Our Lady of Good Counsel High School April 16, 2015
17301 Old Vic Blvd. Olney, MD 20832
Vol. VI Issue II
Chinese Exchange Program to begin Fall 2015
Photo by Andrew Lolavar.
Icy conditions in Montgomery County create dangerous driving for students.
Drive safely in poor weather conditions By Andrew Lolavar, Staff Writer
Photo by Delia Launi. Mrs. Yihung Mohs, new Director of Global Programs, and Dr. Paul Barker, President, pose at the front entrance of the school behind Our Lady of Good Counsel’s seal. By Delia Launi, Mrs. Mohs will be traveling in will have to score at a certain level Staff Writer
Beginning in the Fall 2015 academic year fresh faces, besides the incoming freshmen class, will be among the student body. Twelve Chinese students, six freshman and six sophomores, will join the OLGCHS community and become Falcons, not for a short visit but for their entire four year high school experience. These students will be traveling from places such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau. Dr. Barker, President of OLGCHS, initiated this program with the help of administrators including Mr. Campbell and Mr. Ehrman. Dr. Barker has also hired Mrs. Yihung Mohs as the Director of Global Programs to organize this big transition.
Swim & Dive
March to begin recruiting students. Mohs will also be conducting skype interviews to stay in touch with the students until the Fall semester. The Chinese Exchange Program will not only help OLGCHS reach students and families worldwide, but will also bring culture to students and faculty alike. “We are trying to give a more global perspective to our community,” Dr. Barker said. “Teachers will have to work on different teaching techniques for the Chinese students who may be struggling with the transition from a Chinese to an American class.” It will not be an easy process for the Chinese students to be accepted to the program. “The students are required to know decent English. They Shaelyn Harris: Featured Artist
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Index
on a standardized English Test,” said Barker. “The exchange students will also have to maintain high academic achievement and will be required to take an English course.” Dr. Barker is excited to implement this program. Eventually, he hopes to expand the program to countries all around the world. “It will be a lot of work, but in the end it will be a great step forward in [helping] OLGCHS [to go] global.” Information for this program can be found under the Admissions tab on the homepage. Clicking on the International Students link provides basic information and allows parents to sign up to host students. For more information on this program, contact Mrs. Yihung Mohs. Email: ymohs@olgchs.org. El Salvador Trip 2015
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News 2 | Arts & Entertainment 4 | In-Depth 6 | Athletics 11 | Opinion 14
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When driving in poor weather conditions like extreme rain, ice, snow and frigid tempratures it becomes more difficult to maintain safety, especially for inexperienced drivers. General rule of thumb is that you should always drive cautiously. Always wear a seat belt. Be aware of your speed. Remember to go easy on brakes because brake application often results in a loss of vehicle control. One easy way to be cautious in cold conditions like ice or snow is by simply waiting for conditions to improve. Stay off the roads until the threat passes. Make sure you and your vehicle are properly equipped. before venturing out: • Charged cell phone for making emergency calls • Plenty of antifreeze and windshield washer fluid to maintain visibility • Decent tire tread and proper inflation • Cat litter or salt in the event that tires become stuck • Warm blanket or clothing • Flashlight and/or road flares • Sunglasses Never act or feel overconfident when behind the wheel. A major factor in many serious and fatal crashes is overconfidence in one’s abilities. Just because one can drive well, does not mean they can control the conditions of the road.
Page 2 News April 16, 2015
OLGCHS participates in March for Life Day on and off campus By Dylan Ghion, Copy Editor
On Thursday, January 22, OLGCHS students took part in Life Issues Day. The students did so in one of two ways - attending the world renowned March for Life or the activities on campus.Both of these impactful events were aimed at one purpose, appreciating the beauty and dignity of life. The March for Life has become one of the world’s most famous prolife marches, which began in 1973. Contrary to popular belief, abortion is not the only focus of life issues day. Other topics of concern include chastity, contraception, cloning, and capital punishment. These are considered violations of natural human rights by the Pro-Life Office of the Archdiocese of Washington and need to be fought against as such. Thousands of people stormed the Washington, D.C. to show their support for the March, and although there was a slight hiccup when pro-abortion supporters tried to stop the 2015 march, it went as planned. The overall day included the annual Rally for Life and Mass, as well as, many speakers who spoke on various pro-life issues. Thousands of high school students from around the country attended the March. Regan McBride, a junior who attended the March, said “It was
Celebrities who support #LifeIssues Chesney wrote “There Goes My Life” about a teenage boy expecting a child and chooses to stay involved as a dedicated father.
Photo by Colleen Tracy. OLGCHS students line the sidewalk in Washington, D.C. wearing their distinctive orange knit hats.
great to see people coming together as advocates for life, and there was a real sense of community among the marchers, especially among the other high school students there.” Life Issues Day back on the OLGCHS campus was again a day full of fun, service, and knowledge. Students participating at school did a variety of service projects including helping African Palms and making sandwiches for the hungry.
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Mission Statement
The mission of the Our Lady of Good Counsel High School newspaper, The Talon, is to be the most accurate, most thorough and most interesting source of news, sports and entertainment for the campus community. The principles that staff members should operate by include: o To assertively seek content that has high interest, impacts the reader, provokes discussion and advances the reader’s knowledge o To react quickly to any newsworthy events, whether on campus, around Olney or in another part of the world (if it impacts our readers). o To make the products as relevant to readers as possible by knowing what has happened, what is happening and what will happen in the news o To create a product that is a reflection of the diversity of the backgrounds, goals and interests of the readers. o To consistently adhere to the ethical guidelines of The Talon and foster the most professional environment possible at all levels. o To develop and become technically, ethically and successful student journalists.
The Talon Staff Editors-in-Chief Cheyanne Neuenschwander (Print) Richard DeRiso (Web) Executive Managing Editor Jamie Large Multimedia Managing Editor Bernard Greenhow III Promotional Managing Editor Lauren Ridlon Copy Desk Chief Marius Mutijima-Page Copy Editors Robert Galloway Dylan Ghion Chase Meadows
Jolie is a supporter of adoption over IVF and has 3 adopted children along with 3 biological kids.
News Editor Samuel Jones Life Editor Dari LeBlanc Arts & Entertainment Editor Katherine Mullineaux Opinion Editor Alexis Keating Sports Editor Donovan McAfee Columnists Margaret Geanocopoulos William Heintz Andrew Lolavar
Staff Writers Kendrick Bonilla Molly Boyle Olivia Dance Margaret Geanacopoulos Julianna Gomez William Heintz Hana Jones Delia Launi Andrew Lolavar Peter May Nikolai Navarra-Petrovic Nicholas Ribas Masthead Logo Artwork Katherine-Aria Close Advisor Ms. Neugebauer
They attended a concert and mass inside of the Kane Center. Junior Kathleen Collins said, “I’m happy that GC had us make sandwiches for the hungry because even though we didn’t go on the March, we still got to help the less fortunate.” That spirit of helping the needy and celebrating all human life seemed to emanate among the OLGCHS students making it one of
McGinely has a child with Downs Syndrome and is a widespoken supporter of helping parents of children with disabilities. Images courtesy of Google free domain.
the more successful Life Issues Days to date on the Olney campus.
New dialogue between U.S. and Cuba leads to diplomatic shift By Kendrick Bonilla, Staff writer
in 1962. When the war had been finished the United States reaction was On December 30, 2014 the placing an embargo on Cuba which United States and Cuba attempted stopped all imports from Cuba to to reestablish diplomatic relations. come the United States. Later the The U.S. and Cuba negotiated in se- Cuban-Missile crisis occurred and cret which resulted in the agreement the United States and the Soviet to allow U.S. citizens to fly to Cuba Union was engaged in a 13-day pofor non-tourisms activates. U.S. litical and military standoff on the citizens will also be allowed to use issue of the instalcredit cards withlation of nuclear out restrictions weapons in Cuba. and to bring up Many people beto $400 of Cuban lieved that this goods and $100 of crisis would have Cuban alcohol and -President Barack Obama caused a nuclear tobacco. The Cuwar and the beban Government has also released ginning of World War III. When 53 political prisoners as part of their the crisis finished both countries agreement with the United States. had come to an agreement of the For Cuban citizens this agreement Soviet Union would not launch the will change their lives significantly missiles while the United States as this allows construction material had agreed not to invade Cuba. to be imported and travel restric- After this the United States had the tions have been eased which will al- previous embargo act changed and low family visits to be much easier. then cut of all trade for Cuba. The The relationship of both countries Cuban-Missile Crisis event had a will change dramatically and for the huge impact on the two countries better as Tom Kolar says, “It’s about and after the event had left the time. This will move the coun- United States having an embargo tries towards a better relationship.” act on Cuba for 53 years. Tom KoBoth countries have not had good lar of the History Department says, relations since the Bay of Pig’s inva- “The old policy has failed, Amerision and the Cuban Missile-Crisis cans and Cubans want it to change.”
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“It is time for a new approach.”
News
April 16, 2015
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Republicans win sweeping victories in 2014 midterm elections
for being too moderate. 29 votes were required to remove Boehner, who has since evicted those House Republicans in revolt from key congressional committees. Republicans also gained two governorships at the expense of Democrats who lost a third governorship (Alaska) to Independent candidate Bill Walker. After making gains in both the Senate and the House, capturing the Senate from the Democrats, and weathering an internal power struggle for Speaker of the House, Republicans in Congress seem Photo courtesy of Google free domain. poised to own the next two years President Barack Obama (left) and Speaker of the House John Boehner of lawmaking on Capitol Hill. (right) are pictured above. Upon closer examination howBy Samuel Jones, This marks the break of the Dem- ever, the future seams only to be News Editor ocratic Party’s hold on the Senate. filled with more gridlock. While the After months of fierce camFormer Senate Majority Leader Republicans can pass bills through paigning, the United States Gen- Harry Reid became Senate Minori- both houses now, President Obama eral Elections were held on No- ty Leader as Kentucky Republican still has veto power over any laws vember 4. After consuming $3.7 Mitch McConnell took his place. that make it through. To override this billion, making it the most expenHouse Republicans were able both chambers of Congress would sive midterm election in US his- to both maintain their major- need a 2/3 majority, which is an tory, the 2014 midterms resulted ity as well as gain 13 seats at the unrealistic request from the current in sweeping Republican gains as expense of House Democrats. Congress and would require a subthe final term of President Barack Republicans now hold their larg- lime lack of party discipline on the Obama enters it’s last two years. est majority in the House since part of Congressional Democrats. In Congress all 33 seats in Senate 1928. However, drama was present President Obama has already Class II, as well as three in Senate for one House Republican, Speak- promised to veto the Keystone XL Class III, were contested. Senate er of the House John Boehner. Pipeline proposal, which has alDemocrats suffered a net loss of nine Boehner faced an insurrection by ready passed through the House, seats at the benefit of Republicans. 25 Republicans who criticized him if it passes through the Senate.
Seat Changes on Capitol Hill Senate Democrats Gained: 0 Lost: 9 Senate Republicans Gained: 9 Lost: 0 House Democrats Gained: 3 Lost: 16 House Republicans Gained: 16 Lost: 3 Republican Governorships Gain: Arkansas, Illinois, Maryland, Maine Loss: Pennsylvania Democratic Governorship Gain: Pennsylvania Lost: Arkansas, Illinois, Maryland, Maine, Alaska (to Independant)
The PAC under construction By William Heintz, Staff Writer
On February 2nd Whiting-Turner Construction Co. built a wall in the gallery hallway. This wall will serve as the future entrance to the OLGCHS Performing Arts Center. The Performing Arts Center has been one of OLGCHS’s top priorities ever since arriving at the new campus. According to the Advancement Office, the auditorium was in the original plans for the Olney campus but limited funding forced it to be put on hold. Students and faculty noticed the partition as they walked into school at 7:45 a.m. Some had immediate concerns about the relocation of the school store. “The preliminary idea is to convert one of the closets in the choir hallway into the school store. [In] the meantime, the store will be in a temporary location in the gallery for the rest of the year,” stated Ms. Tamsyn Ryan-Mclaren, Campus Store Manager. The new wall will be used as a donor showcase when the PAC is
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completed and will be decorated by Karen Singer Tileworks, Inc. using multi-colored ceramic tiles. Families and donors who give $50,000 or more towards the completion of the PAC will have their names inscribed on the wall when it is completed. As of February 2015 the donor wall will hold 22 names. Contributions are still being accepted. Contact the Advancement Office for more information about how to get involved. Total funds raised for the project are $8,141,382 of the $10 million goal. OLGCHS has made a concerted effort to get the PAC completely funded this year. Deeming 2015 the “Year of the Performing Arts” (YOPA), a pep rally, special events showcasing student work, and brochures with information about future plans for the center, ways perspective donors can contribute, and an artist’s rendition of what the PAC will look like are a few ways OLGCHS hopes to achieve its $10 million goal.
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April 16, 2015
A&E
Artist Profile: Shaelyn Harris Band Program exemplifies “YOPA”
Photo by Hana Jones. The Good Counsel band ensemble poses together before a performance. By Hana Jones, Staff writer and perfecting all our music," said
Photo by Julianna Gomez. Shaelyn Harris, senior, hard at work on her latest masterpiece. By Julianna Gomez, Staff Writer
OLGCHS is a school with an excellent Fine Arts Department. The school has many great dancers, singers, musicians, and visual artists. Senior Shaelyn Harris is a prime example of an artist dedicated to her craft at GC. Artwork by Shaelyn Harris. Starting in pre-school, Harris specific source of inspiration. Haralways enjoyed arts and crafts, such ris appreciates artists with specific as finger painting. Even in middle styles, or unique qualities in their school she took very lightweight art work reflecting or their personality. classes. When she took an art class “I can appreciate work that is as a freshman at OLGCHS, Har- very detailed because I am suris realized that high per detail oriented as school classes are “I can appreciate well,” Harris says. much more serious: work that is very Her favorite medium is “I was able to detailed because oil based paint; however, learn techniques that she also enjoys sculpting. I am super detail have helped me to Over all, Harris likes a strengthen my artistic oriented as well” little bit of everything. abilities,” says Harris. In college HarDuring sophomore ris would like to major or minor year, she completed a piece using in art. She hopes to work more chalk pastels. She did not have a quickly and develop a style that true title for it, but calls it the “Green defines her, allowing for the creDancer.” Her favorite part about the ation of her own artistic character. piece was learning and studying the She is currently looking at muscle movements of the dancer. Middlebury College (VT) and Harris’s favorite professional artist at Dickenson College (PA). is Charmaine Olivia, a painter and The East Coast seems to hold Harphotographer. Although she likes ris’s near future but she hopes to travel Olivia, she doesn’t have any one to California and pursue her career.
The OLGCHS Band Program has reached spectacular heights over the course of the first semester of this school year. The GC band is made up of four different ensembles: the wind ensemble (the highest level available), symphonic band, string ensemble, and jazz ensemble. The groups perform numerous times throughout the year in school concerts, festivals, and even in a few competitions. The wind and string ensembles showcased their talent at the competition at Flower Valley High School this past fall. The ensembles prepared 3 pieces that included one warm-up piece and two pieces to be scored by judges. They received superior ratings, the highest level of scores that the judges could give, across the board. "It was really great getting recognized for all the hard work we’ve put into practicing
Jamie Large, senior Flautist. “Scoring this high was a first for us which makes it even more exciting." This year’s Christmas concert was also a highlight. The wind and string ensembles played again as one. As a tradition, before their last piece, Sleigh Ride, all band members (and their conductor, Dr. Slocum) took out Santa hats to wear during the performance. In addition to achievements as a group, many soloists who are a part of the OLGCHS band are recognized for their talent and success. The Solo and Ensemble Festival is held every year for soloists and small ensembles to compete in. There is a county level and a state level, if the performers move on. This year, three GC seniors, Jamie Large on flute, Helen Castelli on tuba, and Dan Zeng on trombone, are going to be competing in Counties in the hopes of reaching the State level. It is clear that the OLGCHS Band Program has brought great success to the first half of the “YOPA” (Year of the Performing Arts) and will only continue mounting their achievements. "This year has been so successful for the band and I’m excited to see what the rest of the year has in store," said Jamie. "Good Counsel’s music program is finally getting the recognition it deserves."
Photo by Hana Jones. The WAMTC Fall Band Festival ratings chart is displayed to the left.
Prequels are series finales and finales are split into multiple films or shows. This release of The Lion By Alexis Keating, Opinion Section Editor
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies was released in the US this past December, bringing the world renowned Lord of the Rings prequel-turned-trilogy to a close in cinemas worldwide. J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy had previously been released worldwide in the early 2000’s.This timeless story follows Frodo Baggins’s perilous journey into the land of Mordor to destroy the Dark Lord Sauron and the One Ring. However, its more recently-released prequel, The Hobbit, provides the much needed context and backstory of Frodo’s cousin, Bilbo, as he acquires the One Ring from Gollum in his journey with the dwarves. Perhaps the bigger story is the trend both in theaters and on television where prequels are released after the intended series of movies
King 1 1/2 10 years after Disney’s original film. Additionally, it is not unheard of to have the final release in a series split up into multiple movies in order to to attract more hype and money, such as the films Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Parts 1 and 2, and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2. This process not only earns the franchises additional income, but allows classic book-to-movie adaptions to be released in multiple segments to insure attention to detail, as opposed to the entirety of a plot crammed into a single movie. As the Lord of the Rings prequel draws to a close, many are sad to see the series go while others are excited to see the culmination of a multimillion dollar series that has fueled books, movies, art, conventions, and many other aspects of society. Having been in existence
Images from Google free domain.
for over half a century and celebrating its 50th anniversary just last year, the Lord of the Rings series has gained attention from people of all ages and has permeated through the ranks of science fiction fantasy to earn itself a position as a “neo-classic.” One of the most
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widely known franchises in history, the manifestation of Tolkien’s masterpiece into a final movie adaption is needless to say, a big deal. While it bids a bittersweet farewell to the Baggins clan and their lovable comrades, it exits with a vivacious and satisfyingly worthwhile finale.
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April 16, 2015
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Profiles of a principle character
By Margaret Geanacopoulos, Columnist
Seniors Hana Jones and Rae Wessel behind the scenes at theater practice. By Lauren Ridlon, Promotional Managing Editor Neither girls are mean, bossy
Does an actor/actress need to have a connection or any similarities with the character he/she plays in order to be successful? “Acting is not about being someone different. It’s finding the similarity in what is apparently different, then finding myself in there,” says Meryl Streep. Seniors Rae Wessel and Hana Jones have been double cast in OLGCHS’s spring musical Hairspray as Amber Von Tussel, a principle character who is beautiful and talented but also spoiled and mean. Amber’s bratty and entitled mother runs the famous WYZT television station, which hosts the Corny Collins Show, the dance show Hairspray revolves around. Her mother uses her power to make sure her daughter is prominently featured. Tracy Turnblad, the main lead, played by senior Molly Boyle, becomes her enemy, threatening to replace her on WYZT and in her relationship with her boyfriend Link Larkin, played by Andrew Lehnus. She is the generic spoiled, bratty “mean girl” who is overthrown by the likable underdog. Wessel and Jones feel they they are most connected to Amber through their mutual love of singing and dancing but agree they are more different from her than they are similar.
or entitled. Rather than being loathed by their peers, they are adored. “Hana and Rae are two of the nicest girls I’ve ever met. They both always have huge smiles on their faces and can light up a room!” says junior Colleen Tracy. There you have it: an actor or actress does not have to match the character he or she portrays. When it comes to a matter of height or hair color, maybe, but personality-wise, it is irrelevant. The ability of two girls to portray a character far from their true personalities proves this. Katie Grebenstein says it best: “Both Hana and Rae are super sweet girls, so them being able to act as mean as Amber, shows what talented actresses they are!” Wessel mentions that part of becoming her character consists of taking past experiences and observations and using them in her acting. Besides the blond hair, sassiness, songs and dancing roles, both Jones and Wessel were interested in the challenge of being Amber. “The connection comes when you really get to know your character and are able to understand and express the emotions underneath all their actions. If you were exactly like the character you were playing, it wouldn’t be called acting!” says Jones.
Formal school functins like dances, such as Homecoming and Winter Formal, have been a long-standing traditions at OLGCHS. However, many female students are deterred from attending after reading the long list of dress code restrictions. Have no fear; there are several ways to obey dress code rules without having to sacrifice personal style.
Shift Dress Skater Skirt Bodycon
The classic silhouette of the shift dress makes it an appropriate outfit for any ocassion, regardless of the formality of the event
Skater skirt dresses are a great option for dances. The fitted top and flared out skirt provide a balance between style and comfort.
The bodycon dress is a school dance staple. The form fitting design is very flattering, and at the appropriate length will follow any dress code.
Let’s Break it Down
An in-depth glimpse into the vocal performers at OLGCHS
The entry-level vocal classes, Men’s and Women’s Chorus, which are exclusive to male and female Good Counsel students, emphasize the concepts of secure
Men’s Chorus
Treble Choir
vocal technique and an understanding of basic musical knowledge. The newest member of the choir family added this year and the only choral group conducted by Mr. Brett Taylor is the Tre-
Honors Chorus
ble Choir. This all-women’s intermediate group learns a vast repertoire of music from varying genres, making it a new and unique addition. The highest level choir in the school, this group
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r be m ir ha o C Ch
W om C en ho ’s ru s
By Alexis Keating, Opinion Editor
experiments with a variety of different musical styles ranging anywhere from Pop to Gospel, and can often be seen and heard singing at the school-wide masses.
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Seniors weigh in on their year: Second Semester
April 16, 2015
Reputation: Are we innocent until proven guilty?
By Olivia Dance, Staff Writer
How has your stress level and work load changed now that it’s second semester?
Poll Results from Rasmussen Reports.
“My work load has not really By Bernard Greenhow, changed. I have the same amount of homework each night. My Multimedia Managing Editor Earlier this year accusations stress level has gone down now that I have gotten into college and were made stating that famous am not as stressed or worried.” Comedian and star of the Cosby Show, Bill Cosby, had allegedly -Lexy Andrews drugged and raped many women throughout his long-time career. Two dozen women have come How has forward to accuse Cosby of sexyour social ually assualting them in episodes life and free dating back to the 1960’s. The alletime changed gations were made public by Comedian Hannibal Buress at a show in from the first Philadelphia, Cosby’s Hometown. semester to These allegations and claims the second resulted in Cosby’s Comesemester? dy Project being pulled from NBC and the Cosby Show re“I have much more free time since football ended. However, I make use of it by going to work during the week and weekend to make money.” -Richard DeRiso
How has your level of “senioritis” increased or decreased now that it is second semester? “I procrastinate a lot more [now that it’s] second semester. I just don’t care anymore and I want to be stressfree so instead of homework and studying I watch a lot of vines and Netflix.”
Life
Graphic by Bernanrd Greenhow.
runs being pulled by TV Land, as well as a tarnished reputation. In the minds of Americans Cosby is a supposed serial rapist due to the allegations against him. Already, he is a victim of public opinion.The many memes associated with Bill Cosby convey the general feeling the public has towards him. The reason these allegations spread so fast and have such a great impact on the American public’s opinion of Bill Cosby is due to social media. In the modern age the internet and social media make information readily available, true or not. Turning an accusation into truth in the eyes of the public.
Comedian, Roseanne Barr says, “We all know women who know somebody, if they didn’t go through it themselves with Bill Cosby,” she said. “There are hardly any women — hairdressers, waitresses, working women — who don’t know somebody [affected by the allegations].” In response to these rape allegations Cosby’s attorney, John P. Schmitt has said, “Over the last several weeks, decade-old, discredited allegations against Mr. Cosby have resurfaced. The fact that they are being repeated does not make them true. Mr. Cosby does not intend to dignify these allegations with any comment. He would like to thank all his fans for the outpouring of support and assure them that, at age 77, he is doing his best work. There will be no further statement from Mr. Cosby or any of his representatives.” Even though, to date, Cosby has not stood trial and none of these allegations have been proven, Cosby’s name still and will forever be associated with sexual assault thanks to the allegations made against him. In today’s world a simple accusation has the power to determine the guilt of the accused party even. Sometimes the power of “public opinion” is even more damaging to careers and reputations.
New Year’s Resoltuons: In one year and out the other?
Top 10 New Years Resolutions
1) Work out 2) Be happy 3) Lose weight 4) Stop smoking 5) Unplug 6) Be the best at... 7) Stop drinking 8) Love myself 9) Work harder 10) Make less mistakes
How long do resolutions last for people in the US?
-Stephanie Grodecki
How has your level of “senioritis” increased or decreased now that it is second semester?
36% 48% 18%
“I still care because I don’t want to let my grades go down or anything, but I feel less pressure to do well, so my amount of care has decreased some.”
University of Scranton Study 2014
-Maddie Miller
By Hana Jones, Staff Writer
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LIFE
April 16, 2015
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Freshmen: A look at how they have acclimated to high school By Dari LeBlanc, Lifestyle Editor
As quarter three comes to a close and students begin to clear out their binders for the fourth quarter, some take a moment to reminisce about a time when this was all new – freshman year. Many upperclassmen at OLGCHS have probably forgotten what it was like to be the lowest on the social totem pole and many of the new things that all freshmen experience. As freshmen have become acclimated and survived more than half of their first year in high school, they can now speak about “how it really feels to be a freshman.” Most, in typical freshman fashion, thought spirit week was the highlight of their experience at OLGCHS. That week of the year being the liveliest, brought a sense of school pride and helping the freshman feel that they are just as much a part of the community. Midterms were the low. With the transition from middle school where many current freshmen had never had a true midterm exam, several felt as if they had no leg to stand on no matter how much in-class review they had.
Photo by Dari LeBlanc. A group of freshmen girls looking cheerful after school at the end of the third quarter. From left to right: Maggie McDarby. Jocelyn Smith. Lauren MacDanld. Sarah Petzold and Ally Lubeck.
“Although I did have finals in middle school, I still felt slight anxiety when I was studying. [I worried]about how they were going to be a lot harder because of how much more I had learned in some of my classes,” said Maggie Miller. Although freshman had the feeling of being overwhelmed with midterms, many students didn’t feel that they had struggled, academically, as much as they first believed they would in high school classes. (This however excludes the freshman gym class, where many cringing at the thought of running the mile.)
America at the crossroads: How music has shaped history and culture
Several freshmen credit their success at OLGCHS to their teachers and coaches. Their dedication too not only helping the students excel in the classroom or on the field but socially and organizationally, trying to motivate the underclassmen to be great in all aspects of their lives was the most noted reaction. And while many students experience social anxiety coming in as a freshman about how they were going to make new friends or where to sit in the dining hall, many said that being active during the summer at OLGCHS through sports camps
Why staying fit can fit into your life By Katie Mullineaux, A&E Section Editor
Delia Launi, Staff writer
Two .5 credit interdisiplinary electives, Roots of Rock and Roll1969 and 1970-Present are new course options as of 2015. Mr. Gittings’ love for music is not a secret to anyone in the OLGCHS community, so it’s no suprise that his discovery of Steve Van Zandt’s (Bruce Springsteen’s guitarist) curriculum online led to a real class. Because of their love for music and social studies, Gittings asked Mr. Kolar to co-teach these courses. Daily Activities: • group discussions • occasional projects • Listening to rock-n-roll music ranging from Bruce Springsteen to the Beatles to Motown.
Special Guests: • Teachers: Different teachers like Mr. Tom Hilton and Mr. Dennis Essig come to the class • They discuss how music affects their lives in historical times like the Vietnam War and The March on Washington.
or the robotics club helped them make friends with common interests. “My experience coming into Good Counsel, was slightly different because I had made many friends over the summer, through various camps and programs run by the school so I wasn’t really concerned about whether I was going to have people to socialize with. However, retreat definitely helped me meet people I wouldn’t have talked to otherwise and I think retreat was really fun and helpful in that way. I think I’ve also kept several of the friends I had first met because of how close we are as a class,” said Cullen Yankee.
Photo by Katie Mullineaux. Senior Yoga Club Co-President Nicole Naleszkiewicz sits in a calming pose during one of the club’s weekly sessions.
When it comes to working out and being healthy it can be hard to maintain a consistent and helpful regimen for the average busy teenager. With classes, homework, extracurricular activities, and various personal obligations, finding time for exercising or planning out healthy meals can be difficult and confusing, as well as time consuming—but not impossible. There are a few things the teenager looking to stay healthy should know: it is recommended that teenagers under the age of 17 should be getting about at least one hour of aerobictype exercise each day. Now you ask: where am I supposed to get an hour of my time? The great thing about this suggestion, is that the time can be spread thorughout the day. Now of course
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the more activity you experience, the greater your health will be, but getting in ten minutes here, ten minutes there, or taking a twenty or so minute jog when you get home from school can start to quickly add up. Worried about the Dining Hall’s options? Look on the website at the Menu and use the color coding to plan what you should eat. A Green dot indicates a healthy option, a yellow dot indicates an option in the middle, and a red dot indicates an option that you should only have a little bit of. The choice to exclude certain ingredients is also available. There are many health benefits to keeping an active lifestyle. Although it can be hard to stay healthy all the time, according to Nicole Naleszkiewicz, Sr., “It’s so worth it! Staying fit and spending that little bit of extra time has come with a lot of benefits. I’m more energetic and ready for the day after a run or quick yoga session”. Rugby player Jerry Terp, Sr., adds “the best feeling is knowing that you gave the workout your all!” Whatever benefit gives you incentive, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is definitely attainable. Think: if you’re studying or reading a chapter in a book for homework, why not do it on the treadmill? If that doesn’t work for you, maybe hold a plank position for a page and then relax for a page. There are many ways to stay active. It just takes a bit of creativity.
LIFE
April 16, 2015
Page 8
EL SALVADOR 2015 TRIP
By Lauren Ridlon, Promotional Managing Editor
Who’s who? Lynette is a former Sister of the
Sacred Heart. She left the order to become a nurse and was asked back as a layperson (not as a nun) to run the trips. She works 4 months on projects in El Salvador and spends the other 8 are on US front- connecting with schools, etc. 200,000 impoverished...2.8% of the population lives under $1.25/day
Milton is a 13 year old boy that
Mr. Hanel saw 3 years ago at the daycare in Las Delicias. 2 years ago, Mr. Hanel got to know him better at Casa Voluntario (the volunteer house) where he stays when on summer vacation. His parents are not in the picture, so he lives with a foster mom in El Salvador. Happily, a family from Philadelphia is in the process of adopting him and it will hopefully go through this year. “Milton, for all he has been through, is the most genuinely kind human being i have ever met- he has a huge heart, and is always smiling. I wish him the best” says Mr. Hanel. Minimum Wage: $2/ hour
Don Miguel was in a seminary
studying under Archbishop Romero (Archbishop in El Salvador who worked for the poor). He left the seminary in 1980 after Romero was killed and joined the guerrilla movement. He then spent three years in the guerrilla camp on a volcano called Guazapa. Since the war, he has worked on countless projects with Project FIAT.
Photo courtesy of Lauren Ridlon. 2015 Winter Trip students and teachers at the local church in El Salvador (Back to Front): Fourth Row (Right to Left): Erica McGovern, Mr. Hanel, Mr. Curtin, Shea Scarlett, Ms. Narbon, Ms. Bechtol, Lynette, Sophia Tydings, Mr. Antico, Jake Kelly, Matt Stickell, Maddie Pack, Sedzro Tamakloe Third Row: Rose Prizzi, Suzanne Kimble, Tara Shepherd, Ms. Riely, Meghan Lemmo, Cosette Riely, Mallory Fox, Bridget Cassidy Elisabeth DeMarco, Margaret Geanacopolous, Luke Bosley, Emma Malec, Maggie Herbster, Jesse Linsenmeyer, Abel Bisrat Second Row: Haley Kuhns, Mackenzie Masters, Priest at the Rutilio Grande Church, Jenn Ampey, Demetra Zuras, Alexa Weisman, Katie Herrmann, Lucy Hassel, Alexandra Hackman Front Row: Milton, Lauren Ridlon
2012- Trip 3
2010- Trip 1
2014(winter)- Trip 5
Painted daycare at Las Repaired mudslide dam- Delicias and built a classage from Hurricane Irene room addition in Ilobasco
** Cost for Mr. Hanel: $1400 per person BUT this is paid for through student fundraising
2011- Trip 2
Laid the foundation in the daycare at Las Delicia and built in house Ilobasco
Every January (and now July), selected OLGCHS students and faculty travel to San Salvador, El Salvador for an international service/immersion trip. There, they participate in Project FIAT where they volunteer in the impoverished neighborhoods, like Las Delicias, and participate in projects including building houses in Las Deli-
Laid a water pipe for the neighborhood in Las Delicias, painted classrooms at Cuidad Arce
2013- Trip 4
Started the ground break for the classrooms at Cuidad Arce and built a house for a woman named Daisy
cias, visiting an orphanage, doing construction at a school (Cuidad Arce) and working at a daycare. In a country with about 6.3 million people, there are about 200,000 impoverished people and 2.8% live on the poverty line. Poverty is defined as living on less then $1.25 a day. GC students and faculty go for two reasons:
2015- Trip 7
Started groundbreaking for homes for women that have escaped abusive relationships in Las Delicias, paved the driveway for Cuidad Arce and painted their computer
2014(summer)-Trip 6
Built a retaining wall at cuidad arce, fixed road erosion in Las Delicias
1) to provide aid for people most in need and 2) “to further the concept of the global community between GC and El Salvador” as Mr. Sean Hanel, English Teacher and Campus Minister says. The trip lasts one week and is filled with daily service, cultural experiences,and team bonding.
Looking for a little entertainment? Try this crossword puzzle highlighting significant African American figures you should be aware of (sponsored by the BSA Club.) Maya Angelou was an actress, singer, author and poet. She was a civil rights activist and best known as the first African American woman to write a non-fiction best seller, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Angelou’s talent is still remembered today even though she died May 28, 2014. Across: 2. The name of the first black astronaut in space. 4. The initials of the “I have a Dream” speaker 5. Polotocal demostration held in DC for jobs and freedom 6. The name of the first black professional basketball team Down: 1. Other country that celebrates Black History Month in October 3. What other country also has black history month? 4. The writer of “I know Why the Caged Bird Sings”
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Illustration by Angelica Johnson (Senior).
Athletics
April 16, 2015
Beneath the wig By Lauren Ridlon, Promotional Managing Editor
Waking up at six AM, I know the routine. First, the wig, hairpieces, hairspray and tons of bobby pins. Then, the meticulous application of makeup to make sure I look just as I want to. Finally, after bags are packed, warm-up clothes are on, and a yogurt is scarfed down, I am headed to the elevator of my massive hotel to compete in the 2014 Southern Regional Oireachtas. To most people this means regional championships, but to an Irish Dancer this means months of training for a few minutes on stage to show all we’ve got. When a non-Irish-dancer comes to these events, all they see are the spray tan legs, sparkly dresses, hair wigs and lots of makeup- but underneath all of that is an athlete. Many people act as though I have it easy when I tell them I am dancer- as if my muscles don’t ache the same or as if I don’t work as hard as someone who plays a sport. This isn’t “toddlers and tiaras” or “just dance”- not to us. Just as someone prepares for a championship in their sport, we prepare for ours . We train for months, upwards of eight hours a week, for a few minutes on stage. I am here to be an advocate for dancers and say that yes, we are just as tough. Not only do we have the stamina, muscle power and attitude of an athlete, but we make it look pretty with impeccable technique, fancy footwork and smiles. Our coaches are just the same- supporting us, being our biggest cheerleaders … and our biggest critics. They train us to have the physical stamina of a champion but also to
(IMAGE) Lauren Ridlon, Sr. (right) with Regional Champion Saoirse Deboy.
have them mental stamina. Beneath the wig is a champion working. If you took a look in the brain of an Irish Dancer right before he/ she steps on the competition stage, you would find it eerily quiet. As I stand on the side of the stage, I run through my routine over and over in my head, my focus crystal clear. I take deep breaths and keep my muscles warm as the line of waiting dancers moves closer and closer to the front. Finally, it is my turn to go. The minute my foot touches the stage, I am “on”. To make a good impression on the judges, I am smiling with my shoulders back and my head held high. Comments from my teachers about making the right impression run through my head as I make a mental checklist: Are my feet in position? Am I in the right place on stage? Oh, the judge is looking at me. The music begins and what was once a quiet mind turns into New York City on New Years. All at once my sense take in the music, the crowds , the other girl on stage, my heartbeat and tired muscles. At the same time, I am trying to pay attention to the music and keep in mind all the techniques notes I have been getting for months … Turn out! Cross! Point! Smile! Making big jumps, high kicks and steady beats, I can only hope my efforts are producing my best step. The dance finishes and I take the bow, rush off stage and get ready for round two which is much the same. After everything is done, the waiting and thinking begins. Waiting for awards and results to be announced
Competition Fast Facts: are called feis or 1 Competitions feisianna
2
is the easy part… the thinking is not. Much like the Monday morning quarterback, a champion level dancer is playing the film of their dance in their head, worrying that the slight mistake in their third step will cost them a placement andwondering if maybe they could have danced just a little harder. I was wrong earlier, our coaches aren’t our biggest critics, we are. When the numbers, the placement-the compensation for our long hours of work- are on the line, it matters. I once heard, “if dance was any easier, it would be called football”. Now I am not saying any sport is easy at all, but I’m not saying dance is either. We have the same goals as a football player stepping onto the turf- to succeed. Just as the quarterback perfects his arm placement and passing so his throw is impeccable, we spend hours in front of the mirror making sure each small move is perfect. studying and practicing , we rehearse our
steps until we are blue in the face, we learn to have the awareness and quick reflexes to avoid colliding with other dancers on stage. We also train year round doing strength training, stamina conditioning and workouts. When people tell me dance isn’t a sport, it is hurtful. It makes it seem as though it is an easy hobby, not a passion and a lifestyle. It is most certainly an art form in its beauty and grace, but athletic in its demands. Shanna LaFleur said it best, “it takes an athlete to dance, but an artist to be a dancer”.
American Regions for the Oireachtas (regional championships) RED- West GREEN- Mid American YELLOW- Southern ORANGE- Mid Atlantic PINK- New England
Most competitions (feis) are solo competitions but there are also group dances called ceilies
3 Regular competitions are run at all times of the year.
compete by age and ex4 Dancers pertise and are scored based on technique and performance.
5
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Regionals are held in December, Nationals in the summer and Worlds in the
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Athletics
April 16, 2015
Page 10
Roger Mason, Jr.’s basketball jersey is officially retired to honor achievements By Robert Galloway, Copy Desk Editor
Roger Mason Jr., class of 1999, would fall under the category of having a “successful NBA career”. He is a two time NBA champion, he finished top 10 in 3-point percentage 3 times, and was one of the best free throw shooters throughout his career. These are stats that most NBA players did not accomplish. Roger Mason also played in the league for 11 seasons, while spending the 2003 and 2004 season playing in Israel and Greece. However, his success did not start in the NBA. Coming out of Photo by Mr. Daniel Radford. Good Counsel, he was one of the Roger Mason Jr. poses with his retired jersey. Also pictured from left to right: senior Greg Hill, junior Keandre Jones, junior Nick Gittings, and senior Matt most highly recruited basketball Perrigard. players in, not only the WCAC, but all of Maryland. In his senior year, Roger Mason, alongside fellow teammate Chris Monroe, helped the Falcons win the WCAC regular season title and finish 21st in the USA Today Men’s Basketball rankings. That season he averaged 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game and was voted to the 1st team All-Met Men’s basketball for the Washington Post. Before he graduated he was also awarded the title “Mr. Basketball” which given yearly to the best basketball player in the Washington D.C. area. Roger Mason left UVA with impressive stats and is 3rd all-time for his career free
throw percentage (86.9%). In 2002 he was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the second round. Though he spent his career playing with several different teams, he made a strong impact on the NBA and continues to be a part of it by being the vice president of the NBPA (National Basketball Players Association). It is now clear why Good Counsel honored him and retired his jersey number (21) before the Men’s varsity game against Gonzaga. Roger Mason tweeted after the game “Thank you @OLGCHS for retiring my jersey. I am truly blessed!” Mason is already in the Good Counsel Athletic Hall of Fame and through being honored on January 9th and having his jersey retired, will solidify his ever-lasting impact on Good Counsel.
Varsity Wrestling’s 53 match win streak continues By Donovan McAfee, Sports Editor
Photo by Donovan MCAfee sports fan The Good Counsel Wrestling Team after winning WCAC’s
The Varsity Wresting team has amassed an impressive 50 dual match win streak. The win streak started in the 2012-2013 season when Good Counsel went an impressive 18-0 anchored by the back of their lineup featuring: 195 pounder Spencer Neff, who currently wrestles at Duke University, 220 pounder Kyle Snyder, who was a junior world champion and currently starts for the Ohio State university at 197 pounds, and heavyweight Jemal Averette, who is now playing football at IUP. The 2012-2013 team went on to win not only the programs second WCAC title in school history but also, the Good Counsel’s first Maryland State Independent School wrestling championship and placed third at National Preps. Following the 2012-2013 season Good Counsel lost three of its four state champions. The team lost Spencer Neff to graduation, Kyle Snyder opted to go to the Olympic Training Center, and Jemal Averette opted not to wrestle in order to pursue a football career. Many young wrestlers had to step up to keep the program on top.
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The 2013-2014 season featured the emergence of young wrestlers like Kevin Snyder, Nick Miller and Bailey Thomas who each placed second in their respective weight classes at the Maryland state tournament. Despite losing so much talent from the previous season the Falcons were able to increase their win streak to 33 straight dual meet wins; and recaptured the WCAC title for the second straight year. At the state tournament Good Counsel finished a very close second place losing by only a half point to nationally ranked McDonough. The team had an impressive 11 place winners at the state tournament that year. This year Good Counsel has already earned an impressive 20-0 record in dual meets, pushing their win streak to 53 consecutive wins. The team is also currently ranked #1 in the Washington Post. Under head coach Skylar Sarr the team has already won four WCAC championships including this year when they edged out St. Johns 226 to 199 at the WCAC championship, a State Championship, placed third at National Preps and has finished ranked #1 in the Washington Post two years in a row.
Athletics
April 16, 2015
A panoramic photograph of the Our Lady of Good Counsel High School Dancel Football Field.
Why is fo otb al l s o big? By Julianna Gomez, Staff Writer
It is well known around the Montgomery County area that Our Lady of Good Counsel High School has an exceptional athletics program. All of our sports teams are respected by the MOCO community and we are proud to have them as a part of our Falcon family. Although this is true, there is one sport that seems to draw the most attention every autumn. “Jumping on the bleachers, cheering my team on with my friends every Friday night – that’s what I love about Good Counsel football” senior Savolia Spottswood said. Having a national ranking of 192 and being number two in the state, the Our Lady of Good Counsel football team is very popular and attracts many football fans to their games during the fall season. Aside from the fact that GC has a great football program, there are more reasons as to why football seems to be
Page 11
Photo by almunus Dan Whelan ’82.
In depth look at why football is such a popular sport, not only in our school, but also in the rest of the United States.
such a big focal point at our school. Not only are the OLGCHS Falcons a strong and talented opponent for other teams around the area, but they also are a large source of profit for our school. Every person who attends a Varsity home game, excluding the freshman, JV, and Varsity players, is required to buy one $5.00 ticket in order to be granted entry into the stadium. There are about five home games on the Dancel Field per season, with each crowd of 1,500 to 2,000 people on average. That is about $7,500 to $10,000 of income per game. Plus, for the big rival games of about 5,000 fans, that’s almost $25,000 in ticket money that the athletic program collects. Of course there are fees that need to be paid with that income, such as the people who help to make the games possible, utilities for field lights, security, etc., but the rest of that money is the school’s.
Aside from the entry income that the football team directly brings in, football games also help to attract future students to the school. Athletes want to go to a school that is known for being good at sports, and the fact that OLGCHS is number two in the state for football helps to draw in many incoming freshman, whether they are football players or an athlete of another sport. According to ESPN, professional football is the most popular sport in America for the 30th year in a row, and is the ninth most popular sport all around the world. It also draws more college and high school participants to it than any other sport. The NFL receives the highest television ratings of all major sports, and the Super Bowl is our nation’s largest annual televised sporting event. It is not on purpose that people universally seem to put American football on a pedestal. Football has been the most popular sport in our country for many years,
as fans have kept and always will hold a passion for it in their hearts. When outsiders think of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, many may think of how it is an overall well-rounded school with a variety of classes and extracurricular activities for their students to choose from. While OLGCHS still holds this reputation as true, the word “football” continues to pop into the minds of many people when they think of our school. From having one of our games broadcasted live on ESPN to having the Penn State University Football Coach making a surprise appearance to one of our games has definitely broadened the Falcon fan-base to a national level, resulting in OLGCHS football to be considered a “big deal” in not only the Montgomery County area, but also all over the country.
Good Counsel’s Equestrian “Team” is a unique forum for competition By Richard DeRiso, Co-Editor-in-Chief
The Good Counsel Equestrian Team made its debut in the fall of 2013 and is one of the most unique teams at Good Counsel. A long time club offering, it was re-founded as a competitive “team” by sophomore Remy Nash and her mother, Barbara Nash. The club currently has 15 team members ranging from freshman to seniors. The competitive season for the club starts in September and finishes with the regular season in February. Regionals, zones and national finals all begin in March through April. This year the national competition is in Florida. The riders compete at all different skill levels. This team is different from other sports because it is not technically a varsity sport, but a way for the Good Counsel women and men who enjoy riding torepresent their school in a competitive format. The club members do not need to own horses themselves. Addi-
tionally, anyone wishing to join is required to have at least two years of riding experience, a competitive drive and enjoy team building opportunities with other students from Good Counsel. The team competitions are always held on the weekends in Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. In previous years they competed in the Inter-School Horse Show (ISHS) series but this year the team decided to transition to the Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA), which is also a series for high school level riders serious about upping their game and desiring to continue competitive riding in college. IEA requirements are much more stringent and the judging is more critical. “This year, we are competing in a much more serious environment. IEA is a big step up from last year, and gives us the opportunity to gain the kind of experience College teams look for. We also have a wider range of skill level among our riders
Photo by Mr. Tom Hilton. Our Lady of Good counsel’s Equestrian Team photo 2014-2015 team.
and a great host barn, Oatland Stables” said junior Molly Hutchinson. The women on the team like the change but a new year also meant new challenges for them. Junior Brigid Thompson said, “The biggest difference is that we joined a larger, more competitive league which has proved to be a bit of a challenge since it is only our second year, but I think we've definitely held it together pretty well. But of course the biggest difference for me personally is just how different everything is without our seniors
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from last year. It's crazy how different the team is without them”. The team holds student-organized meetings every month at school. Monthly social activities are planned by its members and a yearly awards banquet is held each May. Next season will bring about change again and it is anticipated that additional offers will be made available to any rider at Good Counsel with the desire to compete. Contact Mrs. Nash for Additional information regarding the team bcrnash97@gmail.com.
Page 12 April 16, 2015
1st place 6 points
2nd place 4 points
Sports
3rd place 3 points
How Meets are Scored 4th place 2 points
5th place 1 point
6th place 0 points
Photo by @Kevin Budda IG:
Kevin Budock in the state final.
High school swim meets: Kevin Budock, featured athlete How competitions are scored By Donovan McAfee, Sports Editor
By Dylan Ghion, Copy Desk Editor
Swimming competitions have four main competitions based off of the breast, back, butterfly, and freestyle strokes along with IM, which stands for individual medley. The medely combines the four main strokes into one race. There are two types of meets in the washington metropolitan private school swim dive league. There are dual meets in which two teams compete head to head. In dual meets, scoring goes in six people competitions because regulation sized pools fit six lanes. The scoring goes to the first five finishers of the race and your finishing position determines your point total. The winner gets 6 points for their team with the following finishers getting four, three, two, and one point respec-
Good
tively for their team. There are also three relays in an average meet. Championship meets have a very different style of scoring due to a larger amount of participants The scoring of championship meets is based off of a scorecard that the scorers use. Championship meets have up to 20 participants in different heats. The top 16 finishers of the event are invited back later in the event for finals, usually held at night. Senoir Cheyanne Neuenschwander, who committed to University of Pittsburgh, set a league record in the dive competitions. The swim and dive team looks to continue their strong performance into the championship meets this year, where they have done fairly well the last couple of years.
Counsel
Falcons
Junior Kevin Budock is this issue’s featured athlete. Kevin Budock is a three year starter on the OLGCHS Varsity Wrestling team. Kevin is also already a two time Maryland State Wrestling Champion and is in pursuit of his third consecutive championship this February. Budock is a two time National Prep Finalist, and is the defending Sophomore National Champion at 138 pounds. Budock has been wrestling since the second grade. He wrestled for youth league wrestling powerhouse Warhawks Wrestling Club, the same team that produced former Good Counsel superstar wrestler Kyle Snyder, as well as, current Good Counsel wrestlers and state finalist, Bailey Thomas and Kevin Snyder. Budock has aspirations of,
Hockey
“one day winning an NCAA national championship and hopefully wrestling internationally.” Outside of wrestling, Kevin enjoys hanging out with friends. When asked what makes him so dominant, Kevin responded, “I believe I work harder than most of the people I wrestle, and enjoy being pushed and challenged on the mat.” Many of Kevin’s teammates agreed that he is the hardest working kid on the team including Senior 220 pounder senior Nick Miller. Kevin Budock said that his motivation is the fact that he, “hates losing more than anything in life.” He also, said that his short term goals were to help bring Good Counsel its third consecutive WCAC wrestling championship and its second state championship in the last three years.
Through
the
Years
out the years due to graduation. Sr. Aria Johnston said, “Even Throughout the years OLGCHS’ though we’ve lost some big playIce Hockey has steadily been gain- ers, it has allowed us all to learn ing more attention. There are cur- how to step up and keep the depth rently about sixteen players on the of the team. The hockey team is varsity team but that number fluctu- honestly like a big community. As ates because the coach is not afraid the only girl on the varsity team, to pull players up from JV to Varsity I really appreciate the fact that and vice versa. Like any other team, the guys treat me like an equal”. Since winning the championwe have lost key players throughship in 2013, our hockey team moved up the next division and Photo by Jamie Large. changed focus regarding rivals. Steven Ralston, Class of 2014, Varsity hockey players pictured during warmups at the Rockville Ice Arena on senior claims that during his time at OL- night. GCHS, “Loyola was our biggest am so grateful that I have the oppor- ents before warmups. Each senior rival.” Now, senior Aria Johnston tunity to continue to play”. Ralston was presented in front of the crowd claims that “Gonzaga is our biggest now travels and plays for the Rich- along with their chosen college and rival,” but she also has high hopes mond Generals and seems to have their preference for playing hockthat OLGCHS will bring home a bright future lined up for him! ey in college, given a flower, and On February 12, the following posed with their parent for a quick the championship again this year! Serious athletes continue to play seniors were honored before the photo on the ice. To make matters after high school. Steven Ralston ‘14 game at the Rockville Ice Arena: better, the Falcons won the game! Although OLGCHS Ice Hockey said, “I was never a top line player. Aria Johnston, Ben Tasto, Mason When I came to Good Counsel I got Leah, Zack Ralli, Jamie King, Joey still receives little recognition for a lot more ice time and it allowed Kelly, Kaitlin Simmons, Nathan their achievements, our team has Photo by Jamie Large. me to improve and play the way that Lester, and Michael Pratt. Each still progressed significantly reSenior Aria Johnston at the Rockville Ice I play today. I love the game and I senior was honored with their par- garding skills and student support! By Jamie Large, Executive Manging Editor
Arena on Senior night
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April 16, 2015
Athletics
GC Swim and Dive By Nick Ribas, Staff Writer
After GC’s Swim and Dive Team officially concluded its season at Metros, the members of the team and their coaches, Coach Silva and Coach Lozupone, finally had the opportunity to look back at their season and appreciate everything they accomplished. Their progress of last season compared to this one is significant as they continue to prove that they are only getting stronger. While there were many highlights, one of the most memorable occurred at Stone Ridge’s senior meet. The girls’ 200 medley relay team found themselves in the lead going into the last leg of the relay, and Stone Ridge’s anchor Katie Ledecky, Olympic gold medalist, was the only person standing in their way. For Good Counsel it was up to Junior Ariana Casimates, who said, “I didn’t want to let the team down, so as soon as I dove in I knew I had to give it all I had and do it for the team.” Ariana was able to hold off Ledecky and bring home the win for GC in the relay. The girls’ dive team was led by the private school league’s diver of the year and University of Pittsburgh commit, Cheyanne Neuenschwander, who was undefeated in dive meets this season leading up to Metros. The highlight of her season came when she broke the meet record at the National Catholic Championships, when she had six dives for a total score of 229.15 points. “I went into Catholic Nationals with the goal of breaking our high school record. When I heard I broke the meet record as well I was speechless! It felt so good to know that all my hard work is paying off.” Many on the team enjoy the social aspect of it all, and that spending all the time at the pool brings them closer, emphasizing how a team is often looked at as a family. “The best part about the team is
Poms
Place
By Jamie Large, Executive Managing Editor
On January 10, the OLGCHS Poms team placed in fourth place at a major competition! The team has been rehearsing since the end of football season. The rehearsal schedule consisted of rehearsals for about three hoursevery day in an outstanding effort to perfect the routine. The competition has been the central focus of the team’s efforts. This is the Pom team’s first time competing with public schools. Usually, the team partakes in a private school only competition. The dancers are judged based off of a series of categories which includes technique, style, etc. Last year they brought
Photo by Tina Neuenschwander. Senior diver Cheyanne Neuenschwander twists gracefully at Georgetown Prep.
making friends who I wouldn’t have met before”, said Junior diver Colleen Tracy. Coach Silva gives much of the credit to the captains, “We charged our captains (Alex Munson, Stephen Haase, James Murphy, Cheyanne Neuenschwander, Annie Karta, Kara Lerche, and Helen Castelli) this year with the task of building a solid team, and they did. They planned and orchestrated a number of social events and team bonding experiences, and they fostered a great atmosphere”, said Coach Silva. The team consistently supported each other. At WMPSSDLs, the team’s best breaststroker, Allison Wade, was injured on the starting block, and the rest of the girls’ team was instantly surrounding her to help her. Many stayed with her for the rest of the meet, bringing her anything she needed. With Allison unable to swim in a relay later in the meet, freshman Leah Broome had to step up as an alternate. The rest of the girls’ relay brought Leah in and gave her encouragement to get the job done in the relay. This emphasizes the “next swimmer up”mentality of the team, in that they weren’t going to let anything stop them from accomplishing their goals. The team always rallied around an
4th
at
Photo by Glenn Karta. The Swim and Dive Team Captains(Pictured left to right: Back Row: Alex Munson, Stephen Haase, James Murphy (back row), Helen Castelli, Cheyanne Neuenschwander, Kara Lerche, Annie Karta (front row).
individual who needed extra encouragement. At WMPSSDLs, Freshman Mason Karl was forced into a swimoff in the 500 freestyle race with a Junior from Gonzaga. This is a long, physically exhausting race and it’d be the second time Mason would be swimming it that day. “With most of the GC team gathered around the pool cheering, he touched out his competition. He bettered his time on the second go-around, and came back and dropped his time again in finals for the third time in one day”, said Coach Silva. The endurance it took for Mason to swim that race twice in a short period of time was an extremely difficult challenge, but with his teammates rallied around him he was able to persevere through that challenge. The coaches are most proud of the dedication and heart of the team, as the work they have put in has certainly payed off. These two examples (Allison’s injury and Mason’s 500 free) demonstrate the heart and the spirit of our team, which is really what Coach Lozupone and I are most proud of”, said Coach Silva. Swim and Dive is a sport where the improvement of an individual from the beginning of the season to the end is measured by how much their times or scores have changed.
Montgomery
home the championship and received high rankings across the board. Senior Jenna Martinko said, “I’m really proud of the team for beating four schools who have been competing in the Division I Montgomery County competitions for years. We’re all so excited to do it all again in the private school competition!” Throughout the years, Bishop McNamera has been the biggest rival of the Poms team according to senior, Hana Jones. Fortunately, the Poms team is full of talented and well-trained dancers who always bring their A-game! The choreography for the competition consisted of complex lyrical, hiphop, jazz, and line dance styles. Senior Josie Feron said, “We were
Yet the true success of the team is measured by how everybody practiced and got better than they were at the beginning of the year, and that is the true reason why Good Counsel Swim and Dive continues to improve, and they don’t show any intention of slowing down that progress now.
Season Results Boys
GC vs. DJO 12/02
WIN
WIN
Meet @ Stoneridge 1/10
WIN
WIN
Loss vs. GP 7th Place 3rd Place 6th Place
Loss vs. AHC 4th Place 3rd Place 12th Place
Meet @ GP 1/20 National Catholic HS Chips 1/24-1/25
WMPSSDLS 1/28-1/31 Metros 2/04-2/07
Graphic by Julianna Gomez. The Our Lady of Good Counsel Swim and Dive season reasults of 2015.
County
all really proud of how well we did and we couldn’t wait to see how we were going to do in this year’s competition! We always have a ton of student support and love from the en-
Girls
Competition tire Good Counsel community”. The Poms still plan to compete in the private school competition that will happen later in early March later this year.
Photo by Pat Shepherd. Photo of the poms team before the Montgomery County competition.
The Talon
Page 14
Racial
bias
does
April 16, 2015
exist
in
the
Opinion
media
By Marius Mutijima Page, Copy Desk Chief
As I begin, I state that I, the writer of this article, am a black teenager. Bias in the media in itself cannot be judged without bias of its own. We all have preconceived notions of what bias looks like. I define racial bias as media coverage coming from only one angle of a story, focusing on a person’s race as opposed to the facts of a story. We must first discern by saying that many stories do have a racial aspect to them but that does not make the news agency biased. When students at OLGCHS were polled, most felt that the media is biased in general. They noted that the media is biased to political agendas. The most notable examples of this are FOX News, a notably conservative agency and MSNBC, a recognized liberal media outlet. Both of those media outlets have their own agendas: promote the parties we support and taint the other party negatively. The next surprising revelation made known by the poll of OLGCHS students was the overwhelming number that found there is racial bias in the media. Being black, I anticipated the
Graphic by Marius Mutijima Page.
minority students, especially the black and/or African-American ones, to claim racial bias in the media in the aftermath of the Michael Brown and Eric Garner situations. Many students have claimed that the coverage of those situations were racist and are getting sick and tired of the headline, “White Police Officer Kills Black Person”. However, those types of headlines do not make the media racist. In those specific cases, they are the facts of the cases. Nowadays, the media is so afraid
of being portrayed as racist that it wants to take color out of the story. Sometimes, it just isn’t possible to take color out of the story because they are the facts of the situation. On August 20, 2014 on the O’Reilly Factor, host Bill O’Reilly stated: “I am furious about how the shooting death of Michael Brown is being reported and how some people are reacting to it.” Although Mr. O’Reilly is really speaking about coverage from liberal news media outlets like MSNBC, this is a prime example of how some
Does Free Speech ever go too far? By William Heintz, Staff Writer
Last month in Paris the satirical magazine, Charlie Hebdo, was attacked by radicals who claimed defense of Islam after cartoonists at the magazine published highly offensive drawings of the Prophet Muhammad. While of course the right to free speech is important, should journalists really publish content with the sole intent to offend a large part of society? The core of the issue goes back to the prohibition of drawing the Prophet in Islamic tradition as a precaution against idol worship. Muslims view the Prophet with utmost esteem and respect and therefore insults and provocations against Him are very offensive. The Cartoonists, knowing this fact,
Muslims should not respond to such open provocation with violence as that only fuels the fire of anti-Muslim sentiment. Islam does not promote violence in any way and these “Islamic” extremists have completely misinterpreted the peaceful message of Islam. The worldwide press has reacted in a plethora of ways to the most recent provocation by Charlie Hebdo as their latest issue portrays the Prophet once again in a Illustration by Sam Jones. disrespectful manner. Some mepurposefully drew the Prophet in a dia organizations have chosen to highly disrespectful way so that they show the image (BBC and Fox could draw the response of France’s News) while others have made the four million strong Muslim popula- responsible and respectful choice tion and the Muslim world in general. to not show the images (CNN, Is this really expressing Al Jazeera, Sky News, MSNBC). The media has an importfree speech or abusing it? If your sole aim in publishing con- ant role to play in not exacertent is to provoke a part of society bating the situation further and with a highly sensitive subject, that to report fairly and sensibly is, in my opinion, an abuse of free during this very sensitive time. Free speech is a beautiful thing speech because it goes against both conventional wisdom and respect for if used in the right way, and we the multicultural society you live in. all value it as journalists here at As a journalist you have been given The Talon. However, it should not a large platform to produce content be used as a tool to express and for a whole society and that comes publish xenophobic content with with a responsibility to produce the intent to offend as this goes content that is respectful and proper. against the values journalists hold However, the response of the and against the role as a citizen radicals was also out of hand. of a religiously diverse society.
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today
people were uncomfortable with the situation. O’Reilly was unhappy about adding color to the story. In the case of Michael Brown, it is impossible not to add color to the story due to the historic racial tensions between minorities and police in Ferguson, MO. As a writer, the information from the poll shocked me because I asked students to specify what racial bias they had seen in the media. The most common bias the students identified was the portrayal of Muslims within and outside of the United States. After the tragedy of September 11th, the Islamic community has struggled with its public portrayal. Muslims in other countries, especially in the Middle East, are portrayed as crazy terrorists wanting to bomb first world countries. Such a small percentage of Muslims globally are even remotely involved in terrorist activity. It is an injustice that because of the media, the perception of Islam is that they are terrorists. If the majority of OLGCHS students identified bias in the portrayal of Muslims and minorities, it can be deduced that the media does in fact have racial and ethnic bias. This bias does not make the media racist; it just means they are biased in their portrayalof certain groups of people.
Lunch watch
By Bernard Greenhow, Multi Media Managing Editor
When middle school kids shadow at OLGCHS, one of the most memorable events during their visit is the all-you-can-eat school lunch. For many this is one of the best school lunches they have ever had but some people in the school community wonder whether school lunches are actually healthy. Many of the main items usually include pizza, french fries, root beer floats and funnel cake. Biology and Environmental Science teacher, Mr. Cabigas says, “School lunches are very healthy.” Essentially he means that if you make the right choices on what to eat and what not to eat the school lunches are healthy. Every item on the school lunch menu has a color assigned with how healthy or unhealthy it is Green is the healthiest and red is the least healthy. The bottom line is school lunches are as healthy as we make them. We must also educate ourselves and make conscious choices about what we are eating.
opinion April 16, 2015
Page 15
Leggings are comfortable, not a crime
By Molly Boyle, Staff Writer
Should you ask any female GC student what they believe to be the most annoying part of attending our school, she might respond with “How strict they are about skirt length” or “How our phones can’t be in our pockets”. However, the most popular answer would definitely be: “How we’re not allowed to wear leggings on dress-down days”. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, leggings are “a covering (as of leather or cloth) for the leg”. Typically, a stretchy material and relatively tight fitting, leggings have become an extremely popular fashion trend in young women. They are a comfortable and casual alternative to jeans, but are nicer than sweatpants - a happy medium. At the beginning of the 20132014 school year, I remember hearing rumors that the OLGCHS administration would only allow female students to wear leggings on dress-down days if a shirt or gings are relatively tight fitting. jacket was worn to cover their However, this rumor soon turned rear-ends. This seemed reasonable into an official rule that leggings enough to me, considering OLGCwere not to be worn at all. Many feHS is a Catholic school and leg-
look cute and feel comfortable? This year, in preparation for raffle ticket and dress-down season in the fall, students were reminded over the loudspeaker on multiple occasions that “girls may not wear leggings on any of the dress-down days.” I understand the idea of wanting OLGCHS’ dress code to remain modest, but I do not see the harm in allowing girls to wear leggings. Requiring girls to cover their butts when wearing them seems reasonable, but outlawing the style all together is unnecessary. If there is a question concerning the tightness or the supposedly revealing quality of leggings, let me pose this in return: are skinny jeans not just as tight? I suggest that the administration reform the policy banning leggings to allow the clothing as long as girls Illustration by Sam Jones agree to cover themselves properly. This way, the modesty of OLmale students were very upset; half GCHS’s dress code may remain their wardrobe consisted of leg- intact while the wishes of the fegings. So, what else were they sup- male student population can be apposed to wear and still be able to both peased - another happy medium.
Should the driver’s license age be 16?
Class
Signature 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Drivers License
John A. Fakelastname 1234 Fake Street Not Olney, Maryland Signature Birthdate: 09-09-99 Expires: 12-12-21 Sex: M HT: 6-05 WT:220 Restr: BC Type: GN issue Date: 01-26-15
12-12-2014
Graphic by Peter May. By Peter May, Staff Writer
If you live in the state of Maryland, then the earliest that you can obtain a provisional driver’s license is 16.5-years-old. You have to be 15 years and nine months old to acquire a learner’s permit and once you have the permit for nine months and fulfill a bunch of other nonsense for the MVA, then the driver’s test can be taken. Passing the driver’s test earns a person an ugly photo of them-
selves and restricted street legality. But why should we make kids wait for this wonderful gift of driving? Most teenagers apply for a permit sophomore year since that is when most teenagers are of age and are eager to start driving. Some teenagers cannot obtain their permit until sophomore year is over, which is unfair. While everyone else at school is learning to drive they are unable to because they
got stuck with birthday in August. I believe that if the process in obtaining a driver’s license was based on high school grade level, instead of age, the system would be a lot more efficient. Permits should be able to be obtained once a student becomes a sophomore. This would organize the system better than having it by age. If this happened, most students would be learning to drive at the same time. Schools could have driving courses at the school so students would be learning with their “friends” and not a bunch of strangers at their local driving school. Teenagers should not wait to be schooled on the rules of the road by some dull schmuck or bored ex-cop based on their age. It is not like age dictates how mature or smart a person is. Teenagers usually progress with each other by year in school, not by how old they are. The provisional license should be able to be obtained when someone holds their learner’s for nine months. Organizing the licensing process as a whole by grade would mean that someone could obtain their license by sophomore year and more kids could drive to school as juniors instead of taking the bus or bothering their parents for a ride.
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Opinion
April 16, 2015
Page 16
One student’s critique of i-Pads at school: i-Paid for education are
iPads
s Te acohn e r actually 73% 100%
helpful?
iPads ARE helpful
students should take notes when using iPads
iPads will be more helpful
73% in the future
Graphic by Chase Meadows with assistance from Ms. Neugebauer.
By Chase Meadows, Copy Editor
Religion teacher Mr. Bache looked at me and told me he needed a moment to think about my question. “Are Ipads actually helpful?” Some variation of the complaint:“I hate them; students are so distracted. They are not using them properly, and it only hurts them,” echo many teachers. After a full semester of having an academic system that includes personal devices, i-Pads are still controversial. They can enhance learn-
ing but are distracting to students. Besides airdropping and airplay issues, I think i-Pads are very helpful. Generally, teachers agree that i-Pads have tremendous potential in helping students. Being able to look at powerpoints on your own device helps students who are sitting in the back rows stay engaged in class. Greater engagement keeps students quiet, instead of distracting others by talking. Being able
to do your homework, should you choose to do it, from your i-Pad makes your backpack lighter. Less physical books means less to carry around. In college it is common to bring a device to class, and this is preparing students by teaching them to take responsibility for their own learning. Despite the benefits, concerns linger. “For example, if there is down time, before a bell rings, many of my juniors will pick up their i-Pads to watch or do something alone. My seniors will actually talk to each other because they don’t have i-Pads to play with,” says one teacher. i-Pads challenge students to monitor themselves and pay attention. I doubt anyone is going to focus on school all the time but just because the person next to you is playing a game in class does not mean you should start playing a game, as well. “I’m worried that students, especially younger ones, will misuse Ipads to the point where it could be detrimental to the educational aspect of school, the part of school we are really here for. Ipads should be utilized, not abused,” says another teacher.
Although teachers seem to agree that i-Pads can be helpful, concerns also center around whether or not students are being proactive enough in their learning, i.e. writing down notes is more helpful than looking at a powerpoint. In fact, 100% of teachers polled feel that students should take notes instead of passively taking a picture of the board. Actively listening and taking notes is more efficient than playing a game on your i-Pad and half-listening to a teacher go over homework that you didn’t do. On the other hand, i-Pads are taking away from verbal communication and social skills in class and in community. I’m sure teachers don’t mind a quiet class, but I think students should interact in community instead of playing on their i-Pads. 73% of teachers polled are optimistic towards the role that i-Pads will play in the future of OLGCHS education. As distracting as they are, teachers do not feel that they are hurting academia. It comes down to students being able to monitor themselves. Teachers agree that the future looks bright with i-Pads.
AP courses: are they worth it?
By Katie Mullineaux, A&E Section Editor
Advanced placement courses are commonplace at OLGCHS, as many seniors, juniors, and even a few sophomores search to challenge themselves throughout their academic journey. These courses can potentially stand in place of accredited college courses and, therefore, they are work-heavy and require a lot of effort. Is the extra effort worth the trouble? I say yes. Not only will these classes allow the students to test their own abilities in the classroom but also serve to give a preview of what college may bring. “I believe that advanced classes are important because they prepare you for what a college level course will be like. It's about getting that experience. It's mental preparation. It provides the easiest (if one could even say it is easy) transition from high school to college. AP classes
By Julianna Gomez, Staff Writer
help you learn how to manage college level work and they help you learn how to think more critically, which will be a pretty handy skill to have,” says senior Nevada Tyler. These courses span the year and end with an optional AP exam that varies in length according to subject. Although registration for the exam does cost some money, $91 per exam, the average college course costs considerably more and if one does well enough on the exam (a 4 or 5 is accepted by most universities), they could potentially save a lot of money when it comes to paying for General Education classes. According to alumna Abby Salinas ‘14, an honors student at American University in Washington D.C., taking advanced courses really made a difference: “Taking AP courses and doing well on the exams was of great ben-
efit to me both in proving to colleges that I could excel at a higher level and in helping me to be ahead of the crowd once I was admitted. I was able to start taking courses related to my major in my first semester because of the AP credits that fulfilled a majority of my GenEd requirements— definitely worth it.” Taking AP classes will help with college in the future, yes; however, the immediate benefits of applying oneself every day can help grow one’s work ethic in other standard high school courses, as well. Not to mention, there are tons of possibilities when it comes to what you can take. I challenge you to get outside of your comfort zone and put your brain to the test by signing up for at least one AP class in your high school career — you never know what you could be missing. Graphic by Katie Mullineaux.
Life before the invention of smartphones
Being born in 1997, I had a glimpse of what life was like before smartphones. I remember when all my parents had were simple flip phones, and that was all they needed to keep in touch with each other. Smartphones have taken over our generation. When I was in elementary and middle school I didn’t have any type of cellphone and I survived, so why today do we feel dependent on our devices? From personal experience, I know that I really do enjoy having my iPhone. Not only can I contact my family and friends wherever and whenever I please, but I can also download any application onto my phone that I want. It is common among most smartphone users to partake in social media. Almost everyone that I know has at least an Insta-
gram, twitter, facebook, snapchat, or any of the other social media apps out there. These apps are mainly for entertainment purposes, but are they really necessary? “I do like having social media apps because they are fun to check up on every once in a while, but spending all day on them is a waste of time” says senior Valerie Krizmanich. Social media and everything else that smartphones are capable of other than
Photo by Julianna Gomez.
contact is just taking away from actual social abilities of human beings. Being on your cellphone while you are spending time with your friends and family in person is antisocial, and it is hurting the way we communicate with other human beings around us daily. “I almost miss the times in middle and elementary school when most of my friends and I didn’t have cellphones, and we had to find a way to entertain ourselves without
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using technology” So. Will Burke said. Creativity and social skills among today’s generation are rapidly decreasing. It is disturbing to me when I go out to dinner, and I look around at the other people in the restaurant to see them staring at a screen instead of having a conversation with the person sitting right across from them. I advise teens to try and spend less time on their cellphones when it’s not necessary. If you know that you could be talking to your family, hanging out with your friends, or even just spending some time outside instead of being on your phone, it is in an interest for your health and personal wellbeing that you take advantage of these opportunities as much as you possibly can. Life is happening all around us, and we can’t let technology get in the way of that.