Owl Issue 4 by warrenowl

OWL

VOLUME 100 | ISSUE 4

Warren Central

Student leaders

GIVE BACK to future Warriors Take a look at the annual Student Council Christmas Party

Photo by Jamilexi Lopez-Rodas

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS 03

Letter from the Editor 100 Years Celebration

AI in School Editorial Thumbs

Death Penalty Column Israel/Palestine Column

Speech Team StuCo Christmas Party

Masks in the Winter Social Media Effects

Holiday Traditions Early Graduates

Gift Guide New Year’s Resolutions

“Godzilla” “Curse of Penryth Hall”

Avatar “Percy Jackson”

Christkindlmarkt Review

Waylon Cressell Profile Rakyah Rivers Profile

County Finals Preview Carli Merchant Profile

05 07

09 11

Ben Davis Game Preview Girls Basketball Update

08 10 12

Photo of the Month

Photo by Caden Kerr

CONTENTS

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

EDITOR’S NOTE

Staff List Editor-in-Chief Cameron Harris

Stepping into the holiday season

Sports Editor Caden Kerr

By Cameron Harris Editor-in-Chief

s we come to the halfway point of the school year, I think a little reflection would be nice. Over the past few months, our publication has published a large amount of intriguing content. We have been extremely happy with the engagement we have seen around the school this year. Personally, I have been thrilled whenever I see somebody actively reading the magazine and informing themselves on what is happening around the school. I hope that people continue to engage with it and enjoy the work that we do. This week and next, students will be focused on their final JoG projects. This can be a stressful time for students, and it is important to stay on top of your work. Finishing out the semester strong is just as important as the rest of the school year, due to large test grades being put in that can have a significant impact on people’s final semester grades. In this issue, we highlighted some holiday traditions from different cultures. I believe it is important to show not only the “traditional” Christmas celebrations, but non-traditional ones as well, along with celebrations of other religious holidays. We also tackle heavy subjects in today’s world, such as the impact of AI in schools through our staff editorial and the death penalty through a column from Caden Kerr. Our winter sports teams are also getting into the thick of their seasons. We looked at certain athletes for some sports and how they are helping their teams be the best they can be. We also looked ahead to some big competitions coming up soon. If you are reading this print edition, make sure that you also check out our website for more stories that may not have been published in the magazine. Overall, we are excited to provide you with a platform full of new and exciting information. So, for the last time in 2023, join us for a journey around the happenings of Warren Central.

Entertainment Editor Qaden Childs Feature Editor Kaydon Spivey Staff Writers Isis Webster Patrick Collier Rei Hernandez Myla Butler Taylor Green Giovanny Alejos Xiomara King London Triplett Adviser Kaitlin Edquist Principal Masimba Taylor

Mission Statement

HOLIDAY HISTORY

As a student written and edited high school news magazine, the Warren Owl will strive to perform three functions:

By Cameron Harris Editor-in-Chief

1970

1995

2011

1. To inform its readers thoroughly and accurately of all events and issues relative to students, staff and community. 2. To provide a forum for student opinions through its editorials and letters to the Editor. 3.

In this photo from the 1970 Warren Owl, an illustration was made depicting the staff. Every member was included in this sleigh, because everybody had a role on the staff. Even though it was over 50 years ago, these Warriors had just as much holiday tradition as we do today. That staff also made sure to include information about the holidays in their publication, just as we did in this issue.

In this photo from the 1995 Warren Owl, a senior named Jamie Longerich was talking with an elementary school student at an event. This event was similar to the event that Student Council puts on for underprivliged children today. Students were “sponsoring’ children in their classes, in order to give them an experience to remember. The Owl staff in 1995 also wrote a story about the event, as we did this issue.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

In this photo from the 2011 Warren Owl, a little girl is smiling across a table at the annual Student Council Christmas party. This party featured 82 children, and just like we do today, they all recieved gifts and treats to help them enjoy their holiday. The Owl staff once again wrote a story on this event, focusing on the students who helped make this possible.

To entertain readers with focus and feature items.

4. To promote meaningful ideas that better the outlook and experience of the school environment. Student staff members will decide the content of each issue and will write and edit all printed material. Editorials will reflect the views of the student staff as a whole, not necessarily the opinions of administration or faculty members.

OPINION

WE THINK...

AI should be used responsibly within our school

ur world is becoming more advanced, and technology is part of it. In the past couple of years, artificial intelligence, also known as AI, has become a prominent part of our world. Ever since the release of ChatGPT in late November of 2022, students and teachers have been battling on the frontlines of the rise of AI use in schools. As AI has become more accessible, students have been taking advantage of it and even abusing what they can do with it. Students have become less inclined to work on assignments, and AI can do more and more of their work and thinking for them. This can affect students’ learning abilities and how much knowledge they are getting, because they are having something artificial do their work for them. English teachers specifically are seeing the effects of AI when students are writing for the class. Some students use AI to do their work for them, and English teachers are noticing it much easier than some students may think. “Students turn in work that does not match their writing style, the phrasing, the grammar, it does not match what they have turned in previously,” English teacher Juli Wakeman said. Another negative way AI is used in school is the pure laziness that students can form as a habit from using it. When students have this tool where they have to do far less work, it causes them to not get the educational values that they need to be successful in their work. When students have to do something without AI, they will be far worse off than they would have been if they never used it in the first place. “I think what we see now is some students relying on AI or trying to rely on AI to do their work for them, which obviously is not helping students,” English teacher Jenny Duguid said. However, we do believe there can be benefits to artificial intelligence. It provides new ways to interact with each other, such as automated responses to questions and, especially for those who find it hard to interact with other people, new ways to generate conversations. AI can also be a useful tool for professionals in their field, when used in moderation, to automate actions that currently take a long time. The problem is, however, when people abuse these benefits or use the technology without fully understanding it, it can cause the

value of it to go down for everybody. “I think that AI has a lot of interesting positive uses in the classroom, but right now, I don’t think we have seen those fully,” Duguid said. One aspect of life that can be affected severely by AI is journalism, and as journalism students, we find it very important that actions are taken to prevent AI from becoming a negative part of this area of learning. Journalism relies on truth and integrity, and artificial practices can ruin a publication’s believability. While it may be acceptable in some practices, AI can prevent the real thoughts of real people from being heard. Along with that, AI has become known for the images it can produce, and it is important that those are not used in journalism, due to the fact that they are not real. According to recent reporting, it has been found that Sports Illustrated has repeatedly used AI in their articles and even the names of the people who supposedly wrote them. It was quite obvious to those who read them that something was not right with the articles, due to the topics being unusual for Sports Illustrated. Ben Axelrod, a sports media veteran wrote on his own website, “It’s hard to imagine that the use of AI-generated content will do anything but continue to damage an already diminished trust from its audience.” As far as how the school has handled it, there has not been much information or a formal statement of any kind against using AI in schools. We tested some AI websites on our chromebooks, and while there were a few AI sites, typically used for writing, that were blocked, many remained usable and easy to access. The school and the district as a whole needs to create a policy of some sort that is clearly stated to students, in order to make it clear what their expectations are. At the Owl, we believe that there will be great benefits to come from AI, but we also believe that if it is used irresponsibly, the benefits go away. We also believe that if AI is to be used in schools, then it should be regulated in order to ensure that it is not being abused.

THUMBS By Qaden Childs Entertainment Editor

Thumbs up to… New York City, for building the first ever fully electric Major League Soccer stadium. This stadium is a part of the Willets Point Phase 2 project, which plans to transform Willets Point into New York City’s largest affordable housing community, which has not been done in over 40 years. The best part is that this privately financed stadium is not all, as Willets Point will also gain 2,500 units of 100% affordable housing, a 650-seat school, a 250-key hotel and 40,000 square feet of public space and retail space. Thumbs up to… Scientists in Japan, for discovering 100,000 ancient coins. According to the Japanese news publication Asahi Shimbun, 334 of the 100,000 coins have been examined, each of them ranging from 175 BCE during the Western Han Dynasty to 1185 in the Kamakura Period.

OPINION

Thumbs down to… Jason Eaton, for shooting Tahseen Ali Ahmad, Kinnan Abdalhamid and Hisham Awartani. The three Palestinian college students were shot in late November, and one of them is now paralyzed from the chest down. It is unclear whether it was a hate crime, but it was confirmed that two of them were wearing a traditional Palestinian article of clothing at the time of the shooting. Thumbs down to… War, for continuing in Gaza after Hamas and Israel accused each other of violating their ceasefire. This ceasefire, which allowed the freedom of 100 hostages held in Hamas captivity and 250 Palestinians from Israeli prisons, ended abruptly after a week on Friday. At that moment, Israel accused Hamas, who had taken residence in Gaza, of firing at Israeli troopers minutes after the end of the ceasefire, causing the deal of exchanging hostages and prisoners to collapse.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

CADEN’S CORNER Why the death penalty is unjust

By Caden Kerr Sports Editor

lectric volts shock a 90-pound 14-year-old George Stinney on June 16, 1944, as the victims’ families watch with no remorse. The life of their daughter’s alleged murderer was being cruelly fried away. Little did everyone who witnessed the execution of Stinney know, he was not a killer, but simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. While the death penalty has notably changed since Stinney’s execution, some things are still the same. People are still executed for their crimes or believed-to-be crimes. The modern-day court setting is much more advanced and superior to those of the past, but in some cases, there is not a 100% chance of proving someone guilty and vice versa. This being said, if convicted of a crime and the death penalty is decided, there is a chance that the wrong person is killed. Just like any other industry involving decisions made by imperfect humans, mistakes in the legal system of who committed a crime are not unheard of. The death penalty is not an immediate day-of-conviction process either. Currently, more than half of all death row members spent over 18 years behind bars before execution. During this process, many court orders and casework are done to overturn the convic-

tion, or the death penalty of the incarcerated prisoner. Currently, the average age of an arrest for those on death row is 29, according to reporting from WTHR. The death penalty is not widely agreed upon among the population, and for some it is not even an accepted concept. Many individuals do not support the death penalty due to moral reasons, but many others make an argument that people should face the same fate as their victim or victims. People have been put to death for thousands of years, so its relevance in modern-day society is not far-fetched, some say. However, it is time to move on and find different ways to handle criminals with the possibility of facing this ending. If society wants to make criminals face the consequences for their crime, they should be sentenced and imprisoned. If we automatically resort to sentencing people to death, it is quick and over. Many want to see people under conviction suffer, and it is arguably a crueler sentence to be sitting in prison for the rest of their life rather than have that cut short with a death sentence. Read more about Caden’s thoughts at owl.warren.k12.in.us

REI’S REMARKS

Thoughts on the conflict in Israel and Palestine

By Rei Hernandez Staff Writer

ore than 15,000 Palestinians have been killed from the Israeli strikes on Gaza and the West Bank since Oct. 7, and a permanent ceasefire is far from being called. As all of this happens, the importance and seriousness of this situation is greatly unknown by the United States and students of this generation. On Oct. 7, 2023, an Islamic Resistance Movement called Hamas attacked Israel killing 1,200 innocent people. In response, Israel has launched over 600 bombs in the span of a month, killing 20,000 innocent Palestinians. Israel has additionally cut off their food, water and electricity. They have been caught using propaganda to try to win people’s favor and point the blame at Palestine, using illegal war weapons and even guiding innocent civilians, who are trying to escape, into bombings. Israel responded saying they are directly attacking Hamas, that Hamas are the ones controlling the media and what is coming out about Palestine, but have not given proof. Israel says that they are attacking and demanding the release of the hostages Hamas has taken, but when Hamas had said they would surrender “some” civilians for the bombing to cease, Israel did not accept their offer and continued the bombings. “It cannot be denied that what happened on October 7 was a horrible act of barbarism that the world community must respond to,” history teacher William Hudgins said. “The most important thing is to keep this conflict from becoming a broader war in the Middle East. As of today, it seems that the neighboring countries along with other world powers are working earnestly to contain the conflict and mitigate the most tragic parts of it. It still may get worse before it gets better.” It is the upsetting truth that this, in fact, may get worse before it will get better, and while this is a frustrating realization, nearly as frustrating is the inaction of people in the United States, particularly

the younger generation. Many try to ignore it and don’t want to acknowledge this violence, and some attempt to stay neutral not wanting to be involved with politics, but this is not about politics, it is about humanity. The people of Palestine try to use their voice, recording their dead relatives and screaming for the world to hear and see, but they are voiceless. This is why people around the world need to use theirs. Inform, share and post. In a world where everything is on a screen and with this generation having the ability to influence social media, students and younger generations choose to shut down their devices and look the other way. The innocent men, women and children of Palestine do not have that choice. “It should be talked about a lot more in the news and try to get people to know exactly what is going on because I feel like a lot of people don’t know exactly what is going on,” senior McLawrence Tilias said. “They just follow the media and they should really push this more to the audience.” As a history teacher, Hudgins said he is trying to inform his students. “I try to mention it in the news of the day in my dual credit classes and suggest outlets students can go to if they want to learn more about it,” he said. “The challenge is this is such a complex situation to wrap one’s brain around that it would take a lot of class time to go through, and I am not sure how many students would truly grasp the importance of what we are encountering in that part of the world.” Benjamin Buchanan, an integrated physics and science teacher, also wishes there was more conversation surrounding the current events. Read more about Rei’s thoughts at owl.warren.k12.in.us

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

OPINION

CHRISTMAS CHILD

Warriors host elementary students for holiday celebration

By Caden Kerr Sports Editor

While some teachers set up a time for students to contriboyous smiles, holiday spirit and even an appearance of Santa were ute money to help afford gifts, some teachers bought gifts without featured at the Student Council’s Christmas Child party on Dec. 8. students’ money. English teacher Alison Baldwin sponsored an 8-yearThis event sponsored and gave gifts to 50 kids last year. This year, teachers and students all over the building have sponsored 71 old girl from Brookview Elementary. “She wants Barbies, a pink tracksuit, we got her two other kids from all nine Warren Township elementary schools. outfits, Sorry!, puzzles, an activity book with markers Behind all of this was a hardworking Stuand chocolate candies,” Baldwin said. dent Council staff that aimed to provide and deliver Other teachers like Ben Phillips, who sponsored two the best Christmas possible for all 71 children. “The purpose behind all of this is to help brothers from Eastridge Elementary, 8 and 9 years old. Phillips had a parent donate $700 worth of gifts the younger students of Warren Township,” junior including hoverboards and TVs. Amiyah Patterson said. “They are not as fortunate so “Normally I spend around $120 a kid,” Phillips said. this is to help give them the best Christmas possible.” The hopes for this party were to provide “It’s an annual event I can dip into my pocket for.” This is a great way for high schoolers to give back a Christmas to remember for these children. It was SENIOR KE’VAE KING laughs as a child plays musical chairs to their community volunteering and providing a well delivered in a well thought out process. and wins. This game took place during the Student Council special evening for kids in the township. Student Council members and other Christmas Party on Dec. 8, 2023. “It is spreading holiday cheer and showing high student club representatives spent time moving Photo by Jamilexi Lopez-Rodas school kids how to give back, and elementary school the children around the school to do four activikids look up to highschoolers, “ Hunter Edwards, Christmas party ties. Those four activities were gift opening, arts and crafts, food and leading advisor said. games. With all that the Student Council does for these kids, it defiA lot of money was needed to help contribute to this festive nitely does not go unnoticed. gathering. Teachers and students have worked hard to raise money in “If I had to say there was one event that brightens the towntheir classes to get gifts for the children. ship up, it’s the Student Council children’s christmas party,” Phillips “The money comes from the sponsors or teachers we asked said. to sponsor, and get money for Christmas gifts,” Patterson said.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

Speech team gives inside look on preparation strategies

By Isis Webster Staff Writer

actions of others.” he Warren Central speech team has started its newest season Formulating the speeches in a way that is well thought out and with it, they have started to rebuild their team chemistry and is a hard process for some. Speech students spend time making the skill again. They have been progressing on how well they present argument fluid and well thought out so other people can process it. speeches, the process they go through while creating them and how “Thinking on your feet and thinking of the best way to rethey prepare to present their argument. Marquis Brown, a freshman member of spond, because if you do not know how to improvise then you don’t know how to go with how the the team, believes that getting to know his peers is the best part of being on the speech team and being argument’s going and you’re not going to be able to go back,” senior Lily Trueblood said. able to bond with them also makes them better as a Creating a speech is a process that the team. “It’s really the people,” he said. ”Anything people on the team go through and takes a sizable amount of time to create and go over. They put most I get into it’s the people. It’s really important that of their time and effort into making their speech and you enjoy hanging out with your team and enjoying being around them.” practicing for their meets. When freshman Jayla Westbrook creMaking sure they have a clear mind while SPEECH MEMBERS POSE for a photo in front of their trophy case. The team does its warm-ups near the Counseling ates a speech, she starts with a thesis, adds an attenpreparing is arguably one of the most important tion grabber that could hook her listener’s interest, things they do. Their arguments have to be well pre- Services Center. pared to give their speech or argument to the best Photo by Caden Kerr and thinks of three or more main points of support of their abilities, according to staff sponsor Christian that she could cover in the allotted time. “Once all of that is figured out, I have to take my time Littell. searching through the internet to back up my points and thesis before “Being able to enter a meet with a clear mind will always I summarize everything I talked about during the speech,” Westbrook give you the advantage and will make everything that you have been said. practicing up until then so much easier to remember and execute,” Littell said. “It not only enhances your performance, but it also makes The team started its season on Saturday, Nov. 18, and their meets will continue every few weeks through March. it easier to not get distracted or discouraged by your mistakes or the

NEWS

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

MONITORING MEDIA USE Social media causes potential havoc in winter months

By Taylor Green Staff Writer

dults and students at Warren Central have found the internet to have very negative effects, especially as temperatures begin to drop. The cold winters can lead to a sluggish feeling, which means more time in the house consumed by social media. While some adults and children may not feel like doing anything, they believe watching social media users enjoy the holidays while feeling such incapability can be mentally exhausting. According to research and reporting from UC Davis Health and ABC News, the overuse of social media has a huge effect on the likelihood of getting Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD. Teachers have even seen the internet cause a lack of performance in classes. “I believe it has a negative effect because it causes inaccurate information to spread,” English teacher Ann Kitchen said. The Internet does not always have trustworthy sources, and when people do not do further research they can acquire inaccurate information. This can cause students’ grades to drop significantly due to them using false information. “They don’t often get the full picture,” Kitchen said. In addition to a decrease in performance is the deterioration of mental health. People on the internet, regardless of if it’s Instagram or blogs, are allowed to say whatever they want, however they want. “We should all pay close attention to what we do,” sophomore Alyssa Cobb said. The internet does have ways to ignore mean comments and false information. These range from fact checking to even hiding

certain content. “There are many solutions to resolving internet bullying,” sophomore Kelsey Wade said. “There is always a way to block people and even private your accounts.” Although blocking does not always work because people can always create new accounts, privating an account really works. It allows users to monitor who is allowed to comment or even interact with them and their content. “Whenever I private my account, only manually accepted accounts are able to view my posts,” Cobb said. Even if an individual is not a victim of the spread of misinformation and cruelty on the internet, they can still find ways to help those who are. They can block or report someone who uses the internet as a way to target the innocent. “Do what you think is right because you may regret it if you don’t,” Cobb said. Despite the negative effects of social media, many students still see it in a positive light. When used responsibly, social media can be a great mood booster. “There are many people on TikTok and Instagram that motivate me when I’m feeling down,” sophomore Da’mya Brown said. According to Kitchen, people should choose to be more responsible for what they share on the internet and how much they trust certain sources. The same way being nice to one person can change someone’s day is the same way just one simple mishap can cause a huge change ranging from a person’s school life and their life at home. “It is up to us individually to monitor ourselves,” she said.

SAFETY FIRST

Warriors mask up to protect themselves from sickness

By Myla Butler Staff Writer

s schools enter the winter months, the number of masks covering students’ and staff’s faces tends to increase. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many people opt to mask up during the cold and flu season. Students and teachers around the school have different thoughts on the subject. Some feel that widespread masking should come back, and some think it should not. Junior Leonardo Mecalco-Rodas believes that if students want to wear a mask then they can, and if they do not, then they do not have to, because it is their choice. ”My parents have told me to stop using the mask but I continue to use it by choice,” Mecalco-Rodas said. As the winter season gets closer, Mecalco-Rodas tries not to take off his mask as much, to avoid getting sick and so he can stay in school. Dr. Lindsay Craig teaches biology classes at Warren Central. Similar to Mecalco-Rodas, she does not want to be sick or get anybody else sick. When students and staff are healthy, they should not have to wear a mask, she said, but if they are not feeling well, they should. “I think that everyone should wear a mask if they’re feeling sick no matter what season it is,” she said. Junior Jennessa Beard, however, believes that wearing a mask is difficult for some people including her, which is why most people do not wear them when they are sick.

“If you’re sick and don’t want to wear a mask then just stay home because nobody wants your cold,” Beard said. According to Beard, students should not have to make that decision to wear a mask in the first place, and they should instead be able to stay home without feeling bad. If they feel like they have to come to school even when they are sick, they will feel defeated and tired and not want to do work anyways. “This is the reason why the school grade average is so low,” she said. ”People should be able to have sick days much like teachers.” Medical teacher Jessica Lawson’s thoughts on the subject are “if someone is experiencing symptoms, staying home would be best practice during the contagious stage.” But, according to Lawson, if a person is not experiencing symptoms then they do not have to wear a mask in big crowds because they are not causing a risk to anyone. “We are building natural immunity by being mask free,” she said. “I think if we are experiencing symptoms that we should stay home until we know that we are negative, to protect others around us.” Lawson believes that people should help protect each other and not just walk around and get each other sick, particularly during seasons when cases of the flu and COVID-19 spike. “I think that if we are at high risk we should take precautions and wear a mask during these times,” she said.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

NEWS

AHEAD OF THE CURVE Warren Central seniors graduate early

By Patrick Collier Staff Writter

raduating high school early is a common thing by now, but many wonder why someone would want to. Some people say that high school is supposed to be the years of your life. However, everyone has their own separate path. Senior Mercedes Houston is one of the students at Warren Central that are choosing to get ahead of the curve and graduate early. “I chose to graduate early because I wanted to get a head start on figuring out my future path,” she said. “I plan to save money for college and enjoy my time off.” As a young adult though, a decision like this might have some weight to it. And that means good and bad influences can come into play. Luckily Houston has some pretty good figures in her life. “It was mainly my own decision, but my parents and friends helped me solidify it,” she said. Senior Daniel Swank had a different process when it came to making his decision, due to the fact that he knows exactly what he is going to do while getting ahead. “A big part of my decision was realizing that college was not something that I desired to attend,” Swank said. “I learned that I love working and learning with hands-on activities and that I would rather do physical work for hours at a time than sitting in a classroom and studying for hours on end.” And hands-on work is exactly the career that Swank plans to

get into. “I chose to graduate early because graduating early would benefit the career path I’m choosing,” he said “I plan on working and getting more experience as a plumber with the extra time I am gaining.” However, Swank is still planning to get some sort of higher education as a plumber. “I will be obtaining my journeyman plumber’s license as a form of higher education,” he said. As far as whether graduating early is a good pathway for others, both Houston and Swank have words of wisdom for anyone thinking about or are on their way to graduating early. “If it is an option for you, I say take it,” Houston said. “You’re going to need all the time you can get to prepare yourself for adulting.” Swank agreed and has his own insightful advice. “I would recommend others to graduate early if they are not going to college and have a plan in mind for their future,” Swank said. “I don’t think it’s smart to graduate early just to get out of high school, and I don’t think it’s smart to graduate early if you plan on going to college.” All in all, early graduation is only one of the many routes students can take towards the end of their high school career, and everyone needs to explore and choose the right one for them.

SEASON’S GREETINGS

Warriors look at different traditions throughout the world

By Kaydon Spivey Feature Editor

here are many different traditions and ways of celebrating the various holidays in December, which most popularly include Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Candace Winfrey, an ethnic studies teacher at Warren Central, gave insight into the way other cultures around the world celebrate the holly-jolly season. “Christmas has become a globalized holiday, which means we don’t just see Christmas in mostly Christian countries,” she said. “Some cultures will spend Christmas Eve at church in countries that are majority Catholic. They also will have parades that celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.” In Latinx communities, Noche Buena is often celebrated at midnight with a special Christmas punch, pinatas for the kids, and tamales. According to Winfrey, other countries and cultures like Germany also celebrate different figures other than Santa Claus, such as Krampus, the creature who punishes bad children. That is just one different way other countries celebrate. “Even around the world Christmas still has the same theme of togetherness and giving but they have their slight differences,” Winfrey said. There is also an interesting way that people celebrate Christmas in Mexico. They start the celebration on Dec. 12 and end on Jan. 6. During this celebration they have candlelight processions, elaborate

FEATURE

nativity scenes, Spanish Christmas carols, and dancing fireworks. They have their song for Christmas which is called “Feliz Navidad.” Christmas isn’t the only holiday that is celebrated in December, though. There is Hanukkah, which is for people who are Jewish, and Kwanzaa, a celebration of African-American culture. Hanukkah is a holiday that takes place from the evening of Dec. 7 until Dec. 15. According to the Chabad.org website, it is an eight-day festival of lights that is celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, adding a flame each night. The celebration also includes special prayers, dreidel playing and fried foods. The purpose of celebrating this holiday is to reaffirm the ideals of Judaism and celebrate the rededication of the second temple of Jerusalem by lighting candles on each day of the festival. Kwanzaa takes place from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. According to the Official Kwanzaa website, it celebrates the following principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. The seven-day celebration culminates with a feast called Karamu, with music, dancing, poetry, and reflections. Freshman Roman Barnes celebrates the holiday with his family. “We light candles each day to express different words in Swahili,” he said. “Kwanzaa means a lot to me because it gives me a chance to celebrate my African roots and heritage.”

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE By Kaydon Spivey Feature Editor

United Art and Education Gifts for people who are into arts and crafts Crayola Modeling Clay Natural Color Assortment-$3.59 Crayola Washable Project Paint 10-Color Set-$7.99 Creativity Street 20-Color Embroidery Thread Assortment-$24.99 Crayola Oil Pastels 16-Color Set-$3.29 The Toy Drop Make a child’s day with affordable action figures Hallmark Special Edition Sweet Valentine Barbie-$15.00 Crusader Batman Rebirth Tactical Action Figure-$15.00 Exclusive Shadow of the Tomb Raider Lara Croft Figure-$15.00 Austin Powers Action figure-$8.00

Demarion Travier (10th) [I want] to just be new, totally new.

Mickensey Alrajabi (11th) My New Year’s resolution is to get all C’s and above.

Pet Supplies Plus For all the pet lovers to give to the furry friends in their lives Spongebob Mini Squidward Aquarium Ornament-$6.98 Small Monster Plush Dog Toy-$7.98 Play On Cat Toy Catnip Plush Hamburger-$3.98 Zoo Med Hermit Crab Climbing Branch-$7.98

Jarren Stewart (11th) I want to be able to get my license to be a certified caterer.

Snakeroot Botanicals For all the people who are plant lovers Sedum ”Burro’s Tail”-$5.99 Calathea Majestica “White Star”-$16.99 Hoya kerrii ”Variegata Sweetheart Hoya”-$11.49 Dracaena Deremensis ”Hawaiian Sunshine”-$16.99

What is YOUR New Year’s Resoution?

John Titus (11th) I want to learn to swim so I could go to training for the Navy.

Cyena Radford (11th) My New Year’s resolution is to make better decisions than I did in 2023.

HOLIDAY VOLUNTEERING By Isis Webster Staff Writer

his holiday season is a great time for Warren students to help people in need. Many different charitable organizations in Indianapolis can be a good opportunity for one to give back to the community. Cherishing Lives and Boundless Youth, two organizations that focus on creating positive opportunities for the community’s young people, are putting together a Christmas fundraiser to give presents to at-risk children. It takes place on Dec. 17 at 5 p.m. It is located at Hovito Ultra Lounge at 234 South Meridian St. There are going to be a fair amount of things to do, ranging from live music to treats and drinks for everyone. Anyone interested in attending can support this by buying a ticket for $25 on Eventbrite. The Lord’s Pantry at Anna’s House is a food pantry that helps with education as well. It is located at 303 North Elder Ave. They look for food donations to help give to those in need in Stringtown, a neighborhood near downtown Indianapolis, and the surrounding

areas. Each Wednesday the people at the pantry, several churches, schools, and organizations help to prepare and provide warm food for people in need. Wheeler Mission Ministries is dedicated to helping those experiencing homelessness. They have shelters for men and women. There are many different ways to give back and volunteer there. They have resources ranging from meal service and meal preparation to housekeeping and religious services. The group has shelters and donation centers all around Indiana. Toys for Tots is a toy drive sponsored by the Marine Corps Reserve. They have many donation places all around central Indiana. They collect the toys and distribute them to nonprofits to give to the children who do not get presents due to various circumstances. People can help out by buying toys and donating them. The organization has a list on Amazon where people can purchase things needed, which is connected to the registry.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

FEATURE

GOJIRA RISES AGAIN New movie shows reboot of iconic kaiju

By Qaden Childs Entertainment Editor

he titan of terror rises from the depths once more. “Godzilla Minus One” is a reboot of one of the most well-known and beloved kaiju, another name for stories involving “large, strange beasts.” For those who do not know the titular character, Godzilla is a 390-foot-tall prehistoric reptile-like kaiju, who was awakened and empowered by numerous years of nuclear radiation. When Godzilla was created and made its first debut in its 1954 film “Godzilla,” creators Tomoyuki Tanaka, Eiji Tsuburaya and Ishiro Honda initially believed Godzilla to be a metaphor for nuclear weaponry, like the bombs that devastated Hiroshima and Nagasaki back during World War II. Over time, Godzilla’s symbolism and meaning changed with each new reiteration that came out, ranging from being the embodiment of America’s rage after the bombing of Pearl Harbor to disparate themes about the human condition, natural disasters and Japan’s ignorance of its imperial roots. However, one thing remains crystal clear about the King of the Kaiju, and it is that Godzilla was not created to be the hero or the villain, but instead a dark, towering omen towards humanity. The beast is a living testament to the destructive power nature will not hesitate to use on its creations, should they choose to step out of their place on the food chain. “Godzilla Minus One” begins in 1945, around the end of the second World War, as kamikaze pilot Koichi Shikishima feigned technical issues with his plane before he decided to land on Odo Island to “repair.” Sadly for him, his ruse fell through when Sosaku Tachibana, the lead mechanic, insinuated that Koichi fled from his duties when he discovered nothing wrong with his plane. However, Godzilla made its first appearance that night and attacked the island, killing everyone except for Sosaku and Koichi. This incident leads to the lead mechanic blaming the pilot for fleeing the confrontation instead of fighting Godzilla, even though it would not have made much of a difference if he chose to fight or run. The movie then goes forward in time to two years later, following a guilt-riddled Koichi’s return to Tokyo. During that time, he began a relationship with Noriko Oishi and adopted a child named Akiko, whose parents were killed during the bombing of

Tokyo. Koichi then finds work on the Shinsei Maru, a small warship designed to remove or detonate naval mines, and meets the crew onboard, which is composed of former Naval Weapons Designer Kenji “Doc” Noda, Captain Yoji “Captain” Akitsu and rookie Shiro “Kid” Mizushima. Meanwhile, Godzilla became mutated and enlarged by the U.S.’s nuclear testing during “Operation Crossroads,” as it destroyed multiple U.S. warships during its second appearance and made its way toward Japan. Due to tensions within the Soviet Union, the United States refused to aid Japan but tried to make up for it by sending in decommissioned Japanese Naval ships with the general of the United States Army Douglas MacArthur to warn Japan of the oncoming danger. After the warning, the minesweeper Koichi was on then received a new objective: Stop Godzilla’s approach to Japan and stall for the Japanese Naval fleet to send in larger warships, which failed, as all it did was showcase Godzilla’s regenerative abilities. Days later, Godzilla finally made landfall in Ginza, Tokyo, the same place Noriko worked in, to Koichi’s horror and discovery. Takashi Yamazaki truly has made a masterpiece. Yamazaki is a Japanese filmmaker and visual effects supervisor known for the advanced visual effects he gives to his blockbusters. Born on June 12, 1964, Yamazaki grew up wanting to work in the film industry thanks to the influence of “Star Wars” and “Close Encounters of The Third Kind,” two 1977 movies that were created and shown in America. The casting for the film is equally impressive. Ryunosuke Photo from Kamiki plays the role of Koichi Shikishima Forbes in this film, while Minami Hamabe plays website Noriko Oishi and Munetaka Aoki plays Sosaku Tachibana. All in all, “Godzilla Minus One” is a stunning visual masterpiece that gives a rebooted character a beautiful service. The movie came out on Dec. 1 and is now playing in theaters such as AMC, Cinemark and Regal.

PENRYTH HALL’S CURSE New mystery story unfolds

By Qaden Childs Entertainment Editor

n the village of Cornwall, a curse is more than just lore. “The Curse of Penryth Hall: A Mystery” is a new gothic fiction story that is said to “bring the ancient Cornish countryside to life,” according to the book’s author, Jess Armstrong. The story begins by introducing the readers to the story’s main character, Ruby Vaughn, an American heiress who runs a rare bookstore alongside her octogenarian employer and housemate. She has always tried to avoid dwelling on the past, especially after World War I, but it always seems to find a way to get to her, which is demonstrated when Ruby is forced to return to the Cornish countryside to deliver books to a folk healer. During her trip there, the stitchings of old wounds were successfully torn away from Ruby, compelling her to visit Penryth Hall, a foreboding fortress and the home of Ruby’s once dearest friend, Tamsyn, and her husband Sir Edward Chenowyth. After an unsettling evening, Ruby intended to leave Penryth Hall and return

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to her bookstore. Her plans suddenly change when, for the first time in 30 years, the mansion’s bells rang for the sudden death of Sir Edward, who was gruesomely murdered in Penryth’s orchard. News of his demise immediately swept through the village of Cornwall like wildfire, causing rumors of an old curse to arise and causing panic. The news of the “curse” returning also brings Ruan Kivell to Cornwall, a person led there with the aid of Ruby’s books and is said by the townspeople to be a Pellar, a man said to break the curse. With Ruan’s help, Ruby must find out what truly happened in the orchard or risk the safety and health of her friend. One cannot talk about a potentially great story without talking about its author. Jess Armstrong is making her authoring debut with this story, as it is the first story she has written. The book came out on Dec. 5, with prices ranging from $14.99 to $30.71 depending on where one looks.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

JOURNEY TO PANDORA G

New game takes place on familiar planet By Qaden Childs Entertainment Editor

rab your gas mask and tighten your drawstring, because it is time to traverse to the most inhospitable planet in the galaxy. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a new game based on the 2009 movie alongside its 2022 successor. “Avatar” was a film created in 2009 that depicts an Earth under the threat of ecocide, the destruction of the natural environment by deliberate or negligent human action. This environmental degradation occurred because all the natural resources on planet Earth have been depleted. To try and counteract the problem, a company named the Resource Development Administration, or RDA, traverses to Pandora, a moon in the Alpha Centauri star system, to mine its resources and send them back home. There are a few problems with this plan, as not only is the flora and fauna of the alien jungle-like environment dangerous, but the atmosphere is composed of chemicals that make it inhospitable to humans. However, the same cannot be said for Pandora’s native occupants. The Na’vi are 10-foot tall, blue-skinned, sapient humanoid creatures that live in harmony with Pandora’s otherwise hostile environment. With the discovery of the Na’vi, the RDA found a solution to continue its mission and created the “Avatars,” Na’vi-Human hybrids that were genetically matched with human scientists before neurally piloting it like a fleshy exoskeleton. The premise of the game is said to allow players to look through the eyes of a Na’vi orphan who was trained and raised in the RDA to be a soldier before being put into suspended animation. The

game is said to begin 15 years later in the future, where the player’s character can explore a new region of Pandora never shown in the movies or the sole game outside of this one, The Western Frontier. Ubisoft has, quite possibly, made a runner-up for Game of The Year, matched only by Spiderman 2 and Legend of Zelda: Tears of The Kingdom. Ubisoft is a French video game publisher located in Saint-Mandé with dozens of developing studios all around the world. The company began on March 28, 1986, once the owners, Christian, Claude, Gérard, Michel and Yves Guillemot, saw that the video game software business was a lucrative goldmine and collectively decided to get into the developing side of it. They were already well aware of the publication and distribution side of the business. As the years passed, the company developed and published more games, ranging from old classics like Rayman, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six and Prince of Persia, to some of the newer additions to the franchise like Assassin’s Creed, Watch Dogs and Far Cry. It has been speculated that Ubisoft has designed the game to focus less on combat and more on exploration, allowing players to explore this new frontier of Pandora using the flora and fauna of the planet to help them. Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a spectacular game that may give the judges for Game of The Year difficulty to choose which game to award. The game was released on Dec. 7 and can be PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Amazon Luna and Microsoft Windows.

THE LIGHTNING THIEF

“Percy Jackson” strikes screens By Isis Webster Staff Writer

s Rick Riordan once wrote, “If my life is going to mean anything, and Annabeth, go on a quest to retrieve the Master Bolt, which is said I have to live it myself.” “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is a TV to be in the hands of Hades. show based on a hit book series that came out in 2005 after it rose Walker Scobelle, who is playing Percy Jackson, debuted his to popularity. Two movies came out in the following years, but they acting skills in 2022 when he starred in the film “The Adam Project.” were not a hit at the box office due to many of the inaccuracies from Scobelle is said to have been the best pick for this by the author of the the book. This new series is hitting Disney+ on December 20 and is book, Rick Riordan. said to be accurate in most aspects. Among the cast of “Percy Jackson,” big actors are Photo from On Disney+ website In this show, Greek gods and their halftaking on roles such as Lance Reddick who will be blood children, also known as “demigods,” are playing Zeus, the king of gods, but he will not be a part hunted from the moment they realize who their of season two because of his death on March 17, 2023. godly parent is. We meet the main character Percy Adam Copeland, a famous WWE performer, will be Jackson, who is the son of Poseidon. taking on the role of Ares, the Greek god of war. AnThe story starts with Percy getting to nabeth is played by actress Leah Sava Jeffries, who has Camp Half-Blood and learning of his true parenttaken smaller roles in other movies such as “Beast” and age. He learns about “The Great Prophecy,” made by “Something from Tiffany’s.” the Oracle of Delphi, that foretold the rise or fall of However, there has been some backlash of Leah Olympus by a demigod child of the Big Three. Upon Sava Jeffries taking on the role of Annabeth, due to her hearing this prophecy, Zeus, Hades, and Poseidon swore to not have being black and her character being white in the books. Some critics children following World War II, which was a fight amongst demigods. believe that she will not be a good actress and that they are not staying They believed half-bloods from the Big Three possessed far too much true to the books with Annabeth being portrayed as white in the power and would only cause harm. books. Other people do not care about her skin color and think that Percy should, by all means, not be alive, on the account her being a person of color is a good idea and are excited to see her on that he is a product of his father breaking this very oath. Before Percy screen. arrives at the camp, the Master Bolt is stolen from Olympus, and Percy If the directors of the show stay true to the books for the is perceived as the sole culprit. Zeus decrees that if the bolt was not most part this will be a success, and the fans will finally get to see what returned by the summer solstice there would be a war among the gods they have been envisioning for years on screen. that would eventually destroy the world. Percy and his friends, Grover

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

GERMAN CHRISTMAS Caden reviews Carmel’s Chriskindlmarkt

By Caden Kerr Sports Editor

ffering a wide variety of German food and crafts for the past seven years is the Christkindlmarkt in Carmel, Indiana. Open every winter since 2017, over one million people have visited the Christkindlmarkt venue located in the roundabout capital of the world. The market sits right in the Carter Green on the south side of The Palladium Center for the Performing Arts, off of the Monon Trail. It opened for the season on Nov 18 and closes Dec 24. While closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, the market is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 9 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 9 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 8 p.m.. I went with my brother and dad on Saturday, Dec. 2. Flourishing with people, the venue was very packed and crowded, and parking was a very big issue. We parked in the Veterans Way Garage in the Carmel City Center. Despite there being five different levels to park in, we still struggled to find a spot. We spent around 15 minutes trying to find a parking spot before finding a spot on the fourth level. Parking there is free, so it is definitely worth taking advantage of. Getting to the venue was very simple and easy. We parked near an exit about a quarter of a mile away from the market, so a quick left and right and we were there. With ongoing construction just off the market, there were not a lot of cars to look out for, so we just followed the group of people. We were immediately met with sounds of a live yodeling group, as well as the smells of baked goods, fire roasted meats, hot chocolate and coffee. There were no maps posted immediately when entering so we went down the first lane of markets. The three of us found it very hard to stay together because of all of the people. With 58 different booths, it was hard for us to decide on what we should do first. Our first stop was the 48th booth, Kaf fee & Schmalzkuchen. Known for German Doughnuts, also known as Schmalzkuchen, cof fee and hot chocolate. We decided to share an order of Schmalzkuchen for $8, my brother got peppermint hot chocolate for $8 and my dad got a vanilla latte for $4. We waited in line for no longer than five minutes, quickly and swiftly going through the line. The donuts were amazing. They were unglazed, plain doughy balls covered in powdered sugar. It was evident that they were freshly baked as they were still very warm. I tried my brother’s peppermint hot chocolate, and being someone who does not much care for hot chocolate it was decent, but definitely not worth $8 in my opinion. There were no open places to sit and eat, so we had to eat while standing overlooking a live christmas music performance. We went to booth 32, Räucherschinken Haus. We decided to try the smoked krakauer for $12. Basically, it is a bratwurst made up of beef and pork instead of just pork. It came out smoking hot right off the grill and was gently placed on potato bread. When biting into the krakauer, it popped and released juice and a surreal smell that made me think of a backyard grill out. The bread was very good and very fluffy. We added a type of German Mustard that enhanced the flavor and was excellent. Next, we decided to look at some crafts and went to booth nine, Frankenmuth Clock Company. This is from Frankenmuth,

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Michigan. They are known for their well-crafted black forest cuckoo clocks. As someone who never has seen a cuckoo clock, this was very eye opening to look at the different designs. We looked in other booths including booth two, Lichtermeer, which is paper star lanterns. I was surprised by their heavyweight appearance because in all actuality they are a light airy craft. I was impressed by the color of all of the crafts and their appearance. I definitely understood why there was a line to look at them. We stopped several times to admire the ice skaters on the huge ice rink in the middle of the market. I truly regret not skating, but I stopped to appreciate the entertainment before my eyes as skaters cleared the space for the Zamboni to resurface the ice. Even as a 16 year old, I could not help but find it entertaining to watch the Zamboni, and I was not the only one. People of all ages stopped and watched it work. It was something so small that made my day. We then decide to go to booth 45, Truffle & Mehr, for truffles, which are chocolate balls with different fillings. We got six for $10. We got Irish cream, rum, orange, raspberry, mint and hazelnut flavored truffles. The raspberry went very well with the rich milk chocolate. It was very gooey and flavorful. I did not think orange and chocolate would go together, but they went together perfectly, and they balanced each other out. The citrus of the orange mixed with the rich chocolate flavor provided a balanced pallet. I am now eager to try anything orange with chocolate because of this amazing treat. After this, we walked around and checked out a few more places. We even saw a booth acknowledging and selling Hanukkah-themed items and decorations. It was very easy to glance over everything and not notice that there are several different items from other cultures and countries. It was a lot less busy when we left. Even though we did not get to do everything, there was so much else to eat and see. There were potato pancakes, pretzels, popcorn and nuts. Non-food wise there was a booth with trains that would certainly entertain a child, an area to watch the live performances and many cool crafts to look at. Getting out was not that difficult, and the parking garage was more empty. I rate the Christkindlmarket a 9.2/10. I got a huge taste of German food and a fresh experience of other cultures. It is for everyone, young and old. Overall this was a great experience, and I definitely will be going back. There are a few things I suggest you do to improve your experience. 1- Get there early, and do not wait until 3:00 to show up. Show up around 30 minutes before opening. 2- Dress warmly. We went on a 50-degree day so we were not cold, but it is outside so dress for the weather. 3- Expect crowds. It is very busy, and there is not a lot of room to move around. 4- Bring enough money. We spent close to $43, so prepare to spend money. 5- Know how to navigate. Use a map or bring someone who can use a map as it is a little difficult to navigate. 6- Expect there to be a good cultural experience.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

RAISING EXPECTATIONS

Waylon Cressell continues reign at top

By Caden Kerr Sports Editor

rom transferring schools to placing first in the John Hurrle wrestling invitational, sophomore Waylon Cressell has worked for many years to show up and show out, in both standard matches and in state matches. Cressell has had many changes over the last year that are quite notable and relevant to his success. Cressell lived in North Dakota, more specifically West Fargo, North Dakota. There, Cressell attended his freshman year of high school at West Fargo High School. His freshman season wrapped up in great fashion as he won a state title. “Last year I won my first state title and won the Rumble On Red, the biggest sanctioned high school tournament in folkstyle,” Cressell said. Cressell may be an underclassman, but he is known to be very mighty. He wrestles in the 165-pound weight class and has wrestled in practice against teammates Brenton Russell and Christian Arberry, who are some of the best-ranked wrestlers in the state. Cressell is considered a good athlete by his teammates, but he also helps teammates by showing excellence on and off the mat, inspiring teammates all around. “Something Waylon does, I believe, that inspires the whole team is his resilience,” Russell said. “Some wrestlers may be willing to work hard for a state title, but when the work actually gets hard, it’s wrestlers like Waylon who don’t complain and just get the work done, and he gets on our teammates when they complain, which makes him a great addition to our team.” Cressell is described by senior teammate A.J. Cashman as

a “bull,” showing how highly he is respected and appreciated on the team. Coaches say they enjoy working with Cressell, as he shows day in and day out that he can compete with the highest ranked in the state and that he is an overall team player with his attitude. While it may be early on in the season, many are already calling Cressell statebound. The number one wrestler in the state attends Crown Point High School, and if the two square up at all this season it should be an all-around great matchup. “He is ranked second in the state at 165 with a wrestler from Crown Point, who I also beat several times, ranked first,” Russell said. “I believe Waylon is way better than him though, .” All of this is not possible without outstanding coaching, and while a lot of Cressell’s success is because of his motivation and willingness to become better, coaches at Warren help to encourage his attitude and technique. “My coach [is] helpful because he/ they helped me work hard and got me [in a] training regiment,” Cressell said. “They push me every day in practice. They help me also build character in sport.”

A LOOK AT LEADERSHIP Rakyah Rivers battles to be the best

by Cameron Harris Editor-in-Chief

akyah Rivers, a Warren Central girls wrestler, is coming into her junior season with big expectations. She is putting in the work needed to be at the top of her class. Last season, Rivers made it to the state finals before losing in the first round, despite it only being her first season ever wrestling. She was ranked up to sixth in the state as well last season in the 138-pound weight class. Hard work and dedication to her sport are going to be a big factor in how this season goes for her, as well as the rest of the team. Rivers’ coaches have noticed her work ethic and have high hopes for her this season. “She puts in the hard work,” girls wrestling coach Kelly Romano said. “She’s always making weight. Her grades are phenomenal. She’s positive, she’s kind and she just has no bad days.” Her teammates notice these qualities as well. “Rakyah is very encouraging and uplifts everyone,” senior Carli Merchant said. “She is always positive and wants the best for everyone on the team.” As for Rivers’ goals for this season, she hopes to place in the state finals. As a team, she just hopes that everyone on the team can improve from last season, and for the new girls on the team, she hopes that they get a

chance to showcase their skills on the mat. To accomplish these goals, she has been putting in the hard work necessary, along with encouraging others to put in the work as well. She cannot do it all on her own, though. Rivers says that Coach Romano has been her biggest influence in her high school career. Romano feels the same way about Rivers. “I love her so much,” Romano said. “I’m super grateful to be a part of her journey, and she just makes my heart soar.” Rivers recognizes her ability to wrestle but also the influence she has on others. She knows that girls wrestling is not the most popular sport, and some may be hesitant to try it out. Rivers has repeated the same thing over and over again, though. “No matter how hard it seems to play out, just keep trying no matter how hard it gets,” Rivers said. Rivers is starting her journey to state on Dec. 30 when she has regionals with the other girls on her team. It is located at Perry Meridian, and she is hoping for a lot of support to come for the team.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

SPORTS

DIVING INTO RECORD BOOKS

Carli Merchant shares her story

By Xiomara King and London Triplett Staff Writers

hattering old records and replacing them with new targets, a from her teammates. “Carli is an intelligent, strong, and adaptive athlete,” he said. female diver named Carli Merchant at Warren Central High School “Being able to have the self awareness to make critical changes is defihas broken her very own record. The senior’s previous record was 247.95, and she broke it during a meet on Nov. 30 at by getting 300.2 nitely a strength for her. She loves the sport of diving, and that makes for six dives. the rough days to move on from.” “It was a very surreal experience, and I felt like Not only is she a record breaker in diving, but she also does wrestling for Warren Central. my hard work had finally paid off,” Merchant said. “Hon“I think it is really fun to do both,” she said. “It is estly, I still haven’t processed, and I’m mainly focused on getting better instead of the record itself.” really an experience that I got to have.” Merchant has been diving for six years. Her favorite As Merchant prepares to end her Warren Central diving and wrestling careers, she is working to pass the thing about it is the bigger tournaments. torch to younger athletes like freshman Amber Duong. “Really I just make sure I am prepared for the big meets the night before and packed and making sure “I would describe her as kind and very outgoing, because this one time she helped me through a meet, and I I am not in my head and just know exactly what I am CARLI MERCHANT SHOWS off her new got really good scores,” Duong said. supposed to do,” she said. school record. She broke her previous school As far as Merchant’s future, she does not plan to According to Merchant, the most influential person in record. Photo provided by Lauren Hughes continue diving outside of high school because she wants her diving career has been her coach, Ray Porter. “He has been one of my only coaches the entire time that I to focus on her education. Before she leaves, though, she hopes to place at the state level. have been diving,” she said. “I think my best advice for others is to keep working hard, Porter has coached Merchant for seven years. He said that from his especially on the days that you don’t want to, and to continue to love earliest days with her, he knew she had a lot of potential. As a senior leader on the team now, he said she works hard and expects the same what you do,” she said.

COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP

Boys swimming competes in Marion County Championships

By Cameron Harris Editor-in-Chief

tarting Friday, Dec. 15, and continuing through Saturday, the Warren Central boys swimming team will be competing in the Marion County Championships tournament. These Warriors have high hopes for this year’s meet after not getting the best results in the past couple of years. One of these swimmers is senior captain Jeff Bray, who has been swimming all four years of high school and is aiming to end his career with some positive results. Bray competes in the 100-meter freestyle race, 200-meter freestyle race and most of the relay races. As a captain, he is the leader of the team and recognizes the responsibilities that come with that. “[I] just make sure everyone makes it to practice,” Bray said. “Do what you can to make sure everyone’s doing good. Make sure everyone’s getting along.” Another crucial member of this team is senior Landon Bryk. Bryk competes in the 200-meter freestyle race, the 100-meter backstroke race and most of the relay races. He has set some goals for himself in Friday’s meet. “In Marion County, I’m looking to go under two minutes for the 200 freestyle and possibly under 1:08 in the 100 backstroke,” Bryk said.

SPORTS

However, the Marion County Championship is no easy task considering the amount of competition that will be present. Fifteen schools will be bringing teams to this invitational, and many of them have had a lot of success there in recent years. Another factor that is brought into this competition is the timing of it. Being so early in the season, this meet will be a good look at how the team can compete against other good schools and how they need to improve in the future. “Marion County is a bit tougher for two reasons – a lot more competition, a lot less time to train to get there,” head coach Kris Houchens said. Overall, Warren is looking forward to this competition and is working hard to accomplish their goals for it. Through a lot of practice, and taking care of their bodies, they are confident in their abilities to perform well. “It takes a lot of dedication for these athletes to be at their peak to perform well,” Houchens said. “That’s what we are hoping for and looking forward to, to see how these kids can push through and train well.” This tournament will take place at IU-Indianapolis in the natatorium at 6 p.m. Friday and will start again at 1:30 p.m. Saturday.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

CROSSTOWN SHOWDOWN Warriors gear up for Ben Davis battle

By Caden Kerr Sports Editor

uch anticipation rises as the defending basketball state champions and crosstown rivals, the Ben Davis Giants, come to the far east side to take on the Warriors. The Warriors are seeking to pull an upset that will be remembered for many years. With arguably the biggest rivalry in the state, the two teams will go head to head in a showdown of skill, speed and intelligence. This matchup is set to take place on Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m. The Warriors know that this game will be a long game offensively and defensively. The Warriors, however, are ready for this matchup. With new coach Criss Beyers, the team is looking in a new direction for the future. Unfortunately falling short in their first game 92-71 against Cathedral, the Warriors had many turnovers in less than ideal times, causing concern among the team. While it was the very first game of the season, there is much room for improvement. “We didn’t play as well as we can against Cathedral,” senior Robert Walker said, “We could see that we are really good, we just can’t have mental lapses.” After the heartbreaking loss, the Warriors are looking forward to their schedule and the many tough opponents ahead. Damien “Dink” Keys gave some insight into how the team prepares for games. “As a team we prepare by watching film from our previous games so we can see what we need to work on,” Keys said. “Then throughout the week we work on how to play what other teams will normally do in a game such as ball screens, and dribble hand off ac-

tions. Truly we prepare the best by staying focused in practice and just competing to make each other better every day.” Ben Davis won the 4A IHSAA basketball championship against Kokomo this past season. With this in mind, the Warriors will have to push and work hard to dominate the Giants at all costs. For some players, preparation may have already begun months in advance as some players look to improve the team by spotting a problem. The Warriors also are bringing back a familiar face in coach Criss Beyers. Beyers was formally the basketball coach here at Warren but left. But as of last spring he was hired back to coach the team here. With this in mind the team is seeing a change in motivation as they adjust to Beyers. This is another way on how the Ben Davis game could be crucial to the possibility for success for the Warriors. “[Coach Beyers] brings a different energy,” Keys said. “He’s more keen on little details with our play. The culture is still in the process of being changed but it’s good nonetheless.” While Warren looks to compete with some of the best teams in the state, they also realize that they are still on the upswing. The team is rebuilding to compete and have a possibility of repeating the 32-0 state championship team of 2018. While an undefeated season is no longer possible, a state championship is still in sight, and a win against Ben Davis would be a step in the right direction. “[I] hope we can show everyone that we are a force to be reckoned with around the state,” Keys said.

LADY WARRIORS DOMINATE Through all odds the girls basketball team triumphs

By Patrick Collier Staff Writer

irls basketball has added several games under their belt so far this season. In addition, six of those games were consecutive wins. It is safe to say that all of the rumors, misconceptions and doubts about the Warren Central girls basketball team have been cleared up and put to rest, and in one of their latest games against Pike, where they won 71-46, and they let that be known. “The game was very up and down at times, but I feel like we really came up and pulled out with the win,” sophomore Sevan Walls said. “We proved some things about our team that have been circling around Indy and the MIC and everything. So we really made a point and proved our point that game.” And now that they have proved their point, they must keep up the consistency of hard work and on the court. Despite a recent loss to Lawrence North, the girls’ sights are set on an overall winning season. “We got to come out hard, come out strong every single game,” Walls said. “It’s a very high expectation for us now.” Head coach Stacy Mitchell has high expectations for the team now that they have proven that they are more than capable of pulling through and winning consistent games.

“Minimizing our mistakes, cutting down on second chance baskets and playing with speed and skill,” coach Mitchell said about the team’s needs moving forward At the start of the season, Coach Mitchell was very optimistic about the team working together while trying to build a team with old and new players. “The girls [are] coming together building team chemistry together,” he said. “We are bringing back a team with two returning starters.” Walls highlighted her teammate Candyce Hollins as a leader on the court, as far as bringing the team together during important times. “She’s a big leadership factor for our team,” Walls said. “She is vocal, she is a leader, and she is not afraid to speak her mind. And she is a senior so that was to be expected of her this season.” So far this season for the lady Warriors is going great, but Coach Mitchell has no plans on letting up. “[We need to] continue working on fundamentals, hard work in practice, stretch teamwork and pay attention to small details,” Mitchell said.

The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023

SPORTS

KYREL LEAVELL PICKS up his North Central opponent in a meet against the panthers on Nov. 29. The Warriors won this match 48-17 in dominating fashion.

Photo by Brenton Russell

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The Warren Central Owl • owl.warren.k12.in.us • 12 | 15 | 2023