crier
munster high school
vol 49/Issue 4 Oct. 3, 2014 mhscrier.com
8808 Columbia Ave. Munster, IN 46321
Saturday 49/38
Sunday 53/42
Upcoming n
Football plays against Hobart tonight at 7 p.m.
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Volleyball plays Morton on Monday at 5:30 p.m.
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Boys’ Soccer plays Valparaiso tomorrow at 12 p.m.
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Boys’ and Girls’ Cross Country compete in Conference Theater company looks forward to meet tomorrow morning. novice play performance Page 2
Volleyball prepares to continue winning season Page 7
Check out photo gallery from Career Day at mhscrier.com
School kicks off celebration for 50 years of education Administration works with faculty to celebrate school’s 50th anniversary by honoring teachers, alumni Danie Oberman News Editor photo illustration by Peyton Puckett
SEEKING GUIDANCE Mrs. Sharon Vail, guidance counselor, shows Maddie Purcell, senior, the paperwork and requirements
needed when going through the college application process and explains how to go about completing everything.
Finding the balance
Students deal with the pressures of performing well under time crunching deadlines while faculty understands the challenges they go through Meena Kandallu Copy Editor With impending Common Application due dates within the upcoming month, the end of the first grading period of the 2014-2015 school year occurring next Friday and quickly approaching SAT and ACT testing dates, Jessica Layous, senior, feels the pressure of performing her best under such demands. “I always feel like there’s always pressure. I’ve had this pressure ever since junior year and people say that you can just blow off senior year but that isn’t true,” Jessica said. “In addition to everything already going on, college apps are also a very stressful process.” In addition to the academic demands placed on students, Jessica considers a competitive environment another contributing factor to the pressure that students feel. “Growing up in such a competitive environment, especially in Munster in the honors program, it’s hard not to compare yourself and doubt yourself,” Jessica said. Mr. Steven Lopez, social studies teacher, understands the struggle to balance everything, but he feels that the responsibility of managing a difficult workload remains with the student. “I see seniors now in the fall trying to get their college applications together and the juniors are doing everything they can to increase their GPAs and to make themselves college ready,” Mr. Lopez said. “I understand that’s still one other element of demand that’s placed upon them;
however, I cannot necessarily adjust my syllabus to outside demands that every student is going to face one way or another.” While he considers himself sympathetic to students’ schedules and other commitments, Mr. Lopez believes that students must be aware of their own abilities before pushing themselves toward unrealistic goals. “With my regular U.S. History classes, if students really feel that there is a problem, I try to make extra time in class, but AP is a whole other ball game,” Mr. Lopez said. “Regarding my AP U.S. History class, it’s almost as if there was an understanding prior to the enrollment in the class to expect the workload.” Rohan Chatterjee, senior, has felt the pressure of trying to compete and succeed but believes that he has acquired skills that allow him to cope with it. “I think I’ve learnt to work efficiently and use my time wisely, and if you do that, I think you can make time for everything you want to do,” Rohan said. “I’ve learned to work hard but also enjoy high school.” Although it may initially prove tempting for students to overload their schedules in hopes of achieving success, they must always remember to keep their final goals in mind, according to Ms. Sharon Vail, guidance counselor. “In the big picture, it will be to students’ advantage to challenge themselves, but that doesn’t always mean six AP classes,” Ms. Vail said. “If you put your head on your pillow every night and you’re satisfied with what you have done, then that’s really all you can do.”
Since its founding in 1965, Munster High School’s students and staff have experienced parade floats going up in flames, record-setting floods and rapid technological advances that have turned the school into its present form, 50 years later. “I think it’s the strong tradition and community. How highly they value education (has contributed to the school’s success),” Mr. Mike Wells, principal, said. “Not just the community - families, students, teachers, everyone values how important it is.” The Alumni Hall of Fame will hang pictures of elected members next to the portraits in the Commons, and will commemorate alumni who have accomplished extraordinary things in their careers, according to Mr. Wells. “It’s the 50th year of the school, and we thought it would be nice to recognize alumni and alumni accomplishments that reflect well on the school,” Dr. Larry Brechner, auditorium director, said. The school plans to create the Pathway to Excellence, a brick walkway in front of the school. Anyone can buy a brick to have their name engraved in it. “First of all, it’s a great fundraiser, and it’s a great way to show you are part of the school system whether you are alum, faculty or someone that just supports our school,” Dr. Brechner said. Throughout its 50 years, Munster has become a goal destination for teachers and administrators. Mr. Wells encourages students to make the most of the time they have here and the opportunities offered in clubs, sports and academics. “I would say don’t take for granted the four years you have here in high school,” Mr. Wells said. “You don’t realize what you have until something is gone.”
2 News
Crier/Oct. 3, 2014
Quick Notes
Novice debate tournament Novice Debate team participates in tournament Oct. 11 The Novice Debate Tournament will take place at the high school Saturday, Oct. 11. Novice debaters will challenge other high school debate teams. During the tournament, novices from competing high schools are required to argue both for their case and twice against the case. The debaters can practice the lessons they learn from their debate tournaments in their own lives, according to Mr. Robert Carroll, Debate coach. “I hope that they will learn that if they apply themselves to work hard, that they can succeed and do well,” Mr. Carroll said.
International festival canceled International Festival canceled due to lack of time, spending The annual International Festival is
canceled this year due to a busy calendar year for the School Board. The referendum and budget cutting is occupying school board members’ time, according to Ms. Paula Nellans, school board secretary. The school is also working on cutting back on spending, which resulted in the festival’s cancellation, according to Ms. Nellans. “We have been so busy with all of the new additions to our school this year we just ran out of time to work,” Ms. Nellans said.
National Merit Scholars Students qualify as National Merit Scholars finalists, semi-finalists Eleven students have qualified as National Merit semi-finalists and nine have qualified as National Merit Commended Scholars this school year. The following are the qualifying recipients for semi-finalists 2014: Cayla Bales, Rohan Chatterjee, Andy Chen, Balashwethan Chockalingham, Jordan Dixon, Kevin Fuhs, Walker Hedgepath, Kyle Lee, Jonathan Lemke, Taylor Merkel and Kimberly Wang. These recipients received a 212 or higher on the 2013 PSAT. “Having all these National Merit Scholars definitely is great publicity and advertisement for the school,” Mr. Morgan Nolan, assistant principal, said.”It adds to the great facet of school culture we have of high performing students.”
Corrections In issue two of Crier, the photo of Jessica Flores on page eight should be attributed to photographer Kyra Marriott. The story “To Homecoming and Beyond” should state that Class Executive Council (CEC) builds three floats yearly. Additionally, the cut off quote on the front page that is attributed to Mr. Morgan Nolan, assistant principal, should read, “Once we pin down how we are going to do that, we will let clubs know.” Senior John Hulsey’s name was also misspelled on page seven. Page five of the Homecoming issue contained a misspelling of Farah Sheriff’s, ‘02, name. Crier regrets these errors.
photo by Peyton Puckett
GETTING EVERYTHING IN LINE Alyssa DeJoan and Alex Ramirez, sophomores, get into their characters during a production week rehearsal. Alyssa looks forward to shedding light on how much
teachers put into influencing their students. “I’m excited to perform with such an amazing group of people and to hopefully entertain them in a positive way,” Alyssa said.
Novice actors learn the ropes Actors, directors, crew prepare for opening of “Up the Down Staircase”
“I like how the students interact with the teacher because that’s what actually happens in class,” Fayth said. “At least in my classes anyways.” Similar to any after school activity, the play allows for The theatre company has practices every day after school in order to perfect “Up the Down Staircase,” which the novice actors to bond, according to Fayth. “It’s allowed a lot of different groups of kids to come centers around an English teacher, Sylvia Barrett, working in an inner city school and her plans to change the world. together. It has allowed for all of those students to meet “I’ve been performing my whole life. I love it more than each other and people outside their groups of friends,” anything,” Alyssa DeJoan, sophomore, said. “It’s a huge Madison O’Dea, senior, said. Madison and Laurel Demkovich, senior, student direchonor. I’m grateful for the directors for having faith in me tors, work together to produce the for this responsibility.” novice play. Alyssa portrays Sylvia Barrett in Upon Reflection “I thought it would be a great opthe novice production and feels the Actors tell the best, worst parts of “Up the portunity for me to meet the freshpressures of having the lead. Down Staircase” process men,” Madison said. “I felt like it “As the lead, I feel like it’s my job was important to welcome them to to set the example for how everyone “The best part of the show is that we have very theatre and to make them feel comshould go about developing their talented people and they know how to act.” fortable as well as for them to find -Tatiana Shinkan, junior characters because the way I develop my characters affects everyone “The worst part is having to juggle your schedule an after school activity they enjoy.” The co-directors went through a else’s characters,” Alyssa said. “It’s between different activities and homework.” long process of finding a play the a lot of memorizing, staying on top -Lauren Florek, junior actors could relate to, according to of your lines and paying attention Madison. during rehearsal.” “It (the novice play) has allowed me to put freshmen In order to familiarize themselves with the characters, the novices sat in a circle and introduced each character, in a different perspective, a lot of upperclassmen don’t according to Fayth Schutter, freshman. She becomes Hel- have the opportunity to work with them. That blocks the en Arbuzzi, a high school dropout who returns at the end opportunity to prove themselves more than stereotypical freshmen,” Madison said. of the play. Vrusha Patel Managing Editor
Jordan Szymanski Sports Editor
S.A.D.D. takes a stand against texting and driving Club members involve students, staff in Celebrate My Drive campaign in hopes of winning grant money, discouraging Munster community from driving while using their cell phones for texting Amanda Jones News Editor Students Against Destructive Decisions (S.A.D.D.) will help promote Celebrate My Drive’s “2 eyes on the road, 2 hands on the wheel” campaign within the next week. The campaign focuses on stopping drivers from sending or reading text messages while driving. “(Teens) have enough distractions while in the car and don’t need any more by texting,” Club Sponsor Mr. Thomas Barnes, English teacher, said. The campaign, sponsored by State Farm, celebrates the freedom that comes with receiving a driver’s license, but reminds students of their responsibility to not text and drive, according to Celebrate My Drive. The pledge that Celebrate My Drive offers encourages drivers to promise to not use their phones while driving. “It’s (texting and driving) not only a problem at MHS, but nationally,” Rachel Jamrose, senior, said, “so we are trying to start a campaign to spread the word in our town on how texting and driving can be prevented.”
The participating schools with the most pledges between Oct. 15-24 can win grants for the school, according to Celebrate My Drive. “One of 90 schools will win $25,000 grants, one of 10 will win $100,000 grants and one of the two top schools will receive a concert from a big band,” Mr. Barnes said. “I think it’s important to be a safe driver, and this is a motivation to do so.” Of the grant money, 10 percent will support a teen driver safety program, and the rest goes to whatever the school deems necessary, according to Celebrate My Drive. S.A.D.D. will begin using posters and announcements to distribute the information to the school. The club plans to address the campaign at parent-teacher conferences to help gain the support of parents. The no texting and driving campaign brings a greater awareness to safe driving for the entire community, according to Mr. Barnes. “It’s a great opportunity for students and the community to come together to achieve something great,” Mr. Barnes said.
Crier/Oct. 3, 2014
3 speakout BACKTALK
What book from your childhood brings back the most memories? Why?
“Harry Potter, because it was me and about six other kids in my class racing to see who could read all of them first.” Emma Hand, freshman
“‘The Giving Tree.’ My mom always read it to me, and I think I liked it because it showed good emotion towards someone you love.” Lauryn Nunez, freshman
graphic by Chelsea Eickleberry
Making life a little easier
One night a high school student googles life hacks. After reading through several hacks, the student begins to laugh while reading a hack that suggests to use a coffee OUR TAKE pot when boiling spaghetti noodles for dinner. Students need to High school students are told use good habits and everyday that they need to do simplify their daily lives to help them their best and achieve success for achieve success in their future. High schools usually high school focus on preparing teens for college; however, some choose a different path. Like life hacks, there are many easy tips students can use to be successful. Most students keep themselves busy outside of school in sports and clubs. If students become overwhelmed because they are involved in too much, they need to pick
one or two extracurricular activities to be a part of outside of school work. There are many ways for students to keep up good habits when it comes to studying and homework. Checking Moodle daily can help keep students informed on what happening in class in the near future. The site also provides students with the chance to find study resources provided by teachers. Use the laptops like they are meant to be used. Students struggling to complete homework and have no idea how to solve it need to check out Khan academy or mathway.com for help. Students can make their lives less stressful by limiting their workload and using the little things that are made available to them.
Heroes or Villains? Erin Gallagher Sports Editor If you are outraged by Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens running back, and the beating he inflicted on his wife, I don’t blame you. Rice deserves every bit of criticism. But why are we just now calling attention to this? Domestic violence in the NFL has been a problem for years. Roger Goodell is the main problem behind this issue. Most of you cheer on a convicted criminal each week. Brandon Marshall, Chicago Bears wide receiver,
crier
was arrested in 2008 for domestic disputes. Marshall was only suspended for one game. Then there is Minnesota Vikings Cornerback A.J. Jefferson, who was charged with strangling his girlfriend in 2013. Goodell lifted the suspensions and Jefferson was traded and went on to win the Superbowl with the Seattle Seahawks this past February. San Francisco 49ers linebacker, Ahmad Brooks, allegedly punched a woman in the face. However, he still suits up for the 49ers each week. How can we call these people our heroes? If we were talking about anyone else, they would be in jail.
The only reason society chooses not to recognize these problems is because of the prominent roles that these professional athletes play in our lives. From Fantasy Football to Madden to the Super Bowl, the NFL has America wrapped around its finger and it isn’t letting go anytime soon. Roger Goodell should not let the influence of the NFL on today’s society impact his decisions in penalizing convicted athletes. A one game suspension is not a suitable punishment. Ray Rice deserves the termination of his contract with the Ravens and his indefinite suspension. And so do the others.
“‘The Cat in the Hat,’ because that’s the first book I’ve ever read by myself.”
Caia Trykall, sophomore
“Percy Jackson, because I loved the mythology in that series.”
Zach Brum, junior
“‘The Ugly Duckling,’ because I thought I had so many flaws, but now I love myself for who I am.” Jai Dharla, senior
“‘Goodnight Moon,’ because my mom would read it to us pretty often before we went to bed.” Julianne Roser, sophomore
“‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar,’ because of all the Illuminati symbols in it.”
Chris Charles, junior
“I loved the Little House on the Prairie books. I read all of the books. I thought it was interesting how they lived.” Ms. Leigh Ann Westland, English teacher
Munster High School
Crier, Munster High School’s official student newspaper, may be reached at 8808 Columbia Ave, Munster, IN 46321, phone 219-836-3200, Ext. 3443; Fax: 219-836-3202. Published by the Honors Newspaper Advanced Writing and Editing classes, and extra-curricular involvement. •The newspaper serves as a public forum and two-way communication for the school and community.•Crier is a source of information, entertainment, advertising and opinion for the student body, faculty, administration and community •Published material will stress objective reporting except on the editorial page where opinion writing will be featured. All published material will stress accuracy, truthfulness, integrity, honesty, responsibility, objectivity, fairness and independence. Opinions expressed in the newspaper do not necessarily reflect those of the School Town of Munster, faculty or administration.
Letters to the Editor are welcomed, but should be limited to 250 words. All letters must be signed and should be given directly to any staff member or delivered to the Pub, N155, one week prior to publication. Letters must not contain personal attacks against an individual. Editors reserve the right to edit for length, clarity, and grammatical errors. Crier will accept letters from anyone, provided that the content pertains to school or school issues. Mailed subscriptions cost $20 per year. Ad rates and policies are available to anyone upon request. Crier is published 14 times a school year.
The Staff Editor-in-Chief William Hatczel Managing Editor Vrusha Patel Copy Editor Meena Kandallu Opinion Editor Max Baker
Sports Editors Erin Gallagher, Jordan Szymanski News Editors Amanda Jones, Danie Oberman Infocus Editors Mariah Villaroman, Chloe Wineinger Web Editor Elena Piech Web Designer Alex Baker Graphics Editor Chelsea Eickleberry Head Photographer Natalia Bilek Photographers Arianna Adams, Alexis Baker, Rachel Bishop, Lauren Koultourides, Kyra Marriott, Ray Ojel, Peyton Puckett, Savannah Shaver Adviser Ms. Sarah-Anne Lanman
4 infocus
Crier/Oct. 3, 2014
Change of plans Current teachers describe their past job experiences, give thoughts on College and Career Readiness Fair Mariah Villaroman Infocus Editor
dents want to discover more about careers, they can find research literally “fingertips away” on the internet or right in the classWhen Mrs. Rosemary Malagon, Spanish room with the school’s teachers. teacher, went to college, she never imag“Look deep into yourself and find those ined herself becoming a teacher. interests and explore them,” Mrs. Malagon “When I first went to college, I was real- said. ly mostly interested in science and math, Mr. Kevin Clyne, English teacher, first and I didn’t like kids. The thought never worked at the Hammond Times developcrossed my mind because I wasn’t a kid ing pictures. After this, he held jobs writperson,” Mrs. Malagon said. ing for many different companies. For 10 years, Mrs. Malagon worked as Until his job as a documentation managa process engineer with an electrical engi- er at Don Johnston, Inc., Mr. Clyne did not neering degree from Purconsider teaching. due Calumet University. College Choices “When I was workAlong with that, she also ing with writers, a has experience as a wed- Teachers give explanations saying bunch of former teachding planner and with why they attended their college ers told me I was a floral arrangement and Mrs. Rosemary Malagon, Spanish teacher and not an edcake decorating. teacher, Purdue Calumet University “It itor, so I decided to try “(I have) business ex- wasn’t feasible to go far away because of it,” Mr. Clyne said. “I perience to bring into my kids.” ended up liking it.” the class,” Mrs. Malagon Mr. Joseph Sokol, math teacher, College and Career said. “I think it’s kind of Purdue North Central, Purdue Calumet Readiness Fair may a unique background.” “I started at PNC because of location and not be the most helpful Mrs. Malagon origi- cost. Then my last two years, I spent at resource for students, nally double majored in Purdue Calumet to help with the family according to Mr. Clyne. Spanish and math after business.” “When you have the engineering but soon Ms. Samantha Lang, temporary one day speaker thing, found that the math teacher, Ohio State University “I went to it makes the kids take classes started to increase the Ohio State University because it had the jobs today too seriin difficulty. ously,” Mr. Clyne said. the most options for my money.” “Spanish is my native “I think the jobs for the language. It wasn’t my kids in my class aren’t first language, but I grew up speaking invented yet.” Spanish,” Mrs. Malagon said. “(The math Mr. Clyne thinks that the world and caclasses) got so complicated. I just minored reers available change too constantly for in math.” a single day to help. He thinks a program With the College and Career Readiness where students can learn about any new Fair (Career Day) Oct. 1, many students careers and interests they discover should begin wanting to learn more about their become a resource on Moodle. possible careers, according to Brittany Certain actions can help students find a Barajas, senior. career path, according to Mrs. Malagon. “I think Career Day sparks interest in “I think part of the problem is that they students because it makes students think (high school students) don’t research the beyond the classroom and high school career they’re going into,” Mrs. Malagon to brainstorm what they want to do with said. “(There should be) time set aside to their life,” Brittany said. shadow a person in the profession they While the fair could serve as a good first wish to pursue. There’s always opportunistep, Mrs. Malagon believes that if stu- ties. You just have to look for them.”
photo by Alexis Baker
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photo by Ray Ojel
RIGHT AT HOME Collecting papers from students, Mrs. Rosemary Malagon, Spanish teacher, answers a student’s question. Mrs. Malagon recalls life advice from her father. “My dad told me ‘You can be anything you want to be, but you have to be happy,’” Mrs. Malagon said. TRY SOMETHING NEW After drawing on the white board, Mr. Kevin Clyne, English teacher, teaches his students about a new writing style. Mr. Clyne has learned to embrace all opportunities. “If you see something that’s interesting, just show up,” Mr. Clyne said. “You get more and more experience.”
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Crier/Oct. 3, 2014
5 infocus
cancer patients. Hannah sees the walk as an opportunity to memorialize those who have passed and those who still fight the illness. “It’s a good way to reminisce and remember that people are still sick, and we could walk for them,” Hannah said.
Unfortunately, cancer does not always go into remission as in Mrs. Witting’s case. Attendance Ad-
photo by Natalia Bilek
PLAYING PRETEND While making dinner, Hannah Witting, senior, and her mom, Mrs. Ann Witting, talk about Hannah’s day at school. Hannah remembers not paying atten-
tion to her mom’s illness as a child. “I would just pretend that she was fine,” Hannah said. “I wasn’t worried. I would just play around all the time and try not to think about it.”
Fighting back
In light of October being Cancer Awareness month, those affected by cancer reveal hardships they faced, hope to raise awareness towards the cause Devastated by the news of her diagnosis, Mrs. Witting dedicated her time to the play she worked on to distract her from the reality of her situation. “ “I very deliberately didn’t think about the scary y stomach dropped through the floor. I thought ‘This couldn’t be happening,’” things such as ‘I’m going to die and I’m going to Mrs. Ann Witting, mother of senior leave my husband and children,’” Mrs. Witting said. Since she went into remission, Mrs. Witting unHannah Witting, said. “I felt healthy. I derstands that anyone can have the hadn’t had a cold in a year. When same fate as her. A person who never you have cancer, you’re supposed Americans Affected had cancer before can easily fall into to feel sick.” Different statistics show how cancer a false sense of security and think it The month of October kicks off has developed across the nation will not happen to them, according to numerous events that show sup Before the age of 20, approxiMrs. Witting. port for cancer. Senior Hannah mately 1 in 285 children in “I think pretending it can’t happen Witting, whose mother battled certhe United States are to be diag- to you is stupid,” Mrs. Witting said. vical cancer in 2002, recalls when nosed with cancer. “There’s so many types out there. I she finally realized that her mom More than 1,500 Americans think it’s super dangerous to turn had become so ill to the point die of cancer per day, meaning a blind eye on it and not think it’s a where she needed help walking. 564,800 people are expected problem. Not getting regular check“I remember specifically my dad ups is just asking for it to happen.” taking my mom to the bathroom to to die of cancer in 2014 Hannah chose to follow her mom’s sit on the seat in the shower,” Han- The death rate of cancer has deadvice of taking the vaccination to nah said. “It’s always scary seeing clined 20% within the last two prevent cervical cancer. This simple your mom like that.” decades, saving 1,340,400 step helped her reduce her chances of Hannah’s mother, an English American lives going through the same battles as her and drama teacher at Thornton mom. Hannah has also reached an Fractional South High School in sources: American Cancer Society awareness of other cancers and folOrganization, cancer.org, cdc.gov Lansing, Ill, became aware of her lows common sense to lower her risk. cancer diagnosis when Hannah “It makes me more aware of my reached the age of six. Although Hannah did not fully understand the impact of her health,” Hannah said. “I just don’t do things like mother’s sickness at that age, she remembers first going to the tanning salon and not putting on sunscreen, and I took my shots.” noticing her mother struggling with the illness. In addition to taking precautionary steps, Hannah “I didn’t like that she was home all the time,” Hannah said. “She had no energy, so I felt like I had to be and a group of friends will participate in the Unite away. When I was with her, I usually just laid with and Fight Cancer Walk and Fun Run this Sunday at the football field to raise money and awareness for her. I couldn’t act all crazy like I usually did.” Chloe Wineinger Infocus Editor
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ministrator Mrs. Ally Novotney’s husband, Bob Novotney, received a diagnosis of stage four cancer in 2010 and passed away two years later. No one expected the tall, robust father of three children to be affected by this illness, according to Mrs. Novotney. “Most people have these visions that it happens to old men and that you die with it,” Mrs. Novotney said. “That’s not true at all. He was 56 and healthy.” Bob Novotney lived his life to the fullest until his last breath, according to Mrs. Novotney. “He cracked jokes all the way to the end,” Mrs. Novotney said. “He was a strong man, and we all had so much hope. He was an amazing person. He touched so many lives. He made people laugh. He could solve anything. Co-workers called him a brother. He was, as I called him, a mountain of goodness.” During her husband’s struggle, Mrs. Novotney and her family showed all the love and support they could give. While her husband fought cancer, his family’s “labor of love” became raising awareness for prostate cancer. The project involved bringing 100 donated flashlights with rubber-banded blue cellophane to Washington, D.C. to shine on the White House in September of 2011. During their efforts to raise awareness, the Novotney family soon came to the realization that time was of the essence. “Our family rallied in strength around my husband,” Mrs. Novotney said. “It was so bittersweet because we felt like we had an hourglass sitting on the table.” Since her husband’s passing, Mrs. Novotney struggles to heal from the loss. “It’s like walking around with a hole in your stomach the size of Montana,” Mrs. Novotney said. “Wind blows right through it.”
Her husband’s plight summoned a call to action
to raise awareness for this deadly, but very treatable disease. The Prostate Awareness Project, created by Student Government and Project X, does just this. The project operates by raising awareness to the cause by selling blue lights to around 40 Munster businesses to decorate their buildings along with selling the lights. As well as the Prostate Awareness Project, Mrs. Novotney sold t-shirts raising awareness to the cause. The raised funds contribute to prostate cancer research. The newest addition to the project includes wrapping blue ribbons around trees and poles. Although the blue lights attract attention at night, visibility during the daytime becomes difficult. Since wrapping the ribbons, more onlookers notice and ask what the ribbons represent. “One of the success stories that has come from this was that I’ve had two men who have come up to me over the course of the events that had their prostate tested and had it come up, unfortunately, positive, but were able to have it treated,” Mrs. Novotney said. Mrs. Novotney stresses that the importance of the Prostate Awareness Project involves advocating for men to check themselves and become familiar with their bodies and their health. Prostate cancer remains 100 percent treatable, according Mrs. Novotney. “We check our cars, our air conditioners, our furnaces, our roofs, our windows,” Mrs. Novotney said. “Where’s the checklist for your body? We check everything else but our own bodies. Your health is your major source of wealth.”
6 spotlight
Crier/Oct. 3, 2014
Stay Tuned: best new fall TV shows New fall season brings thrilling drama, hilarious comedy, chilling suspense with new TV shows
GET AWAY New legal drama, “How to Get Away with Murder” debuts with positive ratings from both critics and viewers. The show gives a diverse cast of characters, unique
View finder
Number of U.S viewers for new fall TV show pilots
14 million
“How to Get Away with Murder”
8million
“Gotham”
4.89million “Selfie”
Source: tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com
Max Baker Opinion Editor
How to Get Away with Murder ABC’s new show, “How to Get Away with Murder,” hits the ground running with a spectacular mix of intensity, mystery and old fashioned drama. It immediately pulls viewers into a shocking, fast paced plot spliced with murder. The show tells the story of five law students and Annalise Keating, played by Viola Davis, as an intense defense lawyer and law professor. Everything from her hard gaze and tone of voice perfectly matches her character’s intensity and no-nonsense persona. While it appears that the show will take on one case a week like most legal dramas, a secondary plot line takes place three months later, which focuses on a murder plot. Viewers can eagerly look for clues and connections that will bind the two plots together. Based on its pilot, “How to Get Away
with Murder” will deliver a fair amount of scandal and shocking reveals that will keep viewers tuning in week after week.
Selfie
photo provided by ABCmedianet
back stories, character development and plot lines. This, combined with masterful acting, will keep audience members on the edge of their seat until the ending credits.
As an updated version of “Pygmalion” and its musical counterpart “My Fair Lady,” “Selfie” embodies the 21st century spirit with a fun plot. A social media obsessed woman asks her uptight and holier-than-thou co-worker to help reinvent herself after an embarrassing incident. The main character, Eliza Dooley, played by Karen Gillian, embodies a social media crazed young woman with perfect acting. Her character comes off as selfish, vain and air-headed. Eliza herself remains blissfully unaware of her negative characteristics. Henry Higgenbottom, played by John Cho, also takes center stage. As Eliza’s polar opposite, Henry comes off as arrogant and puts himself above all others simply because he does not understand the obsession with technology. The show looks like it could produce a few chuckles from the audience, at least for
a few seasons.
Gotham
As a prequel for the entire Batman franchise, “Gotham” promises back stories on some of the most memorable Batman heroes and villains. While the pilot shows some captivating acting, other character fall flat. The pilot episode crams a lot of information into a short time slot. Viewers are quickly introduced to the murders of Bruce Wayne’s parents and four future villains Ben McKenzie, who plays Jim Gordon, gave a memorable, but rigid performance. His character embodies nothing more than the stereotypical rookie cop role. However, the character of Fish Mooney, played by Jada Pinkett Smith, lies at the opposite end of the spectrum. Her performance as an underling mobster with a quick temper stuns audience members into silence. “Gotham” dives deep into thrilling action and mob politics with great actors and superb writing.
7 sports
Crier/Oct 3, 2014
photo by Ray Ojel
Bump Set Spike Volleyball finds balance of offense, defense Max Baker Opinion Editor Last year, the Girls’ Volleyball team made it the farthest they ever have in the post-season, advancing to Semistate before their elimination in the
photo by Peyton Puckett
first round. Toni DalleCarbonare, senior, hopes the younger players on the team will help them return to Semistate and go farther than before. The Girls’ Volleyball team currently holds a 21-3 record after defeating Wheeler High School. “I have a great feeling about this year,” Tori Foster, senior, said. “We have some amazing young talent on the team and I think we have a real shot at a great post-season.” The competitive nature of volleyball and the unity of the team makes the sport one of sophomore Alyssa Chronowski’s favorites. “Once you’re on the court, you’re part of unit, and things like what grade you’re in aren’t important,” Chronowski said. “All of the girls are really talented and supportive.” During her freshman year, Alyssa watched the senior and junior players on the team, hoping to learn some of their skills. “We did lose some good talent last year,” Chronowski said, “but a lot of the seniors have definitely stepped up to
PUMMELING THE PANTHERS (Left) Volleyball had a sweeping victory against Griffith Sept. 26. The team accomplished a record of 21-3. PULLING THEIR WEIGHT (Right) As a sophomore, Alyssa Chronowski (right) grooves with her older teammates, Allison Hajduch (left) and Arielle Crowe (middle). “In those type of games, as long as we focus on the execution and keeping the spirit of the game up throughout the game, we will get the job done,” Chronowski said.
fill those spots. Sometimes, like when we’ve mostly been a defensive team I had problems with blocking, they all with our hitters, but with this depth, acted like mini-coaches and helped we have all the components to go far.” me a lot since they were more experiThe team takes pride in all the hard enced.” work they do and despite two to three The team this year congames a week, believe sists of a good mix of sev- Team Totals they can handle the ineral power hitters and tense workouts and stress Munster’s averaged stats defensive specialists that brought on from the sport. in game against Highland provides the team with a “It can get a little overunique blend of offensive n whelming at times,” Dal= Hit % and defensive players, ac- n leCarbonare said, “but = blocks cording to Foster. you get use to it. It’s nice = Serving% that we like everyone on “Every player has a dif- n ferent skill they’re really n the team and can get our = Kill % good at,” Foster said. “I minds off of the stress.” source: maxpeps.com think it gives us a competiWhile volleyball takes tive edge other teams don’t effort from every player have.” involved on the court, DalleCarbonare The variety of girls will not only give loves the sport and claims the positive the team an advantage in games and aspects of the game outweigh the negtournaments, but allow the team to try ative aspects. new techniques on the court. “Volleyball takes a lot of work,” Dal“We’ve got a lot of taller girls who leCarbonare said. “It’s a lot of practice can hit very well this year along with a and team building, both physical and strong defensive line with exceptional mental, but it’s worth it to reach our passers who really hold up the defens- goals, go to State and get another shot es,” DalleCarbonare said. “In the past at winning.”
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New season, new goals, new roster
With added help of new players, Boys’ Soccer shoots for Sectional title possibly more with high hopes of earning long overdue State title Erin Gallagher Sports Editor The Boys’ Soccer team wraps up their season and begins to mentally prepare for the start of post-season next week with the help of senior newcomers Michael Jimenez and Nathan Sakevicius. “Post-season should go very well since every game we’re getting better and better,” Sakevicius said. ”I want to go all the way and win a state championship.” The boys will face the winner of the Hammond High and Hammond Clark game in their first round of post-season on Wednesday. The new additions to the team, Jimenez and Sakevicius, took a break from club soccer to play as Mustangs their senior year. In the spring they will return to play for their club teams. “Playing high school my senior year meant everything to me. I always wanted to play in front of my friends and participate in school sports,” Sakevicius said. “Club (soccer) made me feel left out from school activities.”
There are significant differences between the type of soccer played in high school and the type of soccer played in club soccer, according to Jimenez. “The speed of play and the level of play is very different compared to academy (club soccer).” Jimenez said. “It’s also a lot less aggressive. The refs are strict and call a lot.” The transition from club to high school soccer has been enjoyable for both athletes, according to Sakevicius. “My favorite parts have to be playing with my friends since elementary school, the pasta dinners and being able to play under the lights like the football players,” Sakevicius said. High school soccer has taught him to step up to plate in times of pressure, according to Jimenez. “I like to control the ball in the middle (of the field) and create things for my teammates,” Jimenez said. “If the team is down and needs a goal, I do everything I can to score.” Along with being reliable, the boys are stable forces on the field. They add to the winning atmosphere and benefit
the team as a whole, according to Sean the season with their only loss being to Pruzin, senior. Chesterton. They defeated Andrean on “They add stabiliWednesday and earned ty to the field, which their 13th consecutive helps us as a team limit Fight to the Finish Conference title, an Inmistakes and maintain The following teams will compete diana state record. composure even in in- at Munster for sectional title A defeat over Lake Round 1 tense game situations,” 10/6 at 5 p.m. Central (LC), one of the Pruzin said. team’s biggest rivals, Hammond High vs. The team has imwas a highlight of the Hammond Clark proved immensely season, according to and their post-season Semi-Finals Sakevicius. 10/8 at 5 p.m. should be an excit“At the beginning of East Chicago Central ing time for the whole the season, our team vs. team, according to didn’t really know how Morton Sakevicius. to play together,” Sakev10/8 at 7 p.m. “Since the beginning icius said, “but after the Winner of 10/6 vs. of the season, the guys LC game it looks like we Munster have developed a better have been playing toFinal Round attitude about the game 10/11 at 2 p.m. gether for years.” in general,” Coach Jim The ultimate goal for Winner of 10/8 at 5 p.m. vs. Prasopolous, West Lake post-season is to comWinner of 10/8 at 7 p.m. teacher, said. pete for the first time in Source: IHSSA.com The Mustangs will the state championship, play their first post-seaaccording to Jimenez. son game Oct. 8 at their home field, ac“I’m really looking forward to wincording to Coach Prasopolous. ning it all,” Jimenez said. “I want to The team holds a 9-1-1 record for bring home a state title.”
8 sports
Crier/Oct. 3, 2014
photo by Arianna Adams
LOOKING OUT The Boys’ Tennis team stands together before their match against Chesterton Sept. 25. Arlo Detmer, junior, mentally prepares for each match like it was his last. Each team member supports the other no matter what the score of the match is. “I think
about what I’ve been working on in practice and how I can use it in my match.” Detmer said. “The team has my back when they cheer me on, and I have their back by winning the match.” Munster closed senior night with a win over Chesterton.
Starting Sectionals on a high note Boys’ Tennis begins their post-season with win against Gavit
Breaking it down
sportsspectator.com
Center Mark
Base line
Net: A net, standing three feet high, divides the court into halves. The ball must be hit over the net on each shot. n Baseline: The line is running parallel to the net that marks the boundary on the length of the court. n Doubles alley: The additional area on the sides of the court used in doubles play. n Service box: The area in which a serve must land for play to continue. n Center line: The line running perpendicular to the net that divides the two service boxes. n
Doubles Alley
Right Service Box
Left Service Box Right Service Box
Left Service Box
Base line
The surface of most tennis courts is made of cement or clay, but all courts have similar characteristics
“top to bottom.” “A lot of our games have matured and there’s a lot of changes in our lineup, especially our singles lineup,” Rivich said. “Our play has gotten a lot better. The better the teams that we’ve played, we’ve pushed through all the matches and it just made us as a team stronger.” Coach Lopez wants the team to be confident in their skill and to be wary of under performing. “The boys finished quickly and made very few errors,” Coach Lopez said about Wednesday’s game. He says the team needs to respect their opponents, and not underestimate them. Griffith, who is currently unranked, surprisingly ended up beating Highland on Wednesday night and will continue on to the Sectional Championship, according to Mr. Lopez. “We’re all really pumped up because it’s the first step on the road to Semi-state,” Henry Wolf, sophomore, said. “(My advice is to) fight it out till the end, every point,” Rivich said. “We have so much potential as a team this year, as long as we keep fighting out every point until the end.”
Doubles Sideline
Singles Sideline
Net
After a close match against Fort Wayne Canterbury on Saturday, the Boys’ Tennis team hit the ground running at Sectionals. Sectionals began on Wednesday against Gavit, and the Mustangs won by a score of 5-0. The Sectional Championship game against Griffith got canceled due to weather, and will take place tomorrow. Their overall record for the season is now 11-2. “I hope we do well and continue to excel at Sectionals,” Adam Richter, sophomore, said before Sectionals began. Winning the State championship served as the tennis team’s biggest goal, according to Coach Steven Lopez, Social Studies teacher. With 34 consecutive Sectional titles, the team has the longest current streak of Sectional titles in the state. “It’s our first one (Sectional game), so just any jitters that any new players might have for their first game post-season have to get ride of them quick and take care of business,” Coach Lopez said before play-
ing against Gavit. Winning against tough competition earlier in the season such as beating Crown Point and ultimately winning the Warsaw Invitational and their close game against Penn High School prepares them for challenges further down the road, according to Coach Lopez. “Crown Point is a very strong team from the region just like us, and they have a lot of potential just like we do,” said Mike Rivich, senior, “but it really comes down to who plays best on that day.” Crown Point will be their biggest competition if they go to regionals, according to Rivich. According to Rivich, it all comes down to which team plays better when they go face-to-face. “I think that just initial feeling that our talent level should be more than sufficient to meet any challenge at the early stage of the state tournament (will help in Sectionals),” said Coach Lopez. “Of course it’ll get more difficult as it goes.” The lineup has changed throughout the season, according to Coach Lopez, but it’s been an advantage in the long run. The team’s confidence has improved
Service Line
Danie Oberman News Editor