Issue 4

trojaneertrojaneerCenter Grove High School Vol. XLX, Issue 411.19.10

byCraigLotzEditor-in-Chief

Even the Pledge of Alle-giance seemed aggres-sive at the Monday, Nov. 15 school board

meeting. Hype for the meeting began in the late weeks of Octo-ber as word circulated the Center Grove community that contracts would possibly not be renewed for high school Principal Matt Shockley and Assistant Superin-tendent Janet Boyle. Active community members voiced their shock and disagree-ment with this potential change of leadership through Facebook groups, petitions, letters and shear anger aimed at the school board. Though school board President Scott Gudeman even-tually affirmed that the board would not be seeking a change in leadership at this time, the dramatic event set the stage for a showdown between parents of the community and the five-member board. By 6:50 p.m. the administrative office’s largest conference room was filled with parents, teach-ers and community members eagerly waiting for the firestorm to begin. By 7:00 p.m. cars over-flowed into the high school park-ing lot and attendees could only find an open spot standing in the back. The meeting commenced in routine fashion as the minutes were approved and a heart-warming award was presented. But when time came for “Pub-lic Participation” the mood was anything but routine.

Heated Tension Kicking off the roast was Anna Lovell, an organizer of the newly founded “Center Grove Parents for Stability and Transparency.” Lovell cited the representative nature of the organization, tell-ing of the 500+ members of their Facebook group and the 330+ signers of their petition to save CG administrators. “This is for the greater good of our children,” Lovell said, iden-tifying the purpose of the group. Accompanied by a support-ing cast of three fellow mem-bers, Lovell accused the board of

overstepping their authority and position, reminding them that “policy making, not administrat-ing,” is their job. “You’re running [the corpora-tion] like it’s your own, and it’s not,” Lovell said with fiery pas-sion. “Your role is policy mak-ing.” Lovell presented the factual basis of the g r o u p ’ s appeal, identi-f y i n g specific v i o l a -t i o n s of the code of ethics of the Indi-ana School Board Associ-ation (ISBA). All five members of the board are members of this statewide association. ISBA cites “thinking always in terms of children first” as one of the first responsibilities a board member needs to honor. Lovell expressed doubt that the board was truly following this responsibility, reminding them that “[the students’] education is the only reason you are here.”

Overstepping Bounds One of the greatest sources of anger for the community members is the school board’s controlling nature, both in the public threat of firing CG admin-istrators and in other instances.

All details of these events were vague, but those

who spoke were clear in implying

that some board members had

c o m m i t -ted serious b r e a c h e s in ethics. Community m e m b e r s

consider any activity outside

of the group act-ing as a body in

session as abuse of au-thority.

Lovell cited one member as having asked for a master key to every Center Grove school, com-pelling Lovell to question “Who’s really making decisions?” Ad-ditionally Lovell hinted at one member’s misstep in the recent election in which he used school email to endorse individuals running for school board. “Favors for friends and those

of similar interests? Come on,” Lovell said referring to questionable uses of resources possessed by a board mem-ber. She again questioned the board later in the speech. “What behavior are you modeling in front of our high school students,” Lovell said. Community member David Shaw continued the accusa-tions, referring to undisclosed members of the board as

“power grabbing elected offi-cials.” Shaw highlighted the potential lay off of CG administrators and the entailing news stories as an example of board members ”un-willingness to act responsibly in an elected role.” Additional accusations by Shaw included instances of members “bullying and harassing [Center Grove] employees.” Lovell also cited instances of the board “bully-ing staff.” Additionally, Shaw condemned the board of hav-ing “routinely micromanaged the district.” Ultimately Shaw and Lovell expressed anger and concern of the board running a tyrannical operation. “This is not Stalin’s Russia, this is America,” Shaw said. Shaw believes the board’s ac-tions have denied employees of treatment they are entitled to. Allowing the possibility of ad-ministrative lay-offs to be pub-licly leaked and discussed is one example of this mistreatment. “How do we protect Cen-ter Grove Employees from the School Board? Folks, this is a good start tonight,” Shaw said. Lack of Trust Both Shaw and Lovell served as a barometer for the mood and feelings of the hundreds of parents in the audience; a mood that ultimately was distrusting of the school board, resulting in a leadership crisis. “We have a vote of no confi-dence in your ability to run our corporation,” Lovell said. Shaw attributes this crisis to the “school board refusing to follow its own code of ethics.”

Boys basketball embraces high expectations (page 8)

“You’re running [the

corporation] like it’s your own, and

it’s not.”-Anna Lovell

-CG Band places 12th in na-tionals (page 5)

-Alec Dietz discusses religion (page 3)

Members of the school board recieved a barrage of anger and accusations from community members during Monday’s meeting. Emotions ran high as citizens expressed outrage toward recent and reoccuring actions of the five member board.

President Scott Gudeman listens in silence as community members bring the heat. His only words in response were “I appreciate everyone’s input, thank you.”

Board Member-elect Jack Russel and current board member Jim Copp examine a document.

Board members-elect Scott Alexan-der and Susan Mullendore attend-ed the Monday meeting to hear the message of the community

Carol Tumey maintained a pas-sive expression as she and fellow members were criticized.see “Meeting” page 2

photos by Hannah Duke

2NewsNews the trojaneer

Friday, November 19, 2010

In the news today

In the news today

WorldWorld After being underground for 69 days, Chile is cel-ebrating the liberation of their miners. Tuesday, Oct. 13, millions watched the rescue of the Chilean miners. Sev-eral were emotional at the sight of the reunions between the miners and their families. All of the miners were honored for being trapped and managing to survive that long. Many consider the men heroes. Geography teacher Ryan Spoonmoore was among the crowd that followed the tale. “This is the greatest news story in my 36 years of being on this Earth,” Spoonmoore said. On Wednesday Oct. 26, Mount Merapi in Indonesia unleashed its biggest eruption yet. The eruption spewed hot clouds and ash 6 miles away. The volcano also hit another part of Indonesia claiming 470 people’s lives. The multiple eruptions could be calming the crater in-side the volcano.

In more recent news, 50 parishioners were held hos-tage in one of Baghdad’s catholic churches. Oct. 31, gun-men held the parishioners for several hours in an Iraqi church. The men threatened to kill the parishioners if al Qaida prisoners were not released. “This is another example of a small minority of people trying to wreck havoc in the lives of civilians,” Spoonmoore said. Later that evening Iraqi security forces stormed the church at-tempting to end the hostage situation. 37 were killed and 12 were injured. Also on Oct. 31, Brazil elected the country’s first fe-male president. Dilma Rousseff had 56 percent of the vote compared to her other rival. She said the former countries President chose her as his party’s candidate to take his place and he used all his political will to get her elected. “I would be proud to vote for a woman if she was the best candidate and was running the race with integ-rity,” Spoonmoore said.

Great applause and affirmations arose from the audi-ence when community members condemned the board of overstepping their bounds and handling administra-tive roles in the corporation, rather than just making policies. “Three current board members should be very embar-rassed right now; you know who you are,” Lovell said of members breaking ethical code. Shaw believes a key component of a successful board member is “learning to distinguish between these two functions,” and not breaching ethical boundaries. Both Lovell and Shaw indicated that the Center Grove School Board has gained negative statewide attention through its antics in the past few years. “Center Grove School Board’s reputation throughout the state is embarrassing,” Shaw said. Having spent 41 years in public education, Shaw pro-vided insight into the opinions of former colleagues. Lovell also cited the board and corporation as a “laugh-ing stock among Indiana.” Both these factors could make it challenging to find a person willing to relieve Interim Superintendent Dr. Emmet Lippe. Finding a permanent superintendent could be a challenge for a corporation that Lovell says has the statewide reputation being a “graveyard for Indiana superintendents.” “Is this the legacy we want to have at Center Grove,” Lovell asked.

Next Steps During the entire firestorm, the five existing members silently absorbed the public’s cry of accusation and re-buke. Alongside the five were newly elected members Jack Russell, Susan Mullendore and Scott Alexander. Though the three were not specifically subject to the barrage of anger from the community, the Center Grove Parents for Stability and Transparency made it clear they wanted the newly elected to understand their feelings and expectations. When Rob Richards approached the microphone and

began speaking, it appeared to be another attack on the grievous acts of the board. But Richards took a different approach. “I have a challenge for the existing board,” Richards said. Richards continued to outline his call, emphasizing the need for action in a time of crisis. “This is game on,” Richards said. “You are going to be held accountable.” After rehashing some of the accusations of the night, Richards challenged the board members to ask them-selves: “Were they talking about me?” For the members who could answer no, Richards asked them to hold their fellow board members accountable. The theme that seemed to be paving the future path of the board was accountability. “It’s kind of a wake up call, but I hope they make the best of it,” senior Katie Brown said. Parents who attended the meeting hoped to reinforce higher expectations for the board. Center Grove High School PTO President and parent Beth Hudson came to “show support for the community. To just make sure the board hears the message and to know that they are going to be held accountable.” Regardless of the high expectations, the three incoming school board members appear ready to tackle the chal-lenges of the community. “We knew this coming in,” Member Elect Scott Alex-ander said referring to the current anger of the commu-nity. Alexander and newly elected Jack Russell appeared anything but nervous at the conclusion of the meeting, both indicating they were ready to get started. Even in times of doubt, members of the community are optimis-tic that the trio of Alexander, Russell, and Susan Mullen-dore will benefit the leadership of the school board. “I definitely think the three of them complement each other,” senior Ethan Raker said.

Meeting (from page 1)

-Failed referendum spurs new age for Center Grove

Check out the the Trojaneer online at the new and improved website!

Trojaneer.com

Articles online now:

-Students adapt (and don’t) to changing temperatures-Meet the new school board members-Students seek community at Campus Life-Shockley’s Mustache

3 OpinionOpinionthe trojaneer

Friday, November 19, 2010

byAlecDietzOpinion Writer

trojaneerContact InformationMailing Address: 2717 S. Morgantown Road, Greenwood, IN 46143

Phone: (317) 881-0581, Ext. 4175

E-mail: Staff members of the Trojaneer may be contacted by using their first name_last name and appending @cgstudent.epals.com. For example Lucas Matney will recieve email at [email protected].

Responding to the Trojaneer [[email protected]] Letters to the Editors will be accepted for the Dec. 3 edition of the Trojaneer until November 27. Letters may be turned in to adviser Melissa Warner or Editors-in-Chief Craig Lotz and Ben Whitehead. All letters must be signed and include contact information for the writer. Anonymous letters will not be published. Letters may not contain personal attacks against individuals or any libelous material. The Trojaneer staff regards the right to edit letters for grammatical mis-takes and length. Writers should strive to keep letters to less than 250 words.

PurposeThe Trojaneer is a student-run publication distributed to faculty and staff at Center Grove High School with a press run of 2,400 copies. The Trojaneer strives to provide the Center Grove community with timely, factual, entertaining, and relevant information in an unbiased fashion, The paper serves as a public forum. Opinions expressed in the newspaper are not necesarily those of Center Grove High School nor the Center Grove Community School Corporation’s faculty, staff or administration.

CredentialsThe Trojaneer is a member of the Indiana High School Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association.

AdvertisingBusinesses may advertise in the Trojaneer if their advertise-ments adhere to the newspaper’s guidelines. All ads must be tastefully designed, while containing no libelous material. Advertisements of alcohol and tobacco is strictly prohibited. A full copy of the newspaper’s advertising policy is available upon request in Room 175 at Center Grove High School.

Editors in Chief:

Managing Editor

Page Editors:

Photo EditorBusiness MgrWebsite Mgr

Photographers:

Staff Writers:

Craig LotzBen WhiteheadLindsey Winneroski

Ben BaconLucas MatneyBecky Miller

Hannah FurrowShawna MillerJulie Joson

Rileigh CoxHannah Duke

Mackenzie DeanElaina MellotChris CollinsKeaton WrightMatt SaundersAlec DietzVincent WilliamsAllison ChamberlainJake ThompsonMackenzie ThompsonSavannah Lorentzen

Trish BartonMariah Hester

Jessica EdelmanZach Whitehead

Jessica GottliebTyler SykesHannah MorganRonni MeierAlex JabreNick MarleyDelaney BurnettAbbi StiffeyScott SuttonKristen Southern

Nearly 7.3 million Americans have pledged the green diet. Promising to stray from meat, poul-try, fish, and animal by-products, by opting for

fruits, vegetables, grains, tofu, and beans. The vegetar-ian lifestyle seems unfit to the nature of the human body. Humans are supposed to eat meat; it is a part of our human anatomy. Supporters for a vegetarian lifestyle preach that by becoming a vegetarian the person can avoid toxins found in meats, which harm the body, preventing many diseases otherwise found in meat consumers. Concerns regarding meat containing preservatives and chemicals in them are valid, but the fact is toxins can be found in all foods mass-produced by food companies that have some type of preservative or chemical added to their ingredients. Without these preservatives the food being consumed by the masses would be rotten by the time it hit the plastic bag to be taken home in. It has also been stated that factory farming and ranching has hurt the environment, and through not eating meats, magically the number of factories and ranches would suddenly decrease, helping our environment! When in reality, the only change that will occur is that there will be one less steak eaten. The meat is right in front of you in the lunch line, if you do not pick up that chicken patty, then the famished teen behind will be sure to pick up two. The meat is already dead and on your plate, you might as well eat it. Myths that all vegetarians have lower blood pressure and cholesterol have been created to manipulate the consumer into thinking that this way of life will make them better. Other myths have been created stating that following a vegetarian life will prevent cancer and

heart disease. But doesn’t everything cause cancer now a day? Daily scientists report their new findings in cancer research and how numerous foods and lifestyle activities can cause cancer, but obviously not all of these are accurate. Promoters for following a vegetarian lifestyle blame feeling sluggish on a meat-incorporated diet. I believe feeling sluggish is based on the mental state of the person, they decide the feel-ings they experi-ence. A person only feels sick, usually, when they are mentally reminding them-selves of this ill feeling. People often become vegetar-ians for reasons abnormal to what might be stereo-typically thought. Vegetarian of eleven months Barton Robinson, previous Center Grove graduate, said “I chose the vegetarian lifestyle to practice self disci-pline. To improve my self control and to prove to myself I could go for a year without eating meat.”Robinson plans on eating meat again after the one year, but in much smaller quantities, given his new perspec-tive. Junior Carter Fagan has been a vegetarian since

birth, due to his mother’s ethical choice of becoming a vegetarian during her childhood. “I’d almost guarantee I would not be a vegetarian if it were not for the influ-ence from my mother. There is no pressure or anything, but I have lived without regularly eating meat for so long that it is really no big deal to me. I am not a big

animal rights or environ-mental dude at all; it is really just the way I’ve been living and I have no desire to change anything at all” said Fagan when asked about his reasoning for becoming a vegetar-ian. Advocators also stand for animal rights, protest-ing that followers of a vegetarian diet respect the rights of animals. Ev-eryone loves the adorably fuzzy chicks found in the barns across the farm-lands of America, but without the consumption of these furry creatures overpopulation would undoubtedly occur in the

animal kingdom causing the animals to die from either starvation or from being eaten by one of their own. Our human anatomy naturally signals us to eat meat; our teeth are sharp and pointed for the eating of flesh. Other animal eat other animals for nutrients and because it is their natural instinct, just because we are above these animals on the food chain does not mean our natural instincts differ from that of “lesser” animals.

s human beings we cannot help but question our existence. Philosophies and religions of all kinds and gods have developed through-out Earth to explain “the meaning of life.” People, especially teenagers, are often times devout believers in the religion they were born into, and our country’s majority has chosen to worship the white skinned, blue eyed blond haired conservative Jesus. Of course this is not every teenager; in fact, another path taken by the “free-thinking” teenagers usually involves going against their closed-minded parents and their old religion Many teenagers now-a-days are call-ing themselves “spiritual” and not religious just because they read a Wikipedia page about Taoism or some other obscure philosophy that nobody knows about. Anybody can be deep in this day and age if you read a few quotes about the universe by Albert Einstein. What you believe in could be one of the biggest deals to teenagers, and in most circumstances teenagers will fight tooth and nail to explain to you why they are right and you are in fact wrong. Honestly though, how could anyone be 100 percent sure? Even Facebook has become a religious battleground. Teenagers who have never seen or experienced anything outside of the suburbs are arguing over topics ranging from the creation of the universe to the building of the Ground Zero mosque! These arguments end up solving nothing and proving only that most of these teenagers are ignorant to the world. Do not think that people want to hear about your religious beliefs either, or that you meditate three times a week, because nobody cares. Let’s practice religion humbly, not in the sense of “Look at me I’m spiritual” or “Look at me I have a huge cross necklace.” Gloating like this is a waste of time and may give people just cause to call you a hypocrite. I’m thinking we need to stop taking ourselves so seriously. Stand up for what you believe in, but please never tell a person that what he/she believes is wrong.

The Gospel of CG:A The truth is that most religions are quite similar, usu-

ally involving a prophet and a set of values to live your life by. All religions are influenced by each other, so why can’t we get along? Why can’t we move past all the hate and controversy religion has caused? If you come away with one thing from this article it is that you should respect other people’s beliefs and be sure to do an extensive amount of research (mean-ing a few years) before you diss another philosophy or religion. Listen to what your bible told ya and love your

neighbor as yourself.

byMackenzieThompsonOpinion Writer

Leaf, It’s What’s for Dinner:

Expressing Your Faith and Respecting Others’

A Commentary on Modern Vegetarianism

Photo by Hannah Duke

Atheist: Junior Zak Massey

New Age: Junior Eric Crews

Hinduism:Junior Shraddha Maharjan

Christianity: Junior Adam Ferrell

Buddhism: Junior Ashley Le

“I appreciate that others are searching for their own purpose, but it disturbs me that they are limiting themselves to that belief.”

“All things are different parts to one whole being often times referred to as a god or universe.”

“I have respect for other religions, Hindu-ism doesn’t really have many ‘enemies’, but it requires a lot of dedication.”

“I would never judge (one of another faith) or tell them that they’re wrong. I love them more than that and God loves them with an intense love that no one can describe. The Holy Sprit has literally transformed my life and God has completely revealed himself in His love for me.”

What students say:

“I would say that Buddhism is searching for enlightenment, peace, and to end suffering.”

4FeaturesFeatures the trojaneer

Friday, November 19, 2010

While a majority of high school girls waste their paychecks on fashion trends that vanish like socks in a dryer, senior Jaguar Andersen sports her own style – with little to no cost. “I’ve been making stuff out of shirts for about two years,” Andersen said. “I was on MySpace and I found this bul-letin from Hot Topic, nonetheless, about cutting up T-shirts for the summer, so I looked more up and then I bought these two books that have given me a lot of inspiration.” Andersen admits that MySpace is lame, but that was about two years ago, and if it were not for that bulletin, she may not be making T-shirt materials now. She recycles T-shirts and creates new cloth-ing as a hobby. “My favorite thing to make right now

starts with a 3XL T-shirt. I just cut off the sides and the bottom of the sleeves and sew it back together,” Andersen said. “It’s casual and looks good with leggings, plus it’s always at least fingertip length, so less skanky.” In addition to casual dresses and tops, Andersen made her own prom dress last school year. It, too, was created by recycling T-shirts. “It looked like crap,” Andersen said. Her friends disagree. “The top was just like any other black, cut up T-shirt – sleeves off and the sides slimmed, but she found another black T-shirt, disassembled it and made it the skirt,” senior Heather LoTempio said. Some friends are even taking her lead. “She inspired me to make my own graduation dress,” senior Kimi Simpson said. Andersen doesn’t consider herself a

fashionista. She more enjoys the creative aspect of making clothing. “I make them because I like to ex-periment with color and shape and how things fit, and I really like to have my own style,” Andersen said. “I’m not into the ‘fashion world’, but the things I wear and the way I act make up my fashion – make up who I am and who I want to be.” Andersen has also made bags, dolls and stuffed animals out of T-shirts. She hopes to make a blanket soon as well. “I make dollhouses too, since I was about…oh, eight?” Andersen said. The dollhouses are made using kits – not T-shirts. “I also do this stuff called string art. It looks complicated, but it’s actually super easy,” Andersen said. LoTempio also has experience with string art. She absolutely loved it as a girl

scout. “Imagine a piece of foam, 4x4 and an inch thick, a bunch of sewing needles poked into it in the shape of a circle,” LoTempio said. “How you do it is a bit fuzzy to me, but you tie a thread and weave it across the circle in a certain pat-tern. The color and pattern of the thread is the art part.” This type of string art is usually hung on the wall or put on display, but An-dersen uses a glue to cement the pattern into place and detaches the strings from the foam. Andersen has been creating string art for about a year, but she has always been crafty. Though the inspiration for her creations may, at times, be found on MySpace or other mainstream media, the way she applies that inspiration makes her style completely unique.

On pins and needlesOn pins and needlesbyHannahMorganFeaturesWriter

Many students find themselves spend-ing much of their free time devoted to sports. Football, baseball, basketball and soccer are without doubt some of the most popular sports in the U.S.A. Aside from these, there are unique sports that few people discover. “I started fencing in 2002. The classes were a birthday present from my mother,” senior Sam Hine said. Unlike many students, Sam found fencing as his sport. Fencing is a form of martial arts that originated in Egypt hundreds of centuries ago. Sam and many other fencers could tell you that

the original idea of sword fighting has formed into a sport that is much easier said than done. Swinging sharp swords at your opponent can sound frighten-ing and chaotic for many people, but

the sport is much safer than a tradi-tional brawl to stab your enemy. “We use actual swords, but they are made in a certain manner so that they cannot seriously injure you,” Hine said. A fencer’s body is well protected from head to toe to prevent anything seriously unsafe from happening. Common fencing-related injuries tend to include ankle and knee problems stemming from muscle, ligament, and tendon trauma. “I’ve gotten a few cuts and bruises,” Hine said. The best prevention to being struck with a sword is to simply be quick. “You have to be able to predict and respond to your opponent’s actions in a split second,” Hine said.

Fencing is an extremely mentally challenging sport and it necessary to be on your toes ready for any-thing. Stamina, coordina-tion, strategic thinking and discipline are all skills developed through fencing. The swords used in fencing are sharp; however, the mind of the fencer has to be even sharper. “I have practice 3 times a week at the JCC of India-napolis,” Hine said. Just like any other sport, fencing takes time and dedication. “I have individual lessons twice a week with my coach Val Kizik,” Hine said.

All the hard work has paid off for Sam. He competes in competitions and has had a very successful fencing career. “My biggest accomplishment was be-

ing the Great Lakes Sectional Champ in 2009,” Hine said. Winning in fencing feels victori-ous just as it does in any other sport. However, victory is not the only upside in fencing. Sam has formed many friendships through his experience fencing. “I have made a lot of friends through fencing, most of them graduated last year,” Hine said. Friends, competitions and the sport in itself are all highlights of fencing for Sam. Above all, Sam enjoys the intricate challenge of fencing. “It combines physical and mental exercise into a fun and challenging sport,” Hine said. Focus is essential to winning in fenc-ing. Just like most athletes, Sam goes through a routine before an important competition. “I turn on my iPod, have a blue PowerAde and run a couple laps,” Hine said. After that, Sam is ready to compete, battle and succeed.

Rules of EngagementbyMackenzieDeanFeaturesWriter

Senior competes in ancient yet intricate sport

Senior Sam Hines congratulates an opponent after a match. photos by Jessie Edelman

Hines ties for third place at a competition. photos by Jessie Edelman

Foil: only torso is a valid target

Sabre: any area from the waist up is a valid target

Épée: any part of the body is a valid target

Olympic Fencing Styles

Each year, our nation’s finest high school football players gather to compete in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, a San Antonio classic. Several of the Bowl’s participants have gone on to become NFL players. Likewise, the marching band and guard that performs during

half-time is comprised of the best. “The band is the same idea,” said senior guard member, Emily Houston. “The best performers in

the nation get together, put on a show and perform it for half-time at the foot-ball game.” Houston was selected to perform with the guard at the All-American Bowl. “Molly Hiatt also made it into the guard with me,” said Houston. “There are some kids from Avon and Carmel who made it, but I think that’s it

from around here.” Of all the march-ing band members across the United States, few were chosen to take part in the event. “It’s a group of 125 seniors chosen from all over the U.S. to perform together,” said Hiatt. “Twenty-six of the 125 are from guard.” Towards the end of last school year, Hous-ton sent in an applica-tion and a short video

of her performances. “I really didn’t expect it to be this big of a deal when I first auditioned, but apparently it’s a huge honor,” said Houston. Over the summer, she was notified of her acceptance by congratulatory e-mails, along with heaps of information concerning the event. “That made it a little more obvious how big of a deal it was to be selected,” said Houston. The Bowl’s guard

instructors will send Houston

a video, in order for her to learn the routine before arriving in

Texas. “The game is on Satur-

day, January 8th, but I arrive in Texas on January 4th,” said Houston. Once she arrives in Texas, she will practice for three days, eight hour each, with the rest of the band and guard. This should come as no surprise to her, as she is no stranger to hard work. “We practice after school Monday until 6:30, and Tuesdays and Fridays after school until 5:30 and Thursdays from 5:30 to 9:00,” said Hiatt. “Saturdays we have competition, so we are there all

day.” If that were too difficult to mentally compute, guard practices for 12 hours during the school week and commits their entire Saturdays to band competi-tions. “Whenever you complain about having to move you car after school or whenever you ignore the marching band at half-time of football games, remember that what we do is actually important to us, and all that we ask is for some apprecia-tion every now and then,” said Houston. Being selected as a guard member of the All-American Bowl is a great honor, as serves as a token of appreciation for Houston’s hard work. On January 8th, the game will be broadcasted live on NBC at 12:00 noon. “They don’t control what the net-work plays during half-time. It will be streamed online though. They might show it on T.V.” said Houston. “You never know.”

The CG Color Guard performs at the Band of America competition. photo by Hannah Duke

Seniors Emily Houston and Molly Hiatt were selected to perform in the U.S. Army Bowl. photo by Hannah Furrow

“The best performers in the nation get together, put on a show, and per-form it at halftime.”--Senior Emily Houston

Seniors selected for national band performance

byHannahMorganFeaturesWriter

Houston, Hiatt to participate in All-American Bowl halftime show

5 EntertainmentEntertainmentthe trojaneer

Friday, November 19, 2010

How does Kanye West sleep at night? He certainly seems to have the sick-est dreams. The infamous rapper is caught up yet again in another heat-ed controversy, this time surrounding the cover of his fifth studio album “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.” West has always been notorious for

shamelessly shocking the public, and his outlandish reputation is the key culprit as to why his credibility seems to be shrinking nowadays. It’s no surprise that he’ll literally do anything to provoke a strong reaction, although this time he may have gone too far. So what does this so-called startling album cover look like? Well, because this is a school friendly publication, I can’t tell you what it is in explicit detail. But it’s basically a drawing of an animated Kanye “doing it” with a bird. A phoe-nix, to exact. Are you thinking the exact thing I was thinking? “Um…why?” His reasons seem obvious. There’s always room for a scandal, and my guess is that he probably just wanted to generate buzz about his new album and get people to talk about it. How else do you explain such a crude, graphic, tasteless, vulgar, foul, warped, and perverse cover? But it certainly is an artistic sketch, and in a beautifully disturbing way, it is absolutely mesmerizing to observe. Like a twelve car pile-up, you know that it’s nasty, and yet you just can’t…look away. I can imagine that the corporate meetings with his record companies, Roc-A-Fella and Def Jam Records, must have been pretty awkward. Unless there was a CEO who at one point rashly stood up, loudly clapped his hands, and joyous proclaimed, “Bestiality? Oh, such ge-nius, I tell you! Genius!” There may be some people who don’t find it shocking at all. This certainly isn’t the first album artwork to cause an outrage. Remember the cover of “Two Vir-gins,” which featured John Lennon and Yoko Ono standing together naked? Or there’s the half-man/half-dog cover of David Bowie’s “Diamond Dogs,” an actual live birth for the cover of Chumbawamba’s “Anarchy,” and not to mention almost every single album cover by Jane’s Addiction. Even The Beatles made waves with the cover of their U.S. album “Yesterday and Today,” which featured them surrounded by decapitated baby doll heads and raw meat (as their comment on the Vietnam War). It’s OK to make a statement. The need to be listened to and understood is an in-

by AlexJabreEntertainmentWriter

CG band places 12th in nation

Many of you have heard the sounds and tunes of our band throughout the halls and in the parking lots. Their hard work and dedication is truly paying off as the band went to the national level at the Bands of America Indianapolis Regional two week-ends ago and the B.O.A. Grand Nationals the last weekend. “Bands of America involves the top programs from all over the country. The In-dianapolis area boasts some of the strongest bands in the country,” Band Director, Mr. Lapka said. “There is also a concentration of very strong programs in Texas and Georgia. This is the time of year where all those bands (and bands from the rest of the country) compete together.” With the hard and strenuous practices each and every day and the long weekend

practices, many band mem-bers are feeling the heat. “The biggest challenge this time of year is combating the fatigue that occurs from working this hard for a long period of time. We stress to the students that there is a very slim margin between good and great. You have to work so hard to get just that little bit better,” Lapka said. “You have to be willing to do what 95% of other kids aren’t willing to do. It takes intelligence, patience, and

determination to push to the end of the season and be successful,” Lapka said. The work may be hard but there are other factors that add to the practicing. “Oh, and it is also gets really cold in November!” Lapka said. The band pushes forward to their goals this year, one step at a time. “Our goal every year is provide a positive experience for the students. It starts with creating a show that will allow them to be successful, then surrounding them with the staff that will give them good information, and then teaching them how to handle the demands of performance... physically and mentally,” Lapka said. Many people are involved in making our band the best it can be. It’s a team effort

full of dedication and hard work. Practices for band are usually 4 days a week for many hour including competitions on Saturdays. Some people do not give enough credit to our band for the hard work and strain they put themselves through. “Most people have no idea how physically strenuous marching band really is. Imag-ine running for 10 minutes while having your breathing severely limited... that will give you some idea of what it’s like. We ask out students to march, dance, and play at fast tempos for a long period of time. On top of that, the students have to remember so much and perform so many little details,” Lapka said. “The complexity of the music and how it coordinates with the physical demands combine for an exciting show to watch, but is a mentally and physically strenuous one to perform.” “We have many designers, writers, and creative staff from all over the country that coordinate with our directors to create each year’s show. On top of that we have about 15 staff members that work with our students throughout the year. They all have specific jobs. Some just clean the visual aspect of what we do, others work per-cussion, guard, woodwinds or brass,” Lapka said. “All of these staff members are paid through our parent booster organization. These parents work all year to raise money for the band program. We could not be success-ful without them!” said Lapka. The band season is wrapping up with just one more week left or practices before the big competition. But the hard work from the members is well appreciated. “The most rewarding part is working with our students on a daily basis and seeing them grow and mature as young adults. They do something that is so difficult and only attempted by a small handful of programs across the country. They understand and appreciate the creativity that is involved. I love being there with them at the end of the season when they emerge as individuals who have learned so much about life through this activity,” Lapka said. “I also enjoy seeing 150 students come together to create a work of performance art that has never been created before and will never be done again. It is a truly unique experience.” Thank you to the band for all your hard work and dedication to the love you have for music; it truly shows.

by AbbiStiffeyNewsWriter

tegral part of hu-man nature. But the measures by which you make that statement is another thing altogether. I don’t believe that going to extremes is always the best way of getting your point across; to polarize and di-vide an audience may give an artist the sense of power, although

without a little integrity or meaning buried underneath the message, i t only becomes equivalent to the guy biting the head off of a chicken in a

geek show. Kanye is certainly no stranger to overblown hullaballoo. He has

“graced” the headlines more than once. At a Hurricane Katrina fundraiser, he famously claimed that “George Bush doesn’t like black people.” He caused a religious outcry when he posed as Jesus on the cover of Rolling Stone in 2006. And most recently he made a stink during “The Today Show” after Matt Lauer showed the infamous clip of him at the 2009 VMA Awards, in which he got up on the stage, grabbed the microphone from award winner Taylor Swift, and rudely lamented, “Yo Taylor,

I’m really happy for you and I’mma let you finish, but Beyonce had one of the best videos of all time!”

While I’ve only listened to a few of his songs, I do happen to like “Jesus Walks” and “Gold Digger” in particular. He’s a talented rap-

per for sure, and he’s got 14 Grammys to prove it. One of the album’s singles, “Runaway,” has already shot to #12 on the Billboard charts, and the

album itself will probably do well when it’s released on November 22nd. Interestingly, four additional covers will be issued for the album as well: one of them features a sul-len ballerina clutching a glass of wine, and another one features a drawing of Kanye in a Christ-like pose. (What is it with this guy that makes him want to appear like Jesus? A good rapper he may be, but the Son of God he is not). I just hope that he finds the time to get a good night’s sleep. Maybe a little rest is all he needs. Or maybe he could…hey – what the – “Yo Alex, I’m really happy for you, and I’mma let you finish, but The Trojaneer is one of the best newspapers of all time!”

Kanye’s Inferno cover causes controversy

Please visit www.trojaneer.com for a Q & A with Band Director Joe Lapka and Drum Major Melissa Guerrero.

The infamous rapper

is caught up yet again in another heated contro-versy, this time surround-

ing the cover of his fifth studio album “My Beau-

tiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.”

photo by Hannah Duke

photo by Hannah Duke

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7 SportsSportsthe trojaneer

Friday, November 19, 2010

byScottSuttonSports Columnist

Center Grove sports programs may have to take a hit due to failure in passing referendum

The final Referendum score is in and the Center Grove Community School Corporation has been declared the loser.The referendum squabble has since died down, but who better to rekindle the flame than yours truly. As we all well know, the CG Referen-dum, the savior to our current financial woes, failed to pass. Now a district-wide panic has stricken all staff members whose job does not directly affect stu-dent’s education. So basically anyone who is not a core class teacher has some doubt in their mind about what next year will hold. On top of all that, clubs, athletics, and the arts all fear the possible cuts and it is fair to say that no area of extracurricular activity is completely secure. First off I would like to say I have sympathy for all the other areas facing future cuts; however, athletics hits home for me. Center Grove has multiple dominant athletic programs that are known state wide, but how long will we remain presti-gious with these cuts taking place? The idea of pay to play will absolutely reduce player participation as well as the cut of clubs sports will reduce student’s ability to enjoy sports that they have learned to love over these past few years. To many athletes, this is what they live for and it makes me sick that we have to cut programs and reduce activity-spend-ing costs because people of this school district could not handle a temporary property tax increase to keep Center Grove the school it is known to be. On top of the program cuts, we fear the loss of multiple JV and freshman coaches and the possible firing of an athletic director position. When I first brainstormed this article I was trying to think of optimistic points to incorporate that would help you fine readers feel comfort in the referendum failing, but I hate to say I could not think of one positive outcome of this. I apologize to anybody who seeks comfort in reading my articles, but this morose topic needed to be address. I’m sorry future Center Grove students.

Last year the Tro-jans wrestling team went an impressive 20-4. This year the Trojans have five returning seniors: Spencer Hays, Chris Collins, Kevin Gonza-les, Justin Meredith, and Jacob Lowry. Although, the Trojans wrestling team does not look as strong as they have in past years. Losing sixth place state finalist Matt Milton, Jordan Leagan who placed fourth at semi-state, Clint Plake who was runner up at regionals, and Chris Kuehner who placed fourth at sectionals.“This year I want to make it out of semi-state and wrestle in state, especially since this is my senior year,” said senior Spencer Hays. Last year Spencer placed third at their regionals but came up short in semi-state. “Well team wise, we are not as talented as years past, but we have worked harder and are more dedicated this year. My personal goals are to go to state and be a role model for the younger wrestlers. I want to be a leader for the team and hope

my actions off the mat will influence younger kids,” senior wrestler Justin Meredith said. “I think the team can win MIC, and I think we the team has potential because we have a lot of new kids and returning starters from last year. Personally I want to make varsity. Last year I wrestled some varsity matches but this year I want to be a starter,” junior wrestler John Dunaway said. “Having a brother on the wrestling team has its ups and downs. Spencer always pushes me and wants me to do

my best whether it is in the weight room with the team or on the mat practicing or in an actual meet. My goals are to definitely be a state medalist this year. I am going to be upset if I do not get it but there is always next year. I think it is going to be tough since I had

surgery over the summer but I feel like I can do it,” junior Zac Hays said. The team really is aiming to win county, the team placed second last year to Franklin Community, and the team is also looking to win sectionals as well. They placed second last year to Franklin again. The team is hoping to have 20 wins total. The Trojans are looking to match or beat last season’s records at 20 wins and four losses.

Sean Mappes

Center Grove Wrestling Team dedicates themselves to working hard in order to match or even beat their impressive record from last yearbyNickMarleySports Writer

John Dunaway Timmy Taft

Favorite Song: Last train home

Favorite Food: Baja Chicken from Quiznos

Favorite College: IU

Favorite Game: Halo

Favorite Pick-Up Line: “Do my shoes match my eyes? You check-ing me out?”

Favorite Book: Harry Potter

Favorite Movie: Step Brothers

Favorite Superhero: Wonder Woman

Favorite Color: Red

Favorite Quote: “Call me night hawk”

Favorite T.V. Show: House

Favorite Animal: Penguin

Favorite Athlete: Jake Clark

Favorite Dinosaur: Velociraptor

Mac or PC: Mac

Sean Mappes

SportsSports the trojaneer

Friday, November 19, 2010

The Center Grove boy’s basketball team enters this season with seven se-niors leading the squad. This a large group compared to past Trojan basket-ball squads, and these seven seniors are planning to achieve goals that have not been accomplished in recent years; or perhaps even ever. “They have high expectations for themselves. Are they willing to work 100 percent?” Coach Cliff Hawkins said. Ever since the Trojans 72-69 disappointing loss to Southport in the first round of sectionals last season, Hawkins has had his players working day in and day out on doing things better than they have ever been done before. “Do things better than they’ve ever been done before, that’s our motto for this year’s team,” Hawkins said. Hawkins will be looking to seniors Jonny Marlin and Andy Smeathers to be leaders. “Jonny Marlin has the ball more than any other player, but other players will have to step up,” Hawkins said. “I believe Jonny and Andy both have abilities to lead this basketball program.” Marlin and Smeathers both have Division I basketball scholarships for next year already lined up. Smeathers will take his talents north to Hinkle Field House where he will play for last year’s National Runner-Up, the Butler Bull-dogs. Marlin will attend Indiana-Purdue Fort Wayne (IPFW) and play for former Indiana University player Dan Fife. “I do consider myself a leader. I would show my leadership through ex-ample first, but I’m not afraid to say something,” Marlin said. Marlin has played in varsity games since his freshman year. “I lead by example. I work hard every day we have practice and I take under-classmen under my wing and teach them something,” Smeathers said.

Senior Leadership

With seven seniors, the boys basketball team looks to not only avenge an early oust from last year’s state tournament, but contend for a conference and state championship.byKeatonWrightSportsWriter

Smeathers moved from Plainfield his freshman year and immedi-ately made an impact in the Center Grove basketball program. “I want to play the best I can every day. Whether I score 10 or 20, I always want to contribute something to the team,” Smeathers said. Marlin realizes it will take more than just putting the ball in the bas-ket if this year’s team hopes to be successful. “When people watch our games, I expect them to see defense being

played, talent being displayed, and a sense of to-getherness,” Marlin said. Hawkins realizes this year’s team has the ability to accomplish something special. “In the past 4 years, we have won two MIC cham-

pionships, including last year. Our program has the opportunity to win back-to-back MIC championships, which has never been done be-fore,” Hawkins said. The Trojans can also win their first sectional since this year’s sophomore class was born.

“This year I expect to win the MIC, county, the Hall of Fame Classic, and win state,” senior John Degenhardt said. Degenhardt transferred to Center Grove his freshman year from Roncalli, and the Trojans will look to him to try to shut down the ath-letic giants of the MIC. “We’ll have more experience, a sense of unity, and a stronger team, mentally and physically due to our seven seniors,” Marlin said. Marlin and Hawkins both agree there will be plenty of leadership throughout the whole team. “I expect all of us to come out and play hard and our best every game. Our goal every year is to win MIC and go far in the state tournament,” Smeathers said.

The Reed FileName: Joe ReedGrade: JuniorPosition: Power ForwardFavorite College: PurdueFavorite Player: Robbie Hummel, even if he’s still hurtMac or PC: PC (Dell)Favorite TV Show: FranklinFavorite Color: MajesticBest Pick-Up Line: “I

dont have my library card, but do you mind if I check you out?”Favorite Board Game: ScrabbleFavorite Video Game: FroggerHow would you like to die: Choked to death with loveBad Habit: Caring too much

Do things better than they’ve ever been done before; that’s our mot-to for this year’s team, Hawkins said.

“ “

John Goodlow, Kyle James-------------Franklin CentralMichael Ramey, Kellen Thomas---------------SouthportCody Zeller (Indiana University)------------WashigntonNic Moore (Illinois State)-------------------------WarsawDarwin Davis (Xavier) &Spencer Turner---------------------- Bloomington SouthMax Landis (Gardner-Webb)------------Perry MeridianHarry Wills---------------------------------------Ben DavisMichael Chandler & Ryan Taylor (Louisville)-----------------Lawrence NorthDevin Davis--------------------------------Warren CentralJustin Gant (Indiana State)----------Terre Haute NorthD’Vauntes Smith-Rivera (Xavier) &Ronnie Johnson----------------------------North CentralCollin Hartman, Mo Evans---------------------Cathedral

*Many of the players listed are sophomores and juniors who have not verbally comitted but have offers.

With all the basketball talent in the MIC conference, the Trojaneer de-cided to compile a list of the top play-ers on the Trojans schedule, some of whom are headed to NCAA Division I schools next fall.