sign in sign up
<<
Home , Lost in the World

Plugged In Issue Four • the official school newspaper of Speedway Senior High School • December 15, 2010 Reinventing the exhibition Indianapolis full of good times during break It’s a cold April night. You’re tells you the name, climbing into bed, full after a plentiful description, relations, dinner. You’re finally managing to drift and class on the ship off to sleep, trying to consume your of a person who was excitement caused by being a passenger actually on board the on the largest boat ever created. Titanic. Suddenly, you are awakened out of your The first rooms light sleep with a startling jolt. The next of the exhibit are two hours and forty minutes will be a remarkable, showing fight for your survival. many artifacts and Fast forward 98 years. You’re in information in downtown Indianapolis, visiting the an attractive and Indiana State Museum. You see that entertaining way. In they have a new exhibit, called Titanic: the second room, you The Artifact Exhibition. You pay your are warned that the way through and join the others on cases that house the the “ship”. Your adventure on the artifacts are alarmed, unsinkable ship, the Titanic, has begun. and that these alarms Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition work. This goes to opened September 25, and will run show how important through January 16. Many Hoosiers these items have gotten have visited the wonderful treasures to our nation’s history COMING BACK TO LIFE FOR A SHORT TIME discovered since that memorable night over the years. Who The Indiana State Museum is hosting an exhibition about the Titanic through early January that includes artifacts found on April 15, 1912. Upon entering the would have thought at the site of the tragedy. Photo courtesy of RMS Titanic and the Indiana State Museum. exhibit, you are given a ticket that that a postcard written The lights are dimmed, and many more than what the passengers of the Titanic between relatives would be so valuable artifacts are on display. would have had to withstand for hours. today? One of the coolest things is the Entering into the last room is the After going exploring the first artificial iceberg, which, when touched, most exciting part. This is where you get couple of rooms, “passengers” finally is the temperature that the water was to see whether you survived or perished. Kacey Ross get to board the “ship”. There’s a Plugged In when the Titanic sunk. It proves to Around 2,200 people boarded the Features hallway that showcases an example be almost unbearable to keep your Titanic, and only about 700 survived. Reporter room that the crew members would have hand there for no more than about five Most of the people who survived were lived in. One may start to notice that seconds. This is actually made first or second class. Sadly, more people the temperature is decreasing. Continue out of freshwater, instead of saltwater, walking through, and you are aboard. so the model is a few degrees warmer See WINTER WONDERLAND on page 7 Katie’s Corner Athletes . . . in skirts? Tiny tot traditions “Cheerleading is a sport!” The holiday season It was a Friday night, and we is soon approaching, (the cheerleaders) had just finished as you can tell by the with our normal routine. Stunts and change in weather, Bailey Larrison chants between quarters and time outs. Plugged In music, and the rest Normally, we clear the floor as quickly Sports Columnist of the articles in this as possible, and return to the sideline, newspaper. This article but this time something monumental gives us a look at some happened that would personally, make in many of the high schools in North holiday traditions my night. America. That’s because we’re only of the faculty at “I don’t know why people say girls jumping, tumbling, and parading Speedway High School cheerleading isn’t a sport. Cheerleading around in skirts right? All we do is as children along with is a sport!” Referee Rex Wallace, stand before a large crowd and yell pictures from their

Barb Whitis Barb approached us at the sideline with this inspirational cheers at the top of our childhood. so unusual, yet so true compliment. lungs… grandmother had pfeffernusse, Well, I’m going to agree on this one. For anyone that believes this; I springerle, mandel sternen, rote apfel S-H-S IS THE BEST S-H-S!!! personally apologize for the misleading Teacher #1 and kuchen recipes that her mother The final words of the “world famous” stereotype. Cheerleaders receive varsity One of my fondest memories is had brought from Germany, including fight are very popular among the letters just like any other sport, and the Christmas baking ritual. My a springerle board. I can remember members of Speedway High School, and participants have to receive a physical mother and grandma laboring over those the people of the Speedway community, before participating. Cheerleading is cookies for days (the springerles took but these words are most popular among not just an extracurricular activity. For Katie three days to make). The smells from the the leaders that often stand before you. some of its members, it’s a way of life. McDonnel Plugged In kitchen were heavenly. I still use the 120 According to USATODAY.com, It requires energy, time and skill just like Columnist year old springerle board to make my there are approximately three million any other female sport. holiday cookies. cheerleaders in the United States, yet See KATIE’S CORNER on page 4 cheerleading is not recognized as a sport See THIS SPORT on page 8 2 Opinion Merry Christmas vs. Happy Holiday A controversy continues this time of year

Christianity, claim that saying Happy when this trend halted, and days began on earth and good will towards all Holidays is a deliberate attempt to to get longer again, it was cause for men should feel perfectly comfortable exclude Merry Christmas during celebration and praise to the “gods” who wishing Happy Holidays to those not of this time of the year. Others believe had surely delivered the people from the Christian faith. The idea of forcing Christopher Christianity is being attacked by eternal darkness. one’s preferred religious conventions Hooten on those not of similar persuasion takes Plugged In Secularists who do not approve of being It is not surprising,then that th Columnist told Merry Christmas. In actuality, these we find December 25 , and the days more energy than just saying Happy two sides may not be all that opposed to surrounding it, are celebrated by many Holidays. each other. Christmas is by definition a cultures in virtually every corner of the If you want to say Merry Christmas mix of two holidays. At first Christians globe. In East Asia it’s the DÅngzhì then go ahead, but understand that there merged the Roman Holiday of Winter Festival, to the Jews it’s Hanukkah, In are people around you that celebrate You walk into a Macy’s in Solstice with the birth of Christ so Scotland it’s Hogmanay, To the Hindis other holidays and may not celebrate it. preparation for the Christmas with your they would not be thrown to the lions. it’s Makara Sankranti. To the Muslims Saying Merry Christmas is not going friend. You pass by one of the store The Winter Solstice itself is a celestial its Ramadan, and the many ancient to hurt their feelings, but saying Happy associates on your way to the shoes event probably first noticed by man a festivals predating Christianity like Holidays is just easier. I don’t want to go on sale when she smiles a huge smile million years ago. The ancient humans Lenæa of ancient Greece and Meán around saying Happy DÅngzhì Festival, which you quickly return. She merrily must have observed the days getting Geimhrid: an ancient Celtic event. Ramadan, Hanukkah, Hogmanay, etc to says Happy Holidays as you state Merry shorter and the light time decreasing. So the salutation Happy Holidays people of different backgrounds. I can Christmas. Her smile disappears and she Theologians suggest that these humans is universal and timeless, and any say Happy Holidays and everyone who walks away giving you and your friend associated this with danger and evil. So Christian who wishes to promote peace celebrates a holiday is in that circle. an unapproving glance. You and your friend walk on. These kind of situations happen every year around this time. The war between Happy Holidays and A toast to Mr. West Merry Christmas has gained traction in recent years as Christians have defended their custom and retail stores have Kanye steals the spotlight again transitioned to Happy Holidays. It goes without saying that we all like Rick Ross and Jay-Z. Kanye has of Nicki Minaj’s verse on the track have various religious practices that also released a thirty minute “movie” proving that she too can stand alongside are unique in their own right. The featuring his album as the soundtrack. artists like Kanye and Jay-Z. confrontation begins when government Alex The movie depicts West finding a like “” and officials try to muzzle Christians when Lopez phoenix whom he later falls in love with “” detail more personal Plugged In they say Merry Christmas, perform Columnist and the struggles the woman has to fit views with West talking about his past pageants, or have Christian symbols in into his world. relationship, jealousy, and passion. retail stores. There has been a movement The album starts off with Wu-Tang Whether that be with his ex or about to reduce the amount of Merry RZA influenced intro followed by his music remains a mystery. The Christmas usage and instead to promote beats and lyrics are accompanied by Happy Holidays, an all encompassing is a very sensitive pianos, violins, trumpets, cellos, and phrase that accepts the validity of name and for very painfully obvious other musical instruments. Kanye Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Christmas, and reasons. Everyone knows he has an odd successfully pulls off another style pagan holidays alike. way of finding attention, whether it’s flawlessly and the album sounds great. Most Christians have become positive or negative, but with the release After that comes “Devil in a New accustomed to saying the phrase Merry of My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Dress” and “Lost in the World” two Christmas for hundreds of years and Kanye returns to his normal self with an songs influenced by Black Sabbath and Kanye West attends the New York City feel it is their right to state their joy interesting sound. premiere of “Runaway,” a short film , both very different genres. for their holiday however they see fit. Straying away from the 808 drums he directed that will accompany his But with Kanye’s artistic style he molds Others believe Happy Holidays is better and auto-tune, West is accompanied forthcoming album “My Beautiful them into these songs perfectly to make . The supporters feel that it is in the by sounds of theatrical instruments Dark Twisted Fantasy,” on Oct. 21, them masterpieces of their own. 2010. (Photo: Michael Loccisano/ best interest of all who perform holiday comprised with very well picked and Getty Images - CBSNews.com). Every song on the album wields its ceremonies that one is not publicly big name artists like Bon Iver an indie own story and altogether the transitions endorsed above another. Their argument artist whom Kanye samples and features “Dark Fantasy” Kanye is back to his between songs is still fluent making is that this country was founded on on “Lost in the World”, Bon Jovi, and old College Dropout antics with lines the whole album a seventy minute religious pluralism, not just Christianity. John Lennon. Of course Kanye’s also like “To many Urkles on your team masterpiece. Kanye has yet again Christian Nationalists, or people featured artists from his label G.O.O.D that’s why your Winslow.” Next comes demonstrated us that his arrogance and that believe America was founded on music along with veterans and friends “Monster” which isn’t as impressive his music are two things that shouldn’t Plugged In because of Kanye but more so because be separated. The officialschool newspaper of Speedway Senior High School is published monthly. It is produced by students enrolled in the journalism classes at Speed- way Senior High School. It is intended to be a public forum. Letters to the editor are encouraged. Drop your responses by Room 240 dur- ing the morning or via email in care of [email protected]. Some materials are provided courtesy of ASNE/MCT Campus. The printing of Plugged In is performed by JS Printing.

Adviser: Derek K. Doehrmann Features Team: Haily Merritt, Kacey Ross, Hanna Vongraseuth, Grace Bell, Katie McDonnel, Briana Strong Opinion Team: Chris Hooten, Katie Hunt, Alex Lopez Entertainment Editor: Holly Scott Sports Team: Bailey Larrison, Casey Miller Photo/Graphics Staff: Ariel Faulkinbury, Summer Morrison

Thanks to: ASNE/MCT, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Indiana State Museum, and the Speedway’s Technology Department for professional courtesies. Features 3 Taking you on a school treasure hunt Odd locations abound that you might not know about

Speedway High School may not be the biggest building in Indy, but there are many “hidden” locations all around Katie us. With the help of Mr. Acton, Hunt Mr. McRoberts, and Mr. Doehrmann, Plugged In Ariel and I were able to locate the Columnist creepiest and most concealed rooms imaginable. Not all of them are featured here, but the ones that are may surprise you. Ariel Faulkinbury Plugged In Photojournalist Storage under the stage

Location: Auditorium Skull and Short horned lizard This is where some of the props are Location: Biology back room stored while the stage is not in use. It runs the length of the stage and is In the back room between Rooms 242 incredibly creepy in the dark. There is a and 246 there are shelves filled with jars tunnel that most likely goes to the base- and dried specimens of many different ment, just behind me in the picture on species. Should you get the opportunity, the right. It’s probably an air vent, but this room is very interesing to visit. who really knows?

Technology Center

Location: Echo hallway Chemical shelves Believe it or not, this area was built to operate our own school radio station. Location: Chemistry back room The “On Air” sign was removed at some point this year, its location is currently In between Rooms 243 and 247, there Large air duct and a tunnel unknown. is a room filled with chemicals, most of which are extremely toxic, flammable, Location: Bottom of central staircase or corrosive. There are also hundreds of Darkroom gallon water bottles on the side used to This is where all the air ducts dilute most of the chemicals. connect. The dozen vents there were Location: Room 239 huge and windier than Chicago. This picture does them no justice. The The darkroom was used for room, overall, was dark, musty, and journalism, yearbook, and photography, cold. We found some old ration boxes back before digital cameras were of crackers nearly fifty years old. I readily acessible. The room used to have wonder if they’re still any good? all kinds of chemicals and “sciencey” looking things. Catwalk and Light room computer

Location: Stage area/echo hallway

This is where the magic happens. All the lights for the plays and musicals are controled from the light room. There is also a story about the catwalk and a ghost. But you should ask the SHS thespians about that. Special thanks to Mrs. Mohl for lending us the keys. 4 Features Electrifying romance on big screen Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie star in “The Tourist”

By Rick Bentley • McClatchy Newspapers (MCT) To protect her larcenous lover, Elise targets American tourist Frank Tupelo Director Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck has brought together two of the (Depp). She must make the army of police on her trail believe the innocent man is most electrifying people in film - Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie - for the romantic really the thief. thriller “The Tourist.” The film unfolds like a female version of a Bond movie with Elise showing up Their casting means the romance part works far better that the thriller. to save the day. Her only fear is that she will fall for this rumpled American and give The film is reminiscent of mid-20th century cinema, when great looking actors - up all her secrets. Rock Hudson, Cary Grant, Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn - were thrown into exotic The secrets part is where the film hits a snag. locations to find adventure and love. There’s a major plot twist that requires either Jolie’s character to be clueless or It never mattered if the story was contrived and cliched. The romantic sparks the audience to be given misinformation. between the leads was enough. Either way, the international crime plotline is really not that important. What There are so many sparks in “The Tourist” it’s a wonder the fire alarm doesn’t matters is watching the steps of the slow mating dance as the mismatched pair grow sound. closer and closer together. Jolie plays Elise Clifton-Ward, a woman of mystery who’s so dazzling that Depp and Jolie are the perfect couple for just such a dance. crowds part to let her pass. She floats through a room with the grace of a saint and the raw sexuality of a sinner. There’s not been an actress on the big screen with as See picture and review grade on page five much presence since Sophia Loren. Katie’s Corner: Exploring Christmas from afar Try to match the names and the stories with the faces below continued from page one Teacher #6 My fondest memories of Christmas are being around my family and in particular my Teacher #2 grandparents because they all have passed My dad and I always worked a jigsaw puzzle away. I also have fond memories of attending over Christmas vacation. My mom used to make the candlelight services at church only to rush the best date pudding dessert, crispy on top and home and get into bed so Santa did not pass gooey sweet inside. I grew up in New Castle over my house. and coming downtown to Christmas shop at LS Ayres and Blocks was an all day treat. I used to Teacher beg to ride up the escalators. All of the fancy

decorations were #7

Charles Bennett Charles Both my magical. Phillips Denise parents were Teacher #3 from so we had LONG rides to the *Going over to my Aunt/Uncle’s to celebrate grandmothers’ houses before the interstates were Christmas and New Year’s (playing Trivial Pursuit). built! During the alternating years when we didn’t *Using the four wheelers to pull sleds in the fields travel, Christmas Eve was our time to celebrate. after opening presents at Grandma and Grandpas. Mom would make a buffet of hot and cold appetizers *Staying up all night Christmas Eve with my brother and many types of sweets. Then the children would

(waiting to wake take a nap so we mom/dad to open could stay awake Schuch Marla presents). at midnight mass.

Once we returned from church and our PJ’s, Scott Stevens Scott the gifts were opened. Looking back, I appreciate Teacher #4 how we celebrated the reason for the season. Since 1775, Christmas in the Dever household has consisted Teacher #8 of intense battles with Decepticons. I have fought Fondest memories of Christmas for me are the great bravely next to Optimus Prime and other Autobots times that I had with my father when we would each holiday season to bring peace and justice to travel to the tree farm to pick out the family’s the season; it all started on the planet Cybetron, Christmas tree. Usually this was a day long process but since 1994, it has been on the planet that as it was so hard to find the “right” one…which

often was too large to fit into the house and had to

you mortals call Earth. A battle for intergalactic Harrison Nancy supremacy is how I get to spend my two week Dever Jordan be cut down more. Putting the Nativity Crib under holiday break each year. the tree, Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, getting to open one present after Mass, preparing the Christmas Teacher #5 dinner…stuffing, turkey, snow potatoes, pumpkin pie I come from a very large family. I have with real whipped cream and red velvet birthday cake to four brothers and three sisters. Christmas celebrate the birth of Jesus were all parts of Christmas for was the big annual event in my household. me…Christmas is a wonderful time to share memories, Christmas Eve was very exciting for eight forgive others and share the true meaning of the season. very anxious children. My parents (Santa) Have a wonderful Christmas! would not put the presents underneath the tree until all of us were asleep. Waking Teacher #9 up to hundreds of presents underneath the My favorite holiday memory was waiting outside my Christmas tree and all of us screaming parent’s room with my siblings on Christmas morning

and ripping into our gifts every year are since we were not allowed to wake “Santa” until 6:00 a.m.

Lee Shively Lee Michelle Jackson Michelle memories that I will never forget. Features 5 This is my December ‘to do’ list Everything from baking to final exams December is a month of joy, love, and decorations for me. This year, my Briana family got our Christmas tree from a Strong Plugged In little farm called Hillcrest Tree Farm, Columnist located in Greenfield. It is about 35 minutes east of Speedway. They had an amazing selection of trees, wreaths, and even a horse-drawn carriage. After we bought our beautiful Christmas tree, we enjoyed hot apple cider, and even got a mini “Charlie Brown” Christmas tree. Simple family traditions like this are few and far between now-a-days with most families, including ours. Every weekend in December seems to always be completely full of different events and family get-togethers. On December 4th I went to the L.S. Ayres tea room at the Indiana State Museum It was an extraordinary event for my mom, sister and I because next year at this time, I might not make it home for Christmas tea because I will be off at college. I have always loved holiday themed movies and television specials, so it should come as no surprise that last weekend was packed full of holiday movies like Elf, The Polar Express, and The Twelve Men of Christmas. I invited my friends over to enjoy these movies with me and get a good break before finals week. After finals week is over, I will hopefully enjoy the winter weather and head up to Perfect North Slopes with my friends and family to snow tube. Perfect North Slopes costs $30 for three hours of tubing on the weekends and $25 for unlimited tubing Monday- Friday. Perfect North Slopes also offers skiing and ski lessons. The next week will be full of present wrapping and cookie making. My family has always been really big on making holiday treats ranging from homemade caramels to peanut butter blossoms. My favorites have always been peanut butter blossoms. Peanut butter blossoms are simple peanut butter cookies with a Hershey’s kiss set in the middle. My Christmas Eve is going to be filled with my family. We all get together and give presents. We always have a large selection of food, from our Christmas IT’S MY CHRISTMAS TREE! cookies to cream corn cornbread. It is truly a hodgepodge of food. My sister always Courtesy of the Hillcrest Tree Farm, our tree was decorated by Ashley Martin, Kylie Strong, and makes a wonderful pistachio pudding; it is the first thing gone. After our gift trading Michael Strong, along with the author. Photo by Briana Strong. is over, everyone leaves. My sister and I usually get to open one of Santa’s presents before we go to bed; it usually ends up being pajamas. One of my favorite holiday Tempting tourists traditions has always been chocolate fondue. After all of our festivities are over with, we set out Santa’s cookies and some carrots for the reindeer and head off to The Tourist is generally a good show bed. On Christmas day we wake up to our Christmas gifts. All day long we have more family visiting and even more presents coming and going. I usually try to get all of my presents ready to be used by either putting them together or fixing Santa’s mistakes. We sit down to a family dinner of Prime Rib, asparagus, rolls, and green bean casserole. Then we all go and watch The Christmas Story together. Maybe this gave you some new ideas to do with your break, or maybe a couple new recipes. Either way I hope you have a very merry holiday season and a happy new year. Peanut Butter Blossoms by Julie Strong

1 bag (8oz) Hershey’s Kisses 1 egg 1/2 cup shortening 2 tablespoons milk 3/4 cup peanut butter 1 teaspoon vanilla Angelina Jolie, left, and Johnny Depp star in “The Tourist.” (Peter Mountain/Columbia Pictures/ 1/3 cup granulated sugar MCT) 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda THE TOURIST 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar Grade: B 1/2 teaspoon salt Rated PG-13 for language, violence. Stars Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie, Paul additional granulated sugar (red and green is pretty) Bettany, Timothy Dalton. Directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck. Running Heat oven to 375F. Remove candy wrappers. time: 1 hour, 40 minutes. In large bowl, beat shortening and peanut butter until well blended. Add the 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and all of the brown sugar; beat until light and fluffy. Add egg, milk and vanilla; beat well. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to peanut butter mixture. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in the additional granu- lated sugar; place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Immediately place kiss on top of each cookie, pressing down so cookie cracks around edges. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely. 6 Entertainment

Miracle on 34th Street shares Do you believe? a simple meaning of Christmas “Faith is believing when common sense tells presents and you not to.” How many people still believe in Santa intricately Claus? Not very many, but why? How do we know arranging Holly Scott there is no jolly old man flying around in his sleigh on them around Plugged In Entertainment Staff Christmas Eve with his reindeer, bringing us gifts via the tree to our chimneys? Well, there comes a time when we let accidentally both our common sense and the reality of the world tell knocking us that this is not possible. This is a choice that most over a flower of us make, but why not go back? Why not choose to pot and believe again? saying that One of my favorite Christmas movies of all time the dirt was actually from Santa’s boots. In any case, is Miracle on 34th Street. In the movie, a mother has my brother and I were convinced that Santa was real. always taught her daughter to in terms of truth However, I now realize that the other reason for my and reality. She didn’t want the little girl to use her prolonged belief was that I simply wanted to believe. imagination, only to be let down by the harsh reality of I wanted Santa to exist, and I wouldn’t let anyone tell the world. However, when they meet a man who truly me anything different. Santa brings excitement and believes himself to be Santa Claus, he teaches them to magic to Christmas. He is the embodiment of kindness, use their imagination and also to simply believe. joy, love, and all of the good things in the world. So I don’t know about you, but I still genuinely be- then, why would anyone not want to believe in him? lieved in Santa until I was about twelve years old. Part As Kris Kringle says in the movie, “Christmas of the reason for this was the fact that my mom and isn’t just a day, it’s a frame of mind.” It’s the time to Kris Kringle smilas at a small child while “pretending” to be dad made a pretty convincing Santa. They got a kick believe in the impossible, to believe in magic, and to Santa at Macy’s. Photo courtesy of premiere.com. out of the whole thing, from getting really incredible believe in miracles. If you only limit your mind to real- ity, you miss out on all of the best things in life. You Miranda Lambert performs forget to believe that the extraordinary can happen. at “The Grammy Nomination Whether you choose to believe in Santa or not is up to Concert Live,” broadcast from you; all I ask is that you believe in something. Some- the Conga Room in Los Ange- times, it’s okay to be a kid again. les, Califonria, on Wednesday, December 1, 2010, culminat- Holly’s New Band of the Month: ing with the announcements for the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards to be held on February 13, 2011. (Robert Gauthier//MCT).

Genre: Indie/Alternative/Pop

Background: Led by vocalist/guitarist/keyboardist Mark Foster, Foster the People formed in Los Angeles in the fall of 2009. They have yet to officially release an album, but their catchy single “Pumped Up Kicks” is already making its way through the airwaves. With its airy whistling and light, muffled sound, the song feels like a carefree summer tune. However, listen closer to the lyrics: “All the other kids with the pumped up kicks/ you better run, better run, faster than my bullet.” Trust me; it will be stuck in your head for days.

Website: fosterthepeople.com Sounds Like: MGMT, Peter Bjorn & John, Beck Song to Listen to: “Pumped Up Kicks” Features 7 The ultimate study guide for Finals all your study guides

Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m Mr. Dever - English Mr. Riley - Algebra 2, Haily not one of those people Know authors, time periods. Geometry, Investigative Merritt who stresses out over Study for about an hour. Geometry Plugged In finals and studies for Features Know the basics inside Columnist hours. I try not to study and out, make sure you’re more than absolutely well-rested, know simple necessary, and for the arithmetic- don’t get most part, it has worked consumed by the small stuff. so far. However, not everybody can do that. The lucky Mr. Lindhorn - Government people that can do it eventually reach the one subject Study key terms, they’re that gives them some trouble. With finals coming Ms. Phillips - Chemistry, important on a lot of finals. up, everybody could benefit from some study tips, Chemistry 2, Physics Know main concepts from courtesy of the teachers giving us our biggest academic If you don’t know a topic, notes of lectures. Study for challenges, whether it’s Biology, Algebra 2, Spanish, study it for a while, leave it alone, then come back two hours. Physics, or Government. later. Get together in a group, buy a pizza and have a I’ve found that if you start reviewing for finals study group. You will get 2 or 3 hours in class to study, a couple weeks beforehand, they don’t seem so and you should study about that much time at home. intimidating the closer they get. Don’t just go over Ms. Mattox - Chemistry, everything once, especially the topics that are Earth Science confusing. If you have a friend that knows chemistry You’ll get a note card. like the back of their hand, but struggles in Spanish, Look at old quizzes. and you’re the complete opposite, then plan a study You’ll get a study guide party the week before finals. Between subjects you with terms, people, and Mr. Shively - U.S. History could take a break and watch a movie or go out for problems. Know the Know key events and coffee. Friends are great to study with because they’re Periodic Table. Master the terms. Actually study less intimidating than teachers, as long as you actually art of note card making. outside of class. study. Remember, you’re not the only one worried about failing the biology final, or the only one jumping at the Winter wonderland chance to opt out of your Spanish final. I questioned 25 students about the final they’re most worried about, and more than half expressed concern about a Over 100,000 in attendance science class, and more than a third are apprehensive Continued from page one about Spanish. Some are even stressing over multiple from third class and crew died than survived. In Santa Claus and subjects. this room, they also have the stories and artifacts Mrs. Claus. This It’s not the end of the world if you don’t ace a final. from many of the passengers, and they also have the year Fruitcake Relax. All your teachers are more than willing to help biographies from two Hoosiers that boarded, Charles the Reindeer you out, all you have to do ask. Romaine and Harry Homer. was there to take Ms. Jackson - Spanish After leaving the ship, you see people who are pictures. Craft Make sure you know ecstatic because they survived, and people who seem activities are also vocabulary from all the to be mourning because their passenger had passed. held. chapters. You can do the Overall, the exhibit Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition John Berry test prep at the end of the was very informative and fascinating. It is a wonderful has been taking chapter. Study about an hour way to spend a particular dreary day this winter. my family to this per chapter. Tickets are on sale for $10 for members and $17 event for the past for non-members. This price also buys you general five years. His admission to the museum. For more information, visit favorite part is indianamuseum.org. “just sitting up there, listening to A CHILLY NIGHT Mr. Stevens - Biology Circle of Lights now on display everyone ‘shoot Even though the weather was cold. AP Biology: the breeze.’ And it was a spectacular showing of the Can you remember your childhood holiday tree at the Circle of Lights. Photo by Prepare early, review memories? The time you sat on Santa’s lap and asked of course, my Hanna Vongpraseuth. old exams. You can for toys as good girls and boys do? Hanging the brother Carter request individual help Christmas ornaments on the tree or stringing popcorn talking about Mr. Cranberry (him).” A couple of our sessions. on thread? Drinking hot chocolate after a long day very own teachers attended this event. Mrs. Franklin of playing outside? As the years roll by, you still feel was also at the Columbia Club with her family. like that kid when the festivals come back. You can Mr. Doehrmann and his family “try to make it (the experience that joy downtown at Monument Circle. lighting) a tradition.” You can go outside at anytime Each year on the day after Thanksgiving (also to wait for the countdown of the lighting. There are Mr. Doehrmann - known as Black Friday) the Circle of Lights is held. live performances to occupy the time until then. Sandi English Here, Monument Circle is transformed into a ‘mini- Patty, Brian Harvey, Extreme Rhythm Project, Kim Follow instructions for winter wonderland.’ Fifty-two garland strands are hung Hicks, Tadd Peebles, The JB Band, and the Smiley preparation. If you know from the monument to change it into the giant tree, a Morning Glee Club performed this year. the study guide, you total of 4784 colored lights. Twenty-six toy soldiers This event is one for all to remember and cherish shouldn’t have any problem (and another twenty-six candy canes) are placed like any other holiday. performing exceptionally. around the circle. You can still see the Hanna Before the lighting you can go to various ‘tree’ over the holiday Vongpraseth Plugged In restaurants downtown for a special dinner. I had the break. Come see it Entertainment privilege of attending a dinner at the Columbia Club before it’s over! Columnist that night. For the little kids, you can wait in line to see 8 Sports Another year, another argument College football postseason once again sparks debate The following Fans could finally get what we want in week would a playoff. According to ESPN, 62.2% of be the semi- college football players sampled (from finals. The 2010 BCS and non-BCS conferences) want BCS National a playoff system. The BCS is rolling in Championship the profits and wouldn’t be losing any game is currently money either; in fact, revenues would scheduled for probably increase. A playoff would January 10th, increase revenues for the schools, too. which would According to an NCAA report, 106 of work perfectly the 120 I-A football athletic departments with the 16-team lost money in 2009. setup. The major bowl games could be The schools kept in place as particular games of the would be easy playoffs, and the lesser bowls could still to select. The be played by the teams who didn’t make winner of each of the tournament. The additional games the six “power” would certainly create just as much, if conferences not more, television revenue. would receive an Austin Murphy and Dan Wetzel said automatic bid into it best in Sports Illustrated on November the tournament. 15; “College football could have an Auburn Tigers running back Mario Fannin (27) and teammates are showered with confetti after winning the SEC Championship The other playoff opera, a Shakespearean drama, a season over the South Carolina Gamecocks at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia, Saturday, December 4, 2010. (Tracy Glantz/The spots would the builds to a stunning climax. Instead, State/MCT) be selected it has a soap opera.” Oregon sit above them in the rankings. via the current The present system is unfair. Every What college football needs is a BCS ranking system, allowing the year they tell us we are closer to a Casey Miller playoff system. The most practical BCS to still make money off of their playoff. I for one am tired of waiting. Plugged In Sports Columnist setup would be a sixteen-team, single unnecessary elimination tournament. I’ll use the 2010 selection Texas Christian University season as an example. shows. football coach Gary Pat- For months now, I’ve wanted to The regular season comes to a When terson, is shown at a news write an article bashing Boise State and close on December 4th, except for the you think conference on Monday, discussing the fact that the Broncos November 29, 2010, in annual Army-Navy game. Under my about it, Fort Worth, Texas. TCU are not worthy to play in the national system, every team would get one week my playoff announced that it has ac- championship. However, the more I off before the playoff games started. system cepted an invitation to join thought about it, the more ridiculous the During the week of December 12th, makes a the Big East conference in bowl games seemed. Besides, Nevada the first round of the playoff games whole lot 2012. All sports will par- th ticipate in the conference. knocked off Boise in OT in week 13. would be played. The week of the 19 of sense. (Max Faulkner/Fort Worth Since 1998, Division I-A collegiate would see four quarter-final matchups. football has used a post-season format called the Bowl Championship Series. This sport requires constant faith Under the BCS system, a combination of human polls and computer rankings decide which two teams will play in a Debate about cheerleading merits national championship game. There are Continued from page 1 still quite a few other bowl games, but Cheerleading is a sport that requires constant faith in you cheer for; when the none of them rival the magnitude of the your team and the team that you’re cheering for. When the players hurt, we hurt just BCS National Championship Game. scoreboard isn’t what we want it to be, cheerleaders don’t as much. I have had the Bailey Larrison Plugged In The BCS sparks major debate have the option to hang their heads. Perseverance is the wonderful opportunity to Sports Columnist among fans, coaches, and journalists. number 1 rule of being a cheerleader. cheer with my teammates Only twelve schools have played for Many would be surprised at the amount of energy that and friends for the past six the national championship since the is vital in order to perform complicated routines, stunts, and years, and when I chose adoption of the system. Many believe tumbling passes. Not only is cheerleading just as physically to become part of the team, I did it because I love sports and I that the selection system doesn’t allow demanding as any other sport, but it also embodies tedious love Speedway. It’s not about the short skirts, or the big bows, or for a true national champion. feats such as lifting, tossing, and catching. Some estimates the “popularity” that comes along with being a cheerleader. It’s Let’s take the 2009 season for say that there are approximately 16,000 injuries every year about having pride in the place you come from, showing spirit example. After week 15, there were five resulting from the acrobatic parts of cheerleading. Countless for your school, and like Liv said, it’s about having trust in your teams that were undefeated; 1Alabama, people would agree that cheerleading has become much fellow teammates to catch you when you fall. If this article isn’t

2Texas, 3Cincinnati, 4Texas Christian, more dangerous than it was, perhaps twenty years ago. Part convincing enough, I challenge you to be a cheerleader for a day. and 6Boise State. True to the BCS of that, in my opinion, is because we as athletes are not Be a part of our practice and discover what we do! system, the numbers one and two teams satisfied with standing on the sidelines “looking pretty” THE CLOCK TICKS (Alabama and Texas) faced off in the big anymore. It is an attempt to prove ourselves to all who The cheerleaders are game. The other three undefeateds were doubt our abilities, and our athleticism. waiting eagerly for the time to expire. Photo thrown into other bowl games. “What is the hardest thing about being a cheerleader?” courtesy of Keri Benge. This year, Texas Christian “People not respecting us as athletes. They expect us to just University will get the short end of the stand there and look pretty,” replied senior Jessica Parker. stick. The Horned Frogs thoroughly Sophomore Olivia Benge replied “Having Trust in people to dominated Utah and finished the season catch you.” undefeated, but won’t play for the Cheerleading IS a sport, and a difficult one at that. championship because Auburn and Being a cheerleader means becoming a part of the team that