Construction on new ramps connecting 109th Avenue to Interstate 65 has begun after a seven year preparation process. The diamond-shaped interchange is intended to relieve traffic on U.S. 30 and U.S. 231, making it easier for drivers in Crown Point to access the interstate.

Senior Lynne Mirabella uses 109th often and is not looking forward to the construction of the ramps. “It’s good for people who will be using I-65 a lot, but for people who regularly use 109th to get to school or other places, the traffic is going to be terrible,” she said.

Others agree. “The interchange is going to create so much more traffic. 109th is already pret-ty skinny, but with an exit off the highway, it’s go-ing to be really cramped,” junior O’Day Abdulla said. Abdulla uses 109th often to get to school and friends’ houses since he lives in Hidden Creek, a subdivision in Winfield.

Although the ramp is intended for easier ac-cessibility, some students don’t feel that the inter-change will be worth the trouble.

“The exit will be convenient, but not worth the problems—especially in the winter. Besides, it really isn’t much of a hassle to get to 65,” senior Liz Palmer said.

Many drivers, like Palmer, feel that they can already get on I-65 with relative ease; an inter-change isn’t needed.

“We can get onto 231; it isn’t that far away,” Abdulla said.

Senior Mike Laus agrees. “All the traffic isn’t going to be worth it. The

difference in time to go to 231 (as opposed to the new intersection) is at most 5 minutes,” he said.

While construction is going on, other routes

will be accessible to avoid the heavy traffic. Both Laus and Abdulla said they will use 117th to avoid the interchange.

Bus drivers who use 109th to transport stu-dents to school will also be heavily affected. Buses which travel up and down 109th retrieving stu-dents from many areas of Winfield may need to reroute.

“Our biggest problem for now is our lack of information about when 109th will be down to one lane. The buses might not find out until they get out there, creating problems,” director of transportation Karin Toth said.

To try and keep these possible situatuons to a minimum, Toth said that communication has been ongoing with the Department of Transporta-tion so that such issues can be avoided. Because of this, students shouldn’t be affected too much by the changes in bus routes.

“We’ll reroute and still pick up students at the regular time. We’ll just leave a few minutes ear-lier,” Toth said regarding the construction.

The buses will travel down to 113th Avenue

to Iowa Street, and then back to 109th.“There will definitely be more traffic, but it’ll

relieve some of the congestion in Merrillville and make it easier for the people of Crown Point to access I-65,” Toth said.

In addition to the traffic, many students are upset with the closure of Southlake Stables as a result of the new ramps.

“I’m so sad that it’s gone. I loved the hayrides and everything,” Mirabella said.

According to Southlake Stables’ owner Leon-ard Fox, “The community needs something like [Southlake Stables]. They don’t realize that these kinds of places bring in a lot of people from all over. The simple things can be fun, like hayrides and pumpkin patches; it’s what we grew up with and loved.”

Even though some students are upset with its departure after 18 years running on 109th, Fox said that everything has worked out well.

“With the economy down, we weren’t do-ing as well. We used to get two to three thousand people a day on weekends, but last year, we were down about 25 percent and I figured this year it’d be around 50 to 70 percent,” he said.

“The kids are going to miss it,” Fox said. “Lots of them especially loved the campfires. There aren’t a lot of places where they can get to-gether and do that.”

Sophomore Kelsey Inglehart claims that she, along with others, is going to miss the stables.

“I had so much fun there. I liked the haunted maze; I’m going to miss it this season,” she said.

Despite the closure, Fox says they plan to re-open at a different location in a couple of years.

“We’ve relocated the animals temporarily. Hopefully we’ll be back with some things big-ger and better in a place that’s more peaceful and quiet,” he said.

INKLI NGSVolume 74 Issue 2 • Crown Point High School • 1500 S. Main Street Crown Point, IN 46307 • inklings@cps.k12.in.us

DIVORCE AND ITS EFFECTS: The upsides and downsides of the situation page 9

STUDENTS AFFECTED BY THE WAR: Students share their stories page 3

WAYS TO PRIORITIZE: Get on track with these suggestions page 8

Oct. 26, 2009

Sports

Instead of wasting time and money on a brand new halloween costume this year, recycle old ones with these creative tips.

pg. 2

pg. 6

pg. 14

News

FeatureRecycled Costumes

Girls Soccer

After 101 years in Crown Point, the public library may be relocated

CP Library moving

•

As construction progresses, bulldozers flood the field where Southlake Stables used to reside. The new interchange is intended to create accessibility and convenience for Interstate 65 users.

PHOTO by GeOrGIA OTTe

New ramp creates mixed feelingsInterchange displacing Southlake Stables connects 109th Avenue to Interstate 65By Cori Novelli co-editor-in-chief Those affected by interchange:

- Those who use 109th Avenue. This busy street connects Winfield to Crown Point and is what many drivers use to get to town or to school.

- I-65 users. This highway allows users to get out of Crown Point and to large cities like Indianapolis and Chicago.

- Southlake Stables lovers. This farm will no longer run due to the construction of the interchange in its place.

Check it Out!

With a wide range of music updated regularly, you’re sure to find something you like at...

Inklings has a music blog!

http://inklings music.blog spot.com

Photo By GeorGia otte

Varsity girls’ soccer wins sectionals, qualifying them for regional tournament.

Due to lack of space and minimal room for expansion, the community library may be build-ing a new facility. The Crown Point Library Board is interested in land that is located at the cor-ner of Joliet Street and Chase Drive. Although the board has made two prior offers to the cur-rent owner of the property, a final offer was made in September.

“The site we are seeking is within eight blocks of the down-town, and should provide space for all of the [library’s] needs. It is within walking distance of several of the schools and many neighborhoods,” library director Lynn Frank said.

The library’s last renovation occurred in 1997 due to ADA (American Disability Act) laws. According to Frank, it was dur-ing that time and earlier that con-sultants told the library to build a new building rather than reno-vate. However, the library felt that it wasn’t a good time to build and several other changes were taking place.

“The [Crown Point Com-munity] schools were looking at building a new high school and were having opposition, and the state was adopting laws to allow libraries to have capital project funds, so we would be able to plan and save money for computers and new buildings,”

Frank said. Crown Point Community

Library’s district currently cov-ers both Center Township and Winfield Township. The 2000 census of these areas was 33,069 people while a 2007 estimate was over 39,000 people. According to Frank, 3,000 people visit the li-brary each week, with attendance even higher during story time.

“We had 6,820 children at-tend our programs last year. Our 2008 all-ages attendance was

11,469 children. Clearly these activities are welcomed by the community despite our cramped situation,” Frank said.

According to library board member Fiona McCarroll, the li-brary wants to add facilities such as computer labs and a café . Cur-rently, there is no definite date as to when the library will open.

“We need to seek extra ap-provals prior to starting projects and sometimes those delay the groundbreaking,” Frank said.

News October 26, 20092

11.8 Dance Showcase; Gym

11.13-15, 11.19-21Fall Play; Auditorium

11.14Softball Beanbag Tournament

11.18Fall Sports Award Program; 6:30 p.m.

11.20Blood Drive; Fieldhouse

11.26-27Thanksgiving Break - No School

11.30Spring Musical Audtions; 2:30 p.m.

save the date

For the fourth time in five years, the Crown Point High School newspaper Inklings has earned the George H. Gallup award of Highest Honors from the Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society for High School Journalists. To receive this award a publication must earn superior achievement in all five sections of judging, which are coverage; writing and editing; display and design; business practices; and policy guidelines.

Inklings also received a Gold Medalist ranking with three All-Columbian honors from the Co-lumbia Scholastic Press Associa-tion in New York, NY and a First Class ranking with three marks of distinction from the National Sho-lastic Press Association in Minne-apolis, MN. The editor-in-chief of the 2008-2009 edition was then-senior Megan Binder.

Photo retakes take place to-morrow in the library at 7:30 a.m. Those who are getting their pho-tos retaken need to bring the orig-inial order form with them.

Crown Point children in pre-school through grade 5 are invited to attend tha annual Hal-loween festivities hosted by Key Club tomorrow from 6 to 8 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. Fea-tures include games, prizes, and a haunted house. Participants are invited to come in costume.

in the knowKey Club to sponsor party

Photo retakes tomorrow

Inklings earns honors

Long school days far from CPHS’ agenda

CP Library may relocateBy Michele Batesassociate editor

MSA holds fourth annual Fast-a-thon

Economists declare end of recession

For some students, the idea of a shorter summer va-cation (or shorter time away from school in general) is a concept that they would rath-er not let become a reality.

“We need time to relax,” sophomore Paul Kendall said. “We spend enough at school.”

However, different au-thorities in the United States have different ideas concern-ing the amount of time stu-dents should be spending in the classroom.

Earlier this year, Presi-dent Obama made a speech about the advantages and necessity of having longer school days during the year. He believes the idea is an appropriate way to get the United States caught up with other countries academically.

However, Crown Point High School is not going to be implementing longer school days anytime soon.

“I don’t think we’re seri-ously considering it,” Princi-pal Eric Ban said. “It’s not go-ing to be a real conversation for a while.”

Schools Superintendent Tony Bennett was also opt-ing for longer school days, according to The Herald Bul-letin.

“We ought to be for a longer school day, a longer school week, a longer school year,” Bennett said.

Some students disagree with these ideas, believing that our current system is suf-ficient.

“With longer school days, you’d have more homework, and you’d have less time to do it after school,” senior Taylor Perry said.

Ban is open-minded about Obama’s suggestions, but he still believes that the school is far from implement-ing them.

“We’re not going to do anything drastic,” Ban said. “However, we’re always go-ing to do things to improve.”

Since the beginning of 2009, economists have predicted that the third fraction of this year would bring about the end of America’s worst recession since the Great Depression. In mid-September these predictions were confirmed, and the reces-sion ended.

Social Studies teacher Jim In-gelhart had his eye on the reces-sion.

“The recession happened be-cause banks did not have reserves (money held back) to loan out because of all the loan failures,” Ingelhart said. “GDP (Gross Do-mestic Product) has increased from the last quarter of the year. When GDP increased during the third quarter of the year, (i.e July,

Aug. and Sept.) the recession was considered to be over.”

While the exact numbers of the GDP are not in yet, Ingelhart says that the economy seems to be in better shape than it was be-fore.

“It appears the economy has grown, thus GDP has increased,’ he said.

Even though the economy is in better shape than it was last year, the economy still needs time to completely recover because it is still considered “shaky,” and job markets will be weak in the upcoming months.

“High unemployment is likely to linger for the next 6-12 months (over 8 percent unem-ployment),” Ingelhart said. “Re-covery is going to be slow over the next six months to a year. It’ll be completely improved when

unemployment rates drops be-low 7.5 percent”.

Junior Hannah Schutter still feels the effects of the shaky econ-omy.

“I need to find a second job, or at least a job that will pay bet-ter,” Schutter said. “I need to make more money so I can afford to go out with my friends, and to take care of my car.”

Ingelhart, however, predicts that unemployment rates will go down in the late summer of 2010, which will give the econo-my just enough time to rebuild.

The unemployment rates will also affect those during the shop-ping rush of the holiday season.

“Christmas won’t be as great as it used to be. Families sill can’t afford things, and that’s sad,” se-nior Nina Corradin said.

Companies are not quick to

add workers, and some are even cutting back on their employ-ment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Indiana’s cur-rent unemployment rate is 9.9 percent. The highest recorded unemployment rate is 12.8 per-cent in 1982

Even though companies are trying to sell more goods and the government has made attempts to revitalize the economy us-ing programs such as “Cash for Clunkers”, Americans are turn-ing frugal. According to foxbusi-ness.com, the national savings rate increased from less than two percent to five percent, but the economy is still not up to par.

“I still don’t have money to do extra things with friends. I can’t afford things. Gas is expen-sive, Starbucks, everything. It’s still overpriced,” Schutter said.

By Kelly Rostinopinion editor

Crown Point Community library director Lynn Frank shows the lack of storage at the current location.

The Muslim Students Association (MSA) is pre-paring for their fourth annual Fast-a-thon, an event that has become increasingly popular over the years at Crown Point High School.

The object of Fast-a-thon is to create awareness about the issue of hunger, and also about the Islam-ic way of life.

“We do the Fast-a-thon for two main reasons: To spread awareness about the Muslim faith and to raise money for a number of local charitable organi-zations,” MSA president Needa Malik said.

Muslims fast from dawn to dusk for 30 days in their holy month of Ramadan. MSA hosts a Fast-a-thon on one day of Ramadan every year. They in-vite students of all religions to fast with them for a full day. Then, the students who participated can return to the high school that night to enjoy a free meal, catered by Aladdin Pita. But this year, there is a twist: it’s not going to be during Ramadan.

A lot of things factored into the decision of hav-

ing Fast-a-thon outside of Ramadan. “Ramadan started right when school began,

so from a planning perspective, it was not the best time to plan something. We wanted the students to have time to get their feet wet before jumping into something new. We also wanted to make it easier for those who participate in fall and winter sports,” Malik said.

Another change taking effect this year is that MSA will be offering Fast-a-thon t-shirts for partici-pants to purchase. Fasters will also receive a list of fasting tips before the event takes place.

According to students, they generally enjoy the Fast-a-thon, and are ready to face the challenge.

“It was hard waking up early [to eat breakfast], but the dinner was really worth it,” sophomore Grant Wysocki said.

Several sponsors of Fast-a-thon donate a dollar for every person who fasts, and all money that is earned is donated to a local charity.

The Fast-a-thon will be on Wednesday, Nov. 4. To sign up, see any MSA member, sign up in the library, or sign up in Annie Domasica’s room, E218.

By Haajar Shaabanstaff writer

By Becca Dugganentertainment editor

Fall play tickets on saleReservations for tickets to

the November performance of the Crown Point High School fall play Anatomy of Gray begin Wed. Nov. 4. All seats require a ticket which can be reserved by calling 663-4885 ex. 11604 or by visiting the box office from 2:45 to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens.

Award-winning author Jim Leonard describes his newest play as “a childrens’ story for adults.” The play is directed by Kit Degenhart. Performances will be Nov. 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, and 21 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 15 at 2:30 p.m. in the Crown Point High School auditorium.

Photo By Jermey rex

On March 20, 2003, thousands of troops were sent forth from both the United States and the United Kingdom into Iraq. And so began the six year long (and counting) Iraq War, also known as the Occupation of Iraq.

Having a family member or close friend fighting in a war can affect a person in different ways. Many students deal with having loved ones away at war every day.

Senior Angela Robert’s brother, Max, was deployed to Baghdad, Iraq last year in October. She hasn’t seen him since he came home about a month ago, because shortly after he arrived at home, he headed straight to Kansas for some officer training.

“I love my brother and it was weird when he left because my other brother was in college at the time, so it was different go-ing from growing up with two siblings to living with just my parents,” Roberts said.

Max Roberts plans to return to the Middle East or wherever else he is called to serve.

Two years ago, sophomore Whitney Mitchell’s father served in Iraq for one year. He is currently stationed in Kaiserslaut-ern, Germany. Mitchell has had to learn to cope with having her dad gone most of the time.

“He’s never home, but after a while, I

got used to him being away and it didn’t bother me as much as before,” Mitchell said.

Girls’ cross country coach Patty Begley has had a substantial amount of experience with deployed family members. Her hus-band, Major Sean Begley, is currently serv-ing his second tour of Iraq. Begley’s brother served two tours of Iraq. Additionally, she has two brothers-in-law who have served. She describes the war as an “unfortunate necessity.”

“I don’t know anyone who would say that the war is ‘good’ while it is happen-

ing. I think the hope is that through all the horrors of war, more good will come out of it for all of our future generations,” said Begley.

Many have great pride in those near-est and dearest to them who fight for their country, such as sophomore Hannah Lueb-cke. Luebcke’s cousin, Tyler, was stationed in Iraq for almost three years. Luebcke is proud of him.

“It takes a lot of courage and bravery to go over there. He is definitely a hero,” Luebcke said.

Others who oppose the war may not like that their loved ones are being put in danger for what some perceive to be a ‘lost cause.’ Mitchell always worries about her father’s safety.

“I always wished he was home more. [While he was at war] I always found my-self wondering ‘Is he safe?’” Mitchell said.

Roberts expresses a similar feeling to-wards her brother.

“I am afraid for his safety—you always hear about all these casualties and public bombings going on,” Roberts said.

Often times, there are some evident changes in the soldier after returning from fighting in the war. The changes might not

always be very positive.Luebcke saw a definite change in her

cousin after he returned from the war.“He wasn’t as happy, and he’s also not

allowed to talk about several aspects of the war, so it was difficult for him to get through the emotional stress,” Luebcke said.

Begley also noticed changes in her brother.

“He can only sleep three hours a night since serving and has quite a bit of anxiety that he struggles with daily,” Begley said.

However, soldiers and their loved ones may be given some peace of mind by the Status of Forces Agreement that states that all American troops are to withdraw from Iraq by December 31, 2011.

Students express their approval of this agreement.

“I’m happy that it’s finally time that [the Iraqi] government starts controlling [its] own people,” Roberts said.

Begley also believes that the time has come.

“I’m glad [that all troops are going to withdraw], as long as we’ve left the coun-try better than we found it,” Begley said.

News 3October 26, 2009

Anatomy of Gray opening soon

New faculty lot clears parking congestion

Students affected by war

I always wished he was home more.

While he was at war, I always found myself

wondering, ‘Is he safe?’-Whitney Mitchell

“ “

This year, to accommodate the grow-ing enrollment of students, a new parking lot became available to teachers. The lot is located in back of the school on the west end of the tennis courts and includes 150 parking spaces.

“Teachers will still continue to park in the student area, but we’re hoping that the new lot will free up space for some more underclassmen [to park],” officer Milan Damjanovic said.

The primary purpose of the new park-ing lot is to provide more parking for the faculty. However, students in automotive shop classes are also allowed to use the parking lot.

“[Auto Mechanics and Auto Special-ists classes] use it as storage for the eight industrial cars that are used in advanced and second semester classes,” industrial arts teacher Jack Casteel said. “We do not work in the parking lot. We just use the lot because it is more convenient.”

According to athletic director Bill Do-

rulla, the parking area has also been used for numerous sporting events.

“The lot has been used quite frequent-ly for home football games because it’s so easy to get in and out of the parking lot,” Dorulla said. “It also provides an excellent parking space for tennis events. Because the lot is right next to the practice soccer fields, it provides a more convenient route there as well.”

Math teacher Amanda Carlson said she does not park in the new lot. However, she says that the new parking spaces do have their benefits.

“I think it is nice to be able to park in a place without students,” Carlson said.

The new lot isn’t the only change in the parking system, however. Changes are in store for all of the parking lots.

According to Damjanvoic, there are plans to add more stop signs and other directing equipment. Damjanovic is hop-ing that the traffic controls will help make traffic run smoother and safer for everyone who comes in and out of the lots. He is hop-ing for the traffic controls to be installed by the end of the school year.

By Arley Gomez staff writer

By Haajar Shaabanstaff writer

Sophomore Whitney Mitchell holds a photo of her father, who has served in Iraq and is currently stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Mitchell has to cope with having her dad gone most of the time.

A small town, a mysterious doctor, and an unknown disease can only add up to one thing: Crown Point High School’s upcoming play, Anatomy of Gray.

The play is about a 15-year-old girl living in the small town of Gray, Indiana while dealing with the death of her father. When a doctor arrives in a hot-air balloon, the town finally has medical assistance. After the doctor has examined everyone, people start dying and others put the fault on the new, strange doctor, but is he really to blame?

Anatomy of Gray director and Theatre Arts teacher Kit Degenhart is excited for the upcoming fall play, considering this is the first play he has chosen to direct immediately following his first reading.

“I usually wait years after I’ve read a play,” Degenhart said. “I only started reading [Anatomy of Gray] in May and then chose to use it in June.”

The fall play has provided some opportunities for first-time actors. Sophomore Sarah Maddack said she is nervous about participating in her first play.

“I tried out for One Acts, and didn’t make it,” Maddack said. “But when I tried out for Anatomy of Gray, I got in, and now I’m very excited even though I’m just a townsperson.” Besides the excitement which comes with onstage acting, the plot and characters themselves get Degenhart even more enthusiastic about Gray.

“It’s basically a children’s story for adults,” Degenhart said. “It gets us back to core values and family, but family is the big one.”

The cast of Gray has also enhanced the play with even more laughs.

“The funny parts are even funnier, and they have also managed to have people laugh when they’re not supposed to,” Degenhart said.

The new parking lot is located on the west end of the tennis courts. According to officer Milan Damjanovic, the new faculty parking lot was built to accomodate the growing enrollment of students.

By Donny Casillas photographer

Photo By Alex PArrish

Photo By GeorGiA otte

Play DATES

Nov. 13Nov. 14Nov. 19Nov. 20Nov. 21

@7 p.m.and

2:30 p.m.

Nov. 15

@

War in Iraq impacts lives of soldiers and their relatives

October 26, 2009OpiniOn4

Technology dependence

By Garret Hoganstaff writer

Small price forweightroom use worth the money

View:

Technology is a tremendous part of our everyday life, but too much dependence on it leads to downfalls.

editorial

heard in the halls

cartoon by anna ortiz

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 journal-ism students. Opinions expressed in Inklings do not reflect those of the CPHS faculty, staff, or the administration.

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 deci-sions are the sole discre-tion 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 Scholastic Press Associa-tion 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 in-klings@cps.k12.in.us.

EditorsCori NovelliDeanna Sheafer

editors-in-chiefBrittany Curtis

managing editorMichele Bates

associate 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 ParrishJermey RexVinnie NeedhamMary-Katherine LemonDonnella Casillas

photographers

StaffAmmy EastoArley GomezGarret HoganLauren McCarrollDanielle McCuanMarwa NourHaajar Shaaban

AdviserJulie Elston

“I hate the new laptops. I like the old ones better because the new ones are just too small, and they’re too hard to

type on.”

Senior Gilbert Sanchez

Classroom Temps“The classrooms are freezing. It’s so uncomfortable, and I wish they were

warmer.”

Junior Alicia Cole

“Halloween’s the best. It’s scary, but also a really fun holiday. I don’t trick-or-treat

though.”

Senior Robert Wiscowaty

Halloween

Assignments, projects, emails—most of today’s communication is based on technology, but when a crash in the system takes place, our grades could go crashing down with it.

It’s easy to get fed up with technology. This isn’t to say it isn’t extremely beneficial at times, or that it can’t get things done quickly. But when it stops working, suddenly everything becomes one massive mess dedicated to retyping, refinding, and the occasional redoing.

Perhaps returning to the old ways of completing some assignments by hand would ensure their safety, instead of dealing with the power outages, lost files, unsaved data, or incompatibility with other networks when displaying a project that took weeks to complete in the first place. When turning in homework, sending it via email can be risking those hours of effort by sending it into the unknown. Although it takes a little more time to write by hand, the safety of that assignment, and that grade, is ensured.

However, sometimes the decision regarding the way students choose to complete or turn in an assignment is not up to them. Increasingly, assignments and projects require the use of technology. This sounds progressive in theory, but if anything goes wrong with the equipment, students are forced to scramble to complete an assignment by deadline which may not result in their best work. Projects that take weeks of work can be immediately derailed by uncooperative technology.

When a project strictly demands usage of technology outside of school, some students are stuck due to the fact that they don’t own a computer, video camera, or have access to the internet. Sure, students are able to use the public library’s computers, but they wouldn’t be able to just download an expensive video editing program onto the library’s computer. Students cannot always control the financial situation they are in, and even if they are dedicated students, they don’t have the same opportunity of getting a good grade as someone who can afford the latest equipment and upgrades. With that in mind, our system shouldn’t be so dependent on technology.

This isn’t to say that students are completely against using technology, most enjoy it…when it works. But when it doesn’t, or if there are students who have limited access to technology outside of school, alternatives should be offered so that those students have an equal opportunity to earn a good grade.

Technology use can be a double-edged sword; if we aren’t careful we may have an iRobot situation on our hands and Will Smith won’t be there to save us—or our homework.

The weight room at CPHS has an extensive array of exercise machines and state-of-the-art equipment to offer. The problem

however, is that students are required to pay in order to get into better shape. This is reasonable because if students did not pay, the opportunity for such a great weight room would not exist.

The current rate to use the weight room is $1 a day or $20 for one semester. For that small price, students have access to the weight room and cardio room from 2:30 p.m. (after school) to 7 p.m. when it closes (6 p.m. on Friday).

At any gym you may go to, there is a fee to use their facilities. What makes ours so much different? Not much, except for the much cheaper price. While one can argue that we shouldn’t have to pay to take care of ourselves, that charge occurs anywhere, not just at our high school. This allows students to actually find a bargain through this opportunity.

Some students and teachers may feel outraged about having to pay a fee. However, there are surprising and legitimate facts behind the charge.

It takes money to maintain all of the great facilities we have access to. Moreover, in a tough economy, money can be tight and the school cannot be expected to run without charging for some things. According to athletic director Bill Dorulla, the fees paid by students and adults go to the supervisor who has signed up to watch the weight room so that students do not harm themselves or the equipment. The supervisor who stays that night gets paid $15 an hour. In addition, $10,000 a year is spent on new equipment or fixing the current equipment.

One can realize that the small fee to use the weight room is definitely worth the cost. We have an amazing weight room with cutting edge equipment, and naturally it takes money to buy and maintain it. Without the money, the weight room can’t be supervised, and therefore can’t be open, which poses the question: Would you rather pay a dollar a day to use the weight room, or not have the option of using it at all?

New Laptops

carTOOn by anna OrTIz

While students were away from school for summer break, the pop supplies in the vending machines made the

switch from regular to diet. Director of Food Services Pam Maloney has revealed that Crown Point High School, as well as many other schools across the country, have contracts with the Pepsi Corporation in order to use their vending machines and products. Two years ago, Pepsi began following guidelines laid out by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. These guidelines relate to the size of beverages, making sure that they are 12-ounce servings, and reducing the high amount of sugar in regular pop. Due to these newly instated rules, only low-calorie or sugar free pop is allowed in schools now. Much to our disappointment, diet pop meets these standards, because it has artificial sweeteners that substitute for real sugar. Without really knowing what ingredients are in these sweeteners, can they really be considered healthier than genuine sugar?

Take aspartame (APM), the most commonly used sweetener in diet pop. APM is a combination of two amino acids, phenylalanine (PHE) and aspartic acid (ASP). Studies have shown that phenylalanine can act as a neurotoxin; it is capable of exciting the neurons in your brain to the point of death. PHE and ASP are dangerous when combined with artificial processes to form aspartame. Therefore, the possible risks associated with PHE are still present. In addition, the pairing of phenylalanine with aspartic acid in particular is especially dangerous. The reason is because hydrolysis can turn PHE and ASP into a toxic chemical called methanol (MeOH). The consumption of ten milliliters of methanol can cause potential blindness, and one hundred milliliters is able to kill you. MeOH is that poisonous, and yet, its two main components (one of which can be potentially hazardous by itself) are used in the artificial sweetener that is found in most diet pop.

The facts show that diet pop can cause blindness and even death. It would seem as if the more healthy option would be regular pop, wouldn’t it?

Opinion 5October 26, 2008

IOur school invested in HP mini laptops,

which are significantly smaller than

the old laptops we’ve had in the past.

Which is more preferable? The larger laptops or the smaller

ones?

Diet pop replaces regular in schools

By Arley Gomezstaff writer

By Deanna Sheaferco-editor-in-chief

HP Minis prove more efficient and convenient

Dell notebooks easier to use than new ones

Soph

omor

e

“I don’t like them because they are too small.”

Abbey JaranowskiNick Huls

Fres

hman

“I like the way they run, but they are kind of small, especially for kids with big hands.”

Nick Grubnich

Juni

or

“They are easier to work with, but they can be bro-ken easier.”

Megan Tobias

Seni

or

“It is hard to type because the keyboards are so small, and there is a horrible glare on the screen.”

ssue:

QHow do you feel about

the HP Mini Laptops?

speak up

Out with the old and in with the new?

By Dani McCuan staff writer

Cartoon by Dani MCCuan

It seems like in the technological world of to-day, progress is measured by how small you can make something and still have it be functional. We buy the latest cell phones and iPods because they become thinner, sleeker, and tinier. The smaller and fancier a gadget is, the better. Our school followed suit when purchasing new laptops, the HP Mini. Why wouldn’t the school buy the newest and most compact computer on the market for us?

According to technology director Jeremy Walk-er, the mini laptops provide higher performance and less power consumptions at a more competitive price compared to a full sized notebook. The school obviously researched computers to see which would be most useful in our school environment.

The biggest gripe I’ve heard against these laptops is that the screen is too small. Every single screen on our cell phones and iPods are significant-ly smaller, but everyone seems to be fine with those screen sizes. Our generation is so used to reading off something the size of a deck of cards at best, so why is a screen that measures 10.2 in. by 6.2 in. such a terrible thing?

The small size can even be a bonus.The old computers took up an entire desktop, but a note-book or worksheet can comfortably fit next to the new laptops, making the transfer of information easier.

When I think about the larger, old laptops of previous years, I remember all the frustrations and loss of class time they caused. Logging in was a constant struggle. It would take multiple tries end-ing in irritating beeps of the computer telling you that the log in failed before it was successful. Batter-ies died left and right, leaving many students with-out a computer to use. The new laptops are more reliable, so class activities planned around comput-er access can actually continue without a hitch.

Bigger is always better, except in the tech-nology world. When it comes to technology, the smaller the better, but is there such a thing as too small?

With the arrival of the new laptops this year, students have found issues. The HP Mini is meant to be an ideal computer for an on-the-go student, but at school, we are staying in one classroom and often a single desk. We do not need a compact, lightweight laptop to move from the computer cart to our desk; a normal size laptop will work fine. Also, the screen is short in the vertical direction. When typing a paper, it is preferable to see the pa-per as an entirety rather than scrolling constantly to view the document as several segmented pieces.

Another problem is that there is less space between the keys, resulting in a higher chance of making mistakes when typing. It becomes more difficult to work quickly and efficiently. Finishing by the end of class without typos could be quite difficult.

When trying to save files or documents on a flash drive, the computer’s documents do not save to the flash drive for many students. Many stu-dents need to use flash drives for saving projects because not everyone has computers with internet access at home.

Also the buttons for right click and left click are on the sides of the track pad on these. The rear-rangement is simple and may not seem drastic, but moving the keys around is a big deal. This is frus-trating when using the laptops because they are supposed to be at the base of the trackpad

Technology is becoming a big part of our cur-riculum requirements, but these laptops are not quite up to par with the classes’ expectations on their capabilities. Maybe in this case bigger is bet-ter for technology.

+

Almost everyone experiences the brain freeze equivalent to chugging a 20 oz. slushie when it comes to putting together a last minute Halloween costume. Some default to common guises such as a vampire (which too often is simply a pasty teen in a polyester black cape,) a fairy and a sometimes scandal-ous cat or bunny, an overdone pirate, an as-sembly line serial thriller, or some other sort of postmortem cliché. For these costumes, teens are shelling out hard-earned cash to a mass Halloween superstore, when in the end, an entertaining costume party can turn into an embarrassing look-a-like contest.

“I think the most common mistake would be going out to the store and getting something already completely put together. Then a lot of people would have your cos-tume and it would be unoriginal,” senior Harry Davis said.

Many students agree that costume faux pas are a sweeping epidemic at a Halloween party.

“I think it’s lame when people dress in skimpy outfits for their costumes and aren’t even a character or anything,” senior Tawny Viater said.

However, among the malaise of simi-larly costumed teens, certain ones manage to stand out.

“The coolest costume I’ve seen would have to be from last year when a girl from my art class dressed up as Sasquatch,” senior Rachael Goffin said.

Some may remember Goffin’s costume last year when she came to school as a gi-ant clown Pez dispenser for Halloween. This year she plans on being Transformer Opti-mus Prime, constructing her costume out of cardboard boxes.

“I found a bunch of empty cardboard boxes at Aldi and decided ‘Why not make a costume out of them?’” Goffin said.

Davis once put together his costume by combining a monk’s robe and a light saber so he could duplicate a Jedi from Star Wars. He agrees that the best costumes are put togeth-er by the wearer.

“I once saw someone who made an out-fit out of a bunch of Styrofoam plates stuck together for his costume. I can’t remember what he was supposed to be, but I’ve never seen someone do anything like that before. I would’ve never thought ‘Hey, there’s a bunch of Styrofoam plates, I bet I could make a cos-tume out of that,’” Davis said.

Senior Tarynn Hedden is planning to

dress as Frankenfurter from the Rocky Hor-ror Picture Show, using clothes from her clos-et and finding pieces for her outfit at different stores. Hedden finds that shying away from cookie-cutter guises and being more creative with costumes always pays off.

“It is like the whole prom dress thing; you show up and then you say, ‘Hey, look, she has my dress!’ If you make your costume, then no one else will have the same thing as you,” Hedden said.

Many students agree that the best cos-tume is the home-made one, and with most teen costumes averaging at $50 a piece, it could be easiest on the wallet, too.

One great idea to help with Halloween inspiration is to pick a favorite show, wheth-er new or old, and get a group of friends to-gether to mimic the characters. Then it’s not just one person in on the joke and it’s easier to shop for costumes together. Another idea is to have a creative theme such as dead mov-ie stars or music legends, then the group can bounce ideas off of each other for costume inspiration. If going solo, find inspiration from movies and books to create or mimic a memorable character.

“Your costume choice is based off of what you like. Mine is from Rocky Horror Picture Show. Find something that you’re really into and make it your own,” Hedden said.

Goffin agrees that personality should have a transforming effect on a home-made costume.

“Just find a way to put your personal-ity into the costume and improvise,” Goffin said.

October 26, 20096

AskLaugh

ExploreWonderInspireLive

by the numbers

IIonlife

Students reuse old costumes in creative new ways

By Anna Ortiz feature and graphics editor

496millions of pounds of pumpkins produced by Illinois. Illinois led the country in pumpkin production.

1,233number of U.S. manufacturing establishments that produced chocolate and cocoa products in 2007.

Facts from the U.S. Census Bureau 2009

23.8per capita

consumption (in pounds) of candy by Americans in

2008.

The estimated num-ber of potential trick-or-treaters in 2008 — children 5 to 13 — across the United States.

36 million

Senior Bethany Komazinski dances with girls’ showchoir during the intermediate choirs’ fall pro-gram.

Dancing

Photos IllustratIon by GeorGIa otte

Recycled c stumes

Junior Maiko Takada helps sophomore Jacob Suson put on a kendo suit at a Japanese club meeting.

1.1 billionTotal production of pumpkins by major pumpkin-producing

states in 2008.

Just find a way to put your

personality into the costume and

improvise.

-senior Rachael Goffin

“ “ D

ressing Up

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Eight hours of school, then a three hour long extracurricular, followed by two hours of homework. For many students, this is the reality of their average day. With so much going on, it’s hard for some to figure out how to prioritize their schedules.

“There has to be acceptance by the student that academics are first priority,” guidance counselor Peg Shaffer said.

While it seems obvious to put school as a priority over extracurricular activities, there is also a prioritization that needs to occur within students’ academics. Students need to make the effort to meet their teachers for help, and focus on the subjects they know they are having trouble with.

“If students know that math is a challenge, then they should meet with the teacher during zero period and maybe dedicate three days a week to math, if they know they can handle their other classes,” Shaffer said. “Basically, keep the lines of communication open with the teacher. Teachers want to see students succeed, and not just take the easy way out.”

Some students have to set up a schedule for themselves to ensure that they balance their activities wisely.

“I try to get all of my homework and studying done before I have cheerleading,” junior Lexi Diamond said.

Diamond is a varsity cheerleader who practices about six hours per week, on average.

Freshman David Kepshire has also had to find a way to structure his days so that he gets his schoolwork done while balancing his schedule full of sporting events and practices.

“Between basketball practices and baseball games, I’ve had to find time to finish my homework and study for my tests,” Kepshire said. “It’s been a little hard, but I always make sure to find some kind of time to get it done.”

Kepshire makes sure that he is able to get his schoolwork done so that he is able to stay in the sports he loves.

“I really like basketball this year, so I need to make sure I can keep my grades up during the season,” Kepshire said.

Even though students should put their academics before extracurricular activities, there is a need for students to figure out how to prioritize so that they can be involved in the

activities outside of school which they love.“Students are involved with extracurricular

activities because they enjoy them, so there has to be a balance of work and play,” Shaffer said.

Diamond agrees.“Sometimes it’s hard to balance them both,

but they’re both very important to me, so I make it work,” she said.

According to Shaffer, when students do not prioritize adequately, they are risking not getting into the college of their choice.

“Colleges are much harder to get into now. Next year, two years of foreign language will be required to get into IU or Purdue, even though the Core 40 diploma doesn’t require it,“ Shaffer said. “[Colleges] look for students who challenge themselves and take rigorous classes, maintain a 3.0 grade point average, and are involved in the community and extracurricular activities.”

Although it is important to have other activities for a college transcript, academics are first priority, according to Shaffer.

“To maintain good grades, you have to be a good manager of time. Some classes may take you ten minutes to study, and others may take you an hour,” Shaffer said. “It’s hard: that’s why it’s called schoolwork.”

October 26, 2009Feature8

By Ammy Eastostaff writer

County Line Orchard offers cheap fun

By Lauren Cainco-copy editor

Students find ways to prioritize their schedules

$aveWAYSto

When we were young, we saved our lemonade stand earnings until we had enough change saved up to buy an ice cream cone. However, as we grow, our jobs and income change, so inevitably the way we handle our money changes as well. Here are a few ways to ensure that you’re gaining the most from your money.

For those students who have trouble balancing busy school and extracurricular schedules with a work schedule, there are overlooked options for jobs where students can make their own schedule. A classic choice is babysitting, where you can choose which jobs you take, and which ones you don’t have time for. Another alternative would be tutoring. Students make their own schedule for when they tutor someone, so that it can balance with their schedule. With both of these jobs, you can set your own price. Both can earn an average of about $10 to $15 an hour. Students can sign up to be a tutor in the Guidance office.

Put money in savings• Once you have an income, instead of

cashing each check, deposit it into savings. When you cash a check, you’re more likely to spend the money if it’s at your fingertips. By depositing it into a savings account, you’re less likely to spend it right away. Also, once it’s in your savings account, you can start earning interest on it.

Buy practical things• When you buy something minimal like

food, it’ll satisfy you once. However, when you use your money to buy something practical, it’ll satisfy you over and over. Consider your purchases an investment, and make sure that you will use them enough to make the purchases worthwhile. While big price tags may scare you away, spending your money on more expensive items ends up paying off. For example, an iPod is something that can be used enough to make it worth the price.

Get a job•

With autumn in full swing, the “Disney World” of Northwest Indiana has officially opened its gates, or in this case, barn doors. The County Line Apple Orchard, located in Hobart, has finally begun its seasonal venue.

Because of the common stereotype of an apple orchard only having apples, many people believe this multiple acre farm would be a bore. I beg to differ. From newborns to elderly couples, the sight of people of every age swarming the farm is mesmerizing.

Since County Line is the closest U-pick apple orchard to Chicago, there are always new faces to be introduced to. From dates, to family outings, to birthday parties, to weddings, even, this orchard brings the best that any apple orchard has to offer. Live music from local “country” bands fill the air with tunes from the sixties and seventies while the smells of fall, and apple everything, waft through the air.

As money continues to be tight in this day and age, family days are getting more expensive. However, County Line has a $1 general admission into the orchard itself. There, you get a tractor ride and a chance to choose from and pick 21 different types of apples which start at $1.65 a pound. Be sure to bring a partner, though, because you may need a hand or shoulder to reach the best apples out of the bunch. And take caution when walking through the forest of apple picking trees. Dropped, thrown, or simply unwanted apples may cause serious injury.

Aside from a tractor ride to the orchard, there is also a pumpkin patch with a starting cost of 40 cents a pound. It’s a great deal, with all the proper fall necessities in one place. Spend the day not only searching for the perfect apples, but also picking the biggest pumpkin on the farm. Not to mention a corn maze which lurks in the land of County Line. Cost is $5 a person, but fun and Kodak moments are free of charge.

However, if you or younger siblings are not looking for apples or pumpkins, perhaps a climbing goat or live bee hives will grab your attention. There is also a kids’ farm, in which the goats are located, and baby chicks do hatch daily. Whatever gets your “awe” factor in check.

On your way back from the orchard, patch, and maze, proceed into the picture perfect red barn. Here you will find all of the apple drinks and munchies known to the human brain. Cider, pies, doughnuts, fudge, fresh caramel apples: You name it, they got it. All freshly baked or brewed, County Line has some of the best in Indiana.

Bundle up and take a day to visit the County Line Apple Orchard. Chances are you will find more than you were looking for. Bring a camera, a friend, your family, and a smile. You will learn to love the autumn season and will take home more than ever thought possible, including the aroma of apple pie.

Quick tips:On days when •

you have extracur-riculars, find time between activities to devote to home-work and studying

Make time to •meet with the teacher of a class you are struggling in before you fall behind in the class

Don’t shy away •from extracur-riculars because of your school schedule. Colleges will look at your activities as well.

Junior Samantha Snooks picks an apple at the County Line Apple Orchard. General admission into the orchard is one dollar, which also includes a tractor ride throughout the orchard. Other activites include a corn maze and a pumpkin patch.

Prices at the orchard:

$1.65 per pound of pick your own apples

$1 general admis-sion into the orchard

$.40 per pound for pumpkins

$5 admission into corn maze

$30 private hayride for 35 people

$7 dozen of apple cinnamon donuts

By Lauren Cainco-copy editor

Photo By Vinessa needham

In a struggling economy, these are a few small, simple ways to make the most of your money

October 26, 2009 Feature 9

Dealing with divorceBy Haajar Shaaban and Lauren McCarroll staff reporters

Jon minus Kate—what about the eight? With the imminent di-vorce of Jon and Kate Gosselin, the parents of the eight children who were formerly on a televi-sion show, it seems as if the topic of divorce has been given a sec-ond look.

Even though it’s the faces of

the parents that are plastered all over the front of the tabloids and distributed around the world— what about the kids? How does divorce affect kids and teenagers who are stuck in the middle?

Divorce. One might not real-ize the magnitude of the word un-til they have been struck by it.

According to the Forest Insti-tute of Professional Psychology, a 50 percent divorce rate has been reached. Even though separations between parents might be a com-mon occurrence, that does not always mean it is any easier for teens to handle.

“The way the parents handle it is really what affects the child involved,” guidance counselor Peg Shaffer said. “If the parents are putting the kid in the middle [of the dispute], it isn’t fair.”

Research has shown one of the most common signs of a sour divorce is that the parents talk behind one another’s backs to the

teen, putting them in the middle of the situation.

Divorce can affect teens soci-cally just as much as mentally.

“Teens often withdraw from social events and become defen-sive because they feel the divorce is their fault. Some may even try to change the way they look and escape the past by changing who they spend their time with, the way they dress, and the way they wear their hair,” Shaffer said.

Other teens are looking on the brighter side of life.

“I’m still happy either way,” sophomore Taylor Passine said. “Sure there are hard times every once in a while, but I am just hap-py to have my parents.”

Extracurricular activities are

also a large part of many teens’ lives. But even though some stu-dents’ parents have separated, they are still there, being support-ive at their child’s events.

“The divorce hasn’t affected my interests. They both still come [to my events],” sophomore Han-nah Raspopovich said.

According to Divorce Source, Inc., the age at which the divorce took place can be a factor in the way a child handles or reacts to the situation. Older adolescents whose thinking skills are more fine-tuned may see the divorce differently than a younger child.

“I was two years old when it happened, and I did have issues when I was younger, but I’m fine now,” senior Charlie Wood said.

It is common to assume that children wish that their parents had never separated in the first place so their lives wouldn’t have changed so drastically, yet in some circumstances parents can improve the child’s life by com-municating and staying active in the child’s life.

Some teens think back on the situation and say that if they had the chance to bring their parents back together, they wouldn’t.

“My parents wouldn’t be happy together. They are better off with other people,” Wood said.

With cooperation between parents and students, teens do not have to struggle with divorce.

“It helps me to accept things easier and just be happy with what I have,” Passine said.

What’sHELPFUL?

Giving up on academics or extracurriculars

What’sHARMFUL?

Violently acting out

Blaming the separation on yourself

Using drugs or alcohol as a coping

mechanism

Students find ways to cope when their parents split up

The way the parents handle it is really what affects the kid,

“ “

-Guidance counselor Peg Shaffer

Cartoon by anna ortiz

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Feature10 October 26, 2009

By Deanna Sheaferco-editor-in-chief

Integration of new technologyAs our school grows and

becomes more diversified, so do the methods in which we are taught with. The days of handwritten notes on chalkboards and tests on paper are numbered with the integration of new technology. Many students are familiar with the computer program called Brain Honey, which was first used with the Algebra I Credit Recovery program.

“It’s a Learning Management System. Basically, it is an online environment where students can view lectures, do homework, take quizzes and tests, and chat with other students or the instructor,” foreign language and math teacher Ryan Collier said.

Brain Honey is currently being used in classes like Honors Pre-Calculus, Latin, and Spanish. Some students find advantages in learning through computers and enjoy the different approach to new material.

“I like using Brain Honey because you don’t have to wait until your teacher grades something to know how you did, and you can review the material immediately,” senior Mava Malik said.

Since all students learn in different ways, Collier thinks that trying out new instructional technology could be helpful.

“It is simply a different approach to instruction and assessment. It allows a more self-paced approach. it also allows a student to do certain things from the comfort of their own homes. For the teacher, it’s an opportunity to try out some new instructional technology with the hope that they might get through to some students who don’t enjoy the traditional environment as much,” Collier said.

Similar to the Algebra Credit Recovery program, Brain Honey allows students to take courses

online that they cannot take throughout the school day.

“It has the potential to ease some scheduling conflicts for students that have to choose between classes because they don’t have room in their schedule for both,” Collier said.

However, some students and teachers alike see drawbacks to learning strictly through a computer program.

“It is inconvenient to take tests on a computer because you have to keep looking between your paper and the screen,” senior Lindsey Wacnik said.

“The biggest drawback that I see is the de-emphasis of face-to-face interaction between teacher and student. For some, learning from the computer is not an issue, but I think others may struggle to learn new material without a licensed educator in front of them,” Collier said.

The use of Brain Honey and the general integration of technology into classes increased the demand for computers to be readily available to students. Thus, the school purchased 880 HP Mini Notebooks over the summer.

“The smaller units referred to as ‘mini notebooks’ provided a higher performance machine, a smaller footprint, and less power consumptions at a much more competitive price point as

compared to a full size notebook,” foreign language and math teacher Jeremy Walker said.

According to Walker, the last time the school purchased laptops was in 2003 when the Dell Notebooks were installed.

“Mobile carts account for 735 of the new computers, the other 145 are deployed as fixed units within the Science Department as Lab Stations,” Walker said.

In further efforts to keep CPHS at the forefront technology-wise, student email addresses will soon be available for all students. According to Principal Dr. Eric Ban, students will use the provided school email for all official school information, just like at a college.

“All students have to be competent in a digital world and use the right tools to support working smarter. Thus, all students will have an email address,” Ban said.

Sophomore Richard Rangel uses one of the school’s new laptop computers. A total of 880 of the computers in the school are laptops.

From birth, we are instilled with a desire—a sort of natural in-stinct—to argue. As a wolf fights to protect its territory, man fights to protect his opinion. And like a wolf, we have certain inherent tools to facilitate this protection. Unfortunately, many have not learned how to properly utilize the tools they have been given.

“Traditionally, parents tell their children not to argue--to be respectful and listen,” Eng-lish teacher Ashley Monroe said. “However, people are starting to learn that argument is acceptable if the tone is right.”

Speech and Debate coach Ja-cob Adams agrees that the ability to argue is a vital part of a per-son’s life.

“In everyone’s life, there will be disagreement, whether it is in personal life, at work, or in the community,” Adams said. “This is why arguing is so important.”

According to both Monroe and Jacobs, there are two main tools which one can use in an ef-fective argument: the evidence

and the counterargument.The first tool in a proper ar-

gument is the evidence support-ing your stance. Without this evi-dence, according to Jacobs, your claim falls through because you don’t have the facts to back it up.

“In order to argue a point, you have to have the evidence,” Jacobs said. “The thing that an-noys me the most in today’s cul-ture is that people have empty claims. People argue with each other without really getting any-where. When you’re arguing, it’s not enough to just have an opin-ion. You have to say, ‘I feel this way because...’”

The second tool in an argu-ment is the counterargument.

“Anyone can find evidence to support a claim,” Monroe said. “The ability to see both sides of the argument is so important. When you’re able to weigh the sides, you are then able to pro-duce a better argument.”

Adams agrees that this is an important component.

“You have to listen to the oth-er person and change your argu-ment based on that,” Adams said.

While many don’t know how

to properly utilize these two tools, some know them, but make mis-takes which are detrimental to their argument.

“The biggest mistake that people make in arguments is that they become so concerned with proving a point that they lose sight of the final goal,” Adams said. “People need to realize that the whole point of the argument is to come to a conclusion.”

Senior Ryan Farrell, who won the state championship in Speech last year, has experienced these mistakes first-hand

“Before I was in Speech, I never had as solid of a case in an argument,” Farrell said. “Recent-ly, I’ve been trying to know more about my argument before I make it. I do my research and have de-fenses ready.”

Monroe and Adams believe that the tools of argument can be utilized throughout one’s life to give some order a human’s natural instinct to argue. So next time your parents tell you to stay at home, remember your tools. Ready your fangs. Sharpen your claws. Argue—and try not to make any mistakes.

I like using Brain Honey because you don’t have to wait until your teacher grades something to know how you did, and you can

review the material immediately.

-senior Mava Malik

“

“

Number of laptops added to each wing:

Art wing:• 16

Auxiliary wing• : 226

Auxiliary “E” wing: •60

Presentation •rooms: 25

English wing:• 170

Media center: • 46

Science wing:• 48

FACS wing:• 48

Social studies •wing: 96

Bringing back the lost art of arguingBy Matt Smithco-copy editor

Photo by Mary-Katherine LeMon

Photo iLLustration by JereMy rex

As the leaves change colors and the season of thrills and fright quickly approaches, one can only hungrily anticipate the release of more ‘late night’ horror movies. While the purpose of most classic horrors is to be scary, some manage to strike the funny bone in their attempts to spook audiences. Whether it’s a factor of age, poor writing, or just poor quality, some frighten-ing movies end up being more humorous than terrifying.

As a young student, I have had the privi-lege of being relatively untouched by the re-cession. For this reason, I have also had trou-ble understanding the proximity of the issue

in addition to knowing who really is to blame for our eco-nomic crisis. As a viewer of

Capitalism: A Love Story, I was hoping to have this put into context for me. Even though Mi-chael Moore achieves a lot in this movie, he wasn’t really able to answer these questions.

For someone to make a documentary on a subject, you would hope that they’re knowl-edgeable enough on the topic to be able to state

exactly what’s going on in the Average Joe’s terminology. Apparently, Moore can’t, which makes this movie difficult to follow unless the viewer is someone already knowledgeable of current events and knows exactly what has been happening with the recession

Moore definitely loses some points by not being able to state what is actually wrong with the economy, but he gains them back by creat-ing a reality that we seldom see. By seeing the police knock down the door on a house that has been foreclosed with the family locked inside, it all hits home as to what exactly is going on with this economy. Viewers also see and hear from blue collar workers who have lost their jobs and commercial airline pilots that are forced to live off of food stamps. Also,

he allows viewers to gain a different perspec-tive of the economy through his classic humor which never fails.

Moore is famous for his cynical views on this country; that is, after all, what has earned him praise for his former movies Fahrenheit 9/11 and Bowling for Columbine. While he is good at showing viewers how the recession has actually affected many people, he isn’t tru-ly capable of saying what is going on with our economy. So if you’re looking for something to explain the reason behind our economic cri-sis, this wouldn’t be the way to go. However, if you just want to see the economy through a different perspective, involving humor and hearing from those affected, this is an enter-taining movie for you.

Although the holiday season is still two months away, that didn’t stop American Idol alumn David Archuleta from releasing his Christmas CD, Christ-mas From the Heart, on Oct. 13. The CD includes holi-day classics such as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Ave Maria.” Archuleta will also be going on a holiday concert tour throughout the season, and will be coming to Waukegan, IL on Dec. 11.

Arts & EntErtAinmEnt 11October 26,2009

InformatIon compIled by InklIngs edItors

chrIstmas from the heart

InklIngs musIc blogDeveloped by yours truly, our music blog features music that we believe should be in the spotlight- whether it’s new or old, popular or obscure, loud or soft, rock or jazz. We’ll be doing our best to bring you music of every style and genre. So check us out at http://inklingsmusic.blogspot.com!

favorite things

a few of our

More funny than frightful “Horror”ible movies worth watching for laughs

Too many sequels take away from original movieBy Brittany Curtismanaging editor

myview

Capitalism: A Love Story fails to impress

Review

Coming out this Wed. Oct. 28, Michael Jackson’s This Is It gives Jackson fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the singer as he prepared for his concert tour before his tragic death. Com-piled from over 100 hours of Jackson as he rehearsed for his tour, This Is It is the last footage of Jackson perform-ing before his death.

mIchael Jackson’s

thIs Is It

When a movie is suc-cessful, the obvious question is, “will it make a sequel?” And while many have tried, few can truthfully say that they have made a sequel that lives up to the caliber of its predecessor.

Some franchises are just better off left as one movie. You can’t mess with the classics. I couldn’t imagine Titanic 2: Jack Strikes Back, not only because it is illogical, but because it would most likely ruin the first movie for me.

Take the Saw saga, for example. How many movies do you really need about gruesome, disgusting situ-ations in which the victims learn something about their lives and are eventually “better off?” The premise is always the same, and you can always expect a lot of blood and gore. Why is there a need to keep making sequels?

Pirates of the Caribbean is another blockbuster that should have left their series at one movie. The first movie was excellent, the second a little out there, and the third was just ridiculous. And to add insult to injury, Disney is in talks to make a fourth film. While I love Jack Sparrow, I think that it’s time for him to hang up his hat and call it a day.

While there are an infinite number of horrible sequels (see Teen Wolf 2,) there are a few who manage to get it right.

The Harry Potter fran-chise, on the other hand has consistently produced entertaining and successful sequels. With each movie, technology progresses and allows the film producers to make more enjoyable and fascinating films.

Most superhero mov-ies also manage to produce sequels which live up to or even surpass the success of the first movie. Spiderman, Superman, and X-men are three franchises have gotten it right.

While everybody doesn’t want their favorite movie to end, sometimes it’s better to leave the franchises at one movie.

By Lauren Cainco-copy editor

While fleeing from the FBI, two bandits make their way to the southern border of the United States. Along the way, they use an unexpecting family as hostages to smuggle themselves across the border. Once on the other side, the bandits and the family find themselves pinned against gruesome, blood-sucking vampires. They soon realize that the only way to survive the night is to work to-gether and forget their past relationships. Though the movie starts off with an excellent and original story line, it tends to lose focus once the vampires appear. At that point the over exaggerated action and gore replaces the storyline and devalues the movie as a whole.

From Dusk Till Dawn

Combining aliens, zombies, and a man-made doomsday weapon, Plan 9 from Outer Space starts off as an eerie UFO movie with strange sky lights and confused pilots. Then, taking a completely different direction, the movie starts to revolve around zombies at-tacking and causing chaos on the people of Earth. It is later revealed that the U.S. govern-ment is making a weapon of mass destruc-tion. In an attempt to stop this, extraterrestrial beings implement “Plan 9,” a plan to resur-rect dead Earthlings and disrupt the produc-tion of the doomsday weapon. Overall, Plan 9 from Outer Space has an intriguing plot line, but most of it is lost in its poor production, picture and sound quality, along with the confusion in figuring out what exactly hap-pened to previous plans ‘one’ through ‘eight.’ Not to mention, Bela Logosi appears several times in this movie by the use of stock foot-age from previous movies. The reason for this bizarre special afffect? Bela Logosi died three years before Plan 9 was even made.

Plan 9 From Outer Space

By Joe Nejmanphotographer

“It takes all kinds of critters to make Farmer Vincent’s fritters.” With a tagline like that, you can only imagine what kind of movie Motel Hell is about. In spirit of the more successful 1970’s horror films, The Tex-as Chainsaw Massacre and Last House on the Left, Motel Hell tells the story of two elderly siblings who own and operate a rural mo-tel and meat processing plant. Despite the friendly name of Motel Hello, the strange short circuiting ‘o,’ moans and groans lurk-ing from the secret garden, and ignited “No Vacancy” sign could cause any passing trav-eler to only imagine the horrors that might lurk in the empty motel. The writers’ attempt at wit and irony only bounces off to sound, instead, like a satire of the more successful movies of the 70’s.

Motel Hell

TerrorVision has to be either the worst concept ever, or possibly the most brilliant. It somehow combines the need for cable, a family pet, and the destruction of pollution and turns it into a movie. Starting off on a far away planet, an alien species discovers a new way to dispose of their trash: by turning it to energy and beaming it into space. Unfor-tunately for the Putterman family on Earth, their new, state-of-the-art cable satellite dish intercepts the alien trash. Among the gar-barge is a hideous, slimy, two-ton monster that’s ready to eat. After a few mishaps, the Putterman children try to adopt the monster as a pet. Unfortunately, they soon realize that the role as the children’s pet might not sit right with the beast, himself.

Terrorvision

Killer Klowns from Outer Space takes a new leap into clown horror and comedy. Just as the title suggests, this movie is about an alien race that resembles clowns. Arriving in none other than a flying circus tent, the clowns are discovered by a young couple that try to warn the police of this mysterious threat. Of course the police don’t believe them, which results in a night of clown terror. Although the clowns’ ultimate goal was to capture humans for food by cocooning them in cotton candy or balloons, they also terrorize the town with attacking ani-mal balloons, guns loaded with popcorn, acidic pies, killer shadow puppets, and an assortment of other mischievious acts. Even though Killer Klowns from Outer Space was made by the Chio-do brothers (the special effects artists who are most known for Critters and Team America: World Police), it lacked the realistic special effects that their more popular movies contained.

Killer Klowns From Outer Space

cartoon by anna ortIz

Consider trying soundsof lesser known artistswho rival your favorites

Arts & EntErtAinmEnt12 October 26, 2009

By Brittany Curtis managing editor

Reality TV portrays fantasy

What’s on your iPod?

Alternative soundwavesBy Alex Parrish and Lauren McCarrollphotographer and staff writer

Resurrecting Built Upon Frustration

Odysseus Steel Nation

Don’t Stop Believin’ Journey

Josh Rice Senior

One Wish Ray J

Imma Star Jeremiah

If Everyone Cared Nickelback

Jake McCaffery Junior

Club Foot Kasabian

Hypnotized System of a Down

Awake Godsmack

Kolton Evans Sophomore

Sassafrass The Devil Wears Prada

D- Techno Life Uverworld

Given Up Linkin Park

Emily DykstraFreshman

While we all might like to be-lieve that reality shows are real, that simply is not the case. But as more and more shows have be-gun to come into the spotlight as being fake or staged, the question is posed as to what real “reality” actually is.

“The Hills” is perhaps the most popular of these shows to come into the spotlight as be-ing staged. Star Lauren Conrad has been quoted as saying that almost none of what you see on “The Hills” actually happens. The show follows a variety of young adults including Lauren Conrad, Heidi Montag, Audrina Patridge, and Lauren “Lo” Bosworth as they live in Los Angeles.

“The Bachelor” is another re-ality show that has caused view-ers to question the actuality of its premise. With only one couple out of the show’s 13 seasons ac-tually still together, is the show’s purpose really to find a suitable spouse for the bachelor?

Most recent bachelor Jason Mesnick went on the show to find a wife, but two weeks after the season finale was taped, he was shown breaking up with the woman he chose at the final rose ceremony in front of a live audi-ence.

Another “reality” show that faced controversy over specula-tion of its authenticity was “Man vs. Wild.” The premise of the show is for a man to survive in the wild, however allegations sur-faced that there were many nights that were actually spent in hotels, rather than braving the great out-doors.

Discovery later released a statement saying, “Discovery Communications has learned that isolated elements of the ‘Man vs. Wild’ show in some episodes were not natural to the environ-ment, and that for health and safety concerns the crew and host received some survival assistance while in the field.”

While it is understandable that due to safety reasons the host had to spend some nights in ho-tels, it makes viewers wonder how often instances like this occur.

In its essence, reality TV isn’t real. On average, how many peo-ple are stranded on an island and asked to survive for nine weeks? Not many. So, is what we’re look-ing for really reality? Or is what we’re looking for the drama and humor of seeing real people in not-so-real situations?

If you like... Try listening to...Paramore

If you were enticed by Paramore’s Hayley Williams’ flaming hair and lyrics, then similar sounding Hey Monday might capture you as well. Be sure to check out their highly popular “Home-coming.” Both bands have catchy pop-punk lyrics and are led by female singers (Cassadee Pope is Hey Monday’s) with an at-

titude and style all their own.

If you’ve leaped onto the newly popular Owl City bandwagon, then you may want to escape with PlayRadioPlay! (more re-cently known as Analog Rebellion). They’ve been around since 2005 but haven’t been immensely popular. Both bands are an easy listen a with their breathy voices and soft indie sounds

with the lyrics to match.

Though nobody could compare to NeverShoutNever!’s uke(ukulele), The Rocket Summer knows how to grab you by the heart and never let go in a similar manner. With four com-pleted albums and four EPs under his belt, singer and only member Bryce Avary knows what he is doing. Both have a cer-

tain happy-go-lucky, youthful feel to them.

These spunky-sounding, hard-hitting yet adorable singers add a kick to the pop world with edgier lyrics and lip gloss to boot. Both are dedicated to full force female ferocity, yet are still charming with Lily’s British and Fefe’s Canadian accent. Songs such as Lily Allen’s “The Fear” and Fefe Dobson’s “I

Want You” have been hitting the charts hard.

Although the Kings of Leon have been ruling the music charts (they were nominated for three American Music Awards) and few known bands can compare, many Kings fans can also en-joy listening to Vampire Weekend. Though both bands have a similar genre, Vampire Weekend rocks a fun, British and light-

hearted sound.

Syntho-pop duo Metro Station blew up with their hit “Shake It” and has been put into the same genre as similar sounding Forever the Sickest Kids who are most known for “Hey Brit-tany.” Although Metro Station has a more techno sound, fans should still like Forever the Sickest Kids’ stronger vocals and

heavier guitar riffs.

Owl City

NeverShoutNever!

Lily Allen

The Kings of Leon

Metro Station

Hey Monday

PlayRadioPlay!

The Rocket Summer

Fefe Dobson

Vampire Weekend

Forever the Sickest Kids

While not exactly the same, these similar bands are easily comparable to ones a little more famous. So if you want to find new music not too far out of your comfort zone, check it out.

SportS 13October 26, 2009

Girls cross country wins sectional crown Boys tennis wraps up sectional title

The sectional meet became a nightmare for all teams competing against the Lady Bulldogs’ cross country team.

The regional meet, however, brought a repeat of the season’s only real rough spot for the girls: a loss to the Lake Central In-dians.

The Lady Bulldogs went into the sec-tional meet strongly favored. The meet was held on Oct. 13 at Lemon Lake County Park, the Crown Point home course. Before the post-season began, however, the girls com-peted against their fellow DAC teams in the DAC Conference Championship meet.

The girls were able to defeat all seven of the other teams en route to capturing their first ever DAC title. They outscored the sec-ond place team, Valparaiso, by a margin of 53-57.

Junior Laicee Pierce finished in second place overall, followed closely by sopho-more Lauren McCarroll (sixth) and junior Augusta Schrader (ninth).

In the sectional contest, the girls ran away from the rest of the field, putting all seven of their runners in the top eight over-all. They took home their fourth consecutive sectional title with the win.

Pierce led the way for the girls, finish-ing in a time of 19:01.

“It was exciting to win the race,” Pierce said. “This is the third year in a row that I’ve won it, so it’s cool to keep doing well at sec-tionals.”

The other six runners contributing to the 18 total points scored were McCarroll (second), Schrader (fourth), senior Mor-gan Kleinaman (fifth), sophomore Allison Wortel (sixth), senior Melissa Ostaszewski (seventh), and sophomore Madison Koch (eighth).

“The results [of the sectional meet] ex-ceeded my expectations,” head coach Patty Begley said. “Scoring only 18 points is an awesome accomplishment by these girls.”

An outside factor that came into play for this meet was the cold. Unseasonably cold weather could throw off even the best runners. However, Pierce didn’t let the brisk weather get to her.

“I just ran my normal race and pushed through it,” Pierce said.

The regional race was held the follow-ing Saturday, Oct. 17. Once again, Lemon Lake County Park was the site of the com-petition. Although the cold was still linger-ing for this race, a new challenge entered play in the form of standing water and a muddy course.

“I do my best to ignore the weather con-ditions and focus on my race,” McCarroll said. “I was pushing myself to stay strong mentally.”

Lake Central provided solid competi-tion for the Lady Bulldogs throughout the race. In the end, it proved to be too much for the girls to overcome, as they fell by a single point to the Lady Indians.

Pierce again led the girls, this time with a second place finish overall. The field was tightly packed behind the first place finish-er, Dana Payonk from Lake Central.

Relatively similar to the sectional race, McCarroll finished second for the girls and sixth overall, followed by Schrader (eighth), Kleinaman (tenth), Ostaszewski (13th), Wortel (14th), and sophomore Taylor Pass-ine (16th).

“It was heartbreaking to lose by one point,” Begley said. “I fully believe we have the ability to bounce back at semi-state and win it.”

Although the girls were unable to take down a regional title, they still looked on to the semi-state meet. With a fifth place rank-ing as a team in the coaches’ poll, the girls looked poised to qualify for the state meet.

The main competition for the Lady Bulldogs should have been out of their own conference. DAC foes Valparaiso and Por-tage should have challenged the girls for a semi-state title.

“It should be extremely close between us, Valparaiso and Portage,” Begley said. “If we don’t win we can, at the very least, have a great showing.”

The semi-state meet was held at New Prairie High School on October 24. If the girls qualified for the state meet, they will travel to the LaVern Gibson Championship course on October 31 to compete.

The results of the meet were unavail-able at press time.

Junior Laicee Pierce runs through the leaves during the third mile of the regional meet. Pierce finished second overall in 19:01.

The boys tennis team waited for days on end to finally finish their sectional match against Rensselaer. They waited for three long days for their chance to take down a sectional title.

When the opportunity final-ly arrived, they took the title.

It took several days for the rain to stop, but when it did, the boys made their way to a 5-0 vic-tory over the Bombers.

Senior James Haworth, the ‘Dogs’ number two singles play-er, won his match 6-0, 6-2.

“I was pumped,” Haworth said when asked how he felt about the victory. “I was re-placed on varsity last season and I was able to prove I belonged on it this year.”

Also victorious for the boys was fellow senior Thomas Vanderplough, who took down his match 6-3, 6-2.

The number one doubles team of seniors Nick Vlassopou-los and Scooter Jacobus also won their sectional match 6-0, 6-0.

A date at the Munster re-gional followed the sectional victory. The boys defeated Highland by a 5-0 score in the opening round, but fell to Mun-ster 4-1 in the finals.

In the match against Mun-ster, Vanderplough lost by a score of 0-6, 0-6. Haworth also fell to his opponent, losing 1-6, 0-6. Number three singles player Dan Smith, a sophomore, was defeated 2-6, 3-6.

The one point for the ‘Dogs came from the duo of Vlassopo-ulos and Jacobus, who were able to pull of a win by a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.

Vlassopoulos and Jacobus were not able to keep up their winning ways in the following round, however, as they fell to Lake Central’s duo by a score of 0-6, 1-6.

By Colin Likasasst. sports editorLady Bulldogs finish runner-up in regional contest, prepare for semi-state

By Colin Likasasst. sports editor

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The Duneland Athletic Con-ference title was on the line for the Crown Point Lady Bulldogs. In the regular season finale they were vic-torious over Lake Central with a fi-nal score of 4-3.

“Mentally, beating Lake Cen-tral was huge,” Coach Chris Mikrut said. “Winning the DAC champion-ship for the first time in six years was a great confidence booster heading into sectionals.”

The following weekend at sec-tioanls the Lady Bulldogs finished first, which marked their first sec-tional win since 2003.

“Anytime we play Lake Central it’s a very emotional game for us,” Mikrut said. “If we would have lost the DAC championship game [to

Lake Central] then it would’ve been more difficult to win the following sectional game.”

After losing nine starting se-niors from the 2008 season, the Lady Bulldogs faced the challenge of fill-ing in the gaps with a mix of young but expirinced players.

“Even though many of the girls on the team are underclassmen, they are all experienced soccer players who have played in other leagues before high school,” Mikrut said.

The Lady Bulldogs were led through sectionals by senior Sam-my Vercellino who has been a var-sity soccer player since her freshman year.

Mikrut said that Vercellino is one of the teams key players and her mental support towards the under-classmen is one of the main reasons for the young team’s success.

“If we’re having a rough game I always try to stay positive and keep my spirits high,” Vercellino said. “I try to keep the team pumped up so we can finish games strong.”

During sectional play, which was held at Lake Central, the Lady Bulldogs deafted Andrean 3-0 in the opening round and moved on to face Lake Central for the second time this year. The Lady Bulldogs won by a score of 2-1. Junior Beth Rothrock scored one goal and also dished out an assist to Vercellino for the winning goal.

“It was a great feeling to beat Lake Central two times in a row,” Vercellino said, “Even though it wasn’t the championship game, the bus ride home was the loudest and most exciting ride I’ve expirienced in four years.”

The Lady Bulldogs deafted Ho-bart in the sectional championship game with a score of 4-1 and moved on to play Munster at regionals which took place at Highland.

In the regional championship game, Crown Point was down 2-1 with 15 minutes left to play when Vercellino scored the tying goal ,which was her 20th goal of the sea-son. Regulation ended with a 2-2 tie and led to a shootout where Mun-ster won 4-2.

Even though the Lady Bulldogs will graduate six seniors they will return a core group of sophomores and juniors for next season.

“[The players] gained a lot of confidence from what we accom-plished this season,” sophomore Amy Adams said. “We are all ex-cited for next year.”

One thing that has become more and more noticeable around school these days is the number of students with the flu or some other illness. The boys cross country team has been hit particularly hard by the flu-bug as of late.

Nevertheless, the ‘Dogs just keep on running through the post-season.

The boys recently wrapped up another sectional title and, a few days later, advanced to the semi-state meet. The sectional victory was their ninth in the last ten sea-sons.

Before the sectional and the regional, however, was the DAC championship meet. Besides the host Chesterton, whose team is

highly regarded throughout the area, the field was wide open. The boys battled their way to a second place finish as a team. The show-ing helped the ‘Dogs to a second place finish overall in the DAC this season, the best the team has ever done.

“I was really excited for the team after DAC,” senior Kyle Davis said. “Second is the highest we’ve ever finished.”

Although the boys were miss-ing two of their top seven runners, seniors Andrew Facemyer and Jake Masolak, they wound up win-ning the sectional crown, defeating closest competitor Lowell by three points.

Senior Chris Shellenberger led the boys with a second place finish overall. He was followed by senior Colin Likas (4th), Davis (12th), ju-

nior Marcus Trybula (14th), junior Ryan Santelik (19th), freshman Daniel Walters (21st), and sopho-more Shawn DeBoth (24th).

“I thought the guys ran really well,” head coach Keith Iddings said. “It was exciting to win our ninth sectional title in the last ten years.”

Muddy course conditions made for a tougher race at the regional meet at Lemon Lake, but the boys were still able to advance to the semi-state meet by taking fourth as a team.

Likas finished first for the ‘Dogs and seventh overall. Close behind him were Shellenberger (19th), Trybula (21st), Masolak (25th), Da-vis (31st), sophomore Tor Jansson (61st), and sophomore Will Kroncke (70th).

“Semi-state will be challeng-ing,” Iddings said. “Although we’ve suffered setbacks, we are capable of advancing to the state meet if we do our best.”

The boys competed in the semi-state race on Saturday. Results were not available at press time.

SportS14 October 26, 2009

Girls soccer scores DAC and sectional titlesLady Bulldogs win sectional title for the first time since the 2003 season

Boys cross country captures ninth sectional title in last ten seasons

Inklings ScoreboardVarsity FootballValparaiso-56CP-21 (Sept. 25)

LaPorte-17CP-27 (Oct. 2)

CP-3Chesterton-14 (Oct. 9)

Michigan City-35CP-3 (Oct. 16)

Boys SoccerMerillville-3CP-5 (Sept. 23)

Michigan City-1CP-2 (Sept. 30)

Lake Central-3Crown Point-0 (Oct. 5)

Lake Central-6CP-0 (Oct. 8, Sectionals)

Girls SoccerCP-8Michigan City-2 (Sept. 29)

Lake Central-4CP-3 (Oct. 6)

Andrean-0CP-3 (Oct. 12, Sectionals)

Lake Central-1CP-2 (Oct. 15, Sectionals)

Hobart-1CP-4 (Oct. 17, Sectionals)

Munster-4 CP-2 (Shootout, Oct. 21, Regionals)

Boys CC2nd Place @ DAC Cham-pionship Meet (Oct. 3)

1st Place @ Sectional Meet (Oct. 13)

4th @ Regional Meet (Oct. 17)

Girls CC1st Place @ DAC Champi-onship Meet (Oct. 3)

1st Place @ Sectional Meet (Oct. 13)

2nd @ Regional Meet (Oct. 17)

VolleyballMerrillville-0CP-3 (Sept. 22)

Michigan City-3CP-2 (Sept. 24)

CP-1Lake Central-3 (Sept. 29)

LaPorte-3CP-0 (Oct. 1)

Valparaiso-2CP-3 (Oct. 6)

CP-3Portage-1 (Oct. 8)

Chesterton-1CP-3 (Oct. 13)

CP-2Michigan City-3 (Oct. 20, Sectionals)

Boys TennisRensselaer-0CP-5 (Oct. 5, Sectional Finals)

CP-1Munster-4 (Oct. 7, Re-gionals)

By Milan Savichasst. sports editor

Senior Sammy Vercellino runs down the ball in a game against Portage. The girls won the game against the Indians by a score of 4-1.

By Milan Savichasst. sports editor

PhOTO by VInnIe needham

photo by Joe NeJmaN

photo by ViNNie Needham

Senior Jake masolak competes in the regional meet at Lemon Lake.

It hasn’t been the easiest of seasons for the football team, but the ‘Dogs worked their way to a 3-6 record for the campaign. They also finished at 2-5 within the DAC.

Wrapping up the September part of the schedule, the boys faced off against the Valparaiso Vikings. The performances on both sides of the ball were not particularly impressive, as the ‘Dogs fell to the Vikings by a score of 56-21.

Sophomore quarterback Joe Hopman completed 11 passes for one touchdown. He also threw two interceptions. Junior Austin Atherton led the team in recep-tions with six for 73 yards.

The homecoming game against LaPorte brought about much better results. The team won that game by a score of 27-21.

Senior Mason Popovich led the offense with 27 rushes for 251 yards and three rushing touch-downs.

“I’ve worked hard this sea-son,” Popovich said when asked how he was able to have such a breakout game. “I feel I’m very dedicated.”

The final two games of the regular season both resulted in losses for the ‘Dogs. They faced off against Chesterton and fol-lowed that up with a game against

Michigan City.The game against the Trojans

on October 9 was a rainy affair. The muddy conditions limited the struggling offensive attack, as the ‘Dogs fell by a score of 14-3.

The defense held Chesterton in check for a large portion of the game. Junior Jordan Jurasevich led all defensemen with nine tackles and a blocked punt. Senior Zach Breuckman had six tackles and three assists.

The final game of the regular season was played at home against Michigan City. The defense was not much of a match for the high-powered Wolves’ offense, and the Bulldogs’ own offense was stifled again. The final score went in fa-vor of Michigan City, 35-3.

Hopman completed 19 passes for 75 yards and an interception. He also rushed for 41 yards on 10 attempts. Junior Cody Bacon rushed for 58 yards on only six carries.

Despite a disappointing re-cord, head coach Chip Pettit had a positive outlook on the regular season.

“I feel we’ve gotten better ev-ery week,” Pettit said. “We have a young group and I’m not disap-pointed in the effort put forth.”

The most recent game for the ‘Dogs wass the sectional opener. The team drew Chesterton in the first round and played them on October 23 at home.

Before the game, both play-

ers and coaches alike felt the team needed to focus on certain things to get the job done.

“If the offense plays up to par, we have a chance,” senior Steven Polacek said. “The defense needs to remain solid as well.”

Pettit had a similar view on

the necessity of a good offensive night.

“We need a couple of big plays offensively,” Pettit said. “We also need to stop Chesterton’s op-tion.”

The result of the game was not available at press time.

SportS 15October 26, 2009

Badgers Boast Football team wraps up regular season playFall sports post- season brings high hopes

D e s p i t e the early departure of girls’ volleyball and boys’ soccer in sectionals, the 2009 fall sports post-season looks to be an exciting and success-ful one for the Bulldogs.

In girls’ golf, we saw a vast improvement from the 2008 season, as the Lady Bulldogs were able qualify for the regional tourna-ment.

The boys’ tennis team swept through Lowell and Rensselaer to earn them-selves a sectional champion-ship. Then, in the regional round, they once again swept through Highland. However, their momentum in the post-season was no match for Munster.

Although the football team didn’t have the most promising regular season, on October 23, the Bulldogs took on the Chesterton Tro-jans. In the regular season, the Bulldogs were able to keep the DAC’s second ranked team in check. The game looked to be a highly competitive one.

The girls’ soccer team had the most impressive post-season for Crown Point High School Athletics. The Lady ‘Dogs had a great regular season, finishing 15-5 and earning accolades such as DAC champions and sectional champions. It goes without saying that the community of Crown Point would have loved to see the Lady ‘Dogs carry their mo-mentum as far as the state game. The ‘09 Lady ‘Dogs soccer team was an exciting team to watch throughout the entire season.

For both of the cross country teams, success seems to come naturally for them. Where does it come from? Who knows? But one thing is for certain: on Oc-tober 24, both teams will be competing in semi-state and they will be expected to qualify for the state meet.

By Colin Likas asst. sports editorBy Hunter

McKeesports editor

Although a sectional title was within reach for the volleyball team, they came up just short in the opening round of the post-season.

The girls fell to the Michigan City Wolves in five sets to end their season. Before the sectional game, however, the girls had several DAC matches as well as large tournament competition. They finished the regular season with a record of 18-16.

On September 29, the girls lost to Lake Central three sets to one. Junior Sofija Cucuz led the team with 24 kills. They followed that match up with another loss, this time to LaPorte in three sets.

The Lady Bulldogs got

back on the winning track against Valparaiso on October 6, defeat-ing them three sets to none. The girls continued their hot streak with two more victories follow-ing the one against the Vikings. Those two victories were against Portage and Chesterton, both by three to one margins.

After a loss to Lowell on October 15, the girls competed in a tournament at Penn. The Lady Bulldogs won the first two games of the tournament, defeated Homestead and Chesterton two sets to zero. Senior Blythe Red-man had 15 assists and junior Zara Cecich added 12 assists in the contest against Homestead. Junior Alle Geisen had 14 digs in the match versus Chesterton.

The girls were unable to maintain the momentum from

those wins, however, as they fell to Fort Wayne Snider and Penn, both by two to zero margins, in the same tournament. Cucuz had six kills while junior Gabby Raspopovich added four more against Fort Wayne Snider. Cu-cuz also recorded five digs in the match with Penn.

Although the girls finished with an above .500 record, some of them felt that they could’ve performed better.

“The season didn’t go as well as we expected it to,” senior Tori Welker said. “We could’ve com-peted with everyone we lost to.”

Sectionals opened on October 20 for the Lady Bulldogs. They drew Michigan City for their opening match. Despite taking the first two games, the girls couldn’t advance to the next round, drop-

ping the next three games and the match.

The girls opened the match with a 25-21 win in game one, followed by a 25-18 win in game two.

However, as has been the problem for most of the season, the team struggled to finish off their opponent. The scores of the final three games were 25-15, 25-16, and 15-8.

“With all of the talent we had this season we should’ve done better,” Cecich said. “We could’ve won it [sectionals].”

Despite the disappointing fin-ish to the season, Welker believes the future could be bright for the returning team.

“They just need to work hard in those tight situations,” Welker said.

Volleyball falls in sectional opener to Michigan CityBy Colin Likasasst. sports editor

Senior defensive lineman Ben Cottrell rushes in to make a tackle against Merrillville on September 4. The Bulldogs lost 38-14.

-Girls head soccer coach Chris Mikrut was named a district representative by the Indiana Soccer Coaches’ As-sociation.

-Seniors Andrew Face-myer and Chris Shellenberger were named to the DAC All-Conference Team. They both finished in the top 12 of the field in the boys cross country DAC championship meet.

-Sophomore Andrew An-glis ran in the Indianapolis Marathon on October 17. He finished in a time of 4 hours and 55 minutes.

QuickHits-The girls golf team finished their season with 9th place finish at the regional meet in LaPorte.With five golfers on the regional team, the Lady Bulldogs shot a total score of 403.Junior Carolyn Kupchik led all Lady Bulldogs shooting an 87, second was junior Kelly Rostin with a 104. Third was achieved by sophomore Christina Hall, who shot a 105.

Girls Golf

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Educated Advice ColumnistPost-Tribune

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Bulldogs finish season 3-6, moved on to sectional match against Chesterton

-The boys soccer team wrapped up their season with a sectional loss to Lake Central 0-6.Prior to the post-season, the Bulldogs received their last win in the regular season against Michigan City, by a score of 2-1.In the Michigan City match, junior Daniel Relinski scored both of the goals for the Bulldogs. Senior Alex Menn recorded four saves for the ‘Dogs.

Boys’ Soccer

Senior Chris Shellenberger

photo by Cat Fleszewski

photo by Cat Fleszewski

While some young girls stumble around their living rooms in their mother’s high heels and a Barbie ti-ara, senior Sarah Bal-las was able to make this dream of being in a beauty pageant a re-ality.

Located at Ha-nover High School, the annual “Junior Miss” competition gave eight girls awards and schol-arships at the Oct. 11 pageant. Ballas left the show with $350 in scholarships for her excellence in creative talent.

Junior Miss is a s c h o l a r s h i p - b a s e d beauty pageant that scores contestants in six different categories: fitness, talent, scholas-tics, interview, poise, and elegance. While the pageant focuses highly on the overall merit of each category, Ballas enjoyed other aspects to the show in addition to its possible scholarships.

“It was really fun because I got to meet new people in Cedar Lake even though I don’t go to Hanover,” Ballas said.

For the fitness por-tion, the girls learned a dance routine that demonstrated their

physical attributes and endurance.

“We had prac-tices every day from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for a week leading up to the show,” Ballas said.

For the scholastics portion of the compe-tition, transcripts and SAT or ACT scores were submitted to be judged. In addition to this, a ten minute inter-view took place where the contestants were individually consulted.

Questions ranged from those getting to know the contestants’ person-alities to others testing the girls’ knowledge of today’s current events.

“I was asked about the most important les-son I’ve ever learned, and how I feel about obesity in teens across America,” Ballas said.

During the talent segment of the pag-eant, the girls each demonstrated one of their personal abilities.

“I chose to sing

‘Get Happy,’ a catchy, Broadway style song originally sung by Judy Garland,” Ballas said. During the show, Ballas said that she was nervous but confident because of the amount of work she put into practicing.

Finally, the pag-eant consisted of a competition for poise and elegance.

Girls wore floor length ball gowns and strolled across the stage

to answer a question. “I was asked what

I felt was the best qual-ity in a teacher,” Ballas said.

The show con-cluded with scholar-ships awarded to the girls for each category. Five of the six catego-ries awarded the best performing girl with a scholarship. The talent section was the only one that gave out two, with one for creativ-ity and one for perfor-mance.

Because Crown Point does not hold a Junior Miss program, students who are inter-ested in participating in the event their senior year and live in Crown Point are automatically eligible for state quali-fication.

Overall, Ballas was thrilled with the overall outcome of the show.

“I’m really glad I did it. I was able to make new friends, and it bettered my confi-dence and stage pres-ence,” Ballas said.

Personalities 16October 26, 2009

By Cori Novelli co-editor-in-chief

Student takes part in pageantSenior Sarah Ballas competes in Cedar Lake Junior Miss Pageant, walks away with $350 in scholarship money

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PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

Why did you decide to become a DJ?

What kind of events do you DJ?

What was your favorite experience while DJ-ing?

What kind of equipment do you use?

Getting to know... Adam Piaskowy

The pageant scores contestants in six different categories: fitness, talent, scholastics, interview, poise, and elegance.

Did you KNOW?

I just love music. I started when I went to a wedding with my group leader because he needed some help with some things, and I volunteered.

Weddings, school dances, and parties. I also did Crown Point High School’s home-coming dance.

I D.J.ed a wedding on the 70th floor of the Sears Tower. It was just cool being way up there, and I had a really good view.

phOtO by DOnny Casillas

Everything’s digital, so I have a laptop and an external hard drive to store my music.

How many gigs do you DJ a month?I only DJ on the weekends, so I DJ two gigs a month.

Math teacher and DJ

senior sarah ballas poses before the com-petition in her ballgown. she wore this gown to answer the question portion.

i’m really glad i did it. i was able to make

new friends, and it bettered my confidence

and stage presence.

“ “

-seniorSarah Ballas

phOtO submitteD by sarah ballas