12.5.14 by Munster High School Crier

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munster high school

vol 49/issue 7 Dec. 5, 2014 MHScrier.com

8808 Columbia Ave. Munster, IN 46321

Saturday 38/25

Sunday 37/30

Upcoming n

Advanced Speech showcase: 6 p.m. Monday in auditorium

Choir holiday concert: 7 p.m. Tuesday in auditorium

Boys’ Basketball against Morton: 7 p.m. tomorrow at home Students participate in mixed martial arts page 15

Cafeteria staff discusses job requirements; interaction with students, co-workers page 7

We The People team prepares for tate competition page 4

Virtual learning reality may become

District considers eLearning for inclement weather Erin Gallagher Sports Editor After a brutal winter and several snow make-up days added to the 2013-2014 school year, Munster investigates the idea of virtual learning, better known as eLearning. If implemented, eLearning days would replace make-up days at the end of the year, according to Mr. Kurt Popovich, systems administrator. “Nobody wants to go to school longer than planned,” Mr. Popovich said. Forty Indiana schools experimented with the idea of virtual learning on inclement weather days, according to Mrs. Therese Dristas, systems technology mentor. eLearning at Munster would consist of a teacher assigning homework through Moodle when school is canceled due to the weather. Teachers would need to be available to students through a chat room, forum or email periodically throughout the day, according to Mrs. Dristas. eLearning has not yet been implemented because it would violate the Collective Bargaining Agreement, which requires 185 work days for teachers each school year.

photo illustration by Peyton Puckett

WITH FROSTED WINDOWPANES, LEARNING GOES ON If implemented at Munster, eLearning would allow students to access assignments through Moodle on school days canceled due to severe weather, eliminating the need for snow make-up days. As a requirement of eLearning, the district must demonstrate internet access for all students. Additionally, teachers must inform students of learning targets by 9 a.m. and be virtually reachable by parents and teachers during school hours to facilitate instruction, according to the Indiana Department of Education Website.

The Collective Bargaining Agreement will remain in effect through June 30, 2015. Until then, administration continues to explore the idea of eLearning, according to Mr. Steven Tripenfeldas, assistant superintendent. Mrs. Dristas plans on practicing the eLearning process at some time during the school year. During one period a day, classes would run through an online assignment that teachers might assign on an inclement weather day. “We want to see if students can succeed and ac-

complish tasks without direct teacher support,” Mr. Tripenfeldas said. If eLearning becomes policy for the 2015-2016 school year, students without home internet access can use the school a few days a week to finish their assignments from the canceled school day, according to Mr. Tripenfeldas. “The idea intrigues me. I like the idea of giving flexibility,” Mr. Tripenfeldas said, “But the real question is, ‘Can teachers provide meaningful work through eLearning?’”

Chamber of Commerce pushes for appointed position Meena Kandallu Copy Editor On Nov. 17, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce announced its effort to make the currently elected position of Superintendent of Public Instruction a position appointed by the governor. Mrs. Glenda Ritz currently holds the position, and if approved, the change would take effect at the end of her term in 2016. “I think it’s important to emphasize that this is not a new issue; we are renewing an old position. This has nothing to do with Superintendent Ritz or anyone else,” Mr. Kevin Brinegar, Indiana Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, said. “Both the Republican and Democratic parties have supported this in the past, and we have held this stance for over 25 years.” Making the switch from an elected Superintendent

of Public Instruction to an appointed Superintendent of Public Instruction would promote consistency in education and also among departments throughout the state, according to Mr. Brinegar. “We just believe philosophically that the Superintendent of Public Instruction should be an elected position just as every other department head in the state is appointed,” Mr. Brinegar said. Mr. Michael Gordon, government teacher, believes that the idea of an appointed Superintendent of Public Instruction, in itself, is not negative; however, the current situation may indicate a desire to “remove a person who’s looking to influence policy.” “It’s not necessarily better to have an appointed or elected Superintendent of Public Instruction. There is democratic legitimacy on both sides; ultimately either the Superintendent (of Public Instruction) or the Governor has to face re-election.” Mr. Gordon said, “but it

is problematic to do a bypass of the debate by removing persons who have legitimacy in the discussion.” According to Mr. Brinegar, however, an appointed Superintendent of Public Instruction is necessary because recent differing viewpoints at Board of Education meetings have impeded progress in discussing and creating policies. “We have a governor who supports accountability, parental choice, charter schools, and performance-based pay, and they’re all laws that the current Superintendent of Public Instruction doesn’t necessarily support or want to implement, so there’s an inherent conflict right there,” Mr. Brinegar said. “We think that the current situation is particularly dysfunctional, especially regarding the conduct at meetings of the state board of education. (It hasn’t) served the students, teachers or parents to have this kind of huge disagreement regarding education.”

2 news

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

Speech travels to Bradley

Speech team competes at Bradley National Tournament in Peoria, Ill., tournament showcases best performers in national circuit; members practice by critiquing pieces To prepare for the tournament, which includes 30 teams from 10 states, the students have performed their speeches in front of coaches and other teammates for review. The Bradley speech tournament taking place this week- Novice Gabie Ingoglia, freshman, finds that the assessend represents a two day national event, which will be the ments from more accomplished team members aid in enfirst overnight competition for novices. hancing her speech. “We have more beginners this year and a much more “(The students have) given (the novices) a lot of posispirited bunch. I think they have great camaraderie, and tive critiques and given us a positive outlook on speech team spirit will carry them to the distance,” Mr. Jordan and continuing it in the future,” Gabie said. Mayer, speech and debate director, said. The students master their speeches by committing them to memory and getting into character, according to Ani Arzumanian, sophomore. “Mr. Mayer studied us and assigned pieces that best fit our personality. In the practice room we work on memorizing and getting through the motions of the speech and receive peoples’ critiques and apply them to my performance,” Ani said. The members, which include students from advanced speech, compete in two events at the competition. “Students are much more confident in their prime event. They will get secondary (events) more recent to the competition, so they will be gaining confidence in the final week,” Mr. Mayer said. For some novices, maintaining confidence during their second event can falter because they have less time to prepare. “I’m extremely nervous (about competing), but I think after a week of practice I’ll be okay,” Ani said. “I use my nerve to help motivate me when I perform.” Certain traits students show in their speeches determine how the judges place them. “Judges look for enthusiasm, vocal dynamics, command of characterization, and the overall impression they leave,” Mr. Mayer said. The practice the students have been doing to work on these traits is very helpful to the performance, according to Ani. “I’m ending up having to work harder photo by Lauren Koultourides than I thought I would,” Ani said. “ I enjoy PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT In a practice room, Alex Raycroft, sophomore, works working hard on it with everybody, and on her piece. “(My favorite part of going to the Bradley tournament) is the opit’s paying off.” portunity to perform and compete against a lot of talented people,” Alex said. Chloe Wineinger Infocus Editor

Project X volunteers with Parks & Recreation

Members help spread winter cheer by working community events Danie Oberman News Editor

Recreation time December events hosted by Munster Parks and Recreation Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair

Dates: Dec. 6-7 Time: 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Place: Munster High School Admission: free

Rock Along with Santa Date: Dec. 11

Time: 5:30-8:00 p.m. Place: Centennial Park Admission: resident couple $35 non-resident couple $45 additional child $15 source: www.munster.org

With winter and the holiday season approaching, Project X members get ready to assist at Munster Parks and Recreation events throughout the month. Yesterday, members worked at a Disney’s “Frozen” character meet and greet. “It was amazing,” Lexi Chipules, sophomore, said. “The characters were great and the kids looked so cute in their dresses.” The event included hired actresses dressed up as Queen Elsa and Princess Anna from “Frozen” to take photos and sign autographs for younger children. Children came dressed in costumes or other “Frozen” attire, and left with goody bags full of treats and crafts. “My favorite part was the sing along,” Lexi said. “It was so cute to watch all the kids singing with Elsa and Anna.” This weekend, the school plans to host the Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair. Walker Hedgepath, senior, volunteered at the event last year by wrapping gifts and looks forward to participating again. “It was kind of neat getting to talk with people and seeing what things they bought,” Walker said. Last year’s fair stretched through the

cafeteria, across the commons, and to the doors leading to the North Building. “I was kind of impressed just how big the fair really was,” Walker said. Rock Along with Santa will take place in Centennial Park on Dec. 11. Santa will lead children in songs and read stories, as well as give each child a chance to sit on his lap and give him a wish list. “I am excited to see the kids with Santa because I remember how I used to be so excited to see him and get to tell him what I wanted for Christmas and ask about how the reindeer were doing and everything,” Lexi said. Ms. Leigh Ann Westland, English teacher and Project X sponsor, enjoys the amount of students interested in participating this month. “I think the adults in the community find it refreshing working with enthusiastic high school students, and we have so many students who like to help others,” Ms. Westland said. Although volunteering proves important all year around, the holiday season needs it most of all, according to Lexi. “I think it’s especially important to give back around the holidays to make everyone, especially those who don’t have as much as others, have a happy holiday,” Lexi said.

Quick Notes Environmental Club

Environmental Club runs an electronic drive throughout December The Environmental Club hosts its first ever electronic devices drive this month. The club asks all students who possess old electronic devices to turn them in to the club. “People bring in their electronics and give them to us,”club Vice President Rainy Herakovich, senior, said. “Lots of times, people throw out their old devices, which give off poisonous gases like mercury and waste precious metals.” Students and faculty should bring devices to Ms. Shonna Siegers’ room at N160. Club members will dispose of the old electronics properly themselves by giving them to the town. “Some of us will bring them to the electronic waste dump right by the fire department,” Rainy said.

Toy Drive

Football team’s annual Mustang Toy Roundup collection coming to a close

The annual toy drive hosted by the football team ends next Friday. Last year the toy drive provided toys for over 800 children in the area. This year in conjunction with local organizations, the team plans to provide for 500 children, according to Coach Leroy Marsh. “I feel very blessed to be in a community and in a school that cares so much about others. I think we are very fortunate to be in a position to help others,” Coach Marsh said. For over 30 years, the team has provided toys for children in need. Coach Marsh encourages the community to donate toys to “get that warm feeling.” “Giving is a feeling you get; it is the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping the cause,” Coach Marsh said.

Robotics

Robotics team showcases confetti cannon for Hammond Optimist Club

Robotics will unveil a confetti cannon they constructed for a sponsor, the Hammond Optimist Club, today at 4:30 p.m. In order to create the cannon, robotics veterans made a design with constraints regarding its base, according to sponsor Ms. Catherine Mazeikas, science teacher. “The purpose was to get the kids to think outside of the box,” Ms. Mazeikas said. “The kids are learning problem solving skills, communicating with the mentors, and general team building mentality.” These skills will benefit the team during their season, according to Ms. Mazeikas. “This club is not purely about building a robot,” Ms. Mazeikas said. “It’s about expanding your horizons with your STEM skills as well as interacting with your community.”

Corrections

In issue six of Crier, the quote attributed to Mr. Brian Clark, athletic director, on page 3 should have been attributed to Mr. Joseph Sokol, math teacher. On page four, the dates for Project X’s brown paper bag drive should have read “this week (Nov. 17-22).”Additionally, the proceeds of the DECA dance are being donated to the Cancer Research Center in Munster. On page 10, Brandee Evans’ name was misspelled, and the correct date for the dance competition at the University of Illinois at Chicago was Sunday, Nov. 16. Crier regrets these errors.

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

3 speakout

BACKTALK

What is your favorite Disney movie? Why? In honor of Walt Disney’s 113th birthday, visit MHScrier.com to read a review of “Big Hero 6.”

“‘Toy Story,’ because it taught me and other people that love, loyalty and imagination is better than any gift or toy.”

Voted in, Appointed out

graphic by Chelsea Eickleberry

Over 150 years ago during his Gettysburg Address, Abraham Lincoln declared America a nation with a government “of the people, for the people, by the people.” With this statement, he solidified America’s position as a country that truly represents OUR TAKE its citizens. The Governor However, the Indiana Chamshould not appoint ber of Commerce recently underthe Superintendent of Public Instruction mined this fundamental principle position of American government with its effort to turn the elected position of Superintendent of Public Instruction, the highest state education official, into a position appointed by the governor. It may appear reasonable to claim that this switch from an elected position to an appointed position will create less disputes regarding education policy by ensuring that

the Governor and Superintendent of Public Instruction do not have contradictory views. However, controversy stemming from clashing ideals must be expected and accepted. Inherent differences in perspective are necessary in order for all sides of the discussion to be considered. Allowing an appointment by one person instead of a direct vote by the citizens will almost certainly yield an appointee who epitomizes the ideas of the governor’s party affiliation, effectively squashing the views of the opposing party and leaving no room for debate. For this reason, the position of Superintendent of Public Instruction must remain an elected position. The only way to ensure a true government “of the people, for the people, by the people” is by allowing all voices to be heard, not just the voice of the majority.

Getting back to the basics Jordan Szymanski Sports Editor “OMG Starbucks is life #basicwhitegirl:” A teenage boy in khakis and J’s mocked as he poses with a Starbucks latte in one hand while taking an instagram selfie with the other. Society has become so accustomed to label someone as “basic.” Urban Dictionary defines “basic” as an adjective used to describe someone or something devoid of defining characteristics that might make them or it interesting or extraordinary. This begs a bigger question: when did liking something perceived as popular become unsophisticated? The undeniable truth: these “basic” fads are popular for a reason. In an article, Cosmopolitan magazine points out that there is no fault in being basic.

It is not wrong to admit that leggings are the most comfortable things on this planet or that Taylor Swift does write catchy songs. It is not unsophisticated to enjoy fads that are popular. Also, the value of any fad does not decrease just because it is gaining popularity. For example, “The Fault in Our Stars” was, and still is, a captivating book, no matter how many fandoms associate with it. Choosing to wear, to like, to use and to enjoy fads that society has deemed “basic” does not make the person as extraordinary or uninteresting as people want to believe. So, refuse to surrender to this label. Continue to wear, to like, to use and to enjoy these fads. If the opposite were true, standards in everyday life should be considered basic. Using a light bulb? How basic,

crier

Olivia Dzurovcik, freshman

everyone uses electricity. Enjoy indoor plumbing? Totally basic—that came out a century ago. This sounds ridiculous, right? Well, it sounds about ridiculous as labeling someone as unextraordinary and unsophisticated based on their preferences. These misconceptions exist because somewhere along the lines, it became perceived as cool to stand out. The people who did not hop on the hipster bandwagon were consequently labeled basic. Ultimately, it is the labelers who need to stop. Stop being so utterly concerned with intentionally standing out, it is becoming the new basic. A teenage girl drinking a Chai latte and blasting T-swift’s new album comments spitefully on the boy’s instagram photo, “That overused label is what’s truly basic.”

“‘Finding Nemo’ because it showed a very heartwarming tale between father and son.”

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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 Vrusha Patel Managing Editor William Hatczel Copy Editor Meena Kandallu Opinion Editor Max Baker

“‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ because it was a very wellthought-out movie and very different from what Disney usually does.” Andy Riddle, sophomore

“My favorite Disney movie is ‘Up’ because it is wonderfully animated. It’s suitable for both adults and kids as well.”

“‘Cinderella’ because I love all of the magical effects and the storyline.”

Anthony Skiba, junior

Megan Zabrecky, junior

“‘Lilo and Stitch:’ it’s funny and makes a point that family is amazing.”

TJ Wiess, senior 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.

Natalia Salazar, freshman

Alex Yao, sophomore

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.

“My favorite Disney movie is probably ‘Mulan,’ because she’s the only princess who fights for herself and saves the guy.”

“‘Beauty and the Beast.’ I love the story line-this is going to get nerdy-and how Belle loves the library. I also liked the fairytale ending.” Ms. Kathleen Clemens English teacher

Sports Editors Erin Gallagher, Jordan Szymanski News Editors Danie Oberman Infocus Editors Mariah Villaroman, Chloe Wineinger Web Editor Elena Piech Web Designer Alex Baker Staff Reporter Amanda Jones 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

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Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

We hold these truths We the People prepares for State competition Danie Oberman News Editor

photo by Peyton Puckett

CIVIC EDUCATION During practice, Jeremy Benedek, ’14, and juniors Therese Capriglione and Aditya Mishra prepare for competition. “We the People is a great experience,”Aditya said. “You learn a lot more than just government. You learn about current events, how to answer questions well, and you learn how to work with other people.”

Defining authority

Government terms explained for easier understanding joint committee: term used when both

concurrent powers: powers shared by

reserved powers: State powers that the national government cannot overrule; defined in the 10th amendment; i.e. driving age

majority floor leader: elected legislative position in charge of the branch’s agenda; i.e. Mitch McConnell

government houses come together for faster legislative action; i.e. Committee on Taxation

both national and state governments; i.e. power to tax citizens

sources: www.constitutionfacts.com, www.washingtonpost.com, www.education-portal.com

“I’m looking forward to learning more about the foundations of the Constitution as well as the American political system (at State),” Rosalio said. The team does not focus on the competition from other schools. They need to focus on themselves, according to Walker Hedgepath, senior, said. “There’s only three teams we need to worry about at state: past Munster teams, present Munster teams, and future Munster teams,” Walker said The WTP program goes much farther than the competition; the importance of the program lies in creating better citizens, according to Mr. Michael Gordon, WTP sponsor and history teacher. “We have an amazing constitutional system,” Mr. Gordon said. “Through checks and balances, federalism, and the representative principle, we slow down the policy-making processes so that individual rights, a common good, and consent of the governed can all be achieved. Nevertheless, our government will reflect us. The We the People program is all about creating a better us.”

Classes spread awareness of technology’s importance Students in computer related courses participate in activites for Computer Science Education Week Mariah Villaroman Infocus Editor Computer Science Education Week, which occurs Dec. 8 to 14, is a week founded in belief that every student “should have the opportunity to learn computer science,” according to csed. org, the official website of the Computer Science Education Association. “If we have a week solely dedicated to computer science, that can garner more attention (for) technology and computers,” Chetan Chauhan, senior, said. People can also gain more insight

into computer science throughout the week, according to Kevin Fuhs, senior. “I took AP Computer Science because I wanted to get to learn more about programming and I was interested in potentially majoring in that for college,” Kevin said. “I think Computer Science Education Week can give them exposure to what computer programming is and understand what will be required in the future because many companies now require that.” Kevin hopes that Computer Science Education Week increases the interest of students to possibly take the AP Computer Science class.

“I think it’s good to have a small class, but I think it’s good to have more people as a whole,” Kevin said. “(Computer science) is a really important skill to have.” Mrs. Kim Peirick, industrial technology teacher, plans on teaching different computer science techniques next week. “There’s Hour of Code and it’s through code.org,” Mrs. Peirick said. “I will do something during every single class. My goal is to introduce something new to each of the classes. For example, my ICT (information communication and technology) class, I will introduce an html project, and my students will build a small website.” As the current class size stands at 17 people, Mrs. Peirick still notices growth in the class enrollment.

“I don’t know if (AP Computer Science) is unknown, but (more) undiscovered,” Mrs. Peirick said. “A lot of students feel like they know computers, but I tell my students they’ll learn something new or a different way of doing something. I see the program growing with the seven period day. Some students now have the opportunity to take different electives.” Mrs. Peirick focuses one goal during Computer Science Education Week. “My goal for this is to increase exposure to different types of computer science fields and to explain to them that computers are included in every career or job that’s out there,” Mrs. Peirick said. “I’m going to show a short Powerpoint that will show research and data that (computer science) is an emerging career.”

Visit MHScrier.com to read our review on Big Hero 6 745 Ridge Rd. Munster, IN 219-836-4009

Carry Out Available

Class spreads awareness of importance of technology Students in computer related courses participate in Computer Science Education Week Computer Science Education Week, which occurs Dec. 8 to 14, is a week founded in belief that every student “should have the opportunity to learn computer science,” according to csed.org, the official website of the Computer Science Education Association. “If we have a week solely dedicated to computer science, that can garner more attention (for) technology and computers,” Chetan Chauhan, senior, said. People can also gain more insight into computer science through this educational week, according to Kevin Fuhs, senior. “I took AP Computer Science because I wanted to get to learn more about programming and I was interested in potentially majoring in that for college,” Kevin said. “I think Computer Science Education Week can give them exposure to what computer programming is and understand what will be required in the future because many companies now require that.” Kevin hopes that Computer Science Education Week increases the interest of students to possibly take the AP Computer Science class. “I think it’s good to have a small class, but I think it’s good to have more people as a whole,” Kevin said. “(Computer science) is a really important skill to have.” Mrs. Kim Peirick, industrial technology teacher, plans activities next week for her classes. This includes teaching different computer science techniques. “There’s Hour of Code and it’s through code.org,” Mrs. Peirick said. “I will do something during every single class. My goal is to introduce something new to each of the classes. For example, my ICT (information communication and technology) class, I will introduce an html project, and my students will build a small website.” As the current class size stands at 17 people, Mrs. Peirick still notices growth in the class enrollment. “I don’t know if (AP Computer Science) is unknown, but (more) undiscovered,” Mrs. Peirick said. “A lot of students feel like they know computers, but I tell my students they’ll learn something new or a different way of doing something. I see the program growing with the seven period day. Some students now have the opportunity to take different electives.” Mrs. Peirick focuses one goal during Computer Science Education Week. “My goal for this is to increase exposure to different types of computer science fields and to explain to them that computers are included in every career or job that’s out there,” Mrs. Peirick said. “I’m going to show a short Powerpoint that will show research and data that (computer science) is an emerging career.”

4 news

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

We hold these truths We the People prepares for State competition

We the People (WTP) will compete in the state competition Dec. 14-16 in Indianapolis, hoping to take first place and to proceed to Nationals. The team has the capability to achieve their goal, according to Team Historian Rosalio Ornelas, senior. “I fully expect that we will come in first in the State competition, because the team, in my opinion, is fully prepared to go all the way,” Rosalio said. Part of Rosalio’s assurance comes from the team’s effort throughout the season, according to Rosalio. “So many of us have worked so hard outside of school, and inside of school, to win State,” Rosalio said. The team’s strengths, specifically the team’s differing opinions and viewpoints, propels the team. By not always seeing eye-to-eye, the WTP members encourage each other to strengthen their arguments. This helps the team excel, but winning proves to be less important than actually learning, according to Rosalio. “I’m looking forward to learning more about the foundations of the Constitution as well as the American political system (at State),” Rosalio said. The team does not focus on teams from other schools. They need to focus on themselves, according to Walker Hedgepath, senior, said. “There’s only three teams we need to worry about at state: past Munster teams, present Munster teams, and future Munster teams,” Walker said The WTP program goes much farther than the competition; the importance of the program lies in creating better citizens, according to Mr. Michael Gordon, WTP sponsor and history teacher. “We have an amazing constitutional system,” Mr. Gordon said. “Through checks and balances, federalism, and the representative principle, we slow down the policy-making processes so that individual rights, a common good, and consent of the governed can all be achieved. Nevertheless, our government will reflect us. The We the People program is all about creating a better us.”

Last day of school

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

5 news

As semester closes, staff members prepare to leave school, return to teach their original subjects Erin Gallagher Sports Editor With Munster undergoing budget cuts, Mrs. Anne Kinser, box office secretary, will be leaving after winter break because of the termination of her position. “I’m a product of the cutback the school is enduring,” Mrs. Kinser said. Mrs. Kinser manages the box office in the auditorium. She handles everything from tickets and programs to publicity for the theater. For nine years, Mrs. Kinser witnessed many productions in the auditorium put on by the Munster Theater Company. “There have been so many good ones (plays),” Mrs. Kinser said, “But ‘Fiddler (on the Roof)’ was my favorite, ‘Godspell’ a close second.” After she departs from Munster, Mrs. Kinser plans to travel through Europe with her daughter in January. During her trip she plans to return to her home country, Ireland. “I haven’t really figured everything out after I return from my trip. I think it will just come to me one day,” Mrs. Kinser said. Leaving the school after almost a decade will be hard, according to Mrs. Kinser, and she will miss watching students grow. “I’m really going to miss the kids the most,” Mrs. Kinser said.“Watching them grow from little fresh-

photo by Natalia Bilek

MAKING HISTORY During his last week as a teacher here, Mr. Mark Dye, history teacher, sits at his desk before beginning class. After this week, he will continue to coach the Freshman Girls’ Basketball team, but will not be teaching. “I hope that even if students weren’t able to learn all the knowledge in U.S. or world history, hopefully they developed some good life skills or some good people skills that they can take to some other aspect of their life,” Mr. Dye said.

man to seniors is unforgettable.” Another staff change this semester includes Mr. Mark Dye, history teacher, leaving. Mr. Dye teaches Ms. Kristen Szafasz’s U.S. History and Modern World History classes while Ms. Szafasz teaches American Sign Language because of Mrs. Christine Stanish’s pregnancy leave. Mr. Dye ends his semester today because Mrs. Stanish’s pregnancy leave is over. “It’s bittersweet,” Mr. Dye said, “I enjoyed working here since I went to MHS.” Mr. Dye plans to substitute teach around the area

after his departure. Getting more endorsements to teach other subjects is also a possibility in his postteaching plan, according to Mr. Dye. “Working in an academic community was a great experience, and I would like to continue with it,” Mr. Dye said. After returning to his former high school, Mr. Dye recalls his semester. “It was a pleasure to work here,” Mr. Dye said, “I’m going to miss the day-to-day interaction with the students as well as the unexpectedness I encountered each day.”

6 infocus

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

As end of semester nears, students, teachers, adjust to new schedule of final exams finishing before winter break

Ahead of schedule Chloe Wineinger Infocus Editor

etween doing homework, studying for finals and filling out college applications, the closing semester

takes its toll on students. “Doing all the essays gets tedious. I had an English essay, a speech to write and a college essay this week,” Thomas Speranza, senior, said. “All three were similar, so I got tired of doing the same thing over and over.”

With this year starting one week earlier than usual, students find themselves not used to completing their work and final exams before winter break, according to Thomas. “I just need to make sure I’m delegating my time correctly so I can do well on finals,” Thomas said. “It’s difficult, but I can manage. If I have to turn down hanging out with friends to study for a test, then I definitely will.” Thomas finds that he tends to lack motivation towards the end of each

photo by Rachel Bishop

AGAINST THE CLOCK Focusing on their tests, seniors Billy Roser, Briana Crowe, Thomas Speranza, Billy McDunn and Zach Long complete a short test in social studies teacher Mr. Don Fortner’s seventh period AP Economics class. With the end of the semester approaching, students and teachers find themselves trying to fit in as many lessons or as much studying as possible. “Having finals before winter break will be a nice change this year,” Billy McDunn, senior, said. “But in all honesty, it doesn’t matter that much to me.”

semester, especially with classes that interest him less. “You start to realize a couple classes are not geared towards what you want to do, so you don’t see the importance in getting a good grade,” Thomas said. With pressure increasing to finish the semester strong in classes, students must still realize the necessity of living healthfully, according to Thomas. “I make sure to take a certain amount of hard classes so I can still get enough sleep,” Thomas said. “Some students take all the hard classes and extracurriculars, and I don’t know how they sleep.” When his schedule gets more filled towards the end of the semester, planning plays a big role in how he maintains his lifestyle. “When you’re in hard classes and after school activities, you get good at planning things in advance,” Thomas said. Not only do the students feel pressure from doing work, but teachers have less time to get grades in before the end of the semester this year, according to Mrs. Kathleen LaPorte, family and consumer science and personal finance teacher. “For other subject areas that utilize two weeks to grade, it’s going to be a struggle,” Mrs. LaPorte said. “Teachers may feel a bigger crunch because we don’t have that two week period to grade. We just have to adjust.” Mrs. LaPorte believes that the semester ending before winter break helps the students. “I think that the kids need to have that break without having to study,” Mrs. LaPorte said. “It’s a true break, where it’s like, ‘Okay, let me enjoy this.’”

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

7 infocus

photos by Ray Ojel

GETTING READY Unpacking food, Ms. Linda Marks, supervisor, prepares lunch for students. “(The hardest part is) I guess cooking in such volume—to learn how to cook a big batch of something,” Ms. Marks said. “You don’t learn that at home.” ON THE MENU Checking the boiling water, Ms. Peggy Chovanec, interim supervisor, cooks for the day’s lunch. “(My favorite part is) probably just preparing the food (and) the different products that we cook every day and putting the menu together,” Ms. Chovanec said.

Cafeteria confidential Mariah Villaroman Infocus Editor

A student wakes up for school, scratching the fuzz out of their eyes trying to stay awake. Meanwhile, the high school’s kitchen has already been up and ready since 6:30 a.m., preparing to serve more than 1,200 students and staff members. As the workers joke with each other, Ms. Linda Marks, supervisor and 15 year veteran in the cafeteria, notes the close knit bond between the 18 member cafeteria staff. “We’re a team,” Ms. Marks said. “A lot of us have worked together here many years. (Like) with friends at school, you go through things with them. You’ve known these people for a long time, and that will never go away.” Though the cafeteria staff enjoys preparing the food for the school and working with one another, other aspects prove even more enjoyable. “You learn so many things; you learn new things: different ways to cook, how to follow guidelines, presentations of the food,” Ms. Marks said. “It’s always nice to see the kids—to see them grow up. I worked at Wilbur (Wright Middle School), (so) I see

Cafeteria staff give explanation into school kitchen, unknown elements

the same kids here now.” Cafeteria staff members like Mrs. Johnson, in food services for five years, realize many students may not know the amount of work put into getting the breakfasts and lunches out on the line. “Unless they watch ‘Top Chef’ or ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ because those show how attentive you have to be (then they might know),” Mrs. Johnson said. “The customers come first. The food has to be served. It has to be a well-oiled machine.” Mrs. Johnson does not let students who might complain about the school lunches bother her. “Everybody has different tastes, and it’s okay,” Mrs. Johnson said. “You go to restaurants, you eat and everyone has different palettes.” Mrs. Johnson sees students’ best attitude put forward every day for her and other workers. “They’re always very nice and cordial, and they have smiles,” Mrs. Johnson said. “They’re good kids and well-mannered, absolutely.” The hard-working aspects shine through with the cafeteria staff, according to Mrs. Martha Silverthorn, Food Services Director. “It is important that others know what we do. I don’t think others realize how hard they work and

how much goes into it,” Mrs. Silverthorn said. “They work very, very hard and they love what they do. They love serving the kids. I think that’s why they come back to work every day—it’s because of the kids.” Mrs. Silverthorn sees a common misconception among the public’s knowledge of funding towards the lunch room. “Well, the part (the) public doesn’t understand is that food service is not funded by any of the school funds. We have to support ourselves,” Mrs. Silverthorn said. “So we have to fund ourselves through the student meal prices, through the federal reimbursement that we get for each meal, and through our a la carte sales. We pay all of our own bills. We are a business within the school.” Cooking food to make it “just in time,” cleaning all the tables and restocking serving lines are just a few of the many jobs that the cafeteria staff has to keep the day moving for students and faculty. “It takes all hands on deck, doing separate jobs simultaneously to keep up with all the lunches,” Mrs. Silverthorn said. “Each has different tasks that work together to serve all the meals for our students every day.”

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Recipe for

success

Student talks about her interest in cake baking, decorating; plans for future “They have had their business for 19 years, and I’m 18 so I basically grew up in that shop,” Emma said. Student by day, baker by night. “I never went to daycare; I never had Emma Prucha, senior, has baked a nanny or anything like that, I went cakes for family members since sev- to work with them every single day enth grade. Eventually, she started to and so I’m already exposed to interbake cakes for costumers after gaining acting with customers. That’s where I confidence in her work. learned to interact with people, how to “I did it with my family because I’m be respectful, (and) how to act mature a perfectionist with my cakes. I was too around them.” nervous to do it for other people, but While Emma learned the customer I eventually got over service skills from that fear,” Emma said. Baking for beginners her parents, she The first cake she gained her culinary Different tips shared to planned and built was skills from attenda SpongeBob SquareP- help a beginning baker ing the Hammond ants cake, iced with Tip 1 Land O’ Lakes Butter works the Career Center. buttercream icing for “It’s given me a best; it has higher quality and her cousin’s birthday, lot of experience on better taste according to Emma. what to expect for “I remember show- Tip 2 Organic eggs can be smaller stress. A lot of sleepthan regular eggs, so they can ing her and she was less nights, talking mess up the recipe like, ‘Oh my god it’s to customers, how SpongeBob! It’s too Tip 3 Use pure vanilla extract for best to price items and flavor; vanilla beans are optional, how to plan for perfect to eat’,” Emma but they can be expensive said. “Seeing the excake,” Emma said. citement on her face is Hesitant to make source: Emma Prucha, senior why I make cakes.” cakes for weddings Building multiple due to the stressful cakes in a week while having to jug- nature, Emma finally decided to vengle her school work creates time con- ture out of her comfort zone for this straints for Emma. For this month, she upcoming summer by creating two already has eight cake orders. Emma wedding cakes. then foresees a few last minute orders “I figure if I don’t take the step now as well. I will miss an opportunity and I don’t “It’s almost a fun challenge for me want to miss it,” Emma said. “I hope I but there’s been times when I’m awake don’t fail.” until three in the morning,” Emma Currently, Emma bakes from her said. home with the support from not only Emma has insight into business her family, but also from the support skills from her parents’ machine shop. of her friends. Vrusha Patel Editor-in-chief

Che

ou k us

photo by Ray Ojel

FINISHING TOUCHES Working on the top hat to place on a decorative snowman, Emma Prucha, senior, creates winter decorations for a cake she made in her home kitchen. She utilizes rice krispie treats and fondant for detailed decorations on her cake, as these create a sturdy base for them. Emma plans to continue her baking career into and after college, but currently she focuses on finishing her high school education. “As a teenager, my number one priority right now is getting an education,” Emma said. “Baking is just my hobby.”

“She’s really passionate about baking and it’s something I admire about her,” Jordan Anderson, senior, said, “because she doesn’t eat a lot of cake but she puts a lot of passion into everything she makes and that’s really cool.” Over the summer, Emma worked at Timbarook’s kitchen to gain more insight into a culinary career. Emma

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plans to attend culinary school at Joliet Junior College and aspires to graduate from French Pastry School in Chicago. As a long term goal Emma plans to open her own cafe in the future. “The fact that she’s not afraid to experiment with cooking in the kitchen has helped her become more fearless outside,” Jordan said.

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9 infocus

Eickleberr

After recent increase in tattoos, students, resource officer explain reasoning for getting their tattoos

Jordan Szymanski Sports Editor

s of 2014, a survey from StatisticBrain. com showed that 36 percent of all young people between the ages of

18-26 have at least one tattoo. “Why did you do that to your body? It was a stupid idea.” This is one of the countless remarks that Sam Rosser, senior, heard after he decided to get a popsicle tattooed on his calf. “It is not their body; it’s mine, Ink interpretations and I can do what I want with it,” Sam said. “Your body is a canvas, Certain tattoos can carry and you should take advantage of meanings along with them that.” The phoenix: When his sister turned 18, she represents rebirth had an orange popsicle tattooed in an individual, on her leg. Sam followed in her overcoming hardships footsteps, and his younger brother plans to do the same. As for his The skull: can parents, they have become accuscommemorate a lost tomed to their children’s tattoos, loved one, embraces according to Sam. human’s mortality “I told them as soon as I was The anchor: along with 18 I was getting one, and they other nautical tattoos, weren’t too happy about me getrepresent sailors who ting a tattoo,” Sam said. “But they would not go down with were more supportive of it being the ship a sibling tattoo.” source: npr.org Sam sees his tattoo and other tattoos as works of art. “I believe they are a way to fully express yourself, and (they) stand for a time in your life,” Sam said. Both friends and family often widely accept family related tattoos, according to Kasey Luehrs, senior. “My parents were pretty supportive of it as long as they mean something,” Kasey said. Kasey got a dragonfly tattoo etched with her grandmother’s name to commemo-

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rate their bond after she passed away. “She would always give me dragonfly things: earrings, necklaces, so it symbolizes what she meant to me,” Kasey said. Indiana Law states that no minor under the age of 18 may be tattooed unless their legal guardians are present and sign a written consent form. The age restriction did not affect Kasey, who received her tattoo at 16 with her parents’ consent. However, she does not worry that her age affected her judgment. “I won’t regret it. I didn’t just decide the day before to get the tattoo,” Kasey said. “I waited a little while to make sure I was getting what I wanted.” The meaning of the tattoo also plays a huge part in the decision-making process, according to Kasey. “They should mean something to you, but if they don’t, then I’m not the type of person to judge,” Kasey said. “If you want it, then cool, go express yourself.” People against tattoos argue that no employer will hire a “tatted up” employee, according to Officer Erik Holloway, school resource officer. Officer Holloway has three tattoos in various spots on his arms and he currently plans his next tattoo. He got his most prominent tattoo, a cross in honor of his grandmother at 19. “It (the tattoo) is not necessarily religious. My grandma was a devout Catholic, and I admire her dedication and her work ethic, so I chose to get a cross,” Officer Holloway said. Although others have not hassled Officer Holloway at work because of his tattoos, he advises teens to use caution. “Avoid any on the face, neck (and) hand area because they are hard to cover, and it is difficult to get a job (or) start a career with that,” Officer Holloway said. “The

stigma is definitely still there and having opinions on people with tattoos is not necessarily fair, but people with tattoos should understand that and expect it.” The public perception of him and his wife, who also has tattoos, provides a problem for the couple. “When my wife and I have been with our kids in public, we have gotten plenty of negative feedback—things like ‘I can’t be a good parent because I have tattoos,’” Officer Holloway said. “It really bothered me because I know I am (a good father), and the idea that I’m not because of a tattoo is really closed-minded.” The tattoos Officer Holloway has uphold his values and admirations in life, and he offers advice to teens looking to get tattoos of their own. “Wait until you are at a point in life where the tattoo is meaningful to you,” Officer Holloway said. “Make sure it is something that will maintain its value to you throughout your life.” Although tattoos still have a stigma within today’s society, Officer Holloway aims to make a difference using his profession as a police officer. “I understand people have preconceived ideas about tattoos, but I hope I can change that,” Officer Holloway said. “If I show up at someone’s door as a cop with tattoos, they may think differently about the next guy they see.” But fundamentally, judging a person’s appearance is narrow-minded, whether the person has tattoos or not, according to Officer Holloway. “In today’s day and age, I would hope we are past that sort of prejudice,” Officer Holloway said. “We should judge people for who they are and not their physical appearance.”

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Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

Icing holds, cookies crumble

photo illustration by Rachel Bishop

Classic holiday tradition of building gingerbread houses require time, patience, different materials, in order for the structure to come together, stand tall Jordan Szymanski Sports Editor

Building tips

Despite delicious outcome, building gingerbread houses requires preparation 1. Roll up your sleeves before piping the icing onto the house

2. Use an excessive amount of icing to glue the walls together 3. Never eat the building materials until the house is finished 4. Always have enough paper towels on hand 5. Never give up on the house even if it collapses 6. Eating the house is not as satisfying as building it source: Jordan Szymanski

My adventure involving cookie based structures included set instructions. The gingerbread kit cost nine dollars from Target: a significant difference compared to the cost of the homemade house, which costs around $30. The striking time difference between the two sets them apart. I finished putting the final touches on the gingerbread kit house almost exactly 30 minutes after I started. The homemade gingerbread house took an hour and a half. The brainless instruction and guidelines mostly contributes to the time differences between the two. The kit pieces were etched with premade designs to decorated with icing. The four choices of houses available to build each had their own designs, but they all had the same rudimentary features. The kit house even had traceable lines for icing designs on the roof and sides. Most of the choices in the kit were already

chosen for the user. All the builders needed to do was build the house to the kitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design. The candy supply was not as extensive as my first house. When I opened the box, it did not look like there was enough supplies, but later, I found that I ran out of appointed places for candy before I ran out of candy to place. The kit came with limited candy to decorate the houses with, and they were not very tasty to begin with, but the premade icing was easier to apply then the thicker homemade variety. However, it was just as messy. The kit made it easier to work with a group of people. Many of the house pieces had similar designs and could have been switched with a different structure. This led to a gingerbread house with too many walls and too few roof pieces. A homemade house can have enough pieces for a four walled structure or an exquisite feat of gingerbread architecture. The kit also had the glaring problem that the five houses shared one royal icing

container for gluing the pieces of gingerbread together. Much of the time I spent waiting for the royal icing was occupied by laughing at my friend, who mistakenly demolished houses several times in a row. When building a house from scratch, the user can make as much royal icing as needed. Builders purchase as many decorations as they need for their houses, but the kit came with one tube of detailing icing. Its size and bland color made detailing the house a chore. In retrospect, the gingerbread-making experience was an example of what gingerbread houses and holiday crafts represent, spending time with loved ones making a mess in the kitchen and laughing away hours surrounded by Christmas music. All in all gingerbread houses are collapsing on themselves by the end of the night, I was covered up to my elbows in icing and I had a good time with friends. That does not depend on which kind of gingerbread house I chose, only what I made of it.

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

Face the BEST

music

The third single from Sam Smith’s debut album “Stay with Me” uses unique vocals and a slow piano melody to pierce listeners’ hearts and bring feeling to the surface. Smith’s impressive vocals and range bring a new dimension to the song. Each lyric holds a fragile emotion that, when compiled with the beats, amplifies Smith’s soulful voice.

Sia Furler, Australian singer-songwriter, has penned several songs for big name artists; such as “Diamonds” by Rihanna, “Pretty Hurts” by Beyoncé and “Wild Ones” by Flo Rida. She recently took the charts by storm with her single “Chandelier,” an electropop ballad.s. The song’s message about partying rings true.

11 spotlight

Top five best, five worst songs of 2014 as voted by the student body Nov. 25, reviewed by Max Baker, opinion editor

English singer Ed Sheeran’s second single from his sophomore album “x” (pronounced ‘multiply’) showcases his vocal talent. “Don’t,” uses a variety of lyrics and instruments to appeal to a wide The fast-paced yet emotional song summons images of foolish love and summer romances that everyone can identify with.

“Boom Clap” gained popularity after it was featured on “The Fault in Our Stars,” soundtrack. Charli XCX rose to stardom after appearing on Icona Pop’s song “I Love It,” but she gained even more popularity as a solo artist with this song. The song uses heavy drum beats and catchy lyrics to draw listeners in and keep them as fans for years.

Jessie J, whose fame stems from her song “Price Tag,” teamed up with Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj in “Bang Bang.” The song features the vocals from all three women, but they blend together into one solid voice that lasts the entire song. Each woman brings her own style and talent to the song as well as a solid beat.

WORST

Trinadad-born rapper Nicki Minaj climbed the charts with her raunchy song “Anaconda” as well as its accompanying music video. Minaj is well-known for her songs “Starships” and “Turn Me On,” but “Anaconda,” seems to have become her signature song. The song features her best asset, and, despite its meaning, is catchy.

“Shake it Off,” what seems like Taylor Swifts millionth hit, sends a prominent message to everyone who has hated on her career or social life. The song marks her transition from country singer to pop star. Taylor Swift’s music seems to get better with time, but “Shake it Off” sg starts out great and gets better.

Rapper Iggy Azalea released several songs such as “Work” and “Bounce” before her breakout single debuted on the radio. The song features Charli XCX in the chorus. While Azalea’s rap skills are notable, the song itself does not seem to capture her talent. The song’s message about the high life is not relevant to modern life.

Her debut single, “All About That Bass,” launched Meghan Trainor into stardom. Like most songs, Trainor talks about her “booty” far too much and overshadows her anti-fat shaming message. The song, while not very bass heavy, doesn’t show off Trainor’s vocals as well as it could have nor does it have a complex structure.

Breakout Nickelodeon star and Broadway actress Ariana Grande appeared out of nowhere and steadily climbed the pop charts with hits such as “Break Free,” “The Way”w and “Love Me Harder.” “Problem” features rapper Iggy Azalea. The bass-heavy song features booming vocals from both Grande and Azalea and a catchy beat.

12 spotlight

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

On the watch

Netflix, movie theaters, Redbox provide three different ways to enjoy movies Danie Oberman News Editor

Netflix When it comes down to movie viewing, Netflix takes the cake. Joining costs only $8.99 a month and current members continue at $7.99. For less money than a movie and box of candy at the theater, Netflix offers thousands of movies online, astronomically more than a theater or Redbox. Netflix also includes various popular and original able, stretching from 80’s horror movies to animated TV series. cartoons to documentaries on high-seas fishing, enThese qualities make Netflix the best movie-watch- suring something for everyone. ing option available. One account can have up to five channels: person- Movie theater alized sub-accounts allowing users to have their own Movie theaters pop up everywhere and almost al“recommended for you” lists. Because of the chan- ways attract a crowd because they boast about the nel feature, multiple users on a single account can biggest screens, the saltiest popcorn and the tendenstream different shows and movies simultaneously. cy to be a clichéd dating spot. Netflix can be used on a tablet, cell phone, comHowever, they might not deserve all the hype. puter and several different gaming devices. Most Obviously, movie theaters hold the award for timeimportantly, online streaming never sells out, unlike liness. New releases hit the silver screen first, ending theaters and DVD rental facilities. This means there the wait to see an actor with his shirt off or an actress will not be delays caused by previews or advertise- get eaten by the thing in the closet or slashed to death ments when viewers watch. by the killer, and the midnight releases of box office As an added bonus, Netflix still conexplosions offer a unique opportutinues its original service, mailing DVDs Media Circus nity for fans to bond. of shows and movies that can’t be found With multiple media outlets Also, watching a book adaptaonline. tion and listening to the surprised for watching movies, most With this shipping, movies take about reactions of those who clearly nevpopular have pros, cons two to three days to arrive. er read said book can be as, if not Unfortunately, Netflix needs to pick depending on what viewer more, entertaining as the movie itup the pace on the releasing of new mov- wants self. ies. Movies come out several months afHowever, movies are ridiculousNetflix ter their release date at best, months later ly expensive. Depending on the theHHHHH than physical DVD competitors. Most of Thousands of movies to watch, ater and the time of day, movie tickthe movies on Netflix are obscure indie but very few popular ones ets can vary in costs between $8 and movies or movies that viewers have no $11—about the same as a Netflix interest in watching. subscription—without purchasing Theater However, that does not mean the HHHHH refreshments, which are often over movies on Netflix are not entertaining. Overpriced new movies, but priced, occasionally stale and have Most of the movies appeal to a wide va- they have the best quality little to no nutritional value. riety of audiences. Groups and couples tend to Certain TV seasons come out days Redbox gravitate toward the theater for a before the newest one airs, making the HHHHH fun night out or a classic date, but watcher scramble to catch up. This can Fewer titles to choose from, but theaters really don’t have many rebe accredited to legalities of streaming, most of the movies are popular deeming qualities. but does not make it any less frustrating. Movies can’t be paused and the Netflix also offers original programing volume cannot be adjusted in anythat gives viewers a variety of new shows to obsess way. Trash, popcorn and other miscellaneous garover. bage covers the floor of the theaters. Luckily, Netflix more than makes up for its shortTalking and cell phones are prohibited during the comings with its wide variety of entertainment avail- movie, but someone inevitably breaks those rules

photo provided by Netflix Media Center

and ruins the movie going experience for those around them. In today’s society, going two or more hours without looking at a phone or talking to the people around them feels borderline impossible. Movie theaters are good for spending time away from technology and offers more than seeing a picture immediately after its release or simply getting out of the house on a family outing or for a date.

Redbox Definitely the cheapest option for once-in-a-bluemoon movie watchers, Redbox movies cost only $1.20 per night, and Blu-Ray discs cost only $1.50 for rental. Redbox beats Netflix in the race to obtain the newest attractions out faster. Redbox tends to obtain newer movies only a month after they go on sale. Unfortunately, with only about 200 discs per Redbox, movies are limited and most of the more popular ones go out of stock very quickly. Luckily, three local Redboxes sit relatively close to each other in the Munster area. They are stationed at the Strack and Van Til, Jewel-Osco, both on Ridge Road, and at the Walgreens on Calumet Avenue. All three of these stores have a wonderful selection of movie-sized candy that works perfectly with a late-night movie. To boost revenue, Redbox hosts video games as well, but the options disappoint. Outside of Jewel-Osco, the only game offered for Wii is Just Dance, and for Xbox-360, Redbox offers Call of Duty, Walking Dead, and four or five others, none very impressive. Redbox serves as a great service for those seeking a new movie for a cheap price, but options and supplies are limited. However, Redbox does offer a quick and easy way to obtain movies that may or may not be available on Netflix or another movie streaming site at a reasonable and cheap price.

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Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

13 sports

photo by Ray Ojel

RIGOROUS ROUTINE During after-school practice, varsity swimmer Audrey Mayer, senior, participates in high tempo drills with the rest of her team. Drills are essential

to creating a swimmer’s stroke during the season and providing cardio for the swimmers.“(Drills) work on one aspect of a stroke, so when you put them together you get one good stroke going. You put it together, like a puzzle pretty much,” Audrey said. “(Sprints) get the tempo up and get your arms moving faster.”

Swimming sunrise to sunset

Varsity swimmer shares daily schedule, responsibilities as a student athlete Chloe Wineinger Infocus Editor At five in the morning, the alarm startles Audrey Mayer, senior, awake. Half an hour prior to her swim practice starts, she prepares for a long day before going to practice and plunging in the frigid pool, before most students even wake up. “The night before, I set stuff out so I don’t have to plan in the morning, but it’s still kind of hectic because I’m half asleep,” Mayer said. In the morning, the swimmers work on easier sprints and drills to warm themselves up for after-school practice. “It’s early and it’s the morning, so you’re body’s still warming up,” Mayer said. “Its not high yardage; it’s just little stuff to work on like drills and

sprints.” After morning practice, she takes a shower, freshens up for the day and eats some breakfast. “I don’t like eating before practice, so I bring a muffin or a granola bar to eat after practice,” Mayer said. “I always bring food in my backpack to eat during the day.” During lunch, she tries to stay away from junk food. “We burn off a lot of calories during practice, but eating fatty foods and junk foods has an effect,” Mayer said. “They don’t produce any energy for you, so they’re pretty much useless.” After attending her classes, the school day ends, and she heads back to practice. During after-school practices, the swimmers turn up the tempo by doing more high-yardage practices,

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including drills and sprints. practice proves to be a regular chal“(Drills) work on one aspect of a lenge for Mayer. stroke, so when you put them together “Sometimes when I come home from you get one good stroke practice, I just want to regoing. You put it togeth- By the hour lax and not do anything, er like a puzzle pretty A swimmer’s daily schedule especially when I'm realmuch,” Audrey said. consists of plenty of practice ly tired and I want to go “(Sprints) get the tempo hours, routine activities to bed but I still have a up and get your arms lot of homework to do,” 1.5 hours of morning practice moving faster.” Mayer said. 7 hours of school When she returns After she completes home after practice, Au- 2.5 hours of after school practice her work and relaxes, she 1 hour of homework drey consumes a large closes her day with plenmeal to compensate for 1-2 hours of free time ty of well-earned sleep, 7 hours of sleep the hard work. which prepares her for source: Audrey Mayer “I pretty much burn the next day. off all the calories I ate “If you get four hours during the day, so I eat a big meal (of sleep), it will be tough during when I come home,” Mayer said. morning practice,” Mayer said. “You Completing her school work, which have to get enough sleep or you’ll be can take at least an hour, after a tiring pretty much dead the entire day.”

14 sports

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

Going, going, gold Students participate in Special Olympics, other sporting events, competitions provided by region Meena Kandallu Copy Editor Ms. Dorothy Franczak, felt nothing but pride when her son, Nick Franczak, sophomore, bowled his first strike, setting a precedent for a later game in which he bowled his record of three consecutive strikes. “Just seeing him happy made me smile,” Ms. Franczak said. “It made him feel like he can accomplish anything.” As a Special Olympics participant since his freshman year, Franczak is a member of a bowling league organized by West Lake, a local education cooperative for students with disabilities. He is also a player on the Schererville Challenger baseball team and the West Lake All-Stars basketball team. After qualifying through the required local and area competitions, Franczak will compete tomorrow at the Special Olympics state competition for bowling. “I’m proud of him that he is able to get out there and compete,” Ms. Franczak said. “For him to get out there with all the noise and the huge crowd and still compete-- that makes me very proud of him.” Although Ms. Franczak describes her son as a competitive, naturally athletic player who always strives to perform his best, Special Olympics for Franczak is about more than just winning. “It’s a good way to get him to be social and interact. When he is with the team instead of just being around me,

he is very comfortable with his teammates and he sort of gravitates toward them,” Ms. Franczak said. “No matter what the level of competition is, it’s really all about getting out there and having fun.” Nick Redman, senior, who plays on the West Lake track team in addition to the Schererville Challenger baseball team and West Lake All-Stars basketball team, will also participate at the bowling state competition. For Redman, this year’s state competition holds a special meaning due to his father’s passing Nov. 15, according to his mother, Mrs. Tammy Redman. “Nick has been bowling since he was eight, but I think this year is more special than other years. Though his father won’t be able to watch him compete, he got to see Nick’s ribbon and know he qualified,” Mrs. Redman said. “No matter where he places, he won’t be too disappointed. He cares about his score to a certain extent, but I think he is just glad to be around the other kids.” While students with disabilities often experience separation from other students as a result of their disabilities, Special Olympics breaks many of these barriers, according to Mr. Brent Barton, special education teacher. “We are all limited in what we can do,” Mr. Barton said. “Students with disabilities can do a lot more than what people give them credit for. It gives them a chance to showcase what they can do instead of what they cannot do.”

photo by Natalia Bilek

SHOOTING HOOPS In 6th hour P.E., Nick Redman, senior, practices his shot. Mrs. Janet Wories, Westlake teacher, mentions how important athletics are to Special Olympics participants like Nick. “Like all athletes, they want to be good at something, and this gives them a chance to show them that they can succeed,” Mrs. Wories said.

There is more than one star in the sky Sports column

Erin Gallagher Sports Editor

Rome wasn’t built in a day. And neither were the Cleveland Cavaliers. Going into the 2014-2015 NBA season, Cavaliers fans thought this was their year. With the return of the King, Lebron James; the arrival of the Love Doctor, Kevin Love, and the rising Dark Knight, Kyrie Irving; jumping to the hopeful conclusion of clutching a championship was not difficult. But as the Cavaliers kicked off

their season with a loss to the New York Knicks, hype was replaced by confusion. For weeks, the Cavaliers were criticized for their lack of chemistry on the court. Sports commentators pointed out that with such star power, they should not be struggling the way they were. However, star power does not guarantee team chemistry. Fans today have fallen under the spell of the NBA’s biggest stars. They drink the poison that is the obsession with stars like Lebron James and Kobe Bryant. For example, the Lakers are still experiencing one of the worst seasons in franchise history, even with the Lord of the Rings, Kobe, carrying the squad. Kobe’s finesse and skill produce an undeniably phenomenal player, but

one man will not carry his team to a championship. Unfortunately, team chemistry is overlooked in today’s society: star power sells tickets, but team chemistry wins championships. This is entirely true for the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs won an NBA Championship title in 2014 and prove themselves as one of the most entertaining teams to watch. Team chemistry cannot be established overnight though. In 1997 Tim Duncan joined the Spurs and they began formulating their own chemistry which led to five NBA championships. On Nov. 19, the Spurs and the Cavaliers met in Cleveland to settle the dispute of star power versus team chemistry. The competition was fierce, and the score stayed close throughout

all four quarters. The Spurs kicked into high gear during the fourth quarter and defeated the Cavaliers 92-90 with a high power defense. As Kareem Abdul-Jabbar once said, “One man can be a crucial ingredient on a team, but one man cannot make a team.” The Spurs proved that a team does not require status to win games, but rather court chemistry proves as the secret ingredient to a successful season. The Cavaliers have all the potential to achieve the chemistry the Spurs possess but, unfortunately, it will take time and more than just star power. Lebron may be a King and Kobe might be the Lord of the Rings, but Roman Emperor, Julius Caesar won every war he fought. And he didn’t do it alone.

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Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

Eye of the tigress

15 sports

Students share their passion for MMA fighting Max Baker Opinion Editor Taking a deep, uneven breath, Nyssa Wedgeworth, sophomore, wipes the beads of sweat from her forehead as her foot flies up to land a hard kick to her instructor’s side. Recoiling, her instructor moves to jab her in the side, but Wedgeworth manages to swiftly avoid the attack. During her rigorous practices, Wedgeworth trains with an instructor to expertly land a wide variety of kicks, punches and jabs on her opponent. As an umbrella term, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Playing it safe combines jujitsu, boxing and MMA fighters have strict set kickboxing into one sport. “MMA is different from of rules for fights almost every other sport,” n No strikes to the back Wedgeworth said. “It’s of the head self-empowering, and, as you get better at it, you feel n No small-joint more confident you can demanipulations fend yourself if you get into n a tough situation.” No hair pulling, head MMA trains individuals butting or mouth in various martial art techripping niques, such a kickboxing, n No kicks to the head boxing, judo and jujitsu. Participants not only gain source: IMMAF.org valuable skills, they also lose weight and gain muscle mass. Wedgeworth started MMA six months ago and has already gained 10 pounds of muscle. “I love doing (MMA),” Wedgeworth said. “To me, it’s more of a form of art than anything else. As you train, you develop your own unique style, and that allows you to express yourself in a way not very many people can.” Alex Ramirez, sophomore, has participated in MMA for several years and claims that the sport continues to help participants branch out and discover themselves. “It’s something that everyone can con-

nect with.” Ramirez said. “People can just use it to get in touch with a part of themselves they normally couldn’t reach on their own.” MMA has been apart of junior Mackenzie Portone’s life for a long time, just like Ramiriz’s. She started watching MMA on TV at 10 and transitioned into kickboxing when she was 11. She now participates in MMA. “It tends to put a lot of pressure on me,” Portone said. “I practice two hours a day, everyday. It’s hard balancing all my physical activity with school and competitions.” Portone competes every six months and often competes against older competitors. “I love the challenge,” Portone said. “I’m not afraid of competition.” Like most martial arts, MMA relies less on brute strength and force and more on agility and balance. “It’s not just about power,” Wedgeworth said. “You have to be swift, strong and clever in order to avoid taking too many hits and getting knocked out.” Portone agrees, by claiming that MMA fighters need both strength and agility to train and compete. “This is a different sport,” Portone said. “Everything from the knockouts to the footwork is different for every person. It’s just knowing how to adapt to a situation.” While different individuals react differently to situations, at its core, MMA can be a powerful tool at anyone’s disposal, Wedgeworth said. “The best thing about MMA is that it gives you a strange mix of security and power,” Wedgeworth said. “Anyone can do it if they try hard enough.”

Figur8ights Mariah Villaroman Infocus Editor

Since freshman Emma Progler’s first scratched the ice with her blades at 4 years old, she knew ice skating meant something more than just a sport. “Well, the first day I skated, I took lessons with my neighbor, and right when I got on the ice, I knew that’s what I wanted to dedicate my life to,” Progler said. Progler currently prepares for her upcoming Christmas show Dec. 19 at the Arctic Rink in Orland Park, Ill. “(When) I practice, I go to the rink, I warm up for about 15 minutes and I usually skate for two hours. At first you feel kind of like ‘Okay, I’m gonna have a great day, (and have) a clean program,’ but by the end of the two hours, you’re more tired, but it’s really worth it,” Progler said. The hard work and dedication she puts into the sport have created some of Progler’s proudest moments. “I just recently landed the hardest jump you could possibly imagine, I just landed an axel. It was huge; I had no

w by Alex Baker

FIGHTING BACK During sparring practice, Nyssa Wedgeworth, sophomore, practices her defense mechanisms. Although it was not love at first sight, Wedgeworth now thoroughly enjoys MMA. “In the beginning my parents made me, but then I started getting into it, it kept me in shape and made me more friends,” Wedgeworth said. “I saw more positives than negatives and I now I enjoy it.”

Freshman dedicates most of her daily schedule to her passion, ice skating

idea I was going to do it. I was about to give up. It took me seven months and for other people it takes maybe a year to land this jump and I did it in seven months.” Progler said. “I loved working on that jump, too. It’s a great feeling spinning in the air; it’s something people don’t get to do every day.” Making goals for short term and long term, Progler plans to start with local competitions and then to increase the competition’s significance. “Next year I’m attending Regionals, which is a huge competition, and my goal is to place in that competition and go on to Sectionals,” Progler said. “I’m (also) going to be on a synchronized skating team next year, and every country is trying to get synchronized skating into the Olympics and then maybe I would try to get into the Olympics for synchronized skating.” A 45 minute drive to the ice rink often presents the biggest challenge in furthering Progler’s ice skating training, according to, her mother, Mrs. Cheryl Progler. “We have to drive a distance to get her on the ice. The ice is available to

her in a certain period of time. If we’re late for it, we lose the ice,” Mrs. Progler said. “If she was able to get out of the school earlier, we could get more time out there. It would be very important, but education has to come first and we’re dealing with it.” Mrs. Progler supports her daughter as much as possible and wishes more people could see her ice skate. “Watching her is truly amazing. I’m just amazed that she can do what she can do,” Mrs. Progler said. “I would love for other people to see what she can do. She works so hard, and the opportunity for other people to recognize her would be wonderful.” Though she may receive less recognition than a typical high school athlete, Progler continues to ice skate for the happiness and self-confidence that the sport gives to her. “I don’t think that I’ve shown anyone how I skate. I don’t get to show people a lot,” Progler said. “When I’m at school, I’m of course focusing on school, (but then) it’s leaving all the drama at school and going to my favorite place in the world.”

Skating in circles

Four basic figure skating spins, listed by increasing difficulty

1 Scratch Spin

The scratch spin, an upright spin, in which the free leg is crossed over the skating knee and then pushed down towards the ice.

Sit Spin A sit spin is a figure skating spin, that is done in the same position as a shoot the duck. The skater bends the skating knee while spinning and sits down during the spin.

3 Camel Spin

A camel spin, a move, done on one foot in which the free leg and back are horizontal to the ice.

4 Layback Spin

A layback spin, a figure skating spin in which the free leg is in the attitude position, and the hips are forward while the ice skater spins.

source: aboutsports.com

16 sports

Crier/Dec. 5, 2014

Hitting the mat

focusing on skeletal muscle,” Kulam said. The team practiced in the off-season The boy’s wrestling team will com- by working out in the weight room as pete against Plymouth tomorrow, they well as running on the track. In season, were intended to have a they have practices every match against Andrean Coming soon day after school accordwhich was canceled due ing to Ryan Glasen, seWrestling’s has upcoming to their football team nior. meets tomorrow through end playing in the State Com“Because it’s our secof 2014 petition. ond meet we’re still “We are not by any n 12/6/2014 Away Plymouth learning the swing of means as muscular as n 12/9/2014 Home Highland things so it just lets the other teams but Mun- n 12/13/2014 Away Calumet new kids have more exster’s endurance wins us perience,” Glasen said. n 12/30/2014 Away Al Smith matches,” Kulam said. The team adapts to the Inv. Mishawaka This year the teams has different wrestler’s skills more wrestlers in the low n 12/31/2014 Away Al Smith in order to win matches, Inv. Mishawaka weight categories than in according to Kulam. source: mhs.com the higher weight catego“My hopes going into ries, according to Kulam. the Plymouth match is “We are a young team and with that not a win loss record, but we leave as in mind it’s more effective to build up better wrestlers than what we came,” cardiovascular strength rather than Kulam, said.

Wrestling searches for groove for their season; prepares for Plymouth match

Vrusha Patel Editor-in-chief

photo by Natalia Bilek

Heavy Weight During a match against Kankakee Valley Nov 21, Adam Kulam, senior, takes down an opponent, ending the night with an unfortuante loss and 0-3 record for Munster.

Pushing the ball upcourt

Boys’ Basketball continues their season in stride with 2-0 record; prepares for Morton tomorrow William Hatczel Managing Editor Boys’ Varsity Basketball starts the season with a 2-0 record after defeating two unfamiliar teams. Bishop Noll and Portage both stood as new opponents in the team’s schedule this year. However, the team came out with a 63-44 victory against Bishop Noll last Wednesday. “We had 16 turnovers that game, and we fouled them a lot,” Ostoich said. “We held them to a low field goal percentage. We went to the free throw

line, but we sent them there as well.” Despite the turnovers and mistakes, Coach Michael Hackett, health teacher, believes starting the season off with a win against a new opponent outweighs their mistakes. “It was a good start for us,” Coach Hackett said. “We really never knew what to expect of them. We did some things right and there are other things we need to work on.” The team now prepares to face a tough, athletic Morton High School team tomorrow. The boys need to handle the ball with care, according to Os-

toich. “They are a scrappy team,” Ostoich, said. “They will try to beat us up in order to force turnovers. We just have to take care of the ball and we should be good.” The team found themselves trailing Portage early last Saturday. The team came out in the second half strong and pulled out a 57-56 victory in the end. “They hit a lot of threes on us,” Ostoich said. “We came out in the second half and got a lot better on the defensive end. We got a lot of buckets in transition.”

photo by Natalia Bilek

BREAKING AWAY In a full sprint, Kevin Schlotman, senior, dribbles the ball down the court with eyes on a shot during a game against Bishop Noll. Trailing behind him are his teammates, seniors Drew Hackett and Adam Ostoich. Schlotman encourages his teammates to play together as a team in order to continue with momentum throughout the season. “We need to play together, and when things go bad, we need to play as a team,” Schlotman said. “We won’t play well if we don’t play together.” The Mustangs defeated Bishop Noll 63-44 last Wednesday night and aim to do the same against Morton tomorrow with home court advantage.

Coming back onto the court after halftime, the team wanted to play better defensively in order to prevent Portage from scoring, according to Coach Hackett. “We just knew that instead of hoping they would miss shots, we would have to make them miss,” Hackett said. Despite the team’s turnovers and inconsistent defense, they were able to get everyone involved on the scoreboard. “We had a lot of good buckets inside,” Ostoich said. “We had balanced scoring. It is good when all five starters are in double figures.” Most teams start their season having to work on team chemistry; however, this year proves different. “(Team chemistry) is part of our game that is an advantage for us,” Kevin Schlotman, senior, said. “We have been playing together since we were in like third grade.” Offensive production stands as another one of the team’s strengths coming into the new season, according to Ostoich. “Our strengths are definitely shooting,” Ostoich said. “We can shoot from anywhere when on offense. We just need to be patient and look for good shots. Shooting will not be a problem.” The team lacks height, which stands as one of the challenges they need to overcome this season, according to Ostoich. “We don’t have the size this year,” Ostoich said. “We need to work on our rebounding and team defense. Not just on man on man defense, but also on the ball defense.” Ostoich believes the team needs to just focus on each game. “We really just need to take it one game at a time,” Ostoich said. “We need to share the ball and just play our game.” The team holds their usual goals like winning Conference however, the seniors have their own goals while keeping the usual ones in mind. “Our top goals as seniors is to have a good time,” Schlotman said. “This is the last year we will play together.”