Hi-Lights Mater Dei High School Student Magazine @MD_HiLights
Vol. 2 Issue 2 second quarter 2018
1300 Harmony Way Evansville, IN materdeijournalism@gmail.com
Table of Contents Hi-LightsStaff magazine
1 2 3
Juuling classroom environment finals advice Pepping it Up 4-5 soccer 6 football 7 fall wrap up 8 Jv vs. varsity 9 girls playing boys sports 10-11 band 12 exchange students 13 corporal works of mercy 14-15 Fall Play 16-17 junior spotlight 18 venom review 19 christmas 20 social media positivity 21 colin kaepernick editorial 22 grade level views 23 Keeping it Positive 24
veterans day
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clubs
January 2 16 17 18 21 29 31
back to school Prayer service dismissal at 2:05 mass basketball homecoming MLK day, make-up day Senior mass Career day
February 12 14 18 21
lenton penance service early dismissal no school presidents day blood drive
March 6 8
ash wednesday mass juniors SAT end of quarter
Editor
Marketing
Allison Deeg
CHase Scobbo NAthan Seibert
Staff: Mason Niemeier, Audrey Seng, Sam Westerfield Contributors: Claire Adler, emily braun, ali maurer, and marissa riordan Journalism contributors: Teresa Berneking, emma bullock, lucy fitzgibbon, Emily Gagnon, alexis griffin, olivia hamilton, Sophie Oliver, chloe partridge, dawson pfaffman, Leah Richey, Catherine Shockley, Briana Stephens, and addison whitfield Adviser: Mrs. St. Clair
Volume 1 Corrections We apologize for the following errors in our last issue. In a caption, Jordyn Gossman was misidentified as Vanessa VanBibber. Dr. Donna Richardson was misquoted in Robotics club spotlight. Please send all compliments, corrections and suggestions to materdeijournalism@gmail.com
DANGER students learn the hazards of using e-cigarettes by sophomore Leah Richey; design by senior Mason Niemeier Representatives of Smoke Free Communities presented ecigarette information and warnings to students during on Oct. 15. During the presentation, Courtney Lee-Horning, Director of Smoke Free Communities, and Kim Litkenhaus, Coordinator of Smoke Free Communities, explained the dangers of using ecigarettes. For example, the adolescent brain continues to develop through age 26. In the last year, two million high school students have been using e-cigarettes during this vital time of brain development. “So many kids are doing it and becoming addicted,” sophomore Julia Dassel said. “It's something new to them at first, but eventually as they do it more and more, they get addicted.” Companies advertise however they please. Lee-Horning gave an example that involved printing false nicotine levels on
packaging. According to LeeHorning and her research, distributors have been advertising their products to minors, specifically high school students. “Teens should be educated more through advertisements showing the negative effects on social media,” sophomore Mallory Weber said. Sept. 12, the FDA cracked down on this growing issue by giving Juul 60 days to prove they weren’t advertising to minors. Additionally, the FDA threatened to pull flavored pods from the market. Litkenhaus also said that outlawing the devices could be a major step in discouraging the use of e-cigs. “People want it to be safe. They want to believe that, so they continue to dispel that to other people,” Lee-Horning said. For more information and resources regarding e-cigs, visit smokefreecommunities.com.
57% of 183 students said that traditional cigarettes are worse for your health than e-cigarettes.
95% of 185 students consider themselves informed about the dangers of using ecigarettes.
PEOPLE WANT IT TO BE SAFE. THEY WANT TO BELIEVE THAT, SO THEY CONTINUE TO DISPEL THAT TO OTHER PEOPLE.” Courtney Lee-Horning, Director of Smoke Free Communities
WHAT DO YOU THINK? “I think it is up to minors to keep ecigs out of their own hands. They’re ultimately the ones who make the decision.” Mallory Weber ,10
“Some kids are informed, some aren’t. There are plenty of resources, but they just need to listen.” Julia Dassel, 10
72% of 184 students said that e-cigarettes are a serious problem in our school.
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Varied Classroom Teaching Styles
aid learning For students by freshman Catherine Shockley, junior Marissa Riordan
Students prefer a variety of different teaching techniques while learning. Different styles such as visual, auditory, kinesthetic, reading and writing influence the ability for a student to obtain the information being taught. According to illinois.edu, visual learners obtain information by watching and remembering images that they have seen. Auditory students learn by listening. Kinesthetic learners are taught with movement. Print learners retain information best through reading texts and writing information out.
Experimenting with different methods of learning may prevent students from feeling frustrated and inadequate when they are not able to work up to their potential. “Some like notes, some like projects, some would rather do it by themselves and get it done, some like working with other people, so I’m sure there's always things that stress people out,” Mrs. Meghan Carter said. Each learning style gives students a way to focus on their talents in the classroom, motivating them to do their best. In German class,
“Some like notes, some like projects, some would rather do it by themselves and get it done, some like working with other people,” Mrs. Meghan Carter competition helps inspire students. “They love to compete with each other, but it's always friendly competition, and I think that gives them a motivation to do well,” german teacher Mrs. Abigail Whicker said.
Which learning style do you prefer? out of 186 students
53.2 % hands on activities 20.4% notes and lecture 19.9% group work
Which classroom construction do you prefer? out of 185 students 54.6% groups of 3-5 25.4% individual rows Studying. During English class, seniors Elyssa Happe and Katherine Hahn laugh while reviewing notes together. Print learners prefer to see information on paper, often referring to textbooks or textbook examples.
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14.6% connected rows 5.4% no desks
PEPPING IT UP for school spirit by freshman Chloe Partridge photos by Chase Scobbo
Spanish teacher Ms. Kristen Weinzapfel and the senior pep club members strive throughout the year to present fun pep assemblies. They encourage students and staff to participate in upcoming events and stress the importance of becoming involved freshman year.
TOP FIVE
Pep Assembly Suggestions Class cheer battle. Have a team of 5-10 students from each grade come up with a 1 cheer (within 2 minutes) and then perform it to the school. The team that gets the loudest and most creative cheer wins.
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Have a poster contest. Ask homerooms, clubs and teams to make their best spirit posters to display around the school. At the next pep assembly, show them all off and have students vote on their favorite. During basketball season have a team of
3 students and a team of teachers play knockout.
Have a toilet paper teacher race. Have one teacher per grade and the president 4 of each class get together. Then, have the student wrap the teacher in toilet paper. First one fully wrapped wins. To prepare for May Day and get everyone involved, play a game of tug a war. Have 5 the freshman face the sophomores and the juniors against the seniors. Then, have a face off with the winning classes.
FINAL EXA M
ADVICE Plan out when you’re going to study for what final ahead of time so you aren’t as stressed and so you’ll have plenty of time to prepare for each test. If you have a job, try requesting off finals week to have more time to study. Eat breakfast before school so you can focus better. Don’t worry so much. You can fail a final and still pass a class.
Throughout the semester review all the things that you have learned in each class so that you don’t forget it all before finals. If there is one final you’re stressing about, study at home and the block before that final. Don’t waste your other study blocks; use those for the final after that block. Start studying early. Don’t wait until the last minute. Don’t stay up too late. Study needed information and get to bed, so you won’t feel tired and you will be able to focus in the morning.
Make outlines needed for specific study materials. If you are going to use Quizlet, do not rely on other students’ study sets. Make your own so that you are more familiar with the information. Don’t let yourself get distracted by friends or other. Study your hardest subjects and the subjects that require the most time first. Try repeating what you have to know out loud or to someone else. Don’t overthink. Have confidence in yourself.
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Compete. Playing Vinnences Rivet, sophomore Ellsa Bonnell blocks the ball from Lauren Lane (#6) to dribble down field. Taking the victory, the girls won 3-0 with Folz scoring two goals and senior Jenna Zirkelbach scoring the other. “I loved all the seniors this year because they really made me feel like I was apart of the team and really showed me how to be a good teammate,” Bonnell said. photo j. paul Throw In. Throwing the ball in, junior Emma Lamble puts the ball into play during the Gibson Southern game. Winning 9-0, the girls defeated the Titans. “I loved how we were all so close, and it showed on and off the field. I’m going to miss the seniors, but I wouldn't have wanted to win two state championships with anybody else,” Lamble said. photo c. adler
State
CHAMPS by junior Audrey Seng Ending the season with a 14-4-1 record, the team won a sectional title for five consecutive years, defeating Evansville Day School 3-1 in the championship game. Moving right onto regionals, the girls took the victory against Providence, winning 4-0 and beating Oldenburg Academy 5-1 in the finals with much support from family and friends. “The support for the soccer team has been amazing. Having fans at games really pumps us up and gets us excited to play for our school,” senior Vic
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Zigenfus said. Advancing to semistate for the fifth year in a row, the team faced Park Tudor with a final score of 2-0, advancing the girls to state for the second year in a row. Defeating Wheeler, the girls brought home another state title. Facing the Bearcats again this year for state, junior Madde Folz scored a goal in the second half resulting in a final score of 1-0. “This year has been great so far. The team chemistry with this group is amazing. We
Victory. Running into each others arms, the team crashes the field to celebrate their state win. After the team returned home, the girls traveled to the feeder schools for a trophy tour to share their accomplishments with future Wildcats. photo a. maurer
Hustle. Racing to the ball, Folz beats her opponent to score a goal. Folz scored 8 goals throughout the season, including the only goal in the state game. “Scoring the goal in the state game was the best feeling in the world and rushing to hug my teammates is a moment I’ll never forget,” Folz said. photo a. maurer
have great senior leadership and a very talented group of girls! I started coaching as the assistant when this year’s senior group were
freshmen and to be able to be with them on this journey for four years has been unforgettable,” Coach Amy Weber said.
Hard Workers
by junior Audrey Seng, senior Claire Adler
Beginning the season in June, the boys soccer team aimed to continue the success of the previous seasons after losing multiple key players. Although some players came in to practice later in June due to participation in travel soccer season, this did not withhold the team from forming an instant bond. “Having a team that maintains a close bond off the field helps the group play as a team because any problems can be talked out,” senior Aaron Lovell said. During these summer practices, the team spent one week practicing early in the morning with their assistant “Throughout the coach, Joe Kellams. As the boys season, the team worked through the season, the grew closer together, hard work put in at all of the and we were able to practices showed in their winning form bonds that will last a lifetime.” season record of 12-3-3. sophomore Emma A major victory of the Peerman season was the intense game photo a. maurer against Castle. The team
completed both halves in a 1 - 1 tie, forcing the game into two, seven minute halves in which neither team scored. Moving into penalty kicks, the team made the first three kicks. As the player selected to kick the fourth penalty kick, “I tried not to let the nerves get to me. While waiting my turn I had planned in my head where I was going to shoot the ball,” sophomore Carter Marx said. However, due to sophomore Sam Hagerty blocking all three of Castle’s kicks, the game ended early. “It was nerve racking, but my goalie coaches said all you have to do is save one, so I just repeated that in my head and it worked out,” Hagerty said. Thanks to the help of their coaches, Josh Tucker and Rob Schoenstein, who both began helping the boys soccer team four years ago, the boys advanced to the sectional finals against Memorial.
“This season was so much fun because we had such an amazing group of seniors!” junior Audrey McDurmon photo s. henderson
Defend. Dribbling up the field, senior Grady Schnieder looks for teammates to pass the ball to. In this game, the boys defeated Mount Vernon 2-0 with both goals being scored by senior Zach Schoenstein had a good season, Senior. “We Dale McCamish but it was super quick. I’m going to miss it because I’ve made life long friends over the last four years playing,” Schnieder said. photo e. braun Battle. Staying focused, junior Jonah Weinzapfel tries to beat the opponent. The Wildcats won against Central 3-1 with Schoenstein scoring all 3 goals. “We had a solid season overall, and I will really miss playing with the seniors,” Weinzapfel said. photo e. braun
“Over the season, we worked hard and improved each game, and it paid off in the end,” senior Jessica Marquis photo j. paul
Senior James Wassmer
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Dedicated Athletes by junior Audrey Seng, senior Ali Maurer
Ending their season in the sectional finals game, overcoming obstacles was key throughout the season. With a conference full of competitive teams, their goal was to “get better every week,” senior Hunter Taylor said. Beginning the season with out-of-conference teams, the boys worked together to fill the spots left open by the previous year’s players. Based on their performance in the 31-22 win against Indian Creek, senior Austin Wulff, junior Cole Happe and junior John McGrew were named players
of the game by WREF 97.7 FM/ESPN Radio. Moving into the conference games, positions were filled and players stepped up all around the team. “In the beginning, we didn’t know what we were going to have position wise. We were particularly young and small in size, but we worked hard and the seniors pushed the younger guys harder and harder everyday. We improved drastically from the beginning, and I wouldn’t want to be playing with any other group of guys,” senior Jake Wilson said.
Success. Huddling
up before the game, the team comes together to pump each other up. In the huddle, one or more of the players give a speech on how they're going to win and break out with a chant. photo straub
Favorite Memory
Kick. Preparing to take a field goal, Aaron Lovell (12) heads to the ball. By the end of the season. Lovell had made 33 field goals. “I decided to start kicking my sophomore year, with no idea what I was getting into. Looking back over it, I can say that it was one of my best decisions. I was lucky to be able to create so many memories with our team over the past 3 years,” Lovell said. photo a. maurer Tackle. Grabbing _ the opponent, Dakx Lannert (11) and Dalton Folz (11) team up to take down the Knights. “I loved playing along side of some of my best friends all season,” Lannert said. photo straub United. During the Castle game, team captains Wilson, Matthew Woodruff (12), Taylor and Tyler Goebel (12) walk up to shake hands with the opposing team. Team captains are picked based on preseason performance, leadership skills and varsity experience. “Being a team captain meant a lot to me because I knew I had to lead by example and show that I will always have my teammates back and push people to be the best they can,” Taylor said. photo straub Lead. Running up field, McGrew breaks through his Apollo opponents. After dislocating his elbow during the North game, McGrew returned to the field later in the season to punt against Central and North Posey and play in the game against Linton Stockton and South Ridge. photo c. scobbo “Singing in the locker room before games!” Austin Wulff (12) photo a. maurer
“There is nothing like the Friday Nights at the Bowl hearing the crowd cheer us on!” Ben Ubehlor (12) photo straub
“Playing in the mud game against Linton Stockton!” Tyler Goebel (12) photo a.maurer
Hustle. Dodging his opponent, Happe sprints toward the end zone. Overall, Happe completed 128 passes, including 19 touchdown passes.“I was very proud of our team this year. We had a lot of new guys that hadn't played varsity before step up and make an impact. It didn't end the way we wanted it to, but I enjoyed every minute of it,� Happe said. photo straub Focus. Waiting for the pass, Happe positions his hands in preparation to catch the ball. Defeating North Posey 35-7, the team takes the victory. photo a. maurer Game Plan. Gathering together during the North game, the boys huddle together to talk about the next play and strategize how to win. The Wildcats beat the Huskies 50-14. photo a. maurer
FOOTBALL ACCOLADES
901 Keck Ave (812) 305-8441
sinnettfacilityservices.com
2A Associated Press All-State Football Team: First Team: Dakx Lannert Honorable Mention: Aaron Lovell, Hunter Taylor, Jake Wilson, Colin Givens, Brady Boring, Cole Happe IFCA 2A Junior All-State: First Team: Dakx Lannert, Colin Givens All-SIAC First Team: Dakx Lannert Second Team: Hunter Taylor, Brady Boring, Colin Givens, Jake Wilson, John McGrew, Dalton Folz Evansville Courier All-Metro: Dakx Lannert, John McGrew Football Almanac All-Southwestern Indiana Team: Dakx Lannert, John McGrew Team Captains: Matthew Woodruff, Tyler Goebel, Hunter Taylor, Jake Wilson 2018 Kiwanis Award: Jake Wilson 2018 Most Valuable Player: Cole Happe 2018 Best Offensive Player: Hunter Taylor 2018 Best Defensive Player: Dakx Lannert 2018 IFCA Academic All-State Football Team: Aaron Lovell, Tyler Goebel, Max Johnson, Will Folz, Ben Ubehlor, Jake London, Darian Kuhn, Allen Hungate 2018 Academic All-City: Ben Ubelhor, Austin Wulff, Aaron Lovell, Tyler Goebel, Max Johnson, Will Folz, Jake London, Hunter Taylor, Darian Kuhn, Allen Hungate, Ethan Schnur, Luke Kassenbrock, Dakx Lannert, Jake Merkley, Brady Boring, Jackson Brantley, Nolan Knight, Alex Money, Preston Turner, Nicholas Boots
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by freshman Lucy Fitzgibbon, senior Emily Braun ENCOURAGING. The student section at the varsity football game against Reitz is jam packed. Students crowd together to support the team. photo A. Elpers
“
I would like to get those teams noticed more because they could be just as good as varsity , but no one would know it because they spent their time looking at varsity.” freshman Chrissy Marx
Despite the hard work
of the freshman, JV and varsity athletes, the varsity athletes often receive most of the recognition in high school sports. An example of recognition differences is the JV volleyball team, which consisted of more players than varsity but routinely had fewer fans. Furthermore, every team at each level puts forth much time and effort. “I think they get more recognition because they are older and more experienced,” freshman Devon Folz said.
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In addition to volleyball, the number of fans at freshman football games differs greatly from that of varsity games. Though the weather was cold and rainy, the stadium was packed with fans at the varsity Reitz game. The freshman game against Reitz was cold but not rainy, but only around 20 students showed up, all of whom were freshmen. Another example is the freshman and JV teams are never individually announced but all varsity players are announced and the “Star Spangled
Banner” is performed. “I would like to get those teams noticed more because they could be just as good as varsity, but no one would know it because they spent their time looking at just varsity,” freshman Chrissy Marx said. “In general your varsity teams are the ones covered by the media. Therefore, they are going to be supported more by fans,” Athletic Director Mr. Joe Herrmann said.
#MD70
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exploring life through music Reginals Evansville Central High School
Gold Rating
Visual Disctinction
Success. Marchers celebrate their victory at regionals. Senior Sarah Duncan holds the trophy after band director Ms. Allison Field put on the regionals plaque.
Semi-State Franklin Community High School
Gold rating
tradition. Two marchers fist bump, a tradition of luck, before their performance.
State Lucas Oil Stadium
5th place Class D
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Finale. Guard member Anna Schneider holds her ending pose as her last performance ends at Lucas Oil.
by sophomore Teresa Berneking photos S. Vaughn
Many people think that marching band consist of musically talented students who run around on a football field and play songs that nobody knows. In reality, it is much more than that. Of 186 students, 70.4 % admitted that they have never been to a band competition. “Marching band is different because you can’t just pick up an instrument and play. It’s something you have to learn over time,” senior Lucy Harrison said. Band director Ms. Allison Field often says that marching band is not so much of a physical activity as it is a mental activity. Marchers memorize music, learn their drill on the field and have to learn a new way of walking. Along with the mental component, marching band takes a lot of physical activity. A marcher has to run around the entire football field using the style of walking they just learned only a few short months ago, holding an instrument (that can vary from 2-30 pounds), while playing music they have to memorize, and not being able to breathe when their brain tells them they need to for seven minutes. In order to be able to perform an entire show without passing out, the Mater Dei marching band runs an average of seven minutes every practice. The band also does many different stretches, pushups, crunches, calf raises, and stone walls. Many of the newbies find this hard to believe and have trouble finding their motivation during the beginning of their season.
“The hardest part about marching band is finding ways to teach the new kids to understand how and why we do certain things,” senior Sarah Duncan said. Marching band isn’t just for the students. The parents contribute nearly as much as the students do. For example, the band parents helped out at the Bosse invitational which they cohosted. They also pack us sack lunches for semi-state, build all of our props, fix instrument cases, and design the display in the cafeteria. At every competition, they are cheering their kid on and clapping for every toss they catch or music they play. The band parents do more for marchers than they could ever imagine, so to all the band parents out there, thank you. The parents and marchers of the Mater Dei Marching Band have had the privilege to go to Lucas Oil Stadium and perform for their state competition for 10 years now. As a marcher who has performed on the Colts field, I can say that coming out from the tunnels and stepping onto that field is one of the greatest feelings. Prairie Farms is a sponsor of the state competition in Indianapolis, so after a band performs, they go back and drink milk. There are always crazy flavors such as salted caramel and peanut butter chocolate along with the classics. “My favorite thing about going to state is being able to perform at Lucas Oil and getting to drink the milk after the
Salute. Drum majors Sarah Duncan and Zachary Vaughn perform their salute with guard captains Lily Becker and Rachel Fisher to accept their award at state
performance,” sophomore Megan Muensterman said. This year’s show is called ‘The Pursuit’. It is about finding our “pursuit of happiness” as musicians. In the end, our mission is to bring happiness to other people by using the talents that God gave to us. “In life, we can often find happiness in things like money, toys, and popularity, but the happiness these things bring us is short lived and often trivial. It is only when we lose these things and turn to God that we can find true happiness within Him and when we do find that happiness in God, life becomes more like a ride and less like a pursuit,” sophomore Emma Elfreich said. The Mater Dei Marching Wildcats earned a gold rating at regionals, which gave them the opportunity to advance to semistate. At the semi-state performance, the band was able to move forward to the state competition.
2nd Place Best Color Guard
1st place Best Color Guard
Evansville Central Invitational Bosse Invitational
4th place
Evansville North Invitational
3rd place
Evansville Harrison Invitational
2nd place
Reitz Invitational
Best Pit Crew
Smile. The seniors pose in front of Lucas Oil.
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Financial Benefits Host families receive $1000 off of their tuition. Host families are not responsible for covering the tuition of the exchange student. Host families will receive a stipend to cover extra food and housing costs.
ASSE
international student exchange programs Becoming a Host Family Families interested in hosting an exchange student can contact the school or Mrs. Seiler. They can receive information on the program and on potential students if still interested. This will include basic information, the student’s interests and a letter from the student. Both the students and families will go through approval processes.
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Exchange Students school welcomes, encourages involvement by sophomore Olivia Hamilton
Each year, new students from across the world travel to Mater Dei to learn about culture, customs and language. “I feel like my English has become way better,” sophomore Paul Czaja said since coming here from Germany. However, they aren’t the only ones learning about other cultures. The entire school learns from exchange students throughout the year. Freshman Gabe Blanton remembers how an exchange student he hosted taught him how to cook authentic food from Spain. Interacting with exchange students at school is not the only way for students to get to know them and learn about their culture. New connections and friendships can be formed through extracurriculars, such as sports and clubs, or hosting a student. At Mater Dei, Enrollment Manager Mrs.Jill Seiler finds the host families for exchange students and provides them with information on students involved with Asse International Student Exchange Programs. All of these students go through an application process showing that they are smart, bilingual and known to be a good citizen. “I would definitely recommend it,” parent Melanie Blanton said. “We’ve had two kids, and they’ve both been fantastic in their own ways. It has been a great experience.”
Paul Czaja sophomore from Germany staying for one semester with the Martins
Marco Andino junior from Spain staying for one year with the Blantons
what
STUDENTS think
32.8% of 185 students said they would be interested in becoming an exchange student. 14.6% of 185 students said their family would be interested in hosting an exchange student.
“Exchange students teach students here about other cultures and keep the school diverse.” Meredith Hagerty, 10 “It’s good because, depending on where they’re from, they bring diversity and difference.” Briana Stephens, 9
The POWER of kindness, Clothe the naked: donate clothes you don’t wear. Give drink to the thirsty: donate baby formula to a local pregnancy help center. shelter the homelesssend a care package to an orphanage.
Feeding the hungry: keep granola bars in your car to hand out to homeless people at stoplights
visit the imprisoneddonate Bibles or other religious books to a local prison
visit the sick- volunteer at a local hospital
bury the dead- supply a food dish for a funeral luncheon
service&love
“Give and you will receive”
Luke 6:38
by freshman Emily Gagnon
Imagine a world without kindness, giving and love. During this season of giving, it is especially important to devote time, money, and goods to people who are struggling in the world. In the scriptures, Jesus gives his children examples of acts of love, charity and service so all can be examples of his light. These lessons are referred to as the Corporal Works of Mercy. The Corporal Works of Mercy lead followers away from the seven deadly sins and guide them toward building virtues and clearing their path for the kingdom of God. “These works are a list of recommended acts of love that Jesus gives to us in the scriptures saying that if we do these things for our brothers and sisters we do them for Jesus” freshman Theology teacher Mr. Nicholas Soellner said.
HARD AT WORK. Creating homeless mats, freshman Nicholas Boots, Noah Phillips and Alexa Kassenbrock help their community during the freshman retreat.
CARING HEARTS. Cutting plastic bags, freshman James Mayer, Avery Martin and Christine Marx prepare materials for making homeless mats.
At the beginning of the year, Sister At the beginning of the year, Sister Teresa Gunter from St. Anthony’s parish showed the freshman at their retreat how important the Corporal Works of Mercy are, focusing mostly on homeless people. The freshman were taught how to make “homeless mats” made of cut up plastic bags that are tied and crocheted together. These mats provide a surface for homeless people to lay on while out on the street. If interested in giving back to thr community, find something that helps others and that you are passionate about.
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Theater presents “The Odd Couple” by junior Allison Deeg
For this year’s annual fall play, the theater department produced something a little different. They performed two plays in one day with a dinner in between. All theater students peformed “The Odd Couple,” with the male version early in the day and the female version in the evening. In each play, a neat person and a messy person made up the ’odd couple’ living together. As to be expected,
“I thought it was fun that Ben and I got to play the same role and feed off of each others energy and give each other notes, like I’d look at how he did something to improve the way I did it.” senior Kaelyn Wessel some of the cast experienced nervousness before the show. Along with the
jitters, getting into character isn’t Game Night. In the male play, sophomores Audrey always the easiest French, Hunter Schenk, thing to do, but the Mitch Kane and freshman actors and actresses Isaiah Bailey, play “Speed”, seem to have had no “Vinnie”, “Murry”, and “Roy” problems. respectively. The group plays a game and talks during the “I think getting into first and last act of the play. character for me is just Helping Hand. Trying to always thinking what make Felix feel better, junior would he do. What Will Orth playing ’Oscar would Felix do in this Madison’ hands senior Ben situation?” senior Ben Harrison playing ’Felix Unger’ some tea. In this scene, Felix Harrison said. just discovers that his wife is Along with the getting a divorce. After this play, the theater will be scene, Felix decides to move hosting a one act in with Oscar and this begins festival in the winter and the main plot of the play. the annual musical in the spring.
pre-performance rituals Emily Hausmann
Kaelyn Wessel
Alison Schimmell
“I like to run through the show in my head before each performance.”
“Backstage, Julia and I have a secret handshake that we do and we've done it since freshman year. If we don’t, then its bad luck.”
“I usually listen to upbeat music to shake the stress away.”
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Double date. For the female play, senior Julia Knight played “Olive Madison” and senior Kaelyn Wessel played “Florence Unger.” Olive is a messy, sports fan while Florence is an uber organized, fashionista. Playing the two neighbors from Spain, sophomores Dawson Schroeder played “Jesus Costazuela” and Greg Mayer played Jesus’ brother, “Manolo Costazuela”. The brothers traveled from Spain to the U.S. to earn a new start after their breakups with their wives. The brothers are able to empathize with Florence after her recent divorce.
Home sweet home. Both the plays were set up to look like an apartment. At the beginning of the play the apartment was quite messy, but it was thoroughly ’cleaned’ throughout the performance. While one of the two plays was performing, the other play’s cast would serve as the stage crew who cleaned the apartment in between the scenes.
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Cole Happe “Everyone has their own battles, and an act of kindness makes a Involvement
big difference.”
Football Track
Favorite school food: Italian chicken noodles “My favorite thing to do in school is talk to everyone and be kind.”
photo by a. maurer
spread designed by m. niemeier 16
Junior
Kristen Schneider “Knowing that everything you say has an impact motivates me to be kind to others.�
Involvement
Cheer
National Honor Society Student council Teen advisory Teen power Dance marathon Service club
Jewels
photo by c. scobbo
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SAM’S SYNOPSIS
I can't get that end credits song out of my head. Venom, one of Spider-Man’s most notorious villains, finally get his own solo movie, which no one was really asking for. A Venom movie with no SpiderMan, that sounds like the worst idea ever, right? However, Sony managed to pull it off. Tom Hardy pulls out yet another seller performance to his IMBD page as Eddie Brock that man who is over taken by the
Venom symbiote. Tom Hardy really breathes life into his reckless, hard hitting journalist in this film with his performance and makes it seem like he really is getting attacked and taken over by an alien parasite. Oh, sorry, symbiote, Venom doesn't like to be called a parasite. The story of this movie was loosely based on a comic storyline in the 90’s called Venom: Lethal Protector, where Venom
becomes a hero and decides to protect a small underground community of homeless people. The movie isn't about Venom eating bad guys to save homeless people, but rather follows Eddie’s attempt to stop the evil Life Foundation from experimenting and killing human test subjects. The story of this movie is hard to give a synopsis of because it doesn't follow one main thread or idea. Instead, a lot happens and escalates, and the film is filled with action. Not action as in a lot of fighting, but action as in a lot of things happening all at once for the most part. The beginning of the movie is a little slow, but once Venom gets introduced things start to pop off.
by junior Sam Westerfield
We get treated to funny moments of Eddie dealing with a brand new demonic voice in his head, slapstick comedy as he looses control of his body due to Venom taking over, and a really funny section where Hardy jumps into a lobster fist tank and eats a real life lobster raw. That's some dedication to your craft right there. The villain of the movie is the CEO of the Life Foundation, and Riot is another symbiote. As far as villains go, he wasn't the worst, but he was far from compelling. The movie gives the sense that he's killing people because he believes humans are inferior, but we're given no reason as to why he thinks that. In all, Venom was cool.
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Christmas time School Yard by junior Sam Westerfield
Can you hear it? Can you smell it? Can you feel it? Yes, Christmas time is upon us fellers! It's the time of joy and giving, and a little receiving if you're not on Santa's naughty list. Christmas time is the favorite time for a lot of people. The question I have is why? What makes Christmas so special to so many people? Out of 185 who responded, the top 3 favorite things about Christmas was activities with 2.7 percent, 20.5 percent said songs, and 14.6 percent said the weather. Christmas leads to spending time with family and friends because of so many of the great things to do to celebrate the birth of Christ. Activities include decorating the house with lights, putting up ornaments on the tree, and hiding the Christmas pickle somewhere in the tree. Another memorable Christmas tradition is going Christmas caroling. Songs are so integral to the Christmas season. Singing is something that lightens spirits and brings joy to so many people, both the singers and the audience. Singing is a great way to give praise to Jesus, who is the only reason we celebrate Christmas time to begin with. Christmas songs are so universal and iconic, anyone and everyone has sung a Christmas song at least once in their life. Weather is also a big part of Christmas. The cold weather and the gathering of people in homes to open presents make the whole place feel warm and cozy. Once you decide to go outside, the snow, if it snows, is beautiful. Snow gives the fun of having crazy snowball fights. Christmas time is the best.
Jesus Christ. He's the main reason we have Christmas time to celebrate.
Rawr. Junior Will Orth, proves that you're never too old to play with dinosaurs. Humphrey, Noeque and Franky are the dinos that reside in Sam’s locker, the one with the photos on it. Everybody loves toys on Christmas.
Sandwich. Junior Zeke Epley sits between his two best friends, juniors Kyle Davidson and Audrey Seng. Zeke and Kyle eat together every red day.
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Job # 12299-009 School Mater Dei High School 1/8/19 6:59 PM
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Š2007 Herff Jones, Inc., All Rights Reserved
Edited
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Social media affects
Social Interactions by sophomore Alexis Griffin
Favorite social media sites like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, and Youtube could be affecting a person’s social interactions. According to Forbes magazine “only 7% of communication is based on verbal word. This means that more than 90% is through the media.” Face-to-face interactions have the ability to satisfy many social needs, but media tends to trap people in an online world where they can't meet those needs. “I think it is better to get to know someone face-to-face because it makes the bond they will have more personal,” sophomore
Logan Titzer said. While being on media sites is fun, they can affect people emotionally, specifically with self confidence issues or anxiety. ”It can be a good and bad thing,” sophomore Teresa Berneking said. A nationally recognized professional speaker and survivor of Columbine, Austin Eubanks, spoke to the freshman, sophomores and visiting Memorial students on Nov. 29. He shared information about the affects of social media on the brain. Mr. Eubanks said that Oxytocin is a chemical in the brain that is responsible for the way a person
interacts with others, and being on technology for long hours can affect that chemical. There are Dopamine levels in the brain that affect how happy a person is, and not having the right levels of Dopamine and Oxytocin in the brain affects the social interactions that humans need. To learn more information, visit austineubanks.com or follow him on Twitter @eubanksaustin to see how he uses social media in a positive way.
Of 185 students polled, 59.5% said Snapchat is used the most out of these 5 major social media sites
59.5%
18.4%
14.6% 4.9%
!! P ITres A SN homo ers,
sop an Elp d er, Jor er ehl h u t s m ell, E g, nne h Wa e Mitc asber h a i c l Ky ney M Greuli d a t Sy Ann pho o and e for a ch. il sm ng lun i dur
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photo by s.westerfield
2.7%
KAEPERNICK signs with by freshman Briana Stphens
On September 4, 2018 Colin Kaepernick signed with Nike. The new ad campaign states “Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything.” Some people find this outrageous and don't understand why Nike would want to sign with someone who might jeopardize the popularity of their brand. Other people think it's a good idea because now they are getting attention. “I think it's a good branding idea for both, but more for Nike than Colin,” science teacher Mr. Jeff Jewell said. This started last August 14 whenever Kaepernick started sitting during the pledge. At this point no one actually noticed that he was sitting. Then on September 1, 2016 Kaepernick
took a knee during the pledge. To many people this is an extremely disrespectful act of protest. “I do not think it is right to kneel. I feel it to be disrespectful,” Mr. Jewell said. Kaepernick was protesting the racial shootings and thought that kneeling was a way for the public to truly see what he believes. In result, the NFL gave him two options: to opt out of the contract or to become a free agent. Some say that it was not a good decision, but others saw it as an understandable reaction. In my opinion, I do believe that the NFL did the right thing in cutting him off. However, I wouldn't be surprised if another team besides San Francisco saw this as a good opportunity to get some attention.
“Folks speak of his ‘right to protest. That’s not exactly correct in any estimation,” Mr. Jewell said. Some people want this problem resolved by not playing the national anthem at the football games. However, others argue that its not a good idea because the pledge is a sign of respect, peace, and honor for our fallen soldiers.
“It's not his reason for protest I have a problem with, it's how he protests. “ - Mr. Jewell
Do you support Kaepernick being the new face of Nike? Out of 186 responses 78 - I don't know 17 - Maybe 66 - No 25 - Yes
EXPERIENCE
one grade level at a time
by freshman Sophie Oliver
As students persevere through high school with the ups and downs, they are constantly waiting for someone to tell them what to do and why they need to do it. Nothing hurts worse than walking into the first day of high school with no idea what to expect. “Going from a very small class to being a freshman in a class of one hundred plus students was overwhelming,” freshman Audrey Vibbert said. Multiple freshmen began to realize that high school was harder than it seemed and started slacking. “Do not get behind on schoolwork. Otherwise, you will be staying up at two o'clock in the morning,” junior Bailey Brush said. Moving on to the next grade level could make others fearful or feel unprepared. “When I was a freshman, and even as a junior, I was terrified on the first day of school. I even walked into my locker. Now, I know what I need and what I am doing,” senior Kelsi Raben said.
The easiest academic year? of 178 students who responded, 60.7% freshman year 23.6% sophomore year 1.7% junior year 5.1% senior year
The year of the most fun? of 178 students who responded, 44.9% freshman year 25.7% sophomore year 10.7% junior year 15.7% senior year
Student
“Keep an open mind about everything and don’t have a bad outlook on something because one day went bad.” freshman Zach Pfeffer
“Take a study hall.” sophomore Leah Richey
“Junior year is tough and may seem impossible at times, but trust what the teachers are teaching and make sure to not slack on homework. . . the class will grow together because of it.” junior Audrie Collins
“Don’t do things at the last second.” senior Keegan Marx
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keeping it
POSITIVE
by sophomore Dawson Pfaffmann, freshman Emma Bullock
When life is stressful, many teenagers find it difficult to stay positive. Trying to maintain good grades while balancing home life and friends often causes teenagers to struggle with keeping a positive mindset. According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 50% of students dropout of high school because of these struggles. Thinking negatively is easy to do, but being positive should always be the goal. “Sometimes it takes effort to find the good in things, but always think about what you do have,” Youth First Social Worker Mrs. Valerie Dassel said. Thinking positive is important when dealing with negative thoughts. When wanting to become positive, use tactics to boost positivity, such as laughing with friends, listening to music, or exercising. During tough times, thinking positively is very helpful. It is important to find an activity that you enjoy to boost your spirits when feeling down. Forcing yourself to think about everything that is happening in your life will eventually cause you to focus on the good. Success.com suggests that teenagers can turn negative self-talk into positive self-talk. “Laughing and making others laugh can really boost your spirits,” freshman Addison Whitfield said. Don't be afraid to seek positivity through someone else who makes you feel positive. “Be that positive person and make them feel special,” Guidance Counselor Mrs. Shea Reneer said.
FUN TIMES. At the 2018 West Side Nutclub Fall Festival, Josie Hudson (12) and Lily Becker (12) enjoy their lemon shakeups. photo Chase Scobbo “If you're upset, talk. Don't be afraid to seek out people and ask for help.” Mrs. Reneer
“It’s okay to feel the opposite of how you have felt before.” Mrs. Dassel
What helps you most when you're feeling upset? (184 responses) Exercising - 18.5% Sleeping - 12% Eating - 3.3% Crying - 9.2% Laughing - 13% Listening to music - 34.8% Other - 9.2% To whom do you turn to when you're sad? (186 responses) Parents - 17.2% Teachers - 0.5% Counselors - 1.1% Friends - 60.2% Nobody - 21% 23
Private Dylan Butts
Cheese. Pvt. Butts poses for a picture with his father Jeff (Right) and younger brother Dalton (Left).
The Lane. Dylan’s family works a lot around the Franklin area, both in The Nut Club, and Franklin Lanes. Dylan has also bowled back to back 300s there.
by junior Sam Westerfield
This is what soldiers’ addressees look like:
PVT Dylan Butts CoC, 1st Battalion/58th Infantry Regiment 12952 W. 6th Street Fort Leonard Wood Mo 65472
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In today's world, America is seen as the land of the free and home of the brave. This is due to the brave men and women who have given their time, freedom, mind, body, and spirit into defending this country as members of the United States military. It is undoubtedly a tough and sole crushing job that only the bravest and boldest are able to perform. One such man willing to step up to the harrowing task is Dylan Butts, an Evansville native and former North Posey Viking. He signed up for the Army at age 18 and was shipped off to boot camp in July of this year. Even as a kid, Pvt. Butts has always talked about going into the military. Although his first love may have been the Navy Seals, Pvt Butts decided to join the Army. At first, he was going to be a scout for the Army, but after missing his first ship date by a few pounds, he was offered a new position as a missile operator, along with a massive pay upgrade. Pvt. Butts has always wanted to serve his country, now he's doing just that. He is my cousin , and I miss him, but I know that in his time in the Army he's going to do awesome things for his family, his home, and his country.
by seniors Chase Scobbo, Nathan Seibert
Archery
Let it CLUB Let it CLUB Let it CLUB
sponsor Mrs. Darlene Quinlin
Bowling
sponsor Mrs. Angela Conner
“Archery is a great experience. You get to do something you wouldn't usually be able to do.” senior Brayden Rexing
“My favorite part is bowling with my friend Dane Babillis and barking like dogs and doing a handshake every time we bowl a strike.” junior Henry Duncan
Theater
sponsor Mrs. Crystal Roberson “Theater is a place for anybody, you don't have to be athletic, you don't even have to be able to sing. It's just a place where you can always have something to do. It's a very welcoming community.” junior Will Orth
Be Kind
Student Council
sponsor Mrs. Jeanne Thomas “Student Council is a perfect way to get involved, make friends and a great a way to give back to community.” senior Anna Bury
Smile
Laugh
Express
Conduct
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Happy New Year!
89% of Mater Dei students believe parents should set clear rules and expectations about avoiding alcohol.