Trojan Matters Nov. 13, 2015 Vol. 2 | Issue 3
art music math writing science physical logic language spatial
Respecting all types of smart More online at the-blueprint.org
The mass shooting dilemma examined
What makes the perfect teacher
Take a look at the real cost of college
TM Friday, Nov. 13, 2015 On the cover. . .
The cover illustrates the artistic skill of Carmen Bowers, junior. She has taken four art classes and is currently enrolled in painting.
In this issue...
Trojans Matter. . . In our continuing prayers:
- For all those in the BCHS community and their families who are suffering from illness. We especially lift up in prayer adults in the building, Mrs. Paula McConnell, foods and consumer science teacher; Mrs. Vicki Traub, resource center; Mrs. Barb Gaffney, main office; Mr. Tom Mahaney, grounds superintendent. - For all students and faculty who have lost a loved one. - For all seniors returning from retreat today.
Congratulations:
-To the school for a successful open house. -To the theater department for Snow White. -To the students for winning the WTHR Operation Football Spirit Award. -To all award winners from fall sports.
Cost of College p. 2
Mass Shootings p. 4
Art Smart p. 6
Driver’s License p. 8
Teacher Recipe p. 12
A Day in the Life p. 13
Do you have something to say to the Trojan Matters staff? Send your letter to the editor at the school website, www. bishopchatard.org under Popular Links. Comments and letters can also be sent to blueprintBCHS@gmail.com.
Trojan Matters staff Editor: Anna Giudice News Editor: Jacob DeCastro Opinions Editor: Emma Kinghorn Sports Editor: Cecelia Stonner Features Editors: Sian Rhodes, Victoria Toetz Photographers: Reporters: Kylie Donaldson Marissa Almack Ellen Giudice Mary Barnes Kelly Marsella Bill Nash Abby Park Kelly O’Brien Emily Smith Christine Stephenson Kaitlin Traub Publications adviser: Mrs. Tracy Luke
Trojan Matters Mission Statement: We promise to bring you, the students of BCHS, the most obtainable version of the truth through courage, integrity and freedom of speech. Unsigned staff editorials reflect the opinion of at least two-thirds of the staff. Columns with bylines reflect the opinions of the writer. The newspaper will try to publish all letters to the editor within the constraints of space limitations. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for the length and clarity.
Power of Pets p. 14
Extracurriculars p. 17
Dream Jobs p. 18
Olympic Sports p. 20
Trojan Matters is the monthly news magazine produced by the Advanced Publications class. In addition, daily news updates can be found online at theBluePrint.org Letters/Comments can be submitted in Room 210 or to the online news website at blueprintBCHS@gmail.com
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News
Trojan notes from 2014 canned food drive
The annual canned food drive is here. The goal is to
raise 35,000 cans this year. The donations assist St. Vincent de Paul, St. Augustine’s Home, Catholic Charities Crisis Office, Officer David S. Moore Pantry, Christ Storehouse Pantry and International Gateway Pantry.
Other than Ramen Noodles (which they have plenty of ), the pantries will take all canned goods, but are in particular need of canned fruits and veggies, peanut butter, jelly, pasta, pasta sauce, canned meat (tuna and chicken), cereal, beans, paper products, etc. Continue to bring in cans/boxed goods through Nov. 19, before school, in the main gym. Many teachers give extra points in their classes for students bringing in their cans.
Mon.
Tues.
Wed.
Thurs.
Student Focus Groups 10:55am Charity Jeans Day
Fri.
Sat.
Sports
We heard it!
You said it!
His man bun is back and ready to attack. “We play a team called TBA...” “You mean ‘to be announced’..?” You can see my eyelashes from Europe!
Last day to bring cans
Dad’s Day Breakfast
If no one raked leaves and they clogged the streets, do you think we’d get a Leaf Day off school? I wish I was a banana.
Quarter 2 Midterm
Canned Food Drive Mentor Meeting
Opinion
Speedway should have a drive-thru.
On the Calendar: Sun.
Feature
The Butterball hotline is open in November and December. Cathedral Soup Kitchen
I love Mondays!
Mass Day Thanksgiving Break
Thanksgiving Break
Thanksgiving Break
This song makes me feel claustrophobic. “Do you think birds can open doors?” “Well, if they could, I don’t think they would run into so many windows.”
sic s u M tter Ma
“What are chicken nuggets made out of?” “Cow.” Have you heard a song more people should know about? Go online to the school’s website, www.bishopchatard.org, and click on the “Students” link and then on “To the Editor” to submit the song title and artist. We’ll run a Music Matters Mixtape each issue of Trojan Matters.
My pumpkin has a better body than me. To make whipped cream, is all you do is whip whipping cream? He can only come to friendsgiving if he wears an apron. That sounds like avocado dubstep.
1. Ref - Pentatonix 2. I See Fire - Ed Sheeran 3. I Believe - Christina Perri 4. One Call Away- Charlie Puth 5. Just Imagine It- MKTO 6. Hopeless Wanderer- Mumford and Sons
7. Comeback Kid (That’s My Dog) Brett Dennen 8. Something Better - Audien feat. Lady Antebellum 9. Something in the Way You Move Ellie Goulding 10. Somewhere Only We Know Keane
What if Monica Peck ran for Have you heard it? Bring the funny lines to president? Room 210. Or, you can submit them online
the-BluePrint.org in the Letter to the at Iat can make a living singing Editor section. weddings. I’m that good.
Trojan Matters 1
TM Friday, Nov. 13, 2015
College costs prove ch T
uition, room and board, books, clothes and transportation. The cost of college can quickly add up for students and their families. As seniors begin to narrow down their options and juniors begin to look at what schools they are interested in, the big question, especially for parents, is the cost of the school. While many public universities have a cheaper sticker price, private school can be just as affordable with scholarships, grants and loans. According to College Board, tuition is the price that colleges charge for classes. The cost of the school depends greatly on the type of school. Public four-year colleges cost an average of $9,139 for in-state students and $22,958 for out-of-state stu-
dents while private four-year colleges cost $31,231. Mrs. Pam Nixon, college advisor, said, “Tuition is going towards smaller classes, better teachers and facilities. Schools are competing against each other for students and are investing in these things to draw students in.” While the sticker price of a college might seem high, the amount that students are paying is generally lower because of scholarships, loans and grants. About two-thirds of students use financial aid to help pay for college according to College Board. Financial aid is money given to a student to help pay for the cost of college. It is given in many different forms and people are given aid based on many different factors. Some
financial aid is “need-based” - the student receives money based on family income and the need for money to pay for school. Other financial aid is athletic scholarships or academic scholarships. Some popular scholarships include Bill Gates Millennium Scholarship, Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, Rhodes Scholarship and McDonalds Scholarship. “Scholarship money is mostly awarded on GPA, test scores and how hard your classes are. Students can raise test scores, GPAs and take harder classes now to help pay for college later,” said Mrs. Nixon. In an interview with College Board, Ms. Mary Nucciarone, Associate Director of Financial Aid at the University of Notre Dame, said, “You’re going to see that sticker
Financial breakdown of popular Midwest schools Purdue
Marian
DePauw
Dayton
37,010
30,500
44,679
39,090
9,436
Ball State Butler
10,002
10,388
10,030
9,795
9,953
12,055
1,220
1,500
1,320
1,000
9.70
9.17
7.61
2,106
1,860
210
2
IU
9,498
Travel cost calculated on cost of gas from Chatard to the college campus
11,700
12,190
1,220
1,000
1,000
0.49
0.98
8.43
11.22
1,650
3,199
1,000
750
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hallenging price of maybe a $30,000 school. What you might find out though with financial aid scholarships and work and loan opportunities is that you won’t pay that sticker price.” Senior Camron Brown is going to attend the University of Kentucky next fall. Brown has spoken with admission and financial aid representatives at UK regarding the price of the school. “I have filled out about 20 scholarships [not specific to a school] and the diversity scholarship through UK. I don’t want to borrow a lot because I don’t want to owe a lot of money after college” said Brown. Brown is applying for scholarships and grants, which are considered gift aid and do not have to be repaid. According to Myra Smith, Executive Director of Financial Aid Services at College Board, scholarships and grants sometimes have academic criteria such as minimum course load and GPA that have to be met for the student to continue receiving the scholarship or grant. Another way students can help pay for college is through loans. Most student loans are backed by the government and are low interest. “If you need the extra money, a student loan is much better than putting something on your credit card,” said Ms. Smith. Just like here, many schools offer workstudy programs. This allows the student to work on campus and receive money while going to school. Grace Gore, senior, wants to go to Valparaiso University next year. She received a scholarship with her admissions, but is working to raise the scholarship amount. “I retook the ACT to get my score higher so that I could earn more money because even with a scholarship for half of tuition, the cost is still really high.” University of Chicago is senior Alice Joson’s first choice; she has been applying for
scholarships including the Gates Millennium scholarship, a scholarship for minority students. Joson said, “Cost will play a big part in where I go, but if it is the best school for me, then I’m going to try really hard to make it work.” Ms. Nucciarone said, “A majority of stu-
dents don’t pay the actual sticker price; they pay something reduced. So maybe what you find out is what looks like your most expensive option — because of financial aid — will be equal to or less than what looked like your least expensive option.” TM Victoria Toetz
Main costs of college
Tuition: Public universities cost an average of $9,139 for in-state students and $22,958 for out-of-state students while private universities’ tuition is $31,231.
Transportation: On-campus transportation costs an average of $2,096 at public schools and $1,607 at private schools.
Room and Board: Public universities cost an average of $9,804 for room and board while private universities average $11,188.
Books and Supplies: At public universities books and supplies cost $1,225 while at private schools they cost an average of $1,244.
Trojan Matters 3
TM Friday, Nov. 13, 2015
ing office in 2009, President Barack Obama has stood in front of the country and expressed great sadness and horror at public, tragic and violent massacres. The FBI defines a mass killing as one that claims the lives of four
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The United States has
said Steve Rayl, senior. According to CNN, Vester Lee Flanagan II, who publicly shot two Virginian journalists and their guest on live TV, placed a deposit on his gun two days after watching coverage of the June church shooting in
1990
1984
recorded mass killings in the United States, as reported by USA TODAY. According to Time magazine, since 1960, the rate of these killings has increased by 10,000 percent. Why are these numbers piling up? What is causing this rapid increase in mass killings, resulting in the deaths of 934 Americans in the last seven years alone?
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Charleston, South Carolina. Flanagan had also spoken of his admiration for infamous mass shooters, including those responsible for the killings at Columbine High School and Virginia Tech University. Guns, like the one Flanagan purchased, are more accessible in the United States, with an estimated 310
million firearms, and
“Most people can get a permit just walking into a store, check ID, check permanent record and they can have gun within a week,” explained Mr. Greg Miller, history teacher. The United States’ gun laws and restrictions are often criticized following these killings, with opponents saying it’s too easy to purchase guns. This gun access leads to American mass murderers having more than one gun, whereas globally,
of the world’s public mass shootings,
318.9 million people, there is almost one gun for every American, according to CNN. This correlation makes the copycat phenomenon even more dangerous.
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or more
victims. Since 2006, there have been over
Once one mass killing occurs, another is statistically more likely to occur within the next 13 days. This copycat phenomenon contributes to a seemingly sporadic series of mass or public shootings. “There’s so much publicity about them that it puts ideas in people’s heads that they can do it themselves,”
shooters typically only possess one firearm. Rayl doesn’t think that gun restrictions will help because, “What is it that criminals do? They break the law. Making drugs illegal doesn’t stop people from getting their hands on them, just like laws against purchasing guns wouldn’t stop people from getting them somehow.” Sammi Blanford, sopho-
2000
Fifteen times since tak-
Information for timeline taken from LA Ti
but only. . .
imes
of the world’s population treatment, leading people to disregard these very real illnesses and not get the help that they need,” he said. “The stuff builds up in these people, and it just explodes. If mental health was more of a priority there would be resources to give these people more of a chance to deal with their stuff before it
2010
2005
“The gun doesn’t kill anyone. people kill (people),” he said, “We just need better background checks and to make a bigger effort to cut down on black market sales.” Former New York City governor Michael Bloomberg agreed with this in an interview on Meet the Press. Bloomberg has been publicly endorsing a bill that would prevent convicted stalkers and spousal abusers from buying guns, as well as making mental health records
available during background checks. He said, “It is about just making sure the three groups that 80 or 90 percent of the public thinks should not have guns don’t get them.” Nearly 60 percent of mass public killers within the last century have suffered from some form of mental illness. This statistic has called many like Rayl to question the mental health system, “Mental health isn’t seen as a big enough issue as it should be in this country, and not enough money goes into mental health awareness and
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festers and becomes a problem,” said Mr. Joe Milharcic, government teacher. Pennsylvania representative and practicing psychologist Tim Murphy agrees that mental health should be a focus. “If guns caused mental illness, then we would treat that; mental illness needs to be treated, and it is not,” he said in an interview with The Washington Post. While in office, Murphy has begun investigations to find out how mental health can play into this kind of public violence, and how laws can be changed to help those at risk to lash out. However, some experts disagree. “Mass murderers won’t take you up on treatment,” said Mr. James Fox, a criminologist at Northeastern University in an interview with USA TODAY. “They tend to externalize and blame others for their problems,” explained Mr. Fox, “The kind of crime which moti-
Opinion
Sports
the world, they most often occur around military buildings or fields. While these international shootings average 8.8 victims killed per incident, according to CNN, American shootings average 6.87 victims killed. This statistic is often accredited to United States’ well trained police force. Since the 1999 Columbine High School shooting, police departments have undergone different kinds of training to prepare for mass murders. “The old system used to be to show up, secure the scene, wait for the SWAT team to show up,” said Indiana State Police Sgt. Trent Smith to ABC. New protocols call for faster movement to minimize loss of life or killing rampages. Our nation has become numb to these tragedies that it has become routine: every few months there’s a new strategy or trial. “It’s a hard situation, between trying to not glorify the shooter, but pay proper respect to the victims,” said Rayl. TM Emma Kinghorn
vates you to take action is often the kind of crime least impacted by the things we want to do (to help those with mental illness).” America’s mass murders vary from the global standard. They most often take place in schools or work, but around
2014
more, believes that there should be tighter restrictions. “People are using them in the wrong ways. Sellers expect they’ll be used for hunting or things like that; they’re not intended to be used for murder,” she said. Mr. Miller thinks that education is the key part. “People should have to learn both how to use a gun and what it is to be used for,” he said. Luca Ruby, senior, disagrees. Ruby owns five guns under his own name, but his household owns over a 100.
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2015
Cover
This blue dot represents the deadliest mass shooting in United States history, the Virginia Tech tragedy of April 16, 2007. Seung-Cho, a 23 year old student, opened fire on two separate locations,taking the
lives of five teachers and 27 students. 11 others were wounded by gun shot, and 6 injured by trying to escape via windows.
Trojan Matters 5
TM Friday, Nov. 13, 2015
Art classes help students express themselves
A
world without art is a world without creation from architects, sculptors and designers. A world of only equations would have no differences and uniqueness in society. Everything would be boiled down to the same answer. Art adds to those equations to fill lives with color and design. Mrs. Elaine Carson, fine arts teacher agreed and said, “Without art nothing would have been designed or created. Everything would be bland.” Science explains that the rightbrain and the left-brain affect each person’s personality, thought processes and behaviors. People who are predominantly right-brained are more likely to be creative and excel in some form of the arts. In comparison, those who have stronger left-brained tendencies are more analytical and math proficient. The two sides are different ways of thinking, but they still work together even when people naturally favor one side over the other. In schools, math and other common core classes take students’ priority for time and investment, but art and music are just as important, although in different ways. Mrs. Carson said, “Without art and music we would have a robotic world. We would all be robots.” There are many students who excel more in art classes 6 rather than math and sci-
ence classes. This can be accredited to the appropriate part of the brain they naturally use more, but they also might just understand more how art works and how to create things instead of evaluating a difficult equation. Mallory Grant, junior, agrees that art is easier for her than math. She said, “It comes easier to me, and I can use my creativity better than my brain (for math).” There are a lot of people who
believe that art and music programs help give a student a well-rounded education. Mr. Aryn Stack, math teacher, said “Art and music develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, but also appeal to the social and neural development that math/science probably don't do on the same scale.” In other words, art is as essential to education as math and science are.
Art allows students to express themselves without words, which can be a good outlet. Regon Brenner, junior, said, “I think art and music help with learning about new ideas and creativity and help someone express themselves in a tangible way.” According to Brenner, art doesn’t have specific rights and wrongs like math, so it is a good class to relax and create something that can't be graded for correctness. Students who are better at art than math are sometimes seen to be less intelligent compared to someone who excels in math and other classes. Lauren Whitlock, senior, said, “I think math is considered a smarter subject because it's easier to quantify: you either got the answer or you didn't. Art is a lot more subjective, and therefore considered lesser. Schools are based on grades, not skills.” Also, students who are better at math and sciences can sometimes see art classes as difficult. Thomas Hirschfeld, junior said, “I can do a math problem, but when I tried to use clay, it exploded in the kiln.” Someone who is art smart is just as smart as someone who is math smart. They
Artwork on top left by Thomas Winterheimer, junior; top right: Cat Brown, junior, works during her painting class. photo by K. Marsella.
Winterheimer drew this portrait as a gift to Eric in Madagascar as part of a project. photo by K. Marsella.
could become the ones who create advertisements and illustrations that can get a mathematician's findings out to the public in an appealing way. Whitlock agreed that without people who were more art smart, “Everyone would be homeless, as there would be no architects to design houses. There would be no entertainment with no artists, actors, musicians or athletes. There wouldn't be advertisements lining roads without graphic designers, or any kind of Internet without its programmers.” TM Kelly O’Brien
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Parking lot traffic presents problems for students, administrators
Hundreds of cars enter and leave BCHS each day, causing traffic a n d safety issues, as well as parking problems. According to Mr. Ben Reilly, vice president of student services, speeding and running stop signs have resulted in complaints from residents of the surrounding neighborhood. He said, “There are people running or older people may be walking, and it’s important that they are safe.” As a result of this, Mr. Reilly warned of an increased number of police patrols during the day, “We are giving everyone a heads-up and trying to be transparent about what’s coming.” However, he added that if a license plate is reported to the school, there will be consequences such as loss of parking privileges. Within the BCHS campus, the parking lot can be crazy. “Teenagers aren’t usually
the best drivers,” said Sam Kennedy, senior, “And there are hundreds of them in one place.” Even though the traffic from students,
makers moved back the minimum driver’s license age from 16 and six months to 16 and three months. Nicholas Montgomery, junior, said, “It’s awful because I feel like
320: The number of parking spaces in the main lot.
“It’s awful because I feel like I’m rushed in the morning to get a better spot.” - Nicholas Montgomery, junior
62: The number of cars, on an average day, in the gravel lot. photo by K.Marsella
teachers and parents may be a lot, accidents are few. Mr. Reilly said, “We might see three or four small bumps in the parking lot each year.” In addition to safety around the neighborhood and campus, limited parking is also concerning to students who park in the gravel lot, especially since Indiana law-
Kessler Blvd.
Crittenden Ave.
. ne Ave Keysto
Speed limits around BCHS
I’m rushed in the morning to get a better spot.” Despite concerns from students, the administration has no plans to limit the number of gravel lot passes. Mr. Reilly added, “After the snow melts, we’ll consider what we are going to do.” TM Jacob DeCastro
58th St. Gravel lot parking data collected from the week of Nov. 2, 2015.
Trojan Matters 7
TM Friday, Nov. 13, 2015 Sophomore details road to license Due to the change in the Indiana license law, sophomores are getting What were you thinking?? excited to drive on their own sooner than they expected. State law doesn’t allow showing One such sophomore, Sam Klineman gives a day-by-day journal of teeth, so Trojans describe their entry leading up to getting his license.
photo experience.
Sam Klineman
Saturday 10/10- Drove all around today
with my Dad-trying to fit in those last few hours of practice before I get my license in just 14 days! Sunday 10/11- Drove some more todayhad to ask a few people for rides home from school this week, as usual- 13 more days Monday 10/12- My carpool to school arrived just as I was about to eat breakfastwon’t have to deal with this when I am licensed-12 days to go. Tuesday 10/13- Just remembered that I’ve already taken and passed my driving test! All that stands between me and my license is just 11 days and a trip to the BMV! Wednesday 10/14- Had to squeeze tightly in the back seat of the carpool van on the way to school today- really looking forward to the spacious driver’s seat in 10 days! Thursday 10/15 Had to look for a ride home from school tomorrow- still haven’t gotten a confirmed “yes”- nine days left in the countdown Friday 10/16- Had to wait 20 minutes after school for my dad to pick me up- I almost forgot to tell my originally-planned ride home that I no longer needed a ridefortunately, this carpool confusion will end
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SOUND OFF...
what mythological creature would you own? 8
in eight days.
“ I couldn’t decide if I should smile or mean mug it, but then I ended up with a creepy smile.” -Bailey , senior
Saturday 10/17- Today marks exactly one week left
Sunday 10/18- Drove approximately two minutes today- hopefully I’ll remember to record that on my driving log which is a lot harder to remember to do than it probably should be....- six days! Monday 10/19- This week will be the longest of my life- five days! Tuesday 10/20- I leave my carpool once and for all tomorrow- four days! Wednesday 10/21- Last day in my school carpool!- I bet they’re all devastated I’m leaving them- three days to go Thursday 10/22- Drove to and from my tennis class today- I think I’m ready to drive on my own here in just two days! Friday 10/23- One more day!- Just realized I’m going with my family to Ft. Wayne tomorrow and I might not even get a chance to drive anywhere, completely defeating the purpose of getting my license...- I guess I’ll find out tomorrow Saturday 10/24- Today was the big day! After I got my license from the BMV, I took the stereotypical drive to the grocery store. It felt pretty weird without anyone in the car with me, but I’m free from here on out!
“I would want a dragon because they can breathe fire and are cool looking.” -Charlie Steadham, freshman
“My first thought was alright serious face. Turns out that looked like a mugshot.” -Erin Chapman, senior
“I was thinking about how I had to go to morning lacrosse practice. I wasn’t very happy.” -Drake Bernauer, junior
“ I was thinking something along the lines of I really hope this doesn’t look like a mugshot.” -Luke Mark, junior
Iwould want a hippogriff. I love Harry Potter!” -Beth Myers, sophomore
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Trojan Matters Staff Opinion
“I would own a cyclops because they have one eye that makes them pretty cool.”- Brian Doyle, senior
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As the end of the semester approaches and students start buckling down for finals, everyone knows what is coming next: teacher surveys. Administration asks each teacher to send out the basic survey that every student rates every teacher in the semester. But in reality, how much do these surveys really benefit us? With basic questions based around how much a teacher uses Canvas or the iPads during class, the surveys seem to have less impact than intended. If we had survey questions that really allowed us to respectfully express our feelings and concerns about a teacher and their class, both positive and negative, it would be more beneficial to everyone. Students see minimal benefit responding about how much a teacher utilizes the iPad. As a 1:1 school, using iPads for most classes is implied. The solution? We need to either make better questions or take out the surveys altogether. But rather than doing away with surveys altogether, just include better questions to really gauge a teacher’s abilities in a classroom and allow us to give our teachers an idea of what we are struggling with or what needs to be changed. For example, rather than asking us to rate the amount a teacher uses Canvas in their classroom, maybe ask if the teacher needs to change or add anything to their canvas page to benefit us more. Another question that could be added into the survey could have something to do with the teacher’s teaching style- whether or not we understand how they teach or conduct a classroom and if there is anything the teacher could do to help us understand the class content better. We applaud the teachers who add extra questions to the standard survey. Those questions provide more input and add more value to the teacher. Just because the teachers send us surveys, it doesn’t mean they are helpful to anyone. In fact, everyone dreads answering them and the teachers definitely don’t like taking time out of their classes to have us respond to the same questions. We do find value in the surveys for teachers to get feedback from their students, but the questions could be changed to be of bigger benefit to everyone. TM Sian Rhodes
“I really want a unicorn because they are majestic creatures that I could ride everywhere.” -Grace Lundy, junior
reported by and photo illustrations by K. Donaldson
Trojan Matters 9
TM
Friday, Nov. 13, 2015
Trojan Matters Staff Opinion
Family is important in life of a teenager Family. This word gets thrown around a lot to describe our friend groups, our teams, our clubs and the BCHS community. What defines a family? Is it our parents and siblings? But what about our parents, our siblings, our aunts and uncles? Or our grandparents and our cousins? For some students, family time is easy. They are at school with their siblings and their cousins everyday. They see their grandparents and their aunts and uncles regularly. Others aren’t as fortunate; they see their extended family once or twice a year. Time with our families looks different for everyone and involves different things. For some, it is playing sports in the backyard. For others, it is watching movies inside and just sitting around, catching up on their lives. No matter how our families spend time together, there are always relationships being built and love being shared. As the holidays approach and school gets a little more stressful and crazy, it is easy for high school students to get caught up in everything that we need to do. We are expected to perform well in school, have a job and be good athletes, thespians, artists and friends. On top of the three tests we have tomorrow, the paper that is due the next day and the
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book report we haven’t started due next week, we also have practices and extracurriculars. School is hectic and as the semester nears the end our responsibility and commitments will only increase. Students are pulled in a million different directions and sometimes the easy thing to put on the back burner is time with our family because they have always been there and understood our chaotic lives, so they will this time. Right? As much as our families tell us they understand, we are still giving up precious time with them every time we chose to go to a movie with friends, take an extra shift at work or finish our project instead of spending it with them. Time that we can never get back. Time that means so much to our grandparents. Time to build relationships with the people in your life that will always be there for us no matter our GPA or SAT score. Time spent with the people who love and care for you no matter what happened in the last basketball game or on the last test. Yes, our families understand that we have a lot to do and a lot of commitments. But maybe this holiday season we can invest just a little more time in the people that care the most about us and the people who want to get to know us
What does family mean to you? Senior Alex Barnes, who is in class with her mom Mrs. Lisa Barnes, English teacher, said, “Family is very important to me because I’ve grown up with a big extended family and my parent have taught me that family is one of the most important things in my life.” Junior Frankie Kontor with her mom Mrs. Robin Kontor, ASL teacher, said, “Family means always having someone there and loving each other no matter what.” Mrs. Kontor said, “(Family to me) is everything. It’s my whole world.” photo by A. Park
Senior Sam Luke, with his mom Mrs. Tracy Luke, journalism adviser, said, “Family means a lot to me because they support me in all that I do and like to see me succeed.”
and build relationships with us. So, next week, maybe skip the party on Friday night and spend it playing board games with your cousins. Put the phone down and be “all-in” the conversation around the dinner table with your aunts and
uncles. Forget about the test on Monday while you really listen to your grandma’s stories while you are with her. Studying can wait until later. Time with our family is something that we can never get back and it is precious.
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Unique Thanksgiving traditions bring diversity to family celebrations
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hanksgiving is a holiday filled with food and time with family. For some, the traditions have been continued for generations while others are in the process of starting their own. “They (Thanksgiving traditions) keep the history in a family going,” said Kaylor Seymour, sophomore. Many students agree that these traditions are a big part of major holidays and families in general. However, some traditions appear to be more popular than others. Participating in the annual Drumstick Dash in Indianapolis is a popular event for families, and according to drumstickdash. org, people came from 42 states and four countries for the 5K. Football games are also a big part of Thanksgiving, whether a family is playing their own game or tuning in one of the three NFL football games throughout the day (Philadelphia Eagles vs Detroit Lions at 12:30 p.m. on Fox, Carolina Panthers vs. Dallas Cowboys at 4:30 p.m. on CBS and Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers at 8:30 p.m. on NBC according to nfl.com). Other popular TV specials include the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade beginning at 9:00 a.m. on NBC and the Kennel Club Dog Show immediately after that at 12:30 p.m. However, there are also many traditions that are unique to a family and have been for many generations. Junior Owen Boggs and freshman Amanda Boggs go to Louisville, Kentucky to visit their grandparents every other year. During their visit, they go to Churchill Downs to watch and bet on horse races. “It started when I was 9-years-old,” said Owen. The horse track is close to their mom’s and their grandparents’ hearts and has become a big part of their Thanksgiving tradition. “I love doing this because it isn’t the average Thanksgiving,” said Amanda. She also pointed out that she enjoyed the all-you-can-
eat buffet provided at the event. It gives the family something to do in addition to the typical Thanksgiving day contents. Thanksgiving may take the Boggs family to Kentucky, but others find unique traditions here in the state of Indiana. Beginning Thanksgiving morning, the Kinghorn family tradition consists of breakfast and a hike at Fort Ben State Park. They’ve been doing this since the 1940s, and after everyone has eaten, the boys throw football and the girls organize Black Friday advertisements. Then the entire family goes on a hike. Emma Kinghorn, senior, said that no matter the weather, the family always makes sure to meet at the park, even in eight inches of snow one year. She said, “It was dreadful, but we all suffered together which made it more fun.” Kinghorn recognizes the importance of these unique traditions and cannot see Thanksgiving the same way without them. She said, “Traditions are very important to me because my family is so busy and widespread that we don’t have a lot of things to depend on to bring us together.” Other traditions have no relevance to location. As of eight years ago, the Seymour family presents a talent show every Thanksgiving. The talents include freshmen Reid and Ryan Seymour’s stand-up comedy act or Kaylor’s duet with her grandpa. “I like this tradition because it is very humorous and allows everyone to see something they might not otherwise get to see,” said Kaylor. Whatever motive is behind the talent, the family is always sure to enjoy and support each and every one. This tradition has proven to be something the Seymour family looks forward to every year aside from the basic Thanksgiving traditions. Regardless of whether the traditions are unique or popular, old or new, one thing is certain; when families come together, lasting memories are made. TM Anna Giudice
Thanksgiving Day by the numbers... 4,500 calories
will be consumed by a person during a Thanksgiving meal.
46. 3 million
people will travel for the holiday.
50 million people will watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
92.1 million
people shopped on Black Friday in 2013.
46 million turkeys will be prepared for the Thanksgiving feast.
Trojan Matters 11 according to cnn.com
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Friday, Nov. 13, 2015
Students create a teacher recipe
Teaching is an occupation that requires one person to tailor his or her methods to more than 20 students in a classroom, each with their own strengths, weaknesses and learning styles. However, even with the diversity in a classroom, when students were asked what a good teacher looks like, their answers were strikingly similar. TM
“Don’t always teach with lectures and have a variety in their methods.” -Brooklyn Reitz, freshman “Write notes on the board and give me a visual of the material.” -Maricarmen Rangel, senior
“Make the class interesting for the students.” -Jackson Sherbee, freshman
I like it when my teachers...
“Smiling and greeting me in the hallways.” -Rangel “Smiling and funny.” -Reitz
“Easygoing and not too stern.” -Jake Christmann, junior
Teaching methods
Anna Giudice
“Happy.” -Sherbee
I like it when my teachers are...
Personality Effect on students “I am more comfortable asking questions.” -Rangel
When I have a good teacher...
“I am excited and enjoy going to class.” -Christmann
“I am more motivated and want to work hard for their class.” -Reitz “I want to learn more and am eager to try harder.” -Danielle Nondorf, junior
Qualities of a favorite teacher: they;
“I want to go to class and learn something.” -Sherbee
“are really good at explaining things, especially when someone doesn’t understand it the first time.” -Nondorf “have a variety of ways that (they) teach the lessons.” -Reitz “care about me as a person and take extra time out of (their) day to help me.” -Rangel “are able to communicate with me and are easy to understand.” -Christmann
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A Day in the Life of Mr. Kyle Guyton Taking up the jobs of A/V coordinator, theatre arts instructor and theatre department director, Mr. Kyle Guyton (Class of ‘11) has made quite the impact in his first year back at BCHS. Coming off a successful production of Snow White, Mr. Guyton is passionate about the performing arts. TM Emma Kinghorn Q. Why do you love theatre?
A. I love how theatre connects people and how it is able to pull all types of different emotions out of people. I love what it does for the actor, and I love what it does for the audience member. It is a very interesting field to work in. It has a psychological approach to it most of the time.
Q. Is it hard to be involved in so much as an adult, how do you keep your energy up?
A. At times, yes. It all depends on how things are scheduled. There are rarely any breaks, but when they do come, they are pretty great and allow me to relax. I keep my energy up by balancing work photo and play. I make sure that I do something fun or something that doesn’t have to deal with any by L. Bardol type of work at least once a week.
Q. What other things are you committed to outside of the school?
A. I assist other high school theatre programs around the city, and I also teach music at Holy Angels Catholic School. I also freelance design for different productions.
Q. How has theatre impacted your life today?
A. I’ve talked with different people about understanding their calling and trying to figure out what it is that a person may be called to do. My call to do theatre or be involved in theatre was confirmed on my senior retreat. I’m not going to go into detail about the occurrence, however, an individual was going through a life or death situation and battling some difficulties at home. The thing that made him reconsider some things and his purpose was when I welcomed him into the theatre family.
Q. Has working with teenagers been different for you? If so, how?
photo
by E. Smith
A. Not really. I directed the first all African-American cast production at Indiana State last year. Most of the cast was compiled of non-theatre majors. Working with teenagers is pretty close to working with non-theatre majors; meaning that there is still a lot of education and training that needs to happen. Pretty time consuming. It’s all fun, though!
Q.What’s your favorite commitment or production you’re involved with currently, and why?
photo by E. Smith
A. Snow White here was one of my favorites because it was rewarding to hear all of the nice compliments on the use of technology, the set and acting that were all implemented in the show. It was also my directorial debut as a high school theatre director. My favorite BCHS show that I was a part of was probably Seussical the Musical (Spring 2011)... there was a lot of great chemistry with the cast and crew, and it is one of my favorite musicals.
Q. What is one thing that keeps you going?
A. People ask why I do theatre and I go in depth on why...sometimes. I’ll leave you with a quote, from myself that people tend to remember: “I believe in the power of the performing arts and the power it has to change people’s lives. It often acts as a service like medicine, it offers healing.” I’ve seen people’s lives change because of the content and experience they’ve had with a theatrical presentation. That is what keeps me going.
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TM Friday, Nov. 13, 2015
Power of pets:
It is proven fact that pets do bring joy to lives
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nconditional love, companionship, best friend, forgiving, comforting and happy were words used by some to describe their furry best friend. Pets play a role in many people’s lives to bring joy. It has been found that dogs’ wagging tails and purring cats can have a real effect on our physical and mental health. Cats and dogs not only offer endless amounts of joy in animal owners’ lives, but they also help their health. Pet owners are shown to be more physically fit, more conscientious, more extroverted, less fearful, less preoccupied and have an improved well being and experience less loneliness according to Winchester Hospital. Children with pets also learn to have higher self-esteem and self-confidence. Mrs. Kim Shaw, biology teacher, has experienced this with her cat, Raquel Kitty, “My husband travels a lot, and it’s nice having a cat at home for company,” said Mrs. Shaw, who has had Raquel Kitty for 18 years. Pets can also help with specific diseases
Cuddling with a furry friend can lead to lower heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases later in life. such as cardiovascular disease. Mrs. Shaw has experienced the calming effect of her cat. She said, “Cats are 14 able to lower blood pressure, and their
purring is said to calm you down.” Pet owners also can experience a boost in their mental health because pets can help reduce anxiety and depression, among other mental health diseases. Pets are commonly used in physical and mental therapy, known as pet therapy or animal-assisted therapy. Physical therapy patients and veterans, who experience post traumatic stress disorder, are common patients of pet therapy. Some universities offer students pet therapy to alleviate homesickness and help in treating depression. Lucie Marshall, junior, has experienced this stress relief from her beagle mix Minnie. “She relieves my stress and makes me and my family happy,” she said. Pets improve their owner’s mental health because they allow people to produce the hormone oxytocin. This hormone gives off a good feeling and also reduces the production of cortisol, a stress-inducing hormone, all of which can be done by petting or playing with a pet. “Just being around him and seeing him makes me less stressed because I forget about everything that is going on and focus on spending time with him,” Carmen Bowers, junior, said about her cat, Rascal. Adopting a pet is a great way to maintain good health. These effects truly prove that dogs and cats can be life saving best friends. “My favorite thing about having a pet is that they make me laugh, and when I am down, they cheer me up. They are so forgiving and will always love you unconditionally,” Bowers said. TM Marissa Almack
Minnie, right, Marshall’s beagle mix, loves to make Marshall and her family happy. photo courtesy of Marshall
Raquel Kitty, Mrs. Shaw’s cat, sits casually on Mrs. Shaw’s lap while watching TV. photo courtesy of Mrs. Shaw
“They are so forgiving and always love you unconditionally,” said Bowers, about her pet cat, Rascal. photo courtesy of Bowers
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People’s productivity are as different Some people actually enjoy waking up at the crack of dawn and starting their day off right by being productive. For those who can’t imagine that feeling, they need a heavy dose of caffeine just to wake themselves up and get through the day. Mr. Jeff Bach, science and math teacher said, “When I was in high school and college I stayed up late and slept in like it was my job. I think that your situation dictates whether you become a morning person or night person.” However, being a morning or night person doesn’t just depend on your ability to get up early or the fact that you’re really productive late at night: it goes deeper than that. According to livescience.com, about 25 percent of the population are morning people, 25 percent are night people and the remaining 50 percent of the population is somewhere in the middle. “The human clock is about 24 hours, thanks to Earth’s 24-hour light-dark cycle,” wrote Katherine Sharkey, Associate Director of the Sleep for Science Research Lab, in an article for WebMD. Each person has an internal 24 hour alarm clock, or circadian rhythm, that determines whether a person is an “early bird” or “night owl.” Early birds tend to have a shorter circadian rhythm, meaning that their bodies naturally wake up earlier than a night owl. This causes them to be able to function early in the morning. In comparison, night owls naturally have a longer circadian rhythm and can function easier at night because their bodies take longer to wake up. Rachael Ferguson, junior, is a night person. Her ability to be most productive at night
Students are often tired during class if they are not a morning person and often have trouble staying awake during class. photo by A. Park
“Early birds usually have a shorter circadian rhythm.”
“Night owls function better at night because their bodies take longer to wake up.”
has helped her stay on top of school work and studying, even at the late hours of the night. “I’m less awake in the morning and so that makes me less effective at school,” she said. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, both of these types of personalities have their pros and cons. For example, Sharkey also said, “Morning people generally sleep better, have more regular sleep patterns and have more flexible personalities.” “I’m more of a morning person, I get up early and while it usually takes me a while to be fully awake, I’m pretty chipper in the mornings,” said Regon Brenner, junior. She also went on to say that she finds it hard to stay up late at night, “I’m even one of the first to fall asleep at sleep overs.” Mr. Bach categorizes himself as a morning person as well. He wakes up around 3 a.m. during the week to accomplish as much as he can before school. “Being a morning person, I feel that I accomplish a lot before I even step inside the doors at BCHS. That makes the other tasks that need to be addressed feel less overwhelming.“ On a normal weekday, Mr. Bach goes to bed around 10:30 PM. While some people can function well at all times of the day, others struggle with functioning during the day or night. It not only goes back to a preferred time of the day, but the how bodies internally function. TM
Sian Rhodes
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TM Friday , Nov. 13, 2015
Laughter is the best medicine
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he cliché, “Laughter is the best medicine” may be true according to The Laughter Remedy. Dr. Paul McGhee, president of The Laughter Remedy, spent more than 20 years studying the effects and psychology of humor. His research shows that laughter is the key to de-stress and that most people forget humor in the midst of stress.
Perspective students and parents laugh at the Comedy Sportz open house demonstration. Photo by E. Giudice
mental and social being. It can relax your muscles, ease anxiety and stress as well as strengthen your relationships. Humor shifts perspective, allowing you to see the Members of Comedy Sportz play game, “Explain This”. photo courtesy of Citadel 2014-15
“Your sense of humor is one of the most powerful tools you have to make certain that your daily mood and emotional state support good health,” wrote Dr. McGhee. Many people use humor to lighten the mood or to start a conversation. Mr. Tyler Mayer, coach of the Comedy Sportz team, said, “Laughter lightens the mood. I think I am most funny when people are least expecting it. I think, in general, people are the most funny when they are confident. Truly, telling a joke is putting yourself out there because your audience can laugh or not and you have to know how to handle it.” Mrs. Renae Stoudt, AP Psychology teacher, agreed with Dr. McGhee and Mr. Mayer in that laughter lightens the mood and uplifts one’s spirits. “Happiness and humor have a positive correlation,” said Mrs. Stoudt. According to helpguide.org, a nonprofit guide for mental health and well-being, nothing works faster to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh. Laughter helps one’s physical,
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Benefits of Laughter Physical Health Benefits:
Boosts Immunity Lowers Stress Hormones Decreases Pain Relaxes Muscles Prevents Heart Disease
Mental Health Benefits: more realistic view which helps you feel less overwhelmed. “I think people use humor in order to connect with people. People seem more likable if they are capable of cracking a joke and not being serious all of the time, so people respond better to humor,” said Claire Rudolph, senior captain of the Comedy Sportz team. She also thinks that people like the idea of being funny because it’s a great feeling knowing you can make someone laugh and create a little bit of happiness for that person. So when people say that laughter is the best medicine, it’s not just a cliché, but a proven fact. TM Cecelia Stonner
Adds Joy and Zest to Life Eases Anxiety and Fear Relieves Stress Improves Mood Enchances Resilience
Social Benefits:
Strengthens Relationships Attracts Others to Us Enhances Teamwork Helps Defuse Conflict Promotes Group Bonding Source: helpguide.org
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Extracurriculars allow students to open up to new experiences
33: the number of clubs a student could join here. 691: the number of students here. 586 : the number of students involved in these clubs. This means
that 85 percent of Trojans are involved in an extracurricular activity (or sport). According to professionals from kidshealth.org, the most basic reason for joining a club is to give someone something better to do than just sitting around or napping all afternoon. It gives people a purpose, and because they are engaged, students are less likely to resort to bad habits such as drinking or smoking. Clubs also give kids the opportunity to get up, do something new and find their talents. Even if joining a club is just for something to do, many students have found that they end up finding a passion for the club they joined. Donna Riner, senior and student leader of art club, joined the club her freshman year and did not consider art one of her strong suits. However, she did find that leading was a talent she possessed. She said, “I’ve had to organize meetings, make signs and make cake balls. I found that I have a love for organization and leadership. As much as art excites me, I love putting together an activity and seeing other people enjoy it.” Getting out of her comfort zone and trying this new club helped Riner discover something new about herself and helped her create a more enjoyable high school experience. Being more involved in school clubs has helped many students not only find a sense of who they are but also help enhance their high school experience. Senior Emma McClung, member of Theology of the Body, is passionate about the ideas the organization expresses and since joining the club, she said, “It is fun and has helped me stick to my values throughout the peer pressures of high school.” She was able to keep her values while still creating a more positive environment around her.
Although it may be scary at first to join a club, they help provide a creative outlet for students. Mrs. Angela Peterson, acappella choir and piano teacher, has seen students step out of their comfort zones and develop great skills. She said, “I had a student in piano class who had never played before, but he caught on so quickly and loves it now.” She added, “I’d say, ‘Give new activities a try; you can discover a side of yourself you never knew existed.” Teachers notice when student are discovering their talents, and extracurriculars give students this opportunity. Just as Mrs. Peterson saw students break out of their shells and find friendships with those around them, students are becoming more comfortable in their own skin because of the commonalities they find in the people around them. Sophomore Katie Meek, first-year A Promise to Keep member, appreciates those who share similar values. She said, “This club has reassured me that people my age share similar values as me, and I shouldn’t be ashamed of what I believe.” Meek is already experiencing a sense of acceptance with the school and people around her. Students and teachers alike agree that joining an extracurricular helps broaden your interests and brings you closer to other students who share your ideas. Riner expressed her advice to students and said, “High school is about finding your interests, so join new clubs. No one is going to judge you for finding what makes you happy.” TM Mary Barnes
“High school is about finding your interests, so join new clubs. No one is going to judge you for finding what makes you happy,” -Donna Riner
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Trobotics club members Susie Liu and Juliette Wassal display their robots in competition at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Seniors, Kristina Chamberlain, Rosemary Skripsky, Caroline Confer and Sarah Wede present their Promise to Keep program to a grade school class. photo courtesy of Citadel 2014-15
Maddie Graff, senior, participates in an event with Best Buddies. photo courtesy of Citadel 2014-15
Trojan Matters 17
TM Friday, Nov. 13, 2015 STUDENTS REMINISCE
AND FOLLOW
DREAMS
CHILDHOOD
being a fireman when he was younger. whether she should continue or not, BarThink back to when you were five years Delaney vaguely recollected that his main dol eventually made the tough decision to old. What did you want to be when you quit ballet. “It was really sad quitting, but I influence was a television show that he was grew up? An astronaut? A secret agent? devoted to as a child in which firefighting knew I wasn’t going to be able to continue The next LeBron James? Chances are the was incorporated. “I was about four and in high school,” she said. dream job that you pictured as a child is it was the coolest thing ever,” Delaney However, if it were not not the same laughed. so time-consuming and one you picHowever, as Delaney matured and looked detrimental to her health, ture today. more into potential career options, he dancing would still be According turned away from the idea of being a firesomething that Bardol to NYMag, fighter. “I’m decently practical, and I knew would like to pursue. only six I’d need a job to make money,” he said, Speaking on behalf of percent of “It’s just (more) realistic.” After crossing those who want to follow adults report fireman off the list, Delaney considered a their dreams, Bardol said, having the “I would still try to pursue career as an astronaut due to his love of job they space, but that was eventually crossed off that dream even though it dreamed of the list as doesn’t as children. well. Now, pay a Lily Bardol, Bardol posing with her fellow dancers when she was 8 years old. photo courtesy of Bardol Delaney is lot and senior, is unsure of his I could get hurt and among the majority that is pursuing other future career be out forever.” In a dreams. Between the ages of five and 14, path, but he society that idealizes a Bardol danced pre-professionally at the is passionate The Joffrey Ballet in Chicago and dreamed well-paying and stable about cars. job, Bardol believes that of being a ballerina in the New York City Delaney said following your dreams Ballet. “I went to see the New York City he wishes to is more important. “It’s Ballet when I was about eight years old,” do someshe reminisced, “I was completely mesmer- better to take a risk for thing in the ized.” Looking up to the NYC dancers and something you love Delaney showing his passion for cars when he was 10 years old. photo courtesy of Delaney field of merather than settling for her own dance instructors as role models, chanical engineering, but isn’t exactly sure something you aren’t thrilled doing,” she Bardol was inspired to push herself and said. Currently, Bardol is planning on ma- what. “My dream job would be a mechanic work toward her goal. joring in International Business, hoping to that makes bank,” he said. But as time went on, Bardol became worn Many children wanted to be pro athletes live her dreams of being an entrepreneur out. A constantly time-consuming task, as adults; in a survey according to The Bardol said, “I had to leave school early ev- and incorporating her love of French or Daily Mail, athlete was the second most photography into her business. ery day and didn’t get home until 10:30 at popular occupation that kids reported they night.” In addition, dancing was becoming Bardol is not the only one whose dreams wanted to be, right below doctor. Hannah have changed as she’s gotten older. Will increasingly hard on her body, with injury Nickol, senior, dreamed of being a profesDelaney, sophomore, had the intent of always on the horizon. Contemplating
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“It’s better to take a risk for something you love rather than settling for something you aren’t thrilled about doing,” Bardol said. sional gymnast as a child. Influenced by her older sisters’ love for competitive gymnastics, Nickol said, “I was always trying stuff at home with them.” But like Bardol and many other child athletes, the activity was too time-consuming for her. Gymnastics was an activity that Nickol would have to completely devote herself to, and she wanted to try other sports and activities. While Nickol’s dreams have changed, she has combined her passion for gymnastics and caring for kids in her current job working at Interactive Academy, teaching the fundamentals of gymnastics to young kids. While her passion for being a com-
petitive athlete has dulled over the years, her passion for caretaking has grown. “I want to become an occupational therapist for kids with disabilities,” she said. While the majority of people stray from their childhood dream jobs, there is still the 30 percent that stick to it. Take for example, Luke Mark, junior. Mark began to take interest in aviation in seventh grade and still wishes to fulfill his dream of being a pilot. While unable to pinpoint a reason why he took up this interest initially, Mark’s passion for aviation has grown throughout the years. Among the steps he’s been taking to reach his goal,
f ent o c r e 30 p o follow t u o t y ab row up s. l n O le g ream peop their d
Mark said, “I’ve been looking at colleges, been flying with friends that I know and have been looking into buying a share of an airplane and learning to fly in that.” He is also the president and founder of the aviation club here and recently took the Airman Knowledge Test in order to receive his private pilot license. Mark values following one’s passion and is willing to take risks and make sacrifices to do so. Whether their childhood dreams are fulfilled or not, BCHS students all have their own passions and a wide array of potential careers in which they can explore. TM Christine Stephenson
seco Being a p n patio d most ro athle p t n be hind opular d e is the re beco ming am occu a do ctor. Luke Mark, junior, began to take interest in aviation in seventh grade and still wishes to fulfill his dream of being a pilot. photo courtesy of Mark
Although Nickol’s dreams have changed, she has combined some of the things she is passionate about: gymnastics and working with kids. She teaches kids gymnastics at Interactive Academy.
“I wanted to be an NFL player, but I’ve got backup plans because I know that’s probably not going to happen.” -Thomas Fischer, freshman. photo courtesy of S. Fischer
“I was one of those kids who wanted to play for the NFL but now I want to be a cook. ” -Will Meckauskas, freshman. photo courtesy of T. Meckauskas
“I wanted to play in the MLB when I was little. I’ve had some obstacles, but I’ve been working hard towards my goal and now I’m playing in college for Northern Illinois University.” -Blake Walker, senior. photo courtesy of Walker
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TM Friday, Nov. 13, 2015
Tokyo gets ready for the 2020 Olympic Games
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hough the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro are still months away, preparations are already being made for the following Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan in 2020. According to The Telegraph, the city is planning to use ninjas to boost tourism for the upcoming games with ninja sights, attractions and activities scattered across the country, like a march of people in ninja costumes this December. Not only that, but Japan is also advancing the technology of the city with selfdriving taxis that are being tested and are planning to be put to use for the Olympics, according to skift.com. A district in Tokyo has also built a greenhouse that is raising butterflies to encompass the area in time for the Olympics, according to AsiaOne News. Besides changes to the city, Tokyo is planning on making additions to the Olympic Games themselves. Kitesurfing, golf and sevens rugby are the most recent sports that will be part of the games in Rio de Janeiro next year, and the Olympic committee in Tokyo is proposing events including karate, sports climbing, surfing, baseball/softball and skateboarding. Surfing, karate and skateboarding would be making their first Olympic debut in 2020 if they are approved as sports for the
Upcoming in Rio de Janeiro 20
big event. Zach Elcesser, sophomore, thinks skateboarding would be the best sport to add to the games. He said, “A lot of people are into the X-Games and it’d be cool to see that as an Olympic sport.” However, Alexis Puente, junior, thinks that karate would be a good sport to add to the games. “It’d be interesting to see them fight it out,” she said. Many of the Olympic Stadiums are already being planned or are under construction, including the National Olympic Stadium, which has sparked controversy. According to The Guardian, the original design for the National Stadium done by Zaha Hadid, a London-based architect, was scrapped by Japan’s prime minister Shinzō Abe because of the rising cost of the stadium. While Hadid argued that a new stadium would not be able to be completed in time, Abe had been reassured that there was still time to draw up new plans and complete a new stadium in time for the Olympics, which influenced his decision. Regardless, Japan has already started seeking new design plans, according to The Japan Times. The final decision for the sports will come in August 2016, according to CNN, during which the Rio de Janeiro games will already be on their way. TM Bill Nash
Facts about the Modern Olympics The first modern Olympics were hosted in 1896 in Athens Greece. London has hosted the most Olympic Games at three times.
The United States has won a total of 2,680 Olympic medals.
The oldest Olympian, Oscar Swahn from Sweden, competed at 72 years old in Shooting. At least one color in the Olympic rings appears in every country in the world’s flag.
- The Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games will take place August 5-21, 2016 - 10,500 athletes from 206 countries will be participating - 42 sports will be contested for with 306 medal events - 32 competition venues will be spread across 4 regions of the city
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Map of Tokyo
Stadium: Saitama Super Arena Sport(s) being played: basketball
Stadium: Makuhari Messe Sport(s) being played: Fencing, wrestling, and Tae Kwon Do
Stadium: Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium Sport(s) being played: ping pong
Stadium: Sea Forest Waterway Sport(s) being played: rowing and sprint canoeing
Based on the new sports being proposed for the Tokyo Olympic Games...
of students think that Surfing should be added.
of students think that Skateboarding should be added.
Information based on a survey sent to students on Nov. 1 with accuracy of +/- 6%.
of students think that of students think Karate should that Baseball be added. and Softball should be added.
of students think that Sports climbing should be added.
Trojan Matters 21
Meet the new BCHS coaches Mrs. Katie Fisher Head coach, varsity girls basketball Mrs. Fisher graduated from Franklin Central High School. She then went on to play basketball and run track at the University of Indianapolis. She is married to her husband, Kyle, and has a one year old daughter, Kylie. Mrs. Fisher is also filling in this semester for Mrs. Paula McConnell, foods and consumer science teacher. "I believe being a coach is one of the best jobs in the world. Coaching allows me to still be part of the game of basketball. To me, coaching is more than teaching on-court skills - it’s teaching life lessons and inspiring athletes. They can achieve anything they want with hard work, determination and confidence." Ms. Courtney Burchett Head coach, girls soccer Ms. Burchett is originally from Indianapolis, Indiana and graduated from North Central High School in 2003. She played club soccer for Indy Burn and then played soccer for three years at Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. She moved back to Indianapolis in 2011 and began teaching at Warren Central High School and coaching club soccer. Her parents and sister still live in Indianapolis. "I chose to be a soccer coach because I am passionate about the sport and I love working with young people." Mrs. Katie Hilton Assistant coach, cross country This is Mrs. Hilton's sixth year teaching and first year at Bishop Chatard. She teaches freshmen science. She has coached other sports in the past, but has enjoyed cross country because it forced her to run when "I otherwise probably wouldn't make myself run." She has been married to her husband, Mr. Matt Hilton, Latin and theology teacher, for three years, and they currently live in Broad Ripple. "I started coaching my first year as a teacher as a way to get to know more students in the school. At the time, I was teaching mostly students in junior high and some freshmen. I enjoyed working with students outside the classroom and getting to know them as people. This is the reason I have continued coaching. With cross country starting in the summer, it was nice for me to meet a bunch of students before the first day of school. I didn't feel as much like the new kid at the beginning of the school year." Ms. Azure Davey Assistant coach, girls lacrosse Ms. Davey was a three-sport (soccer, squash, lacrosse) student-athlete at Hamilton College (NESCAC Conference; school is in Central NY). Ms. Davey served as the head coach for both women’s soccer and women’s lacrosse at Utica College for 2 years. She currently works for NCAA as a Director of Membership and Academic Affairs. "I want to give back to the game and experience that was so formative for me." Mr. Cameron Huffman Head coach, boys and girls tennis Mr. Huffman is from Fort Wayne, IN. He competed on his tennis team as a state runner-up and Mental Attitude Award winner for Homestead High School. He attended and played for DePauw University. This is his fourth year as a science teacher. "I became a coach so I could challenge my players to be stronger individuals with each day. My experience in tennis presented me with the chance to learn more about my character and my limits than any other opportunity. I challenge all my players to find out what drives them and spin that drive into passion and mental preparedness on the tennis court each day. I believe that asking a player to compete at their best day in and day out allows them to develop a sense of leadership and responsibility to the team. There is nothing like coaching a team that has left everything they have on the court."