ECHOFE

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RY 25, 2011 / VO

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AVON HIGH SCHOOL / 7575 EAST 150 SOUTH / AVON, INDIANA

EXPANSION OF THE ARTSDigital photography, portfolio art classes added

PAGE 13

EDUCATION ISSUESState evaluates graduation

standards; Avon faces budget cutsPAGE 2

MUSIC FOR CHARITYAvon students plan benefit

concerts for charitable causes PAGE 5

WE’VE GOT SPIRITFan bus planned by sports

marketing classesPAGE 6

SETTING THE STAGEAvon Center Stage Performers host 23rd annual Scene Night

PAGE 17Check us out on the web:www.avonecho.com

2 ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

NEWSOn Tuesday, May 3, the citizens of Avon will vote on a

referendum asking for support to raise the local tax rate in order to increase funding for the Avon community school corporation.

According to “Vote Yes,” an organization committed to “preserving the Avon academic standard,” the referendum seeks to generate $3.4 million – the amount needed to “avoid teacher layoffs and program cuts” in the Avon Community School Corporation (ACSC). If the referendum is not approved by Avon residents, then Avon schools could face further cuts in teaching and support staff positions, larger class sizes, elimination of academic programs or courses not required for graduation and a reduction in extra-curricular programs.

Principal Rick Adcock explained the significance of the referendum in terms of Avon’s standard of education moving forward.

“In the [Avon] community, there is an expectation of a certain standard of education that we provide for all our kids,” Adcock said, “and we’re not going to be able to maintain that standard unless we have this referendum.”

Avon community schools are likely to undergo a projected $3.2 million loss in total revenue dollars for 2011, and that number could increase to upwards of $4 million in 2012, according to “Vote Yes.” These economic setbacks can be attributed to statewide property tax caps and have resulted in Avon making budget cuts since the additions of Avon Middle School North and River Birch Elementary School.

According to “Vote Yes,” these cuts include eliminating three administrators and 18 teaching positions, closing the Avon Intermediate School East Pool, eliminating summer school, reducing field trips and reducing the support staff by one-third.

Math teacher Jeff Osterman, who is also president of the Avon Federation of Teachers, recognized the backing that ACSC has continuously received from the local area.

“The Avon community has always been very supportive of the [Avon] schools throughout our various building projects,” Osterman said, “and the great community support has allowed us to set a great education standard here in Avon.”

Osterman feels the referendum is essential in order to preserve the Avon standard of education that the Avon community has come to expect.

“We need the funds from the referendum to be able to continue to offer the kids of Avon the opportunities they currently have at school now,” Osterman said.

Meanwhile, on a statewide level, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels is hoping to preserve Indiana’s standard of education with a slate of educational reforms. In a legislative agenda, Daniels proposed allowing students to graduate early and offering them a college scholarship equal to the amount the state would have spent on the students’ concluding year of high school.

Junior Krista Stettler feels that giving high school students the option of graduating from high school in three years rather than four would be “fantastic” because students would be able to get a head start on their future career plans.

“Without that last year [of high school], students could work more,” Stettler said.

Tax referendum puts Avon voters’ support to the testAvon community prepares for possible educational reformsBY DAVID ALLSPAW

Senior Chris Seefeldt believes that graduating early could make it harder for students to adequately prepare themselves for the collegiate level.

“It would make it a lot harder to prepare for college because [students] would be missing out on an entire year of college preparation,” Seefeldt said.

Governor Mitch Daniels’ Education Reform

Base teachers’ pay on the performance of their students

Remove contracts that protect teachers based on how long they have worked

Create more private schools and provide parents with a voucher to spend public money on their children’s private school education

Push students to graduate in three years, and give them money from their fourth year tuition to spend on higher education

Daniels proposes new ideas in his State of the State speech

SOURCES “COURIER PRESS” ONLINE, “POST TRIBUNE” ONLINE, “INDYSTAR” ONLINE TASHA ROLLINGS

Avon High School WHAT YOU SAY

Students share thoughts on graduating in three years

“Graduating in three years would be awesome because it would get you a head start on college to get on with your life.”

MITCH PITCOCK, 12

“It might help good students who are already ahead and wanted to graduate early anyway.”

BETSY MURPHY, 9

SAMUEL LUDLOW, 11

“It’s less time to spend with friends, and I wouldn’t be prepared enough [if I graduated after three years.]”

MALLORY MANKINSOURCE: INTERVIEWS, JANUARY 2011

3PAGE DESIGNERS: ASHLEY HANCOCK & DAVID ALLSPAW ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

NEWSThe administration is considering implementing new

policies during the 2011-2012 school year, including a policy of requiring students to wear visible school IDs.

“The reason for this is that Avon has grown so much in population,” Assistant Principal Kellie Rodkey said. “With 2,500 kids, it’s important that we can recognize immediately who should be here.”

Administrators feel that being able to recognize students immediately is an important part of ensuring a safe environment for the students and teachers inside the school.

“Each administrator only has so many kids in his case load,” Rodkey said. “When we’re in the hall, there are many kids I don’t know personally and have never seen before. It’s important for the safety of students that we have the door security people there, but there are ways around them, too, so just to ensure that someone didn’t slip in and shouldn’t be there, we need students to wear their ID.”

Past events also prompted the officials to consider this change to the school’s execution of school policy and security.

“[The week of Jan. 17], we caught a student in the building who was not a student here,” Rodkey said. “Someone had let this student in the building, and we can’t let this happen.”

Some students acknowledged the need for safety.“I think it’s a good idea,” freshman Erice Perez said.

“We can’t afford to have students go missing or have more people in the building than we should.”

Rodkey feels that if the policy passes the school board, it will be an easy transition.

Policies for upcoming year may be subject to changeBY JORDAN COFFMAN

Rodkey explains possible changes to security policies, discusses decision behind school closings, delays

MAKING THE DECISIONHow Avon decides on school closings, delays

SAL RUSSOSOURCE: INTERVIEWS, JANUARY 2011

FORECAST: Officials keep eye on weather forecasts the night before to watch for possible inclement weather.

DRIVE: One to four individuals drive on district roads to check conditions between 4 and 4:30 a.m. Drivers report findings to Avon’s Director of Finance and Operations, Brock Bowsher, at 5:10 a.m.

DISCUSS: Bowsher and the superintendent, Dr. Timothy Ogle, discuss road conditions at 5:15 a.m. Dr. Ogle then partakes in a conference call with other superintendents in the county.

NOTIFY: Media, students and staff are informed of delay or cancellation.

FACTORS IN DECISION: road conditions, weather forecast for remainder of day, and whether students and staff can arrive at school safely and on time.

WHAT YOU SAYStudents share their thoughts about school security in Avon

“School security really isn’t that bad. Having cops wandering around discourages fights.”

CASEY SALTER, 11

“I like that all of the security is in the cafeteria.”

MARVIN MONTGOMERY, 11

“I think that the school security is good. You never have any trouble finding a cop if you need one.”

MADELIN WILLIS, 10

BELLE LEBEAUSOURCE: INTERVIEWS, JANUARY 2011

“Our middle schools are already doing this, so this will be an easy transition for the freshmen coming in,” Rodkey said.

Rodkey also pointed out that teachers already follow a similar policy.

“Teachers are already required to wear nameplates or IDs just like your student IDs,” Rodkey said. “They can wear those around on a lanyard or clipped on, and all school personnel are currently required, too. Even custodians have to have some form of identification.”

Some students are against the policy change.“I don’t think we should have to wear [our student

IDs],” freshman Collin Pittman said. “We haven’t needed them before, so why start now?”

The policy is still in its developmental stages. It must pass not only the high school administrators, but all members of the school board as well. It is still being discussed and tweaked at the high school level, according to Rodkey.

“None of our policies for the coming school year have been solidified at this time,” Rodkey said. “We will be looking at putting [the policy] in the student handbook for next year, but it’s nothing that’s been run through board policy yet. Still, it’s something we’re considering.”

One policy that is not about to change is the two-hour delay schedule.

“[Delays] are actually state law and not a local decision,” Rodkey said. “There is actually no limit to the number of two-hour delays a school can have. The two-hour delays are decided at the central office by the school

superintendent, so here at the building level, we are notified of the decision, but don’t have a say in it.”The superintendent, Dr. Timothy Ogle, works with an assortment of sources before making the decision.

“I do know that [the superintendent] consults with the director of transportation, Doug Owen, to know whether the buses have the capability to get the kids to school safely,” Rodkey said. “He does consult a variety of sources, but we’re not ever in on that decision here at the main building.”

There will be no major changes to the school schedule, either.

“We will keep the ABC [schedule],” Rodkey said. “That doesn’t mean there won’t be some tweaking. We want to make sure that kids are updated on the easy transition, and I know this year we came out with different forms to help organize, and there are other templates to help students. We plan to implement these into next year’s student handbook.”

4 ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

NEWSiPhone comes to Verizon Wireless

Verizon iPhones play an in-store demonstration video at Plainfield’s Metropolis mall on Feb. 10, which was the first day Verizon Wireless began selling the Apple device. “We are pumping millions of dollars into making a better network,” store manager Andre Johnson said. “If you want your iPhone to work consistently, you should choose Verizon.”

Apple begins selling smart phone through another network; students consider switching from Android

NETWORK SHOWDOWN

Ver zon

Customers can purchase internet and television through Verizon/DISH Network

Data plans start at $15 for 150MB, $29.99 unlimited

“Nation’s largest and most reliable network”

Data plans start at $35 for 200MB, $60for 5GB

“Nation’s fastest mobile broadband network”

Customers can purchase internet, cell phone and television service all-in-one

SV

KENTON HIPSHERSOURCE: “VERIZON WIRELESS” ONLINE, “ATT” ONLINE

at&t

After over three years of selling iPhones exclusively through AT&T, Apple began selling the smart phone through Verizon Wireless as well on Feb. 10.

“We’re excited about our relationship with Apple,” Plainfield’s Verizon Wireless store manager, Andre Johnson, said.

Verizon Wireless is offering the iPhone with the same price as AT&T (with a two-year contract): $199 for the 16-gigabyte model and $299 for a 32-gigabyte model. Johnson noted that Verizon also offers a feature that AT&T’s iPhone currently lacks: “mobile hotspot,” which transforms your iPhone into a Wi-Fi hotspot that can connect to up to five devices.

Verizon Wireless customers, like senior Micah Coursey, share Verizon’s excitement about the new phone.

“I’ve been waiting for the iPhone to come to Verizon for some time now,” Coursey said. “The greatest smart phone service plus the greatest smart phone equals amazing.”

Despite enthusiasm about the Apple device coming to Verizon, Associated Press reported that lines at Verizon stores nationwide on Feb. 10 were generally shorter than those that formed during the iPhone’s previous launches through AT&T.

According to Johnson, subzero temperatures that morning may have caused the smaller-than-expected queue that formed outside of the Metropolis store at around 6:30 a.m.

“The weather was a huge factor [in the store’s launch day iPhone sales],” Johnson said.

Before the iPhone, several Verizon customers, like Coursey, may have owned competing smart phones powered by Google’s Android operating system. The iPhone is powered by Apple’s own mobile operating system, iOS, which also runs on Apple iPads.

“[iOS] is a dedicated operating system,” Coursey said. “Apple can focus on one operating system for its devices.”

After using Android on his Droid Eris, Coursey found fault with several aspects of the software.

“The Android operating system is different for almost all Android phones, which leads to slow updating and big gaps between updates,” Coursey said.

Each operating system also offers a different store for applications. Apple’s is known as the “App Store,” and Android’s is known as the “App Market.”

“The Market is full of third-party applications and data that does not always work with your phone,” Coursey said. “However, the Android software is mostly open. You can do what you want with the phone and the files on it, giving you a lot more freedom in what you load your phone up with.”

While the iPhone offers a more regulated process, some users, like senior Devin Roberts, enjoy some advantages of the Google Android platform.

“My favorite thing about [Android] is all the options available for the home screen,” Roberts said. “Unlike the iPhone, [Android phones] can have different widgets and features, not just your applications.”

In spite of disadvantages, some Verizon customers, like Roberts, are considering the iPhone but holding off due to contractual obligations.

“I just got my phone in November, so I’ll be keeping it for a while,” Roberts said. “When it comes time for a new phone, I will look at getting the iPhone.”

BY SAL RUSSO

SAL RUSSO

5 PAGE DESIGNERS: SAL RUSSO & MALLORY MANKINECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

NEWSStudents organize benefit concertsAvon teens arrange ‘Feed the Future Part II,’ ‘Rocking for Life’ shows to raise money for charities

Avon students have recognized the need to respond to charities that aid starving children and victims of teen suicide. Three students in Avon High School are planning concerts to raise money and awareness for these causes.

Senior Aleya Lanteigne is planning her second benefit concert to raise money for Third World countries.

“It’s for the [organization] World Visions,” Lanteigne said. “They provide food and basic necessities for Third World countries.”

Lanteigne’s concert is called “Feed the Future Part II.” She held a concert last year that raised $2,000, and it has prepared her for planning this year’s event.

“[Last year’s concert] was fun and really energetic,” Lanteigne said, “and everyone who went was having fun. There was dancing and a very positive attitude. I know more people to talk to and more bands to play. [This second concert is] better publicized because there are a bunch of people who had fun at the first one and want another one.”

Junior Dan Habig attended Lanteigne’s first concert and enjoyed it.

“The show was incredible,” Habig said. “Everything about it, from the bands to the venue to the cause, was all great. My personal favorite band there was Project Hero.”

According to Lanteigne, people are very willing to help her out with what they think is a good cause.

“I plan it,” Lanteigne said, “but I have my friends and people from my church. They help me find volunteers and make snacks.”

Lanteigne has been planning this concert for two months. It will be located at Crossroads Church in Avon in the youth room.

“We will clear out the place, put some chairs in the corners and have a big space for music and dancing,” Lanteigne said.

Senior Marissa Knopf and junior Carly Cole have also planned a benefit concert. Their concert is called “Rocking for Life,” and its goal is to raise awareness about teen suicide. The date of the concert is April 30 from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Hendricks County fairgrounds in the Exposition Hall. They have worked with people in the community to plan the event and want others to know about this issue.

“Marissa Knopf, people from Mental Health America of Hendricks County and I [are working on the concert],” Carly said. “We want to raise awareness and prevention of teen suicides because of all the homosexual suicides and teen life problems.”

Knopf and Carly have been planning the concert for a year and received a grant for the concert. They planned the music, found a location and fundraised like Lanteigne, but they had to go through more steps to find a location. Both groups have sold bracelets and jewelry to raise money for the concerts.

“We have found four rock bands and three acoustic [bands],” Carly said. “We had to do research on how to fundraise, and we had to pick a date that the fairgrounds would let us have a concert. That was hard because we were planning on having it earlier, and we have had to find a place to get food and a bunch of other stuff.”

Carly’s mother, Kim Cole, is proud of what the two have accomplished, and she believes their cause will be heard by the whole community.

BY TASHA ROLLINGS “I think it is inspiring to watch these two girls take an idea and make it a reality,” Kim said. “I think the cause has meaning not only to Marissa and Carly, but to many teenagers at Avon and all around Hendricks County.”

Knopf came up with the starting idea for the project, but Carly has gained insight through the process.

“I personally did not realize teen suicide was a big deal until the homosexual suicides,” Carly said, “and it made me realize that there were so many things you could do to make yourself feel better besides [committing suicide]. You can talk to people and get help, and that is the message we want to send.”

Lanteigne shares this desire to spread a message and wants to help the community out as much as she can.

“My heart goes out to people who cannot provide for themselves,” Lanteigne said, “and it is not their fault that they’re in that situation. I don’t think it’s fair that they don’t get to have what I have. They say a dollar can feed a person for a whole day, and I just

think about how we go out and spend five dollars on one meal. I’m not rich or wealthy by any means, but if I can do something, and everyone did something, it would make a big difference in the world.”

Find ways to have fun this month through music shows, competitionsSun. Tues.

1 2 3 4 5106 98 11 12

16 17 18 192320 21 22 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

Riley Dance Marathon8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Spring Break begins

Metropolitan Interscholastic

Conference Choral Competition

Accents Show Choir State Finals

SOURCES: “AvON HIGH SCHOOL” ONLINE, “THE INDIANAPOLIS GUIDE” ONLINE KRYSTAL ANDRY

Spring Break

Mon. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.

Spring Break Spring Break

Indiana Percussion Association State

Preliminary - all day

James Taylor at the Murat

Flogging Molly at the Murat

Egyptian Room

Ra Ra Riot at The Earth House

Haste the Day at the Murat

Egyptian Room♪

♪

♫

♫

♫St. Patrick’s

Day

March 2011

13714 15

Murat Shine Circus at the

Pepsi Coliseum

Grease at Clowes

Memorial Hall

Cheaper to Keep Her at the Murat Theatre

♫♪

♪

I think it is inspiring to watch these two girls take an idea and make it a reality.

KIM COLE

6 ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

SPORTS

Fan buses bring in crowd at Avon basketball, football gamesSports marketing students advertise to promote fan buses, attendance at sporting eventsBY MIRIAM THOMAS

This year’s varsity sports teams have attracted more fan support than previous years, according to senior Jared Miller. As a varsity basketball player, Miller said that the fans’ presence at games always improves the way the team plays.

“Fans really do motivate us on the court,” Miller said, “and seeing a packed crowd at our games gets us pumped up that much more.”

To accomplish the goal of having a supportive cheering section at every game, Avon’s sports marketing class came up with the idea of having fan buses transport fans to away games. Sports marketing teacher Troy Drosche brought up the idea in class, and he said his students were “excited” about the project. Drosche said putting together the fan bus experience involves the members of the sports marketing class “marketing the concept, generating student interest, making flyers and banners, leaking the information to Facebook and creating the buzz about the event so students are interested.”

Taking the fan bus costs $10, which covers the cost of Hungry Howie’s pizza, drinks, the ride to and from the game and a ticket. Junior Renzo LaRosa, a student who rode the fan bus, said the price was a “good deal.”

“My favorite parts of the fan bus are the all you can eat pizza before the game and the singing we do while we’re on our way to the game,” junior Renzo LaRosa said.

Since fan buses have started, the sports marketing class has provided fan buses twice, with a trip to the football regional final and to the Jan. 14 basketball game at Noblesville. According to Miller, these fan buses were “a major success.”

“We took five packed buses to [the football regional final game],” Miller said, “and everyone had a grand time. [During the Jan. 14 basketball game], as a player on the court, I can honestly say the fans were great.”

Miller is a member of the sports marketing class, and, although he plays on Avon’s basketball team, he is often involved in advertising and spreading the word about the fan bus. The sports marketing class advertises with videos on the announcements and posters and banners in the hallways.

“My main role in organizing the fan bus is getting the word out,” Miller said. “Advertising is the key to success. You have to be creative so people will be interested.”

According to Miller, a major benefit of the fan buses is that school spirit has greatly increased since the advent of the fan bus, but he said the school still has work to do to elevate school pride.

“Last year, you would have never even been able to imagine a turnout like [the one] we had at the regional football game,” Miller said. “With that being said, we still have some improving to do.”

This improvement, Miller said, could come from the addition of more pep rallies.

Drosche agreed with Miller that school pride has “definitely increased” because of the “extremely successful” fan buses.

“At basketball games, the student section is getting more unified in its efforts,” Drosche said. “My goal in the future is to continue to build school spirit through this class.”

LaRosa said that students who participate in the fan bus feel like they are able to contribute to the team’s morale.

“The fans that attend the games support the team and also provide the motivation that is needed to help our team win,” LaRosa said.

Miller agreed with LaRosa and encourages the student body to participate in future fan buses and come to more games.

“It means a lot to see an abundance of fans at our games,” Miller said. “[The players on the court] definitely feed off the energy from the crowd.”

The student section, dressed in pink, cheers for a local news station’s camera at the Avon basketball game against Zionsville on Jan. 28. Avon won the game 68-58.The theme for the game was “Coaches versus Cancer,” and T-shirts were sold to raise funds for breast cancer research and to raise awareness. “My favorite thing about the basketball games is the themes,” senior Hunter Dillman said, “and the fact that I’m there to support the team. Also, being with my friends is a lot of fun. There [have been more] new and creative themes than in the past, and the cheers keep getting better.”

OLIVIA OBERSeniors Danny Russello, Adam Pedevilla, Dillon Fallis, Matt Hayes and Blaise Bartlett cheer at the varsity basketball game on Jan. 21. Fallis regularly dresses up for theme nights. “I enjoy cheering for school sports because it’s just fun to support my friends who play,” Fallis said.

ELLIE PRICE

7PAGE DESIGNERS: MIRIAM THOMAS & KENTON HIPSHER ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

SPORTS

Dancers prepare for regionals, state Avon Gold Dance Team practices lyrical, jazz, hip-hop routinesBY ELLIE PRICE

ELIZABETH BURNETT, 12

“”

We all work together and love what we do.

ELLIE PRICESenior Kaylee Zusan, junior Amanda Zolcak, and senior Elizabeth Burnett practice their lyrical dance on Jan. 25. The Avon Gold Dance Team practices three days a week, with additional practices added before competitions. “The most challenging thing about being on the dance team is that it takes up a lot of time,” Zusan said. “It can get very tiring, but it is all worth it once it’s over.”

Throughout the year, the Avon Gold Dance Team (AGDT) performs at athletic events and in competitions.

At football and basketball games, the AGDT performs either its competition dances or a dance specifically created for the night’s theme. Previous dances include “Unstoppable” by Kat DeLuna, “Telephone” by Lady Gaga and “Dynamite” by Taio Cruz.

“Performing at the games is always fun,” senior Lana Thompson said. “We all get together and pick out music that we think everyone will like best. Typically, we'll use our competition routines to keep them polished.”

On Jan. 22 at Tuttle Middle School, the AGDT competed in its first competition of the season. The team placed third in hip-hop and won the lyrical and jazz events.

“It was really nerve-wracking but fun at the same time,” freshman Kati Dendler said. “We were all laughing, but before we went on, we huddled together and prayed. The judges just made it really stressful.”

This season, the team will compete in two more invitationals and in regionals. With a win at regionals, the team would advance to the state competition.

“Competitions are my favorite part of dance team,” senior Morgan George said. “Our whole season is based on them, and that’s when we really get to show other schools how hard we’ve worked and how dedicated we are.”

At competitions, AGDT dancers also perform solos and ensembles. In one ensemble, the seven seniors,

Kelsie McGee, Haley Wildman, Kaylee Zusan, Elizabeth Burnett, Kandyce Anderson, Thompson and George, dance to “Starting Now” by Ingrid Michaelson.

“The meaning has to do with starting over after graduation and moving on,” McGee said.

The team’s goals include qualifying all three dances—lyrical, jazz and hip-hop—for state in March.

“We will work to achieve these goals by cleaning the dances so every dancer executes them at their best,” coach Jennifer Hinshaw said. “We will also work on performing and strengthening their technique. Spending a great deal of time on the gym floor will help make all of their formations perfect.”

The AGDT practices from 3:15 to 5 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays and from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays. Additional rehearsals are added before competitions.

“Practices are hilarious, to say the least,” George said. “Yes, we get done what’s needed to be done and stay motivated, but everyone is just so funny and dramatic. I think that in order for us to enjoy going to practices, we have to make the most with all of our time, but a little comedy is never a bad thing.”

McGee said one of her favorite things about dancing with the AGDT is the friendships made with the dancers.

“The friendship among the dancers is priceless,” McGee said. “We all can definitely get on each other's nerves since we spend at least six out of seven days of the week together for the whole year, but, at the end of the day, I'd have to say that there is no one else we'd rather be friends with.”

ELLIE PRICE

8 ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

SPORTSTrack and field team conditions for upcoming season

BY GRACE KELLY

Avon girls’ tennis aims for sectional championship

Boys’, girls’ track and field team takes advantage of new gym

BY MALLORY MANKIN

Girls’ tennis team prepares for this year’s season

MEGAN MEDELLIN

With the new field house open as an indoor practice field in the winter, track and field athletes have been able to extend their season to year-round conditioning.

This year, the boys’ and girls’ track and field teams took advantage of the building addition by organizing “Winter Orioles” conditioning.

“The distance runners have been training since Thanksgiving break,” head coach Zachary Toothman said. “They’re probably more fit than anyone. They’ve already started doing more intense workouts [such as] tempo runs and faster stuff.”

Toothman is new to the team this year, along with the boys’ and girls’ long-sprint coach Colin Altevogt. The boys’ team has also added new workouts and night practices, according to junior Brandon Cassiday.

“Abs, handstands, pole drills, legs, pull-up and free weights [are some exercises we do],” Cassiday said. “They make us stronger and more prepared and give us improved techniques.”

Junior Josh Smith, a thrower on the track and field team, feels “more experienced” in shotput this season.

“The drills [I do for the shotput rotation] create muscle memory so that it will be natural motions when in competition,” Smith said. “The lifts help you be more explosive and move the shot and disc faster.”

The girls’ coach, Stephanie Chenoweth, said she is looking forward to this year’s season. She will be able to coach the entire season this year, after last year’s absence due to maternity leave. She hopes to see leadership from the team, especially her seniors. This year will be Chenoweth’s first group of seniors that she coached for four years.

“My overall goal for this track season is basically to see improvement,” Chenoweth said. “It’s my first four year senior group, and I have very high expectations for them and the entire team.”

Senior Taylor Heidorn has “high expectations” for this season as well.

“I feel like this season is going to be the best so far,” Heidorn said. “All of the girls are really excited and ready to compete. It’s going to be a great season.”

Senior Rachel Lucas’ main goal this year is “to improve from meet to meet” and make it to state again.

“This season is going to be an amazing one,” Lucas said. “This is my last year, and I am going to make it the best year.”

After school on Mondays and Thursdays, tennis players have open tennis practice in the fieldhouse to prepare for their upcoming season.

In addition to attending the optional open tennis practices, some players, such as senior Bree Sawyer, also take private lessons at a health club.

“I am taking private lessons once a week at Healthplex,” Sawyer said. “I am also playing on United States Tennis Association (USTA)’s team tennis with two other Avon players, Bethany Harris and Megan Locke.”

Harris practices year-round to keep up her game.“I play year-round, including weekly lessons at

DePauw University and various USTA tournaments,” Harris said.

Harris, who plays singles, has set both individual and team-oriented goals for the season.

“As an individual, I would like to be competitive in our tough Hoosier Crossroads Conference,” Harris said. “As a team, I would like to see us win sectionals.”

Coach Stan Malless also has the goal of winning sectionals this year after last year’s loss in the sectional finals to Brownsburg.

“My goal for this season is to win sectionals,” Malless said. “[I believe we can achieve this by] improving at a rapid rate to be the strongest team when sectionals arrive. ”

Malless was inducted into the Indiana HS Tennis Hall of Fame during this year’s Indiana Tennis Convention.

Sawyer believes teamwork is an important part of achieving the team’s goals.

“I feel like this season’s players will all work very hard and work as a team instead of just for themselves,” Sawyer said. “We all care about each other and not only try to improve our own game but the whole team’s game.”

Harris agreed that this year’s members are hard workers.

“I think we have a very hardworking team,” Harris said, “but we also know how to have fun with Malless as our coach.”

Harris said senior leadership and example will also play a role in their success.

One tradition that Harris and Sawyer plan to keep is saying “Hallahoogaba” before every match.

“We always say ‘Hallahoogaba’ before each match and decide as a team what ‘Hallahoogaba’ should mean for the day,” Sawyer said.

Tennis tryouts will begin March 14, when players will compete for their position on the team.

At an open play in the fieldhouse on Jan. 27, sophomore Mikala Hillis prepares to serve the ball to her opponent. The coach of the girls team is Stan Malless, and the first day of tryouts is May 14. “I can’t wait for tennis season to start up again,” Hillis said. “This season’s shaping up to be even better than last year, and I’m really excited.”

MEGAN MEDELLIN

At track conditioning on Jan. 20, sophomore Collin Nguyen vaults onto pads. This is Nguyen’s second year of vaulting for Avon. The pole vaulters’ first meet is March 5. “I really enjoyed pole vaulting last track season,” Nguyen said. “I can’t wait for the new season to start.”

ORIOLE UPDATEWINTER SPORTS WRAP-UP

Jan. 13: Girls’ Basketball v. Pike Jan. 15: Girls’ Basketball v. Noblesville Jan. 18: Boys’ and Girls’ Swimming v. Chatard Jan . 20: Boys’ Wrestling v. Plainfield Jan. 21: Boys’ Basketball v. Hamilton SE Jan. 22: Girls’ Basketball v. Harrison Jan. 25: Boys’ and Girls’ Swimming v. Cascade - Senior NightJan. 28: Boys’ Basketball v. Zionsville Jan. 29: Boys’ Wrestling at Sectionals

SPORTS

9PAGE DESIGNERS: GRACE KELLY & BELLE LEBEAUECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

OLIVIA OBER

MEGAN MEDELLIN

ATHLETES OF THE ISSUEZack Webster, 10How do people usually react when they find out you are a black belt?They seem really surprised and usually ask if I could kick their butt.

What misconceptions do people have about martial arts? That if you are into karate, you must be into fighting. That is totally not true.

Haleigh Chasteen, 11

What accomplishments are you most proud of in softball?Beating the number one team in the state, Hamilton Southeastern, last year. I hit two doubles and a homer.

Why did you decide to begin playing softball?I saw my sister pitch, and I wanted to be as good as she is.

MIRIAM THOMAS

SPORTS SCENES

MEGAN MEDELLIN

6-3Boys’ SwimmingState Finals: Feb. 25, Feb. 26 @ Indiana University Natatorium

7-13Girls’ Basketball

8-1Girls’ SwimmingIndividuals competed at State

8-8Boys’ WrestlingMade it to Regionals

16-2Boys’ BasketballSectionals: March 1 @ Decatur

Season ended on Feb. 9

ELLIE PRICE

FEATURE

ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

BY KRYSTAL ANDRY Previously, junior Tinara Davis wrote poetry for the club, and now, in her third year as a member of African Diaspora, she is captain of the step team.

“I love all the people you get to know,” Davis said, “and, of course, learning about the different cultures [in the club].”

Davis said African Diaspora is becoming more diverse this year.

“We have Latinos and Caucasian people in the club as well,” Davis said. “[African Diaspora] is about teaching people about other cultures.”

According to Davis, the efforts the cast put in during production were “amazing.”

Robinson agreed: “The challenging part is putting in the extra hours to practice after school. The students have been very dedicated, despite the weather.”

Sophomore Ronald Price has been in African Diaspora for two years. Price explained his favorite part about being a part of the club.

“My favorite part is getting to meet new people and showing them your talents,” Price said.

Price explained what he looked forward to the most about putting on this Black History Month program.

“I am looking forward [to showing] everybody what I can do,” Price said, “and I want everybody to be inspired to join [African Diaspora] because you will have a lot of fun and get to do new things.”

Smith explained what she thinks is the most challenging part about putting on this year’s Black History Month program.

“Preparing for the Black History Month program is by far the most stressful part of the year,” Smith said. “You work so hard because you want the show to be perfect. [I am looking forward to] presenting it to the school and just enjoying time with my peers.”

Smith, who joined the group her freshman year, explained why she joined African Diaspora.

“I joined because it was about time that Avon adopted something that celebrated African Culture.”

Moore explained the most challenging part of putting on an annual show.

“There is a lot of planning that comes with presenting a show,” Moore said in a January interview. “The behind the scenes things such as media and layouts are often very challenging. However, it all becomes worth it once we see the outcome.”

On Feb. 23 in the Avon High School auditorium, African Diaspora hosted its third annual Black History Month Program. World Language teacher Julisis Robinson explained what influenced her and business teacher Ranielle Moore to start the club and what the purpose of the club is.

“When we formed the club three years ago, our mission was to promote diversity and to educate people about the African influences in certain cultures,” Robinson said. “Over the years, our club has grown in many ways. Our club has also become more diverse with different ethnic backgrounds, and we have developed friendship and unity.”

The program had collaboration with the Avon jazz band and a special performance by History teacher Brandon Wagler. Moore said she loves seeing the students’ passion when they are working on the show.

“We really feel like a family this year,” Moore said, “and we have a lot of great talent. I’m very proud of them, and I’m excited about future growth.”

Robinson explained that this year’s theme focused on leadership and learning about people that have led in the past.

“We’re very excited about including a lot of educational topics in this year’s Black History Month program,” Robinson said in a January interview.

There were around 40 students that participated in the program this year. Junior Destinee Smith explained the purpose of the club.

“We learn about the varieties of cultures that are associated with African culture,” Smith said. “We also spend time using our talents to educate our fellow students on the importance of learning not only your history, but the histories of all the people of the world.”

African Diaspora aims to promote diversity, educate other students about African influencesAvon hosts third annual Black History Month program

12

TRADITIONAL AFRICAN DIASPORA DANCESMerengue: Afro-Latino/Latin Dance, the national dance of the Dominican Republic, form of ballroom dancingStepping: dance where the body is used to make rhythms and soundsHip Hop: waving, tutting, break dancing and the Douggie

SOURCE: INTERVIEW WITH JULISIS ROBINSON, JANUARY 2011 BELLE LEBEAU

♪ ♪♫ ♫♪♪ ♫

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♫♪ ♫♫

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♫♪♫

Freshmen Briaun Powell and Tiffany Price, sophomore Tiera Tucker and senior Kayla Jackson audition on Feb. 8 for a spot in the step show for the Black History Month program. Each audition consisted of one timed step routine taught three times before the dancers had to perform it at tryouts. “If you love to dance and want to learn, [African Diaspora] will accept you gladly,” Price said.

KENTON HIPSHER

Avon Accents show choir hopes to head to state finals

STUDENT & STAFF OF THE ISSUE

13PAGE DESIGNERS: MALLORY MANKIN & KRYSTAL ANDRYECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

FEATUREBY MEGAN MEDELLIN

World War II because winning is always better than losing, so the Vietnam War is out.

What is your favorite war?

That deep down inside, I am a kind and generous person.

What is one thing that would surprise students about you?

What do you do with your spare time?

If you were an animal, what would you be and why?A squirrel so I could climb trees and descend upside down all spider-like.

I like to watch TV...while stroking my ‘beard’ while pondering the meaning of life.

Choir adds new choreographer, modern pop music to try to improve, win more shows

Zoe Bestmann, 11 Aron Bright, Social Studies Teacher

Senior Matthew Mugumya practices “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of These)” at an Accents practice. Accents is Avon’s mixed show choir of 36 singers, as well as 8 pit band members. Practices are held every day and are led by Roger Dreher. “[Show choir] is really fun,” Mugumya said, “and it takes a lot of work. In the end, it’s a good time, and I like the competitions.”

MANDY PACKNETT

boys sing a combination of “Slow Ride” by Foghat and “Free Ride” by Edgar Winter Group. Dreher calls this combination the “Ride Medley.”

“My favorite dances are ‘Sweet Dreams’ and ‘Bring Me to Life,’” Meece said. “‘Sweet Dreams is so robotic and [flows well]. ‘Bring Me to Life’ gives you an eerie feel, and it just shows you a huge [contrast] to the grinning, happy show choir.”

Dreher said that the students are doing well. They attend Student Resource Time and help others who have been absent or need help.

“One of the best things about Accents is the family atmosphere,” Meece said. “There is no pressure and no judgment, and we are ourselves. That’s what brings us the flare of personality and charisma because we are all so oriented with supporting, helping and consoling each other that we don’t care.”

The show choir has already competed at Lebanon and placed fourth. The Accents have upcoming competitions at Franklin Central on Feb. 26 and at North Central on March 5.

“Competitions are the best,” Meyer said. “My favorite moments are always making the girls scream and sometimes even drool. We are going to four competitions, and we want to win all of them.”

Show choir students enjoy being a part of Accents for different reasons, according to Meece.

“I love the whole shebang: the singing, the dancing, the fun times and the fabulous outfits,” Meece said. “It is all so amazing that you cannot love just one thing about the Accents.”

Last year, the Accents show choir made finals in the large mixed division at an invitational competition; this year, the Accents are hoping to score high enough to qualify for state finals.

“We made finals as a large, mixed group for the first time last year,” piano and show choir teacher Roger Dreher said. “I would like to do it again.”

There are horn, guitar, bass, drum and keyboard players that are members of the Accents. These musicians are called the pit band and have already practiced with band teacher Rick Wagoner. The pit band joined the Accents the first week of February, but the Accents competed in their first competition without the pit band on Jan. 22.

“We went to an early competition to push the group to work hard the first few weeks,” Dreher said. “My hope is that this experience will better prepare us for the other competitions.”

The Accents have custom-designed outfits and have added a new choreographer, Jennifer Toney, to their show choir staff this year to help with the Accents’ performance. With these new additions, sophomore Reed Meece is hoping the show choir will “clean up [their] dances” and make it to state.

“I love the combination of dancing and singing amazing musical selections,” Meece said.

The Accents are performing an all pop music show, with no Broadway, standard or classical songs.

“I like singing popular songs that people actually know and, of course, showing off,” senior Brody Meyer said. Not all of the songs are sung by the show choir as a whole. Certain sections sing different parts of the show. The girls sing “I’m Outta Love” by Anastacia, and the

Dreher said that he enjoys the Accents because “it is fun to come up with an idea on paper and see it come to life through the hard work of so many individuals.”

According to Dreher, the show is a collaborative effort of both adults and students.

“It takes a full team of adults (arranger, directors, choreographers, set dads, chaperones, seamstresses, costume designers, instrumental director, booster officers, etc.) and students (singers/dancers, back stage crew and pit band) to make a show choir show happen,” Dreher said.

SARAH KENNEDY

BY ASHLEY HANCOCK

Although Allison “misses” film photography, he “prefers” digital photography.

“There is something about the limitless possibilities that a digital camera and Adobe Photoshop bring that a dark room never could,” Allison said. “I also like that digital [photography] gives the photographer instant feedback on the image; it makes the learning process much easier and the success rate much higher.”

Besides the new opportunities that digital photography supplies, Allison also “[loves] seeing how different people can come up with such different ideas for their projects and watching them take the RAW photos out of the camera and transform them into works of art on the computer.”

Students taking the digital photography class can expect to learn how to operate a digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera, how to compose a photograph and how to edit pictures using Adobe Photoshop.

Along with the digital photography class joining the art program’s curriculum, this was

the first year that the art portfolio class was offered to students.

“This class was created to help students majoring in art in college prepare their art portfolio,” art portfolio teacher Lindsay Frey said. “Most students have to work on improving their drawing skills to get the required five to six drawings from direct observation needed for college portfolio requirements. After that, each student works more on an individual basis, trying to strengthen the quality of the work in their portfolio.”

Students interested in taking the new art portfolio class should be prepared to create art at a college level and expect their projects to be graded on a college-level scale.

“I can’t speak for all the students,” Mrs. Frey said, “but I am guessing they think it is a lot of work. However, I think they are glad to have time to work on their art portfolio in school and not feel rushed to put it together right before their application deadlines.”

Unlike the other classes, the AP Art History class is not being offered for the first time this year. Although the class has been a part of the art department’s curriculum previously, AP Art History teacher Robert Frey would like to see a change in the class.

“I would like to see more students get involved in this class,” Mr. Frey said.

“AP Art History promotes an in-depth understanding of works of art and the people who created them,” Mr. Frey said. “This course is

14 ECHO ·FEBRUARY 2011

Avon’s art curriculum receives renovationsFEATUREAvon teachers, students adapt to new art classes; students earn college credit for Advanced Placement art courses

highly recommended for students who are serious about continuing their art studies as well as any and all college bound students and students pursuing an Academic Honors Diploma. We come to understand art on a deeper level. It allows us to begin to see not only how, when and where art was made, but why it was created.”

The increased amount of publicity for the AP Art History class this year, including posters featured school-wide in the hallways and an interview regarding the class on The Early Bird news report, was Mr. Frey’s doing.

“I designed [the posters] on Adobe Photoshop with the help of Mr. Allison and some of the students in his Visual Communications class,” Mr. Frey said. “The point of the posters was to get the word out about this course and highlight some of the benefits.”

Students interested in taking the AP Art History class are not required to take any previous art classes or have any artistic ability. AP Art History is the only Advanced Placement class that is offered to students at Avon that does not have any pre-requisites but is still available only to the sophomore, junior and senior classes. Also, taking this class fulfills all of the fine arts credits required for the Academic Honors Diploma and allows eligible students to earn weighted and college credit while learning about the origins of and reasons behind art.

“The primary focus [of the class] is learning about a wide variety of world cultures,” Mr. Frey said. “Most major cultures in history have created art in some form. Understanding a culture’s motivations for creating artwork goes a long way when it comes to really understanding what they were all about.”

Accompanying the changes to Avon High School’s schedule and facility are this year’s additions to and replacement of some of the school’s art programs.

Instead of film photography, digital photography is now the only photography class offered.

Also, an art portfolio class has been added to the art department in order to help artists compose a professional portfolio for college review.

Although it is not new to the art program, the Advanced Placement (AP) Art History class has been promoted this year in order to encourage more students to participate in the class.

Since the changes to the photography program, digital photography teacher Dustin Allison “[misses] watching prints develop in the dark room.”

“There was something special about watching the images appear on the paper under the red lights,” Allison said.

AP Art History- A college course featuring the study of the history and development of different styles of art; the only art course that does not involve actually creating art; taught by Robert FreyPortfolio Art- A course for students planning on a career in art to develop their portfolios; taught by Lindsay Frey

Digital Photography- Students take their pictures with digital cameras and learn how to use Photoshop to develop their portfolios; taught by Dustin Allison and Raymond Melevage

SOURCE: AHS PROGRAM OF STUDIES MIRIAM THOMAS

Art at AvonArt program grows, promotes new classes

Junior Nathan White listens to teacher Robert Frey’s lecture while in Advanced Placement (AP) Art History. White does not plan to study art history in college, but he believes he is “better off [with] the experience.” “The things we learn are interesting,” White said. “It’s cool to see how people’s taste in art has changed thoughout time and how art has changed society.”

BEN BROWN

15PAGE DESIGNERS: RACHEL FISCHER & BEN BROWNECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

FEATURE

After receiving his degree at IUPUI, Haiducu realized that he “loved” to teach. About a year after he graduated, a job opening came up at Avon High School. Haiducu applied for the position, and he has continued to teach at Avon for more than a decade.

Fellow physics teacher Micah Borcherding said he has learned from Haiducu to “work harder” to find out the best way to lecture his students on the material.

“I’ve learned a lot of different ways that I can present the [physics] material than what I thought I could [from Haiducu],” Borcherding said. “I’ve learned to come up with crazy ideas because a lot of times they are just as good as [ideas] that aren’t crazy.”

Junior Scott Myers, who is currently Haiducu’s student, explained why he “likes” Haiducu as an educator.

“Mr. Haiducu is really smart,” Myers said, “and he’s pretty good at explaining [the material] he has for the [physics] lessons.”

Haiducu feels that physics is beneficial to a student’s academic success.

“I would like to see each Avon High School student take at least one physics course,” Haiducu said, “because I feel that [taking at least one course in physics] would help [an Avon student] academically. This is why I launched the ‘Power of Physics’ campaign through commercials and shows.”

BY DAVID ALLSPAW

Haiducu discusses his life journey, from living in Romania to becoming teacher at Avon High School

Physics teacher Paul Haiducu landed a position at Avon over 10 years ago.

Haiducu grew up as a Romanian in Curtea de Argeş, which, according to Haiducu, was “a little, tiny town of about 40,000 people [located] toward the center of [Romania], about 25 miles away from Dracula’s Castle.” Haiducu was raised by his mother, who worked as a Romanian language and Latin teacher, and his father, who happened to be a physics teacher.

Haiducu contrasted his home country of Romania, which at the time operated under a Communist-dominated government, with the American, democratic society he lives in now.

“Products [such as] groceries and clothes were scarce and often had to be bought in a black market,” Haiducu said. “Socially, though, I think people were a lot closer to each other, and friendships were built out of nothing. In a way, we were forming kind of a common front against the political system at that time.”

Haiducu feels that Romania’s educational system during this time was “different” from the United States’

current system of education because of the increased level of authority given to Romanian teachers.

“The perceived [Romanian high school] teacher’s authority was higher than what we have today in the United States,” Haiducu said. “I think that the much higher [Romanian] teacher’s expectations contributed in a positive way to my academic and professional success.”

During his time in Romania, Haiducu was forced to join his home nation’s military, in which he became an officer. Haiducu said he didn’t particularly enjoy his term in the Romanian armed forces, yet he feels the experience was “very interesting” and gave him “pretty good training” in the end.

Haiducu said his passion for physics first emerged in his years as an adolescent.

“My dad let me come into the lab rooms and even [allowed me to] teach some of the [physics] classes for lower levels,” Haiducu said. “In high school, I met a university professor, who was also my tutor, and he introduced me to all kinds of interesting problems that would model reality very closely.”

After completing high school, Haiducu attended college in Romania before obtaining a scholarship in 1993 to further his education in America, specifically at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). At both universities, he received a degree in physics with a specialization in biophysics.

RACHEL FISCHER

Paul Haiducu‘Power of Physics’teaches students

A&E

16 ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

Avon band students have the opportunity to participate in Avon’s jazz band, which is instructed by Chris Drabyn. They can also improve their jazz skills with the formation of a new jazz class.

The jazz band consists of a group of students who meet outside of school and perform at jazz festivals around the state. They recently performed at the Purdue Jazz Festival at Purdue University.

Drabyn said the importance of jazz is not only in the music, but in what it brings to people. He looks beyond the musical elements of jazz and sees it as a way to bring people together and as a medium for world betterment.

“[Jazz] has helped me become a better musician and person,” Drabyn said. “I think it is important to have as many people exposed to the music as possible. I think it makes people become better and helps them think in different ways.”

Drabyn also sees jazz as a positive representation of the United States and its history.

“[Jazz] has done a great job of bringing all cultures together, from races to other countries,” Drabyn said. “You can go to Paris and see people enjoying jazz. It really represents the United States well; it shows a country that is united, not divided.”

Jazz is an American music genre that focuses on improvisation. Jazz teacher Rick Wagoner said its American heritage and openness to improvisation is what makes jazz so special and unique.

“Jazz is the only musical form that originated in the United States,” Wagoner said. “It’s a good medium for self-expression, and the reason I do it is because of jazz’s American heritage. I’m proud of its history.”

Avon’s new jazz class is a place where students can practice jazz and gain a better understanding of the music. Wagoner shows his pride in jazz in part by teaching it to his students.

“[I teach jazz] to keep the tradition going on, to keep the history alive,” Wagoner said.

Students, such as jazz band member William Brown, junior, say that another important aspect of jazz is its freedom and improvisation. Improvisation allows musicians to create their music as they perform it.

“Jazz is unique because its common element is creativity,” Brown said. “[I enjoy it] mostly because it is a way to creatively express myself.”

Jazz band member Waylon Yates, junior, said that his favorite part of jazz is its freedom and improvisation but that these musical elements can also be the most difficult.

“I find the hardest part of jazz to be improvisation and making up my own stuff,” Yates said.

According to Wagoner, to be good jazz musicians, students must understand the music, their instrument and performance.

“It is like in band,” Wagoner said. “If you can play your scales, you can play anything. You emulate great musicians and just learn the history of your instrument.”

Wagoner said that one of his favorite parts of jazz and teaching is not only spreading the history and culture of the music but also seeing his students perform.

“I like to watch my students become better at improvisation and come out of their shells,” Wagoner said. “[I like seeing] their emotions come out of their instruments, and [seeing them] become better musicians and understand what jazz is all about.”

Jazz age revived at AvonJazz band members share thoughts on uniqueness of jazz style, historyBY BEN BROWN

ASHLEY HANCOCKSenior Scott Burns tunes his guitar before practice in jazz class on Jan. 21. Burns has been in jazz band for five years. “There are so many forms of jazz,” Burns said. “You get to choose the type that fits best with your personality and allows you to express yourself.”

ASHLEY HANCOCKSenior Matt Riggen and sophomore Shelby Enlow warm up before jazz rehearsal on Jan. 21. Riggen has participated in jazz band since sixth grade. “Jazz band allows participants to improvise,” Riggen said. “It gives students a chance to say what they want with music.”

Student Art Gallery

Digital photography teacher Dustin Allison nominated junior Emily Young, who created a Surrealistic apple for her photography project. “She did a lot of really nice work to blend the two photos together to make a really nice Surrealism piece,” Allison said.

Junior Rikki Niblack was nominated for her vase project in her Ceramics III class. “Rikki is able to find a very creative solution to each and every project while not allowing her work to lack in craftsmanship,” ceramics teacher Sarah Fowler said.

Senior Tessa French was nominated for her self-portrait drawing in her art portfolio class. “I like that Tessa drew herself from a mirror for this project,” art teacher Lindsay Frey said. “It’s difficult to draw in 2-D when looking at a 3-D form, and she did a great job.”

ASHLEY HANCOCKSTUDENTS WERE NOMINATED FOR EXCEPTIONAL ART PROJECTS

17PAGE DESIGNERS: SARAH KENEDY & JORDAN COFFMANECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

A&EDrama club puts on 23rd Scene Night

Hours of Operation:Mon-Thurs: 10:30-9:30Fri & Sat: 10:30-10:30Sun: 11:00-9:30

Lunch Buff etMonday-Thursday11:00-1:30

Located at the corner of Staff ord Rd. and 267

STILL THE ORIGINAL!

Hours of Operation:Mon-Thurs: 10:30-9:30Fri & Sat: 10:30-10:30Sun: 11:00-9:30Lunch BuffetMonday-Thursday11:00-1:30

Located at the corner of Stafford Rd. and 267

STILL THE ORIGINAL!

Avon theater students work together to complete another performanceBY SARAH KENNEDY

Scene Night has been a drama club tradition at Avon High School for the last 23 years. It has always been a collection of scenes directed and casted by the juniors and seniors of drama club. This year was no different.

“Scene Night was started shortly after my first year of teaching at Avon,” Scene Night supervisor Lori Riley said. “It doesn’t cost us anything to do, so it is a great program for the students to have every year.”

According to Scene Night producer and Avon graduate Vanessa Belcher, students turned in more scripts this year than in the past. This allowed her to choose a wider variety of scenes.

“While I was trying to figure out what scenes to use, I had to cut a lot of scenes,” Belcher said. “We had more scripts than normal this year, and even though I didn’t want to cut them, we couldn’t use them all either.”

The final scene in this year’s Scene Night was the final dance from the movie “Dirty Dancing,” choreographed by Avon graduate Hannah Belcher. It was arranged differently than the movie because there were five couples doing the dance instead of one. Most of the students that participated in the dance started practicing in November, two months before Scene Night practices officially started.

“We all worked really hard on the final dance for Scene Night,” senior Tommy Beresky said. “Student Resource Time really came in handy with perfecting the dance and doing some cleaning. The dancers did a really good job and were able to pull it off with the lift.”

Scene Night auditions were open to all students. Freshman Josh Kruze participated for the first time this year and was cast in multiple scenes, such as “Dad,” “Barber Shop” and “The Button.”

“I have always enjoyed doing things in front of people and performing in front of people,” Kruze said. “It was a great experience to be able to go out there on stage and show everyone what I could do. Performing in front of an audience was a new but exciting experience.”

Some of the actors in Scene Night have been in the show before. Senior Kiersten Harris has been involved with the theatre department all four years of her high school career.

“I really love the people that are in the drama club and Scene Night,” Harris said. “It’s really sad that this was my last one, but I know that I want to come back and see it next year.”

Everyone who auditions for Scene Night is cast in at least two scenes. Student directors choose cast members for their scenes.

“It was really great this year because I was cast in quite a few scenes and was able to direct one as well,” Harris said.

Some scenes in Scene Night were written by students, and others were ones students based on sketches off of other shows, such as “Saturday Night Live” or “The Whitest Kids You Know.”

“When I was writing ‘Ethan’ with Aleya [Lanteigne], we really wanted a scene that would make people laugh and remember when they were little and seeing their bed time story in their head,” Beresky said.

This was senior Brady Burke’s first time watching Scene Night. He was very happy with the show and wished he would have gone to see all four years of Scene Night while he was in high school.

“I loved all of [Scene Night],” Burke said. “It was absolutely hilarious, and everyone did a fantastic job.”

Drama club uses the money earned through Scene Night to purchase props, costumes, costume materials and set materials for the spring play.

“[The money] will be used to get anything that we need before the play actually happens,” Riley said.

The spring play will be an original play written by Riley in honor of this being her 25th year of directing plays at Avon. The play is called “Blue Moon” and is a comedy murder mystery set in 1959.

“I really enjoy seeing the show at the end of the season,” Riley said. “It takes a lot of hard work, and all the actors work really hard to make the show a success.”

RACHEL FISCHERScene Night performers pose for the final scene in the “West Side Story” skit. Senior Brittany Butterfield has participated in Scene Night since her sophomore year. “The scenes were a lot better this year,” Butterfield said, “and the [technique] was harder. It was a really good show.”

9271 U.S. 36Avon, IN

(317)-271-2727www.monicals.com

Pizza

Pasta

Salad

Sandwiches

Celebrates Black History Month

One of my favorite parts of Indianapolis is its beautiful downtown area with its breathtaking skyline and majestic canal. One building downtown that always seems to catch my eye is the Madam CJ Walker Theatre. Every time I drive past, it is hard for me to overlook. Once nicknamed the “crown jewel of Indiana Avenue,” the building lives up to my expectations with its Broadway appearance and Hollywood feel.

In my recent visit, I found the inside of the building as elegant and grand as the outside. My tour guide, Thomas Ridley, directed me into the theatre, where I was amazed with what I saw. The theatre walls were hand-sculpted and painted, which complemented the theatre’s Egyptian theme. On each side of the stage stood two spheres as tall as a phone post, and on the stage sat two sphinxes that looked out at the audience. Under the balcony hung lights covered with shields just like those African warriors carried in Egyptian times.

The theatre does not offer only jazz and dance but will be playing movies in the summer and so much more. Upstairs on the fourth floor of the theater is the grand ballroom used for dancing and other special events. One of Madam CJ Walker’s hair salons that is still in business today is connected to the building, along with a museum.

Not only is the building as elegant as it was 80 years ago, but the building has great history of the African American culture associated with it. Going to the theatre for a $5 tour is a great way to celebrate Black History month.

OPINION

18 ECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

“So, we’re going to a poetry slam at the end of the month at Starbucks,” my friend told me offhandedly one day, “and you should come.” I could not help but laugh initially. I instantly pictured a hazy jazz club with a hipster sporting a lopsided beret while spewing his rhymes; his audience then snapped its fingers aloofly in approval. The hilarity was too much. Even though I have always wanted to attend a poetry slam, I stereotyped the slams as gimmicky and overdramatic before attending one. Later, I found I was completely wrong. Throughout my research, I found that slam poetry has a very rich history. It is a young art form, having its humble beginnings in a Chicago jazz club in 1985, according to “Slampapi” Online. Construction worker and poet Marc Smith started the poetry reading series that eventually evolved into the poetry slams now present around the world. Unlike a simple poetry reading, the slams feature open mics, guest performers and competition. The poets battle for the crowd’s approval. Some of these slams are not to be taken lightly and even encourage the audience to groan at subpar poetry performances. The Plainfield Starbucks hosts a slam purely for fun on the last Friday of each month. The poets still express themselves with original, emotive performances like those in Chicago, proving that it’s not the competition that matters; it’s the poetry. I certainly have revised my stereotypes of slam poetry and now appreciate it as an art form. Someday, I even hope to find myself on stage.

For about 30 years, President Hosni Mubarak ruled Egypt, despite citizens’ calls for fair elections. On Jan. 25, Egyptians took a stand and revolted against their president. Unfortunately, at least 125 Egyptians died during the riots, according to “Sky News” Online. President Barack Obama has decided to step in and try to assist America’s ally, Egypt, to control the revolts and to get a stable government. The American government is talking to the Egyptian government about getting a new, fair election set up in Egypt. On Feb. 12, Mubarak stepped down from Egypt’s government. America’s government should help set up fair elections in Egypt with candidates that support a democratic Egypt so that Egypt will stay an American ally.

President Jimmy Carter went down in history as the president that “lost Iran” as an ally, and according to “NY Times” Online, Obama will go down in history as the president that “lost Egypt” if he does not help Egypt’s government become a fair democracy. Right now, Egypt would not be able to set up its own democracy due to all of the politicians that supported the corrupt government that Mubarak ran. Obama does not want to lose Egypt as an ally because it has supported the United States in previous wars, according to “New America” Online. Egypt is an important ally to America, so losing its support would be disastrous.

America should support the citizens’ fight for fair elections. With America’s support, Egypt should become a better, stronger nation.

BREAKING NEWS

MUSEWORTHY If Kinect is

the future of gaming, I am not sure I want to leave the Stone Age yet. The best way to describe the Kinect—and why I am wary of it—would be to recount my first day with the machine.

A friend and I installed the Kinect and cleared a space to play. When I turned on the 360, the camera adjusted by itself. Thoughts of HAL 9000 and GLaDOS entered my mind, as well as memories of “Minority Report,” as I whizzed around the menus, controller-free. “Xbox, Kinect,” I said, and the Kinect menu started. “Xbox, open tray,” I said, and the tray opened. “Xbox, make me a sandwich.” No luck. The world is not ready for such power, I suppose.

I started “Kinect Adventures,” the game packaged with the Kinect. Immediately, bright colors and peppy voices formed a veritable strike against my senses. I raised my hand and watched my avatar raise his own hand in unison. He then spazzed out like a frightened squid. It only worsened when my friend joined in, and the two avatars started their strange wiggle-dance together. I could excuse that if the game was still fun. Instead, it was just variations of four easy games; I beat the game in three hours.

“So the free game with the Kinect is bad. Who cares?” you might ask. Well, it sets an important precedent for future Kinect games: poorly-animated sports games for all ages. I see potential in the Kinect—the voice recognition function in particular—so watching it be a new “Wii Sports” is saddening. So wait before purchasing Kinect, until there are good Kinect games on the market.

GAMERS’ ASYLUM

ROTATING REVIEW

WITH OLIVIA OBER

WITH RACHEL FISCHER

WITH JORDAN COFFMAN

WITH GRACE KELLY

Will Egypt stay America’s ally?

Poetry SlamKinect

Review

19PAGE DESIGNERS: TASHA ROLLINGS & MEGAN MEDELLINECHO · FEBRUARY 2011

ECHOE D I T O R I A LAvon must vote to increase taxes, save staff

The May 3 ballot includes a referendum that asks the citizens of Avon to approve or deny an increase in property tax. If an increase is approved, the property tax would increase by about 10 percent, though it would still be lower than property taxes before the state’s property tax cap. The money from this tax will fund the programs that are currently present in the curriculum in the Avon Community School Corporation (ACSC). If the property tax increase is denied by the citizens, Avon schools will face multiple harsh cuts. Avon citizens need to realize what will come if this tax is not approved. The negative effect this tax cut would bring ACSC is far more detrimental than the actual tax increase Avon would face.

ACSC holds very high standards in the county that parents and students have grown to respect. Without the money from the new taxes, Avon would begin to lose great fine arts, business and music electives that many students partake in on a day-to-day basis.

If the tax increase is denied, the loss of teachers may also mean larger class sizes. The larger class sizes would affect a student’s one-on-one time with a teacher. If students lose this crucial time with their teachers, grades may start to fall.

The community has been very supportive of its schools in the past, and the citizens expect high quality education. ACSC has several four star schools, but the quality of Avon’s schools is threatened without additional financial support. Now, in this time of economic struggles, ACSC’s schools need their citizens’ support and generosity more than ever.

If the increase is approved, Avon can continue to educate to its full ability. The corporation would also try and restore some of the cuts it made previously. According to “Support Avon Children” Online, Avon is not using the money for any new classes or pay increases, but it would instead be used to keep what Avon already offers. The tax increase would allow Avon to be able to live up to the high ratings the schools in the corporation have received in the past.

The Echo believes students and parents should get involved with spreading the word about approving this tax increase. Support Avon Children is asking for volunteers to make phone calls, pass out information and flyers and deliver signs. ACSC has already done enough cutting back, and there is no need to cut back any more. Students should not have to miss out on the opportunities that await them.

Property tax could change future of Avon school corporation

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFEllie Price

COPY EDITOROlivia Ober

The Echo exists as an open forum through which its readers can express concern and gain insight into local, national and international issues as they relate to Avon High School students or teens in general. The Echo holds the viewpoint that no subject is too sensitive to discuss if done so in a responsible manner. The First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech and of the press. The Echo recognizes that with this freedom comes responsibility. Journalistically, this means accurate, fair and objective coverage.A.) The purpose of the Echo is to inform, to entertain, to create interest and to evaluate.B.) The Echo does not express the views of the administration, faculty members, or the like, except in quotations or letters to the editor. The views of the Echo are not necessarily those of Avon High School students, parents, administrators or staff.C.) The Echo does not condone censorship or any policy of prior review.D.) The Echo will respond to complaints about accuracy, fairness and completeness of copy. When a report is found to be wrong or misleading, a correction will appear in the next issue of the Echo.E.) Letters to the editor are welcome provided they are signed. Under special circumstances, the Echo will withhold the names. However, the Echo will not protect the identity of the writer should a lawsuit occur. The Echo reserves the right to edit letters for libel and defamation, obscenity and copyright. The editor may also edit for length and correction of expression.F.) The Echo will be distributed in a manner to be determined by the editorial team. The Echo student subscription price will be included in book rental. G.) In the occurrence of a death of a student, faculty member or school staff personnel, a standard size obituary will run. It will be a short feature and include a photograph, if one is available. Cause of death will not be reported.

ABOUT THE ECHO

EDITORIAL STAFFADVISER

Susan Hoffman

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFSal Russo

DESIGN / ADS EDITORBelle LeBeau

PHOTO / COPY EDITORRachel Fischer

David Allspaw, Krystal Andry, Ben Brown, Jordan Coffman, Ashley Hancock,

Kenton Hipsher, Grace Kelly,Sarah Kennedy, Mallory Mankin,

Megan Medellin, Mandy Packnett,Tasha Rollings, Miriam Thomas

STAFF MEMBERS

OPINION

BEHIND THE SCENES

”“People don’t realize...

how much work actually goes into a production.

PHOTOS: OLIVIA OBERRECYCLE MEOR PASS ME TO A FRIEND

Theater productions need theater technicians to work backstage. They use everything from curtains to lighting to sound to provide a safe and functional stage.

When creating special effects, theater technicians deal with hazards such as heights of over 50 feet and weight systems holding hundreds of pounds.

“[The worst danger is] the electrical equipment,” senior

THEATER TECHNICIANS

TARIQ ABU-ALI, 12

PAGE DESIGN: OLIVIA OBER

STORY: JORDAN COFFMAN

Ginger Earle said. “A lot of things can fall or catch fire, and every electrical outlet is a hazard.”

Theatre teacher Lori Riley picks theatre technicians.

“They are an extension of my position,” Riley said. “We are a close-knit group, and we spend many hours together in very close quarters, doing hard, dangerous things. We have each other’s backs. We touch each other’s lives forever.”