TROJAN MATTERS December 15, 2016
ESPN
Vince Lorenzano makes a major change in his career WWW.ESPN.COM
More online at the-blueprint.org
Students explain the effect of mission trips
Christmas cookie bakers compete
Students consider alternatives after high school
TROJAN MATTERS Volume 3, Issue 4
On the cover
Fake news influences readers
How teenagers rely on news from social media Page 4 & 5 Cover photo illustration by Abby McDonald
TROJANS
Page 3
Page 7
Page 8
Libraries decline in interest, usage
Uber's popularity with teens soars
Students take part in mission trips
Page 10
Page 12
Page 14
Look back on the trends of 2016
International teens experience USA
MATTER
In our prayers. . . - For an end to violence in the streets of Indianapolis. - For the unsheltered homeless as we head into the winter months. - For a peaceful Merry Christmas to all. - For the new principal here as he transitions and for the search for his replacement at St. Roch.
Lights on display around Indy
Save the date Tomorrow - Boys basketball takes on Cathedral at 7:30 p.m.
Correction: December 19 - Senior Directed One Acts encore performance
TROJAN MATTERS STAFF Editor-in-chief Blueprint editor Photo editor News editor Opinions editor Features editor Sports editor Publications advisor
Jacob deCastro Sian Rhodes Ellen Giudice Marissa Almack Emma Kennedy Sian Rhodes Katie Meek Mrs. Tracy Luke
Reporters
Abby McDonald Kacee Haslett Janie Gleaves
Photographers Abby Park Greta Horton Casey Storms Kylie Donaldson
December 21 & 22 - ComedySportz presents "A Wonderful Life Unscripted."
Ethan Manuszak's quote should have read, "I feel honored to have achieved all-city; it shows all my hard work paid off."
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. Trojan Matters is the monthly news magazine produced by the Publications class. In addition, daily news updates can be found online at theBluePrint.org. Letters/Comments can be submitted through The Blueprint or dropped off in the Publications Room (210).
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News
TROJAN NOTES
You Said It
New principal begins July 1, 2017 After several months of searching for and reviewing applications for the next principal of BCHS, the process has ended. Mr. Joe Hansen, St. Roch Elementary principal, will officially begin here July 1, 2017. First, a committee including administrators, parents, a teacher and a person with the Arch-
diocese of Indianapolis (downtown) narrowed the candidate list down to six. “Out of the six, there were some that were really, really outstanding,” said Mr. Bill Sahm, school president. From the six candidates, Mr. Hansen was selected as the best choice. In his position at the south side elementary for the past 13 years, St. Roch earned an A-rating by the Indiana Department of Education. In an email sent last week
to the BCHS community, Mr. Sahm wrote, “The Bishop Chatard community is indeed blessed to able to add a talented, dedicated and faith-filled administrator to an already talented, dedicated and faithfilled administrative team.” Deacon Rick Wagner, current principal, will continue here in the role he was originally hired for - that of vice-president of mission and ministry. •Jacob deCastro
MUSIC MATTERS
Mixtape
Heard a great song recently? Let us know about by going to the-blueprint.org/contact and it may be run in the next issue of Trojan Matters.
1. Who Says - John Mayer 2. Day to Feel Alive - Jake Reese 3. Fire Escape - Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness 4. We All Die Trying to Get it Right - Vance Joy 5. Fix You - Coldplay
Sports
We Heard It
How many years has it been since 2008? Sub- “If anyone cheats I will have to take you to Mr. Reilly, and then everyone else can cheat while we're gone.” Student- “C’mon, Nick, take one for the team.” What's the date of Christmas this year? I swear the student Wi-Fi is buried deep under Chatard.
I think I broke my leg, but I’m walking on it so I guess not. My string string.
Photo Courtesy of Ms. Holder
Aunt Lola Stories). Ms. Carlota Holder, English as a New Language Coordinator, and her students have greatly appreciated the school’s efforts. She said, “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! The students will be so thrilled to get these. I can't tell you how much we appreciate it!” Last week, Ms. Holder updated Mrs. Tracy Luke, publications adviser and coordinator, of the effort. She wrote, “I just wanted to tell you one of our newcomers student's NWEA (test score) went from 159 to 183 in reading. I fully believe that's because she continues to read in her native language.
Features
I managed my time well when I have one class to finish my homework.
Literacy Matters project helps elementary students in reading The Trojan Matters year-long Literacy Matters project continues. Most recently, over 30 books arrived for Enlace Academy, an Indianapolis charter school on the city’s west side. Seventy-five percent of the students have Hispanic backgrounds and English is the second language for many. To continue to increase literacy rates, students need books in both English and Spanish. From the BCHS Charity Spirit Day, the students at Enlace received nearly 30 books in Spanish. Titles included Diario De Greg series (Diary of a Wimpy Kid) and De Como tia Lola Termino empesando otra vez (The
Opinions
cheese
won't
Mariah Carey is the only reason Christmas is a jolly time A student from Enlace Academy looks at one of the books purchased from a BCHS Charity Spirit Day.
But seriously, if I was a potato, I would be a mashed potato.
This student was almost out of books to read until your donation. THANK YOU again!” Mrs. Luke thanks the BCHS community in their giving spirit. “It’s so rewarding to see people benefit from our generosity, but, even more important, that young students are seeing how important literacy is.”
I wish I could sleep with my eyes closed.
6. A Drop in the Ocean - Ron Pope 7. Unbelievers - Vampire Weekend 8. Cringe - Matt Maeson 9. I Am- AWOLNATION 10. If You Let Me - Sinead Harnett
We’re having a conversation about the capitalization of dabbing. I think I was a flamingo in my past life. Can I have glasses for my ears? If you have an inny belly button you will get a higher SAT score. I wish I spoke camera. Your house looks like it has acne.
Hear something funny or interesting? Let us know at the-blueprint.org/contact 1
TROJAN MATTERS
December 15, 2016
Graduates go in different directions Students choose to do things other than college
Photo courtesy of Maggie Bardol
Photo courtesy of Maggie Bardol
“College is the divine hymn was. In the meantime, she is it my career.” Mrs. Pam Nixon, college adof American religion,” accord- working and planning on ating to Mr. James Altucher, au- tending college next year. By visor, advocates on behalf of thor from www.businessinsider. taking the time to figure out many different options after com, A higher-level education her plans, she has saved mon- high school. These options can seems to be the ultimate goal ey from not accumulating un- include a 2-year college, apof any person dreaming of a necessary student debt by be- prenticeship, military, a gap year well-paying career and pros- ing sure of the path she wants and more. All of these alternatives are feasible for any high perous future. However, in to take. today's society, college is not Maggie Bardol, Class of 2013, school graduate. Specifically, Mrs. Nixon recthe only path to success after found her path after she started ommends a gap year on an high school. individual basis. She believes Mr. Altucher recommends it benefits the service-orientpursuing other options rathed and inquisitive student. er than having tunnel vision She said, “It helps them disfor just college. He proposes cover their true passion.” that young high school gradHowever, college can inuates should look into other troduce more opportunities alternatives, some of which to the student. She said, “A include traveling or starting college education is going to an independent business. Maggie Bardol (on right), 2013 graduate give you more options and fiSome prefer to take a gap studied in New York to work on her nancial stability.” year, a period of time in which makeup artistry skills. Although there are numerthey take a break from educaous options, many people tion to decide what they want college. She attended IUPUI to to do with their future through master her photography skills seem to pursue the standard working, traveling, or simply before deciding that she wanted 4-year college. That option is time away from the classroom. more experience in the makeup the most popular choice here Abby Powell, Class of 2016, area. She left IUPUI and went and is easier for students to take decided to take a year off when to school in New York in effort the next step because it seems she was unsure of her next step to improve her expertise as a like the same step most of their after high school. She said, “I makeup artist. Bardol is now classmates are making. According to Bardol, it is very had no idea what I wanted to a freelance makeup artist and important to continue with eddo and changed my mind every photographer in Indianapolis. other week. None of the colAlthough she is successful ucation after high school. She leges I applied to seemed to be in her career path now, Bardol added, “But there are a lot of the right fit at the time.” always thought that she would ways to do that and I just think Powell recommends taking a go to college and leave pho- that if you have certain interests gap year to anyone who is un- tography and makeup as hob- or are just completely unsure sure of their next step, like she bies. She said, “I realized how of what you want to do, just do much I enjoyed doing makeup research and become educated and pictures and just worked with after high school life.” extra hard to be able to make •Emma Kennedy
Bardol also turned her hobby of photography into a career.
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Should you take a gap year?
Pros:
Job and service experience Allows you to recharge from academics More time to think about what to do next Working allows you to save money for college
source: collegeview.com
Cons:
Some don't develop important habits May lose some scholarship opportunities May hurt the student seeing peers move on Doesn't pay off unless you have a job that applies to the major you want
e Colleg
ship
e entic r p p A
Travel
Military
Serv
ice W ork
llege
ar co 2-ye
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Opinions
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Even as libraries make changes, they lose popularity as students use alternative library remodeled into the Collaborative Learning Center in 2014 in an effort to stay up to date. “The changes to the library,
Just 12.2 percent of students said they had checked out one to four books since school has started. making it the Collaborative Learning Center (CLC) - it’s fine. The upgrade was just in an effort to keep with the times. It’s created more of an atmosphere,” said Mr. Bob McLain, library assistant, “The space is more multifaceted now. It’s not just a library anymore. People come to study or socialize more than to actually check out books.”
Only 14 percent of BCHS students have actually checked out books in their time here. With physical books becoming less necessary, what does the future look like for libraries? “Libraries aren’t necessarily obsolete, but they aren’t always necessarily used for their main purpose. People use libraries now as more of a place for quiet studying, instead of being used to check out books for research or reading,” said Sam
Klineman, junior, “I have never checked out a book, but I have used the library to study or do homework.” Mr. McLain said, “There has been a decrease in hard cover books checked out, as people tend to go to e-books. But I think that if people have the choice, they will still choose (a physical book). People like the feel of a book and they prefer to have one in their hands.” •Janie Gleaves
65.6 percent Photo: Casey Storms
“I have never checked out a book from the library; I didn't even know you could check out books. Where is the library again?” joked sophomore, Lucy Park. With the rise of e-books, Kindles, Nooks and Apple’s iBooks, physical books continue to disappear. According to BBC, e-book sales jumped more than one thousand percent from 2008 to 2010. Borders, one of the biggest book store chains at the time, closed in 2011 as a result of the decreasing demand for paper books. The Glendale branch of the Marion County Public Library, will also be closing in 2022 when the lease expires. Five Indianapolis branches will be closing or relocating within the next 20 years. The BCHS
of students said they had not checked out a book from a public library since August.
Photo: Casey Storms
85.8 percent of
students said they had not checked out a book from the BCHS library since school has started.
+/- 0.5% from school survey
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TROJAN MATTERS
December 15, 2016
Fake news misleads readers How to check if news is reliable: 1. Consider the source
Question whether the source is reliable for the information shown.
2. Read beyond the headlines
If a headline catches your interest, make sure you know the exact story before passing the news along.
3. Check the author
Check the author’s credibility before believing that the information is true.
4. Check the date
Some false stories aren’t completely fake, rather they are distortions of the truth. The date can give a clue as to whether the facts are true.
5. Check the biases
Bias leads more people to stock the story with fake news about the person or event they are bias toward.
According to “news” headlines featured on Facebook, Hillary Clinton sold weapons to ISIS and the Pope endorsed Donald Trump. Articles with subjects such as these have become commonplace within the world of social media, though they are not true. Fake and fanatical headlines have become controversial during this past election season and news media experts see that it might have had an impact on voters’ decisions at the ballot box. According to vox.com, 44 percent of American adults use Facebook to get their news, whereas only three percent of students here use it as their main source for breaking news. In the midst of the election season, many fake articles were shared that described outrageous stories that were
used to support one candidate over another. The bias within these stories have caused many to believe that they had a real effect on the outcome of the election because they would create malicious stories about opposing candidates. Mrs. Tracy Luke, publications advisor, believes that there is real danger in how quickly these fake stories spread and in how people believe them rather than looking for the real facts. “It spreads like wildfire. People don’t do fact checking on their own and it gets shared exponentially without truth,” she said. Fake news sites have found a home on social media websites such as Facebook because of how widely shared their stories are and how easy it is to go viral. By creating “click-bait” (ones so astounding that it lures people
into clicking on it) headlines, or exaggerated claims that draw the reader in, they are able to drive traffic to their websites. The more clicks, the more money they are making from advertisement management services such as Adsense, a program run by Google that allows website owners to get money by displaying ads on their website, according to nutsandboltsmedia.com. Paul Horner, a fakenews writer on Facebook, said to the Washington Post that he makes around $10,000 a month from the ads on his fake-news site. Facebook and Google have become the major vehicles for these writers’ cash-flow in the promotion of their websites. Mrs. Luke believes that social media sites should be responsible for filtering out the articles written by fake news sites from being shared. “I think that with
Recent fake news
This election year, fake news has made a drastic climb. With fake political news circling around, many voters found themselves confused on who they would vote for.
6. Consult the experts
Although this takes time, it can help to show if the stories are reliable or not. Source: www.factcheck.org
Graph taken from CNN.com
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Although this news story came from a satirical website, it was shared over 69,000 times.
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ensure that fake news sites are not featured. Google is filtering out fake news sites by not selling them advertisements on search results, taking away their profit. This will be an addition to a policy already in place that does not allow misleading content ads to be placed into the Google Adsense system that runs ads on other websites. These policies are still a work in progress for the sites and it is not clear if they will be successful. It is important to fact check and make sure that the news received online is from a reliable source. “Look at the credibility of the source rather than just hitting the send share button,” said Mrs. Luke as a recommendation for finding real news. •Marissa Almack
Opinions
Features
Sports
BREAKING NEWS
30.6% of 21.2% of Trojans get their news from television
Trojans get their news from Twitter
Trojans get their news from Instagram
Trojans get their news from snapchat
7.1% of 10.6% of
Photo: Abby Park
how much traffic they generate, there is a responsibility to ensure credibility when it comes to news,” Mrs. Luke said. She explained that if it’s purely social, there’s a difference, but actual news can impact lives. Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook founder, has claimed that a majority of the news on the social media site is real and that fake news or hoaxes are extremely unlikely. Despite Zuckerberg’s claims, Facebook is now reformulating their policies due to the backlash they received in the aftermath of the election season and the anger of many at their role in the sharing of fake news. Facebook’s Audience Network policy already ensures that ads displayed on their website do not promote illegal or misleading content, but it will now
News
A student checks her news on social media during homeroom.
Another news story claims that the Philippines’ president is the “Best President in the Solar System.”
A hoax version of ABC news’ website was published online claiming that someone was paid to protest at then presidential candidate Donald Trump’s rally. Mr. Trump’s son believed the story and tweeted “Finally the truth comes out.”
8.2% of
Trojans get their news from newspaper/magazines
21.2% of
Trojans get their news from word of mouth
1.2%
of Trojans get their news from Facebook
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TROJAN MATTERS December 15, 2016
Uber provides alternative option for rides Uber finds success in short time for its transportation services Typically, travelling anywhere from BCHS in a five-mile radius would cost approximately $7-$10 in the most affordable Uber car option, the uberX. “[Uber] is pretty affordable compared to taking taxis,” said Malasto. She said she had a much better experience using the ride service compared to the time she took a taxi. Uber also allows a rider to switch between drivers depending on whether they feel more or less comfortable. The app provides a picture of the driver and a rating of them after others have ridden in their car. “When I go by myself, I pick girl drivers because it’s less scary,” Keating said. Malasto added, “I cancel the ride if [the driver] is shady and I always look at their ratings.” The company also has safety precautions they take as well. According to Uber’s website, the app offers real-time trip following, so you can make sure you’re going to the right destination. It shows a map on the app screen to let you know exactly where you are if something goes wrong. A rule in Uber’s terms of service claims an account holder must be 18 or older; however, many students here use their parents accounts for a convenient ride. “If my parents can’t take me, I ask them if I can take an Uber,” said Ryden. Even if it’s just to go to a friend’s house for the afternoon or to get home, Uber has proved to be a reliable option to BCHS students who can’t drive themselves. •Kacee Haslett
60%
23%
8%
of students have never used Uber before
of students have used Uber 1-3 times
of students have used Uber 4-8 times
Uber was founded in
A ride five miles away from BCHS could cost around
Uber’s drivers work in more than
500 cities
2008
$7-$10
From schoolwide poll. Accuracy is + 5 percent.
Photo: Ellen Giudice
I
n 2008, two men in Paris decided that signaling a taxi was too difficult. Mr. Travis Kalanick and Mr. Garrett Camp, co-founders of Uber, figured it would be easier if they could just press a button on their phones and get a ride. Today, Uber’s network of drivers can be hailed in more than 200 cities in North America, and more than 500 worldwide. For the unlicensed students here, it’s become an easy way to meet up with a friend without their own license. While many sophomores have their learner’s permits, most of them cannot drive by themselves. Mia Malasto, sophomore, said she is not able to get her license until July 2017, so she defaults to using Uber when her parents are not able to drive her when she needs. Malasto uses Uber to hang out with her friends, including sophomore Molly Keating. “Usually Molly and I go out to dinner or the mall every other weekend,” Malasto said. Alec Ryden, sophomore, also said he uses Uber to spend time with his friends, but usually they will use the ride service to go to one another’s houses because of the convenience Uber provides to them. While socializing is a popular reason students use Uber, sophomore Amaiya Gaddie uses the ride service to get home. “My mother can’t always pick me up [from school] because she works late,” Gaddie said. For some teenagers, using Uber raises concerns, including safety and affordability. 6
Uber’s app is free on the App Store and an account can be easily created for anyone who is 18 or older. Uber says you only need to tap a button to get a ride from anywhere in the city.
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TROJAN MATTERS Staff Opinion
Opinion
Features
Sports
Accountability is important for community to work at its best
Mr. Mark Jones and sophomore Rachel Glaze work on math problems during the zero period. Teachers are excpected to be in their classrooms to help students by 7:20 a.m.
A
News
buzzword in the school, the workplace and politics is accountability. “Students must be accountable for their choices.” “My teacher is never here by 7:20 a.m.” “Voting is one way to hold our politicians to their promises.” Accountability is everywhere. Good traits such as time management, respect, and ability to work with others are needed far beyond high school. Accountability is also needed - whether we are 16 or 61 or somewhere in between. For students, we have to own our work and efforts. Let’s say we’ve been absent or on retreat. The first thing NOT to do is see a teacher and say, “Did I miss anything?” “What do I need to make up?” We were given iPads and have Canvas as a way for students to stay up-to-date on their missing work. We also have constant access to email and teachers are here during the zero period and after school. For faculty, students are required to complete homework and study, show up at school by 7:50 a.m. and be prepared. According to Deacon Rick Wagner, principal and vice president of mission and ministry, teachers are expected to be at school, in their rooms available to help by 7:20 a.m., the beginning of zero period. Students can attest that not all teachers are here or in their rooms by that time.
These comments are not directed at any specific teacher. Actually, nearly all the teachers go above and beyond when it comes to helping students. We know there are teachers who are nothing but committed to their classes and spend a lot of time staying after school to help students, as well as answering emails with questions from us well past bedtime. But, when one of us needs just one teacher and he or she isn’t here repeatedly during zero period, what’s the point of having the extended time? Rules are a part of accountability. Take backpacks, for example - the halls are too crowded if everyone carries a full-sized backpack. Drawstring backpacks can easily carry what we need. Does it take a consequence (detention) or just a blind eye (no one says anything) to hold us accountable? Is it fair to everyone else who is following the rule? If you don’t like the rule, take up that cause and fight for it, but skirting the rule is wrong and unfair. While carrying a backpack or wearing a North Face may not seem like a big deal, it is a character trait of disobeying a rule and knowing it is wrong. Teachers, too, can and should be held accountable. Any job has requirements - attendance, duties, etc. With the obvious age and position differences, it’s not up to students to hold teachers accountable and yet we are most impacted if a teacher isn’t here at 7:20 a.m. or leaves at 3:15 p.m. or doesn’t return papers in a reasonable time. According to Deacon Rick, if there are concerns about a teacher’s compliance with the expectations, then he will give them a reminder or two about what’s going on. If it is a repeated problem, he explained, then there will be a more formal, discussion regarding the concern.
“ It is not only what we do, but also what we do not do, for which we are accountable.” ~Moliere
We understand and accept that teachers and coaches are busy and have lives outside of school, including families and their athletic teams. However, when students make the effort to come in for help, it is greatly appreciated when teachers are in their rooms for zero period. If a student is absent the day before a test but all they miss is a review, then it’s reasonable to expect them to take the test the day they return. Teachers must tire of excuses just like our bosses will when we are employed. High school is our time to work on accountability and own our choices. American statesman Benjamin Franklin wrote, “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.” If we are expected to get our homework done outside of school while juggling practices, work and family, teachers can be expected to get our assignments graded in a timely manner. We aren’t asking for immediate turn around, but when it comes down to the end of the quarter and grades are still not updated, it makes it difficult to know if we need to do anything to boost our grade. We calculated that if a paper takes a teacher 10 minutes to grade and he or she has 60 students for that assignment, that is six extra hours and often there are many more assessments than just one assignment. Yes, it’s extra work, but we, too, put in time outside of class. If it takes two weeks to write a paper, we don’t expect them to be graded in a day, but taking two weeks to grade something seems too long. The key to accountability is to hold ourselves to a high standard, students and adults alike. The definition of accountability is “the obligation of an individual or organization to account for its activities, accept responsibility for them and to disclose the results in a transparent manner.” The definition is not hard to find; putting it in practice is our challenge. 7
TROJAN MATTERS
December 15, 2016
Around the world in seven days M
ission or immersion trips are a positive step back from the ties of everyday life. No matter if you stay in the United States or go to a foreign country, people have found huge rewards by exploring new cultures. •Katie Meek
Perspective
I recently was given the opportunity to take part in the El Salvador immersion trip. The experience was truly unforgettable and being able to spend that time with fellow classmates made it much easier. However, knowing that there may be some compli-
TROJAN MATTERS Letter to the editor
By Eliza Foran Senior 8
Photo courtesy: Remy McAllister
BCHS offers students the chance to travel to El Salvador during their junior or senior year. Senior Delaney Jacquay traveled to the Central American country last spring. Jacquay decided to go on the trip because she heard such great things about the immersion experience. She said, “I wanted a new experience that was different than anything I had done before.”
McAllister and senior Hannah Cooke playing games with the children in Mexico
Photos: Greta Horton
El Salvador
Left to right: Meek warming up to play a game o
cations while on an immersion trip, such as adjusting to food and the way of life, was huge for many of the students who have traveled on a trip. Jacquay said, “I would encourage people to go,” giving the advice that if
Seeking post-election relief
Dear BCHS, This election cycle has been brutal on all of us. As a school and as a family, we need to support one another. Liberals/Democrats/Concerned American citizens: Do not give into hatred.
Do not give into fear. Though it may feel like you are surrounded by darkness, find something that gives you joy (puppies, Beyonce, volunteering). Be kind. And when the time is right, be bold. Theodore Roosevelt said, “Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.” Being kind does not mean being passive. Never go gentle into the ground. Be proud Americans. Be prouder human beings. Kneel for no man, and let
no man kneel for you. We can all stand together and rise up. Conservatives/Republicans/Concerned American citizens: Listen. Listen. Listen. When someone calls you a racist or a bigot, do not say, “I’m not! I’m not!” It is harder to deny that something exists than to prove it does not. Reassure that person that you care. All of us want what is best for our country. Maybe you think that it is all
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2,500 miles away, a new home Other students have had similar desires as Jacquay including senior Remy McAllister. McAllister has not only traveled to El Salvador but also, during the summer of 2014, she, her mom, and her sisters went to Cancun, Mexico. She said that her ex-
perience in Mexico pushed her to get out of her comfort zone and challenged her to recognize how special everyone is. McAllister said, “I saw things that I wouldn't normally be exposed to and I got to help people I wouldn't usually encounter.”
of softball; Meek in line to eat dinner
you are hesitant about going on a mission trip to talk to people that have gone. She added saying, “Be open and step out of your comfort zone because it (the experience) is worth it.” •Katie Meek
Mrs. Carol Wagner, director of campus ministry, has made 14 trips to El Salvador, 16 trips to Nazareth Farm, and one to Africa. Her first trip was to Nazareth Farm in West Virginia accompanying her daughters as one of the chaperones. Mrs. Wagner found the trip went far beyond chaperoning; it changed her life. She continues to go on these trips. Mrs, Wagner said, “I wanted more of this feeling, more opportunities to serve, more ways to transform my servant’s heart.”
about money. Maybe you think that it is all about civil rights. However, I am guessing we all want something in the middle. Reassure that person that you want to meet them in the middle. Kindness is listening before anything else. Americans: Environment and economy do not have to be at odds with one another. Religious and civil rights do not have to be at odds with one another. Our very govern-
Photos courtesy: Mrs. Wagner
31 trips and counting Left photos: Mrs. Wagner on her most recent trip to Nazareth Farms. Right photos: Photos of the village that she stayed in on her trip to Africa last summer.
182 hours
Flight time for 14 round-trip flights to San Salvador from Indianapolis
ment was established by the “Great Compromise”. I am sure that if we work together and support one another, we can achieve anything. And at the end of the day, we are very young. It is not our job to know every proposed bill, every policy, every detail of every scandal. We listen. We learn. We seek kindness for strength. Non-American Students: Pinyin: Nǐ hǎo! Duìbùqǐ... Wǒ méiyǒu wàngjì nǐ… Měiguó
Each flight is at least 6 and a half hours
shì hǎo de. Wǒ dāyìng. / Simplified Chinese: 你好。我没有忘记 你。美国是好的。我答应。/ English: Hello! Sorry. . .I have not forgotten you. America is good. I promise. If you would like to submit a letter to the editor, you can do so at the-blueprint.org/contact. Letters may be edited for space and/or clarity.
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TROJAN MATTERS
December 15, 2016
twinkle to welcome visitors at local displays Before 1880, families decorated Christmas trees with wax candles. Needless to say, mixing fire and evergreen trees inside was a significant fire hazard. In 1880, one of Thomas Edison's inventors created the first set of electrical string of lights to decorate a tree at Christmas. Since then families and businesses have created spectacles of lights, sometimes even set to music. In 2015, Hallmark Channel officially broke the Guinness World Records title for the largest display of illuminated Christmas trees, with the lighting of 559 Christmas trees in New York City's Herald Square, according to the World Record Academy. Parents and children view the nearly 1.2 million LED lights, on 75 miles of cable, which are on display in Petrie Plaza mall in Canberra, Australia, Nov. 29, 2014. The Christmas light setup officially broke the Guinness World Record for the largest LED image display. The display raises mon-
ey for a local charity dedicated to preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. But, you don't need to travel to Australia to see an inviting display. Several area businesses plug in the lights to decorate their grounds: •Casey Storms
LOcal
Reynolds Farm Equipment
12501 Reynolds Dr., Fishers, IN 46038 One of the longest-running light displays, Reynolds Farm Equipment puts on its light show until Jan. 1. While the drive through show is free, on certain nights, donations for various charities are accepted and encouraged.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The inaugural year for Lights at The Brickyard is one display not to miss. Th napolis Motor Speedway costs $30 per car ($40 for the fast pass) and will be only is this a Christmas display, but also a chance for people to drive their o 10
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Trojan Lights
Photos submitted by: Mr. Tyler Mayer
Mayer family goes all out with light displays
The 1.7 mile drive around the Indiae open through December 31. Not own car on the track.
The day after Thanksgiving is the start of Christmas decorating season for Mr. Tyler Mayer, vice president of institutional advancement. He estimates he spends 11 hours getting his 1500 lights (approximate) and multiple displays up. He said, "Growing up my favorite Christmas movie was National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. When I would watch Clark W. Griswold struggle with all of the lights I told myself I would do the same to my house one day. Now that I have children, my motivation is to make the celebration of Christmas a little more fun and unique. However, as I get older, lazier, and fatter I question is it still worth it....."
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Regional If you want to make a road trip. . .
For those willing to make a farther trip
Each year the Louisville Mega Cavern is transformed into an underground holiday light s p e c t a c u l a r. You'll take a 30-minute ride through part of 17 miles of underground passageways, with over 2,000,000 points of light. The show runs through Dec. 31 and the show costs $30 per car. 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY 40213 (about 2 hours from Indy). For more info: lightsunderlouisville.com Marion (Indiana) Walkway of Lights holiday display spans over two miles and features more than 2.5 million lights. The Walkway of Lights is one of the longest running and largest light displays in the Midwest. A one-time $5 per car season pass allows unlimited visits to the Walkway. 1403 N. Matter Park Road Marion, IN 46952 (about 1 1/2 hours from Indy). For more info: www.walkwayoflights.org
Sailors and Soldiers Monument
Indianapolis Zoo
The classic Christmas at the Zoo runs until Dec. 30. Not only is there a light display, visitors will enjoy carolers, rides (for an extra charge),several of the zoo's hardiest will stay up late to enjoy the cooler nights, including seals and sea lions, walrus, tigers, red panda and brown bears. Santa will be around to add to the holiday cheer. Treats are served at various locations around the zoo. The price is the same as zoo admission $13.
While the lighting of the "World's Largest Christmas Tree" took place Nov. 25, downtown at Christmas is always a good place to walk around. The Monument Circle is lit up with the tree being the main attraction. The Indianapolis Public Light building always stays decorated through the season.
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TROJAN MATTERS
December 15, 2016
Trojans recall 2016 trends
To say 2016 was a roller coaster ride is an understatement: from the presidential elections to the death of David Bowie, we could not seem to catch a breath. But, all the ups and downs birthed many great fads that are worthy of a look back.
The Water Bottle Flip Coming from humble beginnings, the infamous water bottle flip was an unforgettable trend of 2016. What all started as a Twitter video snowballed into cafeterias full of students flipping water bottles or sports teams huddling to take turns attempting to land the flip. Grace McGinley, sophomore, posted a video herself on Twitter of flipping a water bottle upside down on a window panel. She said, “It took me a lot of tries to get it, but once I did it was pretty awesome.”
Pearl Choker
Photo: Ellen Giudice
A fashion craze made its return in the form of the choker. Pearl chokers have become especially popular for Indianapolis girls. They started making a serious appearance around August, and haven’t completely disappeared yet. Maddie Walters, junior, who bought her pearl choker at Altar’d State in the Keystone Fashion Mall, said that she honestly believes they make every outfit look better. “They are unique and simple, but super cute and not expensive,” said Walters. Chokers can be paired with sweaters, dresses and here, even uniform polos. This fashion accessory has kick-started the comeback of all chokers in BCHS circles and relinquished the Goth image that for so many years was tied to them.
The Sounds of 2016 January
June & July
February
August
Hello (Adele) Sorry ( Justin Bieber)
March & April
Work (Rihanna ft. Drake)
May
Panda (Desiigner) 12
One Dance (Drake ft. WizKid & Kyla) Cheap Thrills (Sia ft. Sean Paul)
September & October
Closer (The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey)
November & December
Black Beetles (Rae Sremmurd ft. Gucci Mane)
Honorable Mentions
• Pillowtalk (Zayn) • Love Yourself ( Justin Bieber) • Can’t Stop the Feeling! (Justin Timberlake) • Stressed Out (21 Pilots) • This is What You Came For (Calvin Harris ft. Rihanna) • Heathens (Twenty One Pilots)
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Do you remember...? Pokemon Go Pokemon Go is a free game that was widely popular this summer.
Hoverboards
Many kids had hoverboards under the Christmas tree last year. They were later recalled as a fire hazard.
Snapchat Face Lenses With Snapchat's growth have come fun faces, including the popular dog.
Kylie Lip Kits
Man Buns
Longer hair on boys was made popular this year, so they have adopted a bun style to pull it back.
Photo: Ellen Giudice
To the dismay of many, the Kardashians yet again had an effect on the year. The youngest of the Kardashian-Jenner clan, Kylie Jenner, launched her lip kit near the end of 2015. The lip gloss-lip liner packages sold out on her website in 30 seconds. However, it wasn’t until this year that they really became a product for the masses. Their popularity spiked in the spring of 2016 and her constant addition of new shades keeps pulling customers back in. Jenner is rumored to have made around $8.5 million on these kits alone. Erika Campbell, junior, said, “I bought it because I just loved the color and it is really high quality.” •Abby McDonald
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Photo: Greta Horton
Every year, a signature dance move emerges in pop culture - for 2016, it was The Dab. The Dab began its reign of popularity when NFL quarterback Cam Newton dabbed after scoring a touchdown against the Titans. He later said he learned the dab from his younger brother, Caylin. Holly Parker, freshman, said, “I think it’s so fun and I don’t know when I got so into it, but once you get in the habit of doing it, it’s hard to stop.” Parker is known around school for her dabbing skills and thinks that it is a funny fad that she thinks she will laugh about in future years.
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Photo: Ellen Giudice
Photo: Ellen Giudice
The Dab
News
Vineyard Vines Advertising "preppy" clothes, Vineyard Vines was trendy this year.
Harambe The gorilla who was shot at the Cincinnati Zoo sparked controversy this past May. 13
International students come to the U.S.
For his AP Art History class, Niel Wang, junior, completes an assignment and continues to work in class.
M
ost students remember their first day of high school and all of the accompanying fears, asking ourselves questions like, “Will I arrive to class on time?” or “Will I find new friends?” However, for BCHS’ five international students, different questions were asked. Questions included how to excel at classes while adapting to a new culture and overcoming the language barrier. “It was extremely hard for me to adjust to school and life in the United States when I first came here last year,” said Neil Wang, junior, “Although I started learning English when I was in first grade, it is not my mother tongue, and it takes a lot of effort to get used to speaking it.” As to why Wang wanted to come to the U.S. and adapt to a completely new culture, he said, “I wanted to learn more about American culture and to see how 14
schools in America are like.” Before attending, junior Lucy Hu attended a public school in the U.S. so she didn’t find it hard to adjust to the academic side of high school. However, she said, “I think the most difficult part is the language and culture difference, which I still struggle with a lot.” However, Hu is happy she is here. “I got a chance from friends to come here as an exchange student, I felt like that's something I'd always wanted to go for,” said Hu, “and didn't want to miss the opportunity to change my life in a different way.” While unpredictable weather may seem like a Midwest staple, Hu felt right at home. “I like Indianapolis (because) it has similar weather as Beijing.” One adjustment that Wang had to make was the difference in class length. While common complaints from BCHS students are seven period days or staying late for practice, Wang said, “In my former high school in China, we go to school before 7 a.m. and we are usually dismissed around 6 p.m.” Similarly, Hu said, “Everyone tends to focus on their grades rather than other activities because the goal of high schools is to get into college.” However, Hu said that this year she joined the props crew as part of the theatre department and said that it was one of her favorite experiences. Likewise, Wang said, “The community service day was my favorite experience at BCHS.” “I didn't have many chances to go out and serve those in need when I was in China,” said Wang, “At BCHS, howev-
Photo: Casey Storms
Photo: Casey Storms
Students adjust to new cultures and customs
After school some friends hang out in the hallways before they leave. Lucy Hu, junior, talks and laughs with her friends on her way out of school for the day.
er, I get the opportunity to serve others, which helped me realize that we can really make a difference in the lives of those who need help.” The international students are staying through an organization called FLAG, short for Foreign Links Around the Globe. This organization, in partnership with schools in 25 states and the State Department, are currently hosting over 500 international students in host families across the country. A host for sophomore Sam Fu, Edreece Redmond, freshman, and his family have enjoyed the experience. “It's interesting to see how different our cultures are and (he) is also really fun to hang out with,” Redmond said, “He helps me with homework a lot and also loves basketball so we get along really well.” •Jacob deCastro
Christmas Cookie Contest continued on next page
Photo by Kylie Donaldson
TROJAN MATTERS
December 15, 2016
T
his year was the 6th Annual Christmas Cookie Bake-Off and nine students entered their own holiday themed baked goodies. Each cookie was judged by a faculty baker, a student baker, and a professional. This year's judges were Mrs. Jamie Marx, director of guidance, Christine Oppold, junior, and Mrs. Gwendolyn Rogers, owner of the Cake Bake Shop. The entries were judged on
Best overall
Emily Wong, freshman, entered these Cocoa Cups that were a hit with the judges. These sweet treats also scored highest for creativity.
appearance, taste, creativity, and overall best. Mrs. Rogers, a seasoned baker, enjoyed being a judge for this year's cookie bake-off. "They (the cookies) were all delicious and it was extremely difficult to rate them. Every cookie was thoughtfully prepared with love which made them even more scrumptious," she said, "It was a true honor to be a part of." •Sian Rhodes
Best appearance
Senior Marissa Almack's peanut butter snowflake cookies caught the judges' eyes and scored highest for appearance.
Best taste
Junior Jess Friederick's cowboy cookies pleased the judges' taste buds, scoring highest for the taste category.
All photos by Kylie Donaldson 16
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Honorable mentions
Sophomores Abby Harkness and Lily Johnson entered these peanut butter reindeer cookies that received high praises from the judges, scoring highly for taste.
Natalie Donaldson, freshman, entered these Christmas tree cookies that were a big hit with the judges as well, receiving high scores for creativity.
Chocolate chip cookies: Olivia Gzibovskis, freshman Gingersnaps: Heidi Bartz, sophomore
Christmas ornament cookies: Sara Wallander and Abby Teed, juniors Christmas Meringues: Christine Millman, freshman
• Use room-temperature ingredients- using ingredients that are all at the same temperature is very important. It allows them to combine fully and ensure that they won't separate during the baking process. • Butter and flour pans generously- ensuring that your baking dish is properly buttered or floured will keep the goods from sticking to the dish and from falling apart when you remove them. • Toss the old stuff- it is important to make sure that all of your baking ingredients are not old. Most ingredients (like flour, baking powder/soda and yeast) have a short shelf life. • Don't rush through each step- taking your time while preparing the batter or dough will make sure that all of the ingredients are mixed thoroughly and all is combined. • Rotate halfway through- make sure to rotate your goodies halfway through while they are baking. Each oven has a hot spot and rotating the goods while they bake ensures an even baking. Information from bonappetit.com
Photo Courtesy of Gwendolyn Rogers
Baking tips
Editor's Note: The Trojan Matters staff thanks all students who participated in this year's cookie bake-off. Winners of the best overall, taste and appearance may come to room 210 to claim your gift card. 17
Rising Stars
Athletes to look for this winter season
Photo: Ellen Giudice
Edreece Redmond, freshman, inbounds the ball during the Mount Vernon scrimmage.
Driven by competition, freshman Edreece Redmond has become a contributing member to the boys JV and varsity basketball team. In addition to playing on the JV team, Redmond also dresses for varsity games. He believes that the team this year has good chemistry. Redmond said, “Our goal as a team is to surprise a lot of the opponents we will face throughout the season.” •Katie Meek
Boys Swimming:
This swim season Peter Bella, freshman, swims mostly free style. He strives to be better for the team and win city. He said, “The meets are really fun Facing Lawerence Central and and I get to hang out Cardinal Ritter at LC, Peter with my friends.” He has Bella races in 500 free event. already swam for three years prior to high school and looks forward to contributing to his BCHS team. •Abby McDonald
Photo: Abby Park
Boys Basketball:
Girls Basketball:
Girls Swimming:
At wrestling practice, Aiden Sullivan wrestles teammate.
Aiden Sullivan, freshman wrestlers, said, “The team is really supportive and the guys always tell me how to improve.” He has been wrestling for 6 years and plans to wrestle for his the next 3 years. His personal goal is to place in the city tournament and for the team to go to state. •Abby McDonald
Mary Borchers, freshman, passes for the shot against Guerin Catholic.
The girls basketball welcomes a few new freshmen to the JV and varsity squads, among them Mary Borchers. Playing the guard position, Borchers explained that the season has had some ups and downs already but both teams are starting to find their groove. Borchers said, “I hope to continue to grow as a player and play more with the varsity team.” •Katie Meek
Boys Bowling:
Photo: Kylie Donaldson
Photo: Greta Horton
Wrestling:
Photo: Ellen Giudice
Photo: Abby Park
The girls swim team has started their season off with a splash with many new members. Katie Guymon, freshman, explains that the swim team doesn’t really specify disSwimming during the Tech meet, Katie tinctions between Gymon freshman leads the freestyle lap. JV and varsity. Guymon said, “It makes everyone feel welcomed, like one big team.” She goes on to state that the team’s main goal is to beat Cathedral in the city meet. •Katie Meek
Junior bowling captain, Darrin Gee, said his goal is to win sectionals and go to state. He said, “I like that we are all new players, so we’re leaning the sport together.” It is his first year playing, but he says he wished he would have started sooner because he is enjoying it so much. •Abby McDonald Darrin Gee, junior, rolls a spare during his bowling match.