INKLI NGSVolume 75 Issue 6 • Crown Point High School • 1500 S. Main Street Crown Point, IN 46307 • inklings@cps.k12.in.usMarch 25, 2011 •

Prom ChangesThis year’s prom committee has made changes to the ticket buying schedule and seating arrangements. pg. 2

March MadnessBasketball fans’ favorite time of year has arrived. Read about those who jump on the bracket bandwagon. pg. 13

Shoes show off students’ personalitiesFor some CPHS students, days of collecting stamps and coins are long gone;

now, it’s all about the shoes. Four students have particular taste when it comes to footwear, which makes them unique. Their collections of 40plus pairs of shoes help them stand out in a crowd. pg. 9

know

To order a copy of the Excalibur yearbook through Herff Jones, click www.yearbookordercenter.com or call 866-287-3096. By ordering early, you receive the discounted price of $55. Order number is 3840.

Senior Lauren Cain was named Indiana Student Journalist of the Year Runner-Up. She was one of seven finalists. The Indiana High School Press Association gave this award at their fifth annual First Amendment Symposium at the Indiana Statehouse on March 2.

Cain is the current editor-in-chief of Inklings. In addition to being editor-in-chief, Cain is also a CASS mentor, National Honor Society Director, and peer tutor for special needs students. She maintains a 4.07 GPA.

Yearbooks go on sale

Inklings editor named as one of state’s best

Six Crown Point schools earn “Four Star Status”

theIN

Eisenhower, Jerry Ross, Winfield, Lake Street, and Solon Robinson elementary schools, as well as Wheeler Middle School earned the Indiana Department of Education’s Four Star Status.

Four Star Schools had to meet the federal Adequate Yearly Progress benchmark and perform in the top 25 percent of all schools in the state in attendance, language arts, math and in the percentage of students meeting state standards in both English/language arts and mathematics.

Driving laws make impact

Photo IllustratIon By ashley DownIng

Report shows teen crashes down, yet students feel laws not enforced

Senior Lauren Cain is pictured with Inklings adviser Julie Elston and mother Kathy Cain.

“When I’m doing traffic after school, I see kids using iPods and cell phones. If I had another person out there with me, with a pen and paper writing down license plate numbers, I could probably pump out 15 to 20 tickets a day.”

Law enforcement officer Chuck Noonan sees firsthand how distracted student drivers truly are. Legislators must have taken notice too, resulting in their 2010 legislations geared toward new drivers. A new Indiana University report authored by Matt Nagle says that these driving laws have led to fewer teen crashes.

In 2010, a series of new changes were made for teenagers attempting to obtain a drivers license. They must have had their Indiana Learner’s Permit for a minimum of 180 days and be a minimum of 16 years and 180 days old to apply for a license. As of 2009, teenagers had a strict nighttime driving curfew for the first 180 days of holding a license (10 p.m. to 5 a.m.); after that point, the curfews become more lenient (11 p.m. to 5 a.m. on weekdays and 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. on weekends). Also, those under

18 are not allowed to use any telecommunication device (or an iPod) while driving.

“(With the probationary period), you learn to drive before you put others in danger,” said junior Danny Kvachkoff. Kvachkoff got his license prior to the 2010 changes, so he did not have to wait until he was 16 and 180 days old to get a license, but he did have to follow the probationary period of 180 days after getting his license.

Some of the laws passed are ones that are not necessarily easy to catch teenagers doing,

such as having passengers other than family members, driving instructors, or anyone under the age of 25 in the car within the first 180 days.

“As law enforcing officers, we won’t run into cases like this unless we pull someone over and it turns out they are under these parameters,” Noonan said.

Because of the difficulty to catch them, some students feel that the laws are not well enforced.

“I think the driving age is followed for the most part, but the 180 day wait to drive is definitely not followed at all. Most kids I

know drive kids around illegally and I think part of the reason they do this is because it’s not well enforced at all,” freshman Kara Biernat said.

While teens may not initially be pulled over for breaking these laws, these laws could still be held against them.

“If there’s an accident and (the fact that they are breaking a law) is a contributing factor, they could be ticketed,” Noonan said. “Phone records could be used in court too if there was an accident.”

By Lauren Caineditor-in-chief

continued on pg. 3

Illegal87.1%

Legal12.9%

Seniors & Juniors

Is it legal or illegal to use a cell phone or iPod while driving if you are under 18?

Freshmen & SophomoresCorrect Answer:

Illegal

Illegal66.6%

33.3%Legal

16 and 6 months63.9%

16 years old29.5%

How old do you have to be to get a driver’s license?

Correct Answer:16 and 6 months

17 years old1.6%

18 years old1.6%

16 and 1 month1.6%

16 and 9 months1.6%

0 10 20 30 40

After getting your license, how long must you wait before driving with passengers besides family

members, driving instructors, or anyone over the age of 25?

Correct Answer:180 days

180 days

60.7%90 days

21.3%

270 days1.6%

160 days1.6%

120 days1.6%

40 days1.6%

Students Polled

NEW DRIVING LAWSMUST BE 16 YEARS AND 180 DAYS OLD TO GET LICENSE

MUST HOLD A LICENSE FOR 180 DAYS BEFORE PASSENGERS CAN RIDE IN CAR

NO CELL PHONE USAGE WHILE DRIVING

MUST HOLD A PERMIT FOR 180 DAYS

Do CPHS students know their driving laws?

A 22-month-old cancer victim was motivation for yet another year of fundraising through the second annual Student Teacher Olympics. The event came back on March 24 to raise funds for NICK or the Northwest Indiana Cancer Kids foundation.

“The event was very successful last year,” Interact sponsor and social studies teacher Brooke Yeager said. “There was a good turnout so we decided to do it again this year.”

The Olympics consisted of teacher and student volunteers, who competed in the events of basketball, pie eating, a home run derby, volleyball, soccer, a dance off, rap battle, dodgeball, hula hoop, and an obstacle course. Each event was sponsored by a club in the school including Key Club, MSA, NHS, Best Buddies, Student Council, CURE club, and Interact.

“(The Student Teacher Olympics) is a fun way for the kids and teachers to interact outside of the school setting,” Yeager said. “Of course, it also raises money for a great cause.”

The event raised money by charging both participants and spectators $5 for admission.

Proceeds, this year, went towards NICK, which was started by Timothy Ball teacher Kate Perschon. Perschon’s son Drew was diagnosed with cancer at 22 months old. Drew beat cancer against the odds and is now in remission.

Perschon had a rough journey with Drew’s struggle through the cancer, and started NICK so that other cancer victim families would have support. Since the organization is fairly new, the proceeds from the Olympics helped to get it off the ground.

Senior Kelsey Emery, who knows Perschon, thinks highly of NICK.

“NICK provides support for families in NWI who have kids with cancer. Perschon started it to support others because she understands what cancer victim families are going through,” Emery said. “She (Perschon) is probably the strongest, most incredible woman that I have ever met in my life.”

Students, like Emery, fully support the Student Teacher Olympics as it is a fun event that raises money towards good causes.

“I think it’s a fantastic event,” Emery said. “The cool thing about it is that it raises money for a good local cause that really impacts the region in a positive way.”

The electronic junkie might be interested in the new program at Best Buy which allows them to return their product after six months for 50 percent of the original price. The product can’t be damaged or broken. Still, if one is looking to get rid of a device which is of no use to them, but it is too late to return it, the Best Buy Buy Back Program is just for them.

“I think that this is a good opportunity for people who like upgrading,” said sophomore Eugene Brzezinski.

The program comes with a few conditions in mind. Customers must bring in any and all accessories that came with the product; all must be working properly also. The product must be brought in with its original receipt as

well. The Buy Back program applies to TVs under $5000, mobile phones, tablets, laptops and netbooks. It does not apply to mp3 music players or iPods.

For an item to be returned, it must have been bought with Buy Back program. This is an extra fee; it is not included with the price of the device. The cost of the program depends on what product is bought, and how much it is originally worth.

There is no bargaining or hassling with the Buy Back. There is a unique system and a customer knows how much their product is worth without going to the store.

“We’re guaranteeing the convenience of being able to bring it to any Best Buy on any corner and you’re going to get your trade-in credit right then and there on the Best Buy gift card,” said Best Buy technical support agent

Jeff.If the product is bought back before the

first six months, it is worth 50 percent of its original cost. Between six and 12 months, it is worth 40 percent. Between 12 and 18 months it is worth 30 percent. Between 18 and 24 months it is worth 20 percent. If the product is a TV, between 24 and 48 months, it is worth ten percent.

Customers should almost plan for a new product to be introduced and contemplate on whether or not they would actually buy. This program is ultimately for those individuals who buy the latest and greatest but still want to save money.

“(The Buy Back program) would best suit anyone who’s into electronics; anybody who wants to keep up to date with the latest and greatest,” said agent Jeff.

New Facul-

News March 25, 20112Olympics back again for more fundraising

By Lacey Valois staff reporter

Changesincorporated for Prom

The National Honor Society Induction • Ceremony takes place on April 27 at 7 p.m.

March 25Senior announcement

delivery

Senior cap and gown distriubution • starts on April 28.

miscellaneous

the loopIN

Here is a listing of five of the ten most anticipated events. The other events include volleyball, hula hoop, dance off, rap battle, and dodgeball.

Photo Provided

The Spirit of Optimism dinner will take • place at 6 p.m. at White Hawk Country Club on April 26.

April 15End of fifth grading

period

Spring Breakno school

In order to aid the organization of purchasing tickets and to keep students safe at the dance, the prom committee has made some changes to this year’s prom.

CPHS will now have random blood alcohol testing to anyone who acts suspiciously.

“It’s up to security on who will be tested. We don’t want anyone to get arrested or get in trouble, we just want students to be safe when they come into prom and safe when they leave prom to make sure no one gets hurt,” the head of prom committee Ginny Zega said.

Reserved seating has also disappeared this year.

“I would end up having 10 tickets left but only 8 seats [open]. There was just a lot of drama,” said Zega.

Since ticket sales have been lenient for upperclassmen who wish to escort sophomores in recent years, some seniors found themselves ticketless. This year, the prom committee has decided to allow upperclassmen to get their tickets first because of this issue.

“It just wasn’t working out too well with the way it was before where sophomores were able to get their tickets before some seniors,” junior Haley Balko said.

Instead of approaching sales with the typical first come, first served, the prom committee has decided to allow all willing seniors to buy their tickets ahead of any underclassmen with their older dates.

“Some seniors are so busy working that they have to wait to buy tickets because of their check, so at least now we’re trying to give them plenty of notice in order to let all the seniors get their tickets first before the sophomores,” said Zega.

From March 21 to March 25 seniors with senior or junior dates may purchase tickets. From April 4 to 8, juniors who wish to go with other juniors or other upperclassmen from different schools may buy their tickets. Those with sophomore dates will be able to buy their tickets from April 11 to April 15.

March 28 - April 1

By Kelly Rostinmanaging editor

Best Buy offers Buy Back program to customersBy Kayla Martisekopinion editor

English teacher Kelly Bonich participates in last year’s hula hoop contest. Bonich competed in hula hoop again this year.

BasketballSponsored by Key Club

Favored to win

Teachers

Teachers

Students

Gonzalez• Thomas• Shih•

Hattendorf• Ban• Swan •

K. Gagliardi• B. Haskell• C. Benton •

SoccerSponsored by NHS

Favored to win

Students

Teachers

Students

A. Lorek• Beach• Begich•

Collier• Bazin •

B. Rothrock• S. Rivich• A. Fenn•

D. Naumoski• T. Zervos• J. Arnold •

Pie Eating Sponsored by MSA

Favored to win

Students

Teachers

Students Repay• Haas•

McCaleb• Rodiguez•

G. Touchette • Q. Klingberg• J. Thompson •

Sponsored by Interact Club

Teachers Bonich• Boyd•

Liszka• Gloff•

Home Run DerbySponsored by Key Club

Favored to win

Students

Teachers

Students

McCaleb• Strayer• Gill•

Hadary• Thomas•

B. Bayer• T. Dabas• J. Hopman•

Favored to win

TeachersStudents

C. Benton• J. Hovanec•

Q. Klingberg • S. Rostin •

April 22

Good Fridayno school

Obstacle Course

C. Lin • D. Cope • G. Wysocki•

-

by the numbers

The recent rise in gas prices has left many students cringing as they watch those little black numbers skyrocket at the pump. The rise in prices is expected to hit Americans hard, just after they were beginning to regain confidence in the economy.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, retail numbers have been positive over the last few quarters, which means Americans were beginning to purchase more consumer goods. However, with gas prices on the rise companies will need to compensate for expensive transportation fees needed to get their goods to market. Unfortunately, the consumer will be the one who suffers from this, as teens will soon find items such as food, retail products, and other staples increasing in price. In effect, the economy will experience an even slower recovery rate as people will be spending less.

The rise in gas prices is also expected to have an effect in the nation’s unemployment rate. At a time when the input cost for companies is rising, they will instead focus on

finding talent in their current staff rather than hire more workers. For those students who think that finding a job right now is tough, their search is projected to become much more difficult.

“That’s unfortunate because not only are workers being paid less, but now they’re paying more to get to work,” said junior Sarah Maddack.

The unemployment rate had fallen from 9.8% last fall to 8.9% this past month. If gas, though, remains above $100 a barrel, the rate is not expected to continue to fall.

Students may find that they will need to

keep their summer vacations local this year. The travel industry will suffer immensely as less and less people are centering their spring breaks and summer breaks around vacations.

“It makes me upset I won’t have spending money for vacation. Not only do I have to have a budget for souvenirs, but now I have to have a gas budget,” said senior Rachel Embry.

Few teens realize just how much this rise in oil prices is expected to cost. For every $10 increase in oil prices, gas prices increase by 25 cents, and each time gas increases by one cent, it costs American households $1 billion. So if oil prices increase by $10, it will end up costing Americans $25 billion. If gas rises to $4 a gallon, 41% of Americans are projected to cut their regulatory spending habits

“I’m definitely going to have to watch my spending. My addiction to Jimmy John’s will have to be cut,” said junior Trevor Blue.

The impact of gasoline prices goes so much farther than simply our frustrations at the gas station. The rising prices will impact nearly all fiscal aspects of American’s lives. Thus, the time is approaching for teens to seriously reconsider their spending habits, and to be careful with their money.

News 3March 25, 2011

By Melanie Zdanowicz staff reporter

Noonan also said that he can first pull someone over for speeding, and they will receive a ticket for that. If it turns out they are breaking a driving law like texting while driving, or being out past driving curfew, then they will receive a second ticket in addition. Some students like Kvachkoff, however, did not follow these laws, yet did not receive any consequences for their actions.

“I got pulled over for speeding and had someone in my car (within the first 180 days) and only got in trouble for speeding. I didn’t get a ticket,” Kvachkoff said.

Kvachkoff and Biernat both said that they have not known anyone who has been ticketed for offenses, in regards to these new laws.

“Personally, I’ve never known a kid who has gotten in trouble for driving kids around when they can’t yet. It’s definitely a reason why most kids don’t follow it,” Biernat said.

Biernat has her permit, but does not see the value in the change of age limit in order to acquire a driver’s license.

“I dislike the new rule. We are capable of getting our licenses at age 16, just like everyone in the past has,” she said. “I don’t think they benefit teen driving at all. What’s 6 months going to do? Nothing. They should have just kept it like it was before passing the new rule.”

According to Noonan, being a new driver, having too many kids in the car, not being completely aware of surroundings, and speeding are all things that can endanger teenagers on the road.

House Bill 1199 is currently being proposed at the state level, which would allow Indiana motorists driving even one mph over the speed limit in a school or construction zone to have their picture taken and receive a $300 ticket. A separate legislation in the Senate will allow cameras to be utilized in order to catch red light violators.

“(The cameras) will help catch the people who are speeding that the cops don’t catch,” Kvachkoff said. “People will still do it, but it will lower the frequency of construction fatalities and speeding offenders.”

Pumping out the cash

Putting the brakes on texting while driving has slowly made its way to the state of Indiana as of March 1. The prior Indiana Law stated that all individuals under the age of 18 were prohibited to text while driving. However, this changed when the Indiana State Senate approved the restriction towards all drivers. According to the House Bill 1158, texting while driving will now be categorized as “criminal recklessness” or “reckless homicide.” These offenses are class C felonies and can result in a fine of $100,000 or up to 40 years in jail. With a 7-2 vote, it is now clear that nobody will be allowed to text while operating a car. Some students had no idea about the new texting ban, let alone the old ones.

“I knew it was bad to text and drive but I didn’t know that it was against the law,” junior Kinsey Jeremiah said.

This new ban hopefully will be an eye opener for the ones guilty of partaking in texting while they drive.

“I think it’s awesome that it’s illegal to text while you drive,” senior Zach O’Connor said.

A shocking fact was stated by the U.S. Department of Transportation, that “Over 5,000 people were killed by distracting

driving in 2009.” This number is expected to decrease by more then half now that the law is in effect in more states now including Indiana.

“I think that although there is a legitimate risk of texting while driving, safe and responsible drivers should not be penalized for other drivers’ negligence,” senior Evan Wilson said.

If only that were true. Government officials have made it apparent that no matter how responsible one is, there is always that risk of getting into an accident.

Chuck Noonan, a law enforcing officer, knows exactly how easy it is to be distracted while driving.

“The sirens are blaring, and the lights are on all while the radio is telling me where I need to report to,” Noonan said.

According to Noonan, he knows first hand about distraction, and although he thinks it’s a good idea to have the law prohibit adults as well, it will take some time for drivers to follow it.

Responsible drivers who follow this law are still at risk because of the drivers on the road that do not follow the law.

”I know for me, I have to concentrate 100% on the road,” French teacher Amy Berchem said. “I know when I see people texting, I think that later down the road I’ll see them get into an accident.”

Law puts restriction on texting while driving for all age groups By Alexa Gradystaff reporter

Driving lawscontinued from pg. 1

>$3.55 gallon of gas $4.89 Love It

Giving up on a Starbucks run 20 times in one month can get you roughly 25 gallons of gas.

A $100 Northface is the cost equivalent

of about 29 gal-lons of gas.

It makes me upset I won’t have spending money for vacation. Not only do I have to have a budget for souvenirs, but now I have

to have a gas budget.

“

“

senior Rachel Embry

Photo illustration by Mary-Katherine leMon

Higher gas prices leave student wallets empty

Photo illustration by M.K leMon

March 25, 2011OpiniOn4Statehouse rallying shows importance of taking a stand

View:

editorial

heard in the halls

Inklings

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

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

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

Inklings has been rec-ognized as an Indiana High School Press Association Hoosier Star, Columbia Scholastic Press Associa-tion Silver Crown, National Scholastic Press Association Pacemaker and Quill and Scroll George H. Gallup publication.

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

EditorsLauren Cain

editor-in-chiefHaajar Shaaban

executive editorKelly Rostin

managing editorGarret Hogan

copy editorArley Gomez

news editorAbby Elston

feature editorKelsey Lennon

entertainment editorKayla Martisek

opinion editorMilan Savich

sports editorFrank StrinoSamuel BeishuizenAlex McLean

sports assistantsDani McCuan

graphics editorAlyssa Blahunka

advertising editorSam Wright

advertising assistantJoe NejmanDonnella CasillasMary-Katherine Lemon

chief photographersAshley Downing

photographer

StaffLacey ValoisKatrina ZdanowiczMelanie ZdanowiczAlexa GradyRaeAnna MorganMegan WalkerJordan IronsMona Nour

AdviserJulie Elston

By Lauren Caineditor-in-chief

This year’s prom changes do not solve the initial problem and instead, create more problems for student safety.

Cartoon by Dani MCCuan

“It wasn’t a good idea for Borders to open in the first place because we

had Barnes and Noble.”

freshman Allison Webster

Closing Book Stores

“We should not be texting. I don’t want to die, I don’t think anyone else

wants to die.”

senior Stephanie Sekuloski

Driving Intexticated

“The pit did a great job capturing the swing music feel for the musical.”

sophomore Nick Kujawski

End on a High Note

“Facebook creepin’ is how you procrastinate on homework. I do it

all the time.”

junior Samuel Al-Nimri

Online Stalkin’

Prom. Just upon seeing the word, images are conjured of dancing the night away, spending time with one’s date, and dressing up in poofy dresses and spiffy tuxes. For many seniors, this is one of the last hoorahs of their high school career. Unfortunately, seniors who wish to go with a sophomore date may be gypped out of this experience.

In an attempt to ensure that all seniors who intend on going to prom actually get to attend, the prom committee has decided that upperclassmen with sophomore dates have to wait until the very end of the ticket sales period to purchase tickets. While this is a good idea in theory, there are many problems posed with this change, the biggest being that the initial problem still is not solved. A senior who is either dating a sophomore, or just wants to go to prom with one, risks not being able to go to prom because of his or her choice of date. If the first week or two of ticket sales were dedicated to seniors and their date’s age were not an issue, then the responsibility no longer falls on the prom committee, but on the senior. If he or she doesn’t get the ticket in the allotted time, then there can be no complaints about not getting a ticket.

Another issue is safety. Because of this new rule, students from other schools can get into Crown Point’s prom more easily than Crown Point’s underclassmen can. While the thought of having sophomores at their prom may make some upperclassmen cringe, at least the school administrators know a thing or two about these sophomore attendees. When it comes to dates from other schools, they know close to nothing about them. Also, seniors who wish to go with past graduates may get tickets before those who wish to go with sophomores. If these students are in their twenties, nearing 21, there is a higher risk of alcohol coming into play at prom.

Not all of this year’s prom changes are for the worst, however. The fact that CPHS will be doing random blood alcohol testing to anyone acting questionably at prom is of great benefit to students’ safety. Aside from that, these changes do not undo any problems that were posed earlier. At the ages of 17 and 18, seniors should be trusted with the responsibility of getting their tickets on time in order to go, their date’s age not being an issue.

Earlier this month, I had the great pleasure of visiting the Statehouse in Indianapolis for a First Amendment

Symposium. Amidst all the recent legislations and happenings down state, rallying union workers were found sitting outside with picket signs in hand, and standing inside the Statehouse, cheering for the Democratic representatives who left the state. The symbolism of the protests at a First Amendment Symposium was certainly not lost on me.

Standing in the rotunda of the Statehouse, I was truly mesmerized that I was so close to all the places where laws are passed, lawsuits are judged, and education is determined. Not only that, but it also houses the governor’s office, where Mitch Daniels is making some of his soon-to-be infamous propositions.

Since so many decisions are made in the Statehouse, it is no wonder why the union workers chose to take a bus there in order to rally for the day. One of the most beautiful things about it was that each person there was not fighting just for him or herself; they were fighting for every person in the same position, whose rights are in jeopardy because of the new propositions. One man even shook my adviser’s hand and informed her that he was fighting for her.

Too often, the freedom of speech is not fully utilized. As Americans, we have the right to “peacefully assemble” and protest. Instead of taking advantage of this right, sloth takes over and people push their causes to the side, refusing to put forth a pinch of effort. The rallying union workers defy these general actions, and instead have traveled down state to take full advantage of the freedoms that our forefathers granted them.

Seeing several different unions coming together to fight for a common cause was truly inspirational. Too many people tend to let their problems fall by the wayside instead of putting forth the effort to start a movement and make a change. These union members all care so passionately about their jobs and are determined to fight for what they believe is right.

IOne may ask, “Why bother with a digital book when I can just buy the book from Border’s or Barnes & Noble?” The answer is simple: Since the two major bookstores in the surrounding area are going out of business, obtaining books may prove to be a difficult challenge. However, a solution to this issue could be to purchase an E-reader, a device used to read digital books.

One of the largest conveniences of the E-reader is that books can be downloaded instantly from the Internet to the device. This would remove one of the largest hassles experienced by avid readers: waiting for a book. However, with the E-reader, the amount of time is reduced to minutes, or even mere seconds. Additionally, there are many website options from which to download e-books, with the most popular being Ebooks.com; like I-tunes, the files can be shared, which means that you can pass along your latest and greatest reads with your friends.

Another perk of owning an E-reader is that it is an eco-friendly device. With 120,000 book titles being printed per year on paper that takes the cutting down of 4 billion trees on average to make, it is fair to assume that printed books take a toll on the environment. On the other hand, E-readers are manufactured in a way that does not require paper and is also environmentally friendly.

A final benefit of purchasing an E-reader is that it would remove the bulk of carrying numerous books around; the excess amount of weight can put massive strain on the arms and back. However, the E-reader weighs slightly over a pound and is about the size of a medium-sized paperback book, which makes it ideal for readers on the go, as well as those who want to protect their spines. The advantages of owning an E-reader are numerous, which makes it a product that is a “bang for your buck”.

Opinion 5March 25, 2011

Age just a number while driving

By Kelsey Lennonentertainment editor

E-books convenient, efficient for today’s world

Real books reliable while e-books impersonal

“I think it is safe and smart because it will prevent people getting into unwanted situations and accidents.”

Alex PerezPaige Hawn

Fres

hman

“I’m kind of mad because I can’t drive earlier, but it’s safer that way.”

Joe Green

Juni

or

“It’s a good idea because most kids are too young or im-mature to drive.”

Julio Coria

Seni

or

“I think it’s a good thing because there are irresponsible teenage drivers.”

ssue:

What do you think of the new driving

laws?

E-books or real books for reading material?

By Kelly Rostinmanaging editor

The inconvenient closing of Borders and Barnes & Noble has Crown Point and surrounding residents wondering where to pick up a new book. Book worms, students, or anyone else in this area have to go out of their way for new material. This may prompt more people to turn to electronic reading devices.

The first concern with E-readers is that it is technology and sometimes, technology fails. There is a high possibility of a technical failure which could mean lost reading material and even worse, money. Software is always changing and updating so even the most recent releases become out dated in a few months. Because of these circumstances there is no assurance that this mechanism will always be fully functional, which would be a huge inconvenience, and that is the exact opposite of the creator’s goal.

The second reason real books are superior to E-books is based on human activity. It’s the adventure of going to a book store, examining the shelves and sometimes discovering a new book one may not have seen otherwise. Sitting on the couch looking for something to read in the virtual world is much less personal and rewarding than searching at a store. There is also a slimmer chance of finding something unexpected, and reading is all about the unexpected. Also, people can’t highlight favorite passages, lend and borrow, write notes, or other habits people embrace that personalize their books. Constantly reading off a screen can’t be too comfortable on the eyes either. This just makes the reading experience more disconnected.

Replacing normal paper books with devices such as E-readers will take the intimacy out of owning a real book. The world is ever evolving as technology takes the place of once personal things. Don’t let books become a thing of the past.

Cartoon by Mona nour

By Dani McCuangraphics editor

speak up

Recently, two major book stores close

to Crown Point have

closed down. New advances in technology have brought us E-readers, but there is

question as to which is the

better choice: Real pages or

electronic letters?

The cliché stereotype that all teenagers are bad drivers (hence the new driving laws

on how long a teen has to hold their permit before they drive) got me wondering about just how bad the problem actually is among new drivers as a whole. I know from first hand experiences about the importance of being mature enough to handle driving situations (which I, personally, was not ready to handle by any means), and driving failures are not fun to deal with. Accidents are inevitable, but where do we draw the line on whether or not students are ready to operate a moving vehicle on the roads?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, eight teens ages 16 to 19 died every day from motor vehicle injuries in 2009. That’s a total of 2,920 deaths in just that age range. This doesn’t even include deaths of other age groups due to teenage drivers.

I think the problem with teenage driving is that kids want to jump right into the driver’s seat just because they are at the age that says it is legal for them to do so. But age is only a number, not a true measure of maturity. Driving, as few new drivers realize, is more than just freedom to drive oneself to a friend’s house. Every time one gets behind the wheel of an operating vehicle, they have the power to end a life, whether it is theirs or the life of another. Driving is a huge responsibility to take on, and a teen should not have the privilege to drive unless they show enough maturity and understanding of the magnitude that driving truly has on others. A student should be mature enough to honestly admit their readiness for driving.

I don’t care whether or not a student is of the legal age to have a license. If they truly aren’t ready to be mature enough to handle themselves with dignity on the road, then they have no business being there until they do. It’s just not fair to put other innocent lives at risk. Same goes with driving under the influence.

The big message here is this: just be careful. There’s no reason to act like an idiot on the roads. A teen driver can lose so much if they get into a bind, and stupidity is simply not worth it.

Soph

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February 28, 20116

by the numbers

Facts compiled by Inklings staff

AskLaugh

ExploreWonderInspireLiveIIonlife

millionusers update their status each day

35“Hey, did you hear about

how Kyle asked Elizabeth to prom?”

“Yeah, I saw it last night when Kyle uploaded the pictures on Facebook.”

This popular social networking site is primarily used for keeping in touch with friends or family, but there are millions of other uses that do not fall under this category. Many take it farther and do something popularly known as “creeping.”

Some may use the site sparingly, only logging on once every few days, or maybe even less. However, many use the site often as a way to follow, or better known as “creep,” on classmates, friends, exes, or even strangers they have only heard of. Creeping on someone means you essentially keep track of their life on Facebook. A true “creeper” looks at photos, statuses and wall posts that the person who is being creeped on has posted.

“I creep on my friends, my mom, and people I don’t know because I like to see what they

are up to,” said sophomore Justin Klopsch.

Klopsch is logged onto Facebook most of the day, whether it’s on his phone, or at home on his computer. Having Facebook on his phone helps keep him up to date on everything his friends are doing.

“I didn’t know my friend Danny had a girlfriend until I creeped on his wall and saw he made it ‘Facebook official’,” Klopsch said.

For those who aren’t Facebook connoisseurs, becoming “facebook official” is the action of changing your relationship status. Facebook’s most loyal users believe that a relationship is not truly official until it’s Facebook official.

Just by logging into Facebook, users can find out new things about their friends instantly. The obsession with Facebook tends to begin with boredom.

“When you have nothing to do, you just start creeping on people,” freshman Rachel Reitan said. “I don’t really know why I creep; there isn’t really a point to it.”

Jill Weber, Ph.D., an adolescent psychologist in Washington, D.C.,

told Teen Vogue that looking at others’ pages and photos is part of a normal drive to feel more connected. People can feel more a part of those people’s lives once they’ve looked through seventy-five of their photos and clicked older posts so many times they’ve lost count.

Using the search box to look for an ex or classmate is perfectly normal, but there is a line.

“I’ve done it just to see what they have been doing and if they have said anything about me. It’s really just to fill a curiosity in the back of your mind,” Reitan said.

It’s not only young people doing this either. Many adults participate in the fad as well, such as parents monitoring their kids.

“My definition of creeping is searching for others you’re not already friends with to find stuff out about them,” history teacher Michael Bazin said. “I don’t think it’s healthy, but if somebody puts it out there on the internet, then it’s meant to be seen.”

Creeping just got that much easier with the apps that are now available to the public. These apps can be downloaded on your iPod and many other smartphones. They include everything a “real

creeper” would ever need in their arsenal. “The Facebook Stalker” app is designed to send you status updates, photo uploads, and anything that the Facebook creeping victim posts.

The scary part about this is that the victim has no idea that every move they make on Facebook is being monitored. The newest app, “Break-up Notifier,” is designed to send alerts and notifications when people that the user knows change their relationship status. After attracting a lot of attention in the media for its true creepiness, plus the fact that it’s free, the “Break-up Notifier” has attracted more than 100,000 users (one of them could be a person monitoring your relationship status).

With all of the new technology at our fingertips, it has become easier and easier to find information on people. It has given people all over the world the ability to creep at their leisure, and the one being creeped on may never know there’s someone out there analyzing their life. With the implementation of Facebook into users’ daily lives, the Peeping Tom has taken on a whole new persona.

Creeping in touch

Junior Jacob Vingua snatches 52 kilos while training after school. Vingua has competed in two separate com-petitions this school year.

Senior Hayley Lipke sings the national anthem in front of the court house on Mar. 15 at a rally in support of union workers.

Graphic by ashley DowninG

By RaeAnna Morgan/ Alexa Gradystaff reporters

130friends

The average Facebook user has

25comments a month

The average user posts

55The average user spends

minutes a day on FB

Social media eases fact-finding on both friends, foes

Singing

500million

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3 billionphotos are uploaded to the site each month

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photos by M.K. leMon

Lifting

March 25, 2011 7Feature

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Traveling abroad Going to another country for

spring break may be a dream come true, but make sure to play it safe. Other countries can be dangerous, so one can never be too careful. When staying in a hotel, try to get a room in between the first and sixth floors. The first floor is easy to break into and rooms above the sixth floor may not be accessible by a fire ladder. Before leaving home, do some research. Try to learn popular native customs and attire so you can blend in with the crowd. Learning a few phrases in their language will make it much easier to get around. Always carry a map in case you get turned around, but don’t stare at it too long. When people see someone studying a map on the street, the chances they are a tourist are high, which means they will be an easy target for a scam. Stay safe and enjoy the long vacation in an exotic, new place.

Traveling in the country Traveling to other parts of the U.S. can be just as exciting

as traveling overseas, but it can also be just as dangerous.

When t r a ve l i n g in a car across the country, always have a map on hand. There are many exits and highways that can get confusing and taking one wrong turn may add hours to a short trip. Always plan ahead. If there’s something you desperately want to see, be sure to make note of it before you pass it up. Try not to drive more than six hundred miles a day, or about ten hours. If this does happen, make sure there is more than one driver available.

“Last spring break, I went to New Orleans, and even

though we flew

there, we still had to drive once we arrived,” said

sophomore Lauren Murphy. “For some reason, people there were very crazy drivers

so we always had to stay on alert.” Remember that once you’ve reached your

destination, don’t relax too much. You never know when someone or something may catch

you off guard, even in your home country. Staying at home

Maybe traveling isn’t in your budget this year. Don’t just spend a whole week sleeping, stay busy.

Day trips are a great way to occupy time. Chicago is about an hour away, and there are plenty of fun

activities to keep someone busy for hours. It may sound awful, but with a week off, imagine all the

schoolwork that can be caught on. That’s probably the last thing on that mind of a high school student, but

getting it out of the way now will allow time for more fun over the weekends yet to come. If you thought this spring break was lame, then make plans for an awesome summer vacation, and stay focused on that instead of being stuck at home this spring break. Even if traveling isn’t in the works for spring break, make it worth while.

By RaeAnna Morgan/staff reporter

Whether one is traveling overseas or simply staying home, there are dangers when it comes to the much-looked-forward-to break from school. Follow this advice to have the safest spring break possible, no matter the destination.

March 25, 2011Feature8

By Abby Elstonfeature editor

Senior athlete secures a new starting roleSpotlight on the star

The stage is set, the actors are in place, and the spotlight goes on the lead, who is ready to perform a solo. She seems calm and confident as she begins to sing. However, this girl, senior Tori Connelly, has never performed in a musical before, and she is double-cast as a lead in “Anything Goes.”

“When I was younger, I used to come to all the musicals. I always dreamed of being in one, but I was always playing basketball. Since it was senior year, I thought, ‘Why not try something new?’ I just went for it,” Connelly said.

This decision came about when Connelly played volleyball in the fall. She decided that she would rather be in a musical than play basketball.

“After volleyball, I didn’t really care to play basketball. I decided to try something new; something I wanted to do, but never really could,” Connelly said.

Though she was able to do something new, she wishes that she would have tried it earlier rather than waiting until her senior year.

“It’s so much fun and you meet so many people. At the end of the show, you think of how much you’ve accomplished,” she said.

Connelly has always dreamed of being in a musical. She even had this dream when she was little.

“I remember being little, and I thought it would be so amazing to be on stage. I never thought it would happen, and it actually did,” Connelly said.

This dream of being on stage became set into motion when Connelly viewed the movie “Grease” as a child.

“I saw the movie, and I have seen the musical. My mom used to tell me I would sing and dance to all the songs and know all the words. Ever since then, I loved musicals,” said Connelly.

With a passion for musicals, Connelly began her performing career.

“I’ve been singing since I was little. I’ve had voice lessons since I was nine, and piano lessons since I was eight. I’ve performed with the Northwest Indiana Symphony on multiple occasions,” she said.

With the right beginning, Connelly was on her way to starring in a musical, though she didn’t even know.

“I didn’t think I would be cast as a lead. I didn’t

expect it in my first audition. In my mind, I was just glad to be in the show in general; I just wanted to be a part of it. I auditioned for things before, but never a musical. I was nervous auditioning, but I never really doubted myself. It was a good surprise,” she said.

So now she had the part, but she didn’t have the experience.

“The technical things I didn’t know, like how to wear a microphone. People help you out. Everyone’s really nice,” she said.

Something else that posed as somewhat of an obstacle is the fact that the role of Hope Harcourt is double-casted. The role is shared by senior Jen Zarate. This means that each girl has to learn two different shows; on the nights they are not playing Hope, they are in the chorus.

“It’s difficult in a way; it goes both ways. It’s easier (to be double-casted) because we can help each other, but we have to learn another part. But it’s fun,” said Connelly.

Now that the hard work has been put in, Connelly reflects upon her first musical.

“It’s so much fun. I didn’t know what to expect. It’s very fulfilling. At the end of the show, there’s a bittersweet feeling. It’s great, but it’s also like ‘Dang it, I wish there was more,’” Connelly said.

“I didn’t expect to feel how I feel about it. Everybody’s great, it’s just amazing,” she said.

After a life of music and one musical later, Connelly thinks she might pursue music in the future.

“I might major in music in college. I’m going to double major in physical therapy, too. I want to go to St. Mary’s of Notre Dame if I apply for a music scholarship. Since doing musical, it’s been fun, and I’d love to continue doing things in theatre and music. Musical has really opened my eyes to the whole ‘musical arena.’ I really enjoy it,” Connelly said.

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Senior Tori Connelly sings a number in the spring musical “Anything Goes.” Connelly was double-casted in the role of Hope Harcourt.Photo By AmAndA StAgowSki

March 25, 2011 Feature 9

By Megan Walkerstaff reporter

Students showcase love for shoesKids use kicks to express personalities, build collections

Self-expression is conveyed in many ways. At Crown Point High School there are numerous approaches from theatre to sports and from art to academics. A particular way students have been strutting their personalities and interests is through their shoes.

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Kyleen LikasFreshman Kyleen Likas is another

student whose many interests and styles are expressed through her shoes.

“Shoes express how a person feels for that day. I like to have shoes that match all my different clothes,” Likas said. “They are a way to express all my different styles.”

Likas owns approximately 40 pairs of shoes. This is her newest pair in her collection.

“They’re unique. I like to stand out and have my own individual style,” Likas said.

Likas began her shoe obsession at an age younger than many.

“It wasn’t until third grade that I ever went to Nordstrom, and I walked to the shoe depart-ment. I have been in love with shoes ever since,” Likas said.

Likas has been dancing a total of 12 years, and it shows in her style.

“I dance for a company, and everyone has a unique style. I have gotten a lot of my style from dance.”

Likas believes that activities she is involved in, like musical, give her confi-dence.

“I’m not afraid to wear different things. If I like what I’m wearing, I’ll have confi-dence to wear it at school,” Likas said.

Israel MercadoOne student who has a unique style is senior Is-

rael Mercado. “I like to look presentable at all times. I have

to look right from head to toe,” Mercado said. “I wear brighter shoes when I’m feeling more out there.

I never wear low-top shoes.” These blue and red high-tops with a lightning bolt express Mercado’s style especially.

“The shoes say I’m dif-ferent, and I like to match

perfectly. There’s not a day I don’t match so I’ll buy a new pair if I have to,” said Mer-

cado.

Paige McCordJunior Paige McCord sees shoes in a dif-

ferent light, however. Her reflective sneakers are more than just a pair to match the day’s outfit.

“I get shoes and wear them until I can’t wear them anymore,” McCord said.

McCord shops in a more sensible manner in that she gets full use out of her shoes before getting a new pair.

McCord chooses shoes that she feels fit her personal style. These sneakers specifically express this.

“They are colorful; they say that I’m open-mind-ed,” McCord said.

Shoes are a part of one’s outfit that many stu-dents seem to get attention for, whether positive or negative.

“People stare at how [my shoes] change color, but it doesn’t bother me,” McCord said.

Blake PalsThough shoes are a way to express

oneself, junior Blake Pals has taken this to a whole new level. Pals has been collect-

ing sneakers since seventh grade and is confident no one has as great a pas-sion as he does.

“It’s a whole culture now, not just buying gym shoes,” Pals said. Collecting shoes has become a hob-by for Pals and he plans to contin-ue his dedication. He expressed his enthusiasm through stories of his experiences.

“For the Air Jordan 11 ‘Cool Grey’s,’ my brother and I waited in the minus 4-degree tempera-tures for 7 hours at the mall,” Pals said. Pals also told about

one of his favorite pairs of shoes.“One of my favorite shows

is Entourage, and the shoes, Lebron 8 V/2 ‘Entourage,’ were based off of it because it’s Lebron James’ favorite show. They sold out in minutes, and I got a pair,” said Pals.

When asked how many pairs of sneak-ers he actually owns, Pals couldn’t answer.

“A true sneakerhead never tells,” Pals said. Photos By Ashley Downing

Feature10 March 25, 2011

By Katrina Zdanowiczstaff reporter

As school year nears the final stretch, fun techniques aim to keep students on their toes

Welcome to the homestretch, Crown Point High School. With just a couple of months left until the freedom of the summer sun can evaporate any memories of vocab words or chemistry labs, the anxiety in the air is tangible.

But, as usual, the need for the magical months of summertime makes the trek through April and May unbearably slow. While students’ minds may want to be miles away on some beach in the Bahamas, teachers have other agendas. Yes, that quiz on Thursday is still on, last night’s homework is still due, and that paper on Shakespeare still needs to be turned in annoyingly on time. Irritating? Definitely.

It turns out that Crown Point students have reason to be grateful. Many teachers are doing their very best to keep agitated minds where they belong: in the classroom. Keeping kids motivated makes all the difference, as Crown Point’s educators have noticed.

Chemistry teacher Kenneth Witt has become famous among his chemistry students for his “Quote of the Day.” He borrows inspiring quips from other great people and displays them on his board for all the class to see. Reactions vary from laughter to serious thought about how the quote applies to the here and now. While Witt effectively uses this roundabout technique to motivate students, other teachers take a more direct approach, like Spanish teacher Michael Gonzalez.

“Mr. Gonzalez made my Spanish so much better. He always had us get up and speak in front of the class. I definitely didn’t like it at the time, but it forced me to learn faster,” said senior Patrick Arnold.

In this case, teacher really does know best. But rest assured that teachers remember what it’s like to be a student, and they use this knowledge to increase their motivational skills.

“I try to put myself in kids’ shoes. I encourage them to be creative, because I want them to complete projects that they’re proud of,” said history teacher Michael Bazin.

Taking a walk in the shoes of a teenager is sure to bring back memories of how many restrictions are placed on a high school student. For this reason, teachers have found that giving

the students back a little control is motivationally effective.

“I keep things real in my class. Towards the end of the year, I give them more choices to work with so that

they have the freedom to make their own decisions,” said English

teacher Vince Bauters.Students are

recognizing how the wisdom of their teachers gets stuck in their heads, like a song on the radio that just can’t seem to be forgotten. In fact,

math teacher Michele McDonough uses

exactly this tactic.“She sings songs to help

us remember math equations. I had her as a freshman, but I still

remember them and use them on tests that I take,” said junior Shana Wrigley.

All through middle school, teachers are constantly reminding students to stop talking to their friends and pay attention. However, some high school teachers are using friendships as a teaching tool rather than a disruption.

“I’ve been implementing a lot of group work to keep kids enjoying their time in my class. I’d rather be a ‘Guide on the Side’ than a ‘Sage on the Stage,’” said English teacher Daniel Hadary.

Even with the cleverest teachers around, these last few months of school have the potential to be

shrouded in stress. Let’s face it, there are no carefree ways to endure AP testing and final exams. But

does it really have to be all work and no play? Art teacher Karen Cox doesn’t think so.

“I know many of my students put an incredible amount of stress on themselves

to do well in school. When they already have that inner drive, they don’t need one

more teacher putting pressure on them. I like to see my class

as a stress-reliever, a time for students to find their own artistic

voice,” said Cox.Between the support,

downtime, and encouragement, Crown Point students have been given an array of teachers to help

them succeed in these last few months of hard work.

Teachers use creative motivational methods

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Michele McDonough sings songs to help her

students remember mathematic equations.

Above: English teacher Vince Bauters jumps during a class discus-sion. Bauters motivates his students by giving them choices and freedom. Right: Spanish teacher Michael Gonzalez wears a headdress while teaching his class chants for memorization.

Photos By Mary Katherine LeMon

ABC’s “Modern Family” is one of the network’s newest shows, and it has already won many awards, including six Emmys. It is a show that comments on America’s different types of families. The Dunphys are a dysfunctional family of three kids and two parents. Jay, Gloria, and Manny make up the next family; Jay married a much younger Colombian woman, who moved in with him along with her son. The third family is that of the homosexual couple, Cameron and Mitchell, and their Vietnamese daughter.

Arts & EntErtAinmEnt 11March 25, 2011

favorite things

a few of our

Hollywood takes rehab too lightly, sets bad exampleBy Kelly Rostinmanaging editor

myview

Lindsay Lohan, Charlie Sheen, Mel Gibson, and Nicole Richie. These household names (among others) represent only the finest of Hollywood- those who are repeatedly in and out of rehab due to life-threatening addictions. The rehabilitation centers and stories of life choice failures never cease being covered in the media, whether it be

through magazines,

the internet, or television. Unfortunately, young

people (who tend to have an attraction to celebrity gossip) are constantly exposed to these stories, which are shared as casually as we speak of the daily weather. This casual nature behind the gossip is detrimental to the thought processes of younger generations.

The problem is that we speak of these celebrity problems too lightly. We casually mention celebrity addictions in our everyday discussions as if it really is no big deal. It sets a horrific example to the younger generations because it sends the message that random addictions are perfectly fine.

But in reality, these addictions are no joke. They are life altering problems that could kill a person. People need to realize the actual magnitude of what a drug addiction or rehab really means. It ruins lives, and in the world of Hollywood, it’s treated as more of a spring board for gossip and fun more than anything else. On television, it’s almost glorified when gossip stations report on a new celebrity drug scandal.

I almost feel bad for celebrities going through rehab. Recovery and struggling with temptation is a tough road to have to deal with on its own. Throw in the entire world watching the struggle, and it almost seems impossible to bear.

Bottom line is that rehab is not glorious. Despite its celebrity “endorsement,” the addictions themselves (and the rehab that follows) is life altering, and not always for the best.

AB

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“Mo

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Hidden techniques are found in advertising

Catchy, cute, annoying, sad, funny, and cool. Ads that prey on what people connect with make for the most effective ads. Advertising techniques are everywhere and their main purpose is to get consumers. The best way to avoid becoming their next victim is to be able to identify the tactics used to gain consumership.

One of the oldest advertising techniques is the jingle. Jingles are those catchy little tunes that often are created with the intention to get a product’s slogan stuck in other peoples’ heads. McDonald’s uses a jingle singing fish to promote their filet-o-fish sandwich. This ad originated in 2009 and made a second run in 2010. Although the commercial has yet to run this year if it will at all, the jingle is still remembered by many people. This is the desired effect of the jingle, to be remembered even after the jingle is no longer running. When it is remembered, the company has made a successful advertisement. Some of the most effective jingles have been the Oscar Mayer, McDonald’s Big Mac, and Empire, which are no longer aired but are remembered by many.

“There always seems to be some product that has the catchy jingle that is stuck in your head for weeks,” said senior Nate Ellingsen.

Re-releasing products seems to be one of the more popular advertising techniques right now. One of the most recent examples is Justin Bieber’s movie “Never Say Never.” The film was released in theaters on Feb. 11, and as expected, his fans went to see it. Three weeks later, as the hype around the movie was beginning to die down, the director’s fan cut was released. This was essentially the same movie with 22 minutes removed and 34 minutes of new footage added. Bieber fans were quick to go see the film’s latest version before it left theaters after a one-week stint.

“I saw the movie (“Never Say Never”) in theaters the first night, but when the director’s cut came out, I felt like I had to see it,” senior Emma Novakovich said.

Little alterations such as these can be seen as a multitude of things such as a new version of the iPhone or new prints on a Snuggie.

Many advertisements prey on the human emotions, knowing that a ploy to reach viewers’ hearts may just reach into their wallets as well. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has a few commercials that appeal to people’s empathy through images of caged animals that appear frightened and injured due to animal abuse.

“I can’t even bear to watch the animal cruelty commercials. They seem like they last forever with picture after picture of sad looking animals. If I had the money I would probably donate every time the commercial came on,” said junior Christina Dwyre.

Product placement in movies, TV shows, music videos and other entertainment sources has been around for years. Companies sneakily (or not so sneakily) place their product in the footage to encourage the viewer to purchase the product due to seeing it in a film, program, or music video that the viewer enjoys. Companies pay to have their product conveniently placed, even for a few seconds.

Britney Spears’ new music video for her song “Hold It Against Me” features evident placement of products from Sony, Make Up Forever cosmetics, Radiance perfume and Plentyoffish.com. She was allegedly paid $500,000 just to have these products placed in her four and a half minute video for just seconds at a time.

The best way to avoid becoming victim of a sales ploy is to know what to watch out for. Most techniques are easily detectable in even the most effective advertising schemes.

By Arley Gomeznews editor

Sinful Colors Professional nail polish offers a myriad of vibrant colors sure to please anyone. They range from casual browns, striking lime greens, and glittery pinks. Not only are the colors great, but the quality of the nail polish is great, too. It lasts long and doesn’t streak when one puts it on a nail. The Inklings staff chooses the baby

blue Rise and Shine as its favorite shade from the Sinful Colors Professional nail polish collection. With prom being only one and a half months

away, Sinful nail polish offers a huge span of colors to choose from for the

special night. The color guide ranges from colors that

reflect all skin tones. You can’t go wrong

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Five Gum has been a teenage favorite since Wrigley introduced it. The company offers many different flavors, usually named after an aspect of nature. One of its newest additions is “Prism,” which is watermelon flavored. It packs a punch of flavor just like its predecessors, but that’s not all. Five gum also offfers Rain; a tingling spearmint flavor that your tastebuds do not want to miss out on.

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Dr. Seuss books leave timeless messagesBy Lauren Caineditor-in-chief

Dr. Seuss books have everything one could ever want in a children’s book: goofy characters, funny illustrations and rhymes upon rhymes. However, their best feature is what elevates these books to something much greater than just a child’s bedtime story: their messages. The underlying morals in some of Dr. Seuss’s most famous stories make these books apply to not just children, but to teenagers and adults.

Horton Hears a Who! “Because, after all, a person’s a person, no

matter how small.”Horton the elephant teaches us to respect

everyone, and stand up for those with less of a voice. Horton discovers a piece of dust that he believes is talking to him. While everyone thought he was crazy, it turns out Horton was not making things up, for the dust was actually a tiny planet housing the microscopic city of Who-ville. He is ridiculed for standing up for a piece of dust until Horton’s neighbors finally hear the voices coming from the planet. Horton and his neighbors then rally together to defend Who-ville together, all because Horton stood up for those that do not have as much of a voice in the world as him.

Did I ever tell you how lucky you are?“You oughta be thankful a whole heaping

lot for the people and places you’re lucky you’re not.”

In this story, Duckie is taken through all the many predicaments and burdens that he could be a part of in an attempt

to make him grateful for the things that he does have, and the problems that he does not

have. As high school students, it’s easy to get down about the little things, but there is always someone who has it worse and is “oh muchly much -much more unlucky

than you!”

The Lorax“UNLESS someone like you cares a

whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

“The Lorax” is one of the most famous books aimed toward educating children about protecting the environment. Readers are taken through the Once-ler’s construction of a factory that involves cutting down many of the Truffula trees, which also serve as the food source for the native animals. Then, pollution starts harming the swans, and by-products affect the pond where the fish live. The Lorax is the only one speaking out against the destruction of the environment, proving the importance of joining others in order to accomplish a common goal.

Oh, The Places You’ll Go “You have brains in your head.You have

feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any

direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go.”

This story documents a boy’s decision to leave home and travel until he reaches “The Waiting Place,” where everyone is simply waiting for something to happen. This can directly parallel a high school student leaving for college and making the decision on what to do with his life. It is an extremely motivational tale, inspiring readers to take control of their life and make the decision of where their life is going to go.

Happy Birthday to You“Today you are you! That is truer than

true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you! Shout loud, ‘I am lucky to be what I am!’”

Birthdays are famously appreciated as a day to receive an abundance of gifts and compliments. In the land of Katroo, the Birthday Bird makes birthdays so much more than just that. The Birthday Bird throws everyone a huge celebration on their birthday, and teaches them the importance of their birth, and why they should be lucky to be alive. It is a true “It’s a Wonderful World” tale.

To There

To Here

Themes of the books vary from promotion of self esteem to the environment

Methods of generating sales are discovered within commercials, movies, music videos

The classic story of “Red Riding Hood” is much forgotten in this modern take of the childhood classic. Instead of an adventure to her grandmother’s cabin, Valerie (Red Riding Hood, played by Amanda Seyfried) lives in a village that is terrorized by a wolf and forced to give up their best livestock to satisfy the needs of the wolf so he will not kill any of the villagers.

The performance of Amanda Seyfriend in this classic remake was exceptionally bet-

ter than most of her previous roles including roles in “Dear John,” “Jennifer’s Body,” and

“Letters to Juliet,” where she was clearly not ready for a big Hollywood life. However, her performance as an independent woman trying to find love in a small village blew critics, and myself, away as she steeped into the adult acting world.

When the trailer aired on television, messages claiming it was written by the same writers as “Twilight” left me skeptical of whether it would turn out to actually be

a good film, because of the fact that Twi-light did not have good reviews. It would seem that the acting in general would be the major difference between “Twilight” and this instant classic film. Seyfried was not the only person leading this amazing cast. The devilishly handsome Peter (Shiloh Fer-nandez) definitely helped make the entire movie shine into the highest box office for opening week.

Though the plot of the movie was exceptional and the acting talent was much above expectations, the ending of the film did not end in the way in which most would probably hope. Without giving away the major details of the movie, let’s just say that there are more ways to end the story. Not to say that every story has to have the “and they lived happily ever after ending,” but it would have been a complete curve ball if the movie was to end a different way than it did.

Those who like modern twists on the old classics will find much enjoyment in “Red Riding Hood.” One can only anticipate what Seyfried will do next in her upcoming big motion picture.

Arts & EntErtAinmEnt12 March 25, 2011

By Ashley Downingstaff reporter

3-D changes make films able to watch

Let it Die Foo Fighters

One Shot, Two Shot Eminem

Hey You 311

Nick Horstsenior

American Idiot Green Day

Blind Jason Derulo

Can’t Help But Wait Trey Songz

Jessica Clark junior

Jamie Johnsonsophomore

Enchanted Taylor Swift

Magic B.O.B.

Firework Katy Perry

Jackie Akeyfreshman

Money to Blow Birdman ft. Lil Wayne

The Show Goes On Lupe Fiasco

A Little Less Than Sixteen Candles Fall Out Boy

Review

“Red Riding Hood” strays from classic storyBy Garret Hogancopy editor

What’s on your iPod?

I can remember going to theaters as a child to see a mov-ie in 3-D. My excitement was immense. I would wait patiently for the movie to start and to put those glasses on my face for the first 3-D part of the movie. Since then, there has been much advancement in 3-D technology. Presently, anaglyphic and polar-ized glasses and projectors are being used the most.

Anaglyphic 3-D is when you have to wear the red and blue glasses. This projec-tor shows two different still pictures at once. One image is seen with the red lens and the other is seen with the blue lens. The glasses filter one image into each eye. The eyes then com-bine the two pictures together and this makes the image have depth.

Recently, polarized glasses have become more popular because of the benefit of being able to see the movie in color. These glasses have gray lenses. The lenses are cut at opposing 45 degree angles. Two pictures are projected at the screen with different polarization levels. The viewer’s eyes combine the pictures the same way as anaglyphic.

Technology changes all the time, and the change from red and blue glasses to clear glasses for 3-D makes a huge differ-ence. It is easier to get the full effect of the 3-D when the true colors of the movie are shown. It makes it feel more real and it is easier to feel like a part of the movie. When the lenses are red and blue it feels more like another movie.

In the last couple of years, production of 3-D movies has boomed as well. Every movie that comes out seems to be in 3-D. Justin Bieber and other artists released concert mov-ies in 3-D. “Avatar,” “Step Up,” “TRON: Legacy,” “Last Airbender,” and many more movies have all been released in 3-D. It seems like no mat-ter what the movie is, it gets released in 3-D.

It used to be a major treat to see a movie in 3-D. It made the experience that much more exciting and special . Now it has turned into a normal thing to do. Television, games, and movies are all coming out in 3-D and it makes the experience less exciting and new.

Forget the Nooks, where are the books?

150 Silhavy RoadSuite 120Valparaiso, IN

10135 Indianapolis

BoulevardHighland, IN

Half Priced Books

31 Orland Square

Orland Park, IL

Crown Point Library

214 S. Court St.

Crown Point, IN

Win�eld Library

10645 Randolph St.

Crown Point, IN

Lake County Library

1919 West 81st Ave.

Merrillville

, IN

By Jordan Ironsstaff reporter

Borders in Highland is about a half an hour drive from Crown Point, but it’s a simple drive right down 30 and north on 41. This Borders has an added bonus--a Seattle’s Best coffee shop, so book lovers can cuddle up with a hot cup of coffee and a new book.

This Borders is also not attached to a mall, so readers can enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere than the Borders in the Westfield mall, which is set for closing before the end of April.

“I don’t like that Borders is closing; I don’t like driving out to the one in Highland,” said sophomore Danielle Espinoza.

The Borders in Highland is just like any other Borders store; they have magazines, books, movies, CD’s, and other random items for sale. This will be the closest Borders to Crown Point after the one in the mall closes.

Only a short 16 mile drive from Crown Point is the Barnes and Noble in Valparaiso. While Barnes and Noble is a chain, the one in Valparaiso differs somewhat from the one that was previously in Hobart.

“The set up is different and they have a broader selection,” said senior Stevie Russell. This bookstore is perfect for a day out shopping because it’s located right across the street from Target and down the road from Kohl’s. Many restaurants are in the surrounding area as well and downtown Valpo is a quick drive away.

While the drive may be a bit longer--28 miles--the car ride is well worth it. Half Priced Books presents a new book buying experience for reading enthusiasts. Customers can bring in their gently used books and sell

them, for cash, to the store. “I think it’s good for people

to make money off the books they have already read,” said junior James Vavrek. Half Priced Books also offers CD’s, magazines, and movies at cheaper prices than most other bookstores. The store has a somewhat cramped feel because of the massive amount of books and entertainment to purchase. They have sections ranging from Sci-fi novels to Italian cooking books to Vogue fashion magazines.

Barnes and Noble in Hobart has closed and Borders in the Westfield mall is on its way to being shut down as well; a sad truth faced by book lovers in the Crown Point area. There is hope, however, and the area still has promising bookstores sprinkled throughout.

Local Libraries

Crown Point Library • 214 South Court St.

Crown Point, IN 46307

Winfield Library• 10645 Randolph St.

Crown Point, IN 46307

Lake County Library• 1919 West 81st AvenueMerrillville, IN 46410

With books becoming harder to find, students seek other nearby options

10135 Indianapolis Blvd.Highland, IN 46322

150 Silhavy Road Suite 120

Valparaiso, IN 46383

31 Orland SquareOrland Park, IL 60462

In sports, success is mea-sured by championships and what you accomplish in the post season. Those who per-form well in the regular season, but then fail to win in the post season are often forgotten. The Patriots began the 2008 season 18-0 only to come up short in the end to the New York Giants in the Super Bowl.

The Crown Point girls’ soft-ball team has looked as strong as those Patriots during last year’s regular season, bursting

out of the gates 27-1, but sec-tionals proved to be their New York Giants, being eliminated in the first round of sectional play.

“(Losing in sectionals) came as a major shock to us,” head coach Brett Crutchfield said. “It was a hard lesson for us to learn as a team, but it just goes to show you have to show up ready to play every game.”

Senior Kelsey Batz hopes that the can finish the season better than it did last year.

“Hopefully we can have a great regular season,” Batz said. “We want to head into this

year’s post season with a lot of confidence and with great team chemistry.”

Departing seniors, includ-ing two all state pitchers and an all state catcher leave some shoes to be filled. Crutchfield is confident that the younger players will step in.

“Our underclassmen have stepped into the open spots when needed,” Crutchfield said. “They have done a great job so far, so hopefully they continue to keep it going.”

Players and ‘Dogs fans alike will be hoping that this year’s season starts out as last

year’s did, but with one major change.

“This year we want to bring home a sectional and DAC title,” Batz said.

“We are going to use the entire regular season as a measuring stick,” Crutchfield said. “There is no doubt in my mind that we can make a deep run into the state tournament state.”

The ‘Dogs will start their season over spring break against Hobart on March 28 at 4 p.m. at home followed by road match-up at Penn on March 31.

If students were allowed ‘bracketology’ as an elective class, it seems safe to say that during course scheduling, the guidance office would be complete and utter madness, filled with students preparing for March Madness.

Students and teachers alike have been taking part in multiple activities involved with the National Collegiate Athletic Association championship tournament.

“I love college basketball and there is no more exciting feeling then when your favorite team is doing well in the NCAA tournament,” English teacher Allison Malloy said.

Malloy, a 2007 graduate of Butler University, has been a fan of the Bulldogs since before she started college and has been following the team ever since.

“I’m a diehard Butler fan,” Malloy said. “During my senior year of college, I took off a day of student teaching to go watch Butler play against Florida in the sweet sixteen.”

Not only has Malloy gone to support the Bulldogs while in college, she also attended the NCAA national championship game to cheer on Butler who lost a close game to Duke.

“I was thrilled to see my alma mater in the national championship game,” Malloy said. “It was really cool to be in Indianapolis during the time because I had the chance to watch Butler’s basketball program grow and progress over those four years.”

While Malloy attended Butler, many other basketball fans, who have not attended college yet, cheer for various teams around the region or teams from schools other than those which they have attended.

“My favorite team is Brigham Young University, but I also root for all of the Indiana teams in the tournament,” senior Spike Albrecht said.

Albrecht shares a tradition with his family members and family friends, including Malloy and her husband, where everyone fills out a tournament bracket, puts down $10, and the winner is chosen by who has the most accurate bracket.

“It’s kind of an annual thing we do every year,” Albrecht said. “Right now I’m in the lead, but my grandpa is catching up to me and so is Mr. Malloy. My dad always picks the underdogs, so right now he has a lot of catching up to do.”

Although numerous students and teachers make tournament predictions in order to win money, there are several other students who fill out brackets solely for the fun of it.

“Even though I get really into watching the tournament, I pretty much just fill out my bracket for fun,” freshman Stevan Maksimovich said. “I know a lot of people who try to make their brackets perfect so they can win money or beat their friends’ brackets but I like watching the games more than guessing what’s going to happen.”

“I like getting together with my friends

and family to watch the tournament games,” sophomore Aleks Krnich said. “I fill out my bracket just for fun, but I pay a lot of attention to the bigger games. A group of us got together last weekend to go watch the game at Buffalo Wild Wings and all the (basketball) fans there were going crazy over all of the games.”

While some go out to restaurants and bars to watch the tournament games, many prefer to stay home and watch in private.

“My family really gets into watching all the games, especially my dad and I,” senior Nick Irak said. “We like to stay at home and hangout rather then going out in public for the games. It’s just more relaxing.”

“I have a ritual where I stay home on a Friday to watch all the games,” Albrecht said. ‘This year I even convinced my friend, Evan Langbehn, to do it too.”

While it may seem easy to correctly predict which teams will win in the tournament, due to them being given assigned rankings, it is often the exact opposite. By the time March arrives, many of the teams who seemed to have been truly dominant during the course of the regular season frequently tend not to make it too far due to lack of confidence or being fatigued.

“It’s really crazy how there’s been so many upsets in this years tournament, but it makes it way more fun to watch since there isn’t a dominant team,” Irak said. “No one really knows who’s going to win it this year.”

13March 25, 2011

Sscoreboard

Tom Hale broke a Merrillville pool record in March of 1973. The Bull-dog swimmer finished with a first place showing in the 100 butterfly with a time of 58.7. Hale also came in first in the individual medley and third in the 100-yard backstroke. Af-ter the Conference meet, Hale went on to swim at the AAU Midwest National event in Cincinnati.

INthe game

The Crown Point hockey team won their fourth Roper Cup this month, the equivalent of winning a DAC title. The team made it through a few close games during the playoffs, ending with a final score 4-2 over the Munster Mustangs. This earned the team a six seed in the 3A state playoffs, the same bracket where Munster was the number two seed. The ‘Dogs lost the first game to the South Stars, but came back to win over Zionsville. In order to move on to the state championship game, the team had to win by at least two goals over Lakeshore St. Joe, but were shut down offensively and the game ended in a 1-1 tie, sending the ‘Dogs home.

A date in ‘Dogs historyHockey wins Roper Cup, falls in state

Fans fill out brackets, cheer for their favorite college basketball teams in NCAA tournamentGoing mad over March Madness

SportS

Lowell-48CP-76

Chesterton-48CP-68

CP-77Hobart-32

CP-45Valpo-61

CP-57Valpo-56

CP-74Merilville-81

Valpo-54CP-56

CP-49Portage-55

CP-4Munster-2

CP-1South Stars-5

CP-5Zionsville-2

CP-1Lakeshore St. Joe-1

Merrillville-103.4CP- 104.1

CP-102.95Lowell-92.1

CP-25Evansville Mater Dai-30

Boys Basketball

Hockey

Girls Basketball

Gymnastics

By Sam Beishuizenasst. sports editor

Wrestling State Results

Softball looks to improve on 2010 DAC record

By Milan Savichsports editor

Freshman Amanda Rock puts on catcher gear. Photo by Mary-Katherine LeMon

SportS14 March 25, 2011

Track successful at indoor stateBy Milan Savich and Sam Beishuizensports editor/ asst. sports editor

In any sport, regardless of the circumstances, it is extremely hard to repeat as champions. However, the Lady Bulldogs track team is determined to defend their 2010 sectional championship at any costs, as well as make a title run in the Duneland Athletic Conference.

“(Our team) has high expectations for this season,” girls coach Lindsay Hattendorf said. “Our main goal is to repeat as sectional champions. Even though we lost some great athletes due to graduation, we have a great team returning this year.”

Although the team has returning members from an experienced squad from last season, the Lady ‘Dogs have also added some new girls to the mix to fill the open positions in events left by last year’s seniors.

“We gained a lot of new talent this year, not only from incoming freshmen, but also from new upperclassmen that have joined the team,” Hattendorf said. “We are looking a lot stronger in every event this year which will really help us be a threat to other teams in more than just distance and sprinting.”

Although the girls finished the 2010 season as the sectional champions, they are looking to improve this season within the Duneland Athletic Conference.

“In order to raise our ranking in DAC, we need to be sure to stay healthy and fill any voids left in any events. Our senior leadership is going to play a huge role in that by setting a strong example for the whole team,” Hattendorf said. “The indoor track season is a big help to our team because it shows us where we are and helps us determine where we want to be. Doing well in the indoor state meet really helped us boost our confidence going into the regular season.”

This season, the Lady Bulldogs are led by seniors Laicee Pierce, Zarah Cecich, Mackenzie Wornhoff and Alex Richardson, who all competed at the indoor state meet held at Purdue University. Both relay teams placed among the top twelve, while Cecich took fifth in the high jump.

The boys track team also competed at the indoor state meet and did considerably well and will soon head into their regular season.

After failing to qualify for regional competition last season, the boys track team looked to start the season off on the right foot at indoor state competition. Head coach Keith Iddings uses the meet as bench mark early on in the season.

“(State meet) is a good indicator of where we are as a team,” Iddings said. “It definitely gives us a lot of optimism being able to see where we are at.”

Crown Point finished twenty-first overall at the meet, but had a number of top finishes in the individual events.

The team of Rogerick Shannon, Zach Sneiderwine, Tristan Peterson, and Israel Mercado finished in ninth place in the 800 relay. The ‘Dogs also captured fifth place in the 1,600 relay with a team of Travis Kucic, Tyler Wells, Mercado, and Sneiderwine.

Sneiderwine, who fought off injuries from soccer during last season, was pleased with his performance.

“(State) was insane. It felt so good competing,” Sneiderwine said. “Running there definitely gives us confidence for this season. We are going to be a force to be reckoned with.”

The ‘Dogs will officially begin their season after spring break.

All of the competition prior to the start of the season is expected to make the team better as a whole.

“All of these meets will be able to tell us what we have been doing well at and what we need to work on,” Iddings said. “It puts the pressure of a meet on the kids and that will make them better in the long run.”

Iddings believes that this year could turn out to be successful for the ‘Dogs as long as they stay healthy.

“We are very optimistic that we will be better this year than we were last year. We are ahead of where we were last season,” Iddings said. “We believe that this year will be a step up from last year.”

The Bulldogs will face Munster and East Chicago Central at a home meet at 4:30 p.m. on April 7.

Senior Nate Byrd pole vaults in an indoor practice in preparation for the outdoor track season. The boys finished the indoor season after participating in the state meet in Lafayette.

Photo by Mary-Katherine leMon

Golf conquers challenges early on

Many athletes find it difficult to transition into a new season after the previous one had just ended, much like Michael Jordan in the 1996 Warner Bros. comedy ‘Space Jam.’ However, being pulled down a golf hole by Bugs Bunny is the least of the boys golf team’s concerns.

Although Indiana courses would seem to not be extremely challenging in terms of geographic features, due to the flatland nature of the Crossroad state, its ever-changing weather conditions can cause much frustration in a golfer’s game.

“The weather is always tough to start out the season,” senior Nick Grubnich said. “The courses are always iffy but by the time the post season rolls around it is usually nice out. Adjusting to rough weather conditions is just a part of golf and it’s a process we need to get used to.”

In addition to the region’s unpredictable weather, getting back into the everyday routine of golfing can be easier said than done.

“We’re trying to get out on the course as much as the weather lets up,” Grubnich said. “In order for us to start out the season strong we need to get as much practice under our belts as possible before our first match.”

Last season, the boys finished in fourth place in the Duneland Conference. However, the Bulldogs are looking to finish among the DAC’s top teams this year.

“Our main goal is to finish out on top of the conference,” Grubnich said. “We have the potential to win the sectional tournament but we need to play as a team. I’m excited for my last season as a Bulldog and individual competition as well. I’m hoping to play my best and get a shot at the state meet again.”

By Milan Savichsports editor

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StartJune 13, 2011June 20, 2011June 27, 2011

July 5, 2011July 11, 2011 July 18, 2011July 25, 2011

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Afternoon ClassesMonday – Friday

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June 13, 2011July 11, 2011

EndJuly 1, 2011

July 22, 2011

SportS 15March 25, 2011

Money talks, NFL walks

Bob Merrill’s 1961 hit “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round” may just be one of those hits that’s meaning stays relevant years after its inception. However, the ‘love’ that makes the world go ‘round actually has been a bit mind boggling up until recent events.

Within the past few weeks, the National Foot-ball League has enlight-ened me. The front office’s love for money seems to be so great that we may not be getting any football next season, at least for a little while any ways.

It seems a bit contra-dicting that the cause for an NFL lockout would be the owners’ greed and wish to capitalize on the opportunity to cash in on some extra profit.

Even though many of the league’s most stand-out players such as Cincinnati Bengals Wide Receiver Chad Ocho-Cinco and Pittsburgh Steelers Linebacker James Harrison have done their best to speak out to the league on behalf of the players, they don’t seem to be on the winning end of the argu-ment. Maybe they could take a few pointers from Charlie Sheen. He seems to be ‘winning’ a lot these days. Although I’m not so sure Tiger Blood is legal in the NFL.

Regardless of the initial ruling, profes-sional football is too big of a product and money maker for the NFL and for television stations as well as endorsements and sponsorships. Not to men-tion, anyone in the same mindset as me is going to be pretty bummed on Sun-day afternoons when there is no football on TV.

Football fans may be heartbroken for a short while but I assure any fan that, love it or hate it, there will be football in 2011.

By Milan Savich sports editor

Baseball works to fix former flawsScrimmage against Andrean tonight, first home game Tuesday

A Minute With

M i l The sound of aluminum ringing and the scent of fresh cut grass can only mean one thing: it’s baseball season.

The Crown Point baseball team is looking to repeat last year’s dominant regular season, where they finished with a record of 26-4 (10-4 in the DAC).

The team’s glorious season came to a painful end in the post season, losing to LaPorte in the first round of sectionals.

“LaPorte was the better team; that was the difference,” head coach Steve Strayer said. “We didn’t do the little things. We didn’t bunt well. Our pitchers didn’t hit their spots. Our base running and defense were poor. We need to improve on those things to do well this year if we don’t want a repeat of last year.”

While the team boasts seven seniors and seven juniors, only three of them are returning starters. According to Strayer, the athletes on the team gravitate to and respect senior Jose Andrade.

Warsaw will be coming to town Tuesday for the ‘Dogs regular season opener. After that, the team will travel to Chicago for a game against St. Rita. DAC play is set to begin April 12 at Valparaiso.

“We start off our seasons playing four tough games. We could very easily play great baseball and be looking at an 0-4 record. The coaching staff and I are going to be

determining how good the team is by our performance, not our record. We’ll find out what kind of team we are then,” Strayer said.

The ‘Dogs strong season last year earned them a number three preseason ranking in the 4A poll, according to the IHSBCA poll. Last year, they began the season ranked number one, but the coaching staff does not consider it too much of accomplishment.

“We have not talked about it as a team. I view it more as a reflection of the season we had last year, not a promise of success this year,” Strayer said. “It is an honor to get this ranking, but a team who loses as many starters as we did is not likely to end ranked third. We have yet to play any games, so we are trying not to get ahead of ourselves.”

The DAC this year has four teams receiving votes for the top ten in 4A. LaPorte is currently ranked sixth, and both Munster and Lake Central are receiving votes for the top ten. The ‘Dogs will face off with the current number one team, Cathedral, along with many other tough teams throughout the season.

The team is trying to notice their strengths, without getting too far ahead of themselves. While it still may be early in the year, the coaches are noticing just what the ‘Dogs can do.

“We definitely have a fast team,” Strayer said. “This is a tough group of guys, and they look very promising so far. We will figure out what we can do as the season moves on.”

By Alex McLeanasst. sports editor

Tennis looks to stay on winning streakBy Alex McLeanasst. sports editor

What’s the only thing better than sixteen straight sectional championships? Seventeen straight sectional championships. The girls tennis team looks to continue to make their already remarkable streak all the more impressive this season.

Getting to seventeen will not be an easy task. The girls will have to get through tough sectional teams, with the main focus on Lowell, a team that returned all of their starters from last year.

“(Lowell) definitely is our biggest competition this season. We need to dominate them if we want to win sectionals this year,” senior Gabby Touchette said. “They have always been one of our biggest competitors. We are going to have to work hard to make sure they don’t get the best of us.”

Last year, the girls found themselves with an 11-10 record at the end of the regular season. The team is planning on making some changes this year to get themselves more focused.

Girls trying out experienced cuts

for the first time. In past years, all girls who tried out made the team.

“(Holding tryouts) has made a huge impact so far. Last year we had 38 girls on the team at the beginning of the year; now, we have 22,” said head coach Brian Elston. “We can give the girls the individual attention that they need to improve.”

This new method has given the team a much more evenly balanced team in terms of talent. Elston claims that each of the top nine athletes could earn a top spot.

“We have a really good depth this year. All of the girls on the team who returned improved well and they keep getting better. We do not have a commanding person in the number one spot. All of our girls are very talented.”

The girls will travel to Hobart on April 11 for their first match of the year.

“We have to get a good start against Hobart,” Touchette said. “We need to get a good start to the season and keep it up throughout. We have it in us to win sectionals, I know we do. It’s all a matter of us putting the time and effort in to get it all together. It is going to be a great season.”

Photo by Mary-Katherine LeMon

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Educated Advice ColumnistPost-Tribune

Junior Stephen Galik warms up his arm during a practice. Galik is one of five pitchers on the team. The ‘Dogs get their first competition against Andrean tonight and open the regular season against Warsaw.

Junior Kelsey Ingelhart works on her backhand in order to prepare for the Lady ‘Dogs first match against Hobart.

Photo by Mary-Katherine LeMon

There is an enormous amount of work that goes into taking care of a horse, from the countless brush strokes needed to ensure the horse has a shining coat to hauling him from show to show in a bulking trailer. This daunting task is sure to exhaust most teens, but not junior Taylor Stevens, who has found a passion with showing and riding horses.

“I’ve been in love with horses for as long as I can remember. I have been riding since before I was three years old,” said Stevens.

And so began her love affair with horses. Recreational riding, however, did not seem to be offering the challenge she was looking for. Even though she was young, she began to enter shows and competitions in an effort to push her abilities and broaden her hori-zons, accepting the challenge of a new expe-rience.

“I always enjoy having a challenge and something new to work on,” said Stevens.

She soon learned that the shows suc-ceeded in offering her the challenge she was looking for, and then some. Preparing a horse for a show is not a simple task, as most riders begin with bathing their horse as part of the primping process. Imagine bathing a six foot, one thousand pound animal and it becomes easy to see the amount of hard work needed to make the horse competition-ready.

“Then, the horse’s eyes, ears, muzzle, bridal path (on top of the head) and legs need to be shaved. This gives the horse a clean and professional look,” said Stevens.

After a long day of scrubbing, braid-

ing, and hauling, Stevens and her horse are finally ready to showcase and compete. She would agree that the excitement of winning a competition far surpasses the hard work needed to get there and makes it all worth while.

“Winning a competition makes me feel accomplished. All the hard work that both my horse and I put in throughout the season seems to finally have paid off,” said Stevens.

Stevens believes that the competition she is exposed to now will continue to help her excel not only further with her horse, but in the competitive-based work environment that awaits her when it comes time to choose a career. The responsibility she has become accustomed to will only benefit her beyond high school.

As if competitions did not seem like an arduous enough task, a horse requires atten-tion and maintenance on a daily basis.

“I board my horse at a stable and there-fore it is less work for me. In general though, the horses need to be fed twice a day and stalls need to be cleaned everyday. As far as the horses and exercise goes, it changes daily. Different exercises are used to work on different things. It also always depends on the horse that day,” said Stevens.

Often, it becomes a challenge for her to find the time to squeeze in all that she’d like to do with her horse in her already jam-packed schedule. She takes AP and Hon-ors classes and not only dances for Origins Dance Academy in Crown Point, but teaches classses there as well.

“It is definitely a huge challenge to bal-

ance everything in my life. Sometimes things overlap or run into each other and sacrifices must be made.”

Taking care of, riding, and compet-ing with horses is an aspect of her life that is sure to remain close to her heart for the rest of her life. Nearly 15 years of memorable experieneces with horses has shown Stevens that she has truly found a niche among her horses.

“Growing and never limiting yourself in a certain subject will only help you to im-prove,” said Stevens.

Personalities March 25, 201116

You know it’s time for spring break when...Sophomore

Junior

Megan Supan

JohnMurzyn

SeniorZach O’Connor

Freshman Vanessa Bousono

“I can’t stay awake in school.”

Take

FIVE

Jackson Roush Freshman

Dance MachineI wish I could randomly burst into sequences of tap dancing.

Twi-Guy

I like joining Kevin Nichols in his Film Society Club every Friday.

Sunlight in very high quantities annoys me.

Blogged DownI have an online blog where I review various public restrooms.

Makin’ GradesSomething interesting about me is that I get very good grades.

Video Star

TOP: Junior Taylor Stevens spends times with her horse Bang. For competitions, the horse goes by the name Sonny’s Phantasm. BOTTOM: Ste-vens puts a lot of time and effort into competitions. Preparation for competitions usually begins with bathing the thousand pound animal.

“My family is planning for

vacation.”

“Everybody goes tanning.”

“I’m not doing my homework.”

Photos by Mary-Katherine LeMon

By Melanie Zdanowicz staff reporter

Photos Provided

An equestrian connectionJunior finds passion in riding and competing with her horse