Fights become more prevalent
Senior gets shot in back
· page
· page
The Northern Lights · North Central High School
5
6
October 20, 2009 · Issue 3 · Volume 54 · www.nchslive.com
s n r a e n a Colem award l a n o i t na
2 NEWS
October 20, 2009
FROM THE EDITORS
Students open up to deeper issues ONG
PERRIN
In this issue of TNL, we deliever a feature about students who are passionately prolife and why they feel this way. Both students were raised to believe abortions are wrong and one student featured in the article had to face the choice of adoption, abortion or keeping her baby. Casey Kress, now a senior, became prognant her sophomore year of high school and her story is very interesting. Since Kress believes abortions are wrong and immoral, she didn’t even consider having one which left her to decide between keeping her baby or giving up for adoption. Kress became intent on keeping her baby and raising it however, her parents gave her an ultimatum. Give the baby up for adoption or move out. So Kress, being
a devoted future mother, packed her bags and moved out of her house. She got a part time job to save up money for the life that was coming in a few short months and tried to juggle schools as well because she did not want to drop out. It wasn’t terribly long until Kress realized she couldn’t do everything she needed to and raise a child, and since abortion was not an option, she decided to give the baby up for adoption. In this article, Kress discusses her decision to give her baby up for adoption and how she chose the family who got her baby. Pregnancies are an issue dozens of students have to deal with every year at North Central and this is a new way of covering one student’s pregnancy. Kress
opened up about her pregnancy and adoption process to TNL and to read more on the story, flip to page six. This issue also covers the violence that goes on in this school by confronting the elevation in fights this school year. The article features a psychologist who explains to TNL why she belives high school fights break out. Students talk about the fights and what they tend to be about. Many student and the psychologist agree that these fights break out because of superficial things like boys and physical appearance. Typically these fights have little to do with school-related things and only disrupt the school day causing the involved students to be set back in their academic career.
OMBUDSMAN
Previous issue packed with controversy Staal
Last issue was action packed full of interesting stories that touched on many sensitive issues. From Recycling Club to tolerance, our stories got readers talking and more importantly got them thinking. The special section on tolerance was a big hit and moved the spotlight onto those who are not always accepted by student body. All of the stories on certain individuals were not written by a TNL staff member, but were written by those people. Ideas expressed by these individuals neither reflect nor refute those views of our staff. Thank you to those who wrote articles for our special issue, because it takes true courage to write about your high school situation. The Recycling Club story was a hit because it got its members and students around the school voicing their opinions on the issue. There were some rumors about the story that need some clarification. The Recycling Club story was written to shed light upon the club, its members, and how it goes about its business. Despite views from the public, in no way was the story written with bias or with the goal
of getting the club shut down. It must be addressed that no one was misquoted in this article. There were two reporters present at each interview and notes were taken on the record and kept as proof. As journalists it is not our place to go after people or institutions for personal reasons. We report the news and the facts and it is up to our readers to determine what they may from our findings. Who is the Gossip Girl? At the time of the story it was the hot topic around the halls, now it is an after thought in the never-ending saga that is the high school social scene. It seems that the Gossip Girl folded under the pressure and decided that posting stories about the business of others was not worth all of the publicity and drama that came up after every post. Half days are a touchy subject with high school students. Our story highlighted Hill and his attempt to have the township go against Tony Bennett and the State’s school board’s decision regarding the half days. The story was a tremendous example of writing without bias, showing both Hill’s views in addition to quotes
from the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. From suspensions and fights to stories about our rivals and Halloween, this issue of The Northern Lights will keep the readers interested. We will address the new clubs at our school in this issue. Pro-life Club is an interesting new club, that gives students who are against abortion a chance to congregate with those who have similar beliefs. The new Zombie Attack Survival Club has gained a lot of attention and support throughout the halls of this school. Their callout meeting was packed with students, so obviously it will play an important role in our student body. We also highlight the stress that comes with applying to college, or in some students cases, a plethora of colleges. Despite the lack of hype surrounding this issue, once again we will provide stories that are relevant and interesting to the whole student body. It seems to be a reoccuring theme for us to ask for your feedback, but we would appreciate it.
EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Joan Ong Andrew Perrin MANAGING EDITORS Daniel Dorson Ashley Falcon PHOTO EDITOR Joe Tyler EDITORIAL BOARD Tim Dugan Beth Hannon Michael Hardie Rachel Potenza Chris Swarbrick STAFF MEMBERS Dakota Allen Jessica Ayers Calvin Boots Amit Boukai Ben Cardwell Noelle Carter Simon Elser Alicia Erwin Eva Goldfarb Shane Hanley Matt Hansen Daniel Hursh Tessa Judge Emily Keesling Elliott Kinney Emma Kotyuk Kennedy Long Morgan Loudermilk Emma Markey Thomas O’Farrell Ashley Parry Beau Scott Meredith Shevitz Dallas Shirley Isaac Smith Will Staal Savannah Wooten ADVISER Tom Gayda
Second Annual Publications Silent Auction November 18, 2009 • find out about items at the NCHS Live Fan Page on Facebook EDITORIAL POLICY The purpose of the Northern Lights is to serve the school audience, including administrators, teachers, faculty and staff, parents, community members and most importantly, the students as an established open forum. Since this is a school newspaper, the content and character of the paper will cater to the student body’s interest and ideas by covering a wide variety of events and issues concerning the students of North Central High School. The newspaper will serve as a medium for student opinions and ideas. The staff strives to achieve objective,
accurate content to cover and feature a well-balanced variety of different students and their viewpoints. Because school officials do not engage in prior review, and the content of the Northern Lights is determined by and reflects only the views of the student staff and not school officials or the school itself, its student editorial board and responsible student staff members assume complete legal and financial liability for the content of the publication. The views of columnists are not necessarily those of the newspaper staff. The goal of the newspaper is to have no errors; however, that goal is not easily accomplished. The staff
apologizes for such errors and will run corrections whenever possible. Letters to the editor are welcomed and encouraged, but will only be published if they are signed. The Northern Lights reserves the right to edit letters for length, grammar and unacceptable content. Each issue will feature a lead editorial, which reflects the viewpoint of the majority of the staff. An editorial board consisting of the adviser, the editors-in-chief, the copy editor, the managing editors, the design editor and the photo editor will review the lead editorial and help edit it, especially in case of questionable material. Letters to the editor should be delivered to K634.
WEB MASTERS Sam Alderfer Nick Panyard NORTH CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL 1801 East 86th Street Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317) 259-5301 phone www.nchs.cc www.nchslive.com
NEWS 3
October 20, 2009
Band to perform at Disney World Ashley Parry Reporter Today, Oct. 20, two NC bands travel to Orlando, Florida. The Wind Ensemble, as well as the Symphonic Band are going to have the opportunity to play at Disneyworld over fall break. They will not be competing; it is merely a performance. Both bands will perform in the Downtown Disneyworld shopping center. The trip to Disneyworld is expensive, as its total cost is $700. Cole Stewart, a baritone saxophone player in the Wind Ensemble explains how each performance will run. “The set isn’t set in stone, but each band will play three or four pieces,” Stewart said. To help reduce the cost of the trip, Stewart participated in two band fundraisers. “I sold trash bags and parked cars at Paige’s Music,” Stewart said. Maggie Huffer, a saxophone player in the Wind Ensemble, is missing volleyball Sectional games that take place over fall break for the trip. “I really wish I could have done both,” Huffer said. “But I thought it was a unique opportunity for Wind Ensemble and I wanted to be a part of it.”
Council members suspended, replaced Meredith Shevitz Reporter On Sept. 15 the North Central Alumni Association held its annual leadership conference for juniors and seniors. Students who attended this conference were recommended by one of their teachers. When the conference was over, students were expected to return to class. They were marked with an excused absence for periods 1 to 5 for attending this schoolsponsored event. At the start of every class it is school policy that teachers take attendance. If a student is called in sick, there will be a notice next to that students name in the online roster that teachers use. If a student is absent from class, without any note next to his or her name, they are considered truant. According to the student handbook “truancy is defined as being out of class without prior parental permission and knowledge.” This system is used, and must be followed because it is the school’s responsibility to parents to know the location of the students. If there is any confusion the attendance office will contact the teacher immediately through email and have the student in question sent down to a dean. Teachers are supposed to mark any student for being absent, per school rules. There was controversy
over whether all teachers reported their students for being truant. The administration however does not have a list of the teachers who did not report student infractions. Evans Branigan III emphasizes the fact that these teachers would be in trouble if they did not take the appropriate actions. “It would be a disciplinary issue for the teacher,” Branigan said. After the conference groups of students went to different fast food restaurants in the area to eat lunch. Members from the Senior Class Council, including the president, vice president and secretary were among this group. The school policy for truancy punishment is suspension. The administration needed to punish these students for their actions. If a member of student class council is suspended, they are fired from their position. Council member Cydney McGuire believes that the firings have affected the activities and responsibilities of the organization. “Since we didn’t have any officers for a while we had to work harder to get things done,’’ McGuire said. Kyle Baugh, also a council member, believes that the firings have made things more difficult for all members. “We made all this
The three former Senior Class Council officers were removed from their positions because of their truancy suspensions. Joe Tyler photo progress and now we have to start over,’’ Baugh said. This is not the first time Branigan has seen a member of class council get fired as a result of suspension. A few years ago the Vice President of the senior class was removed from her office two weeks before the parent luncheon held at the end of the year. “To meet the qualifications to run for a position on class council you have to be a good kid, these are student leaders who made a decision that causes consequences,” Branigan said. “They are still leaders, they just don’t
have their former titles, they haven’t turned their backs on the school.’’ Some students thought that the punishment for the Senior Class Council members was excessive, and that the entire issue was blown out of proportion. However, the administration was only following the standard procedure. The administration was not trying to set an example of the school’s student leadership. The student handbook states the policies of truancy clearly, and the school took the appropriate actions.
“The example was set on page 112 in the student handbook,” Branigan said. The only non-committee member not fired from Senior Class Council was Eva Goldfarb. When the President Quinn Barney was fired, she was offered the position and accepted. The rest of the executive committee was elected from within members of class council. Lea Norwood was elected vice president, Beth Hannon was elected secretary, and Kate Sanner is the new treasurer.
4 NEWS
October 20, 2009
Coleman wins national teaching award During third period on Monday Oct. 12, hundreds of students were gathered in the gym for what they thought was going to be a presentation given by State Superintendent Tony Bennett. However, everyone was in for a surprise. Instead of a speech by Bennett, English teacher Edward Coleman was presented with a prestigious award from the Milken Family Foundation. The Milken Educator Award is given to those who have excelled in furthering education. The Milken Family Foundation gives the award, which includes a $25,000 prize, to teachers, principals and specialists from all over the country. Edward Coleman is the head of the English department and teaches AP English Literature and Composition to seniors. He had no idea that he would be presented this award on Monday. Principal C E Quandt asked Coleman to prepare a speech about the AP/IB classes affect the curriculum. Coleman and his third period
AP class was seated on the floor of the gym. Coleman thought he was seated here so that he would be able to give his speech. “When they first announced they were going to be giving an award to a teacher I looked around the room to see the other teachers that were there,” Coleman said. He had no idea that he would be receiving the award and prize.
“Hopefully
it’s not the last one, it’s a really nice honor for the school. Coleman
“
Meredith Shevitz Reporter
“At first I thought it was a joke, it was surreal. I rarely win anything so it was kind of a shock when I heard my name,” Coleman said. Jane Foley, a senior Vice President at the Milken Family Foundation presented Coleman with the award. She plays an important role in the selection process and oversees how the foundation reviews the candidates for
the awards. The element of surprise is important to the presentation of the award. “The reason for the surprise is that we keep the selection process confidential so that the awards go to the unsung heroes who have great impacts on students,” Foley said. Foley travels all over the country to present these awards to educators in front of students. After leaving NC Monday she went to Herron High School to present a teacher there with an award. As soon as she was done there, she and her team flew to Georgia for more presentations. “We want students to be there so that they can see how much we all value their teachers,” Foley said. Senior Emily Petersen was a student helper for Coleman in the English department last year, and is one again this year. “I screamed when they announced that he won the award because he definitely deserves it,” Petersen said. “Even though I’ve never had him in class I consider him one of the best teachers at NC.” The foundation has been
English teacher and department chair Edward Coleman receives $25,000 from the Milken Family Foundation. Joe Tyler photo following Coleman’s career for years, even when he taught in Georgia where he won teacher of the year. As a recipient of this award, Coleman has new opportunities with the Milken Family Foundation. In the spring, the foundation hosts the Milken Educator Forum for the new recipients of the previous year. The
School board educates public on Referendum budget Noelle Carter Reporter On Sept. 30 parents, teachers, administrators and school board members met at Eastwood to discuss the pending issue of whether or not to renew the referendum that was established in 2003. The referendum transferred some money from the capital projects fund that was to solely be used for construction, repairs and maintenance of facilities to the referendum fund. The referendum fund was created to support the needs of the general fund, which pays for educational and personnel expenses and other operating costs. The general fund was established by taking 10 cents of every $100 collected from property taxes in the township.
“We are going to shift money that builds buildings, to money that builds young people,” Superintendent James Mervilde said. The referendum is due to expire in 2010. Washington Township residents will have the option to renew the referendum in May. At the meeting on Sept. 30 Mervilde presented attendees with information about what would happen if residents chose to renew the referendum or if they chose to let it expire. If residents chose to let the referendum expire, the general fund budget would be reduced by $5.3 million. Without these funds, the district would have to eliminate some expenses. Things that would be eliminated might include 45 teachers, summer school programs, 40 percent of all positions among athletics,
the arts, an other professions and all professional development, including the general fund commitment to IB. Mervilde expressed concern about cutting funds. “We are in a competition for talent and we have to be careful about it,” Mervilde said. Mervilde also noted that the Township is using buildings that are 50 years old. Some schools could use a major renovation, but for now the buildings at least require repairs to keep them working. “I feel like we should definitely renew the referendum, it funds so many of the things that make North Central great,” junior Blair Heidenreich said. The renewal or expiration of the referendum will have a major effect on students, teachers and administrators.
recipients will be able to discuss issues facing the education world and then celebrate their success. Coleman is able to travel to Santa Monica, California for recognition dinner and ceremony. “I will get to participate in conversations with my peers about national education issues and will
get to be present at state presentations of the awards next year because there are so many from Indiana,” Coleman said. This is the first time that an educator at NC has received this award. “Hopefully its not the last one,” Coleman said, “It’s a really nice honor for the school.”
Public input at Eastwood roundtable meeting Option 1: Do nothing and let the current Referendum expire at the end of 2010. Acceptable: 0 Unacceptable: 25
Option 2: Ask voters to approve a referendum the size of the one we currently have and continue to neutralize the impact of the referendum tax against the capital projects fund rate Acceptable: 21 Unacceptable: 6
Superintendent Mervilde uses feedback from the community to decide a solution for the referendum. Joe Tyler photo. Voters need to thoroughly consider all aspects of the referendum to make the best decision for the township.
Option 3: Ask voters to approve a referendum that is restructured in a way to lessen the negative impact on the capital projects fund and maintain resources sufficient for great programming. Acceptable: 26 Unacceptable: 0 Option 4: Renew the referendum in 2010, but use the new seven-year period to reduce the G.F. budget to eliminate the need for a referendum by 2017. Acceptable: 3 Unacceptable: 20 Undecided: 3
NEWS 5
October 20, 2009
Fighting poses serious personal problems The air whistling with the swinging of fists and feet, profanity and grunts is a sign to all students that a fight is about to take place. Whether students flee the area or stay to watch the action, the quarrel always circulates in the school. “Most fights are stupid,” junior Nikki Mckenzie said, “Most fights are over boys, mothers or looks.” Rachel Charon has been a clinical psychologist for 20 years and has a Ph. D in family and adolescent pyschology. She is a facilitator for change, meaning she helps people find out how they should change and why they should change their ways. She believes fighting is a reflection of people’s poor impulse control. “A lot of times the conflict
can be easily resolved, if there is enough leverage,” Charon said. There is a strict no tolerance rule for fighting at NC. Often times, the reason for fighting does not alter the student’s conscious decision to sacrifice their educational needs. A student athlete’s decision to fight in school also affects his teammates. The school rules override any athletic decisions. “I walk away from fights because I am a part of an athletic team,” sophomore Melvin Graham said. “I can get in trouble and that could end my career.” The administration suggests students walk away and do not get involved in these physical confrontations. One of the purposes for the deans’ offices are to encourage students to discuss their
problems face to face and not in the hallways. “I have only seen two fights in which one of the participants did nothing and made an effort to avoid
“Most
fights are stupid. Most fights are over boys, mothers of looks Mckenzie
“
Ashley Falcon Managing Editor
the situation,” associate principal Evans Branigan III said. The fact that many students view school as a safe haven might give comfort to a student considering fighting. Yet some still believe that school is a much more convenient place to fight.
North Central High School proudly presents...
“People are just too lazy to wait until after school to fight,” senior Selam Adhanom said. Sometimes a student will never consider fighting off campus because they know there is a constant presence of law enforcement whereas there is also the presence of faculty that will quickly stop a fight on campus. “When a fight occurs we radio for help or respond to the call and then break up the fight,” school police officer Phil Harris said. If a fight breaks out without the presence of officers, teachers aren’t obligated to stop a fight if they don’t want to or feel it is not safe. “We don’t put ourselves or others in danger to break up a fight,” social studies teacher Karon Wallace said. The consequences are decided by the school, unless
there is a serious injury, in which there would be an arrest made. “If the consequences are stiff, It’s harder to keep getting into fights,” Charon said. Although the punishments of people’s actions can vary based upon the fighting situation, students can get a fiveday suspension and be on probation for their first fighting offense. If a student gets into another fight, they will be expelled for the remainder of the semester. “Violence doesn’t solve anything,” principal C E Quandt said. “If violence solved problems, then why do we still have wars?” All people who fight at NC are held to be in the wrong. Whoever takes the first swing, does not act as a determining factor in the punishment.
Charon find’s that fights between boys are more common than fights between girls. Girls tend to handle their anger in less physical ways, such as not inviting someone to an event. Guys tend to react quicker because of the history of the situation. “I find that girls tend to hang on to grudges,” Quandt said. “The fight is just the last step in a long series of steps.” When looking to the future, Quandt finds that most kids grow up and learn that physical confrontations are not the best way to solve issues, but he also believes some never learn. “I find the saddest thing to be when kids don’t confront their fighting problem,” Charon said. “Those kids are never going to make it to adulthood.”
Words and Music by RICHARD ADLER & JERRY ROSS Book by GEORGE ABBOTT & DOUGLASS WALLOP November 19, 20, 21 7 p.m. NCHS Auditorium $10 Adults/Students $8 Children under 12 for ticket information call 259-5301 Damn Yankees is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 www.MTIShows.com
6 FEATURE
October 20, 2009
Passionate pro-life students create forum Tessa Judge Reporter Students Nathan Kane and Casey Kress have taken the role of bringing the statewide club, Teens for Life, to NC. This is a not-for-profit organization that works to “restore and protect the sanctity of life.” The group works to teach teens about issues such as abortion, infanticide, and euthanasia with the hope of creating a newfound respect for life in today’s society. Kane’s interest in the concept of starting this prolife club began when he was in a Catholic school. All throughout school Kane was taught that abortion was wrong. Only after Kane started attending public school, did he hear different opinions about abortion. Kane stands by what he was taught and wants others to understand what he believes. “I think it [abortion] is a huge injustice and someone needs to stand up and give these people a voice,” Kane said. Although Kane is a strong pro-life advocate, in no way does he condemn anyone who is pregnant or who has made this decision in the past.
“I just want teens to understand that there is more than one option and that adoption is the better option,” Kane said. Kane wants the student body to understand that the group will accept anyone and no one would ever be rejected. Senior Casey Kress feels the same way. “I want this club to be a place for people to come to and learn about the prolife side of the debate. It’s not just a place for those who agree with us,” Kress said. “There is absolutely no judging here.” When she was a sophomore, Kress became pregnant. As soon as she found out, she talked to her parents and doctors about what she should do and all the options she had available. “The doctors kept saying there was an easy way for me to get rid of this problem and I was like what?” Kress said. “I never even considered abortion as an option.” Even though Kress was only 15-years-old and knew she had a difficult road ahead of her, she stuck with her beliefs and endured the entire pregnancy. Although the situation scared her, Kress was ready for whatever was
going to happen. However, her parents had a hard time adjusting to the situation. “They made me sit down and budget everything,” Kress said. “They said if I decided to keep and raise the baby myself, I would have to move out. They said they would be the grandparents and that’s it. So I packed my bags and got a job at Subway.” Soon after she started working, Kress realized that she could not work a part time minimum wage job, go to school, raise a child and have enough to provide for herself and her son. It was at that point, when she was six months pregnant, that she decided to give her baby up for adoption. “I bet I was really annoying. The agency gave me a bunch of portfolios of families, but it took me a really long time to pick the family I wanted,” Kress said. “I couldn’t just pick any family, you know? It had to be the right one.” Kress finally found a family who looked good to her. This is her favorite part of the story to tell. “My mom is Italian so for Thanksgiving, instead of eating turkey and all that stuff, we eat spaghetti. So, for some reason, the
Senior shot after fight Jessie Ayres Reporter On August 14, Tonio Young and a couple of his friends drove to 48 and College to see two girls fight one another. “They were fighting for like 10 seconds,” Young said. “It was lame.” The boys decided to leave soon after they arrived because the fight was not enteraining them. As they were leaving, they saw two boys walking down the street but didn’t think anything of it. “Then the girls who were fighting started toward the other car we were with,” Young said.
As they watched the girls walk toward their friend’s car, they heard a gun shot. “We tried to duck,” Young said, “but the second one hit our car. I felt the impact of the window break.” He sat back up and saw the two boys running away. Young then felt pain in his head and realized that his head was injured. “I put my hand on my head and felt the blood,” Young said. Fred Richardson, who was inside the car with Young, told him to put his shirt on his head in order to stop the bleeding. As he lifted his shirt, Richardson saw that Young had been hit in his back.
“I couldn’t feel it in my back,” Young said, “but my head hurt like a bad headache.” They rushed him to the hospital and Demond McDaniel called Young’s mother. Young checked into the hospital at 1 a.m. and was not released until 11 a.m. on Saturday. “They told me that I was hit directly in the back left shoulder, and grazed in my head on the left side,”Young said. Young was frightened by the experience but has recovered well. “The whole thing was scary with the blood,” Young said. “I was just at the wrong place at the wrong time.”
first question I asked the family was what they ate on Thanksgiving,” Kress said. “When they responded they said that they were Italian, so they ate spaghetti. I knew right then that I had picked the right family.” A month before her due date, Kress went into labor at school. Luckily, the adopting family was ready for her son. After four days spent at the hospital, Kress was finally sent home. When she checked her email that day, the family had already sent Kress pictures of the beautiful boy she gave birth to. Kress knew then that she had made the right decision in giving her son up for adoption. Thinking back on everything that happened, she really appreciates what she went through and sees it as a good thing. “If I were to have chosen the other route, I would not be who I am. I would not have grown the way I have,” Kress said. “John would not be alive and his parents now would not have a son.” Both Kress and Kane are extremely enamored to be a part of the group. Kane is really looking forward to expressing his opinion on the issue. “Mostly, we will be
Nathan Kane expresses his pro-life belief. Joe Tyler coming together as a group to celebrate life and show each other how beautiful
every single unborn child truly is,” Kane said.
Students deal with college stress Eva Goldfarb Reporter Avoiding the stress of the application process altogether, Daniella Dadon is applying to only one college. Dadon has already made the decision to defer a year and travel through Europe. She is hoping to spend one month in as many European towns and cities as possible. “I am going to Israel one month after graduation,” said Dadon. “and then my cousin is going with me to travel through Europe.” Although Dadon applied to Indiana University she will not be returning to the United States after her year off. “Even if I get into IU
I’m not going to go there.” said Dadon, “I just need a backup in case something goes wrong or I change my mind.” Dadon does not want to stay in the states and go through the normal college experience. “I want something different and more unique,” said Dadon. “I’m probably going to spend the rest of my life there.” Aaron Zelikovich is applying to a total of 15 schools including Washington University in Saint Louis, Emory, Penn and Brown. “My sister told me from her experience that she did not have enough options,” said Zelikovich. “The more places you get into the more
options you have.” The dread of having to decide between multiple schools, once accepted, is a worry for a lot of students. Zelikovich, however, is not worried about having to choose between 15 schools. “I know what I want,” said Zelikovich. “If I don’t get it I have my plan B and my plan C.” Zelikovich’s plan A is to attend Wash. U. and to be in their scholars medical program, which involves 8 years of study. “You’re not guaranteed acceptance anywhere so if you only get into your backup school then you’re stuck,” said Zelikovich. “You want to be able to choose instead of being forced.”
FEATURE 7
October 20, 2009
Club prepares for zombie holocaust Kennedy Long Reporter
Seniors in the lunchroom surround Juniors to yell the senior cheer. Joe Tyler photo
Juniors take on seniors Emma Kotyuk Emily Keesling Reporters The junior class of 2011 has a new outlook on spirit. There has been tension this year between the seniors and the juniors concerning the juniors’ school spirit. Jacob Mark, the junior class president describes the junior school spirit, not to disrespect the seniors but to demonstrate spirit for our school. “There’s one plain and simple difference between the class of 2011 and the class of 2010. The class of 2010 is hype because they are seniors. The class of 2011 is hype because we are united as one. We aren’t seniors; we aren’t graduating for another year and a half. Our spirit is unrelated to the amount of time we have left at North Central, but related to our reputation as a class at this fantastic high school,” Mark said. Senior student class council president, Amy Bercovitz, has a different perspective of the juniors’ school spirit. “We waited to be seniors and the juniors should wait. They are taking all the attention away from us,” Bercovitz said. “The seniors can be as
angry and defensive as they’d like. But when it comes down to it, we are putting more effort into being panthers. Disrespect for seniors has nothing to do with it. Respect for ourselves has everything to do with it,” Mark said. “We have got less spirit, but we are going to catch up,” senior Keith Sutton said. Juniors have created new traditions for this school year to represent more school spirit. “We decided to dress up at the games because we thought it would be fun and we knew it would bring us together. Mission accomplished. Every Friday we go in the lower student center and do the junior cheer. We do it to get people excited but also to show that we can be bold,” Mark said. Later on in the year juniors not sure what they are going to do to represent their school spirit because of their busy schedule. “Right now we need to start concentrating on some other things. We’re going to be pretty busy in the next couple months. But I am certain that the fire between the juniors and seniors will only get warmer,” Mark said.
One of NC’s newest clubs is the Zombie Attack Survival Club. Junior, Joe Klemen, and some of his friends started the club because of their interest in zombies. “We all have a very devoted interest in zombies, and zombie attacks,” Klemen said. “We were just at my friends house and were like wouldn’t it be a great idea if we started a zombie survival club. So we went to Mr. Branigan and he approved it,” Klemen said. The club only asks one thing of its members, that they take the imminent zombie apocalypse seriously. Many students are excited about participating in the club and the call-out meeting
The Zombie Survival Club discussed various weapons and their effectiveness. Joe Tyler photo had a big turnout. “It’s more of a necessity than an idea,” senior Kevin Gaughan said. The group thinks they provide an important service to the student body by warning and educating
students about zombies. “We can teach you to survive a zombie apocalypse and how to kill zombies. It’s just basic survival skills,” Klemen said. The club is based on the
book “The Zombie Survival Guide” by Max Brooks. At future meetings they plan to have guest readers. Along with this, the club will be watching several zombierelated movies and playing zombie related video games.
Ambassadors for children aides refugees Savannah Wooten Reporter “I wanted to get together a group of students that wanted to come up with their own ideas and ways of helping the community,” junior Elise Johnson said. Johnson started the new club Ambassadors for Children (AFC) and is currently the president of the club. Natalie Beesley is the vice president, Amelia Trefz is the treasurer, and Lauren Blackburn is the secretary. The purpose of the club is to help local and global
communities. The most recent project that AFC, Exodus, involves supplying toiletries for Burma refugees. “I think it’s a really good idea,” junior Amy Katz said. AFC has six committee chairs to organize the activities. “We have two fundraising chairs, two project coordinators, and two marketing chairs,” Johnson said. AFC is estimated to have around 35 committed members and is continuing to grow every meeting. “It’s great. I can’t even
explain the words to how awesome this project is,” junior Ben Wertz said. Although AFC will be working on smaller community projects throughout the year, their long-term goal is to raise thousands of dollars in order to provide mosquito nets for the citizens of Uganda. “I felt like there wasn’t a place for students to decide what they wanted to do to help their communities and plan the activities themselves,” Johnson said. This attitude motivated Johnson to establish Ambassadors for Children.
Johnson believes that AFC is a better organization to join for community service than most others. “[Other organizations] throw all of these activities at you, but you don’t really know the significance of the project at hand. This is how AFC is different from the other community service groups,” Johnson said. Johnson looks forward for what is to come for AFC. “We have a great group of motivated peoples and we’re going to get a lot done this year,” Johnson said.
Student makes, decorates cakes Emily Keesling Reporter Abby Sachs is out of the ordinary when it comes to baking cakes. The junior started cooking with her dad from the book “Cooking With Julia” when she was little. Over the years, she has branched out and started to make more complicated and artful designs on her own. Sachs has not taken a class but has used inspirational ideas to create
her masterpieces. She starts off by baking the cake. “The cake batter is made from scratch, baked, and cooled. The frosting, icings, and decorations are also prepared from scratch, and the whole thing is assembled after the cake is cooled,” Sachs said. A simple cake takes about two hours but for complicated designs it takes longer. The first cake she made was for her ninth birthday. It was a classic birthday cake
with special decorations that she picked out herself. Her favorite part of making cakes is the decorating because of the artistic freedom. She has made too many cakes to count but some of her favorites are a Nintendo Wii cake, a Spiderman cake, and a cake based off of last year’s Jr. Spec. She wants to be a professional cake designer when she gets older. Sachs’ dream is to win the $10,000 prize on the Food Network’s
Photo Contributed by Abby Sachs Challenge. She makes cake for any occasion and is currently selling them.
8 SPORTS Girl’s soccer shows potential Thomas O’Farrell Reporter It has been a season with many ups and downs for the girl’s soccer team. The team has had several injured players throughout the year, but the players are getting healthier and they are currently preparing for the state tournament. As the players are getting healthier, junior Dani Goecke is looking forward to the success the team may have. “Our team is a lot stronger now that our injured players are returning,” Goecke said. The panthers are 8-7-1 with wins over Brebuef, Park Tudor, Fishers and Center Grove. Some note that the key mishaps in the season occurred in losses to Cathedral, Zionsville and Carmel; all three are ranked. “Our best win so far was definitely beating Brebuef in county. It was our first win in which the other team scored and we still won,” Goecke said. “It really helps us mentally to know we can regain our composure and win.”
One reason for the success this year is the team chemistry. “Some of the girls have been playing together for three or four years at NC. A lot of other girls play club soccer together too,” senior Julie Burton said. “Our team is very close and we work well together.” Senior Kate Sanner recalls one particular day of practice that provided the team with a lot of that bonding opportunity. “Our coach tricked us into thinking we had a huge fitness test and then sent us all on a big scavenger hunt around the town. It was great bonding and so much fun,” Sanner said. With the state playoffs starting in the middle of October, the players believe the team will have to combine all of their hard work, team bonding and good health to make a run at the state title. “Hopefully the best is yet to come. Staying healthy will definitely play a major part, but we need to play with heart,” Sanner said. “We are completely capable of making a great run at state this year.”
October 20, 2009
Soccer team overcomes slump Beau Scott Reporter The boys’ soccer team has faced adversity in recent weeks, being eliminated in their first game of the Marion Country Tournament as well as playing without one of their stars, Nikita Kotlov. The team has acknowledged their difficulties, but hopes the approaching sectional will get them back on track. “The team has been in a slump lately, but I’m sure that we will pick it up and start running the show again,” sophomore Aaron Kasper said. Junior Jesse Miser agrees with Kasper in believing that the team has not been the same without Kotlov. “That team hasn’t been playing as well as we can lately but once state starts each team starts with a clean slate and anything can happen,” Miser said. The main cause for the team’s slump may be due to Kotlov’s suspension. Kotlov was suspended for his arrest on the grounds of possession of marijuana and evading the police among other charges. The suspension was for two games—both of which the team lost. Athletic director Chuck
Soccer player Nikita Kotlov dribbles the ball in a varsity game. Joe Tyler photo Jones declined to comment on Kotlov’s suspension, but acknowledged that the athletic office played a part in issuing the punishment. Kotlov also declined to comment, saying he was
advised not to talk about the situation. Despite talk about his soccer scholarship to Indiana University being revoked, Kotlov confirmed in an interview that he would still
be playing for the college next year. Kotlov’s teammates are happy with the minimal suspension, hoping the team can get back on track. Senior Sam Lane is looking forward to the success the team will have with their star player back from suspension. “We haven’t been playing our best lately but Nikita coming back will help a lot,” Lane said. Ingram commented on the team’s reaction to Kotlov’s suspension, noting the team’s confidence. “When Nikita got suspended, everyone was disappointed to have to try and win without him, but curious to see what was going to happen,” Ingram said. “We knew it was a big loss, but a lot of guys just took it as their chance to make an impact on the team.” A group of role players were asked to step up and fill Kotlov’s void during his suspension, including sophomore Austin Fundenberger and freshman Michael Gullulo. Due to the different playing styles of the replacements, the team adjusted their formation on the field in an attempt to play to the team’s strengths.
Call
570-6941 November 2-19 Nov. 30-Dec. 17 December 18-30
SPORTS 9 Runner declared ineligible by IHSAA
October 20, 2009
Dallas Shirley Reporter
The boy’s team warms up before a run. Daniel Hursh photo
Q&A
The 2009-2010 boy’s cross county team is off to a fast start and are currently ranked 4th in the state. The success comes amongst a controversy regarding one of the team’s varsity runners. Bahlbi Zienasellassie has, according to the Indiana High School Athletic Association rules and regulations, effectively used up his eligibility to run as a high school student in the state of Indiana. Zienasellassie took an English language class at the refugee camp he was at before he came to NC. The credit Zienasellassie earned there was originally counted as a full year of English class credit, but after a review of his transcript, it was determined that the class
Q. The seasons almost over, what do you expect from the team the rest of the year? A. I think that we can still hit our stride and become the team that we have the potential to be. And if that happens, then the season won’t be almost over. I’m expecting all of us to work together to make us the team we can be. Q. The team is noticeably improved from last year’s team, what do you attribute this to? A. A lot of the improvements has to do with leadership. Last year’s team was pretty lackadaisical and didn’t put in much effort. This year we have a lot more seniors and a new coaching staff that
Andrew East are working to change the program, and its working. I know that we don’t have a completely different record but the program really is changing.
Q. What affect has new coach Keith Shelton had on the team? A. Coach Shelton has brought the team energy. This in itself has made players more willing to play and to give it their all. I feel like in previous years there was not a lot of motivation, but Coach has really been a good example of how we should play: with passion. Q. It is no secret that fan support has been lackluster in the past. What do you say to those people who continue to be very critical of the team? A. I think it’s pretty unfortunate that those people don’t care. This year the games have been much more exciting to watch. I think that it’s a bummer we don’t have more school spirit because not only is it fun to be in the crowd, it also can give the players a little more energy. So to those of you who are still
on top,” Luce said. Through September 28, the Indiana Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches had the team ranked fifth in the state. They trail Columbus North, Carmel, Terre Haute North and Noblesville in respective order. Despite this ranking, they believe that they can beat anyone in the state when they get down to business. “Bahlebi is definitely good, but with the other seniors stepping up we have a really good chance to win it all this year,” junior Brice Mossman said. “Filimon [Adhanom] is really stepping up and he is running really well right now. Futsum [Zienasellassie] is obviously good. Conner Geshay is also stepping up.” During the FlashRock Invitational, which
incorporates a multitude of teams from across the state, the runners did not disappoint, finishing second behind Columbus North. Futsum Zienasellassie finished first overall, Geshay finished fourth, Adhanom came in fifth, and senior Julian Toumey finished eleventh for NC. Even though Bahlbi Zienasellassie cannot run for NC, he is running with a club to keep in good shape for college, where he wants to continue to run cross country. He now runs for the NC club team, where he first competed in the Midwest qualifying season, and has now qualified for the 2009 Foot Locker Cross Country Championships in San Diego, California.
Open Gym offers early training for basketball
with:
Q. Are you happy with the team so far this year? A. Yea, I’d say that the team has made a lot of progress as far as team unity, organization, and morale. Obviously it would be nice to have more wins but the team is definitely headed in the right direction. This year’s team has been real fun to play on because it’s full of a bunch of guys that love to play.
did not meet the standards of Indiana schools. Athletic Director Chuck Jones said, “I don’t comment on any issues regarding individual athletes, but (his ineligibility) is for good reason. He basically used up his eligibility.” With the news of Zienasellassie’s ineligibility, many runners on the boys’ team feared that the season had taken a turn for the worst. “Bahlbi was one of our best runners,” junior runner Matthew Luce said. Although Zienasellassie was banned from the team, they got off to an excellent start to the season and were ranked number one in the state for weeks. “Yeah I thought it might hurt the team a little, but we really rallied and were back
critical, I encourage you to come to a game and give it a shot. Q. What are your plans for college? A. I’m not sure where Ill end up, but I know that wherever I go I will be playing football. I’m looking at Wheaton, Vanderbilt, Northwestern, Duke, Penn, and Stanford and they have all shown interest in me as well. A big thing that will help me in making my decision is where my cousin ends up. We’re pretty good friends and it’s always been a hope that we could play together.
Daniel Hursh Reporter Open gym is usually twice a week from about 3:15 to 4 and boys and girls open gym are separate. Open gym is for anyone who wants to play basketball against tough competition. If you are going to tryout for the basketball team it is recommended that you come to open gym. Coach Mitchell is almost always out watching players and evaluating the talent on the court. “There is now less time for tryouts than there used to be, so coming to open gym helps us see you and evaluate you,” Mitchell said.
Tryouts used to start Oct. 15, just like college basketball, but the IHSAA has changed the rule so that teams cannot start tryouts till November 9. That only gives Mitchell and his staff 10 days before their first varsity game. That’s 10 days to hold tryouts, pick the team, then start building chemistry as a team, and figuring out the best lineups to use. “It makes it very tough for us to do all of that in such a short time, that is why open gym is so important for us,” Mitchell said. Mitchell did mention that he does not solely base his team on open gym. He wants the best players even if they did not come to open
gym. But if two players are even for a remaining spot, the person who came to open gym would get the spot because they have been working on their game and improving. So eventually the extra work they put in would make them better than the other player. Players also see the amount of college scouts evaluating talent as a reason to come to open gym. There are coaches from not just Indiana, but from all over the Nation. Many of them are from elite colleges. “We have had scouts from Louisville, Notre Dame, North Carolina, Purdue, Butler, Evansville and many others,” Mitchell said.
Cross country team conquers county at Brebeuf Matt Hansen Reporter The boys cross country team won the County Championship on Saturday October 3 at Brebeuf High School. Sophomore Chris Hansen ran varsity for the first time at the county meet and although he was happy with the team’s performance, he noticed that the competition was not as tough as previously in the season. “The competition at the
county tournament was not as hard as some of the other meets we’ve had like the Flash Rock and Culver, but we still were the best and are moving on,” Hansen said. Sophomore Futsum Zeinasellassie bounced back from being beaten at the Culver Invitational to win the county meet. Following the sophomore phenom from the NC team were Filimon Adhanom in fourth place, Connor Geshay in sixth place, Julian Toumey in seventh place and Matt Fox
in fifteenth place. Finishing with four runners in the top ten, the team scored only 33 points to beat second place Warren Central. “Going in to sectionals I think we are going to do great even with the tougher competition,” captain Bahlebi Zeinasellassie said. The team was ranked fourth in the state going in to the state tournament. The team’s next meet was sectionals on Oct. 13 at Brebeuf.
10 OPINION
October 20, 2009
Editorial
Referendum determines our future The referendum isn’t a common discussion topic among high school students, most of them couldn’t even tell you what it is but everyone should know because, depending on the outcome of the upcoming school board’s decision, it could affect every student in the school. There was a referendum passed in 2003 allowing the school board to transfer money from a capital project fund to the referendum fund. Basically, this means that instead of using all the money the district gets from taxes solely on building maintenence and repairs, we can use it to fund our arts programs, pay teachers and fund special programs to help develop good character. This referedum is getting ready to expire and the school board has to decide whether they want to let it lapse or renew it. They’re taking the Washington Township residents opinions into deep consideration while they make this decision and frankly, everyone in the school should be fighting to renew it and encourage people to vote “yes”
during the May election. Imagine what it would do to North Central if we lost $5.3 million. We’d have to lose some of our devoted staff because we couldn’t afford to pay them, we’d have to cut some of our arts programs which make our school so unique and outstanding and we’d have to cut some extra-curricular activities, clubs and sports where some students find their second homes. Our school prides itself on its ability to accept anyone. Every student can be themselves and find people like them. How can we claim this if we don’t allow all the outlets we have previously for students to express themselves? It’s crucial that we renew the referendum to keep our school one of the top high schools in Indiana and the country. Students should be educated about this major decision ahead of our township and we should let our school board know how we feel about the referendum. In May, vote “yes” for the referendum to remain the best.
Please seniors, show more spirit than juniors Daniel Dorson
I am a failure. Kind of. I spent all last year writing columns about how the school lacks spirit, but the reaction is terrible. When I said we need more spirit, I meant everyone. It seems like the only people who have really started to show more spirit are the juniors. The spirit is great for the school, but at the same time
I can’t help but to feel really disappointed. I wish the seniors could have the same attitude and energy. Overall spirit week was fairly successful. I noticed lots of students participating in the halls and there was a good number of students at the game. I wish I could say the same for Senior Night. Senior Night was a complete disaster. It was a little rainy, and a little cold, but the turn out was absolutely pathetic. There were less than 20 seniors there. That’s ridiculous. It was a night to commemorate seniors and there were more juniors than seniors present. I don’t understand. What
does it hurt to spend two hours out of a Friday night to support your team? There are plenty of things you can do after nine. It’s not a crushing blow to your social life. I was confident Senior Class Council could really turn things around and get all the seniors involved. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Senior Class Council has run into some snags. I still have confidence in the new class council, but they need to step up. The transition from the old Senior Class Council to the new Senior Class Council is proving more difficult than previously thought. I respect
the old council immensely and I think what they did for the seniors was great, but it’s time for them to back down a little. It’s incredibly hard to unify as a class when half the seniors are going around telling everyone we have a classy theme and the other half is telling people it’s pirate themed. What’s so hard about coming to an agreement? It was extremely frustrating during spirit week when the Senior Class Council tried to change each day. I appreciate the effort, I really do, but that was Student Council’s week. If you really want to have your
own spirit days, how about we have a Senior Spirit Week where the Senior Class Council gets to make every theme day Spirit is fantastic. I can’t deny that. The key to successful spirit is being spirited together. There is no point in having one class disagreeing about whether or not we should be pirates or look classy. What is important is joining together to support the school as a whole. Besides why should we fight with each other? It’s the juniors we should be fighting. They’re trying to take the front row at football games.
friendly competition. Well, that was until Friday Oct. 2 when a senior girl took the “spirit” too far. Ok here’s the situation. It was midway through the second quarter of the football game against Terre Haute South, and I was having a good time in my long johns and underwear (as it was pajama night). The front row of the stands, usually reserved for seniors, had an opening on the far left side. Naturally a few of my junior friends and I stepped down into these spots and proceeded to enjoy the evening. Just before halftime, five or six seniors showed up
late and demanded seats in the front row. Pushing and shoving took place but then a senior girl, whom I’d never met, let alone seen before, decided to punch me where the sun don’t shine, and then twist my chest until it turned purple. Sure seniors I get it, you’re threatened by us because we have more spirit and you know it, but you shouldn’t waste your energy on us. You should focus your heckling spirit on the opposing team, not members of your own school. I mean after all, don’t we go to football games to support our team over another schools? You
constantly say that the junior class is lame for dressing up and for our spirit, but it’s not just the job of the seniors (who by the way hardly show up to games that don’t have a senior “bond” afterwards) to encourage our team. We, as members of our school, have just as much right to dress up and support our team as you do. You were born one year earlier than us, that doesn’t justify your reasoning for trying to restrict us from having a good time. Seniors should stop getting so defensive and territorial when we should all be focusing on
our opposition. I mean when you get to the point at which your class is punching people’s private parts in order to show their pride, there’s a problem. I cannot figure out why this girl decided it would be a good idea to cheap shot me where everyone knows is a sensitive area. In case you’ve been living under a rock and haven’t heard, it kind of hurts to get punched down there when you’re a guy. Maybe you could do us all a favor sweetheart and grow up so some guy doesn’t lose the ability to reproduce because of you. Cheers.
Please seniors, don’t hit me because I have spirit Tim Dugan
It’s no secret that the junior and senior classes have been rivaling lately. Each respective class is constantly attempting to show the other that they have more school spirit. The majority of these displays of class representation take place at football games. Yelling and screaming at one another, class cheers, and theme dressing have inhibited
Eva Goldfarb
Jewish girls at Young Life Jesus songs, religious contemplation and prayer are what I originally thought would be facing me as I walked through the doors to the tennis center. Instead I saw my friends in brightly colored crayon costumes, screaming along to Miley Cyrus and The Fray. From the very beginning when everyone congregates outside, I was completely comfortable. The Young Life leaders were very nice and I felt no discomfort that I thought I would. I didn’t get one “What are you doing here?” The evening started with a dance party and karaoke. And unless Michael Bublé really sings about Jesus, I am pretty sure I was not going against my faith. We all got into a circle, playing a game where everyone tries to sit on the lap of the person in back of him or her simultaneously. The exercise reminded me of the kind of team building games that I have played with teams and PantherQuest. So far, I was having a lot of fun and was pleased to find that Young Life Club was not very religious at all! The only point in the evening where Jesus was mentioned was the last few minutes when one of the leaders told a story on how he has used religion in his life to make him a stronger person. He drew pictures and had the group laughing. Not exactly bible study. On the whole, it reminded me a lot of my Jewish youth group, B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, basically the Jew version of Young Life across the midwest Young Life was a fun night that ended with a trip to Chipotle. I love burritos, guacamole and Miley Cyrus. So Young Life is a fun way to spend your Monday night, despite your religion.
OPINION 11
October 20, 2009
Emma Markey
Reality TV for me I have decided that I will get my own reality T.V. show. I’m not saying that I think my life is extraordinarily interesting, but eventually it is going to happen. The reason is simply because all reality shows are based on someone who originally came from another person’s reality show and this chain of events will at some point lead to me. It is this idea that keeps me going everyday. Just think of the success that all the other “hit” reality stars have had. I mean who cannot love the endearing qualities of New York? She was an original contestant on “Flava of Love” then came back again on “Flava of Love 2.” Then after she got rejected, twice, she was given her own show to try and find love. Isn’t the third time the charm? The public then had to go through the tear-jerking season of New York picking out her own bachelor, followed by a television ad promoting yet another reality show with New York. This one looked really promising. The viewers were now given “New York go to Hollywood”. They were also expected to enjoy it. Finally, you thought the season came to a close, but no. Next came “New York Goes to Work,” where viewers watched New York try to complete jobs that are gross and unusual. That one was a keeper. Let’s not forget that New York was just some random girl who auditioned for the “Flava of Love.” To be honest, I could not tell you what her real name is. That is quality entertainment. It is people like New York, Megan, Chance, and even Real that give me hope that one day I will have my own show.
Fall fashion faux pas frowned upon Noelle Carter
September 22 ushered in the new season. I’m not talking about the season of barren trees, brown crumpled leaves and sipping hot Caramel Apple Spice at Starbucks. I’m talking about the season of fall fashion. New York fashion week just occurred, and while the runways were covered with new 2010 collections, the seats were lined with fall’s
hottest trends. Attendees embraced bright colors, strong shoulders, sleek boots and slim silhouettes. Flip through a fall issue of Vogue or Harper’s Bazaar and you’ll see structured coats, classic shifts and whimsical patterns. If you are not keeping up with the fashion world via magazines or the Internet, it is unlikely that you will ever catch a glimpse of this year’s exciting new trends. For North Central fall means hallways will be littered with people sporting North Faces, Uggs and sweatpants. This year’s chic checks, peplum jackets, cozy layers and ‘40s-esque makeup are
wasted on the student body. In fact, be careful if you attempt to wield one of fall’s latest trends. You are more likely to be interrogated on why exactly you are dressed up (which is absurd), rather than be complemented. Students shouldn’t shy away from wearing trendy and tasteful outfits. Some might argue that the hallways are not runways. However, I believe right now is the prime time for students to experiment with fashion. Even if you look back ten years from now and cringe at your yearbook picture, it can easily be blamed on crazy teenage fads. I admire people who
have the courage to dress outrageously (but appropriately) for school. Even if my own taste in style differs, I respect people for making the effort. I’m sympathetic to those who have “bum days.” We’re in high school, and homework often means working late into the night or even early morning. I personally can attest to staying up late, rolling out of bed at the last minute, and throwing on the first warm thing I can find. Obviously this calls for a day of comfy clothes. But once in awhile, I think it would be refreshing for everyone to see a little
Students, clothes are meant to be worn Morgan Loudermilk
It may be hard to understand, but the dress code is in place for a good reason. Some adults say apparel distracts from learning, but there’s a bigger reason than that. It’s so you don’t embarrass yourself. Every day I see a freshman girl who thinks it’s funny to hide from the administrators so they don’t get caught
with inappropriate clothing. What makes them think showing off all of their body is cute? All girls go through this stage from sixth to tenth grade and I’m not sure why. Maybe because that is when the boys start noticing. Whatever the reason, it’s nasty. I hate having to shield my eyes from things I don’t want to see. Girls think it’s attracting boys to them, but it’s for the wrong reasons. Any decent boy won’t want a girl who needs to expose her body for attention. Just saying. Don’t think I’m going to
let the boys go without some criticism. I’m on their head next. I hate pants that can be worn low enough that it impairs walking. Many boys waddle down the hallways. At times I thought a young man was wearing pants when he was actually wearing shorts. Boys love ignoring teachers that tell them to pull their pants up. Sometimes during the day, male students are told to bring their trousers up, only to respond angrily. It’s annoying because you’re embarrassing yourself and the teacher is just looking out for you.
I have respect for myself so I dress appropriately for school. Unless it’s a party or Halloween, I’m mostly clothed. I don’t need to show my body for attention. It’s freezing in parts of the school, so not being properly dressed would be uncomfortable. As for the boys, I don’t mind a little booty showing, but if the entire posterior is out, we have a problem. Be honest with yourself. After People are just laughing at how ridiculous you look. Stop embarrassing yourself and put some clothes on.
We can all learn something from the Kansans Chris
Swarbrick
In a school that prides itself on the offerings of diversity, there is one common thread throughout all the activities - the right to free speech. The right that allows us to have a gay-straight alliance club, boast both a young Republicans and young Democrats club. The same amendment that allows students to shout that “Carmel swallows” (Even
if you get in trouble for it) at football games, allowed me to criticize a group of arrogant singers last spring. So why am I bringing up such a simple concept at a school that prides itself on its ability to exemplify free speech every day? It starts with the coming of the Westboro Baptist Church. As the hype surrounding the protest amounted to something that was larger than the issue itself, I heard a slew of negative comments slung towards the WBC. Why should students advocate that the WBC should be prevented from protesting when the Kansans take advantage of the same rights that we exemplify at
our school? The point is the WBC has the same right to advocate their cause, than our principal has to repeat the same simple message 100 times. Despite these prejudices, we have to put up with their existance, as well as listen to their message. These are the principles upon which our country embodies progress. What would the United States be like today if the representatives chose not to listen to each other at the constitutional convention? We can learn something from everybody. As the week went on, the focus turned to the administration. Possible counter-protestors were
called down to the principal’s office and were told they would be suspended if they participated in silent protests. That week on Thursday, the administrators stood school lawn to prevent students from being near the protest. We as a student body have only a small history of being violent, and the blocking of protestors was not only unethical, but also a violation of our rights. So students as a whole must make sure we take advantage of those rights that have been given to us by history, because it is the power of discussion and listening that can make society successful.
Speak your mind What are you going as for Halloween? “A Jack-O-Lantern.” “Me and a friend are going as G.I. Joe and G.I. Jane.” “Ariel the mermaid.” “The red Power Rager.” “A dirty, swashbuckling pirtate.” “A leopard.” “I’m going as a cave woman.” “I’’m going as Pocahontas and I asked my friend, Devin, to go as an Indian but I think he got upset.” “I want to be Jesus.” “A teenage mutant ninja turtle.” “Shaggy from Scooby Doo or Mario.” “A cheerleader.” “Probably Wonder Woman.” “A balerina.” “A hillbilly.” “An octopus.” “I think I’m going to go as car’s air freshner.” “A zombie.” “Either Batman or Spiderman.” “A wrestler.” “A friend and I are going as ghost busters.” “I’m not going as anything for Halloween.” “An indian.” “An orthodox rabbi.” “A civil war era union soldier.”
12 ENTERTAINMENT
October 20, 2009
TNL Recommends: The best of fall attractions Michael Hardie Reporter TNL provides you with the hot-spots to satisfy all your Halloween-related needs. Best place to get costumes: Party Tree is the place to be. With locations at 116 and Keystone in Carmel and 116 and Olio in Fishers, Party Tree is only a ten-minute drive from North Central. The store has over 18,000 square feet of party supplies in which you’re sure to find a costume that fits your needs. Party Tree is open from 9
a.m. until 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Best place to get apple cider: Located at 71 and College, Lilly’s Orchard is the place to go for all your apple-related needs. Formally a fully operational orchard, the grounds of the orchard are now occupied by Park Tudor School. As well as having the best apple cider in town, they also have apple-slushies and caramel apples. Lilly’s Orchard stocks fresh produce including pumpkins and corn along with 15 varieties of apples grown locally in an orchard
southwest of Indianapolis. Best place to get pumpkins: Halfway through its 37 year in operation, Stoneycreek Farms has pumpkins of all sizes to make sure you find the one for a perfect jack-o-lantern. The farm has a pumpkin harvest festival September 26 through October 31 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily. Besides having its own secluded pumpkin patch, Stoneycreek farms also offers hayrides and has a straw maze and a haunted house to ensure a fun-filled time. Best haunted house: In-
dianapolis offers a wide selection for those who take delight in fright. For children or the easily frightened, the Children’s Museum offers its 46 annual haunted house. This year’s theme is the Tomb of Doom- Quest for the Lost and tickets are only $6.50. For those who seek more of a thrill, Hanna’s Haunted Acres located at 7323 East Hanna Avenue offers Haunted Hayrides and five unique haunted attractions including Carnevil, which is in its first year of operation. Prices range from $13 per person for one
Sketching With Simon
event to $27 per person for all six. For those who seek to investigate reports of actual hauntings, Indianapolis boasts a collection of places with suppose paranormal activity. These include Hannah House, a former Underground Railroad station that is haunted by slaves who hid there and Central State Hospital, a former mental asylum whose insane inhabitants of the past refuse to leave. Best place to see Fall foliage: For everyone who enjoys the colors or Autumn, Indiana offers a bounty of
Fall TV Review Elliott Kinney Reporter The Office- A favorite of students at NC. The Office starts a new season with a lot of changes. There’s a new co-manager at DunderMifflin, an office romance becomes an office marriage, and certainly many other hilarious events are to come in the new season.
Finding the perfect Halloween costume Michael Hardie Reporter 1.) Come up with an idea. The key to a good costume like anything good requires an idea. Rack your brains until you come to this enlightenment. Although it may take you longer than me, its no big deal just keep thinking. If you need some inspiration, look through a costume catalog or walk through Broad Ripple, you’re sure to find some interesting characters there. Remember, your costume says a lot about you. If it’s
funny, it screams I’m a funny person. If it’s crappy, it screams I’m lazy and I don’t really care about Halloween. If it’s scandalous, it screams I’m a hussy with loose morals. 2.) Do your research. First off, make sure nobody has taken your brilliant idea. If you show up to a Halloween party or you’re out trickor-treating with your friends and somebody has the same costume as you, you are embarrassed and you have failed completely. Be sure to stake claim to your idea
to prevent this from happening. Secondly, try not to drop $100 on your costume, especially during this recession. Go to different stores to find the best deals and go to secondhand stores to see if they have anything that you can use to make your costume. The key is, the more elaborate the better. 3.) Strut your stuff. After assembling your costume, get ready for the big night. Be sure to have all parts of it together, otherwise you have failed. Also going into the character of
what your costume is makes it even better. If you’re James Bond be sure to have a British accent, if you’re a vegetable you are mute for the night. All this little effort counts in the end. As you enter the party or begin trick-or-treating just walk the walk. In the end, if you think your costume is the best, then nobody can tell you otherwise. If they try and tell you that it’s not give them a scathing look and get ready to teepee their house later that night.
places to view them. Although it’s quite a trek, Brown County State Park has some of the most beautiful foliage in the country. Located only an hour and a half from Indianapolis, the park’s forests leaves bloom every Fall in late September. The park also contains campgrounds where rates start at $10 a day. For those who prefer the amenities of the indoors, the town of Nashville is located only a few minutes from the park and has several hotels. Head down to Brown County for a weekend of Fall fun.
Parks and Recreation- If you’re a fan of Amy Poehler you will love this show. Like The Office, Parks and Recreation is a mockumentary. Parks and Recreation takes place in the imaginary town ofPawnee, Indiana. Poehler plays Leslie Knope, the director of the town’s department of Parks and Recreation. If you’re a fan of the Office you will be a fan of Parks and Recreation. Glee- This fall Fox unveiled the long anticipated show about a high school show choir, and so far people have embraced it. Glee
tells the story of a high school Spanish teacher who attempts to return Glee Club to its former glory. NC is known for its performing arts so many students should be able to connect to the series. CommunityNBC’s Thursday night lineup continues its domination. Community is a hilarious new comedy about a group of students at a community college. The cast is headlined by Joel McHale, who you may know from The Soup, and Chevy Chase, an experienced comedian. The Cleveland ShowFox’s success with animated shows like Family Guy and The Simpsons inspired them to create The Cleveland Show. Written by Famly Guy’s Seth MacFarlane, The Cleveland Show centers around Cleveland Brown, the Griffin’s neighbor in Family Guy, who moves from Rhode Island to Virginia.
check updates 24/7 at nchslive.com