Inklings

IN K [ [ ] L I N G S

Crown Point High School Crown Point, IN @InklingsCPHS December 21, 2018 Vol. 83 Issue 4

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See how students and staff adjust to dark mornings page 7

“2018: Year in Review” pages 8-9

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Read about girls basketball undefeated start page 13

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BEHIND THE BLAZE

Precautions with flammable items can decrease hazardous fires

BY TABITHA BEISHUIZEN JESSI ALCORTA-ROBLES editor-at-large associate editor

Imagine waking up startled in the middle of the nights to the sounds of fire alarms and smoke coming out of the window. Running outside only to see the ruins of what used to be. The whole entire house being engulfed in flames. This is all too common of a memory for many people who have suffered from a house fire. With there being 100 house fires in Crown Point over the last year, there are more and more precautions that need to be taken in order to keep house fires occurrences as minimal as possible. Senior Ashley Rekitzke knows this experience all too well.

“Well it was December 2, 2009, I was in third grade. It was really early in the morning and I remember waking up to sirens. I was at my grandparents house because my mom was working overnight shifts at Walmart and my dad was deployed in Iraq,” Rekitzke said.

“I remember looking out the window and seeing my house on fire with fire trucks and police officers down my street.”

For many people their first instinct after realizing their house is on fire is to think about everything they are losing.

With pets often times being trapped inside, they

are unlikely to survive the flames and smoke.

“Intentionally, my first thought was where’s my dog and cats, then it shifted to what about my belongings. The cause of the fire was an iron, they think my cat knocked it down and it burned through the floor. We lost everything but the one thing that was saved was the pictures.

My grandpa had went

‘‘

PHOTO BY JESSI ALCORTA-ROBLES A dumpster fire broke out in the alley of the Kiemle Hankins building and the Crown Point Fire Deparment was called to put it out.

Don’t be careless with smoking, the use of candles and while cooking. Outdoor campfires should be put out completely when done and attended all the time while burning. Never use gasoline on a camp fire.

Fire Chief Todd Wilkening

through every photo and wiped the water off them in order to save them,” Rekitzke said.

Just like Rekitzke, there have been hundreds of other people in the local area that have had house fires that ranged in damage from as little as a kitchen fire to as much as a whole house in ruins.

According to Fire Chief Todd Wilkening, the Cedar Lake fire department gets approximately 20 calls each year pertaining to house fires each year.

The amount of calls that the Cedar Lake fire de-

partment are much lower than the Crown Point records.

“We probably run about 100 reported calls [of house fires] per year.

They are not too common, unless there is an outside force that cause them,” Fire Chief Dave Crane said. “Generally, there is some other force that causes a house to set on fire. We probably have about 10 serious house fires a year.”

As the holiday season gets closer and closer, there are more precautions in place to protect against a house

fire happening. Between the lights, fireplace, and holiday baking, there are many areas in a house that can easily become inflamed.

“Most house fires are caused by a few different things. It’s either electrical, like heating sources, or cooking,” Chief Crane said.

One of the common types of holiday fires are caused from Christmas lights. With there being lights both on the outside and the inside of people’s houses, there is usually some sort of holiday light plugged in. When it comes to the lights on a Christmas tree, they can easily cause the tree to catch on fire, especially as the season goes on and the pines start to dry out. “[Fires are escalated during the holiday season] because people use a lot more decorations and they get complacent with simple things that happen with the lights such as frayed cords or bad see fire safety on page 3

THE DESTRUCTION

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ASHLEY REKITZKE In 2009, the Rekitzke family suffered through a house fire.

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NEWS INKLINGS December 21, 2018

INTHEKNOW Bus, student drivers call attention to important road rules

BY MADELYN WHITAKER NOLAN CHASE

“The Dog Radio” now available for listening

online editor reporter

The Advanced Radio and TV students launched their first streaming radio station on Wednesday, Dec. 18. The new station will be available to listen to on their free app, The Dog Radio. The station will include hits from the ‘80s and ‘90s, as well as daily news and sports talks hosted by students.

Yearbook personal ads deadline nears

The deadline for personal ads for the 2018-2019 yearbook is Jan. 18. Ad prices start at $50 and vary with the size of the ad. Those interested can email the content they would like included to the yearbook advisor, Lisa Keene. Checks can be made out to CPHS Excalibur for payment.

Changes in CPHS administration to occur

As part of a shift in the administration, Sabrina Ramirez will be moving into Robert McDermott’s office in the Guidance Office. McDermott will make the move to Central Office as the K-12 Director of Student Services and Safety. In addition, Jake Rodriguez will be joining the administration as an Assistant Principal. Rodriguez previously taught at CPHS before his time working at Hobart High School as an administrator for the past three and a half years.

Every student has their morning schedule: get up, get dressed, eat breakfast, brush their hair and whatever else they need to do to get themselves out of the door and ready to conquer the school day. Some may warm up their cars or wait for their parents to get their keys, while others go outside to the corner of their street and wait for the bus to arrive.

On their website, the Crown Point School Corporation Department of Transformation credits themselves to transporting 7,520 students to school per year, outside of athletics and other trips. Collectively, bus drivers travel up to 1,059,480 miles a year while also ensuring their passengers’ safety. Bus driver Theresa Pavey demonstrates her ability to keep her passengers safe throughout the school week.

“On the bus I make sure they know the rules as far as sitting at all times, facing forward, keeping the aisle clear at all times, talk in a reasonable tone, keeping hands, head and feet inside when windows are lowered, no weapons on the bus, treat others with respect,” Pavey said.

Three children were struck and killed by a woman who failed to stop for a school bus in Rochester, Indiana. Banville recommends that students drivers be aware of their surroundings and adjust their driving during the winter months to avoid ac-

PHOTO BY NOLAN CHASE Crown Point students approach their designated buses to be transported home after school. The Department of Transportation transports 7520 students per year.

cidents.

“I think you kind of have to put your ignorance aside and just stop for the extra two minutes so kids can get off safely because now two kids are injured or dead.

Is losing two minutes out of your commute that big of a deal?” Banville said. “So just always stop.”

In response to the lack of proper bus procedure from drivers on the road, Pavey noticed that there has been an increased emphasis on being aware of buses that are picking up or dropping off students.

“I haven’t seen changes as much as I have seen those we have in place strongly reinforced in light of the recent school crossing accidents that have been reported lately,” Pavey said. “We have received several handouts over the past few weeks about loading and unloading, crossing safely, etc.”

Bus drivers go through several hours of training to ensure they are certified and well informed to

not only drive the bus, but also to keep their passengers safe.

“When a driver comes to our school system to be a bus driver they go through about four weeks of daily training which includes knowledge about the bus and equipment but most importantly the safety issues that we face every day,” Pavey said.

Freshman Aiden Hensley notices and appreciates the work that his bus driver puts in to maintain a safe environment when he is being transported to and from school.

“I feel like the bus driver tries to maintain the bus as a safe place. (Bus drivers) control their bus and make sure everyone follows the rules,” Hensley said.

Hazardous road conditions also can pose safety risks to those on the road. Aside from regularly keeping passengers safe, bus drivers also have to adjust to other environmental factors such as the cold and icy weather throughout

the winter season.

“I want to keep my passengers safe,” Pavey said. “Their safety is more important than trying to keep a time schedule.

Generally, just being aware of what is going on around me and being careful.”

As well as bus drivers, student drivers such as senior Stephanie Banville are also adjusting the way they drive to stay safe in the cold temperatures.

“I don’t speed as much as I used to, especially when I get near the school and I see a lot of school buses,” Banville said.

“I usually slow down so I don’t slide into anyone and nobody slides into me.”

By law, drivers are obligated to stop when the stop sign sticks out of the side of the bus.

Banville reminds student drivers that they are not exempt from these rules and should always be careful.

“Just always be slow and stop when their stop signs come out,” Banville said. “Just always pay attention to what (buses) are doing and don’t disregard (them).”

Pavey comments on the effort that the department of transportation has put in to ensure that the most qualified people are driving school buses in Crown Point.

“We have extensive training in bus safety in the Crown Point school system. It is very important,” Pavey said. “We carry precious cargo everyday. We want to make sure our students have a safe trip to and from school.”

Choir prepares for outdoor performance at Disney’s Candelight Processional

BY EMILY HELMUTH HALEY THORNBERRY reporters

This winter the choir will be traveling to Disney World in Orlando, Florida to participate in the yearly Candlelight Processional. Choir Director William Woods is looking forward to this trip as it is his first time going with the Crown Point students.

“I have done this trip before at Munster, so I am very familiar with what we are doing. I have taken my past groups to Florida, California, Hawaii and Cedar Point,” Woods said.

The choir will be leaving on Dec. 27 and will return on Jan. 2. During these five days, they will be visiting Disney Springs, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, the Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios. The choir will be performing a concert on Dec. 29 at the Waterfront Stage in Disney Springs. On

Dec. 30, the entire choir will be a part of Disney’s Christmas show, the “Candlelight Processional.” To earn the opportunity to perform at these events, the choir had to audition and learn 14 songs. Junior Paige Lichnerowicz is excited to see all the choir’s hard work pay off.

“I’m really looking forward to performing in front of 3,000 people,” Lichnerowicz said. “Candlelight Processional is one of Disney’s most popular events. I’m also super excited about riding all of the rides.”

Trips like these gives the students a way to make new friends and become closer to their peers. Sophomore Caitlin Ashby thinks the upcoming trip and sharing a room with friends will help integrate the students and create closer friendships.

“I think it will help our chemistry because we will be together every day for a week,” Ashby said. “I am looking forward

THINK AHEAD Jan. 1

Jan. 7

New Year’s Day

School Resumes

New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the year 2019. Make new resolutions to make the most of the new year and enjoy having a fresh start with all of your friends and family.

After students enjoy a couple weeks filled with relaxation and time with their friends and family, they return to school on Jan. 7 in preparation for finals.

Finals Schedule Jan. 15

Periods 4 and 7 will hold their finals on this Tuesday.

Jan. 16

to getting closer to the girls who I am rooming with as well as the whole choir.”

Leaving the school environment and being put in a new territory can allow for the students and teachers to be able to interact in a new dynamic, which can result in a closer relationship overall. While school is a learning atmosphere, going on a trip like this allows the teachers and students to see each other in a new light.

“I am looking forward to the time I get to spend with my students more than anything. I really hope that this becomes a bonding experience and brings us closer together as a choir family,” Woods said.

The students not only get to use this trip as an opportunity to spend time with each other and create a closer bond, but they also get an opportunity to expand and improve on their performance skills for choir. Lichnerowicz is excited to enhance

Jan. 17 Half Day

Students can enjoy a half day for parent-teacher conferences. This half day marks the beginning of a three day weekend.

Periods 2, 3 and 6 will hold their finals on this Wednesday.

Jan. 18

Jan. 17

School will not be held on Jan. 18 for a teacher work day. This day marks the end of the 1st semester.

Periods 1 and 5 will hold their finals on this Thursday.

No School

her and the choir’s abilities.

“It will give us more experience with performing for larger audiences,” Lichnerowicz said. “We are not used to performing outside, so when we sing we will need to learn how to adjust to the conditions.”

Overall, Woods wants the students to gain a lot from the trip,l but his goal is not just for the choir students to learn more about performing but also for them to have a good time together.

“The performance opportunities and representing our school, city and state are what I want them to remember, as well as the fun and bonding that we will do.”

Woods said.

The choir’s Dec. 30 performance at Disney’s “Candlelight Processional” will begin at 8:10 EST time and will be livestreamed on YouTube and Disney Parks Blog.

Jan. 19

Jan. 21

Turnabout Dance

Martin Luther King Day, Second Semester Begins

The Turnabout Dance will be held on Saturday, Jan. 19 at Avalon Manor. Tickets are still on sale online or in room C234.

School will be held on Martin Luther King Day because of a previous snow day.

This day is also the beginning of the second semester of this school year.

NEWS INKLINGS December 21, 2018

3

New addition to downtown Crown Point offers ice skating, performances

BY ANDREW POESCHL

Earlier this year Mayor Uran unveiled plans to create a community center just outside of the square. This event center, called Bulldog Park, is planned to be two acres big and feature an ice rink, two story building for events and an amphitheater for concerts and plays. With the end of the project approaching some may be left wondering what Bulldog Park will be used for.

Parks Administrator Jennie Burgess stated that they wanted the events that occur around the square. Therefore, Bulldog Park will be used for various activities such as the farmer’s market, concerts and Thursday night car cruises as well other various activities during the summer.

“We wanted to put all the events in one place. We wanted a gathering place for the community,” Burgess said.

With the relocation of all of these events drivers will no longer have to make a detour around the town square during these events, but this will not only benefit residents but also businesses inside the square will no longer have slower business days when the events close up the square. Yet, this is not the only function of the new building. It will also have an ice rink which can be used by the public and will now be where the hockey team practices. ”The ice rink will be done in the next

Fire Safety

Winter Break Hours

reporter

Dec. 22 6-10 p.m.

Dec. 23 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Dec. 24 12-5 p.m.

Dec. 25 Closed Dec. 26-30 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Dec. 31 12-8 p.m.

Jan. 1-5 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Jan. 6 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

two weeks,” Burgess said. “We hope to finish the ice rink by winter break to get everyone using it.”

This will provide people with a place to go ice skating during this winter break without having to drive to Valparaiso or Chicago.

As well as providing a rink for ice skating, it will also provide the hockey team a local way to practice and play games. Senior Josh Sobek hopes that the hockey rink sparks interest with kids that want to play hockey, as well as providing a place locally where he can practice.

“I think the hockey rink will be beneficial for myself by giving me the opportunity to improve more on my skills. With the convenience of it being so close it allows me to go and practice in my free time even if it’s only for three minutes. While it is a huge benefit for myself it is also amazing for the Crown Point hockey time and the community,” Sobek said. “It gives us another thing to do on the weekend. It also sparks an in-

PHOTO BY ASHLEY REKITZKE Bulldog Park is in the process of being built. It is expected to be done in spring of 2019. The park will be used for events like ice skating, outdoor concerts during the summer and other various events.

terest in the hockey community. It makes kids more familiar with skating and more so hockey which is why I am so excited for this rink. It will interest kids to start playing hockey and make the sport more popular in the area.”

The ice rink will open to people in Crown Point up to new sports and will allow parents to bond with children by learning how to skate.

The park can also be rented out by

citizens, according to Burgess. She feels the addition of Bulldog Park will not only improve the public events of Crown Point, but Crown Point as a whole.

“Overall the project is expected to be done in spring of 2019,” Burgess said. “It will be open for birthdays, weddings and other parties as well as having community events there such as the farmer’s markets, car cruises and splash pads.”

safe at home, have an exit plan and practice that plan,” Chief Crane said.

Having an exit plan can be beneficial for everyone in the household. Not only can it help by learning safe ways to get out of one’s home, but also to get out quickly.

“The time it takes for a fire to consume a house varies on different things. I’ve seen a house get consumed during a blizzard in about five minutes due to real strong winds” Chief Crane said. “A fire doubles in size every minute, without any wind or any other source fueling it.”

A house fire is the last thing anyone wants so there is just a need to be watchful and cautious of all the dangers in a house they can lead to a disaster, especially around the holiday times. There are many factors in decorating for the holidays that can lead to dangerous situations such as lights and burning candles.

“Fire safety is super important to be aware of. I didn’t think anything of it before it happened. In elementary school when you go to the Tri Town Safety Village, see there’s potential for it to actually happen. It sounds superficial to say this, but have a plan,” Rekitzke said.

TIPS TO AVOID

continued from page 1

sockets. We do see an up check in holiday fires,” Chief Crane said.

After a fire has taken place and the ruins and have been searched, it is time for the recovery process. Many local and national organizations help in the aid of house fires, many of which were there for Rekitzke and her family.

“The community was a huge help.

When the fire first happened, a lot of people reached out and wanted to help,” Rekitzke said. “Many came and dropped off clothes, toys, and anything they could to get us back on our feet. VFW and American Legion Posts as well.”

It can take anywhere from months to years to rebuild a house, depending on the severity of the damage. Based on where the fire took place and how much it got to, more or less time is required. According to Chief Crane a fire doubles every minute without anything fueling the fire.

“The minimum recovery time to get a house repaired after a fire is generally around six months, but I have seen them go as long as three years,” Chief Crane said.

“Trying to figure out what the cause was and if it was an appliance that it can be

segregated against, it gets tied up in court.”

Rekitzke was lucky enough to be on the lower end of the time taking to rebuild, however, it was still months without a home with little to nothing being left and having to start over from scratch.

“My house was rebuilt in the same place was house was originally was. The garage is still the same one from before as well as the tree in front of the house,” Rekitzke said. “Our house was built in 7-9 months.”

When there is a fire made, it needs to be watched and put out properly. Whenever there is a flame or high heat there is the risk of a fire starting from it.

“Don’t be careless with smoking, the use of candles and while cooking. Outdoor campfires should be put out completely when done and attended all the time while burning. Never use gasoline on a campfire,” Wilkening said.

Chief Crane advises readers on what to do during a situation in which a fire breaks out, most of which pertains to being aware of the situation and having an exit plan.

“If there is something going on, you need to call 911 early and then do what you were going to do to combat the fire. To be

HOLIDAY FIRES Be aware of your pet’s location and place burning candles in an area that is not accessible to them

Keep your chimneys and fireplaces clean to avoid any unwanted fires

Don’t leave burning candles near holiday decorations unattended

VIEWS on NEWS [Students’ reactions to events in our world A Hepatitis A Outbreak is occurring in Indiana. There have been almost 700 cases since last November, in comparison to an average of 20 cases per year previously.

‘‘

I’m surprised. That seems like a big jump.

Nick Poulin sophomore

Cheryl Houser senior

In Shenzhen, China buses are making the switch to fully electric in order to help with pollution. All 16,000 buses have been replaced, and taxis are next to make the change.

World

‘‘

I think it is good that everyone was safe and no one was seriously injured.

Delta Airlines is banning emotional support animals from flights that last longer than eight hours. This has come after instances of bizarre service animals.

Nation

Area

State

A woman’s car started smoking in Munster while she was driving on the Borman Expressway. She pulled into a gas station, where it then caught on fire. The woman and her child were both safe.

‘‘

‘‘

I think it’s a bad idea because some people need animals for medical reasons and it could cause problems.

Lily Breuker junior

It’s electric so you don’t have to pollute the sky and that’s pretty cool. Major cities are extremely polluted and it’s difficult to breathe, so electricity is the way Mike Pilovski to go. freshman

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OPINION INKLINGS December 21, 2018

COLUMN

COLUMN

All holiday wishes carry same meaning

Public vs private, does it really matter?

BY TABITHA BEISHUIZEN

BY ASHLEY REKITZKE

editor-at-large

As the holiday season is fully upon us, people are excited to express their thankfulness towards others and wishing them a happy and healthy end to the year. However, with there being many different holidays celebrated in December, the previously used “Merry Christmas” is now being traded in for the more inclusive “Happy Holidays.”

Being someone that celebrates Christmas, I am happy when someone wishes me a “Merry Christmas,” but I’m also happy with a “Happy Holidays.” It doesn’t bother me if they generalize that I celebrate Christmas or if they just say holidays to be sure that whatever I celebrate is included. No one is going to tell you to have a “Merry Christmas” to be rude or mock any other holiday.

The phrase is less about the holiday said and more about the meaning it holds.

While I am aware that there are various other holidays and celebrations going on, I have never seen someone get mad when someone says Christmas to them instead of holidays. In the United States approximately 90% celebrate Christmas, so if there is going to be any generalization made, it makes sense that is was made for Christmas. If the common greeting were to be changed to “Happy Hanukkah” it would be great for all those that celebrated, but it is less likely to fit the common person checking out at the grocery store.

Most of the time the places where these phrases are said are public places, like grocery stores, where the most practical option is to go with what the majority celebrate. And if the people around you are your close friends and family, they would know what you personally celebrate and would wish you that specific holiday greetings. What is said by the general public shouldn’t be something that people hold onto and get mad about because they are usually just saying “Merry Christmas” because that is what they celebrate or it is what they feel the majority of the people they are saying it to are celebrating.

No matter which catchy phrase someone decides to say to you, they all come with the same meaning. Whether they decide to say a specific holiday or not, it isn’t meant to offend anyone.

If you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or any other holiday, the phrases all wish you the best holiday season and new year.

editor-at-large

CARTOON BY DOMINIC THEPHASDIN

Realize that physical belongings are not everything, memories are what are important EDITORIAL After a house fire, people are often times left with nothing but the ruins of what the house used to be. What once was their belongings and the walls that held all of their precious memories are now ashes. While all the physical belonging may be gone, there are still the memories that they carry and you don’t need to have the tangible item to have the memories.

When someone loses all their physical belongings, they do still have the memories behind them. The tangible object they are holding doesn’t make someone happy, it’s the memories they feel when they have the object. While it isn’t nice or fair to have all of you belonging taken away from you, it doesn’t mean the memories one has already formed are gone too. You don’t just lose the memories when you lose the item because those are the things you remember and keep close to you heart, not something your eyes have to see.

Everyone has that one teddy bear or piece of their childhood they have kept with them all these years and that they will continue to keep with them for years to come. It was always there with you at doctors appointments and waiting in the line to see Santa, and it makes sense to be upset once it’s gone, however, it’s not all gone when the item is gone. Just because the item is gone does not mean the memories are gone from it too. The memories don’t just randomly turn negative if they were once positive and the memories don’t have to be forgotten.

You don’t physically have to hold something in your hands for the memory to still be valued. You will always have the memories that your childhood house held. Look at it this way: if you were to move out of the house you grew up in, it is no longer yours. However, the fact that the house doesn’t belong to your family anymore doesn’t mean that you’ll stop cherishing it.

It will always be the place that you once called home and where you made so many memories you wouldn’t even be able to count them all.

SPEAKUP

Griffin Dusseau

What kind of precautions do you/your family take in case of a fire?

Lyla Elliot

freshman

sophomore

“We make that family rule thing where you go to a certain spot, like going outside. So we would go to that place.”

“Well we would grab my sister because she is disabled and leave the house.”

Hailey Escoe junior

“We check our smoke detectors and make sure we have fire extinguishers.”

Joe Kostelnik senior

“None that I know of. Just get out of the house if there’s a fire.”

My whole life I have went to a public school but recently I had the opportunity to shadow my cousin who is a teacher at a private school in the region. It gave me the thought of ‘what makes this any different from public school?’ I came up with two things that could possibly differentiate the two. First off, the education seems to be the same but of course I don’t have to take a religion course.

Secondly, the type of students you interact with are much more diverse in a public school.

The education one receives in a public school is equivalent to the education in a private one.

Although I don’t see a difference in education, a study done by Harvard University shows that private school students averaged higher in standardized tests (11 of 12 students). Private schools are full of privileged students that generally have more opportunities to do well on standardized tests. We are more than just a number, we shouldn’t be defined by it. Private schools don’t have to hire certified teachers but are more likely to hire teachers with higher degrees unlike public schools who have to hire teachers that are statecertified. Private schools generally have smaller classes allowing more attention for students from teachers. Personally, I would enjoy having a smaller class size because my classes are generally larger. So why pay for an education when you are receiving the same for free?

The diversity in public schools is more prevalent than a private school. In public school, the variety of students you will encounter come from different backgrounds, whether that be financially or ethnically.

Private schools are often picked by parents in order for them to associate with a certain peer group. Usually this is based on religion or cultural background. I personally think this a drawback for private schools because the ability to talk to people from different religions and cultures is something you will have to be able to do to be successful in the real world. The social skills I have been able to learn in public school are more substantial than those learned by a private school student. I am not saying they aren’t social but being in public school has allowed me to encounter a variety of students.

Whether you go to a private or public school what is important is that children are receiving the education that best fits their needs.

OPINION

INTHEIR

V I EW

INKLINGS December 21, 2018

5

Should community service be required for graduation?

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Crown Point High School, IN

Vol. 83 Issue 4 - December 21, 2018 1500 S. Main St. Crown Point, IN 46307 219-663-4885 ex. 11349 fax 219-662-5663 inklings@cps.k12.in.us online: www2.cps.k12.in.us/inklings

Aubrey Banks freshman

PRO: “I think

it should because then it shows us some aspects of real life.

We need to know how to help people for when we grow up.”

CARTOON BY MADELYN WHITAKER

Brendan Herr junior

CON: “Diploma Requirements should be based on academics, not community service hours because a diploma is a certificate of education, not a certificate of the combination of academics and community service.”

Stephanie Harnew teacher

PRO: “... Finding out

that community service is required I thought it made you guys a better well-rounded young adult. It makes you go out and see different opportunities that you wouldn’t have otherwise.”

PRO:

Community service helps form responsible students, increases work ethic

BY DOMINIC THEPHASDIN co-online-editor

At school, we are put in the hands of our teachers and administrators so that their collective civil knowledge can be bestowed upon future generations.

It is their responsibility to ensure our prosperity in becoming more active members of society, eventually raising the following generation of youth.

The education system stresses personal responsibility and work ethic, leaving responsibility to one’s community as an afterthought. This is where mandatory community service hours become necessary. Schools cannot rely on all parents to explain the importance of community. While parenting is impossible to mandate, instituting a community service requirement is a simple step towards the unification of the individual and the collective.

Those opposed to the community service requirement argue that students should seek to help others by virtue, rather than requirement. While it is true that a select few charitable students may seek these oppor-

CON:

Community service should not cause unnecessary stress, pressure

BY ALEXANDRA SULEWSKI

Amelia Claus teacher “I don’t think CON: that they should have to do a solid 40 hours, but I think that doing something is probably beneficial. It seems like a lot. Maybe doing something under 40 hours.”

WHATWE

THINK PRO: 11 Inklings Staffers CON: 15 Inklings Staffers

tunities, many students would never have considered community service if it was not required. Those same students may find that they actually enjoy community service, and choose to pursue it further.

Students benefit from community service in almost every way. Those who dislike it may learn humility in working for a cause greater than themselves.

Beyond that, mounting competition for acceptance in universities has led to a nationwide push for community service. For a time, students who did community service were identified as exceptional candidates. Now all students are doing some form of community service, so a requirement is the natural step towards assuring our students’ futures.

When both options are considered, to require community service is to be realistic. The requirement shows that the administration acknowledges that students are unlikely to pursue service by themselves, while still providing them with opportunities. If community service is not required, it will reflect negatively upon both the administration and the students.

assistant editor

Community service is a requirement that all students need to have in order to graduate. This may seem good in theory, but finding 40 hours to dedicate to service hours can be stressful. Although this is beneficial to the community, it can cause issues for students that cannot find the time to complete these hours.

Mandatory service hours may seem like a good way to motivate students to get out, but it hurts the already conscientious students. People that are busy with sports and homework could have a difficult time trying to fit community service into their schedule.

After all of the hard work that they put into perfecting their grades and sports, community service can slip through the cracks. This causes panic when they realize that they need to get their hours in before they graduate.

Another issue is that the nature of the community service seems forced. Students aren’t going to be eager to complete their hours when they feel like they have to do it out of necessity, instead of out of good intentions. This creates a negative connotation with

service in the future, which is the exact opposite of what they are supposed to do.

Despite this, there are some benefits to a community service requirement. It does make a student more well-rounded and broaden their perspective, and it also gets students more involved in improving their surroundings and making a difference. However, students can get involved with service opportunities through organizations like Key Club and National Honors Society, without the unnecessary pressure to do it out of force. Openings would still be available for the students that want them.

Overall, the community service requirement for graduation is stress-inducing and more harsh on busy students. Jobs, sports and homework make it hard to find the time to complete these hours while also trying to fulfill other obligations for graduation. In comparison to everything else that is expected of students, this seems unimportant in the long run, as it does not prevent anyone from giving their time voluntarily. The only difference is that it provides much needed relief from one less thing that has to be done before graduation.

Inklings is a student publication created by the newspaper and advanced journalism students and distributed monthly to students, faculty and staff of Crown Point High School. Opinions do not necessarily reflect those of CPHS faculty, staff or administration.

Letters-to-the-editor are welcomed provided they are signed and submitted one week prior to publication and do not contain personal attacks. Inklings reserves the right to edit for space, clarity and legal and ethical concerns.

Advertising is subject to applicable rates available by contacting Inklings.

Inklings has been recognized as an Indiana High School Press Association Hoosier Star, National Scholastic Press Association Pacemaker, Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Crown, and Quill and Scroll George H. Gallup publication.

co-editors-in-chief Lindsey Baeza Morgan Taylor editors-at-large Tabitha Beishuizen Ashley Rekitzke associate editor Jessi Alcorta-Robles assistant editors Olivia Budzevski Emma Frank Erin Muller Ariana Setlak Alexandra Sulewski sports editors Timmy Abbott Henry Withrow assistant sports editor Gwyn Isaacs online editors Dominic Thephasdin Madelyn Whitaker social media director Cat Padilla advertising editor Elizabeth Gonzalez staff Asmaa Abdeldaiem Nolan Chase Emily Helmuth Jackson Hillman John Jorden Andrew Poeschl Noah Thomas Haley Thornberry Holly Wagner adviser Julie Elston

6

experiencing life beyond the building

FEATURE INKLINGS December 21, 2018

Cedar Lake trees advertise, spread spirit of season

BY OLIVIA BUDZEVSKI assistant editor

Twinkling lights on deep green Douglas-firs line the main streets of Cedar Lake in the Wonderland of Christmas Trees. Citizens can purchase a tree to put on display at this time of year. The trees are distributed through the Chamber of Commerce office, with varying prices.

Each one is decorated for a different purpose, whether it be for advertisement or sentimental value. Senior Chloe Heiny and her family use the tree as an opportunity to honor their loved ones.

“My family has bought a tree for the last three to four years,” Heiny said. “We bought our little sign outside that says ‘In Loving Memory of Shaina Heiny and Marlene Schmitt,’ which is my sister and my grandma. My whole family has grown up in Cedar Lake and everyone lives there. It is kind of our way of celebrating and remembering them over the holidays.”

In addition to providing a sense of commemoration, the trees establish unity among the residents of the area. This can be achieved through active participation and even just observation of the event.

“It really brings the community together. When you are out decorating your tree, there’s normally someone down the street decorating theirs or you drive past and people are decorating,” Heiny said. “Businesses will promote themselves and buy a tree, and it is nice to see businesses supporting Cedar Lake.”

When a business obtains ownership of a tree, they have the ability to advocate their company to all those who pass. This enables smaller organizations, and even the distinguished ones, to spread the word of their services. Senior Jenna Duncan has had experience with this concept.

“My mom has a business in Cedar Lake, Farmer’s Insurance, and for the past couple years she has bought a tree to promote,” Duncan said. “Her tree is always in the same spot, which I think is kind of cool because they keep it consistent throughout the years. I have helped her decorate it and it is really fun.”

When it comes down to it, the decorations are what make each tree stand out.

The choice of embellishments highlights the goal or the purpose intended for the audience.

“In the past couple years, my mom has wanted to make (the tree) look pretty because there’s a contest. During the parade, they have a contest of who has the nicest tree,” Duncan said. “In the past, she has dressed it up like a snowman or like Santa.

This year it’s the 40th anniversary of her business, so it has a big 40 on it.”

For freshman Clare Dillon, the decorations hold a deeper meaning. As opposed to using them for the promotion of a business, her family takes this chance to spread awareness.

“My grandma and two of my aunts

BY

THE

#

iL ION FE

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHLOE HEINY Senior Chloe Heiny stands next to the tree her family purchased in honor of her sister and grandmother. Her dad and aunt came up with the idea five years ago, after the passing of her grandmother. Ever since then, the Heiny family has made it a tradition to buy a tree and dedicate it to the memory of their loved ones.

died of different kinds of cancers, so we decorate the tree for them,” Dillon said.

“Sometimes we will do it with different ribbons for the different types of cancer that they had.”

This event can become more than just a one-time task. Some individuals decide to partake in it every year.

“I think we started the tree once my grandma died, so we’ve been doing it since I was in first grade,” Dillon said. “I’m in ninth grade, so it’s been nine years.”

Holidays are often associated with a

144 trees around the lake

dominant symbol of the season. The classic Christmas tree is an example of this concept. It has the ability to impact the moods of those invested in the tradition.

“I think it is really nice, especially for kids,” Duncan said. “When their parents are driving down the road, they can see Christmas trees. They put them around the town way before Thanksgiving, so I feel like it gets everyone in the Christmas spirit.”

The trees are more than just a way to spread the spirit of the season. They repre-

$78 price for nonchamber members

Leos and Sons

sent the importance of taking a moment to reflect. Heiny feels as though this is the meaning of the event itself.

“It is a nice way to stop and remember my family, especially around the holidays when it’s harder without them because everything is a little different,” Heiny said.

“To me, it just means remembrance. You just go through the motions everyday and you’re not always thinking about them, and then you pass that tree and it’s a nice little thought.”

donates the trees for the event each year

Over

12

years of the Christmas trees being around the lake

FEATURE INKLINGS December 21, 2018

7

Daylight savings warrants consideration of time management

BY EMMA FRANK HOLLY WAGNER assistant editor reporter

As the air turns colder and winter begins to set in, many students are striving to reach the end of the semester. On Dec. 21 the winter solstice will cause the shortest day of sunlight and longest night of the year. With less daylight, students and staff may find themselves arriving and leaving school in the dark.

Finding ways to adjust and make the most out of the winter days is essential to students and faculty like Health teacher Blake Yeager. With limited free time during the week, it can be important to designate time for certain activities.

“Most days in the winter I am at the school from five in the morning until 5:30 p.m. at night. During the winter I do not get to see much sunlight except when I am in the building. On the weekends, we usually have swim meets on Saturdays so my only free day is on Sunday. Sundays I work on renovating my house,” Yeager said.

Despite the little amount of time Yeager gets to enjoy the daylight, he wants to remind others not to take it for granted,

and that taking time to appreciate the moments one gets in the sun is important for those who do not get to indulge in it.

“Take advantage of the time you have with the sunlight. Even if it is going to the mall or doing something outside for a short period of time. Also be thankful for the people that work all day outside everyday whether it is 110 degrees outside or zero degrees outside,” Yeager said.

Groups of students who spend most of their day at school find it hard to see a glimpse of the sun since most of the classrooms do not have windows to see it through. Because of sports, extracurricular activities and jobs, students, like senior Stephanie Bandwell, may find themselves in a conflicting situation.

“When I get to leave school I go straight to work and by the time I get home I can barely do my homework, because I feel like I should be asleep instead of staying up working on it all night,” Bandwell said.

The time change that occurs can cause a loss of sleep and fatigued students. Teachers like Yeager try to cut students a break since they understand what the students are going through.

“Students I have to talk a little more to determine why they are tired. For instance

I have much less sympathy for those who are tired due to staying up playing video games all night compared to those studying all night or having family issues at home,” said Yeager.

Creating a routine that adds ease to a students morning is essential to junior Skylar Golding. According to Golding, the steps she takes make it much easier to push through her morning routine when she is tired.

“I write down everything I need to do and accomplish that day in order to stay on top of things and I pick out clothes the night before to make it easier to get ready,” Golding said.

The winter solstice creates dark mornings and for the sun to set as early as four in the afternoon. Sophomore Phillip Branoski is a new driver and believes that more caution should be taken by all drivers will traveling during the winter days.

“I just feel like people should be more careful driving in the dark since it gets dark earlier. People should make sure there lights are on, they are paying attention and students are cautious of others around them,” Branowski said.

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your outfits the 3 Plannight before Having clothes chosen for the day can allow you to get ready faster.

the morning, according to Golding, and that especially when driving, it is important to be alert so creating a playlist of songs that one enjoys can eliminate the time they spend distracted from the road.

“Pay attention the whole time and don’t check your phone, make a playlist of music so you don’t have to worry about changing songs or radio stations,” Golding said.

Finding activities to participate in during these darker months is fairly easy, according to junior Dillion Skellion, and despite the lack of sunlight one is exposed to, it does not mean that students have nothing to do.

“I think people should take advantage of the time they have through going to dinner, ice skating in the cold weather at Deep River or any of the other rinks, or just plain drinking hot chocolate in the car or spending the night at a friends,” Skellion said.

Whether one’s outlook on winter months is good or bad, making the most of this time is important to some. It is believed, using strategies to ease life could change the way winter months are experienced.

4 Eat mood-boosting foods With the lack of sunlight, foods high in vitamin D can help put you in a happier mood.

2018: year in review

FEATURE INKLINGS December 21, 2018

[under construction] On the Square

Main Street

Pho Hoa (new) Jimmy John’s (new) Pop’s (moved) Los Tacos (new) Dominos (moved) BMV (moved) McDonald’s (renovations)

On Broadway

Casey’s gas station (new) Pita Pit (new) Chipotle (in the works) Uptown Cafe (new) Red Mango (new)

Other Additions

YMCA (renovations) Bulldog Park (new) Generation Nutrition (new) Steamwhistle Coffee Roasters (new) Smart Belly (new) Government center (moving)

‘‘

Steamwhistle Coffee Roasters is a small cafe located on Court Street that serves food and drinks.

Rebuilding the Bulldogs • 120 cameras added • limited number of students in the learning commons • stricter attendance policy • stricter consent forms to authorize sex education • more lenient dress code • added graduation pathways (ASVAB)

ENTERTAINMENT

Sure-fire Tattoos (new) Provecho Latin Provisions (new) Sidewalk renovations Theater (in the works)

It was a really eye-opening experience. We did not expect as good of a turn out but we were really grateful for the school and administration supporting us as well as the students who participated and helped remember the students of Stoneman Douglas with us. senior, co-organizer Sofia Espinoza

[movies]

Taking the Stage

Black Panther Love, Simon A Quiet Place Avengers: Infinity War Incredibles 2 Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again A Star is Born

[Radium Girls]

With $501 million in North America and $897 million worldwide, Black Panther has become the biggest non-sequel and nonensemble superhero flick of all time.

‘‘ ‘‘ ‘‘

[tv shows]

(I loved) performing with all my friends. I loved that the characters we played were all real characters and it was a true story.

Everyone worked together very well to put on a great show. I had so much fun with everyone and I’m excited for what’s to come.

Queer Eye Maniac Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

...

Atlanta: Season 2 13 Reasons Why: Season 2 Rick and Morty: Season 3 American Vandal: Season 2 Big Mouth: Season 2

sophomore Payton Smith

Donald Glover, also known as Childish Gambino, not only stars in “Atlanta,” but also writes and directs it.

My favorite part was being able to tell a true story that affected so many people. Being able to tell their story was an absolute honor. Their tale truly is one to put in the history books and learn a very valuable lesson from.

[music] Cardi B: Invasion of Privacy Post Malone: Beerbongs & Bentleys Father John Misty: God’s Favorite Customer Drake: Scorpion Travis Scott: Astroworld Death Cab for Cutie: Thank You for Today Ariana Grande: Sweetner

senior Jared Wood

My favorite thing about Radium Girls was having so many costumes and wigs. I played a few different characters, so I had a lot of wig and costume changes and that was so much fun.

Ariana Grande’s Sweetner dedicates 40 seconds of silence to the Manchester bombing victims.

PHOTO BY ASHLEY REKITZKE

[video games] Fortnite Spider-Man NBA 2K19 Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 Red Dead Redemption 2 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

[town triumphs]

Varsity dance team places first at State Nick Ryan places first at State for long jump and sets school record at 23 feet, 5 inches Maddie Russin places first at State for the 800m run and sets school record at 2:12.34 minutes Both girls’ and boys’ varsity cross country teams qualifies for state Tennis player Leyton Noerenberg wins Regionals and makes it to SemiState for individuals Varsity football wins Sectionals for the third time in a row Varsity girls’ basketball begins season with 12 wins and 0 losses

Alexandria-Ocasio Cortez: youngest woman ever elected to Congress Kalan Haywood: youngest legislator in U.S elected to Wisconsin’s state assembly

ETHNICITY Ayanna Pressley: Massachusetts’ first black Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, Veronica Escobar: Texas’ first Latinx Congresswomen Sharice Davids, Deb Haaland: first Native American women elected to Congress Joe Neguse: first black Congressperson elected by Colorado Michelle Lujan Grisham: first Latinx governor of New Mexico Letita James: first black woman Attorney General of New York Jahana Hayes: first black woman elected to Congress by Connecticut Young Kim: first Korean-American woman elected to Congress

GENDER

Marsha Blackburn: first woman Senator from Tennessee Janet Mills: Maine’s first female governor Kristi Noem: South Dakota’s first female governor Abby Finkenauer, Cindy Axne: first women sent to the House by Iowa

RELIGION

Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar: first Muslim women elected to Congress Keith Ellison: Minnesota’s first Muslim statewide official by winning Attorney General

‘‘

senior Emma Peterson

SEXUALITY

Jared Polis: America’s first openly gay governor by winning Colorado Chris Pappas: first openly gay Congressperson elected by New Hampshire Angie Craig: first lesbian mother in Congress after winning Minnesota’s 2nd district

BY LINDSEY BAEZA MORGAN TAYLOR ASHLEY REKITZKE co-editors-in-chief editor-at-large

Worldwide Wins Super Bowl LII

Philadelphia Eagles

World Series Boston Red Sox

NBA Finals

Golden State Warriors

Stanley Cup

The Washington Capitals

World Cup

France national team

“Oh My” Moments

[History in the Making] Firsts of Midterm Elections AGE

9

NATIONAL

From left to right, senior Nick Nunez, sophomore Anthony Saberniak and senior Drew Holok. Both boys’ and girls’ cross country teams qualified for the state.

junior Maria Jeffirs

My favorite part about the Little Mermaid was playing both Ariel and Flounder along with Paige. It was a great experience to play the leads of a Disney production and I was able to learn a lot from both characters.

Junior Ben Zirkle, along with other students, walks outside of the school with his fist in the air after leading the Mar. 14 walkout outside. The walkout was planned to be held in the gymnasium, but students followed Zirkle outside.

SPORTS

- Duck boat tragedy - California wildfires - Hurricanes Florence & Michael - Prince Harry & Meghan Markle royal wedding - Pittsburgh Synagogue shooting - Journalists killed in Maryland Capital Gazette shooting - Toys“R”Us goes bankrupt - Mysterious packages, threats sent to major political figures/corporations - IHOb stunt

[political controversy]

PHOTO BY ASHLEY REKITZKE

REGION REPORT

PHOTO BYGRACE KUHLMAN

FEATURE INKLINGS December 21, 2018

MEMORIALS

8

- Democrats take over house majority in midterms - Brett Kavanaugh accused of sexual assault - Parkland shooting sparks movements such as #March4OurLives and #NeverAgain - Jim Acosta press pass is revoked - Trump administration issues family separation policy

Remembering Lost People Dennis Edwards: lead singer of The Temptations Hubert de Givenchy: French fashion designer Stephen Hawking: theoretical physicist Avicii: musician Verne Troyer: known for role as “Mini-Me” in Austin Powers Dwight Clark: football wide receiver Kate Spade: American fashion designer Anthony Bourdain: chef Aretha Franklin: singer John McCain: former U.S. Senator Mac Miller: musician Stan Lee: writer of Marvel comics Stephen Hillenburg: animator of SpongeBob George H. W. Bush: former U.S. President

photos provided by creative commons

10

FEATURE

INKLINGS December 21, 2018

Keeping clear of awkward conversations during the holidays It is sometimes implied that kids should be having fun during high school and not have many worries. On the contrary, the stress from the mental and physical aspects of life can weigh down on a student, adding on social expectations can cause further pressure.

First, getting to know another person can be considered the most tedious part of making friends. Junior Maddie Bahl has experienced not knowing how to keep a conversation going with a new friend.

“There was a lot of awkward pauses and the conversation was dull.

I tried to bring up topics that we have in common with each other, but the conversation eventually died out and we ended up doing

“I don’t want to cause arguments therefore I try to avoid those topics. Also, I don’t completely understand politics so I tend to avoid that topic because I don’t have the right knowledge about it and I wouldn’t want to say something incorrect,” Bahl said.

On the other hand, speech and debate teacher and coach Lisa Keene offers a course that encourages students to discuss such controversial topics.

“I actually have decided not to censor my students topics that they discuss. Topics like abortion, possibly gun control. There were a few hot topics that I just thought were asking for trouble.

Then I had an in depth conversation with several students about this then I realized that this is the only place, journalism and debate class, where they actually can talk about that,” Keene said. “If they can’t talk about it here, in a con-

our own thing for the rest of the class,” Bahl said.

When trying to keep a conversation going, it can be beneficial to not discus taboo topics. While others may be well versed in some subjects others may not, or they may not feel comfortable discussing certain ideas. Sophomore Harry Smith puts himself in the other person’s position.

“I typically try to avoid topics that could be considered personal, I also won’t ask questions that I wouldn’t liked to be asked. I don’t want to make the other person uncomfortable and it could also start an argument that isn’t necessary,” Smith said.

While others may be well versed in some subjects others may not be. Some people try to avoid religion and politics in their conversations so they do not engage in a confrontation, or because they do not want to talk on something they are not knowledgeable about.

EXPERIENCES "An awkward conversation I have had included questions about a friend but I brushed off the question because I don’t want to say something about my friend that they would not want me to tell others," Smith said.

“One awkward conversation I’ve had was with a friend of mine when we first became friends. There was a lot of awkward pauses and the conversation was dull. We ended up doing our own thing for the rest of the class," Bahl said.

trolled and logical environment, then where can they talk about it?

So I decided that as long as we are using evidence based off of legitimate sources that it would be allowed.”

Keene explains how her life experiences have made it easier for her to carry on conversations even if they include some uncomfortable topics.

“I’ve reached the age where I’ve had most of those in depth and late night conversations and I’ve kind of formed my moral compass and formed my opinions. There is still room for me to change,” Keene said. “I do read and I try to make sure that I read media outlets on both sides of the outlets so that I understand what they could possibly be saying on each side, and then look for the truth in the middle. I consider the source and try to figure out what that sides agenda is, what they are trying to get across and why.”

Lisa Keene’s Tips for going into a controversial conversation 1.Research both sides of the argument 2. Look for the truth in the middle

ADVICE

3. Consider all sources

“Change the topic of the conversation. This way, you don't have to discuss the thing that was making the conversation awkward in the first place," Bahl said.

4. Acknowledge each side's agenda 5. Don’t attack anyone’s beliefs 6. Offer evidence to support your beliefs 7. Follow the rules of the first amendment

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11

EXTRA POINTS

SPORTS INKLINGS December 21, 2018

‘‘ Starting the season off strong and winning important matchups is really helping our confidence going forward. We have a nice shot this year.

Jake Burford senior

POLL Will the Chicago Bears participate in this year’s Super Bowl?

84 yes 53 no OUT OF 137 STUDENTS POLLED

HOT TAKES

“The Bulls will not win a championship for the next 10 seasons. Their lineups and potential does not mesh and their coaching has been an issue.”

-Jackson Hillman

My moment of the month ... “...putting up 22 points and 11 rebounds against Munster. I feel like it helped us get an important overtime win.”

Senior Sam Snodgrass

Basketball

PHOTO BY OLIVIA BUDZEVSKI Freshman Jessica Carrothers driving the ball to the basket against the Lake Central Indians. Carrothers put up 24 points in the Bulldogs’ 54-21 victory last Friday night.

Freshman Jessica Carrothers making a splash nationally

BY NOAH THOMAS reporter The bell rings at CPHS at 2:37 p.m. every day. It’s a time where everyone goes home to do homework and relax. Except for sports teams and athletes at Crown Point High School and the girls’ basketball team, and freshman Jessica Carrothers is no exception.

“Practice usually lasts two hours. We work very hard in practice every day. We end up staying until about 5:30 p.m.,” Carrothers said.

Carrothers is scoring 22 points a game with 3 assists, 6 rebounds and 5 steals. The Bulldogs have stormed out to a 13-0 record and are ranked top 15 in the state.

“I think being ranked that high is good and all, but I think if we keep working we can improve and work our way up the ranking scale even more,” Carrothers said. “The expectation is just to get better each and everyday. We all work hard in practice and this allows us to get better as a whole.”

Head coach Chris Seibert uses her in many ways and sees her as the most flexible player on the court.

“Jessica has made a huge impact on our team so far this season. She is our starting point guard, leading scorer and an all-around great basketball player. She can affect the game in so many ways, whether that is through shooting, passing, rebounding or making plays on the defensive end of the floor,” Seibert said.

Seibert has a lot of respect for Carrothers’ hard work, which comes into play on the court and in the classroom.

“Jessica works extremely hard every day in practice. She has a tremendous work ethic and this allows her to play major minutes for us on game nights without needing to come out for

rest. She seems to get stronger as the game goes on and when other players are starting to get tired and wear down, she is just starting to play her best,” Seibert said. “She exemplifies the term student-athlete and takes her work in the classroom seriously. Jessica will be the first to tell you that she always has areas that she can improve on. She is concentrating on expanding her range

PHOTO BY OLIVIA BUDZEVSKI Freshman Jessica Carrothers running to save a loose ball.

on her three point shot and working on making it more consistent.”

Carrothers has multiple colleges that are scouting her for basketball. Typically, players don’t begin to receive much attention from col-

leges until later on in their careers.

Fellow teammate and senior Ellie VanDeel feels Carrothers represents what a Bulldog is on and off the court.

“Jess is a good example of a Crown Point Bulldog; she does well in school while also balancing basketball and a good attitude. She has a very strong work ethic at practice and even outside of practice,” VanDeel said. “I think we have a good relationship on and off the court, the whole team is very connected and it feels good to play with someone like her. I can’t wait to see what the future brings for our team. She plays like she’s way older, she is very strategic and takes care of the ball and doesn’t make the mistakes that you would expect most freshmen to make. I think we are just now starting to discover our goals; the biggest thing is to secure a sectional championship.”

Carrothers said that her family has motivated her to play basketball and do it at a high level.

“My dad and my mom motivated me to be the player I am today. I’d play basketball for Highland Buddy Ball, and then eventually I started playing AAU. I’d work out all the time with my dad,” Carrothers said.

Carrothers eats a carb loaded diet for energy and also has a lucky routine.

“Usually the day before game days, I eat spaghetti or pasta to have energy the day before a game. It is tradition to share a Snickers bar with Alyna Santiago at the start of the second period of the JV game,” Carrothers said.

Carrothers and the Bulldogs are looking to finish strong the rest of the year and are eyeing a sectional, regional and potentially a semi-state and state appearance.

Girls swimming starts off regular season with 4-2 record

BY HENRY WITHROW co-sports editor

Throughout rigorous training and practices during the offseason and first half of the season, the Lady Bulldogs Swim Team is nearing the halfway point of their 2018-19 season. Starting off 4-2 with losses to Chesterton and Munster, the Lady Bulldogs expect positive results for the second half of the year.

In order to work off of their

start to the season and capitalize as the midway mark hits, the Lady Bulldogs make sure to focus on staying in shape in order to compete against tough schools. With AP and DC classes, it can be tough to balance hours of practice, a social life and school work. However, junior Jordan Artim believes she does well with balancing it all.

“I make sure to eat healthy

foods for the most part. I make sure to stretch out if I’m ever feeling sore or I sometimes get a massage too,” Artim said. “I make sure to use my time wisely. I can’t really afford to waste any time so if I every have free time I make sure to try to get my school work done as soon as possible, so I don’t have to stress about it later. If we have an away meet and I have a lot of

homework I try to do some of it on the bus ride or during the diving break. The coaches are super understanding if we have a lot of tests or homework and try to work with us so we can do that and still get in to practice.”

On Jan. 3, the Lady Bulldogs will head to Portage to take on the Indians in a head-to-head conference matchup.

12

SPORTS INKLINGS December 21, 2018

Bulldogs basketball focuses on improvement during season

COLUMN Kyler Murray’s old tweets shouldn’t be held against him

BY HENRY WITHROW co-sports editor

PHOTO BY JESSI ALCORTA-ROBLES Sophomore Ty Smith driving to basket to set up a play for his teammates against the East Chicago Cardinals. The Bulldogs will face off against New Albany on Dec. 27.

BY JACKSON HILLMAN reporter

This season, the basketball team started the first five games with a 4-1 record, only losing to Penn in early Dec. The boys’ offense has thrived in the 4th quarter and has been using a fast tempo approach to score fast break buckets. They have capitalized on turnovers and are scoring many points behind the three point line. One player who is looking to capitalize on turnovers this season is senior Sam Krutz.

“So far, I think that the season has been going well. Our main focus and what the coaches preach is just getting better each day at practice and focusing on ourselves, not so much the teams on our schedule. If we do that then the wins will come,” Krutz said. “We want to try and get out and run in transition so we can use some of our speed to get some points. This postseason we all have the goal to win the sectional on our home floor; that would mean a lot to all of us, especially the seniors of the group.”

Many seniors like Krutz will be departing after this season. Varsity players are looking

to beat their 11-13 record last year and handle competition when it comes to sectionals. One senior who is ready for this season’s challenge is senior Sam Snodgrass. He is one of the leading scorers for the Bulldogs and has been pulling down many defensive boards in his first couple of games. He is looking forward to the rest of the season and is confident heading into the postseason.

“This season we have big expectations for ourselves, having almost everyone back from last season. Last year was a learning experience for the whole team and it was all our first time playing with each other,” Snodgrass said.

“Now that this is our final season, a majority of us are ready to do big things. We take everything one day at a time and our main goal is to just keep getting better and to work on the things that we need to in order to be a successful team once sectionals come around.”

The fans, coaches, and players believe the team has played well so far and the team chemistry is developing each game. Coach Clint Swan has been the head coach for boys basketball at Crown Point for over 10 years and is

impressed with the boys’ play so far.

“Thus far, we have been pleased with the progress of the team. We have played a challenging schedule that we felt would give us a clear idea of where we are at this point. To have won four out of our first five is gratifying, but we still have a lot of areas where we need work. Offensively, we need to be more consistent in our execution and turn the ball over less,” Swan said. “Defensively, I wish we were forcing more turnovers, but we have done a nice job at that end of the floor. Hopefully, we keep making strides. Our sectional is going to be a challenging one, but it should be wide open. Having it at home will be nice. Hopefully, we can keep improving so that we are playing our best basketball at the end of the year.”

The team feels that Swan’s inspiring words have helped them earn their record, and with improvements made throughout the season, they feel primed for more success.

The Bulldogs will head to Kankakee Valley on Dec. 20 to face off against the Kougars.

Grind continues for wrestling as regular season progresses

BY TIMMY ABBOTT co-sports editor

This past Wednesday marked the wrestling team’s tenth win of their still relatively young season.

They defeated Hobart by a score of 45-15 in front of a large crowd.

So far this season, in addition to the Hobart win, the Bulldogs have victories over LaPorte and Lake Central. They went 3-2 at the Shamrock Duals and 4-1 at the Traicoff Tournament, and lost to Chesterton at a separate meet.

With Wednesday’s win, the Bulldogs’ total record improved to 10-4. After carrying very high expectations for the team’s success before the season began, senior Caden Rice and the rest of the team aren’t quite happy with their

overall performance yet.

“We aren’t satisfied with our record. We know we are better than that, but it’s nothing to pout about,” Rice said. “We know what we have done wrong and now it’s all about working harder to improve and correct those mistakes.

We still have a lot of season left and we’re excited to get after it.”

A chunk of the success that the Bulldogs have had this season has come from a new face on the team, freshman Jesse Mendez.

Prior to even enrolling in high school, he became a USA National Champion five times while also winning gold at many notable tournaments such as the Super32 and the Grappling Fall Classic.

His middle school performance has translated into high

school success so far this season, as he is still undefeated to this point. He accredits much of his performance to his work ethic and outside motivators.

“My biggest focus going forward, to make sure my record stays the way it is, is to keep working hard,” Mendez said. “I have some of the best partners and coaches I can ask for that push me in the weight room every day to get better.”

The impact that Mendez and other young wrestlers have had on the team has fueled what Rice called an “action-packed” start to the season. Head coach Branden Lorek is pleased with how they have meshed with the rest of the older wrestlers, and he understands that they still have even

more room to grow as the postseason approaches.

“The team’s performance has been good so far, and they consistently are working hard and making progress as a team. We have a long way to go, but I believe the team is trending upward, and we all are looking forward to where we can be as a team in January and February,” Lorek said. “Each wrestler is learning what their role on the team is, and I believe we have our entire team focused on the same goal, which is getting better each week and helping everyone on the team reach their potential.”

The Bulldogs will continue their quest toward that goal tonight at 6:30 p.m. when they face Portage on their home mats.

2018, apparently, has been the year for digging up old problematic social media posts as multiple public figures have been victimized for posting inappropriate words on their social media accounts up to nine years ago. From Kevin Hart to Trevor Noah, it seems as if everybody’s old tweets are unsafe from the public. Most recently, Oklahoma’s quarterback Kyler Murray’s immoral tweets from 2011 and 2012 were uncovered on USA Today the night he won the Heisman trophy.

Yes, everyone should know to not post slurs on social media, but you cannot blame a freshman in high school for making that bad decision.

Everybody makes mistakes in their lives, and most learn from those mistakes. People need to let Kyler Murray live and not let his past actions affect who he is now. Murray has very important decisions to focus on and should not have to worry about people being upset about an inappropriate tweet he made when he was 14-years-old.

Instead, the public needs to focus more heavily on Murray’s incredible accomplishments. Murray is the only college athlete to win the Heisman Award and be drafted to a professional sports team other than football. He threw for 4,053 yards on the season and completed 71 percent of his 340 pass attempts. If that wasn’t enough to show his talent, he also threw 40 touchdown passes on the season while throwing only seven interceptions. Leading his team to the college football playoff, he has a great shot against a powerful Alabama football squad.

While it should be known that nobody should care about his tweets from seven years ago, it should also be known that he is human and deals with problems as well.

Murray needs to decide if he will go to the NFL or the MLB. He has recently signed a $4.8 million contract with the Oakland A’s but is still deciding whether he will continue his football career or not.

There are numerous stories about this dilemma he faces, but realistically it is nobody’s decision besides his.

Murray has been faced with too much adversity as of late and it is best for him and his future that he is left alone.

SPORTS INKLINGS December 21, 2018

Boys swimming prepares for long-awaited sectional meet

BY ELIZABETH GONZALEZ advertising editor

With high hopes set on placing second in sectionals, the boys swim team is gliding through the season ready to put in the work necessary to reach their goals.

With only one head-tohead loss on the season so far, the Bulldogs are focusing on building up their speed and endurance. Completing many sprints with very little cool downs at practice can be quite agonizing, yet with their goals in mind, senior Zeke Huls and his teammates continue to persevere throughout the season.

“Our biggest competition this year would be Lake Central because they will also be competing for second, but our hard work at practice is preparing us to swim our fastest at the larger meets,” Huls said.

The Dogs versed Rensselaer this past Thursday, and won.

They anticipate this victory being a good indication of how they will perform at the Highland invite that takes place on Dec. 28.

“We don’t prepare for individual meets, just the end goal as a whole. We’re trying to sharpen our skills throughout the season,” Coach Brian Tripper said.

Since the swim season coincides with a lot of the major holidays, the family aspect that the CPHS swim team provides becomes more evident for junior Alex McCormick.

“For swimming, I would say it is less of a team and more of a family. I have had friends on this team since I was five because the club swim program starts so early. It is so nice to see all my best friends every day,” McCormick said.

The boys describe the atmosphere of the team as similar to one big friendship. Of course, there is competition within the team, but at the end of the day, the Dogs recognize that in order to meet their goals they must better themselves as a team.

It is also very important to McCormick that they prepare not only physically for these big meets, but loosen up with some fun traditions as well.

“I’d have to say my favorite tradition would be teepee night.

We all get together at someone’s house and make posters for them for sectionals,” McCormick said. “Then, we assign different groups of guys to different girls’ houses to teepee. It is a good break from the pressure that pre-sectionals can bring.”

DAC will be held on Jan. 26, a month from now, at Lake Central. Between now and then, the Dogs state that they will push themselves to new limits in order to reach the goals they set out to achieve.

13

Undefeated streak continues for girls basketball Gymnastics

prepares to begin official season

BY GWYN ISAACS assistant sports editor

Defending their title, the girls basketball team is looking to continue with their winning streak.

The team has gone 13-0 so far this season, and they are planning on keeping it that way as they get deeper into regular season play.

The team started out hot this year as a result of the girls putting in countless hours of intensive work. Coach Seibert believes the team’s defense is a strong component that the team possesses.

“Our season has started off well as a result of the time and dedication that the girls have put into the off season. They worked extremely hard at improving in all facets of their game. Throughout this season, the girls have been great on the defensive end of the floor,” Seibert said. “Our pressure defense has been our one constant on a night-to-night basis. This has allowed us to push in transition and score when we get numbers advantages. We are also much more balanced offensively. We have had at least three players score in double figures in 10 of our 12 games so far this season.”

Not only has the team ensured victory by improving their defense, the team also creates a positive environment to compete in. Senior Caitlyn Phillips believes this year’s team chemistry is keeping the team in good spirits.

“This year, the team’s chemistry has been really good. Everyone has a good relationship with everyone and we have fun together which helps us a lot on the court.

Everyday we go to practice and make sure we’re getting better and competing, either with ourselves or the junior varsity team. Also, we have tried to play at a much faster pace and want to turn our defense into our offense,” Phillips said.

The team has mentally improved from last season. The team goes into every game with a positive attitude no matter how competitive the opposing team is.

“This year is so different because we are the aggressor in every game. We are confident going into every game and don’t change the way we play no matter who we’re playing,” Phillips said. “Everyday all of us get to enjoy playing basketball because we’re in an environment that is so successful and positive.”

The team plans to use its op-

BY ELIZABETH GONZALEZ advertising editor

PHOTO BY JESSI ALCORTA-ROBLES Junior Abby Stoddard shooting a layup to increase the Bulldogs’ lead against Lowell.

‘‘

Everyone has a good relationship with everyone and we have fun together which helps us a lot on the court. senior Caitlyn Phillips

timistic attitude to reach its goals for the season. The Bulldogs have high hopes of winning sectionals.

“The biggest goal is to win sectionals and keep on winning further into the postseason. Right now we have to take each game one at a time and get better everyday and hopefully we will eventually reach that goal,” Phillips said.

Another strong component the team has is the leadership from

all of the seniors. The seniors act as role models on the court for the underclassmen, which helps the younger players’ skill set.

“We have four tremendous seniors who each impact our team in different but important ways. Their leadership ability on and off the floor is a major reason we have had a successful start to our season. They embody the term ‘student athlete’ as each excels not only on the court, but also in the classroom and in the community. They don’t worry about individual statistics and are all selfless leaders,” Seibert said.

“This leadership has helped make our younger players feel welcome and valued. This created a positive culture both on the court and in the locker room.”

The girls will compete on Dec. 27 at the North Lakes Invite.

In a sport that has many events that are individualized, the Bulldogs are putting emphasis on togetherness and the team aspect. Junior Eleni Kostouros is satisfied with her teammates’ support system.

“It looks like it is just me and the beam, but my whole team is up there with me the whole time,” Kostouros said.

The girls are putting in hard work on and off the mat to attain the success they want this year. With the cornerstone of this year being team bonding, lots of sleepovers and movie nights will be in order to bring the team together to reach their high goals.

Team captain juniors Madison Rolle and Katie Smith take their jobs very seriously. Trying to motivate and set positive examples throughout the season is what the girls are striving to do. Most importantly, they want to instill the love for gymnastics they have developed over the three years in others.

“What I love most about gymnastics is not only the feeling of having success with my team, but the bond I have built with my teammates. My teammates are like my second home,” Rolle said.

With a good team bond established, sophomore Leah Dexter and the rest of the team went into the LaPorte Invite with confidence this past weekend.

“We overall had a very good start to the exciting season we have ahead of us,” Dexter said.

Last year, the girls were able to make it to sectionals scoring their highest score of the season.

Although they did not advance to regionals, the girls agreed that they were proud of the way they finished.

“We competed the best we could all season and we knew that our coaches were very proud of us. This season I think that we can make it further; we just have to work hard at practice and keep encouraging each other,” junior Madison Rolle said.

Looking to continue the trend of hard work, they hope to perform well on Jan. 3 when they face Valparaiso away from home.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT INKLINGS December 21, 2018

INREVIEW

“The Lightning Thief” comes to Broadway in Chicago

YouTube Rewind 2018

BY MORGAN TAYLOR co-editor-in-chief

Compared to YouTube Rewinds of the past, this one was very unsatisfactory. It was filled with cheesy skits and did not have enough popular YouTube personalities compared to past rewinds.

At the time of writing this, the video has received over 10 million dislikes, and surpassed Justin Bieber’s “Baby” as the most disliked YouTube video of all time after being out for less than a month.

The latest off-Broadway show has hit Chicago and it features the nostalgic story our generation loved. “The Lightning Thief” follows the Percy Jackson book series but in an innovative musical form. Cast member Jorrel Javier (Grover) is looking forward to the show to go on tour.

“I’m so excited to tour with my wonderful cast-mates and bring this show to fans both old and new. I’m very excited to bring this show to people who could not see it in its original run,” Javier said.

Storylines are easily relatable to common experiences, according to Javier. He believes that’s why the show will resonate with all audiences.

“Seeing characters that I relate to on a stage is very empowering and helps to make the show a much more personalized experience. At the very root of this musical lies a message about finding strength in your individuality and navigating through life and its trials. Percy being an underdog who feels he can’t do anything right, Grover’s own personal journey for redemption, and Annabeth struggling to receive the overdue recognition she deserves,” Javier said. “These are all human experiences that teens and adults alike go through; things I still go through today.

The characters in this show are real humans going through

Fuller House season 4 With the excitement of yet another season being made months ago, views couldn’t wait to see the newest season. The nostalgic feeling of the iconic characters and catchphrases has gone away, yet it is still generating new plotlines and it is an easy show to throw on to pass time.

McDonald’s Sweet Tea Nothing is better than going to get a sweet drink after a long day at school.

The tea is very sweet and is definitely worth the $1 price. Now that the Crown Point McDonald’s is open again, the sweet treat can be enjoyed again.

Eggnog Although it may be praised as the epitome of Christmas in liquid form, eggnog is unnaturally thick and disgusting. This viscous mixture of eggs and cream does little to embody the Christmas season and could easily be traded out with hot chocolate.

Generation Nutrition Generation Nutrition is a new protein shake place which is located right off the square. The menu has over 75 flavors to choose from and offers oatmeal bowls, protein bars and iced coffee also.

The place itself is inviting and a great way to go back and time and enjoy what they have to offer.

what we do on a daily basis, and throughout the duration of the show, you just might find that these characters are not that different from you, your friends, or your family members.”

The book series not only resonated with members of the cast, but with students at CPHS as well. Senior Maddy Berger found a love for the book’s Greek mythology and relatable storylines, which she believes is what made kids like the series.

“I love musicals and reading so it is really cool to see those two elements combined so that fans can see their favorite books in a different medium and people who haven’t read the books can learn about them and maybe read the series too,” Berger said. “I always loved

all the Percy Jackson books because they easily melded Greek and Roman mythology with storylines kids could follow and be interested in. Those books were very informative and interesting, and allowed me to connect with others who had read them too.”

According to Javier, the musical follows the books as opposed to the movie. Berger is glad the public is able to see the books portrayed in a different format because she felt the movies were simply not as enjoyable as the books.

“I was so excited to hear there’s a musical about Percy Jackson. It was one of my favorite book series when I was younger and I’m so glad it is getting a chance to be shown to

both fans and the general public as a musical since the movies did not do the book series justice,” Berger said.

Anyone can fall in love with “The Lightning Thief” according to Javier. He thinks it is a show everyone can enjoy.

“This is a musical for all ages. And it does not matter whether or not you have read the books, everyone across the board will have a great time,” Javier said.

Javier states that when seeing the show keep a broad view and savor the performance.

“I would offer that they come in with an open mind, an open heart, and prepare to have a great time,” Javier said. “Because the show is a blast.”

Christkindlmarket brings German heritage to Chicago

BY TABITHA BEISHUIZEN editor-at-large

It is the time of year again when Christmas spirit is filling the streets, some of which spread all the way to Chicago, Naperville, and Milwaukee. The Christkindlmarket is a Germanthemed holiday market with the closest location being at the Daley Center in Chicago.

One of the main attractions at the market is the authentic German food. With specialities from schnitzel to bratkartoffeln, there is something to please every appetite. Along with these German foods, there are also more basic foods, such as soft pretzels and chicken. There are also souvenir mugs that can be purchased with an order of hot chocolate or apple cider.

There are two different mug options, one being an elderly female snowman and the other being a heart-shaped Chicago themed mug. While the food and drinks are on the pricier side, for being in Chicago, it is normal city prices. Food prices range from $5-15 and the mugs with a drink

are $9 each.

Another element of the Christkindlmarket is the ornament shops. The shops are filled with handcrafted ornaments ranging from the classic Christmas stars and presents to the more unique food items

and animals.

While there are multiple of the same ornament, they are all slightly unique due to being handcrafted. There are lines to get in, however, the

lines go quickly as many people are just looking at the ornaments. The prices range from around $8-$40, which considering how much effort and hard work goes into making them, makes the price reasonable.

Between the ornament shops and food vendors, there are also smaller booths selling things like hats and gloves, stuffed animals, linen table run- ners, and even cuckoo clocks.

These shops sell very unique items that are staying true to the German culture. Many of the designs featured on the items are

very colorful and whimsical and pieces that would only be found at the market.

One of the downsides to the market is the crowd. It was to the point where one cannot stand because then they would be constantly being pushed. There are no solid paths for either direction of traffic so people are constantly running into each other. The shorter someone is the harder it is to navigate to because with the high amount of people one can easily become lost. This also means that the food lines are long and many people are waiting over 20 minutes to just get to the front of the line.

Saying that, if there is no rush to get out by a certain time, it can still be fun. The food is good and the shops are full of good souvenirs, which can make the wait worth it. Weekends also tend to be busier so if able to, make the trip out to the market during the week to avoid the bigger crowds. The Christkindlmarket runs through Dec. 24, their hours being Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

15

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT INKLINGS December 21, 2018

Ethnic dishes make for diverse holidays

BY CAT PADILLA social media director

All over the world, different ethnicities make different holiday meals than our typical turkey and ham with a multitude of sides and desserts. Trying new foods from different cultures gives new perspectives on how other people celebrate their holidays.

A very common Mexican Holiday feast includes tamales, pozole and a typical desert of pan dulce.

After trying all of these items the tamales, which are wrapped in a corn husk, has a good inside filled with beef. Biting into a tamale gives a savory taste and can not compare to anything else. One tamale is less food compared to the serving size of eating turkey, which is a downside to eating these as a main meal. Pozole is a typical Mexican soup that has meat and multiple vegetables. This soup had a great amount of flavor compared to a regular beef stew.

Another common dessert served at a Mexican holiday meal is pan dulce.

Pan dulce is sweet bread with a wide range of varieties. They have a crispy outside but a sweet inside.

Another ethnicity with very common foods known to many people is a Polish holiday meal.

Pierogies are the go-to item at a Polish dinner table. They are dumplings filled with many differ-

ent items such as cheese, mashed potatoes, meat, cabbage and much more. A potato cheese pierogi and a loaded baked pierogi from a local restaurant, while not homemade was just as delicious. These food items should be considered when making this Christmas dinner because they are small yet tasteful.

Italian holiday meals are also known to be extravagant and full of delicious courses. A common item of food at their dinner table is pasta - all types of pasta such as used in lasagna, or in soups, basically in any form. But some other uncommon foods at these dinners are all different assortments of bruschetta.

These little bread bites are perfect appetizers to get dinner started. The most common thing is tomatoes on the bruschetta, and it is usually topped in a nice oil. These little appetizers taste amazing and would be a great addition to any meals being that they do not require a lot of work to prepare. There is also a wide selection of meat at their dinner tables. Having pork with vegetables is another common meal and so is meatballs.

After trying all different foods from multiple ethnicities, holidays around here can seem boring in comparison. Adding any one of these appetizers, meals or desserts can add a new and tasteful spin to the next holiday dinner you have.

On the menu...

Mexican LA CHIQUITA

BY LINDSEY BAEZA co-editor-in-chief

Tamales $1.50 EA

I’m ostracized by “Girl Defined,” and so are you

(Pork, chicken or sweet) La Chiquita also serves tamales oaxaqueños for $2.25 EA, tamales (3) con atole for $5.99 and 12 tamales for $14.99.

Polish PIEROGI SQUARE 3 Pierogies for $4.75 (Potato and cheddar) Pierogi Square has over 40 flavors to choose from. Cooked pierogies are also sold as six for $6.75 and 12 for $10.75.

Italian LUCREZIA Bruschetta $6 (Tomato, basil and cheese) Lucrezia also serves bruschetta on toasted Italian bread with garlic and olive oil for $4 and bruschetta with tomato and basil for $5.

“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”: must-see for all audiences

BY JOHN JORDEN reporter

Sony Animation has been rather infamous over the years with their portrayals of the Spider-Man films, whether it be this year’s “Venom,” which gathered very mixed reception from audiences; or the “Amazing Spider-Man” movies, starring Andrew Garfield, who many Peter Parker fans refer to as the worst cinematic Spider-Man. However, whether they enjoyed these past films or not, fans are likely to enjoy “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” for its memorable story, characters and animation.

College student Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) is bitten by a radioactive spider and meets Peter Parker (Chris Pine) while he is trying to destroy Kingpin’s (Liev Schreiber) particle accelerator capable of accessing parallel universes. However, Peter Parker dies on this mission and the accelerator causes interpretations of Spider-Man from other

alternate universes to appear in Miles’ universe, all of who want to return to their own universes.

One of these interpretations is Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson), an older Peter Parker who reluctantly teaches Miles how to use his newly acquired powers and how to be Spider-Man, just like Peter Parker before he died. The story is easy to get invested in and gives the characters plenty of potential to develop (especially Miles). This is appropriate to the movie’s theme of how anybody can be like Spider-Man; anybody can make a change for the better and be influential to those around them.

The movie’s cast of characters is also mostly memorable. Seeing Miles gets used to his powers after the spider bite while trying to avoid accidentally making a scene during school which makes him feel more human as a character rather than feeling too perfect for anyone in the audience to relate to or root for. The movie gives screen time to plenty of the

P L AYI N G FAVORITES Culver’s Cheese Curds Any smile can be turned upside down with an order of cheese curds. These curds taste like mini mozzarella sticks and are loaded with cheesy goodness.

Culver’s $3.49

Alex and Ani Bracelets These cute bracelets come in gold and silver and have small charms on them. The charms range from letters to birthstones. There are also charms that have special meanings, like mother-daughter or friendship ones.

AlexandAni.com $19-228

WE’RE SO

OVER Scraping ice off cars

Scraping ice off of cars is a hassle people have to face every morning.

Students who aren’t fortunate enough to have a spot in the garage have to get up earlier so that they can get the snow off their windshield.

COLUMN

characters to add more depth to them. Even Kingpin is given the screen time to develop as a character and show his motivation as an antagonist.

The animation of this film is also stunning. Many of the small details make the film stand out.

Having Miles’s thoughts appear as if they were in a comic book after he gets bitten by the radioactive spider is a nice touch because it makes the movie feel more like a Spider-Man comic book. The movie even gives some of the interpretations of Spider-Man their own unique art styles that stand out from everyone else to emphasize the idea that they are from parallel universes. In particular, Spider-Man Noir (Nicolas Cage) is animated in black, white and gray to fit the colorless universe he comes from. Another example is Peni Parker (Kimiko Glenn), whose art style is similar to that of a typical Japanese anime.

However, the best example of this would have to be Spider-Ham (John Mulaney), whose cartoon-y

art style fits the character perfectly. These characters feel out of place with the rest of the world around them, but for all of the right reasons because they are not meant to.

A few things could be done to make this movie better such as if they gave some of the villains a bit more screen time to make them more memorable. Since Kingpin was one of the only villains who was actually developed into a villain, most of his henchmen felt forgettable in comparison. There were also a couple missed opportunities that could have been done with the parallel universes. For example, since there were multiple incarnations of Spider-Man, it would’ve been interesting to see some of SpiderMan’s villains from alternate universes make an appearance too.

At the very least, it would have been interesting to see a couple more interpretations of SpiderMan appear in the movie, such as Zombie Spider-Man from the Marvel Zombies comic books.

Known for their radically religious content posted to YouTube, Girl Defined is ran by two women Kristen Clark and Bethany Beal. First things first, I’m not here to bash their religion or make fun of their (in my opinion) ridiculous claims.

I’m here to criticize the way they treat those whose beliefs contrast their own.

If you haven’t heard of Girl Defined or watched any of their videos, well aren’t you lucky.

Not because you haven’t been exposed to their preposterous religious views, but because you haven’t had the chance to be ostracized by them. It’s one thing to disagree with another’s way of life, and it’s another to publicly damn and degrade it.

People didn’t forget and will never forget, Bethany, when you said “When I hear the words ‘homosexual,’ ‘prostitute’ or even the word ‘Muslim,’ I cringe inside. In my sinful pride, I wonder how those people could choose that lifestyle or religion.”

People will not ignore, Kristen, your allegations towards the Gay Pride movement and their “sneaky agenda” out to get people. Being a Christian does not give you the right to be disrespectful or act entitled. You are no better than the rest of us Girl Defined.

You do have the right to express your opinions freely. It becomes a problem when you’re being distasteful about them.

I applaud your ability, Girl Defined, to stick by your views despite the hate you receive on a daily basis. I applaud your passion for your religion and admire your dedication. However, this does still not summon any empathy from me. You are entitled to your homophobic and religiously discriminated opinions, but you are not entitled to put me down because of them. So you can put a sock in your bible.

#TRENDING

BEST APP

A section devoted to social media

Wordscapes

BEST TWEETS

This addicting game has over 4,000 levels. The purpose is to find words that are scrambled up.

With each new level, the words get harder and harder.

‘’Put on Elf and it will 100%, put you in a Christmas spirit” junior Michael Cashman @mcc_cashman

BEST FOLLOW

@wordstionary When a stressful day is finally over nothing is better than reading a good quote to get you in a good mood. From funny to serious quotes, there is something for everyone to read and enjoy.

‘’I just wanna have a deep talk & drive around to look at christmas lights’’

sophomore Hanna Olson @hannaleeolson_

“To all the kids at CPHS that drive like this is GTA...it’s not, this is real life, and when you die there is no coming back to life.”

“Why buy Astroworld tickets when I can see the show for free on snap??”

senior Sam Cassady

senior Kyle Hubbell

@sssaaammm55

@hubbellkyle26

16

PEOPLE INKLINGS December 21, 2018

Christmas fanatic talks about best parts of the season

BY ERIN MULLER assistant editor

From listening to Christmas music to unwrapping that long awaited gift, Christmas is a very exciting time for many people, including Junior Arriel Maravilla.

“I just love Christmas so much, and I love how much joy it brings into my life. The whole Christmas season is so refreshing,” Maravilla said.

The Christmas season is that time of the year where family comes to town to celebrate the jolly holiday. Maravilla especially enjoys catching up with her relatives from out of time during the holiday.

“My favorite thing about Christmas is being able to spend time with my family who comes home for the holidays,” Maravilla said. “Also my cousins who are out of college and live far away come home and it’s really heartwarming for me to see all of them again.”

Even if you weren’t able to celebrate Christmas, there are still fun winter activities you could enjoy during the winter season.

“My favorite winter activity would probably be either building a gingerbread house, or going ice skating with my friends,” Maravilla said. “I look forward to the radio playing music, putting the tree up, the crazy shopping sprees,

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ARRIEL MARAVILLA Arriel Maravilla poses in front of her Christmas tree, decorating the tree is one of her favorite activity.

the 25 days of Christmas marathon on TV and trips to the Chicago.”

Families during the Christmas season have certain traditions that make them unique. Some traditions include putting up the tree, watching Christmas movies and going shopping. For Maravilla, her family enjoys spending time together on Christmas morning.

“Every Christmas my family gets up in the

morning and makes pancakes for breakfast,” Maravilla said. “I also start listening to Christmas music in August and then as we get closer to the season I put my tree up in my room on Nov. 1. My family and I love to go to the lights parade on mag mile in mid Nov. to watch them light up the city.”

Maravilla has dressed up in Christmas attire every single day during Dec. to show her Christmas

spirit.

“I wear Christmas clothes everyday from Dec. 1 until we get off of school. I usually get them from family members or by myself every year.

I started this in eighth grade and I have just made it my own little tradition,” Maravilla said. “I have 14 Christmas sweaters, four pairs of Christmas pants and five necklaces that I wear every day.”

Something people

think about when asked about Christmas are presents, however receiving presents is not the most important part of this joyous season according to Maravilla. Giving back to the important people in her life is something she enjoys.

“I would definitely rather give than get, it’s such a good feeling you get when you give back to others who have done so much for you,” Maravilla said.

Maravilla also celebrates Macedonian Christmas with her family. Macedonian Christmas is on Jan. 7, and is celebrated by people who are part of the Orthodox church.

“We usually go to mass and then spend (Christmas) at my grandmother’s. We do not get gifts for this one, but it’s just as special,” Maravilla said.

Christmas is a huge part of Maravilla’s life and she spends over half of the year celebrating it.

“I really appreciate Christmas and I really don’t know what my life would be like without Christmas,” Maravilla said. “It is such a big part of my life and I spend half of the year celebrating it. I think everyone likes Christmas, but I love Christmas so much more.”

Student Spotlight

I’m going to enter into the Air Force and do probably one term, and then I’m going to do four years of a community college in either astronomy, or teaching or art. I don’t know yet, but I’m going to the Air Force first. I’m thinking about doing art in some form after high school, possibly.

When I was little I was in art classes. When I was in kindergarten I looked at the potter’s wheel and I wanted to try it, but my teacher said no. So I made it a passion of mine. I do ceramics, I’m good at drawing and all that, but I don’t enjoy it because I’m a perfectionist. I hate painting the most. I hate it, but I love ceramics.

Traveling to Chicago to see the lights throughout the month TIPS TO AVOID

I I OL I DAY F I RE S

Decorating the Christmas tree in November Watching the Christmas movie marathon

Visiting family from out of town Going ice skating with friends Wearing festive clothing

What Do You

sophomore Hannah Crim I moved here at the beginning of eighth grade. I used to go to Lowell. It is very extremely different.

Lowell had a much different education system. If you wanted to get into honors, it was a lot harder than it is here. I did not adjust very well in middle school but once I got to the high school I fit in much more.

ARRIEL’S GUIDE TO CHRISTMAS

THINK?

What are your favorite memories from 2018?

[

[

My 18th birthday, my mom had a whole day planned.

We went indoor skydiving and then we did an escape room. We went out to the city to do it. sophomore Tania Tamayo

]

]

For my birthday we went ice skating with a couple of my close friends.

[

freshman Eva Pycraft

]

I really enjoyed my cross country season. (I had fun) going to state. My friends and I had fun in the hotel and at the meet. sophomore Sebastian Ashbach