OWL
Warren Central High School
Indianapolis, IN
Friday, January 30, 2015
Volume 93 Issue 6
The Warren Central Warren Central Publications www.wcowlnews.com
2 people are killed by
guns in Indiana every day. Indianapolis youth violence rates have risen,read more on p. 8-9
2 News
The Owl
Warren Central
Saying goodbye to an old friend
January 30, 2015
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Head track and field coach and teacher Mr. Dennis McNulty retires by khailaking staff writer
H
e was a track and cross country coach. He won several awards for teaching and coaching. He is in four different halls of fame. But in December, after 35 years, Mr. Dennis McNulty retired from teaching. He had retired from coaching in the 2012 track season. McNulty was more than a coach and teacher for his colleagues and his students. He was a friend. “Working with Dennis McNulty was a special opportunity,” Athletic Director Mr. Marques Clayton wrote in an email. “I have never worked with a coach that was more organized and his attention to details is what truly set him apart. Above all else, Coach Mac truly has a big heart and has formed a special bond with his coaches and student athletes over the years,” Clayton said that McNulty is the most successful head coach in the history of Warren Central High School. McNulty won four State Titles, multiple runner up finishes, 13 consecutive Regional championships, state coach of the year multiple times and national boys track coach of the year. He described winning awards as humbling. McNulty is also a member of four different halls of fame, the Warren Central Coaches Hall of Fame, the Warren Coaches Hall of Fame, the Indiana Association of Track Cross Country Coaches Hall of Fame and the UIndy Athletics Hall of Fame. “As a coach it has been nothing but a joy,” McNulty said. “I have had great kids and I have had great assistant coaches throughout the years, so I have been very fortunate as a coach. We have won quite a few competitions and meets. It has been fun.” Aside from coaching McNulty was also a nominee for the President’s Award for Excellent Science Teaching. He was Teacher of the Year in 2000 and the following year he was a semifinalist for State Teacher of the Year. “Warren Central High School is the most special place on earth to be an educator,” McNulty said. “I have learned when I was going through my teaching classes that you teach kids first and you teach your subject second.” McNulty graduated from Greenwood High School in 1972, received his BA in 1977 from Indiana Central, and his MA from Indiana University in 1982. Before McNulty started working at Warren in 1987, he taught and coached at Clarksville High School, Noblesville High School and Maconaquah High School. He said it had always been a dream to coach at Warren.
As an athlete, McNulty ran in three NCAA College Division Cross Country National Championships and was the top Indiana finisher at the Boston Marathon in 1975. He was a track and field official for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic games and on the stadium announcing staff during Atlanta’s 1996 Olympic games. Saying goodbye to Warren has not been easy for McNulty. He will not only miss his students, he will also miss the teachers. “I have always been kids first, everything else second and I always will be til the day I die, but there are so many special teachers here,” McNulty said. “I could tell you story after story that kids do not have any idea of what a teacher did. Kids talk about other teachers and they do not know that the same teacher went out and bought clothes for a student at Warren or paid an electric bill for a family. I’m going to miss the people I work with.” Having coached together for over 20 years, English teacher Mr. Steve Kent and McNulty became good friends. Kent even officiated and McNulty’s recent wedding. They have traveled together with and without their wives. Kent said it was bittersweet seeing McNulty retire. Although he is happy that his friend is moving on, Kent is not ready to leave and will miss seeing McNulty every day at school. “It is very different, psychologically, when I come in the building and he is not here,” Kent said. “He is a fun person to be with. I think one of the most important characteristics that a friend needs to have is just to be fun to be with. There is not much more you can say better than that. He is extremely loyal. He was someone who I could share anything with. I could tell him anything.” With McNulty retired, a few changes were made. Coach Jayson West took McNulty’s track coaching position when he retired from track after the 2012 season. Science teacher Mr. George Carley took over McNulty’s science classes. Ms. Georgia Watson is now occupying McNulty’s old classroom in room E203. “Above all the things making him a good coach and teacher is that he loved kids,” Kent said. “He loved working with kids, he loved teaching with kids. He always said he didn’t teach science, he taught kids. His love for the job was so important to him. He is a very caring, kind and compassionate person. He is that way to everyone. I never saw Mr. McNulty be rude or unkind to anyone, both student and faculty. That kind of person is a rare person to find. That is probably what I admire the most about him.”
MCNULTY GETS THE boys cross country team organized for competition. In February of 2006, McNulty was inducted into the Indiana Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches Hall of Fame. Photo used in the 1991 yearbook
MCNULTY PERFORMS A motion experiment for his physics class. McNulty was a nominee for the President’s Award for Excellent Science Teaching. Photo used in the 1991 yearbook
McNulty Facts He was a member of the coaching staff for an International Sports Exchange Trip to China in 1997. McNulty announced the International Association of Athletics Federations Grand Prix in Toronto, Canada. He was a past president of Indiana USATF in 1987 . He served as a president of the State Track Coaches Association.
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January 30, 2015
Photo OP
Warren Central
The Owl
News 3 CORRECTIONS
SENIORS HANNAH BOCIK and Alexandra Maxey are contestants for biggest hair in the Just Say No Comedy Show. Maxey won first place in the contest, being dubbed the Hair Queen. Photo by Haley Love
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&
hjstitch.com/ wcyearbook 2014
Winterfest dates Monday, Feb. 2 will be Dress-Up Day. Tuesday, Feb. 3 will be Tacky Tourist Day, as well as the girl’s basketball Senior Night. Wednesday, Feb. 4 will be Athlete Day, as well as the Dodge Ball Tournament. Thursday, Feb. 5 will be Duo Day (dress as a famous due like Batman and Robin), as well as Lip Sync. Friday, Feb. 6 will be Black and Gold Day, as well as the boy’s basketball game.
Acting out a victory
by kaytlynbell news editor Silence fills the auditorium as everyone waits to hear who won Best in Show for Sound Design. This is one of the greatest honors of Thespian State. A shockwave of one-claps rings out as Jade Lynch’s name is announced. Lights shine down from the ceiling bay as she comes on stage to accept her award. Thespian State is the most exciting time of year for Technical Education students and Drama students alike. On Jan. 24, around 35 delegates went to the University of Indianapolis to compete against 20 different schools and almost 800 other students. “The best part for me is getting to hang out with troupes from other schools. It gives some good perspective for the students,” Carrie Reiberg, troupe director, said. Last year, Warren Central took fourth place in the Tech Olympics, one of the events at Thespian State, and took third place overall. “Last year, I took a light design to competition
At a Glance
and received an Excellence ribbon...this year I hope to earn a Superior ribbon or perhaps the Best Design of Conference...” senior Max Brown said. Warren has been going to Thespian State consistently for the last five years. Warren’s technical education students and actors almost always place in the top five overall. This year the story is yet another of success. Superior Ribbons were awarded to Morgan Doucleff for Solo Musical Theater Experienced and Damon Horn for Superior Ribbon for Monologue Experienced. Excellence Ribbons were awarded to Lamara Finley and Jamar Buckley, Damon Horn and Hannah Wein, and Gisselle Ontiveros and Marissa Webb for Duo Scene Experienced. Max Brown won second place for Technical Theater Lighting Design and Ariya Marr won second place for Cable Coiling in the Tech Olympics. The Tech Warrior team took fourth place overall in the Tech Olympics. Jade Lynch, senior, came away from State with Best in Show for her sound design.
Last issue on page two a caption stated that the picture it corresponded to was of an Indiana State School Board meeting about Common Core. It was actually a meeting of the Indiana Statewide Advisory Committee on Career and Technical Education. Also in the nursing story two required shots were mentioned, but only the Hepatitis shot was correct.
MAKE-UP DAYS Weather Make-Up Days To make up for the two snow days, students will be in school on Mon, February 16, which is Presidents’ Day, and Thurs, May 28
Scholastic Art Show Congratulations to the many Warren artists who had pieced selected for The Annual Regional Scholastic Art Show for 2015. Alyssa Day won a Gold Key, the highest level of achievement at the Regional and won the Best of Show for the region. Julie Willis won a Silver Key, the second highest level, and Cassie Odom received an Honorable Mention.
FAFSA Workshop There will be a FAFSA workshop Thurs. Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. in the Media Plex. Parents must have their FAFSA PIN number, social security number, driver’s license, 2014 tax documents and bank statements.
Lowell Little League
SENIOR JADE LYNCH presents her Best in Show trophy. This is one of the highest honors at Thespian State. photo by Lexi Steinbrook
Registration will take place at Southeastern Church of Christ starting on Sat, January 31 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. For more information and other dates go to www. lowelllittleleague.org.
The Owl
January 30, 2015
A long way from home
by jessicamarvel staff writer
amilla Bianco was used to warmer temperatures and rolling hills. The white, flaky snow, so common here, was unheard of, as the air stayed warm year round. She lived in a house on a fat, grassy hill so close to the sea that she could smell its salt rolling in from the breeze. When she got off of the plane in Indiana, she felt confused and very uncomfortable among so many foreign people. She was definitely far from Livorno, Italy. “I think America is a great country,” Bianco said, “but I do not like huge things… and for me, it is not always a good thing. To me, Italy is more fascinating.” Bianco was not the only one who made the choice to leave home overseas. Louis Petit from Montpellier, France, and Laura Gronholm from Veikkola, Finland, are also new students at Warren. Petit came here because he heard great things about the foreign exchange program from his cousin, who had ventured off to Mexico. He said that he thought about it for a long time, and after finally deciding to go, his grandparents gave him the necessary money to go. He had to pay an initial $10,000 just to even start his journey to America, and he had to have an extra $5,000 for other expenses that he would later buy here himself. According to Petit, it cost him around 12,000 Euros, but his family could pay the money because college is free in France. He ended up missing his first flight to America, so he had to wait for the next one. This pushed Petit back from starting at the beginning of the school like he was supposed to. Gronholm, however, had no problems in the process of coming over. She made it here on time like any other foreign exchange student. “First, I had to apply to get into the program,” she said. “When they accepted me, they wanted to meet and interview me. I had to fill out all kinds of papers, get the visa to go.” All three claim that the choice to come to America was because each wanted to learn new things, whether it is the language or the difference in culture. Right now, they are just planning to experience new things. “I joined the swim team,” Petit said. “I enjoy swimming, but there isn’t a swim club in France. There are only a few clubs in French high schools.” Living with a different family can be rough, and so can being apart from your true family. Skype has been the big thing keeping the students in touch with the people back at home. “I do not miss my family because I know that they are going to be there when I get back,” Gronholm said. “I always have Skype, so I can call and talk to them whenever I want.” But, sometimes homesickness does set in, even though the students can access their families through technology. There are major time differences between the nations. Also, the host family may be a little too different. “When you are an exchange student, the best thing to have is a good host family,” Bianco said. “Living away from home is very hard, and we need to find someone who can fill our empty hole in the heart.” Bianco, Petit, and Gronholm will go back at the end of the school year, but they plan to tell their friends about America. The high school is different. The land is different. The people are different. Gronholm says that she will tell her friends that it’s “not exactly like it is in the movies.”
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“I enjoy swimming, but there isn’t a swim club in France. There are only a few clubs in French high schools. Louis Petit, Montpellier, France
“Living away from home is very hard, and we need someone who can fill the empty hole in the heart.” Camilla Bianco, Livorno, Italy
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“I do not miss my family because I know that they are going to be there when I get back.”
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Foreign Exchange students come from across the Atlantic to study in America
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Warren Central
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4 News
Laura Gronholm, Veikkola, Finland
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Questionnaire with Louis, Camilla and Laura Why did you come over to America? CB: “I wanted to improve my English and to do a new experience.” LG: “I wanted to experience the culture and learn new things.”
Why did you pay the money to come over? LG: “My parents paid the money because they knew that this was important to me, and that I actually wanted to do it. They’ve always supported me in whatever I choose to do.” LP: “My family paid the money because we knew that it would be a great experience, and the things I would learn would bring more value and money.”
What is the difference between school here and school at your home country? LP: “There are too many activities and sports in this school. I prefer this, because in France, it is only for study, and we don’t have the opportunity to discover clubs and develop our team skills.” LG: “This school is very different, and it is so much easier than that in Finland. Sometimes I feel like it is too easy.”
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January 30, 2015
Warren Central
The Owl
News 5
Careerfest helps students to plan their futures
Business, military, and scholarships help students plan for the real world
RACHEL SNYDER, A senior last year, stops at the Nursing booth during the 2014 Careerfest. Her temperature and heart rate were taken by two Nursing students. Photo by Christina Hernandez
by bri’aunjackson staff writer
W
ith over 100 representatives in the areas of jobs, apprenticeships, military and postsecondary schools, Careerfest is a perfect opportunity to get students ahead in planning for the future. Some of the colleges that will be represented are Manchester, Franklin, Ball State, ITT Tech, Vincennes College of Aviation, University of Indianapolis and many more. Representatives from Mary Kay Cosmetics, Jane Pauley Dental Clinic and a lot more will also be there. No matter how young, career goals are something that should be thought of. “This will get you thinking about your future, no matter what your age is,” Ms. Nancy Campbell said. At Careerfest, students will be able to check the status of their acceptance for scholarships or apply for additional scholarships. If planning for the future means looking into colleges or the military or maybe just wanting a job, Careerfest offers it all. Businesses in need of employees will have “Now Hiring” signs, students can also ask questions to see if they qualify before filling out the application. Teachers and counselors will be there to
help guide any student who is still undecided. This is a great opportunity to bring family out to see what Warren Central has to offer students. The free event will be held Feb. 12, from 6-8 p.m. and will take place throughout the high school and Walker Career Center buildings. Conferences between parents and teachers will be held at this time as well. Programs will be handed out with maps and a list of all the participants that came. It is as simple as talking to the representatives and getting information. The more information a student receives, the easier it will be for him/her to build a career or education path. If not sure what to look at just visit everything. Careerfest is a way to get ahead, so everyone should take advantage.
Time & Dates
Careerfest will take place on Feb. 12 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Booths will be set up throughout Warren Central and the Walker Career Center.
Casting Call! Auditions for Warren Central’s production of “The Odd Couple” will be in the Studio Theatre on Feb. 11 starting at 3:00 p.m. “The Odd Couple” is a comedy about two men who have each recently gone through a divorce and are living with each other until they can get on their feet. If interested, students should come prepared with a one minute memorized monologue.
6Opinion
The Owl
Warren Central
January 30, 2015
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We Think...
fix the poverty, fix the gun violence
Like the rest of the United States, Indiana has its problems with poverty and gun violence. Stories of shootings pop up, usually about teens on the poorer parts of town. Gun violence among teens can be put to a stop, but only through long-term investments in poor communities and those who live there. Although it’s an uncomfortable truth, teens most susceptible to using guns on each other are the poorest. Unlike middle class families who own a handgun for protection or the upper class who collect guns, impoverished teens are drawn to guns because they lack stability and alternatives to violence. “People who grow up with guns for hunting don’t look at them the same way as somebody from the East Side sitting in jail for shooting someone,” Erika Smith, opinion columnist for the Indianapolis Star said. Gangs are a form of community for angry, hungry teens to join even though the lifestyle self-destructive. When one has never been told that one has value and is worthy, one doesn’t care about reaching their five-year goals or attending college. After the crime comes the punishment, but that raises another question--when should minors be tried as adults, if ever? What crimes cannot be pardoned on grounds of it just being a reckless, teenaged mistake? When Ian Manuel was 13, he shot Debbie Baigrie in the mouth in Tampa, Fla., as part of a gang initiation. She survived. He turned himself in, was charged as an adult, and sentenced to 65 years. Manuel is now 37 and has regular correspondence with Baigrie, who told the New York Times that her status as a white mother and his as a poor black child influenced the outcome of the case.
The goal here, however, is to keep kids safe and out of prison. To do that, we have to understand that this problem stems from systematic economic oppression. Violence, guns and an apathetic mentality are magnified as a result of generations of financial inequality and disparity. Like with all gun related issues, gun control is the first suggestion. Limiting access to weapons, however, is difficult in a society like ours. Teens who use guns don’t care about their right to bear arms, but proponents of the Second Amendment do. “It’s not just about the guns themselves, but the people who are using them,” Smith said. Raising the minimum wage to a livable wage will help open the job market and allow parents to support their children better. We should invest in local business inside the city and out. We could eradicate poverty throughout the nation if we redistributed through taxing the super rich higher. Anti-violence awareness campaigns aren’t for everyone. Direct action in the form of mentorship programs like Boys and Girls Clubs run by churches and community centers can give teens role models and safe places to stay. Start young, make quality early childcare available to parents well below the poverty line. “Help people get out of poverty,” Smith said. “Help them help themselves.” The road to peace and safety is long and arduous. In order to end gun violence and shootings among teenagers, we have to treat them as human beings in need, not as problems. Kids who pick up guns are victims, too.
Editorial Policy The Warren Owl is a newsmagazine published ten times a year by the Publications staff of Warren Central High School at 9500 E. Sixteenth St., Indpls., In 46229. The Warren Owl is printed by The Daily Reporter of Greenfield, IN. Advertising rates are available upon request by calling (317) 532-6252. The Warren Owl is distributed to more than 3,000 students, faculty and residents in the community. As a student written and edited high school newsmagazine, the Warren Owl will strive to perform three functions: (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) To entertain readers with focus and feature items. 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. The Warren Owl encourages readers to share comments, suggestions, or complaints by submitting letters to the editor. In order to be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include author’s signature. Names can be withheld from publication only at the request of the author and approval of the editorial board. The editors reserve the right to edit letters for clarification, or for space limitation. Libelous or profane letters will not be published. The Publications staff urges all Warren Central students and staff to use the “Letters to the Editor” as a public forum in the spirit of free speech and press. The Warren Owl is a member of the NSPA, CSPA, Quill & Scroll, and the Indiana High School Press Association.
Picture This By Julie Willis
Taylor’s Tiny Tales
Recently, I was asked in a class what was one social issue that I felt passionate about. As I watched my classmates look up social issues and ask each other what the other was doing to get a good idea on what to feel “passionate” about, I already knew. I’ve practiced it, knowingly at least, for the past four years of my life. The First Amendment is supposed to protect our rights, and for the most part it does because within just the First Amendment are other categories- -ones that specifically help journalists like me who thrive to let their voices be heard. Freedom of the Press, Freedom of Expression, Freedom of Speech---they all fall under the First Amendment and I have high respect for this. France has taken over our news headlines and almost everyone should know what recently happened. If not, then here is a recap. Because cartoonists at a satirical magazine (Charlie Hebdo) used their Freedom of Speech to portray the prophet Muhammad in cartoons, they were killed. To create an image of Muhammad is sacrilegious in Islam, but they often went further, like portraying Muhammad as a pedophile. This completely surpassed the concept of satire and became hate speech. Charlie Hebdo, in my opinion was completely wrong. I do not believe in making fun of any religion or race. It is wrong and
what was printed makes journalism look shameful, even though it is satire, not news journalism. In my opinion, it was vulgar and their morals were in the wrong place. However, they have the right to speak their mind, just like anyone else, journalist or not. When I was in DC for the National Journalism Convention, I learned a lot about my own Freedom of Speech and what it means to be a responsible journalist. There is a time and a place when to run a story or a photo or a comic, but that is not the key priority. Keeping others in mind should be the top priority. It is our job to inform, to let others know what they don’t already. It is also our job to do no harm in the news we print. That is what I was taught and it’s what I live by. Yes, we are lucky enough to have our Freedom of Speech and for it to not be stripped from us. It makes our lives a lot easier and most don’t even realize it. The thing that upsets me though, especially with Charlie Hebdo, is that it gets pushed to the limit. Why take our privilege of freedom and abuse it? Our rights can be taken away so easily. While in DC, I went to the Newseum, which is a museum dedicated to the greatest aspects of news in our history. On a slide show, it displayed the five rights of a journalist. But before it even got into journalist’s rights, it had a quote from Thomas Paine that stuck with me. “When we speak of right we ought always to unite with it the idea of duties: rights become duties by reciprocity.” I was taught to have respect for our rights, to not abuse them. Journalists have a duty to inform and report and sometimes I think we forget that.
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January 30, 2015
Warren Central
Thumbs THUMBS UP TO this year’s snowmaggedon missing Indiana entirely. Last thing we need is to be up to our armpits in snow and subzero temperatures. Again. THUMBS UP TO to awards ceremonies of all calibers, like the Owlies and Thespian State. The Golden Globes are overrated, anyway. THUMBS UP TO two-hour delays. We sleep, miss a huge chunk of classes but don’t have to make it up later. We should thank whoever made this a thing. THUMBS UP TO Girl Scout cookies. Whether you like Thin Mints, Samoas or Tagalongs, you can be proud of the fine young ladies who supply us with so many carbs.
Letter from a Leader As you probably heard, France is victim of terrorist attacks since several months, most were thwarted by secret services and nobody’s heard about but unfortunately not on Jan. 7 and 8 with the Charlie Hebdo killing and the hostage taking in the Jewish grocery store. That caused the death of 17 people (plus 3 terrorists killed by the police). The same night thousand of people decided to unite in the street and the Jan. 11, four million of persons from all religions, all cultures, and all social classes were on the street to manifest against the terrorism and support families of the victims. I’m proud that the French population manifested all together because out of the 17 victims, Charlie Hebdo is a symbol in France. It’s the newspaper who represent the freedom of speech and freedom of press because they literally say anything and laugh about everybody without being condemned by the French government. They were using this freedom to 100 percent, sometimes to the limit of provocation, but that was an elementary right and they died in protecting it. A few months before the attack, Charb, one of the journalists killed, replied to an interviewer who asked him if he was scared by the threats that he received. “I prefer to die standing
THUMBS DOWN TO yet another pipe burst. Right in front of the CSC. Have we considered just installing a fountain to relieve the pressure? THUMBS DOWN TO the Accuplacer test. Dare we ask what the point is? Or shall we just accept time out of class in exchange for tedium? THUMBS DOWN TO the Patriots, maybe, possibly, probably, definitely cheating in the AFC Championship game against the Colts. THUMBS DOWN TO the massacres that didn’t make the news, like the one committed by Boko Haram in Nigeria. France isn’t the only victim of radical killings. We should remember that.
By Louis Petit Junior Montpellier, France than live on my knees and let the terrorists win!” Well, I think we must take the problem at the root. There are five million Muslims in France and a part of them are not integrated like they should. This has always been. The city in which I live in France is pretty representative of this situation, indeed there is a big population of Muslim in my hometown, and I can see every day when I go to school that a part of them does not seem to be integrate and prefer stay to themselves. Of course this does not mean that they will become terrorists but they have a greater chance of falling into radical Islam. This non integrated part live most of the time in community in sensitive neighborhood with a difficult economic situation and feel rejected by the government. Plus, most of them do not support the interventions of France in the Middle East and North Africa. It’s all these factors plus a misinterpretation of the Koran and the pressure of terrorists groups who can urge somebody to act so violently against his native country. That is why after all these events, the population asked the government to really work on integration of these communities to reduce a big part of terrorism and afford to use the freedom of expression, without to see a gun against a pencil again.
The Owl
Opinion7
Faces in the Crowd
What was your New Year’s resolution? Have you stuck with it?
Hannah Wien, sophomore
“I want to be more courageous. So far I’ve done it by trying to do one thing every day that scares me. Nothing insane, but little things like trying new food or something similar.”
owl staff
Editor-in-Chief Taylor Meyers
Associate Editor Savannah Hizer
Opinion Editor Paris Garnier
A&E Editor Paris Garnier
News Editor Kaytlyn Bell
News Writers Jessica Marvel Bri’aun Jackson
Sports Editor Paige Finnigan
Sports Writers Levi Jackson Sabrina Andrews
Entertainment Writers
“My resolution is to be more fit so I can dance through our whole show for show choir without being so out of breath. I have stuck with it, I’ve been doing insanity workouts, plus what we do in choir.”
Mikayla Lawver, junior
Mckenzie Smalley, senior
“My New Year’s resolution was to clean and help out around the house more. I know that I shouldn’t make myself wait until a new year to make this change, but this was a good excuse and so far I have stuck to my promise.”
Jade Lynch
Staff Writers
Sierra Hawthorne Khaila King Megan Bone Louis Petit Jewel Chestine
Photographer Editor Alexis Steinbrook
Photographers Haley Love Madelynne Sigg Amanda Hedger Claudia Perez Josh Wall Kendra Bender Morgan Thomas
Advertising Rebecca Brown Advisor
Mr. Mark Haab
Principal
Mr. Rich Shepler
8Feature
The Owl
Warren Central
January 30, 2015
www.wcowlnews.com
Community, school leaders respond to effects of youth violence
B
by taylormeyers editor-in-chief
etween 2013 and 2014, there has been an 8 percent rise in homicides in the Indianapolis area according to the Indianapolis Star. Indianapolis had 135 homicides, of all ages, in 2014 according to the Department of Public Safety. Indiana has some of the loosest gun laws of all 50 states. The Annual Gun Law Scorecard gave Indiana a D- on gun laws, stating that Indiana does not “prohibit the transfer or possession of assault weapons, 50 caliber rifles or large capacity ammunition magazines,” and Indiana also does not license firearm owners. Indiana is not the safest, especially for youth who grow up in some of the poorer, poverty-stricken areas. “I believe that violence is a societal problem as much as it is a youth issue,” Executive Director of the Indianapolis Ten Point Coalition, Rev. Charles Ellis said in an email. The Indianapolis Ten Point Coalition is a non-profit organization that began in Boston due to gang violence in the mid ‘90s. It began in Indiana in 1999 and has since pursued the mission of preventing violence in youth. They target youth in areas deemed “high risk” because of the amount of homicides in the area. The Ten Point targets these youth by hosting activity nights, street patrols, faith walks and engaging in homicide scenes in a way to spread the message of “nonviolence and no retaliation.” “Ninety percent of the youth are not bad and just want to have a safe place to have a good time; we have to intentionally create spaces for youth to be youth,” Ellis said. Race has become a noticeable issue in youth violence also. In a report done by the Violence Policy Center, there were a total of 157 homicides of black men, women and children in Indiana in 2012. Nine of the 157 were under the age of 18, and most of the homicides resided in Marion County. “We must honestly understand and feel like violence is not inevitable but that it can be greatly reduced or eradicated,” Ellis said. “We do this by targeting those who are most vulnerable or likely to be involved in violence.” By targeting the “vulnerable,” Ellis says that youth need a “safe place” to just have a good time and not worry about having to look over their shoulder. He also believes that with the proper supervision, the youth would be less likely to fall into the trap that violence creates. There are many reasons for why youth violence takes place and why it happens in the areas it does. Ellis and the Ten Point have their own ideas of why violence takes place. Lack of parental involvement/ breakdown of the family, lack of proper education, lack of proper employment and the proliferation of illegal guns in our city and society are all possible reasons according to Ellis.
Warren has become effectively involved in preventing violence also. Assistant Superintendent Lou Anne Schwenn and Principal Rich Shepler have created a Climate Taskforce of advisors and staff of Warren Township to talk about the problems of youth violence and ways that it can be prevented. “We called together some of the adults who students have identified as someone who makes a difference,” Schwenn said. “Our teachers and administrators want to help empower our youth to make a difference. This Taskforce is brainstorming what our students need to be successful.” Schwenn also says that social media is a partial problem of violence. “Social media has caused a significant increase in violence and conflict in and outside of school,” Schwenn said. “Most people feel brave to say things on social media. The person who posts does not have to face the person and gains support from others in the process. This only magnifies the problem.” Another problem is the fact that youth role model’s are using violent actions, showing the violent behavior to their followers makes the youth think that that is okay. Music, video games, movies and TV shows represent the modern world and it has a tendency to sink into teens brains what the characters/artists do in media. “Social media has caused a significant increase in violence and conflict in and outside of school,” Schwenn said. Warren is taking slow steps in preventing the violence by the Taskforce and a new program called the Prevention of Violence in Schools. Assistant Chief Scott McKinney has also initiated the Prevention of Violence in Schools program which is still in the works. “It’s really sad that some people think that that is the only way out is violence,” Shepler said. “It’s not even just a school issue, its a whole community issue.”
The registration of firearms in Indiana does Indiana is not not limit required. the number of firearms that can be purchased at once.
Gun violence
Ind
An A license is not required for a person A background to have a firearm in check is not Indiana. required before the transfer of a firearm between two parties.
All information from gunlawscorecrard.org
T co o m w
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January 30, 2015
Warren Central
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Feature9
Indiana Violence Facts
diana youth arrests
Homicidal violence 2012
- In , there were in Indiana alone
157 homicides
third
leading - Homicide is the cause of death for the ages between
10-24
The homicide rate among black victims in Indiana was per in -
nnual gun law state score card 2014
25.48 100,000 2012
Trends in homicide rates
Indiana received a D-
gunlawscorecard.org
Editors note
This is the first installment of a special ontinuation. This story presents the problems of violence and the facts on it. Look for next month’s issue where we discuss the solutions and why violence is an issue among youth.
cdc.gov
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January 30, 2015
ENTINGOwlies PRESThe
Warren Central
A&E 11
The Owl
by savannahhizerassociateeditor
One thing to notice about this year’s candidates for the coveted Owlie is the overuse of the colon. This means sequels and more sequels. “The Hobbit,” “The Muppets” and even “Captain America” hopped onto the sequel bandwagon. It was a year for continuing sagas, for the next pieces of heretofore unfinished franchises. Fortunately, more than just cash came from some of these industry cows, and we think we’ve managed to find the films with the most worthy content to offer. Having sifted through some of the year’s more unfortunate stinkers, (“Transformers: Age of Extinction,” for example, yet another part of yet another franchise), we polled some Warren students, and this is what they told us.
Best Superhero Movie Guardians of the Galaxy
Not surprisingly, this year’s Owlie for Best Superhero Movie goes home with a Marvel film. In 2012, Marvel Comics released “The Avengers” on the heels of “Iron Man,” “Captain America,” and “Thor,” all of which saw huge success at the box office. Since then, and after a buy-out from Disney, they’ve been unstoppable, cranking out massive hits like “Thor: The Dark World,” “The Amazing Spiderman,” “Wolverine,” and “X-Men: Days of Future Past.” Last year, they took a leap and went interstellar with “Guardians of the Galaxy,” based on the 1969 comic book series. “Guardians,” though in keeping with Marvel’s blockbusting trend, was very different from the Marvel movies of late. Its soundtrack included 1960s and ‘70s pop, and its cosmic cast of characters and settings were completely different from the rest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Honorable mentions: The Amazing SpiderMan, Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Best Comedy 22 Jump Street
After the success of the first movie, “21 Jump Street,” some are saying that “22 Jump Street” not only matches its predecessor in quality, but is, perhaps, even better. Based on the 1980’s television show, the “Jump Street” films are goofy and silly, but ultimately goodnatured, and surprisingly satisfying to watch. In “22,” instead of infiltrating a high school, the duo graduate to investigating undercover at the local community college. To crack the case, the team need to learn to be adults and interact with the real world. Honorable mentions: Neighbors, The Grand Budapest Hotel
Best Animated Film How to Train Your Dragon 2
Hiccup, the not-so-strapping Viking hero, is back. This time, five years in the future, he and his gang of blundering, Nordic, teenaged friends must save their home, the island of Berk, from a cruel dragon tamer who would steal Berk’s dragons. The movie series, set to expand even further with “How to Train Your Dragon 3” in 2017, and the upcoming television show “Riders of Berk,” are based on the book series by Cressida Cowell. Look forward to revealing backstory, fantastic new characters, and even more dragon lore, straight from the books. Honorable mentions: The LEGO Movie, Big Hero 6
Best Fantasy
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
The release of “Secret of the Tomb” in December 2014 followed not only the previous two, blockbuster “Night at the Museum” movies, but the death of a cast member. Robin Williams, who played Teddy Roosevelt in the film, died shortly after filming “Secret of the Tomb.” Despite releasing on the heels of such a terrible event, the film manages to bring us the same silly, historical wit we enjoyed so much in the first two movies. In this third part of the story, the tablet that brings the statues in the Natural History Museum to life is decaying, and Ben Stiller’s character Larry Daley must travel to the British Museum to figure out how to stop it. Honorable mentions: Maleficent, Into the Woods
Best Motion Picture The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic fantasy masterpiece finds a final conclusion in the last “Hobbit” movie. “The Battle of the Five Armies” not only wraps up the “Hobbit” trilogy, but also the entire “Lord of the Rings” franchise. In the film, the Men, Dwarves, and Elves must decide whether to untie in the face of Smaug, or die divided. It is not the only conclusion to a trilogy that has made our Owlies list, but it is, undoubtedly, the most anticipated.
Honorable mentions: Divergent, The Fualt in Our Stars
Most International Controversy The Interview
There’s really no question about this category. I don’t think Hollywood gives an award to the movie that stirs up the most political controversy, but if they did, I don’t think they would have much choice but to give it to Sony’s “The Interview.” Never let it be said that Americans are timid in their criticisms, especially when the very plot of the movie is to assassinate North Korea’s Supreme Leader, Kim Jong Un. Already a delicate topic, the movie not only uses his real name, but spoofs Un relentlessly. After North Korea hacked Sony and threatened to blow up theaters if it were released, the movie was taken from theaters and released online. “The Interview” didn’t only bring cheap laughs and $31 million in online sales, but it caused serious political upset and, perhaps, reminded us to look around every once in a while and be thankful for our freedom of speech.
BONUS
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Warren Central
January 30, 2015
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Records still stand tall after years of outstanding athletes competing by paigefinnigan sports editor
W
arren Central has now entered its 91 year of being a high school, it has produced many impressive athletes. Alumni have gone very far since their graduation, from the NFL, NBA and Olympics Warriors, have graced some of the best courts and fields in the world. Some school records are still standing that were set back in the in the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. The oldest records still standing rest on the walls of the school natatorium and gym.
Football
Basketball
Jeff George is the only athlete at Warren Central to be named National Player of the Year for football 1985, and National High School Athlete of the Year 1985. He holds all Yards Passing: game 46 yds. Season: 2419 Career: 8126 yds., touchdown passes game:46 season: 33 career 94 , passes attempted game: 46, Season: 169 Career: 543 and completions game: 28 season: 169 career: 543 records. After playing college football at University of Illinois he was picked as the overall first round pick of the NFL draft by the Indianapolis Colts.
The first state championship at Warren Central was Boys Gymnastics coached by Bob Hoffman.
1983
The names of former successful athletes are easily overlooked, but their accomplishments shall not be forgotten. “Being part of a team sometimes requires an unnatural self-sacrifice for the betterment of the team,” Assistant Athletic Director Susan Downey said. “Therefore, there are several components of sport history and accomplishments that we need to realize in order to make that sacrifice. Self-sacrifice of an athlete can be a difficult concept to understand.”
Head basketball coach Greg Graham was an Indiana All-Star in 1989, he scored the most points in Warrior history with 1,509 points during his 1987-1989 career. He also holds school records for the most field goals made in a game, total points in a season, single game free throws and highest point average 1987-1989. He went on to play college basketball at Indiana University, he was drafted into the NBA by the Charlotte Hornets where he played for seven years. He then came back to Warren. “Coaching at Warren was always a goal,” Graham. “I wouldn’t want to coach anywhere else.”
Track
The oldest record still standing for mens indoor track and field is Wayne Machala’s 3200 meter run with a time of 9:23.74. He set the record in 1974. For girls outdoor track and field Hope Sanders still holds the record for the 800 meter run, she set the record in 1990. “Hope was such a hard worker,” Former assistant coach Steve Kent said. “She only weight 80 lbs her freshman year and to run the 3200 you have to be extremely strong. She was a very dedicated athlete”.
Mr. Kent Was an assistant track coach for 28 years.
8,126
Yards Jeff George threw in his career.
1954 Bod Anderson was the first Marion County Athlete of the Year.
18 Team state titles.
“That relay is the only relay record we haven’t broken yet,” swim team captain senior Lilly Amezuca said. “If we could break it this year we would feel so accomplished. To be honest that records been up there a while, its our time to take it down.”
Swimming
Jim Webber is a school record holder in the 100 backstroke with a time of 54.48. He set the record in 1986. He previously held the 100 butterfly and 100 freestyle school record that was beaten this year by junior Jackson Sandala. Webber was a member of the 1985 state runner-up team, it was the only team state title in the swim programs history. The oldest record on the board in the natatorium is the girls 200 Medley relay. Set in 1977 by D.Kelly, P.Gawrys, KE. Kingery and JE. Hart it has turned into a mission for the girls swim team to take it down this season.
Principal Rich Shepler Is third for all time passing for football with 1901 yards.
1966
The first Warren Central individual state champion was Phil Rehl for gymnastics All Around. Photos from Wigwam ‘85 ‘86 ‘87 ‘90
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January 30, 2015
Warren Central
The Owl
Sports 13
Wrestling team pushes full speed towards State by paigefinnigan sports editor
JUNIOR MATT MCKINNEY holds a Ben Davis wrestler. McKinney was the lone winner at the Al Smith Invite. Photo by Claudia Perez
P
ushing forward, the wrestling team continues on its path to the State Championship. Dominating dual wins helps builds the team’s confidence leading into championship season. On Dec. 21, the Warriors participated in the Marion County Tournament. Winners were Keyuan Murphy 106 lbs, Matthew McKinney 132 lbs, and Vos Morrow 220lbs. The
Warriors scored a strong 223 points, but fell short of the win, placing second and failed to take down their biggest rival Perry Meridian. The wrestlers started out their new year at a meet, more importantly known as the Al Smith Invite in Mishawaka, IN. Competing against some of the strongest competitors in the state the Warriors had a long day. McKinney at 132 lbs. was the only champion for the Warriors. The boys came in third with 194.5 points, only falling to Penn and Merrillville. “I was very happy with our performance at the Al Smith invite,” head coach Daniel Williams said. “It is an unbelievable tournament. Some guys took a couple hard losses, but everyone learned from their experience at the tournament. We put four in the finals, had one champ and the other three finalists all lost to number one ranked guys in the state.” For their first dual meet of the year, the Warriors faced Adams Central. The Warriors took a dominating win over Adams Central. Winners were Devon Blount 182 lbs, Cornelius Knox-Abbott 195 lbs, Morrow 220 lbs , Murphy 106 lbs, senior Eric Owens 113 lbs , Dylan Culp 120 lbs , Joel McGhee 126 lbs, McKinney 132 lbs, junior Trent Pruitt 145 lbs. , and junior Dominic Herrick 152 lbs. The Warriors defeated Adams Central 47-7.
Athlete of the Month Djimon Henson • 3.2 GPA • Third year on Varsity • Averages 17 points a game
“We love wrestling teams in a dual format,” Williams said. “We have 14 weights with 14 hammers. Beating teams like Adams Central in the fashion that we did was outstanding. Right now I am seeing our guys get more bonus points and that is what it is going to take to be able to compete for Blue Ring. If we know we can beat an opponent, we need to score a major decision, tech fall or a pin. Those big points add up quick.” On Jan. 21, the wrestlers took to their home gym while hosting the 2015 MIC tournament. The Warriors prevailed over the hard competition with many individual champions including Morrow, Knox, Herrick, Pruitt, McKinney, McGhee, Owens, and Murphy. Winning the MIC Championship was the first stop for the boys during championship season. The Warriors have been working for these last few weeks all year. Hours of practice, countless matches, and hard work has got them where they are today. Williams is extremely confident going into Sectionals this Saturday. He recognizes state potential in all of his wrestlers. “I know this sounds crazy, but I have faith in everyone on the team. McKinney, Pruitt, and Morrow are projected to be our highest placers. All three are state contenders.”
At a Glance All home events are five dollars to get in or free if you have your Spirit Club pass! The next FCA meeting will be on Tuesday held in the Math Plex. To find the schedules for all winter sports see www.wcowlnews.com The next boys basketball game will be tonight at North Central. Wrestling sectionals are tomorrow here in the fieldhouse. Come support your Warriors on their road to state.
The next home boys basketball game will be tomorrow against Center Grove. Pack the PIT! Girls soccer coach Gary Roberts has been named NSCAA 2014 coach of the year.
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unior Djimon Henson is a 6’3” Varsity Basketball player. He averages 17 points a game, and had a game high of 33 points against the Ben Davis Giants. He is one of two captains, and is a leader of the team. He has several colleges interested including offers from Western Illinois University, IUPUI, and Northern Kentucky University. He has not yet decided where he wants to go. He plans to attend a four year university to complete a degree in business accounting and play basketball. He is also very involved with the spirit club. He led the PIT as they cheered for the football team, and also got the crowd hype at several volleyball games.
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7755 E Washington Street Next to Blueberry Hill & Skyline Chili Three free breadsticks with the purchase of any size fountain drink.
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Warren Central
January 30, 2015
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Boys Basketball picks up the pace as season nears Sectionals by sabrinaandrews sports staff Being underestimated has been an advantage this season. This year the boys were looking to redeem last seasons defeat at the hands of the Park Tutor Panthers. As the Country Tournament started, the challenge was accepted. Earlier this month the boys advanced all the way to semi-finals to lose a tough game to Ben Davis. The first round of County was against the Perry Meridian Falcons. The Warriors once again kept the crowd on their toes the entire game by keeping the score close. In the final minutes of the game, the Warriors pulled away and ended with a score of 55-50. This win moved them onto the second round against Lawrence North. The Warriors had previously played the Wildcats just five days before in a regular season game at Lawrence North. The Warriors battled with them back and forth the whole game and lost by 8 points. When the boys found out they would play them again for the second round of County, it was planned to be another chance at beating the Wildcats. “We let a couple winnable games get away from us, so it always feels good to get a second crack at a team you owe a loss to,” junior Bishop Smith said. The Warriors played another tight game with the Wildcats, now more familiar with how the other team plays. No team led by more than 10 points the entire game, once again keeping all of the fans on their toes. At the end of the game, the Warriors pulled away from the Wildcats giving them no chance to come back in the final seconds of the game. The Warriors beat the Wildcats 69-62 and advanced to the semi-finals against the Ben Davis Giants. In the regular season game against the Giants, the Warriors struggled to find consistency on the court to beat the Giants,
but once again this would be another chance at the Giants. The Warriors are now used to playing tight nail-biting games, and this semi-final game was another one. The Warriors stayed with the Giants until the final minutes of the game when the Giants pulled away and won 55-43. This loss did not make the Warriors lose their momentum or confidence. They went onto play the Lawrence Central Bears a week later and beat them 62-59 to give them their first conference win. The Warriors have worked hard throughout the season and have found a sense of consistency that is working for them. Their competitive nature has increased, and they are learning to fight through the games. Although the Warriors aren’t blowing out teams, or dominating the scoreboard, they are finding a way to finish every game they can ahead of the other team. The boys have become more of a family on the court, and have found a sense of unity on the hardwood. Senior CJ Hardaway, junior Djimon Henson, and Smith have formed a trio that is making the team more and more successful. Smith has averaged 18.6 points in the last five games and has really stepped up to help the Warriors put more points on the scoreboard as the season gets to its climax. Henson averages 17 points a game and is a big part of the Warriors offense. As the season has gone on, all three players have stepped up to lead the Warriors through practices and games getting better each day. “This is who we are and we have to play with who we have,” Head Coach Greg Graham said. The next game will be tonight at North Central, and the boys have about a month to prepare for Sectionals beginning on March 3.
Bowling team rolls into Sectionals on high note
SENIOR KYLE KERNS prepares himself to roll the ball down the lane during a meet against the Carmel Greyhounds. In Kerns’ final year bowling, he has become an essential piece to the boys successes on and off the bowling floor. Photo by Josh Wall
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JUNIOR BISHOP SMITH prepares to shoot the ball as he maneuvers around the Perry Meridian defender. The Warriors beat the Falcons in the first round of County, Smith scoring 20 points. Photo by Lexi Steinbrook
Pee Dee Sports Recruiters At Pee Dee Sports Recruiters, we are seeking to sign 2014/2015 athletes for college scholarships. We currently work with NCAA, NAIA, NCCAA, USCAA, CCCAA, CCAC, YSS8, and NJCAA division schools. For more information please visit our website at wegetusigned2.wix.com/wegetusigned or email us at kreaves@peedeesportsrecruiters.com WE SIGN ALL SPORTS Follow us on Twitter @athlete_recruit
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January 30, 2015
Warren Central
The Owl
Sports15
Girls basketball dribbles into Sectionals with confidence by sabrinaandrewsstaff writer
Paige’s Pace The Climb Holding onto the rock climbing wall, my body is shaking. I’m sweating and I’m holding on with all the strength I have left in my arms. I turn my head and slowly I look down at my belayer, a trusted friend. He tells me my next move, and I listen. I make my way up the wall slowly and surely. When I reach the top, I cannot help but smile, I feel accomplished and proud. After I rappel back down the wall and once my feet were on solid ground, I came to a conclusion. Coaching and rock climbing have many similarities. My coach is there to guide me up the wall, to instruct me around obstacles and is there offering support when I fall. Little by little, I learn how to do things on my own, leaning a little less on my coach and and building my own confidence. At Warren, we have some amazing coaches. My swim coach, John Sincroft, has become a mentor to me in the pool and out. He has taught me so many things over the past three years, things about work ethic, perseverance and respect. I still remember my freshman year and how I was terrified of Coach. He was the big guy with a beard and glasses who gave me a hard time about being Conner Finnigan’s little sister. Now he’s one of the biggest influences in my life. While searching for a college to possibly swim at, I am always comparing Sincroft to my future college coaches. I can say we are extremely lucky to have a coach as knowledgeable as him at the high school level. It is easy to come to 11 practices a week and easily take him for granted. Coaching is not a 7-3 job. Many hours are spent debating over lineups, planning practices, fundraising and he still keeps the best interest in mind for his athletes. I talk to a lot of coaches here. How they talk about their teams with pride and enthusiasm never gets old. If you are the person on the team who does not play on the starting line-up, is injured, or doubts that coach knows you exist, I am here to say that you do matter. Whether you’re a starter on the team or a “bench warmer,” you contribute to the team or you wouldn’t be there. Over the past five years, our swim program has made a 360 degree turn, and Sincroft is the reason why. He continues to help guide us up the wall of our athletic careers, suggesting what routes to take, helping us through the hard parts. So I encourage all athletes, whether a senior or a freshman, appreciate all the work your coach does and thank them, because I know I don’t thank mine enough.
Thanks Coach
The girls basketball team is still struggling to find the key to success even as the season moves on. The girls have been working hard in practice to improve their defensive and offensive skills. They are hopeful that by the end of the season going into Sectionals something will click and the team can be more successful than they are now. As the season progresses the girls have improved in some aspects of the game. The girls have been running and conditioning a lot in practice to get tougher, and in great shape for games. They have also been working on a lot of shooting. This is making every girls confidence and ability in this skill improve. Hopefully this will lead to more points scored in the games. “We’ve gotten better, and we’ve focused on working on skills and trying to improve every day,” Head Coach Trent Bodine said. Senior Rillian Dennis is leading the team in points and rebounds and has lead the team through most of the games this season. She was injured in
the game Tuesday against Cathedral. The team is hoping she will be back for Sectionals. “Rillian has really stepped up to score and rebound for us, and hopefully she is back next week for Sectionals,” Bodine said. In the last few weeks the girls have been putting more points on the scoreboard and won their third game of the season. On Jan. 17 the girls hosted Owen Valley and won 61-31. This is the most points the girls have scored all season. Moving forward the memory of the hard work and success that came out of that game will give the girls more confidence. “We’ve been working really hard, and after losing all those games in a row its good to know the hard work paid off, senior Domonique Finch said. The girls will play the North Central Panthers tonight at North Central with the boys following. Sectionals will start Feb. 10. To see the schedules visit www.wcowlnews.com.
Strong regular season offers swim teams solid opportunities going into Sectionals
JUNIOR KYLIE COBB shoots freethrows in practice with her teammates. The girls have been focusing on improving their shooting and other skills of the game. Photo by Sabrina Andrews
by levijacksonsports staff One would assume an unbeaten season would mean that the team is best in the state. The Warrior boys swim team has not yet captured the title of being the ‘best’ in the state. Nevertheless, the boys have been rolling all season long, having ended the regular season on an undefeated note. With the regular season over with, the boys finished with a 13-0 record in duals overall on the season. Head Coach John Sincroft believed that his team’s streak could have gone as far as zero in the losses column, and they did. “Off the top of my head, we probably lost two or three times last season,” Coach Sincroft said. “I would say we’ve had a couple of close meets, but honestly we were confident that we could go undefeated.” The assumption goes that the majority of the boy’s success comes from junior Jackson Sandala, which is true, just not completely accurate. Sandala, a three-time MIC Conference Champion, no doubt is important to the team, but not all the spotlight is on him. Sincroft notes senior Drew Aughe has been a huge contributor to the boys’ performance as well. Senior Dillon Trumpey and junior Anthony Mendez have also JUNIOR MASON AMOS swims breaststroke against Pike. Amos has been a major helped the team. contributor on the Varsity roster this season. Speaking of spotlights, the girls’ Photo by Scott O’Farrell team has shown that they surely deserve some. Turning things around from
their one-win season a year ago, they have raised that total to nine wins this season. For some of those eight wins, they were without junior swimmer Dessa Rollins and freshman Kira Gibbs. Sincroft admits to the effect of Rollins’ and Gibbs’ absences. “Dessa and Kira being out for that while impacted the team’s growth and chemistry,” Sincroft said. “Some people stepped up to fill some voids, but losing two of your top ten swimmers can be tough mentally. The senior swimmers competed in their last meet at the Warrior Natatorium on Jan. 27 during Senior Night. The tri-meet consisted of Southport and Lawrence Central. Although the girls did well enough to finish second, it highlighted Aughe tying the 100-yard backstroke with a time of 55.13, and Sandala breaking the pool record for the 100-yard butterfly. The boys finished the regular season with an undefeated 13 wins, while the girls finished 9-6. Sincroft admired his teams’ improvement throughout the season and likes what the future holds for his program. “The factor in progression is that we are moving towards a better program mentality as a whole,” Sincroft said of his swimmers, who have made drastic upgrades since last season. “This year’s team is motivated to accomplish great things and pursue excellence.” Feb. 7 marks the start of Sectionals.
THE
16 Back East Side to-die-for’s The Owl
RockCola by parisgarnieropinioneditor
In a time when personal aesthetic is trending to the point of irony, the appearance and themes of restaurants are everything. From vinyl-vintage to bohemia, restaurant owners sell their image just as much as they sell their food. In the case of the Rock-Cola ‘50s Cafe on Indy’s East Side, it’s breakfast and lunch in a time machine. As the name implies, Rock-Cola is a displaced ‘50s soda fountain but without the contemporary social turmoil. Its sky blue bar stools and booths feel livedin and smooth, but not worn out. Classic Hollywood icons like James Dean and Marilyn Monroe are plastered across the pink walls and ceiling, living next to old movie posters and records. Only the kitchen utensils seem to be from this decade. The building itself is small but cozy in the chill of winter; for summer, the outside patio is an option. Like an antiques shop, everything has an aged feel, from the posters to the tabletop silverware holders. One could call it grubby, but sterile-cleanliness would make the place seem inauthentic. Rock-Cola is best known for its Choc-Ola®, something that owners Greg Codozor and Dan Iaria bought the trademark for in 2010, nine months after it expired. From 2000 to 2009, Choc-Ola® was extinct, but its sales have been booming in the last few years. Similar to Yoo-Hoo, it’s a thin, chocolate-flavored drink that’s sweet and goes well with hot french fries. They also serve burgers, hot dogs, about twenty different sandwiches and breakfast. Everything about Rock-Cola is honest GREG CODOZOR, and unpretentious. As Codozor puts CO-OWNER of it, Rock-Cola is “a cool Rock-Cola Cafe, little ‘50s diner on serves one of the the East Side.” restaurant’s famous tenderloins. He and Dan Iaria did not name Rock-Cola after their signature, Choc-Ola, but the similarity is a happy accident.
Warren Central
January 30, 2015
Steer-In
Tie Dye Grill by taylormeyers editor-in-chief
by sierrahawthornestaffwriter Steer In is a family-owned restaurant that was originally a frozen custard business in 1935 called North and South Poles. After being owned by three others, in November of 2007 the Kehrer family purchased the restaurant and changed the name to Historic Steer In. Imagine a ‘60s style where nothing has been changed since the restaurant opened in 1964. Paneled walls covered with countless awards, jerseys and customized Steer In graphic t-shirts. Natural lighting, vintage fiberglass chairs, and round plywood tables. Customers get to choose where they would like to sit and handed their menus by their waitress. The waitress’s apparel isn’t the usual dress shirt and slacks. They wear customized Steer In graphic t-shirts and jeans. “It’s pretty laid back,” Steer In waitress Ariell said. Ariell has been a waitress at Historic Steer In for five months. Steer In is well known for their home-style cooking and beef and noodles dish. The restaurant was awarded #1 for best tenderloin, best breakfast and brunch in 2014 by Nuvo. They were also awarded #2 in 2014 for best burgers and cheap eats. They were mentioned in Indianapolis Monthly’s top 25 burgers article in 2009 for their Twin Steer double cheeseburger. Author, game host and restaurateur Guy Fieri took a visit to Steer In on an episode of “Diners Drive-Ins and Dives.” Guy is known for his television series on Food Network and his cooking show, “Guy’s Big Bite.” On the show, Guy travels to different restaurants around the country to taste their food. He tried many of the Steer In meals, including beef and noodles, their famous tenderloin and family recipe lasagna. All the meals Guy tried at Steer In are specially marked on the menus with his picture. With contributions by Khalia King
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Tie Dye is everywhere. Swirls of colors cover the table cloths, circular tie dye patterns line the walls and smiling tie dye flowers are placed on every table. The Tie Dye Grill takes customers into an atmosphere that could transform anyone into a hippie. Known for their outstanding tenderloins, Tie Dye opened in 2006. Owners Shayne and Jan Dye, have had chef experience for 25 years. Their wacky menu is full of odd names for normal foods, such as the “Fleetwood Mac,” which is really just a special cheese burger, “Trippy Taco Salad” which is a Tie Dye twist to taco salad and the “Joplin’s Chick,” a crispy chicken sandwich with tomatoes, lettuce, onions and mayonnaise. The french fries have special seasonings on them, a concoction that changes regularly and all sauces are made there by hand by Jan and have a tendency to change recipes. For dessert, Tie Dye makes their own “Nifty Brownies,” a combination of brownie, marshmallow and Rice Krispies and tie dye food coloring. It makes for a groovy end to a uber meal. Tie Dye has been featured in many newspapers in Indiana, the clippings of the papers line the walls of the restaurant. “They have done so much for us throughout the years,” Principal Rich Shepler said. Warren paraphernalia hangs on a wall from Tie Dye sponsoring for Warren. The Tie Dye, while wacky, has had an impact on many customers that enjoy their original meals.
With contributions by Haley Love
THE TIE DYE GRILL serves a heavenly Hendrick’s Chick sandwich. The restaraunt, established over 25 years ago, has been recognized by RTV6 for their tenderloins.
Photos by Haley Love
Look on www.wcowlnews.com for food reviews of East Side to-die-for’s.