January

Chi Rhoan January 2013

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40 Day Challenge Don’t just give up something. Get good with God this lenten season.

See Page 3

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, 801 NW 50th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73118

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Vol. 63, No. 5

Artistic sophomore turns heads with work Gabby Grubb, Staff Writer

her art in shows for free.

“Her art is always different and very Between spending hours in creative” sophomore Anushka Raj said. the gym shooting hoops, and time “She doesn’t follow trends; she just does on the course practicing her golf her own thing.” swing, sophomore Elizabeth Jantz Jantz rarely stays with one style, always finds time for her favorite and doesn’t define herself to a style. hobby—drawing.

She assigns herself new projects to help “I draw on anything I can broaden her style. find,” Jantz said. “My notebooks “Currently, I have been doing the at school are probably filled with realistic pencil drawings, but I also have more drawings than notes.” been doing some dictionary art and word In middle school, Jantz art as well,” Jantz said. received several awards for work Thinking about her future, Jantz is on display at Christ the King interested in architecture, where there is a School. blend of both creativity and practicality.

“Mrs. Castro helped me to “Being an architect would allow me develop as an artist,” Jantz said. to use my creativity, but it would still be “I did our directory and yearbook considered a normal job,” Jantz said. “I cover for many years.” don’t know if I could handle being a full However, since then she hasn’t Holding her illustration of Russell Westbrook, sophomore Elizabeth Jantz reveals her talented work in an time artist.” entered any competitions.”

Photo by Gabby Grubb Besides being a great artist, Jantz “My mom has tubs full of art area where she spends a lot of her time—the Theology/Art Wing. plays on the varsity golf team and junior stored away in the attic, even if some drawings stay stuck in my sketch pad varsity basketball team. they aren’t displayed in shows,” Jantz said. for months unfinished.”

“I like golf because I get to be outside,” Jantz Her drawing of Kevin Durant was recently Jantz used charcoal and ebony pencils said, “Getting to miss school is a plus too.” on display at UCO. Soon several of her works to create the drawings of the Oklahoma City In addition to her artistic and athletic ability, will be shown and sold at Schardein Salon.

Thunder players. After being sent the portrait Jantz also does well in the classroom taking three “The past two pieces I did of Kevin Durant of himself, Durant said he’d love to meet her. honors courses. and Russell Westbrook took two days to finish,” “Elizabeth is a pretty accomplished artist “She takes hard classes and does well in them, Jantz said. “I dedicated these days to sitting for just having taken one art class,” art teacher plays sports, obviously talented in art, and is a great at my desk in order to get them done. They Steve McConnell said. friend,” sophomore Sarah Reininger said. “If you probably would have been finished sooner if Jantz recently became a member of the gave her an instrument, I bet she could play it.”

I didn’t have my phone on hand. However, Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition, which displays

All-State linebacker Nick Jeffreys commits to The Citadel Joe Buettner, Editor-in-Chief

With weeks before National Signing Day, senior linebacker and tight end Nick Jeffreys finally received his opportunity to play major college football.

The second-team AllState linebacker was offered a scholarship from The Citadel, and he announced his commitment to the Bulldogs in late January.

“It was [my] first real Division 1 offer,” Jeffreys said. “I was excited because of the future that I could have going to The Citadel.”

The Citadel, a military school located in Charleston, S.C., competes in the FCS, formerly Division I-AA. “When I first got there, I didn’t know if I could handle it,” Jeffreys said. “I got to know the players quite well,

and after thinking about it, I definitely think I can handle it.”

Other FCS programs like Emporia State and West Texas A&M showed interest in Jeffreys as well.

However, after reaching the state semifinals and recording 185 tackles and six sacks his senior season, Jeffreys will sign with the Bulldogs Feb. 6.

Waiting for the ball to be snapped, Nick Jeffreys prepares to make a play on defense against the Sallisaw Black Diamonds.

Photo by Joe Buettner

News

2

Auction changes; Grand Prize to be

$10,000 Bridget McGuire, Staff Writer Parents and donors will participate in the annual fundraising auction with the theme of “Rockin’ It Old School” Feb. 8.

“Guests can expect a fun rock n’ roll evening,” Director of Development Patricia Hudacko said.

Attendees will meet at 6 p.m. at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum to experience auctions, games, and opportunities to shop along with entertainment by The Weathermen.

“There will be over 100 items with a silent auction, a live auction, and an absolutely wonderful sweet shop,” Director of Public Relations Sandy Cunningham said.

Donors contribute in various ways, including sponsorship, purchasing tickets, and donating items.

In addition, parents volunteer to assist with picking up items, decorating, and organizing. The parent co-chairmen are Teddi and Larry

Roy and Marie and Chris Engel.

“Parents donate hours and hours of time to this auction,” Cunningham said.

In addition, students contribute to the auction by selling five raffle tickets and orchestrating sales. The student raffle committee picks up and organizes the sold raffle tickets. Unlike previous years, raffle tickets are $20, rather than $50. The prize is $10,000 rather than a car.

“Being able to participate in raising money for the school is a great feeling,” junior and student raffle committee member Lauren Hill said.

Through purchasing and selling tickets and bidding on items like courtside seats to an OKC Thunder game or a $500 gift card to Disney World, donors contribute to the $120,000 goal.

Proceeds benefit the Bishop McGuinness Endowment Fund.

Chi Rhoan

Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School

801 N.W. 50th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 www.bmchs.org

Editor-in-Chief Joe Buettner Layout/Ads Editor Mary Mawdsley

Principal David Morton Adviser Betty Herman

News Editor Michaela Parker

Our mission is to objectively and accurately

Feature Editor Lexie Wolfe

provide an open forum to the voices of

Sports Editor Edward Wiewel Illustrator Gabby Grubb Staff Ashley Billups Jackie Gibson Olivia Karim Bridget McGuire Maddie O’Brien

inform and entertain. We strive to the student community. The views of the editorials do not represent the opinions of the entire staff. We welcome signed letters to the editor, but also reserve the right to

Chi Rhoan January 2013

Conneticut tragedy triggers national gun safety debate Michaela Parker, News Editor Gun related accidents result in the death of an average of 53 people daily according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). However, according to criminologist Dr. Gary Kleck, an estimated seven thousand crimes are avoided each day by gun usage.

The recent Sandy Hook tragedy in Connecticut refueled the debate over gun laws. President Obama proposed a bill that would increase background checks on all gun purchases and limit the purchase of assault rifles such as the AK47.

“While there is no law or set of laws that can prevent every senseless act of violence completely, no piece of legislation that will prevent every tragedy, every act of evil,” Obama said, “if there’s even one thing we can do to reduce this violence, if there’s even one life that can be saved, then we’ve got an obligation to try it.”

Opponents to the proposal, such as the National Rifle Association (NRA) believe limiting the use of guns is unconstitutional and endangers the ability to protect oneself. Freshman Amanda Lewis prescribes to this belief.

“I think we should have as few regulations as possible,” Lewis said, “anyone can get their hands on a gun whether they’re supposed to or not. Restrictions just make it hard to protect yourself.”

Senior James Bishop, a hunter and strong advocate for guns believes regulation on guns to be “utterly pointless.”

“A criminal, by definition, disregards law. They’ll find a way to get guns whether they’re illegal or not,” Bishop said.

In October 2012, Oklahoma became the fifteenth state to le-

Guns

by the

edit or not publish these letters. The Chi Rhoan is printed by Greater Dallas Press.

galize Open Carry licensing, a license that allows individuals with proper training and licenses to carry guns visibly on their person. Although it’s too soon to measure the results in Oklahoma, supporters argue that more guns in the hands of responsible people will create more safety in a community.

Perhaps the most famous example of this theory occurred in Kennesaw, Georgia, where the crime rate was cut nearly in half after passing a mandatory gun possession law—requiring every citizen to purchase and train with a gun. Recently, Kennesaw was named as one of the top ten safest cities to live in the United States.

Along with gun regulation, an interest in mental health was brought to light.

“I think there is a connection between gun violence and mental health,” psychology teacher Alex Genheimer said, “But I think there’s more of a link than republicans like to admit and less of a link then democrats like to admit.”

However, studies show nothing conclusive. Reputable institutions conflict with each other, so Genheimer admits he can’t draw a reliable conclusion.

“Even if regulations are imposed to restrict people diagnosed with mental problems from buying guns,” Genheimer points out, “Imagine what that would do to diagnosis… Unless Doctors were forced to diagnose on a caseby-case basis, it’d never work.”

When it comes to gun control and mental health issues in this day and age, the only thing clear is that nothing is clear at all.

numbers The

estimated

number

of

guns

270-300 million

....... owned by Americns, That’s about

$700-$2000

....... matic rifle, which some reports

62%

....... Percent of surveyed online sell-

one for every American citizen.

Cost of a .223-caliber semi-auto-

154, 873

indicate was the type of firearm used in the attack in Newtown, CT. ers who said they “probably couldn’t pass a background check.”

The record number of background

....... check calls the FBI reported re-

ceiving on Black Friday this year.

Opinion

Chi Rhoan January 2013

3

Technology rules in classrooms; iPads, laptops equal learning tools; students, faculty debate Ashley Billups, Staff Writer The ‘ding’ of a ringtone, the ‘plonk’ of iPad notifications and the start-up chime of a laptop reverberate through the classroom. With more students using portable media in day to day life, lecturing styles in school will change.

Students read books on e-readers and tablets, take notes on iPads and computers, and use phones to record their lives. Now, teachers and administrators must increase the use of technology in instruction techniques.

“It just makes it easier when teachers use PowerPoint to give notes and use Moodle for assignments. When my teachers use technology, I become more interested in the lesson,” sophomore Allison Hopfer said.

While the use of technology in class is relatively new, the benefits cannot be understated.

Using laptops and tablets in class to take notes allows for more organization in the notes. Typing the notes is significantly faster and enables students to elaborate on teacher points.

“I write very slowly so having the laptop allows me to take more comprehensive notes and focus better during class,” senior Liz Kornfeld said.

Laptops and tablets are also portable, allowing students to access files wherever they are. This will decrease the amount of trips to lockers for students who use the “I grabbed the wrong notebook” excuse. Additionally, a student conceivably brings all files and notes everywhere they take their computer, so they can study all classes in-

stead of bringing home seven individual notebooks. Less paper for notes also means that less paper ends up crumpled at the bottom of the backpack or less fodder for a bonfire.

“I like taking notes on my iPad because I just need to bring one thing to class, instead of keeping track of a bunch of different notebooks. Plus all of my notes are neatly organized and stay on my iPad until I delete them, and they go wherever I go. So if I ever get stuck somewhere, I still have my notes and outlines,” senior Michaela Parker said.

The use of laptops in classrooms allows for easy sharing of files. If home sick, students are able to notify friends and receive the day’s class notes immediately through email, allowing them to complete homework that evening and catch up to classmates.

“I lost my AP Biology notebook last semester and would have been lost during finals if my friend didn’t email me all of her notes for the semester. It makes it so easy to share the information,” senior Jillian Smythe said.

Using computers during class time prepares students for the work force. Technology is a vital part of society today; students must understand how to utilize technology in future endeavors. Using computers while in high school allows practice for college courses and jobs beyond.

“Computer technology is not only helpful, but you can’t get along without it. Students need to be able to use technology and understand it for success,” librarian Kathy Marquis said.

Seniors Ethan Carter, Michaela Parker, Allyson McFadden and Jack Downs type notes on iPads and laptops during AP English IV class . “I love using my computer during class. I just recently began typing my notes and it makes it so much easier,” senior Allyson McFadden said.

Photo by Ashley Billups Although the benefits for using computers and tablets are numerous, there are a few drawbacks.

Students must learn battery management, so that devices are powered throughout the day. Computers are also susceptible to document deletion with viruses and hard drive crashes. The computer games and files are also distracting to immature students, and may divert attention from teachers.

With screens facing away from teachers, there is no way to discern what students are truly doing.

“Students do know how to get around filters and play games on the laptops. It may not be distracting to the person playing the game, but the people around them begin watching because it’s more interesting. Not everyone [plays games], but some students do and there is no way to know who does,” assistant librarian Janet Todd said.

The organization and portability of notes and the sharing of files makes studying easier and helps to raise student’s grades.

Staying strong during Lent; fasting, prayer help faith Lexie Wolfe, Feature Editor

Praying in the chapel during Adoration, junior Lexy Niera mediates on the true purpose of Lent.

Photo by Sandy Cummingham

Lent is known as the season of conversion. It commemorates the forty days before the coming of Jesus Christ and a time when we sacrifice something for God. This aspect of “giving something up” is a difficult concept to understand, especially as teenagers. There are so many things that we are supposed to do during this time: fasting, reconciliation, and adoration. It is easy to forget.

“A lot of people start Lent off well, but then they forget what they sacrifice and give up,” campus minister Aimee Phillips said.

When giving up something this Lent, it is important that one asks

how this will challenge them.

“Lent encourages me to give up something that promotes my self-discipline,” senior Casey Fowler said.

“Every year for Lent, I try to give up at least one or two things as well as add a positive habit.

This year my brother (freshman Ben Watson) and I are going to only listen to Christian music as a way of constantly being reminded as to who Jesus is and why we’re here,” senior Emily Watson said.

Popular ways of sacrifice include doing without something or adding something to one’s daily life that encourages a healthy relationship with God. A challenge for many would

be to try both possibilities.

“During Lent I always give something up, but I also choose to add something.

The point of Lent is that we change something that will strengthen our spiritual life,” Phillips said. “For example, when we feel tempted to eat chocolate, we dedicate five minutes to prayer.

Lent prepares us for the most important liturgical season, Easter. Easter is a time for rejoicing and salvation.

“Lent is about beginning again,” Phillips said. “It is an ongoing process of cleaning and purifying oneself.

Feature

Chi Rhoan January 2013

4

Senior Bullets Active athlete plays three sports Mary Mawdsley, Layout Editor

s

Last semester! Senioritis is here, but hold on. There are still deadlines to meet, dates to remember, and lists to check off. Seniors must meet requirements for exemption.

Off Hour: • Favorite off—hours, fourth and sixth.

• Suggested hours off to request, third, fourth, and sixth.

Important Dates: • Feb.1 deadline for scholarship applications for OU/OSU. • Register for Mar. 9 SAT by Feb. 8.

• Mar.1 begin housing arrangements.

• Register for Apr. 13 ACT by Mar. 8 and May 4 SAT by Apr. 5.

Senior Finals—school handbook: • Year long class finals may be exempt.

• Semester class finals required.

Requirements for exemptions include: • Minimum of 80% grade average with all assignments, papers and/or projects completed.

• No more than 5 absences during semester (excluding school related absences). Every 4 unexcused tardies equal one absence from a class.

• Cannot be on academic/disciplinary probation or on integrity contract.

• All service hours must be completed.

Tips for Transition: • Don’t worry about the next big change; it is just one step up academically.

• Maintain skills over the summer by reading challenging books, practicing math problems, etc.

• Taking community college courses during summer saves money and provides an early credit, but they prevent a long break before the school year.

Olivia Karim, Staff Writer As an athlete playing in three sports, Allison Frey proved her skills on the court and on the field for the past four years.

In her freshman year, Frey played on the basketball, and track teams and was the right fielder for the softball team.

“My favorite memory from softball was when we all caravanned to Collinsville. On the ride, we threw M&M salad at each other’s cars,” Frey said.

Frey competes in the shot put and discus category on the track team. Her current discus score is 97 feet and the school record is 103 feet.

“I plan on breaking the school record this year!”

Frey said.

After playing her favorite sport basketball for ten years, Frey is now captain.

“It’s what I’ve been doing since I was seven, and I just love it,” Frey said.

The Deer Creek Antlers are the team she enjoys playing the most.

“I love the rivalry and the ‘we beat you’ satisfaction,” Frey said.

After games, she usually watches some of the boys basketball game and leaves to eat dinner with her parents.

“She has a good basketball IQ and she is capable of using it to her advantage to have success in both offense and defense,” girls basketball coach Shawn Clark said. “She practices well with her teammates

and takes pride in being a team captain.”

Frey’s parents (Robin and Cheryl) support her in all things. “[My parents] have always been there supporting me in my decisions,” Frey said. “They have invested a lot of time into this sport, and I am trying to repay them by working my hardest and Dribbling the ball upcourt, senior Allison Frey looks for an giving back what open teammate in the girls varsity they have given game against Stillwater Pioneers.

Photo by Joseph Lankford me.”

She plans to attend Northwestern Oklahoma State and study either health or business.

“Irish sports have taught me that through the ups and downs, your team will be there for support,” Frey said. “My coaches always reminded me to also thank God for another day and be thankful for the gifts He has given me.”

Athlete, musician does it all three. My dad would bring me out to a par-3

Maddie O’Brien, Staff Writer

Balancing athletics and a fine arts program course back home in Denver,” Daly said. “I started effectively, student Kevin Daly is one committed playing frequently in middle school, when I tried out and made that team.”

senior student.

“I am involved in varsity golf, the

Inspiration in the form of

Young Politicians’ Club, National

people light Daly’s way in his

Honor Society, Liturgical Band and

sport.

Glee Club,” Daly said. “They are clubs

“Kevin is one of the leaders on

and groups I have a interest in, and

our team. He is the type of leader

the fact that I am able to do them in

that leads by example. He works

a community like McGuinness is just

hard and encourages others to do

a bonus.”

the same. I expect Kevin to be one

Beginning to play golf at a young age inspired Daly’s love which he now has for the sport.

I’ve played golf since I was

of our top players this season and I believe he will be one of the At Choctaw Creek Golf Club, senior Kevin Daly drives the golf ball.

Photo by Michael Daly

top seniors in the state,” golf coach Gary Savely said.

Continued on Page 7

Feature

Chi Rhoan January 2013

5

Cup of Joe: Make finals exempt for all qualifiers Joe Buettner, Editor-in-Chief One of the most heartbreaking aspects of sports is the fact a team can train and push themselves for months to reach the apex of their game, but it can all be wasted in just a matter of hours if they are to lose the final season game.

All of the hard work becomes meaningless.

While there is always “next season,” it is difficult to come to grips that one slip up at the end can debase everything achieved throughout the year.

Athletes are subjected to this constantly, but in a way, so are students. The hard work in the classroom may count for 80 percent of the grade, but that final at semester’s end may be the difference between a passing or failing grade or even an A in the class or a B. What is the idea behind forcing students to stress for weeks in preparation for a two-hour final that can make or break their goal of achieving a 4.0 GPA or staying eligible in a sport?

Why not have final exemptions for every student who meets certain requirements? Right now, final exemptions are only obtainable by second semester seniors in year long courses. Why is this not available to everyone, though?

If a student is present nearly every day, has a passing grade, performs well on each test, and has no record of bad behavior, then that student shouldn’t need to prove any further that they

understand the material. If they get it; they get it. However, finals here are a requirement at the end of each semester, but really they do nothing except create stress for one exam that takes an hour and a half to complete.

Of course, this is a college prepatory school by definition, and it may be considered a disservice to the students if they are exempt from taking finals. Final exemptions do not have to be easily obtainable, though.

Opening final exemptions to more than just the senior class encourages better performance in the classroom. However, making them open in their current state to freshmen, sophomores, and juniors may create problems.

Students find ways of working the system, so give them a way where they have to still perform well and know the material without cheating or showing up to school every day regardless of their health.

First, a 90 average or above in the class would be a necessary requirement, but do not leave it at that. If preparing students for college is still a concern, make part of the criteria a 90 average on tests and quizzes as well. This prevents students from just getting by with class work, and ensures they are familiar with the subject matter.

While the school allows students to miss so

many classes to remain eligible for exemptions, a student can miss school because of athletic competition and still be exempt. However, if a student is sick for a few weeks, an exemption is out of the question.

Now, students shouldn’t fail to participate in sports because of possibly loosing final exemptions, this school encourages every student to join a team. There is a reason athletic competition does not count toward one’s absence total. Students can get their parents to call in “sick” for them, while with athletics, students are monitored by school officials and may not participate if their grades are not up to par.

This school takes great pride in its students excelling in the classroom, but opening up final exemption is something to consider for the future. Perhaps, a study of other college preparatory schools’ exemption requirements would enlighten the present policy.

The curriculum is what sets this school apart from the rest, and final exemptions for all may be asking too much of a school that provides a great education to each and every student. Exemptions for everyone would be nice, but for now, they are reserved for seniors and the standards here are just too high.

Right electives prepare students for future vocations Olivia Karim, Staff Writer With enrollment time approaching, students need to think of taking electives that will primarily help future careers.

Eighty percent of students choose electives based on appeal to them and not whether the class is a blow-off or not.

Choices should be made on interest and possible enjoyment.

Some classes take students by surprise, whether good or bad.

“Chef’s course was more of a challenge then I thought it would be,” senior Rochelle Garcia said, “and I didn’t expect Psychology to be as interesting as it was.”

Choosing electives based on a desired college major is a wise thing to do.

“Take something you would like to know

more about and that will help you in the future,” counselor Sandy Nedbaluk said.

Several general fields of study exist, and electives that coincide include: • Medicine — science-physiology • Mathematics — physics • Social studies — current events • Business— accounting, business law • Technology — computer tech • Visual arts— art history, principles of art and design • English — creative writing Seniors may choose from the following theology classes: social justice, spiritual leadership, ethics, prayer and worship and world religions.

Similar to electives, some of these classes were more interesting than students expected.

“World Religions was really interesting

because we could learn about other cultures and their religions,” Garcia said.

The best thing to do in high school is to take interesting classes that one may not be able to take in the future.

“I think that every girl should take a dance class while they’re here,” senior Maggie Thompson said, “I think they will really enjoy it.”

Students should choose electives based on interests and what they think they ought to know in life.

“Home Plan and Design is really interesting and everyone should take it because we’ll all have our own homes in the future,” senior Stephani McKenna said.

Some of the classes offered will not be available to take in college. Students need to think carefully when filling out enrollment sheets.

Entertainment

6

Chi Rhoan January 2013

Commercialism conundrum; Valentine’s Day meaningless

Rated: R Length: 2 hr. 46 min.

Genre: Western, Drama Release Date: 12/25/12 Budget: $125,000,000* Opening Weekend: $30,122,888* Rotten Tomato Rating: 88% of critics liked it

Michaela Parker, News Editor Singles: look out; Valentine’s Day is only a few weeks away. That means an increase of demanding girlfriends, cheerful florists and public rejection of the lonely.

Last year $17.6 billion was spent on Valentine’s Day according to the National Retail Federation, an average of $126 per participant. That’s an expensive way to say I love you.

“I like the thought behind the holiday, but I find the expected frenzied commercialism sad,” English teacher Marie Engel said.

According to an international survey by Survey Sampling International taken in 2011, 52 percent of Americans describe Valentine’s Day as “too commercialized,” and in the United States it is defined as “a day for couples.”

There’s an obligation that typically goes with the red and pink of Valentine’s Day, a thirst for affection manifested in Teddy bears and roses. From elementary school with socially mandatory cardswaps (“one for everyone, even if you don’t like them”) to married adults sending flowers to the office, Americans are raised and do buy into the gift concept behind Valentine’s Day. “[Valentine’s Day] has definitely become overcommercialized,” senior Alex Dinges says, “it’s reached the point where that’s all people see in it anymore.”

But Dinges doesn’t let Hallmark take over her holiday, which she describes as a day to spend with the people you love,

Django Unchained

*via www.boxoffice.com

Review: Django leaves a mark Lexie Wolfe, Feature Editor

your friends and family, not just the person you’re dating.

“I usually have a maximum of ten Valentines.

I bake for them and make them cards to show them I love them,” Dinges said.

Other students share Dinges’ break from the “consumer addiction” that faces America.

“I think greeting card companies take advantage of it,” junior Jasmine Shoureh says, “but I still love the holiday. It’s a day to spend with the people you love, especially that special someone.”

In the 2009 movie Valentine’s Day, Reed Bennet (Ashton Kutcher) says the reason he loves Valentine’s Day is because it’s an excuse to be unusually sentimental (he is, of course, a florist making a nice income on the second biggest day for plant revenue in the

United States). However, sophomore Hattie Msuya doesn’t think that’s a valid argument.

“Valentine’s Day is all goo and PDA [Public Display of Affection]… Some things just shouldn’t be public, ever,” Msuya said.

Valentine’s Day is at war with the greeting card company image of itself. No one wants to contest that a day for love isn’t worthwhile, but Americans define the holiday as a day only for couples, not for respect and love. Additionally, Valentine’s Day has become more of a contest of wholoves-who more, and that’s not a fair way to express (or expect) affection for someone.

Chocolate is sweet and cards are kind, but Valentine’s Day should be celebrated in other ways.

This February 14, celebrate love for everyone, and show love in a different way.

Django Unchained (silent D) hit movie theatres Christmas Day and Director Quentin Tarantino added another successful box office hit to his long list of winners such as Kill Bill and Pulp Fiction.

Set in the year 1859, Django’s (Jamie Foxx) history with two past slave owners leads him to connect with Dr. Schultz (Christoph Waltz), a German bounty hunter.

Django partners with Schultz in hopes to find his wife Broomhilda (Kerry Washington), who has been sold.

Traveling from Texas to Mississippi, Django and Schultz are then lead to Calvin Candie’s (Leonardo DiCaprio) Candyland.

Django Unchained also features actors Jonah Hill (KKK member) and Samuel L. Jackson (Candie’s house slave).

This talented, well-known and appealing cast makes the movie a success, as they go above ordinary standards with action.

For example, during an action scene with Django and Dr. Schultz, Leonardo DiCaprio slams his hand on the table, breaking a glass and cutting his hand.

This does not deter DiCaprio from pursuing his role of a plantation owner.

An energetic soundtrack featuring the song “100 Black Coffins” by Rick Ross adds to an intense action scene that involves Tarantino’s signature, gore.

Django Unchained is violent, but so well done it will leave you speechless. The film is already receiving plenty of recognition, winning multiple Golden Globe Awards. The most important role of the movie is the peek into slavery issues that enlighten the audience.

Lexie’s Rating: *Out of five clovers

Sports

Chi Rhoan January 2013

Winter sports close out regular season, gear up for postseason play Edward Wiewel, Sports Editor With winter sports more than halfway through the season, everyone looks ahead to postseason play.

“Postseason play is a given for this [basketball] team. It is the standard,” junior Steven Amalong said. “Coming off a state championship, we have raised our expectations.”

The boys squad has lost only two games, both out-of-state schools, and looks to continue recent success. The team, after winning the McGuinness Classic and Moore’s John Nobles Tournament, hopes to keep the momentum rolling.

“This weekend was a boost for our team’s confidence,” head coach Tondrell Durham said. “It showed we can play. It’s a total team effort and it is showing.”

The squad will look ahead to Ponca City Feb. 5, which is Homecoming.

Girls basketball hopes to continue the rebuilding process.

“Youth has caught up with us in a lot of games,” head coach Shawn Clark said.

“We need to work on being a consistent basketball team.”

However, the girls have kept a positive mindset on their game.

“The season has been up and down,” junior Logan Lawton said. “We have done well keeping a positive mindset on the season, but we need to continue to grow as a team.”

Like girls basketball, the wrestling squad is also rebuilding. The squad recently participated in the Piedmont Invitational.

The wrestlers highlighting the tournament

Daly

7

FACES IN THE CROWD Luis Lopez Boys Basketball “Luis models great leadership qualities in basketball.

He is very deserving of this honor” - Tondrell Durham, boys basketball head coach

Tori Shanbour Girls Basketball “Tori has grown on the floor quickly. The girls really feed off her leadership and competitiveness.”

- Shawn Clark, girls basketball head coach During a dual with Putnam City West, sophomore Brent Wilson tries to get an escape in the 132 lbs. match Jan. 15.

Photo by Emily Watson

included sophomore Brent Wilson(132), juniors Tim Roy(182) and Trei Staggs(145).

“I really am enjoying wrestling,” freshman heavyweight Nate Connelly said.

“I have done well in the matches I have participated in to this point. I want to keep getting better.”

Girls and Boys swimming enjoys another successful season to this point for coach Mark Veneklasen. With the Casady/ McGuinness Senior Night Feb. 1, up next, both squads are working hard to beat the Cyclones.

Winter sports enter the final games of conference competition determined to end the season on a good note.

Continued from Page 5

It was his father who helped begin his love for golf.

“My dad was my first influence, just because I wanted to beat him. But as I got better, it was people like Tiger Woods and Rory Mcllroy, and my peers,” Daly said.

Golf is only one aspect of Daly’s life.

“Kevin is a passionate musician,” Director of Music Steve Carlton said. “I have had the pleasure of having him in orchestra class (when it existed) when he was a freshman and he is a very talented cello player. In liturgical band, it is evident in his guitar playing as well that he will do whatever it takes to help the ensemble succeed.”

On the arts side of his life, Daly plays cello and guitar both instruments he has played since sixth grade.

“I enjoy listening to everything but country.” Daly said.

He is also interested in politics.

“Kevin is an active leader in a political club and is very interested in current events,” Jennifer Collins said.

Politics have deep roots in Daly’s life.

“I’ve always been somewhat interested in politics and government,” Daly said. “But it was arguments with my friends that got me studying politics and it’s specifics. I guess it doesn’t help that I like debating with others.”

Trei Staggs Wrestling “Trei exemplifies what Irish athletics are all about. He is hardworking and continues to be a force.”

- Ray Copeland, wrestling head coach

Patrick Dolan & Olivia Kinsinger Swimming “Both contributed to team’s success in individual and relay helping both squads achieve an undefeated season thus far.”

- Mark Veneklasen, swimming head coach

Kevin’s sophomore English II teacher Tony Pennington also believes that Daly is a great person all around.

“Kevin is a really good person beyond the classroom as well,” Pennington said. “But if he says he will give you a bagel, he’s lying.”

In the near future, Daly wants to attend either the University of Denver or the University of Oklahoma for a Entrepreneurial Management degree. After college, he would still like to have a tie to golf if he can.

“If I am not playing golf, I would like to own my own business such as restaurants, golf stores or even golf courses,” Daly said.

FREEZE FRAME

Jackie Gibson, Staff Writer

• Senior wide receiver Cody Chancellor, senior defensive linemen David Love and senior linebacker Nick Jeffreys were named to West Team’s Oklahoma Coaches Association All-State/All-Star Football roster. Chancellor also made the first team All-State Football roster and Jeffreys (committed to play for The Citadel) was named second team All-State. Honorable Mentions went to junior quarterback Jacob Lewis, senior defensive lineman David Love and senior linebacker Danny Krenger.

• Academic team members attended the Area Tournament held in El Reno Jan. 12 and finished with three victories and one team loss.

With these tournament results, they qualify for the State Tournament Feb. 2 at the Redlands Community College. Team members include sophomores Ian Patterson, Hayden Bartlett and Elizabeth Edem, Connor Bannon, and seniors Ethan Carter and Sabrina Waugh.

• In the Piedmont Wrestling Tournament, junior Tim Roy(182) finished second; junior s Staggs(145) finished third; and sophomore Brent Wilson(132) finished fifth.

1 Photo by Joe Lankford

2 Photo by Emily Watson

3 1. Driving to the basket, senior Luis Lopez attacks the Edmond North Huskies on the transition.

2. Preparing for his match, sophomore Jackson Law and wrestling head coach Ray Copeland assist senior Brandon Moore-Morrow.

3. Talking with his team, girls basketball head coach Shawn Clark strategizes against the Stillwater Lady Pioneers Dec. 21.

4. Taking a break from their races, freshman Drew Heinen and seniors Alex Skelton and Sam Marino watch their teammates compete at The Lighthouse.

Photo by Emily Watson

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