Inklings Jan.2012

INKLINGS January 30, 2012 - Volume 76 Issue 5 - Crown Point High School - 1500 S. Main Street - inklings@cps.k12.in.us

This Issue: News

Leap into the Arts

Getting an

Upgrade

Artists in Crown Point put on gala to benefit youth Page 2

Feature

Valentine’s Day crafts A how-to guide of fun crafts for your Valentine Page 9

Arts PHOTO BY DONNELLA CASILLAS

Caitlin Szymborski uses an iPad for classwork. Szymborski is a student in Branden Lorek’s special needs class. Each student in the special needs program received an iPad from the school as a trial in the CPHS 2.0 plan.

CPHS 2.0 plan to bring high-tech tools to classroom

iPhone vs Android

By Haajar Shaaban / Mary-Katherine Lemon editor-in-chief / news editor

The two smartphones face off Page 12

Sports

Freshman swimmer impresses Page 13

The Plan: CPHS 2.0 • •

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Goes into effect at the beginning of the 2013-14 school year The one-to-one technology plan means each student will have his/her own personal device The plan is said to increase quality of learning with a more hands-on approach

Opinion

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The CPHS 2.0 plan would cause more problems than it would solve. Integration of technology into the classroom must be done gradually and carefully Page 4

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Visit us online at inklingsonline.org

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nvision a classroom that is contained into a single desktop machine. Every textbook, note and assignment contained in this contraption of metal and plastic.

When a student comes to school, they walk to class, get out their laptop and get to work. This is what often comes to mind when people think of Crown Point High School 2.0., the plan that will come into place starting 2013. However there is more to the plan than just technology. “(CPHS 2.0) is an upgrade so we’re not fundamentally changing our beliefs; we’re trying to get better, and part of getting better is getting some tools into people’s hands,” principal Eric Ban said.

Although the “2.0” label equates the program with technology, that is not all that it offers.

“CPHS 2.0 is about our upgrade as a school in general. This upgrade just happens to include

more technology or better tools for 21st century learning,” Ban said in his State of the School address.

One part of the idea includes having a oneto-one technology base, in which each student has their own laptop device. According to Ban, students will most likely be bringing their own laptop or tablet to school.

Some goals of CPHS 2.0 include acquiring more programs that lead to more concrete college degrees and certifications. The proposal will also offer more options for internships and hands-on learning. Another goal is to develop stronger connections between teachers and students.

“CPHS 2.0 is about more connected relationships– every student needs to have a connection with a strong adult teacher, role model, mentor, coach, or sponsor,” Ban said in his address.

In the last week of October, the special needs department received iPads for its students

See “CPHS 2.0” on page 3

Astronaut Ross retires after 33 years at NASA

By Mary-Katherine Lemon news editor

Crown Point’s famed astronaut Jerry Ross has retired from NASA. Ross had been with NASA since 1979 and was selected to be an astronaut in 1980. Ross is an alumnus of Crown Point High School’s class of 1966.

Ross retired from the agency on Fri., Jan. 20, his 64th birthday. Ross said he believed with the space shuttle program finished and with his birthday approaching, it would be “a good time to retire.”

There were over 400 people at Ross’ retirement party. The event included a roast of the retiring astronaut, guest speakers and, of course, cake.

Ross knew that he wanted to work with NASA when he was a student at Washington Elementary.

He watched the first satellite launch by the United States on TV and was immediately fascinated by the program. Ross’s sister, family and consumer sciences teacher Jan Ratazzi, said that Ross’ love of NASA was very evident. “He kept a scrapbook of everything (NASA-related). For his senior trip, he went to Cape Canaveral,” Ratazzi said.

“Everything I did (in school) was to succeed in getting into Purdue (University),” Ross said.

Ross was frequently on the honor roll, a varsity baseball player and a member of many student organizations including National Honor Society

See “Jerry Ross” on page 2

FILE PHOTO FROM NASA

Astronaut Jerry Ross

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PHOTO BY DONNELLA CASILLAS

The Japanese language program will be cut next school year after 20 years of being offered.

Principal Dr. Eric Ban says a loss of interest has affected the decision to end the program.

“We’ve watched the enrollment of students in Japanese go down,” Ban said. “As a school, we base our decisions on what students are most interested in.”

The announcement of the cut has directly affected Japanese teacher Noriko Wachowski.

“I’m very sad and disappointed that the program is being cut,” Wachowski said. “I’m from Japan; it’s my culture and my language. The whole reason I came

• This February has 29 days due to 2012 being a leap year.

to the United States was to teach Japanese.”

In addition to being disappointed, abolishing the program in its entirety surprised Wachowski.

“This past summer, (CPHS) sent out letters to first, second and third year students with the possibility of ‘phasing out’ the program, which would let the students that are taking Japanese now finish their high school career with all four years of a language,” Wachowski said. “That’s not the case anymore.”

Although the decision seems to be final, students hope that a petition will help keep the Japanese program. These students are passionate about keeping the pro-

gram at CPHS and feel that the school will suffer without it.

“Getting rid of (Japanese) will take away a part of the diversity this school has and the opportunities for the kids that take the language,” freshman Allison Ashbrooks said.

While she is disappointed with she will no longer be at CPHS, Wachowski says she’s happy to have had the experience of teaching her students.

“I’m very happy that students chose to take Japanese, especially the level three students who are about to lose their last year in the program. I hope the administration makes the decision to meet their (the students’) needs,” Wachowski said.

March is Disability Awareness Month. T-shirts commemorating the observance are currently being sold by the special needs department.

The sale is to help raise money and increase awareness and support of people with disabilities.

The shirts feature a design “Ignite Community Spirit: Get Involved” by sophomore Carson Hoogewerf. The shirts are $12 and available by contacting special education teacher Branden Lorek. The deadline to order shirts is 2:30 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 10 and will be delivered later in the month.

BPA qualifies for March state conference Crown Point High School’s chapter of Business Professionals of America (BPA) has qualified for the State Leadership Conference. The group will be competing with BPA chapters from schools around the state.

The club, sponsored by business teacher Mary Bachnak, is designed to spark high school students’ interest in the business world.

This is the fourth time that the BPA has qualified for the state competition. Performing well at state could qualify the BPA for the national convention in later spring.

Leap into the Arts gala features student performers

By Abby Eineman staff reporter

Young dancers, singers and instrumentalists will gather Friday, Feb. 24 to perform at Leap Into the Arts, a gala organized by CPHS German teacher Heidi Polizotto. Its purpose is to celebrate the performing arts and raise money for local orchestras, dance companies and choirs.

The annual event benefits several groups in the Northwest Indiana area, including the Southlake Children’s Choir, South Shore Dance Alliance, Wolfgang and Northwest Indiana Symphony Youth Orchestra.

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Incoming Freshman Parent Orientation -CPHS Auditorium6:30 p.m.

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Turnabout Dance -CPHS Fieldhouse6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

“The goal of Leap is to provide funding and publicity for performing groups that serve the youth of Northwest Indiana,” cofounder Heidi Polizotto said. “We

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schedule of cocktails, dinner, a silent auction and dancing with performances throughout. The event brings awareness to a wider variety of performing groups, widen-

The goal of Leap is to provide funding and publicity for performing groups that serve the youth of Northwest Indiana.

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• Many countries celebrate their independence in February, including Kosovo, Sri Lanka and the Dominican Republic.

Shirts for sale to raise awareness for disabilities

Senior Annie Zappia views Japanese New Year postcards made by Japanese language students.

Zappia is currently taking AP Japanese and does not want to see the program leave CPHS.

By Donnella Casillas staff reporter

Inklings

in the know

Class offerings not an option for 2012-2013 school year

februaryfacts • In the United States and Canada, February is Black History Month.

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Japanese program ending

Ross

and Letterman’s Club. Ross’ letterman sweater is on display at CPHS. Ross earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering at Purdue University in 1970 and 1972 respectively.

While at Purdue, Ross was in Air Force ROTC. He was commissioned as an officer in the Air Force when he graduated from the university and remained on a steady path to NASA. Ross retired from the Air Force in 2000.

Ratazzi said “it’s pretty cool” to be the sister of an astronaut.

Ratazzi keeps a portrait of her brother in her classroom and often informs her new students of the family connection, especially since many of her students attended Jerry Ross Elementary School.

Due to her brother’s job, Ratazzi has experienced the space program almost firsthand. “I’ve Ross is seen five of writing a the (space shuttle) book titled l a u n c h e s “Space and one landing,” Walker.”

Ratazzi said.

Ratazzi has also been able to tour NASA’s facilities. “I’ve met so many astronauts,” Ratazzi said.

Helping with education is important to Ross. Ross has visited every school in the Crown Point Community School Corporation. In 2003, Jerry Ross Elementary School in Winfield opened its doors. “It’s one of the nicest ways a hometown can honor someone,” Ross said of the naming.

Ross has been to the elementary school numerous times to speak with students about his experience with NASA. Ross speaks with elementary school students most often, including speaking with students from Lake Street Elementary School on a Ham radio when he was on a space shuttle.

Ross is in the process of writing an autobiography titled “Space Walker.” It will be published by Purdue University Press in early 2013.

In his retirement, Ross plans to travel with his wife. He will continue living in Houston.

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Heidi Polizotto cofounder of Leap into the Arts hope to pass $100,000 in fundraising this year.”

The gala is, as NISYO director Phillip Bauman puts it, a “fun night out for adults,” featuring a

ing both the notoriety and funding pools available to participants.

“This gala brings together people who wouldn’t normally see certain performing arts,” Bau-

februarycalendar 11 17

Band District Solo & Ensemble Contest -CPHS8 a.m.

man said. “After last year’s Leap, people were approaching us and thanking us because they didn’t realize our orchestra was of such caliber.”

Leap Into the Arts combines several young performing groups’ fundraisers into one gala event.

“When our culture base is being expanded, I feel like we’re really making a difference in the community,” Bauman said.

Leap Into the Arts will be held at the Halls of St. George in Schererville on Feb. 24. Tickets are $50. For more information and to order tickets, visit www. leapintothearts.org.

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Improv Comedy Show -CPHS Auditorium- Presidents 7 p.m.

Day No School

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Inklings

Use of common sense a key to security Officers strive to ensure safety not only on the square, but also at school

PHOTO BY MARY-KATHERINE LEMON

Students walk from the senior parking lot to school on Wednesday morning as School Resource Officer Chuck Noonan keeps watch over students and traffic in a squad car. Police vehicles are always present at CPHS during the school year.

Crown Point resident Brandon Huseman died early Thanksgiving morning after he was stabbed during what police say was an altercation. Huseman had spent the night hanging out with friends on the Courthouse Square. On Friday, Jan. 13, Jeffrey Nemcek of Crown Point was charged with the crime.

Despite being only the third homicide in the past decade, news of a stabbing left a sense of unease in this generally quiet city.

In late October, one Crown Point teen and two Cedar Lake teens were charged with battery and other crimes in relation to an alleged fight in neighboring Cedar Lake. One of the alleged victims was stabbed in the thigh and sent to Franciscan St. Anthony Health in Crown Point.

Due to these incidents, questions about safety in the Crown Point community have become more frequent. The ever-present concern about safety has not been quelled.

“I think that one of the big mistakes is we think that, ‘It can’t happen to me.’ …

No one’s invincible – anybody can be the victim of a crime,” Dean of Students Russ Marcinek said.

Crown Point Police Officer Michael Brazil wanted to assure residents that the circumstances leading up to Huseman’s death were very uncommon.

“That was definitely an isolated incident... What occurred there was ... an altercation and it turned out that somebody got stabbed during it,” Brazil said.

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What I’m always going to tell somebody is no matter what, check your ego and walk away from any kind of altercation.

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By Mary-Katherine Lemon and Kelsey Lennon news editor / managing editor

Michael Brazil police officer

Administrators regularly deal with students’ conflicts that turn into harassment and sometimes threats. “Most of the threats that we see are through the social media,” Marcinek said.

Administrators become aware of these threats when students or parents alert them by bringing in printed-out pages of the online arguments. “We do not actively patrol (social media),” Marcinek said.

Marcinek estimates that the printed-

out reports come in “three or four times a month.”

“I would say that it’s about on par with most schools from what I hear talking to other administrators,” he added.

Though prevention is often seen as essential to stopping crime, it gets complicated when dealing with violence and harassment.

Regardless, Brazil has tips for those who may find themselves in these situations.

“What I’m always going to tell somebody is no matter what, check your ego and walk away from any kind of altercation,” Brazil said. “If... high school kids are up on the Square and a drunk adult comes up there, get out of there. Go call the police right away. Just leave. No matter what they’re saying. Your ego ain’t worth it because you never know what people are carrying.”

Brazil applies the same principle to online issues: “Don’t even respond and start going back and forth, text messages, things like that. Just go ahead and block them, delete them.”

This is the final part of a series on safety in Crown Point. The first part ran in December’s issue of Inklings.

CP 2.0

continued from page 1 to use. “In the special needs department, we’re test-driving the iPads,” special needs teacher Branden Lorek said.

The students use their iPads for many different purposes. “(Students use) apps for sensory, social and communication skills,” Lorek said.

Students also use apps that utilize skills from various subjects. “We do math on there,” student Nick Cohn said.

It’s not all serious, however. “After math, I play racing games,” Cohn said.

The iPads receive positive reviews from many special needs students. “It’s fun,” student Caitlin Szymborski said. “I am happy (with the iPad).”

The CPHS 2.0 plan is being developed by an advisory board that meets about once a month to discuss how to go about implementing the idea.

“We’ve got a group that’s composed of teachers, students, parents, administrators, and community leaders as well as a couple consultants from an outside firm called Evergreen Education that have a lot of experience in online and blended learning,” math department chair and committee member Ryan Collier said.

The plan has received mixed responses from teachers and students.

Some believe that it is a step in the right direction for the school.

“I am looking forward to (CPHS 2.0). I can get homework in much faster,” sophomore Courtney Tenzera said.

To some students, the proposed plan is seen as a source of convenience. “(CPHS 2.0) will make it easier because we won’t have to carry our books around and won’t really need backpacks,” sophomore Stephanie Van Drunen said.

Others are opposed to the idea of integrating technology into the classroom.

“You can’t always have it. Technology can breakdown or get a virus. You’ll always have your books,” sophomore Erica Garcia said.

The plan is still in its developmental stages, so many questions have yet to be answered.

“The reality of it is that there are so many unknowns right now that we’re just not ready to start throwing this out there and saying ‘here’s what it’s going to look like,’” Collier said.

However, Ban remains confident that the details will all fall into place to effectively enhance the school.

“It’s the work that needs to get done and I’m excited to move through it. I think our teachers will be inspired through the training, and we’ve got great people here, so whatever we do we’re going to do it with action and influence and make it work for the kids,” Ban said.

Views on news Student reaction to events in our world Area Training center rebuilding

State Right-to-Work controversy

Nation Oil pipeline plans halted World ACTA causes worldwide stir

A Special Olympics training center was destroyed by a blizzard that made the roof collapse under the weight of piles of snow. Plans for a new training center are set in place and will begin building in March. Besides using insurance to cover the costs, South Lake Community Services are planning a fundraiser to help with expenses.

The Indiana House passed the controversial Right-to-Work bill on Jan. 25.

The Republican-supported bill will now be sent on to the State Senate. The bill would put an end to collective bargaining, the ability of union-aligned workers to negotiate wages, working hours and other working conditions with their employers.

President Barack Obama decided to not approve plans for building an oil pipeline on Jan. 18. The Keystone XL pipeline would stretch 1700 miles and cross six states to channel oil to Texas refineries. Keystone supporters say it would bring thousands of jobs to America. Opponents say that the pipeline would damage the environment.

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I think it’s great for the program that they are getting a more sustainable building.

Katie McLaren senior

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As a kid whose mom is a teacher, I think it’s ridiculous.

It’s abolishing the middle class.

Nick Sansone freshman

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It can help the economy, save energy, and would just be a positive thing.

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Colin Smith sophomore

The Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) has caused controversy around the world. ACTA would step up enforcement of intellectual property laws by setting international legal standards for countries that sign onto it. Proponents say it is necessary in today’s world; opponents say it violates human rights.

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People should be able to do what they want on the internet. It hasn’t been censored before, why now?

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Rachel Smith junior

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Internet protests show promise

By Dylan Taylor opinion editor

Any one of the millions of people who attempted to view pages on Wikipedia, Reddit or even Google search on Jan. 18 witnessed what may have been one of the most important instances of virtual rebellion in internet history.

In response to the SOPA (Stop Online Piracy Act) and PIPA (Protect IP Act) legislation, a series of acts that would have intensified copyright laws and increased government control over the internet, numerous major websites “blacked out” or posted information and petitions to attempt to keep the internet uncensored.

Despite the bills’ highprofile support from the MPAA (Motion Picture Association) and other large corporations, the protests worked.

While many students and citizens alike had become disillusioned by the vast amount of public action that has struggled to change much at all (Occupy Wall St., at least so far, comes to mind), the internet phenomenon on Jan. 18 managed to prevent a potential internet takeover over the course of a few days.

This occurrence displays a very optimistic reality in politics – protests and public disapproval, even from nonvoting minors, actually can change legislation.

In fact, a large percentage of the protest’s participants and supporters were young people, and all it took was widespread participation, petitions and thousands of concerned people of all ages spreading info via social networking.

With SOPA protests, internet users have proven that they can make a difference by signing petitions, participating in boycotts and even simply changing their Facebook pictures. Knowing this, maintenance of the energy and passion displayed by young people worldwide may very well move political and social mountains across the globe.

Inklings

Please turn to page 78 in your textbooks and take notes on section 6a.

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CARTOON BY ELLIE BURRELL

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Process must be approached with caution so that problems don’t outpace progress with CPHS 2.0

Ctrl-Alt-Delete

“You won’t regret this!” screams the commercial announcer trying to sell his next crazy product to the public. The announcer preaches of the product’s convenience and how it will be an effective tool to advance into the future.

However, anyone who buys one of these products finds that it is not exactly what it seems. In fact, the product often does not live up to the promises.

Likewise, the CPHS 2.0 plan is being sold like no other, but it’s important to see beyond the hype.

There is no doubt that upgrades are mandatory to progess in education.

Where would we be without the switch from hand-writing to typing papers or grade books to online grading systems? It is extremely important to use better and more practical tools as they come into existence.

However, there are times when upgrades are necessary and there are times when they create their own complications. The CPHS 2.0 plan will potentially bring with it an onslaught of complications including issues of computer viruses, thefts, and cheating—all in the name of becoming more modern.

One of the goals of CPHS 2.0 is to better connect students and teachers.

The fact is that adding another medium for students to work through in the classroom disconnects students from their teachers. What it does is connect students with their computer, between which a close relationship already exists.

A similar one-to-one technology program has been implemented at Munster and East Chicago high schools, and both have experienced criticisms and problems, including thefts of laptops in East Chicago. It is only logical to look at these examples and to learn from others’ mistakes. If the high-tech plan has caused difficulties for others, it is not a good idea to rush it in Crown Point.

Although we do need to use tools that are used in the real world, we must go about it realistically and sensibly. Integrating technology into our curriculum should include using more online sources, having access to more web bases and offering computer classes that outline a career in computers. However, the bugs must be worked out and all issues fully addressed so that laptop learning doesn’t hurt students more than it helps.

editorial

nklings 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 expressed in Inklings do not necessarily reflect those of CPHS faculty, staff or administration.

Advertising is subject to applicable rates, available from Inklings advertising department.

Inklings welcomes letters-tothe-editor, provided they are signed and submitted to E109 or via email one week prior to date of publication.

Letters must not contain personal attacks. Inklings reserves the right to edit for space and clarity as well as to make decisions on which letters will be printed.

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

Contact Inklings by emailing inklings@cps.k12.in.us or by phoning 219-663-4885.

Haajar Shaaban editor-in-chief Alyssa Blahunka creative director Garret Hogan senior editor Kelsey Lennon managing editor Abby Elston RaeAnna Morgan copy editors Mary-Katherine Lemon news editor Olivia Graham entertainment editor Dylan Taylor opinion editor Samuel Beishuizen Alex McLean sports editors Kara Biernat Alexa Grady sports assistants Samantha Wright advertising editor Yazzmyne Lopez advertising assistant Donnella Casillas chief photographer Abigail Eineman Aleks Kajmakoski Trisha Semplinski photographers Rachael Bokota Ellie Burrell Hannah Colby Maggie Gelon Molly Grace Danielle McCuan Mona Nour Brittany Pedersen Shannon Rostin Katie Sherman staff Julie Elston adviser

speakup How would you feel about bringing a laptop to school?

Alyssa Setlak freshman

Aalyha Senevongsa sophomore

Kyle Muha junior

“I’d be okay with it. I think it would actually be pretty convenient.”

“I wouldn’t mind. It would be better than going back to my locker after every other class period.”

“I think it would be easier.

It’d also be more convenient to take notes in class instead of using pen and paper.”

Robby Featherstone senior

“I don’t like it because I don’t learn as well with a computer as I do with a book.”

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Inklings

Leadership should letter

“This is what can really happen!”

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By Olivia Graham entertainment editor

CARTOON BY ELLIE BURRELL

ssue: Is bluntness in PSAs effective?

Some public service announcements and billboards have been presenting health issues in ways that have stirred up controversy.

Are these straightforward approaches persuasive or disrespectful?

Frank ads cut to the chase and present the truth people need without sugar-coating it

Offensive, harmful ads do not propose a clear solution to the harsh problems they present

By Kelsey Lennon managing editor

By Mary-Katherine Lemon news editor

Meth and obesity ads have recently come under fire for their blunt and somewhat graphic nature. In one ad, a girl is pictured with a man along with the line “15 bucks for sex isn’t normal. But on meth it is.”

There is no argument that these ads are not harsh, but they successfully accomplish their goals of awareness.

Anyone who is old enough to understand what these ads are targeting is old enough to see the content. These ads are bringing light to real issues real people deal with. Obesity and meth are issues people, teenagers especially, face as life continues. In one ad for obesity, it portrays an overweight young girl next to the words, ”It’s hard to be a little girl when you aren’t one.” Harsh? Sure. But true? Yes. These types of ads in Georgia also have the slogan, “Don’t Sugarcoat It, Georgia.” That is exactly what people need to hear, the blunt truth.

These ads are out there for one other reason though, effectiveness. The Montana Meth Project ads began in 2005 and since then there has been a 63 percent decrease in teenage meth use in that state.

Similar results have been seen in Idaho and Arizona. Closer to home, a 2008 report from The Illinois Meth Project stated that 77 percent of Central Illinois teens said the ads make them less likely to use or try meth. After viewing truthful ads about dangerous issues, it’s hard to see the appeal in such actions.

It’s often been said, “The truth will set you free.” Seeing the harsh facts of life are sure to make people rethink what they are doing and these ads are just a catalyst to that realization.

Scarcely a person in this country is unaware of the health problems obesity can bring. Similarly, one would be hard-pressed to find somebody in the United States who is unaware that methamphetamine is a dangerous drug. The ‘shock ads’ about these issues fall flat when it comes to making a change. They raise awareness, but not solutions. Awareness is not needed: solutions are.

Ad campaigns in Georgia about childhood obesity and in Montana about methamphetamine would make one think otherwise.

These clearly bring attention to the effects of both issues, but fall flat when it comes to proposing solutions or even having a clear call to action. It’s easy to say, ‘Don’t get fat’ or ‘Don’t do meth,’ but is that helping anyone?

These ads employ scare tactics rather than calls for action. One can tell an overweight child that the way he or she is living is not healthy, but that does not give the child what it takes to make a lifestyle change. In fact, the childhood obesity ads in Georgia may be doing more harm than good. A study of preschool-age girls published in the American Academy of Pediatrics’ official journal found that “public health programs that raise parental awareness of childhood overweight without also providing constructive and blame-free alternatives for addressing child weight problems may be detrimental to children’s mental health.”

The ads may be effective in scaring the audience, but that is all they are capable of.

13 Inklings staffers agree

16 Inklings staffers agree

Danyelle Martin-Gutierrez sophomore “The pictures may be graphic but are beneficial because they show what could potentially happen to that person.”

Don Bernacky social studies teacher “I’m for (blunt adervtisement), but I don’t want it to be saturated, just real.”

Noriko Wachowski

Japanese teacher “They should try to portray their message differently than trying to grab the attention of others through those graphic images.”

Patrick Kelleher junior “(Drug use) is a person’s own choice and the media should not shove (blunt advertisements) down people’s throats.”

A Letterman’s jacket is a timeless high school image.

Students are able to display their school pride and various accomplishments on their sleeves. However, this school only allows students to letter for sports and performing arts.

Honor students and student leaders play just as vital of a role in the functioning of the school as athletes and performing artists. They not only place our school in the spotlight for renowned academics but also act as a voice or creative outlet for the student body and become role models for others.

Still, only varsity athletes or artists who fulfill the necessary requirements for band, choir, orchestra and theatre are able to letter, which, however unintentional, places an emphasis on these activities and discludes recognition of the significance of leadership positions and academics.

This is not to say that all students should be able to earn a letter; just specifically the students who are achieving the highest in significantly contributing clubs or earning a distinguished GPA should be considered for the lettering program. This system would undoubtedly not devaluate the letter but instead appropriately reward students for their vital input into the school.

Another disparity is the four letters that are awarded to high-achievers, varying for which category one letters in. In order to promote a sense of unity of being a Bulldog among all highachieving students, the same C should be awarded.

Dr. Ban constantly reminds students every single day to “Have pride in yourself and the Bulldogs.” The Lettermanwearing bulldog at the entrance reflects the importance of academics and extracurricular programs by wearing them as patches on its jacket. The lettering program should reflect those same well-rounded values.

Will you celebrate Valentine’s Day?

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6 Senior Rogerick “Capone” Shannon dances at the Talent Show on Thurs., Jan. 19. His routine featured graduate Israel Mercado, who danced in previous shows.

PHOTO BY ABBY EINEMAN

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Inklings

A page capturing the essence of student life

Honoring our own Students remember deceased peers with handmade benches

PHOTOS BY DONNELLA CASILLAS

Senior Emily Balicki sits on the recently donated bench memorializing her deceased brother, Sam Balicki. “Sammy,” as he was known, was apart of the class of 2011.

Death is a shocking, painful situation to deal with for anyone, but during high school, it can have an even more shocking effect. When classmates pass away, it is almost a completely altered situation – students become aware of how real the once-foreign concept of death is. Since 2009, two students have died during their time here, which inspired the classes of 2010 and 2011 to donate two “memory” benches in honor of them.

“The newly-created benches in the front lobby area are a really nice addition. It’s a place where people can congregate and sit,” Principal Eric Ban said. “Doing a memory bench of lost classmates is a special gift for the school.”

The Constructive Technology class of last year helped construct four benches, two of which are “memory benches” in honor of Sam Balicki, donated by the class of 2011, and Seth Hofer, donated by the class of 2010. Ed Topp built the benches, and students helped cut wood and glue pieces together. “(Seth Hofer) was a former student in my cabinetmaking class,” Ed Topp said. “(While making the benches) at times, I thought of him and other students I taught over the years whose lives were cut short.”

Class of 2011 sponsor Allison Malloy worked with the seniors, Ed Topp and his class to collaborate on the idea for the memory benches. Industrial Technology teacher Karen

fastfacts Facts obtained by the Inklings staff

Topp made final touches, such as laser inlays, on the benches. The memory benches were placed in the lobby at the entrance of the school during winter break.

“Knowing that the benches will be there for many years, probably long after I am gone, makes me feel good,” Ed Topp said. “The fact that I was asked to build them to honor someone else’s life just adds another level of special to the project.”

Senior Emily Balicki was touched when she heard about the dedication of a bench to her brother, Sam, who was supposed to graduate with the class of 2011.

“The benches are a very nice gesture of the past classes and a good way to remember him,” Balicki said. “I appreciate that the high school wants him to be remembered.”

The graduating senior class gives a gift to the school every year, following the tradition of prior alumni, but Ban believes that the idea of the benches was a unique way to remember those who passed.

“There’ve been plaques and trees and different kinds of things,” Ban said. “The benches are something that has some utility that students can use and also remember someone that was lost – it’s kind of a nice combination.”

According to Ban, their parents haven’t seen the benches dedicated to their children yet, and Ed Topp has had no contact with the families.

“Speaking as a parent, though, I am sure that they would be touched and honored that the class cared enough to honor their sons in this way,” Ed Topp said.

Honored Teachers

First Teacher

Teacher Hall of Fame.

One of the teachers honored in the Teacher Hall of Fame is Harriet Holton Warner, the first teacher in Crown Point and Lake County.

have been 14 teachers inducted into the

“

The benches are a very nice gesture of the past classes and a good way to remember (my brother). I appreciate that the high school wants him to be remembered.

“

By Olivia Graham entertainment editor

Emily Balicki senior

Above: The emblem on the bench honoring Seth Hofer, who was apart of the class of 2010.

Honored Alumni

Astronaut Alumnus

of Fame, the oldest being Agnes Rose Koupal, of 1907, who received the honor for courage.

Among the alumni honored in the Alumni Hall of Fame is Astronaut Jerry Ross, class of1966. Ross received the honor for citizenship.

alumni have been hon12 ored in the Alumni Hall

1.30.2012

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Inklings

Resolutions: to keep or not to keep?

GRAPHIC BY ALEKS KAJMAKOSKI

New Year’s resolutions that are worth trying and better left forgotten

By Katie Sherman / Brittany Pedersen staff reporters

Maintaining semester grades, going on Facebook less and getting 20 hours of community service by April-- these are some common resolutions of students for 2012.

Though some are worth keeping, others are not.

Junior Zach Bisel strongly believes that making a resolution would not benefit him.

“If I’m going to make a decision, I’d do it whenever I want- not just because New Year’s came around,” Bisel said.

Sophomore Jackson Roush also agrees with Bisel, but if he could stick to one, he would.

“I’d rather not fool myself by thinking I’m ever going to improve. But if I could stick to a resolution, I would study more,” Roush said.

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People who make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don’t, according to the website Proactive change.

“Anyone that makes a resolution feels like they would be able to keep it; can they is a matter of importance and timing,” Carolyn Davis, a PhD at St. Anthony’s Medical Center, said. “I am a firm believer that solving anything in life is an individual issue.”

Resolutions can be broken quickly; 22 percent fail after one week, 40 percent after one month, 60 percent after six months and 81 percent after 24 months, according to Psychology today.

Among these resolutions are losing weight/getting fit, being less stressed and trying something new.

“There are so many ways one could lose weight and get fit. The problem is not understanding what it takes to do a task in life.

The obstacle is actually doing it,” Davis said.

To execute a resolution, an individual must know the best way to change for him.

“Depending on the person and the issues keeping the individual unhealthy is how a person would start,” Davis said.

Exercising, counting calories and healthy eating are among the few ways one can begin to get fit, just like freshman Maddie Adducci.

“Last year, I wanted to run five miles.

I don’t really like running, but I thought it would be challenging,” Adducci said.

When she began running, she noticed a change in her stress level.

Being stressed is common for any high school student. Between juggling AP classes, athletics and leadership positions, it can become difficult to keep one’s head above water. Students may make it a resolution to lessen their stress.

“Stress occurs when we don’t really have a plan,” guidance counselor Brenda Wolski said. “Some ways to be less stressed would be improving daily structure and making a routine.”

There are smaller ways that also work just as well, such as music, quiet places, reading, exercising, being alone, shopping, writing and painting.

Even after working with some of these proven methods, some students may lose faith in their ability to keep their resolutions.

However, there is still hope.

“If one does make a promise to themselves, the most important thing to remember is if you do not make it today that does not mean you may not make it another time,” Davis said. “Young as well as older people all have the same identity crisis that drives the inner self to want to change in anything.”

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1.30.2012

Inklings

Daring to ignore modern technology Those who are not constantly plugged describe their communication without social media.

By M. Gelon / R. Bokota staff reporters

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

BY ALEKS KAJMAKOSKI

A student comes home, jumps off the bus and instead of immediately attacking the computer and hurriedly logging on to a favorite social media account or waiting for the cell phone to buzz, they pause to take a deep breath and disengage from the business of the day.

When technology is in every students life, it is difficult to imagine a world without cell phones or social media sites. However, there are some who do not participate in these supposed luxuries. Sophomore J o n a - thon Beyeler, insists his life f u n c - tions just as efficiently as those who en- gage in cell phone and social media use.

“I still talk to my friends and everything; I see them at school,” Beyeler said.

“It doesn’t bother me to not have a cell phone because I don’t know what I’m missing, and I can’t miss what I’ve never had.”

Students who aren’t p e r p e t u a l l y plugged in may ask themselves what the big deal is. Sophomore Abigail Bieker is a prime example, as she’s never had a Facebook.

“Life will stay the same (without Facebook). It’s not like I’m going to die.”

Bieker said.

Admittedly, convenience is an evident advantage to social media.

“Even when I have to call my parents or something, there’s always a friend around that I can borrow a cell phone from,” Beyeler said.

In addition, living without cell phones or a Facebook causes students to seek out more personal means of communication. Junior Liberty Stratton, who also does not have a Facebook, values that opportunity.

“I prefer talking face-to-face because it’s not limited and it’s easier to express yourself,” Stratton said.

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Indeed, it is factors such as quality of conversation, among others, that contribute to the decision of whether or not to par take in social media.

“Face-to-face, you can tell if people are lying; (conversations) are more truthful face-to-face,” Bieker said.

Additionally, elements pertaining to one’s future are often significant factors within the choice.

“When I’m applying for a job or college, I don’t want people to see anything unflattering,” Stratton said.

“Also, I hear a lot about people who regret posting things on Facebook.”

In fact, 32 percent of people regret posting something on a social networking site according to a study conducted by the United States Department of Homeland Securi- t y in 2011.

“I have a Facebook, but I don’t really like it because I feel that some teens use it as their personal diary or abuse it,” sophomore Cydney Brannon said.

Stratton agrees and admits that Facebook can cause some u n w a r ranted issues that have con- tributed to her decision to avoid having a Facebook.

“I hear all the time about people who get in Facebook fights.

I just want to avoid the drama,” Stratton said.

Though some students, like Stratton, have made the conscious decision to not have a Facebook, others are influenced by friends or family members.

“My parents are protective and worry about sexual predators. I do (agree), but I also feel I would not be stupid about who I let see my stuff,” Bieker said.

Though many teens may find it hard to conceive, there are a myriad of teens out there that plainly do not see appeal in being forever wired.

In addition, just because students may choose to refrain from social media now, does not mean they will always go without.

“I feel like I see my friends, so I don’t need one yet. Maybe when I go to college I’ll get one,” senior Ashley Lange said.

1.30.2012

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Inklings

Clever crafts to spice up Valentine’s Day

Forget flowers and chocolates, home-made crafts add personal touch

By Kelsey Lennon managing editor

Valentine’s Day is a special time of year where we are supposed to show the people we love how much we appreciate them, whether that be a parent, friend or significant other.

Instead of taking the time to buy some expensive card or gift that will soon be forgotten, I

Easy

have demonstrated some clever crafts that will put a smile on any valentine’s face. The three crafts are broken up into easy, medium and hard based on the amount of material and time each will take. Remember, each craft is totally customizable so make it your own with other decorations. The basic supplies you will need for these crafts are construction paper, glue and a marker. Want more? Check out Pinterest.com and search “Valentine’s Day.”

Medium

Hard

1. We’re going back to kindergarten again! Trace both of your hands on construction paper and cut them out. Also, cut out a strip of paper about an inch wide and a foot long in a different color than the paper used for the hands.

1. Fold a piece of pink or red construction paper in half, draw half of a heart then cut out on the line that was drawn. Open up the cut-out and there should be an entire heart. Like you learned in kindergarten!

3. Want an alternative? Follow the same instrustions but instead write down.”My life would KNOT be the same without you,” and put a homemade friendship bracelet through the holes.

2. Cut out, on a red or orange piece

2. Write “I love you”

2. Use a hole punch to

create two holes on opposite sides of the heart to put a cute Valentine’s Day themed pencil through.

In the best handwriting possible, jot down “You are just WRITE for me,” and you’ll have a simple yet cute gift.

1. Cover a roll of “LifeSavers” hard candy or a “Rolos” roll in construction paper. Then glue a Hersey’s Kiss on one end.

of construction paper, the shape of a flame that you will attach to the opposite end of the roll. (Not the side that has the “Hersey Kiss.”)

on one hand then, take the strip of paper and fold it into eight or nine squares. On each square, write one letter of the phrase “this much.”

3. Glue the strip of paper between the two hands and and fold it up to give it to someone you love! You can also include a personal message on the back of the opposite hand.

3. Write “You’re a blast!” on the roll and glue the flame on the end. There’s also the option of writing “Happy Valentine’s Day” on the flame.

PHOTOS BY ABBY EINEMAN AND DONNELLA CASILLAS

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H fixes for winter woes

10

ealth

1.30.2012

Inklings

A few remedies for beating the annoyances nature brings

The common cold, a sore throat, fatigue and feeling simply under the weather are common complaints during the long winter The winter months are usually associated with time off school, months. Although staying healthy is more of a struggle in winter, snow and hot chocolate, but also closely associated with sickness. steps can be taken in order to ensure health and high immunity.

By Danielle McCuan / Shannon Rostin staff reporters

Sore Throat

Sore throats are a bother to students. Symptoms include a painful, dry throat and a hoarse voice. If the sore throat is caused by bacteria, it is an infection. If the sore throat is not due to an infection, it is most likely due to the dryness of the air.

“When you see a doctor about your sore throat, they will do a swab test to make sure it is not strep throat,” school nurse Carrie Ready said. “With a sore throat, you do not have a way to cure it, so you have to treat the symptoms,” Ready said.

For soothing and treating symptoms, Ready suggests lozenges, peppermint and seeing a pharmacist for over-the-counter medications. She also suggests increasing fluids, which soothes and treats the dry throat.

the skin plenty of moisture, applying it after washing the skin.

“Avoiding extremely hot baths and showers will also help the skin,” Ready said.

Along with exposure to the elements, skin is also affected by dehydration. The skin isn’t the only part of the body affected by dryness; lips can also take a toll. “I use Burt’s Bees lip balm. It’s like heaven in a tube because it smoothes your lips,” sophomore Jade Stryzinski said.

Dry Skin During winter, the body loses moisture due to exposure to the cold and dry elements.

The skin isn’t able to maintain its natural levels of moisture; it dries out and becomes subject to cracking, redness and irritation.

Lotion is regarded as the best remedy for dry skin, as it replenishes moisture and soothes irritation. When buying lotion, it’s usually better to avoid scented brands, as the additional chemicals, such as alcohol, used in the products can actually cause more irritation.

On the other hand, lotions containing ingredients such as aloe vera and oatmeal actually helps to soothe skin. Ready’s suggestion is to give

HEAL H & WELLNESS

FACTS

Sluggishness One cause of sluggishness is the overconsumption of ‘junk food’. During the winter season, some people tend to eat more sugary foods and drinks. The best option for avoiding these consequences is to make healthier choices in food selection, such as fruits and vegetables. Instead of chowing down on snacks every night, Ready suggests making time for plenty of rest.

“Take it easy for a few days; make sure you are not overextending yourself,” Ready said.

Exercise is also a great help when trying to stay well during the winter. Some students are not willing to brave the elements to go out for a run but have the advantage of using the workout room located in the athletic wing. The workout room is open Monday through Friday until about five. It is an indoor facility where students can enjoy the benefits of a gym. A membership at the YMCA gives people more options for exercise such as using the pool. The best advice is to set up a logical workout routine that will fit both the season and the student’s schedule.

“I do the exercises and workout plan from Seventeen Magazine. It hurts but it’s definitely worth it,” sophomore Mali Floyd said.

PHOTOS BY DONNELLA CASILLAS

Sweat glands add moisture to the skin. Lips, however, don’t have sweat glands, making them extra vulnerable to winter dryness.

Lack of sunlight reduces the bodies amount of melatonin and serotonin which leads to increased tiredness.

Catch some rays despite the cold.

A salt gargle is often a quick relief to a sore throat, as the solution neutralizes the acids in the throat and washes out excess mucus.

Facts obtained by the Inklings staff

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A

inreview foursquare

Gervais’s third time hosting charms

By Molly Grace staff reporter

5 stars The combination of

When Ricky Gervais, known for U.K.’s The Office, hosted the 67th annual Golden Globe Awards in 2010, during an evening of offensive jibes from which no one was safe, he defended his offensive humor, promising “I’m not going to do this again anyway.” But he did do it again. And again.

In 2011, he was back and even more vulgar the second time around; so vulgar, in fact, that there was speculation that he would be blacklisted from ever hosting the Golden Globes again, as he’d mocked Mel Gibson (among other celebrities), made light of Robert Downey Jr.’s period in rehab and even went so far as to joke about the president of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the group that puts on the Golden Globe Awards.

So when Gervais took the stage Jan. 15 for the 69th annual Golden Globe Awards and asked, “Nervous?” it wasn’t unprecedented. During his opening monologue, as he ripped straight in to the HFPA, Kim Kardashian and Justin Bieber, viewers saw shots of the apprehensive reactions of audience members.

Despite that fact that he appeared to be off the hook for his crude behavior in previous years, Gervais was apparently given a list of rules to improve his conduct this year: rules that he read aloud and proceeded to break several times over.

intertwining one’s environment and social media is the basis of the succesful mobile app foursquare. Users are able to “check-in” at restaurants, shops, etc. and find out where friends are and which places and dishes friends suggest. One may be able to receive discounts from participating businesses. For being free, foursquare is a must download.

Camelbak

4 stars When one first

purchases a Camelbak water bottle, it may seem somewhat difficult to figure out how to drink from it. The key is to chew on the mouthpiece, one of the few characteristics that make this line of water bottles unique. Although a little pricey, Camelbak water bottles last longer, and are BPA free, making them a great investment.

When Gervais wasn’t onstage, the Golden Globes saw wins for the ABC show “Modern Family” as Best Television Series—Comedy or Musical, Kate Winslet for her role in the mini-series “Mildred Pierce” and “The Descendants” as Best Motion Picture—Drama.

The animated motion picture “Hugo” earned a third Golden Globe win for Martin Scorsese as Best Director. The big winner of the

evening was the critically-acclaimed French silent movie “The Artist,” winning three out of the six Golden Globes it was nominated for, including Best Motion Picture—Comedy or Musical.

As expectd, the show was beautiful: glowing chandeliers and extravagant dresses made the room infused with multitudinous shades of lavenders, crimsons and golds.

When he was onstage, which wasn’t often, Gervais was offensive but lacked the bite of his previous two years hosting. Many accused him of being too gentle, as his harsh comedy was the selling point for many viewers. Both the quality and quantity of Gervais and his jokes were down; there were a few funny things intermitted by long stretches of his absence. He was much tamer and fired far fewer personal attacks. The real comedy came in the other presenters poking fun at Gervais, such as Johnny Depp wearily commenting, “Ah boy, he’s fun.”

Many thought last year would mark the end of Ricky Gervais being allowed to host anything for the amount of offensive remarks he made, although perhaps that thinking is incorrect. It is very possible that Gervais’ lack of vulgarity and mocking of others will result in him not being brought back for a fourth consecutive year. Perhaps asking Gervais to be both inoffensive and funny is too tall of an order, even for a comedian of his caliber.

Next up on the stage, the 84th Academy Awards nominations were announced on Jan. 24. The show airs on Feb. 26, at 6 p.m. on ABC.

Portlandia

Best Picture

“The Artist”, “The Descendants” “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close”, “The Help” “Hugo”, “Midnight In Paris” “Moneyball”, “The Tree of Life” “War Horse”

4 stars SNL’s Fred Armisen

and indie-rock legend Carrie Brownstein are returning to IFC for the second season of their sketch show Portlandia.

The show satirizes the ecclectic lives of young, artistic citizens of Portland, Oregon, and features numerous cameos. The new season is just as humorous as the first, featuring quirky and hilarious sketches about everything from restaurant ethics to a missing mayor. Anyone with a love of unordinary humor shouldn’t miss this show.

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11.27.2011 Inklings 1.30.2012

Actor in Leading Role

Actress in Leading Role

Demian Bichir, “A Better Life” George Clooney, “The Descendants” Jean Dujardin, “The Artist” Gary Oldman, “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” Brad Pitt, “Moneyball”

Glenn Close, “Albert Nobbs” Viola Davis, “The Help” Rooney Mara, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” Meryl Streep, “The Iron Lady” Michelle Williams, “My Week With Marilyn”

Ezio’s journey comes full circle with Revelations Crystal clear graphics and an exhilarating storyline transports players into fourth game

Friend of the People 2 stars Lupe Fiasco’s latest

mixtape is exactly that: a fiasco.

It’s dragged down by unimaginative beats, uninteresting samples and an almost unforgiveable amount of dubstep.

A boring, poorly puttogether dud, “Friend of the People” leaves far too much to be desired.

By Mona Nour staff reporter

When I placed Assassin’s Creed: Revelations in my Xbox 360’s disc tray, I thought I had placed a DVD inside by accident. The graphics of Revelations are so clean and crisp that the video game’s introduction appears to be a real-life film, blowing the previous Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood’s graphics out of the water.

The Assassin’s Creed video game series comes full circle with Revelations, as Ezio travels the world to uncover his ancestor’s, AlTair, past, who is also the protaganist from the first Creed.

Although the graphics look like a film, Ezio Auditore’s (the main character) age progression was a bit lacking, which was somewhat distracting. Regardless of Ezio’s distorted image, the new moves that Ezio learns while traveling in India and removing the Templar influence on the city are mind blowing.

My favorite was the hook blade that Ezio

gets from a new friend, Youssef, at the beginning of the game. It helps Ezio climb buildings faster, do air assassinations from a zip-line and jump over guards that are in the way when chasing a target.

One thing that Assassin’s Creed fans might dislike about Revelations is the slight change in controls, which threw me off-guard until I became accustomed to the changes.

I personally enjoyed Brotherhood’s storyline more than Revelations, because it was relatively short (excluding the extra missions you can do) and also because Brotherhood included familiar characters from history (Leonardo Da Vinci, the Machiavelli family, and the Borgia family). It still carries some of Brotherhood’s charm by giving you assassins that work with you with the push of a button.

Even if it is tempting to jump right into Assassin’s Creed: Revelations, playing it before finishing the three prequels, especially the extra Cristina missions in Brotherhood, cuts off one from the story.

a few of our

favoritethings Hot Hands

Power Bracelet This stylish bracelet has become a must for athletes. The bracelet is designed to balance the wearer’s entire body and make them more coordinated and focused. This bracelet can be bought at golf courses or sports stores everywhere.

studentpick

Just give these cute little packets a shake and get instant warmth. They’re small enough to be tucked into jacket pockets or in the palm of a gloved hand and keep chilly fingers warm for up to ten hours. Hot Hands are great for days spent out in the winter weather or cold mornings walking to the school.

If the pin board at home looks like a folder blew up and more “stuff” space is desperately needed, consider making a virtual cork board. Pinterest is literally an online board for one to pin up “things” they find interesting, whether it be a picture, recipe or joke.

Pinterest is the perfect place for bloggers who are more interested in visuals and graphics than text.

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iPhone vs. Android

Android users may love their phones, but iPhone users tell them to get “Siri-ous”

1.30.2012

Inklings

Students experience world class CSO

By Abby Elston copy editor

Apps, accessability and Siri make iPhone better

By Molly Grace staff reporter

Ask Siri what the meaning of life is, and she might just give you a witty answer that’ll leave you impressed and a little scared by how high-tech your phone is.

Siri is one of the many new features on the much-anticipated iPhone 4S. As usual, the new phone from Apple failed to disappoint.

The iPhone has the same things as the Android: a built-in camera, text messaging, an internet browser and applications available for purchase. Not to be outdone by the average Android, however, Apple goes above and beyond, shooting for an eight megapixel camera and an app store with over

500,000 applications available for download directly onto your phone.

The iPhone also comes with several handy programs pre-installed, such as a weather app, a GPS navigation service, email and YouTube.

Families separated by distance can be together in a sense thanks to FaceTime, the face-to-face video call feature, and users in search of a good Italian restaurant for dinner can hit up Siri for suggestions and then ask her to give a reminder to make reservations.

The iPhone is arguably the most innovative phone on the market with all the fancy features it offers. Can a person really have a conversation with their phone?

Apple has answered, loud and clear: “Yes, there’s an app for that.”

Android phones are cooler because of this Android

By Kelsey Lennon managing editor

One any given day, I am prepared to destroy any Apple fanatic.

Androids are more customizable and geared toward making the user happy and have options the iPhone could not even fathom.

Many of Apple’s “inventions” are just updates on Android programs, such as a dual-core CPU or sending pictures directly from the gallery. These have been available to Android users since day one and Apple is playing it off has having the next big thing. Sure, “Siri” is a cool idea, but she’s just a ripoff of the voice-activated software that Androids have used since August 2010. Sure, Siri is more advanced but she’s not new.

There are smaller factors that contribute to the Android being superior. As for quality, don’t forget the joke,”Drop an iPhone on the ground, the iPhone breaks.

Drop a Droid on the ground, the ground breaks.” There is truth to that; iPhones are notorious for easy breaking screens unlike Droids.

Android users have always had more options. Keyboard or no keyboard, different screen sizes and colors are just a few of the luxuries Droid users enjoy. The Android market allows users to create and upload apps to share unlike the Apple store that regulates the apps.

Androids were built for users.

Apple had better marketing, which made them more popular, yet the Droid’s system wins everytime.

“The Devil Inside” does not live up to scary expectations

By RaeAnna Morgan copy editor

“Original,” “twisted,” and “inventive” are words that should describe a newly released movie; however none of these apply to “The Devil Inside.” The movie definitely did not live up to the hype. Although the movie was frightening at best, it was nothing compared to previous horror movies that could leave dreams haunted for days.

The plot is based around the Rossi family who has become estranged on account of the mother’s

exorcism gone wrong. While being rid of the devil, she kills three people and is then sent to a mental institution in the Vatican City. Her daughter, is now all grown up and she journeys to Rome to find her mother, rid her of her demons and bring her home.

“The Devil Inside” was certainly not original in any way. It was a mix of “Paranormal Activity” and “The Exorcist.” The movie was filmed documentary style to make the situation more realistic and personable. Plot twists are a sure way to keep viewers hooked into a movie; however, it became clear

In your face

halfway through the movie that this had not been a priority. The entire film was very bland and had no specific climax.

It left the audience with an unsatisfying cliffhanger ending. The movie itself was short, leaving no time for any subplots to develop or for the main plot to even thicken.

With loose ends untied, the film left the audience with a feeling of wonder, in a bad way.

Overall, “The Devil Inside” was a vague collaboration of two popular, well-done horror movies that had potential but just didn’t live up to it.

This concert was not up to par-- it was above. It by far surpassed any bar I had set. Words like “great” and “excellent” are too weak to describe the level of playing that was reached by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra on Jan. 18.

The opening piece was Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1 which featured pianist Till Fellner. To say that this man was genius would be an understatement. Not only did he hit every note (which would have been a feat), but he hit every note with musical interpretation.

Though Fellner’s performance was awe-inspiring, I could have just heard the orchestra play and been mesmerized. Their precision was literally incredible; I am still half-convinced that I dreamt it all. Their music transported me into this “limbo” where I was locked in my own thoughts and forgot about the rest of the world. This proves that their ability to play this music was, for lack of a precise adjective, phenomenal.

The CSO also played Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 which was the only way I knew they were playing difficult music because I am studying it in advanced orchestra. It calls for extreme detail and flawless execution of tricky rhythms and notes.

If I was not familiar with it, I would have said that they should’ve chosen more challenging music because they made it look so easy.

I could not have been more satisfied with the performance. My desire to hear fabulous music was, at the very least, fulfilled.

I left feeling content (even though as I let the performance sink in I was mind-blown) and glad that I had been able to witness such wonderful music being created.

What was your most recent facebook status?

Nate Ehearn freshman

Maggie Robinson sophomore

I hope my snake gets better.

Mad props to Vernon Davis, too bad the saints lost.

Jose Tinocco junior

Stephanie Scott senior

It’s a new day!

First home meet tomorrow. Wish I was competing with my girls, but I’ll be back in no time. Good luck CP!

1.30.2012

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ports

Inklings

Success in each stroke

PHOTO BY DONNELLA CASILLAS

Freshman Ally Tetzloff practices her butterfly stroke in a practice. Tetzloff will be swimming in the sectional meet and aims to go further into the post-season

Freshman Ally Tetzloff helps girls swim team to victory

By Alex McLean sports editor

Success takes a number of things to achieve.

A lot of time and determination are required to do well in any sport. The sooner one begins on the path, the sooner the goal can be accomplished.

Freshman Ally Tetzloff is well on her way to succeeding in swimming; her determination and skill have proven her to be one of the best swimmers in the area.

Tetzloff has taken the conference by storm, helping the Lady ‘Dogs to a 7-1-1 record and a second place finish in the DAC meet.

Tetzloff began swimming in kindergarten. The coaching staff first noticed her when she was swimming with the youth program.

“We first saw the talent (in Ally) when she was swimming with our younger age group. She was setting state records in the sixth and seventh grade; we were definitely excited for her to join the team,” assistant coach Bryan Trippeer said.

Tetzloff has helped the ‘Dogs challenge confer-

ence heavyweights like Chesterton and Munster, who have given the team trouble in the past.

In the first meet of the season at Munster, Tetzloff’s two relay and one individual first place finish helped the Bulldogs tie the Mustangs 93-93.

“It felt really great to beat Munster. It made us feel really confident about how our season would go,” junior Andie Miller said.

Despite going toe-to-toe with the Mustangs, the Lady ‘Dogs could not get past Chesterton. The Trojans, who have not lost a dual meet this season, gave the girls their first and only loss of the season, 100-86.

After the loss, the girls were determined not to lose another meet. They won every meet left on the schedule, with their smallest margin of victory being forty points.

At the DAC meet at Chesterton, Tetzloff set a record in every single event she participated in, including the 100 back (56.97), 100 fly (57.47), the 200 medley relay (1:47.7) and the 200 free relay (1:37.72).

These victories helped the ‘Dogs grab a second place finish. The Trojans defended their home pool for their 13th consecutive sectional crown.

“We all had our goals for the meet. Everybody tried to get out there and put their heart out in the pool,” Tetzloff said. “Our relay team really wanted to set that record. It was great doing it.”

As a freshman, Tetzloff has completed what many hope to do in their entire high school athletic careers. However, she is not done yet.

“I definitely want to break more records before I graduate. I want to swim well enough to get a scholarship to an out-of-state school like either the University of Auburn or Alabama,” Tetzloff said.

Next for the girls is the sectional meet next Saturday. Trippeer is confident the girls will succeed in the meet and further into the postseason.

“We have it in us to be a top 10, maybe even a top five state team. I know the girls we have are good. If we work hard, I know we can accomplish great things,” Trippeer said.

AllyTeztloff Grade: Freshman Events: 100 Butterfly, 100 Backstroke, 200 medley relay, 200 free relay Experience: 10 years Age: 14 Schools of interest: University of Alabama and Auburn University • Set record in four events at the DAC meet • Had three first place finishes in her first high school meet • Four first place finishes in Highland Invite PHOTO BY DONNELLA CASILLAS

Freshman Ally Teztloff poses for a picture during a recent practice. Teztloff has quickly become one of the area’s best swimmers.

WrestlingAway 2.1.2012 9:00 a.m.

Team Regionals at Portage

BoysBasketballHome GirlsBasketballHome HockeyAway 2.3.2012 6:00 p.m.

Merrillville (6-5) at Crown Point (4-8)

2.2.2012 2:00 p.m.

Merrillville (18-0) at Crown Point (11-6)

2.3.2011 4:30 p.m.

Crown Point (19-8-3) at Lake Central (15-11-4)

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ports

1.30.2012 Inklings

Wrestling team heads into postseason

Gymnastics steps up game

By Alexa Grady asst. sports editor

PHOTO BY DONNELLA CASILLAS

Freshman Matt James wrestles against sophomore John Ellison during a recent practice.

By Sam Beishuizen sports editor

Bulldog wrestling and state have become synonymous. The ‘Dogs have established themselves as a perennial contender in recent years, and after another nearly unblemished season, are heading into state competition poised at returning to state glory.

The ‘Dogs looked unbeatable throughout the regular season. They went undefeated in duels, won conference, and won all but one tournament.

“We had a great season so far,” head coach and newly elected Hall of Fame coach Scott Vlink said. “All of the conference wins have made me proud of our guys.”

The lone blemish on the season came in the conference tournament. The ‘Dogs fell 12 points short of Merrillville for the title.

Vlink is not overly concerned with the loss.

“You hate to lose, but we could have

done things differently with our line-ups,” Vlink said. “We beat them once before; we could do it again.”

Senior Jason Tsirtsis was also upset but is using the loss as motivation. “(The loss) really fired me up because I don’t like to lose,” Tsirtsis said. “Having (Merrillville) beat us was a wake up call after winning everything before that meet. It woke us up and told us that we aren’t invincible and we need to work hard to achieve our goals.”

Even with the loss in the tournament, the ‘Dogs are expected to advance far in the postseason before publishig. Junior Jacob Hazi is excited for the postseason.

“If we work hard and get better, we can definitely do well,” Hazi said.

Tsirtsis will be looking to do well in the postseason as he tries to capture his fourth consecutive state title.

“I am really excited for (the postseason),” Tsirtsis said. “It would mean a lot to win.

I’ve worked really hard for it, and it would be nice to know my hard work paid off.”

Tsirtsis is ready to enter the record book as he attempts to become the eighth wrestler to do so.

“I’m excited and thankful to have been as successful and accomplished as I have been.”

The ‘Dogs as a team seem confident that they will perform but are not getting ahead of themselves.

“We aren’t looking ahead right now.

We are just taking it one match at a time,” Tsirtsis said. “We can do it if we keep working hard.”

“We are going to go down and try to represent the region at state as well as we possibly can,” Vlink said. “We can win it again.”

As the season progresses, the gymnastics team still has yet to reach the high expectations that they had set for themselves in the beginning of this year. Falling behind with a record of 1-3, the girls want to step it up and start performing to their highest level.

Sophomore Sam Nicol agrees that there is no better time to get serious and start winning more meets than now.

“We have faced the four most challenging teams thus far in the season, which include Portage, Valparaiso and Chesterton. However, we did beat La Porte with vault and floor being our strengths,” Nicol said.

The LaPorte Pairs gave the Bulldogs their first and only victory so far this season. With the different categories that are involved in gymnastic meets, the ‘Dogs’ work hard on the areas where they struggle in.

“We really need to improve in bars by building up our strength for skills that we can impress the judges with,” junior Brianna Hemminger said, who is currently out due to a concussion.

On the other hand, coach Quiana Scott does not think the girls carry weaknesses.

“Our team does not have weaknesses in my opinion. Our ladies work hard to always do their best and that is what matters at the end of the day,” Scott said.

Along with teamwork and endurance, the team believes that leadership is a key to winning.

“The upperclassmen have really stepped it up this year,” Scott said.

The girls will face Chesterton this week.

Lady ‘Dogs basketball reaches midseason stride

PHOTO BY ABBY EINEMAN

Sophomore Abby Kvachkoff tries to beat a double team against Chesterton.

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rown

Believing is the girls basketball team’s motive behind all their recent success. As the girls near the postseason, believing is becoming more and more of a weekly routine for the Lady ‘Dogs.

After the win over Lake Central, the girls are realizing how much confidence affects their performance.

Senior Kendall Brown makes a point to analyze and focus on the essential aspects of the game.

“We’ve really grown as a team. We’ve managed to find our weaknesses and make them stronger,” Brown said.

This season’s success revolves around the team’s defense.

“Our defense has really begun playing

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more like a team,” head coach Annie Equihua said.

The girls did not have a problem handling the Indians at home. Taking control of the game early gave the team a strong lead, and they never looked back.

“

Our defense has really begun playing more like a team.

“

By Kara Biernat staff reporter

Annie Equihua head coach Going into the second quarter with a 14-4 lead gave the girls a chance to control the tempo of the game throughout the second half.

“Our defense showed a great perfor-

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mance by really setting the tone for our offense,” Equihua said.

Brown led the team in scoring with 21 points. She has seen improvement through practices.

“I feel like the team is improving at a really good rate due to the more efficient practices,” Brown said.

With their recent success, the Lady ‘Dogs are preparing themselves for the upcoming postseason.

“We have to work on being more consistent in preparation for postseason,” Equihua said.

After coming up short to the LaPorte Slicers this past Tuesday, the girls were motivated to come back strong at home Friday against Valparaiso, but scores were not available because of publishing.

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15 Basketball focuses on the future ports

1.30.2012 Inklings

a second with

Sam

By Sam Beishuizen sports editor

In sports, success is measured in wins and losses. A team’s record can lead to momentum, improved team moral, and most importantly, confidence. Amidst a slow start, boys basketball is trying to look past their weak record and focus on their future games.

“We have said from the very beginning that we did not want to gauge our success on wins and losses,” head coach Clint Swan said. “It’s hard because that is normally what you are gauged with. We really just want to be better at the end of the year than we were at the beginning.”

The ‘Dogs have slumped out of the gate, and currently hold a 4-8 record, 3-6 in the DAC. Their most recent game against Michigan City epitomizes their entire year thus far. The ‘Dogs stuck close to the Wolverines throughout the entire game, and headed into the fourth quarter tied. The ‘Dogs could not close out the game, and were outscored by 3 in the fourth frame in a 60-63 loss.

Junior Zach Plesac was not pleased with the loss.

“I hate losing close, and I never want to lose close,” Plesac said. “We always play to win.”

Paterno was Penn State Sam Beishuizen sports editor

It’s sad that our worst memories of a person tend to act as everlasting impressions.

It seems like all of the good that one does in their life can be trumped by one defining moment. Joe Paterno has fallen victim to this trend and at the worst time possible.

Paterno died last Sunday after battling with lung cancer which had turned deadly since being relieved of his duties. This coming in the wake of one of the largest sex scandals in history involving Jerry Sandusky, who had worked under Paterno for 39 years.

It’s sad. Paterno’s cancer -elated death can be attributed to a broken heart. Without football, Joe Pa had no will to live.

Football was his life and without it he just let go.

Paterno has been heavily criticized for failing to report what he knew about the alleged sexual assault to proper authorities. He kept it no secret that the entire situation left him depressed and confused.

Joe Paterno’s legacy should not be defined by this scandal.

He should be remembered for 409 wins, two national championships and the thousands of kids he coached into men.

He should be remembered for sticking with Penn State through thick and thin in his 62 years of work-- for donating millions of dollars to school libraries and academic programs and for making Penn State a household name.

Joe Pa did not do the right thing. He should have reported his findings to the police.

Even with this blemish on his resume, he in no way directly harmed these children, and for that reason he should not be remembered for that.

Joe Paterno was one of the best coaches of all time, and without him, Happy Valley became a little less happy. Rest in peace, Joe.

PHOTO BY ABBY EINEMAN

Sophomore Bret Barclay gets ready to dish a pass in a game against Chesterton on Jan. 6. The ‘Dogs won the game, 56-49.

Swimming looks to finish on high note

By Alex McLean sports editor

PHOTO BY DONNELLA CASILLAS

Freshman Tino Karadakoski explodes out of the water during a recent Bulldog practice at the high school gym.

Who do you think will win the Super Bowl?

New England Patriots

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06

09

142

91

New York Giants 0

Out of 233 students polled

The ‘Dogs were outrebounded 36-28 because of a lack of size.

“We are a very long team, very athletic,” Swan said. “We don’t have a physical presence inside that we need right now.”

One addition that might help size is the return of senior Peter Parks.

“He gives us an athlete with an edge from football,” Swan said. “He is going to be huge for us.”

Lack of experience is still the common problem.

“Most of the games we have lost come down to experience,” Swan said.

“They are used to the pressure, and we just are not used to it. We actually walked out of that game feeling pretty good. It will help us in the end.”

The ‘Dogs find themselves near the bottom of the DAC, but are not letting that bother the team.

“Our record does not matter right now,” Plesac said. “Sectionals is where the wins are important.”

Swan believes that the ‘Dogs are poised to make an impact throughout the rest of the season.

“We want to put ourselves in position to be in position,” Swan said. “You would think that us being 4-8 would have me singing the blues, but I’m excited.

We are in a position to make some moves.”

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150

The season did not start as hoped for the boys swim team.

Chesterton and Valparaiso handed the ‘Dogs losses in the first two meets of the season.

However, the team has managed to turn the year around and now sit on a 6-2 record.

“We preformed well in those meets, but losing helped get us motivated to succeed for the remainder of the year,” junior Joel Gintzler said.

This attitude helped the ‘Dogs win every one of their remaining meets, including a second place finish in the LaPorte

invitational.

Most recently, the boys hosted Michigan City this past Monday. Gintzler placed first place in the 100 fly, helping push the ‘Dogs to a 125-60.

“We were really working on technique, speed work, and overall mental motivation. We have been steadily improving, and it helped us turn our success around,” head coach Doug Norris said.

The Bulldogs are hoping to ride this momentum into the conference meet, which will be hosted at Crown Point this Saturday.

“Our conference is incredi-

bily tough. We cannot take anybody for granted. This is going to be a good chance to really see how we have progressed this year,” Norris said.

Sectionals will be next on the schedule after the DAC meet. Last year, the ‘Dogs managed to grab second. Norris feels confident the team will be able to find success.

“Sectionals is going to be intense,” Norris said. “Lake Central, Highland, Munster, and ourselves will be going for first. I do not think sectionals will be the end for some of our guys. If we keep the right mental attitude, we can go far.”

inside The Super Bowl The biggest weekend of the sports year has almost arrived. The Super Bowl is slated for Feb. 5 and will feature the New York football Giants and the New England Patriots in a rematch of Super Bowl XLII where the Giants captured the win.

The matchup will feature two of the best pass offenses in the league.

The Patriots are coming off of an overtime win over the Ravens. The Giants are coming off of a 3 point win over the 49’ers largely thanks to a missed pressure-

filled kick that would have sent the game into overtime.

The Patriots will be looking for their fourth Super Bowl win in the last 11 years.

The Patriots will need to rely on their high-powered offense led by quarterback Tom Brady and tight end Rob Gronkowski who will be battling off a knee injury.

The Giants will be led by their old Super Bowl core led by quarterback Eli Manning and newly emerged wide receiver Victor Cruz.

Alex says “Expect an offensive shoot out. Both teams have weak pass defense and strong quarterbacks.

Once Brady gets going, the Giants will not be able to keep up. The Patriots will win 31-20.”

Sam says “It seems like the perfect ending will be in store for Pats owner Robert Kraft. I expect to see the Patriots take home the Vince Lombardi trophy once again, 35-30.”

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eople

1.30.2012

Taking a bow

Inklings

TakeFive

Sophomore Bonnie Lin and junior Rayne Kim visit China, perform orchestral pieces in front of large audiences

By Dylan Taylor opinion editor

While many students were sitting idle, playing videogames or travelling short distances during their winter break, sophomore Bonnie Lin and junior Rayne Kim were in the midst of touring the other side of the globe - China.

Performing with the South Shore Orchestra, Kim and Lin participated in concerts in Shanghai, Quanzhou and surrounding regions over the course of a ten-day tour of China. Both Kim and Lin were suggested for the tour by their respective violin instructors.

“My teacher, Mr. (Jianmun) Meng organized the trip, and he thought it would be a good idea that I go,” Lin said. “I’m glad I did; it was an amazing time.”

The orchestra was conducted by Troy Webdell and featured adult members as well as students. Kim preformed in the first violin section and Lin performed in the second violin section. The music performed was a mixture of classical and traditional Chinese music.

“The music was often difficult, but it was generally fun to learn,” Kim said. “It was especially worth it because we got to perform with professional musicians.”

Besides being able to play orchestral music for Chinese audiences, the tour allowed Lin and Kim to explore the cities that the orchestra visited and experience the culture of China.

“Outside of our playing schedule, we did a lot of sightseeing and were able to be really immersed in Chinese culture,” Kim said.

Lin, a native of China, noticed the strong differences between the US and China while on the trip.

“China is a lot different than America. The

food, culture and ferent. Also, a lot bigger. town we over 8

music are completely difeverything seems to be For example, the smallest performed at contained million people,” Lin said.

Lin and Kim travelled with numerous other students who had been chosen to attend the tour by other South Shore Orchestra members.

Senior

Steven “RJ” Jarecki

Robo Skill (I’m really good at) designing and building robots.

PHOTO BY ALEKS KAJMAKOSKI

“There were kids from Illinois, Chesterton and other places in the Midwest in the orchestra. I got to know them all so well; making so many friends was probably my favorite part of the trip,” Kim said.

Lin served as a makeshift translator for students and adults on the trip.

“No one else could speak fluent Chinese, so I helped everyone understand things. I’m glad I was able to help, as China can be confusing at times,” Lin said. “A lot of people were surprised that I could speak it.”

Both Lin and Kim were thankful for their opportunities to go on the tour.

“The trip, other than the bus rides and the jetlag, was a great experience. I was sad to leave, but tired and glad to be home. When all was said and done, I had had the experience of a lifetime and learned so much,” Kim said.

Voice of an Angel I’m a good singer. Some people find it suprising that I can sing.

Inspiration (I would really like to meet) Theo Jansen.

He has removed the barrier between art and mechanics.

No Manners (I hate) when I am talking to someone and they start talking to somebody else midsentence. It’s just rude.

Endearing Engineering I like (engineering in school) because I’m looking to go to college for it and this is a great start to my career.

You know it’s a new semester when...

Emily Hibbard freshman

Alora Zobel junior

Grades start over.

When all your finals are over with.

When new people are in your classes.

Golf workouts start again.

Xavier Rivera sophomore

PHOTOS BY TRISHA SEMPLINSKI

Brandon Hough senior