognizes it as the best club.

how will you improve Chess Club Next year?

Well, we still don’t have as many members as we could.

I plan to get around 30 or 40 members, try and get more events, and just try and make it as friendly as I can for every student at Carmel High School.

What’s the best part of being one of the leaders of the club?

It’s just as everyone says, the stereotypical high school thing is if you’re the “whatever of

Shokhi goel / photos

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

ACUMEN PRESENTS:

ACU-MON€¥ Careers.. Page 2 Stocks... Page 3 Student Businesses.. Pages 4&5 Music Pirating... Page 6 Independent Filmmakers... Page 7 Ask the Contributors... Page 8

Carmel High School. Volume 6. Issue 4. april 30, 2010

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HiLite • April 30, 2010

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 Advisers Principal Superintendent

Jinny Zhang Arjuna Capulong Sally Bae Patrick Bryant Steven Chen Stephanie Coleman Cassie Dugan Shokhi Goel Michelle Hu Stuart Jackson Kaitlyn Lampe Daniel Li Emily Puterbaugh Erum Rizvi Mitch Ringenberg Katie Walstrom Nina Underman Michelle Hu Rosemary Boeglin Sarah Sheafer Jim Streisel Jincy Gibson John Williams Jeff Swensson

In This Issue Dear readers, When I was in elementary school, my dad had me eat a hard boiled egg on my birthday. He said that when he was young, his family could only afford one egg a year for him to eat, so he ate it on his birthday. My dad always liked telling me stories of his childhood. He wanted me to understand his former financial situation and why I should appreciate everything I had.

My father and his three brothers did not have a lot of money when they were young, but now all four of them have stable finances through years of education and hard work.

Money plays a huge role in how people choose their career, invest in the stock market, or start their own businesses, as seen in the following pages of the Acumen’s money issue, “Acu-money.” Also, special thanks to Beverly Jenkins for helping me set up the cover photo.

Acumen Editor Jinny Zhang Cover >> arjuna capulong and jinny zhang / Photo Illustration

Paycheck v. Passion Money has varying influences in students’ prospective career choices

By nina underman nunderman@hilite.org At age 7, a piece of junior Connor Lynch’s artwork was selected to be displayed at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The award sparked Lynch’s interest in art, and said he has been creating it ever since. But with college quickly approaching, Lynch said he has had to think about whether his love for art could be turned into a fruitful career. “Art gets a bad rap for being a risky career choice and ‘starving artist’ is the lifestyle most people think of Lynch said.

Most people struggle with career choices, but those choices become tougher when the question of financial stability gets tossed into the mix. With the current economic conditions, future job seekers have become increasingly interested in the financial rewards associated with prospective careers.

living and pay your bills.”

“I feel like becoming a doctor would be a win-win situation,” Baron said. “You’re saving lives, but at the same time you are paid well for what you do. Doctors make a lot of money.”

Still, even that mindset might be misleading. Vicki Nunery, College and Career Resource Center counselor, said with the current economy, jobs that are financially stable are difficult to find. “Many jobs that were once considered financially sound have lost that stability,” Nunery said.

Overall though, Nunery said students should follow their passions when choosing a career. “Everyone has gifts and their careers should reflect those gifts and talents,” she said.

For Lynch, it is clear to him that his talent is art. “People often lose sight of what really makes them happy. For me, I have found something that I’m good at, really good at, and it brings me a lot more happiness than money ever could. This June I have the oppor tunity to receive a Scholastic Art and Writing Awards national gold medal at Carnegie Hall (for my work).

The excitement and pride I get from that could never be replaced with money.”

But some still pursue their dreams, regardless of financial concerns. Lynch said possible lack of financial stability would not dissuade him from pursuing a career in art. He said, “As long as I have food to eat and my art is successful and fulfilling and keeping me happy, I’m good.”

He said his parents support his decision. “They hope I can find a career that I can enjoy and excel at, and for me, that’s art.”

Freshman Victoria Baron, though, said she thinks differently. Baron said she is interested in a career in health care, a field typically associated with high salaries. Baron said she believes passion should influence career choices to some extent, but “you still have to be able to earn a

More photos online To view Connor Lynch’s artwork, go to

www.hilite.org Kaitlyn Lampe / photo

A start in art: During his AP Studio Art class, junior

Connor Lynch sketches one of his pieces to be critiqued

by AP graders, on a scale of 1 to 5. Lynch wishes to pursue art as a career, even though it is not as financially secure as some other professions.

DID YOU KNOW? Illustrators (grouped in with painters and sculptors) earned an average yearly salary of $48,300 in 2008.

U.S. Bureau of LaborMichael Statistics / source

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HiLite • April 30, 2010

acumen 3

Students interested in stock market get early start Identification

Time Frame

The company name, ticker symbol, date, stock exchange where it is traded, day’s price range, volume of shares traded, and $ percentage change should all be listed here.

Time frames are especially important because they show the time span of the graph.

Volume Individual Days

Volume shows what the participation level is for a particular day for a stock and is the number of shares traded during that day. Volume is used to confirm price action. When someone sees spikes in volume on both up or down days, that means that many traders are involved.

A collection of individual days (or months) make up a chart. Many times, it is important to pay attention to each specific day.

Moving Averages Moving averages (MA’s) smooth out average closing price over a specified period of time. There are also exponential moving averages (EMA’s) and others.

Trend lines These are lines that are drawn through three or more points to show patterns.

Steven chen and erum rizvi / graphic

By Erum Rizvi erizvi@hilite.org

important for students in high school to have a general idea of how the stock market works.

t an age when many boys are interested mainly in sports, junior Garrett Bacon takes interest in the stock market. He said he has always found the market fascinating, but he never had the motivation to watch it and make money from the market. Now that Bacon is a junior and managing his own finances to prepare for the future, he looks at stocks as a way to supplement his income and increase future options so as to not be bound by money.

“I think students should understand the basic foundations such as what a corporation is and what public trading means as a teenager,” Holman said.

“I believe it’s important for teens and kids of every age to be interested in the stock market. Used right, it’s basically making your money work for you, and thus making more money,” Bacon said.

“The market gives a lot of detail on how our nation is doing currently and where our economy is going in regards to the future. As teenagers, we are the future and I find it comforting to know the basis to where and why we are heading in the direction we are going,” Burns said.

A

Garrett BAcon

Bacon is part of a growing trend among teenagers who are taking an interest in the stock market. According to a survey by the Washington-based American Savings Educational Council, 33 percent of kids who are ages 12 to 17 nationwide are taking an active interest in the stock market.

Business Foundations teacher Rob Holman said it is

Senior Adam Burns who has been part of the Internship class through the business department here as well as interned at Merrill Lynch, said these programs have helped him understand the importance of the stock market which is relatively unknown to most teenagers.

a few tips that have helped him out which include watching CNBC, talking with parents to help students understand the market and taking business classes.

“There is a lot of information out there and it seems endlessly confusing at first, however that’s just Wall Street’s way of making you go to some broker who will charge you fees for things you can do yourself,” Bacon said.

“Used right, (the stock market is) basically making your money work for you, and thus making more money.”

Burns has put his views on how the market is important into practice by owning a stock portfolio.

In regards to managing his stock portfolio, Bacon said he has

Although tips such as these may help some to invest, the key to making money starts with a passion in investment. This interest in stocks could lead to students going into a stock related career in the future. Students such as Burns have already begun their exploration of business careers through programs Garret Bacon including Merrill Lynch and the business department here. Some other students such as Bacon, are just beginning their discoveries in the stock market business.

“I haven’t really put much thought into it yet; however I do think it would be a cool option for my future,” Bacon said, “There is just something about putting money in and then getting even more money back out that fascinates me.”

DID YOU KNOW? Stock investor Damon Williams turned his passion for athletic shoes into a stock portfolio worth over $50,000 at the age of 14.

moneytrack.org / source

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HiLite • April 30, 2010

Students start independent bu B

usinesses are difficult to manage for anyone, let alone students. Students need to not only make sure their business is a success, but also learn the qualities it takes to be a good business person and boss. According to business teacher Joy Law, there are many steps a student should take to ensure his or her business is successful.

Senior Clifton Anderson

Beef Jerky Maker

By Cassie Dugan cdugan@hilite.org

Q: Whose idea was it to start a jerky-making business?

A: It was my idea. I borrowed a dehydrator from a neighbor to make some jerky for a rafting trip. I shared some with some of my friends, and they all thought it was good. I thought I could probably sell it at school and make some money.

Q: How long has it been in operation?

“First of all, students who are really interested in starting their own business should try and take as many business classes as possible,” Law said via e-mail. Then they should look for their target market, basically, the customers to whom they are trying to sell their product. Once students know their target market, Law said students should do research on how to reach these customers. Utilizing the radio, television, magazines, community events and mailings would help students reach these customers.

A: I started it up at the beginning of the year, so around August.

Q: How much does one quarter lb of jerky cost?

A: It is $5 for one quarter lb of jerky. But if you buy a pound it is only $18.

Q: Describe the process of making beef jerky.

“When you start a business, you have to realize that you are taking a risk. Many successful business people have failed several times before they succeeded,” Law said. Students have to wear many hats when they own a business. They have to learn to manage people, advertisements and money. Organization and being able to meet deadlines are also key. According to Law, students must see a need and determine how they can fill that need for the consumer. By Darlene Pham

A: I buy top round beef at Costco and then cut it into one quarter inch strips. Then I marinate the beef for 24 hours in a marinade I make myself. Next, I put the beef into the dehydrator and dry it for nine and a half hours.

Q: How much time does it normally take to produce one batch of beef jerky?

A: It usually takes around 36 hours (to make).

Q: How do you advertise and promote your jerky business?

Classes You Can Take Junior Marketing, Senior Marketing, Accounting 1-2, Accounting 3-4, Business Law and Business College Prep are some of the classes offered here that will provide students basic knowledge to run a business.

A: I give out free samples all the time in my classes. That’s pretty much the only way I advertise.

Qualities You Need Law said it is important for students to develop a passion for the type of business they want to start. They must have the drive or interest to making the business a success.

Students should be realistic and develop business plans to help create strategies.

Emily Puterbaugh / photo

Cut it out: Senior Clifton Anderson slices beef that he plans to make into jerky. He started his own beef jerky business when his friends liked his recipe and wanted to purchase some.

Q: Where do you make the jerky and what supplies do you need?

A: I make it in my kitchen. You need a really sharp knife, a couple of cutting boards, marinade, really lean beef, a dehydrator and someone who is willing to put up with you making it in their house.

usinesses

Despite the recession, young entrepreneurs look beyond baby-sitting and lawnmowing to make some cash.

Take some tips from three innovative thinkers: seniors Clifton Anderson, Ashley Schaefer and Johnny Bretz

>>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

acumen 5

Jinny Zhang / photo

Senior Ashley Schaefer

Airplane Interior Cleaner

By Sally Bae sbae@hilite.org

cleaning. There’s polishing metal, wiping off bugs on the outside of the airplane, windows need special cleaning. The inside needs really good house cleaning like leather care, vacuuming, steam cleaning, and waxing.

Q: How big are the planes you clean?

Q: How did you get started cleaning airplanes?

A: My dad flies corporate jets and my mom flies for United. I got started in 7th grade by cleaning a private jet that my dad flew.

Q: Where do you clean airplanes?

A: It started out with just my dad, but now I’m employed by two different airports. I have about five steady clients and I get random requests once in a while.

Q: What does cleaning an airplane involve?

A: A complete detail consists of both interior and exterior stephanie coleman / photo

A: They range from a Learjet 45 which holds like 12 people to Cessnas which hold about four people.

Q: What are some difficulties?

A: The planes are million dollar aircrafts. So you have to be really careful because I can get sued as a business if I mess up.

Q: What are some benefits?

A: Being my own boss is the biggest thing. I choose what I get paid. I also choose what my helpers get. It’s also a rare job, so colleges can look at that.

Senior Johnny Bretz

Co-founder of Fluenci, a company that will make and sell smart phone applications

By Patrick Bryant pbryant@hilite.org Q: When did you start working on this? stuart jackson / photo

Fluent for “fluenci:” Senior Johnny Bretz types codes

to develop a smart phone application that will silence a phone at a specific location, depending on the GPS. He and senior Nishanth Samala plan to start their business “Fluenci” within the next year.

A: At the end of last school year, (senior Nishanth) Samala and I took independent study computer science. There, we came up with the idea to make mobile apps.

Q: Are there others involved in this operation?

A: It’s really just me and Samala, but we occasionally get help

stephanie Coleman / photo

Spring cleaning: Senior Ashley Schaefer packs her cleaning supplies into her bag. Schaefer’s parents are both pilots, and she decided to start her own business of cleaning the interior of airplanes. from a few other students.

Q: How do you make applications and about how long do they take to make?

A: We go through a process, first of determining what we need to do, technology wise, to create this app, and then we look to design an interface and create settings for the user. In terms of time, depends on what kind of app and what it needs to work.

Q: What are you currently working on?

A: We’re working on an app that will silence your phone when it’s at a certain location, based on GPS. Q: What are plans for the future?

A: We hope to officially start our business, “Fluenci,” by the end of the school year, with the release of our apps into the marketplace.

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HiLite • April 30, 2010

Musicians speak out against illegal downloading of music

T

By Katie Walstrom kwalstrom@hilite.org

here are thousands of ways to download music off the Internet.

Roughly half of those are illegal.

But because there are no instant repercussions, no one sees it as a “real crime.”

The truth is that if people steal music, their favorite artists may soon be out of business.

Many artists verbalize their concerns about the fans downloading their music online for free.

The Dixie Chicks, Stevie Wonder, P. Diddy, Sheryl Crow and Katy Perry are a few famous artists who are publicly against illegal downloading.

“It may seem innocent enough, but every time you illegally download music, a songwriter doesn’t get paid. Respect the artists you love by not stealing their music,” the Dixie Chicks said.

steven chen / graphic IFPI / source

Legendary singer/songwriter Stevie Wonder also spoke out against illegal downloads. “Record companies, publishers, radio stations, retailers and artists in our industry must take a strong position against the stealing of our writing and music or else they will become as cheap as the garbage in the streets,” Wonder said.

Most people don’t realize that when a song by an artist is downloaded, that artist loses money, as does anyone else involved in the production of that song. Artist Sheryl Crow said that illegal downloading services are unfair to the people who work hard to support themselves, according to MTV.com. “The singers, arrangers, engineers, producers and songwriters will be hurt [by illegal downloads],” Crow said. “If nobody paid for a download, how do they get paid?”

Both Sheryl Crow and Katy Perry are members of the RAC, Recording Artists Coalition. This organization, co-founded by Don Henley, represents recording artists and attempts to protect their rights. Singer Katy Perry voices her opinion on her MySpace, according to ethrill.net. “For new talent, file-sharing is a disaster and it’s making it harder for new acts to emerge,” Perry said.

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) is an organization committed to helping the music business succeed. They protect the record companies that create, manufacture and distribute 85 percent of all legitimate

sound recordings produced and sold in the United States. According to riaa.com,“ The illegal downloading of music is just as wrong as shoplifting from a local convenience store.”

It is estimated by the Institute for Policy Innovation that global piracy causes $12.5 billion of economic losses every year, 71,060 American job losses, a loss of $2.7 billion in workers’ earnings, a loss of $422 million in tax revenues, $291 million in personal income tax and $131 million in lost corporate income and production taxes.

File-trafficking services such as Lime Wire and Bit Torrent are contributing factors to the downfall of America’s music artists. Instead of filing lawsuits against individuals downloading music, the RIAA is holding file-trafficking services responsible. “We encourage fans to turn to legal music alternatives,” said an RIAA representative.

To help the artists we love succeed, the illegal downloading of music needs to decrease considerably. As Sheryl Crow explains, it’s a matter of “balancing the rights of creators with current technology.”

Daniel Li / graphic amazon.com / photos

DID YOU KNOW? People who download music illegally can be caught by means of logs, illegal intrusions, dummy files and other less popular methods.

helium.com / source

Success of small-budget films inspires student filmmakers Breakthrough low-budget films

movies.com / photo

Paranormal activity (2007)

imdb.com / photo

Napoleon Dynamite (2004)

thereeladdict.com / photo

The breakfast Club (1985)

>>

HiLite • April 30, 2010

acumen 7

By Mitch Ringenberg mringenberg@hilite.org “I’ve always been skeptical about pursuing filmmaking, because it’s always seemed like such a risky career choice, but lately I’ve been thinking it could work out,” William “Billy” Coughlin, IB Film II student and senior, said.

With low-budget films such as “Paranormal Activity” raking in $7.1 million in its opening weekend, film students can now feel a higher sense of confidence when it comes to achieving success in the filmmaking field, according to IB Film teacher Jim Peterson.

“Personally, I’m not a fan of horror movies, but if you can make a decent one without having to resort to mass amounts of gore, then I can respect that,” Coughlin said.

“Paranormal Activity,” a film with a reported budget of a mere $11,000, became a shokhi goel / photo critical and commercial success, even achieving the coveted number one slot in Movie Moment: Senior Zachary Deitch records a scene of a horror film he the weekend box office. It was a favorite completed with two IB Film classmates, “Bellview.” Deitch says that film is not among audiences at the Sundance Film a career option he would consider, but he does appreciate it as a hobby.

Festival. Director/writer Oren Peli used a second year IB Film student, said, “Filmmaking was never unique internet campaign in order to promote the movie anything I considered as a career choice, but I do love and hype up audiences for what was claimed to be one the process that surrounds it, and it’s something that of the scariest horror films in recent years.

I’ve always enjoyed doing. After realizing how easy it is “Paranormal Activity” is far from the first film to do this. to get your stuff out there, though, it’s something that I “ The Blair Witch Project” was one of 1999’s highest take a little more seriously now, even though it’s still just grossing films with a budget of $22,000 and managed to for fun.” bring in $240.5 million.

After the success of “Paranormal Activity,” Hollywood “All past models of filmmaking are being questioned and studios may be willing to give smaller films a chance. The challenged,” said Peterson via e-mail. “The Internet has film’s success indicates that audiences are still willing to become a place where video content can be easily shared. spend their money on films with lower production costs.

Because of this, the usual channels of getting a film made “I am a fan of substance, but I do enjoy some good style have been short-circuited. In the past, a director would every once in a while. I think that the commercial success have to wait to get a project supported and funded by a of a horror film with substance will make the studios studio. With the Internet, affordable, high-quality cameras take notice,” Peterson said, “They will hopefully realize and cheap video editing software, a director can simply that audiences are not just interested in computermake his film without a studio backing it up.” animated blood. That story does matter. This will influence Students have begun to take note. Zachary Deitch, a (Hollywood’s) future films for the better.”

DID YOU KNOW? Other high grossing low-budget movies include “Blair Witch Project,”“Rocky,”“Open Water,”“Clerks,”“Eraserhead” and “Night of the Living Dead.”

go2.com / source

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HiLite • April 30, 2010

Ask the Contributors Acumen staff members of this issue share what they would do if they found $10 that did not belong to them

“Well first I would look to try to return it to its owner, but if can’t, I’ll use it to buy 50 percent of General Motors.”

“If I couldn’t return the money to the original owner, I would reverse pick-pocket someone by slipping the $10 into the pocket of a random person on the street.”

“I would put it in my saving account to save for later use because the economy is incapacitated right now and I can get interest on it.”

By senior Michelle Hu, editor-in-chief

By junior Steven Chen, front page editor

“If I found $10 I’d go buy not one but two $5 footlongs from Subway. Or I’d give it to Dance Marathon because the kids need it more than I do.”

“I would take the money and exchange it for a bunch of coins. Then, I’d go walk around and randomly drop change on the ground for other people to find.”

By junior Cassie Dugan, reporter

By senior Sally Bae, reporter

By sophomore Patrick Bryant, reporter

“If I found $10 that did not belong to me, I would keep it and save it for gas money for my car.”

By sophomore Stuart Jackson, photographer

Michelle Hu and Jinny Zhang / photos