Inklings by CPHS Inklings

ink L

Crown Point High School 1500 S. Main St.

Fandemonium Super fans pack a punch for the hometown crowd

Sept. 28, 2012 Vol. 77 Issue 1

Crown Point, IN 46307

inklings@cps.k12.in.us

Read about the student section on page 6

Dance changes to casual

This call

CANNOT

BY PAIGE BUELOW

be completed

reporter

New policy defines boundaries of communication policy quick hits

BY ABBY ELSTON MAGGIE GELON

editor-in-chief copy editor

Staff should not engage in social relationships with previous students within 24 months of graduation Under no circumstance are students to be left in charge of a classroom Corporation students are not permitted to post photographs featuring other students Corporation employees should not communicate with students who are currently enrolled in school on personal social media sites

Number of Texts Teens Send per Day

Mobile Media Usage by U.S. Teens 83%

Text Message

40%

Instant Message Email

28%

Text Alert

29%

LOL

See Communication on p. 3

Over 100 texts (29%)

Source:The Nielsen Company

One-on-one communication is prohibited between a student and professional staff member

on Pinterest.” Remind101 abides to all the new communication requirements; students “subscribe” to a teacher’s notification list and receive school-related, one-way messages through email and text while still appealing to youth by using technology. “I like Remind101. It is very helpful because (Landgrebe) can send reminders on when papers are due as well as extra credit opportunities,” senior Brittany Ash said. The lines of professionalism have been made increasingly clear this year and appropriate communication methods have been spelled out. Now the challenge for teachers and coaches lies in appropraitely communicating with students who are used to using such media as primary means. “The best teachers are the ones that engage their students and connect with their students, and sometimes that connection doesn’t have anything to do with the content area that the teacher’s teaching,” Principal Chip Pettit said. “It could have to do with an extra-curricular activity, a co-curricular activity; it could be just establishing some common ground with a student that helps make the teacher’s content relevant.

51 to 100 texts (18%) 21 to 50 texts (18%) 11 to 20 texts (11%) 1 to 10 texts (22%) None (2%)

Sports

Feature What to wear The end of summer brings new clothing styles page 9

Source:Pew Research Center

Staff members shall not transport students in a private vehicle

As 21st century citizens, we are generally connected electronically in some way, whether it be by computer, phone or some other device. While this is no breaking news, the gray area it has created in student-teacher communication is. The accessibility of technology can complicate and blur the boundaries of acceptable communication in a school setting. Technology has become the linch-pin in today’s social world, but it has also bled into the work place, educational systems, and various elements of everyday life. Consequently, corresponding rules have also been integrated to protect both teachers and students. “I always think that it’s better to prevent something wrong than do something easier and have a chance of something wrong happening,” sophomore Jordan Embry said. According to school board policy, when teachers interact with their students through social media, it must be via mass media, which is defined as a group message. One-to-one communication is only acceptable when an administrator also receives the message or in the case of an emergency with an administrator being notified immediately thereafter. English teacher Lisa Landgrebe, who has utilized various forms of technology to communicate with her students, has adjusted to these rules accordingly. “Prior to this year, I actually had a text number that was part of Google Voice. It was a number that was not associated with my cell phone number-- totally unrelated,” Landgrebe said. “With recent developments, I found another way to communicate. It’s called Remind101, and I actually found it

As the result of a recent decision from the administration, dresses and spray tans may very well be a thing of the past at Homecoming dances at CPHS. Principal Chip Pettit said that the 20132014 Homecoming dance is to be made informal, happening immediately after the football game. “We changed Homecoming because we were receiving negative feedback from some parents,” Pettit said. “Many girls’ parents were complaining about the high costs that come with a dance. They pay for hair, nails, the dress, pictures, tickets, tanning and more,” Pettit said. “We are just trying to bring the cost down.” Ticket prices are expected to be unchanged. “The money from the tickets goes directly back into the school,” Pettit said. “There are many groups in the school that require money to continue. This is where that ticket cost goes. Things like Prom have to be funded, and that money helps the juniors pull that off.” Pettit also said that the Homecoming queen and Mr. Football will still be crowned like usual. See Homecoming on p. 2

Spotlight

Kevin Enright takes over Coach returns, leads football team to current 4-2 record page 13

Megan Cantu Girl Scout Gold Award founds Thread Of Life Club page 16

2 news

inklings 9/28/12

intheknow

Collins, Hopkins earn semi-finalist honors

CP introduces new staff members Besides the transition from Ban to Petit as principal, the CPHS administration has introduced 17 new teachers and administrators to the school faculty. Many attended Indiana schools, and one is even a CPHS alumnus.

Scott Barclay

Seniors Brandi Collins and Kelsey Hopkins are National Merit semi-finalists.

Out of 1.5 million students, seniors Kelsey Hopkins and Brandi Collins earned the title of National Merit semi-finalist along with 16,000 others throughout the United States. They are recognized for their exceptional academic promise demonstrated by outstanding performances on the Preliminary SAT qualifiying test. Semifinalists have an opportunity to advance to finalist standing by meeting additional requirements. An additional 34,000 high performing students were named commended students, including seniors Cole Cartwright, Chris Dietrich, Tyler Hendrickson, Jacob Hulen, Nick Huls, Nina Rettig and Liberty Stratton. HOMECOMING

Barclay, a graduate of Purdue University, is an avid Chicago Fire fan. He also enjoys reading, playing sports with friends and watching television. When not teaching, Barclay can be found playing video games, listening to music or relaxing with friends.

Alison Duncan

octoberfacts • •

•

October is national pizza month. The Great Depression occurred on the last Tuesday of October in 1929. October, derived from the Latin “octo,” was originally the eighth month of the year. “Winnie The Pooh” was first published in October of 1926.

Carol McMichael After spending a month living in Hawaii, McMichael finds herself teaching at CPHS. If she was not teaching, she would be an interior designer. She picks up her ideas from her favorite show Holmes on Homes.

Kim McRae After completing her very first half marathon this past June, McRae is now teaching at CPHS. Her hobbies include scrapbooking and website design. If she wasn’t teaching she would be a motivational speaker.

Jennifer Easton

Chloe Pugh

Easton graduated from Boone Grove High School and went on to Purdue University. Although Easton does not consider herself a sports fan, her husband is a Chicago White Sox fanatic and she attends many games with him.

Kevin Enright An avid sports fan, Enright, a Butler University graduate, returns to CPHS for his ninth year of teaching and coaching. The former Hammond Police Officer also taught at Homewood Flossmoor in Illinois.

Joy Kapitan A graduate from Hanover Central and Southeastern Academy in Florida, Kapitan is now the bookstore manager for CPHS. She enjoys spending time with her family and volunteering at Quartermile Farm Special Equestrians.

Vince Lewis Lewis, a CPHS alumnus, has returned after graduating from Indiana University, Bloomington. His favorite television show is The Sopranos and he enjoys mash ups, particularly ones done by the band Girl Talk.

Christine Lippy After earning her MBA from the Univerity of Buffalo, Lippy ended up here in Crown Point teaching. Lippy’s favorite television show is The Big Bang Theory and she also enjoys reading and hiking.

Craig Lorek Lorek, a graduate from University of Illinois at Chicago, is now one of CPHS’ many special education teachers. If Lorek wasn’t teaching he would be a psychiatrist.

SAT Test

Before taking the job of assistant principal, McDermott attended The University of Texas at Arlington where he earned his master’s degree. In his free time, McDermott plays golf and hangs out with his family.

In her third year as the head volleyball coach, Duncan has joined the business department. When she is not coaching, she can be found gardening, cooking, or spending time with her daughter Cailin.

continued from p. 1

Lindsay Cox, who sponsors the sophomore class that organizes Homecoming, says that it will take about a year to iron out all of the details. “It will take a year of transition to get used to the ways that things are now,” Cox said. “I think that it will help families save money, but I worry that there may be a poor turnout.” Many students, like freshman Emily Ferrer, appreciate the changes and echo Petit’s reasoning. “An informal dance would be cheaper, and more people could probably afford to go,” Ferrer said. Some faculty members, such as English teacher Nicole Shelpman, also view the homecoming changes positively. Shelpman had previously taught at a school with an informal Homecoming dance. “At the school I had previously taught at, the informal dance was well-attended and kids seemed to be more excited about it,” Shelpman said. Still, many students have expressed discontent at the changes in formality. “I like having a formal Homecoming because during Turnabout there are lots of sports and not everyone can make it,” Smith said. “Now we won’t even have that.” Despite the mixed student reaction, Cox remains confident that the dance will be enjoyable for students. “Really, don’t worry. Just because the dance is informal does not mean that it won’t be as much fun,” said Cox. “If anything it will relieve the pressure of finding a date and make it an overall better time.”

Robert McDermott

Welcome to the USA

Purdue University graduate Chloe Pugh now teaches chemistry at CPHS. She enjoys reading, dancing and watching the Indianapolis Colts pull off a victory. If Pugh wasn’t teaching she would most likely be a chemist at a large company.

Sarah Robertson The newest Latin teacher spends a lot of her time outside. Robertson recently went on an Archaeological dig in Turkey, which she says she would be doing if she was not a teacher.

Lyndsey Sadler

After graduating from Lake Central and getting her undergraduate degree at IUN, Sadler came to CPHS. Sadler has seen a variety of cultures over the past four years, as she has spent them travelling to 17 different countries.

Michelle Schaack The Lake Central graduate loves reading, shopping and the Chicago Bears. She likes country music, her favorite artists being Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan. Schaack has been zip lining and white water rafting in the Smokey Mountains.

Ryan Stone The Indianapolis Colts fan enjoys golfing, running, biking and reading in his spare time. Stone’s favorite type of music is alternative. If Stone wasn’t teaching he would be golfing.

Daniel White When not teaching, White can be found drag racing, working on motorcycles or participating in martial arts. He is a fan of vintage punk and new wave music. His favorite bands include the Ramones, Talking Heads and The Police.

octobercalendar 16 18

Picture Retakes

Senior Panoramic Choir Concert

Purdue Glee Club

Did you know? Vince Lewis’ dream job is to serve mac n’ cheese out of a food truck. Christine Lippy grew up in New York, moved to Ohio, then to Virginia, to Michigan and finally moved to CP last summer. During spring break at Purdue, Chloe Pugh went to New York City and volunteered in soup kitchens and homeless shelters. Carol McMichael spent an entire month living in Hawaii. Ryan Stone spent last summer travelling through Europe. Jennifer Easton Climbed Mt. Sneffels, which stands at 14,150 feet in the Colorado San Juan Mountain Range.

26-29 Fall Break

Halloween

news

inklings 9/28/12

Teaming up for the betterment of students Freshman team format designed to help students, teachers

PHOTO BY ANNIE SWANSON

Freshmen teachers Kelly Bonich, Nick Ciochina and Kelley Nelson discuss their classes and their progress. This is one of the benefits of the teachers being grouped together to track the improvement of their classes.

‘‘

BY MADDIE ADDUCCI

reporter

For the first time in CPHS history, We like the idea of the freshmen have been assigned to teachers giving stueight different teams. Freshmen princidents more individual pal Mark Gianfermi speaks highly of attention because it his teachers’ reactions to their new arrangements. helps them develop “I was happy to see the teachers ingoals that we can help volved in this step up to try to make them achieve. this work,” Gianfermi said. Teams are organized so that each Mark Gianfermi freshmen principal has the essential core classes students are required to take. This allows the students consider their upcoming years teachers to work together and commu- in high school and prepare for college. Most freshmen world history, biolnicate about the students on their team. “Our purpose wasn’t specifically ogy and English classrooms are located for the freshmen. We wanted to make it around the same area of the building. easier for their teachers to get together This is comparable to the setup of midand talk about how their classes are go- dle school; however, that’s where the ing,” Gianfermi said. similarities end. The administrators have consid“It really hasn’t changed much of ered the benefits of the teams and want anything. I feel just as much a part of to encourage individual students with high school as anyone else,” freshman SMART (specific, measurable, achiev- Sophie Nonos said. able, result-focused and time-bound) Nonos feels that being in teams goals. These goals are designed to help has actually done the opposite of what

views on news

Area Threats found in Valpo University grafitti Valparaiso University officials warned students after grafitti warning against oncoming acts of “violence and criminal activity” was found in a restroom in the Neils Science Center. The university was never evacuated, but the FBI was notified and security measures were taken.

‘‘

Ahmed Shabaan senior

(The threats) affected me personally, as my sister goes to Valpo. It really rattled my bones.

her middle school teams did. Instead of splitting up students, she feels she has more opportunities to get to know people. “Originally, when I first found out about the teams, I was a little upset because I thought I wouldn’t see my friends as often if they weren’t on my team,” Nonos said. “But it has given me the chance to meet a lot of new people.” Math teacher Adam Piaskowy and English teacher Annie Lorek see the changes as subtle. It was a decision made to unite the teachers and better organize the students with hopes of transitioning from middle school to high school. “Honestly, I don’t think my students mind being in teams,” Lorek said. “I haven’t heard anything from them about it since the beginning of school.” In upcoming years, administrators plan on keeping the freshmen teams. They say feedback has been positive and few problems with scheduling have been brought to their attention.

COMMUNICATION continued from p. 1 That’s one of the finer points of good teaching— making your content relevant for students and drawing a connection with students.” Social studies teacher and girls head soccer coach Chris Mikrut has experience with connecting with students while maintaining professionalism both in the classroom and on the soccer field. “I think it’s very important for the students to know who I am, but I also think there has to be a respect factor on both sides,” Mikrut said. “I like to do things that make the class fun, but there has to be a line drawn. I expect them to treat me as an adult and not one of their friends, and I think that’s difficult at times for kids to do because I’m outgoing, and I like to get to know the kids, but I also think they have to understand that I am not one of their friends.” Though Mikrut said his dynamic with his athletes does differ from that of his students, he still believes that the same respect needs to be upheld in an athlete-coach relationship as well. “I think my relationship with my athletes is different (from students) because I get to know them on a different level, and I spend a lot more time with them than just 50 minutes a day. So I get to know these kids and their lives and their family, but at the same time there’s just as much of a line that has to be drawn and even sometimes more because of me being a male coach coaching females,” Mikrut said. Mikrut maintains this professional relationship by communicating with his soccer players via group email. “(I think it’s convenient) because everyone checks it and it goes to the player and her parent, so if one doesn’t get it, the other will,” sophomore soccer player Meghan Morasan said. “He’ll tell us at practice too, and then he’ll just send a reminder over the email as well.” According to Morasan, Mikrut has communicated with them in this way for at least the two years that she has been a part of the team. Though implemented rules have made the means of communication between students and teachers more stringent, this does not mean that students and teachers have to adhere to a mechanical dynamic. According to Pettit, both parties just need to keep in mind that this professional relationship should be focused on the greater goal of education. “I think our best teachers are able to connect with students in such a way where kids can’t wait to get to the classroom,” Pettit said. “I think both students and teachers need to keep in mind that we’re looking to engage students and motivate students so that they can pursue their college and career goals.” Though these rules and regulations are important, a positive relationship between a student and a teacher does not have to be sacrificed. “I look back at the most important people in my life that molded me and they were all teachers,” Mikrut said. “I think we are so influential on these kids and in our students’ lives that I think it’s important to develop a relationship, but just as important-- there has to be a respect to that relationship.”

Student reaction to events in our world State State superintendent calls for teacher accountability

Nation Drew Peterson found guilty of murdering wife

World Hiroshima survivors protest nuclear weapons

Indiana state superintendent Tony Bennett lauded accountability-heavy reforms in a recent State of Education address. Bennett called for state-takovers to be extended to school districts that consistently fail. Bennett claims that the reforms have led to a higher amount of passed state exams.

Former police sergeant Drew Peterson, who became a subject of controversy after his fourth wife disappeared in 2007, was convicted of the murder of his third wife, Kathleen Savio, in a potentially precedentsetting case based on secondhand hearsay statements.

Survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan in World War II protested at holy sites in Israel against Israel’s nuclear armaments. The protestors believe that nuclear weapons are dangerous to Israel and other nations. Participants in the protest held signs reading “Nuclear Abolition” in Japanese.

‘‘

Noah Golding junior

Schools with bad test scores should be given more funding; they need more help, not a (state takeover).

‘‘

Mallorie Krucina sophomore

I thought (Peterson) was completely guilty to begin with. I feel like he had already gotten away with other things.

‘‘

Muhammed Mirza freshman

I understand why they would protest because of what they have been through. I think countries should have less nuclear forces.

4 opinion

inklings 9/28/12

speakup

Testing not appropriate for teacher evaluations

Where should the line be drawn when students and teachers communicate using social media?

BY DYLAN TAYLOR

managing editor

For many Indiana students, standardized tests have incited dread since the ISTEP tests in primary school. These tests “display” so much about a student’s academic competence that some skip the day of the test or even take illicit cognitive-enhancing drugs in attempt to avoid the dread of a bad score. Good or bad score, the tests simply aren’t always effective at measuring a student’s abilities. Some are bad test takers, some cheat and some are granted the sort of dumb luck that allows them to guess their way to a good score. In light of this, the desires of many government officials, from Chicago’s mayoral office to now Indianapolis, to use these oft-botched tests to measure the credibility of school teachers are unjustifiable. The Indiana state legislation needs to take the example of the Chicago Teachers’ Union protests in Chicago seriously and recognize that reality. The goings-on of a classroom absolutely cannot be reduced to the shallow readings of a test. Teachers are able to change the lives of students in many ways beyond that of simply the banal memorization of test answers. How many students have been affected by, say, a knowledgeable English teacher that recommends them a life-changing book? Or an art teacher that encourages their free capacity for creativity? Or an instructor that stays hours after school to assist them when they are struggling? It is these kinds of actions that make a teacher great, and sadly, are not necessarily reflected by the scores of the nerve-wracking standardized tests that many are attempting to define “good” teaching by. There is no answer on any standardized test that can reflect a teacher’s capacity for caring, for individualization of a lesson plan or for long-term effectiveness in instilling values and ideas. Because of this, Indiana students and teachers must be prepared to resist as long as bureaucrats exercise an uninformed precedence of testing over the livelihood of teachers and their unions. Just as the Chicago teachers have shown, striking, protests and advocacy need to take place in order to maintain quality education and stop public schools from becoming bona-fide “cults of the SAT.”

Cartoon By ELLIE BURRELL

iew:

Regulations clarify appropriate, professional communication as technology advances

Anthony Kendall freshman “The line should be drawn when students and teachers use texting to communicate. They should not be able to use social media.”

Communication now defined As technology becomes more accessible in today’s day and age, lines must be drawn in a professional world to assure that a professional relationship is maintained, and this year, the school board has drawn those lines. School board policy has been amended to include several new changes. This year, students and faculty cannot participate in one-to-one communication, to name one of them. These new rules, overall, will prove to be helpful. As individual teachers and students, we do not all share the same definition of what is appropriate communication and what is not with regards to using technology. If we have a set policy in place, it eliminates all possibilities of disagreement and defines exactly what type of student-faculty communication is expected. Though in some cases these rules have made communication more inconvenient, the benefits of the regulations outweigh the negatives. These regulations, while proving to be helpful, do not hinder supportive student-faculty relationships. It is important for students to have that one teacher or coach who makes them feel safe and comfortable. Otherwise, school becomes a place that is dreaded every day. Though the rules do establish a more professional relationship, students and teachers are still able to maintain a somewhat personal relationship through face-to-face interaction. Face-to-face communication is both appropriate in a school setting and enriching toward a positive student-teacher relationship. Group messaging and mass media also avoids any possible inappropriateness from emerging in a student-teacher or student-coach relationship. It is purely professional because it completely eliminates any sort of individual attention. This also avoids favoritism-- a possibly unanticipated advantage from the new amendments to school policy. In some aspects, this can improve the efficiency of communication because one message is composed and sent to everyone. All information is addressed in one giant message, and the teacher/coach does not have to worry about responding to 52 individual questions. The new regulations are definitely a step in the right direciton regarding the utilization of technology in a school setting.

editorial

Mollie Bates sophomore “Social media should only be used between students and teachers when it is about school-related topics, like questions about homework.”

Jacob Gulka junior “I do not think teachers should be allowed to use social media at all with students. It is too risky.”

Julietta Wright senior “I think teachers should be able to use social media if they want to because it makes it easier on the students.”

Vol. 77 Issue 1 Sept. 28, 2012 1500 S. Main St. Crown Point, IN 46307 219-663-4885 ex. 11349 fax 219-662-5663 inklings@cps.k12.in.us 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.

Sam Beishuizen Abby Elston editors-in-chief RaeAnna Morgan editor-at-large Dylan Taylor managing editor Maggie Gelon Katie Sherman copy editors Molly Grace feature editor Shannon Rostin feature editor asst.

Alex McLean Alexa Grady sports editors Kara Biernat sports asst. Yazzmyne Lopez advertising editor Hannah Colby advertising asst. Brittany Pedersen Amy Schuch Annie Swanson photographers

Ellie Burrell artist Alaa Abdeldaiem Maddie Adducci Alexis Berdine Emily Best Paige Buelow Olivia Elston David Kepshire Verda Mirza Tina Winfrey staff Julie Elston adviser

opinion 5

inklings 9/28/12

issue:

Is your brand behind your beliefs?

Restrictions on handguns create a safer environment

BY RAEANNA MORGAN

editor-at-large

Cartoon by Ellie Burrell

Pro:

Con:

A company’s political stance should not hold relevance to consumers

Consumers should pay attention to where corporations put money

BY PAIGE BUELOW

BY DYLAN TAYLOR

managing editor

reporter

Consumers have recently been thrown into the midst of a political catastrophe. Businesses are starting to publicize their views, and consumers have to be able to look past the nonsense, and back to the basics. Even if companies involve politics in their businesses the consumer should simply allow the products to be the most important factor when purchasing. The purchase should not be affected by the controversy that corporations often get involved in. There has been commotion involving Chick-fil-A and the swirling stories of supporting, then not supporting anti-gay programs. As a restaurant, they chose, at first, to make their views public on being an anti-gay corporation. After much grief about being close-minded, Chick-fil-A retracted their statement saying that they were going to leave the controversy to the political arena. The main point here is that if Chick-fil-A would never have involved these politics, then there never would have been a problem in the first place. By taking their stand, they caused any who disagreed to boycott the business. When they changed their minds, then everyone who was at first with them, called them cowardly for backing down. What they say does not change what product they offer. If they support gay marrigae, they sell chicken sandwhiches, if they don’t they still sell chicken sandwhiches. However, Chick-fil-A is not alone in the choice to take a side. Surprisingly, companies like Wal-Mart and Forever 21 also support anti-gay, or conservative, programs. However, companies such as Apple, Starbucks, Target and Walt Disney are all openly liberal-supporting. This again raises the question, should it matter if they pick a side? In reality, it should not. Apple, a liberal-supporting company, does not seem to stop a conservative teen from loving their iPhone. Leave the politics out, and let the product speak for themselves.

After Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy’s statements about what marriage should or shouldn’t be surfaced in the media, the simple act of eating a sandwich has become a loaded political statement. The fact of the matter is that many paying customers found Cathy’s firebrand bigotry (quote: “God’s mercy on our generation that has such a prideful, arrogant attitude to think that we have the audacity to try to redefine what marriage is about”) difficult to stomach, even with a fried chicken sandwich to chase it. And when combined with the corporation’s record of donating to right-wing, “marriage-defending” organizations, it became a necessity to ask ourselves, as consumers, if eating fried meat is more important than opposing oppression and homophobia. Although the company now claims political neutrality, there is a lot to be said about the effects of corporations’ beliefs on consumers. Even beyond the southern chicken moguls, it’s no secret that corporations often have political allegiances and agendas. Just as Apple and Google openly support liberal organizations, companies like Menards bankroll the Republican Party. Would any reasonable partisan donate money to an opposing party, or a cause one doesn’t believe in? Absolutely not. When there are thousands of potential places to shop, American citizens need to shed the shroud of apathy and think a bit about where their money is going. Legitimately oppressive and bigoted additudes are horrific enough, but the sort of apathy that leads “open-minded” individuals to, for example, contribute money to an organization that believes Americans to be “prideful” and “arrogant” for opening marriage to same-sex couples is arguably more disturbing. Consumers need to start putting their money where their mouth is; consumers supporting corporations that hold agendas against their better interests is one thing - pure, inexcusable ignorance.

19 Inklings staffers agree

7 Inklings staffers agree

Amy Berchem

Andre Hatami

French teacher

“You really shouldn’t fund a cause that you don’t stand for.”

“If (a company’s stance) doesn’t have to do with a product you want, don’t bring (the company’s stance) into the reason why you’re buying it or not.”

Rayne Kim

senior

“I honestly don’t think it’s a big deal. I like food; it’s the company’s choice what they do with their money.”

junior

Jacob Adams

English teacher

“In a complex global economy, it’s important to understand where your money is going in order to stand by your principles.”

Ever since the Columbine shooting it seems violence has only gotten worse. The news has been plastered with shootings from places like movie theatres and the mall to the Empire State Building. Innocent people have been killed, all because a weapon ended up in the wrong hands. These random acts of violence have risen the question of gun control. Is it necessary? Will the imposing of it violate our constitutional rights as citizens of the United States of America? Either way something must be done. This summer alone there have been several shootings, like the gunman who shot and killed 12 people at the Batman premiere in Colorado. Many innocent lives have been lost simply because the wrong people came into the possession of a weapon. If gun control were imposed, the general public would be much safer than they are now. Although it does state that American citizens have the right to bear a firearm, it should be made much more difficult to obtain. The ease at which one can come into the possession of a gun has put the general public at risk. Imposing laws that make it more difficult to obtain a weapon could restore the mass’ peace of mind. Today, society is not threatened by wars in their town or city. It’s 2012, not 1812, and U.S. citizens do not need to protect themselves at a moment’s notice anymore. We live in an age and a country where we are lucky enough to have protection provided for us by the government. With that said, the need for one’s own weapon is not nearly as neccessary as it once was. Gun control for society now would only be doing us a favor. We wouldn’t have to fear for our lives every time we stepped out of the door. This is not to say no one would be allowed to own a weapon, it would only make the process of obtaining one slightly more difficult. Some may see gun control as the government attempting to strip us of our natural rights. This would not be the case. It would be for the safety of the people, which is our government’s top priority. We are fortunate enough to not have to be in constant need of a weapon. But if these violent acts continue, sadly it may come to that.

6 feature

inklings 9/28/12

i on life A page dedicated to celebrating student life.

PHOTO BY AMY SCHUCH

The homecoming queen candidates Allie Jostes, Lauren Murphy, Mackenzie Westgate, Maggie Perkins and Andie Miller (from left to right) wait on the field to hear the results. Lauren Murphy was crowned homecoming queen and the following night senior football player Sean Jones was crowned Mr. Football.

bythe

numbers

teams in the DAC conference

different official sports for both boys and girls

CPHS’ football stadium holds up to PHOTO BY: RACHEL REITAN

Enthusiastic and full of pep, senior Austin Cundiff loudly cheers in support of the bulldogs as they take on the Lake Central Indians at home. Dressed in a shirt and tie, Cundiff was prepared for formal Friday and showed his school spirit.

And the crowd goes wild

Crown Point’s student section shows off their school spirit BY RAEANNA MORGAN

editor-at-large

Each Friday when the team dons its uniforms, students can be seen filing into the bleachers clad in red and white prepared to cheer their hearts (and sometimes even their voices) out. Throughout the years, not only Crown Point High School, but the community as a whole has had a substantial backing for the football team. “I think to some degree we do have more school spirit than most. We are a relatively small town that has one high school to rally behind. There is a lot of tradition at Crown Point High School, and our students and families embrace it,” Dean of Students Russ Marcinek said. Cheering for one’s school team helps to get the players and the coaches in the right mindset to win the game. “Large crowds that are extremely supportive and enthusiastic play a huge role for our football team. Our players and coaches feel the positive energy and excitement that emanates from the crowd,” head Coach Kevin Enright said. “That type of atmosphere is contagious and provides the boost we may need to get through the difficult times. The crowd can provide ‘the drive’ and ‘the little extra’ we may need to ensure success. We really appreciate their positive support.” Other ways to support one’s team instead of just watching the game is to super fan and not only cheer loudly, but dress the part as well. “My friends and I always dress in Crown Point colors and meet at someone’s house before the game to put face paint on,” senior Matt Mudd said. “We just go out to see Crown Point bring home the win and have a good time with my friends.” Costumes and other types of ridiculous attire are common ways in which students show their support.

“One Friday all my guy friends wore ties and suits and called it formal Friday because we like to keep it classy at CP,” senior Austin Cundiff said. Another possible fan favorite is the Lowell game. “Lowell is definitely my favorite team to watch our team play. Dressing up and making ourselves look like farmers is always fun, especially when my friends and I get together beforehand to get our costumes together,” senior Taylor Miller said. “It’s also the game where I see the most support from everyone. When I look in the crowd I see cowboy hats everywhere.” The crazy costumes and face paint are used to show the amount of school spirit the students at Crown Point really have. “The students are energetic and have a great deal of school spirit. Crown Point has always had a tradition of good fan support and this year is no different,” Marcinek said. Mudd agreed and even went on to say that Crown Point’s student section at away games almost always rivals that of the home team. “Every year the crowd seems to be getting bigger, which is a great sign for our team,” Mudd said. Even if super fanning isn’t one’s style, some students, such as junior Eman Elshity attend to watch the games and cheer classmates on. “I don’t usually dress up or do anything crazy, but when I do get the chance to go to the football games I like to watch and see my friends play a good game,” Elshity said. When asked if CP’s student fans could get any better, Miller only had one critique. “We really need our underclassmen to come to more games and help us cheer! They need to prove us wrong and show us they have bulldog spirit,” Miller said.

5,000 people at a time

CPHS’ gymnasium has a capacity of

3,800

The number of sports available to boys at Crown Point

The number of sports available to girls at Crown Point

The number of football classes in the IHSSA

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Students commute for education Area schools team up to share vocational course offerings to meet student needs PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY AMY SCHUCH

BY SHANNON ROSTIN

Assisant Feature Editor

Junior AnnaMarie Gianni does not follow a standard school schedule. Instead, Gianni spends her early periods at Lowell High School, taking advantage of agricultural courses which are geared toward her personal aspirations and interests. Gianni and others have capitalized on this educational oppurtunity. Lowell offers vocational classes to students who wish to take classes that relate to a specific occupation. These classes focus on major-based subjects and are not offered at Crown Point. There are students at Crown Point that attend both schools either daily or twice a week in order to take these classes. “We’re able to do (the partnership) because we are part of a cooperative of schools. They are Hanover, Lowell and Crown Point. It’s a way for schools to pull money and to provide courses, share resources, and

offer specific classes,” Assistant Principal Robert McDermott said. As part of the cooperative of schools, Lowell can send students to our school as well. Gianni is enrolled in Introduction to Agriculture and U.S. history at Lowell High School. Gianni wants to earn a degree in agriculture in the future. She begins her day at Lowell and attends Crown Point for periods five through seven to complete all other courses. “I go to Lowell because I want a degree in agriculture and Crown Point does not offer an agriculture class. The name of the course I’m in is Introduction to Agriculture. It’s basically taking your interest in agriculture to the next level. Now we’re learning about FFA, Future Farmers of America, which is a program offered through the class,” Gianni said. This is not the only vocational course offered by Lowell. Senior Evan Merkel goes to Lowell every day to take a police political science class. “The class deals with the crimi-

nal justice system and how it works. It’s something I want to pursue a career in, preferably in the FBI,” Merkel said. Lowell operates on block scheduling. This allows about an hour for students from Crown Point to make the transition between schools during the day. Also due to the block scheduling, some students only have scheduled classes twice a week, while others go daily. “I miss four class periods at Crown Point for one class there. Because of this I had to take U.S. history at Lowell as well so I could still get the credit. The agriculture class counts as a science credit,” Gianni said. Lowell also offers different classes, such as ROTC. Junior Michael Bugno attends Lowell twice a week for a ROTC class. This is a Reserved Officer Training Corp class offered to students that have an interest in a military career path. “I am taking ROTC, Reserved Officer Training Corp. I learned

about this opportunity from former students that went to both CP and Lowell. Lowell has a good curriculum, but I would prefer if Crown Point had an ROTC class here, because it would make it easier,” Bugno said. Attending both schools allows students to take part in major-based, vocational classes while still attending Crown Point and achieving the required courses. Commuting to two schools allows for participating students to experience a different educational dynamic and be exposed to a new school setting. Although one school cannot offer classes to meet the interests of every student, this cooperative allows for students to take advantage of the courses offered at other school. “The programs are beneficial if there is an area of interest a student has that we cannot meet. We want to be able to meet the needs of every student, but with so many that is impossible to do,” McDermott said.

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8 feature

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Rettig points production in right direction Senior Nina Rettig directs One Act for Crown Point Community Theatre BY MOLLY GRACE

feature editor

It is not common for many students to voluntarily and confidently take on an important leadership position until they are older and more confident in their abilities. Senior Nina Rettig, however, is not your average student. Rettig has been student director for the school plays and musicals since her freshman year. All this experience in directing her peers has prepared her for yet another leadership position that she took on over the summer: directing her own one act play. On the weekends of Sept. 7 and Sept. 14, the Crown Point Community Theatre held “An Evening of One Acts,” which featured two one act plays, “The Thugs” and “Lockdown,” directed by Rettig alongside recent CPHS graduate Jacob Barber, who was responsible for organizing the show. Although it was a collaborative effort, Rettig focused more closely on “Lockdown,” which is set in a high school that is in the middle of a shooting. According to Rettig, directing a one act play is no small task. It entails a lot of work and dedication. “It’s different from being a student director. That is more organizational and keeping things in line, while directing at CPCT is actually making decisions of blocking and directing,” Rettig said. “We had to go through auditions, set construction and long rehearsals.” Often, their rehearsals required a substantial time commitment, running until 10 p.m. Despite the high level of effort required to direct a one act, Rettig remained optimistic. “I expected it to be hard, but it definitely wasn’t unbearable,” Rettig said. Senior Angel Barraza played the part of Tyler, a rebellious student, in Rettig’s one act. “She’s a really strong director. She knows how to bring subtle comedy into the script,” Barraza said. Despite the darkness of the script’s subject material, Rettig included funny little elements that were not in the script to add humor to the play, Barraza explained. Rettig is not afraid to add a few funny gags to her show, to keep the tone funny rather than dark and depressing.

PHOTO BY BRITTANY PEDERSEN

Senior Nina Rettig operates the lighting board for the show. Rettig directed the one act “Lockdown” for Crown Point Community Theatre during CPCT’s “Evening of One Acts”.

Barraza said that at one point he is sitting at the teacher’s desk. In the one act that precedes his, “The Thugs,” one of the characters has a variety of different toys. While he’s sitting at the desk, Barraza acts confused as he pulls these items out of the desk and makes them visible to the audience, jokingly referencing the previous show. “We also have a joke where I pull out my script that says ‘Lockdown’ on it in big letters,” Barraza said. It is a different experience being under the direction of a peer, but Barraza says rather than hindering the show, it helped. “Because she is our age, I found that she was able to connect and sympathize with what we were saying,” Barraza said. In addition to being able to communicate better because she is a peer, Barraza found that Rettig was “warm and lighthearted.”

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“She’s easy to talk to, very friendly, but knows when work needs to be done,” Barraza said. Although there is a lot of work to be done, Rettig says that it is a very rewarding experience. “My favorite part was seeing it all come together,” Rettig said. Rettig will now be able to apply her directing debut to her student directing duties during the fall play “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Even outside of theatre, Rettig has developed essential leadership and people skills from her experiences. Although she enjoys directing and dedicates quite a bit of her time to it, Rettig does not see herself pursuing it as a career. “It’s just something I like to do for fun. I like being organized, and the people who do theatre are fun to be around,” Rettig said.

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Trendy fall styles arrive at CPHS Fashionably hip students keep up with the latest trends and styles of the autumn season Recently the latest trends have been in high demand. Stores in the mall such as Pac Sun, American Eagle and Delia’s are preparing to have new trends hit the racks. “We just got in a new shipment of bright colored jeans,” American Eagle manager Veronica Serna said. “They’re a bold step for fall considering the fact that most people only wear dark colors.” Bright colors are indeed one of the upcoming trends. “ T h e clothes give off an ‘I-don’t-carewhat-peoplesay-I’ll-wearwhat-I-want’ kind of feel,” Serna said. Similarly, Delia’s has recently updated to the new styles. “We are definitely the first store to get clothing for the British boy band, One Direction,” Delia’s manager Angelica Levy said. “We set up the store into sections, so each section represents one of the One Direction guys.” To a One Direction fan, the styles of each of the members may be

BY TINA WINFREY VERDA MIRZA

Some boys fairly recognizable. The reporters have more fashclothes mix in some of ion sense than latest trends by addwhat most girls give ing bright splashes of color and them credit for. Fashion sequins. is just as important to “We have at least one some fashionable boys as piece of clothing for each it is to some girls. kind of person. Many of the “Nike brands clothes fit in with their indiare very ‘in’ right vidual styles and tie in the now among the latest trends,” Levy said. boys, everything Sales associates at from Nike PacSun feel the same shoes to Nike regarding individual pants to Nike style. PacSun associshirts,” Dick’s ate Dani Lewis feels Sporting Goods as if every teen can sales associate find clothes they Dani said. like at PacSun. Nike carMore upcomries many athing styles are reverse letic products fall colors (bright not that appeal to dark); skinny, slim cut more sporty jeans; sheer, lace tops and boys like Trevor loud prints. UGG style boots Gray. and North Face jackets will “I like wearbe in style again this year with ing sporty clothes even more new colors and a because I like to larger variety of prints said feel comfortable sales associates at Dick’s Sporting and loose,” Gray said. Goods and Journey’s. Lately the most All these fashions need to popular item among make a statement and be worn by athletic merchandise has someone, and that girl is senior been Nike elite socks. Courtney Ziga. “Nike elite socks worn “My style is very unique,” Ziga with sandals have been really said. “I like to pick out things I see very popular lately. I have in the fashion magazines and put seen many of the boys who my own unique twist on it.” come in either wearing those Ziga believes that baggy sweaters or coming in to buy them,” are going to become in style as well as Dani said. combat boots and leggings. She looks Current and trendy items forward to wearing them and she enamong boys have been seen in courages others to jump into fashion bright neon colors. Neon has too. become fashionable because Courtney Ziga senior of the Olympics, according

rown

to Finishline sales clerk Jonathan White. The colors reference the Olympic runners who wore neon colored running shoes and ultimately started the trend among the masses. In addition to neon colors, many shoe brands and trendy accessories are also on the rise as well. “There are many other things that many guys like to buy like Air Max 2012 shoes, G-Shock watches and Oakley and Ray-Ban sunglasses,” White said. Some guys are into sporty fashion, while others are more into a much trendier fall fashion. “My fashion lately has been fall based,” sophomore Justin Vandergriff said. “H&M is a really cool, unique store. They have their own style, but they still add a modern twist to their clothes, which helps me stay in style with the latest trends.” According to H&M clothes in style for the more fashion-forward boys are cardigans, slim jeans and low boots in darker fall colors like gray, green, dark oranges and many more. “I do not get why other guys don’t put more of an effort to be in style with the latest clothes trends,” Vandergriff said. “It’s a way for people to express themselves in a unique, different way and stay up-to-date and in style.” Trevor Gray

freshman

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10 feature

inklings 9/28/12

HEAD AMES

New research sheds light on the impact of concussions in football New sports policy on concussions New state laws have forced high school athletic associations to revamp their concussion policies. “Concussions are a big conce rn for our school which is why we have put these new procedures in place,” athletic director Bill Dorulla said. “Any time a kid suffers a concussion, we are careful in getting them back while we follow the procedures.” Here is a look at the current process the state mandates.

Baseline test.

Retake baseline after hit.

Player sits a week and is evaluated again. Attempts test again. Player is examined by head trauma specialist.

BY SAM BEISHUIZEN ALAA ABDELDAIEM

editor-in-chief reporter

ourty-eight minutes--the length of a high school football game. Winners are determined, scholarships are earned and local legends are made. Although the game only extends for less than an hour, it has the potential of impacting the lives’ of the players far past the final whistle. With just one hard hit, one wrong collision, those 48 minutes’ effects could last a lifetime. Recent studies have shown that football may be more dangerous than it appears. Brain damage PHOTO BY AMY SCUCH caused by concussions The heavy contact nature of football can lead to numerous head injuries. Head to head collisions in football are a typical occurhas taken a spotlight at rence. These types of hits can lead to brain deterioration over time. the professional level. The more hits a player takes, the more functions our date shows that once you get hit above 60 High school football has are stripped away from his brain. Symptoms may to 70 hits a week, a player begins to experience not experienced the multi-million dollar lawsuits not be experienced after the initial impact, but as these changes,” Nauman said. “If it was up to and player strikes, but with player safety becoming time goes on, these minor damages can lead to me, players would hardly ever practice at all with a major headline, the dangers of a serious head bigger, long-term effects. contact and leave the hits just for the game.” injury are no longer being ignored. “There are things that they see in NFL players Regardless of the precautions taken, concussions “Concussions are always something we’re like Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) are not entirely preventable. When players take concerned about in terms of player safety and that is one possible thing that might be correlated a big hit, they must undergo a sideline test to long term effects and what concussions can do with what we’re seeing,” Nauman said. “It shows determine whether or not the impact resulted in to the body,” head football coach Kevin Enright up with people that have hit their heads a lot, but a concussion. said. “Unfortunately they occur.” does not necessarily correlate with a concussion. “Whenever there’s a player that is suspected There are a number of things that can happen to have a concussion, they’re taken out of action r. Eric Nauman of Purdue University is to your brain. We are worried about Alzheimer’s right away,” Enright said. “The trainers put them part of a group of researchers who are early, Parkinson’s early, those kinds of diseases.” through a series of tests, questioning and eye studying the brain damage inflicted during the movements. They must pass their baseline score. course of a football season. Their researchers Otherwise, they’re not able to participate until measured the collisions that the Lafayette they do.” Bronchos football team took over the course of two years to gain a better understanding of how ot all players find such tests purposeful. football can impair brain function simply by What we are finding is that the level Junior Curry Franklin experienced a experiencing typical collisions. of change that happens in the brain is concussion while playing for the team, and after “Our research is showing concussions are just correlated with the number of hits that having to go through the sideline exam, Franklin one aspect of traumatic brain injury,” Nauman did not see a purpose behind it. people have taken. said. “Up to 50 percent of players show profound “The tests were helpful to see progress, but neurological changes without any symptoms.” Dr. Eric Nauman Purdue University professor most of them were pointless,” Franklin said. Nauman’s study was meant to target players “They didn’t really tell us much.” who have experienced concussions, using those According to Nauman, there is a scientific who have not as the control group to later he first line of defense in concussion reason why the sideline tests are not effective in compare them to their concussed teammates. prevention is the equipment used. Without diagnosing brain trauma. When testing began, a problem arose. Researchers it, players are vulnerable to injury. Enright believes “The tests on the side lines are basically encountered several players, all who have never the better the quality, the less likely injuries will designed to test one or two aspects of brain experienced a concussion, that scored significantly occur. Enright is confident that the equipment function,” Nauman said. “Your brain does a lot lower on their ImPACT test, a computerized exam issued by the school serves that purpose. of different things. The sideline tests miss most that tests memory and concentration. Each of the “We only buy top-of-the-line equipment, and we of the things we pick up in an MRI.” players showed major declines in visual memory. encourage and check that players are maintaining With the growing concerns over injuries suffered In just a week of 150 hits, the players were labeled equipment,” Enright said. “Part of (the helmet) is in football and calls to make the game safer, some by the Purdue team as “functionally impaired.” cushion-based and padded, and part of it is airhave questioned whether or not football should While the topic of major head injury is focused on based. “ remain being played in high school. concussions, Nauman and his team of researchers Without proper technique, injuries are still “Nothing can make football safer,” Franklin believe the real damage is inflicted by minor, subject to occur. said. “It is a dangerous game. The players know constant impacts that deteriorate the brain. “We practice and coach good (football) that going in.” “What we looked at is what moves throughout techniques, in terms of one player tackling another, With various research groups teaming up, the brain during very simple tasks,” Nauman said. and the proper ways to limit the opportunities for Nauman believes that the game is not in any “What we are finding is that the level of change concussions to occur,” Enright said. immediate jeopardy of going away as long as that happens in the brain is correlated with the Nauman advises the same , but expands on changes are made. number of hits and the distribution of force the idea even further to include the proper way “If people aren’t willing to adapt I think throughout the helmet. How hard the brain has practices should be conducted. it could end football,” Nauman said. “The to work is directly related to the number of hits “Our advice to coaches is to dramatically limit things we are seeing need to be dealt with.” that people have taken.” the number of contact practices because most of

‘‘

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inreview YoAmazing The new frozen yogurt shop that just opened up in Valparaiso, YoAmazing, has the “fixings” to become an amazing hang out for teenagers. With a multitude of flavors and toppings anyone could find something that they love.

“Good Time” Owl City Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen’s new song, “Good Time,” came out June 26, 2012 as Billboard number 18 out of 100. It catches the attention of its listeners with an upbeat, cheerful tune completed with clean lyrics all ages can listen to.

Friday night

bites

Local foodstuffs perfect for tired, hungry football fans

by emily best

reporter

With the football season in full swing, some fans and play-

ers work up quite an appetite at the games. Some people may wish to go home to eat, while others might want to eat out. Either way, there are plenty of drive-thrus, restaurants and carry out places in Crown Point to eat at.

One place people go to after a football game is the Dairy Queen located on North Main Street. With a variety of foods, Dairy Queen appeals to many taste buds. They not only serve the best ice cream around, but they also serve food like burgers, hot dogs, Carriage Court salads, chicken, grilled cheese, etc. While the food is good, the ice cream is delicious. With many different options, Dairy Queen has just about If you every kind of ice cream to choose from. happen to be It’s a great place to go to after a game one of those people if you’re looking for a quick who like to stay home and eat, Carbite to eat. riage Court Pizza, located on South East

Dairy Queen

Street, is a great option. It’s my favorite pizza place around town. They have many different options to choose from, whether you like cheese, meat or veggies, they have it all. Along with pizza, you have the option of ordering salads, cheese sticks, breadsticks or a chicken wrap. Carriage Court also has a variety of specials and coupons available on their website. If you are looking for tasty food with affordable prices, this is the place to go.

Buffalo Wild Wings

If you are looking to spice up your night, Buffalo Wild Wings (otherwise known as B-Dubs), located on East Summit Street, is the place to go. They serve all kinds of food but their claim to fame is their wings. So if you’re a wing person this is the place to go. I personally love their wings, but if you don’t like them you should still try them because of all the different types of wings and sauces to choose from. However, B-Dubs also offers a wide range of food, including burgers and salads. While their food is tasteful, their wings are definitely the best. B-Dubs is a great place to go to after a game because the place is filled with sports memorabilia everywhere and makes you feel welcome.

“Ascent” – Six Organs of Admittance Psychedelic folk musician Ben Chasny’s newest record under the Six Organs moniker strays far away from the acoustic music he’s most known for. “Ascent,” featuring members of the band Comets On Fire, is an onslaught of gritty retro-rock. This album is intense, and features some of the best guitar solos put to record this year.

“The Possession” With Halloween approaching, “The Possession” is a fitting scary movie to watch. “The Possession” does not fail to make its audience scared with the main character’s little girl getting possessed by the devil. The movie provides its audience with a sense of Halloween spirit as October rolls in.

“Live While We’re Young” One Direction One Direction has done it again. There newest single, “Live While We’re Young” is certainly one of the band’s best songs. LWWY has a catchy beat and great, carefree lyrics that make you want to start dancing and singing along. This new One Direction single is on its way to becoming one of the most popular songs on the radio.

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” blossoms into popularity BY OLIVIA ELSTON

reporter

With the upcoming release of “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” on the big screen, now is the best time to read the book the movie is based off of. It is a quick book with only a little more than 200 pages that makes a decent read.

social

life A section devoted to social media

Author Stephen Chborsky does an outstanding job in portraying a high school student’s life in “The Perks of Being a Wallflower.” This novel, however, is not the usual cliche story about the popular football players and cheerleaders. “Wallflower” is about a socially shy freshman, Charlie, who writes letters about his day

to day life at high school. Throughout his letters, he tells how he comes across his new best friends, Patrick and Sam, who let Charlie into their friend group even though they are seniors. “Wallflower” shows what it is like to go through one’s first year of high school and about all the new opportunities and choices freshmen have.

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What I learned in AP Bio today: if you’re going to eat a human... Do it in the winter. Good to know. junior April Przyborski @AprilPrzyborski

Some things just don’t make sense.... For example Kanye’s view on religion. #jesuswalks #nochurchinthewild #makeupyourmind senior Chris Dietrich @c_dtrik

What’s Amish? Wait, no electricity? That’s just fake... #carmelkidprobs Carmel Kid Probs @CarmelKidProbs

Charlie goes through his first romance, experiences parties and drugs and finds lifelong friends. The style of the book is easy to read but not as easy as an elementary level book. The chapters are not unbearably long, and they almost always start with one of Charlie’s letters. If there is any negative to this story, it would be

the ending came way too fast. Chborsky has a way of capturing his audience no matter what age the reader is. This novel truly shows high school from an awkwardly shy perspective instead of the usual popular student’s perspective. There is no better book to describe the real perks of being a wallflower.

best follows @datchesthair Senior Kosta Leontaras has a lot to get off his chest.

@AJEnglish Al Jazeera reports world news from the Middle Eastern perspective.

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“Finding Nemo” in 3D is a must sea BY MOLLY GRACE

feature editor

There is something to be said for rewatching childhood favorites. Not simply for the sake of nostalgia, but for the fun of catching the little things you didn’t notice the first time around, the jokes you didn’t get when you were eight years old. The re-release of “Finding Nemo” in 3D gives us a new reason to enjoy an old favorite. I remember loving “Finding Nemo” the first time around for its sweet story, impressive images and imaginative characters (Ellen DeGeneres’ Dory, the optimistic Blue Tang fish with short-term memory loss, being my favorite). Now, almost 10 years after its release, big studios are turning to moneymaking tactics like putting past hits back in the theater, but this time in 3D. They did it with “Beauty and the Beast,” “Titanic” and now “Finding Nemo." A quick run-down for those who missed the movie the first time around (and to those of you who this applies to: Really?): “Finding Nemo” is about a widower clownfish and his son. Because of the attack that left him widowed and childless except for Nemo, Marlin is overprotective of his son, always worried about Nemo’s “lucky fin,” which was injured in the attack. This frustrates curious little Nemo. One day, to spite his father, Nemo swims too far out to sea and is captured by a scuba diver. What follows is Marlin’s desperate and sometimes hilarious attempts to get his son back. He teams up with Dory and together they encounter vegetarian sharks and “surfer dude” sea turtles. Meanwhile Nemo is

Classics Revamped in 3D

BY DYLAN TAYLOR

managing editor

Released

“The Lion King”

September 16, 2011

“Beauty and the Beast” January 13, 2012

Still to Come “Monsters Inc.” January 18, 2013

“The Little Mermaid” September 2013

struggling to escape from a dentist’s aquarium with the help of the fish he has met there. The story is absolutely heartwarming. Ordinarily I’m against paying the extra $3 to see a movie that was probably better in its original form (the process of converting a 2D movie to 3D often makes the screen appear darker than it was originally—plus I'd rather enjoy a movie without having to wear those annoying glasses). "Finding Nemo" may be my one exception. When the movie first came out, it wowed audiences with gorgeous shots of undersea life: beautiful coral reefs, a vast and colorful array of fish and even rays

of sunlight shining into the murky ocean water. "Finding Nemo" translates seamlessly into 3D. The images are brought even further to life and the colors are made more vivid. The 3D enhances the picture, with no silly inyour-face effects. It turns a visually beautiful film into a visually spectacular one. Is “Finding Nemo” a "must see in 3D?" No. Watch it in 2D and you'll still get the same touching story of a father learning to let go and "just keep swimming." But if you happen to have an extra $3 and don't know what movie to see, it's definitely worth it.

Lupe Fiasco holds nothing back with new album release BY SAM BEISHUIZEN

editor-in-chief

Lupe Fiasco has managed to become one of the music industry’s most prominent, controversial political figures. He openly attacks the media, he has called the President “the biggest terrorist” and he has called for boycotts and protests on just about every subject matter that he believes is holding his fans down. With his latest retirement announcement and his knack for drawing attention to himself has drawn a lot of attention to his latest album release, “Food & Liquor II: The Great American Rap Album,” which made its debut on Tuesday. Lyrically, Lupe once again proved that he is one of the most lyrically savvy hip-hop artists in

the game today. His metaphor complexity and symbolism is evident throughout the album. Whether it be using a Lambroghini, popularly associated with wealth and success by most rappers, to describe the struggles and pains coming with materialism or poetic structures to describe Lupe’s concern with structural racism and political corruption, Lupe makes sure he leaves all

our FAVES 3

listeners well aware of his views on the world’s current state. One of Lupe’s most entertaining literary devices he utilizes throughout the album is his blatant use of multi-entendres. This use was most evident while Lupe preached that popular culture has unfairly caused sexist beliefs in regards to gender relations in the song, “B***h Bad.” Production on the album is very much what fans should come to expect with Lupe Fiasco. The album carries an alternative hip-hop sound that ensures that the lyrics are the true focus. Along with that, Lupe does not bring a large cast of support with him. The album most prominently features the artists 1500 or Nothin’ and Mr. Inkredible among others. Lupe kept the list short to keep focus on himself.

Top Tracks “Hood Now” Track #16

“Brave heart” Track #12

“ITAL (Roses)” Track #3

Food and Liquor II is not the kind of album to blast in a car with the windows down and the bass blaring. The best way to listen to this album is with the lyrics in front of you and a ready pen in hand to annotate the lyrics with. This may be Lupe’s farewell tour, but this album proves that Lupe will not simply limp out without having his say.

the music bullet

Now available online, The Music Bullet is available for only $19.99. This portable speaker is supposedly as loud as “concert music.” It is easy to take from place to place and is rechargeable; the battery can last for up to seven hours. The Music Bullet can be used on MP3 players, smartphones and computers. With easy transportation and loud quality sound, the Music Bullet just might rival headphones.

starbucks carmel frappuccino cupcakes

If you’re a coffee lover looking for a yummy treat this fall, Starbucks is serving Caramel Frappuccino Cupcakes. The recipe includes Starbucks via Instant Coffee, coffee-infused mousse, Swiss meringue and a drizzle of caramel. It’s a great treat for those who love frappuccinos but are looking for something new.

iphone

Great music for the autumn season

Apple’s latest product was released a week ago and it’s demand has already exceeded the supply. The bigger screen, the slimmer body and the faster connection are all the rage. Although it’s similar to the iPhone 4, it’s definitely a step up.

The imagery of the autumn season is instantly recognizable – apples, candy corn, oversized sweaters and the cackle of crackling bonfires. The onset of the season also carries with it the melancholy of dying trees, the supernaturalism of Halloween and the sublime coloration of the leaves, the sort of stuff that inspires great songs. In fact, loads of music carries an autumnal charm, and listening to tunes with that pumpkin-carving, campfire romanticism is a late year pastime that syncs up perfectly with all the cider-chugging and pre-winter bittersweet. Of all the music that is often called “autumnal” by listeners and critics, the melancholy melodies of British folksinger Nick Drake ranks among the best. Drake’s intricate acoustic guitar playing and brooding, smoky voice is a perfect soundtrack to quiet October walks thrwough red leaves. His aptly-named 1969 folk classic “Five Leaves Left” is filled with beautiful instrumentation, melancholy arrangements and Drake’s always imaginative lyrics about passing time, nature, magic, loneliness and many other autumnal hallmarks. Nick Drake included, some of the best autumn-friendly music is acoustic folk. Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy’s (a.k.a. Will Oldham) Appalachian-influenced indie folk does extremely well to harken the falling leaves. Also, Jack Rose’s solo acoustic guitar work, particularly the album “Kensington Blues,” channels the rural idealism of pumpkin patches and hay rides perfectly. Autumn-friendly music doesn’t have to be acoustic, though; plenty of rock bands fit the mood of fall. For a more popular group, try alternative rock band REM; listening to an album like “Murmur” immediately brings the urge to put on a sweater and eat candy corn. The fist-pumping vibes of summer have ended, but there are still undeniably plenty of great tunes that fit the chillier times.

we’re SO over winter clogs

Now a thing of the past, these shoes are uncomfortable and unrealistic for the cold weather. With the open back and thin sole, the shoes leave people with soggy, wet socks. This winter, consider investing in more appropriate shoes like boots.

sports13

inklings 9/28/12

PHOTO BY BRITTANY PEDERSEN

New head coach Kevin Enright watches over the team as they warm up. Enright was announced as the new head coach in April and has helped lead the team to a 4-2 record.

Schedule Crown Point-28 vs. Lowell-21 Hobart-17 vs. Crown Point-39 Merillville-40 vs. Crown Point-12 Crown Point-7 vs. Lake Central-27 Crown Point-42 vs. Portage-7 Crown Point-28 vs. Valparaiso-21

Sep.28 LaPorte vs. Crown Point Oct.5 Crown Point vs. Chesterton Oct.12 Michigan City vs. Crown Point

New leader of the Dog pack Enright returns after three years in Illinois BY ALEX McLEAN

sports editor

In the lifespan of every organization, leaders come and go frequently. After all, change is the only constant. Often times with new coaches, it is expected that the team take some time to adjust to the new system. However, under new head coach Kevin Enright, the bulldog football squad is showing no signs of being slowed down. Enright joined the Bulldog staff as a defensive coordinator in 2002. From 2005-2007, Enright helped lead the ‘Dogs defense as the team fought to a combined 31-5 record with a DAC championship each year. This past experience gives Enright familiarity with the program, which he considers valuable. “Being familiar with the program made the transition a lot smoother,” Enright said. “I had an understanding of how the team was ran before I came here. Coming to Crown Point was a great opportunity all around.” The season was started off with a bang. In the opener against Lowell, junior Jake Jatis hit senior Tyler Smith for a 69-yard touchdown on the third play from

scrimmage. Smith stepped up big on defense in the red zone when he ran an interception back the length of the field to give the ‘Dogs a 14-7 lead that they would not relinquish.

the second quarter when Jatis hit senior Roc Hopman for a 21-yard touchdown. The Pirates struck back, however, scoring 27 points in the second and third quarter. “The Merrillville game is al-

‘‘

I know that this team can play with anybody as long as we stay focused. Kevin Enright Smith continued his success the next week against Hobart. He put the first points of the game on the board with a 4-yard touchdown run before scooping up a fumble and taking it 20 yards for a second score, helping push the Bulldogs to a 37-19 victory. “(Smith) has been a huge part of our team. He’s a versatile player with great athletic ability. We can always count on him to do whatever he needs to do to get the job done,” Enright said. From there the team lost momentum. The ‘Dogs travelled to Merrillville for a game against the Pirates. Neither team found the endzone until halfway through

head coach

ways intense, the difference was we gave up the big play,” Enright said. Next, the Bulldogs hosted Lake Central. The Indians scored on their first two possessions and did not give up the lead, winning 27-7. “We had a lot of penalties in that games. It’s hard to win when you keep getting flags,” Jatis said. Jatis saw his first high school snaps in last year’s post-season after starting quarterback Joe Hopman was injured. He helped lead the ‘Dogs deep into the post-season, and Enright is confident he will continue to succeed. “Jatis just wants to win,” En-

right said. “He’s a very mature, dedicated athlete. He just has a great work ethic.” Jatis proved his merit when he helped turned the teams momentum around against Portage. The Bulldogs piled on the yards and came out with a huge 42-7 win. “We couldn’t have done it without the offensive line,” Jatis said. “We can always trust them to block well. The boys then travelled to Valparaiso for a game with the Vikings. Jatis’s first pass was intercepted for a touchdown, but Smith stepped up to find the endzone three different occasions, giving the ‘Dogs the edge they needed for a 28-21 victory. “The team played extremely gutsy and inspired. They played through extraordinary adversity by staying composed and positive,” Enright said. Tonight the team will travel to LaPorte to take on the Slicers. “We’re just going to try to keep building of the momentum we have behind us. I know this team can play with anybody as long we stay focused and play together,” Enright said.

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inklings 9/28/12

Curtis makes run at state championship BY ALEXIS BERDINE

reporter

Playing in a new location is often a challenge for any sports team. The course is unfamiliar and time zones often differ. This is the reality the girls golf team had to face. For the first time, the girls golf team traveled to regionals in Lafayette. Head coach John Haas believes the new location brings new challenges to the team. “It really affects the practice and preparation,” Haas said. “It’s hard for us to get down there to play a practice round. Living an hour away, it’s almost impossible to get 18 holes in by the time we get down there.” Despite it impacting their schdule, the new changes have not affected everyone on the team. After shooting an 86, freshman Tiffany Curtis clenched a spot at the state competition on Saturday. Curtis looks forward to the experience. “I think it’ll be a great experience,” Curtis said. “Just making it to state as a freshman is a huge accomplishment. Now I feel like all the pressure is off and I can just go and have fun.” Curtis is not the only one going to state for the first time. Haas is looking forward to the experience as well, it being the only time he has had one of his golfers qualified for state. “It’s been quite a while since we’ve had a state qualifier,” Haas said. “I look forward to taking her down there this weekend. It’ll be a good experience for her and a good experience for me as well since it’s the first time I’ve had a golfer make it.” Despite not making it to state, the entire team has been focusing on achieving a variety of personal and team goals. “Everyone on the varsity team has been practicing every day, trying their hardest to accomplish team and personal goals,” said sophomore Jackie VanDerWey. “My personal goal for the season is to improve my overall score.” The girls look forward to making improvements during the offseason in hopes of making it to state next year as a team.

PHOTO BY EVI LOVIN

Senior Alex Fenn dribbles down the field while trying to get past a Chesterton defender. The teams were tied at the end of regulation and there was no winner at the end of regular overtime, so the game went to penalty kicks. The Bulldogs won 5-4.

Boys soccer maintains chemistry BY ALEXA GRADY

sports editor

The boys soccer team gained the title of state champions, but lost a key component from their championship team. JR Rosenbaum left the team to the now head coach Michael Bazin. Bazin looks to earn the trust and confidence of his players as they attempt to make another postseason run. “I’ve got plenty of confidence in him as a head coach. He knows the game and he knows us as a team, “ senior Tony Zervos said. The boys have to adjust to a new coach and hope that they maintain their momentum from last year. Zervos believes that the change in the program is a welcome addition to the team. “It’s nice having someone come in and change some things up, like I said, he knows the game,” Zervos said. Junior Carmelo Morales believes chemistry is a big part of their success. He trusts that they can maintain it from last year. “A big part of our success is our chemistry with each other,” Morales said. “The team consists of a lot of the same people from past seasons.” The team currently carries a 13-1-3 record under the coaching of Bazin. Having him as a coach has been a positive impact on the boys. Zervos credits his preparation for the team. “(Bazin) considers everything we say as players as opposed to other coaches,” Zervos said.

One characteristic that carried over from last year is the Dogs’ defense. “We have always had good chemistry in the back. We all know what we’re doing, and we build off each other,” junior Spase Dorsuleski said. The ‘Dogs proved that when they played Chesterton. The game was deadlocked at 4-4 when the time ran out in the second half. The defense stopped the Trojans from scoring their sixth penalty shot to seal the victory. Morales gives credit to the goalie for the win. “(Aleks Trifunovic) blocked the sixth shooter on Chesterton. If they would have scored, we would have been done,” Morales said. The ‘Dogs recently played Andrean and ended the game with a tied score at 0-0. The Dogs’ defense played a big part in the game once again. Zervos was not surprised when the game got heated between them and the 59’ers. “Games against Andrean are always physical. We were missing a few of our key players, so we had to change up our formation. We still played well enough to grab the tie,” Zervos said. The boys are ready to work their way to state once again, and prove that they are just as talented this season. “We came out of nowhere to take the title last year,” Bazin said. “We want to use this year to justify the win.” The boys concluded the regular season with a win over Michigan City.

Girls soccer looks for postseason success with new roster BY ALAA ABDELDAIEM

reporter

After winning regionals and making it to semi-state last year, the girls soccer team entered this season with one goal: repeat. While their goal to win the state title is the same, their team members are not. The team lost nine seniors coming in to the 2012 season, enough players to play more than half of the field. Head coach Chris Mikrut acknowledges the loss but also highlights the positives from such a case. “It’s always hard to lose seniors,” Mikrut said. “What eventually happens is different people step up and fill those roles, and that’s what happened this year. A lot of kids stepped up and took advantage of their opportunities.” Star goalie Kelsey Shoemaker was one of the seniors lost during the offseason. With the position left to fill, sophomore

Meghan Morasan stepped up to take the role. Morasan admits all eyes were on her as the season started and that the pressure was certainly on. “I was always afraid that if I got up there that I’d always be compared to Kelsey (Shoemaker),” Morasan said. “I was worried that if we didn’t do as good as we did last year, (my teammates) would look at me and say, ‘Well, you were never as good as Kelsey (Shoemaker).’” For her first year starting on the team, Mikrut believes Morasan has handled the pressure well. “Meghan’s done an outstanding job,” Mikrut said. “For a sophomore to step in and be vocal can sometimes be hard for a goalie, but she’s done a very good job at that.” Morasan’s success came with hours of training. Morasan believes her biggest improvement, however, is not physical, but mental.

“As a goalie, you have to be mentally tough,” Morasan said. “After letting in one goal, you can’t let it bring you down. You have to get right back up and do well again.” Morasan’s improvement pushed the Bulldogs past the Valparaiso Vikings. After losing the DAC match-up last year by a penalty kick, the girls shut out the Vikings, coming through with a 2-0 victory. Seniors Courtney Farrell and Sarah Rivich contributed to the score with one goal each. The Bulldogs added another game to the win column with a 5-0 victory over the Merrillville Pirates. Morasan was strong defensively, finishing the game with nine saves. Farrell was one of five different players to score, helping push her team towards the win. While the game went the Bulldogs’ way from the beginning, Farrell believes a good performance was essential. “Last week, we didn’t play very well and our performance was a little offbeat,”

Farrell said. “When we came out against Merrillville we wanted to show that we still had it and come out and play a good game. We’ve definitely accomplished that with the win.” The girls hope to use the win as momentum going into the playoffs. With all of the talent this year’s team has, Mikrut stresses how important it is for the girls to stay healthy. “A lot of the run in the playoffs is being healthy,” Mikrut said. “Talent wise, I think we’re very good. Some of our seniors are banged up, but we have a good enough team to make the same run we made last year.” Regardless of the outcome during the postseason, Mikrut is happy with the way his team has performed this season. “I’m proud of the girls,” Mikrut said. “They came in during the morning at 6 a.m. in the summer and worked really hard. I’m proud of what they’ve done.”

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inklings 9/28/12

‘Dogs tennis looks to bring intensity into sectional play

a second with

ALEX

BY DAVID KEPSHIRE

reporter

Alex McLean

sports editor

Every NHL fan’s worst nightmare came true this September. For the third time under Commissioner Gary Bettman, the NHL has officially locked out the players. The argument, of course, is rooted in money. Owners seek to change the definition and distribution of Hockey Related Revenue (HRR). Last year, HRR racked up 3.3 billion dollars, with 57 percent going to the players. Owners want a new CBA that would reduce the players’ share of the profit to 48 percent over the next four years. The players responded with a compromise of 52 percent, which the owners rejected. While owners are saying they want stricter salary caps, their actions say otherwise. Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold is one of the strongest supporters of the lockout, yet two months ago signed two players to contracts totaling 196 million dollars over seven years, the most amount spent in one day in NHL history. The players are also steadfast in their demands. Alexander Ovechkin recently announced that the players have no intention of budging and that he would not be surprised if the lockout lasts a year. In the end, however, the owners hold the trump card. Salaries will not be paid to players with the exceptions of signing bonuses players still injured from last year. Some players have signed with European leagues to try to stay afloat, but in the end most of the athletes will struggle to get by. In the end they’ll most likely have to give in. No matter, while the oligarchs of the NHL decide who deserves more money, don’t be surprised to see an increase in online streaming of the Kontinetal Hockey League this winter. Hockey fans will always find a way to watch hockey.

PHOTO BY OLIVIA ELSTON

Junior Boris Povlowski prepares to serve in a match against LaPorte. The Bulldogs came out on top in the match, 4-1.

With the boys tennis season quickly coming to a close, the Bulldogs look to continue their recent hot streak. With a record of 15-3, the ‘Dogs have been more than satisfied with their play this year. The major goal on the Bulldog’s mind is to take sectionals and defeat the powerhouse Munster team. “Our biggest goal, besides winning sectionals, is to defeat Munster in the regional,” senior captain Chris Dietrich said. “They beat us last year. We remember that. I don’t want that to happen again.” The Bulldogs have proven their postseason merit over the past few years. This year, however, they set their sights specifically on Munster. They suffered a blow to their momentum after a home match against the Mustangs. Munster swept the team in the singles matches and the ‘Dogs only managed to grab one win out of the doubles matches. “(Losing to Munster) really fed the fire. A loss like that stings, but I know we can use it to get better,” Dietrich said. The Bulldogs fell short in

their match against the Valparaiso Vikings, the DAC champions. They fell four matches to one, with the only winning coming from the number two doubles team. The new focus on winning has inspired the ‘Dogs to perform their best. “We have increased the amount of practice, also our team has worked hard all offseason,” senior Pat Mudd said. “Our biggest focus is improving from our performance from last year, and I think we’ve really done that this season.” Coach Chris Korzeniewski said that the team has recieved big contributions from players of all ages. Seniors and underclassmen alike have stepped up to fill big roles for the ‘Dogs throughout year. “Ten freshmen have joined the team this year and that has been a record for us,” Korzeniewski said. “With all these new players, the chemistry of the team has been something important. This year’s team has had the best chemistry that I’ve ever seen.” The Bulldogs played in their sectional match against Lake Central this past Wednesday, but results were not available at press time.

Cross country works hard on late season goals Boys and girls runners wrap up this year with success BY KARA BIERNAT

asst. sports editor

Along with change comes patience. It has been the key to success according to the girls cross country team. Despite not matching up to the state-bound breakout performance they had last year, they are working to improve and get stronger this year under their new head coach Adam Piaskowy. Although they have started off the season reserved, the ‘Dogs are now getting ready to stride into the postseason. The girls have been adjusting to the change after Piaskowy took on the challenge of becoming the girls head coach after being assistant coach to the boys cross

country team. A new season with new coaching also comes with different methods of training and racing. “It’s a learning experience for me,” Piaskowy said. “We’re continuing to run fast and move forward as a whole.” The girls displayed their patience and hard work leading up to the postseason by competing at the New Prairie Invite. Senior Allison Wortel and junior Kayla Mcgurk led the team overall, but in spite of their performance, the Lady ‘Dogs fell short of medaling. The Lady ‘Dogs are continuing to run hard and gain confidence as they train towards their postseason goals. “We hope to only go up from

here and run our best,” Wortel said. “With the new coaching and training, I think we have a great shot of making it far in the posseason.” The boys cross country team is also focusing on the future. With a positive start to the season, they are now ready for sectionals and the races that lay ahead. After placing well at the invites competed at this year, they are well on their way to a successful end to their season. The boys took fourth at New Prairie with senior Daniel Walters finishing first for the team and 14th overall. He finished with a time of 16:14 and led the ‘Dogs to a satisfying finish to prepare them for the fast-approaching

postseason. “After a satisfying race at New Prairie, I’m looking forward to our upcoming races. Our main goal is to make it to state and do well,” Walters said. Training and preparation for postseason is an important factor to perform well and get to the main goal of competing at the state race. “We are fine-tuning our training and trying to run our best at the end of the season,” head coach Keith Iddings said. “We are going to continue to run well as a team, in hopes of doing well at the state meet.” The girls and boys teams will compete at the DAC meet Saturday at Lemon Lake.

inside NFL Referees Will the replacement referees negatively alter the course of the NFL season?

Yes 0

146 150

200

Since the start of the 2012 season, replacement officials have been the talk of the NFL. Whether people are scrutinizing their every single call or sympathizing with their struggles, the officials are not getting a break. After all of the scrutiny the whole league has been under this season, the regular officials and the NFL have come to an agreement on a new contract. The regular officials are scheduled to be back officiating this weekend.

Some fans argue that the damage is already done. In a game of inches, some feel the missed calls may have already impacted the standings too much, even though they were only officiating for three weeks. . The NFL, and the fans, are ready to move on after the replacement referee experience. But some fans are questioning if impact has already been made. We polled students to find out what they think.

Alex says “When the season has only sixteen games, each one counts. The replacement refs have done their damage. It’s going to be hard to give an honest look at the standings at the end of this year.” Alexa says “Replacing the NFL refs has only had a negative effect on the NFL itself. The Green Bay-Seattle game proved that the replacements could not control a game.”

16 people

inklings 9/28/12

Art of soulful stitching

Cantu crochets her way to Girl Scout Leadership award

take

BY KATIE SHERMAN

copy editor

For senior Megan Cantu and others in her Thread of Life club, crocheting is not a bonding event with grandma over milk and cookies. The club’s members consider crocheting as a fun social event that also helps kids in need. Cantu started the charitable knitting and crocheting club as is a way for Cantu to build her leadership skills and to earn the Girl Scout Gold Award. Cantu earned the award by completing a seven-step process where girls are required to earn other awards before obtaining the Girl Scout Gold Award. Cantu had to build a framework for the awards and obtain the following: the Girl Scout Gold Leadership Award, the Girl Scout Gold Career Award and the Girl Scout 4 B’s Challenge. “Earning my Gold Award has helped me become a more confident leader by helping my peers and my community simultaneously,” Cantu said. One of the last requirements was to initiate ‘Blankets for Critically Injured Children,’ that inspired Cantu to create the Thread of Life club. “The Thread of Life club is a crocheting and knitting club where members create blankets to help calm injured children being flown by helicopter to hospitals,” Cantu said. “We meet after school every Tuesday for about an hour in room E212.” Before the club began, Cantu had to complete a small process before Thread of Life could be approved. “There was a form that my sponsor, biology teacher and sponsor Kelley Nelson, had to fill out,” Cantu said. Nelson came into the club not knowing how to crochet at all. “I had no experience with crocheting before. Sometimes Megan has to sit right by me and make sure I am doing everything correctly,” Nelson said. “I am very proud of her because it (earning the award) and leading this club is such a huge accomplishment.” The Thread of Life club has intrigued students in all grades. Many students joined to learn how to crochet, to meet new people or to donate their blanket(s) to injured kids. “It seemed interesting. I crochet at home; my mom and grandma taught me,” freshman Emily Ferrer said. Cantu hopes that students will learn from this experience both in crocheting and perseverance. “I hope that they will enjoy a fun stress reliever after school. Also if they want to, they can donate their creation to an organization that will give it to a critically injured child in need of it,” Cantu said. According to Cantu, hard work is the key to success. She encourages students to stick to whatever one is trying to achieve. “If you set your mind to it, you can do anything,” Cantu said.

Senior Alex Fenn Weird Dream My weirdest dream was me rollerblading down a grass hill into a shed.

Pet Peeve When people do not use turn signals. I don’t get road-rage, I just automatically hate the person.

Mythical Pet If I could have a mythical pet, I would have a red dragon. Mainly because I read the Eragon books.

Holiday Replay I would have Christmas twice a year.

Footloose The last time I was in trouble was at the football game for not wearing shoes. I was dressed up as a hillbilly.

PHOTO BY ANNIE SWANSON

You know it is fall when... ...sweatshirts and jeans become your best friends.

Brian Robertson senior

Alexis Wilson sophomore

...wrestling workouts begin. start to s y a d e ...th rter. get sho

Kaitlyn Tomecko freshman

Denton Schurg junior

...you smell lots of bonfires.