Rebel Review: 10/17

EVIEW R

Volume 17:2

October 27, 2017

Roncalli High School

CHANGING

OF THE

SEASONS What makes fall so special? The season has come to represent cooler weather, warm clothes and all things pumpkin. Some people, like Mrs. Maria Poteet and son MJ (pictured right) enjoy taking their pet on walks through nature. Others may prefer going to an apple orchard or getting spooked in a haunted house.

In this issue, staff writers explore the various trends and activities that come with the changing of the seasons.

PHOTO BY DAVE SCHRADER

Stress and Substance Abuse

With many students coping with mental health difficulties, some may choose avenues that include the abuse of drugs or alcohol. Staff writer Grace Murphy discusses how students can get help on Page 2.

roncallimedia.com

“Mother of Roncalli”

People know her as the first smiling face they encounter when walking into Roncalli, but few know of Mrs. Donna Smith’s background. Learn more about her life and contributions to the school on Page 3.

Roncalli vs. Cathedral With a move up to 5A, the Rebel football team faces Cathedral High School tonight at 7 p.m. in sectional football action at Arsenal Technical High School.

Learn more about the game’s outlook on Page 8.

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Hope for a healthy future

10.27.17

SAP offers a pathway to success and recovery for students battling stress and substance abuse

BY GRACE MURPHY Staff Writer

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n September, students from the Hope Academy spoke to Rebels on the effects of drugs and alcohol on their lives. The academy is an Indiana public high school located on the northwest side of Indianapolis and serves as a refuge and learning community for students with drug and alcohol addictions. It is the only high school of its kind in Indiana.

Rebels heard from four teenagers in recovery: Dustin, Julia, Nick and AJ. They told the stories of how they became addicted and how that decision impacts their lives.

Nick, a sophomore at Hope Academy, remains hopeful for his future, despite being born with an addiction, having parents who were addicted, and bouncing around from foster home to foster home.

“It doesn’t matter where you come from, it matters where you’re going,” Nick said.

Roncalli social worker Ms. Kelley Fisher hopes that the Roncalli community will hear and understand the message from Hope Academy.

“I hope that Roncalli students gain awareness that this [issue] is real, and that there is hope and there is help,” Fisher said.

Roncalli offers a similar program to the Hope Academy, a whole team dedicated to the mental health and happiness of all its students: the Student Assistance Program (SAP).

Psychology teacher and SAP team member Mrs. Kim Striby sees the Hope Academy visit as further evidence for the growing number of students who need help.

“Getting Hope Academy to come in supports our idea of creating programs to reach

ILLUSTRATION BY PIXABAY/CC BY

HERE TO HELP: The Student Assistance Program (SAP) aims to help students with all forms of mental health. The students from Hope Academy helped to start the conversation about mental health this year.

out to students who are struggling and dealing with things,” said Striby. “This helps them seek the assistance we are trying to provide.”

The primary focus of the SAP team is mental health, but drugs and alcohol also play a role in the issues they try to combat. Mrs. Shellie Hartford, the assistant principal for student activities, is proud of the progress the SAP has achieved over the years.

“I believe that our school is successful in giving kids avenues to bring concerns forward, and hopefully they feel safe in doing that,” Hartford said.

The SAP team will begin to help a student in trouble once a concern is submitted from a peer, teacher, or counselor. Next, guidance counselors will reach out to the student’s teachers in order to see if they have any concerns. An interview with the student will then be conducted, and if drugs and alcohol are a concern, the student will be asked to admit his or her involvement in substance abuse. If the student reveals that this is the case, he or she will not be disciplined in any way. However, if he or she denies it, and a subsequent drug test reveals the opposite, the student will be put on a discipline track.

“The idea is we are here to help; we don’t want to punish,” Striby said.

A common misconception of the SAP is that its primary purpose is to catch, drug test, and punish students who may be involved in harmful habits. But, in fact, the program only looks to help students who are struggling, no matter the issue.

“People don’t talk about the positive that comes out of this program,” Striby said. “No one wants to own up to having difficulties.”

High school is a stressful time in teenagers’ lives, and sometimes drugs and alcohol are seen as the solution to their problems. However, what starts as a way to calm down can quickly lead to a physical and psychological addiction. The SAP team is trying its best to offer solutions to high school stress and obstacles, so that harmful habits are not established among Roncalli students.

“We want to deal with the cause and less with the effect,” Striby said.

Junior Eiler Spayd, after hearing the accounts of the Hope Academy students, urges her peers to think before they act.

“I hope people take into the account the consequences that come with their choices,” Spayd said. “Whether or not they choose to make a decision is solely in their hands.”

The missions of both the Hope Academy and the SAP are the same: to bring awareness and open avenues to seek help for students who are struggling.

“Teenagers think they are invincible,” Hartford said. “None of those kids [in the Hope Academy] thought that could happen to them. If our students hear it from kids their own age, there is a better shot at believing it’s applicable to them.”

Earth club up and running High school students are making environmental changes (and T-shirts) through club activities

BY WILL ALLEN Staff Writer

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oncalli’s earth club took an indefinite hiatus after the graduation of several key members of the class of 2016. Their absence led to a hole in the program, and it has taken several years for a class to rise to the occasion and resurrect the club.

“I really wanted to start it back up again for a couple reasons,” senior Allison Cougill said. “I didn’t want to have to wait until college to make an impact. I felt that as long as the club was around [in high school], it gave high school students the chance to make their personal contribution and to leave a positive impact on the world around them.”

Cougill undertook the project of reviving earth club with fellow seniors including Collin Prince, Kyle Carpenter, Harrison Koppenhofer, Dianna Perez and Michael Frausto.

“It was definitely a group effort,” Cougill said. “Without their active participation, none of this could have come into fruition.”

With that in mind, the group is cognizant of the fact that they might not be around long enough to see the club grow into a more substantial presence.

“Starting it back up means we have to lay a lot of ground work,” Cougill said. “But we have heavy administration support, especially from Mrs. [Shellie] Hartford and our moderator Mr. [Andy] Niewedde.

In order to establish a club with longevity, Cougill and Carpenter agreed that the club would have to have a large foundation. To entice future club members, she made bright colored tie-dye shirts at an affordable price.

“I was able to design them with an online website,” Cougill said. “I knew they had to be cool otherwise people might just glance over club without a second look. But with these [shirts] it helps spread the word.”

Along with Carpenter, Cougill was able to spread the word about the shirts via social media and had a huge response.

“We ordered about $1,000 dollars worth of shirts,” Cougill said, “So based on that we are guessing our club size will be about 140 people.”

This is up an exponential amount from last year’s garden club, which ultimately became this year’s Earth Club.

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PHOTO BY WILL ALLEN

A GREENER RONCALLI: Earth club co-president senior Allison Cougill works in the garden. The garden is located behind the football blockhouse and is tended by earth club students.

The club leaders have high hopes for the rest of the year and in years to come.

“We hope to be able to lower our ecological footprint, as well as add a compost feed,” Cougill said. “We know it won’t all happen this year, but the goal is to inspire underclassmen and to get Roncalli distinguished as a ‘Green Ribbon’ school.”

Getting status as a Green Ribbon school would be hard but attainable work for the school as well as Earth Club members.

Requirements for the ribbon via the USDE Green Ribbon website are as follows: reduce environmental impact and costs, improve the health and wellness of schools, students, and staff and provide effective environmental and sustainability education.

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10.27.17

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Mrs. Smith, mother of Roncalli

news

Well-known and well-loved school secretary celebrates 45 years of total time working for the Rebels

BY MADDIE ALDRICH Staff Writer

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hen students walk through the front doors of Roncalli, one of the first things they see is the bright smile of long-time administrative assistant Mrs. Donna Smith. For 45 years, Smith has not only been the school secretary, but more

like family. “[Smith] is basically the mother of Roncalli,” assistant principal for student activities Mrs. Shellie Hartford said. “She knows each of our kiddos and their parents personally.”

Smith’s time at Roncalli began in the kitchen of the cafeteria in 1972. At the time she was not working and her mother-in-law was a cook in the kitchens of St. Jude. She called Smith, saying they could use a few extra hands. Smith came within five minutes of hanging up, and the rest is history. She then transitioned into working to Roncalli, due to her need of a full time job. Her first secretary job was with former principal Mr. Bernie Dever, and she has since had the opportunity to work with three other principals, Mr. Pat Cox, Mr. Joe Hollowell and Mr. Chuck Weisenbach.

Smith has given 45 years of her life to Roncalli not only as a secretary, but as a cheerleading coach, co-worker and friend. She is also a familiar face at the ticket gate for Friday night football games. Known as the office go-to person, Smith knows how to help and who to ask for help if it is not a service she can directly perform. She aids teachers and those in the president’s and the business offices, answers phones, and greets people at the door.

Smith has given much time and love to the Roncalli family, but her favorite memory is when Roncalli returned the favor. Thirteen years ago, Smith lost her husband Richard [Dick] during a snowmobiling accident in Michigan.

“We talk many times about being a family here at Roncalli,” Smith said, “but when this happened, they showed me the true meaning of family.”

The outpouring of love and support was much appreciated from Smith and her family after the death of her husband. At the time of her family tragedy, Smith lived an hour away in Brown County. The second night after her husband’s passing, several faculty members, including Hollowell, Weisenbach, Mrs. Kathy Schembra, Mr. Bob Tully and Mrs. Terese Carson came over with “enough food to feed an army.” Smith also distinctly remembers former RHS teacher Mrs. Kathy Tinder calling and asking if it would be okay if the Mercy Meal was held in the cafeteria. This took a huge burden off of her and reminded Smith how much she loved her Roncalli family and how they helped her when she needed them most.

Recently, Smith has switched to part-time office hours. While hesitant at first, this change has been for the better.

“I didn’t want to leave Roncalli completely, but I wanted more time [off],” Smith said.

Today, her job is not as stressful as it once was, and she is able to easily help others. This allows for more time for her to spend with her three children, eight grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. In her free time, Smith also enjoys walking and going on adventures with family. However, multiple coworkers miss seeing her smiling face at the end of a long day. Longtime friend and coworker, Hartford, has been struggling to adjust with her new hours, along with many other faculty members.

“I truly miss her smile when she isn’t here,” Hartford said.

Co-workers recall the many memories they have created with Smith over the years. Administrative assistant Mrs. Rita Boyle, another familiar face in the main office, was “lunch buddies” with Smith for over 20 years. They shared family stories and occasionally used to go on adventures. “[Smith] exudes love and is the face of Roncalli,” Hartford said.

PHOTO BY MADDIE ALDRICH

ALL SMILES: Mrs. Donna Smith flashes her familiar smile. She is located at the front of the main office, welcoming visitors, students and faculty daily.

Conquering unknown trails

Mountain biking club gets its wheels turning as students pursue action and adventure at Southwestway Park

BY NICHOLAS PLAHITKO Staff Writer

PHOTO BY STEFAN WELSH

PHOTO BY STEFAN WELSH

HIGH SPEEDS: Senior Luke Dow takes a turn on a wooded path during the first club outing. Dow has been biking since six years old and is one of the pioneers of the club.

BIG AIR: Senior Connor Mahern catches air on a jump during the first mountain biking club outing. The mountain biking club plans to meet every weekend to ride at various parks around the city.

here is a new club on the rise in the world of Roncalli, and it is one for those seeking a thrill. The mountain biking club gives students the opportunity to spend Saturday mornings with nature, some good friends and their bikes.

The idea arose when senior Connor Mahern wanted to turn his hobby of biking into an organized group for those who shared this interest.

“I knew my friends mountain biked, and we have ridden together before,” Mahern said.

So the club became a reality. Now, all across the Indianapolis area, students seek out new routes to travel on their bikes. Experienced and inexperienced bikers alike can band together in friendship under the supervision of media teacher, Mr. Stefan Welsh.

“We knew Mr. Welsh was from Colorado, and he is a young and active person, so we thought that he’d be a good fit for the club,” senior Luke Dow said.

Mountain biking can pose many challenges, including the risk of injury. The rugged

trails and rocky terrain can be unforgiving if proper technique is not exercised. Junior Calder Robinson knows this all too well from first hand experience.

“I broke my metacarpal [bone in my hand],” Robinson said. “I went on this big jump and went too fast over it, landed on my side and slid on the ground.”

Despite this setback, Robinson is determined to get back to the trails. As a seasoned mountain biker, he displays a sense of enthusiasm for the activity that provides a driving force for the club to grow.

“It is really fun, [and] it’s not too hard to get into if you have a bike,” Robinson said.

The club’s current members emphasize that it is open invite and encourage everyone to get their wheels spinning and try it out.

So far, the club has visited Southwestway Park and Town Run Trail Park. This weekend, they are going to Fort Harrison State Park.

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FALL

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PUMPKIN SPICE...IS IT NICE?

10.27.17

BY NICK PERKINS Staff Writer

Students and teachers share their thoughts and opinions on the ever-popular seasonal beverage

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s the fall rolls in and shades of yellow, brown and orange settle over the land, a certain special drink (or not) enters the scene. This drink is of course the peculiar tasting and iconic pumpkin spice latte. First introduced in 2003 by Starbucks, the beverage has since become a staple of the fall season, and its scent can be whiffed within the halls of our school in the morning. But as the world keeps spinning, one must ask themselves, “Is this stuff even good?” Outside of the scent, this cup of joe sure doesn’t bring much to the table in this reporter’s opinion due to slightly better taste and decent smell. But, many would disagree with this statement. Director of campus ministry Mr. Jeff Traylor sure thinks highly of the drink.

“I am a fan of things pumpkin spiced flavored in general, and I love coffee,” Traylor said. “It was a match made in heaven.”

When asked about how much he purchases the Starbucks latte he said to have gone at least once a week which equates to roughly $20 a month for about four cups of coffee.

Toward the middle of the spectrum are those people such as economics teacher Mrs. Betsy Strader, who don’t really care too much for the craze. She, with others, don’t lean towards pro- or anti-pumpkin spice, they simply just don’t care.

“I find it funny how obsessive people are and how they will go from spending nothing to $25 or more on coffee, but I guess it has a nice scent, so whatever,” Strader said.

While Strader is a bit more passive about the beverage, there are some who really couldn’t give a hoot about any of the pumpkin spice craze.

“Pumpkins are only good for pie and jack o’lanterns,” junior Kolton Ferguson said.

Alongside Ferguson is junior Grant Shaw who provided some grin worthy comments.

“It’s really overhyped and I feel like people freak over it,” Shaw said. “Also it seems like it’s just a ploy by Starbuck’s to rake in a bunch of cash with little justification.”

I share this opinion and think Starbuck’s grip on individuals over nonsensical things makes people waste a lot of money. When you think about it, paying a dollar more for coffee for an equally refreshing drink makes no sense. And the idea that it’s cool, festive, all my friends are doing it etc. is pure silliness. The drink itself is fine, it tastes less bitter than coffee with all of the perks of a regular morning brew, however its mainstream attention and mindless daily buyers have gotten to a ridiculous point. According to the company’s statistics, they sell approximately 20 million cups of pumpkin spice lattes a year.

I am not a huge fan of the drink for this reason because it allows a big corporation to put humble Americans in a state that encourages impulsive spending for the sake of the season. Going along with this specific annual trend is going to blow away a lot of your cash and make a big-time company like Starbucks only get bigger.

ILLUSTRATION BY NICK PERKINS

DIVIDED: This political cartoon depicts two opposing thoughts on the fall flavored coffee. While it seems extreme, seemingly normal people can snap when their beliefs are challenged.

SPOOKY HALLOWEEN TREATS

BY ISABEL LAUT Staff Writer

Puppy Chow

Spider Cookies

Ingredients: 4 ½ cups of Chex cereal, ½ cup chocolate chips, ¼ cup peanut butter, ⅛ cup butter, ¾ cup powdered sugar, festive M&M’s Directions: 1. Measure out cereal, placing it in a large ziploc bag. Set aside.

2. Put chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter into a bowl.

3. Place bowl in microwave to melt ingredients together. Microwave for 1 minute, checking and stirring at 30 seconds.

4. Pour melted chocolate and peanut butter into plastic bag with cereal.

5. Shake bag so that the cereal is equally coated in chocolate.

6. Add powdered sugar to the bag and equally coat the cereal.

7. Pour festive M&M’s in (as many as desired).

Ingredients: peanut butter cookie mix, Reese’s peanut butter cups, candy eyes, brown icing Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350.

2. Make peanut butter cookies according to bag.

3. Directly after cookies come out of the oven, place a peanut butter cup in the center of the cookie.

4. After cookies have cooled, use icing to draw spider legs on the cookie.

5. Use icing as glue to paste on candy eyes to the peanut butter cup.

PHOTOS BY ISABEL LAUT

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10.27.17

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MEET THE TEACHERS’ PETS

FALL

BY ELIZABETH BRADLEY Staff Writer

PHOTOS BY DAVE SCHRADER

FALL FRIENDS: Many teachers in the Roncalli community have pets of their own, and fall is the perfect time to enjoy these furry companions. Teachers pictured include (left) Mr. Matt Archer, (above middle) Mr. Chris Strykowski, (above right) Mrs. Cathy Kitchens and children, (bottom middle) Mrs. Maria Poteet’s son, MJ, and (bottom right) Mr. James Kedra. Each of these teachers brought their dogs to participate in a fall photoshoot last week, and the pictures were priceless.

STAY FRESH THIS FALL

BY GRACE SILVER Online Editor

PRETTY PUMPKIN: Many people choose to carve a typical face into the pumpkin. This year, a popular thing to do is not to carve your pumpkin at all. People have chosen to make an aesthetiuc pumpkin during the day, not at night. Painting, putting stickers on or bedazzling it is a great way to make a festive pumpkin for fall. If you want to stick to carving, a unique idea is carving a logo, favorite TV or movie character.

ENJOYING NATURE: Brown County State Park, pictured below, is known as one of the greatest places to visit to watch the folliage change from summer to fall. Clifty Falls State Park offers a variey of diffrent trails to hike, featuring an array of mystical waterfalls. Turkey Run State Park contains trails of different diffuculty and is known for their ladders and bridges throughout the park.

PHOTO BY CREATIVE COMMONS

PHOTO BY KGIRICHADRA

STAYING STYLISH: Keeping away from the typical fads of fashion during fall, 2017 calls for new items to add to your wardrobe. Plaids and vintage florals are two new, popular patterns. Faux fur, embelished boots, fishnets, nylon coats, and collars are current staples calling to be added to your closet. Old classics maming a come back include: Broad shoulders, retro hats, and leisure suits.

Textured material is also making a break through, with velvet and satin being the two most popular.

PHOTO BY CREATIVE COMMONS

FRIGHT NIGHT: A love hate activity throughout the season of fall is haunted houses. Nightmare on Edgewood offers 4 diffrent houses of horror, all of diffrent, frightening themes. Indiana Fear Farm only offers two haunted attractions, which includes a 20 minute hayride full of heart-stopping scares. Indy Scream Park offers the most attractions at a total of 6. Two of the six attractions are new this year, one being a zombie attraction, the other a mutation attraction. Many Roncalli students have visited Nightmare on Edgewood, as pictured left and right. Seniors Scout Leffler (left) and Nicole Clifford (right) show their fright as they walk through one of the haunted attractions.

USED WITH PERMISSION FROM NIGHTMARE ON EDGEWOOD

USED WITH PERMISSION FROM NIGHTMARE ON EDGEWOOD

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opinion

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10.27.17

Chance to grow in faith

hand in hand with SAINT JOHN XXIII

Students and faculty share thoughts and experiences on junior retreat

BY RYAN BRANDENBURG Staff Writer

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n September, students from the junior class attended the Going on junior retreat has several benefits: not only do junior retreat led by the National Evangelization Team students get to be around fellow classmates, but they also get (NET). Students took part in games, skits and different to have a day where they can examine their own faith and discussions about their faith. Teachers and students alike how they can strengthen it. believed that they “It’s time away,” Ge benefited from the experilaude said. “It is some ence, and they enjoyed the of the best prayer time retreat. Some people of junior year.” shared what they thought At the end of the about the experience and day, students gathered why other students around to have a final should get involved with prayer and reflect on the junior retreat. what the day had “Any Christian should taught them. pursue a relationship with I believe that Christ,” director of junior retreat was very campus ministry Mr. Jeff influential, and I think Traylor said. “Get out of it really helped me your comfort zone.” grow in my faith. I Teachers also went on met some nice people PHOTO SUMBITTED BY JEFF TRAYLOR retreat with the students CIRCLE UP: Students gather around in a circle for a game. Throughout the day, from NET, and I got to students played multiple games with NET members. to observe what they be with my friends. The experienced and to see silent prayer at the end of what the retreat included. the day was very powerful and made me think about my rela“I think [students] should go to meet the NET team tionship with Christ. The speakers used creative ways to get us because it’s easy to not have role models in your faith, and to understand the message. My message to students that are the NET team is living their faith well,” religion teacher Ms. uncertain on whether to go on retreat or not is this: Yes, you Michele Gelaude said. should definitely go. It’s time away from school, and you get to On the junior retreat, students take part in different have a powerful experience with God. activities and listen to speakers talk about how to live out the With more opportunities throughout the year, students faith. Students thought that the speakers from NET were very and faculty alike believe that those who have the chance to go helpful. on retreat should.

I personally went on junior retreat and it was a great “Going on retreat should be hard,” Traylor said. “Hard beexperience. I could see clearly that the speakers from NET cause it’s a huge unknown. You just have to trust in the Holy lived out the faith and they made everything fun and easy to Spirit.” understand.

The Rebel Review wants you, as a Roncalli student, to learn more about our school’s namesake. Each month, we will be including a paraphrased excerpt from the book “A Pope Laughs,” by Kurt Klinger

PHOTO CC BY/WIKIPEDIA

FALDERAL

The atmosphere of the Vatican was completely altered under Papa Giovanni. From the beginning, John directed the change toward a greater simplicity and naturalness.

He started with the Vatican newspaper “Osservatore Romano.” The rather pompous speech of the Curia and the long, involved sentence-structure used at the Vatican were the first to go. He let the editors of the distinguished Vatican paper know that in the future when they were referring to the Pope, they should not call him “our spiritual ruler.” They should not employ inflated phrases, such as “the chosen one in his inspired and sublime discourse,” but should simply state, “The Pope said.” They were also asked to eliminate the introductory sentence “We present the following speech as we have gathered it from his august lips.” Such wording was not only stuffily old-fashioned, it was ridiculous. When John looked through the sheaf of telegrams which his State Secretariat had composed to thank all the dignitaries who had sent congratulations after his coronation, the Pope was genuinely shocked at their unctious style. “Fronzoli, Fronzoli,” he called out. “this is all nonsense and falderal. Leave out these superfluous ornaments. Be simpler and warmer. At least try!”

More options exist than just a four-year degree Opportunities for high-paying jobs are out there for both college grads and those with a technical degree

BY MAX CROSS Staff Writer he way people think of college can be confusing. It makes some people really stressed out most of the time. I could understand why some people feel like colleges are not for everybody.

So with all of the questions and concerns that a lot of people have with college, I decided to contact guidance counselor Mrs. Kathy Heath and see what her opinion of the process is. She brought up some pretty good points about the subject .

“A student’s career search shouldn’t be about trying to find a major right away but students should think about what you like, what skills you have and what is important to you,” Heath said. So taking time to explore all of the opportunities out there is an important part of the process.

“I think in our society, most people think that you need to go to college,” Heath said.

“We’re trying to help people think that career preparation can also be about continued learning and training for your career, not necessarily a four year process.”

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Roncalli Media Staff

2017-18 Editorial Policy

Staff Writers

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Lizzy Hosty Dave Schrader

Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief

Grace Silver Meghan Looney

Online Editor Copy Editor

Julie Albertson

Adviser

Technical schools are a good option that train high school graduates for careers that start paying a good salary long before some students graduate from college. A few examples of jobs whose median salary is above $50,000 are dental hygienist, web developer, respiratory therapist, electrician, plumber, paralegal and police officer. All of these are jobs students can train for without attending a four year college, but certifications or associate degrees are usually required. Apprenticeship programs are excellent ways to build skills that are in high demand and earn an associate degree or certification at the same time.

I think some people decided to attend a four year college because they see everybody else going to a college, or maybe they feel pressure from family members to attend their favorite college like Ball State, IU or Purdue.

So, don’t forget to consider options besides a 4-year degree. You might save a lot of money and end up with a job you really like in the end.

Maddie Aldrich Will Allen Elizabeth Bradley Ryan Brandenburg Max Cross Sophia Egold

Kara House Cameron Irwin Isabel Laut Grace Murphy Nick Perkins Nicholas Plahitko

We accept submissions from all faculty, staff and students, which can be emailed to rhsrebelreview@gmail.com or delivered to Room 203. Please keep these letters short, roughly 200-300 words. They will be accepted under the circumstances that they are signed and noted to which article it is in response. Letters that contain misinformation or are meant to libel another will not be published.

The decision to publish any content will be decided by Roncalli Media adviser Julie Albertson. We also accept photographs and articles written by students, teachers and staff members.

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10.27.17

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fine arts

Say hello to ‘Bye Bye Birdie’

Rebel actors and directors discuss the costumes and talent for the upcoming musical coming in November

BY MEGHAN LOONEY Copy Editor

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he Roncalli Theatre Department prepares to transport audiences back to the 1950s in the musical “Bye Bye Birdie.”

The musical focuses on rock and roll superstar Conrad Birdie, who is drafted into the Army. In an attempt to make money, Conrad’s producer, Albert Peterson, arranges a farewell show where Conrad will give a kiss to Kim MacAfee, a huge fan of his. Drama ensues when Conrad, Albert and Kim get to New York and begin preparing for the performance.

Senior student director Melissa Kurz is happy with the choice of “Bye Bye Birdie.”

“I’m excited about it because comedies are usually really good,” Kurz said.

Senior Shannon Mitchel is excited about the costumes because there is a wide range.

“All of the young girls are wearing 50s esque clothes [like] poodle skirts and such, while the parents are reminiscent of the 20s,” Mitchel said.

“Bye Bye Birdie” was passed on a few years ago by the directors, but it continued to be on their radar. “[The directors and I] felt like we had a good group of students to match up with the cast of the show this year, so it became our choice,” director Mrs. Erin Bohn said.

Including the experienced leads of junior Caroline Barron and sophomore Zach Mayer, this production also brings new faces with juniors Elijah Mahan and Miriam Barajas.

“We also have a number of others who either decided to get a little out of their comfort zone or who worked hard to get a part after not being cast in previous shows,” Bohn said.

The cast and crew is like one big family, and the atmosphere is very supportive.

“Everyone really likes each other, and we get along really well,” Mitchel said.

Because of the comical aspect of the show and the high energy, the performance will be appealing to all audiences.

“We’re looking forward to being able to put on a show that everyone will enjoy,” Bohn said.

The musical will be performed on November 9th, 10th, and 11th. Tickets are on sale in the theater box office.

PHOTO BY LIZZY HOSTY

IN A LINE: Rebel performers practice a scene from the play. The cast and crew have been preparing for the musical since mid-August.

PHOTO BY LIZZY HOSTY

ALL TOGETHER: Sophomore Abby Conway, junior Caroline Barron, and senior Shane Sanneman go through a dancing scene in this year’s musical. The musical is highly anticipated by both students and teachers alike.

Crucial instrument to the southside Performing arts teacher ignites musical talent and passion throughout South Deanery elementary schools

BY NICHOLAS PLAHITKO Staff Writer

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PHOTO BY RUSTY ALBERTSON

FOLLOW THE LEAD: Horcher leads a band of students at St. Mark Catholic School. She has visits multiple schools each week teaching students how to play different instruments.

PHOTO BY RUSTY ALBERTSON

MAKING MUSIC: Horcher instructs the students on a musical piece at St. Mark. Students’ growth has been exponential since the start of her class.

he southside of Indianapolis Archdiocese benefits in terms of music education thanks to South Deanery band director Ms. Laura Horcher. Horcher is the only instructor at Roncalli who dually serves as a band instructor to six of Roncalli’s feeder schools; those being St. Jude, St. Barnabas, St. Mark, St. Roch, SS. Francis and Clare and Central Catholic.

Horcher is now in her third year of teaching at Roncalli, instructing the beginning women’s chorus as well as assisting with the show choir directed by Mr. Joey Newton. She also helps out with the marching band after school as well as directing the music for the pit during theatrical productions.

Horcher has been involved with music since a young age, where her passion first sparked.

“I have a really musical family,” Horcher said. “My dad started me on piano… then I switched to French horn and loved it.”

During her years as a student at Roncalli, she participated in a lot of the activities she now assists with today.

“I did everything,” Horcher said. “I did show choir, band, and jazz, it was great and I loved it. I wouldn’t be teaching now if I didn’t like it.”

All of this love for the musical arts spurred her to choose a career in musical education, and she believes in spreading music through creativity and compassion.

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This desire has led her back to her roots among the South Deanery.

Horcher rotates through the schools, giving a 45-minute lesson to each class at least once a week. This means that for some of the larger schools, such as St. Jude, she is there for three mornings a week.

“It is fun,” Horcher said. “Middle schoolers have a lot of energy and are excited about band. You can tell that they really enjoy playing in band which makes it fun for me.”

Aside from the fine arts department, Horcher is also an involved member of the Appalachia Mission trip that the school sponsors as well as Summer Field Studies.

She incorporates music into these experiences to further the spiritual aspect of these trips, as well as spreading positivity through her actions and disposition.

Outside of Roncalli, Horcher is involved in musical groups around the city.

“I play in a couple of groups, the Indiana wind symphony, and the Indianapolis Field Harmonic,” Horcher said.

She continues to use her talent on the French horn for these groups’ productions, as well as her talent for teaching to encourage the musical development of her students across the archdiocese on the southside of Indianapolis.

“I would say I am really fortunate to be at Roncalli, and I love doing what I do and all the kids I get to work with every day.”

Horcher said.

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sports

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10.27.17

Football ready to defeat Irish Varsity team opens Sectional 13 tonight with hopes to advance to the next round of state competition

BY CAMERON IRWIN Staff Writer

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fter finishing the regular season with an 8-1 record, the Rebel football team enters sectional play with its eyes set on the 5A state championship. But the hardest task of the year is still ahead: the Sectional 13 draw against the Cathedral Irish.

Despite Cathedral’s under .500 record at 4-5, they’re still one of the most dangerous teams in 5A. Cathedral’s senior starting running back, Markese Stepp, has verbally committed to play at Notre Dame next year. This year, Stepp has 58 carries for 490 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging nearly 8.5 yards a touch.

It’ll be tough to stop him, but senior linebacker Jones Asher is confident in the defense. “[Stepp] is really good,” Asher said. “However, to play a football game, it takes a team of 11 guys, and our 11 are better than one or two outstanding athletes.”

Senior Emil Ekiyor is the number one ranked lineman in the state of Indiana and is headed to play at University of Michigan next year under coach Jim Harbaugh. Ekiyor, listed at 6’ 4’’ and 322 pounds, is a brick wall the Rebels will have to get around with their speed on defense.

PHOTO BY ISABEL LAUT

RAMPED UP REBELS: Roncalli charges onto the field before the Homecoming game against Brebeuf in late September. The Rebels will open Sectional play tonight against long-time rivals, the Cathedral Irish.

Along with Ekiyor and Stepp, the Irish have three other seniors heading to play D-1 football. But it is important to remember that the Roncalli class of 2018 is manning the football team this year. The seniors have lost a total of two football games since they began as freshman in 2014, including one loss to Bishop Chatard and a loss to Decatur Central two weeks ago. The class of 2018 has one state ring from last year, and they’re on the hunt for a second.

This senior class is full of athletes, and no one understands that more than senior quarterback Conner Gore.

“We have versatile threats all over the field in [seniors] [Jacob] Luedeman, [Michael] Dill, [Murphy] McManama, and [Hayden] Moran,” Gore said.

With all this talent on the outside, the Rebels will look to take advantage of the Cathedral secondary and make more frequent passes. However, that doesn’t mean that the run game is completely out of the question. “[Senior] Patrick McManama and [junior] Elijah Mahan are strong options too,” Gore said. “They complement my pass game and vice versa. We need to both run and pass successfully next Friday.”

In his first season as head coach, Mr. Scott Marsh has guided the team to an 8-1 record and a second conference championship. But Marsh is preaching one thing entering sectional play.

“Anytime you play a good opponent, you have to execute efficiently,” Marsh said. “It’s harder against good teams because things move faster. Football is a game of stimulus response.”

And executing efficiently is something the Rebels have been able to do well all season.

Roncalli has taken down 6A schools such as Fishers and Southport and handled a very good Plainfield team earlier in the season 45-20.

Defense has been key in all of the matchups. Throughout the regular season, the Roncalli Rebels own a plus-148 in terms of scoring, outscoring their opponents by a combined score of 304-156. And once again, it all begins with defense. That’s where it will start with the Cathedral game as well.

“We have the advantage against their wide receivers,” Asher said. “Our corners are just flat out better.”

The past statistics may seem ugly, like how Roncalli hasn’t beat the Cathedral football team since 2006. Or maybe even how three out of the five largest losses in program history have come at the hands of the Irish, the most recent being a 48-7 beat down in 2010.

But these are two completely different football teams since 2010. Marsh understands that more than anyone.

“It’s more about personnel and how they match up schematically,” Marsh said. “It’s the same thing each week. Coaches look at matchups.”

This week’s matchup will be two Indiana football powerhouses. The Roncalli Rebels versus the Cathedral Irish at Arsenal Tech High School.

Rebel runner makes state Nick Perkins races to the finish line and obtains spot in IHSAA state championship race

BY ISABEL LAUT Staff Writer

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or the third time in the 49 year program, the boys’ cross country team sends an individual to the state meet. Junior Nick Perkins led the Rebels coming off a record-breaking season last year.

“Going into the state tournament, our goals were to have an individual champion in both sectional and regional races, as well as placing third or higher as a team overall,” head coach Jeff Buckley said.

The Rebels met these goals, with Perkins leading the team by placing first at both sectionals and regionals with the team placing third in both contests.

“I didn’t think I was going to win, but I had the goal to get to state,” Perkins said.

Perkins has made routine efforts to get faster through devoted practicing methods.

“It’s like a week-long process,” Perkins said. “No soda, fancy calf sleeves, pasta the night before and throw in a cookie for extra carbs. I also do yoga and stretching before a race.”

Nick’s special preparation paid off at the start of the state series. In the sectional race, Perkins led the field with a 10 to 20 yard lead over the rest of his competition for half of the race. He finished with a 5K time of 16 minutes and 48 seconds. The team advanced to the regional race after placing third overall.

At regionals, Perkins became the first male Rebel to win a regional race individually with a time of 16:57. The team placed third again to advance onto the semi-state race.

The coaching staff had hopes of its runners setting several personal bests at the semistate meet since it was the last meet of season for most of them.

At the semi-state race, the team placed 13th overall, with four runners in the line-up having personal bests. Perkins placed 22nd, running his best race of his season with a time of 16:04. He was also the ninth individual state qualifier at the race. He is now one of three people to advance to state as an individual in cross country in the history of Roncalli.

“It’s kind of like the bonus round,” Perkins said.

Perkins will compete tomorrow at the IHSAA state competition in Terre Haute at 1 p.m. The school record-holder is anxious but excited for his first state meet.

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PHOTO BY ISABEL LAUT

SURGING AHEAD: Junior Nick Perkins passes a Zionsville runner as he approaches the 4K mark in the IHSAA semi-state competition last Saturday. Perkins led the Rebels with a season’s best time of 16:04, advancing to the state competition this weekend in Terre Haute.

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