Rebel Review: 12/14

ebel R December 5, 2014

I

RevIew Roncalli high school

Volume 14:3

Thanks be to god for his unspeakable gift. 2 corinthians 9:15

Feeding the hungry

NE WS Page 2

Spell Bowl

Roncalli hosted its 43rd annual canned food and blood drive

BY BRAYDEN STEGEMILLER Staff Writer

W

hile it may be hard to imagine, hunger is not just a problem in other parts of the world. One in six people in Indiana struggles with not having enough to eat according to a 2014 Feeding America study. Roncalli students and staff set out to help fight this problem that exists throughout the Southside and beyond by holding a canned food drive.

This year’s drive went a long way in providing food for thousands of people. Students and staff brought in 54,670 cans and raised almost $12,000 which will help support six separate food pantries and agencies including St. Vincent de Paul, Anna’s House, the David Moore Food Pantry, the Holy Trinity Food Pantry, Catholic Charities, and Hunger Inc. The combination of cans and dollars equates to an amazing 78,496 cans collected by RHS students and staff.

The drive averages about 75,000 canned goods collected each year which goes on to feed over 3,500 people. Also, the school raises an average of $10,000-$14,000 every year from the food drive.

Mr. Bob Tully, the vice president for mission and ministry is the coordinator of the canned food and blood drives.

“There is a higher demand for canned foods this year. Because the economy is booming, there are more needs coming from the food pantries,” Tully said.

More than 50 students brought in at least 150 cans. The top student collector was senior Sam Dowell, who brought 5015 cans, breaking her old record of 3390 cans.

While the canned food drive was taking place, Indiana Blood Center brought buses for donors to give blood. Sign ups for volunteers to give blood started slowly, but students and faculty came through with over 154 pints of blood donated to the blood center, almost double the total of pints donated last year. All of those donations will go on to lab and hospital services.

PHOTO BY SHAYLA CABALAN

The spell bowl team finished its season. A recap of their final competition can be found inside.

FEATURES Page 4

Fine Arts

PHOTO BY TAYLOR TOWNSEND

Take a look at all Roncalli’s fine arts have to offer. Some of this year’s performances are highlighted.

Page 7 PHOTO BY MCKENZIE BEESON

WE “CAN” DO IT: Freshman Jennifer Smith and other student volunteers help unload donated cans from a car. This year’s canned food drive benefitted over ten pantries and agencies.

Let’s get a grip on finals Finals don’t have to be so bad when students properly prepare

BY MCKENZIE BEESON

Staff Writer t’s the most wonderful time of the year - except that it’s also time for finals.

Upon hearing the word “finals,” most students groan and imagine the long hours that will be spent studying. Doing well on finals will require work and effort, but it doesn’t have to be all bad.

Knowing how to study efficiently and prepare for finals is very helpful and can eliminate stress.

Study guides are tedious, time consuming, and they can be difficult -- but they help. Most teachers will base their final exams on the study guide, so utilize them. Spanish teacher Nadia Charcap also emphasizes the importance of study guides.

Speaking on behalf of her class, she said, “If they review and know the material, they will do well. . .they will be completely prepared.”

In response to the stress brought on by finals, students often choose unhealthy, sweet food as a snack when studying. Not only are these indulgences bad for students in general, they also aren’t beneficial at all while studying.

Certain foods affect the brain in a positive way for studying and provide beneficial vitamins and nutrients.

Try some of these foods when studying that provide brain-

I

Reviews

power: whole-grains, blueberries, nuts, broccoli, or tomatoes.

Now that plenty of ways to study have been mentioned, there are also things NOT to do while studying!

It’s been said a million times; but do not procrastinate!

Cramming all studying into a night or two before the final is only going to raise stress levels and won’t help on the final.

Time management is key. Decide ahead of finals when to begin studying for each exam and how long it will take to study for that particular subject.

Don’t stay up all night. Many students think that staying up all night will work, because they will get hours of studying in, but it will just make one tired and unable to focus the next day.

Use the time during the day efficiently in order to get to bed at a decent hour. Find a balance between studying time and resting time.

Don’t take resources for granted. If notes and study guides aren’t enough, go directly to the teacher. They want students to do well, and will be more than happy to help struggling students.

With these constructive tips, it will be easy to prepare for finals. Work hard on them and when they’re finally over with, you can lay back and enjoy the holidays.

PHOTO BY MURRAY CLOSE/MCT

“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1” debuted November 21. Take a look at one staffer’s opinion of the new film.

SPOR TS Page 8

Swimming

PHOTO BY MEGAN POWELL

Both boys and girls swimming seasons have begun.

Their next meet is Tuesday at Indian Creek High School.

2

News

december 5, 2014

Practice makes perfect

Dream to reality

Alumni athletes continue their sport

BY PATRICK MURPHY

Online Editor

S

ome Rebel athletes have aspirations to compete beyond high school. The Rebel Review spoke with just a few of the former students who compete athletically in college from the classes of 201214.

Colin Hawk (R’12) is a junior infielder for the University of Indianapolis Greyhounds. Hawk carries on his father’s dream.

“I’ve chosen to carry on this sport because I feel that I have a serious chance to be drafted and if I make it higher in the league, the money, the perks, and help me make my father’s dreams,” said Hawk.

Hawk hopes to be drafted by a baseball team, even his favorite MLB team, the New York Yankees. His role model Derek Jeter played on that team.

Another Greyhound athlete is Daniel Buergler (R’13). Buergler is a sophomore cross country runner for the Greyhounds.

“My attitude has changed since high school, because now I have to balance even harder academics and harder practices with my sport. In high school, it was an extracurricular activity kind of thing. I love the sport even more now because of the harder competition and the experience it is giving me,” said Buergler.

Buergler practices with former competitors Matthew Egan and Sean O’Brien, both from Warren Central. In the most recent cross country meet, Buergler had a time of 28:03.49 at the Great Lakes Valley Conference Championship Meet. The Greyhounds placed fifth out of 14 teams.

Kendra Lynch (R’13) competes in softball for the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. Lynch has a passion for softball.

“I have chosen to carry on this sport because it is what I love to do. Softball has been a part of my life for a long time, and I never envisioned me wanting to stop playing,” said Lynch.

During Lynch’s freshmen year of college, she had an ERA (Earned Run Average) of 5.65, but that was over a span of 19 appearances. At the plate, Lynch had 24 hits and seven home runs.

“After my freshmen season, I was named to the ACC All-Tournament Team. I batted substantially high, while also hitting a grand slam during play. This year so far, I have been named a team captain and am expected to be a person my team can depend on,” said Lynch.

Matthew Brown (R’14) takes to the track this spring at Marian University after having played a season of football for the Knights. Brown ran the 100 and 200 meters last year and was a defensive back for the Rebels.

“My motive to play the sport in college was the love for the game and how much enjoyment I receive from it. When I step on a football field or a track, my worries of the outside world drift away and I have time to focus on being an athlete,” said Brown.

Abby Pongracz (R’13) runs cross country and track for Bellarmine University Knights. The race times, during college, has increased for Pongracz.

“The competition is much more intense. The team sets high goals for ourselves so we push ourselves towards our own goals. The way we see the completion is we chase everyone down and refuse to be passed,” said Pongracz.

Pongracz ran a 21:39.00 5k at the Bluegrass Cross Country Invitational. Her time personal best time from last year is 16:24.8 at the Stegemoller Classic.

Drew Oehrle (R’12) kicks for the Air Force University Falcons. This year, Oehrle starts on the kick-off team and remembers what his coaches taught him.

“My former coaches have always preached to me to stay humble, always keep working, and never become complacent,” said Oehrle.

These collegiate athletes are devoted to their school work and sport. All of these alumni are great role models for current Rebels aspiring to continue their sport past high school.

www.roncallimedia.com

Spell bowl ends; speech readies for more competition PENCILS UP: Junior Matt McKay finishes a round versus Greenfield. The team lost the competition, but still showed great skill.

BY KENZIE KING Staff Writer

T

he Rebel spell bowl team fell short of advancing to the state finals after losing their competition to Greenfield High School by seven points. Although the Rebels were defeated, junior Shayla Cabalan, had a near perfect performance.

“There’s really no other way to put it; what Spell Bowl all boils down to is memorization, and if the studying isn’t done, then the words will never, ever stick,” said Cabalan.

Coach Kim Buckley admits that spell bowl is difficult, as it requires an abundant amount of self-discipline and focus. The members of the spell bowl team spend their own free time studying words and preparing for competition.

Buckley commends all of the members on her team, but admits that Cabalan was a big key to their success.

“The best team member is one who is focused not only on his/her own success, but the success of the whole team. Shayla is a great example of someone whose passion for words transcends the talent of spelling them correctly,” said Buckley.

Similarly, coach Tristan McGill states that being a member of the speech team also requires a dedication to self-improvement and a desire to succeed.

One of the stand-out speech performers is senior Paul Annee.

“I chose to get involved in speech way back in freshman year because I really enjoy a good debate and want to build on my social skills,” said Annee.

The Rebel speech team brought home some hardware from the New Castle meet on November 24th earning fourth place collectively as a team.

First place finishes were recorded by freshman

Grace Murphy in Humorous Interpretation and juniors Maria Hollowell and Grant Schoening in Scripted Duo. “I was really excited about the success I’ve had with my speeches so far this year. I attribute it to a lot of hard work and to having great coaches, Coach Phil Milroy and Coach McGill, who have really helped me improve,” said Murphy.

Other notable finishes include Paul Annee, Shayla Cabalan, sophomore Brandon Sturdivant, sophomore Courtney Smith, freshman Cameron Irwin, and freshman Lizzy Hosty who all finished in the top nine of their event.

PHOTOS BY SHAYLA CABALAN

BUSY BEES: Each spell bowl team member spent their free time studying a list of prepared words for practice. Despite their hard work and their best efforts against Greenfield, the team did not advance to state.

STUDENTS FORM CLUBS

Students are adding new clubs to an already diverse list

BY AUSTIN ARTHUR

Sports Editor his year students have produced three new clubs including the Earth Club, the Parkour Club, and the PC Gaming Club which will add to the dense selection of clubs that Roncalli has to offer.

Students should contact Mrs. Shellie Hartford, Assistant Principal for Student Activities, if interested in joining any of these clubs.

Parkour Club is a new addition that is already quickly gaining members. Senior Mark Bowles helped to organize the new club.

“Acquiring new skills and having a good time is what can be expected [at Parkour Club]. We’re all there to learn new moves and improve the ones we have already. So far, we have been working basics, but once we have a foundation we can get in to the really good stuff,” said Bowles.

After students survive an expectably harsh winter, they will be able to now explore the many wonders of this world by participating in the Earth Club. The Earth club does not officially begin outings until the spring, but it seems to be already gaining a lot of popularity among all students.

“We are a culb dedicated to bettering our environment, our community and living a clean lifestyle that doesn’t hurt the Earth,” said junior Shelby Buckley, who helped in the formation of the Earth Club.

During club outings, students will be able to take trips to parks like Brown County State Park.

Also students will take part in planting trees around school. Students have already bought and tie dyed shirts to wear on their various explorations and journeys.

Finally there is the PC Gaming Club. Club

T

outings will consist of learning about both playing and learning about computer games. Students will gain access to some of the hottest computer games out including popular titles such as the different Call Of Duty games, Minecraft, World of Warcraft, Skyrim, and Watch Dogs.

The PC Gaming Club differs from the video game club.

“Video game club is strictly consoles. We may bring in a laptop from time to time though. PC Gaming Club is only computer. You don’t necessarily have to be in the same physical location to participate,” said senior Carter Parker.

These three clubs addition to Roncalli’s repitoire are sure to draw much interest from the diverse student population at Roncalli.

PHOTO BY SHELBY BUCKLEY

RESPECT YOUR MOTHER: Earth Club’s first action was to tiedye the unique shirts the club designed. Earth Club’s outings, like this one, will increase in the spring.

www.roncallimedia.com

features

december 5, 2014

3

Notorious elf on the shelf Families may begin a new tradition this holiday season lasting the whole month

BY EMILY GANT

News Editor

C

hristmas is a nostalgic time that’s full of memories, family, and most of all, traditions. Families have different customs, but some are starting a new tradition, the Elf on the Shelf.

The Elf on the Shelf is an elf that comes to the house and watches the children before Christmas day. During the night, the elf gets into some mischievous trouble and then when the kids awaken, they find the elf. The elf then tells Santa how well the kids have been acting and if they should be on the naughty or nice list. Once the elf comes back to the home each night, he lands in a different spot each time. After Christmas, the elf flies back to the North Pole and then stays there until next Christmas.

The Elf on the Shelf is a fun way to make new Christmas traditions. In reality, parents can buy the elf in the store and take them home. Then they can go online, make an account, and print off the documentation to show the kids the elf really did come from the North Pole. The parents can also print off a letter from Santa saying how he sent this elf to keep an eye on the kids.

The kids then think of a name and the magic begins. Each night, the parent creates a scene with the elf to make it look like it did something crazy, then the kids can see the things the elf did during the night. This helps kids behave more because they know an elf is watching them and telling Santa about the good and or bad things they have done.

Although the elf doesn’t have any bendable legs, it can do mostly anything. From hang gliding, to writing on the mirror, there are so many things the elf can do.

“My elf, Jack, has eaten some brownies from the kitchen, swung from the fan, and messed up all of the papers on my mom’s desk,” said sophomore Michaela Salazar.

A new addition to the elf on the shelf product is a new elf pet. These are reindeer that help your elf fly to the north pole each night. The reindeer also has a heart charm around its neck and whenever a child hugs it, it fills with Christmas magic. Then on Christmas Eve, that heart necklace will help Santa’s sleigh fly. Families can buy these and hide them with the elf or sepa-

rately to make the mornings even more fun. To add more, parents can also buy elf clothes. There are items like skirts, jerseys, jackets, and aprons for elves to wear.

Each family can also have different traditions with their elf.

“Each member of my family gets a night with our elf, Grace, and does something different with it,” said freshman Nick Schnell.

“Our elf always writes notes to us and leaves things in our stockings,” said Salazar.

The elf on the shelf is an entertaining and fun way to start new traditions this Christmas season.

PHOTO BY KENZIE PRINCE

INTO TROUBLE: The Elf on the Shelf, Elvis McJingles, decides to get into a little trouble at Roncalli. The elf is getting into somone’s locker and checking himself out in their mirror.

Heroes that last a lifetime

Curtis Nguyen and Phil Milroy describe those who have made an impact on them

BY ZALEN NICCOLINI

A

Staff Writer

desire to become like those we admire has always existed and most likely always will. Role models can influence an adolescent or even an adult to become a different type of person and change them for the better or worse down the road. Sophomore Curtis Nguyen dedicates what he desires to do with his life, and most of his positive attributes, to his father.

“I admire my dad’s courage, bravery, and search for freedom above all things,” said Nguyen.

Nguyen’s father, Dahn Nguyen, was born and raised in North Vietnam, and was a teenager around the time of the Vietnam war.

“My dad was looking in a magazine and saw an American car. He decided that he wanted to have a car like that, in America,” said Curtis.

Dahn then underwent a series of escape plans to flee from communist North Vietnam. During his first attempt, the ship he was fleeing on lost its compass and was forced to return to shore. For his second try, the ship landed on a small island under the control of North Vietnam. A group of guards on the island found a few of them and attempted to capture the fleeing Vietnamese.

“At one point the guard was only a few feet from [Dahn], and he didn’t move an inch,” said Curtis.

The last attempt to escape was again on a boat which would go to Thailand. The boat left, and soon after the engine broke down. A group of pirates raided the ship of all its valuables, including Dahn’s rosary. Eventually, however, the ship was spotted by a fisherman, who took the few fleeing Vietnamese to Thailand.

From Thailand it was years of being sponsored and moving about until Dahn got to Indiana, where he had four children, including Curtis.

Curtis always respects the time he has in America and cherish what he has.

“My dad always tells us, ‘in Vietnam we didn’t have opportunities for schooling and education like you do, so cherish it,’ ” said Curtis.

Curtis wishes to grow up, be happy, and always search for what is right, exactly like his father did.

Curtis is not the only example of a person greatly influenced by someone, however. Mr. Phil Milroy, an RHS English teacher, was also greatly influenced by someone else.

“I credit Katy Stallings with my faith becoming my own,” said Milroy.

Stallings was Milroy’s youth minister at his church. She influenced Milroy in expressing his faith out loud and not hiding it from anyone. Milroy attributes some of what he has done in his life to the outstanding movement in religion that she established for him.

Stallings made personal connections and touched Milroy on a basis he understood. At the point where she reached out to him, he went to public schools and the only religion he got was through church and church groups.

“She was just someone who so enjoyed living out her faith,” said Milroy.

Milroy has said that it was mostly Stallings that persuaded him to get a job at a Catholic school, where he would be able to openly express his faith.

Still in contact with Stallings today, Milroy said she was thrilled to know that he got a job at Roncalli.

PHOTO BY ZALEN NICCOLINI

FINDING A ROLE MODEL: Sophomore Curtis Nguyen (above with his father, Dahn) admires his dad’s courage and bravery enough for him to be his role model. As students still search for someone to look up to, he will always have his father.

4

features

december 5, 2014

www.roncallimedia.com

Fine arts highlights talents

From band to choir, theatre and visual arts, students explore different ways to approach

BY TAYLOR TOWNSEND AND MEGAN POWELL

Staff Writer and Co-Editor-in-Chief

C

reativity can be expressed in a variety of ways. However, these different ways can take time to develop. Theatre, choir, visual arts, and band all make up the Fine Arts Department of Roncalli High School. Since the begin-

ning of the school year, these four aspects of the department have been working to showcase talent. Students give their opinion about their participation in the Fine Arts and the current projects they are working on.

PHOTO BY MEGAN POWELL

MAKING ART WITH PASSION: AP Art teacher Mr. Mark Stratton helps sophomore Alex Gomez create a work of art in first period ceramics class. “I decided to try something new, and this class sounded like a fun class,” said Gomez. Stratton has been helping students find their creative side for the past 27 years with 12 of those years at Roncalli.

IRREPLACEABLE MEMORIES: Junior Kate Myers (center) has enjoyed the experience in Reb because of all the positive energy that everyone expresses. Everyone is supportive of each ot with show choir has been one of my favorite experiences and I have made so many friends,” a member of the show choir, although Myers has extensive dance experience.

PHOTO BY MEGAN POWELL

BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK: Sophomore Sofie Scheer, helping create the sets for “Cinderella,” worked her second production as a techie, the technical side to theater that provides a stage for actors to work. “One of the things that I loved was getting to meet people like the upperclassman. If I never did tech, I would not know them,” said Scheer.

PHOTO BY JULIE ALBERTSON

KEEP SINGING: Students have many reasons as to why they decide to pursue choir, and senior Elizabeth Oekler (front row right) has one of her own. “I chose choir because I love music. Singing is one of the best ways to share my love of music,” said Oekler. In Advanced Women’s Choir Oekler and her classmates go on to represent Roncalli at other events such as the school’s Open House, at ISSMA, and at the Fine Arts Showcase in the spring.

www.roncallimedia.com

entertainment

december 5, 2014

5

s of a multitude of Rebels and create new entertainment for the student body and larger Roncalli community

LEFT: The cast of this year’s musical production of “Cinderella,” along with junior Sarah Barron as Cinderella, sing with junior Andy Reel who played Prince Christopher. “I get to be creative, get on stage, and be a character that someone I know personally has to respond to in character,” said Barron.

BELOW: Senior Patrick Ralston, as Lionel, loyal herald to Prince Christopher, announces the Prince’s ball with Joy (played by senior Alexis Pacuch, right) cheering in excitement. “Theater gives interesting people a place where they can be completely themselves. Without it, Roncalli would be incredibly plain,” said Ralston.

PHOTO BY SAM DOWELL

PHOTO BY MEGAN POWELL

bel Rhapsody. “I love show choir ther, and we are a family. This year ” said Myers. This is her first year as

PHOTO BY JULIE ALBERTSON

MUSIC TO THE EAR: The concert band performs “Kumbaya” at Sacred Sounds under the direction of Ms. Kathy Peach. The orchestra and jazz band also performed sacred music for this concert.

REBEL RHAPSODY 2015 COMPETITION SCHEDULE

PHOTO BY TAYLOR TOWNSEND

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21: Lebanon High School SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7: Churubusco High School SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21: Ben Davis High School FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27: Franklin Central High School SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28: Anderson High School

PHOTO BY SOPHIA MILLER

LIGHTING UP THE FIELD: Sophomore Nate Reeves plays the sousaphone during halftime of the Chatard game. “I like playing the tuba because it is more interesting to play than to just sit around and be on the computer,” said Reeves. The marching band also purchased new uniforms.

6

december 5, 2014

O

opinion

www.roncallimedia.com

EDITORIAL

Athletics and arts

n the night of the regional football game between New Palestine and Roncalli, the school was host to two major events, the football game and the theatre performance of “Cinderella”. This brought up issues for both departments involved.

While it’s a problem most schools would love to have, the dual events posed some challenges. Some patrons at the musical said they could hear sounds from the game, which could have been distracting to performers. Those responsible for planning for the regional game also dealt with issues in parking spaces with the auditorium at a full house for the performance.

While the general public often recognizes Roncalli by its sports teams, the fine arts involve a huge slice of the student body and sold-out performances show that the arts are on par with this school’s athletic teams.

One solution that may be suggested, preventing issues like the regional game

conflict, is to look ahead when scheduling events. Games run by the IHSAA are not easily moved; however, the musical could be scheduled for a later date.

Originally, a thought amongst the theatre department was to move the Friday performance to a Sunday matinee but avoiding a future conflict would be even better for all involved. Since the football schedule will not change, and hopefully the Rebels will be making many repeat appearances in regionals, it would behove all involved to look at alternate dates for the musical.

Arguments can be made that athletics overshadow the arts at many schools, but it is the Rebel Review’s intention to continue to highlight both athletics, fine arts and anything else students are interested and involved in.

In this issue we hope to do that with a special middle section highlighting fine arts performances and classes as well as a look at the school’s bowling and swimming teams.

HOW RETAIL STOLE CHRISTMAS

Consumers forget the true meaning behind the Christmas season through excessive shopping

BY KENZIE PRINCE Design Editor

G

rowing up, Christmas was always the best day of the year. Let’s be honest, nothing beat running down the stairs to see what Santa brought that night.

Time seemed to slow, and the presents never stopped coming. People don’t call it the most wonderful time of the year for nothing.

“As a little one, Christmas was a magical day. Waking up to a room full of surprises was a very exciting idea for me,” junior Chad Ramsey said, “Nowadays, the magic of the gifts has diminished, however the spirit of the day remains bright.”

Now, major retailers are pressuring parents and families everywhere to spend more money on gifts and spend it earlier than ever before. K-Mart issued its first Christmas commercial during the second week of September, which was quickly followed by other competitors. Instead of spreading the Christmas message, retailers are constantly reminding customers to spend money now to save later.

Christmas lists in the 90’s were lengthy and included ridiculously simple things like Bop-Its, Furbys, Tamagotchis, and My Little Pony. In 1998, the average cost of a Tamagotchi was $9.99, and Furbys were just under $40. Today, little kids’ Christmas lists are short, yet expensive. Kids ask for iPads or other electronic devices ranging anywhere from $329.99- $529.99, which cost more than the entire Christmas lists of some children in the 90’s.

In a 2013 study conducted by Daily Finance, 57 percent of parents polled admitted they would readily take on debt over the holidays in order to pay for their children’s gifts.

“I think people are spending way more money now than they did when we were kids, but the kids’ parents are spending more and buying less,” junior Kathryn Lemmel said.

While Christmas shopping is a major component of the holiday season, retailers’ tactics have become too invasive. In the same study, Daily Finance also reported that 20 to 40 percent of retailers’ annual sales come from the holiday season. Because this time period is so vital to sales, some malls went so far as to fine businesses who remain closed on Thanksgiving Day. A mall near Buffalo, New York, threatened to fine stores $200 an hour if they refused to open on Thanksgiving Day.

As we grow up, retailers will continue to urge us to spend money, but it is essential to keep our childish roots. Waking up on Christmas day is the best feeling in the world for children; never lose your childhood spirit, and always remember the reason we celebrate the season - the birth of God’s son, Jesus Christ.

PHOTO BY GERRY MELENDEZ/ MCT

OUT THE DOOR: Families line up outside a Toys “R” Us store in Colombia, South Carolina. The hectic crowds of Black Friday caused lots of people to take precautions. Black Friday now begins at 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving in some places, and WTHR offered a “shopping mall traffic map” to use while out on the post-holiday.

The Rebel Review Staff Editorial Policy We accept letters to the editor from all faculty, staff, and students. They Staff Writer: Joe Schroeder Editor-in-Chief: Joanie Dugan

Editor-in-Chief: Megan Powell Staff Writer: Michael Schiefelbein can be e-mailed to jalbertson@roncalli.org or delivered to room 203.

Please keep these letters short, roughly 200-300 words. They will be News Editor: Emily Gant Staff Writer: Kenzie King accepted under the circumstances that they are signed and noted to Features Editor: Luke Pohovey Staff Writer: Zalen Niccolini which article it is in response. Letters that contain misinformation or Sports Editor: Austin Arthur Staff Writer: Brayden Stegemiller are meant to libel another will not be published. The decision to publish Design Editor: Kenzie Prince Staff Writer: McKenzie Beeson these will be decided by The Rebel Review adviser Mrs. Albertson. We Online Editor: Patrick Murphy Staff Writer: Taylor Townsend also accept photographs and articles written by students, teachers, Managing Editor: Anthony Greene Adviser: Mrs. Julie Albertson and staff members. Some material courtesy of American Society of Newspaper Editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service.

www.roncallimedia.com

reviews

december 5, 2014

OLDIES BUT GOODIES

7

One staffer’s recommendation for discovering older music

BY JOANIE DUGAN Co-Editor-in-Chief

A

s the Top 40 continues to conquer the popular music scene, it’s easy to want to discover something different. Sometimes, it can be better to take a look at the music that has always been there, but has maybe fallen into the forgotten abyss of iTunes.

Bright Eyes is one of those bands that has always been around, consisting of frontman and founder Conor Oberst and a rotating round of collaborators.

Since forming in 1995, Bright Eyes’ music has been featured in numerous TV shows such as Gossip Girl, Chuck, and Friday Night Lights as well as a few feature films. However, the group has not been active since 2011.

One of their most popular albums, I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning, came out in 2005 and is true to its indie-rock classification. The album begins with ‘At the Bottom of Everything’, a catchy track that begins with Oberst telling a story, then progresses into an upbeat tune to establish the mood of the album. Each track contributes something different to the overall sound; a personal favorite is Landlocked Blues, an incredibly somber tone that never fails to calm me down.

The most popular song on the album is arguably ‘First Day of My Life’, an uplifting song about meeting true love for the first time. I would be lying if I said I didn’t listen to this on repeat every once in a while.

While I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning’s tracks vary from upbeat, like ‘At the Bottom of Everything’, to solemn such as ‘Landlocked Blues’, each has one thing in common: genius lyrics. At first listen,

PHOTO BY LUKE POHOVEY

NEW PLACE IN TOWN: The Blue’s Burger is one of the featured items on Bagger Dave’s menu. The restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and wide variety of specialty burgers.

Bagger Dave’s hopes to impress New burger restaurant opens on the Southside PHOTO BY SADDLE CREEK/ CC BY

WIDE AWAKE: The album cover of I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning by Bright Eyes features an embroidery town scene. Despite being released nearly ten years ago, it remains Oberst’s topselling album on iTunes.

Oberst’s clever lyrics seem just straight-up bizarre; but, they are simply enticing. Somehow, songs that are seemingly about plane crashes or poison trees are just as beautiful as the obvious love songs and never cease to send shivers down my spine.

I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning is a gem among the albums of the past. Witty lyrics combined with refreshing innovative songs make for the perfect album; all I wish is that it went on further than 10 tracks.

Turn away from ‘Mockingjay’

Blockbuster movie lets down the Hunger Games fandom

BY MICHAEL SCHIEFELBEIN

Staff Writer

I

f you feel like you were left hanging after Catching Fire, then you need to see ‘Mockingjay’, but don’t be in any rush. I would give the movie a 4/10, compared to the first two movies Mockingjay Part 1 was a disappointment. I was impressed by the acting done by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, and most of the acting done by Jennifer Lawrence was great, but it didn’t match her performance in the first two films. Hopefully part two will make up for part one’s poor portrayal of the bestselling novel.

To recap, after Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) was taken up into the aircraft at the end of Catching Fire, it is learned that there is a plan to spark a rebellion against the corrupt Capitol in Panem. Rebel President Alma Coin (Julianne Moore) and Plutarch Heavensbee (Philip Seymour Hoffman) plan to use Katniss as the vehicle to fuel the rebellion. As it was seen in the second film of the series, Catching Fire, Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) has been taken and brainwashed by the Capitol to threaten those who go against them and torture Katniss.

The first 45 minutes of the movie are boring and depressing, to say the least. The Rebels’ efforts to create propaganda videos to try and rally the troops and Katniss going through various states of emotion occupy the whole beginning of the film with little excitement. The thing that bothered me the most about the movie was how long it took to reach the climax. There is no feeling of suspense or anticipation until the last 15 minutes of the movie.

The creators also expect us to care about characters like Katniss’ family and Gale (Liam Hemsworth) when they only have about ten minutes on the screen. Katniss’ sister Prim as well as her mother are expected to be cared for by the audience, since they matter so much to Katniss, but have little role in the film so far. Also, I believe the whole part one and part two setup they decided to do to the film is a desperate cash grab to try and get people to come spend money to see the ending next year.

One thing I thought the movie did a good job of

is creating the mood of a dystopia during a revolution. It felt like the whole movie was in a drab lighting which set a bleak atmosphere. Also the settings of many of the scenes took place in areas destroyed or in shambles, giving it the dystopian mood. One more thing I thought was done well was the placement of action scenes spread throughout the movie.

To conclude, there were things done well such as the setting and mood as well as the acting done

by Philip Seymour Hoffman, and most of the acting done by Jennifer Lawrence. Despite the few good things, the movie was still disappointing. The lack of climatic events during most of the movie, the lifelessness, and lack of character development made this movie a bummer. So, in my opinion if you’re planning to go see it, save your money, and wait until it’s on Netflix instead.

PHOTO BY DOWNLOADKAR.COM / CC BY

MOCKING WHO?: The film ‘Mockingjay’ was released on November 21 and was number one in the box office. The movie brought in an estimated $152 million in the opening weekend.

BY LUKE POHOVEY

Features Editor he winter season is upon us, and that means an even larger emphasis on food in our lives. Food is the basis of our society and without it we would crumble into a storm of anarchy.

Okay, obviously I’m being a little dramatic, but all can agree that this is the best time of the year when it comes to cuisine. Between Halloween , Thanksgiving, and Christmas, there is plenty to eat.

Whether its our grandma’s home cooked meals, or meals at our favorite restaurants, food is always better at the end of the year .

Trying new places to eat is also an important habit, so my colleagues and I decided to visit Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern , a new chain restaurant on County Line Road and Emerson about fifteen minutes away from Roncalli. The reviews I had read of the restaurant on Yelp (a restaurant and business review application) prior to our visit weren’t great, but I was optimistic about how the food would turn out.

The atmosphere was the first thing that jumped out, with enough TV’s to watch college football and a train theme that included a model train going around that ceiling which gave it the feeling of a sports bar. It wasn’t too crowded , so we got exceptional service from our waiter, who was hovering around our table throughout the meal.

The menu included just about as many types of burgers one could imagine, including a Sante Fe Chipotle Burger, a burger called the Train Wreck which had a fried egg on it, and even a Pumpkin Barbecue Turkey Burger. I ordered the Blue’s Burger, an appetizing specialty burger featuring bleu cheese and a cajun spice blend. The burger was delicious, and was definitely a step above the average restaurant burger. What finished it off was the pretzel bun which was toasted to perfection.

There is only one downside: as delicious as the food was, the prices were extremely high. Most burgers on the menu were $7-$ 8 and that didn’t include fries, which had to be purchased separately.

With the exception of the high prices, Bagger Dave’s was a delight. Great food, friendly service, and family atmosphere are the definite highlights of the establishment, as long as a person is okay with making a small dent in their wallet. I recommend Bagger Dave’s to burger lovers everywhere.

T

8

sports

december 5, 2014

www.roncallimedia.com

Swim teams begin seasons Boys’ team hopes to capitalize on its experience; girls have strong individuals

BY JOE SCHROEDER

Staff Writer ast season the boys’ swimming and diving team had a successful year, finishing at a strong 8-1 in dual/tri meets. The team went on to finish fifth in both the Marion County championship and sectionals.

With many swimmers returning this year, including last year’s MVP junior Eddie Huck, the team looks to improve on last year’s success. The team established two individual records and broke two of the previous relay records.

“Most of our swimmers are returning this year, and we are going to be very fast,” senior Mikey Reeves said.

Despite going up against tough competition in this year’s meets, such as tough Franklin Central and Perry Meridian teams, the team expects perfection.

“I’m predicting we go undefeated in our dual meets and tri meets,” Reeves said. “Overall the season is looking to be the best we’ve had in a while.”

Some of this team’s recent success can be attributed to head coach Ed Merkling who won Franklin Community Sectional Coach of the Year, and his swimmers feel it is well deserved.

“Ed is the best coach I’ve ever had. He genuinely cares about the athletes on our team, pushes us to do our best, and is responsible and well organized,” said Reeves.

However, Merkling says he doesn’t deserve all of the recognition.

“We have a great coaching staff that makes this possible,” said Merkling.

L

Merkling keeps his swimmers in shape during the offseason in various ways.

He offers a preseason dry land training program. Merkling also coaches some of his athletes during the spring, summer, and fall on the Jaguar Aquatics team.

Along with Reeves, Merkling is anticipating a strong season for the team this year too.

“I’d say we’ll be even stronger this year [than last],” Merkling said.

The boys are already showing their strength this season, coming out with a decisive 114-53 win over Southport on November 11th. The team is looking to win their next meet at Indian Creek next Tuesday, December 9th.

Last season the girls swim team finished 4-5 in their dual/tri meet season, and finished sectionals with a ninth place. After losing last season’s MVP in Emily Griffin, it is hard to predict how this season will shake out.

The girls team seems to be confident, however.

“I’d say that we are looking to improve,” said junior Annabel Gremore.

The girls team has seen a number of strong individual performances but waits for its first team win, finishing third in a meet against Greenwood and New Palestine, sixth in the Westfield Invitational, and losing a close meet to Southport. The girls have upcoming meets against Indian Creek on December 9th, and a meet at Lawrence Central on December 11th.

PHOTO BY MEGAN POWELL

500 FREESTYLE WINNER: Junior Ashley Harter performs the breaststroke during a recent meet at Greenwood. The girls’ team finished third with 100 points behind host Greenwood and New Palestine.

PHOTO BY DANIELLE HUGHES

FAST OR LAST: Senior Mikey Reeves practices the breast stroke to prepare for sectionals last year.

Reeves hopes to be a leader for the team as they look to improve on last year’s stellar performance.

MAKING A STRIKE TO VICTORY Both boys’and girls’ bowling teams gear up for a long season

BY ANTHONY GREENE

Managing Editor

T PHOTO BY MEGAN YODER

STRAIGHT DOWN THE LANE: Sophomore Evan Hammans bowls during a practice last season. Hammans was the Rebel’s top bowler with a high game of 244 game and a 421 series in the team’s most recent match against Perry Meridian last week.

PHOTO BY MEGAN YODER

SET EM’ UP, KNOCK EM’ DOWN: Sophomore Emily Hollcraft bowls during a practice last year. Despite starting with an almost completely new team, the girl’s team hopes to improve and finish the season strong.

he Roncalli bowling teams continue their quest for a great season. The boys return with multiple members and all have shown progress.

“I feel the returning members will be solid, and our new members will be great,” said senior Steven Ramsey.

The boys’ team is led by Ramsey, who is a four-year member of the team. Ramsey puts a lot of time into bowling by participating in multiple leagues during the summer and bowling every weekend with his family.

Ramsey is not the only one to put in off season work.

“Over the summer, I practiced a lot, and I felt it made me better and helped me gain confidence in my bowling,” said senior Anthony Cento.

Cento has also been a four-year member of the team and his time and effort have produced results. Cento’s greatest game came on senior night two years ago when he bowled a 256.

After last season’s strong finish, Ramsey believes that this team can make a long run at the end of the season.

“I feel we have a great chance to win sectionals and regionals and even state,” said Ramsey.

The girls’ team has gone through a lot of ups and downs the past few years. The whole team was new last year and this year is almost all rookies, but the leadership of a returning member can bring confidence.

“I think we’re going to be good. Most of the new members are catching on quickly,” said sophomore Catie Wallace.

The girls’ team includes Wallace, one of the only two returning members from the team last year. Wallace has taken opportunities to share her experience with the new team members.

“I have given them pointers on how to bowl better,” said Wallace.

The boys’ bowling team has had a high game of 244 by sophomore Evan Hammans and the girls’ high game has been a 216 by senior Abigail Bates.

Both the boys’ and girls’ teams have gotten off to a good start with a combined record of 5-3.

“I hope to have a fun year with my friends while we attempt to win every remaining match,” said Cento.