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INKLI NGSVolume 74 Issue 6 • Crown Point High School • 1500 S. Main Street Crown Point, IN 46307 • inklings@cps.k12.in.us

OSCARS: Our picks for award winners page 12

GIRLS ROCK: Program reaches out to freshmen page 2

SLEEP DEPRIVATION: The effect of the teen habit page 6

Feb. 26, 2010

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C-note prize packages allow more winnersProgram rewards students for positive behaviors

MusiciPod touch, iTunes •

gift card, head-phones

C-Note Prize Packages

HelpingBy Becca Dugganentertainment editor

CPHS joins effort to provide help to earthquake-torn country

“Girls Rock!”New program in place to inform dangers of relational aggression to freshman girls.

pg. 2

Feature

pg. 9

When the earthquake devastated the country of Haiti, the United States came to assist in the only way that would produce the essential aid that Haiti needed- by enlisting the help of its people.

According to the American Red Cross, the organization raised and is contributing one million dollars to Haiti relief, money they raised by text-based donations. According to BBC News, the Hope for Haiti Relief concert featured over 100 Hollywood and music stars, such as George Clooney, Beyonce, Brad Pitt, and others, and helped raise millions of dollars thanks to donations from the stars themselves and other donations.

Haiti needs all of this financial aid and more. With an estimated 230,000 people dead from the earthquake and 300,000 injured, the Haitian people struggle to deal with the aftermath, according to the Herald Sun.

In addition to the celebrities’ support, students and their clubs are helping Haiti deal with such a crisis. The Muslim Student Association, National Honor Society, I.C.E., Key Club, and INTERACT are organizing a school-wide decathlon to occur on March 25. The entry fee will be $5 and all of the proceedings will go to the Haiti relief fund. Some events at the decathlon will be a relay, dance off, basketball game, and a hula hoop contest.

Along with the decathlon, SPLAT, the graphic imaging club, sold personalized buttons and mirrors during school lunches from Feb. 16 to 19. The buttons had school-appropriate designs on them as suggested by students. The mirrors were $1.50, and the buttons were $1.

“When you see someone else suffering, it’s your natural instinct to help them,” senior and SPLAT president Shelbie Hesser said. “I think it’s important to help those in need.”

Hesser felt there was more to do in helping Haiti.

“Our school in particular can help so much,” Hesser said.

Other students agree that helping Haiti is the right thing to do.

“If we were in trouble, we should get the same respect and help as Haiti,” junior Chloe Jaranowski said.

To find out more information on donating to the Haiti relief fund, go to http://www.helphaitinow.org/.

School related work and tasks that were once done out of requirement are now being rewarded with the C-notes program.

Incentives are being offered for completing the tasks that fall under the category of the six C’s, but it is a little different from last year’s Ticket-to-Ride.

“The C-notes are similar to the Ticket-to-Ride program, but we hope that the C-notes can be rewarding to more students,” assistant principal Mark Gianfermi said.

Students earn

tickets throughout the year based on their achievements categorized by the six C’s. At the end of the first semester, the C-notes earned were tallied for each student and posted on the locker bays.

“I checked the bulletin board (in the locker bays,) and I had more (C-notes) than I thought,” junior Tyler Triumph said

All students are eligible for C-notes, but in order to win a prize package, students must be one of those who earned the most C-notes in their grade.

20 to 30 students from each grade

with the most earned C-notes will be able to bid either all of their notes on one single prize, or divide their notes into bidding for numerous prizes.

“Students can only win one prize package but they can bid on as many as they like,” Gianfermi said.

The prizes are all smaller than last year’s car, but there are more of them, opening up more opportunities for those to win the prizes. The prize packages vary in content, including music, gaming gear, technology, and college supplies. (See sidebar)

“I think C-notes are better (than Ticket-

to-Ride) because there are more chances to win than last year,” said junior Katherine Blankenship.

According to Gianfermi, last year 10,223 tickets were earned by students by the end of the fifth grading period. The school wide total currently is 7,770 C-notes. Opportunities to earn C-notes will wrap up with the conclusion of the fifth six weeks as well, in order to tally them up.

“We are hoping by closing time in May to do an assembly like last year,” Gianfermi said. “Tickets will still be awarded to the

spring student athletes, though.”

Students who have not earned the most tickets in their grades are still eligible for the consolation prizes. These prizes are box seat Rail Cats tickets, two $25 Circle gift cards, or a $100 Best Buy gift card.

“I would have liked to have a chance to win a car, but at least I have a chance to win something,” freshman William Decker said.

At the end of the year, tickets that are not set as bids will be pooled together and drawn at random. The bids will then be raffled separately.

Students from SPLAT, the graphic imaging club, sold personalized buttons on Feb.16-19 for $1 and mirrors for $1.50, with all proceeds going to Haiti relief.

Gaming PS3 game system, •

26” flat screen TV

Tech I and IINetbook, printer, •

flashdrive

CameraCamera, camcord, •

digital photo frame, tri-pod, memory card, carrying pouch

CollegeMini-fridge, •

toaster, microwave, fan, 22” TV, Coffee maker, flash drive

The unpredicted dangers in the colas many students drink.

Soft Drinks

Disability Awareness Month

T-shirts sold raise money for Disability Aware-ness Month.

Prep for SATCourse led by teachers offers tips for the standardized test. pg. 7

ut Haiti

Photo by Mary-Katherine LeMon

By Arley Gomezstaff reporter

According to CBS News, 80 percent of school fights are girl versus girl. After noticing girl fights and relational aggression in our school, principal Dr. Eric Ban approached guidance counselor intern Michelle Morris. Ban want-ed to see if Morris could come up with a way to reduce relational ag-gression and girl fights in school. Morris did some researching and found that several programs were successful in group settings, so she decided to form the program “Girls Rock!”

‘‘‘Girls Rock!’’ is designed to help girls become aware of rela-tional aggression, recognize when it is happening around them, and how to deal with (relational ag-gression). It is also designed to improve self-esteem, build posi-tive relationships, and develop empathy. We talk about a differ-ent set of topics each week. Some of these topics include but are not

limited to relational aggression, friendships, cliques, gossip, and body image,” Morris said.

A total of 210 freshmen girls have already been invited to at-tend the “Girls Rock!” eight week program. There are about

104 girls left to be invited. The girls are split up into six differ-ent groups (18 students in each group) that meet either on a Tues-day or Wednesday during a cer-tain class period. It is encouraged for the girls to attend the meet-ings, but it is not required. Morris said that 75 percent of the girls in-

vited attended the first eight week program and about 55 percent of the girls are attending the current eight week session.

“Each group is different. There could be five girls in one group, but there could be ten in another group. It depends on how many are able to attend,” Morris said.

According to Morris, she be-gins each “Girls Rock!” meeting with attendance, questions from the week before, and any interest-ing things that recently happened to the girls. One or two topics are then introduced for the girls to discuss. If there is there is more than one topic, Morris has the girls do several small activities. Some of the activities include role play-ing, video discussion, and work-ing in pairs to solve a presented problem. After the small activity is complete, participants take part in “Question Cards.”

”The girls sit in a circle and pass around a container that has pieces of paper with questions on

them. These questions usually pertain to the topic or topics of the meeting. Each girl reads a ques-tion and answers it until the con-tainer is empty. This activity is very popular amongst the girls,” Morris said.

Recently “Girls Rock!” was awarded with a Crown Point Community Foundation grant for journals for the girls. Crown Point High School student leaders were on the grant committee and chose to give money to the program.

“It is amazing that the stu-dent leaders felt that this program was important enough to be rec-ognized. Now, I will be able to incorporate their journaling into our group discussions,” Morris said.

Morris said she has been re-ceiving all kinds of responses to the program. Freshman Sam Wright said she has only been to “Girls Rock” twice, but she has enjoyed the program so far.

“You get to be yourself and learn new things,” Wright said.

Crown Point High School’s Robodogs unveiled their newest robot to members of the commu-nity on Thurs., Feb. 15.

The Crown Point Commu-nity Foundation presented the Robodogs with a check worth $3,500, while the Society of Manu-facturing Engineers made a $500 contribution to the team.

Gaining sponsorship has been important to the team. Large grants are only available for new teams. The Robodogs have been around for four years, so they are approaching the end of their grant cycle. The team needs around $15,000 to $20,000 a year to cover the costs of building the robot, travel expenses, food, and t-shirts.

The Robodogs’ faculty spon-sor Maryanne Nicks and parent mentors Rosa Hubble and Paul Wendt spoke to members of the community before the team dem-onstrated the robot.

This year’s robot is designed to play “Breakaway,” a soccer-like game that pits two alliances against each other on a 27’ x 54’ in-door field. The alliances are made up of three teams each.

The field has two large divid-ers, or “bumps,” that span the width of the field. The bumps divide the field into three zones: defense, middle, and offense. Ju-nior Chris Ashbrooks, the robot’s driver, said that the robot was designed to play defense and middle.

Teams score points by having their robots kick or roll balls into the goal at their end of the field.

At the end of the round, ro-bots can earn points by being off of the field. This is achieved by having the robots hang from structures on the playing field, thus requiring teams to build an arm that can expand onto their robots.

The FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competi-tion revealed Breakaway to all teams nationwide on Jan. 9. Ac-cording to senior Robodogs mem-ber Megan Tobias the team has put in well over 100 hours of work

since then.“(The building process) takes

a village,” Hubble said.According to Wendt, the Ro-

bodogs are confident that their time has been spent wisely.

“(The team is) pretty excited about the technological capabili-ties of the robot,” Wendt said.

The robot was shipped off on Tuesday. The next time the team will see the robot will be on March 18 at the Boilermaker Regional, held at the Purdue University Ar-mory in Lafayette.

The team participated in a scrimmage on Sun., Feb. 21 in Muncie. At the unveiling, Wendt said that the scrimmage would help the team in knowing what adjustments to make before the ship-off date.

Two years ago, the Robodogs were able to compete in the na-tional competition in Atlanta. Last season saw the Robodogs head home after the Boilermaker Regional. With both good and bad performances fresh in their

minds, the members of the team are confident that they will be successful this season.

“I feel pretty great about the robot this year. I think we have a pretty good shot (at winning com-petitions) this year,” Tobias said.

Robodogs’ senior lead pro-grammer Keith Nichols echoed Tobias’ sentiments.

“We (the team) did a lot of good work on the robot.”

Performing well in competi-tions can be beneficial to the team. This year, FIRST will provide $11 million in college scholarships to students who participate in robot-ics.

According to Wendt, colleges will be impressed by students that become involved with the FIRST Robotics Competition.

With those opportunities al-ways present, the Robodogs are sure not to lose sight of what at-tracted them to the team in the first place.

“I do (Robodogs) for the fun,” freshman Ahmed Shaaban said.

News February 26, 20102

3.3ISSMA Jazz

3.12-13Latin State Convention; Indiana University

3.14Daylight Saving Time Ends

3.17Musical Teaser; CPHS Auditorium

3.29-4.5Spring Break

Academic Decathlon re-ceived second place at the state finals at Purdue University on Feb. 13. This ranking qualifies the team for an online nationals tournament.

The team was led by Ryan Farrell who was the state over-all champion in the honors di-vision and brought home eight medals. Farrell’s accomplish-ment is a first for a Crown Point student. Junior Taylor Cantrell brought home four medals in-cluding bronze in the overall varsity division.

Also medaling for the team were junior Catherine Flesze-wski with five medals, senior Sam Sanders and junior Derek Hutchinson with two each, and junior Carmen Siew with one. The team is coached by English teacher John Lambersie.

Hall of Fame recognizes alumni, past teachers

Robodogs unveil new robotBy Mary-Katherine Lemonphotographer

“Girls Rock!” program mentors freshmen girls

By Michele Batesassociate editor

By Michele Batesassociate editor

INthe know

To celebrate the mile-stone of CPHS’ 130th Anni-versary, several retired teach-ers and alumni were inducted into the Hall of Fame at the “How Sweet It is to Be a Bull-dog” gala.

Alumni Hall of Fame inductees must have met the “Portrait of a Graduate” values (College, Career, Citi-zenship, Creativity, Courage, and Culture) in order to be considered About 20 nomi-nations each were sent in for the Alumni and Teacher Hall of Fame.

“(The Alumni Board of Directors and the Senior Am-bassadors) went over each of the applications and talked about who repersented each (Portrait of a Graduate value) and how they would fit,” Alumni Association secretary and Dean of Students Cynthia Dewes said.

John Fraire was one of the six individuals who was inducted into the “Portrait of a Graduate” Alumni Hall of Fame. He was inducted for College category because he received both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Harvard University.

“I feel very connected to Crown Point, so to be selected as an inaugural member of the Hall of Fame is quite an honor,” Fraire said.

Other Alumni Hall of Fame inductees included: Ag-nes Rose Koupal for Courage, Ron Thomas for Career, Jerry Ross for Citizenship, Robert DeJesus for Creativity, and Ron Webber for Culture.

Harriet Warner Hoton, Jim Carter, Alice Lauterbur, Alfred Gruber, Ed O’Brien, Marion Kellum, and Diane Sykes were the inductees for the Teacher Hall of Fame.

On Feb. 13, the Jazz Band was awarded an Outstanding Performance at the South Sub-urban College Jazz Festival in South Holland, Illinois. Senior alto saxophonist, Grace Gyure, received an Outstanding Soloist award for her feature perfor-mance in the ballad, “My Fool-ish Heart”; and senior trumpet player Mitch DeBoth also re-ceived an Outstanding Soloist award for his improvisation solo in “Sax-o-Rama” and “ La Suerte De Los Tontos.” The Jazz Band’s last performance of the season will be at the ISSMA Jazz Contest in LaPorte on March 6.

Teacher, Employee of the Year to be awarded

The Crown Point Com-munity School Corporation will select a “Teacher of the Year” re-cipient for both the elementary grades K-5 and the secondary grades 6-12.

The CPCSC will also select an “Employee of the Year” re-cipient. Any student, parent, or member of the general public may nominate a CPCSC em-ployee or teacher.

Nomination forms must be submitted by Friday, April 9, 2010, to the Crown Point Com-munity School Corporation.

Junior Chris Ashbrooks tests the Robodogs’ newest robot on Feb. 15. Ashbrooks is the driver for the robot. Gaining spon-sorship has been very important for the team lately. Robodogs needs around $15,000 to $20,000 a year to cover costs.

Academic Decathlon team awarded at state

Jazz band earns honor at Illinois jazz festival

Photo By M.K. LeMon

We talk about a different set of topics (in “Girls Rock!”) each

week.

“ “

- guidance counselor intern Michelle Morris

Most people know that the Olympic Games are held every four years, that a torch lighting ceremony is involved with the processions, and that the purpose for the games is to showcase the athletic prowess of countries throughout the world. But are they may not be aware that Crown Point High School is going to have an Olympics of its own.

The first ever Student Olympics are to be hosted on March 25, 2010, and is going to be sponsored by NHS, MSA, Key Club, and InterAct. The purpose of the fund raiser is to support the less fortunate individuals in Haiti.

“Right after the earthquake in Haiti, our MSA talked and decided we needed to do something to help.” MSA Vice President Needa Malik said. “We have been having weekly meetings with representatives from all the other clubs.”

Russ Marcinek, sponsor of the Key Club, was also working with his club to aide the Haitian people.

“Members of the MSA and InterAct asked us if we’d collaborate with them and help organize the Olympics.” Marcinek said. “It feels good anytime you can help others. That is the whole goal of Key Club.”

A list of events for the 2009-2010 Student Olympics are as follows: a weight lifting competition, five vs. five basketball game, dodgeball tournament, trivia game, hula hoop competition, relay race, dance off, rap battle, eating competition, and best friend/newlywed game. Teachers and students will be competing against each other.

More information on the Student Olympics can be obtained by contacting Malik, seniors Blake Zolfo and Matt Smith, head members of Interact, Michele Bates, who is taking sign-ups for the Olympics, or teacher Mrs. Mary Bachnak, sponsor of Interact.

“We don’t have a list of teachers yet, but you can expect a variety of departments to be represented,” Malik said. “Students can sign up to participate on a team for a $10 dollar entrance fee.”

She, as well as Marcinek, are both looking forward to the upcoming event.

“I think it will be a fun night for the students and faculty all for a good cause.” Marcinek said.

“I couldn’t be more excited,” Malik says. “We want to make it as big as possible so we can raise a large amount of money for all the people in need. Plus, I’m always up for an opportunity to embarrass the teachers.”

Heartbreak, war, and love all describe “Les Miserables,” which will be making its debut as this year’s musical by Crown Point High School.

“Les Miserables,” also known by its nickname “Les Mis,” was unveiled as this year’s spring musical. The plot stems from the book of the same name, written by Vic-tor Hugo in post-Napoleon France.

“Les Mis” has many plots throughout the whole musical, but mainly focuses on the story of Jean Valjean and his struggle to find redemption after being released from prison.

Musical director Kit Degenhart ex-plained that because last year’s “Beauty and the Beast” was such a huge success, he felt that the theater department should do another big musical.

Despite this, “Les Mis” incorporates as-pects that have never been done on Crown Point High School’s stage.

“(“Les Miserables”) is the first musical that we’ve done that is basically an opera; only about five or six lines in it are actually spoken,” Degenhart said.

Aside from this, there are many other aspects that set this musical apart from those of the past. Another difference being made will be what is going on behind the scenes.

“The way we’re presenting (“Les Mis”) is different; the design and lighting that will be used during the show will be something we’re bringing back from a past production or something we’ve never done before,” Degenhart said.

Practices for “Les Mis” started up with full force in order to help prepare the cast for opening night.

“Normally, we ease into the musical, having only two days a week for rehears-als. This time, we started every single day because this was an entirely different mu-sical we were dealing with,” Degenhart said.

Both sophomore Ethan DeLaughter and junior Lexi Diamond, members of the cast of “Les Mis,” agree.

“(‘Les Mis’) was much harder than last year’s musical, but it’s really going to pay

off with all of the practices that we’ve had,” DeLaughter said.

“There’s a lot more chorus numbers, which also makes it so much more differ-ent. Variety plays a big part of ‘Les Mis’ as well,” Diamond said.

“There’s more people in a lot of differ-ent scenes, and it’s not just having two or three songs for each group of people, un-like some shows that we’ve done in the past.”

Despite the changes, excitement once again is shared among the cast, crew and pit. The show’s name is literally translated to “the miserables,” but DeLaughter feels that the musical is going to be anything but that.

“I’m both excited and nervous, but I think that the show will go very well,” he said.

“Everyone should come see it, it’ll defi-nitely be worth your while!”

News 3February 26, 2010

Predominantly sung musical to be anything but miserable

By Becca Dugganentertainment editor

Student Olympics for Haiti relief

“Les Miserables” to open in MarchBy Donny Casillasphotographer

Senior Anna Bucci and sophomore Todd Aulwurm rehearse a scene for the upcoming production of “Les Miserables”. Bucci and Aulwurm play Eponine and Marius, respectively, in the musical.

March 12

Showtimes

@

Every March, the citizens of Indiana celebrate Disability Awareness Month. Over 19 percent of Indiana’s population is made up of adults and children with dis-abilities, making it an important issue for all of us.

Disability Awareness Month is led by the Indiana Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities and takes place all through the month of March. The theme for this year’s campaign for Disability Awareness Month is “Free Your Mind.”

To raise awareness about Disability Awareness Month, T-shirts were sold. The shirts were sold for $12 each throughout the month of February.

“This year we sold 420 T-shirts. Around 100 T-shirts were sold to students and 61 CPHS teachers also purchased a T-shirt,” special needs teacher Brandon Lorek said.

Those who purchased shirts are en-

couraged to wear them every Wednesday during March. The money made from T-shirt sales will be going towards new class-room equipment and technology.

“Last year we were able to purchase reading and math software along with vari-ous vocational job training kits. This year I’d like to a few more software programs and purchase some yellow recycling bins for the high school. I’m also planning to use some of the money to purchase new basketball uniforms for our special needs basketball team,” Lorek said.

In addition to raising T-shirts, students will also be giving a hands-on fair to show how people with special needs perform every day activities, in which most people without disabilities take for granted.

The special education department and the students in Lorek’s special needs class are hoping to enlighten others about dis-ability awareness and promote a positive attitude toward individuals with special needs.

Students promote disability awareness in MarchBy Brittany Curtismanaging editor

Senior Dan Corning works with Cassie Veljanoski on an art project during class. A total of 420 shirts were sold for Disability Awareness Month. Those who pur-chased shirts are encouraged to wear them every Wednesday in March.

Photo By GeorGia otte

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Students /Senior CitizensAdults $12

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(“Les Miserables”) is much harder than last year’s musical,

but it’s really going to pay off.

- sophomoreEthan DeLaughter

“”

Photo By D. CaillasPhoTo By D. CASILLAS

As a journalist, especially a high school one, prior review is an issue that I do not take lightly. I have flashbacks to my beginning journalism

class when we learned about the case of Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier, a U.S. Supreme Court decision which ruled that student publications have the rights promised to them by the First Amendment, but in a slightly weakened way. It’s one court decision that is still highly debated today.

Lake Central High School’s newspaper, The Scout, has been the recent recipient of much controversy concerning prior review. The Scout had decided to print an editorial about the recent resignation of the school’s football coach in which it criticized said coach’s performance. The paper was distributed, and then promptly pulled from hallways because it was “a disruption to the learning environment.”

This censorship is, in my opinion, not even the worst of it. The thing that upsets me is that Lake Central had already had prior review instituted, meaning the administration had reviewed the paper and given it the “OK” to print. So, if the administration was given the opportunity to tell the Scout staff to not print the editorial, how is it the newspaper staff’s fault that it was printed?

I’m not encouraging prior review by any means, and I am incredibly thankful for our own administration’s trust and respect to not institute something that takes away the rights given to me by the First Amendment. This situation clearly demonstrates that no matter who makes the final call on what gets published there is the potential for controversy.

Thankfully, the Lake Central School System eventually put the papers back in the classrooms, but as importantly, it made me thankful to be a student in a school system that trusts its journalists enough not to use prior review.

February 26, 2010OpiniOn4

State budget cuts harming education

By Brittany Curtismanaging editor

Lake Central’s controversy harms student rights

View:The 4.5 percent budget cut weighs heavy on students as 4,500 school jobs start to slip through the cracks and schools close due to insufficient funding

editorial

heard in the halls

Inklings

Inklings is a student publication distributed to students, faculty, and staff of Crown Point High School. It is published monthly by the newspaper and advanced journalism students. Opinions ex-pressed in Inklings do not reflect those of the CPHS faculty, staff, or the admin-istration.

Inklings welcomes and encourages signed letters-to-the-editor. Letters may be edited for space or clar-ity. Letters must be signed and turned in to room E107 one week prior to publications and must not contain personal attacks. Letters may also be sent via e-mail at inklings@cps.k12.in.us. Not all letters may be printed. Such decisions are the sole discretion of the Inklings editors and staff.

Advertising is subject to the applicable rate, cop-ies of which are available from Inklings advertising department or by contact-ing 663-4885 ext. 11349.

Inklings is a member of the Indiana High School Press Association, the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, National Scho-lastic Press Association and Quill and Scroll.

Inklings may be contacted at 1500 S. Main, Crown Point, IN, 46307; 219-663-4885 ext. 11349; fax 219-662-5663; or inklings@cps.k12.in.us.

EditorsCori NovelliDeanna Sheafer

editors-in-chiefMichele Bates

associate editorBrittany Curtis

managing editorLauren CainMatt Smith

copy editorsBecca Duggan

entertainment editorKelly Rostin

opinion editorHunter McKee

sports editorMilan SavichColin Likas

sports assistantsAnna Ortiz

graphics editorBecca Iddings

advertising editorAlyssa Blahunka

advertising assistantGeorgia Otte

chief photographerJoe NejmanAlex ParrishVinnie NeedhamMary-Katherine LemonDonnella Casillas

photographers

StaffAmmy EastoArley GomezGarret HoganLauren McCarrollDanielle McCuanMarwa NourHaajar Shaaban

AdviserJulie Elston

“The Robodogs is a great club and brings a lot of intelligence of the school together

sophomore Ryan Foulds

Robodogs

“I think we should give relief funds, so I bought a pin.”

freshman Anna Keilman

Haiti relief

“Soft drinks are putting a gas into your body. H20 is the way to go!”

junior Ethan Gresham

Soft drink dangers

Throughout the long, landslide recession we have become all too overly familiar with “out of business” signs, boarded up offices, and quickly disappearing companies. As students, most of us feel only a slight of that effect for not having dived into the economic business world quite yet. However it seems the downturn has hit home now. Indiana schools are now struggling to comply with the 4.5 percent budget cut made this year by state Governor Mitch Daniels.

Schools in the state are closing, extra-curricular activities are being cut, bus fees enacted, and 4,500 school jobs will be lost as a result. So where does that leave us? Obviously those jaunting after academic achievement will ultimately contribute to prospect career fields, so one wonders how much of the future is being put in jeopardy now. Even at our own high school, we see our teachers foregoing raises to their salaries as not to see their coworkers out of jobs.

Many students lining up for a career in education probably find this a threatening concept and we could be losing future great administrators and educators as a result. Not to mention that younger elementary students are being affected as well and may have fewer opportunities to participate in a variety of activities that could be cut because of the downturn. There is a point when simple, economic business choices cross over to questions of morality concerning the good of the community; and education cuts cross that line.

As much as teens grumble about school on a daily basis, the value of education cannot be underestimated. Even higher education funding is being reduced, making colleges like Indiana University possibly losing up to $59 million from their budget. At a time when higher education is crucial to obtaining a career, tuition likely will be dramatically raised.

This extreme educational budget slashing is ironic due to the recently popularized “space race” of education in which the U.S. is competing academically with China and India. But global competition aside, it isn’t fair to say “that the capacity to produce smarter citizens is too costly anymore,” because in the dog-eat-dog world (especially with sky rocketing technology and growing global problems) we cannot afford not to push for anything less than excelling education, even on smaller scales. The fact is, declining education and growing technology is a deadly mix and the state should be more aware of the big picture.

cartoon by anna ortiz

I

Don’t do drugs. It seems easy enough, but one look at some teenagers shows that staying clean isn’t always

that simple. And we all know that; it’s the reason D.A.R.E. and other drug resistance programs were created in the first place. But if these organizations are so plentiful, shouldn’t the efforts to help actual drug users get clean be just as abundant?

Amazingly, they aren’t—at all. As I was writing the story about the dangers of drugs, and it came time to describe some of the support facilities students can turn to, I realized just how hard it is for someone to actually get help.

Those I talked to gave vague answers with no real set plan on how anyone could get help overcoming an addiction. Others just plain told me to “check online!” We are always instructing teens to “talk to a trusted adult,” but if adults are sending students to see what the internet has to offer, who can teens really turn to?

Plus, I was approaching my interviews with an open mind, just looking for sources to write a story. I wasn’t dealing with the mental turmoil and nerves I’d imagine a user would be dealing with. I had nothing to hide, yet I was finding such difficulty finding resources. By all means, my interviewees were willing to offer me what they knew; they just weren’t educated in a way that would get help to a student.

There is no way someone who may be afraid to get a friend in trouble is going to muster up the confidence to pester adults until they get answers. I talked to four adults without receiving the information I needed. How many times is someone under the constricting grasp of an addictive drug going to reach out until they give up?

What students need is more resources and what adults need is more information. There needs to be either a specialist in the area students can find easily or specific websites and readily provided pamphlets for students to check out.

In any event, the process by which students can get help needs to be easier. Struggling with an addiction, alone, must be hard enough; making it easier is the least we can do.

Opinion 5February 26, 2010

In the past few years, many

forms of movie rental have

emerged to give competition to

the classic video store. Now, the world is faced

with a debate to determine what

will be the future of efficient and

easy-on-the-wallet movie

rental: Netflix or Redbox?

Help needed in treating drug abuse

By Lauren Caincopy editor

Netflix offers movies andinstantly streamed content

Redbox provides instant blockbuster movie access

Soph

omor

e

“Netflix is less expensive in the long run and much simpler.

Josh EalyAshley Curtis

Fres

hman

“Redbox, because it’s right there at the store.”

Paul Damjanocka

Juni

or

“Redbox, because it is more convenient than Netfilx.”

Brittany Fry

Seni

or

“Redbox. It’s faster and more convenient.”

ssue:

Which do you prefer, netflix or redbox?

speak up

Netflix vs. Redbox

By Cori Novellieditor-in-chief

In the olden days, one would have to trudge out to the car, travel the lengthy journey across town to the video store, scour the aisles for the movie of your choice (hoping that it was in stock), and start the arduous trek back home. Then, after approximately an hour and a half of enjoyment, the whole process is repeated five days later when the movie is due back. Redbox is no different, besides the change from a storefront to a box. Luckily, technological advances have led us to the days of Netflix.

This process is simple. You select movies from Netflix’s website, the host of over 75,000 movies, and they are all added to your “queue.” Then, you rank them in the order you want them to arrive at your door about two days after you send one back. No use of gas and time needed, unlike Redbox.

Also, you can keep every movie for as long as you desire. Sure, you have to budget your time to get a movie for the weekend, but with a little planning in advance, the system works beautifully. Currently, I get three movies at a time, and it is more than enough. There are many other plans, anything from one movie at once to unlimited. Plus, there are user reviews about each movie so you don’t waste your time on one you wouldn’t like. You can rank movies you have watched and the site will give you suggestions of ones you’d enjoy.

Besides all of the plans available, you can instantly stream all kinds of movies and television shows right to your TV screen, free of charge. Rexbox hasn’t really evolved from the days of driving out to video stores, and it offers even fewer movies with no reviews or free instant content. Netflix delivers right to your door and instantly on your television. RedBox cannot even compare to the speed and ease that Netflix provides.

Years ago, a debate about how to obtain DVD’s would have been a trivial discussion. Anything would be accepted as long as it meant avoiding a trek to the local Blockbuster to get a VHS tape of the newest release. However, as we’ve progressed from the VHS days, this debate is near and present and Redbox is the most convenient way to receive the newest releases as opposed to Netflix mail-in orders.

As a self-admitted indecisive girl, it’s hard to know what kind of movie I’ll be in the mood for at any given time. With Netflix, by the time you put a movie at the top of your queue, you have to wait about two days before receiving it (and if its a popular movie, wait can be about weeks). By then, how can you be sure you want to see it right then? However, with Redbox, you can pick up as many movies as you want.. Also, if you decide you don’t want to watch it right then, you can keep it for another night and they will conveniently just charge another dollar on your credit card.

Also, the prices are drastically different. In order to keep three movies at a time via Netflix, you have to pay $15.95. This is about the same as getting 15 movies from Redbox in one month. In order to make the most of your money, movies would have to constantly be exchanged to make it worth the price.

Redbox also offers the option of reserving your movie in advance to ensure it’s there when you want it. Redbox is much more instantaneous and is economically wiser for the average person who only watches a couple movies a month. While both options are advanced by leaps and bounds when it comes to being technologically savvy, one is clearly the standout and that is Redbox for its ease on your life as well as your wallet.

By Deanna Sheafereditor-in-chief

Cartoon by Danny MCCuan

It gives you energy to start your day. It helps you stay alert in your classes. It is the one thing that will ensure you a better grade and yet less than 10 percent of teenag-ers reach the desired amount of nine hours of sleep a night.

“The average amount of sleep that teenagers and young adults up to 22 years old should get is 9.25 hours. That’s the average for the brain to work at its best,” Dr. Larry Salberg, MD said. Salberg practices Clinical Neurophysiolo-gy and Neurology in Merrillville, Indiana.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, sleep is essential because it re-freshes the brain and body to start another day.

When adolescents don’t get enough sleep, there can be masses of consequences.

“If you are chronically sleep deprived, you may suffer from depression, mood problems, trou-ble concentrating and paying at-tention, lack of memory, tendency to eat more calories, obesity, and high blood pressure,” Salberg

said.When teens don’t get enough

rest, they become tired and less productive. This can affect their performance in school.

“Most of the time when I don’t pay attention, it’s because I’m sleepy,” sophomore Stephanie Scott said.

Sleep deprivation further-more causes weakening of the im-mune system and irritability.

“I’m cranky when I’m tired, therefore I won’t want to pay at-tention or do what I’m being told,” Scott said.

Lack of sleep can even simu-late effects of aging and lead to depression in the long run.

Teen’s have what Salberg calls a circadian rhythm, which is a daily rhythmic activity cycle based on 24-hour intervals. This “biological clock” makes teen’s bodies react in more drastic ways than adults.

“It is a teen’s natural tenden-cy not to get sleepy until late at night and then they want to sleep normally for nine hours,” Salberg said.

It is also important to get a sufficient amount of uninterrupt-ed sleep because it can’t all always be made up.

“Sleep deprivation is accu-mulative,” Salberg said. “You can only make up for 2 hours of sleep you missed.”

Usually, teens tend to become tired at around 10 p.m., making them very reluctant to wake up nine hours later at 7 a.m.

A problem with this is that society makes it very difficult for teens to have such a sleep cycle with school starting so early.

“When students fall asleep, they miss stuff. The teacher is unlikely to go over the material and is unlikely to help you. It is the students own fault if they fall asleep during class, and it impacts the grades negatively,” history teacher Don Bernacky said.

For some students, school and extra curricular activities also make it difficult for them to get to sleep on time.

“I have gymnastics practice or meets until late at night and then I have to go home and do homework, so I end up going to bed around midnight or 12:30 a.m.,” Scott said.

Such situations make it dif-ficult for teens to get the recom-mended amount of sleep per night. However, some actions can be taken by students to get a more

restful sleep, or help to get to sleep, even if it is for less time.

Eating and drinking certain foods can also help students to sleep easier. For example, chamo-mile tea calms the nervous system and helps to bring restful sleep. Calcium rich food and drinks, such as milk, also have a calming effect.

Students should avoid all products with caffeine after about 4 p.m. Also, avoid snacking on foods with grains and sugars. They can raise blood sugar and hinder sleep.

Additionally, a good book is great to help drift off.

“Reading at night before I go to sleep makes me feel tired,” sophomore Jon Maginot said.

Set the stage for sleeping. Turn off the computer and TV at least an hour before sleeping and play some music you find relax-ing.

Taking steps to ensure a ful-filling and restful sleep is impor-tant for teens’ health now, as well as in the future.

“Whatever happens now car-ries on with you,” Bernacky said. “If you sleep in school, you get a detention; if you sleep on the job, you get fired.”

February 26, 20106

AskLaugh

ExploreWonderInspireLiveIIonlife

Pres

entin

g

Senior Alex Menn gives a speech during class.

Performing

By Haajar Shaaban and Kayla Martisekstaff reporter and guest writer

Lights Out : Sleep deprivation takes its toll on students

by the numbers

Facts from: CNN, National Commission on Sleep Disorders, and the National Sleep Foundation’s Annual Sleep Survey (2002)

of all high school students fall asleep in school.

20%

6.9

$150 billionSleep deprivation costs

each year in higher stress and reduced worker

productivity.

of all Ameri-cans cannot get up without an

alarm clock.

½

74 percent of all Ameri-

cans do not get enough sleep each

night.

30-40percent of heavy

truck accidents are due to driver fa-

tigue.

average number

of hours of sleep per day, which is almost an hour less than a few

decades ago

1/3of Americans have

trouble sleeping every night.

A student falls asleep during class and regrets staying up late. Students should get about 9.5 hours of sleep each night, while most only get about 6.9 hours.

Senior Mercedes Gonzales perfects her gymnasic skills during team practice.

Photo by Mary-Katherine LeMon

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February 26, 2010 7Feature

As students near their senior year, important college preparations are always on the mind. One of the most important aspects of graduation when preparing to apply to colleges is the SAT test.

“The SAT test is a high stakes tests that can help students get into their preferred college. For many colleges, SAT test scores are the second most important indicator for success after GPA,” English teacher John Lambersie said.

Since the test is so important in regards to students’ futures, students prepare for the test in several different ways. Junior Emily Featherstone took a practice test through the school. While she says the test is grueling, Featherstone knows the importance of the SAT.

“SAT scores are very important if you want to get into a good college. The test is really long and it really helps to know small tips to help you get through the test as painlessly as possible,” Featherstone said. Senior Needa Malik prepared and studied using SAT prep books.

“I knew that I needed to

study for this test so I purchased a few SAT prep books,” she said. They were helpful in giving me practice problems and showing me what the test might be like.”

Lambersie agrees that test books are a good way to prepare for the test.

“Students should buy a test prep book months before the exam and spend at least one hour per weekend reading it over,” he said.

Taking a practice test before a student takes the test “for real” is a good way for students to prepare.

“You have to prepare for them so you know what to expect,” Featherstone said.

“(By taking a practice test) students can see what they’re horrible at, and then study that part. Students must be familiar with the types of questions asked,” Lambersie said.

Students here also have the opportunity to sign up for “SAT Boot Camp” run by Lambersie. The camp takes place two weeks prior to the June test, and is designed to familiarize students with what is on the SAT.

Malik took this boot camp last year.

“I feel like I learned the most from (Lambersie’s) review

sessions. He reviewed so many important concepts. It was perfect to refresh my memory for the test,” Malik said.

Senior Daniel Maginot participated in the boot camp as well.

“It was a really good way to prepare for the SAT because we went over concepts that I needed refreshing on,” Maginot said. “I feel that it helped me out a lot on the actual test.”

Whether students study on their own or take part in the class review session “Boot Camp” (students can sign up in April for the $100 review session), students agree that SAT preparation is vital for success on the all too important test.

“It’s definitely important to prepare for them. They’re such a crucial part of your college profile, and it’s important to take them seriously,” Malik said.

.

Standardized test success vital to students’ futures By Kelly Rostinopinion editor

Reso

lutio

n

Students prepare for important SAT test in numerous unique ways

Sophomore Amanda Victor flips through a SAT prep book. Students use these books as a studying technique.

Upd

ate Breaking Bad Habits Staying Fit Keeping Grades Up

Anna Ortizgraphics editor

Brittany Curtismanaging editor

Dani McCuanstaff reporter

Photo by Alex PArrish

Bradshaw CollegeConsulting

College Admissions ConsultingPSAT/SAT tutoring

Gerald M. Bradshawwww.BradshawCollegeConsulting.comGerald_bradshaw@post.harvard.edu

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I have been seeking help from my dad with homework almost every single day, and it has really started to pay off. I am steadily beginning to grasp the concepts of Algebra II. Instead of just barely managing to earn a D- on my quizzes, I am actually passing them with much higher grades. I have also been working harder towards studying; I have managed to memorize a few of the formulas, as well as improve on other aspects that I was having trouble in before.

I began getting down a solid schedule of differ-ent little workout routines such as doing crunches, practicing boxing, and other made-for-small-areas exercises throughout my week. I also make sure I do some stretches before school, which is surpris-ingly enough an important work out in itself. I feel less bothered by the cabin fever I’m prone to in this time of the year, which I attribute to exercising. But I’m definitely eager for spring to restart my jog-ging/running again.

I decided to get a manicure to try and prevent myself from biting my nails. I figured that if my nails actually looked nice, I would be less likely to bite my nails. And it did work… for a little while. It seems as if biting my nails is more of a subconscious activity, because I didn’t even notice that I was biting my nails until I looked down, again. I’m thinking that I need to invest in some of that bad-tasting nail polish, because making a conscious effort is not enough.

SAT Bootcamp

Cost: $100Sign up in April

Contact: John Lambersie

February 26, 2010Feature8

Paintballing field with a twistBy Donny Casillasphotographer

Paintballing at a local field has taken a new turn with an original idea that is sure to attract both experienced and new paintball players.

Blast Camp, a paintball field located in Hobart, IN, not only has regular paintball games, but themed ones as well.

“Love Hurts” was the most recent themed game for February and was put together in honor of Valentine’s Day. “Battle of Hoth” was January’s theme, consisting of a “Star Wars” story line to the game.

Blast Camp owner Scott Gorincen wants to keep up the activity of the themed paintball games.

“We try to plan games for every other month; our next one is on May 16, and it’s a “Simpsons” simulation called ‘The Battle for Springfield,’” Gorincen said.

Blast Camp also gives its players a chance to save money. “Battle of Hoth” contestants that dressed up as characters from the movie “Star Wars” had a $10 discount on their original $30 entry fee. Gorincen also plans to include the same for other games as well.

“People who dress up as a character from ‘The Simpsons’ for ‘The Battle of Springfield’ can expect a discount on their entry fee again,” Gorincen said.

But that’s not the only way a participant can get a discount for a themed game.

“Registering online for a game such as ‘Battle of Hoth’ or ‘Love Hurts’ saved people money because we also take discounts when you sign up on our website,” Gorincen said. “Of course, this will be available to games that are scheduled for the year.”

As of 2010, Blast Camp also lowered their prices and added to what they have to offer to their customers.

“Each player is saving about ten percent off of the prices last year,”

said Gorincen. “We’ve also put bundles together for our players so that they only have to pay once instead of multiple times during games.”

Blast Camp is also the longest running paintball field in the area and has some history behind it, once being an Army base for the Cold War.

“(The field) is a Nike Missile base C-47 and was used as an air defense system for the Chicagoland area,” said Gorincen. “In 1988, the former owners bought the field from the government, and then put it up for public sale where I bought the land.”

Gorincen is happy with the status Blast Camp has.

“This field has been a paintball field longer than a military base, but it’s actually the longest running paintball field in the Chicago area,” he said.

Gorincen is confident that success is sure to come around more often now that this idea is presented.

“The past two months have been very successful. I’m sure that future players will have fun while playing on the field with the themes.”

Blast Camp is open on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., from March to December. The only exception is the themed games that are held.

The field is located at 563 West 600 North, Hobart, IN. Blast Camp can be called at (219) 947-7733 or e-mailed at support@blastcamp.com if there are any questions.

It is the longest

running field in the area

1302-3 N. Main St.Crown Point, IN 46307

219-661-1090Monday-Friday 9-9

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Blast Camp in Hobart offers themed games

Blast Camp was an ex-

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Discounts are offered when registered on website, or if in a costume

Theme on May 16 is a Simpsons

theme

February 26, 2010 Feature 9

Don’t “do the dew” daily

Sugar. Artificial sweeteners. Caffeine. Acids. Preservatives. Artificial flavoring. Sodium. Most people don’t think about all of these substances entering their body when they pop the tab on a can of pop. But, soft drinks do contain harmful ingredients, and if ingested daily, will have harmful effects on health in the future.

“I heard on the news that drinking two or more servings of pop can cause increase your chances of developing pancreatic cancer,” junior Rachel Adams said.

Teenagers tend to think that because pop is a drink, it doesn’t have that many calories or contain much sugar. In reality, there are 39 grams of sugar in a single can of pop. In a sugar packet, there is about four grams of sugar. That means that every 12 ounce can contains almost 10 sugar packets.

Even though it lacks the raw sugar in regular pop, diet pop isn’t always the best choice either. Aspartame is an artificial sweetener made from aspartic acid, often used as a calorie-free sweetener in diet beverages. It has also been linked to many diseases and increased weight gain, though there isn’t concrete evidence.

Besides sugar, pop contains acid that erodes teeth enamel. “Dark” soft drinks (ones that are

cola-based) contain phosphoric acid, while “light-colored” soft drinks contain citric acid. Both erode enamel extensively when exposed to frequently, even though some think dark-colored pop is more harmful.

“I thought light-colored pop was less damaging on your teeth than dark colored pop,” Adams said.

Some teens drink pop in the morning for their daily caffeine fix. Although it is effective in keeping your eyes open first period, caffeine does eventually

cause a crash. “It may for a short time

make you feel more alert and able to stay awake but that will eventually leave and can cause you to feel shaky, faint/dizzy and make it difficult to function or concentrate well as feeling tired from being up long hours,” school nurse Carrie Ready said. So what are your alternatives?

“Water – it has no caffeine or calories – is a good substitute. It is important to hydrate our bodies with fluids and water does that best. Nutritionally milk,

low or no fat; it has natural and enriched vitamins and minerals. And pure fruit juice (no extra sugar or flavoring added) has the nutrition of the fruit but it also can have a high sugar content which means more calories and should be drunk in limited quantities,” Ready said.

Water saves calories and money at restaurants. It’s always available and is an effective way to rehydrate. Since teenagers are still growing, milk is a necessity so our bodies receive the vitamins and calcium needed.

By Deanna Sheaferco-editor-in-chief

Recent study shows drinking two soft drinks per day increases risk for cancer

SUGAR

ACID

Artificial

Flavoring

Artificial

Sweeteners

SALT

Preservatives Caffeine

PHOTOS BY G. OTTE

Drinking

2 ormore

soft drinksper daynearly

DOUBLESa person’s

risk of developing pancrea t i c cancer, one of the most deadly forms

of cancer

This is how many packets of sugar are in every 12 oz. can of soda pop

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10

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Feature10

According to guidance counselor Peg Shaffer, the process starts with “just getting high and having a great weekend” to esca-lating until the addiction “sneaks up on you and distorts your thoughts.” And while drug users may start out their habit in secret, it doesn’t stay that way. There are very apparent behavioral changes that result from drug use.

According to school nurse Carrie Ready, basic signs of drug use include dilated pupils, lack of focus, slurred speech, and jittery or lethargic behavior. Yet while the user may be unaware of such behavioral differences, accord-ing to Shaffer, “[users] will think they’re okay, but mentally, they’re not.”

Student X knows secondhand the effects of drug use on an in-dividual. What started with her friend in middle school experi-menting with just marijuana, has turned into him using Oxycon-tin, antidepressants, prescription pain killers like Vicodin, and even heroin.

“In the beginning, my friend [Student Y] would actually tell me about his drug use, but I could tell after a while by the people he was hanging with that he was getting into harder drugs,” X said. “At the time, I honestly didn’t care because I knew my caring didn’t matter. But then again, I also didn’t really know what he was doing when he went out. I thought he was smart-er than that,” she added.

X would see her friend arrive high to places on various drugs but later found out that Y was even sneaking out of his window at night to use illegal substances.

“It used to be that he was my close friend, who occasionally did drugs. It turned into being the drugs consuming his life,” stu-dent X said.

While X initially felt passive towards her friend’s self-destruc-tive behavior, she eventually de-

cided she needed to alert someone of his problem. Unfortunately, ac-cording to X, it was hard getting help.

“He would always say he was okay. He wouldn’t listen to me,” she said.

According to Shaffer, one reason why it is so hard to reach

drug-addicted individuals is be-cause their thought process is not natural; it’s drug induced. This may stay the case until something pulls them back to reality.

“Users may take drugs until they hit rock bottom—after they have lost their friends, their fam-ily, everything. It’s after this that they may realize [drugs] aren’t worth it,” physical education teacher Lindsay Hattendorf said. Up until that point, it can be hard for others to persuade a user that he or she is risking their relation-ships and ultimately their life.

Similar to most cases, Student Y’s drug use has ruined the two’s lifelong friendship.

“I don’t talk to him anymore, but I have another friend who oc-casionally does. We found out that Y hid a lot of his drug-use from us because he knew we wouldn’t ap-prove,” X said.

Despite this, X was persis-tent about learning more of her friend’s situation.

“When I was around him, I would act like I didn’t care [about the drugs], hoping this would en-courage him to feel open about what he was doing,” X said.

What X learned truly shocked her.

“I was so surprised, I didn’t

know how to react. We had grown up together—I was amazed how different paths two people can take,” X said.

Although X and her other friends do not do drugs, student Y fell into what Shaffer considers the “constricting grasp” of sub-stance abuse. Why? According to student X, it’s partly due to Y’s in-fluence at home.

“There really aren’t any pun-ishments for bad behavior. He is free to do what he wants without consequences,” X said.

When family life doesn’t ac-commodate a healthy atmosphere, there are measures that others close to a user can take to help prevent devastating outcomes. Support groups and hotlines exist for individuals to further their un-derstanding of the problem and hopefully find help and support.

According to school psy-chologist Kathryn Huls, there is a group in Merrillville called Ala-teen.

“It’s a weekly meeting where teens come together and deal with friends and family addicted to al-cohol,” she said.

Fresh Start, located in both Merrillville and Valparaiso, is an-other facility that helps individu-als deal with substance abuse. Unlike Alateen, this program is for those who have accepted that they have a problem and are will-ing to get help.

Apart from attending sup-port meetings, actually confront-ing the problem is the first, most vital step in getting a friend help.

“I encourage others to first sit down with their friend or family member and talk about the prob-lem,” Student X said.

Without help, consequences can be devastating.

“I know he’s not going to stop until something tragic makes him stop, and that could even be death,” X said.

For more ways to get help, visit your guidance counselor.

“We aren’t here to get you in trouble. We’re only here to help,” Shaffer said.

Information provided by Nation-al Institute on Drug Abuse

Americans ages 12 and old-er had abused cocaine and 1.1 million had abused crack.Americans ages 12 and older

had abused heroin.

Americans ages 12 and older had abused Ecstacy.

Americans ages 12 and older had abused inhalants.

in 2008, at least once in the year prior to being surveyed...

Information provided by National Institute on Drug Abuse

By Cori Novellico-editor-in-chief

I know he’s not going to stop

until something tragic makes him stop, and

that could even be death.

“ “

of effectsILLEGALSUBSTANCES

cocaineCocaine increases body temperature, blood pres-sure, and heart rate. Users risk heart attacks, respiratory failure, strokes, seizures, abdominal pain, and nausea.

marijuanaShort-term effects of mari-juana use include eupho-ria, distorted perceptions, memory impairment, and difficulty thinking and solv-ing problems.

heroinHeroin depresses breath-ing; thus, overdose can be fatal. Users who inject the drug risk infectious diseas-es such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.

ecstacyAdverse health effects of ecstacy can include nau-sea, chills, sweating, teeth clenching, muscle cramping, and blurred vision. It can in-terfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature; on some occasions, this can be lethal.

inhalantsNearly all inhalants produce a loss of sensation and even unconsciousness. Irreversible effects can be hearing loss, limb spasms, brain damage, or bone marrow damage. Inhalants also displace oxygen in the lungs, which can result in death even on the first try.

KNOW?Did you

Methamphetamine is considered

America’s most dangerous drug.

MSNBC.com

25.8 millionAmericans ages 12 and older had abused marijuana.

453,0005.3 million

2.1 million2 million

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health,

The devastatingdangers of DRUGS

What starts with a quick thrill can escalate into a full blown drug addiction. And they all start somewhere. Who says to-night is not the night you get hooked?

I’ll just try it tonight. They’re all doing it, and they’re fine. It’ll be cool...I’ve done it before; it was fun. And they do it all the time. No big deal...I’m fine; leave me alone. Just let me do what I want!

February 26, 2010

Apple is no stranger to revo-lutionizing the way that we look at technology. With products like the iPod, iPhone, Mac, and Mac-book, Apple has certainly cement-ed its status as the go-to company for the latest gadgets.

When Apple announced that it would be releasing a new prod-uct, fans of the technological ty-coon waited anxiously to see what new product would be released. On January 27, 2010 the release of the iPad, Apple’s newest product, was announced.

The iPad was debuted to somewhat chilly reviews from the

press, and was subject to numer-ous jabs at its name and lackluster innovation. The iPad seems only mildly different from a supersized iTouch, with a 9.7 in touch screen. With Wi-Fi, the ability to down-load apps, and e-mail accessibility listed as its main selling points, it raises the question as to the actual usefulness of the product.

“I was really excited to hear that the Apple was coming out with new technology, but when I heard about the iPad, I was less than impressed. I don’t really see the difference between it and a big iTouch,” senior Mitchell Adducci said.

The Wi-Fi version of the iPad is set to go on sale worldwide in

late March 2010, while the Wi-Fi 3G version is to be sold only in the United States in late April 2010.

Buyers should be warned, though; to access 3G, customers will have to pay a monthly service fee of $14.99 for up to 250MB of data or $29.99 for unlimited data. The iPad will be “unlocked,” meaning different carriers will be viable.

“I really don’t see the point in getting [an iPad,] I just don’t see how this is supposed to revo-lutionize technology,” Maginot said.

The iPad’s pricing starts at $499 and can be priced all the way up to $829. More information can be found at www.apple.com.

Arts & EntErtAinmEnt 11February 26, 2010

InformatIon compIled by InklIngs edItors

favorite things

a few of our

Owl City show in Valpo proves to be mediocreBy Garret Hoganstaff reporter

myview

By Brittany Curtismanaging editor

iPad debut garners mixed reviews

“alIce In Wonderland”This visually stunning re-

make of the classic children’s story has movie stars Australian actress Mia Wasikowska as Alice, Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter, Helena Bonham Carter as the Red Queen, and Anne Hathaway as the White Queen. Avril Lavigne contributed a new song for the song track. Tim Burton, known for directing Charlie and the Choc-olate Factory and The Nightmare Before Christmas puts his spin on the story. In this adaptation, Alice is nineteen years old and return-ing to the magical world from her childhood to stop the Red Queen. The movie premiers March 5.

25 years ago, “We Are the World,” involving Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, and Lionel Ritchie became a hit song all across the globe. Now, stars such as Usher, Natalie Cole, and John Legend are lending their talents to a remake of the song with the proceeds from the video and single will go to

aid those affected by the disaster in Haiti.

WInter olympIcs

The Winter Olympics have something for every-one with events like skiing, figure skating, bob-sled-ding, speed skating, luge, curling, and many more. We all remember the con-troversial figure skater who walked away with the gold, Evan Lysacek. Although he didn’t attempt a difficult move, his other skills were deemed more polished. Crowd favorite Lindsey Vonn also received the gold for alpine skiing, despite the fact she’s recovering from an injury.

“Lightning Thief” fails to impressBy Becca Dugganentertainment editor

On Feb. 11 the Union Board at Valparaiso Univer-sity hosted the band Owl City at 9 p.m. For the mere price of $10, I was fifteen feet away from Adam Young, lead singer. When I arrived at the Harre Union Ballroom, I was intrigued to see an enormous line with anxious people ready to hear Owl City’s new album “Ocean Eyes.”

For $10, I will admit I was not expecting much, however this concert was mediocre. The ballroom in which the concert took place was perhaps the worst room to choose from because the acoustics in the room were not at all great, it was practically impossible to hear as the sounds from the drums, guitar, piano and vo-cals were all bouncing around. The sound system as well was below average and kept mak-ing the ear wrenching sound similar to when you place a microphone near a speaker. While I was trying to enjoy my favorite songs, I was pushed and shoved by crazed fans trying to get closer to the stage to see Adam Young, and to top that off, someone threw up three feet away from me and for the entire three hours I was there, it was as well.

Though I cannot blame the young girl’s stomach acid problems for my wasted night, I can blame Adam Young. It is always expected at a concert for the performance to go on later than what it says on your ticket. This concert was scheduled to be on at 6 p.m. and Owl City was scheduled to be on at 7 p.m., or at least that’s what it said on my ticket. Young however made every-one standing up in the audi-ence wait until 9 p.m.

After his first song, “On the Wing”, Young apologized because he said he was sick and that was his excuse for sounding the way he did. However, when I asked around, people said that is what he often sounded like at a live concert, which makes you think maybe magic really can happen in a recording studio.

“We are the World” remake

Percy Jackson had his father’s legacy to live up to, and this mov-ie had the popularity of its book to live up to. Luckily, at least Percy fulfilled his end of the bargain.

“Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” is based on the book of the same name by Rick Riordan. If a viewer watches the film as a reader of the book, the differences between the movie and the book is dramatic and distracting.

The plot consists of a seem-ingly average boy, Percy Jackson (played by Logan Lerman), who lives with his mother and her revolting boyfriend. At first, the only thing that could be found unusual about Percy is that he is able to spend an abnormally long amount of time underwa-ter, where he feels truly at ease. However, due to a school field trip gone awry, Percy stumbles upon a centuries-old secret- his father is a Greek god. Percy dis-covers that his best friend, Grover (played by Brandon T. Jackson), is actually a mythological creature called a satyr and had actually been assigned to be his protector by the gods. When Percy finds out who he truly is, he is taken to a camp for demigods and other supernatural creatures. However, he does not make it there with-out losing the one thing he cares about most- his mother. He forms an unlikely friendship with Ath-ena’s daughter, Annabeth (played by Alexandra Daddario), whose mother hates Percy’s father. The remainder of the movie entails Percy dealing with his newfound powers, important friendships, and his quest to find his mother.

The aspect the movie lacked was good pacing, which put ev-erything else off balance. The sto-ry moved too quickly, so impor-tant details were not developed. For example, one would think that Percy would be angry that his best friend Grover never told him the truth behind his heritage. Instead, this point is never ad-dressed; in fact, Percy and Grover hardly have a conversation about the family tree revelation. Rel-evant details like that can bring a movie to life, and a lack thereof in this movie made the plot seem lifeless.

Another disappointment was the lack of original, captivating music. The “Harry Potter” movie series even has its signature tune, but “The Lightning Thief” ne-glected to display a decent score. Instead, fight scenes lacked excite-ment and meaningful moments lost their spark due to the music-related negligence. Better action music could have enhanced the battle scenes, and more romantic music could have added to the chemistry between Percy and An-nabeth.

The lovable characters and special effects, however, made the movie worthwhile. One could not help but be engrossed in Per-cy’s personal journey, especially when high-quality special effects made his world so realistic. The mythical creatures that Percy fought against were terrifying in their realism. Percy’s friends, An-nabeth and Grover, also added much-needed originality to the film. Grover’s timely comedic relief made the entire audience chuckle, even the adults.

Fans of the Percy Jackson book series may be bothered by the amount of changes made to

the plot of the book to fit the time limit of the movie. For example, Percy discovers that his father is actually king of the sea, Poseidon, early on in the movie. However, in the book, he does not know this until much later on. There are multiple other changes that are more glaring than the changes made to the Harry Potter book se-ries to fit their own movies.

Truthfully, “The Lightning Thief” would not be a movie that I would see again. The plot and how the movie is portrayed seems to be geared toward a younger audience. However, it is fun for those who read the book and younger children looking for entertainment and not necessar-ily developed plot lines.

He’s back. Christofer Ingle began his career with Never Shout Never in 2007, quickly rising to fame with singles such as “Bigcitydreams” and “Trouble,” and successfully winning the hearts of millions. With the release of his new album “What is Love?” he brings back catchy melodies once again for his ever-growing fan base. And like all good albums, “What is Love?” holds a few surprises along the way.

For the most part, Never Shout Never stays with what they do best: upbeat, cutesy love songs topped off by Ingle’s unique, almost childlike vocals. Songs like “California,” “I Love You 5,” and “Can’t Stand It” will stick in anyone’s head for days. These are the songs that truly

make the album.At times, the band moves

away from their signature style and takes on a more serious tone. In the album’s title song “What is Love,” Ingle slows down the pace and tackles the issue of his parents divorce, showing listeners a side of himself that is rare. While the darker tone of these songs doesn’t always suit Ingle’s voice, the writing is brilliant and really forces the listener to think about these larger issues.

Aside from the band’s ven-ture into darker issues, the mu-sic just makes you feel happy. Never Shout Never’s newest album, if nothing else, brings hope and happiness to the mu-sic world. On a day when noth-ing seems to be going right, it is amazing how easily a Ingle’s voice can make everything just a little bit brighter.

KABOOM! POW! BANG! As the celebrity flies out in a dress made entirely of glow sticks on a dragon, the crowd goes wild while fireworks explode above their heads. This seems to be the near future of entertainment because just singing a song the way it’s sup-posed to be sung while fully dressed in front of a crowd just isn’t entertaining anymore. As seen on the Grammys, it takes a monster house stocked with a piano and a green leotard thong with shoulder-pads to get the fans screaming and the press foaming at the mouth for more.

The infamous Lady Gaga, has shot straight to the top of the charts with instantaneous hit songs. She definitely knows how to entertain, but when is their a limit to the shock factor? There is a fine line between being an entertainer and just trying to get attention. Gaga seems to be strutting right across this line.

The truth of the matter is she has her fans eating out of the palm of her hand. What may seem outra-geous to some has got others begging for more. And maybe she is merely being an enter-tainer. Because at times there is even some symbolism inter-twined with Gaga’s creations. However, it seems she will do anything to get her hands on The Fame. If that means throw-ing designer outfits into the blender and wearing whatever she pulls out first she will do it. Even if it will transform her into a Fame Monster. Perhaps this is the future of performers; the crowd wants to be shocked and awed, not just entertained by talented musicians.

Throughout history, simi-lar stunts have been pulled off by artists, such as Madonna, who was in a situation very similar to Gaga. In the ‘80s, she would often break the norm, drawing the media towards her rapidly. To this day Madonna is still a major force in the music industry.

Perhaps publicity, whether good or bad, is power for artists. Unfortunately, it takes more than just talent to put your name down in history.

For 82 years, celebrities and fans alike have come together for the thrill of being nominated, nominating oth-

ers, and of course winning the Oscar itself. The world, wide-eyed and on the edge of their seat, has wit-

nessed films such as “West Side Story” and “Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” win best picture, and actor Tom Hanks being named best actor two years in a row for “Philadelphia” and “Forrest Gump.” Now, years later, on March 7 we approach another exciting night of memories, disappointment, and amazement.

Top of the box office “Avatar” is nominated for 9 Oscars

including Best Picture, Directing, and Music (score). Other popular films nominated include “The Blind Side,” “Inglourious Basterds,” “Up,” “The Hurt Locker,” and “District 9.” Actors and actresses includ-

ing George Clooney, Morgan Freeman, and Sandra Bullock are also nominated for their share of awards.

Not really a movie buff? That’s okay. Award shows have certain aspects for everyone. Even if you watch the red carpet for just the

newest designer dresses or just to catch a glimpse of a hottest Hollywood hunk, there is something for everyone. And plus, with Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin hosting the 82nd annual Oscars, a comedic touch will also find it’s way through the doors of the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles.

Arts & EntErtAinmEnt12 February 26, 2010

By Lauren McCarrolstaff reporter

Celebrity shock factor: how much is too much?

What’s on your iPod?

Oscars celebrate year in filmBy Ammy Eastostaff reporter

Speechless Lady Gaga

Tie Me Down New Boyz

Why Rascall Flatts

Paige Hyneksenior

Party In the U.S.A. Miley Cyrus

One Time Justin Bieber

Yellow Light Twista

Ashley Kolet junior

Brett Haskellsophomore

Leave Me Alone Tech N9ne

Lemonade Gucci Mane

Time to Pretend MGMT

Braxton Ricefreshman

Annual awards show honors achievements in movie industry

Review

Watch My Shoes Lil Wayne

Uptown Drake

Beautiful Eminem

Never Shout Never comes out with new CDBy Matt Smithco-copy editor

mypicks

Best Motion Picture: Nominations Avatar The Blind SideDistrict 9An EducationThe Hurt LockerInglourious BasterdsPrecious: Based on the novel ‘Push’ by SapphireA Serious ManUpUp in the Air

Actor in a Leading Role: NominationsJeff Bridges- Crazy HeartGeorge Clooney- Up in the Air

Colin Firth- A Single ManMorgan Freeman- InvictusJeremy Renner- The Hurt Locker

Actress in a Leading Role: NominationsSandra Bullock- The Blind SideHelen Mirren- The Last StationCarey Mulligan- An EducationGabourey Sidibe- Pre-cious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by SapphireMeryl Streep- Julie & Julia

Actor in a

Supporting Role: NominationsMatt Damon- InvictusWoody Harrelson- The

Messenger Christopher Plummer- The Last StationStanley Tucci- The Lovely

BonesChristoph Waltz-

Inglourious Basterds

Actress in a Supporting Role: Nominations

Penelope Cruz- NineVera Farmiga- Up in the AirMaggie Gyllenhaal- Crazy HeartAnna Kendrick- Up in the AirMo’Nique- Precious: Based

on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sap-phire

Animated Feature:NominationsCoralineFantastic Mr. FoxThe Princess and the FrogThe Secret of Kells Up

Achievement in Directing: NominationsJames Cameron- AvatarKathryn Bigelow- The Hurt LockerQuentin Tarantino- Inglourious BasterdsLee Daniels- Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by SapphireJason Reitman- Up in the Air

Much like the previous one, this year’s post-season has been good to the wrestling team. While the team state finals don’t take place until tomorrow, some of the team’s hard work was on display last weekend.

Sophomore Jason Tsirtsis capped off an undefeated season (42-0) with his second career in-dividual championship, this one coming in the 130 pound weight class.

Also collecting some hard-ware was junior Eric Roach. Like Tsirtsis, Roach completed an undefeated season (41-0) at 145 pounds and won a state title.

“I’m very happy for both of them,” head coach Scott Vlink said. “They both had tough matches and proved that they were the best kids in the state in their weight classes.

The road to state for the ‘Dogs, both individual and team, was difficult, yet managable. It be-

gan at sectionals, which was held at CPHS.

The entire team was able to advance to the regional round, thanks to six championships.

Tsirtsis and Roach finished first in their weight classes. Other sectional champions were senior Anthony Hawkins (119 lbs.), se-nior Dallas Schurg (135 lbs.), sophomore Dillon Cope (160 lbs.), and sophomore Tyler Kral (189 lbs.).

The regional round for the team pitted the ‘Dogs against a conference rival, Merrillville. The boys took care of the Pirates, de-feating them by a 41-17 margin.

The regional championship was decided in a matchup against another DAC foe, Portage. Al-though this match was closer than the one against Merrillville, the ‘Dogs were able to pull out a win, 34-27. With the victory, the team moved on to state.

“We had a better team than Merrillville and we maximized our bonus points against Por-tage,” Vlink said.

Individual regionals brought about two champions, Tsirtsis and Roach. Hawkins, Schurg, and Kral finished runner-ups in their respective weight classes, as did sophomore Colton Saroff (103 lbs.), junior Josh Flamme (140 lbs.), senior Tommy Renn (152 lbs.), and senior John Hannon (215 lbs.).

At semi-state, Tsirtsis and Roach finished first in their re-spective weight classes, although Hawkins was unable to repeat as a semi-state champion. However, he and Flamme (3rd at semi-state) were still able to advance to the individual state meet.

“Josh and Anthony just weren’t the best in their classes this season,” Vlink said.

At the state meet, Tsirtsis put together solid preformances against all of his opponents en route to the championship. He won his first round match by a score of 16-3 and took his second match via a fall.

Tsirtsis then defeated two previously undefeated opponents

in the semifinals and finals by 8-0 and 4-0 margins, respectively. His final match went into overtime, making the win that much more impressive.

“I worked hard all season and it paid off in the end,” Tsirtsis said. “I ended up achieving my goal for the season.”

Roach’s championship came about in a somewhat similar fash-ion. After getting a fall in his first match and a 7-3 decision in the second, he took a 9-3 decision in the semifinals against a formerly undefeated foe. Roach’s champi-onship match was decided by a 5-3 score.

“I worked my hardest every day in practice,” Roach said.

Hawkins finished fifth at the state finals, while Flamme fell in his opening round matchup.

Team state will take place to-morrow, with the ‘Dogs opening against Mishawaka, the only team that they’ve lost to this season. Mishawaka also finished runner-up as a team last season to the boys.

SportS 13February 26, 2010

Tsirtsis, Roach claim state championships

Weightlifting club comes to CPHS, wins early competition

Sophomore Jason Tsirtsis placing a hold on an opponent during the regional meet. Tsirtsis won a second consecutive state title last weekend. Junior Eric Roach also claimed his first individual state title. The team state meet is this weekend in Indianapolis.

Both complete undefeated seasons, lead team to another state appearance

By Colin Likasasst. sports editor

This can be chalked down as another benefit to having Mark Garrett at CPHS.

Garrett has been helping just about every sport since his arrival at the school this year. Now, he’s helped bring an official weightlift-ing club, the Hoosier Barbell Club, to Crown Point.

“The club has been around,” Garret said. “It was just relocated to Crown Point this year.”

Garrett has been involved with weightlifting for years, most of which were spent at Highland High School. He got into weight-lifting when he was a basketball coach, noticing that it was used by a lot of good teams.

“Bobby Knight’s teams did this, as did the Chicago Bulls and Peyton Manning,” Garrett said.

The team has generated quite a bit of interest so far amongst students. Among its dozen mem-bers are senior team captain Chris Shimley, senior Adam Knight, ju-

niors Chase Emery, Reed Stofko, Brad Qualliza, Nick Horst, and Clint Sulek, and sophomore Austin Stanley. It even includes an eighth-grader in Evan Markowitz.

“Once some kids become skilled in class [personal fitness], I ask them if they want to think about joining the club,” Garrett

said.Other Indiana schools that

have clubs include Center Grove, Brownsburg, and Franklin.

The club competes against other schools in three events: the olympic lift, the clean and jerk, and the snatch. The lifter gets three at-tempts in each event.

The team practices at least four times a week. The main points that the lifters focus on include flexibil-ity training and body control train-ing.

“Weightlifting is a very safe, low risk sport,” Garrett said. “It’s much lower risk than sports like basketball and football.”

However, weightlifting is also a form of training for athletes of those sports. Shimley was the cap-tain of the football team’s defense in the most recent season.

“It [weightlifting] is definitely helping me out,” Shimley said. “I’m becoming a better athlete for football.”

One area the team is trying to

improve upon is getting girls to join. There is currently only one girl in the club, 11 year-old Cor-rine Blopin.

“Girls are very reluctant to join a weightlifting club,” Garrett said.

Despite this, the team has ex-perienced success both in the past and present. In 2007, both the boys and girls weightlifters won the WerkSan high school champion-ship. Recently, the team captured the men’s team championship at the Illinois State/Central LWC weightlifting championships in Chicago.

Individual first places were earned by Stanley (56 kg.), Em-ery (77 kg.), and Horst (85 kg.). Markowitz (50 kg.) and Shimley (94 kg.) put up second place show-ings in the tournament.

The team’s next competition is the WerkSan Championship, which will take place in Ohio. Over 2000 lifters are projected to attend the contest.

By Hunter McKee andColin Likassports editor andasst. sports editor

Boys BasketballCP-48Valparaiso-64 (Jan. 29)

Boone Grove-68CP-66 (Jan. 30)

Merrillville-57CP-46 (Feb. 5)

LaPorte-62CP-55 (Feb. 11)

Portage-45CP- 52 (Feb. 19)

CP-44Lowell- 51 (Feb. 20)

Girls BasketballValparaiso-44CP-51 (Jan. 29)

Merrillville-63CP-49 (Feb. 4)

CP-51Hobart-63 (Feb. 11, Sectional Opener)

Boys SwimmingWin vs Michigan City (Jan. 26)

2nd @ DAC Championship (Jan. 30)

1st @ Hat Trick Invitational (Feb. 8)

2nd @ Sectionals (Feb. 20)

Girls Swimming2nd @ Sectionals (Feb. 6)

17th @ State Finals (Feb. 13)

Wrestling1st @ Regionals (Feb. 6)

Boys BasketballCP @ Chesterton (Feb. 26)

Sectionals vs. LaPorte (Mar. 1-6)

Regionals (TBD, Mar. 13)

Semi-state (TBD, Mar. 20)

State Finals (TBD, Mar. 27)

Boys SwimmingState Finals @ Indianapolis (Feb. 27)

WrestlingTeam State Finals @ India-napolis (Feb. 27)

GymnasticsSectionals @ Chesterton (Mar. 6)

Regionals @ Valparaiso (Mar. 12)

State Finals @ Indianapolis (Mar. 20)

Sscoreboard

Photo by Joe NeJmaN

schedule

The club has been around, it was just relocated to Crown

Point this year.

“ “

- Weightlifting coach Mark Garrett

Photo Provided

The boys swim team built up quite an impressive resume over the course of its season. The ‘Dogs finished their regu-lar season 8-1, with all of the wins coming consecutively. They also had a second place finish at the DAC meet, and just last week-end they finished second to Munster at the sectional meet. Tonight, the boys are on to the momentous state meet in Indianapolis.

“Getting to the state meet is a relief,” head coach Doug Norris said. “Point num-ber one, I think that a lot of hard work was in our prescription, and point two, we took a lot of chances during the regular season and a lot of them paid off.”

At the sectional meet, Munster won their 25th consecutive sectional title with 370 points. However, right behind the Sea-horses were the Bulldogs with 260 points. The ‘Dogs qualified for the state meet in five events at the sectionals.

Both junior swimmer Blake Yeager and junior diver Tyler Croell were named sec-

tional champions in their respective events. Yeager took first in the 200 yard freestyle with a time of 1:43.93, and Croell amassed 423. 85 points for one meter diving.

The Bulldogs’ 200 medley relay, which recorded a time of 1:38.40, made the state cut to swim in tonight’s prelims. Junior Marcus Trybula made his cut in the 100 freestyle with a time of 47.7. Also the 200 and 400 freestyle relays will compete at the state meet.

Freshman Joel Gintzler swam a time of 53.45 in the 100 butterfly at the sectional meet, which was short of the 52.76 state standard and the top 32. However, due to a calculation error, Gintzler was accepted into the state meet.

“I was happy to hear that I would be swimming in the state meet,” Gintzler said.

Swimming at his first state meet, Gint-zler plans to seize the opportunity and make the most out of his reluctant situa-tion.

“I am planning to just keep up with the competition and hopefully beat them,” Gintzler said.

“I’m excited to watch Joel swim the 100 butterfly at the state meet, because he wasn’t in the top 32 and the state called me on Tuesday and said there was a mis-calculation and he got in,” Norris said. “I foresee something positive with Joel in the 100 fly.”

Ranked at number nine in the 200 yard freestyle by the IHSSCA, Yeager is hoping to move into top eight bracket at the state meet.

“I want to make top eight at state,” Yea-ger said. “But I need to make sure I have great turns and I need to beat someone at the end.”

To keep focused on their goal, the boys are highlighting their preliminary swim.

“Our plan is full swing and I truly be-lieve that if everybody does what they can do, great things will happen,” Norris said.

“The quantum leap will be reached at the state meet, there is no Saturday before Friday; prelims are everything.”

The boys’ prelim swim starts tonight at IUPUI’s natatorium in Indianapolis at 6 p.m. EST. Finals are tomorrow at 1 p.m. EST.

SportS14 February 26, 2010

Boys swimming heads to state

By Hunter McKeesports editor

Gymnastics looks to end season on high noteBy Milan Savichasst. sports editor

Consistency is defined as reliabil-ity or uniformity of successive results or events.

According to senior gymnast Lind-sey Warga, consistency is what it will take for the Lady Bulldogs to come out on top of the sectional tournament.

“As a team, we need to be consis-tent on the balance beam,” Warga said. “That’s what’s going to make or break it for us during sectionals.”

The girls will head to Chesterton for the sectional tournament on Mar. 6.

“I’ve been telling these girls that we are a part of and up against the best gymnastics in Northwest Indiana,” head coach Ami Pysh said.

Out of the eight teams in the DAC, seven are top ranked teams in the state, with Crown Point being ranked at 17th.

“We’re up against some of the hard-est teams to beat, and we’re really going to have to hang in there when we com-pete against teams like Michigan City and Valparaiso,” Pysh said.

Before heading into the sectional tournament, the Lady ‘Dogs will be clos-ing their regular season at home against Hobart.

“It’s sad that my last [regular season] meet is coming up, but I’m hoping a lot of people show up and are behind us,” Warga said. “Winning this meet would be a big confidence boost going into sec-tionals.”

Although Warga’s high school gym-nastics career is coming to an end, she plans to stick around and help the young-er girls train over the summer.

“Even though I will have graduated, I still plan on coming to open gym to keep the younger girls motivated and on track,” Warga said.

As the season is coming to an end, the girls will be attempting to accomplish the goals they set at the start of the year.

“One of our main goal was to place within the top four at conference,” Warga said. “We want to do our best and try to beat Merrillville and Michigan City.”

The DAC championship meet is to-morrow at Portage.

Freshman Joel Gintzler swims the butterfly stroke during a recent meet. Tonight the Bulldogs are in Indianapolis for the state meet. Preliminaries are tonight at 6 p.m. EST and finals are at 1 p.m. EST tomorrow.

Bulldogs finish second at sectionals, state prelims tonight

Photo by Larry titak

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The Lady Bulldogs swim team capped off their season with a 17th place finish at the state swim meet in Indianapolis.

The Lady ‘Dogs found a boost for their state success with their relay swimmers during the finals, with both of them placing 11th.

“The big difference was all of the swimmers in the relays stepping up and swimming fast on Saturday in the finals,” head coach Bryon Angerman said.

The girls 200 medley relay consisting of seniors Angela Rob-erts and Ashley Gose and sopho-mores Hayley Balko and Hannah Raspopovich recorded a time of 1:50.66.

The 200 freestyle relay con-sisting of Raspopovich, Gose, sophomore Hannah Schuster, and Balko swam a time of 1:39.88.

Individually the girls found help from Raspopovich in the 100 breaststroke and the 50 freestyle. Raspopovich placed at thirteenth and fourteenth for the breast-stroke and freestyle respectively. Raspopovich finished her breast-stroke with a time of 1:06.39, and her freestyle time at 24.18.

“It felt great to finish in the top sixteen in both of my individ-uals, because I worked so hard throughout the whole season,” Raspopovich said.

“Hannah was great in her two individual events at the state

meet,” Angerman said.In the last event of the meet,

the Lady ‘Dogs’ 400 freestyle re-lay placed 24th with a time of 3:43.44. The relay was swam by Roberts, Gose, Schuster, and ju-nior Caitlyn Lowery.

On Feb. 6 the Lady ‘Dogs hosted the sectional meet. At the sectional finals, the girls finished second to Munster by a score of 408-240.

The Lady Bulldogs qualified for the 200 yard medley relay swam a time of 1:49.98. The 200 yard freestyle relay finished with a time of 1:39.76. Raspopovich qualified for the state meet in the 50 free with a time of 24.31, and the 100 breaststroke with a time of 1:06.68. As for diving, senior Amanda Nisle qualified for re-gionals.

The Lady Bulldogs classified

their 2009-2010 season as success and look to continue their win-ning ways into next season.

“This season was great, we won a lot, we had a lot of suc-cesses, and made a lot of im-provements,” Raspopovich said. Lowery added, “We definitely improved this year from last sea-son which made the ‘Tripmiester’ [assistant head coach Bryan Trip-peer] proud.”

Growing up is something that everyone has to go through at some time or another. Boys bas-ketball head coach Clint Swan’s varsity hoops squad is no excep-tion.

“Our rookies aren’t rookies anymore,” Swan said. “We have been working hard everyday in practice to get better. We don’t attach our success or failures to wins or losses.”

Tonight, the Bulldogs will fin-ish their regular season schedule against at 7:30 p.m.

The ‘Dogs’ post-season will begin March 2 when they take on LaPorte during the first round of sectionals.

“You never know what will happen in the tournament,” ju-nior Michael Albrecht said. “Any-

one cane beat anyone. Coach Swan just told us to keep playing hard and to keep our heads up going into the tournament.”

In their recent match up with Lowell, the ‘Dogs lost 51-44. Ju-nior Sean Crary lead the team in scoring with 15 points, while Al-brecht added 9.

“That was a tough loss,” Al-brecht said. “We just need to step up our game and play our best basketball going into the post-season.”

During the boys’ last home game of the year versus Portage, the Crown Point students host-ed a white-out in support of the team.

The ‘Dogs managed to take the game into double overtime and came out victorious by a score of 52-45.

“Our win definitely had something to do with having the

fans behind us,” Swan said. “We owe several of our points to the fans. In a close game like that, they really contributed.”

Crary scored a game high 16 points with Albrecht contributing 13.

“We’d been in a bit of a losing streak in the DAC, so that was a big win,” Albrecht said.

Junior Jared Smoot achieved a double-double in the double-ovetime thriller, scoring 12 points and pulling down 17 rebounds.

“Having the fans behind us gave us that extra burst of en-ergy,” Smoot said. “The adrena-line we got made us want to play harder.”

Continuing with conference play, the team lost to LaPorte 62-55 on Feb. 11. Albrecht managed 19 points, with six of them com-ing from three pointers. Sopho-more Dejan Stefanovic contrib-

uted with 11 points and Smoot finished with 9.

The ‘Dogs took on conference rival Merrillville at home on Feb. 5 and lost 57-46. Smoot was one of three players to score in double figures, finishing with 13 points, while Albrecht and Crary scored 11 and 10 respectively.

Despite the fact that the team will finish below .500 in the regu-lar season, the boys are confident moving into the post-season.

The opening round match up against the Slicers should be com-petitive, as the two teams played a back-and-forth game in their last meeting.

“We have to go into section-als with the belief we can win,” Swan said. “We have to play well at both ends of the floor.”

“We have seen all of these teams before, but in the post-sea-son everyone’s record is 0-0.”

SportS 15February 26, 2010

Boys hockey shoots for tournament win

While most eyes are cur-rently on the U.S. Olympic teams, the often unrecog-nized Crown Point Hockey Club is going for gold in the Indiana Hockey Tournament.

The team has had some successful seasons in the past. It won state champi-onships in its division in both 2004 and 2007. In 2004 and 2008, the team won the Roper Cup, the equivalent of a DAC title. However, most of the team’s success has gone unnoticed.

“People don’t really notice the amount of success the hockey team has, mostly because they don’t know we have a hockey team,” junior Sam McLean said.

Since the team is not funded by CPHS, not all of the players on the team at-tend this high school. There are also players from Mer-rillvile, Marion, and Mount Carmel schools. Players say this does not affect team chemistry, though.

“It gives us a chance to play with kids that we’d nor-mally be playing against,” freshman Timmy Yokovich said.

On Feb. 14, the junior varsity squad took first in an Illiana hockey tournament. Junior Zoe Huizenga was the starting goaltender for the game, a 3-0 victory over Lake Central.

“The feeling I got when the buzzer sounded was in-describable,” Huizenga said.

Freshmen Brett Gilbert and Ivan Weidmann and sophomore Curtis Artuso all had goals in the game.

The first round of the Illiana playoffs were this past weekend for the varsity squad. In the first game, the boys played to a tie with Lake Central, 4-4. On Sun-day, they lost to Munster by a 3-1 margin. This Saturday, the team will face off against Portage to determine if they will play in the Illiana cham-pionship game.

After the Illiana tour-nament, the varsity team will go to the Indiana State Tournament, which starts on Mar. 6. The ‘Dogs will open against Hamilton Southeast-ern, and they hope to finish the season strong and make a deep run in the playoffs.

By Hunter McKeesports editor

By Alex McLeanguest writer

Boys basketball prepares for sectional opener against LaPorteBy Milan Savichasst. sports editor

QuickHits

Girls swimming puts up solid showing in state finals

The Lady ‘Dogs fell to the Hobart Brickies in the opening round of sec-tionals on Feb. 11.

The team finished the season with an overall record of 10-11, in-cluding a 4-10 mark in the DAC. De-spite the below .500 finish, there is good news for the girls, in that they will all be returning next season.

The final two games of the regu-lar season were against DAC rivals Valparaiso and Merrillville. The girls were able to defeat the Vikings by a 51-44 margin, but they fell to the Pirates in their home finale, 63-49.

The 63-51 loss to Hobart knocked the team out of the post-season. Junior Kelly Gross led the girls with 11 points, including three 3-pointers, while fellow junior Kend-all Brown and sophomore Courtney Kvachkoff each had 10 points.

Girls Basketball Wrap-up

Junior Caitlyn Lowery swims the freestyle stroke in a recent meet. The Lady Bulldogs finished seventeenth at the state meet held at IUPUI’s natatorium in Indianapolis.

Alison Duncan was recently named head volleyball coach. She met with the team Wednes-day night for the first time.

Duncan is an Andrean and St. Mary’s College graduate. She coached at Andrean High School before coming to CPHS. Her resume includes a 70-36 overall coaching record, a Northwest Crossroads Conference title in 2008, and two coach of the year awards (in 2007 and 2008).

“We feel really fortunate to have her,” athletic director Bill Dorulla said. “Her impressive resume is just one of the reasons we hired her. She has had suc-cess on many different levels, both as a player and as a coach.”

The girls are coming off 18-16 season.

Dog Tale AffairThe fifth annual 2010 Dog

Tale Affair will be Friday, March 12 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Elijah Ser-bian Hall in Merrillville. Admis-sion for two adults over age 21 is $30 which includes unlimited food and beverages, entertain-ment, and a chance to win one of four $3,000 cash prizes. The event will also include live and silent auctions and other cash and prize raffles. All proceeds benefit all CPHS athletes. For tickets or information please contact the athletic department at 662-6714.

New Volleyball Coach

Sophomore Michaela Prough shoots the ball over an op-ponent in a recent game. The Lady ‘Dogs finished 10-11.

Photo by Larry titak

Photo Provided

“It’s a really great event that does great things by raising funds for Crown Point High School athletics,” assistant athletic director Mike Malaski said.

Personalities16 February 26, 2010

Getting to know...Sophomore

Ryan Edwards

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

Who are three people you would love to spend the day with and why?

What is one of your biggest fears? Why?

Name a major issue you believe teens deal with everyday.

photo by M.K. leMon

By M. Bates and M. Smithassociate editor and copy editor

865 Madison street Crown Point, in 219-662-7733(one bloCk west of broadway on the Corner of suMMit and Madison)

•30 hours classroom plus 6 hours of -driving

(home pick-up for driving)

•The state of Indiana requires all Driver’s Education classroom and driving must be

completed in a maximum of 120 days!

•Student must be 15 years of age and show copy of birth certificate

•Fully licensed by the State of Indiana’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles and

Department of Education.

•All instructors are teachers certified in driver’s education.

Cost: $365.00 (check or cash only)•

CLASS OPTIONS: All classes are on a first come first serve basis.

Evening Classes: 3 Days a week for 5 weeks Monday & Wednesday 6 - 8 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to noon (New classes start every Monday)

2 Days a week for 7 1/2 weeks Tuesday & Thursday 6-8 p.m. Starting September 3 Ending October 22 October 1 November 19 October 1 December 17 (Minimum of 15 students needed 9/3-10/22 and 10/27- 11/17. Minimum of 10 students needed 10/1-11/17. No class November 26.)

Sunday Classes: 10 Sundays from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Starting September 13 Ending November 15 October 18 December 20 November 22 January 24 December 27 February 28 January 31 April 11 March 7 May 23 (No class April 4 or May 9.)

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Certified driving sChool

It was a day that Lisa Grady says “no words could describe.” Her then-two year old daughter, freshman Al-exa Grady was visiting her grandpar-ents’ pizza shop.

As she was playing in the kitchen, her hand got stuck in a grinder. Al-exa was flown to Chicago but doctors were unable to save the arm; it had to be amputated up to the elbow.

“Alexa was so little, that she didn’t really understand what had happened and how her life would be forever changed,” Lisa said.

After multiple surgeries and four months in the hospital, Alexa was released. She received her first pros-thetic arm when she was three years old. Alexa’s parents always told her she could do anything. Alexa took her parents’ advice and got involved in

gymnastics. She later made the cheer-leading squad and volleyball team in high school.

“There are people that have pros-tetics that are not athletic, but I just wanted to prove to people that you can still do whatever you want,” Al-exa said.

Despite Alexa’s success in athlet-ics, she still had limitations.

“The little things were what gave me trouble,” she said. “I couldn’t tie my own shoes or climb on the mon-key bars.”

This December, Alexa discovered something that could permanently change this. She found that she would be the first person in Northwest Indi-ana to receive the I-Limb.

The I-Limb will work with Al-exa’s brain so that she can control movement in her arms and fingers.

“It’s the little things that will make a difference,” Alexa said. “I’ll be able

to pick up things and do stuff with both hands, like tying my shoes.”

In order to receive the I-Limb, Al-exa will need weeks of physical ther-apy starting after spring break. This therapy is designed to train her brain to move her arm and fingers when she wants to. It is needed for her to have full control of the new prosthetic.

“I’m going to have to do all sorts of exercises to learn how to use it,” Alexa said. “To move the fingers, I have to learn to think about moving them.”

The I-Limb is the newest technol-ogy in the field of prosthetics. It uti-lizes remaining nerves on the arm so that movement is more intuitive and relies less on conscious muscle move-ment.

“I’m really excited for this op-portunity,” Alexa said. “I’m excited to know exactly how much it will change things in my life.”

Freshman Alexa Grady, a cheerleader and volleyball player, will be the first person in Northwest Indiana to receive an I-Limb, which uses technology to coordinate the prosthetic’s movement.

Grady overcomes obstacles

If I could travel anywhere in the world, I would go to the North Pole because it would be secluded and peaceful.

Three people that I would love to spend a day with would be Bill Gates, Issac Newton, and Jessica Alba because I would ask for advice from them about money, education, and women.

One major issue that I believe teens deal with every day is stress. People don’t realize how much stress teens carry and that only makes it worse.

Snakes, because they are so slimy and nasty, but they could kill you in a flash.

photo provided by AleXA grAdy