The Lion’s Tale

December 17, 2010 Leo Junior/Senior High School Volume LIII Issue X Afghan refugee resides in Leo By Jenna McAbee Opinion editor From the beginning, 16-year-old Sana Seerat’s life was not easy. Seerat was an Afghan refugee living in Pakistan after her family fled the Taliban takeover of their country. When she was nine months old, Seerat was diagnosed with a disease called polio that could possibly take her life away one day. From that point of her life, things only went downhill. Her family was very poor and they didn’t even have enough money to pay for all of the treatments she needed to take care of her polio. According to Seerat, she just wanted to be able to live a normal life like any other girl. Seerat wanted to have friends; instead, she had children chasing her down and calling her names. After her family returned to Afghanistan, Seerat’s mother and father had to support a family of seven. All of the extra money the Seerat’s family received went towards Sana’s treatments, and her family could not even afford to pay for food. “My younger brother tried to earn money by Sana Seerat poses with the Lyon family in July. PHOTO PROVIDED BY BECKY LYON doing anything he could, like going to people’s houses who needed help. After the was five years old, her father finally her people would laugh and make This time it was her grandmother. and collecting their trash surgery, Seerat woke up to decided he could not handle his fun of her. People would mock and According to Seerat, other family and selling it,” said Seerat. find that the generous doctor current way of life any longer. point. While her family would go members such as her aunt Through the operated on the wrong knee. He decided to pack up his things out and have a good time with didn’t understand why Sana generosity of others, she “At this point of my and leave his wife and children family and friends, she had to could not have died instead. relieved the effects of polio. life I wished I was never born,” leaving the family to support stay home all alone. All she could Finally, at the age of At the age of seven, said Seerat. “I could not walk, themselves any way they could. do is cry and talk to the walls. thirteen, Seerat attended school Seerat had one of the biggest run and enjoy life like other Social obstacles also “I would call for my for the first time. Beginning at surgeries in her life to that kids my age. I asked myself haunted her. It seemed Seerat’s mother but she was never this age was not easy; however, point. She received this surgery why I came into this world. family was embarrassed of her. there to hear me,” said Seerat. for free by a doctor who was Seerat’s life has taken She was never allowed to leave At nine years old, Seerat see Seerat, page 2 helping all Afghan refugees other turns as well. When Seerat the house because her mother told lost yet another family member. Principal Neal Brown teaches English class Failed proposed referendum to cause financial difficulties By Alyssa Mulherin may be put into effect only if Gazette, the referendum levy Feature editor a majority of the individuals would add approximately 37 who vote approve the school cents per $100 valuation of On Nov. 2, residents corporation’s referendum question property tax and would allow living in East Allen County for the following calendar year. East Allen County Schools to headed to the polls to vote on Also according to the collect as much as $8.2 million the referendum that would EACS website, the school board annually in additional property generate additional property determined that it cannot in taxes for the next seven years. taxes to support the local schools. a calendar year carry out its The referendum would need to According to the East public educational duty unless Allen County School’s (EACS) it charges a referendum tax levy. see EACS, page 2 website, a referendum tax levy According to the Journal Annual talent show postponed By Amanda Overholt According to Brown, someplace; you can’t say yes Editor-in-chief he was approached too late to everything,” said Brown. The annual talent show about the talent show—he According to Brown, will not take place on Friday, Dec. did not have enough time high school students will not 17; however, a talent show may still to get the show together. be participating in a movie PHOTO BY RACHEL BURTNETT take place later on this school year. “I have nothing against the presentation as has happened in According to Principal talent show,” said Brown. “It just the past. No holiday celebration Dr. Neal Brown, the talent show needs structure and a sponsor.” will take place for high school Principal Dr. Neal Brown took and what it meant for the black will not happen during the school According to Brown, he students on Dec. 17. Brown said on a new role Nov. 24. He spent community of that time. The Har- day due to interfering with is approached often about student that he has to be careful about part of the day informing Eng- lem Renaissance was the time education. If it is rescheduled activities. Some students were how much time is taken out of the lish teacher Ryan Clark’s eleventh when blacks excelled and became for a later date, it will take unclear as to why pep sessions academic day for extra activities. grade English class about the well-known for their talent in mu- place after school hours and the occur but the talent show will Harlem Renaissance: what it was, sic and literature. community will also be invited. not. “You have to draw a line see Talent, page 2 PG 3 PG 4 PG 6 Read a student’s review on the new hit TV show, Leo’s own Dance NY Style prepares for perfor- Get ideas on what one may do and see in the com- Sarah Palin’s Alaska. mance at the Orange Bowl. munity during the winter season.

TCID:PP 2 News The Lion’s Tale December 17, 2010

Talent continued from p.1 on,” said Brown. “It could get Brown, before a talent on to everything that happens Though rescheduling “We have 180 days all of the way down to 160 if I show takes place, each act here at Leo,” said Brown. “One the talent show is being of school. You do nothing allowed all of these activities.” will be approved by him. questionable act can result in considered, a date has for one, that’s 179, and so According to “My name is tacked many parents calling me later.” not yet been decided Students accept “Rachel’s Challenge” By Jordyn Furnish Opinion editor

On Thursday, Dec. 9 eleven Leo Jr. / Sr. High school students traveled to Woodlan Jr. / Sr. High school for Rachel’s Challenge. “I don’t know what to expect,” said Caleb Welch on the bus ride to Woodlan. “I think it will be interesting so I’m really looking forward to it.” Rachel’s Challenge is an organization set up by Darrell Scott. Darrell Scott’s daughter, Rachel Scott, was the first person killed in the 1999 Columbine High school shooting. According to rachelschallenge.org, Rachel Scott used diary entries and drawings to illustrate his daughter’s thoughts on a more compassionate Students sign banner for “Rachel’s Challenge.” and kinder nation. PHOTO BY GOOGLE The assembly attended by Leo, Columbia City, and This challenge hit home for explained that the boys’ biggest the presenter told the audience willing to deny it. According New Haven, and Woodlan anyone sitting in the room influence was Adolf Hitler. to close their eyes. He told to CNN Rachel Scott’s funeral students consisted of an hour that has ever been oppressed As many know Hitler was the the crowd to picture the 5 was one of the biggest ever long video presentation and a because of his or her race. leader of the biggest massacre people who were closest to for a high school student. speaker from the foundation. The next challenge the world has seen. Some other the students. He then said More than 2,000 “This presentation was dare to dream. The negative influences were the that in the next couple of people attended the was great,” said sophomore speaker explained that it’s dark movies, videogames, days the students were to tell funeral and it was televised Tara Conklin. “It really gave okay to write down one’s goals and music the boys enjoyed. these people how much they throughout the nation. The me a new outlook on life.” and to keep a diary because “Compassion is the were loved. These people event was the most watched When entering one never knows who will greatest form of love humans who one holds dearest could event on CNN up to that point, Woodlan’s gym many students read it and how it will impact can offer,” said Rachel Scott be taken from them at any surpassing the funeral of were apprehensive and didn’t the world. This challenge was in her essay titled “My time. Tears rolled down Princess Diana. Viewers wrote know what they would gain inspired by Rachel Scott’s Ethics, My Code of Life.” many of the students faces into CNN stating that it is truly from this presentation. The journals, which held her most The fourth challenge as they imagined loved ones amazing how much this young speaker then gave the audience private thoughts and her stemmed from these words being taken away or one girl has affected the nation. some background information goals she wanted to achieve. of Rachel Scott. The speaker being taken from a loved one. According to on the Scott family and the The third challenge challenged the students to use The very last thing the hometownstation.com, Rachel Columbine shooting. The first was to choose positive kind words and practice little student’s participated in was Scott wrote an essay shortly video clip was the original influences. Rachel Scott’s acts of kindness. One kind accepting Rachel’s Challenge before her death entitled “My 911 call made by a teacher. biggest influence was word could save a person by signing a banner that would Ethics, My Code of Life.” This Listening to the voice of this Holocaust victim Anne Frank. from harming themselves be hung up in Woodlan. The essay illustrated her beliefs helpless teacher brought There were many similarities or others. One never knows signing of the banner was pertaining to compassion silence throughout the room. between the two such as what kind of impact they completely the students’ for other human beings After the main video, writing in a diary, the fight will have on someone by choice. It was a vow that one and the end of violence. the speaker gave the crowd for peace among everyone, just telling them that they made to honor this teenage The document that the first challenge; eliminate and having an impact on look nice, said the speaker. girl’s beliefs and values. was written for a high school prejudice. This challenge was the world even after death. “I liked the fourth Rachel Scott was class was the jumpstart to not made by Rachel Scott but The speaker then challenge the best,” said 17 years old when she was her foundation. According to by her brother Craig Scott. He gave an example of negative Sophomore Alex Busse. “It killed in the 1999 tragedy. rachelschallenge.org; Rachel’s felt strongly of this because influences pertaining to the just shows that doing a good She was personally targeted Challenge has reached 11 one of his closest friends was two gunmen of the Columbine deed will pay off in the end.” for her strong belief in God million people, including killed because of his race. shooting. The speaker After this challenge and the fact that she wasn’t 50 states and 6 countries. Referendum Seerat continued from p.1 continued from p.1 Seerat continued to Parkview Hospital and be renewed after seven years. The six schools include Harlan Elementary, work hard catching up with and Solace for the Children, Also according to the Journal Gazette, Hoagland Elementary, Meadowbrook even passing the level of many Seerat has now received those funds would support additional Elementary, Monroeville Elementary, Village classmates in Afghanistan. surgery to stop the curvature preschool programs, full-day kindergarten, Elementary, and Woodburn Elementary. The plan The way women of her shrine, which as expanded summer school, smaller classroom is scheduled for implementation in August 2011. and children are treated in the real threat to her life. sizes, increased course offerings, increased “I think the redesign plan is not very well Afghanistan and Pakistan Seerat is going to be extra-curricular opportunities, and thought out,” said English teacher Fred Rothert. is much different from the coming to Leo High School replacement of stimulus funds that will no “It is constrained by the wishes of the district way they would be treated in to speak with Leo students longer be available and operational costs stakeholders-namely the five high schools.” America, according to Seerat. about her life. She plans to that will not be reduced by closing schools. According to fortwayne.com, four of The whole time Seerat lived in come in during school on “I believe the five, or actually the seven the five high schools in EACS, Heritage, New America no one has ever been January 11, and she will or eight, individual communities in EACS Haven, Paul Harding, and Woodlan would all mean or said impolite things be telling her life story to tend to look only at their own community see renovations or new buildings. All five high to her due to her physical Kelly Mahoney’s freshmen and ask ‘what’s in this for me/us,’” said board schools would remain in operation; however, handicap. In Afghanistan, class. She wants students to member Bill Hartman. “If raising taxes doesn’t Paul Harding High School would become a she would be treated with be aware that people have really appear to help their own community College and Career Academy. Even with all these no respect both because hard lives and she wants to significantly, they tend not to support it. While steps accomplished, the redesign plan alone will she was a girl and because make students aware of just this can’t be said for everyone, 30% voted for not correct all of the district’s financial problems. of the effects of her polio. how important getting an the referendum, I believe it is a significant “An educational program was set up in Now with the help of education really is. Seerat factor for the 70% who voted against it.” each of our feeder districts,” said Superintendent an organization called Solace also wants to share how she Although the referendum was not Karyle Green. “Two of our feeder districts for the Children, Seerat is plans to spend her future. passed, the redesign plan was approved (Woodlan and Heritage) will have a K-12 campus currently living in the Leo Seerat loves living by the EACS Board of School Trustees. setting. The other three feeder areas will have community. She lives with the with her new family. She is “I believe the referendum did not pass one early elementary school, one intermediate Lyons family; Abby and Sam extremely happy and feels because there was little time for getting the school and one 7-12 Jr./Sr. High School.” Lyon are in the eighth grade she is very lucky to have information out to the public after the redesign According to the Frequently Asked at Leo Jr./Sr. High School. found such a fantastic family. was decided on,” said board president Janice Questions portion of the East Allen County She is at this time The whole family has a typical Witte. “Repeatedly we have heard that it takes a School website, the redesign plan is needed being “home bound,” family dynamic relationship year or two of information getting out to inform now because EACS’s financial situation has which is when teachers help with Seerat. They like to the people well enough to get it passed. If EACS reached a crisis point. Operational costs students who are not fully laugh and have fun together. constituents understood that raising taxes would continue to rise and the district simply does able to attend school all day. According to the decrease class sizes and offer better education not have the funds to sustain these increases. The Lyon family is Lyons it was a blessing to for our students, I believe we could have won. Also according to the Frequently Asked currently taking Seerat under get the chance to take care of Also, many believed that if the referendum Questions portion of the East Allen County their wing and helping her live Seerat. She makes the Lyon failed the redesign would be scratched.” School website, funding from the State of her life to her current potential. family stronger because she According to wane.com, the Indiana continues to decline. EACS currently She moved in with the Lyons has nothing at all, yet all she redesign plan will save the district $6.8 receives less from the state than it did in 2006 on April 29. This was only one wants to do is give to others. million in annual costs; $1.9 million short and funding is expected to decline further in day after she received her Visa “The Lyons of what the district had hoped to save. coming years. Unless significant steps are taken, to come to the United States. love me like I am their As part of the redesign plan, six East the district could be financially bankrupt in 2013. Through a partnership own child,” said Seerat. Allen County elementary schools will be closed. among the Lyon family, December 17, 2010 The Lion’s Tale A & E 3 Americans get stuffed during holidays Alyssa Mulherin holidays, but it’s not an excuse Feature editor to not eat the next several days. “I think people eat more during the holidays because it’s tradition,” said sophomore Allison Enyeart. “I Every year family know a lot of people who just and friends gather together call Thanksgiving, turkey day. at some point to celebrate A lot of people seem to look the holidays. Many people at Thanksgiving as a day to sit around a big table of food load up on good food instead and enjoy the company of of giving thanks and getting in their companions during quality time with their family.” Thanksgiving and Christmas. Thanksgiving and According to suite101. Christmas meals can have any com, the major holidays people range of calories. It all depends tend to eat the most are the on what the family eats and days between Thanksgiving does for their tradition. One and Christmas. Although those family may eat more or less holiday times are given that than another family; however, people are supposed to eat and people still need to keep in enjoy themselves, they also mind of how much they eat. need to watch what they eat. According to examiner. According to com, an average Thanksgiving nationmaster.com, in the 2010 meal may consist of turkey, study it was found that 30.6 stuffing, potatoes, gravy, percent of Americans are obese yams, sweet potatoes, green compared to Japan with only bean casserole, rolls, salad, 3.2 percent of their population and other family dishes. Don’t being obese. Learning good forget dessert-pumpkin, apple, eating habits now can help pecan pies, or a combination of people in the long run with all three, as well as cheesecake managing their weight. and other treats. This average PHOTO BY BROOKE MARKHAM “I think America is one Thanksgiving meal is about of the most obese countries 3500 calories. That’s adding Seniors Laura Matrisciano and Mackenzie Merkler open wide for their Christmas cupcakes. because of the large land area one pound onto a person’s with low population density current weight. Those calories again, that’s only if someone makes people eat more. People don’t seem to follow the making walking, biking public are if someone only has only has one plate of food. also can follow the portion sizes rules about portion sizes. transportation very inefficient,” one plate, but the average Watching what is because they can help them eat “I believe restaurants said Dr. Karen Evans. “Also American may have up to being eaten can help with less and control their weight. put so much food on a people may have high stress two to three plates of food, someone’s weight control and Comparing portion sizes with person’s plate because people sedentary jobs, abundance of according to examiner.com. people won’t always feel like common household objects want to get their money’s cheap food, parents who work After burning off all they are working out. Staying may help with the portion sizes. worth,” said Evans. “If they labor jobs that allow high carb, the calories that were eaten active helps to take away the For example, one cup give people more food then high fat diets with no weight during Thanksgiving, there worry of gaining those extra of cereal equals a baseball, there is less argument about gain, and food habits passed is Christmas right around pounds over the holidays. three ounces of beef equals the value of food because down to children who later the corner. According to “I feel like I gain a bar of soap, a potato equals food mark up is big.” did not have laboring jobs.” suite101.com, an average weight over the holidays a computer mouse, half a Although weight is It may seem fine at Christmas meal may consist because I stuff my face like no cup of cooked pasta equals one common factor that people first to eat all the food because of turkey, stuffing, potatoes, other,” said sophomore Jessica a golf ball and three ounces tend to worry about over the people may think they will corn, gravy, rolls, yams, green Claxton. “I also don’t exercise of poultry equals a deck of holidays, there is also the exercise and it will all go away. bean casserole, and salad. at all during the holidays playing cards, according factor that obesity can affect Also, many people eat food The desserts may again be because the point of the to weightloss.about.com. someone’s health. According to on the holidays then the next pumpkin, apple, or pecan pie. holidays is to eat and be lazy.” When people go out Evans, people may gain five to several days don’t eat anything This meal can average out to According to Evans, to to restaurants and order a ten pounds over the holidays. at all trying to make up for all be 2529 calories. That’s adding help with the weight control meal, the meal gets to them Eating too much can lead to the food they ate. People do gain almost one pound to a person’s over the holidays, one may try on a huge plate overflowing fatigue and a reactivation a lot of extra calories over the current weight. Keep in mind, to be stress free because stress with food. Restaurants of old habits with food. Viewers tune in for Electronics released for Christmas Kacy Schinnerer is looking forward to getting Sarah Palin’s Alaska Staff writer the iPad for Christmas. She said she would like the iPad Amanda Overholt because it is really interesting. Editor-in-chief “I am hoping to get the As the Christmas new iPod Touch or the iPad,” season approaches, the said senior Heather Neuhouser. stores start to put out their “I really want the iPod touch Politician Sarah Palin newly released electronics. because it has a camera on it.” has recently embarked on a They were released early The Nintendo Wii, new type of journey. Alaska’s for the black Friday sales. invented in 2006, released former governor along with her According to The a red version of the gaming family is the subject of TLC’s L.A Times, the top 4 newly system also in time for the new show Sarah Palin’s Alaska. released Christmas electronics Christmas rush. They are still The show follows the include Ultimate Ears 350, selling the white versions Palin family as they explore Logitech Revue (Google TV), and the black versions too. their home of Alaska. Her PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMANDA OVERHOLT Microsoft Kinect, and iPad. “I want the Nintendo family includes sons Track and Sarah Palin and family fish on Sarah Palin’s Alaska. Another expected gift is Wii, because it looks like a lot Trig, daughters Bristol, Willow, the t-Mobile G2. The prices of fun and entertaining for and Piper, husband Todd, and Gosselin family to Alaska for TLC a record premiere rating. range from $37.00 to $829.00 the whole family.” Savannah grandson Tripp (Bristol’s son). a camping trip and that trip Not all people The Ultimate Ears Young, 10 Grade said. The show kicked off will be part of an episode.” are fans of the politician 350 was created by Logitech. The students of on Sunday, Nov. 14 at 9:00 p.m. Each episode follows taking on this show. They have extra bass tuned Leo were polled with these on TLC. According to Jack the Palin family and their “I’m not Palin’s biggest into them, and they are as the options the Kindle, Mirkinson of The Huffington many adventures; from fan politically and I’m really noise-isolating. They are Google TV, Wii, iPad, iPod, Post, the premiere of Sarah fishing to dealing with teenage not a fan of people selling their Custom In-Ear Monitors and other. 4 percent wanted Palin’s Alaska delivered record- daughters and boy problems, family to a television station in and Universal Fit Earphones a Kindle, 8 percent wanted breaking ratings for TLC. the Palin family is always order to get some fame and a for touring musicians, Google TV, 4 percent wanted According to Mirkinson, the having an Alaskan adventure. paycheck,” said senior Brad pro-audio engineers, the Wii, 30 percent wanted first episode drew five million According to Glynnis Williams. “The two of them audiophiles and music fans. the iPad, 23 percent wanted viewers—the biggest ever MacNicol of the Business together for me are just too The Logitech Revue the iPod, and 31 percent launch in the channel’s history. Insider, high ratings coincide much. And besides that, I don’t (Google TV) is a little black wanted another electronic. Not all of the viewers were with episodes revolving believe that a reality TV show box that connects the internet Students of Leo Junior/ fans of Palin, but nonetheless, around family drama, while is something that a potential to the television. Its functions Senior High School were asked millions of viewers were tuned low ratings coincide with future leader of our country are it integrates personal to choose which electronic in to Palin’s network premiere. episodes revolving around should be in. It would have media, DVR recordings, on- they would like the most for According to Lori nature and hunting. The been better if she had stayed demand, and Web content Christmas, with the options of Calabrese of the Sarah Palin second week 3 million tuned governor of Alaska and finished into one, and its easy-to-search a Kindle, Google TV, Wii, iPad, Examiner, the show is an in, 3.5 million tuned in the her term successfully instead interface on your HDTV. iPod, or other. 4 percent hope eight-part series exploring next week, and the most recent of going off like she has.” The Microsoft Kinect for a Kindle, 8 percent would the Palins’ home state and episode, 2.8 million viewers “I love Sarah Palin’s has no controller and can track like the Google TV, 4 percent its residents. According to watched the show. According Alaska,” said sophomore one’s actual movement, which wish for a Wii, 30 percent want Calabrese, in an interview to MacNicol, both drops Kayla Overholt. “It honestly lets the player play the games the iPad, 23 percent anticipate with TLC President Eileen were episodes that centered makes me wish I lived in without a controller. It is only the iPod, and 31 percent O’Neill, it was confirmed that around Palin’s outdoor Alaska. They are always available for the Xbox 360. would like another electronic. “Kate Gosselin will make an activities and killing animals. doing such adventurous The last new release The stores that will be appearance fishing for salmon Even with the things; I’m so jealous.” is the T-Mobile G2. It is for selling these newly released and hiking on glaciers with the rollercoaster ratings, Sarah Viewers can tune in anyone who is just getting items are Best Buy, Apple, former Alaska governor and Palin’s Alaska has brought to Sarah Palin’s Alaska on TLC into the Smartphones. G2 Radio Shack, and Wal-Mart, family. The Palins invited the in many viewers and given at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday nights. runs the Android 2.2 system. along with other electronic Olivia Schwaborow retailers and online stores. 4 Feature The Lion’s Tale December 17, 2010 How to... Select students awarded Make the most of your Christmas break By Brooke Wilcoxson 4. Enjoy family. Special editor “Student of the Month” Some students may find their 1. Get involved. families unbearable because of the holiday stress, but really SCIENCE: ENGLISH: Volunteering at various places take this time to spend with really makes your Christmas Jordan Baer (grade 12) Paige Dempsey (grade 9) family and bond. Family is a season more enjoyable. You big part of Christmas and could can volunteer at St. Mary’s PE/HEALTH: CAREERS/BUSINESS: help with the holiday spirit. Soup Kitchen, Salvation Army Erika Ruhl (grade 9) Shannon Connors (grade as a bell ringer, or bringing joy to residents at various 5. Get homework 11) nursing homes and hospitals. done. FINE ARTS: 2. Explore the Victoria Gardner (grade SOCIAL STUDIES: Many teachers will assign Brian Rapes (grade 11) community. projects or assignments so make 12) the most of the lazy days. Try Fort Wayne and surrounding not to procrastinate and it may cities provide the community BUSINESS: FAMILY AND CONSUMER help you feel accomplished. with many things to do this Bryce Beer (grade 9) SCIENCES: time of year such as ice skating, Rachel Bougher (grade viewing the display of lights 6. Prepare for the SPANISH: 11) downtown, tobogganing/ New Year sledding, or going to Danielle Blumenschein movies at local theaters. . With 2011 right around the 7TH GRADE STUDENT OF corner take the time to ponder (grade 9) MONTH: 3. Just play. what your resolution should Go make snow angels and be and declutter your life. TECHNOLOGY: Max Dove snowmen. Build snow forts Maybe rebuild friendships, Spencer Roof (grade 10) with friends and just have a gain new friendships, let 8TH GRADE STUDENT OF good time. Go sledding or pull go of friendships that are a sled on the back of a four- not healthy, or keep truckin’ MATH: MONTH: wheeler. Make it fun. Then the way you are. Just take Hannah Field (grade 11) Adam Freeby warm up with hot chocolate the time for a fresh start. when the day’s work is done. Dancers prepare for Orange Bowl By Cassidy Zickmund NY Style, Leo’s local dance Dolls, who will be performing Leo Jr. /Sr. High School who will “We spend so much studio, was asked to dance at live along with the dancers. be dancing at the Orange Bowl: time together we consider each Sports editor halftime at the Orange Bowl The Orange Bowl is seventh grader Brianna Nuitos, other family,” said Erexson. along with other dance teams like the Super Bowl of college eight graders Taylor Erexson “We love our teacher; Lindsey in the United States. They will football. This year, Virginia and Chelsey Smith, and makes dance more fun.” be participating in various Tech will play Stanford; there freshman Cassidy Zickmund. To advertise the event Dance NY Style’s activities while in Miami will be around 75,000 fans in the “It’s a once in a lifetime and help raise money to make Diva Dancers make their including classes with Mandy stadium watching and about 2 opportunity,” said Smith. the trip, the girls have put up way to Miami, Fla. for the Moore and the choreographer million at home according to The girls practice posters, ads in the newspaper, Orange Bowl Dec. 31 to Jan. 3. of the High School Musical orangebowl.org. The game is every Tuesday, Thursday, walked in the Grabill Days The Divas or the movies. They will dance to on Jan. 3 at 8 pm EST on ESPN. and Saturday in preparation Parade, had a garage sale, competition team at Dance two songs by the Goo Goo There are four girls at for the big event. and held a kiddie carnival at the studio. All profits went to the dancers’ trip to Miami. The average cost for the girls to go is around $2,000. “People underestimate us,” said Erexson. “They think we’re just some small group from little Leo, but we’re more than that.” The dancers have also danced at a Mad Ants game, a Pacers game, Kings Island, and annually at The Festival of the Trees. They go to 3-4 competitions every year and perform solos, duets, trios, and small group productions. Dancing for large numbers is nothing new for the Divas, but the Orange Bowl is the biggest event they’ve ever been to according to Dance NY Styles owner and instructor Lindsey Tague. “We’re a family,” said Smith. “We’re all good at our own style, but when we come together everything works out. We focus on our good qualities and encourage each other to do our best.” “We were actually invited to the Orange Bowl to dance,” said Tague. “We’ll take anything that comes Dancers practice hard to be prepared for the Orange Bowl PHOTO BY CASSIDY ZICKMUND our way. We seem to just get great opportunities.” Randall Artherhults gets personal By Andrew Rodgers engages his classes and up with two brothers, one playing Tarzan, and cruising hobbies include bicycling, teaches his students real world older and one younger. His in cars and motorcycles. traveling, writing Staff writer skills, using witty remarks older brother Roger, who Believe it or not fiction and vegetable and personal examples. is sometimes mentioned in Artherhults did not figure out gardening, “even though Born in the city of Aurtherhults stories to the his desire to become a teacher tomatoes are technically Peru, Ind., and raised in the class, now lives in the Leo until his sophomore year of a fruit,” said Artherhults. Nestled between small town of Converse, community. He also has a college. He now has a degree in Favorite television shows the clinic and the science Ind, Artherhults moved to “baby” brother who lives in literature and a master’s degree of Artherhults include Big hallway one will find the Fort Wayne when he was a Florida who just published in education both from Indiana Bang Theory, Buffy the Vampire secluded classroom of English sophomore. He attended and his first book, Lohsie’s Woods. University in Fort Wayne. Slayer, X Files, and How I teacher Randall Artherhults. graduated from Southside “My favorite childhood “I was a D.J., Met Your Mother. He also Artherhults, or “Mr. A” as high school in Fort Wayne. memory is summers at Lake news director, commercial enjoys Harry Potter movies. many of his students call him, Growing up, Webster in my aluminum copywriter, and auto If Artherhults could has been teaching at Leo Jr./Sr. Artherhults’ father ran a boat with the Evinrude mechanic,” said Artherhults. live anywhere, he said that High School for over 30 years. food processing plant and Motor and my Honda dream Artherhults and his he would live in building Students at Leo arranged the opening of motorcycle,” said Artherhults. wife Kathy have a grown 2 at the Old Fenimore do not get the chance to several plants in Europe, When he was young son who lives and works in Mill condos in Cedar Key, experience one of “Mr. A’s” while his mother worked at some of his favorite past times Brooklyn, New York, and a Fla., or even somewhere exciting classes until their Fort Wayne Bible College. with his friends included sling golden retriever named Bailey. closer to Disney World. senior year. Artherhults Artherhults grew shot fights, catching snakes, Some of Artherhults’ The Lion’s Tale December 17, 2010 Opinion 5 TOMS shoes give back to kids “Bridalplasty” instills false Shoe company has donated over one million pairs of shoes worldwide views in its young viewers By Rachel Burtnett about what it takes to have a By Allison Trosper man love them. Watching already Editor-in-chief Special editor beautiful women complain The new television about the way they look may show “Bridalplasty” premiered cause teens to look at themselves Saturday, Dec. 4 on E. The purpose differently and aspire to one While making a holiday of the show is to reward the last day pay a ridiculous amount of wish list, TOMS Shoes are an bride standing with plastic surgery money for a surgery of their own. item that should not be omitted. and a wedding of her dreams. Throughout the years, Not only do these shoes In the first episode, the belief in true, everlasting love feel like a foot cushion but they are viewers watch as each of the has continued to decrease as the a very altruistic idea, as every pair twelve contestants is interviewed number of divorces has continued of shoes bought has a matching alongside their husband-to-be to increase. The sanctity of pair sent to a child in need of shoes. as they explain each procedure marriage has been belittled and According to toms.com, they want and why. The brides these couples are one of the prime in 2006 TOMS founder Blake “wish-list” includes anything examples as to the reason why. Mycoskie befriended children in and everything one could think If a man loves a woman Argentina and found they had no of: skin resurfacing, liposuction, enough to ask for their hand, shoes to protect their feet. He then breast lifts, breast augmentations, they should take her as she is, decided on the idea of a company tummy tucks, nose jobs, removal not to await the “improved,” that makes shoes but also donates of scars and stretch marks, botox, silicone-injected, plastic a pair to children who need a pair. ears pinned back, fat injections version of who she once was. As of September 2010, in upper lip, and even one To most, true love means TOMS has given over one million surgery to shorten a second toe. loving one’s significant other pairs of new shoes to children in PHOTO BY ALLISON TROSPER The whole idea of unconditionally for better or need through Giving Partners for worse, a statement the bride Juniors Addison Ulmer and Brenna Noll show off their TOMS shoes. this series raises countless around the world. Not only does questions such as where the and grooms each vow to one TOMS donate shoes, but they accepts. It then took almost two According to Ulmer, love in these relationships is another on the big day. In general, are also behind the idea of a day more weeks for my correctly her favorite way to wear her and what message are these a wedding ceremony entails without shoes. This is a day for fitting TOMS to come back me. TOMS is with skinny jeans, women sending to the audience. countless people, two sets of proud volunteers to go without shoes Now that I have my but she occasionally will Starting at a young age, parents with tears in their eyes, for 24 hours to realize how life is TOMS I am elated. These shoes dress them up with skirts. many females grow up dreaming and one adorable little flower girl without shoes. This day will take are seriously the greatest shoes Noll bought her about their wedding day, planning who causes audience members place globally on April 15, 2011. that I have ever worn. They TOMS at the shoe store Shi out every little detail. Going under to “awww,” but a bruised bride I was inspired by the feel like there is a cloud on my in Glenbrook Mall, but the the knife just months before the wrapped in bandages is not movement when a friend of mine feet and it is phenomenal. It store doesn’t seem to have as big day, however, is not something typically included in the list. was wearing them a couple of much of a selections as online. generally on their agenda. If a woman does not years and I did not realize that “I want these shoes “They are amazingly com- How can these couples love or respect herself enough they had such a great motive until in every color,” said Noll. ever preach the idea of “it’s to accept the way she is even this fall. I visited the website and fortable and I love their According to Noll, her feet what’s on the inside that when there is a man promising did a lot of research and I found One for One policy,” get a bit chilly but the awesomeness counts” to their children when to love them forever, how that they run a little small, so I she feels when she wears them they entered a competition can she expect the man to? ordered a pair a half a size smaller -Junior Addison Ulmer makes up for it. Ulmer agrees. to improve their appearance? If every woman was than my usual. I was anticipating “They are amazingly In the United States, the in the same state of mind as my shoes coming in the mail for comfortable and I love their One idea of the “perfect person” has the “Bridalplasty” contestants, days on end and when they finally really feels like I’m walking for One policy,” Ulmer said. “They become so superficial and harsh females might as well go back came I couldn’t wait to try them without shoes and I couldn’t ask are hard to find in Fort Wayne, that nearly everyone continually to the days of staying home on. I tore them out of the box and for anything better in a shoe. but their ‘fantasticness’ makes questions the way they look. and waiting on their husband tossed the complementary flag Juniors Addison them worth the cost of shipping.” In some countries, a and children hand and foot. and I slid them on my feet. I then Ulmer and Brenna Noll It seems all around that woman’s beauty depends on how Women need to stand up had a Cinderella complex when are also TOMS customers. TOMS wearers are very satisfied small of feet they have or how long for themselves, love the person I put the shoes on and they were “I went to New York with their shoes. TOMS shoes their necks are. In the US, women they are, and accept and cherish too small. My disappointment over the summer and found can be purchased at TOMS.com have the idea that weighing 90 what they were given. Not was monumental. I realized some and fell in love,” said and the shoes run around $40 to lbs. and having large breasts is everyone is born tall and skinny that I would have to send my Ulmer. “I finally decided to $50, without the cost of shipping required in order to be beautiful. with assets in all the “right” places. shoes back, which TOMS gladly order some a while ago.” which can cost around $10. Teenage female viewers No one in the world is perfect… could obtain the wrong idea even after surgical procedures. Elementary participation in programs helps in future By Annie Merz organized, contact football administered by knowledgeable A&E editor coaches and administrators. The emphasis is on teaching To help kids get started fundamentals and providing safe, on the right foot for their future fun football. Cub Football was sport, Leo Jr./Sr. High School’s formed to give our youth a greater athletic program has created opportunity to participate.” several helpful systems such The Cub Football as Paw Ball and Cub Football. program does a great job of Paw Ball is nine weeks teaching fundamentals to the long and is for children in grades kids. The outcome of teaching kindergarten through sixth grade good fundamentals and making interested in basketball. This it fun for the kids is success. The year there are seventy coaches varsity boys’ football team has who lead the thirty teams that had more success this year than make up this club. Paw Ball has ever before, and many football a certain number of rules and players give credit to having regulations; however, these started playing when they rules differ from the actual were younger and by playing rules of high school basketball. by the actual rules of football. For this reason, many “It gives kids an high school players have voiced edge, especially in football concerns about the basis of because not too many other the program. There should be schools have a football league a point where a line is drawn for elementary school kids,” between just having fun and said sophomore Sam Waters. actually taking the sport Both programs teach kids competitively. After all, when of the importance of having fun. the athletes enter high school, If the Paw Ball program is more their goal will be winning, right? willing to teach fundamentals Paw Ball participants, for and play with more competition, example, are not allowed to steal they may have higher success the ball, block shots, or double rates or more wins. In the past, team. Referees don’t exactly call other high school players think every travel, double dribble, that they could have been more etc. They just blow their whistle prepared for the transition if the for the major mistakes. Because Paw Ball program would have these regulations may be a little focused more on fundamentals. too lenient, when the players get The Cub Football program to high school they may not be should continue to keep teaching prepared when a ref calls a travel. what they’re teaching because “I think maybe the Third and Fourth grade girls fight to get the rebound during their Paw Ball game. PHOTO BY ANNIE MERZ Leo’s football program is older kids [in Paw Ball] should experiencing winning seasons. be allowed to steal the ball and If the participants in press,” said junior Kasie Stoller. that they may not have been able how to play the sports and helps living in the East Allen County Paw Ball were able to start The basketball program to build if not for the program. get you involved with others.” school boundaries. According playing with the goal of getting does a great job of teaching the kids “[The programs] Cub Football is led by to the Leo cub football league better and not just having fun, that the sport should be fun. Many absolutely helped me prepare for the league commissioner Jared rules and bylaws, the mission then maybe the high school also believe that the program the sport,” said junior Taylor Horn. Sauder. This program is for kids for the Cub Football League basketball team would come out helped them build relationships “It helps young kids get to know in grades four through six and is “to provide area youth with with more wins in the future. The Lion’s Tale 6 Special December 17, 2010 MERRY CHRISTMAS Fort Wayne provides community with festive activities By Taylor Hipskind thing to do in Fort Wayne for $3 for seniors and students. there is a display called free refreshments, live Christmas is to go downtown This year was the “Candyland Holiday Exhibit.” animals, many children Sports editor with his family. Every year, 16th annual AWS Fantasy This event ends Jan. 2 and crafts and activities, he and his family look at of Lights at Franke Park. costs $5 for adults and $3 music, and religious art. the lights down Calhoun According to Indiana’s for children (up to 17 years If one is willing St., the “Santa Claus” on the NewsCenter, there are more old). At the display, one can to travel a short distance, PNC Center, and the “Merry than 70 illuminated displays see beautiful poinsettias there are numerous events Christmas Wreath” at One in the park during this event, and huge gingerbread men. outside of Fort Wayne to There are many Summit Square. He also likes and admission is $5 per car. Sophomore Graham do for Christmas as well. things to do and see in to go ice skating downtown Sophomore Christian Powers attends an event every Tobogganing at Pokagon Fort Wayne during winter and go to Coney Island. Nitz said that his favorite year at the Foellinger-Freimann State Park in Angola, Ind. including the lit-up “Santa Many seasonal thing to do in Fort Wayne Botanical Conservatory is one popular activity. Claus” mounted on the activities to do in Fort Wayne for Christmas is to go to the as a family tradition. According to the Indiana PNC Center or Indiana are free of charge; however, Nutcracker Ballet at the Fort “[The events here] Department of Natural Michigan Power’s “Merry there are still some that use Wayne Academy of Ballet. always get [my family and Resources website, “The Christmas Wreath” at up those riches that are being Nitz also enjoys me] into the Christmas Toboggan Run” costs $10 One Summit Square. carried around in a wallet. going on carriage rides Spirit,” said Powers. per hour and that price Many students at Every year, the Fort through the lights downtown This year marks the includes a sled that four Leo Jr./Sr. High School attend Wayne History Center hosts a with his grandfather. 59th annual Christ Child people can use at the same these events, and for some, gingerbread house competition This year at the Festival at the Allen County time. Anyone can feel the they are family traditions. called “The Festival of Foellinger-Freimann War Memorial Coliseum. excitement of going down a Sophomore Jaron Gingerbread.” The admission Botanical Conservatory, The admission to this event vertical drop of a total of 90 Birkey said that his favorite for this event is $5 for adults and every Thursday and Friday is free of charge and includes feet at about 35 to 40 mph.

Above: Senior Billy Schenkel decorates a cookie to look like a football at an annual party at a friend’s house. Above: Seniors Janna Parke, Molly Merz, Mackenzie Merkler, and Brooke Markham display their gifts from one another.

Above right: Senior Molly Merz gets excited after opening her first gift of the exchange.

Above: Spongebob cookies made Below: Juniors Haley Herran, Kendyl Leichty, and Shelby by seniors Rachel Burtnett, Jenae Cooper enjoy their trip to the ice rink downtown. Bennington, Gretchen Hiler, and freshman Miller Kern are dis- played.

Below: Juniors Bree Schmucker and Kyle Biggins spend time to- gether sledding. December 17, 2010 The Lion’s Tale Special 7 Basketball season shoots into action Top left: senior Nick Silver cheers for junior Gage Corner at the home game against Heritage.

Middle left: seniors Preston Crook, Matt White, and Kelsey Hetrick prepare themselves with their newspapers and proper attire for the home game against Dekalb. #14 Left: senior Andrew Suciu plows through two Dekalb defenders to- wards the basket for two points.

Bottom left: senior #25Ben Waters goes up for a lay up before the Dekalb game. #15 Bottom right: sophomore Sam Waters works on his free-throws warming up for a game at home.

Varsity Boys: 2-0 Varsity Girls: 3-3

Bottom left: sophomore #40 Keanna Gary tips off for the Lions against New Haven at home. Bottom middle: senior Marykate#23 Row- an dribbles the ball down the court in ef- fort to pass her Bulldog opponent. #30 Bottom right: senior Ashley King plants in front of a her player on defense. Very bottom: many superfans at the boys varsity game against Dekalb keep their noses in their papers to show the visit- ing team just how welcome they are.

Upcoming games this season: Varsity Boys Varsity Girls Tonight: home vs. Garrett Dec. 18: home vs. Southern Wells Dec. 28: home vs. Angola Dec. 29: away vs. Angola Jan. 4: home vs. Concordia Jan. 5: home vs. Norwell Jan. 8: away vs. South Adams Jan. 7: home vs. Woodlan Jan. 18: home vs. Churubusco Jan. 18: home vs. Churubusco Jan. 21: home vs. Southern Wells Jan. 22: away vs. Adams Central Jan. 28: away vs. Woodlan Jan. 25: away vs. Bishop Dwenger

Please come out and support your fellow Lions. There can never be enough fans. The louder it is, the better! The Lion’s Tale 8 Opinion December 17, 2010 Holiday retail becomes chaotic Employees are forced to deal with difficult customers By Andrew Rodgers day exhausted and annoyed. a nightmare for staff who has to store puts things on sale for 60, 70, rattle off items that the shoppers’ Staff writer Being a sales associate has its literally crawl on top of boxes and 75 percent off and customers children picked out online. If benefits: associates get a good and bags to dig for things that come up wanting to know what the store does not have the item discount, help people pick out they might need for the store. the sale price. This jams up the that the shopper is looking for, This is the time of year gifts and answer questions. It is Often important boxes of product line and causes an unnecessary the sales associates will have when millions of Americans safe to say that for the majority become lost at the bottom of the wait for customers who are ready to endure the shopper’s dumb gravitate towards shopping of the year, it is a somewhat pile and found days later when to make their purchase and get disgusted facial expressions. malls and spend crazy calm job; however, it gets more the item is no longer needed out of the store. Use a cell phone Holiday shoppers, amounts of money on gifts. stressful around the first of for a display or a customer. calculator or even fingers to please remember you are not According to the October when hundreds of boxes At Aeropostale in figure out the price without help. the only ones out shopping, so American Consumer Credit of shipment, holiday checklists, Glenbrook mall, the “see through The sales associate should not respect one’s fellow shoppers. council the average American and dozens of new employees fitting rooms” seem to confuse have to tell customers what 50 Don’t jump into a conversation will spend about $935 on start rolling into the store. even the most seasoned shopper. percent off of $20.00 is. Go back between a fellow shopper and Christmas gifts this year, a 38% Boxes, snappy Throughout the day an associate to school and figure that one out. a sales associate or try to be coy rise from the previous year. customers, and slow temporary will be told dozens of times, “I Then there are the and sneak ahead of someone in This means more shoppers with workers are all things that am not going in there; it’s see wonderful customers who enter line just to save a few precious shorter fuses and lack of holiday would make any experienced through” or are given blank the store at 5:55 on Christmas minutes. And lastly, please cheer will file through the malls retail worker want to scream. dumb looks from shoppers Eve and expect to get holiday respect the mall employees doors this holiday season. Most stores, including confused about the doors. By the shopping done when the store whom you may come in contact This time of the year, Panda Express in the food court fifth time an employee may just closes at 6 for the holiday. Really? with because they do not get paid sales associates walk into work and The Children’s Place and want to scream out sarcastically: Obviously shoppers are not going enough to listen to your cranky at the beginning of their shifts, Aeropostale get dingy offsite “Yes we are watching our to get their shopping done in 5 complaining self who waited most wearing red and beaming storage rooms during the holiday customers while they change.” minutes, so the store is going to until days before Christmas to with holiday cheer, only to walk season to store their excess Another annoyance have to keep its doors open for the buy one’s presents. Also gift out at the end of their long work merchandise. These units become would also have to be when a shopper and listen to him or her boxes are a courtesy not a right! Christmas annoyances disturb citizens Students’ opinions Music, lights, and shopping way before Christmas irritates the gerneral public on gas prices differ By Brooke Wilcoxson Special editor By Justin Stuckey 7 million cars on the road are able to run on E85, according to A & E editor cars.com. This site also tells of a study conducted by General Motors. The study shows that Christmas is a holiday fewer than 10 percent of E85 that America seems to enjoy car owners use E85 gasoline in in months besides December. their cars. 7 million times 10 This holiday brings favorable Andrew Rodgers wrote percent adds up to 700,000 cars. traditions for Americans but an editorial in the December 3 issue That may sound like a lot, but may begin way too early of the Lions’ Tale about gas prices. consider that there are around and is really overdone. Several points made in the article, 6 billion people in the world One part of Christmas however, didn’t quite make sense. and 300 million in the United that Leo citizens participate a The first point made States. When compared to those great deal in is putting up lights. was that the election of many kinds of numbers, 700,000 E85 It seems that many consider Republicans on November 2 users is a microscopic amount. the motto, the bigger the better, caused the price of gas to skyrocket The Lions’ Tale article but in this case the brighter within two days after the election. also says this: “It seems gas the better the most effective. It The article says, “It seems like prices and the economy are seems Leo residents take the during the past few years the heavily linked; when gas time to “outdo” neighbor’s cost of gas has actually gone prices are low the economy homes to have the better lights. down. Ironic? Once Americans and businesses do well.” Another part of put the Republican party in This is a common Christmas many look forward power, gas prices raced back up.” economic myth. If you look to is the Christmas music Although Americans at the facts, a strong economy mainly played on 97.3 and voted to put many Republicans tends to roughly correlate 98.1. But does it have to begin in Congress, these elected officials to high gas prices, and vice playing prior to Thanksgiving? do not actually take power versa. In the last half of 2008, Many may grow tired of this until January 3. They did not for example, the U.S. economy music even before Christmas march into the Capitol, as the plummeted into recession. because of overplaying. article implies, and cram laws During that same Buying gifts for friends through in two days to cause an time period, gas prices also and relatives seems to be a drag immediate increase in gas prices. plunged, from over four dollars for many people. Many have to Here’s why gas prices to around $1.70 per gallon. spend money when all one may rose in the few days after the election: On November 3, want to do is receive it. Buying “The gas and oil presents should not be a burden. Federal Reserve chairman Ben Questions fill the buyer’s mind Bernanke announced $600 companies should wake up such as, what will they want? billion in “quantitative easing.” and realize their fluctuating And what if they don’t like it? “Quantitative easing,” by the way, prices have a mostly People worry too much about is basically just code for printing the gifts they’re giving and don’t more money. When more money negative effect on our greatly put all the thought into it one is printed, that reduces the value recovering economy,” should. Giving should be more of the dollar. When the value of a feel-good-about-oneself of the dollar is reduced, more - Andrew Rodgers thing and should not be worth money is needed to buy things. pulling one’s hair out over. A second point in the Many joyful hearted article was that “Most Americans Finally, the article reads, people take time out of their lives are held hostage by the gas and “The gas and oil companies to volunteer to be a Salvation oil companies due to alternative PHOTO BY JORDYN FURNISH should wake up and realize Army bell ringer. One could fuels not being readily available their fluctuating prices have a see these red-apron wearers Salvation Army volunteer attracts caring customers for their loose change in most areas. Sure, there may be mostly negative effect on our anywhere during the Christmas hybrid cars and biofuels, but how greatly recovering economy.” season. Of course one feels many biofuel stations have you their stores. Lights, ornaments, a Christmas movie every night The gas companies guilty if they pass by without seen on the side of the highway?” Christmas figures, nativity until Christmas. It varies from themselves have no obligation dropping various coins from the This article assumes that scenes, just name it and it will old classics to new movies that to our economy. They attempt bottom of their pocket or purse biofuels – E85 gasoline in particular more than likely be seen in any all have the same meaning. The to make a profit, and there is that they know they will not be – save people money. However, major store prior to Thanksgiving. 25 Days of Christmas is not even nothing wrong with that. If using in the future. It’s almost a according to cars.com, though When watching television a legitimate 25 days considering a business would do what is guilt trip that many succumb to. E85 costs 15 percent less than after Thanksgiving, it is more than Christmas movies only play on “best” for the economy instead Back in October when gasoline nationally, it is 27 percent likely that a Christmas show is on weekdays. What a letdown… of trying to make a profit, they one may be scanning the aisles less efficient. E85 actually gives more than one channel. It is also As people start stressing wouldn’t last long. America is for a Halloween costume at the you fewer miles for your dollar. very likely the popular Christmas over what to buy, what to wear, a capitalist nation. Competition local Wal-Mart, it is very likely Another reason that gas movie “Elf” will be playing what to watch or what to listen to is the basis of our economy. to find assorted Christmas stations don’t often sell E85 is that multiple times a day on various just remember, this is the one time people simply aren’t interested. decorations in a designated aisle. channels. ABC Family really of year to be happy. It’s important That is just the beginning of the puts one in the Christmas spirit to be in the Christmas spirit and madness. Local stores and malls with its 25 Days of Christmas do what one can to help others. completely go all out and fix up series, which involves playing The Lion’s Tale 9 Feature December 17, 2010 Ben Shappell and students prepare for Costa Rica trip Costa Rica trip will be taking place in 2012 school year for grades 8-11

By Abbie Trosper A&E editor

In June of 2012, several chaperoned students of Leo Jr./Sr. High School will be going on an excursion to Costa Rica to partake in a unique learning experience. Ben Shappell (teacher at Leo), his wife Carrie Shappell, and Mark Mettert (teacher at New Haven High School) will be the adult supervisors of this trip, leading the students through all the wonders that Costa Rica has to offer. Shappell said that there are nine students signed up and planning to go, but he is eager that more will take advantage of this educational opportunity. Through the end of the year, the price of the excursion is $1,600, and through March 31 the price of $1,800. The cost includes all flights, food, lodging, and activities. Sophomores Aubrey Dean-Cross and Jennifer Emery both believe that the value of their experience will be worth the expense. “The trip isn’t until 2012 though, so there’s time to save money,” said Dean-Cross. “I do think the trip will be worth the price because if I try to go another time, I probably won’t find an opportunity cheaper than this one.” Sophomore Alli Miller poses next to the Costa Rica poster. PHOTO BY ABBIE TROSPER Emery’s opinion of the expense is similar. amazing that I have continued to city San Jose,” said Shappell. about the rain forest and ecology interested in science, Spanish “I think it’s a good use EF Tours and to take students Dean-Cross and Emery are will lead the group. Shappell students can also benefit from price,” said Emery. “It pays for to Costa Rica,” said Shappell. both excited and looking forward believes that the students’ this experience, because the everything except souvenirs.” With the assistance of to participating in these activities understanding of science will primary language in Costa Rica Shappell used EF Tours, EF Tours, Shappell has many and the unique opportunities. benefit from this trip, having gone is Spanish. Shappell believes a tour company, to plan this exciting activities on the agenda. “I don’t think I would ever before and learned a lot himself. this trip will be a good way trip. In the past, Shappell won “We will visit four have the chance to go to Costa “Since I have gone to practice speaking Spanish. a free trip to Costa Rica for different rain forests, see green Rica and I’m really excited to be twice before, I have learned a lot Any interested students himself, another chaperone, and sea turtles on the East Coast, visit going,” said Dean-Cross. “I love and will share my knowledge should talk to Shappell in Room students from EF Tours, and a hot spring and swim there, go to travel and I think Costa Rica with students,” said Shappell. 332, or go to www.eftours. has been using this company to on a zip line canopy tour, have seems really pretty, so I can’t wait.” Even though this trip com and type in this tour’s plan Costa Rica trips since then. a free day at the beach of the On the expedition, a will be specifically beneficial number, which is 1005291, “The trip was so West Coast, and tour the capital guide who is knowledgeable towards science students or those to obtain more information. Leo teachers explain their high school sports By Brooke Wilcoxson Starbucks offers free Special editor Wi-Fi to customers Shappell – Basketball and Soccer By Graham Powers definitely would make me want to come back and think “My senior year was the first year for soccer Staff writer at Leo. One match we scored two own- about buying more stuff,” said goals for the other team. We had two foreign sophomore Stephanie Lehman. exchange students (from Brazil and Germany).” Because Facebook and Kern – Football “My favorite On Sept. 20 Twitter have become such a huge general memory was hanging out with the Starbucks, the world’s part of the internet, Starbucks has guys during summer conditioning and largest coffee retailer, made sure that they added an enjoying the friendships from teammates.” stepped up their game easy way to view both websites. Miller – Cheerleading and track after showing off the new According to Baumert – Marching band Biology teacher, Ronald Carey, picture above, played blackweb20.com Starbucks Achievement: Drum major senior year. “I played basketball along with two other sports in high additions for their Digital started giving free Wi-Fi to loved our freshman year show – Earth, Network to compete their users. With this great Wind, and Fire. We made it to regionals too!” against other competitors. handout, Starbucks saw over Schnelker – Intramural track “Being forced “When I was a cheerleader, we had lifters during According to Starbucks, 30 million different log ins. (with my very short legs) to try hurdles. I was amazed basketball season. My partner and I though we were this new online network is With many businesses to actually clear them without killing myself.” pretty cool because he could lift me over his head like a powered by free Wi-Fi through such as McDonalds, now Mahoney – Cheerleader “I remember “T” and then I would twist down for him to catch me.” AT&T and is for customers serving iced coffee drinks how excited I was to make it. NHHS still had a Crowe – basketball, volleyball, and track with laptops, tablets, and Starbucks had to break out of voting system – you had to tryout in front of the Achievement: varsity letters for 3 years in volleyball smartphones. According the pack and set itself apart. whole student body. Usually the same girls got and basketball, varsity letter for 4 years in track, to Starbucks executive vice With a hands on look voted in year after year. I moved in as a junior and Sectional and regional champs in various times president Stephen Gillett, at this new network, it is very tried out at the end of the year when most people in all 3 sports and semi-state champs one year for the network is designed to easy to see that Starbucks has had no idea who I was. The only reason I got basketball, freshman discus record holder in track, deliver a new enhanced in- spent a long time trying make elected is because I could do a killer toe-touch.” most digs, most ace serves, and most unreturned store experience for customers. this extremely easy and fun for Harless – Cross country, basketball, tips in volleyball, best freethrow percentage, The Starbucks digital the user. On the network it is volleyball, and golf Achievement: lettered three most steals, and most assists in basketball. network will offer an innovative apparent that they are going for years in volleyball. “My favorite memory is Carey – football, basketball, baseball, customer benefit that elevates the a very calm, warm, and modern winning the state championship in volleyball track Achievement: All Conference (ACAC) value of free Wi-Fi and will give feel. On the iPhone the network over our arch rivals (and good friends) Leo.” – football, basketball, baseball 2 years each, customers access to a one-of-a- is impressive; it did have some Osborne – Basketball, track and field, All Area (Northeast Indiana) – Football and kind destination featuring free issues with its navigation when marching band, and theater Achievement: won basketball, Basketball scholarship to Tri State access to various paid sites and used on the iPad everything conference as a team junior year for track “Mr. Bearman Clark – basketball and baseball services, exclusive content and was at your fingertips and was my track coach my senior year. Since I got out of Achievement: honorable mention for All previews, free online channels, made the system extremely fun shape when I went to Florida over spring break, he Conference my senior year and received a such as News, Entertainment, and demanded my attention. made me run the 800 at a meet and it wasn’t pretty.” few small scholarship offers for basketball. Wellness, Business & Careers, My “I thought the way Crosby – football, baseball, track, basketball Neal Brown – football, basketball, Neighborhood and Starbucks. Starbucks designed the system manager “We were playing Carroll HS. I was track, and wrestling Achievement: All In each category was awesome because it made playing defense and attempted to knock down conference in football “My favorite memory is Starbucks gives away free it fun while waiting in line, and a pass, was unsuccessful and they scored giving my first touchdown in football for 75 yards.” content such as free selected the network made it super easy Carroll the lead with 2 minutes to go in the game.” Witte – football, basketball, and track music downloads from iTunes, to find new movies and music,” Hissong – football, wrestling, track Achievement: All SAC in football, played college free issues from the online New said junior Aubree Smith. Achievement: Football – ACAC team champs football at Valparaiso University “In football we beat York Times, and free selected TV According to Starbucks Wrestling – ACAC team champs, ACAC Northrop who was ranked 5th in state in football.” shows. Starbucks has done this Gillett said that they want to individual champs, sectional champs, 3rd Tubbs – football Achievement: Best mainly because they get a piece of keep improving their network at regionals Track – ACAC team champs running back at Northrop High School 1976- each sale from these companies. towards the consumers. With Daugherty – Dance and cheerleading 1977, Honorable Mention in North Division, SAC “I think the whole the network up and running, Achievement: chosen all-star cheerleader at camp, “My favorite memory is a football game played idea of Starbucks giving it has made the Starbucks team was chosen to perform at a college bowl game in the mud against Concordia High School. us free stuff is great, and it experience even more enjoyable. The Lion’s Tale 10 Sports December 17, 2010 8 things students don’t know about the varsity cheerleaders 1. We have an official sign holders club. It’s very exclusive. 2. We have the longest season out of every sport: June-March. 3. We don’t lift weights. We lift athletes. 4. At the end of half-time we always do the same “Do-It” chant. 5. Running is one of our least favorite activities during the summer. 6. We have two captains per season. 7. Glitter is our favorite accessory. 8. We spent camp at Purdue University and we almost died from heat. Legitimately.

PHOTO BY ALLISON TROSPER Tri-sport athletes excel in academics Students succeed inside and outside of the classroom

By Miller Kern News editor

Seniors Adam Sauder, Andrew Suciu, Alex Jakacki, juniors Hannah Field, Taylor Horn, Kacie Klopfenstein, sophomores Keanna Gary, Kyle Pepple, and freshman Bryce Beer are all among student athletes who participate in three sports and achieve honor roll. “Time management is probably one of the biggest keys that allows you to keep up your grades while being involved in sports,” said Field. “If you can manage your time wisely then you won’t have a problem. Another tip would be, almost every teacher and coach wants you to be successful, so if you

IPFW is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access University IPFW is an Equal Opportunity/Equal are willing to spend time with it and get everything that you can out of it, you will be able to do whatever you put your mind to.” Field plays basketball, softball, and soccer. She is IPFWIPFW SpiritSpirit also involved in National Honors Society, Students Sharing Hearts, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and PHOTO BY MILLER KERN CatchCatch it!it! Youth Leadership Fort Wayne. Some other tips for Senior Adam Sauder chest passes the ball to another player during warmups. keeping good grades and participating in multiple sports Jakacki. “I usually just do stuff I am doing. If I’m struggling, according to these athletes are with my friends on weekends.” they will confront me; if I’m 800-324-IPFW to prioritize, make time for Jakacki is involved in doing well, they reward me.” 260-481-6812 homework, study at home, pay football, wrestling, and track. Horn plays football, attention in class, take notes, Some students’ social basketball, and baseball. ipfw.edu/admissions and avoid procrastination. lives are not affected so the He is also involved in sport becomes the social life. National Honors Society. Indiana University–Purdue University Fort Wayne “Just work hard in your sport and at school,” said Gary. “I’m almost always in “Don’t be afraid to ask “One day your sport might a sports season so my social your parents for help,” said Sauder. Leo-IPFW ad Nov-SPIRIT pay for your school. It’s not life is usually the same,” Sauder plays 07-10-027-3 easy, but if you’re committed said Field. “In the summer I football, basketball, and runs then you will learn how to fix have more time for friends.” track. He is also involved your schedule around sports.” Parents play a role in in National Honors Society. Some kids have to helping students get good grades. Some students aren’t give up their social lives They can help with homework influenced as much by their parents. during sports season. and give positive support. “My parents don’t “My social life is a little “My parents know pressure me to do well in school,” bit different during sports season how important grades are to said Gary. “It’s just expected. I because I am losing about 2 get into college,” said Horn. push myself because I like the hours of my day everyday,” said “They go online and see how feeling of accomplishment.” The Lion’s Tale December 17, 2010 Sports 11 Competition cheer earns succesful season Leo cheerleaders practice and compete in extended season Abbie Trosper freshman squad at Leo, teamed said Jones. “It was flawless.” to increase their stunting and Butler, like Johnson, up with Coach Daugherty to form Certain skills and tumbling abilities to a varsity level has gained strength in A&E page editor and lead the competition squad. attitudes were expected of the in a matter of months,” said Trump. areas of cheerleading. At the beginning of the girls from the very beginning. With each competition, “I’m a better base and season, the coaches weren’t sure Before making a commitment the girls improved. The first one tumbler, and I also got a lot of arm of how the season would go. to the squad, the girls were told at the Indiana State Fair in August muscle from this,” said Butler. From June to Oct., three The uncertainty, however, was that a standing back handspring was more of an opportunity for The squad had many sophomore and six freshman out shone by the impeccable was required for them to be a the girls to see first hand just difficulties to overcome. Two cheerleaders of Leo Jr./Sr. dedication and effort of the girls. part of the team- a skill which is what and who they were up members were completely new High School worked diligently The three coaches share at the beginner level. Another key against. In Oct., the squad had to the cheerleading program at to make Coach Daugherty’s the same moment of pride of the expectation of the members going two competitions, an invitational Leo, and they were also apart of first competitive cheerleading girls, during their last competition, into the season was to remain at Concordia, and regionals at the team. Having never been on season at Leo a successful one. regionals, at Pendelton Heights motivated and focus on improving. Pendleton Heights High School. a team together, the squad had Even in her first High School. Each move was “We expected certain Every coach, member, and person to learn each others’ strengths year of coaching last year, made with crisp precision, and skills,” said Daugherty, “but more involved with the competition and weaknesses. Quickly, Daugherty began thinking every stunt was hit without importantly the motivation to do squad could agree to this. the girls bonded and become about forming a competition wobbling or falling. The total what it takes to be a contender.” While improving as friends, constantly laughing team amongst the girls. score was over 30 points higher Once a week on Saturday a member of the competition and joking with each other. “I knew the girls had than the previous competition mornings at 9 o’clock in the squad, the members of the team They are very proud of the talent to compete,” said two weeks prior. If a large point morning, the squad went to improved in regards to their the outcome of the competition Daugherty. “I wanted to wait a deduction for an illegal stunt ICE (Indiana Cheer Elite, a regular season squads as well. season, and enjoyed being year to get to know how athletics and a hair accessory falling out cheerleading facility) to work on Sophomore Nicole Johnson apart of the squad. Both are at Leo first. Then throughout hadn’t been made, the squad had their stunting and tumbling skills. and freshman Kendra Butler Johnson and Butler’s favorite last year I could tell we would the potential to make it to state. “The girls started out at a were members of the squad, aspect of the squad was the be ready to compete this year.” “My most proud pretty basic level for their age and and believe that this is true. way everyone got along. Maegen Trump, coach moment (was) hitting our routine experience level,” said Trump. “I’m stronger, “(My favorite part of the junior varsity squad at at regionals with excitement “Through a lot of hard work and faster, braver, and more was) being like a family Leo, and Judy Jones, coach of the and a positive attitude,” dedication, the squad was able experienced,” said Johnson. with all of the other girls, bonding,” said Johnson. Butler’s opinion of the interaction of the squad is similar. “We all got along so well and were very entertaining and funny,” said Butler. “We definitely all have jokes from that team.” The coaches and the girls of the competition squad feel as though they have much to be proud of. This squad’s ability increased amazingly throughout one season. At the beginning, the girls were very intimidated by the skill of the other squads. They went from being intimidated, to being able to contend with the other squads. “To be able to coach these girls through their first year of competition was amazing and it was so much fun to watch them transform,” said Jones. “They made me and the other coaches so proud!” Butler, along with her teammates, is grateful for the help and support of the coaches. “I want to thank the coaches for taking time out of their days and they believed in us even when we didn’t,” said Butler. Daugherty does plan to continue with the competition squad and looks forward to see the Leo competition squads going further and further in the upcoming years. “I have no doubt that we will be bringing home some big trophies in the future!” said Daugherty. The cheerleading team practices before a competition. PHOTO BY CHANDLER YODER Varsity football players’ achievements recognized 9-year football All Conference All Conference Captains MVP’s 3 years Cub Football, 1st Team 2nd Team Rob Rohbacher: Mental Attitude 2 years middleschool, Seniors: Seniors: Alex Egan Special Teams Jordan Baer Juniors: Elliot Adams 4 years high school Connor Kacsor Adam Sauder Defence Gage Corner Jordan Baer Connor Kacsor Co-Offense Kyle Marzec Taylor Horn Connor Kacsor Kyle Marzec Elliot Adams Rob Rohrbacher Kyle Marzec Co-Offence Logan Miller Jordan Baer Adam Sauder Ryan Leiter Rob Rohbacher Patrick Mon- Andy Jacquay Matt White Bill Schenkel reau Alex Jakacki For the record... Rob Rohrbacker Connor Kacsor Adam Sauder Nik Kelley This season, many of the Leo High Bill Shenkel School records were broken this year by the members of the varsity football team.

Senior Connor Kacsor: Most single-season rushing yards (1,605 yards) Most career rushing (4,469 yards) Most average rush per carry (11.4 years)

Senior Rob Rohrbacher: Most career sacks (20)

Senior Adam Sauder: Most single-season tackles (103) Most career tackles

Junior Alex Egan: Most extra points (70) Longest field goal (41 yards) Senior BIlly Schenkel signs the football to Best average kick-off (51.5 yards) be put in the trophy case. The Lion’s Tale 12 A & E December 17, 2010 Students enjoy classic Christmas films By Payton Lantz Others, such as “The Christmas Story” because Art Feature: Feature editor freshman Cailee Steininger, of the vintage quality of the answered “Elf” because of movie. “You could never go Senior Laura Matrisciano’s their love for Will Ferrell. wrong with the classics,” The movie “Elf” is said freshman Johnna White. about a man named Buddy According to the melted crayon drawing [Will Ferrell] who is raised student body at Leo Jr./Sr. by elves in the North Pole. High School, “Rudolf the Buddy doesn’t know he is a Red Nosed Reindeer” is one One hundred human until he overhears his of the most remembered high school students at elf friends talking about him, Christmas movies. It is Leo Jr./Sr. High School so he sets out for New York about a young reindeer who were surveyed about their looking for his real father, doesn’t necessarily fit in favorite Christmas movie. Walter Hobbs [James Caan]. because he has a red nose Forty-four percent of While in New York, Buddy is that glows. While trying to the student body answered forced to reevaluate his life find his place in the world, “Elf” starring Will Ferrell, as an elf and explore life as a Rudolf runs into many new confirming it the winner. human causing many moments friends and cute adventures. Coming in as second was of laughter for viewers. Freshman Robert “The Christmas Story” with “The Christmas Story” Losey chose “Rudolf the Red 14 percent. Lastly, “Rudolph is about a young boy named Nosed Reindeer” because the Red Nosed Reindeer” was Ralph “Ralphie” Parker [Peter he classifies it as a classic. a close third with 12 percent. Billingsly] who dreams of Sophomore Kayla Beck Other candidates for one day owning a Red Rider picked “Rudolf” because this survey were “A Christmas BB gun. While trying to she feels that Rudolf is Carol,” “Home Alone,” “It’s a convince the world that he fun to watch for all ages. Wonderful Life,” “Jingle All needs the gun, Ralphie finds When students are the Way,” “The Santa Claus,” trouble with his teachers, released for Christmas break “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” parents, and even Santa Claus. this year, they will be excited Photo and story by Brooke Markham, Editor-in-chief and “Frosty the Snowman.” “’The Christmas Story’ about no school, sleeping in, Senior Laura Matrisciano my 3D art project and he is Most students shows how even if a holiday and the holidays in general. created this art project for her my favorite Disney character. I chose “Elf” because they doesn’t go according to plan, Hopefully they won’t forget to 3D art class by melting crayon. melted crayon over a candle and liked the sense of humor family finds a way to make grab a blanket and a hot cup “I made a crayon pressed it onto the paper. It took in the movie. “It’s a funny it work for everyone.” said of coca, curl up on the couch, drawing of Squirt from Finding me about a week and a half.” movie,” said sophomore sophomore Savannah Young. and watch some of these Nemo,” said Matrisciano. “It’s Charity Richardson. Some students chose lovable Christmas classics. Students participate in annual Yuletide concert Choir and band members perform various songs of the Christmas season

By Kacy Schinnerer people and performing Staff writer what she had practiced. “I didn’t have a solo, but Elizabeth Huber and I did a duet to the ‘Parade of the Wooden Solider.’” Russell said. She also had fun dressing up for the occasion. She enjoyed playing at Wassail Bowl, too. Wassail Bowl was where anyone from the band or choir could sign up to perform On Saturday, Dec.4, while the audience enjoyed Leo Jr./Sr. High School’s choir dinner and refreshments and band performed their before the concert. annual Yuletide concert in the “I think the hardest auditoria/cafeteria. This was the part was recovering from thirtieth year for this tradition. skipping a verse at the end of “I thought the band a song,” said choir director did fantastic,” said band Kim MacDonald. “Overall, director Bob Myers. “I try the concert went well. We to pick some pieces for the sold out for the dinner and the holiday season. They have lecture hall section was full.” to be manageable for all the Her desired piece to students and challenging at direct was “The Spirit of the the same time. The concert Season.” “My favorite memory had a great turn out.” was the decorations and the His favorite memory atmosphere,” said MacDonald. of the concert was having a “My favorite piece great place to play, where in this Yuletide concert was parents come and decorate ‘O Come Emanuel,’” said the cafeteria for Christmas senior Isaac Storms. “We and where everyone from the sang this song better than we community could come and eat, did in practice. We also sang while enjoying a great concert. ‘Hallelujah.’ It was also one of “I think the most my favorites. It’s a tradition to challenging piece was the sing ‘Hallelujah’ at Yuletide.” ‘Halleluiah Chorus’ because He said he gets very of the D flat key,” said senior nervous before every song, Brianna Russell, who played but after the concert, someone the flute and the piccolo. “It always congratulates him was also my favorite piece.” and tells him that he sang Her favorite part well. This year, he did not of Yuletide was the thrill get to perform any solo of getting up in front of music, but he was willing to.

Members of the choir sing Christmas carols. PHOTO BY TAYLOR HARTER December 17, 2010 The Lion’s Tale Ads 13

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Drive Safely

As winter approaches, students face dangers of driving

By Brooke Markham of her slammed on its brakes. distractions with hazardous habits have been changed. afraid while riding in a car She hit the car that was in road conditions and the result “Once you’re with someone because the Editor-in-chief front of her, and the whole is a deadly combination. in an accident,” said driver is driving dangerously. In Jan. 2009, senior front of her car was smashed. At Leo Jr./Sr. High Schmucker, “you don’t want “When I see younger Mackenzie Merkler was It only takes a second School, 47 percent of student to experience one again.” student driving insane, I driving her car across a bridge for a driver’s life to be altered drivers who were polled have Merkler agreed, wonder ‘when is their wakeup on St. Joe Road when she forever because of a car been in an auto accident. saying that she now drives call going to be?’” said Rodgers. hit her brakes to yield to an accident. According to cdc. Some of these students, like much slower in ice and According to approaching police car. In a gov, eight teens were killed Rodgers, suffered injuries. snow. She said that she stops expertlaw.com, the chances of split second, her car slid into each day in 2009 in motor “I had to get airlifted to for every turn and drives an auto accident can increase a median and was totaled. vehicle accidents. More than the hospital and immediately under the speed limit, and substantially when the In Jan. 2010, senior 350,000 teens were treated went into surgery,” said although it may be annoying weather turns bad. According Andrew Rodgers was driving in emergency departments Rodgers. “They had to sew to other drivers, it is safer. to The Weather Channel, it is on St. Joe Road near Maplecrest for car crash related injuries. my cheek back together; [I] With so many car important to allow plenty of Road when a car pulled out in As winter approaches had oral surgery and had a accident related deaths and stopping room while driving front of him. He hit his brakes and the seasonal weather bunch of stitches all over my injuries happening each year on icy roads. One should and his car slid on ice, spinning starts making an appearance, face. I was in the hospital for in the United States, one may decrease his or her speed and his car off the road. His car hit road conditions will begin three days and on bed rest at wonder why this is taking brake gently to avoid skidding. a tree, which bounced his car worsen. Icy roads, blinding home for 2 weeks and I missed place. Distractions may be One should avoid using cruise back onto the road. Rodgers snow, and black ice make it school for about a month.” a large factor of why these control on icy roads, and be was airlifted to the hospital, more difficult for drivers to Other students, accidents occur. Forty-two especially careful on bridges. It where he immediately went get to their destinations safely. however, walked away from percent of the same students is also crucial that drivers don’t into surgery for facial injuries. With so many distractions their accidents unscathed; admit to having dangerous assume that their vehicles can In July 2010, junior Bree available to drivers today such however, most of these drivers driving habits, and most have handle all road conditions. Schmucker was approaching as iPods, cell phones, and even can agree that they were friends who have dangerous Even four-wheel and front- a line of traffic near Parkview books, the dangers of driving impacted by their accident and habits. In fact, 93 percent of wheel drive vehicles can face Hospital when the car in front worsen. Combine these that their lives and driving those students have been difficulties on winter roads.

In July 2010, senior Brooke Markham was driving her car down I-69 when a car in front of her came to a complete stop and she rear ended the car.

EVERY YEAR In October 2010, according to Mackensie Bell, she was going 3,500 teens go for a drive 30 mph in her addition when she hit a black parked car; her and never make it home. vehicle flipped and was totaled. (pictured above)

Nearly 6,000 -The observed use rate of hand- people died in 2008 in crashes in- held electronic devices while driv- volving a distracted driver, and more ing was higher among females than half a million were injured. (1.2%) than among males (0.8%).

In September 2010, senior Kara Col- 38% of drivers lier was driving to school in the ages 15 to 20 were speed- above car and was hit by a man do- ing when they crashed. ing a u-turn. Her car was totaled.

Statistics from allencountydrivealive.com DON’T TEXT AND DRIVE Although texting may seem like a minor offense, it is the most alarm- ing distraction because it involves In summer 2008, senior Molly Merz and sophomore Annie Merz’s older sister, all types of distraction. No text is Caitie Merz, was a passenger in the above worth a life. truck. It was raining when it slid into an intersection and was t-boned.