Category Archives: Brooke McAfee

Brooke McAfee, Dance Marathon, Elise Kurk, Jeremy Hammond, Mitchell Lockhart, News

Dance Marathon committees make final preparations as FCDM begins

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By Brooke McAfee, Elise Kurk, and Mitchell Lockhart

As students and volunteers prepare for a long day of activities, they express their excitement for today’s Dance Marathon.

Junior Sydney Davis, who is part of the Entertainment Committee, said she is excited to how much money is raised.

“I am super excited to see our total. I am really hoping we meet our goal,” she said.

Senior Eliza Hudson is part of the Morale Committee, and it is her responsibility to get people pumped up and teach the morale dance throughout the day.

“There will be a lot of games and activities and a lot of great Riley kids stories,” she said.

Another aspect many people are excited about is the free food. It is the Dance Marathon Committee’s job to find caterers to donate food. The food will include Tumbleweed, Beef ‘O’Brady’s, Taco Bell, McDonalds, Olive Garden, and Arni’s.

“We spend months leading up the the Dance Marathon contacting different restuarants seeing if they will donate food or sell at a discounted price,” said junior Gabby Gibson, who works on the Catering Committee.

Some of the events that are scheduled include a Hunger Games event, involving Nerf guns, and the Rave Hour, featuring strobe lights and a fog machine in a darkened room.

Kerry Jones, one of the heads of the National Art Honors Society, is working at a booth where students can make items for sick children.

“We are making puppy-pals and stuffing pillows…each pillow goes to a sick kid,” she said.

Senior Sarah Henry, an entertainment and decorations executive member, said although the activities are enjoyable, it is helping the Riley children that is most rewarding.

“I can’t wait to see the whole school come together for the kids,” she said.

FCDM has just begun. Check back throughout the afternoon and evening for continual coverage.

Brooke McAfee, Cartoons, Columns

Columnist discusses introverted characteristics

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By Brooke McAfee

I am an introvert. I do not feel compelled spend my free time in the constant company of other people, but the idea of spending a few hours in solitude, reading a book or listening to music, seems to be the perfect way to unwind after a stressful week. Time spent among a crowd, exchanging mindless small talk with unfamiliar people, may seem to drag on and on for hours, but hours spent engaging in meaningful conversation among close friends cannot be wasted. And I do not see the need to fill every silent moment with my voice.

It is not that I am shy or antisocial. Introversion is simply a different way of thinking.

The main difference between an introvert and an extrovert is the way they become energized. An extrovert will find energy by exposure to people and social situations, while introverts recharge by being alone with their thoughts for a while.

Introversion is a commonly misinterpreted personality trait. Though the majority of people tend to have extroverted personalities, introverts are not abnormal whatsoever. It is ridiculous to stereotype us, because we rarely fit perfectly into a category.

We can be quite social, talkative, and vivacious, contrary to the common opinion. And just because we do not want to be around certain people all the time is not a sign of dislike. It is simply difficult for us to have prolonged exposure to socialization. To us, solitude does not have to be synonymous with the terms bored or lonely. It can be easier to feel bored or lonely in a massive crowd of people we do not feel a true connection with.

Many introverts participate in social situations with ease, and we are certainly capable of enjoying the company of people we find interesting. We can even tolerate the sort of dull, meaningless chit chat we find so excruciating, because silence is often perceived as rude or awkward, and a conversation about things that actually matter can be difficult to initiate. And around friends or family, we may be among the loudest and most talkative in the room.

But at the end of the day, we need to be alone with our thoughts, away from the chaos of the external world. Because, let’s face it, people can be exhausting.

There are many ups and downs to being an introvert. We prefer listening to frequent speaking, and we are less likely to act impulsively, preferring to thoughts before action. We can easily concentrate, especially upon matters we are passionate about.

However, with such a personality, there are many complications. We often keep our thoughts locked up inside of us, which can make it quite difficult for people to truly get to know us. Our minds and imagination might be overactive with tumultuous activity, but little escapes from the brain into speech. That’s why many introverts turn to writing as a means of expression.

Perhaps, to the extroverted mind, what I have described seems like complete misery. Yet many people simply do not understand how introverts work. We cannot change who we are: our introversion is lodged deep within our psychology. And that is fine. Sometimes, all I need is the people I care about, meaningful conversation, and some peace and quiet.

A&E, Brooke McAfee

The Book Thief movie features strong performances

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By Brooke McAfee 

Ever since I learned that Markus Zusak’s bestselling novel The Book Thief was to be adapted into a film, I was curious to see how they would bring his words to life on the screen. Many times, the movie version fails to capture the same level of emotion or beauty which made me adore the book. The Book Thief, on the other hand, is a success.

One of the aspects that makes The Book Thief unique is the narrator: Death, voiced by Roger Allam. His voice is heard every now and then throughout the film, and despite such an ominous point of view, the movie is not entirely gloomy. He is compassionate towards humans, and weary from his large role in the turmoil that unfolds into World War II. Yet amid the tragedy, his attention is caught by a young girl named Liesel Meminger, played by Sophie Nélisse, and the focus shifts to her story.

The story is centered around Liesel, who begins a new life with her foster family, the Hubermanns, in a small town in Nazi Germany. Geoffrey Rush plays Hans Hubermann, bringing warmth to the kind-hearted character. Emily Watson is Rosa Hubermann, whose tough, grumpy personality conceal a caring nature. Liesel develops a fascination with words, as her father patiently teaches her how to read, and she steals books: a quiet act of rebellion in an oppressive society where book burnings were a common sight. The drama thickens as Max Vandenburg, played by Ben Schnetzer, enters the scene. He is a Jewish refugee, and the Hubermann’s take the enormous risk of hiding him in their basement. He quickly becomes like an older brother to young Liesel, and encourages her to pursue her passion for writing.

Nélisse gives an outstanding performance, and her expressive eyes clearly portray the intense emotions of the character, from joy to sorrow. Her character is courageous and determined, and her presence manages to raise the hopes of those around her. The movie is full of heartwarming moments, but it is not overly sentimental, and shows how simple, everyday acts of love and kindness can be a source of hope in a dark setting. The relationships between the characters are well developed and moving.

One of the most touching parts of the movie are the scenes with Liesel and her friend Rudy, played by Nico Liersch. Both of them are thrust into the confusion of living in a society where one word or simple act of rebellion against the Nazi regime could have disastrous results. Both of the actors are very young, yet they handle their roles with perception and skill.

John Williams contributes a haunting, gorgeous score to the movie, and the addition of music from such a talented composer strengthens the emotional impact of the film considerably. The cinematography is beautiful, and sets scenes of snowy winters and subdued colors, adding a stark beauty to the film.

The  Book Thief is rated PG-13 for violence and intense depiction of thematic material and is 131 minutes long.

For those who are fans of the book, The Book Thief will probably not be a disappointment. It does leave out smaller details from the book that the audience may miss, but it brings the characters and the story to life vividly. It is not very gritty, despite the topics of war and the Holocaust, but it still manages to convey a sense of what it might be like to grow up in such an uncertain time. The Book Thief, which is directed by Brian Percival, is a bittersweet story, and contrasts the innocence of childhood with the cruelty of a harsh society.

Brooke McAfee, News

Mary Beth Tinker encourages students to take a stand

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By Brooke McAfee

Local teenagers and community members got a civics lesson on the First Amendment on Wednesday.

In 1965, a 13-year-old girl named Mary Beth Tinker wore a black armband to her school in Des Moines, Iowa to mourn the dead on both sides of the Vietnam War. She was suspended, along with several other students, for this peaceful act of protest. In 1969, the case went to the Supreme Court, where it was ruled that students and teachers have First Amendment rights within school. The Tinker v. Des Moines case has made a significant impact upon the freedom of students to express their thoughts and ideas.

Tinker, as a part of her tour around the country, spoke at Indiana University Southeast at 7 p.m. Wednesday to educate people about student’s rights and encourage young people to start speaking up for what they believe in. Along with the Vietnam War, she also witnessed racial discrimination towards African-Americans during her childhood, and many people advocated for civil rights.

Mary Beth Tinker speaks about the First Amendment and the Tinker v. Des Moines Supreme Court case at the Indiana University Southeast Ogle Center Wednesday night. Tinker's speech was part of the Tinker Tour, sponsored by the Student Press Law Center. Photo by Noble Guyon.
Mary Beth Tinker speaks about the First Amendment and the Tinker v. Des Moines Supreme Court case at the Indiana University Southeast Ogle Center Wednesday night. Tinker’s speech was part of the Tinker Tour, sponsored by the Student Press Law Center. Photo by Noble Guyon.

“There were so many young people speaking out and standing up. It was when I was growing up, in the early 1960s. It seemed like everyone around me was a strong, brave, courageous person,” she said.

Tinker, who described herself as shy, did not begin speaking out until the issue of the black armbands came up. After the case was won, she grew up without understanding the full significance of the court decision. As an adult, she realized the effect it has had upon the United States.

“I slowly began to see that our case is part of a larger issue, of civil liberties, of children’s rights, of human rights. I started to see that there are young people all over the country who are standing up for their rights- all over the world. And I started meeting some of them, and I started talking to them about some of things they are speaking up about,” said Tinker.

Attorney Mike Hiestand, who is traveling with Tinker on the tour sponsored by the Student Press Law Center in Washington, D.C., encouraged students to speak out.

“When you feel something from so deep within, from the very core of your heart, you need to say what you need to say. It is so important…young people have a message that we as adults have sometimes forgotten,” said Hiestand.

Many teenagers are passionate about causing change, according to Tinker.

“Young people want to make things better,” she said.

The Tinker v. Des Moines case has had a particularly significant effect upon student journalists.

“It has affected anyone who is in the [journalism] business or anyone in a high school situation where they have tried to give some sort of expression of themselves,” said journalist Jarod Clapp, a reporter for the New Albany Tribune covering the event.

Clapp said that students need to take advantage of their freedom to speak up.

“It’s just as important as it is for anyone else to stick up for their opinions. If you don’t stand up for what you believe in, what you believe in may disappear,” said Clapp.

Although speaking one’s mind can often lead to negative responses from others, Tinker said she thinks discussion between those of different beliefs can lead to tolerance.

“We are trying to have peace in the world, in our communities, in our schools, so we want conversations, so people don’t just yell at each other,” she said.

Joseph Dever, an IUS and FC graduate who attended the speech, said Tinker has had a major impact on him and the people around him.

“As a journalism student I’ve always been inspired by Mary Beth Tinker. It’s been really crazy hearing about her experience, and just seeing the change that she’s brought. What she does is so important to the students- to inspire them to take a stand, and express themselves. That’s one of the most important things for people to learn,” said Dever.

Dever said the First Amendment rights lead to a more successful society.

“I think it is important because everyone has the right to express what they think- they have the freedom to do that. I think when, as a society, we place limits on people, we place limits on society. I think society thrives from free press and free people,” he said.

IUS senior Rebecca Egger said standing up for one’s beliefs is an important part of learning and growing as an individual.

“I think it is important because they are people just like anyone, and they deserve to have their voice heard. I think when their voice isn’t heard, it can cause students to be discouraged, and I think, in some ways, it can inhibit you from trying and from pushing yourself forward and learning.”

One of the main points made throughout the speech, by both Tinker and Hiestand, was the importance of students realizing and acting upon their First Amendment rights.

“She is certainly part of history, but the thing we are trying to remind students of is that she’s part of history, but it’s a history that is ongoing. Her case is the law of the land today, that’s been cited over 6000 times…the rights that her case helped win are the rights that we are really trying to remind students that they exist today,” said Hiestand.

Brooke McAfee

Field commander provides leadership

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By Brooke McAfee

Marching band members take their positions on the field and wait to be called to attention. The field commander, standing upon a podium overlooking the field, shouts “Band- Ten Hut!” Instruments come up, and the eyes of each band member are glued upon the field commander. Her hands glide through the air as she begins conducting, and as she gives them the tempo, the music and the marching commence.

For senior Sloane Lewis, who plays clarinet, most weekend in the fall are  like this. Lewis has been the field commander for three out of her four years in band. From the hot days of band camp to the state finals at Lucas Oil Stadium, she has taken a vital role in the band.

“Freshman year, when I first started marching, and I saw Katie and Abner- they were the field commanders then- I thought what they did was really cool, and they were really inspiring. I was like “Oh, I want to do that!,” so the next year I tried out, and I made it,“ said Lewis.

Being a field commander means more than learning the score and conducting; it also involves tasks such as helping students learn marching technique, aiding people with music, and giving the band pep talks before competitions. For Lewis, however, the greatest responsibility is keeping up the beat.

“Keeping tempo is a stress, between the winds, the pit, and the drumline. But there also comes a lot of responsibility. You can’t be late to practice, you have to get things ready…but really, for the most part, it is keeping the tempo,” said Lewis.

Additionally, it is necessary for Lewis take leadership. The band must listen to her as a leader, rather than just a friend. This can present some challenges.

“Sometimes it is a little difficult, because people think of me more as their peer than as a leader. That’s where the leadership comes in. I want to be their friend, but that’s when I have to take the responsibility to become more of a leader, and not to socialize.” said Lewis.

Sophomore Yuriko Tashiro, the other field commander, said Lewis has helped her develop her own skills.

“She gave me really good tips. She taught me how to conduct 3/4 time and when to cut off the music. She was really nice to me, but she gave me really good criticism, which really helped me.”

Lewis said that she believes she has made considerable progress from her first year as field commander.

“Sophomore year, when I became field commander, I was really quiet, and I was scared, because I was a sophomore taking leadership roles. I think last year I improved, because that was really when I had to take control… so I got over that fear, and I’ve led the band from there. I’ve come out of my comfort zone,” said Lewis.

Band director Harold Yankey said Lewis excels in both conducting and performing with calmness and consistency.

“She is very good with the tempos and communicating to the band. She is very steady- it is hard to shake Sloane up. She is just a very level-headed person, and brings calm to the band,” said Yankey.

Senior Chelsea Roe, who plays flute in marching band, said Lewis effectively communicates with the band, as a leader and a friend.

“During practice, she walks around and is able to tell us what we are doing wrong, and how to fix it. It doesn’t sound harsh, because she is also our friend. She also hangs out with us, during school and everything, so it doesn’t sound like she is better than us, but like she is one of us,” said Roe.

According to her mother, Karen Lewis, she became a leader before marching band with her involvement in church.

“She had some leadership roles in church, in a children’s group. She started working with the kids around seventh grade. She likes helping out with vacation bible school, sports camp, or at the nursery. She has really developed over the past several years,” she said.

Lewis expressed her hope of leaving behind an important legacy for the band.

“Hopefully, I will leave behind a fun experience and make people want to try out for field commander. I want to make it enjoyable for everyone,” she said.

Lewis said she wants to finish her last year as field commander by becoming more familiar with the band as a whole.

It’s my senior year, and I really want to make my rounds around the band. I really want to get to know everybody, and become friends with everybody,” said Lewis.