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Features, Jared Hinderer

Senior expresses himself through photo editing

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By Jared Hinderer

For many young adults, middle school and high school is a time when they discover skills that they will use for the rest of their lives. For many, this is writing, playing an instrument, or developing skills in a certain sport.

However, senior Parker McCullough’s new found skill came in the form of photo manipulation.

“I started using photo manipulation software in 6-7th grade,” said McCullough. “I think one day I decided to manipulate a photo for MySpace to get more friends or something.”

McCullough has since further developed his skills as photographer, editor, and cinematographer, largely teaching himself, but not forgetting that he learned the basics of design through arts classes at school. He draws inspiration from a creative designer named James Lano, that works out of Orlando, Florida.

“There are some people I really look up to; one is James Lano, he’s a really talented dude,” said McCullough

Like Lano, many of McCullough’s works are based on many different ideas and subjects, and are not just limited to his own life. With reactions to his work often being positive, McCullough has even attracted some attention from others, leading him to also do work for them.

“I’ve done it [editing and design work] for friends, DJ’s, school clubs, bands, and photographers,” McCullough said.

Whether the subject be himself, his car, or starting a design from scratch, Parker uses the top names in media editing software to assist him in is work.     “For picture editing I use Photoshop CS5 and Adobe Lightroom 4.2, and for cinematography I film with my Canon Rebel T3i and edit in Final Cut Pro X,” said McCullough.

Having done this work for others, including businesses and organizations, McCullough has started on his way to making a career out of his hobby. Parker plans to attend college in pursuit of a degree in graphic design, and follow through with being a designer. Realizing others may want to follow him, Parker offers this advice: “Just try hard and practice, and be original.”

In the end, McCullough best summed up the reason behind his work when he said, “I do this stuff because it’s something I’m truly passionate about and I never get tired of it.”

Alesha McCulloch, Features

Students share Christmas wishes

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By Alesha McCulloch

During the holiday season, most people create Christmas lists for their parents. However, there is always that number one thing that is a must-have.

Freshman Skyler Nardi wants a vanity so she can do her makeup in her room.

Junior Haley Schroeder wants something out of the usual. “Definitely running clothes. I’m always running and could always use more running clothes.”

Sophomore Nick Ott wants something a little more dangerous and expensive.

“I want a new four wheeler because I love riding and I’’ll get good use out of it.”

Of course shoes are usually one of the top choices on many people’s lists.

“I want a pair of Lebron 10’s because I need a new pair of cool shoes,” said freshman Jordan Stevens.

Junior Alexis Garmon wants something that will benefit her practices.

“I want a bunch of Nike Pro spandex because I’m in the gym everyday and sometimes I want to not look so bland with black or grey Nike Pros on.”

There is always that one thing that someone can fantasize about.

Sophomore Kiley Atchley happens to have one of these gifts in mind.

“I want to meet Channing Tatum because I love him and he is going to be my husband one day.”

Features, Peter Hyle

Sophomore Madeline Coffey pursues theater dream career

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By Peter Hyle

Standing on stage in front of hundreds, sophomore Madeline Coffey sings as loudly and clearly as she possibly can. Having a love for theater, performing comes naturally to her. Coffey’s enthusiasm for theater arts is palpable as she goes over her countless lines.

“I have such a passion for singing, as well as acting,” said Coffey, “I can’t imagine my life without theater.”

Thankful for their helpfulness, Coffey’s family provides a tremendous amount of encouragement.

“Words can’t even express how much they support me. They’re at every single show and concert. All the love and support I get from them is truly unbelievable,” said Coffey.

Showing signs at an early age, Coffey’s family realized her love for performing.

“I remember when she was in a kindergarten talent show she stood on her head in front of everyone, in a patriotic costume, and recited the Pledge of Allegiance,” said mother Suzanne Coffey.

But her first major performance came later in her life.

Sophomore Madeline Coffey goes through her lines for “The Music Man” at last week’s play practice.
Photo by Keevin Sakai.

“When I was younger, I had a friend who was into theater and she asked me if I would like to come and audition for a play called Joseph and the Amazing Techni-Colored Dreamcoat at the Indianapolis Civic Theatre. And that actually turned out to be my first big performance,” said Coffey.

After Joseph, Coffey realized how much she loved being on stage.

“That first show was a lot of fun, but my passion for it started when a few prominent people gave me a lot of applause and encouragement,” said Coffey.

For Coffey, she could not ask for a better program to help her gain experience in this field than FC’s.

“It [the FC theater department] is a family. I’ve gotten so close to everyone, and they’re all just so supportive.”

Generally, the upperclassmen gain the lead roles due to their experience in the school plays.

“I don’t think age or experience should be an indicator of the part someone gets,” said Coffey. “It’s all about your talent and perseverance. You just have to fit the role.”

Coffey has fit a countless number of notable roles in her few years here at FC, including the Ghost of Christmas Past in The Christmas Carol and Kate Keller in The Miracle Worker.

As for her future, Coffey is confident that theater will be a major part of it.

“I would absolutely love to turn this into a career,” she said. “I’m not sure which field, but there’s nothing I would love more. It’s actually kind of scary to think about not doing it.”

Coffey could not be happier with her time spent on stage, and she only hopes to gain more talent and experience as she continues to pursue her passion in theater.

“Even if I wasn’t a lead, that wouldn’t discourage my longing to perform.”

Alesha McCulloch, Features

Students share their driving distractions

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By Alesha McCulloch

Eighty-seven percent of the 6,000 deaths that occur each year are caused by driving with distractions. New studies of teen driving behavior has found that the use of cell phones is the leading distraction.

Juniors Connor Welch and Jordann Dakin said their cell phones are their main distractions while driving.

Texting while driving is the new drunk driving. Teens know texting and driving is dangerous, yet do it anyway.

Surprisingly enough, talking on the phone or texting is more of a distraction for young drivers, more so than adjusting controls, eating, drinking, or engaging horseplay or loud conversations with passengers.

Sending a text while driving may be the most common distraction for teens but is not the only one. The radio is another big distraction.

“When I’m driving the radio is my main distraction,” said junior Blayne Miles.

In 1930, laws were proposed in Massachusetts and St.Louis to ban radios while driving, but as of 2012, texting is banned in most states for all drivers.

Junior Tanner Cook said eating while driving is his distraction. Eating while driving is the worst driving distraction. Some of the most dangerous foods and beverages while driving are chocolate, soft drinks, cream filled or powdered donuts, fried chicken, any barbecued food, juicy hamburgers, chili, tacos, hot soups, and coffee. These are the most dangerous because of spilling a drink or constant licking of the fingers.

It is important to also remember something that has been instilled in us for years, wear a seatbelt. It may sound cliche but those three seconds can save lives.